Guyana Times - Wednesday July 14, 2021

$52M Washer Pond Road in Linden commissioned P14

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

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Issue No. 4708

THE BEACON OF TRUTH WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

CDB President calls for strengthened partnership between Bank, Guyana …as US$190M Linden-Lethem Road contract to be signed later this year

CH&PA carries massive housing drive to Linden

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Body of man who jumped off DHB P15 washes up on foreshore Cop collapses, dies after complaining of feeling P10 unwell

– 400 house lots, 144 land titles to be distributed in 2 days See story on page 7

6 arrested following P13 discovery of ammo and ganja in Sophia

A Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) woman collects her land title from Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues during the "Dream Realised" housing drive, which is being hosted on Tuesday in the mining town (Ministry of Housing photo)

Speaker seeks legal advice on NCMs against Harmon, Benn & Anthony Page 9

Manickchand Files in Haresh chides Singh murder APNU/AFC case not missing MP for opposing Govt’s – Crime Chief education cash grant grant Page 11

...says allegations are manufactured to smear reputation of GPF

Page 14

GPF severs P17 ties with Lyken Funeral Home COVID-19 death toll P12 now stands at 499 after 2 more die – 53 new cases recorded in 24 hour

Nephew who beat uncle to death during argument over plantains charged P13

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

3 CDB President calls for strengthened partnership between Bank, Guyana NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

BRIDGE OPENINGS OPENINGS BRIDGE

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

Wednesday, July 14 – 04:00h – 05:30h and Thursday, July 15 – 09:00h – 10:30h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, July 14 – 06:45h – 08:15h and Thursday, July 15 – 07:30h – 09:00h.

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

WEATHER TODAY There will be thundery showers and light rain showers during the day. Expect clear skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Southerly to North-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 07:20h and 19:49h reaching maximum heights of 2.59 metres and 2.49 metres.

Low Tide: 13:21h reaching a minimum height of 0.64 metre.

…as US$190M Linden-Lethem Road contract to be signed later this year

C

aribbean Development Bank (CDB) President, Dr Hyginus Leon, who recently arrived in Guyana on a four-day official visit, is touting increased partnership between his Bank and Guyana, even outside of the assistance the Bank provides.

Dr Leon arrived in Guyana on Friday last, after which he met with President Dr Irfaan Ali and Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh, who is also Guyana’s Governor to the Bank. During an interview on the State-owned NCN, Dr Leon said that one of the issues discussed was how bilateral relations could be increased between the two sides.

“Fundamentally, what I’d like to be able to do not just

CDB President, Dr Hyginus Leon (right) during his interaction with Finance Minister, Dr Ashni Singh and President Irfaan Ali

The Linden-to-Lethem Road

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COMMODITIES Indicators

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with President Ali but with all the member states, we need to have pre-transactional engagements. As a Bank, we do transactions. You have a loan request; we consider providing the loan. Technical assistance request, we consider and provide,” Dr Leon said.

The CDB President noted that Guyana is on the brink of major changes in its growth trajectory – a reference to the oil and gas sector.

According to him, Guyana could be a working partner with the CDB on regional development.

“I think we need to have an almost chummy type of pre-transactional relationship, whereby we can be engaged continuously.

Informally and formally. But having a dialogue. So, by doing this, we would be setting as it were the means of conversation, trust. In terms of being engaged. So that when the transaction request occurs, there’s no need for resetting. We would already be in that mode of continuous conversation before.”

Guyana is one of the founding members of CDB, having joined in 1970. The Bank has since funded a variety of projects locally. In fact, Guyana is currently home to the largest ever CDB financed project, the US$190 million Linden to Mabura Hill road upgrade. Currently, the road is an almost impassable trail.

Contract

In fact, it was disclosed by Public Works Minister Juan Edghill during a ceremony on Tuesday to commission the Washerpond Road in Linden, Region 10, that Dr Leon

along with other officials had inspected the trail during his visit and that moreover, a contract for the road will be signed later this year.

“The PPP/C’s commitment to the people of Guyana about getting a road from Linden to Lethem, an asphaltic, concrete all-weather road,

the first 125 kilometres of that road which will be from Linden to Mabura Hill, this year in the last quarter we’ll be signing the contract for that road,” Edghill said.

“Over the weekend, the President of the Caribbean Development Bank paid an official visit to Guyana. And you would have seen a low flying aircraft that caused some security concerns. That aircraft was actually showing the President, Vice President of the CDB, as well as the Project Operations Director and other officials of the CDB, the alignment and what is to be expected.”

It was announced in December of last year that the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) had approved

funding for the road project spanning 121 kilometres from Linden to Mabura Hill – the first phase of the much-anticipated construction of a Linden-Lethem road connectivity.

The US$190 million project is being funded by a US$112 million loan from CDB, a grant of £50 million from the United Kingdom Government through the CDB-administered United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Fund; and a contribution of US$12 million from the Government of Guyana.

The unpaved 450-kilometre road from Linden to Lethem has been at the centre of many woes, due to its impassable state in the rainy season, and moreover, flooding along low-lying sections of the road. The upgraded road corridor will provide year-round connectivity between Linden and Mabura Hill, improving conditions for local and long-haul transport which can increase trade between Guyana and Brazil.

Along with the improved road network, residents in the remote communities along the Linden to Mabura Hill corridor will see immediate benefits from improved access to basic essential services and an expansion in economic activity. The project is also expected to bolster eco-tourism along the corridor by improving access to several nature reserves, such as the Iwokrama Rain Forest.

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 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

“Dream Realised”

I

t was indeed a dream realised for hundreds of Lindeners when the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) hosted its “Dream Realised” housing drive in the mining town on Tuesday.

Homeownership for 400 residents of Linden, Region Ten, with 144 persons receiving titles and transports for their lands, is a major achievement for the Irfaan Ali-led administration.

If one can recall, the Opposition scoffed when, during the campaign trail, the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) declared it would be delivering 50,000 house lots during the next five years when it gets into office. In its previous iterations, the housing sector was one of its glowing successes, and it was not coincidental that much of that success occurred under the watch of Irfaan Ali, who was then the Housing Minister. With him becoming President on August 2, 2020, the promise was almost guaranteed, since he knows exactly what needs to be done.

And now, just over a year later, we can see from the trajectory of house lots’ allocation that the goal is well within sight. This compares with the 7,089 lots allocated over the five years the APNU/AFC coalition was in office.

However, the Government is not stopping at house lots, but has set its sights on their owners becoming home owners. It has done this by encouraging easier access to loans, with lower interest rates, increasing the number of institutions granting mortgages, with the authorisation of the Bank of Baroda to enter the mortgage market, and reducing taxes on construction and building materials.

The NBS has been persuaded to grant loans of up to $6 million with an interest rate of four per cent; $612 million @ 5.9 per cent, and $12-15 million @ 6.25 per cent. This is against a background of Finance Minister Dr Ashni Singh introducing the Income Tax Mortgage Interest Relief back in 2013. Any individual taking out a mortgage of up to $30 million for the purchase of a home would be able to deduct the interest paid on the mortgage from their taxable income. Immediately, homeowners will benefit significantly. Since, in the early mortgage, most of the payments are applied to interest on the mortgage, these payments would now act to raise the “non-taxable” income of the homeowner from the present $720,000 by the total interest paid for the year.

But the benefits from the Government’s overall facilitation of housing for the entire population go far beyond the tax exemption etc. One of these is that a mortgage is a form of long-term forced savings. Many persons have great difficulty in saving directly from their pay checks or wages, which is not just a problem for the individual, but for the nation. Developing countries need savings to make investments, and when individuals take out mortgages, the banks can count on a steady income stream, which can be invested. For the home owners, rather than paying rentals, they accumulate increasing equity in their houses; which, historically, has always tended to go upwards.

Home ownership also has immediate spinoff benefits for the rest of the economy, as owners seek to furnish and constantly upgrade their properties. Businesses that cater to this trade typically employ a large number of unskilled persons, as well as give a boost to local manufacturers of furniture and other household goods. The NDCs can now collect rates and taxes to provide various services to the area.

But just as important are the social benefits that give families a sense of stability and security. The moment someone owns a home, the family acquires pride in home ownership, and typically sees itself as having a stake in the community. This leads to the development of social capital in the form of trust between residents. If countries do not have this kind of social capital, it is almost impossible for them to mobilise their citizens for the sacrifices a sustainable developmental thrust demand.

Health-care workers ride on a makeshift raft during the house-to-house vaccination of bedridden citizens for the coronavirus disease, in Valenzuela City, Metro Manila, Philippines (Reuters)

APNU/AFC No-Confidence Motion is absurd

Dear Editor, The Opposition A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) filing of no-confidence motions against Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony and Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn is ludicrous.

This is something so absurd it’s laughable through obvious absurdity, incongruity, exaggeration, and eccentricity meriting derisive laughter by all Guyanese.

The Opposition Leader has further exposed himself to more embarrassment through public opinion. It is evident that Guyanese continue to have confidence in the performance of these two competent PPP/C Ministers to continue performing their duties.

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon is the one who is incompetent.

Hundreds of thousands of Guyanese people have lost confidence on several fronts in his ability to serve as Opposition Leader. The Opposition Leader is the one who continues to “consistently and repeatedly misinform the public and the National Assembly that the APNU+AFC coalition won the 2020 General and Regional Elections,” which every Guyanese knows is a blatant and disrespectful lie.

The Opposition Leader continues to undermine the democracy of our country.

Additionally, the Opposition Leader has “recklessly continued to misinform the public and National Assembly regard-

ing the COVID-19 vaccine, dissuading Guyanese from taking the Sputnik vaccine, putting the lives of Guyanese families and communities at risk, knowing fully well that he himself took the Sputnik vaccine. His utterances have falsely cast doubts on the vaccine’s efficacy and acquisition, but, moreover, he opportunistically used the September 2020 murder of Isaiah and Joel Henry to incite racial disharmony.

This is a leader who has continuously lied, misrepresented, and misinformed his supporters at every level of Guyana’s political, social, economic, and developmental spectrum.

This is an Opposition Leader who continues to make statements that are self-serving, shameful and reckless, selfish and against the interest of Guyana and Guyanese.

This is the same man who barefacedly tried to steal the 2020 General and Regional Elections in front of our very eyes, Guyanese.

The Opposition Leader has filed of no-confidence motions against Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony and Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn, two Ministers who have worked above and beyond compliance for the betterment of every Guyanese citizen. Dr Frank Anthony has been working tirelessly in exploring all avenues to ensure that our people get vaccinated; this is the only way we can get ahead of the curve and return Guyana to normalcy - a position that has never

changed since the PPP/C Government came in to power last November, and it must be clear to every Guyanese that Dr Frank Anthony and President Ali indicated to us that there is no cost to protecting the lives of Guyanese. And that is the only interest of the PPP/C Government.

As our President said recently, “I call on Guyanese to heed the calls of the Ministry of Health, heed the calls of scientists, heed the calls of the scientific community, heed the call of doctors and get vaccinated.”

With reference to Minister Benn, Harmon is claiming that “crime is reportedly spiralling out of control…” which has been debunked too, as the Guyana Police Force has shown that, from a statistical point of view, the Opposition Leader is totally wrong. Minister Benn has showed that “…there was a decrease in serious crimes in Guyana in 2020 by 6.9 per cent. And as for year-to-year figures for 2021, the decline in serious crimes is by 40.3 per cent when compared with the same period last year.

The question that we must all ask ourselves is: Will the Opposition Leader continue to manufacture one gimmick after another as he continues to give his dwindling supporters false hope once again? Just like he did with reference to the two elections petitions, which were thrown out by the court.

Guyanese, it is important at this public health

juncture in our country that we do not fall prey to Harmon’s political selfishness. The shameful recklessness he continues to portray as Opposition Leader of Guyana lacks effort and meaningfulness.

The PPP/C Administration and President Ali will stand ready to defend the performance of Health Minister Dr Anthony and Home Affairs Minister Benn in a parliamentary debate. Additionally, the Government is confident that the motion will not succeed.

The Minister of Home Affairs is highly competent, and his Ministry is a modern institution. They strive to contribute to a secure and prosperous Guyana through the elimination of threats to peace and the utilisation of effective border management systems and accepted international security practices, which ensure the preservation of the safety, rights and dignity of all citizens.

The Minister of Health, Dr Anthony, and his team continue to strive to improve the physical, social and mental health status of all Guyanese, by ensuring that health services are as accessible, acceptable, affordable, timely and appropriate as possible, given available resources; and they enhance the effectiveness of health personnel through continuing education, training and management systems.

Sincerely, David Adams

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

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Has sugar lost its sweetness? Cane cutters’attendance

Dear Editor, I have been following the exchanges between Dr Vishnu Bisram and Mr DC Daly on the challenges faced by the sugar industry. Dr Vishnu has provided data to support a model based on the granting of sugar lands to ex-cane farmers/workers and allowing the Government or private company to run the factory, market the sugar, and provide technical services.

Mr Daly questioned the validity of data cited by Dr Vishnu, as well as the rationale for the sugar subsidy. He (Daly) suggested that those funds (subsidies) could have been utilised to develop projects elsewhere, such as road construction.

