Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 07-06-2021 by Guyana Chronicle

MONDAY 7th June, 2021

' No.106384

Floodwaters 03 slowly receding in Region Nine PAGE

–– says Regional Chair, reports damage to infrastructure, farms

CDC tackles shortages of food, drinking water 02

Heartbreaking, time to support each other

PAGE

–– as prices increase for these items in Region Eight

–– says Minister Persaud during hamper distribution in Kwakwani, WBD communities

GPA President, Nazima Ragubir

Media workers continue to brave COVID-19 05 PAGE

600 hampers for flood-ravaged Region Seven 17 PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

CDC tackles shortages of food, drinking water –– as prices increase for these items in Region Eight

THE Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has begun to mobilise increased assistance for the citizens of Region Eight, (Potaro-Siparuni). This is in light of a detected hike in food prices, as well as shortage of drinking water in the region. According to a press statement from the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), a team comprising key government agencies conducted a comprehensive assessment which revealed the need for more food and cleaning items along with drinking water, water tanks, life jackets, mattresses and

kerosene. It noted that access to drinking water remains of particular concern, since water harvesting has been a challenge in hard-toreach communities. “This resulted in contamination of drinking water, damage to food, household items, boats and engines among other things,” the release issued on Sunday night said. The CDC reported that, currently, several homes, farms, roads and mining equipment have been destroyed by floodwater. Communities from Tumatumari Hill Foot to Two Miles have

been inundated, making it difficult for vehicles to traverse. “In Tumatumari, five households with a total of 21 persons were independently evacuated to the homes of relatives who reside on higher ground. The team also assessed the flood impact at El Passo which is home to approximately 35 families (160 persons),” the CDC said. It noted too that five households comprising 16 persons were also relocated from the water front, as the floodwater reached 15 feet. “Those who reside on the hills

Water levels have reached as high as 15 feet in some areas of Mahdia (CDC photo) experienced flash floods, ceded,” the statement cleaning supplies, treated but water has since re- said. mosquito nets, face masks and malaria medication,” the MINING DISRUPTIONS release said. Further, the assessment Meanwhile, the Ministry found that approximately of Health has embarked on a 360 mining operations have mission to deliver COVID-19 been affected at “Mabura, vaccines, malaria tests and Kanawaruk, Mahdia, Issa- treated mosquito nets to minno and Miniaha Landing”. ers. It was noted too that “afThe CDC said that monifected miners in the Mining toring and assessment of the District from Potaro Mouth situation in Sub-District Two to Koribrung and Kaieteur will continue with the assesshad moved to Mahdia. ment moving to Sub-District According to CDC’s Pre- 1 to assess the impact of the paredness and Response flooding in those commuManager, Major Salim Oc- nities. tober, the bridges at Mowasi “Information reaching the Landing and White Water team indicated that areas of have been washed away concern include Paramakatoi while others have been dam- which has approximately 10 aged. Major October indi- families and Mountain Foot cated that there is evidence which has approximately 140 that some mining camps residents. Reports are that were abandoned; the as- the trail from Paramakatoi sessment team was told that to Kato is impassable,” the equipment has also been CDC added. submerged. The assessment team “Some miners who re- comprised of representamained in the area were in tives from the CDC, the the process of pumping water Ministry of Health (MOH), from the land in preparation the Regional Democratic to recommence operation as Council (RDC) and the early as Monday. Among Guyana Geology and Mines Roads and bridges have been destroyed by the floodwater (CDC photo) the request from miners are Commission (GGMC).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Floodwaters slowly receding in Region Nine –– says Regional Chair, reports damage to infrastructure, farms By Naomi Parris AFTER heavy rainfall and severe flooding for almost three weeks, floodwaters in Region Nine are slowly receding, according to Chairman of the region’s Regional Democratic Council (RDC), Brian Allicock. Seasonal flooding is said to occur in the region when water from the Amazon Rainforest in Brazil travels through the Rio Negro River to the Brancho River and, eventually, makes its way to Region Nine. “At the moment it is not coming up as rapidly as before, we haven’t any rainfall for today [Sunday]. It’s slowly receding, so we are praying that water from Rio Negro doesn’t push back into our region, because it is stable now at the moment,” Allicock told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday. Besides disrupting people’s daily routines, there have been several reports about infrastructure being severely damaged; this includes roads, cassava farms, and farine and bread-making shops. “It has left a lot of damage and so on, because the roadways, some places it’s impossible to traverse, you have to get lorries to move out the buses and things,” the regional chairman added.

