Guyana Times - Thursday, October 21, 2021

Exxon supplies weighbridge scale to Haags Bosch P7 Landfill Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4807

THE BEACON OF TRUTH THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

Guyana Trade Office to be set up in Dubai Page 3

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Work ongoing to digitise COVID-19 vaccination P14 records …Govt to sign agreement with India to produce electronic cards

Robbing accident victims distasteful P11 − Police

…President Ali urges creation of Dubai investment hub in Guyana

“A close neighbour is better than a distant relative” – Suriname army commander …as Suriname army delegation visits GDF Date set 4 more die, for PNCR pushing COVID-19 Congress to death toll to 881 elect leader – source …118 new infections recorded

Avoid alcohol, violent behaviour – Judge to man jailed for beating P8 woman

Page 9

Page 18

…long overdue Congress to be held in December

“Law is competitive, but don’t do it alone” – 21-year-old new lawyer “Abhi” Dev

Page 10

Grove residents catch purse snatcher P11 Legal challenge to death penalty

Retention a manifestation of the will of Guyanese P12 − Nandlall tells CoA

Crying man sentenced to life in prison for British P16 teen’s murder

Page 2

Young farmer P dies in Ebini 15 trail accident

2 NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Law is competitive, but don’t do it alone – 21-year-old new lawyer “Abhi” Dev

A

t the age of 21, Abhimanyu “Abhi” Dev is one of the youngest persons to get admitted to the Bar of Guyana and according to him, he did not achieve this on his own.

Dev’s petition was presented by Attorney-at-Law Devindra Kissoon and accepted by Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George at the High Court on Wednesday afternoon.

From a young age, Dev has been an academic overachiever – skipping Grades One and Two and starting his primary education in Grade Three at the tender age of five.

This was after the Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara) Regional Education Department conducted an examination and given his outstanding performance, he was accepted at the Leonora Primary School in Grade Three.

This excellence become a hallmark of Dev’s academics. During his primary education, he became a motivational public speaker, self-taught chess player and avid cricketer – all while remaining on top of his studies and also managing the responsibility of being head prefect at his school.

When he wrote the

National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) in 2009, Dev copped the fourth spot in the country. He was nine years old at the time and started Queen’s College as one of their youngest students.

Dev went on to write the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examinations at the age of 14, securing passes in 17 subjects before moving onto the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE), at which he obtained eight units at 16 years old.

Around the same time, he entered the University of

Abhimanyu “Abhi” Dev and his family members with Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George following his Bar admission at the High Court on Wednesday

Guyana’s Law Programme.

He passed his LLB with distinction at age 19 and subsequently proceeded to the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS), where he received his Legal Education Certificate (LEC).

After graduating from HWLS and upon his return to Guyana, Dev joined the law firm London Chambers headed by Attorney Kissoon where he has been – being the overachiever he is – preparing the groundwork for his legal practice in the courtroom. In his introduction of Dev to Justice George, Kissoon revealed that even while he was clerking in his office as a student, he did most of the work on two of the ground-breaking recent cases – the deregulation of the telecommunications sector and the power of the President to appoint Senior Counsel.

While the law firm specialises mostly in corporate law, Dev told <<<Guyana Times>>> that his interest extends beyond that into constitutional law, public law, administrative law, contract and property law as well.

Reflecting on his achievements, Dev explained that while he was used to being the youngest in whatever he did, he has learnt that “…it’s not really that consequential in the grand scheme of things. What really matters is to be surrounded by people who, at the same time, share your goals and values, and you’re able to work alongside them”.

As the youngest person in his law school, he said there was no pressure on him to outperform his fellow batchmates. “My friends allowed me to be just like them. We were all studying the same thing and it never really came up much except for a conversational piece.”

However, it was not the same growing up. Dev recalled that while there was some pressure for him to excel at everything he did, it was no different from what his peers were feeling. “…all of us wanted to succeed and all of us wanted to make everybody proud.

At a certain time, you get babied a bit, but other than that it’s not that much added pressure.”

Being the son of a former Member of Parliament, Ravi Dev, and brother of another of the country’s top academic performers, Dr Anuradha Dev, who is now a Resident at the Georgetown Public Hospital, the 21-year-old lawyer said his family has been the driving force, inspiration, and motivation for his success thus far.

“Following in their footsteps, yes, it was pressure when I was younger but it just made me appreciate their influence on me even more, because I had a blueprint for me to follow.”

Now working at one of the top corporate law firms in the country, Dev says he is taking it one day at a time.

“There is a lot of work, but once you’re able to overcome each day at a time, that’s all that matters at the end. Many people have different reasons for doing law – whether moral, financial, but for me law is such an incredible thing that brings everybody together in some way. That’s the future I envision for myself.”

The young lawyer’s advice for students embarking on legal studies is for them to build a support system.

He pointed out that while law is a competitive profession, it is important to form alliances with peers in order to get varied perspectives.

“Law is one of the professions where you’re against somebody and because of that, people feel you’re supported to do it by yourself, because it’s a very competitive field. But that’s not true. I learned very early on that you’re supposed to have people on your side, you’re supposed to work with people and it’s a type of area where you’re supposed to get everybody’s perspective on things. So, my advice to anybody, young or old, would be not to close yourself out to different perspectives and to always have somebody by your side.”

3 Guyana Trade Office to be set up in Dubai NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Thursday, October 21 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Friday, October 22 – 04:00h – 05:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Thursday, October 21 – 16:30h – 18:00h and Friday, October 22 – 16:50h – 18:20h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

Parika and Supenaam departure times – 05:00h, 10:00h-12:00h, 16:00h, 18:30h daily

WEATHER TODAY Heavy to light rain showers with instances of thunder are expected during the day and evening.

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

…President Ali urges creation of Dubai investment hub in Guyana

G

uyana’s participation in the Dubai World Expo 2020 continues to bear fruit, with the latest development being that an agreement has been reached for a Guyana Trade Office to be set up in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE).

This came about following a successful meeting on Wednesday between representatives of the Guyana Private Sector and the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, led by its President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Hamad Buamim.

President Dr Irfaan Ali participated in a breakfast meeting that included the Private Sector of both States

Winds: North North-Easterly to North NorthWesterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 16:51h reaching a maximum height of 2.74 metres.

Low Tide: 10:28h and 22:46h reaching minimum heights of 0.56 metre and 0.45 metre.

President Ali with CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi

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COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$85.82/barrel

Rough Rice

$244.17 /ton

-0.40

London Sugar

$507.30/ton

-2.44

Live Spot Gold

+0.86

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1782.50

$1783.50

Low/High Change

$1773.00 +0.30

$1790.00 +0.02%

The Guyana Private Sector representatives were led by the Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond, and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. In a statement, Buamim indicated that the Chamber is ready to facilitate a Guyana Trade Office in Dubai. He explained that that office would promote and expedite continuous investment and trade partnerships between the two countries.

During the meeting, the delegations discussed ways to connect businesses for trade and business opportunities between countries, and to increase the presence of Dubai’s Private Sector in the region.

In the statement, Buamim also emphasised his Chamber’s desire to continue building relationships with fast- growing economies such as Guyana’s through Private sector-led partnerships.

Prior to the meeting, the Private Sector delegation was told by President Irfaan Ali at a breakfast meeting to take advantage of the opportunities available and form themselves into consortiums.

Hub

Meanwhile, President Ali spoke of creating a new logistics hub for the UAE in Guyana, while on a tour of the Abu Dhabi Ports’ ultra-modern temperature-controlled vaccine storage warehouse facility, which is also the home of the Hope Consortium at Khalifa Industrial Zone (KIZAD) and the Khalifa Port.

According to him, Guyana wants to build a strong part-

nership with Abu Dhabi Ports, to create a new logistics hub for the UAE that will connect business opportunities in South America, Central America, the Caribbean, North America and West Africa.

Meanwhile, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Abu Dhabi Ports and the owner of Abu Dhabi’s maritime infrastructure and

KIZAD, Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, said his company is very serious about investing in Guyana.

“Thank you for that trust. We are serious about Guyana, and I promise you we passed the time of thinking, now we are in the implementation stage. So what you will see today is the capability of Abu Dhabi Ports,” he said.

Meanwhile, President Ali said Guyana’s contingent, which features a large delegation from the local Private Sector, is on “a very serious mission” in the UAE with the drive to have meaningful discussions and to make impactful decisions.

“We want to be in strong partnerships with Abu Dhabi Ports, seriously connected to opportunities in Brazil in the oil and gas sector, and creating a new logistics hub for the UAE in Guyana,” President Ali said, adding that his Government is willing to facilitate the project by creating incentives and by ensuring that

investments made are feasible for all parties involved.

“We are ready to work with you on having that deep water port ready for not only Guyana, but for the region and for the most important strategic positioning for the UAE in South America, the Caribbean, in Latin America. I think we could just think about it as an upscaled Panama [Canal] development,” he said.

After the discussions, the CEO took the Head of State and his delegation through a guided tour, explaining the operation of the specific departments of the company, as well as their work around the globe.

The President was joined

by Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum of the UAE and representatives of the Guyana Private Sector, as well as Government Ministers, including Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr Ashni Singh; Minister Walrond and Minister Ramson Jr. (G3)

4

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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

Non-Communicable Diseases and COVID-19

T

he COVID-19 pandemic and its devastating impacts on individuals and communities as a whole is yet another stark reminder that both the health authorities and citizens must continue to take the issue of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) very seriously.

Based on what the medical professionals have found so far, the majority of the persons who have died as a result of contracting COVID-19 had had some kind of underlying health complication, many of which are related to NCDs. Guyana’s COVID-19 death rate is 881. For a small population such as ours, this is quite disturbing, to say the least, and it is therefore crucial that the Government, more particularly the Ministry of Health, treat this issue with the greatest degree of urgency.

According to PAHO/WHO, people with underlying health conditions, such as NCDs including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and cancer, have a higher risk of severe COVID-19 disease, and are more likely to die from COVID-19. Risk factors for NCDs can make people more vulnerable to becoming severely ill with COVID-19. For example, smokers may have reduced lung capacity, which would greatly increase risk of serious illness.

PAHO/WHO has suggested that informing populations about these health risks posed by COVID-19 is critical. Even before the pandemic, poor lifestyle choices such as tobacco use, alcohol abuse, unhealthy diets and physical inactivity had resulted in large numbers of people falling sick and dying.

It is also believed that around 40 per cent of Guyanese are either overweight or obese; and of that number, the majority are women.

Health experts say that chronic diseases result largely from bad food choices and low levels of physical activity. Reducing the risk of developing chronic illnesses, including Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and various cancers, is associated with living a healthy lifestyle, which includes such factors as nonsmoking, a healthy diet, regular physical activity, moderate alcohol intake, and a sense of mental wellbeing. For example, evidence suggests that half of all cancers could be prevented by following a healthy lifestyle.

Further, NCDs come at a high cost to individuals and to nation states in terms of human suffering, expensive treatment, and loss of production. It is estimated that the direct and indirect cost of treating non-communicable diseases in Guyana was over 10 per cent of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

What is noteworthy is the realisation that most cases of chronic non-communicable diseases are avoidable, and it is within our individual powers to prevent these diseases from affecting our lives.

So how do we make the breakthrough when it comes to getting our citizens to adopt healthy lifestyles, considering the fact that some persons still operate with a high degree of ignorance?

To begin with, we believe that there is need for greater awareness and knowledge in the society about the dangers of chronic illnesses. On this basis, we urge that there be continuous public education and awareness campaigns across the country to address various health issues.

Research has shown that the numerous media campaigns on HIV/AIDS prevention and care, stigma and discrimination have impacted positively on attitudes and lifestyle changes; and messages in a similar fashion should be created towards addressing non-communicable illnesses such as hypertension and diabetes, or dealing with overweightness and obesity.

The Government, even though it must take the lead as it relates to policy drafting and implementation etc, cannot do it alone; the entire society must be actively involved. Perhaps the temples, mosques and churches can take up a more active role in educating their congregations about the need to adopt healthier lifestyles in order to live longer, more fulfilling and happier lives.

Consumer bodies; schools and other educational institutions; civil society groups, and, more importantly the media, also have a role to play; as when we lose our citizens due to premature deaths, the entire country is robbed of its most valuable resource.

It is well accepted that better health is central to human happiness and well-being. It also makes an important contribution to economic progress, as healthy populations live longer, are more productive, and save more.

Everyone should therefore aim to live a healthy and full life, and to avoid becoming trapped by NCDs.

President Dr Irfaan Ali with representatives from Al Habtoor Group LLC, in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates following a discussion on opportunities in the hospitality sector. Other investment opportunities discussed included real estate, agriculture, eco-tourism, infrastructure, housing and healthcare. Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh was also at the meeting (Office of the President photo)

Mahipaul misrepresented facts

Dear Editor, We, the five Government members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) have noted a press statement issued on “Office of the Leader of the Opposition” letterhead by Ganesh Mahipaul, Opposition Member of the PAC, on October 19, 2021.

Mr. Mahipaul has misrepresented the facts regarding the “motion to rescind”, brought by Minister Gail Teixeira on Monday October 18th, 2021 to the PAC meeting.

Here are the facts: 1. The motion moved by Minister Teixeira is perfectly in order and in compliance with the Standing Orders. Minister Teixeira explained, on Monday 18th October at the PAC meeting, that she had consulted with the Clerk of the National Assembly to ensure she was adhering to the Standing Orders.

2. One of the functions of the Chairman of any Committee of the Parliament is “Putting motions and questions”.

This, the Chairman, Mr. Figueira, failed to do by not putting the motion as presented by Minister Teixeira to the Committee for discussion and a vote, if necessary.

3.

Another of the Chairman’s functions is “Balancing the rights and interests of the majority and minority in the committee”. On Monday 11th of October, when the motion was moved by Mr. Mahipaul to meet twice weekly, Minister Edghill was in the meeting virtually. This was pointed out to the Chairman by Member Seeraj. He was totally ignored, and Minister Edghill

was not recognised to make a contribution or vote on the issue. In fact, the Chairman insisted that Minister Edghill was NOT online. At the October 18th meeting, this was proven to be false, as the log in records of the Parliament Office for that meeting proved that he was in the meeting at the time of the vote.

4. The fact that Minister Edghill was denied his right to speak and to exercise his right to vote on the motion - although he was present in the meeting - illustrates the level of crass bullyism by the APNU-AFC Members in the PAC. 5. The Chairman, Mr Figueira, at the October 18th meeting, after saying he needed more time to examine the motion, although the relevant Standing Order was identified, was asked how much time he required. On more than one occasion, he indicated (and the verbatim report of Parliament will confirm) that Minister Teixeira’s motion will be on the agenda for the NEXT STATUTORY MEETING OF THE PAC, TO BE HELD ON MONDAY 25TH OCTOBER. 6.

However, the Chairman, Mr. Figueira hurriedly closed the session by saying PAC is adjourned to Friday 22nd October, and walked out.

7. By preventing the motion from being put at the said meeting, and then convening a meeting for Friday October 22nd with full knowledge that a written substantive “motion to rescind” had been tabled and circulated to all Members, a clear and unambiguous attempt at deceit was made.

