Guyana Times - Wednesday, February 10, 2021

Construction of gas-to-shore facility to begin within 2 P years – VP 10

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

Issue No. 4555

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021

US$206M from oil revenues in Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund See story on page 3

…US$8.3M received in royalties last month

ExxonMobil, Stabroek Block partners invest $20B in local capacity building See story on page 9

PRICE

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

P20 Guyana records 18 new COVID-19 cases …Govt in talks with India, Russia for vaccines

$89M nursery school to be constructed at Martyrs’ Ville

P19

Eastern Airlines P16 abruptly suspends flights to Guyana …Govt reassures bond in place to protect citizens

Policeman attacked, P17 robbed of motorcycle Sophia man stabbed to P20 death The RS53 Resto Bar and Lounge owned by former Guyanese and West Indies cricketer Ramnaresh Sarwan, located at Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was officially opened on Tuesday evening with a cocktail reception (Dexter Ceres photos)

3 feared drowned after returning from Suriname via backtrack Senior GL&SC Flaring by ExxonMobil official collected unacceptable $27M for 6 acres – Jagdeo See story on page 20

Page 21

Page 7

of land at Ogle

…says EIA limits flaring to 14B cubic ft of gas

Pensioner P17 critical after being stabbed by lover

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, February 10 – 03:00h – 04:30h and Thursday, February 11 – 03:30h – 05:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, February 10 – 15:40h – 17:10h and Thursday, February 11 – 16:20h – 17:50h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Light cloud and sunny intervals will prevail during the day. There will be clear skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 20 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to North-Easterly between 2.23 metres and 4.91 metres.

High Tide: 15:54h reaching a maximum height of 2.55 metres.

Low Tide: 09:28h and 21:57h reaching minimum heights of 0.82 metre and 0.63 metre.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2021

LOTTERY NUMBERS K

03 10 11

26 27 28

FREE TICKET

13 Bonus Ball

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2021

DAILY MILLIONS

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0

Afternoon Draw

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Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

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PAY DAY

SUPER PAY DAY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 2021

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…US$8.3M received in royalties last month

By Jarryl Bryan

V

ice President Bharrat Jagdeo has disclosed that over US$200 million earned in oil revenues is currently in Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund (NRF), with the latest payment made in January this year.

Jagdeo made this disclosure during a press conference on Tuesday. He explained that US$206.6 million (GY$43.1 billion) is currently in the NRF), including the latest royalty payment of US$8.3 million, which was received last month.

“So far, US$21.2 million in royalty payments have been made into the fund.

And there are four payments – US$4.9 million, US$3.6 million, US$4.3 million and US$8.3 million in royalty payments, at different times – April 2020, August 2020, October 2020 and January 2021,” Jagdeo explained.

“And then from profit oil, we have March 11 (2020) – US$54.9 million; June (2020) – US$35 million, August (2020) – US$46 million and January 11 (2021) – US$49 million… so we now have US$206.6 million in the fund – US$185 million so far from profit oil and US$21.2 million from royalty.”

So far, all of Guyana’s oil revenues are being held in the NRF, which is banked at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. However, this money has remained untouched, as the protracted political crisis that followed elections sabotaged any attempt to set up a system for withdrawing funds.

It is expected that the Natural Resource Fund Act, which stipulates that various committees must be established to provide oversight for the fund, will be reviewed in the National Assembly by the current Government.

Depletion

LUCKY 3

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US$206M from oil revenues in Guyana’s Natural Resource Fund

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

COMMODITIES Indicators

US$

Change %

Crude Oil

$61.09/barrel

+0.87

Rough Rice

$232.83/ton

+0.04

London Sugar

$475.20/ton

+0.68

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1840.40

$1841.40

Low/High Change

$1831.90 +2.60

$1849.00 +0.14%

Jagdeo also responded to the criticism of some experts on Guyana’s lack of a depletion policy. He made no bones about the fact the Government is prioritising production while a window still exists to earn substantial oil revenues.

“We made it clear and we gave the reason why. Our objective is to try to maximise production at this stage, to get as much resources as we can into our sovereign wealth fund and to spend it back on improving the lives of our people, because we do not know how long fossil fuel will continue to have dominance.

“Already, you have seen with the (US President Joe) Biden Administration in place, with the tough measures they have taken in the US where fracking and some areas they shut down from oil exploration and development and with them rejoining the Paris Agreement. He has made it clear that renewable

The Natural Resource Fund is banked at the Federal Reserve Bank of New York

energy is the future,” he said.

According to Jagdeo, Guyana may still have a window of opportunity because of its high-quality crude with minimal impurities, resulting in less costs to refine it.

He warned, however, that opportunity would not be there forever.

“If you leave it (oil) in the ground for 30 years, you may never be able to get it out. And where are we going to get the alternative revenue to do all the things we need to do for Guyana and our people. We need to at least build the infrastructure so we can support a more diversified economy and long-term well-being of our people,” Jagdeo added.

Crude marketer

It had been announced last year that Guyana received 29 bids from companies interested in marketing the country’s crude. Jagdeo revealed, however, that 28 of these companies were disqualified owing to “nonsensical” bid requirements, even though these companies have proven track records in marketing crude and are trading

billions of barrels per day.

This resulted in the Government having to approach the Stabroek Block co-venturers – ExxonMobil, CNOOC/NEXEN and Hess, in order to bid for the contract to market Guyana’s fourth lift back in December.

As a result, Hess marketed the fourth lift of one million barrels of oil.

Moving forward, Jagdeo noted that they were examining options to procure a crude marketer and whether

it was feasible to go back to the drawing board with the very same companies who were previously disqualified on technicalities. The assessment, he said, is likely to be completed by the time Guyana becomes due for its next shipment of crude.

“We are now discussing whether we just go and invite the same companies and change the so-called prequalification criteria. Because if the criteria are set up in a way where you can disqualify a person for lack of technical capacity, who is already selling your oil, something is wrong with that.

“So, either a simplified prequalification criterion, where you can say all of these companies are capable of marketing and then it’s just a matter of best price. In that context, we can look at people who want to buy the oil directly. For us, it is the best price for our oil. That is what we’re looking at. Because there are hundreds of companies who can take this oil and sell it,” Jagdeo said.

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 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

Guyana’s battle against cancer

W

orld Health Organisation’s (WHO) statistics show that cancer is the second leading cause of death globally, accounting for over nine million deaths. Lung, prostate, colorectal, stomach and liver cancer are the most common types of cancer in men; while breast, colorectal, lung, cervical and thyroid cancer are most common among women.

The WHO has pointed out that the cancer burden continues to grow globally, exerting tremendous physical, emotional and financial strain on individuals, families, communities and health systems. Many health systems in low- and middle-income countries are least prepared to manage this burden, and large numbers of cancer patients globally do not have access to timely, quality diagnosis and treatment. However, according to WHO, in countries where health systems are strong, survival rates of many types of cancers are improving, thanks to accessible early detection, quality treatment, and survivorship care.

What is very worrying is the fact that the number of cancer deaths could increase by over 50 percent by 2030 if immediate global action is not taken, especially in the low- and middle-income countries, where most of the deaths are likely to occur.

The statistics regarding cancer and its impact on individuals and societies tell a sad tale. However, it should motivate us to work harder for better results.

It should be noted that between 30 and 40 percent of cancer cases could be prevented, and one-third of cancer cases could be cured through early diagnosis and treatment. The sad thing, however, is that the medicines, technologies and services are not widely available in low- and middle-income countries, and this results in most of the premature cancer deaths each year.

In Guyana, cancer is one of the leading causes of death, and we, as guardians of our own destiny, should continue to make arduous efforts in our campaign to reduce the number of persons dying from this disease. For example, individuals could assist in the prevention of cancer by doing simple things, such as making sure they eat a healthy diet; engage in regular, adequate physical activity; and overall, maintaining good health. Research has shown that physical inactivity is linked to breast and colon cancers. WHO’s Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health details how differing amounts and intensities of physical activity for all age groups can help reduce non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including some cancers. It is also worth noting that the World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research has advised that cancer could be prevented if persons could be as lean as possible without becoming underweight; be physically active for at least thirty minutes each day; and avoid sugary drinks, among other things.

The three main cancers in Guyana are breast cancer, cervical cancer and prostate cancer. Only last month, the Health Ministry stated that Guyana is leading the list of countries in the Region of the Americas for reported cases of cervical cancer.

This is according to statistics provided by the Health Ministry, showing that there was an age-standardised incidence rate of 32.7 per 100,000 women in 2018. The statistics for 2019 and 2020 are not available as yet.

This type of cancer is easily prevented through regular screening and treatment of pre-cancerous lesions, but far too many women ignore the pre-testing option, and seek medical advice and treatment only when they begin to develop signs of illness.

In many cases, indications of physical illness or signs of discomfort often suggest that the cancer is at an advanced stage. Persons should therefore be encouraged to have regular tests done, since pre-symptoms are not that visible.

The Health Ministry and NGOs such as the Cancer Society and leading private sector bodies such as GTT must be commended for the work they are doing in spreading awareness and encouraging persons to get screening etc. These efforts must be stepped up with the involvement and funding from more stakeholders, so that the impact could be more far-reaching.

As a matter of fact, only on Monday, GTT announced that despite the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, they were able to raised $10 million through their Pinktober campaign. All these proceeds were donated to cancer care and treatment in Guyana.

We can never overstate the importance of having more public awareness and education campaigns about the disease, with the aim of changing lifestyles and getting persons to do regular testing so that treatment could be administered before the disease becomes life threatening.

High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr K J. Srinivasa and First Lady Arya Ali discuss an offer by India to provide scholarships under the Office of the First Lady through the Indian Technical and Economic Cooperation Programme (ITEC) (Office of the First Lady photo)

Good indicator of things to come Dear Editor, Please permit me the space in your newspaper to highlight some of my observations from the President’s Media Brunch, which was held last Sunday at State House.

As someone relatively new in the media profession, it was nice to interact with my colleagues, some of whom I have never met.

I was a bit hesitant to attend the engagement, due to COVID-19, but the event was held outdoors, and the distance was according to regulations. I was also

comforted by the preventative measures that were in place, the staff were neatly attired and always masked.

The layout of the venue was also impressive.

Many of my colleagues informed me that the event grew this year. Less media operatives attended due to restrictions, but a wider cross-section was there.

The traditional media houses were represented, but so, too, were the online entities — many of whom have large followings online in the ever-evolving media.

Overall, the event was refreshing.

President Irfaan Ali was very receiving and accommodating. He took his time to address us all during his walkaround; and, in his address, I sensed that he was genuine in bridging that gap between the State and the media.

Of course, we understand that there can never be 100% agreement between the State and all media houses, since the independent media have a role to play in highlighting information that people

need to know.

Nevertheless, the engagement was positive, especially with the months Guyana faced in uncertainty due to the political turmoil last year.

It was also nice to see First Lady Arya Ali, Prime Minister Mark Phillips, current Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, and several Ministers of the Government there.

It was a good indicator of things to come.

Respectfully Excited Media Operative

Public safety is under threat in the city Dear Editor, The recent shooting and robbery of a public citizen at the Bourda Market in broad daylight while she was shopping highlights the pinnacle of lawlessness in the city.

Every single day the newspapers keep reporting on the daily robberies around the city, with some being fatal.

A lot of these said robberies go unreported. These acts of brazen violence and robberies are reaching crisis proportions. The Guyana Police Force needs to act now!

City States were built from the start of record-

ed civilisation primarily so that public citizens could be safe from attacks. It was the duty of the State to ensure that each and every resident was safe to live and conduct their daily business in peace.

What is taking place in the city is the daily occurrence of banditry done with complete impunity. The Police Force needs to put preventative measures in place, and not the post-mortem way it is presently operating.

A high percentage of the robberies are executed in high-density public places like the hospital, municipal markets, and the main

downtown shopping streets.

All these areas should have on beat patrol cops who are fully armed and working in pairs during the day. It should be a routine day-in day-out exercise, and not sporadic.

The modus operandi of the robbers are two persons on a motorcycle with one doing the riding and the pillion rider doing the robbery. Beat and mobile patrols need to specifically target these motorcycles, and carry out the stop-and-search procedures.

This campaign must be relentless, methodical and intensive.