There has been a litany of conflicting and inconsistent positions on the sugar industry. A common perception is that the sugar industry is linked primarily to Indians. Of the 5,160 sugar workers dismissed, 26.8% were Africans, while 63.4% were Indians. The average experience of workers was 26 years, but their skills-set would have been specific to that industry, which made labour mobility difficult.

And the ranking members of the APNU-AFC coalition, for example, stated during their 2015 election campaign, “Sugar is too big to fail,” and that they would give sugar workers a 20% pay hike. They (coalition) have recanted on that position, and denied the critical importance of sugar and its vital role in Guyana’s economy and history.

Upon taking up office in 2015, the PNCR coalition Government exclaimed that

sugar has become a heavy drain on the country’s treasury, and that they could not continue to grant subsidies (amounting to an average of (G)$7 billion annually during the 2016-2019 period).

The sugar industry began to incur huge losses since 2006 when the EU (European Union) preferential treatment ended, with the price of sugar falling immediately by 34%. The EU neutralised the impact by granting Guyana (G)$32 billion over the period 2007 to 2013. (I have not been able to determine how much of that money was invested in sugar). Combined with production decline, the economic impact on the industry was harsh. In 2011, sugar earnings were (US)$123 million, in 2017 it was (US) $49 million, and it plummeted to $27.7 million in 2019.

Another measure of sugar’s rapid decline was that, in 1996, sugar’s contribution to GDP was 14.7%, but that slumped to 2.8% in 2014.

These figures give critics enough currency to make calls for the closure of the industry. But in their enthusiasm, they overlook the devastating impact such closure would have on the sugar communities and on the country, as well as have failed to note that the COI (Commission of Inquiry) recommended a 3-year turnaround time for sugar to attain economic viability.

The recent ILO study highlights the plight of the lives and livelihood of the dismissed sugar workers: rising poverty, rising alcohol consumption, escalating crime rates, and high un-

CCWU’s lack in representing workers Dear Editor, I write on behalf of myself and colleagues employed by Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) in the rum delivery section.

We are represented by the Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU), but we are disappointed by our union’s lack of efforts in representing us.

We heard GAWU and GLU were negotiating with the company on behalf of the employees they represent, but our union, while being present at the meetings, was not addressing our concerns.

We heard, too, that it was the GAWU leader who spoke on behalf of us, and whatever we may receive will be due to that Union’s efforts.

As a member of the CCWU for many years, I, like my colleagues, am very disappointed that our union is not adequately representing us. We cannot remember the last time we saw our

union leaders, and we see the other unions meeting their members all the time.

We feel we are ignored

by CCWU, and the union has become uncaring about its members. This is not the union we joined, but CCWU has gone down over the last years, and its membership is suffering.

We heard that CCWU President Mr Clarke hired some new fancy consultant, but even that is not making a difference. Worse yet, someone told us that, years ago, the consultant was a big-time manager who used to punish workers. How really does the CCWU expect him to represent workers’ matters?

Editor, we plead with you to publish this letter, and hope that it can open CCWU’s eyes and ears, which have been shut for far too long while we continue to suffer.

Yours truly, Concerned worker

employment, particularly at Wales (60%) and at Enmore (55%).

Certain strategic industries like sugar and bauxite are “community-centred” industries that are inextricably bound up with workers’ history, social relations, and culture. The recent ILO study points to “the sheer dominance of the sugar estate in the economy of the communities that surrounded each estate.”

Government’s policy therefore must be based not only on financial consideration (cost benefit analysis), but also on an interplay among financial, social, historical, and strategic factors. To this end, the PPPC Government has invested about (G)$10.5 billion since August 2020 in the sugar industry. The bulk (75%) of the investment is for re-capitalisation.

Historical factors in policy making are important.

When sugar was profitable (during the 1960s-1990s), over (G)$ 92 billion in sugar levy was collected and not reinvested into the sugar industry, but was utilised to prop up other sectors of the economy. In 1992, sugar levy constituted 25% of Government’s revenue, says GAWU. The PPPC had asserted that the decision to close the sugar estates was political. Reinforced by the coalition Government’s refusal to conduct a socio-economic study, they (PPPC) claimed its (closure) was designed to rupture their political base in the sugar estates.

With a current labour force of 7,414, GuySuCo is working to reverse the decline in production and productivity. They have moved production from 50MT per hectare during 20152019 to 61MT per hectare in 2021. Their goal is to reach 70-80MT per hectare.

Improvements are expected to be gradual but continuous. This approach has allowed GuySuCo to double its revenues from the sale of sugar by focusing on packaging rather than on bulk marketing. Bulk sugar is being sold on the world market

at between (US)$320- and (US)$350 per MT, compared now with (US)$700 MT for packaged sugar.

GuySuCo CEO Sase Singh believes that a proper sales mix combined with other measures would restore economic viability to the industry within the next 4 years.

Other than sales mix, there are additional positive signs pointing in this direction. For example, although there was a shortfall of production by 12,959MT during the first ½ of 2021, the company has still been able to earn (G)$5.9 billion, thus exceeding its sales target by (G)$734 million. It paid (G)$700 million to its creditors (including GAWU, NIS, trade creditors) over the past 9 months. And as part of the rationalisation process, GuySuCo has reduced the management payroll by an estimated (US)$175 million.

What should not be ignored is the “multiplier” effect of these sugar subsidies, which leads to economic activities several times the amount of subsidies. GAWU estimates that the loss of wages totalling (G)$11.94 billion to sugar workers because of estates’ closure has created collateral loss of (G)$10.15 billion to “shop keepers, market vendors, fisher folk, transportation providers, etc.” Additionally, GAWU argues that by “using the income multiplier formula, a further (G)$70 billion has been removed from the economy.”

Sugar has not lost its sweetness; some critics have lost their taste for sugar. GuySuCo could tap further into the huge Caricom market (of 400,000MT per annum (200,000 brown and 200,000 white). Better methods of cane cultivation, including better varieties of cane, diversification, reimagining, cogeneration, ethanol production, value-added like white sugar, and innovative marketing strategies would lead to success.

Sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

a significant achievement Dear Editor, The GAWU welcomes Mr Jonathan Yearwood’s letter - “To what extent are GuySuCo and GAWU cooperating in order to turn around the industry?” that appeared in the local media on July 13, 2021.

Indeed, like Mr Yearwood, the GAWU was heartened to learn that the industry netted $734M more than anticipated though realising 70% of its anticipated production. It demonstrates that the GAWU is correct, and the sugar industry has every potential to be turned around and become viable.

Certainly, we believe that with other ventures we have referred to in the past, even greater rewards could be reaped.

Mr Yearwood questions whether our Union is supportive of the reality that around 70% of cane cutters are availing themselves to work daily. Maybe it is the case that the letter writer is not familiar with the sugar industry, but the turnout statistic described is a significant achievement.

Mr Yearwood would well know that cane cutting is a laborious task, and one that exacts a significant toll on cutters. Certainly, it is difficult, given the hardships of the task, for all the workers to be present every single day. Cane cutters may wish they could be present at work daily, especially given that they do not obtain yearround employment; but, at the same time, they are not, by any means, superhuman. While, with the advent of mechanical loaders, the onerousness has lessened on the workers and this has contributed to increased productivity, it yet remains

a challenge for them to wake up in the wee hours of the morning to travel several miles into the cultivation and cut and load several tonnes of cane day after day. The fact that cane cutters can regularly accomplish such a feat is testimony to their commitment and sheer strength and will.

The letter writer urges the GAWU to encourage more workers to turn out daily. As a responsible organization, we do advise sugar workers to avail themselves at work. But while calls are heightened for workers to present themselves during the cropping periods daily, during the off-crop periods, the workers are confined to four days’ work per week, sometimes with tasks that are taxing and which they are unable to complete within their allotted work time.

The point we wish to make is that there must be some equity when speaking about workers’ attendance to work. Maybe the Corporation, with its strategy, can seek to address workers’ pay, which sees some of them earning just a bit over $2200 per day.

Certainly, any worthwhile improvement can play a meaningful role.

Finally, we agree with Mr Yearwood that the target is attainable. If you ask us, given the industry’s potential, it is low, but we recognize, too, where the industry is coming from.

While the workers will seek to play their role, it requires several other factors to align as well.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine President GAWU

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

Page

Foundation ◄

Question 1

Tuesday’s answers

By Amy L owell

O

n a sunny day, look at your and other shadows, and write a short story of 250 words about a world inhabited by only shadows.

O You, Who came upon me once Stretched under apple-trees just after bathing, Why did you not strangle me before speaking Rather than fill me with the wild white honey of your words And then leave me to the mercy Of the forest bees.

WORD SEARCH

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

CH&PA carries massive housing drive to Linden – 400 house lots, 144 land titles to be distributed in 2 days

A resident of Linden receiving his land title from Housing Minister Collin Croal

T

he Housing and Water Ministry on Tuesday carried its massive “Dream Realised” housing drive to Amelia’s Ward, Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), where some 400 residents will be receiving house lots in the largest allocation in the Region in recent years.

In addition, 144 land titles and transports are expected to be distributed during the two-day exercise.

During the event, which will conclude today, Housing and Water Minister Collin Croal made it clear that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government understood the importance of providing adequate housing to Guyanese.

“This house lot allocation in Amelia’s Ward is not being done in isolation.

In fact, between now and 2022, our Government is expected to expend at least $2.9 billion for infrastructure in Region 10 under the

housing sector,” Croal said.

Meanwhile, Minister within the Housing and Water Ministry, Susan Rodrigues explained that the exercise surpassed any house-lot distribution in the region that was done under the previous A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Administration during the past five years.

She revealed that between May and December 2015, one house lot was distributed in Linden; January and December 2016, 36; January and December 2017, 201; January and December 2018, 121; January and December 2019, zero; and January and August 2020, one.

“Notwithstanding that you have persons who would not have been called for this initial distribution in the region, you can rest assured that you will be catered for in future allocations,” Minister Rodrigues said.

The exercise marks the largest allocation in

A section of the attendees

A staff member of the Central Housing and Planning Authority engaging residents on Tuesday

the region over the past five years. Ministers Croal and Rodrigues are on the ground, along with managers and staff of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) assisting members of the public.

At the event, strict COVID-19 measures have been put in place, with

members of the public being required to sanitise their hands upon entry, wear a mask and practise social distancing.

Additionally,

the Ministry said it was also working along with the Health Ministry.

The PPP/C Government is mobilising to distribute

a whopping 10,000 house lots to Guyanese in 2021, in keeping with its manifesto promise to deliver 50,000 lots within this term in office.

Minister Croal had previously said that this distribution was aimed at clearing the existing application backlog that stood at over 70,000. A number of land titles will also be issued throughout the year.

The national housing development plan for 2021 includes the construction of 1000 homes for low-income earners in areas such as Cummings Lodge, Prospect, Providence, Little Diamond, Great Diamond, Onderneeming, Wales, Ordinance Fortlands, Hampshire, Williamsburg, and Amelia’s Ward.

Another 100 are set aside for the hinterland communities.

8 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Shotgun found during Police operation in Essequibo

P

olice in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) have immediately launched an investigation following the discovery of a 12-gauge shotgun at Danielstown Backdam, Essequibo Coast.

Based on reports received, ranks were conducting a search in the area when they noticed a blue cloth case in a clump of bushes under a tree, and upon checking, they found the firearm.

It was taken to the Anna Regina Police Station, where it was lodged pending an investigation. No one

The shotgun that was found by Police

has since been arrested in relation to the discovery of the shotgun.

Only a few weeks ago, Police on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD) arrested a 47-year-old man after an illegal shotgun and match-

ing cartridges were found at his home.

The discovery was made at the suspect’s Sans Souci, Canal Number One Polder, WBD home.

A party of Policemen, acting on information re-

ceived, went to the suspect’s home, and upon arrival, a search was conducted on the premises in the presence of the suspect and his wife.

It was then ranks uncovered that a table contained a hidden compartment.

They then discovered within two objects made of metal and wood which appeared to be components of a firearm. Also unearthed was a transparent plastic bag containing eight cartridges.

The suspect was then cautioned, arrested, and taken to the La Grange Police Station.

Action and reaction…

Y

…to COVID-19 lockdown our Eyewitness noticed a very interesting piece on the effect of the COVID-19 lockdown on domestic violence.

They were positively correlated – according to the Chancellor of the Judiciary, who used Police statistics to buttress her claim. In these matters, as a veteran of the legal profession, who’s risen to the very pinnacle of her profession, the Chancellor would know that one can’t automatically transmute “correlation” to “causation”. We need evidence for that. It’s hoped that our university, or the NGOs working in the social services field, or the Ministry of Social Services would conduct a study into this phenomenon, since, from evidence across the world, there’s gonna be several waves that’ll force future lockdowns.

But, in the meantime, your Eyewitness – in lockdown himself (but, thankfully, not inflicting violence on those around him!) resorted to the internet, which has been his major outlet to “cabin fever” - something he’d only read about before – to find out what was the reaction elsewhere where they’ve taken the time to conduct actual studies, and not just rushed to conclusions.