8. The public is remind-

ed that this is the repetition of the behaviour of the former Chairperson, Mr. Patterson, who did not allow, in fact never allowed, a motion for his removal to be put to the committee from February to May 2021 in the PAC. 9. On May 3, 2021, the Speaker of the National Assembly wrote the Chairperson to say that he had no authority under the Standing Orders to prevent a motion from being put to the Committee. In fact, he was “compelled” to do so by the Standing Orders.

10. The matter was successfully resolved by a motion to the House to remove him as Chairperson.

The least we had hoped for from any chairperson, and in particular the new Opposition Chairperson of the PAC, is that he would have learnt from his predecessor’s fate and stick to the Standing Orders.

Alas, the APNU-AFC Members of the PAC continue to re-affirm the public and the Government’s opinion that they are incapable of digressing from crass bullyism.

Furthermore, it must be noted that the PAC is supported in its work by the presence of statutory and constitutional representatives, the Financial Secretary, the Auditor General, and the Accountant General, all of whom carry out hectic and critical posts in the executing of their mandates, as well as the management of the Government on a day-to-day basis. To have these key officers sit for 2 full days a week in the PAC means that the work of the Government will be stymied. To vote as they did

on October 11th without any consultation with these persons is also another example of bullyism.

Mr. Mahipaul has raised the amount of work pending in the PAC and has tried to throw shade on the PPPC Members.

But Mr. Mahipaul and company must answer: who held up the general and regional elections after his Government fell to a no confidence motion on December 21, 2018 for 14 months, in violation of the constitution? And who is responsible for attempting repeatedly to hijack the elections and delaying the declaration of the results of those elections for 5 more months? That is where two years were lost in the PAC to address the 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019 Annual Auditor General’s reports. And who again but the APNU-AFC Members, by their bullying tactics in the new 12th Parliament, PAC held up its work from February to May 2021, and appears to want to do the same once again?

The Parliament and its Committees are guided by the Constitution and the Standing Orders, and we shall not allow persons, whoever they may be, to trample on the Constitution, Standing Orders, norms and conventions of our parliamentary democracy.

Gail Teixeira, MP Bishop Juan Edghill, MP, Dharamkumar Seeraj, MP, Dr Vishwa Mahadeo, MP, Sanjeev Datadin

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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

Beyond the fulfilment of a campaign promise Dear Editor, There has been much criticism of the Government’s announcement at Skeldon (10/5/21) to grant each dismissed sugar worker a onetime sum of Gy$250,000 as compensation for loss of income (weekly household incomes had fallen sharply by 64 per cent [ILO:2021]) and the non-payment of wage increases and production bonus for 5 years (2015-19) by the previous administration.

Failure to get wage increases alone, according to GAWU, has “resulted in sugar workers taking home Gy$24,000 less per month between 2014 and 2017.”

This situation sharply worsened when the PNCR coalition also failed to provide alternative jobs and training to retool dismissed workers, as they had promised. “The [coalition] Government had pledged to unveil a diversification plan to ensure continued employment for [sugar] workers being sent home, but no major effort has materialized.” (Abrams:

12/17/17).

Fearing the social upheaval and dislocation that this massive dismissal of workers (7,000) would create on the lives and livelihood of workers, and the blight (economic dead zones) it would create on sugar estate communities, the PPPC’s call for restraint and for the conduct of a social impact study before imposition of closure was rejected by the PNCR Government.

The ILO’s social impact study notes: “workers found it difficult to obtain new employment. Many of those who did find new jobs were employed on a part-time or seasonal basis. The highest continuing unemployment rates… occurred at the Wales and East Demerara estates, at 60 per cent and 55 per cent, respectively.” The ILO study paints a very dark picture on the social fabric of those communities that have been reeling from an 80% increase in alcohol consumption, a similar increase in crimes, and a rise in suicides.

Responding to the tar-

dy approach adopted by the PNCR administration, PPPC General Secretary Dr Bharrat Jagdeo delivered this promise to sugar workers at a meeting (12/16/2017) in Canefield and Reliance, East Canje, Berbice.

“When we take back office, I am making a pledge on behalf of the PPP that every single person who has been terminated, that outside of their severance, they will get support from the budget until we can find places for them, they will get monthly payments,” (R Abrams: 12/17/2017).

The PPPC Government will not make monthly payments, but provide instead a one-time sum of Gy$250,000 to each dismissed worker at a total cost of US$1.8 billion, or 0.4% of the budget. It should be noted that when the PPPC made this announcement in 2017 and at election campaigns, no one contested this initiative.

While a few critics inject subsidies to bolster their position, that is not a central element to the proposed one-time

grant to sugar workers. It is noted, however, that spending Gy$6 billion per annum could generate over Gy$24 billion in economic activity (multiplier effect). One should also never forget that when other sectors of the economy were struggling during the 70s, 80s, and 90s, it was the Gy$92+ billion Sugar Levy that was diverted from re-investment in the sugar industry to stabilise those faltering sectors.

Notwithstanding, the PPPC Government expects that, within 4 years, the sugar industry would be able to break even and then proceed to make profits. To spend 2% of the country’s annual budget for the next 4 years to save an industry that has been the engine of the country’s economic growth for decades as well as providing the direct livelihood of over 30,000 persons is good public policy.

Context and perspective for any policy decision is crucial.

Drawing conclusion by comparing uneven and different situations is risky and prema-

ture. For example, the bauxite operations at Kwakwani that came to a halt cannot be compared with the closure of the 4 sugar estates. The scenarios are completely different. The Kwakwani operations, owned and operated by a private company, BCGI (a subsidiary of Rusal), was forced to close because on an ongoing industrial dispute. Observers attribute blame to both the company and the Union for the lack of a settlement. Pending the dispute resolution, the company and the union should jointly render relief to the workers. It was the coalition Government that intervened and made a one-time payment totalling Gy$30 million to the workers (in 2020). That works out to Gy$329,670 per capita. The PPPC did not object to this.

Regarding sugar, it was the PNCR coalition Government that forced the closure of the 4 sugar estates, claiming continuous economic loss despite the Government’s own CoI recommending a 3-year turn-around

time. Neither sugar workers nor their union caused the closure of the sugar estates.

In its 2015 election campaign, the PNCR coalition stated that they would offer sugar workers a 20% pay increase if they won the elections. Had the coalition decided to pay just 1/3 of their 20% promise, sugar workers’ average pay increase per annum would have been Gy$26,130, or Gy$130,650 for 5 years. The lawful bonus that was denied for years would have amounted to Gy$32,500 per annum, or Gy$162,500 for 5 years. At a minimal level, bonus and wage increase would have amounted to Gy$293,150.

The grant of Gy$250,000 to each dismissed worker is therefore reasonable. All categories of Government workers received wage increases, except sugar workers, who were denied this for 5 years. The award is also the fulfillment of a PPPC campaign promise.

Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

Education Ministry responds to letter written by Swami Aksharananda Dear Editor, The Ministry of Education wishes to respond to a letter published

in the Tuesday, October 19, 2021 edition of Guyana Times, Kaieteur News and the Stabroek News news-

papers written by Swami Aksharananda concerning the recital of the Universal Pray at last Thursday’s an-

nouncement of the CSEC and CAPE 2021 results.

The Ministry wishes to inform the writer and Guyana

Sugar would have been a dead man today Dear Editor, Whilst sugar remains the ‘sick man’ of the economy, the Government has so far ensured that it is not a ‘dead man’. Sugar’s intended death was well planned and carefully executed by the Coalition Government.

Grinding estates were closed instead of remaining operational, and despite promises of rehabilitation and capitalisation works to be undertaken, nothing was done. The plan to suffocate and strangle the sugar industry to death was well orchestrated during the five years in which the Coalition was in Government.

At first the Coalition made it seem as though they were interested in the survival of sugar. During the 2015 election campaign, Leader of the AFC, Khemraj Ramjattan, had said, “We are not going to close the sugar industry…we will make that industry profitable again…it creates so much employment directly and indirectly…”

Then they held a sugar conference at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre in August 2015, where they emphasised the importance of the sugar industry to the economy. At this conference, the erstwhile ‘champion’ of the sugar workers, Mr Moses Nagamootoo, had said, “Government will not abandon sugar in troubled times…the focus is to make sugar work. We have too many workers who stand to lose with the collapse of the industry.

This Government will not allow sugar to sink”.

Subsequently, the Coalition sponsored a Commission of Inquiry which provided a 10-

year plan to make the industry viable without the closure of any of the estates. But thereafter, the Coalition conjured a White Paper which provided for the ‘right sizing’ of the industry - a euphemism for the closure of 4 estates and the dismissal of over 7,000 employees.

This was not all. After the closure, the Coalition allowed the closed estates to rot and decay and assets stolen or sold for peanuts to friends and families. These assets include billions of dollars in standing canes, infrastructures, punts, machinery and equipment, factories and buildings. Now the replacement of these will take a lot more finances in capital investments.

The former Minister Mr Winston Jordan had promised that these estates would be kept in ‘moth ball’ condition to ensure they are attractive to investors. But the opposite happened.

Even this was not all! A $30 billion bond was secured in July 2018, and Mr Winston Jordan was adamant in his commitment and had made it clear that it was “to rescue GuySuCo… so that GuySuCo can come back on its feet…we will try to push as fast as possible to get it out of its struggles”.

Ironically, it is common knowledge what is done to take a ‘struggling animal’ out of its ‘struggles’ (a shot to the head). This bond was secured more than one year was after the closure of the estates, and was supposed to be used for: capital injection; support infrastructures; upgrades at Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt estates; and to develop new

co-generation capacities to support estate operations and sell to the national power grid. The plan would have also entailed the production of Plantation White Sugar as a value-added product for the local and Caribbean market, where there is a great demand and a lucrative market as such.

But alas! More than $17 billion was spent and none of the above was achieved. Instead, a downward spiral commenced which made a paltry target unachievable. Where did the money disappear? If these investments were brought on stream, GuySuCo would have been on its way to recovery and viability. Where did the money go?

However, history is a great teacher. This is not the first time that the PNC had attempted to decapitate GuySuCo. In the 1970s, the PNC saw that sugar was very profitable, and devised a scheme to get its hands on it. Then, in 1974, the Sugar Levy was introduced, which ‘creamed off’ the profits and the PNC invested in harebrained ventures and indulged in massive squandering. The Sugar Levy took off from 55 to 85% for every dollar for every ton of sugar produced and sold in excess of a given price range.

After the nationalisation in 1976, this continued under the PNC Government, and during this period, no capital investments were done in the sugar industry, and it was only about routine maintenance and replacements of worn-out parts of machinery and equipment. There was no vision for the longevity of the industry.

A conservative estimate puts the money siphoned off via the Levy in excess of $100 billion.

Neither the PNC nor the Coalition as it is called now was ever interested in the survival and progress of the sugar industry or the agriculture sector as a whole, which it sees as the PPP support base.

Today, the industry and the agriculture sector as a whole is facing both the ‘pandemic’ unleashed on it by the Coalition for 5 long years as well as the fallout from the worst flood in Guyana for over 40 years.

But under the PPP/C Government it is recovering from both. It is a miracle that the sugar industry is still not only standing, but fighting its way to surmount these challenges. At this point, the industry needs all the support it can get. This Government has shown that it is committed to the progress of the entire agriculture sector and not just sugar, and those who are criticising the support for the sugar industry must acknowledge the billions of dollars of cash relief given to the rice industry, the cash crops and the livestock industry.

Everyone in this country has received some sort of cash relief since this Government took office. It is not just sugar.

In conclusion, I wish to remind ourselves that the sugar industry is resilient, and even after the worst flood in decades, estates such as Albion are already in the process of rebuilding. Sugar will live on and progress under this Government.

Yours sincerely, H Yusuf

at large that, during the event, the prayer recited by the 2020 Most Outstanding Student for CSEC, Bhedesh Persaud, was the Universal Prayer, which does not subscribe to any particular religion.

It is the same prayer that is recited at the sittings of the National Assembly.

The Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, during her previous stint as Education Minister, had insisted that wherever a prayer is done at any function hosted by the Ministry or any of its departments, the Universal Prayer or a silent prayer is

done, with the only exception being those events held in Amerindian communities.

The Ministry agrees that no one religion, ethnicity, gender etc. is or should be made to be seen as dominant over the other, and has noted that there have been some events where the intention of the Ministry and its policy was not followed, and had re-issued a memo, with the Universal Prayer attached, reminding of said policy.

Sincerely, Public Relations Department Ministry of Education

6

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 2, 2021

Page

H

ave you ever suffered from poor Wi-Fi reception for your smartphone, tablet, or laptop? Certain materials can actually block a Wi-Fi signal; do you think that could be part of your problem? In this science project, you will do an experiment to find out which materials cause the biggest drop in signal strength from a wireless router.

Materials and equipment

• Wireless router • Wi-Fi enabled device like a smartphone, tablet, laptop, or desktop with Wi-Fi adapter • Program or app to analyse the strength of the wireless signal (preferably in dBm). You will need to find one that works with your wireless device and operating system. Try searching for things like "wifi analyser" or "wifi strength meter."

• Blocking materials to test. Note: While it may not be possible with all materials, ideally you should test sheets/pieces of material that are all approximately the same size. While it is obviously not possible to cut up steel or glass baking pans, you can use scissors or a utility knife to cut materials like aluminium foil, cardboard, or plastic so each test sheet is the same size. Some material suggestions include: • Aluminium foil • Steel baking pans • Glass baking pans • Cardboard • Plastic • Large container filled with water • Human body • Lab notebook

Experimental procedure

1. Make sure you do your background research and formulate a hypothesis about which materials will attenuate a Wi-Fi signal.

2. Download and install an app or program for your wireless device that can measure the signal strength of a Wi-Fi connection. Some programs will provide a "signal quality" rating on a scale of 0–100, but ideally you should use a program that provides measurements in decibel milliwatts (dBm).

Ask an adult if you need help installing the program.

3. Familiarise yourself with how to use the program before you start your experiment.

Try walking around your house and using the program to take signal strength measurements in different locations. Do you understand how to read a measurement in dBm? Do you see changes in signal strength? Once you are comfortable using the program, move on to the next step.

4. Create a data table like Table 1 in your lab notebook. You will use this to record

Foundation your results.

Table 1. Example data table. You can change or add rows to the table, depending on which materials you plan to test.

5. Pick a location in which to place your wireless device for each test. It is important to keep this location consistent for each trial. Ideally, this location should: a. Be in the same room as your wireless router, several meters away from it. b. Be at the same height off the floor as your wireless router (ie this will change depending on whether your router is on the floor or on a table/desk). c.

Not have any other barriers, like furniture or people, between your wireless device and the router. d. Allow you to see the screen of the wireless device (to take a signal strength reading) without standing in between the device and the router. e. It is also important to keep the orientation of your wireless device consistent between each trial. For example, do not rotate a smartphone from a horizontal to a vertical position between trials. Pick one orientation and keep it the same for each trial.

