Guyana Times - Wednesday, February 17, 2021

Ash Wednesday: P13 An important part of repentance, renewing commitment to Christian faith Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4562

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

PRICE

CGX sitting on potential 4.9M barrels of oil offshore Guyana – report

$80 VAT INCLUDED

WHAT'S INSIDE:

See story on page 7

Wife, hitman jailed for P8 Herstelling block maker’s murder

GDF rank killed, 1 injured in motorcycle accident P2

…but says no certainty on whether oil recoverable, viable

Cevons ordered to vacate NSC land illegally leased by GL&SC

Active COVID-19 P11 cases stand at 588 …30 positives recorded in 24h

See story on page 3

Coast Guard 4 high-profile unable to locate prisoners escape boat with dead from Mazaruni Prison bodies offshore Guyana See story on page 10

NA Town Council wants roadside P16 vendors removed Meadow Bank Wharf lacks security, proper facilities – fishermen, P14 vendors

Page 17

…says bad weather at sea, assumes vessel submerged

Wanted: Imran Ramsaywack

Wanted: Kenrick Lyte

Wanted: Samuel Gouveia

Wanted: Rayon Jones

Opposition to participate in Budget debate – Harmon Page 9

TIP suspected as teen goes P16 missing Over 2700 Guyanese P9 businesses registered for oil & gas opportunities

2 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

GDF rank killed, 1 injured in motorcycle accident

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wenty-eight-yearold Leroy Hercules, a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) rank, is now dead and another person injured following an accident that occurred on Plum Park, Farms Field Access Road, E Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, on Monday evening.

The accident involved motorcycles CG 9908, that was ridden by a resident of Plum Park, Sophia, and CJ 7787 which was ridden by Hercules.

Reports are that at about 19:30h both the Sophia resident and Hercules were speeding in opposite directions when they collided.

As a result of the impact, both men fell onto the roadway, where they sustained injuries about their bodies.

They were both picked up by public-spirited persons and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital where Hercules was pronounced dead. The rider of CG 9908 was admitted as a patient at the medical facility.

Both motorcycles have been lodged with the Police and will be examined by a Licensing and Certifying Officer.

Just about two weeks ago, a speeding motorcyclist was killed at Arapaima Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown, and two pedestrians were injured, after he collided with a utility pole.

Dead is 26-year-old

Dead: Leroy Hercules

Kemston Richards of Plum Park, Sophia. The injured persons have been identified as 24-year-old Kevin Fletcher and a 15-year-old from East La Penitence.

Richards was proceeding north on Arapaima Street with motorcycle CK 7533. Due to the fast rate at which he was travelling, the biker lost control and collided with a utility pole.

He fell onto the roadway and sustained injuries about his body.

The motorcycle travelled some distance in an eastern direction and collided with the pedestrians.

The now dead man was picked up in an unconscious state by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation, where he was pronounced dead. (G9)

Be alert for severe weather conditions – Hydromet Office

High winds last year caused damage to infrastructure across several coastal areas

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h e Hydrometeorological Service has sent out an alert for severe weather conditions that are expected this week, so that persons can be on the lookout and take precautions.

The statement said that strong winds ranging from 27-30 km/h are expected along the coastal regions until Thursday, February 18.

Moderate to rough seas are also forecast until then, with wave heights of 2.5 metres to 3.0 metres.

Marine operators are asked to take note of the current forecast, since it can be “hazardous”.

“Residents are advised to exercise caution during this period. Secure objects that are outdoor and caution should be taken if driving.

Fishermen and other marine users are asked to exercise caution as moderate to rough seas combined with wind can be hazardous,” the Hydromet office outlined.

In several instances, high winds in Guyana have resulted in the destruction of houses and electrical poles.

Less than a year ago in July,

scores of coastal communities were awakened by the combination of rain and winds, which ripped apart several structures and left households without electricity.

The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) had said, “Due to high winds, burst power lines, fallen poles and other infrastructural damage have been reported.”

There were sporadic reports of slight damage that were controlled by householders while three households in Vryheid’s Lust, Success and Lamaha Park in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), and two at Westberry and Line Dam, Queenstown, on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two, suffered varying degrees of damage to rooftops.

There was also further damage to public infrastructure, with live wires ripped from main poles to private homes at De Groute, West Bank Demerara, and the commentator’s booth at Uitvlugt Community Centre Ground collapsing. Testing for COVID-19 was also delayed, as the lab was unable to process any new samples collected during the day. (G12)

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, February 17 – 09:00h – 10:30h and Thursday, February 18 – 09:30h – 11:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Wednesday, February 17 – 07:05h – 08:35h and Thursday, February 18 – 07:40h – 09:10h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Expect sunshine during the day. There will be partly cloudy skies at night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 07:53h and 20:15h reaching maximum heights of 2.49 metres and 2.43 metres.

Low Tide: 13:49h reaching a minimum height of 0.73 metre.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2021

LOTTERY NUMBERS O

04 05 08

10 12 16

FREE TICKET

26 Bonus Ball

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 16, 2021

Cevons ordered to vacate NSC land illegally leased by GL&SC C

evons Waste Management, which has almost finished constructing spanking new headquarters on Mandela Avenue, has been called to account for the plot of land it used to construct the building, as the Government says that the land does not belong to the company.

In a letter addressed to Cevons’ Chief Executive Officer, Morse Archer, Attorney General and Senior Counsel Anil Nandlall informed the company that the land, in fact, belongs to the National Sports Commission (NSC).

As such, Cevons was informed that it has no right to use or occupy the land, which was illegally leased to the company by the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC) in December of 2018 for a period of 50 years and which it has already subleased to Sol Guyana and Corum Restaurant Holdings.

“You will recall that your company had previously held a purported lease from the Mayor and Councillors of Georgetown in respect of the same lands which was voided for the same reason that the legal title to the said lands did not reside with the Mayor and City Council,” the AG’s letter to the company stated, adding that “similarly, the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission had no legal authority to lease the said land to your company or anyone else. Indeed, their every purported dealing with the said lands is unlawful, null, void and of no effect. Accordioning, the

DAILY MILLIONS

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PAY DAY

SUPER PAY DAY FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 12, 2021

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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

$63.35/barrel

+1.45

Rough Rice

$228.78/ton

-0.04

London Sugar

$456.50/ton

+0.02

Live Spot Gold

USD Per Ounce

Bid/Ask

$1792.40

$1793.40

Low/High Change

$1875.60 -1.10

$1826.90 -0.06%

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

Attorney General Anil Nandlall, SC

MOU and lease which contain a promise to sell the lands are unlawful, void and of no effect,” Nandlall also reminded Cevons that the then Commissioner of the GL&SC, Trevor Benn, had no lawful authority to sell the lands. Rather, the power to sell lands were at the time with the President by virtue of Section 3 (1) of the State Lands Act, having not been delegated to the Commissioner.

Further, the AG noted that according to the MoU, Cevons has paid a substantial sum of money for the lease and title to the lands.

He pointed out that such a procedure is neither catered for in the State Lands Act, nor is GL&SC in the business of collecting money from companies and signing MoUs with them.

According to Nandlall, the NSC has plans to use the very lands for the de-

velopment of sports and the construction of sports facilities. He noted that the fact that the transaction was completed without the knowledge and authority of the NSC, a body corporate, further compounds the illegality of the transaction.

“I hereby demand that you vacate the said lands on or before March 31, 2021. If you fail to do so legal proceedings will be filed against your company and its sub-lessees and this matter will be reported to the Criminal Investigations Department of the Guyana Police Force with a request to investigate and proffer all criminal charges arising out of this transaction,” Nandlall informed Cevons.

It was only a few days ago that Nandlall also wrote to a former GL&SC Board member, who bought land from the agency for a mere $13.5 million, drastically lower than an initial valuation, as well as comparative valuations of similar pieces of land in the area.

The agreement of sale was executed between the former GL&SC Board member and then GL&SC Commissioner Trevor Benn, dated March 23, 2020. The AG pointed out that the former GL&SC Board member was issued with a certificate of title for two parcels of land at plantation Ruimveldt, dated April 15, 2020.

Trevor Benn, who was appointed by the former Government back in 2016, was given his marching

Cevons CEO Morse Archer

orders soon after the new Government took over last year and was terminated with effect from February 4, 2021.

He had been in the spotlight for a slew of land transactions done by the GL&SC under the former Government, which resulted in certificates of titles being issued to persons for lands sold under market value – these are currently being reviewed by the Ministry of Legal Affairs.

One of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government’s first acts in August was to revoke Benn’s powers to approve and issue leases and licences, or to grant permission for occupancy of State lands. He was then sent on leave, after doing a handover statement to his successor Enrique Monize. This publication was unable to contact Benn for a comment on the transaction. (G3)

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 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

Laudable budgetary support for persons with disabilities

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he 2021 National Budget has catered for persons with disabilities in a significant way with the $120 million earmarked for various projects and assistance.

However, what is noteworthy and praiseworthy is the fact that Government indeed listened to the concerns and need of the persons with disabilities and made proper provisions for them. In August 2020, the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD), the umbrella body representing persons with disabilities, issued a strong call for steps to be taken to ensure that the national developmental plans are inclusionary and create equal opportunities for persons with disabilities.

The organisation listed a number of concerns which it would have liked to see the Government address to make life more comfortable and meaningful for persons living with disabilities. These requests include: opportunities for employment of qualified and skilled PWDs in the public sector; improvements in the delivery of education to children with disabilities; provision of low-income housing for PWDs; and provision of assistive and mobility aids.

It also called for yearly subventions to be allocated to disabled people’s organisations (DPOs); the modification and enforcement of building codes to promote accessibility to public buildings, and allocation of small contracts to companies owned and operated by PWDs; and to promote small business development in the disability community.

That representation manifested itself in the 2021 National Budget with the allocation of $120 million to safeguard the rights of persons living with disabilities, along with $50 million to the National Commission on Disability, and plans to build a $30 million complex at Mahaica for vocational training for persons with disabilities.

Around the world, more than one billion people, or 15 per cent of the world’s population, are living with a disability.

Here, in Guyana, based on figures that were released

by Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, about 50,000 persons are living with disabilities. Importantly, and of great significance to note, is that the minister said: “many people living with disability in Guyana are not easily visible. This is indeed a stark reminder of the importance of removing barriers for all people living with disabilities.”

Many would agree there is quite a lot of work needed at all levels to ensure that persons with disabilities are treated with respect, and have access to the necessary resources to help them cope with the challenges they are likely to face. Guyana can boast of a good track record in relation to providing quality education for persons, irrespective of geographic location, race, religion or gender; however, there is still much work to be done to ensure that persons with disabilities have equal opportunity to acquire an education.

When persons with disabilities are given a chance to acquire a good education, or are taught a skill, they are in a better position to secure a job, and in turn break the cycle of poverty that normally defines such situations.

The UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities is necessary for countries not only to adopt, but to implement fully, because it is a tool for ensuring that people with disabilities have access to the same rights and opportunities as everybody else.

As explained by the World Health Organisation (WHO), rather than considering disability as an issue of medicine, charity or dependency, the Convention challenges people worldwide to understand disability as a human rights issue.

The Convention covers many areas where obstacles can arise, such as physical access to buildings, roads and transportation; and access to information through written and electronic communication. The Convention also aims to reduce stigma and discrimination which are often reasons why people with disabilities are excluded from education, employment, and health and other services.

The authorities here must continue to allocate resources to ensure that all impediments that affect the inclusion and participation of persons with disabilities in society are removed. This, of course, would require working to change attitudes that fuel stigma and institutionalised discrimination. Persons with disabilities must integrated and empowered, creating opportunities for forging meaningful paths toward the enjoyment of a good quality of life.

The classroom of Stacey John (right) of Smyth Street Nursery School has been transformed as part of her project for completing her Post Graduate Program in Education at the University of Guyana. A projector and screen have been added to the class whereby the pupils can engage in audio-visual learning. She has also redesigned the furniture used in the classroom to ensure pupils can be apart, independent and less distracted during teaching hours. In photo, Chief Education Officer, Dr Marcel Hutson visited the school to have first-hand experience of the intervention (Education Ministry photo)

A growth-oriented budget Dear Editor, It was an impressive, growth-oriented 2021-2 budget unveiled by the Finance Minister last Friday. It has been a long time since I studied or taught economics, or analysed a budget, so I am a bit rusty on economic concepts.

Nevertheless, I still remember enough of the basics to know that the Finance Minister and the Vice President teamed up to produce a very good budget, that addresses fundamental problems and is growth-driven.

A national budget is a tool to enable Government to achieve its development agenda and political manifesto. It is the Government’s planned programmes and projects for a fiscal year. It consists of estimated income and planned expenditures.

The Finance Minister did a thorough job offering a very good framework for recovery and growth during COVID-19.

As expected, the budget will meet with criticism from the political Opposition, as it should, because that is the opposition’s role, although credit should be given to the Finance Minister for the new, creative and innovative aspects of the budget. In a time of unprecedented economic stress, the Government’s responsibility is to spend enough money to revive the economy, in order to ease enormous human suffering without triggering inflation or unafford-

able deficits. Uncertain times call for high, responsible, Government spending; and the Government has not disappointed with the country’s largest budget.

Finance Minister Dr. Ashni Singh and Vice President Jagdeo are to be applauded for a well-rounded budget, that is expected to revive the struggling economy after five years of disastrous economic policies of the preceding Government.

The economy was worsened by the coronavirus disease, but the previous Government made virtually no meaningful effort to mitigate the effects of corona on the public. This is the first full budget of this Government and of this new decade. The Singh-Jagdeo duo has done a fine job in planning a budget that is geared at reviving the growth impulses in the economy. It gives the public an opportunity to re-imagine the kind of economy that would be developed in years to come, and offers hope to the population that the country has a bright future ahead.

Coming in the backdrop of a global pandemic of the century, the Government boldly spells the Government’s growth agenda and a march towards building a prosperous country. It is visionary, path-breaking, inclusive, and growth-oriented. It is all rounded, with no sector neglected, that should foster growth in all productive sectors of the economy. Every sec-

tor has received an increase in funding.

Despite the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the economy, Budget 2021-22 has not levied any new tax on the people.

Instead, it has reduced taxes.

It relies on non-tax resources, but a high deficit which is manageable. Once the economy grows, the Government can eradicate the debt. It has not burdened any section of the country with new or increased taxes. There is a significant increase for health, education, and capital expenditure to boost the economy that, aside from mining and rice production, contracted significantly last year and in the preceding years.

