Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 09-11-2020 by Guyana Chronicle

MONDAY 9th November, 2020

' No.106178

Lethem’s power capacity to triple with new energy projects SEE PAGE 03

–– revised energy mix to save Guyana millions of dollars

Sachi’s building ravaged by fire again By Navendra Seoraj FOR the second time, in less than a year, the Sachi’s building on Regent Street, Georgetown, has been ravaged by fire, leaving several businessmen, who were renting parts of the building, counting millions of dollars in losses. The fire reportedly started in an empty lot at the side of the building on Sunday night, where someone had set a pile of rubbish on fire. TURN TO PAGE

Schools are ready to reopen today

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President Ali congratulates Biden

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–– looks foward to further strengthening of Guyana/ US relations

Sanitation worker falls to death from ‘COVID-19 hospital’ 09 PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Schools are ready – Minister Manickchand

By Tamica Garnett

MANY schools will be operating with the customary 09:00hrs – 15:00hrs from Monday to Friday as all public secondary schools reopen today. However, some schools will be rotating their students, while some will be using a combination of in-class and online teaching. After almost eight months of being closed to curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus, schools will, once again, officially open their doors to teaching, when the Grades 10, 11 and 12 students begin returning to school from Monday. Over the past few weeks, the Ministry of Education (MoE) has been doing coun-

trywide preparations of schools, cleaning the environs and, where necessary, erecting additional handwashing sinks. Each teacher and student returning to the schools, will be also be receiving COVID-19 “care packages” being distributed by the Ministry, which include face masks, hand sanitisers and vitamin C supplement. Most of the schools have already received their packages. “For the most part schools are ready. I think regions have put in place what we asked them to put in place for the most part. Where a particular thing wasn’t done in limited circumstances, alternative arrangements were made. Short term remedies exist,” Minister of Education, Priya

Manickchand explained. Manickchand noted that

when they turned on Regent Street, they observed large flames. “We moved to a second alarm and two units form central were dispatched. When they got there the fire had already penetrated the building and the two upper floors were well alight, so we went to

school will be utilising a blended method that will still involve some online aspects, given that the school has been carrying out fruitful online engagements with its students over the past few months. “We have to pay particular attention to the COVID-19 protocol and want to avoid overcrowding in any class. We have been working online and so our students will continue to use the blended instructional approach,” Ralph said. The school has some 95 students in Grade 11, and 95 students in the Upper Six, while some 72 students are expected for the Lower Six.

to look into any issues that

may arise, particularly with addressing or correcting any false information that may be circulating on social media. At Queen’s College, the country’s premiere secondary school, Principal, Jackie Ralph, said that all systems were ‘a go’ for the students to return, including the finalisation of the timetable and scheduling of how often students will have to be at school. “Queen’s College has worked out a shift system for students. We are going to ensure our fifth, lower six and upper six have access to complete their SBAs and IA, and the students will be accommodated on different days, at different times,” Ralph explained. Ralph noted that the

they were able to clear the debris and gain access to what Gentle described as “excellent water support.” Three water hydrants and the canals between South Road and Croal Street were used to access water in order to extinguish the fire. Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, who was also at the scene, commended the firefighters for their efforts to

contain the fire. The team from the fire service managed to contain the fire to Sachi’s building and stop it from spreading to the neighbouring Doray’s building. “Unfortunately we lost this building (Sachi’s), but the Doray’s building has been saved, there may be some water damage to the windows because the fire was accessing

the building, but I am satisfied with the great effort by the fire service and the police,” said Benn in an invited comment. The Guyana Police Force (GPF) worked collaboratively with the fire service to ensure that civilians were kept away from the scene, which is about 150 feet east of the GUYOIL fuel station.

Several schools have been fitted with additional hand-washing sinks as part of the safety measures put in place to help curb the spread of the COVID-19 virus (Elvin Croker photo)

she has been actively cor-

Sachi’s building ravaged ... Fire Chief, Marlon Gentle, who was at the scene, told reporters that the Guyana Fire Service was alerted about a fire in the area around 20:32hrs, on Sunday. “We received a report of a pile of rubbish burning next to the old Sachi’s building, so the unit was dispatched and

responding with Regional Education Officers (REdOs)

FROM PAGE

third alarm and the units from West and Campbellville were summoned and we went into very aggressive firefighting action, to prevent the fire from spreading,” said Gentle. Firefighters were confronted with winds and they also encountered difficulties with one of the hydrants, but

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Lethem’s power capacity to triple with new energy projects

–– revised energy mix to save Guyana millions of dollars By Navendra Seoraj PRIMARY production has been the hallmark of the local economy, mainly because secondary production- manufacturing- has been constrained by the absence of reliable and cheap energy, something which the new government is looking to address, incrementally, through its revised energy mix, which includes tripling the power in Lethem, Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). Energy and electricity, particularly from a renewable source, are undoubtedly critical elements to the growth of an economy and the welfare of people, as they catalyse advancement on all fronts. The government, after reviewing the nation’s energy mix, has crafted a strategy which would move Guyana towards energy efficiency, said Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo, during a press briefing at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, last Friday. “We have had a serious review of almost all of the small systems that we have had. In the last couple of weeks, we have approved contracts to do hydropower at Kumu [Lethem]…we had to look back at what was planned, so we would get 1.5 megawatts from that and we have to rehabilitate Moco Moco which would be another .7 megawatt. So that is 2.2 megawatts and just last week we approved a one megawatt solar farm…,” said Jagdeo. The aggregate supply of 2.2 megawatts plus the one megawatt produced by the solar farm would give Lethem three times its current capacity. The town’s peak demand is about 1.1 megawatt of power. “We would have almost triple the capacity and this is all coming from renewable energy, which would allow a massive growth in industrial estates and industrial plants for that area, and also residential purposes,” said Vice-President Jagdeo. Sitting at the southern end of Guyana, Lethem borders Brazil, which is a known economic powerhouse in

South America. The availability of reliable and cheap electricity would, therefore, inevitably draw consumers and developers to Lethem. “If the entire Lethem is running on renewable energy, money is saved; there would be a budgetary balance of payments impact, welfare impact and a business impact,” Jagdeo reasoned. Given the immense benefits which could stem from reliable and cheap electricity, the Vice-President said the provision of such remains a top priority for the government. The shift to renewable energy is not unique to Guyana, as the Bloomberg Green would have reported that the world financed $282 billion of renewable capacity in

A historical analysis, cited by Bloomberg Green, shows that renewable energy drew more than $2.6 trillion

the equivalent in coal or gas plants in two-thirds of the world. Guyana’s current energy

Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo

An aerial view of Lethem

2019. According to the report, onshore and offshore wind power led the way with $138 billion followed by solar with $131 billion.

in investments from 2010 to 2019. It was said that building new wind or solar capacity now costs less than adding

policy seeks to ensure that stable, reliable and affordable energy is provided to all persons in Guyana within an economically, environmen-

tally and socially sustainable framework. In the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), Guyana has committed to develop a mix of wind, solar, biomass and hydropower to supply both the demand of the national grid and the energy requirements for towns and villages in Guyana’s hinterland. Notably, with adequate and timely investors, an ambitious target of achieving close to 100 per cent renewable energy in the power sector by 2025 has been set. Speaking about this, Vice-President Jagdeo said: “On renewable energy, we plan to restart in this area. A lot of commitments were made by APNU; they pledged in the Paris Agreement that there would be 100 per cent renewable by 2025 with no project to deliver on that promise.” Already, in addition to the plans for Lethem, the government has approved a project for the construction of a 1.5 megawatt solar farm at Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni). The government is also moving to install a .5 megawatt solar-powered system in Wakenaam and funding is being sought to establish a similar system in Leguan. The Vice-President also said that funds are being sourced for the establishment of solar units at Mahdia, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). “These are small units that would help, significantly, to bring down the cost of supply because they would be running during the day. So we would still need fossil fuels in the evening, but it (solar) would extend power during the day until we put in the units with batteries to store power,” Jagdeo explained. He said the government’s vision for isolated communities is clear, so it now boils down to the implementation of these projects, which have already started in some areas. “APNU has never clearly defined an energy mix for the country and there was never a great deal of clarity on where they want to go…we have had to do all of this in a short period because that is

what is required. We have to hit the ground running now,” said Vice-President Jagdeo. AMAILA HYDRO On a larger scale, he said, the government has already resumed talks on the Amaila Falls Hydro project. The Amaila Falls Hydro project was initially designed as a 165-megawatt facility. “We are reviewing documents to chart a pathway to hydropower development. This is crucial given the abundant water resources…it has to be an important part in the energy mix,” said Jagdeo. The Guyana Chronicle had reported that the project is expected to cost just under US$1 billion and will be able to generate 165 megawatts of stable and reliable electricity for 11 solid months of the year, with the additional month during the dry season being used for scheduled maintenance. The last time this newspaper checked, the project is still bankable, meaning that the financiers are still open to the idea of funding the project and all the technical studies are still relevant. Therefore, the restart timeline is expected to be much shorter than it was before 2015. The Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Incorporated currently sells electricity to the nation at about US$0.33 per kWh and this is expected to be reduced by 25 per cent within the first year of the operations of the Amaila Falls project, and by 50 per cent within five years; and by the end of 20 years by as much as 80 per cent. The benefits which would accrue to the country from this project alone are immense, but Jagdeo said Guyana would save millions of dollars more, through the entire revised energy mix. Guyana would be able to retain money and increase internal flow (improved Balance of Payments), said the Vice-President, adding that there would be more disposable income in the private sector and in the pockets of the average Guyanese.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

President Ali keen on working with US President-elect –– First Lady hails milestone achievement of VP-elect

PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali extended his congratulations to United States President-elect, Joe Biden, highlighting that Guyana is upbeat about consolidating and strengthening bilateral ties with the country. In a press statement, President Ali said, “On behalf of the Government and the people of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana, and on my own behalf, I extend to you our warmest congratulations on your election as the 46th President of the United States of America.”