Water levels are said to be slowly receding in some parts of Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) (CDC photo) At the time of the inter- are preparing hampers and an increased risk of perHe further disclosed view, Allicock related that other flood-relief packages son-to-person contact and that despite the challenghe was receiving reports from to distribute to residents. the spread of the coronavirus. es caused by the recent several farmers across the Additionally, the chair- floods, regional health COVID CONCERNS region on their immediate man stated that he believes authorities have been While the uncertainty that the rise in COVID-19 hosting sensitisation proneeds. Currently, he added that of the weather and flooding cases are coming from per- grammes to inform perthe regional authorities are are concerns for the region, sons travelling from George- sons about the dangers of carrying out assessments Allicock lamented that town into the region. the COVID-19 virus and to highlight the immedi- COVID-19 still remains a He attributed the rise in have also been conducting ate needs of residents who significant challenge. cases in Fairview to persons vaccination drives in sevWith the entire region travelling into region, since eral communities. were and still are affected by recording 226 cases, Allicock the village is located on the floods across the region. He noted that some arHe said that the Civil explained that since residents access road to Lethem from eas are currently awaiting Defence Commission (CDC) have been providing help to Georgetown, and as such, it the second dose of the vachas since been contacted each other as they navigate is the first village commuters cine. and the regional authorities the flooding, there has been come into contact with.

COUNTRY-WIDE FLOODING Over the past 24 hours, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) has continued to receive reports of flooding across the country. In a country-wide update, the CDC stated that Regions 10, Nine, Eight, Seven, and Six are the most impacted. Since May 18, 2021, the CDC has received reports of more than 26,000 households affected by the flooding in more than 300 communities across all 10 administrative regions. Additionally, the CDC related that cloudy to overcast skies are likely throughout Guyana during the period of June 7 – 10, 2021 and coastal locations may experience showers of varying intensities, frequent rain, and possible isolated thundershowers. Precipitation is also expected mostly during the early to late morning hours, and is forecast to range between 25 mm and 60 mm. The rest of the country may observe scattered light to moderate showers during the morning hours, with conditions deteriorating during the afternoon and evening hours, giving way to showers of varying intensities, frequent to continuous rain and thundershowers. Rainfall is forecast to range between 40 mm and 100 mm.

Moosaie family of Mahaicony adds to relief efforts EVEN as the Government of Guyana continues to roll out its countrywide flood-relief initiative, scores of other Guyanese are also coming on board to provide much-needed supplies to their fellow citizens. On Saturday, several households along the heavily-affected Mahaicony Creek, Region Five, benefitted from the distribution of a quantity of food and sanitary products, provided by the grandchildren of Kewalie Moosaie, a deceased resident of Mortice,

Mahaicony Branch Road. The relief efforts, which targetted the upper reaches of the Mahaicony River, were executed in Moosaie’s honour. It saw the distribution of some 242 hampers totalling in excess of $1 million. The additional cost of transportation was incurred by the Regional Democratic Council, and Regional Chairman, Vickchand Ramphal. Also accompanying the distribution team was Colonel Nazrul Hussain, who currently heads the

National COVID-19 Taskforce. The initiative was coordinated by well-known community leader, sports broadcaster and school teacher, Inderjeet Persaud. Additional assistance was provided by former Regional Chairman of Region Five, Bindranban Bisnauth. The residents have all expressed gratitude for the supplies, and are hopeful that the flood waters that have devastated their lives would recede rapidly, and afford them the opportunity to heal and rebuild.