Health seems to be the top sector in the budget. The budget for health will help us to tackle the coronavirus by providing vaccines for all. There is also an increase in budgeting for education, agriculture, infrastructure, housing, security, social services, public administration, labour; in fact, for all sectors of the economy.

It is a budget with a difference from the preceding five years. The PPP Administration seems to be consistently focused on responsible spending, not profligacy. It boasts that this budget, like the budget of last September, has erased tens of billions of dollars in debt of the predecessor regime. This budget will infuse new ener-

gy during the time of corona. It should provide impetus for growth of the economy. It should help to revive the ailing economy and take the country on a path of development with job creation.

There are several aspects of the budget that can be critiqued, especially with regards to rural and hinterland spending and the farming sector, but not on salary. The Opposition contends that money is not set aside for salary increase. But as the VP pointed out, there is money for salary increment. Public sector incentives must be commensurate with productivity.

There should also be an increase in the minimum salary. Government should not create a situation where state employment is more attractive than private sector, causing people to leave the private sector for Government jobs.

Also, Government should consider additional budgeting for auditing of state expenditures. Government agencies must be transparent in their expenditures.

Government agencies and Ministries should deliver reports on a timely basis on performance, so that the public can be kept abreast and monitor them. In this way, people can better hold Government officials accountable.

Yours truly, Dr Vishnu Bisram

The key is to effectively manage budgetary allocations Dear Editor, The national budget is pegged at $383.1billion dollars, which as an amount is difficult to conceive in real terms. The late President Ronald Reagan, a skilful communicator, described one of his budgeted amounts by stating that if you were to stack US$100 together, it

would fill the entire Empire State Building. A similar vivid imagery of our $383.1B budget would be if you were to stack $5,000 notes together, it would probably fill our National Stadium at Providence up to roof level about four times. That is a lot of money; hence we have to ensure that it is effective-

ly managed in a sustainable, transparent and cost-effective manner.

Among the things we have to ensure are the following: 1. The preparation and awarding of bids for all central and local Government tenders are in accordance with the regulations of the National Procurement and

Tender Administration. We should avoid sole-sourcing and secret tenders; they raise a lot of unsavory questions.

2. Every drain that is dug, every road that is built, must be done to approved standards. If the canal is to be dug to the depth of 12 feet, that does not translate to 10 or 9 feet. CONTINUED ON PAGE 5

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 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

VP Jagdeo hits the nail red hot

Dear Editor, I wish to recognise the exposé: “VP tells oil companies to rent, not purchase local properties,” as published in the February 16th, 2021 edition of the various print media. I would like to agree with the Honorable Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo, especially since this topic has been an area of great concern for which I have strongly advocated since 2015, when the previous Government was in power.

To me, the idea of buying local properties is irrational and needs to be reassessed, with strict laws in place to prevent not just the big oil companies, but some of the wealthiest foreign industrial, commercial, and manufacturing industries and personalities from making us beggars in our own country.

In my opinion, it would be unwise to open a new door for these companies without first ensuring that Guyana and Guyanese are getting their due. As such, my heart is smiling to see that our current Government is looking at these issues with much attention, and I must compliment the honourable Vice-President Dr Bharrat Jagdeo on his wisdom and conscientious leadership

as it relates to our oil and gas sector. We know that he speaks on behalf of His Excellency the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, the Cabinet, and the Government of Guyana.

Since 2015, I have expressed the same sentiments in various media: radio, my Islamic television programmes, social media, and in the print media, as the honourable Vice-President pointed out in his recent speech. In one such article: “Companies and contractors need some control”, published in <<Guyana Times>> on February 11th, 2019, I stated that these oil “Corporations and businesses operate as persons, and they look after their self-interests and the shareholders first. We, as the owners of our independent country, must ensure we protect our assets and our citizens and get maximum benefits for our country and people.” I further went on to state: “We must ensure that valuable lands and properties are secured for our children and our children’s children for generations to come.

Otherwise, we will have to rent lands, flats, houses, and offices from the foreign investors, and we will become nothing and own

nothing.”

Our properties, particularly our lands, must remain Guyanese-owned.

This is not a novel idea, but it is something that has been achieved in a variety of countries, including Trinidad and Tobago.

Any lease must be in the name of a Guyanese, who will contract with foreign partners to build to suit, or lease to them for a sum, so that they can build their own property.

Additionally, we need to set down strict laws whereby assets cannot be transferred to their names.

Subsequently, a law must be established that if anything is done clandestinely with local personalities, very strict penalties would be enforced.

Renting properties from Guyanese will cause us to build to international standards and specifications needed by the investors and oil companies, and give Guyanese an opportunity to raise their standards and control the valuable assets of Guyana.

In this way, we have local content wealth preserved and circulation of funds.

It is important to mention, let us remember that these companies, even if they register in Guyana as a Guyanese company, they

always find ways not to pay the requisite taxes. They tend to export their profits from Guyana without any benefit to Guyana and Guyanese. Some Guyanese may have a few low-level paying jobs here or there, but for high-paying management jobs, these corporations still seem to be overlooking and undermining our people whilst bringing in their own.

At this juncture, I wish to once again recognise the Government of Guyana for looking out for the interests of all Guyanese and our future generation. I reiterate that as Guyanese, we must look after our own peoples and generations to come by not selling or leasing our land to any foreign industries - not only oil companies, but industrial and commercial ones as well.

We must ensure that our properties remain Guyanese-owned. I, the undersigned, respectfully ask that we move quickly to make this a law. We cannot sit back and watch these companies that are only interested in their own well-being and shareholders suck our nation of its resources dry.

Sincerely, Roshan Khan

Animal welfare group welcomes President’s commitment to tackling animal cruelty Dear Editor, We welcome the recent announcement by His Excellency Dr Irfaan Ali that the Government would be providing greater support for the wellbeing of animals. We unreservedly support His Excellency’s assertions that, as a nation, we will be judged by the way we treat animals, and that such ‘soft issues’ importantly add to the story of who we are as Guyanese.

Paws For A Cause Guyana wholeheartedly believes that Guyanese can become more compassionate and caring towards each other when children in particular are taught to be compassionate and caring towards animals. Alternatively, animal abuse can often be an indication of, or trigger for, violent tendencies towards other humans. As such, we are elated by His Excellency’s pledge that “direct investment and allocations will be made to support associations and organisations in our efforts to prevent cruelty against animals.”

This focus on animal welfare and pledge of direct budgetary support are unprecedented at a public policy level, especially coming from the President of our nation himself.

Following our recent meeting with Her Excellency Arya Ali, wherein she committed to supporting efforts to improve standards of care and wellbeing for animals, we are more optimistic about the future of animal welfare in Guyana.

Our President and First Lady have shown exemplary leadership and com-

mitment to the pursuit of the ‘greater good’, and we encourage all animal lovers to support their noble work.

While organisations such as ours need to continue playing an important role in protecting animals, His Excellency has sent a clear message that his Government would not

tolerate animal abuse. We all, as citizens, must encourage and ensure that public officials diligently carry out His Excellency’s call for improved animal welfare across our great country.

Sincerely, Paws For A Cause Guyana

The key is to effectively...

If the asphaltic layer for the road is specified at six inches, then it should be no less. For too long we have been tolerating substandard works, which deteriorate quickly and have to be redone at taxpayers’ expense.

3. We have to ensure proper inventory management of medical drugs and fuel procured by the budgetary funds. Year after year, we continue to receive audited reports of wasted and expired drugs costing billions of dollars.

This is a terrible tragedy, given that some of our people die because of a lack of drugs.

With regard to fuel used for the drainage and irrigation projects, it appears the phenomenon of the Black Hole operates, where copious amounts of diesel just disappear with-

out any trace. We have to zealously guard against this extreme wastage.

4. The various revenue and capital works identified for each community must have majority local content. If a drain is to dug, a school or community centre to be built, roads or streets are to be paved, people from that community must be employed to carry out the work. This is what empowers individuals and retains them in their communities.

5. We have to curb bureaucratic extravagances. It is almost comical to see the length of the security details for our Government officials in the absence of any real or perceived threats. For a people with three quarters of a million in population, our security details outclass developed countries with

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

over four hundred million people, as well as those Afghan warlords. It is a terrible waste. I have seen vehicles of Government officials running for hours while they are in a conference, just to keep it cool when they emerge. All the unnecessary lunches, fabricated allowances, irrelevant meetings are milking our resources. The Government bureaucracy is bloated and needs to be trimmed of its fat.

The budget is fairly balanced, and has something for all the various sections of our society, but until and unless we manage our monies effectively, real development will always be elusive, and we will continue to have bigger and bigger budgets to no avail.

Yours sincerely, Reggie Bhagwandin

Budget measures would significantly improve lives of persons with disabilities Dear Editor, The Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) wishes to congratulate the Government of Guyana for comprehensively addressing the needs of the disability community in the 2021 National Budget.

GCOPD acknowledges the inclusion of a specific category in the budget presentation of Dr Ashni Singh, Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, in which measures for the disability community were highlighted. We are optimistic that the measures highlighted would significantly improve the lives of PWDs across Guyana.

GCOPD wishes to highlight the increase in budgetary allocation to the Department of Disability and Rehabilitation Services for the fulfilment of the contents of the Guyana PWD Act. We also note the allocation of $120 million as a Special Disability Fund and the $30 million allocated for the establishment of a training centre in Mahaica for PWDs. We also highlight the increase of the monthly “Public Assistance” grant from $9,000 to $12,000. It must be noted that approximately 7,000 PWDs are beneficiaries of this grant.

Further, we recognise that budgetary allocations were made to address vo-

cational skills’ training for PWDs through the Ministry of Labour’s Board of Industrial Training, and that allocations were made to the Ministry of Education to address Special Education Needs (SEN) within the public education system. We are also pleased that the Government has pledged to review the Guyana PWD Act, to ensure the articles are relevant and in sync with the current needs of the disability community.

We recognise and acknowledge the efforts of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government to fulfill their elections’ manifesto promise to the disability community.

We are pleased that our persistent advocacy has resulted in positive outcomes, and that aspects of our “GCOPD Disability Manifesto” are being fulfilled. We also note that productive meetings with the current Ministers have led to the placement of Disability on the agenda for their respective Ministries.

We do look forward to a productive and continued partnership with the Government as we work to promote and fulfill the rights of PWDs. Sincerely, Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD)

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Page

Foundation ◄

Æsop’s Fables

FOR CHILDREN

Question 1: Tuesday’s answers 1a) The number of children who like Mathematics and English = 10 1b) The number of children who like Mathematics only = 8 1c) The number of children who do not like Mathematics and English = 3 1d) The number of children in Grade 5 = the universal set, that is everything that is in the Venn Diagram = 8 + 10 + 12 + 3 = 33

Materials: Pen Paper Scissors Styrofoam Plate Tape Marker Air Dry Clay Instructions: Find a picture of a fossil to base your stamp on. There are plenty on the Web, make sure yours is not too complicated (for example, a skull or bone works better than a whole skeleton) Print the picture or trace it onto a sheet of paper.

Cut the flat centre out of the Styrofoam plate.

Place the fossil image onto the Styrofoam, then draw over it with a pen. Push hard enough that the design transfers to the foam beneath the image.

Remove the paper, and you should be able to see your fossil image in the Styrofoam.

Draw over the image once

more with the pen.

Your stamp is almost done!

You can make a handle out of tape by sticking a loop to the back of the Styrofoam. Colour over the front of the stamp with a marker or highlighter, then quickly press it firmly onto a sheet of paper.

To make a clay ‘fossil’ using similar methods, repeat steps 1-5.

Trace over the fossil image three or four times with a pen, pushing firmly into the Styrofoam.

It should be easy to pop the centre of the fossil picture out of the Styrofoam. If it isn’t, draw over the outline one or two more times. Gently pull the centre out of the fossil design.

Use the fossil cut-out you just made to make a fossil imprint on a flat piece of airdry clay. Peel the cut-out off of the clay and let it dry according to the clay’s instructions. (scienceisfun.org)

A

n ass besought a horse to spare him a small portion of his feed.

“Yes,” said the horse; “if any remains out of what I am now eating I will give it you for the sake of my own superior dignity, and if you will come when I reach my own stall in the evening, I will give you a little sack full of barley.”

The ass replied, “Thank you. But I can’t think that you, who refuse me a little matter now. will by and by confer on me a greater benefit.”

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

7

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CGX sitting on potential 4.9M barrels of oil offshore Guyana – report …but says no certainty on whether oil recoverable, viable

By Jarryl Bryan

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n independent report commissioned by CGX Energy Incorporated says that the company is potentially sitting on 4.9 million Barrels of Oil Equivalent (BOE) in the Demerara and Corentyne, Guyana oil blocks. However, there is no certainty that the company can recover the oil or that it is even commercially viable.

CGX, which has a joint venture with Frontera Energy Corporation, had contracted McDaniel and Associates in September of last year to evaluate its holdings in the Corentyne and Demerara Blocks. According to a press release distributed

by MENAFN-Newsfile Corp, an independent prospective resource study has since been completed into CGX’s holdings.

According to the report, there are a total of 32 prospects in the two blocks, inclusive of 27 in the Corentyne Block and five in the Demerara Block. These prospects or potential wells potentially have 4.940 million BOE un-risked and 884 million BOE in them.

An unrisked prospect, however, is one where the volume of oil is predicted on the basis that everything goes as planned and the oil is commercially viable and recoverable. And the report makes it clear that it cannot give such certainty.

CGX’s holdings offshore Guyana

“There is no certainty that any portion of the resources will be discovered.

If discovered, there is no certainty that it will be commercially viable to produce any portion of the resources.

The unrisked total is not representative of the portfolio Unrisked Total and is provided to give an indication of the resources range assuming all of the prospects are successful,” the statement said.

According to the statement, quantifying the chance of recovery is a multifaceted business that required McDaniel to consider the legal, regulatory, market access, political and so-

cial factors, as well as CGX’s commitment to finance and develop the venture.

“McDaniel has determined that the chance of discovery is estimated to be between 18 per cent and 51 per cent and the chance of development between 50 and 70 per cent, based on an evaluation of the risks relevant to the blocks,” the statement added.