There was one Swiss study – and we know they’re already used to periods of lockdown because of their winters in their mountains. They found that loneliness, depression and anxiety increased precipitously. An English study reaffirmed this conclusion. In terms of the reaction to these pathologies, they found that the use of the internet skyrocketed. Your Eyewitness – as confirmed by his IPad’s meticulous daily report – was in good company!! The Swiss also found their kids suffered from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). No increased domestic violence, thank you.

A French study showed that, for a lot of folks, time seemed to slow down – something your Eyewitness empathises with! But another French study had a very interesting finding with college-age students: those with prior depression experienced greater increases in anxiety.

This link of reaction with predisposed inclinations mirrored a very wide study in Africa, done through a review of journal articles on our exact topic of COVID and domestic violence: “COVID gave perpetrators who are already attracted to coercive controlling behaviours another weapon."

Your Eyewitness quotes the summary of the findings: “From the review done in selected African countries which include Egypt, South Africa, Kenya, Nigeria, Ghana and Zimbabwe; it was discovered that COVID-19 lockdown across these countries worsens the already existing cases of Domestic Violence (DV). The study also noted that generally, the response of the government has been very poor in terms of dealing with DV cases in the period of COVID-19 lockdown.”

The experts are saying the COVID lockdown symptoms are the same everywhere – depression, anxiety and loneliness; but the EFFECTS are dependent on our preexisting cultural tendencies.

…in South Africa Ever since Mandela’s magnanimous gesture of holding no grudges against his White jailers of 27 years, after the walls of apartheid came tumbling down in 1994, South Africa’s been the cynosure of many eyes in the Third World.

If for no other reason than their bold experiment of letting bygones be bygones was a beacon of hope for their own troubled efforts to free themselves from the debilitations of colonialism. The Blacks, Whites, Coloureds and Indians seemed to be moving ahead in Africa’s most developed economy.

But, right now, it appears that the fragile structure might be unravelling in the wake of former President Zuma’s conviction and imprisonment for accepting bribes. The trial was open and aboveboard, but his Zulu tribesmen have rejected the verdict and are now rioting, looting, and attacking their fellow citizens who happen to be of different races. At this time, over 30 persons have been killed, and President Ramaphosa has been forced to call out the army.

Let’s hope order is restored soon.

…in WI Cricket They say “all good things must come to an end” – the second law of thermodynamics and all that!

But it does seem that the Universe Boss is determined to go out with a bang!! Go, Chris Gayle!

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

9 Speaker seeks legal advice on NCMs against Harmon, Benn & Anthony NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Speaker of the National Assembly, Manzoor Nadir

S

peaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir, who was reviewing No-Confidence Motions (NCMs) brought against Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon and two Government Ministers, has approached the Ministry of Legal Affairs for advice.

In a brief interview with Guyana Times, Clerk of the National Assembly Sherlock Issacs confirmed that he wrote to the Ministry of Legal Affairs on Monday.

According to him, advise is being sought particularly in the case of the NCM against Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon.

“For example, the motion for the removal of the Leader of the Opposition involves the law, Article 184 (3). As you are aware, the Clerk is supposed to be the expert on the Standing Orders. But where the law is involved, I’m not an expert in the law.”

“So, while I’m clear on the parliamentary side, I’m not clear on the law. When the law is involved, especially in the interpretation of the law, matters must be submitted for legal advice or guidance,” Issacs explained.

Issacs explained that based on the advice from the AG Chambers, Speaker of the National Assembly Manzoor Nadir will make a decision. A perusal of Article 184 (3) of the Constitution of Guyana meanwhile shows that it speaks to the removal of the Opposition Leader.

It states that “Where one-third of the non-governmental members of the Assembly represent to the Speaker that the Leader of the Opposition no longer enjoys their confidence, the Speaker shall call a meeting of all non-governmental members at which it shall be decided whether the Leader of the Opposition shall be removed from office; the removal shall be effected by the votes of a majority of all the non-governmental members.”

Motions

Harmon had filed motions against Minister of

Health, Dr Frank Anthony and Minister of Home Affairs Robeson Benn last week, calling for their resignations over what he claimed was their poor running of their Ministries.

The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) had contended in a statement that “the management of the spread of COVID-19 has been woeful, there has been questionable procurement of vaccines and confirmed COVID cases and deaths are spiralling out of control. Dr Anthony must bear direct responsibility for the health care crisis and disaster he has placed Guyana in, imperilling the lives and health and wellbeing of every citizen. The nation has lost confidence in Dr Anthony and we formally take action on behalf of the people of Guyana today.”

The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Government side, through Prime Minister, Retired Brigadier Mark Phillips, filed a NoConfidence Motion against Harmon the very next day.

According to the NCM prepared by Phillips, he is demanding Harmon’s immediate resignation from the position of Leader of the Opposition.

The NCM cites several grounds for Harmon’s removal, starting with his role in the APNU/AFC’s desperate fight to stay in power after losing the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.

Phillips also contended that the Opposition Leader “recklessly misinformed the public and the National Assembly” when it comes to the COVID-19 vaccine, its efficacy, and its acquisition by the Government.

This is a reference to Harmon’s recent campaign against the Government’s acquisition of Sputnik-V vaccines, during which he even called for a halt to the distribution of the vaccine. According to Phillips, Harmon’s actions endangered lives and increased vaccine hesitancy among an already vulnerable population.

“And Whereas the Leader of the Opposition opportunistically used the horrific murder of the Henry youth from West Coast Berbice as a means to incite ethnic disharmony. And Whereas the Leader of the Opposition has consistently denigrated the representative of the joiner parties, Mr. Lenox Shuman, Deputy Speaker, as a legitimate member of the parliamentary opposition, even going so far as to deny him holding an opposition seat on any parliamentary committee. Be It Resolved that this House expresses its lack

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

Home Affairs Minister Robeson Benn

of confidence in the Leader of the Opposition and calls for his immediate resignation,” Phillips said in his motion.

At present, the configuration of the National Assembly sees the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) with the parliamentary majority of 33 out of 65 seats.

APNU/AFC, the main Opposition party, has 31 seats, while the Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), in collaboration with two other parties, holds one.

Opposition Leader Joseph Harmon

10 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Active COVID-19 cases declining – Health Minister …hotspots in Regions 3, 4, 6, 9, 10

W

ithin the past weeks, the active cases of COVID-19 have been relatively declining in Guyana, as the figure stands at just over 1300.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony identified this trend during Tuesday’s coronavirus briefing, noting that there is continuous monitoring of all persons who would have tested positive. Since March 2020, over 20,000 positive cases of the virus were detected locally – 1321 of which remain active.

The criteria used for discharging patients are based

on guidelines set out by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

“Looking at the numbers of the past couple of weeks, we would have seen a relative decline in the number of active cases…We would monitor people for approximately 10 days or so and once the two last days, they haven’t shown any signs or symptoms, then we’re able to discharge them. Using this WHO criteria, we have been able to discharge people.

Presently, there are a few hotspots across the country, particularly in

Region Nine where spikes were reported across a few communities.

Locations being monitored include Sister’s Village in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) with 20 cases, Sophia in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) with 20 cases and New Amsterdam in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) with 32 cases.

Over in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) – which has seen a large spike, there are 39 cases in St Ignatius, 33 in Lethem, 19 in Tapachinga. Over in Wismar and Mabura

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony

in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), there

are 17 cases each.

The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. According to the WHO, most people infected with the virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illness and recover without requiring special treatment. Older people, and those with underlying medical problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer are more likely to develop serious illness.

Most common symptoms include fever, dry cough and tiredness but can include aches and pains, sore throat, diarrhoea, conjunctivitis, headache, loss of

taste or smell; and rash on skin, or discolouration of fingers or toes.

The severe form can result in difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure and loss of speech or movement.

“Seek immediate medical attention if you have serious symptoms. Always call before visiting your doctor or health facility.

People with mild symptoms who are otherwise healthy should manage their symptoms at home. On average it takes four to five days from when someone is infected with the virus for symptoms to show, however, it can take up to 14 days,” the organisation advised.

On Monday, it was revealed that two of the children who were initially hospitalised due to the coronavirus have since been discharged. However, four are in the hospital – two of whom are seeking intensive care. All of these children have some form of comorbidity or an underlying condition.

Across Guyana, 57 persons are hospitalised after they would have contracted the virus – of which 11 are at the Infectious Disease Hospital, Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara. (G12)

Cop collapses, dies after complaining of feeling unwell

T

he wife of a 44-yearold Police Lance Corporal was left in shock after she found her husband dead moments after he complained of not being able to breathe.

Dead is Albert Perreira.

The incident occurred on Tuesday at around 05:30h at Reid Street, Sheet Anchor, Berbice, Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Reports are that Perreira’s wife was awakened by her husband who was lying on the floor in the hall of their home.

Upon checking, the woman found her husband having difficulty breathing. As a result, she went for a glass of water to give to him, and when she returned, she observed that he was motionless.

The woman immediately contacted the New Amsterdam Hospital for an ambulance but was unsuccessful. She then contacted the Police, who visited the home and observed the man lying in the hall motionlessly.

The body was checked for marks of violence but none was seen. Officer Perreira was pronounced dead at the scene by a doctor of the New Amsterdam Hospital.

The body is presently at the Persaud Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

Meanwhile, in a state-

Dead: Lance Corporal Albert Perreira

ment later on Tuesday, the Police Force said they are saddened by the news of the sudden passing of Lance Corporal Perreira.

“Lance Corporal 23744 Albert Perreira of Reid’s Street, Sheet Anchor, Canje, Berbice joined the Force on 15-03-2008 and was stationed at the Springlands Police Station. He was a dedicated rank and committed to his job”.

“The Commissioner of Police, Officers, Inspectors and other ranks express sincere condolences and joins in mourning with the family of Lance Corporal Perreira”, the statement read. (G9)

NEWS

11

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Files in Haresh Singh murder case not missing – Crime Chief ...says allegations are manufactured to smear reputation of GPF

Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum

I

n light of reports that the files relating to the Haresh Singh murder case cannot be located, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum, when contacted, refuted such claims and reiterated that at no time whatsoever were the files missing.

In fact, Blanhum related that the files were in the possession of the detectives who were doing some additional work.

“This is not a strange occurrence. On a daily basis, in the criminal court, once a file is being completed by the investigators, it remains in possession of the investigators.

Upon completion, it is then forwarded to the court prosecutors for court presentation.”

On this note, he stated that the file was subsequently handed over to the Police Legal Advisor, Mandel Moore who is now prosecuting the matter.

Nevertheless, the Crime Chief further stated that the allegations are being manufactured and are getting more outrageous by the day.

“It is part of a campaign and also a pathetic attempt to cast aspersions and smear the good name and reputation of members of the GPF. Only

recently the GPF was forced to release video evidence after a blatant and dangerous attempt to discredit investigators assigned to a well-publicised murder investigation,” he added.

On Monday, when the matter was called at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court, the Police prosecutor had reportedly informed the court that the files cannot be located. Those who were charged for the murder are Philip Anderson called “Ratman”, 29, of Number Three Village; Joel

Attorney-at-Law Nigel Hughes

viewing the live post-mortem examinations that were being done on the bodies of Isaiah Henry and Joel Henry.

But the Police have said that during a video interview conducted with Gladston Henry on June 26, 2021, and another video interview conducted on June 27, 2021, he exercised his right to remain silent on each occasion.

“At no time whatsoever did the suspect inform the investigators that he had an alibi or that he was elsewhere during the time of the murder,” the Police stated. In ad-

Murdered: Haresh Singh

Gladston Henry

Joel Gittins

Charles Scott

Phillip Anderson

Gittins called “Bolo”, 27, of Jangotown, East Coast Demerara (ECD); Gladston Henry called “Gladwin Henry”, and “Soldierman”, 27 of Number Three Village; and Charles Scott called “Bucko”, 21, of Rosignol, Berbice.

However, Attorney-atLaw Nigel Hughes, who is representing Henry, when contacted, confirmed that the prosecution did tell the court that the files cannot be located.

“The prosecution did not have their files, I don’t know if they are missing…what they said is that they didn’t know where they were, that’s

what they reported to the court,” the attorney said.

Since the charge was instituted on Henry, his attorney has been spewing accusations at the investigations and calling for the Police to withdraw the charge that was brought against his client. He had stated that his client had an alibi on the day 17-yearold Haresh Singh was murdered along a backdam at No 3 Village.

He claimed that Henry along with at least 10 family members including his mother were at his family home at Number Three Village, WCB, at the time Singh was murdered. They were reportedly

dition, no alibi witnesses ever presented themselves to the investigators for their statement to be taken.

Confession

Upon his arrest, Anderson confessed that he was part of the initial plot to murder Singh as revenge for Isaiah’s murder.

In his confession he reportedly told detectives that after

the bodies of the Henry boys were found, one of Henry’s relative went to his home and told him that Singh’s relatives were the ones responsible for his brother’s death and that “they got to die,” as a form of revenge.

He said that Henry’s relative asked him to accompany him on the road where they were joined by Scott and Gittens. As they were heading towards the road, they

armed themselves with pieces of wood.