Joseph Robinette Biden Jr. is an American Democrat politician and President-elect of the United States. He is set to be inaugurated as the 46th President of the 244-year-old country, after two previous unsuccessful bids for the office. He will be joined by Vice President-elect, Kamala Devi Harris, who made history as America’s first female, first black, and first South Asian vice president-elect. She too has a long and distinguished career as a politician. Guyana and the USA established formal diplomatic

ties on August 15, 1966. The long relationship between the two countries has yielded bilateral cooperation in several areas, including economic development, education, entrepreneurship, justice-improvement, and defence and security cooperation. The 2020 electoral process of both countries took place while the novel coronavirus, COVID-19 has affected countries worldwide. And since, the world has been

President Irfaan Ali

Vice President-elect Kamala Harris held hands with President-elect Joe Biden and her husband, Doug Emhoff, as they celebrated Saturday, Nov. 7, 2020, in Wilmington, Delaware (Andrew Harnik, Associated Press)

Monday November 09, 2020 –– 11:00

plunged into a global pandemic. Mitigating the ramifications of the COVID-19 pandemic is seen as a priority for many countries. “I look forward to working closely with you to confront critical strategic matters of interest to the international community including the COVID-19 pandemic,” Pres-

ident Ali emphasised. “Further, Guyana looks forward to consolidating and strengthening our bilateral ties with the United States of America in the ensuing years.” The President-elect, in his victory speech in Delaware, on Saturday night, said that he would announce a COVID-19 task force on Monday. He indicated that controlling the pandemic was his first priority. Beyond that, he indicated that national unity will be a priority of his. “As you prepare to assume the presidency, please accept my best wishes for a successful term in office and for your continued good health and well-being,” President Ali said. First Lady, Arya Ali, also extended her warmest congratulations to the President-elect and Vice President-elect of the United States. The First Lady gave special kudos to the Vice President-elect and acknowledged that her achievement, particularly as a daughter of the Caribbean region, is all the more impactful. She said, “VP Harris represents a generation of women who are not just offering hope and inspiration to girls and women around the world, but are breaking barriers and shattering glass ceilings.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Guyana’s fourth oil lift pushed to mid-December –– as ExxonMobil reduces production to ‘contain’ flaring of gas EXXONMOBIL, in a bid to limit gas flaring offshore Guyana, has reduced production at its Liza Phase One development, shifting Guyana’s fourth oil lift to mid-December. The country was anticipating its fourth lift later this month, but the decision taken by ExxonMobil will see Guyana receiving its ‘cut’ a few weeks late, said Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat, in an invited comment on Sunday. Guyana, new to the oiland-gas sector, sold its first one million barrels of crude on February 19, 2020, raking in nearly US$55 million. In its second million-barrel sale, the country received US$35 million and US$46 million as proceeds from the sale of its third million-barrel of crude. Along with these deposits and the US$4.9 million in royalties received from first-quarter gross production and interest, Guyana has over US$140 million in its Natural Resources Fund (NRF). The country had agreed to sell its first three cargoes to a trading arm of Shell on a dated ‘Brent’ basis. The oil market

The Liza Destiny FPSO

is volatile, but Brent price was listed as US$39.49 per barrel of oil on Sunday. The country is entitled to five crude cargoes for this year, as part of its profit share with ExxonMobil and its Joint-Venture (JV) partners. This means that with Shell having received its three cargoes, the country can market its crude to another company or location. A special evaluation team of local and foreign experts, appointed by the government, are examining tenders to ensure that Guyana has

the best-suited company to market the country’s oil. Even though a company is anticipated soon, the country, as mentioned, would have to wait a few extra weeks to receive its lift. It was reported that ExxonMobil had taken a decision to limit oil production after encountering challenges with the gas handling system on the Liza Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) earlier this year. This had resulted in production hovering below the peak 120,000 barrels

Two new COVID-19 deaths take toll to 136 –– 30 new cases recorded TWO more elderly Guyanese have lost their lives to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) while 30 new cases took the total number of positive cases past the 4,500 mark, according to the Ministry of Health. The deaths have been recorded of a 77-year-old man, identified as Theodore Pulmegar and Lyra Fyfer, a 77-year-old woman. The Guyana Chronicle understands that the man hails from Linden; he died on Sunday – one day after being admitted in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of the Georgetown Public Hospital. The Guyana Chronicle has been reliably informed that both patients had several underlying medical conditions. These recent deaths take Guyana’s COVID-19 death toll to 136 and the tenth, so far, for this month. Meanwhile, the 30 new cases were distributed in Region One (five cases), Region Three (one case), Region Four (15 cases), Region Seven (four cases), Region Eight (four cases), and Region Ten (one case). Of the total 4,514 cases,

3,526 persons have recovered. This means that approximately 78 per cent of the cases have recovered thus far. Since March, 22,092 tests have been conducted across the 10 regions of Guyana. There are 11 persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 49 persons in institutional quarantine, 63 persons in institutional isolation and 778 in home isolation. The updated COVID–19 Emergency Measures (No. Eight) will expire on November 30, 2020, unless earlier terminated, extended or

amended by notice of the Minister of Health, after an assessment of the prevailing public health conditions of the pandemic. As per these measures, all persons are required to wear face masks when leaving their homes. Physical distancing and adequate sanitisation are also important. The curfew is now 22:30 hours to 04:00 hours. Persons with symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to call the COVID-19 hotline numbers: 231-1166; 226-7480; or 180/181 for assistance.

per day mark for several months. “They could not push up production because it would be dangerous, so they did not achieve maximum production,” said Minister Bharrat. The minister, in a past report, had said once everything is settled, the country should close the year with at least US$200 million in its NRF. Vice-President, Bharrat Jagdeo had said no money from the fund will be used until Government amends or repeals the existing NRF Act.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Tajeram Mohabir

BIG A FOR THE ‘A’ TEAM THE three-month-old President Irfaan Ali-led administration is being lauded countrywide for its hands-on, people-friendly and aggressive advancement in social development. The poverty-alleviation projects, preluding a poverty elimination targeted for within a five-year duration, is gaining traction and trust within the national psyche, with rare exceptions. In 1992 Dr. Cheddi Jagan began, and successive administrations led by the party he founded, along with its partners in civil society – PPP/C, governing with adherence to the credo: “Development with a human face.” At a press conference last Friday Vice-President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo observed that while PPP/C administrations govern with a people-friendly approach, the community outreaches of the former PNC-led coalition government functionaries, with huge entourages travelling and being accommodated

at taxpayers’ expense, were mere public relations stunts with no significant benefits accruing to the people. Dr. Jagdeo averred that when the first 100 days’ performance is assessed, consideration should be given to the fact that, because of lack of funding, only routine government functions such as drug procurement and payment of pensions and salaries were possible. A fully functional government only came into effect when the Appropriation Bill was passed, which was approximately 40 days ago. Despite the constraints and challenges, the Vice-President gave the assurance that many changes in government have been, and continue to be made to ensure that the administrative machinery continues to function at higher efficiency, expeditiously, and with more care in service-provision. He iterated that, although developmental projects and programmes are being planned and devised, these are routine and not

apparently visible to the general public; but he assured that these engagements are continuing in a major way through the entire governmental construct, leading to ministers and government functionaries making changes in the way government interacts with people. He noted the real paradigm shift in people interaction and representation by ministers and other functionaries of the Ali-led Government, and referenced the style of management, which he described as aloof, of the PNC-led coalition government. The results are tangible and the people are greatly appreciative, as evidenced by remarks made by leaders in the private sector and members of the public “I think the President has done very well on his first 100 days in office; what they have set out in their Manifesto they have started to work on and I am happy with how they went about trying to improve things,” said Nicholas

Harmon wants to meet Biden and Kamala ON behalf of A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition and the people of Guyana, I am honoured to congratulate you on being elected the 46th President of the United States of America. Kindly also accept congratulations on the election of Senator Kamala Harris as your Vice-President. Her election is indeed historic as the first woman and first person of colour to be elected to the Vice Presidency. As you are aware, the United States is home to the largest Guyanese Diaspora who make up hundreds of thousands of our

brethren and sistren. Consequently, it is no surprise that the people of Guyana, both here and in the United States, rejoice at the welcome news of your election to the White House. Our nation looks forward to engaging with you, Vice President-elect Harris and your Cabinet in strengthening bilateral relations and building a stronger and more unified CARICOM and Caribbean basin. The APNU+AFC Coalition also looks forward to briefing you and Vice President-elect Harris on the political situation in Guyana. We commit to working with

you to rebuild trust between our peoples, strengthening goodwill and re-establishing constitutional democracy and social cohesion in Guyana after a recent period of political and social turmoil and distress. I wish you a successful term in the White House as you embark on serving the people of the United States, providing hemispheric and global leadership and the unenviable task of restoring the United States’ status and reputation, globally. Yours sincerely, Joseph Harmon Leader of the Opposition

Boyer Deygoo, Chairman, Private Sector Commission (PSC) Ramesh Persaud, Chief Executive Officer, Institute for Private Enterprise Development, also added his voice, saying thusly: “I believe that the government has started off very well. We are happy about the progress made in achieving the promises they made. We are very happy about the measures that came out in the Emergency Budget and we are happy to see the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector. We are happy to see the social measures that were given to increase the spending power of the individuals by thinking about the $25,000.00 cash grant, the restoration of the school grants and so forth; and the various tax measures and the reversal of fees. We believe that many of these things would be beneficial to everyone.” Dr. Grayson Halley, Veterinarian and CEO, GLDA also chipped in.

“We have a three-month budget and with capital items alone, we saw $58,5M going into capital start for the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA). That is significant. We are on the right track and the PPP/C Government is certainly doing the right thing and making the right moves. I would say to this government, don’t stop at all because the people are feeling the changes. Their lives are being transformed. We are breathing a sigh of relief and it has just been a couple of months. We know there are challenges, things that we need to solve, but they are trying very aggressively to bring about that change. You can see it. Never before have we seen, in such a short period of time, so much progress. That is what we need: a government that is caring enough to be on the ground, listening to the people, doing what the people need, and still take the macroeconomic things in hand. I am looking forward to betterment,” he said.