The city is in a grid system that can be divided into smaller blocks. The Police Force needs to divide the city into these blocks, and for each block have a mobile rapid response unit in communication with the beat patrol, to intercept the bandits.

The use of undercover cops in these targeted areas is also a tried and trusted method.

Mr. Commissioner, kindly reclaim our city and make it safe.

Yours sincerely, Reggie Bhagwandin

Parliamentary pension Dear Editor, I have seen recent correspondence in the media pointing out that former Minister Balram Singh Rai was denied his Parliamentary pension as a serving Minister.

I should point out that he was not alone. There are, in fact, a number of Ministers, including my-

self, who served continuously beyond four (4) years, in my case eight (8) years, on or before October 1992, some today in their seventies, in my case, my eighties, who have been denied their right to this pension.

In fact, in 2018, I wrote the then Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan,

pointing this out, and I am aware that other Ministers in a similar position had written former President David Granger on the matter.

It is public knowledge that a Bill was introduced into the National Assembly to redress exactly the same situation for former Prime Minister Hamilton Green,

to enable him to receive a monthly pension of just over $1M on the basis of the salary of the then current Prime Minister. As far as I am concerned, this was well deserved, but I continue to ask the question: What about the rest of us who are similarly entitled?

CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 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

Mother must Commissioners disassociate selves from ERC’s letter to Catherine Hughes be commended for her actions

Dear Editor, We, the undersigned Commissioners, wish to disassociate ourselves from a letter dated January 28, 2021 (see attached) emanating from the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC), as signed by the Chairman, and addressed to the Honourable Catherine Hughes, Member of Parliament.

The letter followed the completion of an internal investigation into a Facebook post in which the comment “this country needs a civil war” was noted. The Commission, in a press release (see attached) on December 16, 2020 captioned “ERC INVESTIGATING D A N G E R O U S SOCIAL MEDIA POST ALLEGEDLY ATTRIBUTED TO CATHY HUGHES”, captured Ms. Hughes’s response, and further stated that “the Commission will continue its investigation to first ascertain the authenticity of the post, and then decide on any action that may be deemed necessary”.

In our respectful opinion, we have always argued in the Commission that any action and/or utterances by anyone, especially public officials, which can lead to disharmony is of concern to the body. A civil war is a war between citizens of the same country, and can

have dire consequences, as history teaches. Therefore, in our view, calls for such, whether allegedly by Mrs. Hughes or anyone else, have the potential to bring direct harm and disharmony to and among our people.

The letter to Mrs. Hughes alluded to, which did not address the authenticity of the post, did not benefit from our input as Commissioners. Indeed, we were made aware of its existence only after it was prepared and dispatched.

Therefore, the missive does not reflect our views on the issue it speaks to.

The raison d’etre of the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC) is to investigate comments that can lead to, or are likely to excite, racial and ethnic hostility between and among Guyanese. Our view is that the position adopted by the Commission in the said letter constitutes an abysmal abdication of its very mandate.

Further, while space may not permit, a number of statements of similar genus, which were the subject of investigation, commentary and condemnation by this Commission in the past, can be cited.

Therefore, it remains befuddling that the Commission has taken the position that the comment made in the alleged post is beyond its scope to pronounce upon, yet, and in

the very next sentence, it seemingly pronounces on the matter and then later on proceeds to issue an apology to Mrs. Hughes.

For ease of reference, paragraph three (3) of the letter states, “As you are aware, the mandate of the Commission is to receive and investigate complaints of racial, ethnic, religious or cultural discrimination brought to its attention.

Hence, the complaint falls outside the scope of the Commission. The team has concluded that the comment, ‘this country needs a civil war’, was intended to create nothing more than mischief in the Guyanese populace”.

By concluding, in that paragraph, that the comment was intended to create nothing more than mischief, the matter, in our view, has been pronounced upon by the Commission – a matter that, by its own position, has the potential for disharmony.

The situation is further compounded by the decision to recommend the said matter for investigation elsewhere, thereby recognising that the matter is far from being completed. In doing so, the Commission is claiming that it has no jurisdiction over the said matter.

We are also befuddled that, from the conclusion, such dastardly call as that for a civil war, whether through an alleged doc-

tored post or one facilitated supposedly through a fake profile, seems to be of no concern to the Commission.

We believe that, with all due respect to Mrs. Hughes, against whom we have nothing personally, there wasn’t a need for the Commission to apologise, especially since the Commission did not accuse her of committing an offence.

Given that the apology emanated from the Commission, we believe it is necessary for our views to be made public, to avoid any misconception that the decision was holistic.

Inexplicably, the Commission, having issued a statement on January 19, 2021 captioned “ERC TO INVESTIGATE INTERNAL BREACH OF PRIVATE MEETING” in response to racial attacks against us and two other Commissioners simply because we voted for external advertisement for vacancies at the level of the Heads of Department, is, to date, yet to officially inform us, whether verbally or in writing, on the status of the said investigation.

That could be subjected to inferences.

Sincerely, Neaz Subhan, Haji Roshan Khan, Commissioners, Ethnic Relations Commission

Progress made so far in agri-sector (Part 1) Dear Editor, Permit me a few lines to respond to a letter to the editor titled ‘Ad hoc activities in Agriculture can’t quite cut it’, which was published on Monday, February 8, 2021.

I’ve noticed that, within the last ten days, this was the second letter written by Mr Haresh Singh Kumar criticising the Honourable Zulfikar Mustapha and the sector’s performance. After reading both letters, I would like to take this opportunity to highlight some of the progress made thus far in the sector.

Since the Honourable Minister took office in August 2020, the renewed interest seen in the sector has been quite evident. This is due to the Minister’s timely response to dealing with the issues our farmers have been facing for several years.

Even these acts have been criticised, but, Mr. Editor, were these interventions not warranted? Was the Minister expected to jump in and impose policies without first dealing with the needs of the farmers?

You cannot build a sector without a solid foundation.

The fact of the matter remains that our farmers needed urgent help. If you speak with farmers from any

of the communities that the Minister visited since taking office, you will see the impact that these interventions have had on their daily operations.

The writer’s first letter stated that “there are a lot of Public Relations stunts but no real private investment in agriculture or any sector of the economy.” Mr. Editor, before any deals are signed or investments made in the agriculture sector, due diligence has to be done.

As Minister of Agriculture, Minister Mustapha’s main objective when it comes to investments in the sector is to ensure Guyanese benefit.

So, forgive the Honourable Minister if deals are not being signed fast enough for the writer, but all investment deals presented to any Minister of Government have to be in accordance with the Government’s “Promise for Prosperity”.

It is not the Government’s intention for Guyana to be known in the near and distant future as “a country so desperate for investment that it entered into several bad investment deals”. The Guyana Office for Investment and the American Chamber of Commerce were also engaged to assist with the investment process for the

sector. Furthermore, many international investors have signalled their interest in the sector.

During a recent visit by an investment team from Dubai, one of the wealthiest cities in the world, a wide range of opportunities, particularly those in the agricultural sector, were discussed.

Minister Mustapha made several presentations on rice, sugar, dairy, and livestock, and the two nations are now in talks to move forward with a number of projects in this regard.

The writer seems to be oblivious to many things happening in the sector. Minister Mustapha has been speaking about Government’s plans for the rice, sugar, cash and non-traditional crops, and livestock sector.

Since taking office, Minister Mustapha has signalled his intention to double rice production by 2025.

Last October, the Guyana Rice Development Board released the GRDB16. This new variety, with good management practices, can produce 55 to 60 bags of paddy per hectare, which is 20 bags more than other popular varieties. Only last week, Minister Mustapha conducted a field visit to the Burma

Rice Research Station, where the GRDB, in collaboration with the Inter-American Institute for Corporation on Agriculture (IICA), has a demonstration plot under cultivation for bio-fortified rice, which is rich in zinc and other essential vitamins and minerals.

The Minister is also working aggressively on a comprehensive plan to develop the second phase of the Mahaica-Mahaicony-Abary Agriculture Development Authority (MMA-ADA) Scheme. Plans are also being crafted to develop the Aurora Land Development Project and other prime agricultural lands in regions Three and Six. Once these lands come under cultivation, rice production, and agriculture production in general, would increase tremendously. Livestock farmers would also benefit from the development of these lands through the establishment of pastures and regulated zoning for the cultivation of rice and cattle rearing.

Yours sincerely, Janell Cameron Public Relations Officer Ministry of Agriculture

Dear Editor The mother who unhesitatingly handed over to law enforcement her sons who allegedly were involved in the killing of the Belle West youth must be commended. She is an example for others to emulate.

But what of the uniden-

tified female who allegedly was with the youths, urging them on in their brutal acts.

My condolences to the family, relatives and friends of the deceased.

Sincerely, Shamshun Mohamed

Deep-shore harbour port a great opportunity Dear Editor, In the lead-up to the budget discussion, the Surinamese have expressed an interest in a joint venture to develop the shore base aspects of the oil & gas sector to the benefit of both nations.

The proposed new deep shore harbour port project in budget 2021 provides an excellent opportunity to directly link a major project to revenue streams, while also reducing the investment risk via the addition of a strong partner.

Although a major undertaking that will pull significant resources and

manpower, by bringing the Surinamese onboard, we would be able to add expertise and share the cost of the investment.

The deal may be structured in a way that allocates a percentage of capacity to the Surinamese at cost for utilisation. The positive impact on the local labour market, the development of local skills, and the margin capture due to increased vertical integration in the sector should easily produce a positive return on investment for Guyana.

Best regards, Jamil Changlee

Parliamentary...

It was my understanding that the Bill should have, but did not, provide the same measure of relief for all those Parliamentarians who are still alive, who retired on or before October 1992.

I wonder if our new

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

Government would consider redressing this matter, and whether it would receive the full support of the Opposition now sitting in Parliament?

Yours sincerely, Kit Nascimento

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021

Page

Foundation ◄

Æsop’s Fables

FOR CHILDREN

1)

and its complement

ii) Calculate 2 1/3 – 2 1/6 x (33 – 4 + 4)

Monday’s answers 1. Set A = {Months of the year beginning with J} i) How many members are in the set?

Three ii) Draw a Venn diagram showing the elements of Set A

G

azing at the night sky, have you ever wondered if there were alien life out there? What do you imagine an alien would look like? In this activity, you get to imagine how an alien would indeed look.

You’ll need

Circular cream cheese box Plastic sundae cup Popsicle sticks/short dowels Cardboard Glue Paint Scissors

Instructions

First, separate the base of the box and the cover. The hole

cover from the cut a hole in was slightly

2. What is the mean and mode of the data set 1, 2, 3, 3, 4, 6, 6, 7? i)

To find the mean, first add the numbers 1 + 2 + 3 + 3 + 4 + 6 + 6 + 7 = 32 then divide that total by the number of addends (numbers you added) = 32 ÷ 8 = 4

ii) The mode is the number that appears most often in the series of numbers = 3 and 6. This data set has two modes

smaller than the plastic sundae cup bottom.

Then, cut slits in the base of the box and push the popsicle sticks in: Then roughly assemble everything (no glue) to check that they would fit the aliens before taking out the sticks, peeling off the label, and painting the boxes.

While the paint dries, make the aliens out of strips of cardboard; also cut strips of cardboard and glue them into rings for car seats. These have to fit smugly, but not too tightly around the aliens so they wouldn't topple while the flying saucers were in motion: When the paint on the boxes is dry, glue the plastic sundae cup over the hole to make cockpits. Then stick the popsicle sticks back into the slits and glue them in place. All done!

Do you think there are aliens out there? If your answer is yes, why?

(Adapted from ikatbag.com)

A

swallow, returning from abroad and especially fond of dwelling with men, built herself a nest in the wall of a Court of Justice and there hatched seven young birds.

A serpent gliding past the nest from its hole in the wall ate up the young unfledged nestlings. The swallow, finding her nest empty, lamented greatly and exclaimed: “Woe to me a stranger! That in this place where all others’ rights are protected, I alone should suffer wrong.”

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Flaring by ExxonMobil unacceptable – Jagdeo …says EIA limits flaring to 14B cubic ft of gas

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

E

xxonMobil’s current level of flaring offshore Guyana has been described by Vice President (VP) Bharrat Jagdeo as unacceptable, but it’s a case whereby the hands of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) are tied due to the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) that was approved.