The statement also carried with it a quote from Gabriel de Alba, CoChairman of the Board of Directors of CGX, who described the Guyana basin in which the co-venturers are operational as a “leading off-

shore opportunity.

“As confirmed by the independent resource valuation commissioned, the Guyana basin offers the Joint Venture access to a leading offshore oil opportunity. We expect a robust Guyana work

programme with the advancement of our exploration wells, as we continue executing on our plan to realise this value for our shareholders,” she was quoted as saying.

Last year November, CGX Energy Incorporated had announced its decision to relinquish 24.96 acres of land at the estuary of the Berbice River that was earmarked for its deepwater project, following negotiations with the Government of Guyana.

The company also revealed that the Government, following discussions on the drilling delays in the Corentyne oil block, had agreed to give CGX a one-year extension until November 27, 2021, by which time they are expected to commence drilling in the Corentyne Block.

Back in May 2019, the former Government had approved a Strategic Joint Venture between CGX Energy Inc and Frontera Energy Corporation to farm into two shallow-water off-

shore Petroleum Prospecting Licences for the Corentyne and Demerara Blocks – both of which are adjacent to ExxonMobil’s Stabroek Block, where multiple discoveries have been made.

The farm-in joint venture allowed Frontera to acquire a 33.333 per cent working interest in the two blocks.

The agreement should have seen CGX’s Utakwaaka well in the Corentyne Block being drilled by November 27, 2019, with an additional exploration well being drilled

by November 27, 2022. In the Demerara Block, an exploration well was supposed to have been drilled

by February 12, 2021, with a further exploration well being drilled by February 12, 2023.

However, CGX is yet to drill a well in the Corentyne Block, something which the current Government has expressed concern over. This situation persists even as a number of new companies have expressed an interest in Guyana’s oil blocks.

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Wife, hitman jailed for Herstelling block maker’s murder

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ix years after Nathan Persaud, a block maker of Haslington, East Bank Demerara (EBD), was murdered, his wife, 52-year-old Beverly Persaud and 27-year-old Oswald Yaw have been jailed for his death.

The duo pleaded guilty to the murder charge on January 26 when they appeared before a Judge and jury in the High Court.

On Tuesday, Beverly Persaud, the now dead man’s wife, was sentenced to 29 years in jail while the hitman, Oswald Yaw, received a sentence of 39 years. The duo appeared before Justice Navindra Singh, who imposed the sentence.

Jailed: Beverly Persaud

Jailed: Oswald Yaw

Persaud and Yaw will both become eligible for parole after serving a minimum of 20 years in prison.

Reports are that on September 10, 2015, at Herstelling, East Bank

Demerara (EBD), Yaw murdered Nathan Persaud in pursuance of a financial arrangement by Beverly Persaud.

According to reports, a neighbour heard screams

from the couple’s residence and later saw Yaw leaving the home several minutes later, rousing his suspicions.

The neighbour alerted others and they proceeded to the house at Lot 66 Herstelling, New Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, where they discovered Nathan Persaud’s battered body.

A brick and a hammer were found at the crime scene, leading investigators to believe that the objects were used to murder Persaud. The man had several stab wounds about his body and his head was bashed in. Following investigations, Police arrested Yaw and later also arrested the dead man’s wife. (G15)

Boosting…

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…Local Content ver since the PNC and its hot-shot “negotiator” Raphael Trotman gave away our family jewels stored under the Atlantic back in 2015 - a crummy 2% royalty and 12.5% profit on oil produced - we’ve been hearing about “Local Content” to give us a fair share of what is a depleting resource. That is, like all the gold that’s been mined since the 1890s from our interior, what’ll remain here will be the holes in the ground - only now under the Ocean!

So, what’s this “Local Content”? Well, to strip it down to its bare bones, it should mean that “we, the people of Guyana”, should get a piece of the action so as to ensure that more money remains here to help develop our country. For instance, the PNC’s oil contract ensures that 85.5% of the oil revenues end up in the countries where the oil companies call “home” - the US and China from the Stabroek block. As other blocks come into play, the bulk of the money will go to Britain, France, Israel and Canada etc. NOT Guyana!

However, other countries, like next door Suriname, for instance, formed their own state-owned oil companies and went into partnership with the foreign oil companies.

So, right off the bat, they get their share of the overall revenues that come off the top as “expenses” - plus a share of profits and royalties. But that’s all oil under the (FPSO) bridge now, ain’t it? So back to the Local Content Policy that’s supposed to adjust the valve and divert more revenues our way.

How did other countries do it? Well, for one, as your Eyewitness indicated yesterday, we should legislate that EVERY company that registers locally in Guyana to SERVICE the oil industry allocates at least 10% of its share to local companies. That won’t only ensure that more revenues remain in Guyana, but that the management and other skills and networking from the foreign companies would get transferred to locals. The arrangement should be such that, gradually, management of the local companies should be totally Guyanese.

We’ll therefore get the training to perform at world class standards, and not just to the incestuous and stultifying mom-and-pop mentality that presently prevails. Unless this is done, we’ll remain as hewers of wood and drawers of water. On the other hand, if it IS done, even before the oil runs out in thirty years or so, we’ll have the managerial wherewithal to move into the global marketplace, like Malaysia and Singapore have done.

President Ali has now mandated that our Local Content Policy will extend to the entire economy. So, hopefully, we’ll now have shares in all foreign ventures.

Including hotels? …sea defences Even without climate change – which has led to global warming, melting ice caps and rising seas - our coastland, from the beginning, has been a precarious proposition.

Carved out of mangrove swamps by the Dutch, who built a “sea dam” to keep out the Atlantic at high tide, and a “back dam” to create a reservoir some miles inland, we survived through an amazingly intricate system of canals and “kokers” for draining our “mudland”.

Now we have to augment the system to weather the rising seas. The Government allocated $5.1billion to do precisely that at some of the identified weak spots on the sea wall/dam. Rather than the old fixed wall that’s been buckling under the monstrous waves (to absorb the force), a new “rip-rap” technique - using boulders and geotextile base - is being used to dissipate the waveforce.

One old (departed) engineer from the old days has criticised the quantum deployed to the battle. He forgets we only have so much engineering capacity.

Maybe he should return to Guyana? …the COVID shot That this COVID-19 isn’t going to roll over and play dead is revealed in the decision by South Africa to inform India it can’t use the 1million doses of AstraZeneca it received.

Doesn’t zap the SA mutant.

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

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Over 2700 Guyanese businesses registered for oil & gas opportunities …access to finance among issues plaguing businesses

By Jarryl Bryan

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he Center for Local Business Development (CLBD), an entity established to bridge the gap between local businesses and local content opportunities in the oil and gas sector, currently has over 2700 Guyanese businesses registered in its database.

During the first day of consultations on the draft Local Content Policy (LCP) at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre on Monday, stakeholders including the Private Sector gave their views on the policy.

At the consultation, CLBD Director Natasha GaskinPeters spoke of the strides the centre has been making, including the studies it has completed. She revealed that her agency has over 2700 Guyanese businesses currently registered in its database.

“I would like to raise the fact that the centre would have conducted an economic study that looked at our

CLBD Director Natasha Gaskin-Peters

PSC Chairman Nicholas Boyer

macro-economic sectors, our real external fiscal sector, as well as a cost-of-living study and a competitiveness survey study,” Gaskin-Peters said.

“We do have a database of over 2700 Guyanese companies that we have been working with in the sector. And so, we are happy to collaborate with the Ministry in this regard to support the sharing of information. After all, we want to ensure our Guyanese

companies are able to compete and win work in the industry.”

According to GaskinPeters, however, access to finance and exorbitant bank requirements for collateral remain some of the major hurdles for businesses seeking to leverage opportunities in the oil and gas sector.

“One of the issues that the Private Sector is facing, is that the requirements for col-

lateral from the banking system is really not for Private Sector development… our economy is changing and we need to grow and evolve, especially in this particular period,” Gaskin-Peters said.

Meanwhile, Private Sector Commission (PSC) Chairman Nicholas Boyer spoke of some of the challenges that businesses face. According to him, these challenges have been raised with the local content panel during previous consultations led by the panel Chairman, Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) President Shyam Nokta.

“He (Nokta) did some excellent consultations with us and we were able to provide some feedback about companies who have experienced these hardships. Access to financing, startups facing long credit periods,” he said.

The CLDB was set up in 2017 by ExxonMobil, in collaboration with DAI Global, LLC, to assist small and medium-sized local businesses to

The Centre for Local Business Development

build their capacity and their ability to compete to offer services in the oil and gas sector and other industries.

When it was set up, the Centre was expected to focus on developing local vendors that serve key sectors of the oil and gas industry, including areas such as safety equipment, marine operations, offshore supply and civil construction. It was also supposed to provide mentoring, coaching, and access to financial support.

In November of last year, oil giant ExxonMobil had claimed to have spent over $60 billion to purchase goods and services from local suppliers since 2015. Additionally, the company had claimed

that for the first half of 2020 alone, over 600 Guyanese vendors were used for goods and services, accounting for more than $14 billion.

At present, the Government has opened the door for consultations on a draft Local Content Policy, inviting submissions from stakeholders including the Private Sector and members of the public.

Several Government Ministers and officials, along with Private Sector representatives, were present at Monday’s consultations. It is understood that the consultations will remain open for the next month. Persons will be able to submit their views, either at the forum or online.

Opposition to participate in Budget debate – Harmon

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he A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) coalition will be participating in the upcoming debates for Budget 2021 in the National Assembly.

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon told media operatives on Tuesday that the party recognises that they are a minority when compared to the People’s Progressive Party/Civic Government’s 33-seat occupancy in the House. This means they cannot strike out any of the policies that are brought forward but only question some of the investments that were proposed to gain clarity.

“So far as us saying we can cut this or cut that, that is not a facility which is open to us right now in the Parliament.

It is basically by virtue of the questions which we ask, the statements which we make, the speeches which we make in the National Assembly,” Harmon

acknowledged.

Sittings of the National Assembly are being facilitated at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and the debates will start in the coming days.

The coalition has a history of boycotting the National Assembly sittings and just last year, they were a no-show at the actual presentation of the 2020 Emergency Budget.

Budget 2021, pegged at $383.1 billion, was presented last week by Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh under the theme “A Path to Recovery, Economic Dynamism and Resilience” and it is the first full-term budget of the Dr Irfaan Ali-led Administration since his assumption to office in August 2020. Again, the APNU/AFC boycotted the 2021 Budget presentation.

This year’s budget is underpinned by six main pil-

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon

lars: navigating the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring a diverse and resilient productive sector, initiating investment, establishing world-class social services, improving public services, and ensuring respect for the Constitution and the rule of law.

“With these objectives in mind, this budget ensures we recover as a country both from 2020 and from the last five years of trauma; puts in place the policies needed to catalyse

rapid economic growth in the near and medium-term; and lays the foundation needed to ensure that that growth is not transitory but is sustainable for the longer term,” the Finance Minister had explained during his four-hour long presentation.

With the measures an-

nounced in the 2021 Budget, the Finance Minister said Guyana’s real Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is projected to grow by 20.9 per cent, with the non-oil economy growing by 6.1 per cent. However, the projection is premised on the assumption that a reopening of the economy takes place with COVID-19 restrictions being gradually lifted and is, therefore, subject to significant downside risks.

Similarly, the agriculture, fishing and forestry sector is expected to expand by 5.6 per cent while the mining and quarrying sector is projected to grow by 39.1 per cent.

In the oil and gas subsector, the daily rate of production

for 2021 is expected to be just over 109,000 barrels of oil per day. This subsector is projected to grow by 46.7 per cent in 2021.

Manufacturing, construction, and services are expected to improve by 7.3 per cent, 9.1 per cent, and five per cent respectively.

For 2021, inflation is projected at 1.6 per cent, due to expectations of increased economic activity as COVID-19 restrictions are lifted with concomitant effects on commodity prices. Further, the overall balance of payments is expected to register a lower surplus in 2021, amounting to US$59.9 million compared with US$60.6 million in 2020.

(G12)

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

4 high-profile prisoners escape from Mazaruni Prison …prison locks tampered with, cell bars cut

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our prisoners, including inmates on death row, who were convicted for murder and manslaughter, have escaped from the high-security Mazaruni Prison in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni).

Those who escaped are 25-yearold Imran Ramsaywack of Adelphi Village, East Coast Berbice (ECB); 44-year-old Kenrick Lyte whose last known address was Grant Good Intent, Lower Pomeroon River; 22-year-old Samuel Gouveia of Goedverwagting, East Coast Demerara (ECD), and 22-yearold Rayon Jones of Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The four prisoners made the escape from the maximum-security prison at about 07:00h on Tuesday.

Ramsaywack and Lyte were on death row while the other two were serving time for manslaughter.

Police have since issued wanted bulletins for the men who will now face an “Escaping from Lawful Custody” charge.

In a statement on Tuesday, the Guyana Police Force appealed to members of the public, relatives and friends to report any relevant information as to the whereabouts of these escapees so that they can

Wanted: Imran Ramsaywack

Wanted: Kenrick Lyte

Wanted: Samuel Gouveia

Wanted: Rayon Jones

be captured and returned to the prison.

An appeal was also made to the escapees to surrender to the Police or relevant authority, to avoid any serious confrontation that is likely to result in the use of force.

The Guyana Prison Service has since warned the public that it is a criminal offence to harbour fugitives.

In a statement following the escape, the GPS said that at about 07:15h during the unlocking of the Brick Prison - Solitary Division - it

was observed that the padlock to the entrance gate was tampered with, and further checks revealed that two bars within the cell were cut.

Prison authorities have since said that the Emergency Action Plan as it relates to the escape of inmates was immediately activated and a joint patrol was established at the outer perimeter of the prison and a search has been launched by the Joint Services to recapture the four escapees.

Water, air and land patrols are be-

ing conducted.

The Joint Services is asking anyone who might have information that may lead to the arrest of Imran Ramsaywack, Kenrick Lyte, Samuel Gouveia and Ryan Jones to contact the Police on telephone numbers 455-2238, 4552222, 455-2241, 226-4585, 2252700, 225-3650, 226-1326, 911 or the nearest Police station.

In March 2020, 29-year-old Christopher Punch of El Dorado Village, West Coast Berbice (WCB), had escaped from the

Mazaruni facility.

On the morning of his escape, the man had requested to go ease his bowels.