These are just a few of the many positive voices. “Well, let me say that the previous government didn’t do much, but I think this government has done a lot since it came into office. I welcome the increase in the Old Age Pension and I already have plans for it. I want to see a little bit more of Guyana, so I am going to use it to do that. It would be so nice, not just for me, but for all the pensioners who are going to benefit. The COVID-19 cash grant is also great. It is wonderful,” said Lily Beharry, a pensioner, who has witnessed a positive change in life over the past three months. Guyanese are recognising that they can hope and once again dream of “the good life” because of the visionary and caring leadership of the Irfaan Ali-led administration.

Harmon Congratulations to the hunting for helmsman of the U.S. attention Dear editor,

CAN you say if it is true that Harmon has sent a letter of congratulation to President- elect Joe Biden? That would indeed be strange, if true, since I cannot recall that either him or Granger has done the same to President Irfaan Ali. Charity certainly doesn’t begin at home for these losers. Yours sincerely, Harry N Nawbatt

THE news of your victory brought us much joy and relief and on behalf of the majority of Guyanese at home and abroad, I offer you congratulations and best wishes for a successful tenure in office. We are delighted that you are now the helmsman of the United States of America. We are ecstatic that the citizens of the U.S. have put the Democratic Party to manage the affairs of state. Under your astute leadership, we can look forward to the U.S. being regarded not only because of its military might, but that the policies you have adumbrated will bring also lustre and love to your great nation. Your victory also promis-

es to set aside the ugly spectre of fragmentation and polarisation on the horizon, which was observable in recent times. Your perspicacity and vision for a nice and caring world is now an expectation of the majority of Americans and world citizens. Under your leadership, we are confident that you will make our world safer by solid and sane decision-making. May God bless you, your family and the Vice-President and her family with good health and long life, and may God bless America to give leadership in a world characterised by compassion. Yours sincerely, Jibadeh Richards

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Schools are ready...

FROM PAGE

At the West Demerara Secondary School, Head teacher, Harrinarine, said he was expecting a smooth flow of things today, for the return of the approximately 220 students that make up the Grades 10 and 11 at that school. He said there was enough space for the students and although the school usually has four Grade 11 classes, there will be no more than 15

students per class. At Ann’s Grove Secondary on the East Coast of Demerara, there will be a daily rotation of the Fifth and Fourth Form students; the Fifth Form students will go to school in the morning hours and those in the Fourth Form in the afternoon. The teachers will only go to school during periods they are scheduled to teach. At Port Kaituma Sec-

ondary in Region One (Barima-Waini), the school will operate from Monday to Saturday to accommodate some classes. The school’s two Grade 11 classes have been broken down to six classes to accommodate the social distancing requirement.

The care packages being given to each teacher and student

Coalition’s verbal gymnastics seem to have spread abroad

Dear Editor,

COVID-19 was impregnated from the fermentation of an unknown contagious virus and incubated in the “belly of the Devil,” giving birth to a pandemic that has grown into a colossal monster. It is untamed and spreading out of control with devastating repercussions that are deadly, dangerous and damaging. The fervent race for a guaranteed cure is being aggressively pursued rigorously and vigorously. Seeded as the number one concern in most countries, it is nevertheless currently playing second fiddle to the concerted attention of a tense global audience. The November 3rd American presidential election has become “the apple of the eye” of the world and is precariously seated momentarily, on the precipice of marginal uncertainty. At the time of writing, the cool, calm and collective Democratic Joe Biden was quietly enjoying a plausible lead over the contentious, chaotic and confounded Republican Donald Trump. The outcome is taking an automatic precedence and has leveraged an uneasy abeyance, forcing world leaders to refrain from various commitments, preferring to await the announcement of the leader of the most powerful nation on earth. How can the world for-

get Granger and his band of APNU+AFC merry rebels squatting in office for over a year and a half and holding Guyanese at ransom for five and a half months under political duress? As the rigid counting of electorate votes continued meticulously, the light glimmers at the end of the tunnel, highlighted on a patient Joe Biden but with a pugnacious Donald Trump occupying the limelight. A strained, tired and provoked country is tormented with many turbulent social issues and is now being tested again for civility and tolerance. An ashamed America has found itself in uncharted waters, uncomfortable and repulsive and would have preferred not to be caught in such a scandalous imbroglio. The “land of opportunity” where “dreams come true” has lost its credence for characterising “Only in America,” “Made in USA,” “US of A” and “Born in America.” These iconic slogans have slowly tarnished their luminous pride and have now been replaced with pessimism, tainted by skepticism and coated in cynicism. This sad situation has somewhat caught the rest of the world off guard, consumed with flavoured opinions, unhesitant in reactions and unabashed in comments. Guyanese would remember the unceremonious cursing out of the respectful national and international

election observers by the blackguard APNU+AFC. According to the “Business Insider,” Trump falsely declared victory early on Wednesday — with millions of votes still uncounted — and vowed to go to the Supreme Court to stop the vote count, in a move that mirrored the behaviour of dictators. President Donald Trump has challenged America’s democracy throughout his presidency, and he’s taking this to new conspiratorial heights as votes are still being counted in the 2020 election. When leaders in other countries behaved the way Trump is behaving right now, the Trump administration condemned their behaviour and called on them to step down. Guyanese would fondly recall U.S. Secretary Of State Mike Pompeo, requesting then caretaker President Granger to step aside and allow democracy to prevail. Implementing sanctions in the form of visa restrictions finally ousted Granger and cabal to demit office and allow the legitimate swearing in of a duly elected President Irfaan Ali. Top Republicans last Thursday blasted President Trump’s baseless claims that the election is being stolen from him through illegal actions by Democrats in swing states where votes are still being counted. Speaking from the briefing room, the president unloaded a dizzy-

ing array of unsubstantiated allegations about the electoral system and cast unwarranted suspicion on election workers as it appeared that Democrat Joe Biden is inching closer to victory. Those distancing themselves from his outrageous and outlandish unscrupulousness include, Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan (R), Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.), Rep. Will Hurd (R-Texas) and Sen. Mitt Romney (R-Utah). Very few APNU+AFC party members and supporters have gained this noble respect to distinguish themselves with the decorum of conscious condemnation of APNU+AFC‘s monstrosities and atrocities and their blatant lies, dishonesty, corruption, collusion and attempted electoral fraud. Halloween took a backward step this year and the coronavirus managed to scare even the ghosts and goblins away. But it did not fail to stop the redress of President Trump and his army of feisty protractors to fashionably masquerade themselves in transparent costumes revealing their devious determination, masking their faces with devilish ambition and parading in an affront of ghoulish charade, openly, unreservedly and obnoxiously. This villainous and callous display has gained them the resentment of sober-minded, peaceful and respectful observers from many nooks and crannies in

the world and from all corners where truth and honesty are not submerged by men and women of honour and integrity. Regard may be tolerated but certainly, respect has been lost and there is dim hope of replenishing any replacement, for, “once bitten, twice shy.” The APNU+AFC coalition may never regain any tangible momentum to command support for loyalty and sincerity because of their disrepute for falsity, disloyalty and insincerity. As the world turns restlessly holding its breath for the culmination of the U.S. election, the bold are becoming more beautiful, especially the young who are clamouring for the universe to be a better and safer place to live their lives. They are demanding that their voices be rightfully heard, their valid opinions be respected and their legitimate resolutions gain immediate attention without prejudice, unjustified questions and sarcastic remarks. Leading from the front and walking the talk is Greta Thunberg, Times Magazine’s person of the year for 2019 (ousting a peeved Donald Trump). The 17-year-old Swedish environmental activist, internationally decorated and popular for her straightforward-speaking manner, both in public and to political leaders and assemblies, in which she criticises world

leaders for their failure to take sufficient action to address the climate crisis. It was payback time for her, but, certainly not music to the ears of Donald Trump or a welcome twit to his eyes, when she used his owns words against him. Thunberg clapped back, writing on Twitter: “So ridiculous. Donald must work on his Anger Management problem, and then go to a good old-fashioned movie with a friend! Chill Donald, Chill!” she wrote. This generation certainly deserves a futuristic ball player who is contrived and not contrite in leadership, and who is affluent to influence with prominence in their eminence. That is why the PPP/C has selected the elite few to propel Guyana’s future with a youthfully mature, energetic and academic team led by an exuberant but tenacious president, ardently supported by tried but not tired experienced exponents. The world needs to awake to a new economic global outlook, the end of a COVID-19 pandemic and the universal treatment of equality for humanity. Respectfully, Jai Lall

Mid Atlantic Oil & Gas Inc clears the air Dear editor, MID Atlantic Oil & Gas Inc hereby ad-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

President Ali praises veterans on Remembrance Day

PRESIDENT Irfaan Ali, on Sunday, paid homage to the men and women who died in service to the Commonwealth, during World Wars I and II, while praising the resolve of the Remembrance Day veterans. The Head of State was joined by Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips; other government officials; members of the diplomatic corps and members of the Guyana Veterans Legion (GVL), among others, at the wreath-laying ceremony, which was held at the Georgetown Cenotaph (War Memorial). In a brief address, President Ali noted that the examples set by the veterans serve to strengthen our resolve for a world at peace with justice and freedom. “We are forever indebted to them [the veterans] for

their supreme sacrifice in the cause of peace and freedom. We also recall with gratitude those who, through the years, have made similar personal sacrifices in the continuing struggle for human dignity, social justice and freedom from all forms of oppression wherever these exist,” President Ali was quoted as saying, in a release by the Office of the President. The President urged citizens to use the solemn occasion to rededicate themselves to the search for peace everywhere, and renew their commitment to the development of our beloved country. The Remembrance Day ceremony is held each year to pay tribute to the fallen soldiers from the two World Wars (1914-1918 and 1939-1945). Guyana’s oldest World War II veteran is Benjamin Durant, who

will celebrate his 102nd birth anniversary in the coming week; there are currently nine surviving veterans. President Ali led ‘the charge’ in laying the wreath at the War Memorial, followed by Prime Minister Phillips and members of the Diplomatic Corps, including British High Commissioner, Greg Quinn; Canadian High Commissioner, Lilian Chatterjee; U.S Ambassador, Sarah-Ann Lynch and Indian High Commissioner, Dr K.J Srinivasa. Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Godfrey Bess; Commissioner of Police (ag), Nigel Hoppie and a representative of the Guyana Veterans Legion also laid wreaths.