This was explained by the VP on Tuesday during a press conference at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC).

Acknowledging that flaring has been on the front burner for some time, Jagdeo noted that the Government

is currently looking at the issue.

“We’ve been looking at it, and the EPA has been looking at the issue. Clearly, it is unacceptable… Exxon is flaring using about 16 to 18 million standard cubic feet of gas per day. So, the EPA has worked this out and they said that’s about 1,300 tonnes of carbon emitted per day,” Jagdeo related.

The Vice President explained that when one does the calculation at a rate of $30 per tonne, it would work out to a fine of $39,000 per day. Added to this is the fact that, so far, the volume of flaring reported by ExxonMobil has not been

independently verified by the Government.

“So, we have to verify this. We are still examining whether there are other provisions under the EPA Act where we may still be able to fine ExxonMobil.

But the issue that hamstrung the EPA is the EIA they approved. So, most people didn’t understand, and this was a public document in 2017.

“Exxon submitted an environmental impact assessment for the project.

The document was made public by the EPA. And in that document, which was approved by the EPA at that time and referred to by the Minister in the licence, Exxon was given an allowance to flare 14 billion cubic feet of gas. So far, they have flared 12.5 billion. At the current rate of flaring, by the end of April, they would have flared the entire 14 billion,” he said.

However, Jagdeo noted that by June of 2022, when the Liza 1 permit expires and has to be renewed, Exxon will have to submit to the inclusion of fines in the Liza 1 permit that are similar to what is obtained in the Payara permit.

Last week, Esso

Liza Destiny flaring gas offshore Guyana (Annette Arjoon photo)

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

The compressor has, meanwhile, been sent to Germany, where it will be examined and fixed.

It was also revealed that ExxonMobil is currently flaring 16 million cubic feet of gas per day, an increase

from the volume of flaring the company conducted last year, which reportedly ranged between 12 and 15 million cubic feet.

Additionally, the oil giant is currently producing around 120,000 barrels of oil per day (bpd). Before the flaring, production was at 130,000 bpd.

It would not be the first time EEPGL has had issues with equipment failure.

Last year, in response to the prolonged flaring which had environmentalists up in arms, ExxonMobil had

also cut back on oil production in an effort to reduce flaring after the fuel injection system was not commissioned. It subsequently commissioned a gas injection system to cut out flaring.

Back in December, on the oil company’s first year anniversary since commencing production in 2019, Routledge had expressed disappointment at the equipment issues they experienced, and had also assured that routine flaring would not be used.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Where’s the…

T

…sweetness in sugar? he Sanctimonious Gangster Granger vindictively shut down four of the seven sugar estates in a blatant and contemptuous attempt to destroy what he felt was a PPP core constituency. 7000 workers were thrown onto the breadline between those directly employed by GuySuCo and the private cane farmers. But Granger had miscalculated - as usual. He didn’t realise - or chose to ignore - that fully one-third of the sugar workers from Wales (and also the major block of cane farmers) were from his African-Guyanese core constituency!

Collateral damage?

As promised, the new PPP Irfaan Ali Administration reopened the shuttered estates (except Wales) the moment the Sanctimonious Gangster finally was forced to demit office - under protest. Wales is slated to be the centre of a gas-to-shore power generation and industrial complex. Apart from rebuilding the Ogle Senior Staff Compound as a luxurious party HQ for “the boys and girls”, the PNC had allowed the four estates to literally revert to “the bush”.

After bemoaning the closures for over four years, and promising their reversal, the Govt had assembled a team to execute its policies, and hit the ground running. But no one expected bringing them back operationally was going to be a cakewalk. So, it was somewhat surprising that, instead of getting regular briefings as to what was being rectified, we were regaled recently by the manager picked for fixing the most critical estate, Skeldon, about management differences. The fella quit in protest. Not a good omen.

However, it was different for the “grinding” estates.

There, folks expected immediate improvements - which unfortunately weren’t forthcoming by the end of the last crop. All the usual excuses were trotted out - rain, mud in the cane, factory downtime, etc. But since none of these was new, the question is: Why weren’t they successfully dealt with? For instance, since mud in the cane causes serious problems downstream, why was loading with mechanical Bell Loaders encouraged when they’ll inevitably scoop up mud when picking up the “cut and drop” cane after the rain had soaked the soil? And not to mention: compacting the latter and uprooting cane stumps for the next crop! And yet the revised low target wasn’t reached. We’ve been told that the target for this year is 97,000 tons for the three estates. That’s way below their historical levels, and we hope there won’t be more excuses in December 2021. There’s now an emphasis on selling packaged brown sugar. That’s a positive move, since there should be a greater profit margin from the valueadded. But whatever happened to the “Plantation White” facility that was supposed to satisfy Caricom’s white sugar needs? Isn’t that more profitable also?

On the back burner? …PNC leadership?

Gandhi, who knew a thing or two about political mobilisation, once said, “No one can ride on the back of a man, unless it is bent”. This thought popped into your Eyewitness’s head as he reflected on the PNC moving “Parliament” into the cesspool in front of the Stabroek “Big” Market. What exactly do they think of the intelligence of their supporters?

But, more pertinently, why are the PNC supporters putting up with this abysmal, failed, banal leadership riding on their backs? Were they comfortable with Granger becoming leader via a rigged party Congress “election” that was effectively a one-man (Corbin) selection? Were they comfortable with being made the laughing stock of our Caricom family for insisting that “33 isn’t greater than 32”? Were they comfortable with the PNC never showing their SOPs yet insisting they won the elections? Didn’t it bother them that the PNC Ministers took a 50% pay raise as soon as they slid into office - to keep them away from “temptation” - yet were accepting millions of dollars of bling?

Why keep bending their backs? …warning?

The head of Barbados COVID Unit has cautioned that people who’re allergic to ingredients of AstraZeneca and those with severe allergies won’t be vaccinated.

How about us?

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

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

ExxonMobil, Stabroek Block partners invest $20B in local capacity building A

s part of its local content mandate, ExxonMobil Guyana along with its Stabroek Block partners, Hess and CNOOC Limited – have made a $20 billion investment in capacity building for Guyanese over the next 10 years.

This was announced by President of ExxonMobil Guyana, Alistair Routledge, on Tuesday during a virtual launch of the “Greater Guyana Initiative”, which is aimed at expanding local capacity-building efforts and promoting sustainable economic development in Guyana.

According to Routledge, the investment is fully funded by the Stabroek Block operating partners and is not cost recoverable.

“It is a part of our longterm, broad commitment to local content and responsible development of the oil and gas resources of Guyana,” he noted.

Routledge explained that this initiative started with months of discussions with key stakeholders in order to gain an understanding of the existing capacity and the areas where these funds can make a difference as part of Guyana’s transformative journey.

He added that Exxon and its offshore co-venturers will choose capacity-building projects to fund in consultation with local, regional and national stakeholders. These programmes are expected to be aligned with the country’s overall development objectives.

Additionally, third-party experts including NonGovernmental Organisations (NGOs) will be enlisted to implement initiatives and assess the programme’s effectiveness, the ExxonMobil Guyana President stated.

Already, three local entities – the University of Guyana, Technical and

any investor cannot be measures only by taxation and royalties. Shared values and mutual interests are equally important.”

The Head of State added that he has already made it pellucid to the top executives of the Stabroek Block partners that they need to take a more active role in meaningful local content strategies.

“I have encouraged them to make investments that guarantee the development of key non-oil areas and the advancement of Guyanese.

The $20 billion non-cost re-

ed continued commitment to Guyana’s development.

Hess Corporation’s Vice President - Guyana and Suriname, Tim Chisholm, said their commitment to Guyana extends well beyond the oil and gas sector.

“I could think of nothing more important to economic prosperity than to build the critical skills that are in demand by the industry. At Hess, we have the highest hopes for the long-term sustainable growth of Guyana and we believe that the creation of the Greater Guyana

President Irfaan Ali

Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Council and the Centre for Local Business Development – have received funds and are carrying out programmes as part of the Greater Guyana Initiative.

“Our goals and programmes will evolve over time and include public health initiatives and activities in each of the regions.

Over the life of this innovative initiative, my colleagues and I are looking forward to sharing how these programmes and projects will benefit people in Guyana and give people the tools to access new and expanded economic activities,” Routledge asserted.

Meanwhile, President Dr Irfaan Ali lauded the “sizeable” investment by the Stabroek Block co-venturers into the future of all Guyanese.

President Ali said his Government is committed to ensuring that Guyana mitigates the harsh effects of both the Dutch Disease and the “resource curse”. However, he noted that Government alone cannot do this and emphasised the need for collaboration with local stakeholders as well as investors.

He said, “The relationship between a government and

ExxonMobil Guyana President Alistair Routledge

coverable initiative is a sizable investment in the future of all Guyanese. It is a forward step of cooperation between my Government and the Stabroek Block co-venturers ExxonMobil, Hess and CNOOC,” the President asserted.

He went on to note that projects such as the “Greater Guyana Initiative” not only uplift the Guyanese workforce but also supports cross-sector competitiveness of local businesses and energises the business environment for sustainable economic growth.

President Ali further posited that the establishment of this initiative is not to be seen as conclusive of Government’s expectation that the Stabroek Block operators will act responsibly in the conduct of their business within Guyana’s shores.

On this note, representatives from both Hess Corporation and CNOOC Limited have also reiterat-

Initiative is an important step in fulfilling that aspiration,” Chisholm stated.

Meanwhile, Vice President of International D e v e l o p m e n t s at CNOOC International, Keith Henderson, posited that as a partner in the Stabroek Block and the third-largest investor in Guyana, his company is determined to deliver benefits to the country by investing in local communities.

“Our partnership in the Greater Guyana Initiative is a key step in laying the foundation for successful

programmes and projects that benefit both the youth of Guyana and the broader community across Guyana by participating in high-quality programmes… Helping expand the technical and social-economic capacity of Guyanese is key to enhancing our success in Guyana,” Henderson added.

The Greater Guyana Initiative will see the Centre for Local Business Development being transitioned into a long-term centre of excellence for the broader industry. More than 2400 Guyanese companies are registered with the centre, which was established by the co-venturers in 2017 with the mission of supporting local businesses to become globally competitive. The initiative will also seek opportunities to expand existing

support and advance higher education programmes at the University of Guyana.

Through the Initiative, UG has already benefited from projects such as campus safety, telecommunications equipment enhancement and hosting visiting professors and experts.

Chairman of TVET Council, Clinton Williams added: “Our year-long collaboration and planning ensures a comprehensive programme of targeted education for youth in the areas of mechanical, electrical and welding as well as tailored training for instructors that is suited for the long-term development needs of Guyana.”

ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is the operator of the offshore Stabroek Block with a 45 per cent interest.

Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds 25 per cent interest.

Current development activities include three offshore projects – Liza Phase 1 and 2 and Payara. Liza Phase 1 has been producing oil for just over a year. Liza Phase 2 and Payara are on track to begin production of oil by 2022 and 2024 respectively. The number of Guyanese nationals supporting project activities doubled in 2020 to more than 2100 and over $67 billion was spent with more than 700 local suppliers. (G8)

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Construction of gas-to-shore facility to begin within 2 years – VP – multiple studies have to be done before start of project

C

onstruction of the highly anticipated gas-to-shore project, which will land at Wales on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD), is likely to commence within two years since the Government is looking to undertake a number of studies prior to kicking things off.

During a press conference on Tuesday, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo explained that his Government will conduct studies including geotechnical, geophysical and Environmental Impact Assessments before the construction starts.

“No pipelines are being built now… several studies are in the process of being contracted. There’s the geophysical study, geotechnical and environmental impact study. When they are nearing completion, the design

will be done for the pipeline consistent with those studies.”

“Only then, after all of this has been done, we will move forward with the construction phase of the pipeline. So, we’ve a good year, possibly a year and a half away from constructing any pipeline. The studies that should have been done since 2016 have not been done,” Jagdeo said while hinting that the previous Government might have delayed the project to give its friends a chance to acquire land associated with the project.

Jagdeo further stated that studies have so far indicated that Wales on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD) might be the best location for the project. According to the VP, it is best that the facility

is kept away from the population centre. An assessment found that Wales was a better site due to its low costs and population density.