Police had said while the supervising prisoner was assembling all of the prisoners to return to their respective cells, it was discovered that Punch was missing. An alarm was raised and the Guyana Police Force was summoned. Punch was recaptured almost two months after escaping.

He is serving four two-year sentences on a larceny charge.

11 Active COVID-19 cases stand at 588 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021|| GUYANATIMESGY.COM

…30 positives recorded in 24h

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rom 108 samples that were tested for the novel coronavirus, 30 returned positive on Tuesday.

The total confirmed cases have moved to 8262, of which, only 588 are active.

The Health Ministry’s dashboard showed that deaths are still at 188, after a 71-year-old man from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and a 70-year-old male from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) died on Monday.

In the facilities, eight patients are in the Intensive Care Unit, 42 in institutional isolation, 22 in institutional quarantine and 538 in home isolation. Some 7486 of the 4287 males and 3975 females have recovered completely.

To date, Guyana has tested 55,298 persons.

Anthony clarified that this is because the World Health Organisation has backed reports that the efficacy moves up from 63 per cent if the second shot is delivered within eight to 12 weeks.

“While the published results have been at 63 [per cent], if you extend the interval between the two doses then the efficacy is going to be much higher. The way that we’re administering these vaccines here is that we’ve increased the interval using the WHO’s guidance.

New cases

From the new cases, two were from Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), three from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), two from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), 22 from Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) and one from Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo).

The number of cases in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Five (Demerara-Mahaica), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Region 10 (Upper DemeraraBerbice) remain at 1017; 233; 224; 245 and 641.

Persons who have taken the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine locally will be asked to return in about 12 weeks for their booster shot, since a longer time between the doses increases their efficacy.

Health Minister, Dr Frank

After the first dose, you’ll get your booster dose at about 12 weeks’ time. Based on the science that we have seen, the efficacy is going to be much higher than 63 per cent,” the Minister said during Monday’s coronavirus briefing.

In the first instance, it was recommended that the second dose be administered four weeks after the first shot.

However, the time between the two doses was stretched

Ituni labourer jailed for narco-trafficking

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hirty-one-year-old Mark Rodney, a labourer of Ituni backlands, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), was on Tuesday sentenced to three months’ imprisonment by Magistrate Wanda Fortune, after pleading guilty to a charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Rodney, who appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s Court where the sentence was handed down, was ar-

Mark Rodney

rested by ranks on patrol duty at Ituni, on February 12 with 29 grams of cannabis sativa in his possession. (G13)

Linden woman to do community service for cursing Police

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Linden woman who made use of indecent language against ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) was slapped with community service on Tuesday.

Twenty-year-old Sheenique James of Amelia’s Ward, Linden, was sentenced to five hours of community service by Magistrate Wanda Fortune, after pleading guilty to the offence of indecent language. James, who appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s

Court, was arrested by ranks on Friday last.

According to the prosecution’s case, ranks acting on information proceeded to conduct a search of James’s premises for suspected narcotics, when she became annoyed and started to use indecent language, which included expletives against the ranks.

James is required to perform the hours of community service at the Mackenzie Police Station in Linden. (G13)

a little longer in the subgroup trials, significantly raising the protection from the virus.

This is the reason the WHO’s scientific community is recommending a larger time gap.

Last week, the WHO Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunisation (SAGE) issued interim recommendations for use of the Oxford-AstraZeneca vaccine (AZD1222). WHO has assessed the quality, safety and efficacy data, risk management plans and programmatic suitability, such as cold chain requirements.

The Organisation had said, “The AZD1222 vaccine against COVID-19 has an efficacy of 63.09 per cent against symptomatic SARSCoV-2 infection. Longer dose intervals within the eight to 12 weeks range are associated with greater vaccine efficacy.”

The Ministry last Thursday commenced the distribution of the first doses of the Covidshield-AstraZeneca vaccines to frontline healthcare workers in Guyana. (G12)

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

President Ali honours long-standing St Stanislaus College Chairman

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resident Dr Irfaan Ali joined his fellow Saints alumni on Tuesday evening in the boardroom of John Fernandes to honour long-serving Chairman of the Board of Governors of St Stanislaus College, Christopher Fernandes for his dedication to the school.

The President was asked by the Saint Stanislaus Alumni Association of Toronto to present one of Stanley Greaves’s treasured artwork in a special tribute to 76-year-old Fernandes.

The Head of State and

several other former members of the school, including Fernandes’s son David, were joined via Zoom by members of the Toronto Association for the presentation.

President Ali said that Fernandes has been a pillar of dedication at the school and has served with distinction.

“The difference between Saints and many other schools is that when you exit Saints, you exit as a well-rounded individual.

It tells a story of an institution that was supported, a pillar of that support is Chris Fernandes,” the

President Irfaan Ali presenting the artwork to long-serving Chairman of the Board of Governors of St Stanislaus College, Christopher Fernandes for his dedication to the school

Head of State is quoted by the Office of the President Press and Publicity Unit as saying.

Fernandes served in his position since 2005 when the Board of Governors was introduced to the Georgetown school. He has also served as Chairman of the Farm Committee at the school for the last 42 years.

Fernandes’s history at the school started with his father, who was the founder of the Old Boys Association.

Fernandes attended the school and so too did five of his brothers.

This honour was passed on

to his four sons.

As a student, Christopher Fernandes was outstanding in several sports, including hockey, football and cricket.

When he left the school, he retained the values of what was taught and decided to give back.

C h r i s t o p h e r Fernandes is the recipient of the Golden Arrow of Achievement (AA) and the Cacique Crown of Honour.

Guyana’s renowned artist and writer Stanley Greaves also joined the online gathering and related his teaching experience at the school.

FEATURE

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ash Wednesday: An important part of repentance, renewing commitment to Christian faith

By Lakhram Bhagirat

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sh Wednesday, for the Christian community, marks the commencement of the 40 days’ Lenten season – a period of introspection and repentance. The Lenten season also serves as a time for service to humanity through acts of selflessness.

Guyana Times sat down with Anglican Priest Reverend Monsell Alves and Catholic Bishop Francis Alleyne to talk about the tradition of churches and the adjustment undertaken to adapt to the restrictions imposed as a result of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19).

This year, Ash Wednesday is today but amidst a pandemic, the observance is going to be more tapered. The usual opulence of large congregations

into a relationship to believe in God – our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ and the gospel of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” the reverend explained.

Reverend Alves is the parish priest at the St Sidwell’s Anglican Church at Vlissengen Road, Lodge, Georgetown.

This year, the church will have two services, which will Catholic Bishop Francis Alleyne be limited in proportion to its usual grandeur premembers. As a result of COVID-19 – one at 06:00h COVID-19, the Diocesan for the commencement of Bishop did encourage pathe day of fasting and one rishioners virtual to raise at sundown for the ending of their palms and he prothe day of fasting. nounced blessings on them,” The process to get the the Reverend explained. ashes to use on the day Explaining the Lenten commences from the year season, Reverend Alves said before on Palm Sunday. that the 40 days of lent does

body of Jesus is taken down from the cross, and Buried – the body of Jesus is laid in the tomb.

The images are usually mounted on the inside walls of a church but is not confined to the building.

The exercise of visiting and praying at each of the stations stems from the early practice of Christian pilgrims. It is believed that the pilgrims visited the scenes of the events that happened in Jerusalem on the first Good Friday and took the same route as Jesus did on that fateful day.

Holy Thursday or Maundy Thursday

After Ash Wednesday and leading up to the end of the Lenten period, the triduum begins on Holy Thursday or Maundy Thursday.

“Maundy Thursday is where we have the reenactment of Jesus washing the feet of his disciples. It is done as a form of humility. Then we have Good Friday and so Good Friday like Ash Wednesday for us as Anglicans, as Christians, it is a day for

explained.

Introspection, repentance

“The whole of Lent would be a season of introspection, repentance. The idea of taking responsibility for something not as good as we want to be, some negligence in our lives, some habit or mistakes we have made and we want to correct that. We want to bring our life to a Reverend Monsell Alves better place and the period of lent a time building is switched on,” which we dedicate to doReverend Alves said as he ing that and we start off on explained the traditions of Ash Wednesday with a symthe church for the vigil. bolism of ashes,” the Bishop The second part is the lit- said. urgy of the word. In the third He said that he alpart, the Diocesan Bishop ready met with his priests would have people baptised and mandated full complias well as the holy sacra- ance with the Government’s ment of confirmation will COVID-19 regulations be administered. “If not the which means that there members of the congrega- would be reduced crowd siztion will be asked to renew es and mandatory wearing their baptismal vows and of masks. the priest would go around “Ash Wednesday is goand sprinkle the members ing to be a challenge not

Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, Brickdam, Georgetown

and mass before the imposition of ashes on the foreheads of believers and postprayer mingling has been cancelled.

For the Anglican community, Ash Wednesday is a time where they prepare themselves for penance. In the Old Testament, according to Reverend Alves, Anglicans used Ash Wednesday to prepare for the commencement of their penance and as a period to turn away from sins.

“The Bible speaks to covering yourself in ashes. So, for us as Anglicans, it is very important because the imposition of ash on the forehead of every believer with these simple words “remember that thou are dust and to dust shall thou return” but now the imposition of ash has moved from that saying to “repent and believe t h e gospel”.

“The visible sign of repentance is the ashes. So when someone sees you crossed with ashes, it supposed to speak to them in two ways – I need repentance and it is a public expression of that person’s Christian faith. When you repent, you once again come

He explained that when COVID-19 hit in 2020 and the restrictions under the Public Health Ordinance were instituted, all churches were closed.

“The pandemic came upon us last year and because of COVID-19, we could not have had the normal Palm Sunday procession. The palms are usually blessed on Palm Sunday which symbolises t h e triumphant entry of

Jesus i n t o Jerusalem.

So those palms having being blessed and distributed to parishioners, they would keep those palms and bring them before Ash Wednesday and the priest or assigned person would burn those palms, say prayers and prepare them for the imposition on

not include the Sundays because, for Christians, every Sunday is a resurrection of Jesus.

Stations of the Cross

Every Friday during the Lenten season there is a Lenten devotion called Stations of the Cross – chronicling Jesus’ journey from trial to crucifixion.

Stations of the Cross is a series of 14 images depicting the events outlined Christ’s journey to the cross.

The arrangement of the 14 Stations of the Cross: Condemnation of Jesus Christ to death. It is followed by Jesus Bearing the cross, The First Fall – Jesus falls the first time under the cross, His Mother – Jesus meets his blessed mother, Simon of Cyrene – the cross is laid on Simon of Cyrene, Veronica – the face of Jesus is wiped by St Veronica; The Second Fall – Jesus falls the second time, Daughters Of Jerusalem – the women of Jerusalem mourn for our Lord, The Third Fall – Jesus falls for the third time, Stripped – Jesus is stripped of his garments, Nailed – Jesus is nailed to the cross, Crucified – Jesus dies on the cross, Dead – the

Inside the St Sidwell’s Anglican Church at Vlissengen Road, Lodge, Georgetown

prayer, it is a day for fasting. It is also a day of abstinence.”

Holy Saturday or Easter vigil

“The last part is Holy Saturday or Easter vigil. Easter vigil service is a beautiful service. That service is whereby the church is in complete darkness. The first part of the service is a reenactment to remind us as Christians of God’s deliverance of the people of Israel of Egypt’s bondage. The first act of that service you see the lighting of the fire. The Bible tells us that God delivered the people by balls of fire. So as we light the fire, the priest will have a pascal candle and the pascal candle will be brought into the church and you would hear the priest say these words “the light of Christ” and the people would respond “thanks be to God” and he does that three times until he reaches the sanctuary and he raises the candle and after that, he sings or says the Exultet (Easter proclamation). After that is being sung the light in the

with holy water. The fourth part of the liturgy speaks to that of the holy eucharist.

The altar isn’t prepared, the candles are there but aren’t lit until we are ready for the holy eucharist and then you are going to hear the ringing of the bells, you are going to have incense burning and it is beautiful and everything comes alive,” Reverend Alves explained.

Meanwhile, Catholic Bishop Francis Alleyne said that COVID-19 mandated that persons give up a lot in an effort to stay safe from the virus. He, too, said that Ash Wednesday symbolises repentance.

“We put ashes on a cross form on people’s foreheads or this year because of the COVID where we would not be touching anyone, we take the dry ash and just sprinkle it over the heads of persons of the congregation.

Traditionally when we administer the ashes we would say, remember you are dust and to dust you will return so its that reflection on your mortality,” Bishop Alleyne

for all the churches because they can be able to manage but the Cathedral (of Immaculate Conception) has a tradition of big crowds showing up three times in [a] day at 06:00h in the morning at midday and afternoon. We are saying that on Ash Wednesday we will put on some extra services and try to spread this out so that not everybody will come one time so that we keep to the number and minimise the time that we have gathered.”

“On Ash Wednesday our tradition would be mass, bless the ashes and distribution of the ashes but we don’t really have to do all of that. The main thing on Ash Wednesday is to bless the ashes and distribute. So we will try to minimise the actual services we would have and explain to the people that this is a sacrifice we have to make,” Bishop Alleyne informed.

Both the Anglican and Catholic churches are urging believers to introspect this Lenten season and connect more with God.

14 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Meadow Bank Wharf lacks security, proper facilities – fishermen, vendors

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ishermen, vendors and other stakeholders voiced a number of concerns surrounding the conditions under which they ply their trade to Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha during his visit to the Meadow Bank Wharf, Georgetown.

Many of the concerns raised during the visit on Tuesday were related to security and environmental issues.

Vendors and fishermen highlighted that presently they have no access to a clean water supply at the Wharf.

“When I come to work here, is no water for me to do my work,” one vendor explained.

According to the Chairman of the Guyana Fisheries Limited, Mohammed Khan, this is as a result of the fact that the well that was previously utilised has now become privatised.

In addition, the fisherfolk noted that many of their problems exist due to the lack of proper management.

They added that the absence of rules and regulations along with the lack of an enforcing body has contributed to many of the existing problems.

One vendor pleaded that “we need a co-op; we need a body to handle our affairs.

We need a capable body to

want to develop this area, we have to have proper security. They are also saying that when the Police come, they are not taking the kind of action they are supposed to. I plan to raise this with

Minister Benn”.

Only on February 1, 2021, two women were robbed by armed bandits at the Wild Caught Fresh Fish Depot located at Meadow Bank Wharf, Greater Georgetown.

The women were relieved of a large sum of cash and other valuables including mobile phones and jewellery.