President Irfaan Ali lays a wreath in honour of the fallen soldiers of World Wars I and II at the Georgetown Cenotaph (Photo: Office of the President)

PC students to be tested for COVID-19 –– parents could opt for schools closer to home THE 290 students set to return to President’s College for classes from today will be housed in the school’s dormitories under strict guidelines to prevent the spread of COVID-19 and, with the permission of parents, they will be tested for the virus. Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, said this would ensure the safety and wellbeing of those returning students. Addressing parents at the Golden Grove, East Coast Demerara School on Sunday, the Minister said the ministry would, with the permission of parents, test and quarantine students to ensure they are not carriers of the virus. “The reality is that if we test a large enough number, some people will have a positive result because you are coming from all over this country that has positive cases and so they will be tested and quarantined for a bit,” Minister Manickchand was quoted as saying by the Department of Public Information (DPI). Alternatively, parents could choose to have their children attend the school closest to them. “We are not going to be coming after anyone in any truancy campaign to lock you up or charge you to inquire why you did not send your children. The choice is up to you; we feel that we have to

A section of the parents who attended the meeting (DPI photo)

provide the option for parents and students who cannot access education through Zoom, internet or any other option but … you do not have to do this,” Minister Manickchand explained. Several measures have been taken to keep both teachers and students safe with the installation of sinks; distribution of care packages which include masks and shield; vitamins and sanitisers. Markings were also set out to keep students at least six feet apart; this will allow 15 to 20 or even 20 to 25 students in a class depending on its size. The school also received an $18 million allocation to boost its internet connectivity and to print worksheets. Personnel from the Region Four Regional Democratic Council will also do daily checks at the school.

Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, who accompanied the Education Minister, told the gathering that the results of the PCR tests done on students, on Sunday, by a medical team stationed at the school, will be available today (Monday). Those who tested positive will be isolated. “We want to do that in a very safe environment, and when we mean safe, we want to ensure that all of the things that we do here, especially for those in the dorms, that they follow all of the protocols that we have in place to ensure that they remain safe,” Dr. Anthony said. The Health Minister added that the students would have to observe the protocols in place, including wearing masks, sanitising their hands and social distancing. TURN TO PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Orealla looks set for major transformation

By Nafeeza Yahya-Sukar

THE indigenous communities of Orealla/ Sipurata , East Berbice, Corentyne, looks set for major transformation as investors have expressed an interest in mining bauxite there. This was disclosed by Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat during a visit to the area last Monday. According to the minister, he has spoken to several investors who have expressed an interest in not only mining the precious ore, but in also setting up an aluminium plant as well. Bharrat explained that based on testing done, the area contains very large deposits of bauxite ore of high quality. “I met a few investors who are willing to come to develop the Taraculi bauxite deposit. It is one of the largest bauxite deposit[sic] remaining in the country that is untouched and from the studies we that have been done and from information we would have [sic] received, the bauxite is of very high quality, so the interest is there from investors to come and to do mining in this area,” he said. He continued: “The plan too by the investors is to set up what we call an aluminium plant; the aluminium plant would add value to

Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat during a recent meeting with residents of Orealla/Siparuta

our ore because for too long we have been exporting raw materials; we haven’t been exporting value-added products and you would know that when you export value-added products you earn maybe 10 times more than when you export logs or the raw material.” The Natural Resources Minister expressed optimism that Guyana will be transformed over the next five years by partnering with citizens to help add value to products, thereby earning more from the said items. “When you export one log you make US$60 off of that log, if you convert that log to value-added products you make close to 60,000 from that very log. That is why adding value to our products is a priority for our

government, to ensure that we no longer export bauxite (the ore) but we export aluminium so that we don’t export logs as we do before, but we export furniture, value-added products,” he pointed out. Toshao of the two communities, Carl Peneux told the Guyana Chronicle that from his understanding the deposits in the area are so large that it would take between 25-40 years for it to be extracted. TREMENDOUS BENEFIT “By having miners there, our communities will benefit tremendously in all areas; the roads and old airstrip will have to be upgraded; the demand for our produce would be greater; fishermen would be making more sales;

Sanitation worker falls to death at ‘COVID-19 hospital’ A 29-year-old sanitation worker has lost his life after falling from the fourth storey of the new infectious diseases hospital at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara. Dead is Kevin Smith of Sophia, Greater Georgetown. The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), in a statement, noted that Smith was using a freight lift, which is only intended for the transport of food and laundry at the facility, when it collapsed, causing him

fatal injuries. The incident occurred at about 13:04h. According to the statement, Smith worked for a private janitorial company, which was contracted by the GPHC. The hospital has since informed the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the man’s family. The infectious diseases hospital, which is still being retrofitted to accommodate cases of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), is managed by GPHC.

The facility, located at the site of the former Ocean View Hotel in Liliendaal, has been catering for mild patients over the past two months, but with work almost completed on the Intensive Care Unit (ICU), it will be able to cater for 29 critically ill patients at any given time. After the facility is completed, authorities will start the process of transferring persons from GPHC, which currently has nine patients in its COVID-19 ICU.

PC students to be tested ...

As it relates to a positive case, those who live nearby will be given the option to be isolated at home and will be provided with medical supplies, while those from the outlying regions will be catered for at the Government’s isolation facilities at the Diamond Diagnostic Centre or the Infectious Diseases Hospital at Liliendaal. Special spac-

es will be set up at those facilities for the children to receive instruction. On October 31, the Education Minister announced that schools would reopen for classroom instruction for Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate, Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination and Technical, Vocational Education and Training

FROM PAGE

(TVET) institutions. Since then, there have been numerous multi-stakeholder engagements with the Ministry of Education, Health Ministry, Regional Education Officials, the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC), the Guyana Teachers’ Union, parents, students and other parties.

our eco-tourism would be boosted and all other services associated with this would be in demand. I know for sure [that] the entire area would be transformed and the economy in here would skyrocket so much that you would see people wanting to leave the coastland and come in here to work,” the indigenous leader explained. Touching on the oil-andgas sector, Minister Bharrat reiterated the President’s commitment that every single Guyanese will benefit from the proceeds, whether or not they are directly involved in the sector. This, he said, will be achieved by utilising funds from the oil-and-gas sector to develop critical infrastructure and services as well as the other sectors, so that the country is not solely dependent on one sector. He further disclosed that of the US$148M collected from the sale and royalties of

oil in the Natural Resources Fund, the government “has not used a single dollar as of today,” despite recently preparing a large emergency budget. Meanwhile, Minister Bharrat stated that the Ministries of Public Works and Natural Resources will be collaborating to develop a road from Kwakwani to Orealla from early next year, as the government focuses on developing infrastructure in mining areas. “We have made a commitment and in fact we have started making budgetary allocations as I have explained to toshao that between the Ministry of Natural Resources and Public Infrastructure we are going to develop the road from Kwakwani to Orealla. As a matter of fact, that road will start early next year. We have already started to secure the funding,” he said. The road will not only make it easier for the resi-

dents to take their produce to the coastland, but also open up new lands and new opportunities for all. Work on the Linden to Kwakwani trail has already begun and the government is committed to building a highway from Linden to Lethem that will eventually create a link from Orealla to Brazil, the minister told residents. “The future for us is bright and I want to assure you too that the Orealla/Siparuta Village, you have a partner in the Government of Guyana. We will work with you within the next five years to ensure that dreams become reality; to ensure that the lives of the people in Orealla/Siparuta are much better than it is, that is what we intend to do,” he told the residents.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Take time out to find out

BECAUSE COVID-19 has the country in an unprecedented turmoil, many teen-

agers have lost their sense of direction. Unfortunately, they have a lot of time on

their hands and most have no idea if, and when, things will return to normalcy, to

enable them to get on with their lives. Most parents know that children with time on their hands are a recipe for trouble; therefore, children with time on their hands during a pandemic can be catastrophic. During this unexpected phase, adults need to be extremely vigilant with their teenagers and take heed of where they go, who they will be with and what time they will be home. The average age that a child will start having sexual intercourse is 17 years so keep an eye on your teenagers and try to keep them gainfully occupied. Younger children should not be left out of this equation; they too indulge in sexual activity through curiosity, peer pressure, or due to lack of parental supervision and guidance. Some parents make the mistake of treating their tall children (aged 12 – 15) as if they are adults. They allow them free range to go and come as they choose. They are still children, regardless of how tall they get; and no matter how they ‘full eyes’ they are still in need of guidance, monitoring, questioning (about where they go and what they’re up to) and nurturing. Having sex at 17 years old or younger, is far too early, there is still so much they do not know about, life and their emotions Sex is a physical act with many emotional and psychological components; and adolescents on their transitional road to adulthood, are too immature to acknowledge the long-term effect of their actions, or consider the potential consequences that may ensue. In these times, Guyanese adults need to alert their teenagers more than ever about the importance of abstinence, self-respect and contraception. We have all heard the clichés, such as, ‘pick up your book’ ‘don’t study boys, they only after one thing’ or ‘leave the people girl child alone, I don’t want no baby

on my doorstep’. Now is the time to enlighten teenagers as to why they should pick up their books and why sexual activity is best kept on the back burner until they are old enough for a mature (or committed) relationship. Why teenagers should pick up their book: Teenagers should pick up their books because reading is a life-long skill that empowers them. Many people have educated themselves on worldwide topics through reading and can now share their knowledge with others. Stories can transport you to another time and place. They can feed your imagination and build your creativity and vocabulary. Once children have a desire for reading and enjoying books, they can achieve high levels of education in the field of their choice. How to teach abstinence: It is easier to teach pre-adolescents and teenagers about healthy relationships, self-respect and celibacy if you have always had an ‘open’ relationship with them. ‘Open’ in the sense that, the discussion of taboo subjects (puberty, sex, contraception, etc.) have taken place naturally, age-appropriately and in the best interest of the child. Children tend to develop a sense of self-worth and confidence when they have this type of relationship with adults. Therefore, choosing to abstain would make perfect sense. They are guided towards a positive sense of direction and very seldom are drawn into early sexual encounters, preferring to achieve set goals and even ambitions. Why children should learn about contraception: It is advisable to talk to teenagers about contraception, to avoid unwanted pregnancies and to prevent the spread of STDs. Adolescents need relevant information so that they can make informed choices.