Anderson stated that they went straight to Haresh Singh’s house and accused his relatives of killing his brother and cousin. They reportedly started to verbally abuse the family and threatened to kill them.

After the confrontation, they left the Singh’s premises and went to the back of Isaiah’s home then to a dam at No 3 Village.

He said there, they crossed a bridge and went to the other side where they saw Haresh Singh approaching on his bike. As such, the four men instructed him to stop and Singh complied but refused to come off the bike when he was told to do so.

An angered “Bolo” reportedly grabbed Singh from behind and pulled him off the bike after which he bent him over and it was then Henry’s relative, who was carrying a piece of wood, dealt him one blow to the head.

After receiving the blow, Singh was thrown to the ground where he groaned in pain, the man told Police.

Still full of anger, “Bolo” then picked up a piece of wood and repeatedly lashed Singh to his head.

Upon seeing this, Anderson told detectives that he walked away but subsequently learnt that Singh had died and his bike was set on fire.

Singh’s body was found on September 9, 2021, three days after the badly chopped bodies of Isaiah and Joel Henry were found.

12 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

COVID-19 death toll now stands at 499 after 2 more die

– 53 new cases recorded in 24 hours

G

uyana’s COVID-19 death toll has reached 499 after two more persons who tested positive for the virus died.

The Health Ministry on Tuesday reported that a 50-year-old woman and 79-year-old man, both from Region Four (DemeraraMahaica) died on Monday.

At the time of their demise, they were seeking treatment at a medical facility. This has brought July’s death toll up to 23.

However, new statistics provided by the Ministry show that the positive cases have reached 21,055 – 10,285 males and 10,770 females.

This is after 53 more persons tested positive for the virus within one day.

The stats showed that 10 persons remain in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU),

while 77 are in institutional isolation, 1209 in home isolation and three in institutional quarantine. The country has seen 19,260 recoveries.

Since the pandemic started, 203,592 persons were swabbed for the coronavirus.

Of the new cases reported, three were from Region One (Barima-Waini); one from Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam); 11 in Region Three (Essequibo IslandsWest Demerara); 12 in Region Four (DemeraraMahaica); three in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice); 22 in Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and one in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo).

Cases in Regions Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) did not increase.

On Tuesday, it was pointed out that there is an increased uptake in vaccines across the country, moving Guyana closer to herd immunity. Some 239,877 persons or 49.3 per cent have taken their first jabs and 120,914 or 24.8 per cent are immunised.

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony said the availability of Sputnik V first and second doses in the country should encourage people to turn up to vaccination sites.

Calculation shows that persons who would have taken the AstraZeneca vaccines are also due for the second jab.

“There’s a noticeable increase in the number of persons coming to our vaccination sites and I’m happy for that. I guess many persons were awaiting their second dose Sputnik V. We just want to remind people that we want

GUYANA COVID-19 DASHBOARD JULY 13 UPDATE

NUMBER OF NEW CASES

53

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL ISOLATION

77

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN HOME ISOLATION

1209

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN COVID-19 ICU

10

NUMBER OF PERSONS IN INSTITUTIONAL QUARANTINE

3

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (FEMALES)

10,770

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES BY GENDER (MALES)

10,285

TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES IN GUYANA SINCE 2020

21,055

NUMBER OF RECOVERED CASES

19,260

TOTAL 1st DOSE VACCINATED

239,877

FULLY IMMUNISED

120,914

TOTAL NUMBER OF DEATHS

499

DISTRIBUTION OF TOTAL CONFIRMED CASES SINCE MARCH 2020 REGION 1

1270

REGION 2

589

REGION 3

2407

REGION 4

9592

REGION 5

696

REGION 6

1698

REGION 7

1270

REGION 8

380

REGION 9

1671

REGION 10

1482

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

Keep a physical distance of at least 6 feet.

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

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

to give those whose second dose is due to get their vaccines first, which means persons who would have received their second dose Sputnik in April are now going to be due for their second dose,” he outlined.

Along with purchased Sputnik V doses, it was revealed that the COVAX facility will be sending additional vaccines between this month and September. The Johnson and Johnson shots, pur-

chased through the CaricomAfrican Union agreement, is expected to arrive in August.

“Guyana is one of those AMC countries and COVAX has promised us that they’d be sending additional vaccines to Guyana sometime between now and September.

We’re expecting another shipment of COVAX’s vaccine. We have also paid for the Johnson and Johnson vaccine and this is an arrangement we’ve had with

the African Union. We were required to pay for these vaccines which we did and the latest information that we have is that they’d be able to ship the vaccines to us in August,” said the Minister.

If anyone is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 or needs any additional information, contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit www.health.gov.gy.

NEWS

Nephew who beat uncle to death during argument over plantains charged

6 arrested following discovery of ammo and ganja in Sophia

S Murder accused: Melroy Moore

T

wenty-seven-yearold Melroy Moore of Phoenix, Leguan Island was on Tuesday arraigned for the murder of his uncle, Aubrey Jonas, who he had beaten to death during a row over plantains.

The accused virtually appeared before Magistrate Esther Sam and was not required to plead to the indictment which stated that on July 7, 2021, at Phoenix, Leguan, Region Three, he murdered Aubrey Jonas.

As such, he was remanded to prison and the case was adjourned to July 29, 2021.

It was reported that on the day in question, a niece of the now dead man saw the suspect entering his yard and cutting some plantains without permission.

The niece reportedly informed the man of the inci-

The suspect lashing away at his uncle on the day in question

dent after he returned from the backdam.

In anger, the man reportedly picked up a cutlass and confronted the suspect.

He reportedly told his nephew: “You touch the plantains and you gone see wah gon happen to you.”

This, however, led to a heated argument after which they went in separate directions. Based on Police reports, the suspect then armed himself with a knife and went to the Phoenix Koker where he took a seat.

As his uncle walked past him heading into the village, another argument broke out between them.

The now dead man then reportedly armed himself with a cutlass and broadsided his nephew. In retaliation,

the suspect went into his mother’s yard, armed himself with a piece of wood, and dealt his uncle several blows to his head.

After committing the act, the suspect was seen walking away from the scene, leaving the injured Jonas on the roadway. The injured man was subsequently picked up by his niece, who had recorded the incident, and taken to the Leguan Cottage Hospital, where he was admitted.

He succumbed to his injuries a few hours later.

Meanwhile, acting on information received, the Police went to an abandoned house in the same area where they found the suspect, who was told of the allegation and arrested.

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

The cannabis and ammunition that were found

ix persons, including two couples, were arrested on Tuesday following the discovery of 190 live rounds of .45 ammunition and 13.221 kilograms of ganja in a house at Pike Street, North Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

Based on reports, about 03:00h on the day in question, Police, acting on information received, went to the house and cordoned it off.

While doing so, Police observed a bulky black plas-

tic bag being thrown out of a window of the house. As such, the bag was retrieved and the ganga hence unearthed.

Consequently, the Police entered the home, where they saw the six suspects who denied having any knowledge of the bag and its contents.

Further, the Police conducted a search of the premises during which a measuring scale was found. In addition, another bag of can-

nabis was unearthed in the yard – about 30 feet from the house, along with one white plastic bucket containing a small rice bag with 190 rounds of live .45 ammunition.

The cannabis that was thrown out the window was weighed and amounted to 55 grams while the cannabis found in the yard weighed 13.166 kilograms.

Police are continuing their investigations.

14 NEWS

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Manickchand chides APNU/AFC MP for opposing Govt’s education cash grant

E

ducation Minister Priya Manickchand on Tuesday slammed the Opposition for opposing the $19,000 cash grant that is presently being rolled out by the PPP/C Government which will see thousands of children in the public school system benefitting.

The Minister lashed out at APNU/AFC Member of Parliament (MP) Coretta McDonald who took to social media encouraging Head Teachers and teachers not to be a part of the distribution.

In fact, the MP in her post stated, “Headteachers, you were trained as an Educator not an Accounts Clerk!

Distribution of cash to students/pupils is not your responsibility!”

In light of this, the Education Minister stated, “it is bizarre to me that any person or political party or any of their affiliates would object to Guyana’s families being assisted with $19,000 per child.”

She further stated that it was also bizarre that Guyana was forced to wait five months after the National and Regional Elections to have a legiti-

Education Minister Priya Manikchand

mate Government.

“The APNU/AFC just doesn’t do anything sensible, logical or lawful,” the Minister added.

Nevertheless, Manickchand is optimistic that the teachers will support the initiative taking into consideration that they will also benefit from the exercise.

Meanwhile, the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) in a release stated that it is not aware of logistics surround-

ing the actual distribution of this cash grant. The release added that in keeping with its mandate to look after the welfare of its members, the GTU has taken the necessary actions.

“School administrators and staff are to refrain from handling or taking responsibility for cash/ money; lend support where needed to verify authentic students from your school when called upon; Do not store cash/money relating to the Cash Grant and refrain from large gathering especially since COVID-19 cases and deaths are still being recorded in Guyana.”

In addition, the GTU is urging its members to seek the intervention of the Union should they receive threats from any source.

Finally, it stated that all financial matters relating to the school must be handled by the PTA. The Because We Care” Grant is valued at $15,000 this year and the School Uniform and Supplies Grant is valued at $4000, giving a total of $19,000 for each child in the public education system.

GTU General Secretary/APNU/ AFC MP Coretta McDonald

Some 172,000 public school students are expect-

ed to benefit from the programme this year, and unlike last year, the school uniform grant will not be given in the form of a voucher but rather as cash.

The Education Ministry noted that the cash grant initiative “aims to serve each child before September 2021. This initiative of the Government is to assist families so that they can provide the necessary resources to their children so that they can not only remain in school but to also excel in their studies.”

Meanwhile, distribution will commence today in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) at the Cotton Field Secondary, Anna Regina Secondary, Taymouth Manor Primary,

Fisher Primary, Suddie Primary, Riverstown Primary, Aurora Primary, and Tapakuma Lake Primary. The initiative then moves to Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) on July 25.

The “Because We Care” project was launched back in 2014 under the PPP/C Government. It was implemented to provide support to parents with school-age children and increase their disposable income, to raise enrolment and attendance rates.

After taking office in 2015, the APNU/AFC Government scrapped the project. The Irfaan Ali-led Government reintroduced the initiative after taking office last year.

$52M Washer Pond Road in Linden commissioned

Public Works Minister Juan Edghill inspecting the road on Tuesday

M

inister of Public Works Juan Edghill on Tuesday commissioned the newly built Washer Pond Road in Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

The project was completed by the

Special Projects Unit (SPU) within two weeks of the commencement date and the average total cost was $52 million.

Added to the rehabilitation of the Washer Pond Road, paving and maintenance works were done in the township, specifically in Wismar and Mackenzie.

While delivering the feature address at the commissioning ceremony, Minister Edghill noted that the Ministry faced a major drainage issue during the rehabilitation of the road.

This was because the drains that were there initially, were clogged due to the fact that the road was located in a valley.

However, after an assessment, a contractor was hired by the Ministry to build additional drains and insert culverts on the two main turns.

The Minister thanked the

Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arindell and the Regional Chairman, Deron Adams for their collaboration in getting this project undertaken and their continued efforts in making sure that the use of the road is prescribed and controlled in a manner that is beneficial to the people of Guyana.

He also expressed how pleased he was with the way the Guyana Police Force supported the Ministry during and after the construction of the Washer Pond Road.

Mayor Arindell expressed how grateful the residents are for the new road and other works that the Ministry of Public Works have been doing so far.

“Linden is grateful for this.

This has been one of the major issues we have been facing for years and we are asking that those heavy-duty vehicles continue to use the bypass road, at least for one month until the RDC along with the Linden Town Council and the Police Force decides on how we move forward.”

Edghill took the opportunity today, to inform the residents of Region 10 of some of the other developments the Ministry has planned for the town. Some of these major works include, the rehabilitation of the LindenSoesdyke Highway, which will cost approximately $150,000,000, the upgrading of 125km of the LindenLethem Road at a tune of US$190,000,000, the construction of a new road from Orealla to Kwakwani and other urban and miscellaneous roads within the township of Linden.

“We want Linden to look good and all the people of Linden to be happy and to be able to drive in comfort. However, development comes in phases, so we ask for your understanding and patience,” Minister Edghill implored.

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Ramsammy’s Ruminations Body of man who jumped off Duncan must apologise, resign or be censured for deeming Caricom leaders gangsters

DHB washes up on foreshore

F

or calling Caricom Leaders "hustlers, gangsters and hypocrites", MP Sherrod Duncan must apologise. Short of an apology, two things become necessary. First, David Granger, acting with Joe Harmon, should remove Duncan from Parliament. Since I suspect that Duncan was merely reflecting the posture of APNU/AFC when he called Caricom Leaders, including Prime Ministers presently serving, "hustlers. gangsters and hypocrites", we should hold our breath waiting for Granger to do so.

Short of either of these two things, I believe Parliament should hold Duncan accountable for a statement that is clearly an insult, at the very least, to our Caricom partners.