6. Determine how you will arrange your test materials for each trial. The most important thing is to keep your setup the same for each trial of the experiment. a. Make sure the test materials are as close as possible to the router, without touching it. You do not want to accidentally bump the router, as moving it could cause a change in signal strength. b. You could have a volunteer stand off to the side (not in front of the router) and hold the materials up. Or, you could use textbooks, duct tape, or other household materials to hold the test materials up in front of the router. Remember to keep whatever support structures you use off to the side (just holding the edges of your test material) so they do not contribute to blocking the router's signal. c.

See Figure 2 for a diagram of an example experimental setup.

7. Start out by measuring the signal strength with no blocking material. This is your experiment's control. Measure the signal strength in dBm and enter this value under "Trial 1" in the first row of your data table.

Repeat this two more times, for a total of three trials.

8. Now, set up your first blocking material. Record three separate signal strength readings in your data table. Remember not to move the blocking material or wireless device in between trials.

9. Repeat step 8 for each of your remaining blocking materials.

10. For each blocking material (and your control case with no material), calculate an average signal strength in dBm and enter this value in your data table.

11. Calculate the attenuation of the signal for each material by subtracting the signal strength with the material from the signal strength without the material (your control case), and enter this value in your data table. For example, say that for your control, you measured an average signal strength of -15 dBm, and for a certain material (we'll call it Material A), you measured an average signal strength of -40 dBm. The attenuation for Material A would be (-15 dBm) - (-40 dBm) = 25 dBm. Be careful to keep track of the negative signs!

12. Create a bar graph with material type on the horizontal line (x-axis) and attenuation in dBm on the vertical line (y-axis). Remember to label the axes of your graph. Which materials attenuated the Wi-Fi signal the most? The least? Do your results line up with your predictions based on your background research? (Ben Finio, PhD, Science Buddies)

By Mother Goose This little piggy went to market, This little piggy stayed home, This little piggy had roast beef, This little piggy had none.

This little piggy went ...

Wee, wee, wee, all the way home!

Source: Head Shoulders Knees and Toes and Other Action Rhymes (2002)

Figure 2. An example diagram of an experimental setup. Notice the following key points: 1) The test material is close to the router, but not touching it, 2) the router and wireless device are at the same height, and 3) the person doing the experiment is not standing between the router and wireless device.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Exxon supplies weighbridge scale to Haags Bosch Landfill E xxonMobil Guyana came in for plaudits on Wednesday when it handed over a truck weighbridge scale to the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry for use at the Haags Bosch Landfill site aback Eccles, East Bank Demerara.

The handing-over ceremony took place at the landfill, and featured Exxon Country Manager Alastair Routledge. In his address on the occasion, Routledge spoke of the importance of the scale in environmental management.

He also noted that ExxonMobil Guyana has conducted a “cradle to grave” waste analysis study which was approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in September.

The company has since submitted to the EPA a comprehensive waste management plan for review.

“ExxonMobil Guyana and its prime contractors continue to implement a number of steps to minimise the generation of waste, including recycling and reuse where appropriate,” Routledge indicated.

“Hazardous and non-hazardous wastes generated by the various offshore operations are appropriately treated and stored on board

A truck as it crosses the weighbridge

then later transported onshore for further treatment and disposal in accordance with applicable Guyana regulations and guidelines, as well as international conventions.”

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel Dharamlall was also on hand during the ceremony. He lauded Exxon for the presentation of the scale, noting that for some time the Ministry’s weighbridge has not been functional.

Dharamlall also revealed that the Haags Bosch Landfill takes in 450 metric tonnes of solid waste per day and has had $550

million invested in it for the year. The sheer volume of waste means that the landfill has to be extended.

“The weighbridge is quite a significant investment in the Haags Bosch Sanitary Landfill facility. For quite a while, our weighbridge has not been working and we are very grateful for this intervention,” the Minister expressed. “(This facility) is the only one of its kind in the country. And it’s a facility that is way beyond its capacity. We have recently established a second cell, which expands the capacity of the facility. And, hope-

fully in due course, we are able to move across Guyana to pursue these types of investments.”

It was only this year that the $290 million cell two was commissioned at the landfill. After cell one had almost reached its optimum capacity, a $290 million contract for cell two was awarded in 2019 to S Jagmohan Hardware Supplies and Construction Services. Now, capacity at the landfill has been boosted to support the influx of waste that is generated.

One solution to the influx of waste is waste-to-energy conversion. Guyana Office for Investment (GO-

Invest) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr Peter Ramsaroop had previously said that this initiative is one that has registered significant investor interest.

Waste-to-energy projects involve plants that burn solid waste and generate electricity. According to Dr Ramsaroop, this can be considered a form of renewable energy. He also explained that when it comes to opportunities for waste to energy, both local and foreign investors have expressed an interest.

Last December, it was announced that a United

States-based company called the Hoskinson Group had held talks with the Government of Guyana and Private Sector officials to develop a waste-to-energy project locally.

The company had announced that it was conducting a feasibility study and would be submitting a proposal to the authorities for consideration. Among the agencies the company held discussions with were GO-Invest, the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA), the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) and the EPA. A tour was also done of the Haags Bosch Landfill. (G3)

8 NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Avoid alcohol, violent behaviour – Judge to man jailed for beating woman

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49-year-old father of two has been sentenced to serve two years and six months’ imprisonment on conviction for the offence of assault causing actual bodily harm.

The custodial sentence was handed down on Wednesday by Justice Jo Ann Barlow, who is presiding at the High Court in Demerara.

In September, State Prosecutors presented an indictment for rape and another for assault causing actual bodily harm against carpenter Bhola Bhagwandin, called ‘Buddy’. The prosecutor contended that both offences were committed against the same woman on September 2, 2019 in the

Jailed: Bhola Bhagwandin

county of Demerara.

Following a trial that

ended on September 30, a 12-member jury found Bhagwandin not guilty on the rape charge, but unanimously guilty on the assault charge. As such, Justice Barlow had instructed the convict to return to court on Wednesday for sentencing.

Facts presented by the prosecutor revealed that Bhagwandin and the woman are known to each other. The woman was at home alone on the day in question when Bhagwandin allegedly went there and began feeling her breasts and holding her hands against her will.

When the woman told him to desist from touching her, he allegedly cuffed her in her back and belly, before allegedly picking up a piece

of wood from the yard and dealing her several lashes about her body. He then allegedly pushed the woman onto a concrete floor and raped her.

The woman reported the matter to the Police the following day.

During Wednesday’s sentencing hearing, State Prosecutor Sarah Martin informed the court that Bhagwandin had previously been convicted, and had served time in prison.

Bhagwadin’s lawyer, Teriq Mohammed, pleaded with the Judge to be lenient when handing down her sentence.

“I am sorry for everything that has happened.

I just want to live a life to suit me and my children, and change my life,” Bhagwandin said in brief remarks to the court. He claimed that the woman was in the habit of making false allegations against him, and that this was one such case.

Justice Barlow, in her sentencing remarks, noted that Bhagwandin did things no man should do to a woman. She noted, too, that he violated a restraining order the woman had against him.

Having considered the aggravating factors, the high instances of domestic violence, and the blatant disregard for court orders, Justice Barlow said, a custodial sentence was appropriate in this case.

“This court has to send you to prison. I can’t avoid that,” the Justice told Bhagwadin.

She further told him that the maximum penalty for the offence for which he was convicted is five years’ imprisonment in accordance with the Criminal Law (Offences) Act. However, considering the mitigating factors and other circumstances, the Judge found that a sentence of two years and six months was fit.

Before the convict was taken away to begin serving his sentence, the Judge advised him to avoid alcohol and violent behaviour when he returns to society. (G1)

ss

Transformation...

W

…in Dubai ell, you could’ve knocked your Eyewitness over with a feather - and he ain’t no featherweight!

- when he saw Guyana on display in Dubai over the last few days. He’s an inveterate consumer of all the dailies…but, somehow, he missed any announcement (if there was one) of the size and breadth of the delegation and its engagements. He remembers a discreet little piece on the swearing in of PM Mark Phillips as acting President while President Ali was going to be visiting the Dubai Expo 2020, along with Min of Culture, Charles Ramson.

But they definitely took along an entourage!! We saw some of them in the cultural extravaganza that showcased our culture. Most of the costumes - especially the females’ - evoked a sort of Latin American ambience of Carmen Miranda!! But your Eyewitness guesses the times are a changin’ and we have a continental destiny!!

Guantanamera forever!! Anyhow, a whole lot was done by our delegation - led by the President, as he worked the town to get businesses to move down to our dear mudland.

There was a delegation from the Private Sector, and this was positive in more ways than fishing for foreign business opportunities. By just having the top politicians and businessmen together in spectacular, super modern and booming Dubai has to pay off. Hopefully, they’ll learn that when we got independence, Dubai was still a backwater desperately trying to pull itself up by the strength of sheer will power. Unless what some might think, Dubai only struck oil in the same year - 1966 - but it was never of the size of its neighbouring UAE states.

The leader, however, had already transformed his small Emirate - smaller than west Demerara! - from the sleepy village it was into a trading destination, because, like Lee Kwan Yew, he had a vision that transcended his country’s physical size and lack of natural resources. He was determined to make Dubai into a West Asian trading hub. He wheedled and hustled, and today the world can admire his transformation of a sand covered piece of real estate into the hottest tourist destination on the planet.

They have the tallest skyscraper in the world, with more five-star hotels than you can throw a stick at!!

But it all started with the Sheik building a harbour and port and an airport. You can’t be a hub If you can’t get traders to trade!! Well, Jagdeo signed off on an airport here…and we urge Pres Ali to get that Berbice Deep Water Harbour completed and connected to the Highway to Brazil.

Most astounding, however, is that the native Dubai population is just 15% of the 3.3 million residents.

Do Guyanese realise we might soon be outnumbered? …of Police We all know our Police are challenged: it would be foolhardy to even try counting the ways in a single newspaper article! But he notes that the authorities - the MoHA and the AG - are reviving an innovation that was tried by the PPP Government during their last iteration - Community Policing Groups. Hopefully, this doesn’t signal that they’re giving up on trying to straighten the GPF - even though he knows it’s more crooked than barbed wire!! That task, however, will take leadership of the calibre of Hercules - and frankly, he was the son of the god Zeus!!

So, did the CPGs do so well the last time that they’re worth a return engagement? Frankly, your Eyewitness doesn’t think so. The problem was they were neither fish nor fowl - while most of the recruits were quite foul! Instead of fulfilling their missions to deal with the challenges in their community, they simply threw their weight around.

And tooled around in their 4-wheel pick-ups as another power-drunk layer. ...of roads With the number of fatalities on our roads rising exponentially, it would appear we’re literally taking our lives into our hands when we place those hands on a steering wheel.

Will a drivers’ continuing education programme help?

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

NEWS

9

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“A close neighbour is better than a distant relative” – Suriname army commander …as Suriname army delegation visits GDF

“I

am very proud to say that this is the best opportunity for both of our nations, and I look forward to working together to enhance security in both our nations. We have the same issues threatening our nations and so our strong partnership will be effective in combating security threats.”

These remarks were made by Commander of the Suriname Armed Forces, Colonel Henri Van Axeldongen, who is currently in Guyana with a delegation of the Suriname Armed Forces being hosted by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

The delegation visited the Defence Headquarters, Base Camp Ayanganna on Monday and was greeted

by Chief of Staff, Brigadier Godfrey Bess and members of his leadership team He said that the visit would be memorable, since it signalled an important step towards combating threats facing both countries. He further referenced the saying “a close neighbour is better than a distant relative”, pointing out that the two countries’ proximity provides a platform for embracing each other’s values and sharing information.

Colonel Axeldongen stressed that he was eagerly anticipating enhanced cooperation with his Guyanese counterparts.

Brigadier Bess endorsed the views shared by Colonel

Members of the Guyana Defence Force welcome Colonel Henri Van Axeldongen (GDF photo)

Axeldongen. He noted that the delegation’s response to the invitation, as both countries continued to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, was a testament to the resilience and endurance of the Surinamese military.

During bilateral talks, he proposed several measures, including a Joint Intelligence Exchange between the two militaries, which he said was necessary as both countries emerge as players in the oil sector. Additionally, he proposed increased collaboration on surveillance on the border which the two countries share.

Brigadier Bess also put

forward proposals for training exchange opportunities and invited the Suriname Armed Forces to subscribe to officer training with the GDF. He also extended the GDF’s support towards establishing a reserve component of the Suriname military.

This visit marks the first step of the two forces towards tackling common threats and embracing each other to ensure that the border they share and are vested to protect remains safe and secured.

The delegation was privy to a country and security concern brief highlighting the challenges faced and a series of proposals to

ECD man charged for killing young businessman, fisherman

T

Dead: Ganesh Persaud

Murder accused Kapildeo Jangadin

Dead: Mukesh Mangra

wo murder charges were read to 24-yearold Kapildeo Jangadin when he appeared before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore on Wednesday at the Cove and John Magistrate’s Court.

Jangadin, of Annandale, East Coast Demerara, was not required to plead to the indictable charges. He has been remanded to prison until January 17, 2022.

It is alleged that on October 15, 2021, at Strathspey, ECD, he murdered 19-year-old Ganesh Persaud, also known as “Chris”, during the course or furtherance of a robbery.

It is further alleged that in January 2020, at Coldingen

Public Road, ECD, he murdered 23-year-old fisherman Mukesh Mangra, also known as “Paul”.

Persaud, who operated at Strathspey an electronics store called “Deals on Electronics”, was in the store at about 16:30h when a bandit invaded, held him at knifepoint, and confiscated his valuables. The young businessman was relieved of a gold chain he was wearing at the time, along with an undisclosed sum of cash, according to a statement from the Police.

Police Headquarters also said Jangadin gave a confession statement in relation to Persaud’s murder, in which he admitted to

stabbing the businessman to his neck during a scuffle for his gold chain. The chain has since been recovered by the Police.

Meanwhile, the lifeless body of Mangra was discovered along the Coldingen, ECD roadway with two stab wounds to the abdomen one to the left side and the other to the right side.

A painter was heading home on his bicycle when he made the gruesome discovery. The young man immediately contacted the nearest Police station, and ranks responded to the scene.

The area was searched, and a blue-handled knife was found almost 50 feet away from the body. (G1)

enhance cooperation to address threats.

The visit from the Surinamese military delegation comes closely on the heels of an official State visit by Surinamese President Chandrikapersad Santokhi on August 17, 2021.

Chief of Staff Brigadier Godfrey Bess and Colonel Henri Van Axeldongen exchanging tokens (GDF photo)

10 NEWS 4 more die, pushing COVID-19 death toll to 881 THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…118 new infections recorded

T

he Health Ministry on Wednesday reported that four more persons who tested positive for the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) have died.

The latest fatalities include a 63-year-old male from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica), who was fully vaccinated, but succumbed to the virus on Wednesday.

Additionally, a 68-year-old female from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara, who was partially vaccinated; an 89-yearold male from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), who was unvaccinated and a 51-year-old female from Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), who was also unvaccinated, died on Tuesday from COVID-19.

According to the Health Ministry, these patients were

admitted with COVID-19-like symptoms, and died while receiving care at medical institutions across the country.