One of the suspects was reportedly armed with a handgun. No arrests were made.

TVET institutions move completely online …10 entities to benefit from $65M in ICT equipment

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha interacting with a fish vendor

look into all of our issue”.

Many of the others present supported her plea and added that the lack of management also contributes to the depletion and rapid breakdown of the building and the wharf.

“Nobody pays anything, this is a free for all. The coop is not functioning” one fisherman explained.

Another fisherman chimed in saying “This is the area where we mend our stuff, the roof is leaking. Is better we do it in the sun”.

Further, both the vendors and fishermen highlighted that the wharf is unsafe for business. They noted that they are lacking proper Police presence and surveillance.

“You got to be careful, people unknown to you coming and rob you from nowhere. We need a camera, that we can pick up some-

thing” a frustrated fisherman related.

Minister Mustapha, in response to the issues raised, posited that “we will try to restore this facility, I will see from the Ministry’s budget if we can have some funds to at least do some repairs this year and hopefully next year we can put in some request to do budgeting here so that we can do massive work and to rehabilitate this area”.

The Minister further added that he will consult with the Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal along with the Guyana Water Incorporated to ensure that they restore a water supply for the fisherfolk at the wharf.

In relation to the security issue, Minister Mustapha explained that “many persons complained about robberies and the security problem here. It seems that if we

T

echnical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) institutions across Guyana are now equipped to facilitate complete online classes, making it easier for students to finish the curriculum safely during the pandemic crisis.

The Education Ministry made this announcement on Tuesday after the launching was held at the Government Technical Institute.

Chief Education Officer, Dr Marcel Hutson expressed that the goal to take TVET online is a testimony to show how the sector can be improved. Consequently, persons must adapt quickly so that Guyana does not find itself in a position where Technical and Vocational Education is stagnated.

“We are keen on reforming TVET and you will see it manifested in our strategic plan, you will see that manifested in our budgetary allocation in terms of how we intend to reform TVET in our country,” he said.

Meanwhile, Advisor to the Education Minister, Africo Selman explained that Government has rec-

TVET classes in Guyana are now offered exclusively online

ognised that without ICT, concepts like equal access to education and education for all would simply be slogans. In lacking the necessary human and material resources, teaching cannot be dispensed equitably so these developments will also address the gaps in geographical constrains.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Education Officer, Patrick Chinedu Onwuzirike said that ICT and TVET are enablers to lifelong learning. He said that the sector believes that every Guyanese can learn a skill and as such, there is the intention to deliver TVET education across

Guyana.

He noted that within the Ministry, one of the indicators to determine how well these training institutions are progressing is to assess how many hinterland students attend these institutions on the coast. He said that over the years, dorms have been used to increase the number of students.

With this move to online learning, he underscored that persons from the hinterland communities can enrol into those institutions on the coast without leaving their communities, except when it is necessary for practical exercises.

TURN TO PAGE 16

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ramsammy’s Ruminations Miner, cook drown in interior Budget 2021 aligns with manifesto promises, country's readiness for HMIC standards

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ith BUDGET 2021, President Irfaan Ali's Government has formulated a budget that, long and short, is fully aligned with the PPP's Election 2020 Manifesto and the goal of shifting living standards to equate to a high middle-income country (HMIC). It is, first and foremost, a pro-poor budget, designed to provide support for poor and working-class families.

But BUDGET 2021 affirms the Irfaan Ali-led PPP Government's determination to move Guyana forward as a High Middle-Income Country (HMIC). BUDGET 2021, like the Election 2020 Manifesto, sets the stage for a transition, so that living standards are upgraded and the physical look of our country is positively changed forever. BUDGET 2021 seeks to accomplish these goals in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic; the need for a resurgence of the traditional economy, which took a beating in the last five years; and a growing debt problem. These are enormous challenges, but BUDGET 2021 Dr Leslie Ramsammy proved the PPP Government is ready for the challenge.

BUDGET 2021 confirms that, with the addition of OIL and GAS in a diversified economy, Guyana is now consolidating its HMIC status. BUDGET 2021 sets the stage for the vast majority of Guyanese to have living standards that equate to an HMIC status. We must ensure every citizen is provided with support to live decently, with dignity, outside of the prison of poverty.

Our Government must also ensure that Guyana's infrastructure equates with its HMIC status. With a growth rate of more than 43% in 2020, and a projected growth rate of greater than 20% in 2021; with a rebounding non-OIL economy, a robust domestic and foreign investment profile, OIL and GAS is fulfilling its expectation.

After Senior Minister with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, read BUDGET 2021, no objective Guyanese nor any of our international stakeholders can feel disappointment. The consensus of all stakeholders is that BUDGET 2021 delivered - it is pro-poor, pro-small business, pro-investment. BUDGET 2021 sets about addressing the needs of the most vulnerable and the need to create jobs. These things have a direct impact on the way Guyanese families live. But BUDGET 2021 also, in a dramatic way, addressed the enormous infrastructure needs of the country.

By heavy investment in the network of roads and bridges across the country; in housing, drainage and irrigation; and in schools and health care facilities, not only has BUDGET 2021 begun the physical transformation, but is aiding and abetting the transformation of living standards of Guyanese everywhere in the country.

For sure, BUDGET 2021 alone will not achieve the transformation. However, Budget 2021 sets the tone for BUDGETS 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

The major goal of any budget must be provisions to support the most vulnerable citizens. BUDGET 2021 is a compendium of support for the poor, for the working class, for those who work hard but still need some support to improve their lives.

Our children must be an imperative. In that regard, the cash grant of $15,000 per child in school is a family support, not only supporting children, but the almost $3B that will be spent by families in community businesses will also be a catalyst for the village economy. Those same almost 200,000 children will benefit from another $5,000 each in school supplies vouchers, which will see another $1B infused in the local economy.

Similarly, every pensioner, more than 60,000 of them, will now benefit from an almost $5,000 per month increase in oldage pension, moving from $20,500 to $25,000. This means that our senior citizens will see more than $18B in their pockets, which will end up being spent in the local village economies.

Almost 15,000 citizens on Social Assistance Grants would benefit from an increase from $9,000 per month to $12,000 per month.

This means that these vulnerable populations will infuse another $2B into their local economies.

Besides direct cash grants or entitlements that citizens will receive (more than $50B in 2021), there are other disposable incomes that citizens will have in their pockets to spend, because they will no longer have to pay out of their pockets. About 30,000 Guyanese senior citizens will benefit from water tariff subsidies.

Moreover, every household and business will benefit from a 5% reduction in water tariffs. This will keep about $5B in people's pockets. People will pay 14% less for use of their phones and for internet. Farmers who had to pay more for land rents and lease payments will save from those increases, because those charges are now reversed in BUDGET 2021, saving farmers more than $2B in 2021. Several billion dollars will remain with people. All such money will be spent in markets; at local grocery shops; with taxi drivers, tailors and seamstresses etc.

Budget 2021 clearly has people at the centre. It is truly a people's budget. With its focus on creating jobs; setting the stage for the creation of 50,000 jobs by 2025; with the focus on 50,000 new homes by 2025; with a focus on people's health, and on education and training for the youth; with a transformative infrastructure agenda, BUDGET 2021 really met people's expectation and set the path for transforming Guyana.

T

wo persons drowned in two separate incidents, one on Wednesday at Rock Creek Backdam, Puruni River, Region Seven (CuycuniMazaruni), and the other at Sand Creek Village, South Rupununi, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Dead are 29-yearold Manley Williams and 59-year-old Franklin Smith.

Williams, a miner, drowned on Sunday while taking a swim in an old mining pit at Sand Creek Village at about 11:30h.

According to Police, Williams was seen swimming in an old mining pit located some 40 feet from his camp. It was later observed that the man suddenly went

underwater and did not surface.

Shortly after, Williams’ brother went into the pit and conducted a search and discovered his motionless body at the bottom of the pit.

His body was subsequently taken out and escorted to Bartica as the investigation continues.

Meanwhile, Smith, a

cook of McDoom, East Bank Demerara (EBD), allegedly drowned sometime between Wednesday and Sunday at Rock Creek.

Police said that Smith was employed by a Dartmouth village, Essequibo Coast man as a cook at his camp at Rock Creek.

One of Smith’s colleagues

told Police that he along with two other workers had left the man in the camp cooking lunch on Wednesday and went to their worksite that is approximately three minutes away.

However, at about 17:30h when they returned, they did not see Smith. He told Police that they waited for several hours but he did not return.

On Thursday at about 08:00h, his colleagues conducted a search in the area but did not find him. It was on Sunday at about 16:00h, the man’s decomposed body was found floating facing upwards in the Puruni River.

The matter was reported to Police, who retrieved the body. A probe is ongoing. (G9)

16 NEWS NA Town Council wants roadside vendors removed T WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

he New Amsterdam Mayor and Town Council is seeking to have roadside vendors removed and placed in the Municipal Market.

The municipality recently launched the campaign to have those who have been illegally vending removed, however, many of them have since returned.

Some of the vendors are of the opinion that the campaign is only against the small sellers.

Acting Mayor Wainwright McIntosh speaking at the press conference on Monday said the municipality is aware that persons must ply their trade.

However, he said this must be done in a responsible manner since the municipality has no intention of preventing persons from earning a living. He added that the Municipal Market has the facilities to accommodate such vending so that they do not take place along the shoulders of roads.

“By careful observation, one would note that it is be-

Acting Mayor Wainwright McIntosh

coming out of control – that roadside vending, while we have lots of space in the market facility to accommodate those persons vending along the road shoulders,” the acting Mayor told reporters.

According to him, there is a ministerial order to all Regional, Municipal and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (RDCs).

According to the order, all municipalities, RDCs and NDCs must take the issue of the environment seriously and take steps to address infractions and serve notices of immediate removal of all illegal structures and encum-

brances.

“So, the municipality carrying out its campaign exercise to derail persons from vending along the road shoulders is not out of any catered desire but the town of New Amsterdam must be run in an orderly manner; it is becoming out of control, it poses immense traffic hazards within the township of New Amsterdam. As a result of such practices, we can see the derogation of the road shoulders.”

He said the municipality wants to work with the vendors and ask if they can act in a more responsible manner.

The decision to have them removed, he said, is not unilateral but the Council enforcing the law.

According to McIntosh, some vendors are reluctant and are not cooperating with the municipality's campaign.

However, some vendors told this publication that the campaign seems to be targeting small vendors while large businesses project their operations onto the road shoulders and seemingly are not being targeted on the campaign.

McIntosh, however, said that this claim is untrue, pointing out that the larger businesses have complied with the municipality’s orders. However, on Tuesday one business at Trinity Street had objects almost onto the road for display and sale.

One businessperson told this publication that the business has come out onto the road since persons can now stand on the road and make their purchases.

This publication observed a hold-up of traffic as persons were on the road and still able

to touch items which were being displayed by that particular business.

Nevertheless, the acting Mayor told reporters that up to the time it last had its campaign, which was in the month of January 2021, erring business persons would have adhered to the request by the municipality.

“With the absence of con-

sistency, we find that those persons may very well have returned to vending on the road shoulders,” McIntosh added.

As such, the acting Mayor said the constabulary department has been tasked with the responsibility of enforcing the ministerial order. The process is a continuous one.

(G4)

TIP suspected as teen goes missing

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olice have launched a probe into a possible case of Trafficking In Persons (TIP) which has been reportedly committed on a 17-year-old unemployed Venezuelan, who was residing at Kumaka Water Front, Mabaruma, North West District, Region One (BarimaWaini) The young lady, who hails from Tucipita, Venezuela, legally arrived in Guyana in November 2020 and was staying at a wharf at the Kumaka Water Front, Police said on Tuesday. However, she had subsequently sent for her 15-year-old brother, who is also a Venezuelan of Tucipita, Venezuela.

According to Police, the brother legally arrived in Guyana on January 26 and he too was staying at the wharf and the young lad began to work as a labourer in the area.

Police said that the young lady was befriended by a 40-year-old man identified as Neil London, a construction worker of Kumaka Water Front, North West District, and Lot 252 Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

The 40-year-old man and the teenager began to live together for about seven days until they both disappeared.

Police said at about 08:30h on Tuesday, the construction worker brought the young girl to Georgetown, leaving her brother behind. They both remain missing.

The matter was since reported by the teen’s brother to the Mabaruma Police Station at around 14:30h. The young man is now in the care

Police seeking suspect Neil London

of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees.

Police have since launched an investigation into the matter and are seeking London as they continue their probe.

Back in November 2020, it was reported that 24 foreign females were detained by Police during a raid at a popular nightspot, Baroombar International.

Eight Dominicans, one Cuban and 15 Venezuelans were detained by Police.

The Public Security Ministry had disclosed that “an investigation was launched into the alleged Trafficking in Persons ring.

As a result, investigations proved that the females from the Dominican Republic and Cuba all overstayed their time in Guyana”.

According to the Ministry, the females were interviewed and later released on bail, and were required to return to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID).

Three suspects in the alleged TIP ring were detained by the Police for questioning.

Those include a bartender, security guard and a dispatcher.

They were also interviewed and released on bail. (G15)

TVET institutions...

Over the past few months, the institutes have started using Zoom and Moodle platforms. More than 200 lecturers, instructors and administrative staff were trained to use these platforms.

“So, we devised a means to make sure that we keep people safe, to ensure that when we have the need for face-to-face training, practical exposures, practical assessments or demonstrations, we have to timetable students in such a way that they can maintain social distancing in the workshops and the labs,” the DCEO added.

The Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) is currently funding the Skills Development and Employability Project (GSDEP), and part of it was repurposed to purchase technological equipment for the institutions.

After the approval was

FROM PAGE 14

granted, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) fast-tracked the purchasing of the items to the tune of $65 million. The items include 138 laptops, 12 tablets, 40 camcorders, 128 projectors and 20 cloud storage devices.

It will be distributed across secondary schools that are piloting the Caribbean Vocational Qualification and 10 TVET entities; including the Government Technical Institute (GTI), Linden Technical Institute (LTI), New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NATI), Guyana Industrial Training Centre (GITC), Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI), Upper-Corentyne Industrial Training Centre (UCITC), Mahaicony TVET Centre, Leonora TVET Centre, Carnegie School of Home Economics (CSHE) and Craft Production and Design Department (CP&DD). (G12)

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Coast Guard unable to locate boat with dead bodies offshore Guyana …says bad weather at sea, assumes vessel submerged

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he Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard were unable to locate the vessel with dead bodies, which was spotted offshore Guyana on Monday.