“I’ve seen a lot of adverse comments that we’re running away with the project without examining it carefully. Let me make it clear, we have had internal assessments of various sites, for landing the pipeline.

The site that was preferred, Greenfield Mahaica area, we could not proceed with that because the land was privately owned.”

“We made a conscious decision that we would not bring this gas to energy project into Region Four, into Ogle or the East Bank of Demerara, because that corridor is set for major development. First of all, the price for the land is very high and

a lot of the industries that we have to place around the oil and gas facility might be a bit polluting,” Jagdeo explained.

Jagdeo also scoffed at persons questioning the feasibility of the project. He noted the importance of Guyana diversifying its energy and bringing down its cost of energy per kilowatt of power, considered one of the highest in the region.

“I saw someone say it’s a disaster, it’s not feasible. I don’t know how you can say it’s not feasible when you haven’t done a feasibility study.

For us, power at 6 cents per kilowatt of power when we’re generating at twice or even higher than that and selling at 30 cents per kilowatt of power, is very feasible to us, the Guyanese public and the Private Sector.”

Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo

“The benefits are enormous. It’s a no brainer. And then, the gas is less polluting than the diesel. Of course, it's not fully renewable.

That’s why we’re going to restart discussions on Amaila Falls very soon,” Jagdeo further explained.

The gas-to-shore project

is an ambitious initiative that will see gas from the Liza field offshore Guyana being pumped onshore to generate power.

The main objective of the initiative is to transport sufficient gas from the Stabroek Block’s petroleum operations to supply some 200-250 megawatts of energy to the national grid, leading to a significant reduction in electricity costs.

President Dr Irfaan Ali had previously said the landing of the gas-to-shore pipeline in Region Three would lead to “big industrial development taking place there that is linked to not only power generation and a power plant.” He also said the investment on the Demerara River’s shoreside would create massive opportunities and a trickle-down effect.

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

By Julie Nguyen

Y

ou may express affection to your significant other regularly, but do you truly take the time to make sure you're communicating it the way your partner wants to receive it?

Even love can sometimes get lost in translation when two partners speak different love languages.

What are the 5 love languages?

The five love languages are five different ways of expressing and receiving love:

words of affirmation, quality time, receiving gifts, acts of service, and physical touch.

Not everyone communicates love in the same way, and likewise, people have different ways they prefer to receive love. The concept of love languages was developed by Gary Chapman, PhD, in his book The 5 Love Languages: The Secret to Love That Lasts, where he describes these five unique styles of communicating love, categories he distilled from his experience in marriage counselling and lin-

guistics.

"We all may relate to most of these languages, but each of us has one that speaks to us the most," marriage and family therapist Sunny Motamedi, PsyD, said. "Discovering your and your partner's primary love language and speaking that language regularly may [create] a better understanding of each other's needs and support each other's growth."

Here's an overview of each of the five love languages Chapman describes:

1. Words of affirmation People with words of affirmation as a love language value verbal acknowledgments of affection, including frequent "I love you's", compliments, words of appreciation, verbal encouragement, and often frequent digital communication like texting and social media engagement.

"Written and spoken shows of affection matter the most to these people," couples' psychotherapist Fariha Mahmud-Syed, MFT, CFLE, said. "These expressions

make them feel understood and appreciated."

2. Quality time People whose love language is quality time feel the most adored when their partner actively wants to spend time with them and is always down to hang out.

They particularly love when active listening, eye contact, and full presence are prioritised hallmarks in the relationship.

"This love language is all about giving your undivided attention to that one special person, without the distraction of television, phone screens, or any other outside interference. They have a strong desire to actively spend time with their significant other, having meaningful conversations or sharing recreational activities," Mahmud-Syed says.

3. Services If your love language is acts of service, you value when your partner goes out of their way to make your life easier. It's things like bringing you soup when you're sick, making your coffee for you in the morning, or picking up your dry cleaning for you when you've had a busy day at work.

"This love language is for people who believe that actions speak louder than words. Unlike those who prefer to hear how much they're cared for, people on this list like to be shown how they're appreciated.

Doing the smaller and bigger chores to make their lives easier or more comfortable is highly cherished by these folks," shares Mahmud-Syed.

4. Gifts Gifts are pretty straightforward as a love language: You feel loved when people give you "visual symbols of love", as Chapman calls it. It's not about the monetary value, but the symbolic thought behind the item.

People with this style recognise and value the gift-giving process: the careful reflection, the deliberate choosing of the object to represent the relationship, and the emotional benefits from receiving the present.

"People whose love language is receiving gifts enjoy being gifted something that is both physical and meaningful. The key is to give meaningful things that matter to them and reflect their values, not necessarily yours," says Mahmud-Syed.

5. Physical touch People with physical touch as their love language feel loved when they receive physical signs of affection, including kissing, holding hands, cuddling on the couch, and sex. Physical intimacy and touch can be incredibly affirming and serve as a powerful emotional connector for people with this love language. The roots go back to our childhood, Motamedi notes, some people only felt deep affection and love by their parents when they were held, kissed, or touched.

"People who communicate their appreciation through this language, when they consent to it, feel appreciated when they are hugged, kissed, or cuddled.

They value the feeling of warmth and comfort that comes with physical touch," says Mahmud-Syed.

Love language quiz: What is my love language?

To find your type, read the following statements and mark the ones that deeply resonate with you. Filter it through: How do you show love? What do you complain about in a relationship?

What do you request or actively need from your partner on a day-to-day basis?

The one with the most statements you resonate with is your primary love language.

If two or more languages are tied for first place (which is common!), use the process of elimination and work your way down the list until you are left with one or two languages that you are not willing to part with.

Words of affirmation You really like hearing your partner say, "I love you." Those three words are particularly meaningful, special, and reassuring for you to hear. Again and again and again.

You appreciate when you are being acknowledged and praised. It's nice to have your efforts recognised with kind words, no matter how small it is. It lets you know that you are valued. Extra points if it's out of the blue.

The details matter, and it's important your partner remarks on things like if you changed your hair or actually put on work clothes instead of your pyjamas for your Zoom work call. It shows they are paying attention, which helps you feel cherished.

You feel valued when they take the time to thoughtfully reflect and comment on something positive they notice you doing.

When you do something nice for your partner, they say, "Thank you," which makes you feel recognised and affirmed.

Quality time You like to spend uninterrupted time with your partner. It's critical you have enough time to hang out and enjoy each other with undivided attention. No distractions, please.

It's meaningful when they make time for you, prioritise you in their schedule, and don't cancel plans.

Creating memories and special moments together is super important. Sharing new experiences means the world to you.

Time is precious, and it's meaningful to soak in every second of your time together.

You feel content and happy when you are around your partner, even if you aren't really doing anything. The important thing is you are spending focused time together.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 15

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

opens 3rd branch at MovieTowne Mall

N h being opened ors of the new branc

The do

esha’s Flowerland has opened its newest branch at the MovieTowne Mall at Turkeyen, Greater Georgetown.

The branch was opened on February 1, 2021 with the expectation of serving customers along the East Coast of Demerara and to add to the overall ambience of the mall.

As the rest of branches do, this newest outlet will offer fresh and artificial flowers for all occasions.

It will continue to provide all of the services that customers have

enjoyed over the last 20 years, with several new options available.

At the new location, customers will be able to customise their own bouquets with a waiting time of under 15 minutes.

Nesha's Flowerland is now a household name in Guyana, being the largest floral store in town.

The business currently has two other branches - The Lotus Mall at Parika and another at Church and Carmichael Streets in Georgetown.

A floral a rrangeme nt made

by Nesha ’s Flowerl and

FROM PAGE 14

Services You feel taken care of when your partner supports you and helps ease your responsibilities when they do little chores or tasks for you.

Domestic bliss unlocked.

It means a lot when someone follows through on something, especially if they were paying attention and stepped in to help. When they do this, you trust your partner to pay attention to the little details.

You think talk is cheap; action means everything.

You need someone to come through and to know you can rely on them. Show, not tell.

You love when your partner steps in to do little things for you to make your life easier.

If you're feeling stressed

or tired, it would be nice if your partner saw it as an opportunity to step up and alleviate your burden by taking something off your plate that's easy for them to do.

That small act helps you feel taken care of.

Gifts You feel loved when you receive a gift. The present itself is nice, but it's really the thought behind it that counts: The gift becomes an object that helps you remember they were thinking of you, which fills you with love.

After a date or a trip, it's special to take a memento home with you. Seeing the item reminds you of those sentimental moments.

The best gifts are the

meaningful ones. If it's a surprise gift, even better. It strengthens the bond and builds a deeper connection for you.

During holidays, birthdays, or anniversaries, you want to commemorate it with a present of some kind. Those days are extra special, and you love using those days as a reminder of your commitment.

The gesture of receiving a gift demonstrates that you are seen, cared for, and prized. You really thrive on the thoughtfulness behind the gesture and treasure nostalgic items.

Touch You look forward to hugs, cuddles, and kissing. Nothing

beats tactile, physical intimacy.

You feel grounded in a relationship when physical affection is accessible and often cultivated. Holding hands, long embraces, and kisses are common and welcome occurrences.

You're game for public displays of affection. It helps you feel wanted and desired.

If your partner is sitting next to you, you would rather sit side-to-side and cuddle up. The closer, the better. If they are nearby, it's almost automatic you reach out to them to touch their leg, play with their hair, or give them a back rub.

Sexual intimacy makes you feel loved and closer to your partner.

The most common love language Chapman analysed the results of 10,000 people who took his online quiz in 2010 and found words of affirmation was the most popular language, but by a thin margin. In 2018, dating app Hinge analysed their app and found the most common love language was quality time, by far.

"I personally believe it also depends on gender, culture, customs, and values," Mahmud-Syed notes.

"Certain love languages which are prevalent in the West are much less common in non-Western cultures. For example, in my South Asian culture, directly praising someone is very uncomfort-

able and often not well received. Instead, praising that person to a third party is more highly valued when they hear about what you said about them through the grapevine.

Also, public display of affection between spouses or romantic partners is also a major taboo."

Love languages are a useful tool to improve how we communicate and express ourselves to each other, but they shouldn't be the be-alland-end-all solution for happiness. Instead, it should function as a starting point that sets couples on a journey to meet each other in a more profound way and self-regulate better. But the work shouldn't stop there. (Adapted from mindbodygreen.com)

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Eastern Airlines abruptly suspends flights to Guyana …Govt reassures bond in place to protect citizens

L

ess than a year after commencing flights to and from the United States, Eastern Airlines has abruptly suspended services to Guyana, leaving scores of passengers stranded.

On the airline’s website, several flights to and from Guyana, as well as other destinations, are listed as cancelled. These include flights initially scheduled for the remainder of February and up to March 23.

However, it was noted that the suspension is temporary.

“We are temporarily suspending Georgetown, Guyana flights until further notice,” the website stated.

However, according to the Public Works Ministry on Tuesday, the decision by the United States-based carrier to suspend its service to Guyana with immediate effect “is yet to be officially communicated to the Government of Guyana.”

In fact, officials from both the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) told Guyana Times on Tuesday that they were also unaware of the suspension.

Moreover, the Ministry

GCAA Director General Egbert Field

pointed out that within the past few days, the GCAA has held several discussions with the company and during those discussions, there wes no mention of the suspension of flights to Georgetown.

Protection to passengers

On this note, Government is giving assurances of protection to the scores of passengers who have been left stranded as a result of the suspension.

“Notwithstanding, the Ministry of Public Works, Cheddi Jagan International Airport, and the Guyana Revenue Authority currently have bonds in place with Eastern Airlines to help pro-

tect passengers and State agencies,” the Ministry assured.

Eastern Airlines, which was re-branded from trouble-riddled Dynamic Airways, commenced flights between Guyana and New York on March 5, 2020, and was required to post a US$450,000 bond before starting operating here.

It was one of the few airlines that operated scheduled repatriation flights between Guyana and the United States to bring home Guyanese who were stranded abroad following the closure of Guyana’s borders after the COVID-19 outbreak here.

Eastern Airlines’ last flight operations were on Saturday, February 6 and their next scheduled flight was expected on Friday, February 12.