The relief efforts saw the distribution of 242 flood-relief hampers

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Intended removal of GECOM trio has nothing to do with race -- Min. Indar, Gunraj

V I N C E N T A l e x a n d e r, one of the three Opposition-aligned Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), has been quoted by a reputable online news agency as saying that the move to remove three senior officers of the agency is “racially motivated”. According to Demerara Waves Online News, Alexander does not believe that the intended dismissals are associated with the infamous six-month long period that it took GECOM to declare the results for the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections. Currently, Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, along with Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Roxanne Myers and Returning Officer for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Clairmont Mingo, are facing multiple charges relating to electoral fraud and misconduct in public office. The three are accused of conspiring to rig the March

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar

2, 2020 elections, in favour of the now main opposition A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC). A prolonged recount of the votes eventually declared victory to the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C), resulting in the swearing-in of President, Dr. Irfaan Ali. During a recent broadcast programme called ‘Lets Talk Politics’ with Edward Layne, PPP/C’s GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj,

rubbished Alexander’s claims that efforts to remove the GECOM trio were “racially motivated”.

enough to not be misled by racial rhetoric. “People saw with their own eyes what happen,” Indar said.

PPP/C-nominated GECOM Commissioner, Sase Gunraj

UTTER NONSENSE He also joined Gunraj in accusing members of the APNU+AFC of being irresponsible in what they say to the nation. “To tell people that the motion is racial, is utter nonsense. Mingo tried to rig the elections over and over; Myers was [also] in there…you are supposed to count the people’s votes; not count what you want to count and report what you want,” the Public Works minister posited. He believes that persons who find nothing wrong with the GECOM trio’s conduct during the elections, ought to engage in some introspection. “If you are going to defend those kinds of wrongs, those kind of blatant rigging of elections…trying to steal an entire country, [then] it speaks to [your] value system,” Indar maintained.

“When the only tool you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail,” Gunraj reasoned. The attorney-at-law maintained that there is sufficient evidence in the public domain to question the integrity of Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo, and their suitability to function during another election in Guyana. Gunraj also chided Alexander for citing race as a reason behind the PPP/C’s motion to have the GECOM trio dismissed. “Everything is viewed through those race-coloured lenses… the only hammer they have is race, so every issue presented to themselves is a nail that has to be lashed with race,” Gunraj argued. Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, expressed the belief that Guyanese are knowledgeable

He contended that had Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo been operating outside of Guyana, the severity of the repercussions would have been far more severe. NOT FIT “If anybody else in the world had done something like this, they would’ve been in jail, not fired alone,” Indar posited, adding that “Thousands of votes they were trying to disenfranchise people… anybody who rep-

resents rigging is not fit to be in democratic society.” With Local Government Elections due this year, Indar

Michelle Miller and Denise Bob-Cummings; Elections Officer, Shefern February and Information Technology

Embattled duo: Returning Officer for Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Clairmont Mingo (left) and Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield

said that the three GECOM officers cannot be allowed to hold the country at ransom, once more. “How can we continue to develop as a country when every single election cycle, you have these kinds of fears? People have to go through this kind of trauma,” the minister added. He said that a healthy electoral system is even more important now, as Guyana continues to attract investors from all over the world. “You can’t have people trying to rig the elections every five years, and that is what these guys are doing,” Indar indicated. Presently, Lowenfield is faced with three counts of Misconduct in Public Office, and three counts of Forgery; while Mingo was charged with four counts of Misconduct in Public Office, and Myers with two counts of Misconduct in Public Office. It was only last week that Gunraj introduced a motion for the “immediate dismissal” of the GECOM three, on the premise of their alleged breaches and misconduct during the protracted elections. In addition to Lowenfield, Mingo and Myers, Chairperson of the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R), Volda Lawrence; Opposition activist, Carol Joseph; the CEO’s clerks,

Officer, Enrique Livan were also charged.

Deputy Chief Elections Officer, Roxanne Myers

They are all accused of inflating the results of Region Four – Guyana’s largest voting district – to give the APNU+AFC Coalition a majority win at the March 2 polls when in fact, the PPP/C had won by 15,000 more votes. Prior to the motions for dismissal, Chief Justice (ag), Roxane George, S.C. had ordered that the certified copies of the Statements of Poll (SoPs) and Statements of Recount (SoRs) from the aforementioned elections, be released to the Commissioner of Police (ag), Nigel Hoppie, and Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Shalimar Ali-Hack, S.C, to facilitate ongoing investigations into the 2020 election saga.