As adults we all know that if young people want to meet up, unless they are under house arrest, 24/7, they will find a way to do so. Let’s not fool ourselves about sex. Sex is a part of our existence; we cannot deny the laws of physical and spiritual attraction. It is natural for young people and adolescents to have a curiosity or interest in their reproductive organs. A problem arises, however, when the young person has not been guided correctly and becomes easily influenced by the wrong people. When older people or peers inspire the opinion or decision-making of a teenager, it usually has negative results. Parents should always be the first and best teachers in their children’s lives, and during these times, their guidance is needed more than ever. Most teenagers may prefer to be alone in their personal world on a computer or cell phone, and in some cases, parents are no better. This behaviour creates a divide between parent and child, leading to a lack of communication, but communication is the key right now. If you cannot connect with children, then you cannot correct them, talk to them, guide them, monitor them or care for them in the right way. Parents, take time out to find out what is going on in your children’s lives, especially the adolescents who are left to find ways to occupy their time. Extraordinary times call for extra special alertness; stay vigilant, give good advice, stay close to your children. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Hard work and determination …GDF Captain admitted to the Bar

By Naomi Parris IT is often said that determination and hard work bring success, and this was proven by newly sworn-in attorney-at-Law, Captain Texine Daw. Captain Daw, who is an officer of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), was admitted to the bar on Thursday last before Justice Brassington Reynolds. Her petition to practise law was presented by attorney-at-Law, Mrs. Melissa Yearwood-Stewart in association with the Solicitor General, Mr. Nigel Hawke, at the Demerara High Court. The 32-year-old, who hails from Mahaica on the East Coast of Demerara, attended the St Joseph’s High School where she discovered her interest for law. “I actually accompanied a colleague of mine to law class and from that one class that I went to, I was intrigued and quickly realised that I was interested in law and I wanted to pursue a career in the area to become an attorney-at-Law.” The young GDP Captain,

during an exclusive interview with this publication, credited her success to her parents and her continuous hard work and determination. Captain Daw disclosed that her intention was never to join to the GDF. However, because of unforeseen circumstances she joined the force in hopes of being enlisted in one of their programmes to further her studies. “My parents were not able to send me to the University of Guyana. I saw an advertisement in the newspaper for persons to join the army, you know they usually mention opportunities for you to go to the University, study overseas, so I figured I’d join,” she said, adding, “I started on the Basic Standard Course and subsequently about six months to a year, I was then given the opportunity to participate on the Standard Officers’ Course.” Captain Daw had enlisted as a soldier in 2008, but always aspired to become an Officer. She was granted the opportunity and went on to successfully complete the

Standard Officers’ Course. With her eyes still on the prize, Captain Daw began reading for her Bachelor of Laws degree at the University of Guyana in 2015, which she successfully completed and was the recipient of the Pro-Chancellor’s Medal for Best Graduating Law Student in 2018. Additionally, she acquired her Legal Education Certificate from the Hugh Wooding Law School on September 4, 2020. ‘IT WAS NOT AN EASY ROAD’ While Captain Daw is savoring the sweet joys of her success, she noted that the journey to where she is today was not an easy one, especially being away from her family and three-year-old son during the time of her studies. The young mother said, “It was not easy; it was difficult but my mother played a big role in assisting me in caring for him [her son] during my time at law school; it was because of her I was not worried.”

From left, Solicitor General, Nigel Hawke; Justice Brassington Reynolds, along with newly sworn-in attorney-at-law, Captain Texine Daw and her family

Caption: Newly sworn-in attorney-at-law, Guyana Defence Force, Captain Texine Daw

She also disclosed that studying, keeping up to date with her work and being a full-time mother all at once were not easy. However, with the help of her lecturers, family and friends she was able to balance them all and complete her studies. Captain Daw also credited the training of the GDF for her successes. “I am equally happy with being a military officer. The values and standards of the GDF have shaped me into the individual I am today. I am grateful for the Guyana Defence Force for the opportunities afforded to me and the discipline and consistency which helped me to persevere throughout my studies,” she said. When asked what is next for her journey in life, Captain Daw disclosed that she will soon be pursuing her Master Degree in Law.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

$30M Bamia Health Centre commissioned

The new Bamia Phase Three Health Centre

A $30 million health centre has been commissioned at Bamia, Soesdyke-Linden Highway. The facility was commissioned by Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, when he travelled to the mining town on Friday to hand over a ventilator and oxygen concentrator to boost COVID-19 treatment in the Region. Minister Anthony told

the health workers at Bamia that the facility would better provide primary healthcare for the area. Primary healthcare is the backbone of the healthcare system, he said. “You can do a lot of preventative work at the primary care level, and if we are very effective at the primary care level, it prevents a lot of complications and would prevent a lot of diseases

from going upwards in the chain. So, what you do here is extremely important and therefore, we want to work with you, want to facilitate you to ensure that you can do your jobs better,” Dr. Anthony was quoted as saying by the Department of Public Information (DPI). Minister Anthony acknowledged that a major challenge during the pandemic was a slowdown in the national vaccination programme. As such, he called on primary healthcare workers to restart this exercise. “We want you to speed

up or accelerate that process so that we keep those high numbers that we always get when we do our immunization programme for the children. So, we’ll work along with you, the services that you offer here, whether it’s antenatal, postnatal, other primary care services, we’ll see how we can collaborate with you to make that better,” he said. Dr. Anthony also encouraged the healthcare workers to capitalise on the training opportunities the Government was offering to improve and expand their skillsets. Bamia is located about half-a-mile from Amelia’s Ward. The new Bamia Phase Three Health Centre caters to about 1,500 residents. It would also serve neighbouring Bamia Drive, Phase Two and Three Amelia’s Ward and Bamia Highway. Permanent Secretary, Mr. Malcolm Watkins; Chief Medical Officer, Dr. Narine Singh; Region Ten Health Officer, Mr. Gregory Harris; Regional Chairman, Mr. Deron Adams; Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Dwight John and other regional health officials also attended the commissioning.

Broadcasting Authority to recover outstanding debt –– Board to be installed soon

Minister of Public Affairs within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy and GNBA staff peruse a document

THE Guyana National Broadcasting Authority (GNBA) will soon seek to recover the debt owed by defaulters to properly execute its mandate. Minister of Public Affairs within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, made this statement on Friday, during a meeting with the GNBA management. “In the next few weeks, the emphasis will be on collecting the outstanding sums owed by broadcasters. The broadcasting agency has a very important role in being able to monitor broadcasting in the country and to flag infractions and to be able

to work it through with the broadcasters,” he was quoted as saying by the Department of Public Information. Minister McCoy also disclosed that a new Board of Directors will soon be installed at the entity. Meanwhile, he expressed confidence in the work ethic of the GNBA staff and engaged them on challenges, with the view of finding solutions. According to the DPI, since assuming office, Minister McCoy has met frequently with the departments and agencies within his purview to better address the needs of the information sector.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Exxon says over $60B spent on local content since 2015

ExxonMobil’s Local Content Adviser Devon Seeram

OIL and Gas company ExxonMobil has spent more than G$60 billion on purchasing goods and services from local suppliers in Guyana since 2015. This is according to the company’s Local Content Adviser Devon Seeram, who during an ExxonMobil virtual update recently, said that between the period of 2015 (when ExxonMobil began operations in Guyana) to the end of the first half of 2020, the company spent more than G$60B on local content. Essentially, this means that the company has spent that much money using products and services offered by Guyanese businesses and suppliers. In the first half of 2020 alone, he said that more than 600 Guyanese vendors have been utilised for goods and services, with more than G$14 billion being spent with those businesses for the procurement of goods and services, ranging from foodstuff to engineering, Additionally, he noted that 700 unique suppliers from Guyana have benefitted from consistent training offered locally and abroad, in an attempt to develop Guyanese in a “strategic and sustainable manner” for long-term development. “A key component of local content is development,” Seeram said, explaining that Guyanese who want to get involved in the sector - whether as workers or as suppliers - have to conform to international standards, as oil and gas is a highly regularised sector. For suppliers here, there is the Centre for Local Business Development (CLBD) which provides training and assistance with getting jobs offered by the company. The Centre’s Supplier Registra-

tion Portal, on the CLBD’s website, usually has a list of planned tenders to provide goods or services related to ExxonMobil Guyana and its prime contractors. The list adds to ongoing efforts to provide Guyanese businesses information on upcoming opportunities available in the oil-and-gas industry. Seeram also related that ExxonMobil Guyana’s direct workforce stands at 155 employees, of which 87 are Guyanese, which corresponds to approximately 56 percent of the workforce. There are also approximately 2,000 Guyanese supporting the company’s activities. On this virtual update too, Community Relations Manager for the company, Suzanne DeAbreau noted that ExxonMobil, since 2015, has committed more than $2.5B in keeping with its corporate social responsibility (CSR). Focus areas of the company have been Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, youth, women and community empowerment and environmental sustainability. Additionally, ExxonMobil Guyana and its Stabroek Block co-venture partners have given over G$60 million towards local COVID-19 relief efforts. This relief, DeAbreau highlighted, included hampers, personal protective equipment (PPE) and the establishment of a soup kitchen. Furthermore, she said that ExxonMobil Guyana on its own has given an additional G$15 million to support students during the pandemic through the National Centre of Educational Resource Development (NCERD) and the Rotary Club of Stabroek.