The airline operated four flights weekly in January 2021 but this was significantly reduced in the last two weeks, the Ministry noted.

No official word

In fact, Director General of the GCAA, Retired Lt Col Egbert Field indicated to this newspaper on Tuesday that there was “no official word” from Eastern Airlines

as to the status of their operations, noting that no flights were cancelled since the last scheduled flight.

According to Field, the airline had reduced the frequency of its flights a few weeks back and seemed to have consolidated several recently scheduled flights last week into last Saturday’s flight.

“I know that those [passengers] were dropping because it is not only the low season but also the competition has picked up with American Airlines and JetBlue together with Caribbean Airlines in the market. So, I imagined Eastern Airlines has consolidated their flights. I’d be unable to say much more without any official communication from them,” Field related.

However, after local media reports of the suspension of its services on Tuesday, Eastern Airlines wrote the GCAA. The airline said that the COVID-19 pandemic coupled with the new travel restrictions implemented in the US last month caused forward bookings in the Guyana market to plummet.

“At the present time, Eastern Airlines is seeing more cancellations than confirmed bookings. Eastern Airlines regrets to inform

you that we will be suspending service to Guyana for the next few months due to the ongoing pandemic and new travel restrictions in place.

When travel restrictions are removed and air travel is able to begin, we will gladly consider re-starting our service,” the airline indicated to the Civil Aviation body.

In the meantime, Eastern Airlines said it is in the process of reviewing all liabilities and ensuring all its obligations have been met in Guyana, while assuring that “refunds for all impacted passengers are being processed.”

Meanwhile, the Office of the Leader of the Opposition in a statement on Tuesday called the airline’s behaviour “inconsiderate, callous and inhumane”.

The Opposition’s office pointed out that the affected passengers were given no

notice by Eastern Airlines of this decision and several of them are now stranded in Guyana, unable to make their way back to the United States to return to their families and jobs.

Only in December, Eastern Airlines had promised to improve flight tracking mechanisms and communication with passengers after developing mechanical issues with its engine causing the aircraft to be grounded. This had resulted in a 14-hour delay affecting approximately 100 passengers and the expiration of the maximum number of hours for the flight crew.

The GCAA, in a subsequent statement, said the airline has committed to improving communications with passengers after recognising the frustration felt as a result of the extensive delays. (G8)

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Policeman attacked, Govt aims to build modern abattoirs to boost meat export robbed of motorcycle

W

hile highlighting the vast potential of Guyana’s agricultural sector, the Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Monday announced that the Ministry will be constructing a number of modern abattoirs across the country with the aim of boosting beef and pork production with the long-term aim of tapping into the international market.

Mustapha pointed out that Guyana has been getting the attention of international investors, and as such, it will have to update its systems to remain competitive.

He was at the time speaking during an event at the Guyana Livestock Development Authority at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

“We have already started construction at Rising Sun at West Coast Berbice, we are looking at another one in

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

Region Three to do slaughtering of cows there so that we can have beef production there. We are looking at a swine abattoir on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD), and these will be built at international standards where we will have them certified and try to get them ISO certification so that we can export these meats to other parts of the world,” Mustapha said. He noted that there are lucrative markets around the world, and

Guyana should start tapping into them.

“Imagine, countries from the Middle East are importing beef from our neighbours in Brazil, we can tap into some of those markets. That is why we are concentrating and investing in these sectors, especially the livestock sector,” the Minister said, adding that there have been numerous calls for Guyana to have modernised abattoirs.

Georgetown’s Municipal

Abattoir that is located on Water Street, Kingston, Georgetown, has been in a deteriorated state for several years.

The 88-year-old abattoir processes approximately 75 per cent of the meat sold in the local markets and has not been modernised since its construction. The then Government had announced plans to build state-of-the-art abattoirs at Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice; Diamond, East Bank Demerara and one in Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo) but these never materialised.

As a matter of fact, the one at Onverwagt, WCB, was marred with suspicion after prime land was earmarked for the facility.

Additionally, issues of environmental hazards along with the fact that it was being built in a rice cultivating area where chemicals are used was another issue of concern. (G9)

Police find ganja floating in trench after intercepting lorry

T

he Police have launched an investigation into the discovery of a quantity of narcotics in a trench in the vicinity of the Patentia Secondary School, West Bank Demerara (WBD), on Thursday morning. The discovery was made at

about 06:20h.

Based on information received, on the day in question, Police intercepted a motor lorry driven by a 45-year-old male who resides at Sister’s Village, WBD. At the time, the lorry was carrying 22 workers in

its tray. However, a search was conducted on the driver and workers but nothing illegal was unearthed.

Nevertheless, one of the ranks observed a black plastic bag floating in a nearby trench. The bag was retrieved and upon inspection, a quantity of

ganja was found. The driver and the workers were questioned but they all denied ownership.

The cannabis was taken to the La Grange Police Station where it was weighed and amounted to 110 grams. No arrest was made.

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Police rank who was heading home on Monday evening was attacked and robbed of his motorcycle along Tuschen Public Road, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

The rank, 22-year-old Kellon Davis of Tuschen New Housing Scheme, EBE, was driving his motorcycle and in the vicinity of Light Street, Tuschen, he was attacked by the two identifiable males.

Police investigations revealed that Davis slowed down his motorcycle at a speed bump and was approached by the two suspects, who were walking on

the road at the time.

One of the men reportedly pulled out a knife and ordered the Police rank off his bike, a black CB 1 Honda.

In addition, the other male, who was unarmed, subsequently picked up a piece of wood and advanced towards the cop and out of fear for his life, he jumped off the motorcycle.

The two suspects then jumped onto the said motorcycle and rode off the scene. The matter was reported and the Police have launched an investigation.

Up to press time, no arrests were made.

Pensioner critical after being stabbed by lover

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taxi driver was admitted a patient in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the New Amsterdam Hospital after he was reportedly stabbed during an argument with his lover.

Injured is 67-year-old Collin Heiliger of Pilot Street, New Amsterdam, Berbice.

According to the Police, the incident took place on Monday evening at the suspect’s King Street, New Amsterdam house.

Police investigations revealed that the now injured man and the suspect shared an intimate relationship and on the night in question, they were engaged in a heated argument.

After the argument, Heiliger reportedly walked

Collin Heiliger

over to a neighbour’s house with a wound to his abdomen. He was quickly rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was examined, treated and admitted in the ICU. His condition is regarded as serious but stable.

The matter was reported and the suspect was arrested.

She is assisting the Police in their investigations.

18 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Haslington man found guilty Labourer arraigned for of murdering brother-in-law murder of taxi driver

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ixty-five-year-old Les Charles Critchlow of Haslington, East Coast Demerara (ECD), who was accused of murdering his brother-in-law Terrence Adams back in 2016 was on Tuesday found guilty by a 12-member jury.

The trial was conducted before Justice Navindra Singh at the Demerara High Court. Several witnesses took to the stand after which both the prosecution and defence summed up their arguments. After a short deliberation, the verdict was

Murdered: Terrence Adams

arrived at.

Critchlow will return to court on March 4 for sentencing. The defence team was led by Attorney-at-Law

Convicted murderer: Les Charles Critchlow

Rachael Bakker while the State was represented by Tiffini Lyken.

The trial had commenced

in October 2020, before Justice Priya Sewnarine Beharry where the accused pleaded not guilty to the accusation which stated that on May 12, 2016, he murdered Terrence Adams also called “Sleepy” and “Uncle Terry”, 56, of North Haslington, East Coast Demerara.

The now dead man was reportedly stabbed to death during an argument with the accused. At the time of the stabbing incident, Adams operated a small rum shop at his residence.

Gun, ganja, cash other items found during Police operations

Murdered: Osafo Pollard

Murder accused: Leroy Jones

wenty-four-year-old Leroy Jones, a labourer, was on Tuesday arraigned for the murder of Osafo Pollard, who was gunned down at a birthday party in North East La Penitence, Georgetown.

Jones made his appearance before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts where he was not required to plead to the indictable charge. Police stated that between February 2 and 3, 2021, at North East La Penitence, Georgetown, he murdered Osafo Pollard.

He was, however, remanded to prison and will make his next court appearance on March 2, 2021.

Pollard, a father of two, of Lot 44 James Street, West La Penitence, Georgetown,

was shot and killed during a birthday celebration.

It was reported that persons who were at the celebration heard a loud explosion similar to that of a gunshot and started to run from the scene.

However, after the commotion, Pollard was found lying in a pool of blood on the ground with a gunshot wound to his head.

He was picked up and taken to Georgetown Public Hospital, where he died while receiving medical treatment.

Police have since recovered one .32 spent shell and one warhead from the scene. Several persons were questioned, and ClosedCircuit TV (CCTV) cameras in the area were reviewed

by Police.

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Linden man charged for possession of stolen video game

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three and a half hour cordon and search exercise executed by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) on Tuesday morning in Plum Park, Sophia, and Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, led to the dis-

Some of the items that were found during the exercise

covery of several items suspected to have been unlawfully obtained.

Police stated that the search was conducted between 04:30h and 08:00h.

During the exercise, 848 grams of ganja, one

.38 special revolver, two XR and two Haojue motorcycles, one 65” TCL television set, two laptop computers, a quantity of electrical and non-electrical tools, one pressure washer, one weeding machine, one motorcy-

cle number plate, a JPS1 trade plate, $395,000 in cash and a quantity of gold jewellery were found.

As a result of the discovery, several persons were arrested and are assisting with investigations.

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wenty-two-yearold Kellon Isaacs of Canvas City, Wismar, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), was on Monday charged for being in possession of a PlayStation, four video game controllers and two playStation video game controllers suspected to have been unlawfully ob-

tained.

However, he pleaded not guilty to the charge when he appeared before Magistrate Wanda Fortune at the Linden Magistrate’s Court.

Isaacs was granted bail in the sum of $30,000 and will make his next court appearance on April 19, 2021.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WCD farmer receives $89M nursery school to be constructed at Martyrs’ Ville baby chicks, ducklings from MoA

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he Education Ministry on Tuesday hosted a sod-turning ceremony for the construction of the $84 million Martyrs’ Ville Nursery School.

The project has been awarded to Dodnauth Construction and Supplies Company, and the time frame for completion is eight months.

Chief Education Officer (CEO) Marcel Hutson explained that construction of the new school would alleviate overcrowding at the Mon Repos Nursey School.

Children in the community previously had to travel approximately one mile to get to school, but construction of the new school would ease that strain on parents.

Huston noted that the new school would be staffed with quality teachers to enhance the teaching and learning processes.

Project Coordinator Ron Eastman has said the capacity of the new structure would be 270 pupils, and it would include modern amenities.

“The project is an L-shape building. It has a modern sanitary block. It has an independent water system, and it has, as well, a vast

Jane Robinson receiving her gift from Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha

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Sod turning by the nursery students of Martyrs’ Ville community

area for an outdoor playfield,” Eastman explained.

Minister Manickchand noted that the aim of the Ministry is to provide universal nursery education.

“It is our quest to make sure (that) all across the country, students of nursery age access nursery education,” she explained.

She further explained that the school was always seen as a necessity of the community; however, due to

limited resources in the past and competing interest, construction was unable to begin much sooner. With the change of circumstances, at the very first PPP/C budget, the school was catered for.

“The next time we open school in this country, your children will be coming to a brand-new school,” Manickchand highlighted.

In addition, Manickchand urged residents and parents to be watchful and to assist

the Ministry by overlooking the project, since it is for the benefit of the community.

“We are building it, but it is your school. Check to see if they say they are supposed to use four truckloads of stone and they only put two. You get us on the phone. This is your school for your children,” she posited.

The school is expected to be completed and handed over by August 31,2021.

GLDA gets motorcycles, ATVs to boost services

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griculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha on Tuesday handed over seven Honda motorcycles and two All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs) to the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) to boost its services in several regions.

The motorcycles and ATVs which valued some $10 million was catered for in the 2020 Emergency Budget, under the GLDA’s capital Investment. The GLDA also handed over ten breeding bulls to farmers on Tuesday.

At the handing over ceremony, the Minister noted that the agriculture sector is poised to be one of the important sectors in Guyana, hence the major investments.

He pointed out that there has been renewed interest in the agricultural sector and Guyana has to take advantage of it.