Samples taken at the time of their admission subsequently returned positive results.

With these fatalities, the total number of deaths from the virus in Guyana has now gone up to 881.

Meanwhile, the Ministry’s updated COVID-19 dashboard for Wednesday showed that another 118 persons tested positive for the deadly virus within the previous 24hour period.

The total number of confirmed cases in the country is now 34,726. But only 3639 of these are currently active cases, including 23 patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU). The remaining 3616 persons are in iso-

lation – 113 in institutional isolation and the remaining 3503 persons in home isolation.

Another seven persons are in institutional quarantine.

In addition to the 23 persons in the ICU, there are a total of 63 persons hospitalised at the Oceanview Hospital, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. Overall, there are 91 hospitalised COVID-19 cases across the country – three of whom are pregnant women.

So far, some 30,206 persons have recovered from the life-threatening disease – 128 more recoveries than the day before.

To date, 342,015 persons have been tested for the novel coronavirus and of this, 16,424 males and 18,302 females were found to be posi-

tive.

Of the 118 new cases detected on Wednesday, two are from Region One (BarimaWaini), one from PomeroonSupenaam, 17 from Region Three, a whopping 52 cases from Demerara-Mahaica, 11 from Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), 14 cases from East Berbice-Corentyne, another two from Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), six cases from Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni), two more from Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) and the remaining 11 cases from Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice).

In order to curb the rising number of cases in the country, the Guyana Government launched its COVID-19 vaccination exercise back in February and continues to

roll it out across the various regions in order to achieve herd immunity.

So far, some 374,539 persons or over 73 per cent of the adult population have received their first dose of the vaccine and approximately 45.5 per cent or over 233,391 persons who are 18 years and older are fully immunised.

As it relates to children, more than 26,550 first doses have been administered to the 12 to 17 age group – 36.4 per cent. Some 16,802 or 23 per cent of that age cohort are fully vaccinated.

During his update on the COVID-19 situation in Guyana, Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony on Wednesday pointed out that while the adolescent vaccination drive has seen substantial progress, there is still some work to be done since

they are targeting a total of 104,000 of persons within that age category.

“It’s not only in-school youth but out-of-the-school youth,” he posited.

The Health Minister further noted that Government would soon be conducting another exercise that would see officials going to the various regions and communities around the country to get ensure adolescents are inoculated.

Based on figures from the Bureau of Statistics, some 104,000 persons between the ages of 12 and 18 are eligible for vaccination. “[We want] to make sure that we can get more people who would come out and get these vaccines. Even with the vaccinations we have done so far, we are lagging behind

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD OCTOBER 20, 2021 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

118

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

113

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

3503 23 7

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

18,301

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

16,424

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

34,726

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

30,206

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

374,539

FULLY IMMUNISED

233,391

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

881

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

1578

REGION 2

1371

REGION 3

4737

REGION 4

16,589

REGION 5

1236

REGION 6

2485

REGION 7

1725

REGION 8

546

REGION 9

2437

REGION 10

2022

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

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

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

GET MEDICAL ADVICE ON COVID-19 FROM MOH 24/7 HOTLINE NUMBERS: 2311166; 226 7480; 624 6674; 624 2819; 624 3067 OR 180/181. with the second dose. There’s still a lot of people who took a first dose and didn’t come back as yet for a second dose.

So, we want to encourage persons to do so because if you’re partially vaccinated, you wouldn’t get the full benefits of the vaccination and therefore, we really want to encourage parents to bring out their children and to get vaccinated,” Dr Anthony stated.

He went on to note if there

continued to be a large population of unvaccinated children within the education system, the longer it would take for schools to reopen and for academic activities to return to some level of normalcy.

On this note, the Health Minister reassured that there were sufficient jabs to inoculate the targeted cohort of adolescents.

Nevertheless, as more

people continue to get vaccinated, authorities are urging the public to continue observing all COVID-19 preventative measures, particularly masking in public, social distancing and frequent hand washing and sanitising.

The measures also include vaccination requirements to access any public building such as restaurants, places of worship, schools as well as Government buildings. (G8)

11 Robbing accident victims Grove residents catch is distasteful – Police purse-snatcher A NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Assistant Superintendent Ray Marcurius, Officer-in-Charge of the Crime Laboratory

A

s of recent, there has been a strange and immoral phenomenon that continues to engulf the Guyanese society.

It has now become common that, whenever there is a vehicular accident, people would rush to the scene to steal from the victims.

In an episode of Police and You on Tuesday evening, it was revealed by law enforcement officers that there are several reports and numerous video footage of persons stealing from accident victims.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer (PRO) Stan Gouveia, persons usually pretend to be helping the victims, when in fact they are actually trying to gain access to their valuables. Items such as cellphones, wallets, jewellery and other valuables are taken from the victims on the pretext of assisting them. Vehicles involved in accidents are also looted be-

fore help is sought.

Assistant Police Superintendent Ray Marcurius, Officer-inCharge of the Crime Laboratory, during the interview with the PRO, added that this act is distasteful, and needs to be stopped.

“We need the public support to stamp out and eradicate these kinds of behaviours. There are responsible persons who are there and who need to take charge of certain things until the Police get there. The Police (are) not going to be everywhere all the time…”, he said.

It is also the belief of many family members, who reported that their loved ones’ belonging went missing at scenes, that some of the accident victims probably succumb to their injuries because the preparators are busy filling their pockets instead of lending a helping hand.

Marcurius added that

the level of immorality that exists in most accident scenes has reached the highest peak of inhumane conduct, and is “very upsetting to watch”.

“You see people in a position and you have an opportunity to help and you use that opportunity for personal greed. We need more programmes to educate people to move away from these kinds of behaviours…people need to speak out more as well”, he posited.

Only recently, a video footage that was circulating on social media and was seen by this publication showed two persons fighting somewhere in Guyana.

During the fight, a man was seen trying to help separate the duo, and subsequently pushed his hands into their [the duo’s] pockets and removed their valuables.

It is still unclear if the man was arrested for this act. (G9)

bandit’s ill-gotten gain was shortlived on Wednesday following quick action by members of the community of Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), who helped Police ranks apprehend a man who had snatched a woman’s purse.

The purse-snatcher was cornered in a supermarket at Grove by public-spirited citizens who pursued him after the incident. He was subsequently arrested by Police ranks.

Police Commander for Regional Division Four ‘B’, Senior Superintendent Mahendra Siewnarine, has lauded the residents for supporting the Police in the fight against crime.

“I applaud the continuous support we as a division have been receiving from members of the community. Their efforts to assist in crime- fighting is admirable and courageous, and this could only have been achieved through contin-

Residents of Grove cornering the man who had snatched the woman’s purse

uous partnership with the Police and the public. Such assistance by the public is always welcome and appreciated, and we, as a Police

Division, will continue to strive to ensure we maintain this initiative,” the Police Commander commented. (G9)

13 and 17-year-old nabbed after robbing nursery school guard

T

wo lads, aged 13 and 17, are now in Police custody after they robbed a female security guard attached to the Christianburg Nursery School in Wismar, Linden, Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The incident occurred at around 23:50h on Tuesday.

The Police have said that at the time of the incident, the victim was in the guard hut, and the perpetrators approached and held the woman at knifepoint, relieving her

of a cellphone valued at $43,000.

As the suspects were making their escape, the security guard raised an alarm, and her colleague, who was in another guard hut, gave chase and apprehended one of the suspects.

The police were summoned, and the suspect was taken into custody. He was interviewed, and assisted the Police with investigations which led to the arrest of the second suspect.

However, a third suspect remains at large. (G9)

12 NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Legal challenge to death penalty

Retention a manifestation of the will of Guyanese – Nandlall tells CoA T

he retention of the death penalty as part of Guyana’s sentencing regime is a manifestation of the will of the Guyanese people exercising their sovereignty.

So contends Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC, in response to arguments that the capital punishment is unconstitutional.

For the first time in the Commonwealth Caribbean, lawyers have moved to challenge the constitutionality of the death penalty. In the landmark case before the Guyana Court of Appeal, Douglas Mendes, SC, and lawyers Nigel Hughes and Latchmie Rahamat argue that the death sentence is unconstitutional because it is arbitrary, irrational, dis-

2013 for the 2009 murder of Bartica gold miner Dwieve Kant Ramdass.

Before amendments were made to the Criminal Law (Offences) Act in 2010, anyone convicted of murder was liable to suffer death.

After their conviction, the trio filed an appeal against their conviction and sentence. In their grounds of appeal, their lawyers, among other things, questioned the constitutionality of the death sentence. But before the Court of Appeal could proceed to hear the case on its merits, the panel of Judges entertained arguments from the defence and prosecution on the court’s jurisdiction to hear the matter.

Following a brief hearing

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

Constitutional

Nandlall had applied to intervene in the criminal appeal, and noted that it raises novel and important consti-

On death row: Devon Gordon and Deon Greenidge

proportionate, and contrary to the principles of the rule of law.

The lawyers are appearing on behalf of former Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard ranks Sherwyn Harte, Devon Gordon and Deon Greenidge (the appellants) – who were each sentenced to death in

on Wednesday, the Court of Appeal reserved its ruling on the substantive appeal as well as on the question of jurisdiction. The case was heard by Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards, and Justices of Appeal Dawn Gregory and Rishi Persaud.

tutional issues which go to the core of Guyana’s constitutional ethos and the vexed question of the lawfulness of the death penalty.

Defending the legality of the death penalty, the Attorney General argued that it has been part of the Constitution from time immemorial.

“The framers of the Constitution of Guyana made the death penalty part of our constitutional ethos, and gave it high primacy by inserting it in our constitutional norm and the entrenched provisions of the fundamental rights’ section of the Constitution,” the Attorney General’s written submission reads.

Specifically, Nandlall said, Article 138 of the supreme law authorises the use of the death penalty as a form of sentence. “No person shall be deprived of his or her life intentionally, save in execution of the sentence of a court in respect of an offence under the laws of Guyana of which he or she has been convicted,” he said as he quoted from the aforesaid constitutional provision.

To put this into context, the Attorney General explained that the right to life is a qualified right, and one that is subject to constitutionally prescribed limitations. One such limit, he pointed out, is the execution of the sentence of a court in respect of an offence under the laws.

In light of this, he therefore argued that it is safe to conclude that the death penalty is not only lawful under ordinary legislation, but is duly recognised as a legitimate form of sentence under the Constitution.

Section 19 of the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, he added, reflects the immutable and exceptional nature of the death penalty as distinguishable from the other forms of punishment prescribed under the said Act. Nandlall said, “Taken together, the above provisions evince the intention of the legislature to retain the death penalty as a form of lawful punishment, and to guarantee that a court of competent jurisdiction, having evaluated the facts and evidence, may lawfully impose such a punishment.

They are consistent with the constitutional authority given to the court to impose the

death penalty.”

Will of the people

The Attorney General added that the argument may be made that the 1966 Constitution containing the death penalty came into being because of a referendum, and thus represented the direct voice of the people at the time. He was, however, keen to point out that despite the number of years that have elapsed, the will of the people in respect to the death sentence has remained immutable.

He said that a July 17, 1999 Report of the Constitutional Reform

On death row: Sherwyn Harte

Commission to the National Assembly dealt with the full protection of the fundamental rights and freedoms of the Guyanese people under the law and the Caricom Charter of Civil Society as “mandatory Issues #1”, and the right to life was also discussed.

Nandlall said that given what was contained in Chapter 6 of the Report, it is apparent that the issue of the death penalty was ventilated, and Article 138 in its original form survived the reform process. He submitted that the Commission received hundreds of recommendations from interest groups, including ethnic, business, religious, social, professional, and cultural organisations, as well as groups of citizens.

Murdered: Dwieve Kant Ramdass

Based on the recommendations, he said, the legislature, in 2010, amended the Criminal Law (Offences) Act, which, among other things, brought about the removal of the directive that anyone who commits murder shall be liable to suffer death as a felon.

This, he added, removed the mandatory nature of the death sentence, and Section 100A of the amended Act now gives the court the discretion whether to impose the death penalty or life imprisonment. As such, he argued, the death penalty therefore survived this legislative amendment.

Considering this, the Attorney General submitted that the appellants failed to produce any evidence of purported outcry by the Guyanese people demonstrating an opposition to the death penalty.

On the contrary, he said, the State had been unable to show the unabated desire of the Guyanese people not to retain the death penalty.

And this, he pointed out, is evidenced by its retention in the legislation and the Constitution following public participation in the constitutional reform exercise.

While the court has both a power and a duty to modify relevant legislation to ensure it is rendered consistent with fundamental rights and principles of the Constitution, Nandlall argued, the National Assembly or Parliament has not seen in fit to remove the death penalty, “and it is not for a court of law to address such matters of high policy, which are best left to the people’s elected representatives.”

“The death penalty is neither inconsistent with Guyana’s municipal law nor its international law obligations…the death penalty has been engrained in Guyana’s constitutional framework from time immemorial, and has been deliberately retained. This is evidenced by its survival despite numerous constitutional and legislative amendments,” the Attorney General argued.

“The retention of the death penalty as part of Guyana’s sentencing regime is a manifestation of the will of the Guyanese people exercising their sovereignty,” Nandlall contended. (G1)

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14 NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021|| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Work ongoing to digitise COVID-19 vaccination records …Govt to sign agreement with India to produce electronic cards

H

ealth Minister Dr Frank Anthony has disclosed that work is ongoing to digitise the records from the COVID-19 vaccination programme and produce electronic vaccination cards that would protect against forgery.

During Wednesday’s COVID-19 update, Dr Anthony explained that the Health Ministry is currently working on two projects to achieve this. The first is to digitise all the vaccination records that were gathered from across the country.

“All the manual registers that we have, we are converting that into the digital formats, so that work has been ongoing. We have recruited staff for that purpose, we have designated a special area where we are doing all of that, and we have bought

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

all of the equipment to make sure that that is happening.

So, that is an ongoing process,” he noted.

Simultaneously, the Health Ministry has been engaging the Government of

India to finalise an agreement that would see Guyana having access to the COVID-19 Vaccine Intelligence Network (CoWIN) software, which would allow the production of electronic vaccination cards.

CoWIN is a vaccination tracking software that was developed by India and is currently being used in over 70 countries around the world, including those from Central Asia, Africa and Latin America.

It has been reported that India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi had directed officials to create an opensource version of the platform and give it free of cost to any country that wants it.

According to Minister Anthony, this agreement with the Indian Government will be signed in the coming

days.

“During this week, we’ll be signing off the Memorandum of Understanding which will allow us to now get the CoWIN software. Once we get that CoWIN software, that’s going to be what we’ll be using. So, we’ll migrate the electronic data that we have into that software, and then we’ll be able to produce the new cards that people will have. These cards will have certain features, and people are not going to be able to forge them, [like] the problems that we have right now, where people are trying to forge these cards,” Dr Anthony posited.

Currently, the Health Ministry is using a paper booklet to give to persons when they get vaccinated.

However, there have been several instances in which persons have forged their vaccination records after illegally obtaining the booklets.