Reg. Six lawmen ‘fan out’ to build partnerships IN seeking to strengthen community relations between the police and residents, Police Commander of Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan, has partnered with the Corriverton Town Council to ensure the development of community welfare. On Friday last, the Commander and his team, along with the Town Clerk of Corriverton, Narendra Sookdeo, interacted with vendors at the Corriverton market. The Town Clerk welcomed the visit and expressed his desire in working along with the police. Meanwhile, on Thursday last, Inspector Arunauth Ramnauth and Sergeant Mark Edwards, conducted an accident investigation seminar at the Central Police Station Recreation Hall with more than a dozen traffic ranks from across the regional police division. The training programme examines ways in which ranks can improve the manner in which accidents are investigated in order to reduce the number of cases being dismissed in the courts. Meanwhile, the Police Commander and team, during a walkabout exercise, distributed masks in Albion; residents were educated as it relates to the measures that should be taken in curbing the spread of the COVID-19 virus and were warned about the importance of wearing a mask.

Police Commander, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan and team interacting with a butcher at the Corriverton Market

A similar exercise was also carried out within number 72 Village, Corentyne Berbice, where police met with several residents and sensitised them about the COVID-19 measures in place. Further, station management committees were recently resuscitated at Rose Hall Town Police Outpost and Mibikuri Police Station. The committee seeks to promote and enable a better working environment for police officers at the said stations. The members pledged to do their best in collaborating with the police to fulfil the mandate of the committee.

Police in action during the mask distribution exercise

Belgium cocaine bust: Broker, GRA officers in custody –– shipper Marlon Primo to be offered protection when found By Rabindra Rooplall HEAD of the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), James Singh, on Sunday, confirmed that a broker and three officers attached to the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) are in custody, as investigation continues into a huge cocaine bust made in Belgium on a shipment of scrap metal which left Guyana’s shores in September. Those in custody include

two customs officers who were on duty during the scanning and loading of the container before it left for Beligum. The anti-narcotics agency is currently hunting for local shipper, Marlon Primo, in connection with the investigation. Primo is attached to MA Trading, which is registered at 35 Factory Road, Paradise, East Coast Demerara (ECD). His last known addresses are 701 Cummings Lodge, ECD

Wanted: Marlon Primo

and 69 Atlantic Ville, East Coast Demerara. The Guyana Chronicle

was reliably informed that CANU will be offering Primo protection and security since he has expressed fear to his relatives. On Saturday, investigators interrogated customs officers about the absence of images of the shipping container whose cargo was stated as scrap metal. It was also discovered that the ship with the container stopped in Guadeloupe TURN TO PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

‘Guyana Annual’ continues to promote local creative scene GUYANA’S folklore was the central focus of this year’s Guyana Annual Magazine and competition, which has continued to provide a platform for people within the local creative scene. “For me, the Guyana Annual is all about Guyanese creators and their development which is ultimately tied to Guyana's development,” Editor of the magazine, Danielle Swain, told the Guyana Chronicle in an invited comment. She later added, “Our ultimate mission is the promotion of Guyanese art and literature, which we believe contributes and builds culture and forges national identity.” She explained that the magazine strives to highlight all the creative fields- whether

writing, art, photography or cartoons- with a keen focus on the “up-and-coming and obscure.” The Guyana Annual was founded in 1916 with the title, “Chronicle Christmas Annual,” which evolved over the decades and finally became “The Guyana Annual.” The publication strives to keep alive Guyanese art and literary traditions. In 2018, the competition aspect of the magazine was reintroduced, which saw Guyanese submitting their literary works to be judged and published in the magazine. And this year, the entries across all categories included Guyana’s folklore. Swain emphasised, “We believe in the power of seeing your name in print, even

if it's a small publication.” But the magazine is just not a space for submissions and highlighting the winning entries. Instead, the team behind the magazine is dedicated to developing quality creative writing and art. The magazine also strives to honour those ‘creative giants’ who have helped to develop Guyana’s local creative sector; this year, it was a tribute to Allan A Fenty, Guyana’s grassroot cultural enthusiast, old story-teller, columnist and amateur folklorist. The improvement of writers and artists from the 2018 edition, when the competitions were resuscitated to this 2020 edition, shows that the magazine is doing its part, according to the Editor. The 2020 Edition of the Guyana Annual FROM PAGE

Belgium cocaine bust ...

The cocaine found after the container reached Belgium

for a few days before making its journey to Belgium, and so CANU is now examining whether the shipping container had the same seals it left Guyana with, after it passed through Guadeloupe. The 23,000 lbs of cocaine were neatly packed in a safe inside the container which was then covered with the scrap metal. The United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Belgian authorities are collaborating on the cocaine bust. Counter-narcotics prosecutors said they had tracked the trans-atlantic journey of 11.5-tonnes of cocaine from

Guyana, on the northeastern coast of South America, and seized it upon its arrival at the Port of Antwerp. The catch is “the largest overseas drug bust ever, worldwide,” federal prosecutors told Belgian media, estimating the street value of the drug load at €900 million. Three police officers, a port manager and a lawyer were among some 20 arrested as part of the operation targeting the “well-structured” criminal organisation suspected of orchestrating large and “regular” drug shipments from South America to Belgium.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Stoinis, Dhawan and Hetmyer push Delhi to finals

(ESPNCRICINFO) - The Delhi Capitals came into Qualifier-2 having won just one of their last six games, and another defeat here would have left everyone writing their campaign off as a squandered opportunity. But here they are now, in their maiden IPL final, one win away from glory. Their performance in this Qualifier was like their season in miniature: they flew out of the blocks, then stuttered, but they kept themselves in the game and won the key moments. Sunrisers Hyderabad, who had won their last four games on the trot, began poorly -- with ball and bat, as well

as in the field -- and made up ground later on, but it wasn’t quite enough. Two key tactical moves paid rich dividends for the Capitals. They opened with Marcus Stoinis for the first time in the season, and he, along with Shikhar Dhawan, rewarded them with their best powerplay of the season. They also brought Shimron Hetmyer back into their side, and his late hitting ensured the Capitals put up a challenging total despite a significant slowdown through the second half of their innings. Stoinis contributed heavily with the ball as well, tak-

ing two wickets in the fifth over of the Sunrisers innings, and then coming back to remove Kane Williamson just when he seemed set to pull off his second chasing masterclass in two games. Stoinis and Dhawan set the tone The Capitals’ run of poor form coming into this game had included three games where they had lost by 59, 88 and 57 runs. They didn’t want to be chasing again, and the toss went in their favour. And at one point it seemed as if everything would go in their favour. Sandeep Sharma and Jason Holder kept the Capitals’

openers to just 11 from the first two overs, and the pressure produced a chance in the third over. Sandeep had bowled inswing to Stoinis with a 5-4 leg-side field, initially achieving an immaculate line, and an attempt to break the shackles led Stoinis to hit in the air, within range of Holder stationed at an unconventional short mid-on, only for the ball to burst out of his outstretched right hand. Then Sandeep lost his line, strayed too straight, and conceded back-to-back boundaries either side of deep square leg. Stoinis then went after Holder and smacked three fours and a six in the fourth over. Dhawan joined in the fun too, picking up three fours - one of them courtesy a misfield at short fine leg from T Natarajan and a slog-swept six in the next two overs, and the Capitals ended up with not just their most productive powerplay of the season, but also only their third wicketless one, ending it 65 for 0.

hole, with the left-armer Natarajan more or less nailing six yorkers in the final over. Only 13 came off the last two, and no boundaries. The Capitals had made 102 in their first 10 overs, but only 87 in their last 10.

SEE OFF RASHID, FEAST ON NADEEM, SLOW DOWN AT THE FINISH Rashid Khan hadn’t bowled a single powerplay over this season, coming into this game, and he didn’t bowl one here either. Perhaps it was a missed opportunity from the Sunrisers, who instead used the already smarting Sandeep and the leftarm spinner Shahbaz Nadeem in the fifth and sixth over. Rashid came on immediately after the powerplay, and struck in his second over, bowling Stoinis with a quick legbreak that ripped past the closed face of his bat. But while he continued to test the batsmen, they didn’t look to go after him, and he ended his four overs with figures of 1 for 26. The Capitals wouldn’t have minded that, given their start, and they made up against the unfortunate Nadeem, whom the Sunrisers ostensibly used to target the right-handed Stoinis and Shreyas Iyer, but who ended up running into the left-handed Dhawan instead. By the time he bowled his fourth over, Hetmyer had replaced Iyer and there were two left-handers at the crease, but the Sunrisers didn’t have a sixth bowling option to turn to. Nadeem struggled for control right through, and he finished with figures of 4-0-48-0, with Dhawan tonking him for 29 off 14 balls. At the 16-over mark, the Capitals were 145 for 2, and 200 seemed on the cards when Natarajan and Holder conceded a combined 31 from the 17th and 18th overs, with Hetmyer rampaging his way to 34 off 15. But Sandeep and Natarajan came back strongly in the last two overs largely by nagging away in the block-

WILLIAMSON’S LAST STAND But the game wasn’t over yet, not as long as Williamson was in the middle. He kept finding ways to hit boundaries, picking up minor errors in line or length and creating scoring opportunities with his footwork. He shoveled Rabada over midwicket after stepping across his stumps, hit Axar Patel and Praveen Dubey for straight sixes after stepping out to them, and helped Stoinis over backward square leg with an impudent flick over his shoulder. The departure of Holder in the 12th over - when the equation was 100 from 50 balls - didn’t stop the Sunrisers either, with Williamson now joined by Abdul Samad, who tore into Anrich Nortje in the 15th over, pulling him for a disdainful six before cashing in on width to pick up back-to-back fours. With 10 coming off the next over from R Ashwin, the Sunrisers needed 51 from 24. Then Stoinis came back, and made Williamson lose his shape for once, with a full, wide slower ball that he carved into the hands of deep cover. The game wasn’t completely safe yet, as Rashid Khan showed with a six and a four off Ashwin in the 18th over to bring the task down to 30 off 12. But the batsmen simply had to keep swinging, and after another six from Samad - off a borderline high full-toss - the big hits kept ending up as catches on the boundary, with Rabada picking up three such wickets in the 19th over to wrench the Purple Cap off Jasprit Bumrah. The eventual winner of that contest will be known on Tuesday.