“We have seen this renewed interest where people are coming forward not only to plant rice, or plant other crops but in the livestock sector we have seen the upsurge in interest in this sector,” he said.

He explained that there are instances of countries around the world that had to start their agriculture sector from “scratch” after neglecting it.

“As a Government, we recognise the importance of this sector, that is why we will continue to invest in it.”

Minister Mustapha told the gathering that the Authority is currently being monitored by the Agriculture Ministry with

that relationship we have to build that partnership,” the Minister highlighted.

The motorcycles will be deployed to Regions Six, Four, Nine and 10 while Regions Three and Nine will benefit from the ATVs.

Minister Mustapha handing over the ATVs and motorcycles to GLDA CEO Grayson Halley

the aim of fostering collaborative efforts. On this note, he added that there is evidence that some extension workers have not been working along with farmers in the various regions.

“We have to change those

attitudes to form that kind of partnership. If we want to develop our country, if we want to develop the agriculture sector, then we can’t work in a vacuum, we can’t work in isolation from the farmers. We have to build

female farmer of Crane, West Coast Demerara (WCD) who lost her livestock during a severe flood last year has received a quantity of baby chicks and ducklings from the Agriculture Ministry on Tuesday.

The donation was handed over by Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha during an event at the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) at Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

The farmer, Jane Robinson, 56, received 50 ducklings, 86 baby chicks and three bags of feed.

According to the Agriculture Minister, Robinson had approached him last month during his engagement with residents and farmers of Windsor Forest, and had explained her situation.

Her estimated loss was $400,000. Ever since the devasting flood, she had been struggling to restart her business. As such, she

reached out to the Ministry for assistance.

“I made a commitment that I was going to help, and I asked her to visit me at my office, and here we are today… We gave her these things so that she can start back rearing, so that her production can be valuable to herself and the community,” Mustapha noted.

Robinson has expressed gratitude to the Ministry for the donation, and is elated that she would now be able to rear poultry again.

“The majority of my stocks died…and now I will be able to start back again…I am very thankful for what I would have received…to be honest, this will help me a great lot, because from here I would be able to multiply”, she said.

Several villages along the West Coast of Demerara were inundated due to heavy downpours last May. Residents had suffered immense loses due to the flooding.

20 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 feared drowned after returning from Suriname via backtrack

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hree persons are feared drowned after they disembarked at a section of the Corentyne River from a ‘backtrack’ boat plying the Guyana/ Suriname River route on Monday evening.

Missing and feared drowned are: 48-year-old Sharida Hussein, called ‘Sherry’, of Pilot Street, New Amsterdam; 75-yearold Babuni Harrier, called ‘Dorris’, of Number 2 Village, East Canje; and Alwin Joseph, a former resident of Number 65 Village Corentyne, who is believed to be in his thirties.

According to the Police, while returning to Guyana, Hussein was in contact with her 19-year-old son at about 19:03h on Monday. She told him that she had been

Missing: Sharida Hussein

Missing; Alwin Joseph

Missing: Babuni Harrier

dropped off at a specific point at Number 63 Beach, and that the water was at her waist level and the place was dark.

The teenager subse-

quently called his mother again, but the calls went unanswered.

The woman’s son, Joshua Samaroo, said his mother had been in the neighbour-

ing country since last year.

Following the incident, he contacted Police, who later said they learnt that there were two other persons who may have been

Guyana records 18 new COVID-19 cases …Govt in talks with India, Russia for vaccines

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he Health Ministry reported that 18 new novel coronavirus cases were detected on Tuesday from 316 tests done in the last 24 hours.

According to the Ministry’s updated COVID-19 dashboard, this now takes the total number of confirmed cases in Guyana to 8041 – 4184 males and 3857 females.

However, the country’s active cases continue to climb. It is now at 864 which includes seven patients in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and the other 857 persons in isolation, that is, 39 institutional isolation and the remaining

818 in home isolation.

There are also another eight persons in institutional quarantine.

In addition, the COVID-19 death toll in Guyana remains at 181 with the latest fatality recorded on Sunday last when a 74-year-old male from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) died while receiving care at a medical facility.

To date, the number of persons who have recovered from the life-threatening disease has gone up to 7026 – 49 more than the figure previously reported.

Meanwhile, some 53,375 persons have been tested for the novel coronavirus in

Guyana thus far.

Of the 18 new cases recorded on Tuesday, one was in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), a whopping 10 cases in the Demerara-Mahaica region, another two in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) and five cases in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

The figures in the other six regions – Region One (Barima-Waini), Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) – remained the same.

In an effort to curb the increasing transmission of the deadly virus in Guyana, Government is looking to procure additional COVID-19 vaccines outside of the COVAX facility.

During his COVID-19 update on Tuesday, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony disclosed that they are currently locked in talks with officials from India and Russia regarding the possibility of obtaining COVID-19 vaccines being manufactured by both countries.

“We’ve had some bilateral discussions with them [India]. They required some documentations; those documentations have been sent and we’re now awaiting a formal response from the Government of India pertaining to the documents we have sent… We’re also talking to Russia and the manufacturer of the Sputnik V vaccine and, again, those discussions are ongoing and once we conclude them, we will let the public know,” Minister Anthony stated.

Under the COVAX mechanism, Guyana is poised to benefit from vaccines for 20 per cent of the country’s population.

COVAX has already indicated that once approval is granted from the World Health Organisation (WHO), it will be sending over 100,000 doses of

the AstraZeneca vaccine to Guyana.

Additionally, China has also committed to donating 20,000 doses of its Sinopharm vaccine.

Moreover, a partnership between Caricom and the African Union can see Guyana also benefitting from 149,000 doses of COVID-19 vaccines. But these will have to be paid for.

The Health Minister said Guyana is also in discussion with a number of companies on the matter of securing more vaccines for its population.

Dr Anthony had previously stated that the vaccines will not be mandatory but he had encouraged persons to take them.

Healthcare workers are expected to be the first to benefit from the vaccines followed by persons with underlining health conditions.

According to the Health Minister, depending on the vaccines used, some 70 to 90 per cent of the population needs to be immunised for the country to achieve herd immunity, which is when the majority of a given population is immune to a particular disease.

Meanwhile, on the matter of the new virus variants, Minister Anthony said Guyana has not yet received results from samples it sent

to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) for analysis.

Ten samples were sent to CARPHA to determine whether the COVID-19 variant has reached Guyana.

The BBC reported that it is suspected that the UK, South Africa and Brazil variants could be much more contagious or easy to catch than earlier versions.

Dr Anthony had previously posited that if this proves to be true, it could pose a very challenging situation for the local healthcare system.

“If this is more transmissible, then more people are going to get infected,” he highlighted, noting that if this happens, it will put a strain on the hospitals in the country.

“These are going to be the challenges if this variant circulates in our country,” Dr Anthony said.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), as of Tuesday, some 106,125,682 confirmed cases were reported globally along with 2,320,497 deaths.

The WHO also reported that in the Region of the Americas, that is, Latin America and the Caribbean, the number of confirmed COVID-19 cases has increased to 47,276,977 while the death toll in the region has gone up to 1,102,076.

(G8)

dropped off at the same location with Hussein.

Meanwhile, a granddaughter of Harrier’s told this publication that her grandmother had gone to Suriname in December 2020 to visit her daughter.

“We hear that the boat bring them over and drop them off. We don’t know exactly if they drop them on the shore of if they drop them on the sandbank…we don’t know exactly where they drop them,” the granddaughter told this publication.

She explained that her aunt in Suriname who had assisted Harrier into the small passenger boat had not been able to make contact with the pensioner at the time it was anticipated that she should have arrived. This prompted those in Suriname to alert relatives in Guyana. Harrier was expected to be dropped off at the Number 63 Beach.

Her son, who lives at Glasgow, East Bank Berbice, travelled to the Corentyne in the dark of night, and when he got to Number 63 Beach, he did not see his mother, but rather saw others in search of their missing relative.

Meanwhile, Joseph, formerly of Number 65 Village Corentyne, had been residing in Suriname with his wife and one child.

According to his cousin Narinie Samcundar, Joseph did not state the purpose of his visit, but noted that whenever he visits Guyana,

he stays at her Number 65 Village home. She said he called on Monday afternoon and informed her that he was coming to Guyana in the evening, and would need someone to pick him up at Number 63 Village when he arrives.

Samcundar revealed that Joseph called a brother in the US and informed him that he had arrived in Guyana. With that, the brother contacted Samcundar.

When they arrived at Number 63 Beach, they did not see Joseph, and they began searching for him.

During a search for him, other persons arrived and said they also were looking for a missing relative.

The Police were contacted at about 02:00h on Tuesday morning.

In a release on Tuesday afternoon, the Police said the search was continuing.

The Coast Guard Department was contacted, and a patrol vessel has been dispatched from New Amsterdam to Number 61 Village along the Atlantic coastline.

Suriname closed its borders with Guyana in February as part of a series of measures to reduce the spread of the novel coronavirus. The Surinamese military has since been patrolling the River.

Nevertheless, persons have been crossing the river border by boat illegally, travelling by night.

(Andrew Carmichael)

Sophia man stabbed to death

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he Police are on the hunt for a Sophia, Greater Georgetown resident who allegedly attacked and fatally stabbed another man on Monday evening. The dead man has been identified as 36-yearold Kevin Smith of ‘C’ Field Reserved Dam Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Based on information received, on the day in question at about 18:30h, the victim was at home when he was attacked by a 22-yearold man who was armed with a knife.

As a result, a scuffle

ensued and it was then, the suspected reportedly stabbed the victim to his chest, lower abdomen and above his left knee.

Due to the stab wounds, Smith reported fell to the ground and died almost immediately. The suspect, on the other hand made good his escape.

Smith’s body was subsequently taken to the Lyken’s Funeral Home awaiting a post mortem. The police have since processed the murder scene and interviewed several persons as investigations continue.

Motorcyclist injured in WCB accident

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eeraj Bridgelall of Shieldstown, West Bank Berbice (WBB) was admitted a patient at the New Amsterdam Hospital following an accident along the No 2 Public Road, West Coast Berbice, on Tuesday.

Initial reports by Police stated that on the day in question, at about 12:54h, Bridgelall was proceeding along the No 2 Public Road on motorcycle CH 9019 when he lost control while

overtaking a motor car. As a result, he crashed into some hollow blocks.

Bridgelall reportedly fell onto the roadway where he sustained injuries about his body. He was picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he regained consciousness.

He was examined, treated and admitted a patient at the medical facility. His condition is regarded as stable. An investigation is underway.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GL&SC official collected $27M for 6 acres of land at Ogle

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he Attorney General’s office has recommended that the Guyana Police Force be called in to probe the lease of six acres of unmarked land at Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), for which some $27 million was paid to the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC).

This was part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed by GL&SC and Janico Industrial Engineering Limited for the leasing of six acres of land for commercial, industrial and real estate purposes. The document, dated May 2017, was signed by the former Head of the Lands and Surveys Commission.

According to the MoU, which along with several other documents relating to this transaction were seen by Guyana Times, “The purpose of this MOU is to… Confirm the intent and commitment of the GL&SC and the Company for the leasing of the said 6 acres of land, owned by the

Government of Guyana as part of the stock of State Land, and upon payment of $27,000,000.00 (twenty seven million dollars) for the development of commercial, industrial and real estate activities.”

The company was obligated to make the payments in two instalments of $13.5 million – the first upon the signing of the MoU and the balance by November 4, 2017, or upon the receipt of the lease.

However, it is unclear what the money was paid for since a rental fee of $200,000 annually was also agreed upon in the MoU for the lands that were leased for 50 years.

Guyana Times understands that this was unearthed after lawyers for Janico Industrial Engineering Limited wrote the Commission back in December 2020, indicating that the company is yet to receive the six acres of lands and threatened to take legal actions.

In a letter dated December 22, 2020 – also seen by this newspaper –

the law firm of Hughes, Fields & Stoby disclosed that “…it was agreed by the MOA (Ministry of Agriculture) that the consideration for the said lease would be the sum of $27M…” The lawyers noted this sum was paid in full as per the MoU, that is, the first payment on May 4, 2017, and the second on March 27, 2020. Despite this,

Mahaicony man feared drowned at Belladrum foreshore

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Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara (ECD) man is feared drowned after he was struck by a heavy wave while repairing a boat on Monday three miles offshore Belladrum, West Coast Berbice (WCB).