As Guyanese authorities continue their search for the boat, which is suspected to have some 10 decomposed bodies, it is suspected that the boat has either drifted further out at sea or has possibly been submerged due to inclement weather conditions.

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during an emergency press conference on Tuesday evening at the Maritime Boat House at Stabroek Stelling, Georgetown, said the Government is very much concerned and distressed about the matter.

He told the media that the boat was first spotted on Monday at about 14:02h, 112 nautical miles off Guyana’s shore, and was last seen around 19:53h some 83 nautical miles from

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill, Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, and MARAD Director General Stephen Thomas

Guyana’s shore on Monday evening.

The Minister said a crew from ExxonMobil drilling operations offshore Guyana had informed the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) of the sighting.

“The Maritime Administration Department requested of the crew to attempt to put a tow line on that boat, with the intent of towing it all the way to the sea buoy or the pilot station which is about 10 miles off this location,” Edghill said, noting that the crew need-

Mother rescues 2 children from burning building

The debris after the fire at Number 76 Village, Corentyne, Berbice , Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) on Tuesday

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our persons are now homeless after a fire of unknown origin destroyed a house at Number 76 Village Corentyne, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) on Tuesday.

Housewife Kimberly Barnette was at home with her two children, aged two and four, at the time of the blaze.

According to the 22-yearold woman, she was cooking

and doing chores while the children were playing, when at about 11:45h her four-yearold son shouted for fire.

She said when she went into the house there was fire coming to the door and she could have only grabbed her children and vacated.

Her husband, Michael Singh, 27, a labourer, estimated their losses at $1 million.

Meanwhile, the fire department is investigating. (G4)

147 arrests, 181 tickets issued for traffic offences in Berbice for 6 days

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anks of the Guyana Police Force Regional Division Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), have arrested persons who were caught driving under the influence.

Those arrested and charged are 30-year-old Kemraj Cecil along with 42-year-old Troy Stewart.

Kemraj had a blood alcohol content level of 122 micrograms while Stewart had a total of 167 micrograms, Police said. They are expected to make a court appearance soon.

In addition, persons were also arrested and charged for

being an unlicensed driver, breach of insurance, and uninsured motor vehicle.

According to a post on the Regional Division’s social media page, for the week of February 1 to 6, a campaign carried out by ranks in the region resulted in a total of 147 arrests, 181 tickets and seven summonses being administered by several stations within the region.

The Regional Division of Region Six has since been conducting several road exercises throughout the region with the aim of reducing disobedience of the traffic laws. (G15)

ed permission from their principals in which they sought and got by 15:00h on Monday.

He said efforts to carry out that exercise proved unsuccessful.

“The second request that came from the Maritime Administration was to stay and keep an eye on the boat while we seek to mobilise other asset and resources to get that boat captured, attach a towline and bring it to the sea buoy,” he said.

According to the Public Works Minister, the boat was sighted again at 19:55h,

and the crew were unable to get close to the boat to attach it to another vessel and tow it to shore due to bad weather.

He added that two boats with members of the GDF Coast Guard, Police ranks and local residents were dispatched from North West along with a helicopter from the GDF. MARAD also had the support from ExxonMobil, who sent a helicopter on the mission, but the boat was still not sighted.

“Having had five hours of aerial surveillance and the scoping of the general area by two fast boats carrying 400 horsepower engines… we haven’t gotten any sighting as yet…this, unfortunately, causing distress because we have not been able to get it attached to a tow line and we have not seen it for the entire day,” he said.

Authorities are now of the belief that the boat may have drifted into the country’s waters from another country, given the direction

Diagram showing the projected movement of the boat with the decomposed bodies

in which it was coming.

“This could’ve been a boat that is coming even off of Africa based upon the direction and how it was drifting,” the Minister said.

Minister Edghill told the media that no boat has been reported missing in Guyana and he has made contact with the authorities in Suriname to inquire if they had any reports of a missing vessel and crew, but there have been no reports of a missing boat or crew.

Meanwhile, Home

Affairs Minister Robeson Benn said when or if authorities retrieve the vessel, the Guyana Police Force will take charge in investigating to determine the origin of the victims and the circumstances surrounding the situation.

Also present at the emergency press conference was Director General of the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD), Stephen Thomas and Director of Maritime Safety, Captain John Flores.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Regional

Mexico to complain at UN COVID-19 pandemic impacts about vaccine inequality Caribbean Airlines’ bottom line

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exico will complain at the United Nations Security Council this week about unequal access to coronavirus vaccines, Foreign Minister Marcelo Ebrard said Tuesday.

“The countries that produce them have very high vaccination rates and Latin America and the Caribbean have much lower (rates),” he said.

Mexico, which holds a rotating seat on the council, will voice the concerns of Latin America about “inequality in access to vaccines”, Ebrard said.

The UN Security Council is scheduled to debate the problem of global coronavirus vaccine equity today at the initiative of Britain.

Mexico’s President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador told reporters that his country has to import

doses from Europe even though they are also produced in the United States, which keeps vaccines made there for itself.

He said Mexico wanted to ensure “there is no hoarding of vaccines, that there is a principle of equality so that all countries have the possibility of vaccinating their residents”.

Last month Mexico accepted a reduction in the delivery rate of the Pfizer/

BioNTech vaccine in response to a plea from the World Health Organisation to share doses with poorer nations.

Mexico has the world’s third-highest COVID-19 death toll, at more than 174,000.

It began mass vaccination on December 24, starting with health workers, but like many countries is constrained by limited supplies.

(AFP)

Ecuador’s Cuenca votes to ban future mining projects

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s the results of this month’s presidential elections in Ecuador remain disputed, another important vote was held that could have wide-reaching implications for the South American nation.

Residents of the Andean city of Cuenca and the county’s rural outskirts on February 7 voted to prohibit future large-scale mining activities in five nearby watershed zones – an area that stretches over 3100 square kilometres (1197 square miles) and is home to more than 580,000 people.

Each of the five questions on the ballot received nearly 80 per cent support in favour of the ban on min-

ing for any metals, provincial authorities said on February 11, when the final count was released.

“What the results show … is that Cuenca doesn’t want mining near their water sources nor in the Andean moorlands and forests,” Paola Ortiz, an activist with the YASunidos Cuenca environmental group, told Al Jazeera.

Throughout the Andes, river systems provide clean water for communities downstream from unique, high-altitude ecosystems called moorlands (paramos, in Spanish).

About 30km west of Cuenca lies the El Cajas National Reserve paramos, the source of most of the

city’s water. Currently, two mining projects near the reserve are in the exploration phase, though neither is extracting yet.

Environmentalists have raised concerns the close proximity of these mines to El Cajas National Reserve could contaminate local water sources. “We don’t want foreign investment that destroys our sensitive and valuable ecosystems,” said Ortiz.

That was echoed by Cuenca Mayor Pedro Palacios, who told Al Jazeera “the result [of the referendum] is a reflection of what we as a city and as citizens have been seeking to do for a long time”.

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Peru’s ex-President sought COVID jab out of turn, doctor says

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he doctor leading a coronavirus vaccine trial in Peru has said former President Martin Vizcarra got a COVID-19 jab out of turn, as a scandal over Government officials receiving vaccines before the general public continues to roil the South American nation.

Dr German Malaga testified in Parliament on Tuesday that Vizcarra, who previously said he had been inoculated as a clinical trial volunteer, was not, in fact, a volunteer.

“He asked me for two vaccines,” Malaga, of the Cayetano Heredia University in Lima running the trial, told a virtual session of a congressional commission. Vizcarra’s wife also received a shot.

Malaga said Vizcarra

Peru’s former President Martin Vizcarra said he received a COVID-19 jab as a vaccine trial volunteer, but the Head of the trial has since said Vizcarra was never a volunteer

had approached him about being vaccinated on October 1, when the drug was being rolled out to 12,000 trial volunteers.

Vizcarra knew he would be getting the real vaccine from Chinese company

Sinopharm, the doctor added.

The scandal over government officials receiving COVID-19 jabs months before Peru officially began its vaccination campaign has led to the resignations of the country’s Health and Foreign Affairs Ministers, as well as two Vice Ministers involved in fighting the virus.

Vizcarra had earlier confirmed that he and two family members were vaccinated before Congress removed him in November over a corruption allegation.

Foreign Minister Elizabeth Astete said in her letter of resignation that she secretly received the jab in late January. “I could not allow myself the luxury of falling ill,” she wrote.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

S

tate-owned carrier Caribbean Airlines said Tuesday that the global COVID-19 pandemic had negatively impacted its earnings in 2020, leaving it with a more than US$109 million operating loss.

The airline announced its unaudited financial results for the year to the end of December 2020, which showed an operating loss (Earnings Before Interest &Taxes – EBIT) of TT$738 million (US$109.2 million) on revenue of TT$802 million (US$118.6 million).

“The first two months of 2020 continued our upward trajectory of the previous three years and the next phase of our strategic plan was commencing strongly. However, COVID-19 has taken a sledgehammer to international trav-

el and tourism for the past 10 months and our financial results for last year fully reflect this new reality,” said Garvin Medera, Chief Executive Officer of Caribbean Airlines.

The 2020 results were in stark comparison to 2019, which saw a positive EBIT of TT$76 million (US$11.2 million) on revenue of TT$3 billion (US$440 million) for the 12-month period.

Operating expenses for 2020 were TT$1.54 billion (US$228 million), 47 per cent lower than 2019 due to fewer flights and strict cost controls.

Despite the pandemic and reduced flying, Medera said, Caribbean Airlines managed to add new destinations to its network and expanded its cargo offerings to include charter ser-

vices.

“We also provided support through repatriation flights for a number of Caribbean nations and resumed operations in some destinations outside of Trinidad and Tobago where borders are open,” he said.

At times during 2020, passenger flights were 90 per cent lower than the same period for the previous year as a result of international border closures from March 2020 onwards. Passenger numbers for 2020 fell substantially by 71 per cent to a mere 741,676 (371,549 of which travelled on the domestic air bridge between Trinidad and Tobago), in comparison to 2019 when the airline carried 2,595,526 persons.

(Excerpt from CMC)

Barbados: Active COVID cases at 646

B

arbados recorded 63 new positive COVID-19 cases on Sunday, February 14, 2021.

These new positives include results of samples dating back to February 1 as the Best-dos Santos Public Health Laboratory is in the process of reducing the backlog created by the temporary use of manual extraction in the processing of samples.

The lab conducted 534 tests.

There were 21 recoveries, bringing the number of active cases to 646.

One person, a 51-year-old Queen Elizabeth Hospital

Nursing Assistant, passed away from COVID-19 on Sunday. She was a patient at the Harrison Point Isolation Facility for nine days. The number of deaths from the virus is now 25.

The 63 positive cases comprise 29 women and 34 men. Four of them were at the Harrison Point Isolation Facility undergoing assessment to determine whether their positive PCR test result showed that they were newly positive, or whether they had COVID-19 in the past and were no longer infectious.

The 59 other cases include 57 Barbadians and one non-national.

The number of persons diagnosed as positive at Her Majesty’s Prisons Dodds is 363. Of these, 361 have recovered and the remaining two inmates are included in the active cases.

Barbados has recorded 2331 confirmed cases – 1032 females and 1299 males – and 1660 persons have recovered.

The public health laboratory has so far completed 114, 562 tests. (Nation News)

Jamaica: PM, Cabinet Ministers complete anti-corruption workshop

T

he Integrity Commission says it has completed a specially-developed series of anti-corruption, good governance and integrity sensitisation workshops for Prime Minister Andrew Holness and Cabinet Ministers.

The Commission said the workshops were conducted in 10 two-hour sessions, held during the country’s weekly Cabinet meetings.

The workshops, which began on November 9, 2020, were completed on Monday.

According to a statement from the Commission, Holness raised the idea of anti-corruption sensitisation training for Cabinet

members when the commission’s Executive Director, Greg Christie, paid a courtesy call on him last year.

Christie agreed that the Commission would develop the relevant materials and deliver the training.

“This was in keeping with the thinking of the Commission that Jamaica parliamentarians and Public Servants generally needed to be educated as regards the provisions of the law, in order to encourage compliance and prevent legitimate claims of ignorance,” the statement noted.

The Commission said the workshop modules were designed to cover a wide range of anti-corruption, integri-

ty and good governance subject areas, and to impart critical information about the Commission’s statutory mandates, powers, and enforcement functions, as well as Jamaica’s corruption laws and offences.

“Cabinet members were also counselled on what they should and should not do to avoid criminal culpability, or public opprobrium and criticism in their administration and conduct of Jamaica’s public affairs,” the Commission said.

The Commission said it would now turn its attention to delivering the same workshop modules to the other parliamentarians. (Jamaica Observer)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS Oil settles near 13-month highs; Texas deep freeze supports

O

il prices settled near 13-month highs on Tuesday, supported by a deep freeze in the US South that shut wells and oil refineries in Texas.

Prices have been buoyant for months, with major oilproducing countries restricting supply and vaccines rolling out to combat the coronavirus pandemic.

US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude futures settled up 1 per cent to US$60.05, after touching their highest since early January 2020. Brent settled up 5 cents, or 0.1 per cent, to US$63.35 a barrel, near the 13-month peak reached the previous session.

“Cold temperatures have added supply side support amidst numerous well freeze-offs and several refinery disruptions as some facilities have seen forced shutdowns due to power restriction,” said Jim Ritterbusch, President of Ritterbusch and Associates in Galena, Illinois.

Rystad Energy analysts estimated that between 500,000 and 1.2 million barrels of crude oil production in the United States will be shut due to the cold. About 3 million bpd of refining has been closed, with some of the largest US refiners shutting processing, including Motiva Enterprises facilities at Port Arthur, Texas, the country’s largest.

Middle East supply concerns also rose after the Saudi-led coalition fighting the Houthi group in Yemen said on Monday that it had destroyed an explosive-laden drone fired by the Houthis at the kingdom, the world’s biggest oil exporter.

Supply is expected to expand this spring as OPEC+ oil producers said they are likely to ease output curbs after April given a recovery in prices. Still, producers remain cautious about the pandemic.