In fact, there are about 15 such fraud cases under investigation by the Guyana Police Force. They involve persons who have been caught forging the COVID-19 vaccine

booklets.

Earlier this month, the Health Minister warned persons engaged in this practice, especially those in the medical field, such as medics. He had noted that while most workers in the healthcare sector are “honest, hardworking people”, there are a few who are dishonest and are facilitating the forging of COVID-19 vaccination booklets.

According to Dr Anthony, not only is the practice illegal, but it can be detrimental to the ongoing vaccination efforts.

“If you’re facilitating somebody to get the card but they didn’t get the vaccine, then, when they get sick, we’ll probably think that they have been immunised and we are getting a breakthrough infection, when, in the first place, they did not get the vaccine at all. So we have to put an end to this practice, and I want to urge those healthcare workers who have been involved in this (practice) to desist,” he pointed out.

Minister Anthony indi-

cated that anyone found engaging in this fraudulent practice would face the full brunt of the law, including those in possession of the forged vaccine booklet.

“This is a really serious offence. The persons who are buying these cards, if we catch you, you are going to be charged for tendering a forged document. So, you know, either way, those who enable this and those who are caught with those documents are going to face serious penalties,” the Health Minister had stated.

To date, some 374,539 persons have received their first dose of a vaccine; that is, 73% of the adult population; while another 233,391 persons are fully vaccinated, accounting for 45.5% of the population 18 years and older.

Additionally, 26,554 persons between the ages of 12 and 18 have gotten at least one dose of the COVID vaccine, which is 36.4% of that age cohort. Of that figure, 16,802 persons, or 23% of the adolescents, are fully immunised. (G8)

NEWS

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

“Crime and criminals are advancing” – Crime Laboratory officer …more upgraded resources needed to get ahead of criminals

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ssistant Police Superintendent Ray Marcurius, the officer-in-charge of the Crime Laboratory, has made a call to victims of crimes and the general public to not tamper with crime scenes.

Noting there is a greater need for more up-to-date resources and equipment to aid in bringing criminals to justice, Marcurius made the call during the Guyana Police Force’s weekly Police & You programme, and cautioned that the tampering of a crime scene reduces the

chances of the investigators catching the perpetrator of a crime.

“At the end of the day, you want justice and you want that particular perpetrator to be caught, to be put behind bars. And this is not just for you. When you damage that scene and make it difficult for us to get evidence, it increases the chances of that person getting away with that crime. And tomorrow he’s gonna go at somebody else’s door and he’s gonna continue until… been caught. So, as part of your duty to get justice

for yourself, and as part of (efforts) to help prevent others from suffering the same fate, you gotta focus and you gotta do the right thing. Secure the area and get the experts there, and they’re gonna process that scene so that we can (be) able to identify the perpetrator,” Marcurius advised.

Upgrade

In addition, he pointed out that there is need for an upgrade in the crime laboratory’s resources and equipment, in order to obtain more accurate data.

To this end, he noted that crime and criminals are advancing, and criminals are seeking new ways to get away with crimes; hence, the Police Force is working overtime to keep up.

“Well, the thing about our crime scene investigation is that it’s based around science, and, as you know, science is ever evolving and there’s a lot of different new technology out there, and we’re seeking to acquire a lot more…

For instance, we’re looking at some new equipment to automate some aspects of

our ballistics and ballistics testing. We already have automated systems in the Fingerprint Department.

We’re trying to move those areas ahead. And there are a lot of different new technology out there in terms of the fingerprinting… the old way of doing – of getting fingerprints is by dusting. There’re now new infrared systems that could able to detect fingerprint much more effectively.”

Marcurius pointed out that criminals are reading and using the internet to become craftier in get-

Assistant Superintendent Ray Marcurius

ting away with criminal acts, therefore the Guyana Police Force has also to up its game in bringing criminals to justice.

Young farmer dies in Ebini trail accident …as 2 speeding drivers injured in Berbice, Rupununi accidents

K

emo Phillips, a 24-year-old farmer of Timmers’ Dam Angoy’s Avenue, New Amsterdam Berbice, is now dead following an accident on the Ebini Trail, Upper Berbice River, Region 10.

Reports are that the incident occurred between 19:30h on Monday and 06:30h on Tuesday.

According to the mother of the deceased, they were at their farm at Ebini Trail, Upper Berbice River on Monday when, at about 19:30h, her son told her he was going for a drive, and left for the Ebini Landing on his motorcycle.

She said that at 06:30h on Tuesday, she received a message that her son had been involved in an accident and was seen lying on the trail with his motorcycle next to him. She and sever-

al other persons went to his assistance and took him to the Ebini Landing; however, he died before reaching there.

The body of Kemo Phillips was examined by the Police, and bruises were seen on the left side of the lower back. The body was escorted to Kwakwani Hospital Complex, where a doctor officially pronounced him dead. The body is at the Kwakwani Hospital Mortuary awaiting a post mortem examination.

Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death of Kemo Phillips are ongoing.

Meanwhile, two drivers are now hospitalised after they were injured in separate accidents on the Number 56 Public Road, Corentyne Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and at

Aranaputa Public Road, North Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) on Tuesday evening.

The first accident occurred at about 21:00h on the Aranaputa Public Road and involved motorcycle CJ 5850 owned and driven

by Reainer George, 20, of Tabatinga, Lethem, Central Rupununi.

Based on reports, the driver was proceeding north along the eastern side of the road at an allegedly fast rate of speed, and whilst in the process of negotiating a left turn, he observed a huge pothole in his path. He then applied brakes and swerved from the pothole, but this caused him to lose control of the motorcycle, and he fell on the road surface and received injuries to both of his legs. Police said his mo-

torcycle slid some distance away.

He was picked up in a conscious state by public-spirited citizens, and taken to the Annai Health Centre, where a doctor on duty treated him for fracture to both knees. He was later referred to Lethem Regional Hospital to seek further medical attention.

Meanwhile, at about 21:30h, the second accident occurred on the Number 56 Public Road, Corentyne Berbice. It involved motorcar PNN 9794, driven by 22-year-old Timothy Singh of Bengal Farm, Corentyne Berbice and a motorcar with trade plate “Bhola 1” owned

and driven by 29-year-old Basdeo Bhola of Number 45 Village, Corentyne Berbice.

Guyana Times understands that motor vehicle PNN 9794 was proceeding south on the western drive lane at a fast rate of speed when the driver pulled east and came to a complete stop.

The driver of motorcar “Bhola 1”, which was proceeding in the said direction behind motorcar PNN 9794, pulled east to avoid a collision. However, the driver failed to avoid the collision, and collided with two other vehicles that were parked on the eastern side of the road.

As a result of the impact, the driver received injuries about his body. He was taken to Skeldon Public Hospital in a conscious state, where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty and was later transferred to New Amsterdam Hospital, where he was further examined and admitted a patient in a stable condition.

Meanwhile, the driver of motorcar PNN 9794 was subsequently taken into custody. A breathalyser test conducted on him showed no trace of alcohol in his system.

Investigations are ongoing. (G9)

16 NEWS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

British teen’s murder…

Crying man sentenced to life in prison decomposed body, which was badly mutilated, was found on January 8, 2016.

A post-mortem examination revealed that the young aspiring filmmaker had been struck to the back of the head. He sustained a fractured skull as well as a broken neck. Police reportedly recovered a hammer which is believed to be one of the murder weapons.

Life cut short

High Court Justice Sandil Kissoon

D

espite his cries for leniency, 30-yearold Staymon George was on Wednesday sentenced to life imprisonment for the October 2015 murder of British teenager Dominic Bernard, who had travelled to Guyana to pursue his film-making career, but was later found in a shallow grave.

The sentence was imposed by High Court Judge Sandil Kissoon.

In January 2016, George, called “Sherwin,” was jointly charged with his friend Aaron Hing, called “Neutral”, 29, for the murder of 18-year-old Dominic Bernard.

However, on October 4, George appeared at the Berbice High Court and pleaded guilty.

Hing, Dominic Bernard’s godbrother, pleaded not guilty to the charge, and a jury has been empanelled for his trial, which is ongoing before Justice Kissoon.

Dominic Bernard, called “Dom,” had travelled

Murdered: Dominic Bernard

to Guyana from Epsom, England on October 14, 2015 for a three-week vacation. He was reportedly picked up from the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) by his godbrother and George in a rented car. He was scheduled to fly back home on November 5, 2015. However, after he did not return home, his father Andrew Bernard contacted Hing to enquire about his son’s whereabouts.

Hing reportedly told the older Bernard he was unaware that his son was coming to Guyana. This raised suspicions, and after the father flew to Guyana, British and local law enforcement personnel were called in to investigate the teen’s disappearance.

It was reported that Dominic Bernard was bludgeoned to death hours after he landed in Guyana, and was later buried in a shallow grave in the backlands of Nurney, Corentyne, Berbice, which was dug two days prior to his arrival. His

Still grieving his son’s untimely demise, Andrew Bernard joined Wednesday’s sentencing hearing via Zoom from England to read his victim impact statement. “My one and only son Dominic Michael Lloyd Bernard has been laid to rest in Epsom cemetery, his life cut short at such a young age,” he cried.

The father said his late son’s middle names are taken from his grandfathers, who are both still alive. He added, “No son should die before his father, and especially not before his grandfathers; that is not the order God intended for us.”

Although Dominic Bernard turned 18 in 2015, his father said, “in my eyes he was still my baby boy, whom I had watched grow into a handsome, polite, considerate, hardworking, generous young man. His family and friends will remember him for his jokes; always making them laugh.”

Reflecting on his son’s life, the older Bernard said that his son’s fascination with film production started from his visit to America to

Confessed killer Staymon George

see for himself the live inauguration of Barack Obama as US President. The father added that this momentous, history-making experience is something his son should have been able to share with his children and grandchildren.

“I watched as he progressed his film production on YouTube and the clientele he was slowly building.

I was so proud of his work, and I saw his eyes light up when he would show me the finished films and I would tell him how great they were and how proud I was of him.”

Andrew Bernard said his son’s fatal trip to Guyana was to show the world another side of his heritage.

“Show them how beautiful Guyana was.” But he added that little did his son know of the horror movie that had already been planned for him the day he landed in the country.

“My son’s death has left many family and friends traumatised and grieving.

“Dominic doted on his youngest sister, and her life, like ours, has been shattered from his horrific murder. Since his death, she, like many of us, have had to go through counselling and therapy sessions to overcome her anxieties and fears. The ripple effects from his horrific and depraved murder will continue to haunt us for the rest of our lives.

“Dominic’s mother and I divorced soon after his death, as the depth of depression that followed her led to the subsequent breakdown and destruction of the remaining family unit,” he related.

The father expressed that the nightmares of his son’s death will haunt him for the rest of his life, and noted that whatever sentence is imposed on George will never match the life sentence his family has received.

Tremendous guilt

“I have tremendous guilt that I was not able to rescue my son, to soothe him in his final moments. I have been unable to move on since my son's death. I feel stuck. My son's life was taken, and with it my hopes, dreams, and future.” Those were the words of a tearful Linda, Dominic Bernard’s mother.

She, too, read her vic-

Murder accused Aaron Hing

tim impact statement from England via Zoom.

The woman said that since her son’s death, her life has been tormented with guilt.

Fighting to hold back tears, she shared, “Guilt is continual, as I should have known and sensed the danger Dominic was facing. I did not protect him. The instinct of a mother is to protect her children. I cannot convey how traumatised I am to know how Dom's life ended and how he suffered.”

Linda disclosed that she has been diagnosed as suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder, and has been taking long-term counselling to deal with the effects of her son’s death.

The mother nevertheless stated that she is truly grateful for the 18 years she was able to spend with her son.

“I am reading this as the very proud mum of Dominic.

Dom was a typical boy who enjoyed family, school, and friendships. He was mischievous, funny, and a lot of work at times too. We had a real mother/son bond, and thrived on routine. We gave him his name because its meaning is 'given by the Lord' and he was given to us to love and care, and now he rests with his Heavenly Father.”

Both of Dominic Bernard’s parents disclosed that he shared a close relationship with Hing.

Cold-blooded, inhumane Justice Kissoon, in his sentencing remarks, described the teenager’s murder as “heinous, diabolical, calculated, cold-blooded, inhumane, and brutal”. The Judge said that no human being ought to be made to suffer what Dominic Bernard had to endure. He pointed out that the young man was killed by those in whom he reposed trust and confidence for his well-being.

The Judge referred to the teen as a young, talented filmmaker who travelled to Guyana with the hope of capturing, for the wider world, the beauty of the country, and to spend time with his family.

Directing his remarks at George, the Judge reminded him that he and others stole the young man’s camera equipment, money, and other belongings, and divided them among themselves.

“Yourself and others re-

trieved the weapons concealed by the shallow grave, including a hammer, and began to beat Dominic Bernard, attacking only the most vulnerable parts of his body…his neck, his head, severing his spinal column, inflicting multiple fractures to his skull, and then inserting a sock into his mouth to prevent his cries for help from being heard,” said Justice Kissoon as he recanted the facts.

According to the Judge, the pathologist testified that Dominic Bernard was alive at the time these injuries were inflicted upon him, and give his cause of death as subdural hematomas, a result of multiple cranial fractures compounded by a fractured spine. The Judge noted that the reverberating effects of the young man’s death have revoked havoc, destruction, and illness upon his family.

In arriving at an appropriate sentence, the Judge, among other things, considered the degree of premeditation, use of extreme violence, gravity of the injuries inflicted, the use of a weapon, the fact that multiple persons attacked the teen, and that his killing was a crime for financial gain.

While mitigating factors were presented on behalf of George, the Judge said they were not worthy of consideration, given the factual circumstances of the case, nor can they dilute the aggravating factors or be of any effect to the sentence that will be imposed by him.

According to Justice Kissoon, this crime “requires and deserves” a penalty that is severe not only to serve as a deterrent, but in light of the brutality that was meted out to a vulnerable teenager who was expecting the hospitality and kindness that is consistent with Guyanese society.

In the end, George was sentenced to life imprisonment, and becomes eligible for parole only after serving 35 years. He was given credit for the time he spent in pre-trial detention.

The confessed killer, during Wednesday’s proceeding, had apologised to Dominic Bernard’s family and begged them for forgiveness.

George was represented by Attorney-atlaw Ravindra Mohabir.

Attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahamat was the special prosecutor in the case.

Meanwhile, Krystal Thomas, called “Kathy”, 25; Jahmeil Sinclair, called “Fross” or “Bacchus,” 24; and Sinfine Henry, called “Coreen”, 39, will be tried for accessory to murder.

It is alleged that between January 4 and 6, 2016, knowing that Hing had committed the offence of murder, they received, comforted, relieved, maintained, harboured, and assisted him. They have been each released on $300,000 bail pending the hearing and determination of their trial.

NEWS

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GNBS seizes 542 packs of improperly labelled cigarettes T

he Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS), upon surveillance inspections to various sales outlets in Regions Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), has seized a total of 542 packs of cigarettes which failed to meet the labelling requirements.

The requirements are stipulated in the National Standards “GYS 9-3:2014 Labelling of Tobacco Products”, and the Tobacco Control Regulation of 2018.