Fortyfive-year-old Lloyd John of Catherine, Mahaicony, ECD, was reportedly attending to a hole in the boat when the wave struck.

At the time, he was reportedly in the company of another fisherman, 61-yearold Edmond Duke, also of Catherine, Mahaicony.

Based on reports received, after the boat was hit by the wave, John drifted further out at sea until he disappeared while Duke escaped from the sinking boat and was later rescued by other fishermen who were in a larger boat.

He was taken to the Abary Sluice Outpost where the matter was reported. A search party was established but after searching for several hours, there were no signs of the missing man.

Nevertheless, the boat and the engine were found on Tuesday. The search continues for the missing man as Police continue their investigations.

however, the lawyers said the company has not received the lands.

“We are instructed that the GL&SC informed our client that before it could identify the precise area of the lease, the GL&SC would have to carry out a cadastral survey of the area. Accordingly, on our client making the second payment requested by the GL&SC on the aforesaid 27th day of March, 2020, it was awarded a Provisional Lease pursuant to Regulation 7(1) of the Regulations to the State Lands Act, Cap. 61:01 of the laws of Guyana. Our client was informed that the precise or final boundaries of the leasehold area would be established upon the completion of the aforesaid cadastral survey by the GL&SC,” the law firm noted.

“We are instructed that despite several months having elapsed since the time of payment of the balance, and the execution of the Provisional Lease be-

tween the GL&SC and our client, and despite several promises by the GL&SC to expeditiously complete its survey and execute a full State Land Lease in our client's favour stating the defined boundaries of the leasehold area, our client has been unable to secure this up to the present time.”

Against this backdrop, the lawyers demanded that the Commission take all steps necessary to issue six acres of land to Janico Industrial Engineering Limited within 14 days, otherwise legal proceedings will be instituted to compel it to do so.

However, Guyana Times understands that there is no procedure under the State Lands Act that allows for a MoU to be signed before a lease or provisional lease is granted.

Moreover, acting Commissioner of GL&SC, Enrique Monzie has stated that upon research, he was unable to determine

any vacant, available land under the control of the Commission at the location agreed upon.

He explained in a correspondence to Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Anil Nandlall that Plantation Ogle has always been the property of the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo), except for lands that were handed over to the Government for the Ogle Airport and to Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) for any schemes. He added that the lands at the rear of Ogle were previously State Lands leased also to GuySuCo but now vested to the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL).

To this end, Monzie sought the legal advice of the Attorney General on the matter.

In response, AG Nandlall expressed the view that since GL&SC has no ostensible authority over the lands promised in the provisional lease, the issue has raised serious criminal law implications and may amount to the commission of several criminal offences.

“In the circumstances, I advise that this matter be immediately reported to the Criminal Investigations Department, Guyana Police Force, for investigations and possible onward transmission to the office of the Police Legal Advisor/Director of Public Prosecutions for legal advice and/ or charges to be filed,” the Attorney General recommended.

He also advised that the company’s lawyers be informed accordingly.

22

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021

Around the world

Maori MP ejected from NZ Parliament for refusing to wear tie

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leader of the Maori Party has been ejected from the New Zealand Parliament for not wearing a tie.

Male MPs can only ask questions in the debating chamber if wearing a tie.

Speaker Trevor Mallard twice prevented Rawiri Waititi from asking questions.

"It's not about ties, it's about cultural identity mate," Waititi said while exiting the chamber, local media reported.

He has called ties "a colonial noose" and wore a greenstone pendant instead.

Rawiri Waititi has called ties "a colonial noose"

After being stopped for a second time, Waititi continued with his question until Mallard ordered him to leave the chamber.

Waititi called Mallard's treatment of him "unconscio-

nable", adding that he was wearing "Maori business attire".

Co-leader of the Maori Party, Debbie NgarewaPacker, who was herself wearing a tie, pleaded her colleague's case but to no avail.

This is just the latest tiebased spat between the MP and the Speaker.

Late last year, Waititi was told that he would be ejected from the House if he did not wear a tie.

In his first speech to Parliament, he said: "Take the noose from around my neck so that I may sing my

song".

Mallard has said he personally supports a change to the rules on compulsory ties, but kept the rules after he consulted MPs - saying the overwhelming majority of those who wrote to him supported maintaining the tie requirement.

Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said she does not object to people refusing to wear ties, but that there are bigger things to be focusing on.

"I don't think New Zealanders care about ties," she said. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Women in Kuwait launch online campaign against harassment

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omen in Kuwait are defying conservative norms and a culture of “shame” to speak out against harassment for the first time, in a social media campaign sparked by a popular fashion blogger.

Dozens of testimonies about being stalked, ha-

rassed or assaulted have emerged online, mainly from the Instagram account “Lan Asket”, Arabic for “I will not be silent”. Statements came from Kuwaiti citizens as well as expatriates, who make up a large sum of the total population.

Kuwaiti fashion blogger

Emirates Mars Mission: Hope spacecraft enters orbit

Ascia Al Faraj, who has more than 2.5 million social media followers, said in an explosive video uploaded last week that there is a “problem” in the country.

“Every time I go out, there is someone who harasses me or harasses another woman in the street,” she said in the emotionally charged video uploaded after a vehicle sped up to “scare” her while she was walking to her car.

“Do you have no shame?

We have a problem of harassment in this country, and I have had enough.”

Faraj’s video sparked a

nationwide movement in a country where the #MeToo campaign that took off in the United States in 2017 did not make much of an impact.

Radio and TV shows have hosted activists, lawyers and academics to discuss the issue of harassment and the US embassy in Kuwait also threw its weight behind the women.

Activists have also emphasised that foreign women who make up a large portion of the Kuwaiti population, many in menial roles, are among the most vulnerable to assault and abuse. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

India sends vaccines to Barbados

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he United Arab Emirates is celebrating its first mission at Mars.

It has put a probe called Hope in orbit around the planet, making it only the fifth spacefaring entity to do so after the US, the Soviet Union, Europe and India.

The spacecraft, which left Earth seven months ago, had to make a braking manoeuvre to be sure of being captured by Mars' gravity.

UAE scientists can now look forward to studying the planet's atmosphere.

Their satellite carries three instruments that will observe, among other targets, how neutral atoms of hydrogen and oxygen - remnants from Mars' once abundant water - leak into space.

In the process, Hope will return spectacular, high-resolution, full-disk images of the planet.

Tuesday marked the most critical phase in the mission.

Hope had been approaching Mars at over 120,000km/h (relative to the Sun) and needed to execute a precise 27-minute burn on its braking engines to scrub some of that speed or risk skipping off into ever deeper space.

The manoeuvre, performed by six thrusters on the probe, commenced at about 19:30 GST (15:30 GMT), with confirmation received at Earth some 11 minutes later - the delay being the time it took for radio signals to traverse the 190-million-km separation between Mars and Earth.

Hope is regarded as a triumph for a small gulf nation that dared to think seven years ago that it could inspire the next generation by launching the first Arab interplanetary space mission. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley during a meeting with India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi back in 2019

I

ndia sent two consignments of Covishield COVID-19 vaccines to Barbados and Caribbean neighbour Dominica on Sunday night.

According to the Hindustan Times, the vaccines left the island around 23:35h and were distributed under their Vaccine Maitri initiative.

The newspaper reported Barbados’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley sent correspondence to her Indian counterpart Narendra Modi on Thursday which read: “I trust

that you are well and safe.

On behalf of my Government and people, I wish to express gratitude to you, your Government and the people of the Republic of India for its most generous donation of the Covishield vaccines (under the auspices of Oxford Astrazeneca).”

At the end of January, Mottley wrote to Modi requesting about 200, 000 vaccines.

The vaccines were manufactured by the Serum Institute of India. (Nation News)

2 earthquakes recorded in Tobago on Monday night

T

wo minor earthquakes of 3.8 magnitude occurred in Tobago one hour apart on Monday night.

The seismic activities were recorded by TT Weather Centre. Some have reported hearing a rumble before the shaking. There is no tsunami threat.

It occurred 2.72 kilometres from Plymouth, 3.95km from Scarborough and 9.01km from Castara.

Information from the TT Weather Centre shows the first earthquake happened at 22:15h and the second at 23:15h. It also said both earthquakes were felt across Tobago with "one or

two short jolts".

When the second minor earthquake happened, no preliminary or reviewed solution was posted by the University of the West Indies Seismic Research Centre. But the seismic event was recorded on nearby seismometers in T&T and Grenada.

It said, "This information (above) is preliminary from the UWI Seismic Research Centre, the authority for seismic and volcanological information in the Eastern Caribbean. This information may change when additional data is processed by a seismologist." (Trinidad Newsday)

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil extends rally to fresh 13-mth highs on tightening supply

O

il prices extended their rally for a seventh session on Tuesday to hit fresh 13-month highs, supported by supply cuts and optimism over a recovery in fuel demand.

The oil market was also supported by the dollar falling to a one-week low. A weaker dollar makes greenback-denominated commodities more attractive to holders of other currencies.

Brent was up 24 cents, or 0.8 per cent, to US$61.06 a barrel by 1:03 pm EST (1803 GMT).

US West Texas Intermediate crude (WTI) for March was at US$58.30 a barrel, up 33 cents or 0.6 per cent.

Both benchmarks hit their highest since January 2020 earlier in the session.

“With Brent over $60, it’s been great psychologically for the (energy) complex and everyone is feeling bullish about stronger demand and global inventories in further decline,” said John Kilduff, partner at Again Capital LLC in New York.

The markets have rallied since November as investors are pinning hopes on demand recovery as COVID-19 vaccines take effect and as governments and central banks deploy huge stimulus packages to boost economic activity.

Signalling tightening supplies in the world’s top oil producer, the US Government on Tuesday lowered its outlook for crude oil production in 2021 to 11.02 million barrels per day from 11.1 million bpd previously forecast.

Also, US crude inventories have fallen to their lowest since March, before the pandemic crushed the oil markets. Analysts in a Reuters poll, however, forecast a 1 million-barrel build last week.

Top exporter Saudi Arabia is curbing supply in February and March, on top of cuts by fellow producers in the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries and their allies, prompting forecasts of a supply deficit this year.

“The Saudis’ intent to eliminate a global supply surplus appears to be on track and capable of boosting crude prices further,” said Jim Ritterbusch, President of Ritterbusch and Associates in Galena, Illinois.

Libya’s output has fallen to 1.04 million barrels per day (bpd) from 1.3 million bpd late last year due to an ongoing strike by Petroleum Facilities Guards, a Libyan oil source said on Monday.

Tehran and Washington remain deadlocked over a resolution of sanctions on Iran that has kept supply from the OPEC member off the market. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Peru starts vaccination campaign amid 2nd wave

P

The first doses of Sinopharm vaccines arrived late on Sunday

eru has started its COVID vaccination campaign after the first consignment of 300,000 Sinopharm vaccines arrived on Sunday.

The South American country is in the midst of a second wave of the pandemic. With the hospitals close to full capacity, the authorities have decided that medical staff should be among the first to be vaccinated.

On Tuesday morning local time, Josef Vallejos, the chief of the intensive care unit at a hospital in Lima, received the first jab.

Members of the military, security guards, and election workers will also be given priority ahead of the general election scheduled for April 11.

Peru has had almost 1.2 million confirmed cases and more than 42,000 people have died. (BBC News)

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021

23

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Can golf really become a factor in Guyana?

– Escarraga, Contreras, Oudit give their take

By Timothy Jaikarran

A

s a sports writer who has followed the many improvements in the sport of golf in recent years, I was curious to see how Guyana rated among local and foreign golfers, so I sought out several persons and asked their opinions.

First, I asked the CEO of MACORP, Guillermo Escarraga, who hails from Colombia, a series of questions about his views on the game and the way forward. Here are his responses: Q: What do you think about the game of golf?

A: “When I think about golf, I associate it with wisdom and joy. it is something that is teachable, and it teaches patience. You have to work hard, and those are things we have to keep in mind and practise to play good golf.”

Q: Where do you see golf heading?