Media workers continue to brave COVID-19 GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

-to keep nation informed By Tamica Garnett

WHEN COVID-19 hit Guyana in March 2020, it abruptly threw everyone’s world into a frenzy with the impromptu changes. Among those most affected were those persons deemed “essential workers” who were required to still be out in public when others were required to be at home. For many, when they think of essential workers, professions such as nurses, doctors and police officers come to mind. Not many have considered the sacrifices made and challenges being faced by media workers during the period. As the situation unfolded, and many became confined to their homes, the work of journalists became all the more crucial as persons craved information and developments on the deadly virus. In Guyana the situation of course was compounded by the debacle of the March 2 General and Regional Elections, another area which demanded media workers to be on the frontline. “We had to remain providing a duty to the nation, getting updates to the nation and putting our lives at risk. There was so much that we now know about the virus that we didn’t know, so persons really took a chance with being out there to provide coverage to this nation,” commented Nazima Ragubir, President of the Guyana Press Association. Ragubir herself was on the frontline during coverage of the pandemic. “It was challenging from the onset because there was so much uncertainty about what was going on with the elections cycle; there were other stories to be covered,” she noted. Ragubir added: “A few of us have been affected by COVID-19 and if not us, we have relatives or friends. We have media workers who died and then there is that mental health aspect of it,

Journalist, Kemol King (right) with other media operatives during coverage of the 2020 elections

dealing with that trauma that affected us, another aspect that a lot of times we don’t take into consideration, and that is a cause for concern.” To date Guyana has recorded over 17,000 cases, and over 400 deaths from the virus which has been responsible for over 3.7 million deaths worldwide. The horizon is looking brighter now as the country has been able to access vaccines. A robust vaccination campaign is ongoing throughout the country. Ragubir during the interview with the Guyana Chronicle said the pandemic has affected the landscape of media life, in Guyana and across the world. “It still remains challenging to this day. It is changing the dynamic of the newsroom. Now people are thinking: Can I work from home? Should offices look at how people cover assignments, how you engage with officials? We have less press engagement in person. While there is some virtual, there is still not enough so access has been very difficult to get,” she noted.

The veracity of the pandemic hit close to home for the media corps earlier this year, with the passing of two well-known media persons: Namila Henry, a communications specialist and former editor at the Guyana Chronicle who died in March, 2021 and veteran journalist, Mondale Smith, who died on May 31. “People underestimate the dangers we put ourselves in to ensure that they stay informed with everything that is happening in Guyana and around the world,” commented Newsroom journalist, Shikema Dey. “Journalists and everyone in the media fraternity should be applauded for their sacrifice of risking their lives to chase after a story. Think about what would have happened if the media was not considered ‘essential’. The public would be left in the dark about the ills of the world,” she said.

Dey tested positive for the virus in August, 2020. “I didn’t present with the more serious symptoms. I had the headache and the loss of taste and I was pretty glad about that. When it came to treatment options, I merely had to get my vitamins, hydrate and keep active but that was a challenge because I was isolated at home,” she shared. Meanwhile, 24-year-old Kemol King, now a Communications Officer at the Department of Public Information (DPI) was a journalist at the Kaieteur News when he was called in to be tested for COVID-19 in June after a member of Cabinet tested positive. He would later test positive in August, and was under quarantine for 14 days. Though he was lucky to be among those who did not show physical symptoms, he noted that it was nonetheless mentally challenging. “My biggest challenge was really the mental strain of staying in after being extremely active for the 5-6 months prior. I got panic attacks confining myself within four walls all day, at times. So, I got vaccinated as soon as I could, this year,” he noted. King was among those media workers on the frontline of the elections coverage last year, where a lot of journalists were exposed to risks. King commented that while most journalists were being responsible while carrying out their duties during the pandemic, there were other persons among them who were not at all careful. “I remember one situation in which a reporter/ commentator was said to have visited the family of the first woman who had died from COVID-19. He was coming on assignments with other journalists, and you could tell that they [other journalists] were uneasy,” he noted.