On Wednesday, the agency stated that during surveillance visits to shops and supermarkets, inspec-

tors found several brands of cigarettes which were not labelled in English, while other packages did not in-

Missing 14-year-old

Teen found with bruises on body, 2 in custody

F

ourteen-year-old Varshnie Ramdass, who went missing on Wednesday last after dropping her brother off to school, has been found.

The child’s mother, Pinkey Ganga, on Wednesday disclosed that relatives found the teen following the publication of the story by this newspaper on Tuesday.

She revealed that after readying the story in Guyana Times, someone contacted the family and informed them that the young lady was seen at a location in Belle West, Canal Number Two, West Bank Demerara (WBD).

The mother said the

family then contacted the Police, and together they went to the location at around 23:00h on Tuesday, where the child was reportedly found in the company of the same man she had complained had inappropriately approached her in the past.

At the time, both teens were staying with the man and his wife. The couple have since been taken into custody.

The mother also told this publication that the teen was found with bruises about her body.

When asked, the mother could not say if the teen was being held against her will.

Both the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA)

and the Police are investigating.

Efforts to contact Regional Commander Errol Watts for a comment on this development proved futile.

Ramdass disappeared at around 11:30h after she had dropped her brother off at the Vreed-en-Hoop Primary School.

She and her mother had reportedly made plans to visit the Vreed-en-Hoop Secondary School that very day for her to be enrolled as a student.

On the day the teen girl went missing, she had in her possession $15,000, her personal documents and a one pennyweight gold chain.

(G9)

TRINRE/PREMIER Group’s received credit ratings upgraded by CariCRIS

T

he TRINRE/ PREMIER Group, which now has an office in Guyana, has announced that its corporate credit ratings have been upgraded by the Caribbean Information and Credit Rating Services Limited (CariCRIS) to CariA on the regional rating scale, and ttA on the Trinidad and

Tobago national scale.

In a statement, the Group said its financial strength rating was also upgraded to CariA, affirming it ability to meet its insurance obligations.

“This one notch uplift is based on the following over the past three (3) years: Improved capitalisation over the past year,

with an average growth rate of 16.4%; Material reduction in the risk profile of our investment portfolio; Significant enhancements to our Enterprise Information Systems; Robust policies, procedures and strong corporate governance; Annual increases in profits over the past 2 years in excess of the 15%; Diversification of our revenue stream over the past year with the successful establishment of our Guyana subsidiary, PREMIER Insurance,” the company said.

In issuing the upgraded ratings, CariCRIS confirmed that, “the level of creditworthiness of this obligor, adjudged in relation to other obligors in the Caribbean is good,” the company said.

Meanwhile, Vinai Narace Marketing and Services Manager of the TRINRE/ PREMIER Group, stated, “These upgrades illustrate our continuous efforts to ensure sustainable performance for the benefit of all of our stakeholders.”

clude a pictorial warning as specified by the Tobacco Control Regulation. The Regulation specifies that pictorial warnings should be placed on each packet, and must cover 60% of the top front and back of the packets.”

GNBS Inspectors conduct regular surveillance to ensure that tobacco products which do not conform to the requirements are not sold to local consumers.

Such items are seized and destroyed.

Additionally, inspectors found that some packets did not include a declaration relating to the constituents

and emission information, name and address of the manufacturer, importer or distributor, the date of manufacture or batch number.

Further, some brands were not approved for sale in Guyana.

The many brands of cigarettes seized include Atlanta, Milano, SPEED, Marshal, Bulls and Bears, Aurora, Record, Silver Elephant, 51, Royal, Darkis, Indosu and Nashville.

Earlier this year, the GNBS destroyed 290,000 packs of imported cigarettes found at Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

The ciga-

rettes, which were branded “US Mild 1” and imported from Brazil by a local business, were destroyed at the Lethem dumpsite in the presence of the GNBS Inspector stationed in the region. Additionally, in 2020, Inspectors seized 664 packets of cigarettes, which were also destroyed.

To this end, the GNBS is urging importers and dealers to avoid seizure of items by ensuring that their products adhere to the requirements of the standard and regulation. Retailers are also cautioned against purchasing cigarettes which do not contain warnings and other required information on the individual packages.

The GNBS will continue surveillance exercises across the country to remove substandard products from retail outlets. Other products monitored by the GNBS include electrical and electronic appliances, weighing and measuring devices, textiles, garments, footwear, safety helmets, safety matches, tyres, gas stoves, cigarettes, pvc pipes, furniture, toys and playthings, Christmas trees and decorative lighting, cellular phones, gold articles, electrical equipment and fittings.

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

News

Date set for PNCR Congress to elect leader – source …long overdue Congress to be held in December

A

date has finally been set for the long-awaited People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R) biennial congress, which will possibly see a new Central Executive Committee (CEC) and possibly even a new leader being elected.

PNC/R executive Volda Lawrence, whom many consider as a possible contender for the leadership of the party, was tightlipped when contacted, only saying that the party would issue a press statement when it was ready.

Party General Secretary Amna Ally also declined to share any information on when the congress would be held. However, on the condition of anonymity, this publication was able to confirm with a senior member of the party that a date has been set for the biennial congress.

While sources indicate that December 11 has been set for the holding of the congress and November 11 for the nomination of the candidates, this publication was unable to secure independent confirmation.

It was only recently, at the party’s 64th anniversary ceremony at Congress Place, that Lawrence made a poignant call for an end to the political confrontation she noted was a liability to the party. “…it is clear that political

PNC’s last biennial congress was in 2018, when Granger was returned unopposed as Leader of the party.

The PNCR Central Executive Committee had agreed earlier in the year that the party’s 22nd biennial congress

should be held by the end of November 2021, but not later than December 13, 2021.

Unlike in 2018, when he was returned as Leader uncontested, Granger now faces at least two challengers for the post of Leader. CEC mem-

ber Dr Richard Van WestCharles threw his hat in the ring in June, making him and party stalwart Aubrey Norton the two executive members of the party who have indicated their interest in the top job.

(G3)

Guyana’s best graduating student at HWLS admitted to the Bar PNC/R Headquarters, Congress Place, Sophia

confrontation will lead us nowhere. Our actions must be set towards unification. We want to proceed in a way that will enable everyone to benefit. At least this should be our goal,” Lawrence had said.

Lawrence, who formerly served as Public Health Minister, also spoke of the need for the PNCR to expand its reach as a political party.

Additionally, she noted that the party needs to improve on its organization in order to better serve the country.

At that same ceremony, Party Leader former President David Granger, who is taking a leave from politics, had taken what appeared to be a jab at his rivals for the leadership position and spoken against factions within the party during a prerecord-

ed message.

“Our founder Forbes Burnham, at the party’s first biennial delegates conference in 1975, warned of the menace of factionalism. I quote: ‘To be sponsoring and joining factions in the party is to indulge in anti-party activity, calculated to weaken the party. There may be different motivations, some springing from personal ambitions, others from minority positions primarily held. Whichever it may be, the result is undesirable and deleterious’,” Granger had said.

Amid internal party struggles, there has been mounting pressure for the party to host its Biennial Congress for new leadership to be elected. But the PNCR Leader has previously cited COVID-19 as the reason behind the delays.

– urges law students to build support system

C

aressa Henry has graduated the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) as the best performing Guyanese student in the Class of 2021 and according to her, the journey was not an easy one, but with the support of loved ones, she was able to achieve this goal.

Henry was admitted to the Guyana Bar on Wednesday

by Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George at the High Court.

After obtaining her Law Degree from the University of Guyana in 2019, Henry secured a scholarship from the Government of Guyana to attend HWLS for her Legal Education Certificate (LEC).

Following the two-year programme, she graduated with honours having obtained six to eight A grades in the 11 courses and was even listed on the Principal’s Roll of Honour. Henry was subsequently awarded the Guyana Government’s Prize for the Best Performing Guyanese Student.

Henry embarked on her legal journey while being a wife and mother of three, holding down a full-time job.

She explained that the journey was “far from easy”, but in the end, it was “definitely worth it”.

According to her, the support system she built with family and friends motivated and inspired her to stay on course.

“I had a huge support base and that is why I can stand proudly here today and feel how I’m feeling and achieved what I have achieved,” she told Guyana Times following her admission to the Bar. After attaining her secondary education at the St John’s College and St Stanislaus College, Henry pursued a Diploma in Administrative Professional Studies, Public Management and then went on to obtain her law degree.

During her LEC programme at HWLS, she was active in other areas serving as the Welfare Officer of the Guyana Jurisdiction

Attorney Caressa Henry with Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George at her official admission to the Bar on Wednesday

Committee, and a member of the HWLS Welfare Committee advocating and supporting students’ welfare.

Henry has been in the public service for 12 years and had served in the legal fraternity, before she decided to become a lawyer.

According to the Guyana Association of Women’s Lawyers, her work experience includes a stint at the Supreme Court of Judicature as a Clerk; at the Health Ministry as a Confidential Secretary; at the Attorney General’s Chambers as Personal Assistant to the Solicitor General and at the NGO National Coordinating Coalition as Policy/Advocacy Officer, Technical Officer and Policy and Projects Development Manager.

She will be returning to the public sector and practising general law.

Outside of her academics, Henry has been a volunteer Peer Educator for over 15 years, educating youths on HIV/AIDS and other health and social issues. She also serves as a volunteer with the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) from 2020 to present.

“I’ve been giving back to

country even before embarking on this legal journey… and I will continue to give back to my country as a volunteer. In my legal career, I plan to continue with the same zest and the same energy to ensure I stay on course.”

While Henry is now embarking on her legal career, she already has her eyes set on the bench.

“In my legal journey, I hope to one day enter the bench. I aspire to become either a magistrate or a judge.

So, I’ll basically be practising and doing all that is necessary to get there,” she expressed.

In the meantime, Henry outlined that her legal education was not completed as she intended to continue to pursue various areas in law with the aim of eventually specialising.

Her advice to students studying is to “Stay the course, do not give up. Just keep reading and going. Your family could be your biggest support, so you have to try to nurture those family relationships so that they can continue to be there for you, because you can’t do it alone.”

guyanatimesgy.com

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil rallies as US crude stocks decline in tight market

O

il prices rallied on Wednesday after US crude inventories at the nation's largest storage site hit their lowest level in three years and nationwide fuel stocks fell sharply, a signal of rising demand.

Brent crude futures settled at US$85.82 a barrel, a gain of 0.9 per cent or 74 cents and the highest since October 2018.

November West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude , which expires on Wednesday, settled at US$83.87, up 91 cents, or 1.1 per cent. The more active WTI contract for December settled up 98 cents to US$83.42 a barrel.

Crude prices have risen as supply has tightened, with the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) maintaining a slow increase in supply rather than intervening to add more barrels to the market, and as US demand has ramped up.

Globally, refiners have been boosting output thanks to high margins, one that can only be restrained by maintenance. US refining capacity use dropped in the most recent week, but analysts noted that supply may continue to tighten if US refiners also pick up processing again.

"Stronger demand and concerns about a drop in inventories when refiners were already running a low rate during maintenance season is making people concerned about what will happen when refiners have to ramp up production to meet what is very strong demand for gasoline and distillate," said Phil Flynn, senior energy analyst at Price Futures Group in Chicago. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Around the World

COVID: WHO warns pandemic will drag on into 2022 T he COVID-19 pandemic will "go on for a year longer than it needs to" because poorer countries are not getting the vaccines they need, the World Health Organisation (WHO) says.

Dr Bruce Aylward, senior leader at the WHO, said it meant the COVID crisis could "easily drag on deep into 2022".

Less than five per cent of Africa's population have been vaccinated, compared to 40 per cent on most other continents.

The United Kingdom has delivered more than 10 million vaccines to countries in need.

It has pledged a total of 100 million.

E

miles) to the west.

Government spokesman Legesse Tulu told news agencies that it targeted “facilities that TPLF have turned into arms construction and repair armaments sites”.

At least 14 people were injured in the air attacks in Mekelle and three were in critical condition, Hayelom Kebede, the former director of Tigray’s flagship Ayder Referral Hospital, told The Associated Press.

TPLF spokesman Getachew Reda said Wednesday’s bombing raid on Mekelle had targeted a residential “causing inju-

T

rinidad and Tobago Prime Minister, Dr Keith Rowley appealed to Opposition Leader Kamla Persad-Bissessar to withdraw a motion aimed at impeaching President Paula Mae Weekes regard-

ry to civilians and harm to property”. “[President] Abiy’s reaction to his losses in the ongoing fighting is to target civilians hundreds of kms away from the battlefield,” he said on Twitter.

Mekelle had not seen fighting since June, when Tigrayan forces retook much of the region in a dramatic turn in the war.

Since then, fighting has intensified in two other Ethiopian regions – Amhara and Afar – where the Federal Government’s military is trying to recover territory taken by the TPLF. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Jamaica: Residents kill innocent man who they believed to be child abductor

A

s the manhunt for Davian Bryan, the suspected abductor of two girls in Bath, St Thomas intensified on Wednesday morning, head of the St Thomas Police Division, Superintendent Allison Byfield, has confirmed that residents attacked and killed an innocent man who they believed to be Bryan.

“An innocent man was killed in Llandewey. My information is that a man was attacked by residents and in-

jured. I think wounds were inflicted on him using a knife. Residents are saying that he is the suspect that they were looking for; however, it is not the suspect,” Byfield told Observer Online.

“We want to say it's an innocent man. An innocent man's life would've been taken out by the residents of the area,” she continued.

Nine-year-old Phylisa Prussia was abducted from her home in Bath, St Thomas, on Thursday, October 14

A shipment of COVID vaccines from Covax lands in Sudan earlier in October

Dr Aylward appealed to wealthy countries to give up their places in the queue for vaccines in order that pharmaceutical companies can prioritise the lowest-income countries instead.

He said wealthy countries needed to "stocktake" where they were with their donation commitments made at summits such as the G7 meeting in St Ives this summer.

"I can tell you we're not on track" he said. "We really need to speed it up or you know what? This pandemic is going to go on for a year longer than it needs to."

The People's Vaccine – an alliance of charities – has released new figures suggesting just one in seven of the doses promised by pharmaceutical companies and wealthy countries are actually reaching their destinations in poorer countries.

The vast majority of COVID vaccines have been given in high-income or upper middle-income countries. Africa accounts for just 2.6% of doses administered globally. (Excerpt from BBC News)

T&T PM urges Opposition Leader to withdraw motion to impeach President

Ethiopia launches new air raids on embattled Tigray region thiopia’s military has launched new air raids on Tigray, the second round of bombardments this week against rebel targets in the war-battered region.

The air raids mark a sharp escalation in the near year-long conflict in northern Ethiopia pitting Government forces and their allies against the Tigrayan People’s Liberation Front (TPLF), Tigray’s once-dominant governing party.

The Government said it bombed weapons caches in the regional capital Mekelle and the town of Agbe which lies about 80 kilometres (50

19

about 19:00h. She was found two days later in bushes in Arcadia.