I know that some will point their fingers back at me. After all, everyone would remember, about a month or so ago, I disagreed Dr Leslie Ramsammy vehemently with Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley of Trinidad and Tobago, and said so publicly, in my private capacity.

I thought and said publicly that Prime Minister Rowley has a right to boast about his management of COVID-19 in his country, and to comment on Guyana's management, but was wrong in his assessment of Guyana's vaccination programme. I thought, and still hold the view, that the Prime Minister was out of place in questioning Guyana's choice of vaccine.

Of all persons in this country at this time, therefore, I would be the least person that can fault anyone for disagreeing with Caricom Leaders. I think that Caricom Leaders are wrong for not having unanimous support for the implementation of "front of the package" labelling for salt, sugar and fats. I think we should be more supportive of countries like India and South Africa for the suspension of intellectual property rights to allow all countries with vaccine production capacity to produce vaccines.

I think that Caricom as a whole should decriminalise same-sex relationships. We have many good reasons to disagree with each other, and we all have a right to express our opinions.

But when we resort to being disagreeable, and when we resort to deeming Caricom Leaders "hustlers and gangsters", it is unacceptable; unless, of course, if we have evidence. Last week, an MP from APNU/AFC went on TV and proclaimed in the vilest way that Caricom leaders are a "bunch of hustlers and gangsters".

He provided no evidence, and apparently he deemed them "hustlers and gangsters" only because a number of Caricom Leaders stood up and spoke out against the attempted rigging of the March 2020 elections in Guyana.

When current leaders like Prime Ministers Mia Mottley (Barbados), Ralph Gonsalves (St Vincent and the Grenadines), Keith Rowley (Trinidad and Tobago) and past Prime Ministers like Bruce Golding (Jamaica) who headed the OAS Electoral Observer Mission and the late Owen Arthur (Barbados) who headed the Commonwealth Observation team during the March 2020 elections in Guyana resisted the blatant and shameless attempt to rig the elections in plain sight of the world, it infuriated the leadership of APNU/AFC. In fact, in the middle of the attempt to rig the elections, David Granger, at the time still President of Guyana, rebuffed the Caricom Leaders, the same ones he also deemed the only legitimate interlocutor, for telling the world the truth and being blunt that the then Guyana Government was in a conspiracy with rogue elements in GECOM to steal the elections. APNU/AFC is still reeling from the fact that Caricom finally stood up for democracy in Guyana, that Caricom refused to be used for the purpose of legitimising an electoral theft, especially since the theft was playing out for the Guyanese and global public to see on TV. That APNU/AFC is still shocked that Caricom stood for democracy and not with APNU/AFC is evident from the continuing public litigation of the March 2020 elections and APNU/AFC's stance that President Irfaan Ali and the PPP Government are installed and not elected. It is also evident from regular outbursts from APNU/AFC leaders. The latest outburst is from an MP named Sherrod Duncan. His outburst is perhaps the nastiest outburst attacking Caricom Leaders. I have waited to see if David Granger, as the leader of APNU/AFC Coalition, or Joe Harmon, as the Opposition Leader, would distance themselves from MP Duncan. Neither of them has done so. Neither Granger nor Harmon has seen the need to address an issue of significance in terms of our relationship with Caricom. Is it that Duncan is so non-relevant that what he says is of no consequence, or is it that what he said is what Granger and Harmon think? If what Duncan said is not the position of APNU/AFC, the leaders must speak out. If what he said is not reflective of the posture of APNU/AFC, then what is Granger or Harmon prepared to do?

Clearly, the very least Duncan must do is apologise. Not doing so should mean his party must remove him from Parliament.

But, as day follows night, I am certain that Granger would be silent, and that Harmon would say it is none of our business. It is for this reason that I urge the Parliament to censure this MP.

The area where Thorne’s body was discovered (Photo by Seawalls and Beyond)

Dead: Vellone Thorne

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jogger, at about 06:30h, stumbled upon the partly decomposed body of 34-yearold Vellone Thorne, who plunged off the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB) on Sunday, at the Kingston Foreshore on Tuesday.

The jogger immediately reported the discovery to the Police.

Thorne, of Sussex Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, parked his motorcycle on the DHB and made the fatal plunge between 07:20 and 07:35h. The incident was witnessed by a passer-by.

Based on reports received, a passer-by who saw what transpired immediately reported the matter to the Special Constabulary ranks on duty at the eastern end of the bridge.

The matter was then reported to the Providence Police Station and upon investigating, ranks discovered a black CG motorcycle parked on the northern side of the bridge facing west with its engine on.

Checks were made on the pontoons under the bridge but there were no signs of the man. The Police marine boat was subsequently dispatched to comb the river but that too proved futile.

Mental illness

A family member who spoke with Guyana Times related that Thorne has been suffering from a mental illness for the past three years. They said ever since he was diagnosed, he made several attempts to end his life but was unsuccessful.

The most recent was sometime last year, when he attempted to jump over the said Harbour Bridge, but was rescued by passers-by. The family member related that Thorne has no children, and did not work due to his medical condition.

His body is currently at the Lyken Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination.

In 2011, mother of five Nalini DeAgrella of 26 Independence Street,

La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD), jumped off the DHB following Valentine’s Day dinner with her husband. Based on reports from then, the 40-year-old woman and her husband, Leroy DeAgrella, were heading home at around 01:00h when an argument ensued while crossing the bridge, resulting in the woman demanding that he stop the vehicle. After the vehicle was stopped, she took the fatal jump.

Leroy would jump after his wife in a bid to save her but was unsuccessful.

He was also admitted to the hospital. Nalini’s neighbours, back then, reported that she had suffered a mental breakdown prior to jumping over the DHB. Back in 2014, a woman jumped off the Demerara Harbour Bridge (DHB), plunging to her death. Her

body was pulled out of the river after an alarm was raised and placed into a boat under the bridge.

Then in January 2015, the body of another woman washed up in the vicinity of the Coast Guard Base at Ruimveldt after she had

jumped to her death from the Demerara Harbour Bridge. It was reported that the woman exited a bus on the western side of the bridge and walked to the spot where she mounted the rail and plunged overboard.

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Diamond market to become business hub along EBD corridor

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ocal Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel Dharamlall on Monday stated that the tarmac that was constructed at Diamond, East Bank Demerara (EBD) would become the new business hub where vendors plied their trade.

He was at the time addressing members of the community. “There is no proper market along the entire East Bank corridor and so this one at the Diamond tarmac is going to be a central area of business,” Minister Dharamlall said.

Prior to this initiative, in 2019, the previous Government signed a $57.1 million contract with Bardon Construction Service for the construction of the tarmac on the southern side of the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) compound.

After the People’s

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel Dharamlall with residents of Diamond

Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Government took office, it was announced that

the project would be executed in two phases.

It was announced that

phase one would see the placement of crusher run on the surface, and would include the construction of concrete drains, bridges, box culverts, waiting areas, toilet facilities, and the installation of lights and garbage bins.

Meanwhile, phase two will see the application of asphaltic concrete and possible extension of the tarmac access road to First Avenue, Diamond.

In addition, Minister Dharamlall said other major infrastructural works would be undertaken in the community to improve the lives of residents.

“There is a lot of development slated to come here, we have already begun the road from Ogle heading to Eccles, but you know that

the main bypass is from Ogle to Diamond so see this (visit) as the stepping stone for things to happen. We are going to do more infrastructural works in roads among others within Diamond in the near future,” he added.

The Local Government Minister further urged representatives of the Local Democratic Organs (LDOs) to work together to push community development.

Also, during the meeting, residents raised several concerns such as clogged drains, school dropouts, assistance for the elderly, a night school, and the clearing of the community ground.

After listening to their concerns, Minister Dharamlall promised that the issues would be addressed as soon as possible.

Vendors decry leaking roofs at Bourda Market – goods, other items damaged during ongoing rainy season – $32M spent under APNU/AFC Govt to fix

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Bourda Market

he height of the rainy season has brought on the perils of damaged goods for vendors of Bourda Market as a result of leaking roofs which they are subject-

ed to operate under.

This matter was first highlighted on Monday during a statutory meeting at the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, where

acting Town Clerk Sherry Jerrick related that several stallholders have been complaining.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 17

NEWS

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021 | GUYANATIMESGY.COM

Dharamlall calls out Reg 2 contractors for substandard work

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n his most recent visit to Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) Local Government and Regional Development Minister, Nigel Dharamlall warned of constant sub-standard work coming from contractors.

During the meeting with members of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Township and Local Democratic Organs (LDOs), he highlighted several developmental plans and as such, new stipulations must be followed by the contractors.

Minister Dharamlall stated that the RDCs are an extension of the Government and they actually sign the contracts to give contractors, adding that he hopes that the contractors and RDC can work together hand in hand.

“There are multiple com-

Local Government and Regional Development Minister Nigel Dharamlall

GPF severs ties with Lyken Funeral Home

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fter years of partnerships with the Lyken/ Newbury Funeral Home, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) ended it on Monday after it was revealed that the entity failed to comply with National Insurance Scheme (NIS) and Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) regulations.

For years, Lyken Funeral Home has been assisting the Police Force with collect-

ing, storing, and conducting post-mortem examinations on bodies that aided in the rank’s investigations.

On Tuesday, Head of the Communications Unit, Mark Ramotar confirmed that the Force will no longer solicit the services of the mortuary, adding that it failed to be in compliance with the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), and the Guyana Revenue Authority

(GRA).

The funeral home was also cited for not being in accordance with the Health Ministry’s guidelines.

Guyana Times was also informed that the Force is looking for suitable candidates, who will not only provide a good service, but also keep in accordance with the criteria of the Guyana Police Force, the Ministry of Health, NIS and GRA.

Vendors decry leaking...

The section of the market in question was under repair but she pointed out that the contractor is yet to fix these flaws.

“The stallholders are being affected…It is still leaking and the contractor seems not to be doing anything.

At the end of the day, when the damage occurs, then the Council has to bear that liability. I will engage the Ministry with the concerns of the Council, which are the concerns of the stallholders,” Jerrick noted.

This publication spoke with a vendor on Tuesday, highlighting that it is a serious concern for those persons operating under such conditions.

“So, is a situation where I put plastic to block out this water because if it reach my stocks, then you get a loss…

When it rains, the water used to come in but not so much.

But since the rainy season, the place like a strainer,” he told Guyana Times.

Apart from the fear of losses, the man noted that persons also have electrical concerns.

“We don’t want a situation where if it rains and we not here and something spark up, everything gone. In the day, people could get an electrical shock and all kinds of things…So, we already reach out to the clerk to see what the Council would be doing.”

The acting Town Clerk had also related to the meeting that in the past, one woman suffered significant losses due to flooding and had to be compensated by the contractor. However, this problem remains unfixed. It was indicated that the Local Government and Regional Development Ministry will be appraised of the issue.

Meanwhile, Mayor Ubraj

FROM PAGE 16

Narine outlined that engineer attached to the Council, Rasheed Kellman had already made checks on a previous occasion to look into the complaints.

“I had asked Mr Kellman to rectify this same thing you’re speaking of and it was report to us that everything was okay. See how it come back to us. That same very problem,” he stated.

Rehabilitation of the Bourda Market was part of a $300 million budget allocated by then Ministry of Communities under the APNU/AFC for the Georgetown Restoration Programme. It was reported that over $32 million was allotted for the replacement of the roof and other works at the market.

Under this programme, works were also conducted at the La Penitence, Kitty and East Ruimveldt markets.

plaints about the standards contractors operate with and moving forward things will change as everything will be monitored and accounted for.”

Infrastructural developmental plans will begin shortly and he urged both the contractors and RDC to

adhere to the deadlines outlined for each project and work as a team.

Dharamlall also emphasised that each contractor should be able to employ persons from the area so as to have a constant cash flow within communities.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

Regional

Faced with rare protests, Cuba curbs Haitians apprehensive social media access, watchdog says of foreign troops as Government seeks US help C uba has restricted access to social media and messaging platforms including Facebook and WhatsApp, global Internet monitoring firm NetBlocks said on Tuesday, amid widespread anti-Government protests.

Thousands of Cubans joined demonstrations throughout the Communist-run country on Sunday to protest a deep economic crisis that has seen shortages of basic goods and power outages.

They were also protesting the Government’s handling of the coronavirus pandemic and curbs on civil liberties.

The protests, rare in a country where public dissent is tightly restricted, largely died down by Sunday evening, as security forces were deployed to the streets and President Miguel Diaz-Canel called on Government supporters to go out and fight to defend their revolution.

Still, at least one other protest took place on Monday, in the southern Havana suburb of La Guinera. Hundreds took to the streets, according to two residents and video footage seen by Reuters.

“People kept joining,

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Police run during protests against and in support of the Government amid the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) outbreak, in Havana, Cuba, July 11, 2021

marching peacefully, shouting slogans like ‘Down with communism’, ‘freedom for the people of Cuba’, ‘we don’t have medicine, we need food’,” said resident Waldo Herrera, 49.

Herrera said the protesters started throwing stones at security forces, who eventually responded with gunfire.

One man died and several protesters and security officials were injured, State-run media reported on Tuesday. It did not say what caused the death.