GPA President, Nazima Ragubir

Newsroom Journalist, Shikema Dey, (right) on the frontline

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Climate Change, Resilience and Finance C L I M AT E - C H A N G E risks, such as extreme weather-related disasters as well as slow onset changes such as rising sea levels, threaten sustainable development and resilience, impair socio-economic development, and reinforce cycles of poverty across the globe. According to Munich Re (2013) and Collier et.al (2008), climate impacts undermine resilience and the capacity to recover and absorb losses from these events, especially those of poorer countries and their citizens, by reducing their agricultural productivity; weakening water and food security; increasing the incidence of diseases, and threatening the existing infrastructure, economic productivity and value chains Although more than one billion people have lifted themselves out of

poverty over the past 15 years, climate and disaster risks threaten these achievements. According to a World Bank study, global economic losses from disasters are now reaching an average of more than US$300 billion annually, forcing millions into poverty. Post-disaster response financing, including donor assistance and commercial insurance, covers only a fraction of disaster losses, which in turn creates a protection gap. SwissRe (2016) indicates that over the last 10 years, an average of just about 30 per cent of catastrophic losses have been covered by insurance, which in turn, translates to about 70 per cent of catastrophe losses having to be borne directly by individuals, firms and governments. Financial protection involves planning ahead to

better manage the cost of disasters; ensuring predictable and timely access to much-needed resources, and ultimately mitigating long-term fiscal impacts. As such, in the intermediate aftermath of a disaster, being able to rapidly access financial resources is crucial for saving lives and livelihoods (World Bank, 2017). Catastrophe risk pools are emerging as a cost-effective vehicle to help countries access rapid financing for disaster response. These allow countries to pool risks in a diversified portfolio; retain some amount of risk through joint reserves/ capital portfolio; and transfer excess risks to the reinsurance and capital markets. Twenty-six countries have joined the sovereign catastrophe risk pools in three regions, namely Africa, the Pacific, and the Caribbean and Central America,

over the past 10 years or so. These countries have purchased parametric catastrophe risk insurance for an average aggregate coverage of US$870 million and an aggregate premium volume of US$56.6 million (2016/17), backed by more than 30 reinsurance companies. This type of insurance solution (parametric) allows for rapid payouts in the event of a disaster by providing liquidity within a few weeks to finance rapid response. The success of this form of sovereign catastrophe risk pools, however, relies on a combination of technical assistance, significant financial support, and strong political commitment (World Bank, 2017). At the regional level, such catastrophe risk pools would require a regional partner organisation to facilitate the political and policy dialogue

and coordination among participating governments. Further, disaster risk financing solutions require that participating countries be committed to implementing necessary policy reforms (World Bank, 2017). A systematic and thorough review of empirical studies on disaster risk financing and the impact of natural disasters in the Caribbean context, found that very limited evidence was uncovered to ascertain how disaster risk financing and insurance instruments have benefited the Caribbean. This is not to say, however, that there is absolutely no benefit to such initiatives, but the evidence suggests that the cost of natural disasters, especially upon the vulnerable in the small Caribbean economies, far outweigh the benefits of financial support to rebuild in the aftermath. In fact, there

is a wealth of literature and economic impact assessment studies quantifying the economic and social costs on economies vulnerable to, and most affected by natural disasters. It is especially against this backdrop that further studies need to be done to mobilise, harmonise and coordinate, at the regional level, disaster risk financing and insurance instruments. More focus needs to be placed on the more vulnerable groups who are the victims suffering the most from the wrath of such catastrophes. This should not only be limited to sustainable development work to lift people out of poverty by economic empowerment through education, but countries also have to divert investment into building climate-resilient infrastructure.

Coalition’s game is coming to an end Dear Editor,

I AM reading in the press that “Statements of Poll (SOPs) from five of the 10 Administrative Regions have been handed over to a team from the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) as investigations continue into attempts to commit electoral fraud at the March 2, 2020 General and Regional Elections.” I quickly emphasise that this ‘handing over’ is now a legal mandate, something that had to be invoked, as A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) seem most afraid to have any legal issue utilising the all-important SoPs. Concurrently, again gleaning from the press, I am seeing that “Lawyers for the said

A Partnership for National Unity +Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition filed a ‘Notice of Appeal’ against Chief Justice (Ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire’s decision to dismiss the second elections petition case.” Now what boggles the mind is the litany of egregious legal misdemeanors that APNU+AFC have been trying to foist on the nation and the court system in Guyana and across the region. The whole thing is like an assault on public intelligence and a war against basic honesty. I will just revisit two to emphasise my argument. First, back in June 2019, our “Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruled that the process through which Reverend Justice (Retired) James Patterson was appointed Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) by His