Hours later, 13-year-old Winshae Barrett, a student at Morant Bay High School, was reported missing after accompanying her older sister to feed pigs in their backyard. She was found Monday morning in heavy foliage outside Spring Bank, a neighbouring community to Bath.

(Excerpt from Jamaica Observer)

ing the appointment of a new Police Commissioner.

Speaking at a virtual public meeting of the ruling People’s National Movement (PNM) on Tuesday night, Dr Rowley said there are provisions in the Constitution that would allow for the motion to be withdrawn ahead of today’s special meeting of the Electoral College, where the motion would be voted upon.

The Electoral College comprises all 41 members of the House of Representatives and all 31 members of the Senate.

“I want to say to Mrs

Kamla Persad-Bissessar, you are a colleague of mine in the Parliament, even if you thought something had gone wrong, enough has been made available to you now and there is provision for the withdrawal of a motion in the Parliament if the mover of the motion is of a changed view and would like to withdraw that motion,” Rowley said.

“I would like to ask the Leader of the Opposition, based on what she now knows, based on what the country now knows, notwithstanding your concern or malice in the beginning, don’t put our country

through that, don’t put that on our country’s record, don’t stain our country.”

Opposition legislators of the United National Congress (UNC) want a tribunal established “to investigate the removal of Her Excellency Paula Mae Weekes from the Office of the President”, the order paper circulated for the meeting said.

But Rowley told the public meeting that the Opposition legislators are of the view that today’s sitting would be a debate as to whether the President should be removed from office. (Excerpt from CMC)

Flooding death toll passes 100 in Nepal and India's Uttarakhand

M

ore than 100 people have died after heavy rainfall triggered flash floods in India's northern state of Uttarakhand and parts of Nepal.

Homes were submerged or crushed by rocks swept into them by landslides.

Some 50 people, including five from a single family, died in Uttarakhand and a similar number in Nepal, with dozens more missing in both nations.

Rains further south in India's Kerala state also triggered deadly floods, leaving another 39 dead there.

Six more bodies were recovered on Wednesday in Uttarakhand, taking the death toll in the Himalayan state, a popular tourist spot, to 52.

Schools have been closed and religious and tourist activities suspended in the state.

The Ganges burst its bank in Rishikesh and the popular Nainital region was severely affected.

Uttarakhand, which normally sees up to 30.5mm

Overflowing rivers have swept away bridges as here in Chalthi, Uttarakhand

(1.2in) of rain for the whole of October, recorded 328mm in a 24-hour period this week.

But the Indian Meteorological Department says the rainfall is now easing.

Rainfall in Nepal may not be so quick to ease.

The worst-affected areas are Panchthar district in east Nepal, and Ilam and Doti in west Nepal.

Rescuers were struggling to reach 60 people stranded for two days in the village of Seti in west Nepal, Reuters reported.

Nepal's Government is giv-

ing US$1700 to the families of each victim of the floods.

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced a compensation of 400,000 rupees (US$5300) for the families of those who have died and a further 190,000 rupees for those whose homes were destroyed.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed his condolences on Twitter: "I am anguished by the loss of lives due to heavy rainfall in parts of Uttarakhand. May the injured recover soon."

(Excerpt from BBC News)

20

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS

DILBERT

(April 20May 20)

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

CALVIN AND HOBBES

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Spending time with a loved one will lift your spirits. Taking a day trip or attending a gathering will offer a different perspective of life, love and what's possible.

Emotional stubbornness will not help you get ahead.

Take care of responsibilities, live up to promises and trust only those who have always been there for you. Stick to the basics.

There will be an undercurrent of misinformation that can affect your reputation. Be honest, or someone will question you until you tell the truth. Be intelligent, disciplined and precise.

You'll get the help you need, but it will come at a cost. Try to handle things on your own. Stick close to home, and you'll avoid a social situation that makes you uncomfortable.

You'll get an emotional jolt from a critic. Consider what's said and whether it's constructive and can help you improve. Aim to be your best instead of letting anger call the shots.

An experience you encounter will help you recognize whom you can trust.

Embrace a change that promises awareness, answers and a chance to make your life better. Budget wisely.

Take care of pressing matters personally. If you depend on others, you will be disappointed. Physical fitness will help you project confidence. Hold your head high and strut your stuff.

A change of plans will leave you in limbo. Don't lament over something you cannot change; pick up the pieces and proceed to do what you do best. Put your plans in motion.

When in doubt, stop SAGITTARIUS and think about what you (Nov. 23are doing. Put your enerDec. 21) gy into your responsibilities and do the best job possible.

Discipline and hard work will be crucial.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

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

Examine what you want to accomplish, then push ahead. Letting someone disrupt your plans or momentum will lead to defeat. Outsmart anyone who tries to upset you.

You must keep a level head.

Don't let your emotions take charge. Concentrate on what you want to achieve, and don't stop until you reach your goal. Opportunity and financial gain are within reach. Stick to your plan.

A change to how you earn your living will push you in a (Feb. 20new direction. Someone close March 20) to you will offer insight into options you may not have considered. Present what you have to offer with pizazz.

PISCES

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

21

Ashwin, Rohit shine as India canter past Australia in 2nd warm-up game

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ohit Sharma has led from the front in India’s second warmup game, top scoring with 61 as India chased down Australia’s 152 to register another win in their lead up to the T20 World Cup. Rohit put on 68 for the opening stand with KL Rahul, who fell trying to up the ante against the spinners. Rohit added another 59 with a fluent Suryakumar Yadav, before retiring hurt and allowing Hardik Pandya to give the game the finishing touches.

Earlier, Australia suffered quick setbacks after opting to bat against R Ashwin, who bowled the second over of the match.

David Warner was LBW missing a reverse sweep, while Mitchell Marsh was caught at slip off the very next ball. It got worse for Australia, as Ravindra Jadeja had Aaron Finch trapped LBW off his first ball.

Glenn Maxwell (37 off

SCOREBOARD

Rohit Sharma scored 60 off 41

28), however, counterattacked, with Steven Smith anchoring one end. Even as India experimented with Virat Kohli (2-0-12-0) as a bowling option, Australia found their way back through the latter half of the innings. Marcus Stoinis was ruthless against Shardul Thakur and Varun Chakravarthy in the death overs as Australia ended with a respectable total.

(Cricbuzz)

Ashwin dismissed Warner and M Marsh off successive deliveries in his first over

AUSTRALIA INNINGS (20 OVERS MAXIMUM) David Warner lbw b Ashwin 1 Aaron Finch (c) lbw b Jadeja 8 Mitchell Marsh c Sharma b Ashwin 0 Steven Smith c Sharma b Kumar 57 Glenn Maxwell b Chahar 37 Marcus Stoinis not out 41 Matthew Wade † not out 4 Extras (w 4) 4 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 7.60) 152/5 Did not bat: Mitchell Starc, Kane Richardson, Ashton Agar, Pat Cummins, Adam Zampa, Josh Hazlewood Fall of wickets: 1-6 (David Warner, 1.5 ov), 2-6 (Mitchell Marsh, 1.6 ov), 3-11 (Aaron Finch, 3.1 ov), 4-72 (Glenn Maxwell, 11.5 ov), 5-148 (Steven Smith, 19.5 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Bhuvneshwar Kumar 4-0-27-1 Ravichandran Ashwin 2-0-8-2 Ravindra Jadeja 4-0-35-1 Shardul Thakur 3-0-30-0 Virat Kohli 2-0-12-0

Rahul Chahar Varun Chakravarthy

3-0-17-1 2-0-23-0

INDIA INNINGS (TARGET: 153 RUNS FROM 20 OVERS) KL Rahul c Warner b Agar 39 Rohit Sharma (c) retired out 60 Suryakumar Yadav not out 38 Hardik Pandya not out 14 Extras (w 2) 2 TOTAL (17.5 Ov, RR: 8.57) 153/2 Did not bat: Ishan Kishan †, Rishabh Pant, Ravindra Jadeja, Shardul Thakur, Ravichandran Ashwin, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Varun Chakravarthy, Rahul Chahar, Virat Kohli Fall of wickets: 1-68 (KL Rahul, 9.2 ov), 2-127 (Rohit Sharma, 14.6 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Mitchell Starc 2-0-14-0 Pat Cummins 4-0-33-0 Ashton Agar 2-0-14-1 Adam Zampa 3-0-29-0 Kane Richardson 1.5-0-20-0 Marcus Stoinis 2-0-16-0 Mitchell Marsh 2-0-17-0 Glenn Maxwell 1-0-10-0

Caribbean Sports Club, Invaders Persaud and crew lead McGill to Masters record wins in ESCL tourney comprehensive win over Belle Vue

T

he Caribbean Sports Club and the Invaders Masters have each recorded wins last Sunday in the continuation of the Essequibo Softball Cricket League (ECSL) 20-overs, over40 competition played at the Richmond ground in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

The Caribbean Sports Club beat the Ravens by nine runs in an exciting match, while the Invaders Masters roared to a comprehensive seven-wicket victory against the Queenstown Tigers at the same venue.

Caribbean Sports Club tallied a challenging 215-6 from the allotment of 20 overs, while Ravens, in response, were left hanging at 206-8 when their overs expired.

Sugrim Ahiram led the way for the Ravens with an impressive 55, while meaningful contributions came from Safraz Alli with 31 and Glendon Smith with 25.

Eshwar Singh was the most successful bowler for the Caribbean Sports Club with two for 29 from his four overs.

In the Caribbean Sports Club’s innings, Surendra Manchal hit a top-score of 47 not out, and Ekie Baksh offered classic support with 44 not out. Captain Naresh Narine also contributed an excellent 44. Punraj Singh snatched two wickets for 31 runs from his maximum four overs.

Invaders made light work of Queenstown Tigers, as

M

Part of the action last Sunday at Richmond ground on the Essequibo Coast

their confrontation was less intense. Tigers only mustered an inadequate 124 all out off 18.5 overs, while Invaders Masters surged to victory in the 11th over.

Davendra Madho cracked 42 to lead the way, while the experienced Patrick Rooplall contributed 29 for the winning combination. Former senior Essequibo inter-county allrounder Ramesh Narine claimed two wickets for 17 runs off his four overs to help Invaders Masters in the bowling department.

In the other fixture Sunrisers Masters got a walk-over, as Reliance Hustlers did not show.

The competition is slated to continue this Sunday with three more matches.

Meanwhile, Chairman of the League, Wakeel Layne, has said the previous round was

satisfactory, and exciting cricket continues to prevail in the first edition of the competition. He informed that followers can get updates on the League’s website as well.

Layne also took the opportunity to thank the sponsors for their commitment, which is a demonstration of their love for the game. The sponsors are as follows: V&G Auto Centre Inc., Big G Auto Repair, Rockaway Roti Shop, Hillside Homes, Wesley Blackman & Family, Haroon Mohamed & Family, X-Pert Property Management, Best Price Construction, Best Price Lawn Care, Regency Paint & Body Shop, East West Travel Services, Patmark Property Investments LLC, MainStreet Collision, Afzal Homes, Deals and Wheels Central FL, Hereman Deodat & Family, and GAC Electric.

cGill Superstars took on the Belle Vue Sports Club in a one-sided affair on Tuesday October 19, and emerged victors, thanks to a brilliant 72 from Travis Persaud and notable contributions from the entire team.

Former national under-19 right-handed opening batsman Ronaldo Renee and former Guyana under-19 captain Travis Persaud featured in a partnership of 55 for the 1st wicket, executing some entertaining shots before Renee was caught for 36 (2×6,6×4) in the 6th over off the bowling of left-arm spinner Ricardo Adams.

Former national youth player Kheshram Seyhodan then joined Persaud at the crease, and the duo rotated the strike nicely and picked up the odd boundaries, putting on 90 for the 2nd wicket partnership before Seyhodan was stumped for 39 (2×6,1×4) off the bowling of Ricardo Adams at 145-2 in the 14th over.

Abdul Razack then joined forces with Persaud, and the duo took the score to 163 before Persaud (72: 2×6,6×4) fell, caught at long on to offspinner Boodram Bharat in the 16th over.

Former national youth allrounder Daniel Basdeo (1) came and went quickly, Adams having him caught at mid-wicket at 147-3.

Travis Persaud scored a fluent 72

Razack (19), Ganesh Puran (11*) and Mark Jeffers (12) all played handy cameos to see their team to a mammoth total of 208-6 by the time their 20 overs had expired.

Having to score more than 10 runs per over, Belle Vue SC were always behind the 8 ball.

Ricardo Adams and Randy Ramroop put on 60 for the 1st wicket partnership before Adams, on 26 (1×6,3×4), was comprehensively bowled by a beauty from right arm seamer Mark Jeffers in the 8th over.

Jeffers then removed Ramroop for 15 (2×4) in the same over, caught behind at 62-2.

Off-spinner Abdul Razack and national left arm spinner Kheshram Seyhodan tightened the screws in the middle overs, Razack having Sheldon Alexander (14:1×6,1×4) caught at long on in the 11th over at

95-3. Seyhodan then removed Ryan Seecharran (15: 1×6,2×4) caught at backward point in the 14th over at 114-4.

Off-spinner Travis Persaud came in and joined forces with leg spinner Ganesh Puran. The duo proved to be unplayable on a surface which offered some assistance to spinners.

Persaud removed Colin Boucher (25:2×6,2×4) caught at backward point at 124-5 in the 17th over.

Belle Vue managed to amass a total of 144-5 in their 20 Overs, losing by 64 runs to Mc Gill.

Mc Gill spinners proved to be economical, with Persaud, Puran, Razack and Seyhodan finishing their quota of overs with figures of 1-14, 0-15, 1-24 and 1-28 respectively.

Jeffers was the pick of the Mc Gill bowlers with 2-26 off his 4 overs.

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

West Indies slump to defeat against Afghanistan A

— going down in second warm-up match by 56 runs

fghanistan combined a belligerent batting performance with tight bowling to storm to a 56-run win against a somewhat lethargic West Indies in both teams' second and final warm-up match for the T20 World Cup 2021.

Mohammad Nabi opened the bowling for Afghanistan, and bowled his four overs straight through to return figures of 4-22-3, completely stifling the West Indies' chase. Nabi bowled 22 dot balls out of 24 deliveries, conceding only two singles off the bat all through.

Nabi's effort came after Mohammed Nabi (C) was the both openers hit fifties for pick of the bowlers, with 3-2 Afghanistan, off the blocks with wayward bowling by West a tear right from the first over.

Indies, with the innings having Hazratullah Zazai made 56 off 35, seven wides and four nowhile Mohammad Shahzad hit balls, along with a smattering 54 off 35, as the opening stand of hittable deliveries. Newrealised 90 runs in 8.5 overs ball bowlers Obed McCoy and when Zazai fell.

Oshane Thomas - who are likely Afghanistan didn't let up to compete for one spot in the after that, as Shahzad then playing XI - were particularly took charge. Shahzad, loose, giving up 71 runs in the six who had last played overs they bowled. a competitive The West Indies' fielding senior-level was also lacklustre, with game more overthrows, catches put than a year down, and moments where ago in the they didn't commit fully to Shpageeza chasing or stopping the ball Cricket perhaps mindful of any injury League final possibilities. in 2020, Afghanistan's momentum showed slowed only after both openers no sign of had gone, with West rustiness.