Meanwhile, the US warned Cubans away from sea crossings. US Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security,

Alejandro Mayorkas on Monday told any migrants fleeing unrest in Cuba: “Let me be clear: If you take to the sea, you will not come to the United States.”

But Cuban migrants are largely flocking to the USMexico land border, not the US coast. And in a sharp break from his predecessor Donald Trump, President Joe Biden has been letting most in pending the outcome of their asylum applications, according to Government data.

Since Biden took office in late January, the number of Cubans arriving at the US-Mexico border has risen sharply.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

troubled past of foreign military intervention has made many Haitians anxious or hostile to calls requesting US or other foreign troops be sent to the Caribbean nation in the aftermath of last week’s assassination of President Jovenel Moïse.

Acting Prime Minister Claude Joseph has asked for troops from both the United States and the United Nations, which were reviewing the requests as the Caribbean nation spiralled deeper into turmoil following Moïse’s killing.

Joseph pitched the idea as a way to safeguard key infrastructure such as the capital’s airport and main sea port. However, the idea has met resistance from Opposition groups, as well as retired soldiers in the

country and ordinary citizens.

“We don’t want other countries to impose a Government on us,” said Jose Maslin, 55, who repairs televisions and radios for a living, standing beneath a highway overpass in the capital’s western Delmas neighbourhood.

On Tuesday, the Haitian Military Association, which represents retired officers, called on Haitian society to spare Haiti the “humiliation” of foreign intervention.

The Association sharply criticised what it described as the lack of “patriotic” planning by the acting Government, which it accused of opting “to rush into the ease of a request for intervention on national territory”, according to a state-

ment.

Another group, representing civil society, called for a “Haitian-led” solution to the country’s crisis.

Such views can be traced to a long history of foreign military footprints in Haiti, including a 1915 US occupation that lasted 20 years, and more recent UN and US troop deployments following political turmoil and natural disasters.

The White House on Monday said it had not ruled out the possibility of troops, although US officials have said the Pentagon sees no need to deploy. Washington sent a small group of fewer than a dozen personnel to shore up security at the US Embassy in Port-au-Prince after the attack. (Excerpt from Reuters)

US and UK condemn detention of Venezuelan Opposition politician

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he United States and the United Kingdom on Tuesday condemned the detention of Venezuelan Opposition politician Freddy Guevara, who faces charges of terrorism and treason following his arrest on a Caracas highway on Monday.

Guevara is a close ally of Opposition Leader Juan Guaidó, who is recognised as the South American country’s legitimate President by the United States and others.

Venezuela’s Chief Prosecutor’s office said on Monday it had sought an arrest warrant for Guevara due to his alleged “ties with extremist groups and paramilitaries associated with the Colombian Government”.

His detention came as Opposition Leaders, including Guevara, were seeking to hold negotiations with the Government of President Nicolás Maduro, who the United States and Europe accuse of running roughshod over basic democratic principles.

Lawmaker Freddy Guevara, who sought asylum in the Chilean diplomatic residence in Caracas, gestures during a public gathering after being pardoned by President Nicolás Maduro

“The United States strongly condemns the unjust detention of 2015 National Assembly representative Freddy Guevara and harassment of interim President Juan Guaidó in Venezuela,” State Department spokesman Ned Price told reporters.

Washington enacted a broad sanctions programme against Maduro’s Government in 2019 following his disputed 2018 re-election. Maduro and his allies

say the sanctions violate international law.

British authorities joined in denouncing Guevara’s arrest, while criticising the incursion of security forces into the building where Guaidó lives.

Maduro said on Monday he was in favour of talks between the Government and the Opposition to be held in Mexico with the intermediation of Norway. (Excerpt from Reuters)

124 Venezuelans deported from T&T on Sunday

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he Trinidad and Tobago and Venezuelan authorities deported 124 Venezuelans to their country on Sunday.

Vice Admiral Euclides Brito, commander of the 61 Integral Defence Zone in Delta Amacuro, Venezuela (Zodi), announced this on Monday through a Venezuelan radio station.

Brito was speaking with the Governor of Delta Amacuro Liseta Hernández when he said the group of 124 Venezuelans is travelling on a Venezuelan navy ship.

“We are waiting for our compatriots who come back

to Venezuela through the Plan Vuelta a la Patria (Return to the Homeland Plan). We await them with open arms,” ??he said.

The Twitter account of the Guiria Military Hospital said doctors travelled from there in the AB Margarita71 boat to deal with the deportees, whom they tested for COVID-19. They will all be sent into home quarantine when they arrive in Venezuela.

Of the 124 deportees, 44 were detained at the Immigration Detention Centre (IDC), Aripo, while another group was at the Heliport in Chaguaramas.

They were joined by humanitarian cases.

This is the first of two trips that will take Venezuelans home this week from TT. The next voyage will be a repatriation trip this weekend.

Officials from the Venezuelan Embassy in Port of Spain told Newsday last week they were completing the details of the repatriation of 700 Venezuelans on a ferry.

These 700 decided to go home voluntarily after being unemployed owing to restrictions against COVID-19, or because of illness. (Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

19

Around the World

OILNEWS OIL NEWS OPEC+ impasse means tight oil market now, volatility ahead, says IEA

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he oil market will see tighter supply for now amid a dispute inside OPEC+ about how to ease production curbs but it still faces the risk of a dash for market share if disagreement persists, the International Energy Agency (IEA) said on Tuesday.

The Paris-based agency said oil prices would be volatile until differences were resolved among members of OPEC+, which groups the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, Russia and other oil producers.

"The OPEC+ stalemate means that until a compromise can be reached, production quotas will remain at July's levels. In that case, oil markets will tighten significantly as demand rebounds from last year's COVID-induced plunge," an IEA report said.

OPEC+ has been slowly unwinding record output curbs agreed last year to cope with the pandemic. But a dispute over policy between Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates this month meant plans to pump more oil by the end of 2021 were put on hold.

If differences persist, analysts say the group could even abandon their pact, prompting them to open the taps in a race for market share, adding uncertainty to a market that has seen prices surge to 2-1/2 year highs and slide back again.

"The possibility of a market share battle, even if remote, is hanging over markets, as is the potential for high fuel prices to stoke inflation and damage a fragile economic recovery," the IEA said in its monthly report.

"Oil markets are likely to remain volatile until there is clarity on OPEC+ production policy. And volatility does not help ensure orderly and secure energy transitions – nor is it in the interest of either producers or consumers," the IEA said.

The IEA said in a report in May that investors should not fund new oil, gas or coal projects if the world wanted to reach net zero emissions by mid-century.

Rising coronavirus cases in some countries remained a key economic downside risk, the IEA said, although oil storage levels in most developed countries had fallen below historical averages and the current economic recovery meant this autumn was set to see the biggest draw on stocks in at least a decade.

It said refineries were working hard to meet demand pent up by lockdown restrictions as "drivers frustrated by confinement and travel restrictions take to the road en masse". (Excerpt from Reuters)

After a lull, India's monsoon splashes entire country, easing crop concerns

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ndia's monsoon has splashed back into life after a lull, covering the entire country including the capital New Delhi and lifting the threat of a slowdown in planting crucial summer crops such as rice, cane, corn, cotton and soybean.

The monsoon covered the entire country on Monday, including major grain and oilseed regions, five days later than usual, said the staterun India Meteorological Department (IMD).

After lashing the southernmost Kerala coast on June 3, the monsoon spread to two-thirds of India by the end of the first half of the month, nearly 15 days earlier than normal. As a result, rains were above average during the first three weeks

People cross inundated railway tracks next to a parked passenger train during heavy monsoon rains in Mumbai, India, June 9, 2021

of June, before the monsoon tapered off.

While overall monsoon rains were still above average in June, they turned below average in July, raising concern about delays

Lithuanian Parliament votes to allow mass detention of asylum seekers

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ithuania's Parliament on Tuesday approved the mass detention of migrants and curbed their right of appeal, a move meant to deter high numbers crossing the border with Belarus but which stirred an outcry among humanitarian groups.

Eighty-four lawmakers supported the bill, with one objection and 5 abstentions, brushing aside protests from Red Cross and other non-governmental organisations saying it violates Lithuania's international obligations and migrant rights.

Iraq hospital fire: Protests as COVID ward blaze kills at least 92

US ramps up warnings of business risks in China's Xinjiang region

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he US Government on Tuesday strengthened its warnings to businesses about the growing risks of having supply chain and investment links to China's Xinjiang region, citing forced labour and human rights abuses there.

"Given the severity and extent of these abuses, businesses and individuals that do not exit supply chains, ventures, and/or investments connected to Xinjiang could run a high risk of violating U.S. law," the State Department said in a statement.

Signalling broader US Government coordination on the issue, the Department of Labour and the US Trade Representative's Office joined in issuing the updated advisory, first released on July 1, 2020 under the Trump Administration by the State, Commerce, Homeland Security and Treasury departments.

The new advisory strengthens warning to US companies, noting they are at risk of violating US law if their

operations are linked even "indirectly" to the Chinese Government's "vast and growing surveillance network" in Xinjiang. The warning also applies to financial support from venture capital and private equity firms.

It also summarised previously announced actions taken by the Biden Administration to address alleged forced labour and rights abuses in Xinjiang, including a US Customs and Border Protection ban on some solar product imports, and sanctions on Xinjiang companies and entities.

The advisory said China's government continues "horrific abuses" in Xinjiang and elsewhere "targeting Uyghurs, ethnic Kazakhs, and ethnic Kyrgyz who are predominantly Muslim, and members of other ethnic and religious minority groups."

China denies abuses and says it has established vocational training centres in Xinjiang to address religious extremism. (Excerpt from Reuters)

in planting of crops in a sprawling country where two-thirds of its 1.3 billion people inhabit the countryside and farming sustains nearly half of the population.

The IMD defines average, or normal, rainfall as between 96 per cent and 104 per cent of a 50-year average of 88 cm for the entire season.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare, crop planting fell 10.43 per cent to 49.9 million hectares (123 million acres) as monsoon rains turned patchy.

India, one of the world's biggest producers and consumers of farm goods, relies on June-to-September rains for watering 50 per cent of its farmland that lacks irrigation. Any failure of the monsoon can force New Delhi to import agricultural produce, sending international prices higher.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Victims' family members come to see the charred remains of the hospital

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t least 92 people have died after a fire in a COVID isolation ward at a hospital in the Iraqi city of Nasiriya.

Much of Iraq's healthcare system is in poor condition after years of conflict and angry relatives of the victims have been protesting outside the facility.

Police say the fire at al-Hussein hospital started when sparks from faulty wiring spread to an oxygen tank, causing it to explode.

Arrest warrants have been issued against 13 people, local media report.

Privately owned news site Shafaq News reports that the list, issued by the Dhi Qar Integrity Investigation Court, includes the province's health chief Saddam Sahib alTaweel.

PM Mustafa al-Kadhimi earlier ordered the arrest of the head of the hospital, and said the fire was "a deep

wound in the conscience of all Iraqis".

Health officials say more than 100 people were injured in the blaze.

The new ward had space for 70 beds and was built just three months ago, medical officials told the Associated Press news agency.

It was the second hospital fire in Iraq in three months.

In April, a fire at a hospital in Baghdad killed more than 80 people.

After April's deadly fire in the capital, started by an oxygen tank, Health Minister Hassan al-Tamimi resigned.

The pandemic has severely strained Iraq's health service, already suffering after years of war, neglect and corruption.

Iraq has reported more than 17,000 deaths and recorded 1.4 million infections from coronavirus, according to Johns Hopkins University data. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Lithuanian and EU officials have accused Belarus of using illegal migrants as a political weapon to exert pressure on the European Union because of the bloc's sanctions on Minsk. More than 1700 people have entered Lithuania from its non-EU neighbour this year, including 1100 in July alone.

Prime Minister Ingrida Simonyte said the detention policy would prevent migrants from illegally travelling onwards to the more affluent west of the EU - the favoured destination of the vast majority of migrants reaching EU territory in recent years.

The legislation is intended "to send a message to Iraqis

and others that this is not a convenient route, conditions will not be good here", Interior Minister Agne Bilotaite said in introducing the bill.

She said such migrants are "not real asylum seekers" but rather Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko's "tool to use against Lithuania", after he vowed retaliation for EU sanctions imposed over his violent suppression of street protests.

The new law bans any release of migrants from detention for six months after their arrival, curbs the right of appeal for rejected asylum-seekers and stipulates that migrants can be deported while their appeals are considered.

(Excerpt from Reuters)

Scientists develop pain-free blood sugar test for diabetics

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ustralian scientists say they have developed pain-free blood sugar testing for diabetics, a non-invasive strip that checks glucose levels via saliva.

For diabetics, managing their blood sugar levels typically means pricking their fingers multiple times a day with a lancet and then placing a drop of blood on a testing strip. Understandably, some diabetes sufferers avoid the painful process by minimising their tests.

However, this latest test works by embedding an enzyme that detects glucose into a transistor that can then transmit the presence of glucose, according to Paul Dastoor, professor of physics at the University of Newcastle in Australia, who led the team that created it.