US oil inventory data from the API industry association and Energy Information Administration (EIA) will be released today and Thursday respectively, delayed due to the Monday US holiday. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Deadly winter storm sweeps Texas and US southern states

A

winter storm in the US has brought deadly freezing winds, ice and snow to many regions that rarely see such frigid conditions.

In Texas, a surge in demand for electricity has led to widespread power cuts.

The state is bracing for another icy storm later on Tuesday.

The National Weather Service (NWS) said more than 150 million Americans were now under winter storm warnings.

At least 11 deaths have been blamed on the widespread storm.

Deaths have been reported in Tennessee, Texas, Kentucky and Louisiana.

In North Carolina, a tornado spawned by the same

N

orth Korea attempted to steal COVID-19 vaccine technology from US pharmaceutical company Pfizer, according to South Korean intelligence officials.

It is currently unclear as to what, if any, data was stolen.

South Korea's National Intelligence Agency privately briefed lawmakers about the alleged attack, reported local news agency Yonhap.

The BBC has asked Pfizer for a comment but it has yet to respond.

North Korea has yet to re-

N

Polish Army PT-91 tank of NATO enhanced Forward Presence battle group attends live shooting training during Exercise Steele Crescendo as the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) continues in Adazi, Latvia, May 8, 2020

sive on US-backed rebels in Syria.

“We have a unique opportunity to re-energize and to strengthen the transatlantic bond,” Stoltenberg told reporters on Monday, referring to the “NATO 2030” reform process.

The proposals include updating NATO’s official master strategy document, its “Strategic Concept”, which could consider growing Chinese military capabilities and Russian strategic competition.

Stoltenberg will propose

storm left three dead and 10 injured early on Tuesday morning. Officials there say rescues are ongoing.

The freezing storm even reached northern parts of Mexico where more than four million homes and businesses lost power early on

Monday.

The Texas state legislature closed down on Tuesday due to the storm. House Speaker Dade Phelan told lawmakers to stay away from the Austin statehouse because the "extreme winter weather Texans experienced

North Korea accused of hacking Pfizer for COVID-19 vaccine data

After “brain death” and Trump, NATO chief proposes reforms for Atlantic alliance ATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg will present reform plans today to modernise the alliance after four years of friction with Washington and to face challenges including China’s military rise and Russia as an adversary.

After confrontational rhetoric between Washington and its allies during the Donald Trump presidency, Stoltenberg will set out eight areas where NATO could modernise over the medium term, from climate change to more sustainable funding of military operations, two senior officials told Reuters.

The reform proposals, which NATO leaders are expected to consider at a summit in Brussels planned for later this year, aim to convince Trump’s successor Joe Biden to strongly back NATO and to mollify allies frustrated with what they say is the alliance’s failure to coordinate at the political level.

French President Emmanuel Macron said in late 2019 that NATO was “experiencing brain death” after alliance member Turkey launched an offen-

Military convoys transport Texans in Abilene to temporary warming shelters

this week caused the lights to go off across the Lone Star State".

Texas Governor Gregg Abbott has urged "all Texans to remain vigilant against the extremely harsh weather".

Temperatures in the city of Dallas have been colder than in Anchorage, Alaska, CBS News reported.

The NWS said unusual meteorological conditions had allowed an "Arctic outbreak" that originated just above the US-Canada border to spill out into and across the US. On Tuesday, the National Weather Service reported that over 73 per cent of the US is currently covered by snow. (Excerpt from BBC News)

more political discussion at NATO to allow for frequent meetings of Foreign, Interior Ministers and national security advisers, and ways to reduce both the security impact of climate change and military carbon emissions.

Stoltenberg, a former Norwegian prime minister, will also suggest that allies fund collectively more of their deterrent operations on allied territory, rather than the current system that a single ally bears all the costs of a deployment.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

port a single case of coronavirus.

However, the country is due to receive two million doses of the AstraZenecaOxford vaccine in the coming weeks.

North Korea closed its borders in January last year soon after the virus began to

emerge in China.

In November, Microsoft said at least nine health organisations including Pfizer had been targeted by state-backed organisations in North Korea and Russia.

It said North Korean groups dubbed Zinc and Cerium, and a Russian

group nicknamed Fancy Bear, were responsible.

The Kremlin has denied targeting other countries' vaccine research.

While many of the breakin attempts failed, Microsoft warned at the time that some had been successful.

(Excerpt from BBC News)

France’s Muslim population is estimated to number about five million people, many whose family origins lie in Algeria or other parts of its former empire.

The country has suffered a wave of Islamist militant attacks in recent years, and tackling religious extremism, French identity and domestic security will be big issues in next year’s presidential election.

Presented to Parliament on the 115th anniversary of the law that enshrined the separation of state and religion in France, the bill has been branded by some on the left as an attack on

Islam and as too weak by the far-right and some conservatives.

The legislation represented a “powerful offensive” by the secular state, Interior Minister Gerald Darmanin said. “It’s a tough text...but necessary for the Republic,” Darmanin told RTL radio ahead of the vote.

The bill passed by 347 votes to 151 in Parliament’s Lower House, where President Emmanuel Macron’s centrist ruling party and its allies hold a majority. The legislation now moves to the Senate, where the centre-right opposition dominates. (Excerpt from Reuters)

French Assembly passes bill aiming to curb Islamism

F

rance’s National Assembly on Tuesday approved legislation designed mainly to counter a rise in Islamism in towns and cities which the Government says threatens national unity.

The legislation did not single out any particular religion, but it cracked down on practices such as forced marriage and virginity tests.

It included tough measures against online apologists for acts of violence, stricter surveillance of religious associations, and tighter restrictions on educating children outside mainstream schools.

UN “alarmed” at military escalation in Yemen’s Marib

T

he United Nations’ humanitarian chief has said he is “very alarmed” by a Houthi rebel advance on the Yemeni Government’s last northern stronghold.

Mark Lowcock, the UN undersecretary-general for humanitarian affairs, tweeted on Tuesday that an assault on Marib would endanger two million civilians and could cause hundreds of thousands to flee the city, which would have “unimaginable humanitarian consequences”.

The Houthis have this month resumed an offensive to seize Marib, some 120km

(75 miles) east of Yemen’s rebel-held capital, Sanaa.

The city’s loss would be a major blow for Yemen’s internationally recognised Government, which is backed by a Saudi-led military coalition.

“Now is the time to de-escalate, not to add even more to the misery of the Yemeni people,” Lowcock said in his tweet.

Military officials from the Yemeni Government told AFP news agency that the rebels had advanced towards the city on two fronts overnight after heavy fighting with Government forces.

Dozens from both sides have been killed in the past 24 hours alone, they said.

The total casualty toll from the battle for Marib is unknown but reports indicate it is now in the hundreds.

The Saudi-led coalition, which intervened militarily in Yemen six years ago, has been pounding rebel positions.

The Houthi-run Al Masirah television on Tuesday reported a total of 13 air raids in Marib – 11 on locations in the district of Sirwah, and two in the district of Madghal. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

20

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

guyanatimesgy.com

ARCHIE

ARIES

(March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

DILBERT

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

You’ll attract jealous competitors. Take a secretive approach regarding what you know and what you plan to do. Leave no room for error or criticism.

Self-improvement is favored.

Don’t count on others or trust what you hear. Follow a path that offers insight into something you want to try.

Focus on getting ahead. Put more time and energy into doing something you enjoy.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Refuse to let emotional differences stand between you and what you are trying to do.

Look for new opportunities that will allow you to sidestep any obstacle. Tread carefully when it comes to romance.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

SUDOKU

Confusion will set if you are faced with a task you don’t enjoy or aren’t prepared to handle efficiently.

Be honest regarding your capabilities; ask for assistance if necessary.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

PEANUTS

CALVIN AND HOBBES

Pay attention to what everyone is doing. Connect with people who have something to offer or share. Set up interviews or meetings.

Don’t give in to uncertainty.

Ask questions and be direct.

You’ll pick up information if you are receptive to others. Don’t share personal information with peers or colleagues. Someone will offer exaggerated details. Get what you want in writing.

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

Keep your money in a safe place. Avoid joint ventures or overspending. When it comes to money, a tight-fisted attitude is your safest bet. Keep healthy via diet and exercise.

Romance is favored.

SCORPIO

Get problems out in the open. You cannot fix something if you ignore what’s happening. Be honest about your feelings and plans.

Happiness will come from doing what’s right.

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Put your cash to work SAGITTARIUS for you; don’t squander it on (Nov. 23something you don’t need.

Dec. 21) Stick to a plan that will help you be the best you can be.

Focus on health, fitness and moderation.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

Make changes that will bring you closer to the people you love. Don’t feel obligated to pay for others’ mistakes.

Offer facts, suggestions and emotional support.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Adjust to inevitable changes, and carry on with business. The more you wallow over things you cannot control, the less you’ll accomplish. Pour your energy into ideas and plans.

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Align yourself with people who share common interests and beliefs. Discuss your plans and take heed of the input you receive. A chance to make a positive professional or financial change looks promising.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Axar Patel is all smiles after picking up a five-for

21

Virat Kohli

R Ashwin

India level series with crushing – Axar Patel collects win against England five-for on debut

I

ndia cruised to victory in a little over a session on the fourth day at Chepauk, as Axar Patel collected a five-wicket haul on debut to cause England to go down by a crushing margin of 317 runs.

It was emphatic retribution after the tourists had gone 1-0 up on this ground less than a week earlier.

Having seen his side dominate the match from toss to finishing tape, Virat Kohli's satisfaction was as palpable at his disgruntlement after the first Test. On a classically subcontinental surface, England twice could barely match the individual contribution of India's first-innings centurion Rohit Sharma, and were left with precious few scraps with which to slink off to Ahmedabad ahead of the day-night encounter, their sixmatch winning run in away Tests having come to a halt.

The only slight regret for another enthusiastic crowd came in the absence of another R Ashwin landmark for them to acknowledge. He finished with 8 for 96, narrowly short of becoming only the fourth man to score a century and take ten-for in a Test.

England's task on their return to the ground was a near-futile one, but there was the potential to spend time in the middle against India's spinners and salt away knowledge for the battles ahead. As it was, only Joe Root spent any significant amount of time at the crease - even 33 from 92 balls was modest by his recent standards - and barely a shot was played in anger, until Moeen Ali decided to go down swinging with five towering sixes before being last man out, stumped off Kuldeep Yadav.

Fittingly for a Test that

saw some grumbling about the pitch, but was more memorable for the displays of highclass wicketkeeping, the game ended with the ball in the hands of Rishabh Pant. This

was only the sixth time in Tests that a match had featured five or more stumpings - and India's march to victory on the fourth morning began with another, as Dan

SCOREBOARD ENGLAND 2ND INNINGS (TARGET: 482 RUNS) Rory Burns c Kohli b Ashwin . 25 Dom Sibley lbw b Patel . . . . 3 Dan Lawrence st †Pant b Ashwin . . . . . . . . . . . .26 Jack Leach c RG Sharma b Patel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 Joe Root (c) c Rahane b Patel .33 Ben Stokes c Kohli b Ashwin ����8 Ollie Pope c I Sharma b Patel . 12 Ben Foakes † c Patel b Kuldeep Yadav . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 Moeen Ali st †Pant b Kuldeep Yadav . . . . . . . . . . . . . .43 Olly Stone lbw b Patel . . . . . 0

Stuart Broad not out . . . . . . 5 Extras (b 6, lb 1) . . . . . . . . 7 TOTAL (54.2 Ov, RR: 3.01) . . 164 Fall of wickets: 1-17 (Dom Sibley, 8.2 ov), 2-49 (Rory Burns, 15.6 ov), 3-50 (Jack Leach, 16.6 ov), 4-66 (Dan Lawrence, 25.1 ov), 5-90 (Ben Stokes, 37.6 ov), 6-110 (Ollie Pope, 43.5 ov), 7-116 (Ben Foakes, 48.3 ov), 8-116 (Joe Root, 49.2 ov), 9-126 (Olly Stone, 51.1 ov), 10-164 (Moeen Ali, 54.2 ov).

BOWLING: Ishant Sharma 6–3– 13–0; Axar Patel 21–5–60–5; Ravichandran Ashwin 18–5–53– 3; Mohammed Siraj 3–1–6–0; Kuldeep Yadav 6.2–1–25–2.

Lawrence charged at Ashwin, only to be nutmegged, leaving Pant to seal his fate after collecting brilliantly down the leg side.

That dismissal brought out Ben Stokes, searching for pointers in his ongoing duel with India's off-spinner.

Despite digging in as the ball ripped and spun - one delivery from over the wicket nearly took him on the chin before Pant collected it above his head - Stokes was rendered almost strokeless.

He faced 38 balls from Ashwin, 36 of which were dots, and the last took his wicket, as an inside edge ricocheted off pad to slip.

Patel picked up his third, following the dismissals of Dom Sibley and Jack Leach on the third evening, when Ollie Pope shovelled a slog-sweep straight to deep midwicket; and although Mohammed

Siraj dropped Root with the lunch break approaching, Kuldeep Yadav was finally able to enjoy the feeling of taking a Test wicket, more than two years after his previous appearance, when Ben Foakes swept without conviction and was taken on the edge of the square.

India rounded up the rest without much delay, as Root received a near-unplayable ball which took the top glove as he pressed forward and flew to slip, and Olly Stone became another victim of the sweep to complete Patel's fivefor.

Moeen had some fun with 43 off 18 balls, as England at least managed to surpass their first innings’ total, but nothing could take the shine off as India rewarded the returning Chepauk crowd with a thumping win, and the afternoon free. (ESPNCricinfo)

"Baby", Rajpat lead Belle Vue U-19 to win over West Demerara Secondary I

Nicholas Rajpat was among the runs

n the resumption of competitive cricket in the West Demerara Cricket Association (WDCA), a Belle Vue U-19 team defeated a West Demerara Secondary School team by 43 runs in a friendly T20 match played at the Belle Vue ground over the weekend.

West Dem, having won the toss, sent in Belle Vue to take first strike. Led by an attacking 34 from Nicholas Rajpat (2×4, 2×6), and supported by Avinash Khemraj with 24 (3×4) and Sachin Balgobin with 19 (1×4, 1×6), Belle Vue U-19 posted 1178 in their 20 overs.

The Belle Vue innings had started off in wobbly fashion but somehow managed to recover, and while their total was below par, it meant they had a lot of making up to do in the field.