RABADA AND STOINIS STRIKE EARLY By the end of the powerplay, the Sunrisers seemed almost out of the contest. Kagiso Rabada struck with his first ball, a full inswinger that moved late, to bowl David Warner off his pads, and Marcus Stoinis struck twice in his first over - the fifth of the innings - to remove Priyam Garg and Manish Pandey after a brief flurry of boundaries from the second-wicket pair. At the six-over mark, the Sunrisers were 49 for 3, already needing more than 10 an over. This was a far more challenging task than the one Williamson and Holder had pulled off against Royal Challengers Bangalore in the Eliminator.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

De Bruyne missed penalty gives Liverpool draw (BBC) - Liverpool’s hopes of returning to the Premier League summit were frustrated as they fought out a high-quality draw at Manchester City, who paid a heavy price for Kevin de Bruyne’s missed penalty. Reds manager, Jurgen Klopp, opted for an all-out attacking line-up at Etihad Stadium on Sunday, with in-form Diogo Jota included alongside the established front three of Roberto Firmino, Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah. Liverpool, who knew victory would see them leapfrog Leicester City and Tottenham, reaped an early reward when Salah put them ahead from the spot in the 13th minute after Kyle Walker brought down Mane - but

City levelled just after the half-hour when Gabriel Jesus turned superbly before slot-

go ahead before half-time when De Bruyne rolled his penalty wide after handball

Kevin de Bruyne had scored his past five penalties for Manchester City, since missing against Everton in October 2016

ting past Alisson. Pep Guardiola’s side wasted a golden chance to

had been awarded against Joe Gomez following a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR)

Jose hails ‘special’ Kane (BBC) - Manager Jose Mourinho hailed Harry Kane’s “special” qualities after the striker’s 150th Premier League goal earned Tottenham victory at West Brom. A third successive league victory temporarily lifted Spurs to the top of the table on Sunday before Leicester replaced them after their 1-0 win against Wolves.

winning balls in front of the defence. Special.” He added: “Harry Kane you have to say has this many goals, this many assists, this number of balls recovered, this number of duels won. This number of balls that he saved his team in defensive set-pieces. This is Harry Kane. It’s goals plus this and this and this and that.” The England captain’s

Only Alan Shearer (212) and Sergio Aguero (217) scored their 150th Premier League goal in fewer appearances than Harry Kane (218)

A game of few chances seemed destined to end goalless after Hugo Lloris had kept out Darnell Furlong’s second-half header and a flurry of Tottenham chances had come and gone without reward. But, as has been the case so often in the past, Kane punished a minor lack of concentration to head home an 88th-minute winner. Mourinho said: “This guy does much more than scoring goals. For example, last five minutes he was playing as a number six and

latest feat comes only days after he scored his 200th goal for the club. Midfielder Eric Dier paid tribute to his team-mate’s latest “fantastic record”. The decisive moment arrived when West Brom’s defence failed to track Kane’s run into the box, allowing him to leap unchecked to meet Matt Doherty’s cross and guide the ball over goalkeeper Sam Johnstone. For West Brom, who have now scored once in their last five games, it was

a result that keeps them in the relegation zone and already facing a tough battle to retain their top-flight status. SPURS ARE TITLE CONTENDERS It is too early for Spurs fans to get carried away, but when you look at some of the players who did not even make Mourinho’s matchday squad - Harry Winks, Davinson Sanchez and Steven Bergwijn there is no reason why they should not be competing for the biggest prize. Apart from the start of his final season at Manchester United, when they played a day before everyone else, this was the first time a Mourinho side topped the Premier League - albeit briefly - since September 2017. Mourinho has infused grit and organisation into an already top side - not to mention added Gareth Bale. The Welshman was not at his best on this occasion but, starting a Premier League game for the first time since 2013, he formed a potentially lethal attacking trio alongside Kane and Son Heung-min that will not be easily subdued. Son could have made life a lot easier for Tottenham if he had taken an early chance that came his way, but the South Korean took far too long to set himself when in space at the far post and Kyle Bartley blocked the shot.

deliberation. Both sides pushed for the winner but it was City who grew stronger as the game went on, Jesus sending a glorious headed chance wide to leave both sides having to settle for a point.

LIVERPOOL WILL BE HAPPIER WITH A POINT Klopp did not come to the Etihad to hide behind the door - Liverpool’s attacking formation that had City on the ropes for the first 20 minutes was proof of that. In the end, however, you suspect he will be happier with a point than Guardiola as the Reds clearly ran out of steam in a second half

when the home side looked far more likely to snatch the winner. ‘ SOMEBODY HAS TO START THINKING’ - KLOPP SLAMS PREMIER LEAGUE FIXTURE SCHEDULE This is a Liverpool team already missing Virgil van Dijk, Fabinho and Thiago Alcantara - and they also lost Trent Alexander-Arnold in the second half - but they still came to a formidable opponent and refused to be beaten. Even on the back foot, the reigning champions carry an unmistakeable air of menace in the shape of those attackers - particularly Salah

and Mane, who were always on the prowl. Liverpool, uncharacteristically, grew sloppier in possession as the game went on, but they still managed to limit City’s opportunities. Klopp will never be fully content with a point but he will surely still be satisfied because his team showed real defensive resilience, apart from that moment in the second period when Jesus slipped the shackled and headed Ferran Torres’ cross wide. Liverpool are in third place in the Premier League, a point behind Leicester - and meet the Foxes at Anfield after the international break.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Pakistan wraps up T20 series (ESPNCRICINFO) - Pakistan wrapped up the T20I series at the earliest opportunity, thrashing Zimbabwe by eight wickets in the second of three games. It was the bowlers who set it up, with leg-spinner Usman Qadir’s sensational spell the most exciting aspect for Pakistan. His three wickets, combined with just as many by Haris Rauf, dented Zimbabwe early, never allowing partnerships and restricting them to 134. That chase was a cakewalk for the hosts. Haider Ali and Babar Azam made short work of it, Haider bringing up his second T20I half-century as Babar cantered to his second in as many games. The chase was done with five overs to spare, with disappointingly little fight put up by Chamu Chibhabha’s side. For the first time on this tour a team won the toss and put the opposition in, Pakistan perhaps wishing to repeat the performance they put in yesterday. What transpired, instead, was an even more crushing performance with the ball. Zimbabwe got off to a bit of a flyer, racking up 36 in four overs,

but lost Brendan Taylor and the hopelessly out of form Chibhabha early, and that set the tone for the kind of innings it would be. All but two of their batsmen got into double figures, but only one managed to cross 30, with the starts they got quickly snuffed out by a ruthless bowling performance.

Both the legspinner and the wrong ‘un got prodigious turn, discomfiting the batsmen’s footwork and forcing them to try and see out his overs, which built even more pressure and resulted in wickets, either for him or from the other end. When, in his final over, it looked like Elton Chigumbura had the

Usman Qadir picked up three middle-order wickets AFP via Getty Images

Qadir’s sensational spell began inauspiciously with a half-tracker that the precocious Wesley Madhevere pulled away for six, but that was the only mistake he made all day. Varying his length, pace, flight and googly effectively kept the batsmen guessing, and he never once failed to execute whatever appeared to be on his mind.

measure of him, smacking him down the ground for six and then sweeping him for four, Qadir struck back with his final ball, beating the batsman in the flight, drawing him out of his crease, giving Rizwan an easy stumping. He finished with 3 for 23; if anything, those figures didn’t flatter him enough.

Not that the other bowlers weren’t on their game. Rauf was at his quickest, which brought him the wickets of the openers. He defeated Taylor with a hint of seam movement and returned to rush Chibhabha’s pull shot and put Zimbabwe under immediate pressure, while a tight Powerplay over from Fahim Ashraf brought the wicket of the inform Sean Williams. Zimbabwe had moments of promise, with Ryan Burl’s intelligent knock at the death 32 off 22 - taking them to 134 and at least keeping the target respectable, but in the absence of one big score or even one big partnership, there was little hope the bowlers could dig them out of that hole. Pakistan’s only worry would be the continued struggle of Fakhar Zaman at this level. Blessing Muzarabani, who alongside Madhevere has been the brightest spark of the tour for Zimbabwe, snared him in his second over when Zaman went for a low percentage drive down the ground that went straight to mid-on. But it only gave Haider Ali another shot at putting his dazzling talent on display, and he was keen to show it off.

Devon Ramnauth Youth Cricket League launched ―Organiser promises to make event annual

THE Devon Ramnauth Region Two Development Youth Cricket League was officially launched this weekend and the main organiser is hoping for a start by next Saturday.

In an invited comment, former national youth cricketer, Ramnauth, who is based in Canada, told the Guyana Chronicle that the tournament was being coordinated and executed by members of the South and Central Essequibo Cricket Committee. He said that Trevis Simon, Aotto Christiani, Andy Ramnarine and Rohan Budram who have all been instrumental to the league and, “It would be impossible without their input”. At the launch on Satur-

day at the Imam Bacchus Ground, a number of coaches and the captains of the teams were in attendance. “Thank you for everyone who played a part…this is for Essequibo, this is for all of us, we all win, cricket win, we all win when we work together and this will continue, thank you,” Ramnauth said in a recorded message to the attendees. The former U-19 cricketer, who is the first to host a competition of this nature in the region, also promised to make the competition an

annual one. The teams scheduled to compete are Essequibo Eagles U-19, Golden Fleece Vikings Youths, Queenstown U-19, Rising Star’s Spartans, Reliance Hustlers Youths and United Warriors. Weather permitting, all the teams will be in action next Saturday. Spartans will battle United Warriors at Pomona; Golden Fleece will host Essequibo Eagles U-19, while Reliance Hustlers will face off with Queenstown U-19 at the Imam Bacchus Ground.