He said the tests create the prospect of pain-free, low-cost glucose testing which should lead to much better outcomes

for diabetes sufferers.

“Your saliva has glucose in it and that glucose concentration follows your blood glucose.

But it is a concentration about 100 times lower which means that we had to develop a test that is low cost, easy to manufacture, but that has sensitivity about 100 times higher than standard glucose blood test,” Dastoor told Al Jazeera.

“The materials that we work with are remarkable, they are electronic inks that can act as electronic material, but the difference is that we can print them at massive scale using a reel-to-reel printer, the same that you use to make newspapers,” Dastoor said.

The project secured A$6.3 million (US$4.7 million) in funding from the Australian Government to establish a facility to produce the test kits should clinical trials be passed. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

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WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

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ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS

DILBERT

(April 20May 20)

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CALVIN AND HOBBES

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SUDOKU

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Keep the peace, use discretion, and avoid unnecessary lifestyle changes. Work to get along with others, spend time with a loved one and take better care of yourself.

A change will give you a new lease on life. Refuse to let the pettiness of someone stand between you and your goals. Trust in your ability to think matters through and get things done.

Be careful how you handle emotional issues. A discussion will turn sour if you aren't careful when explaining your long-term plans.

Being disciplined and paying attention to detail will help.

Look for an unusual opportunity, and you'll find something that intrigues you.

Gather information and study all the ins and outs before you take a leap of faith. Preparation and persistence will pay off.

Embrace change. View life as an adventure, and turn any disappointment you encounter into a new beginning.

Let go of what you cannot change and head toward the brighter side of life.

It's up to you to make things happen. Don't wait for someone to beat you at your own game or challenge you.

Take a leadership position.

Strive to do your best for your own sake.

Do what needs to be done and keep moving forward.

Discussions will put you in an awkward position that requires you to make a premature decision. Stabilize your financial situation.

Use ingenuity to develop the best way to use your skills without taxing yourself physically. Don't let demanding people or an unexpected change cause you to miss out on something you want to pursue.

Someone is likely to SAGITTARIUS withhold information.

(Nov. 23Do your research, douDec. 21) ble-check essential details and question anything that sounds suspicious. Don't rely on others.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

YESTERDAY'S WORD -- LITIGATION

SOLUTION FOR LAST PUBLISHED PUZZLE

You'll be on the move and ready to take on the world.

New ideas will help you bring about changes that will improve your home life and emotional flexibility.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Put pressure on yourself to be and do your best. Set goals, get into a routine and aim to strengthen yourself physically. Don't let changes at home bog you down.

PISCES

You'll be mesmerized by the unusual. Discussions will encourage you to get involved in something that interests you. Your suggestions will bring about positive change.

(Feb. 20March 20)

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

21

FIFA, CONCACAF to act on death threats, racism made to T&T players

F

ootball's world governing body, FIFA, and the Confederation of North, Central America and the Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) are set to deal with issues of death threats, racism, and attempts to physically harm members of the T&T football team at the ongoing CONCACAF Gold Cup in the United States.

Angry Mexican fans hurled racial slurs and threw bottles at the T&T players during a Group A encounter between T&T and Mexico at the AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, USA on Saturday. This situation was further exacerbated by a clash between Mexican winger Hirving 'Chucky' Lozano, goalkeeper Marvin Phillip, and defender Alvin Jones at the end of the first half, which resulted in Lozano being rushed to the hospital with a suspected injury to the head.

The game ended in a goalless draw, as coach Angus Eve employed a counterattacking strategy that not only frustrated the tournament's defending champions, but prevented them from scoring.

Eve yesterday confirmed to Guardian Media Sports that because of death threats to him and his players - Phillip and Jones - there has been heightened Police presence

at the hotel where the team is currently based.

The T&T Football Association has since reacted to this development by writing to both FIFA and the CONCACAF, and has since received a promise that something would be done about it soon, the coach said.

Eve, a former national player, did not have this experience during his five years of playing for T&T at the Gold Cup, and, in reliving the horrifying experience, said they were outnumbered in terms of support at the stadium.

However, the Mexican fans became very angry when their team could not score, so they started chanting racial slurs, throwing bottles at the players on the touchline, and even shouting death threats.

"I must admit that I felt a bit bad for my players, and though there would normally be a Police presence at our hotel, there was a heightened presence because of the death threats," Eve explained.

Eve, in the post-match interview, said the match was stopped three times because of the crowd's behaviour. He noted: "At the third time, I felt the referee should have stopped the match and awarded it to us because we have to stamp out this type of

behaviour in the game."

To date, the T&TFA football page has been littered with threats and abuse from Mexican fans, with many also directed to Jones and Phillip.

Phillip has since apologised to Lozano, saying there was definitely no intention to cause harm, and later wished the Mexican player a speedy recovery.

On Sunday, Guardian Media Sports got a glimpse of some of the things that were said on the TTFA football page. Among the comments were: "Y'all some of the nastiest people I've ever seen play soccer. Y'all just go against Mexico to try and injure them.

We're starting a petition to lick y'all out of the Gold Cup. Y'all aren't worth it"; "y'all some hoes for what cha did

UEFA opens investigation into events of Euro 2020 final at Wembley

U

EFA has opened d i s c i p l i n a r y proceedings into security breaches at the Euro 2020 final at Wembley.

Fans fought with stewards and Police as they attempted to break through gates for Sunday's showcase event.

FA chief executive Mark Bullingham apologised to legitimate fans who were affected, and said the security team had "never seen anything like it".

England lost to Italy in the final following a penalty shootout after the match had ended 1-1 after extra-time.

The Football Association has been hit with four charges surrounding the behaviour of fans. They relate to disturbances caused during the national anthem, invasion of the pitch, the throwing of objects, and the lighting of a firework by fans.

The Uefa statement adds: "Separately, a Uefa ethics and disciplinary inspector has been appointed to conduct a disciplinary investigation into events involving supporters

which occurred inside and around the stadium.

"Information on this matter will be made available in due course."

Bullingham said on Monday the FA is to conduct a full review after a "large number of drunken yobs" tried to force their way into Wembley without tickets.

He said the FA would work with the Police to ban anyone who had forced their way in, and to prevent such an event from happening again.

Downing Street has

criticised those who stormed the stadium without tickets.

The Prime Minister's official spokesman said: "Those scenes were unacceptable, and we condemn violence, anti-social behaviour, and abuse in the strongest possible terms."

The FA was fined 30,000 euros (£26,600) for three incidents during England's Euro 2020 semi-final win over Denmark, including a laser pointer being shone at goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel's face. (BBC Sport)

to Chucky Lozano"; "You will pay for Chucky Lozano you monkeys".

On Monday, the President of the T&T Olympic Committee, Brian Lewis, said he was angry when he heard about it initially.

Lewis, who is also

Chairman of the Sport Integrity Global Alliance as well as the Gender Race-Inclusion and Diversity Standing Committee, said: "What I was told it was trolling, but obviously it was racist, outright racism, the term used, the 'N' word, monkeys.

“We can't hide from it, the fact that it is something that I have raised on more than one occasion, about the issue of racism in global sport.

In April the T&TOC joined a boycott of social media for a weekend in protest of racism, racial activities taking place on social media. So I was initially angry, because even though you're aware of it, when it happens in an open way, it is triggering."

Meanwhile, a news release from the TTFA on Monday

stated: "The Trinidad and Tobago Football Association strongly condemns the discriminatory actions, racist comments and threatening messages directed at our players, staff, supporters and country following the Senior Men's National Team 0-0 result versus Mexico on 10th July 2021. Discrimination and racism have no part in our game and our society.

“Official reports have been lodged with CONCACAF, and we are working with them to ensure that the safety and wellbeing of the team is maintained. These actions are rooted in division, so it is paramount that we unite to stamp them out. The Fight Back is Against Racism and Discrimination."

(TT Guardian)

Tokyo Governor vows city's medical system ready for Olympics

T

okyo Governor Yuriko Koike said on Tuesday that a sufficient number of hospitals combined with a speed-up in the COVID-19 vaccination rollout among the elderly meant the city would be able to hold "safe and secure" Olympics in 10 days.

But Koike, speaking to Reuters in an interview at the Tokyo Government headquarters that has, for the last few weeks, doubled as a vaccination site, also warned that the coronavirus pandemic is far from over, and the spreading Delta variant remains a risk.

"Very many people will be vaccinated in the coming 10 days and during the Olympics. The biggest change as a result of that will be a substantive fall in the ratio of deaths and severe cases among the elderly," Koike said.

"Because of that, and because the medical system is ready, I think we can press ahead with a safe Olympics," said Koike, who has returned to work after a brief break due to fatigue, during which she was admitted to hospital.

Japan's vaccination rollout got off to a slow start, and has faced supply glitches after speeding up. Only about 28% of the population has received at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine.

The Japanese capital entered its fourth state of emergency on Monday, causing bars and restaurants to close early, amid a rebound in COVID-19 cases that also pushed the Games’ organisers last week to ban spectators from nearly all venues.

Spectators from abroad were already banned months ago, and officials are now asking residents to watch the Games on TV, to

Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike

keep the movement of people to a minimum.

US First Lady Jill Biden will travel to Tokyo for the opening ceremony on July 23, the White House said in an announcement on Tuesday that did not include her husband, President Joe Biden.

"It's very sad that the Games are being held without spectators," said Koike. “It's clear we'll be able to lower the risks, but the spectators are also very important for the athletes, and give them a big boost. It's a big shame that we have to hold the Olympics without them."

Koike, 68, often floated as a potential prime minister, was re-elected governor in a landslide last year, winning public support for her straight-talking approach to the pandemic in contrast with a sluggish nationwide vaccination rollout.

The Citizens First party, linked to Koike, performed strongly in this month's local assembly elections, leading to speculation - so far rejected

by Koike - that she may make a comeback to national politics.

On Tuesday, she did not directly address questions on the matter.

International Olympic Committee (IOC) President Thomas Bach, who is in Japan ahead of the Games, will meet Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga on Wednesday, news agency Jiji reported.

Bach also plans to visit the city of Hiroshima on Friday, Hiroshima prefecture said in a statement. Hiroshima, in western Japan, was the first city to suffer an atomic bombing at the end of World War Two. Tokyo 2020 organisers also contacted Nagasaki prefecture earlier on Tuesday, to inform them that senior IOC official John Coates would be visiting Nagasaki on Friday, a prefecture official said.

Nagasaki, on the island of Kyushu, was the second and last city to suffer an atomic bombing.

Bach would also visit the cities of Fukushima and Sapporo, Japan's Kyodo News agency said.

The Games, postponed from last year because of the pandemic, run from July 23 to Aug. 8, while the state of emergency - the capital's fourth - lasts until Aug. 22, shortly before the Paralympics begin. (Reuters)

22

GUYANATIMESGY.COM

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

Chris Gayle 'grateful' to Kieron Pollard for pre-match pep talk

C

hris Gayle has thanked injured West Indies captain Kieron Pollard for a pre-match "pep talk" after he emerged from his lean run with a reminder of him at his best, scoring 67 off 38 balls to wrap up the series against Australia.

Gayle came into the match having made 102 runs in nine innings since his recall earlier in the year against Sri Lanka, and hadn't struck a T20I half-century since 2016. That all changed in a display that brought seven sixes, including three in a row off Adam Zampa, and during the innings he went past 14,000 T20 runs.

"It's a great journey," he said at the presentation. "I'm so happy and so pleased to get a series win, first of all.

I just want to commend the

stand-in captain Nicholas Pooran for winning a fantastic series against a great team. To Kieron Pollard, he played a big part as well, even though he played in none of these games. You all knew I was struggling with the bat, and to be able to get some runs today was very pleasing.

"I want to dedicate this half-century and milestone to West Indies, my team-mates, especially Kieron Pollard.

We had a team meeting before the game and…he let me know where I stand within this team, and he wanted me to go and express myself. So, I'm very grateful for that pep talk, because sometimes it doesn't matter how great you are, you need a bit of a talk sometimes.

"I have to commend those

senior guys. they played a fantastic part with what happened today. With this strength and unity, we're playing some great allround cricket, and I'm really pleased to win this series."

Gayle then went into full Universe Boss mode and spoke of his desire to help West Indies defend their T20 World Cup title in the UAE in October.

"My main focus is the World Cup," he said. "Don't mind the numbers, Chris Gayle not getting the runs, soon to be 42. You guys should be happy to see Chris Gayle on the field still, hopefully Chris will last as long as possible. Cherish those moments, commentators don't put up no stats about Chris Gayle not scoring a half-century. Just respect

the Universe Boss, let him play cricket and have some fun.

“Enjoy the moment with Chris Gayle, a strong West Indies team, and some good youngsters." (ESPNCricinfo)

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Chris Gayle - "Just respect the Universe Boss, let him play cricket and have some fun"

Stafanie Taylor tops again in MRF Tyres ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings …Dottin, Mohammed among West Indies players to advance in latest weekly update

Patrick Konrad wins stage 16 of Tour de France 2021

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Stafanie Taylor is now the No 1 Batter and All-rounder in Women's One Day Internationals

A

ustrian Patrick Konrad held on to clinch a thrilling solo victory on stage 16 of the Tour de France.