Excellency, Brigadier David Granger, President of Guyana, was flawed and in breach of Guyana’s Constitution.” In fact, the CCJ clearly emphasised a purpose, that is, “… the drafting history of Article 161(2) … that changes had been made to it, to promote consensus and inclusiveness by involving the Leader of the Opposition in the selection process.” Granger obviously knew this but went ahead and ‘did his thing’ in defiance. Second case in point goes back to June 2019, when again it was our highest legal institution, the CCJ, ruling “that the no-confidence motion, brought against the David Granger-led APNU+AFC administration, was validly passed with the votes of 33 members of the 65-member National Assembly…” thereby compelling the resignation

of Cabinet and the holding of general elections, within a time-frame. To allow such a matter to reach all the way to the CCJ was indeed ludicrous. The way one of the CCJ judges put it was most embarrassing to APNU+AFC. Justice Jacob Wit said that “… no magic was needed in determining what constituted the needed majority, while noting that attorneys for the State sought to work what he called “their legal magic,” with which they succeeded in persuading the local appellate court that a minimum of 34 votes constituted the majority that was required. So now, it seems that another ‘trying a thing’ from the APNU+AFC Opposition is about to be discarded into the garbage. They are appealing the ‘throwing out of their (second) Elections Appeals.’

The argument is that, “The Learned Judge erred in law when she ruled that the appellants did not produce evidence in the said petition, in that, being a petition, which claimed that the said March 2 Elections was not lawfully conducted, there was no need for production of any evidence except what was presented, namely, the declarations as per Regional Returning Officers’ one to 10 and the recount.” This is beyond basic common sense. The SoPs and later the SoRs constitute the evidence for authentication of any legal or illegal declaration. Both sets of documents were ratified by all of the legally-appointed observers. I add that this is what APNU+AFC are shying away from. However, according to Attorney-General and Legal Affairs Minister,

Anil Nandlall, the SoPs from Regions One (Barima-Waini), Tw o ( P o m e r o o n - S u p e naam), Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Four (Demerara-Mahaica) and Five (Mahaica-Berbice) have already been handed over to the Police. The Attorney-General surmises that by the end of Friday, all the SoPs from Regions Six through 10 would be certified and handed over to the State. He added that the handing over process is being video-recorded in order to ensure “no wickedness” is being conducted. I hope that APNU+AFC will either disappear, or seek to amend their ways. They are like a suffocating wet blanket over the nation. Yours truly, Attiya Baksh

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

OP-ED By Dr. Renata Clarke THE food in our supermarkets and our open markets come from numerous countries, and in the case of processed foods, each of the ingredients may itself from come different countries. It is indeed a global food web that keeps us fed. While we generally know very little about the people who produce, handle and process the food on the shelves of our supermarkets, for the most part we do not worry about the safety of the items that we drop into our shopping carts and then take home to serve to our families and friends. What is it that underlies our confidence in the safety of our food? There is a whole lot that goes on behind the scenes to protect us from unsafe food. There are international bodies of scientific experts that advise countries on: the safety of food additives; on the levels

World Food Safety Day Message

of contaminants or residues of agricultural chemicals that can be tolerated without causing harm to the consumer, even with a lifetime of consumption; on the processes and management systems to be applied by the private sector to keep food safe throughout the production chain. The advice of these scientific bodies is codified into standards and codes of practice by the global body responsible for guiding countries on food-safety issues: the FAO/ WHO Codex Alimentarius Commission. This is an inter-governmental commission with 188 member countries – a truly global decision-making body if countries utilise the opportunity to participate. As important as they are, the mere existence of internationally recognised food-safety standards is not enough to ensure that safe food is being delivered to our tables. Countries must also adopt national