Windies tour of New Zealand 2020…

Walsh Jr credits ‘Soul-searching’ as big part of preparation for T20 series By Clifton Ross

Windies T20 leg-spinner Hayden Walsh Jr. is backing himself to rebound from a mixed Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) and deliver the goodies when his team tackle the Kiwis in the T20 series. The leg-spinner following another session, spoke with media operatives from around the world via Zoom, touching on his personal goals for the upcoming series against New Zealand as well as how he's been preparing for the battle. Similar to his teammate, getting accustomed to the conditions ahead of the series coupled with some crucial training time are among the key things the leggy said he's relishing in New Zealand. "Personally it's been going well, I've been doing a lot of acclimatization, trying to find the right balance to see how i can get my fingers warm or how much spin do I need, or pace do I need to bowl at on the wickets. So it's been a very good fact-finding preparation so far". Said the 28 year-old With just 7 wickets from 10 matches in this year's Hero CPL, Walsh said he was not beating himself up too much about the mixed season. He also admitted to doing some "Soul-searching" to further prepare for the upcoming series and still backed himself as arguably the best spinner in the Carib-

bean at the moment. "I'm definitely seeing myself as the premier leg-spinner, because I'm turning the ball, I have a Googly, a slider so i think it's my variations that put me a step ahead. I'm also not afraid to use my variations, if I get hit i get hit but I'm not afraid to use my armory and once I do put spin on the ball I will be able to pick up wickets." Walsh pointed out. Despite playing some cricket this summer with Afghanistan star spinner Rashid Khan, the United States of America-born player said he is sticking to his own identity but will use the little tricks he's learnt from Khan when the time comes. "I really was in awe of having Rashid Khan around. He taught me a few grips and some Googlies he has in his armory but one thing I took away is that I'm a different bowler from him so I think I need to be myself more often". He noted. Windies will have a few more practice sessions in the days to come proper to their practice games and ahead of the series. Walsh in closing admitted to working hard on his batting after the CPL. Walsh wrapped his session by hinting at his role as a batsman down the order. He said it was important to start adapting to his role, having batted in the top 6 during his early days of playing for the USA.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Monday, November 09, 2020 COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD – 83 Garnett street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Devon Ramnauth is hoping that the competition can increase the talent pool in Region Two

The U-19 T20 league will see some of the top teenagers battling over several weeks, with the final, third place and a female exhibition T10 game scheduled for December 12 at the Imam Bacchus Ground.

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) M S Dhoni-17 dismissals : 15 catches; 2 stumpings (CSK) (2) 167 – first wicket (C. Gayle & T. Dilshan- RCB vs Warriors) TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Which four teams have made it to the IPL 2020 play-off round? (2) Which two teams have made it to the IPL 2020 final?

The six teams will battle over the next several weeks

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, November 9, 2020

Bharrat inducted as BCB Patron ― makes $1M contribution

THE Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), on Saturday, inducted Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat as Club Patron, during a simple ceremony at the St Francis Community Developers Complex in Rose Hall. BCB President, Hilbert Foster, hailed the induction ceremony as another red-letter day in the history of Berbice Cricket. In his opening remarks, Foster provided a comprehensive report on the history of the game in the county,its present status and plans for the future. He stated that the board was the first of its kind to be established in Guyana and, over the years, has produced nineteen test cricketers, thirteen ODI and 20/20 players, along with six female players for the West Indies. The BCB, he also stated,hosted, in 1977, the first ever ODI match to be played in the Caribbean. He recalled that after an internal crisis that lasted over

two years, his administration inherited a board that was in deep crisis and less than $50,000 in its coffers.

now at an all-time high and predicted that in a few years, the BCB would be considered the role model cricket structure

Minister Bharrat hands over $1M to BCB Treasurer Dr Cecil Beharry

No proper cricket tournament was played while the frustration level among players and clubs was at an all-time high. He proudly stated that the level of Berbice cricket was

in the Caribbean. Over the last thirty two months, the Foster-led Board has organised sixty two cricket tournaments at all levels, raised over $30M in cash and kind, assisted clubs with over

ten million dollars’ worth of items, implemented dozens of developmental projects, upgraded the Board office, became self reliant and assisted a combined two hundred youth cricketers with cricket gears and bicycles. Regional Vice Chairman, Zamal Hussain, hailed the work of the Board and stated that the RDC of Region Six would always offer support as it understands the value of sports. He praised the Board for its open-door policy and for working along with all stakeholders. Minister Bharrat was inducted as Patron by Secretary, Angela Haniff and Treasurer, Dr Cecil Beharry, and received a Sash, trophy, medal, framed certificate and his official list of duties. Among the duties of the Patron are the public face of the Board, to be a role model to youth cricketers, to offer counseling if necessary to youth cricketers, prepare a Patron message for all publications, to be the Guest Speaker at the annual award ceremony and

to assist the BCB to fulfil its mandate. The new Patron stated that he was very proud to be associated with the BCB as he was quite aware of its outstanding record of activities and achievements. He noted that while his dream of becoming a cricketer never materialized, he would work along with the Board to make sure that every Berbician has the opportunity to become the next Rohan Kanhai and Basil Butcher. He pedged that massive improvements would be made in Berbice cricket during his five-year term of office. He disclosed that he follows Berbice cricket very closely and hailed the outstanding leadership of the board. The Patron also spoke on the importance of discipline and on the need for young cricketers to remain focus as it is very easy to be led astray. In his first official duty as Patron, Minister Bharrat handed over a donation of

a box of cricket balls, two scorebooks and a football to the Edinburgh Cricket Club. He then announced, to loud applause, a financial contribution of one million dollars to the BCB coffers and a donation of cricket gears worth about two hundred thousand dollars. The monetary donation would be used for the 2021 historic semi-professional tournament while the gears would be shared out to less fortunate youth cricketers across the county. The Government Minister committed to working very hard in his capacity to make sure that the tournament becomes a reality and fulfils all of its objectives. The gears would be handed over under the newly established Patron Fund. Among those in attendance were national and West Indies players, including Devindra Bishoo, Veersammy Permaul, Gudakesh Motie, Shemaine Campbelle, Erva Giddings, Shabika Gajnabi and Kevin Sinclair.

Narine leads Phoenix XI to victory in NYNCL Saturday T20 final

―Guyanese scores century; takes three wickets A MAN-of-the-match performance from hard-hitting all-rounder, Derick Narine, propelled Phoenix XI to victory in the New York National Cricket League Saturday T20 final over the weekend at Baisley Pond in Queens, New York. The Berbician, who played inter-county cricket in Guyana and represented the US Cricket Academy at the U-19 level against India in 2015, scored an aggressive century before he delivered with the ball.

Phoenix XI (mainly US based Guyanese) batted first against Unruly CC and were able to race to 217-8 from their allotted overs with Narine leading the charge. The opening batsman struck 10 whopping sixes and six fours in his 49-ball 110. He and captain, Dion Chooweenam, (former first-division cricketer), put together 79 for the first wicket before the latter fell for 39 (4X4s, 3X6s off 19 balls). Although the Unruly CC bowlers were able to claw

being bowled out for 147 in 18.4 overs. Skipper Madramootoo, who was eventually bowled by Narine, led the attack with 74; his innings included nine sixes and one four off 44

their way back after former Guyana youth player, Dominique Rikhi, and Michael Sultan combined for five wickets, the opening partnership had tarnished the figures of the opposing bowlers. Former Jamaican fast bowler, Neive McNally’s three overs went for 31 (one wicket), Samuel Raghubir’s two overs went for 32, Terrence Madramootoo’s four overs went for 38 (one wicket), Fuse Azeez’s two overs went for 38 and Sachin Persaud’s one over for 17.

Derick Narine scored 110 runs before he returned with the ball to pick up 3-18

Phoenix XI are the NYNCL Saturday T20 championships

Even the dominant bowlers were relatively expensive. Sultan finished with 3-35 from four overs, while Rikhi ended his four overs with 2-25. Unruly CC struggled early in the chase. Except for a fighting half century from former Berbice all-rounder, Madramootoo, the side buckled under pressure. They lost their last five wickets for 70runs, which resulted in them

balls. Narine finished with 3-18 from 3.4 overs while Chooweenam took 3-15 from his four overs, Triston Carmichael 2-25 and Mark Tyrell 2-29.

The new Patron poses with his family and BCB executives after beini inducted

SEE PAGE 23

Bharrat inducted as BCB Patron ― makes $1M contribution Shimron Hetmyer goes over the bowler’s head, Delhi Capitals vs Sunrisers Hyderabad, IPL 2020, 2nd Eliminator, Abu Dhabi, November 8, 2020

SEE PAGE 20

Stoinis, Dhawan and Hetmyer push Delhi to finals

Windies tour of New Zealand 2020…

Walsh Jr credits ‘Soul-searching’ as big part of preparation for T20 series SEE PAGE 22

Lopes wins back-to-back clashes in Safe Tennis Tournament

SEASONED tennis player, Andre Lopes, registered back-to-back victories over the weekend to serve off the Guyana Tennis Association (GTA)-organised ITF-sponsored Safe Tennis Tournament at the Le Ressouvenir Tennis Court on the East Coast of Demerara. Although rain hampered the event on both days, it did not dent the determination of Lopes, who got past Donnie Anderson 6-4, 6-1 in the opener on Saturday, before he eased past Wayne

Baker on Sunday, 6-0, 6-2. Ronald Murray, who opened his campaign on Saturday with a 6-0, 6-2 win against Harvey Stoll, went down to Hemraj Resaul yesterday. In the other match on Saturday, Philbert Clarke registered a win over Javed Khan. Meanwhile, Viraj Sharma came from behind to beat Kevin Matai 1-6, 6-4 (10-8) on Sunday afternoon. Some 21 persons are battling in the male-only competition.

Hayden Walsh Jr

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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2020