He attacked out of a breakaway on the Col de Portetd'Aspet, the penultimate climb of the hilly 169km stage.

It is the 29-year-old's first Tour stage and first professional win.

Tadej Pogacar retained the yellow jersey as the group of overall leaders crossed the line almost 14 minutes later with no significant changes at the top of the general classification.

The Slovenian had to stay alert for attacks from his rivals on the final climb, and then the sprint to the finish; but, otherwise, this was another relatively stress-free ride for the defending champion, as the race resumed following Monday's rest day.

Damp conditions on the treacherous descent of the Portet-d'Aspet were the main concern for the big hitters in the peloton, who seemed to be saving their legs for Wednesday's gruelling summit finish at the 2,215m Col du Portet.

It is going to be the hardest day in the Tour

"It was quite a hectic day," Pogacar said. "We started in super cold weather, then the fight for the breakaway was again really big in the first two hours, until it settled down.

"At the end, there were fireworks again. I don't know what happened at the end of

that final climb, I just followed the wheels, but it was good to open the legs for Wednesday. I'm not worried, but I think it is going to be a really hard day - the hardest day in the Tour."

Britain's Mark Cavendish finished more than 23 minutes behind Konrad, but was still well within the time limit for completing the stage.

Cavendish retains the green jersey as the leader of the points category, but saw his lead cut to 37 points by Australian Michael Matthews, who finished third.

Matthews was part of a nine-man chase group - that also included France's David Gaudu and Italy's Sonny Colbrelli - that was unable to reel in Konrad in the final few kilometres.

The Austrian mounted a solo attack more than 30km from the finish, and said: "I was already three times in the break, but always waiting until the final chance. It is not always a good decision to go early, but I gave it a try, and I am really happy that I had the legs to get to the finish.

"It is my first win on the world tour, and this is the biggest cycling race in the world, so I am really speechless. I am super, super happy." (BBC Sport)

Stage 16 results

1. Patrick Konrad (Aut/ BORA-hansgrohe) 4 hours 01 minute 59 seconds

2. Sonny Colbrelli (Ita/ Bahrain Victorious) +42secs 3. Michael Matthews (Aus/Team BikeExchange) Same time 4. Pierre-Luc Perichon (Fra/Cofidis) 5. Franck Bonnamour (Fra/B&B Hotels) 6. Alex Aranburu (Esp/ Astana) 7. Toms Skujins (Lat/ Trek) +45sec 8. Jan Bakelants (Bel/ Intermarche) Same time 9. David Gaudu (Fra/ Groupama) +47secs 10. Lorenzo Rota (Ita/ Intermarche) +1min 03secs

General classification after stage 16

1. Tadej Pogacar (Slo/ UAE Team Emirates) 66 hours 23 minutes 06 seconds 2. Rigoberto Uran (Col/ EF Education) +5 mins 18 secs 3. Jonas Vingegaard (Den/Jumbo) +5 mins 32 secs 4. Richard Carapaz (Ecu/ Ineos Grenadiers) +5 mins 33 secs 5. Ben O'Connor (Aus/ AG2R Citroen) +5 mins 58 secs 6. Wilco Kelderman (Ned/ Bora-Hansgrohe) +6 mins 16 secs 7. Alexey Lutsenko (Kaz/ Astana) +7 mins 01 sec 8. Enric Mas (Spa/ Movistar) +7 mins 11 secs 9. Guillaume Martin (Fra/Cofidis) +8 mins 02 secs 10. Pello Bilbao (Spa/ Bahrain-Victorious) +10 mins 59 secs

W

est Indies captain Stafanie Taylor has recaptured the number one position in batting as well as in the list of all-rounders in the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings, after a superb effort in the first ODI in Coolidge that helped the West Indies win by five wickets against Pakistan.

Taylor’s Player of the Match effort of three for 29 and an unbeaten 105 has helped her ascend all three lists. She has gained four positions, and displaced India captain Mithali Raj from the top of the batters’ list; has gained three places to reach 16th position among bowlers, and is up two places to first among all-rounders, replacing Ellyse Perry of Australia.

Taylor, who has been No.1 in all three lists in the past at different points in time, first attained number one position among batters in March 2012, and the last time she was at the top was in November 2014.

In the all-rounders’ rankings, she was last number one in July 2017.

The latest weekly update, which includes performances in the first two ODIs of the West Indies-Pakistan series, also sees all-rounder Deandra Dottin re-enter the rankings in 28th position among batters and

47th among all-rounders. Kyshona Knight is up seven places to 53rd among batters, while spinner Anisa Mohammed (up two places to 26th) and fast bowler Shamilia Connell (up four places to 39th) have moved up among bowlers.

For Pakistan, spinner Nida Dar has gained three places to reach 29th position, and pace bowler Diana Baig is up one place to 32nd.

Ayesha Zafar has re-entered the batting rankings in 83rd position after scores of 46 and four in the two matches, and opener Muneeba Ali is up 47 places to 88th, after scoring 36 and 37.

In the MRF Tyres ICC Women’s T20I Player Rankings, carried out after the first two matches of the ongoing England-India series, Natalie Sciver of England has progressed two places to ninth position among batters after a knock off 55 in the first match, while India all-rounder Deepti Sharma is up two places to 37th.

In the bowlers’ list, Poonam Yadav (up five places to seventh) and Shikha Pandey (up eight places to 27th) are the main gainers for India, while England’s Freya Davis has gained two slots and is now 64th.

(ICC Cricket)

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GUYANATIMESGY.COM

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Archibald sets sights on 100m final in Tokyo Olympics

“My goal is basically to make the finals, to take every round at a time.

Right now, I’ve been getting season bests and PRs (Personal Records) which is very good,” the athlete related.

He added, “This game Emanuel Archibald is big for me. As I said, in action it’s the second competition I’m going to this year, the first one I’ve medaled. So, getting a medal at this one would mean everym a n u e l thing to me and Archibald will repthe country as resent Guyana in well.” one of the most anWith his deticipated events at the parture set for Olympic Games - the 100m July 21st alongsprint. side Coach Julian The 26-year-old, who had his heart set on com- Edmonds, Archibald will peting the Long-jump complete the remainder of event, booked his tick- his training on home soil. et to Tokyo through a The athlete shared a bit of Universality spot from what he would work on for the next two weeks.

World Athletics.

“Basically, I’ve been While a medal would working from scratch. be the cherry on top, Like we’re starting back Archibald has an attainfrom the beginning and able goal in mind.

E

come back up in preparation. This is my last week doing that, and then next week we’re going into full preparation, which is full speed work throughout the entire week. And a lot of rest,” Sharing a bit about his journey in track and field, Archibald, who hails from Linden, noted that in the beginning it was just ‘for fun’. However, he is now committed to making his peers and country proud.

“I’ve been doing it for fun, and 2018 was the year I realised I can compete with the rest of the world; and after then, I’ve been serious throughout.

Making the 100m team was a surprise to me, because I always know I’m a better long jumper,” he reflected.

“So, making the hundred was a big surprise.

This is the first time I’m getting to focus on one event going into competition, and should be my

best at it.”

The track and field athlete further stated, “Over the past 5 years, the GOA and the Athletics Association have made sure I went to every Games. So, I would say I’m the lucky athlete, cause since I’ve started track and field, I’ve made every

Games except the World Championships in 2017.

“This year I got my first medal, and I plan to continue doing this, getting more medals and making the country proud.”

On the topic of being the face of Malta Carib in Guyana, the athlete has nothing but gratitude for

distributors Ansa McAl. “With Malta Carib sponsoring me, it’s been a big thing. I’ve always wanted to be sponsored.

Getting the contract from Ansa McAl, and Kelvin supporting me and management through this has been great,” Archibald expressed.

Narine, Vantull, Choweenaam lead USA Dream XI to World Series T20 Blast

Romash Munna donates to “Cricket Gear for Young and Promising Cricketers in Guyana” project

R

omash Munna, a former Berbice Cricket Board Executive, recently donated two cricket gear bags and one right-hand batting glove to the “Cricket Gear for Young and Promising Cricketers in Guyana” project.

This initiative is a joint effort of Kishan Das of the USA and Anil Beharry. Their aim is to provide cricket gear free of cost to young and talented cricketers in Guyana.

The project is seeking new and used cricket gear which would then be distributed to promising cricketers across the length and breadth of Guyana.

Munna has been an outstanding First Division cricketer for the Rose Hall Community Centre, and also played for Young Warriors Cricket Club in the latter part of his career. He narrowly missed out on selection on Berbice teams, junior and senior, on several occasions. He now resides in Georgia, USA but continues to make meaningful contributions towards the development of cricket in Guyana.

In a simple ceremony, Munna handed the gear over to his former longtime team mate Vishal Mahabir, said he was delighted to be part of this initiative, and promised to continue contributing, when possible.

Speaking on behalf of the project’s coordinators, Mahabir thanked Munna for the items.

Total cricket-related items collected so far: cash for first

Skipper Derick Narine right, collecting the winning cheque and trophy from Malik Irfan

S

Romash Munna (left) and Vishal Mahabir

aid kit, two cricket boots, twelve pairs of batting pads, eleven bats, nine pairs of batting gloves and four cricket bags.

Fifteen young players from Essequibo Coast and Pomeroon have already benefited from the receipt of five bats, six pairs of batting pads and four pairs of batting gloves. Two clubs in the Pomeroon have also benefited from two used bats.

Talent spotting will be done across Guyana, along with guidance from club leaders to identify the players.

Players must be in school and be disciplined. Players above

school age would also be considered.

Das and Beharry would like to thank Imran and Javed Khan of West Indian Sports Complex; Option Group; Bish Panday of P and P Insurance Brokers; Sean Devers; Travis Simon; Hilbert Foster of RHTY≻ Ariel Tilku; Aaron Beharry; Devon Ramnauth; Sherman Austin; Teddy Singh; Leana Bachan and Imran Saccoor, Romash Munna and Vishal Mahabir.

Anyone interested in contributing is invited to contact Anil Beharry on 623- 6875 or Kishan Das on 1-718-6640896.

kipper Derick Narine and his USA Dream Xl were able to win the World Series T20 Blast Tournament championship over the Independence Weekend, July 4th and 5th.

The tournament, interchangeably referred to as the Eight-Nation Tournament or the World Series T20 Blast, saw representative teams from Bangladesh, India, Guyana, Pakistan, USA, Combined Islands (WI), Jamaica, and a Rest of the World XI participating.

The tournament was a scheduled three-day affair, but due to inclement weather on Saturday, no play was possible. The administrators decided on a shorter format, but with one day lost, the preliminary rounds were T10 affairs and the playoffs a T15 match-up. The organisers managed to have all the games played over the allotted two-day period.

The games were played at Idlewild Park and Baisley Pond Park in Queens, New York. The thousands of fans who watched the games during the two days thoroughly enjoyed the shortened versions of the game.

Many of them openly expressed their delight and enthusiasm for the T10 format. It was nonstop action: bowling, fielding, batting, and manoeuvring players to gain play advantages.

The teams coming up short hung their heads.

Guyana were devastated at not being able to make

Dino Choweenam played a handy 37

the finals. They had played winning cricket in the preliminary rounds, winning all three games by convincingly chasing down the required totals, while losing only three wickets. They chased and overcame totals in the 130s in 10 overs with balls to spare. However, in the finals, they appeared to be a completely different team. Many felt that they lost their semi-final game due to a lack of planning.

They needed 129 runs to win.

In the semi-finals, India played Jamaica, while Guyana squared off against USA Dream XI. The semi-finals were in the T15 format. India narrowly defeated Jamaica to qualify for a spot in the final. In the other semi-final game, Guyana was given a shock by the USA Dream XI. It was felt that they outsmarted themselves. They went about chasing a gettable total set by their opponents without a proper plan. USA Dream XI scored 128 runs. Skipper Derick Narine contributed a boundary and a max-

Christopher Vantull scored 69

imum-studded 60 runs.

Guyana started their run chase as if they had only ten overs instead of 15 overs to get the required runs for victory. Numerous batters lost their wicket playing injudicious shots.

They appeared to be in a hurry to get the required runs. On paper, they had a formidable batting line-up.

However, they were unprepared and unable to cope with the spin of Masud Haque, 5 for 14, his second fiver of the day.

Guyana fell short by 18 runs.

In the finals, USA Dream XI steamrolled Team India.

The USA Dream Xl scored 168 runs. Christopher Van Tull made 69, supported by Dino Choweenam with 37.

India appeared unlucky in the run chase, and fell for a mere 97 runs. A one-sided affair. It was a convincing win by USA Dream XI. Throughout the tournament, Skipper Derick Narine was a stand-out for his team in handling his troops and his batting.

His only failure was in the final, where he was dismissed without scoring.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 14, 2021

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

Pg 23

Pg 22

Stafanie Taylor tops again in MRF Tyres ICC Women’s ODI Player Rankings …Dottin, Mohammed among West Indies players to advance in latest weekly update

Pg 23

Romash Munna donates to “Cricket Gear for Young and Promising Cricketers in Guyana” project

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