standards, based on these international standards, and set up systems within the country that ensure that all required rules and guidance are followed. Earlier this year, FAO launched a regional project that will work with countries and with the Caribbean Agricultural Health and Food Safety Agency (CAHFSA) to assess selected national systems for food safety and quality control in terms of their capacities to carry out all of the functions outlined in the various Guidelines of the Codex Alimentarius. The results of the assessment will guide the countries in improving their systems and enable greater transparency and accountability within the system, including accountability to consumers and to the wider government that invests in the system. FAO is carrying out a series of five technical virtual sessions during June to train food-control officials across

the Caribbean to understand and be able to implement the food-control system assessment. An international team of food-safety experts will then support assessments that will be carried out in Guyana and The Bahamas. There is a strong political commitment across the Caribbean for strengthening intra-regional trade in food and agriculture. Confidence in each other’s systems of food control is an essential foundation for efficient trade and this FAO-supported assessment process will facilitate this confidence. A closing message for World Food Safety Day 2021 is for the Caribbean to be more active in the global rule-setting for food safety. With few notable exceptions, Caribbean countries are not using the opportunity to influence development of the rules that govern food safety. Let us resolve to get involved!

Dr. Renata Clarke Sub-regional Coordinator Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) Dr Renata Clarke is the Coordinator for the FAO SubRegional Office for the Caribbean. She has worked in food safety for over 20 years and formerly served as Head of the FAO Food Safety and Quality Unit.

Animal cruelty is a predictor of abuse Dear Editor,

YEARS ago, there was a fellow who used to routinely drive his car into every dog wandering on road or every stray dog on the streets; he was also a known criminal and wife/child abuser. Indeed, the indisputable connection between animal cruelty and other forms of criminal and violent behaviour, regularly referred to as “The Link,” has been firmly established. A landmark 1997 study by the Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals and Northeastern University found that animal abusers are in fact five times as likely to also harm fellow humans. In fact, animal cruelty is linked directly or indirectly with every type of violent crime, and most non-violent crime. The American Psychiatric Association considers animal cruelty one of the diagnostic criteria of conduct disorder. Phil Arkow, coordinator of the National Link Coalition — a group focusing on the intersection between violence toward animals and humans — has written often about

animal abuse being a “predictor crime.” And research and studies in psychology, sociology and criminology in the past five decades has shown that: * Most violent criminals (60-70 per cent) and psychiatric patients were abused as children, and a majority (60 per cent) started committing animal cruelty at an early age. * Numerous bullies in schools and juvenile crime offenders are linked to animal cruelty and many subsequently commit criminal acts. As well, high-school killers such as Nikolas Cruz in Parkland, Florida and Luke Woodham, in Pearl, Mississippi, tortured animals before starting their shooting sprees. Columbine High School students Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold, who shot and killed 12 classmates before turning their guns on themselves, spoke to their classmates about mutilating animals. * Serial killers and multiple murderers are often linked to animal cruelty, so much so that it is uncommon to find one who did not have a history of animal abuse. * Domestic violence (child abuse, spouse battering, elder abuse) is closely associated

with animal cruelty; when one is going on, the other is likely also. A 1983 study notes that animal abuse was found in 88 per cent of homes in which physical child abuse was being investigated. And a 2017 study showed that 89 per cent of women who had companion animals during an abusive relationship reported that their animals were threatened, harmed, or killed by their abusive partner. Indeed, more than half of women in domestic violence shelters report that they delayed their escape out of fear for their animals. So, what should be done? Experts agree that early prevention and treatment of animal cruelty is the key to stopping the cycle of violence because as aggressive children get older, they are less responsive to therapeutic intervention. Reporting, investigating and prosecuting animal cruelty can help take dangerous criminals off the streets. Stopping animal abuse in children can help curb violent tendencies before they escalate to include violence against people. However, these measures must be institutionalised in legal framework. While many Caribbean nations do

possess some form of legislation enshrining cruelty against animals, most don’t go far enough. They are generally observed in the breach, compounded by the fact that there are few. If any, trained, mandated animal protection officers, to ensure implementation on any significant scale. Thus, consideration needs to be given to improving legislation by including some or all of the following: * Veterinarians report suspected animal abuse and be offered immunity from civil and criminal liability. * Animal control officers be trained to give teeth to the legislation, such training to include recognising and reporting child abuse and neglect. Such officers can comprise units within the police force or better yet, such training can be a component of overall police training at the entry level. * Child and adult-protection workers receive training on identifying and reporting animal cruelty, abuse and neglect. * Psychological counselling should be mandated for individuals convicted of animal cruelty. * Training and continuing