Bowling for West Dem, Ravindra Mathura took 2-14 off 4 overs, and Nitynand Mathura took 2-22 off 4 overs.

West Dem, in reply, never got things right. From the get-go they fumbled, and struggled to read the pitch, compliments of the craftiness of the Belle Vue bowlers. No partnership was formed, and no batsman could score anything past the 15-run mark set by Skipper Nitynand Mathura (1×4). And while one Kevin (only name given) supported with 13 (2×6), West Dem were still bowled out for a paltry 74.

Bowling for Belle Vue U-19, Vishan Gannie (Baby) returned impressive figures of 3 for 3 in his 3 overs; Sachin Balgobin took 2-16 off his 4 overs; and Jeremiah Singh, Nehemiah Singh, Renaldo Hussain and Avinash Khemraj each took one wicket.

The Belle Vue teams - the U19 side and the senior side - have returned some stellar performances for 2021 thus far.

The Victorious Belle

Vue team

Vishan Gannie, aka "Baby", bagged 3 for 3 from 3 overs

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

Court rules DCB election to be held on Friday, February 19 …Kalladeen, Sanasie appeal

T

he woes regarding the hosting of a Demerara Cricket Board (DCB) election continue, as another appeal has been filed when it seemed like the debacle was finally at its end.

A High Court hearing on Monday saw Justice Navindra Singh ruling that the office bearers of the Demerara Cricket Board would cease so being from today (February 17) and an election for office-bearers should be held on February 19. The court has also awarded costs in the sum of $200,000.

An appeal was, however, immediately filed against this ruling.

The back-and-forth between Roger Harper, Davteerth Anandjit and Bradley Fredericks (the applicants) against Anand Kalladeen and a number of representatives of the Demerara Cricket Board (Respondents)

Justice Navindra Singh began back in 2018 when the applicants sought to have the Court intervene in the functioning of the then DCB in hope of forcing an Executive Committee election.

The fixed date application

which was heard in the same High Court in June, 2019 saw an order being passed for the office-bearers to vacate office, and for the respective cricket Associations, namely Georgetown, East Bank, West Coast, Upper Demerara and East Coast Cricket Associations, to present their delegates for election; after which the election would be conducted.

This was not done within the Court-stipulated time frame, and another DCB election was hosted in January 2020. This publication is unclear as to whether the intended process was followed in that election.

Following Monday’s order to have the elections hosted by the end of this week, the trio, represented by Attorney-atLaw Arudranauth, encountered another roadblock as West Demerara Cricket Association President and DCB Vice President

CLASSIFIED ADS LEARN TO DRIVE

Anand Sanasie and Kalladeen filed an appeal challenging Justice Singh’s ruling on a number of grounds.

In court documents obtained by this publication, Sanasie has asserted that the January 2020 DCB elections were constitutional, and the validity of those elections were not an issue pertaining to this specific Notice of Application.

Aside from another slew of legal reasons, it was also put forth that the four-day time period to host the elections is not enough with respect to the DCB rules and the Cricket Administration Act, which stipulates a month’s notice.

As such, the duo is seeking a reversal or setting aside of Justice Singh’s ruling.

The matter of the DCB election and that of a Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) election has been an unending court battle for a number of years.

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Inter-Ministries Government Agencies Republic Cup tapeball set for February 21

T

he Georgetown Office Assistants promotion (G.O.A) team headed by James “Uprising” Lewis will be hosting the biggest Inter- Ministries Government Agencies Republic Cup tapeball cricket competition on February 21, 2021 at the Durban Park Tarmac.

The match is scheduled to commence at 09:00 hrs, as the group has already received the green light from the COVID-19 Task Force. The competition is sponsored

James Lewis

by the Ministries of Government, and the tournament would be a 7-a-side, 4-over knockout competition.

Apart from trophies and medals for the winning and runner-up teams, other attractive prizes would be up for grabs.

To date, all the Ministries have shown an interest in participating, and stiff competition is anticipated. In preparation for this highly anticipated competition, teams have taken to the National Park and the Durban Park

tarmacs to practise and work out the kinks.

The competition is being coordinated

by James Lewis, the longest standing Public Service Office Assistant in Guyana. Strict COVID-19 guidelines will be in effect, all players must wear their mask and sanitising stations will be set up at the venue.

The closing date for entries is February 19, 2021 at noon.

For more information Lewis can be contacted on 628-1656.

International cricket returns to the Caribbean as…

CWI confirm Sri Lanka tour

C

ricket West Indies (CWI) have confirmed the allformat international tour between West Indies and Sri Lanka, starting in March.

This signals the return of international cricket to the Caribbean.

The two teams will play three T20Is, three One-Day Internationals and two Test matches in a bio-secure environment in Antigua from Wednesday, March 3 to Friday, April 2.

The T20I Series will create history as the first official international matches to be played by the West Indies Men’s Team at the Coolidge Cricket Ground (CCG), and the first West Indies T20Is to be played in Antigua since 2013.

As reigning ICC T20 World Cup champions, West Indies will use these matches as important preparation for the defence of their T20 World Cup title, which is scheduled to be held in India later this year.

The CG Insurance ODI Series will be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium on March 10, 12 and 14, with the third being a day/night encounter. The CG Insurance ODIs form part of the ICC Super League, and these three matches provide

CWI President Ricky Skerritt

the opportunity for West Indies to secure their first points as the team tries to qualify automatically for the 2023 ICC Cricket World Cup in India.

The two Test matches will be played at the same venue, with the first match starting on Sunday, March 21 and the second starting on Monday March 29. They would provide the West Indies with another opportunity to win points and climb the ICC World Test Championship rankings following the recent fantastic series’ win in Bangladesh.

The last international West Indies Men’s Home Series

featured Ireland in January last year. The West Indies men have since made three overseas tours: to England, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, as part of the ICC’s Future Tours Programme (FTP).

As a consequence of the COVID-19 pandemic, both teams will stay and play in bio-secure bubbles, with all the matches being held in Antigua to accommodate a later arrival date by Sri Lanka.

Fans will not be able to attend matches, but will be able to follow on TV, radio, and through CWI’s digital channels.

CWI President Ricky Skerritt has said: “We are pleased to be able to finally confirm this tour. A number of COVID-19-related logistical hurdles have now been overcome, and I want to thank Sri Lankan Cricket President Shammi Silva and his team for their cooperation in honouring their obligation to tour under the ICC FTP Agreement.

“We are also extremely grateful for the support we received from the Governments of Antigua & Barbuda and St. Lucia in planning this tour, but it is regrettable that we are unable to include St. Lucia as part of this home series as

we had originally hoped to, due to the delay in Sri Lanka arriving and the need for the tour to end before the start of the Indian Premier League.”

CWI has been working closely with the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Sport in Antigua & Barbuda to orchestrate all the logistics and agree the safety and medical protocols for the tour.

All players, support staff, and match officials will be kept in a bio-secure environment, with regular COVID-19 PCR testing taking place with assistance from the local Ministry of

Health and CARPHA. CWI CEO Johnny Grave has commented: “We are delighted to be able to restart international cricket in the West Indies with the announcement of the tour

by Sri Lanka. We have a full schedule featuring all three formats, which is sure to attract lots of attention from our fans, especially following on from the terrific Test series’ win in Bangladesh. A lot of detailed planning has gone into the hosting of this tour, and we are confident it will be a success.” (Windies Cricket)

2237230-1

(Ext 55)

NOW!

FULL MATCH SCHEDULE CCG – Coolidge Cricket Ground SVRS – Sir Vivian Richards Stadium March 3: 1st T20I at CCG – 6pm Eastern Caribbean Time (ECT), 5pm Jamaica Time (JT) March 5: 2nd T20I at CCG – 6pm ECT/ 5pm JT March 7: 3rd T20I at CCG – 6pm ECT/5pm JT March 10: 1st CG Insurance ODI at SVRS – 9:30am ECT/ 8:30am JT March 12: 2nd CG Insurance ODI at SVRS – 9:30am ECT/8:30am JT March 14: 3rd CG Insurance ODI at SVRS – 1:30pm ECT/12:30pm JT (day/night) March 17-18: two-day warm-up match – CCG March 21-25: 1st Test at SVRS – 10am ECT/9am JT March 29 to April 2: 2nd Test at SVRS – 10am ECT/9am JT

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

23

President Ali, cricketing maestro Sarwan encourage athletes to be business savvy W

est Indies cricketing maestro Ramnaresh Sarwan has recently proved there is work to do after retiring from sport by leaping into the world of business for a second time officially last week. He has unveiled his upscale RS53 Resto Bar and Lounge, situated at Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Best known as a West Indian batting legend, Sarwan is of the firm belief that business is a viable avenue for sportsmen and women after they choose to retire.

Importantly, President Dr. Irfaan Ali shares Sarwan’s view that becoming business savvy is explorable for both retired and still practising athletes.

However, Sarwan’s advice to his fellow sports personalities is: plan ahead of time.

“I really hope this does give people a vision, especially people who have been playing sports, that it’s just not the end when you’re finished playing.

I think the important thing is to plan

before, even before you’re going to retire. You don’t want to try and do something until you retire. So, I hope this would have an impact on the young guys coming up,” The former West Indies batsman has said.

Sarwan added, “I can call a few names: Lennox Cush, Travis Dowlin, those are two guys that I’ve known for sure who are involved in business.

I hope Travis, Lennox and myself will be able to inspire the other young guys coming through.”

And Guyana’s President Dr Irfaan Ali has posited that Sarwan is a great example for other sportsmen and women to emulate, and that Government is willing to lend a hand in such ventures.

“This is a great inspiration for young sports men and women, and I would like to say, even if sports personalities come together to join projects, the Government is willing to work with them to help them in putting together plans and programmes (and in) giving them advice. That is

President Irfaan Ali and Ramnaresh Sarwan at the opening of RS53 Bar and Lounge at Providence, EBD

the role of Government, to help in the facilitation,” the President has shared.

Another thought that the President shared in regard to getting athletes ready for life after sport is the need for sports organisations to play a role in guiding athletes.

President Ali posited, “But I think it’s important for sports personalities these days too, to have a focus on the future. You know, there’s a lot of stardom that is associated with sports today, especially in cricket, there’s the T20 cricket, and you can be easily carried away. And I think this is where you need the management of the sporting facilities, the management of the various sports disciplines, to be intact and playing a leadership role, because you need counselling services, you need training and development of young sport personalities in directing them to areas that would see their enhancement and improvement,” the President asserted.

Brave Bison to broaden CPL’s reach globally under partnership agreement

S

ocial media manager Brave Bison has announced a partnership with Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL). Brave Bison has a global community of 158 million followers, generating billions of views each month.

The partnership will see Brave Bison helping to lead the management of content, channels, rights, monetisation and audience development for the CPL across YouTube.

Under the agreement, Hero CPL will join the already established community of leading sports organisations that Brave Bison manages across YouTube, including Australian Open, US Open & PGA TOUR. First started in 2013, the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is a franchise-based T20 format cricket tournament that combines two of the most compelling aspects of Caribbean life – dramatic cricket and a vibrant Carnival atmosphere. There was a combined broadcast and digital viewership of over 500 million during the 2020 season, to make Hero CPL one of the fastest-growing leagues in world cricket.

Brave Bison and CPL T20 will work closely together to grow and optimise the organisation’s YouTube channel by entertaining the existing audience of 823k subscribers with the sports content they love most, and at the same time identifying opportunities to reach new, broader audiences.

Brave Bison will also act as a consultant on best practices and creative and innovative content strategies.

“We’re really excited to be partnering with

Speaker of the National Assembly, GCB, ECC to host nationwide T/20 championship Head of Sports at Brave Bison, Rich Pilcher

CPL T20 and to be adding one of the premier events in World Cricket to our roster of major global sporting events.

“We were really impressed by CPL T20’s growth in 2020, and can’t wait to scale new heights with them in 2021!” said Rich Pilcher, Head of Sports at Brave Bison.

“Hero CPL has seen phenomenal growth across our digital channels in recent years, delivering hundreds of millions of views and gaining over 6.5 million followers.

It is exciting to take forward our YouTube strategy in conjunction with Brave Bison as it is a very important channel for us. Brave Bison’s expertise and portfolio of clients are hugely impressive, and we look forward to starting an exciting journey with them.”

T

…to run from mid-March

he Speaker of the National Assembly, Mr Manzoor Nadir, in collaboration with the Guyana Cricket Board and the Everest Cricket Club, hereby extends an invitation to first division clubs in Guyana to express their interest in participating in a nationwide T/20 cricket competition to be managed by the GCB under its T20 rules.

The tournament is proposed to comprise at least 24 teams, with priority to play in the championship being given to clubs on a first-come first-play basis. There will be four zones and clubs will draw for the zone.

Each first division club must be willing and able to pay the entrance fee, and manage the logistics related to its involvement in the competition. Uniforms would be provided. The entrance fee and draft-numbered fixtures with dates shall be pre-determined and communicated subsequent to the receipt of expressions of interest from the indicated first division clubs. A club that enters the competition then withdraws therefrom shall forfeit its entrance fees. Clubs that fail to show for a match shall be fined a pre-determined fee and be investigated for match fixing by an assigned committee of the GCB. A first division club entering this national T/20 cricket competition shall be a club with generally considered domestic first division size ground and one (a club) that is currently playing or has recently played first division cricket within its association/ committee or county, and/or such team as may be considered as a CGI Franchise, county team or association/committee team, which can validate the use of a home ground for the duration of the tournament.

Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir

Attractive Prizes are on offer: MVP of the competition would get $1,000,000/or a motor car (depending on sponsorship) First Prize – $1,000,000 Runner-Up – $500,000, Third place - $200,000 Fourth place -$100,000.

All expressions of interest must be on the club’s letter head and addressed to Chairperson of Speakers T/20 Championship, and sent by email to: admin@guyanacricketboard.org The closing date for receipt of expressions of interest is Monday, 22 February 2021 at 9:00 hours or 9am. The Championship will run from the middle of March, with finals scheduled for May 5.

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2021

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

Brave Bison to broaden CPL’s reach globally under President Ali, partnership cricketing maestro agreement

Sarwan encourage athletes to be business savvy

Pg 23

Pg 23

Speaker of the National Assembly, GCB, ECC to host nationwide T/20 championship Pg 23

…to run from mid-March

Pg 22

Court rules DCB election to be held on Friday, February 19 …Kalladeen, Sanasie appeal

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