A: “I see development, I see opportunities, and I see growth.

I think if the country gears towards development, golf has to be a part of it. I think the development of new facilities will actually improve the game, and I see that new generation, especially school kids, have that opportunity to practise now, hence I see great things for Guyana and golf in the future.”

Q: What’s the difference between golf in Guyana and golf in Colombia?

A: “Here we only have one golf course and one practice facility. I think with development and new infrastructure we will see more in Guyana. Golf anywhere is tough, but what really drives golfers is that you get to play different courses, and I think that’s the main difference between Guyana and Colombia.”

Q: What do you think your company can do to better golf in Guyana?

A: “We’ve been associated with golf for the past 13 years. We usually sponsor a tournament every year. We help the local golf course in their infrastructure maintenance (and) development. We will continue supporting that, and we will continue supporting the efforts of others who want to bring golf to the wider population. So, the company would definitely be willing to help those who want to lead the development of golf in Guyana.”

I then sought out the Ambassador of Mexico to Guyana, His Excellency José Hurtado Contreras, who talked about the experience he had when he and his family visited the Nexgen Golf Academy during the Curry-Q fundraiser for the Enmore Orphanage.

The Ambassador recalled receiving lessons from our current Guyana Open champion, Avinash Persaud.

In a statement, Contreras said, “It is a great contribution to the development of golf in Guyana, since golf requires training and technique. I also believe that this sport will play an important role in the development of Guyana. I think golf in Guyana is incipient. In Mexico, it already has a long history. They are different situations. I believe that golf in Guyana has a great future; surely, there will be more and more golfers. Guyana has created many expectations with the oil boom. We hope it will benefit society, education and sports in general, and golf in particular. Any sport is very good for your health. Golf is a sport, and as such is a physical exercise of skills, dexterity and physical strength. Teaching golf in schools is undoubtedly positive.”

However, it was important to hear what a Guyanese thought about golf and the aggressive changes that the Guyana Golf Association and Nexgen Golf Academy were bringing to the country, so I chatted with former GuySuCo Chairman and President of the Guyana Horse Racing Committee, Vic Oudit.

Here is the outcome of that

Professional football league...

The professional league initiative is the latest in a growing number of projects between the UEFA and the GFF, following the receipt of financial support to acquire minibuses for youth football development programmes, and various capacity-building activities, including 100-day “Bounceback” return-to-play planning.

“Creating the first professional league in Guyana will be a truly historic moment for our nation, and a real statement of intent for the future,” said GFF President Wayne Forde. “We are excited to begin this journey with UEFA, as we put the foundations in place to develop a strong league model that can thrive in our specific conditions.

“The realisation of this longheld dream will require a national team effort, including the support of our members as well as partners from corporate Guyana and the Government of Guyana. However, once in place, the league will propel our football forward like never before, and offer genuine opportunity for young Guyanese talent to flourish, both at home and overseas,” he declared.

In order to prepare the ground for fully professional football, a range of capacity building is required, from marketing development and infrastructure to club licensing, coach education and governance. The UEFA Assist team will draw on decades of knowhow from European leagues to help the GFF equip itself and its members for the task ahead.

“For those unfamiliar with the concept of a professional league, this is a competition where all players are paid ‘living wage’ salaries which enable them to engage as full-time athletes, most commonly either contracted to independent, financiallysustainable clubs under the European model, or within a commercially-viable franchise

UEFA's Eva Pasquier

under the US model,” Forde said.

“While recent but unsustainable attempts at semiprofessional or subsidised models for leagues and teams, as well as the progress by some clubs under the CONCACAF Club License system, have tested the waters in Guyana, those achievements have sadly fallen well short of creating a much-needed professional league. We look forward to working with all our stakeholders to explain the crucial difference, and why it matters for the future of Guyanese football and our young talent, so that we can make this long-held dream a credible reality together,” Forde has said.

The pioneering league development project is taking place with the full support of CONCACAF, the governing body of North, Central America and the Caribbean. Currently, in the CFU, only Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago, the Dominican Republic and Haiti have professional leagues, as classified by CONCACAF. “There are the only four CFU members with professional football leagues. For Guyana to become one of the approved professional leagues would be a fitting legacy for the Forde-

FROM PAGE 24

led administration, and (would) position the country for faster development in football and more success at international level,” said Howard McIntosh, ONE Concacaf and Caribbean Project Senior Manager at CONCACAF. “A professional league in Guyana will provide the pathway for players, match officials and coaches to reach their full potential and to have access to full-time careers in the game, whether at home or overseas. In its focus on football development and good governance, the GFF has led by example in the Caribbean region, and we are all excited to see the fruits of this ground-breaking project unfold in the coming years.”

The establishment of a fully professional league in Guyana, following the CONCACAF league professionalisation roadmap, would also enable the title winner and runner-up of each season to enter the Caribbean’s top-tier club tournament - the CONCACAF Caribbean Club Championship, which offers a pathway to compete in the Concacaf Champions League. Because the current Elite League model is classified as a non-professional competition, Guyana’s league champions are currently eligible to take part in the second-tier CONCACAF Caribbean Club Shield, which features clubs from CFU member associations with up-and-coming leagues that are working their way towards full professional standards.

Since the beginning of the year, GFF officials have also participated in UEFA Assist’s risk and project management virtual programmes, a CONCACAF Return to Football Conference for 2021 competitions, and online coaching courses organised by the Guyana Olympic Committee and the Pan American Sports Organisation.

Ambassador of Mexico to Guyana, His Excellency José Hurtado Contreras

conversation: Q: Mr. Oudit, what is your impression of the Golf Academy as it compares to other golf facilities internationally?

A: "Very favourable."

Q: in your opinion, how does the standard of golf here compare with those of other countries you visited?

A: "Guyana is below the average standard since, previously, golf in Guyana was mainly enjoyed as a recreational activity, with occasional tournaments."

Q: What are your thoughts

MACORP CEO Guillermo Escarraga

Guyana Horse Racing Committee President Vic Oudit

on golf development in Guyana in general?

A: "There is a need to transform golf from a mindset that it's only a middle-to- upperclass sport, with just a few caddies and their children having the opportunity to participate, and open the sport to everyone with an interest at a cost they can afford."

Q: How much of an impact do you think the school programme that has been implemented would have on golf in Guyana?

A: "I applaud the Guyana Golf Association and the Ministry of Education programme to teach

school-age children and youths, along with the establishment of Golf courses across the country, which will have a very positive impact on the sport within a few short years."

So there you have it - a consensus opinion that golf is headed for great things in Guyana. That opinion is shared by this reporter, several foreigners, and certainly hundreds of Guyanese who are, for the first time in their lives, playing a sport they were previously only able to watch on television.

CG Insurance Super50 Cup…

Radio coverage scores big across 10 stations T

he excitement of the CG Insurance Super50 Cup is resonating across the West Indies as a network of radio stations across the region commence broadcasting the live ball-by-ball coverage, thanks to CWI’s new and expanded radio commentary partnership with Vibes Radio, Dominica.

The radio coverage commenced on Sunday as 10 stations from Jamaica to Guyana — including for the first time in many years the British Virgin Islands and the US Virgin Islands — carried the calls and analysis of the opening match and the Windward Islands Volcanoes’ victory over the Leeward Islands Hurricanes at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

Commentary continued on Monday with the second contest, as the Guyana Jaguars beat the Barbados Pride.

The broadcast will run for all matches throughout the tournament, and climax with the grand final on Saturday, February 27.

CWI Commercial Director Dominic Warne

As a result of the partnership, Vibes Radio will provide digital live radio commentary to fans in the Caribbean and around the world via the Windies Cricket YouTube channel and website http://www.windiescricket. com.

Dominic Warne, CWI's Commercial Director, has said: "We are delighted to see 10 leading radio stations across the region partnering with CWI

Khan poised to clinch...

FROM PAGE 24

Glenford Corlette also has a shot at grabbing the championship

With only one round remaining, it is unlikely that wins from Errol Tiwari, Rai Sharma and Loris Nathoo in the 7th round would disturb the current course of the championships. What is likely, however, is a playoff battle between Khan and Meusa, should Meusa finish with two more wins and Khan suffer a defeat.

While Loris Nathoo has 2 points Errol Tiwari and Rai Sharma are currently tied on 1 point each. The seventh round will be contested in the upcoming weekend at the National Stadium, Providence.

and Vibes Radio for the 202021 CG Insurance Super50 Cup. This significantly increases the opportunity for fans to access live commentary and be closer to their favourite players and teams. The commentary worked very smoothly, and we’re looking forward to each of the remaining 17 games, including the semi-finals and final, being available.”

The expanded list of partner radio stations is as follows: Vibes Radio (Dominica), Caribbean Broadcast Network — The Caribbean Superstation 90.9FM (BVI and USVI), GBN (Grenada), Real FM (Grenada), CBC (Barbados), VOB (Barbados), KLAS FM (Jamaica), NCN (Guyana), ABS (Antigua), The Wave (St Lucia).

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2021

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

Khan poised to clinch chess championship after Round 6

W

ith a lead of 1.5 points in front of the next best competitor, Taffin Khan is one game away from taking the 2020 Chess Championships following a number of upsets in the rounds played over the past weekend.

While the completion of Round 3 saw a level playing field between Khan, defending Champion Anthony Drayton and other front runners, this weekend’s games tipped the scales and practically put Drayton out of contention, if he’d hoped to retain the coveted title.

The only blemish on Candidate Master Taffin Khan’s record was a draw between himself and former champion Candidate Master Wendell Meusa. That game, which didn’t have many hiccups or exciting bursts of play,

saw both players holding out for the draw. Nonetheless, Khan registered two more wins - against Loris Nathoo and Glenford Corlette - to push his tally to 5.5 points from 6 rounds.

Glenford Corlette trails closely and has a trump card that may put him in contention for the 2020 title.

While his only loss came against Khan, Corlette registered a shocking win against defending champion Drayton and another against Errol Tiwari for a total of 4 points. Like everyone else, Corlette has his round 7 game this weekend, but an outstanding game with Wendell Meusa from the first round is left for Corlette to capitalise upon, in order to cop 6 points.

Candidate Master Wendell Meusa has a similar wildcard as Corlette, but his fortunes were not quite as good

Professional football league on the horizon …as GFF, UEFA begin groundwork

T

Taffin Khan is well on his way to being crowned champion

in the prior rounds. With wins against Davion Mars, Tiwari and Nathoo, and a tie with Khan, Meusa has amassed 3.5 points. His only loss came when measuring up to Drayton.

Despite his shortcomings, Drayton has 3 points. His only wins over the weekend came against Wendell Meusa. As such, he will have to relinquish his title, since a win in the upcoming 7th round may not be enough to surpass Corlette and Khan.

Also on three points is National Blitz Chess Champion Davion Mars.

Following some shaky opening rounds, Mars found his foot and picked up two victories, against Drayton and Tiwari.

Coupled with a draw alongside Rai Sharma, he brought his points’ tally up to 3.

TURN TO PAGE 23

he Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the UEFA, European football’s governing body, have started a ground-breaking project to create Guyana’s first professional football league as part of the UEFA’s Assist Development programme.

Officials from both organisations met virtually this month to introduce the project teams, establish working protocols, and outline next steps for the capacity-building programme over the coming months. Once completed, the collaboration will position and enable Guyana to become only the fifth member of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) to cater for professional football.

“This is the latest pillar in an increasingly strong partnership between the UEFA Assist programme and the Guyana Football Federation,” said Eva Pasquier, Head of International Relations at UEFA. “The Federation has impressed the UEFA team from the beginning with its unwavering commitment to delivering excellence in football.

We are excited about the impact this current initiative could have for Guyana. We believe there is real scope for a sustainable, marketable professional league that will help

GFF President Wayne Forde

to propel its football development forward,” she said.

“This means building capacity within the Federation, so that it can develop longer-term relationships with sponsors while preparing clubs, players, coaches, match officials and fans for the journey. Our aim through this programme is to support the Federation in putting these allimportant building blocks in place.”

TURN TO PAGE 23

Can golf really become a factor in Radio coverage Guyana?

CG Insurance Super50 Cup…

Page 23

– Escarraga, Contreras, Oudit give their take

scores big across 10 stations Pg 23

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