Nicholas Pooran Indies slowing things T h e supported with a up a bit through spin.

Afghanistan well-played 35 However, the Afgans still batters were built a formidable total. helped by West Indies' chase some was in early trouble with Nabi establishing a stranglehold over the run rate. He bowled all his overs at a stretch, and when he

not really coming off, that was never going to be enough.

Defending champions West Indies will thus enter the tournament proper with losses in both warm-up games, this defeat coming on the back of one against Pakistan.

Afghanistan had lost against South Africa in their opening warm-up game, but will be pleased with how their overall game came together in this one. (ESPNcricinfo)

Roston Chase top score for the Windies

SCOREBOARD

Hazratullah Zazai hit 56 in 35 balls

was done, West Indies were 27 for 3 in seven overs.

Nicholas Pooran rode his luck early on via a dropped chance and some edges, but got the run rate moving for West Indies.

However, with the required rate having ballooned early on to more than two runs a ball, West Indies needed all their big-hitters to come off, and that didn't happen.

The one positive for West Indies was the return of Andre Russell from a hamstring injury that kept him out of the best part of IPL 2021's second leg in the UAE and the first warm-up match. Russell bowled two overs, including the final one of the first innings, in which he conceded just four runs with a tight display.

Russell was sent in to bat at No. 6, but while his bowling

rhythm showed signs of having returned, he couldn't find his timing with the bat.

The frugality of the early overs meant Afghanistan could keep Rashid Khan back for the second half of West Indies' innings, and as always, Rashid proved tough to get away. Roston Chase, who is likely to be the batter around whom a big-hitting line-up does its work, stayed the course of the innings after walking in to bat on the third ball of the innings, ending with 54 not out off 58 balls.

The lack of pace and wickets early on meant a very slow start for Chase, but he picked up some pace in the second half of the innings, taking 35 runs off the last 25 balls he faced.

However, with the big-hitters who got some time in the middle

AFGHANISTAN INNINGS (20 OVERS MAXIMUM) Hazratullah Zazai c Lewis b Walsh 56 Mohammad Shahzad †c Hosein b Rampaul 54 Rahmanullah Gurbaz c Walsh b McCoy 33 Najibullah Zadran c Hosein b McCoy 23 Mohammad Nabi (c) not out 6 Asghar Afghan b Russell 1 Gulbadin Naib not out 3 Extras (b 1, lb 1, nb 4, w 7) 13 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 9.44) 189/5 Did not bat: Karim Janat, Rashid Khan, Naveen-ul-Haq, Mujeeb Ur Rahman, Fareed Ahmad, Hamid Hassan Fall of wickets: 1-90 (Hazratullah Zazai, 8.5 ov), 2-129 (Mohammad Shahzad, 13.4 ov), 3-179 (Najibullah Zadran, 18.2 ov), 4-179 (Rahmanullah Gurbaz, 18.3 ov), 5-185 (Asghar Afghan, 19.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Obed McCoy 4-0-43-2 Roston Chase 2-0-20-0 Akeal Hosein 4-0-25-0 Ravi Rampaul 3-0-34-1 Hayden Walsh 3-0-24-1 Andre Russell 2-0-13-1

WEST INDIES INNINGS (TARGET: 190 RUNS FROM 20 OVERS) Lendl Simmons c Najibullah Zadran b Mohammad Nabi 0 Evin Lewis b Mohammad Nabi 3 Roston Chase not out 54 Shimron Hetmyer c & b Mohammad Nabi 2 Nicholas Pooran † c Mohammad Nabi b Karim Janat 35 Andre Russell c Gulbadin Naib b Naveen-ul-Haq 11 Hayden Walsh not out 3 Extras (b 5, lb 6, nb 1, w 13) 25 TOTAL (20 Ov, RR: 6.65) 133/5 Did not bat: Kieron Pollard (c), Akeal Hosein, Obed McCoy, Ravi Rampaul, Andre Fletcher, Oshane Thomas Fall of wickets: 1-0 (Lendl Simmons, 0.2 ov), 2-19 (Evin Lewis, 4.1 ov), 3-27 (Shimron Hetmyer, 6.3 ov), 4-97 (Nicholas Pooran, 14.4 ov), 5-129 (Andre Russell, 19.2 ov) BOWLING O-M-R-W Mohammad Nabi 4-2-2-3 Mujeeb Ur Rahman 3-0-21-0 Naveen-ul-Haq 3-0-12-1 Rashid Khan 3-0-14-0 Karim Janat 3-0-30-1 Gulbadin Naib 2-0-15-0 Hamid Hassan 2-0-28-0

LGC to host C&V Caribbean Shipping Limited’s golf tourney on October 23

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olfing a c t i o n will continue at the Lusignan Golf Club (LSC) on Saturday October 23 when the C&V Caribbean Shipping Limited’s golf tourney kicks off with a bang.

The tournament will tee off at 12:30h, and will be medal play over 18 holes net and gross score shotgun start.

Players placing from first to third will receive vouchers valued at $5000, $4000 and $3000 respectively. These prizes will all be accompanied by a trophy and a gift.

There will also be a prize of $1500 up for grabs in the Best Net Front Nine and Best Net Back Nine categories, all of which will be accompanied by a trophy and a gift. Also receiving a trophy and a gift will be the winners of the Nearest to the flag (ladies), Nearest to the flag (men), Longest Drive (ladies and men) and Best Gross (ladies and men).

The sponsors have also noted that five participants

who did not win a prize while competing would have a chance to receive a gift, once they are on site at the presentation ceremony.

A statement from C&V Caribbean Shipping Limited has declared, “C&V Caribbean Shipping is proud to lend support to the Lusignan Golf Club by way of tournament sponsorship. Our group of companies have been serving the shipping industry for over 20 years, and are always happy to take advantage of any opportunity to give back whenever needed. As a company involved mainly in facilitating logistics, import and export, we have on occasion been called upon to advise, support, or assist the Lusignan Golf Club in small ways. Most recently, our interactions with the management team of the club have helped us better appreciate the unique opportunities the sport provides for both recreation and service to the community.

“Our group of companies prides itself on offering the highest tier service to its customers, and therefore recognizes the past and recent efforts that the Lusignan Golf Club has made in improving accountability and inclusivity.

C&V Caribbean Shipping offers its tournament sponsorship proudly to the Lusignan Golf Club, and wishes all of the participants the best of luck.”

The LGC has noted that players who participate in tournaments from September 18 to October 25 will be eligible for consideration for free entry into the Guyana Open Tournament via a competition format. Points for free entry will be awarded for the first 10 best net scores for each tournament. Points will also be awarded to the top five players for the day, based on their net scores. The player who accumulates the most points at the end of the exercise will be declared the winner, and can participate in the Guyana Open without having to pay the tournament

COVID-19 protocols will be in effect.

Registration closes on October 22, 2021 at 12:00 hrs.

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All participants are advised to contact the club’s manager on the day of the tournament

to collect their score cards, pay the tournament fees, and proceed to their allocated tee boxes to tee off at 12:30h. All

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THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Injured Fabian Allen out of T20 World Cup, replaced by Akeal Hosein …Gudakesh Motie added to list of reserves

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Akeal Hosein, Fabien Allen and Gudakesh Motie

he Cricket West Indies (CWI) Selection Panel today announced that left-arm spinner Akeal Hosein has been named as the replacement for spinner allrounder Fabian Allen in the 15-member squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup. Allen has been ruled out of the ICC tournament due to an unhealed right ankle injury which he sustained during the recently concluded IPL. The change to the West Indies squad has been approved by the ICC tournament’s technical committee. Hosein, who was originally named as a travelling reserve, now joins the official squad. Another exciting young left-arm spinner, Gudakesh Motie, has been called up by the West Indies selectors as a reserve player. Motie is due to fly to the UAE, where he will be able to join the West Indies squad as a reserve,

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once he has completed the six days of mandatory quarantine with the required negative COVID-19 test results.

Roger Harper, CWI’s Lead Selector, has said: “I know Fabian was really looking forward to playing in this World Cup, so it is very disappointing that he is forced to miss out.

His all-round capabilities will be missed by the team.

I would like to wish him a full and speedy recovery, and look forward to him being available for squad selection in the near future.

“I take the opportunity to congratulate Akeal on being drafted into the 15-member squad, and look forward to him continuing the good form he displayed throughout the year.

“I also congratulate Gudakesh Motie, whose performances in CG Insurance Super50 and CPL have resulted in him being added

he Junior Jags, a mixture of local and foreign talents, are currently hard at work, gearing up for the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) Under-20 Qualifiers’ tournament.

The November event is a ticket to the 2023 Under-20 World Cup and Olympics, and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is leaving no stone unturned in preparing this team for that level of competition.

During a media engagement on Monday afternoon at the GFF’s National Training Facility at Providence, EBD, Assistant Coach of the Junior Jags, Anthony Benfield, shared that the layoff since the last Under-20 outing in February 2020, owing to the coronavirus pandemic, has affected the team, but he is optimistic about their chances in the Dominican Republic.

Benfield said, “Definitely, you know, it’s been a year out, a year (of) not doing anything. It’s always going to be a factor; but, you know, we’re still confident, we remain very optimistic in the work that we’ve been doing, and we’re looking forward to the tournament.”

Quizzed about the team’s fitness after weeks of preparation, Benfield revealed that the

to the reserves as spin bowling cover.”

CWI selectors have also requested that Dominic Drakes and Odean Smith stay back in the UAE following their recent IPL engagements. The two young fast bowlers will train with the West Indies squad as net bowlers during the squad’s preparations this week.

West Indies are twotime and defending ICC T20 World Cup Champions, and will be going in search of an unprecedented third title and back-to-back T20 World Cup tournament wins. West Indies’ first match is on Saturday October 23 against England at the Dubai International Stadium in the first of West Indies’ Group games in the Super12 stage of the tournament. First ball is 6pm (10am Eastern Caribbean/9am Jamaica) and will be shown live on ESPN Caribbean. (Windies Cricket)

support staff have been working with the ballers to help them reach a high standard of fitness.

“Well, obviously, the coach is working to bring the team up to fitness, so that has been going very well so far. And right now, you know, we’re heading into the tactical phase,” he revealed.

As the weeks before showtime wind down, Benfield said, one can expect continuous work from the team to get its members into the best shape.

“Slowly, but surely, the team is coming up to the standard that we want them to be, and that’s a plus. You know, we have like two weeks to go, and we keep working; we’ll keep working with them,” the player-turned-coach has said.

The Junior Jags will go into action from November 4-15 in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. The Guyanese team is grouped with Nicaragua, Cayman Islands and the U.S Virgin Islands in Group D. In February 2020, Guyana narrowly missed out on the subsequently-cancelled 2020 Concacaf U20 Championships, winning three out of four matches in a difficult qualification stage that included hosts and eventual group winners Nicaragua.

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ne would think that two back-to-back, high-stakes international tournaments would scare an athlete out of their mind. However, this may not be the case, especially for table tennis athlete Miguel Wong, who is setting out to participate in two Pan American Championships.

He would first be involved in the International Table Tennis Federation’s (ITTF’s) Senior Pan American Championships, and then in the first-ever Junior Pan American Games. Qualifying for both tournaments just months apart, Wong has jetted off to Germany, where he will spend time at the Topspin Tischtennis Center in preparation for these competitions.

Speaking with Guyana Times Sport prior to his departure, Wong shared that he is currently feeling no pressure.

“It’s no pressure. For the first tournament, it is a little bit for the Senior Competition. Now that I’m heading into the senior category in the sport, the tournament will be very helpful, having to play one tournament at least a little over a week prior to the other tournament, that I’m mainly focused on,” the 21-year-old said.

As he detailed his plan to feed off the first competition in preparation for the next, he noted that his only hope is to be as prepared as ever for the events. Wong said, “The goal is to be as much prepared for the f i r s t one,

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and then from there we can - in the days leading up to the other one - we can adjust and fix a little more (of what’s) lacking in the game, if we find anything different.”

Meanwhile, Jonathan Van Lange, who will be joining Wong for the Junior Games in Colombia, came in for high praise from his clubmate on his ascension to the tournament.

“Also, congratulations to Jonathan for getting the spot! I’m very happy for us to go together, ‘cause I know it’s the first Junior Games, me being the first Guyanese so far to qualify, and now we have another. So, it’s always good to have him,” Wong shared with this publication, noting that it’s good to have a Guyanese teammate in the sport.

Wong also declared his admiration for the work ethic of the 14-year-old Jonathan Van Lange, and said he looks forward to working with him in order to make the nation proud.

“He’s also a very good junior player, and it’s very great to have him coming with us. We’re going to support each other; we have a good chemistry, we play at the club, we’re actually clubmates, I often mentor him from time to time, so it’s a great combination. Together, we’re just going to try our best,” Wong declared.

The Senior ITTF Pan Am Championships will run from November 13-19 in Lima, Peru, while the Junior Pan Am Games will commence on November 25 in Cali, Colombia and run until December 5. Guyana’s team for the Junior Games currently consists of the two table tennis players Wong and Van Lange, Swimmer Aleka Persaud and Badminton players Priyanna Ramdhani and Akili Haynes.

Jonathan Van Lange

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uyana's National Road Race Champion Romello Crawford, who finished in the top three in Sunday's Gold race in Essequibo, returned to Berbice and clinched victory in the fourth annual New Amsterdam Mayor's Race on Tuesday.

A total of 16 starters pedalled from Coburg and Main Streets towards the Tacama Turn at Stanleytown and back

to the point of origin for the finish after eight laps. The Team Jamison man completed the eight laps around the town in 60 minutes.

Following Crawford were Andre "Padlock" Green and Andrew Hicks in that order in the Open category. Crawford claimed three sprint prizes, while Hicks, Green and Jason Cameron each claimed one sprint prize. Guyana's most

consistent junior rider, Mario Washington, dominated his category, while Fitzory Tang finished ahead of Syborne Fernandes and Myron Rose in that order in the Veterans’ category. Daniel Rigby, an Over50 Veteran, received a special prize for his participation.

This fourth annual New Amsterdam Mayor's Race was held in commemoration of the New Amsterdam Town Council's 130th anniversary.

The event was organised by the Flying Ace cycling club under the leadership of Randolph Roberts.

Ms Winifred Heywood is the Mayor of New Amsterdam, and the theme for the town's 130th anniversary was "New Amsterdam Town Council striving to combat COVID-19 in 2021: celebrating 130 years of service to you."

The organisers have expressed gratitude to Eureka Labs, Isaacs Building Designs and accessories, Countrywide Stores, Homeline Designs Engineering and Associates, HD Petroleum, Modern Optical Service, and King Solomon Logistics among other business entities.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 21, 2021

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

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Injured Fabian Allen Wong feels no pressure out of T20 World Cup, ahead of back-to-back replaced by Akeal Hosein − congratulates Van Lange on Pan Am qualification

FITNESS IS KEY − says Junior Jags Assistant Coach Anthony Benfield

…Gudakesh Motie added to list of reserves Pg 22

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