education about The Link® should be provided to judges and prosecutors. * Animal-focused violence should be included in standard assessments and intake forms for child protective services, mental health and domestic violence workers. * Establish community partnerships to respond to animal abuse and educate the public about taking all acts of violence seriously. * The possibility of animal abuse registries should be considered. As well, citizens can also take action by: * Urging local law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, judges, and schools to take cruelty to animals seriously. Those charged with protecting our communities and animals must send a strong message that violence against any feeling creature—human or nonhuman—is unacceptable; * Becoming more aware of signs of neglect or abuse in children and animals, and immediately reporting suspected crimes to authorities. Take children seriously if they report that animals are being neglected or mistreated. Some children won’t talk about their

own suffering, but will talk about an animal abuse; * Don’t ignore even minor acts of cruelty to animals by children. Instead, talk to the child and the child’s parents. If necessary, call a social worker. The potent fact is that fighting animal abuse could be a major weapon in the arsenal of the war on crime, as borne out by hundreds of studies and reports, over the years. Animals make a difference in our lives in more ways than can be counted. They give us companionship, love, loyalty and therapeutic healing. They contribute significantly to the tourism product and create jobs for bird watchers, guides and others in the hospitality industry. In fact, animals improve the quality of life for humans and add meaning and value to our existence, so why don’t we do a better job of improving the quality of life for animals? Yours sincerely, Annan Boodram, The Caribbean Voice and Syeada Manbodh, animal protection activist and advocate

Scale of disaster misunderstood

… says President, notes thousands suffering from effects of current flood

PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has called attention to the widespread devastation created by extensive flooding throughout several regions of the country and lamented the loss of livelihoods and the destruction of homes and farms. The Head of State made the remarks at the opening of the Saipem Guyana Offshore Construction Facility, located on Water Street, Georgetown, where he used the opportunity to draw attention to the situation currently affecting thousands of Guyanese. “You may not know what is happening. Many of our brothers and sisters across Guyana are faced

with the worst disaster we have ever had, or they have ever had, in the history of our country. You may not see it here. I have just returned from Olive Creek, Kurupung bottom, Jawalla, Kamarang (Region Seven)…I spoke to the people in Jawalla and Kamarang where their entire lives have been destroyed. Everything they worked for all their life has disappeared.” The President further explained that hundreds of homes have been ruined while thousands of farms have been obliterated. “And when you speak about the impact; I am telling you about the farmer, over the last four genera-

tions had livestock that is no longer there today…. Listening to a father in tears telling me that his avocado farm is completely gone, but worse is that the trees will no longer be there after these floods. With his 15-year-old son standing behind him, he glances at his son and says - What is this boy going to do? These are very emotional times across our country. The scale of the disaster is misunderstood by those of us in Region Four.” President Ali pleaded with the audience not to underestimate the scale of the disaster, while he reminded them how fortunate the Region Four East Coast residents are owing

to the effectiveness of the Hope Canal and its ability to take off massive volumes of water. GRAVITY OF THE SITUATION “This is going to take some doing to recover from; mining camps are empty, infrastructure in some instances, completely destroyed. Seeing it firsthand gives you the full extent of the gravity of the situation that you’re faced with right now.” Earlier on Saturday, President Ali, and his team, which included the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha and the Director-General of the Civil De-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

President Dr Irfaan Ali fence Commission, Lieutenant-Colonel Kester Craig, visited several communities in Region Seven. At Jawalla, in Upper Mazaruni, the President said that initial estimates indicate that some 60 households have been completely affected, while approximately 169 farms were also inundated. The flooding there, according to many residents, is the worst ever faced. President Ali empathised with those affected and assured them that his government is working tirelessly to put systems in place to help them get back to some level of normalcy. High on the agenda is residents safety and the sup-

ply of emergency items, inclusive of food and medical supplies. In the long term, farmers throughout the country are expected to get assistance. On Friday, the President told Region Three farmers that the government is working on finding additional resources before going to parliament for a supplementary provision. Over the last two weeks, the Head of State has traversed many affected communities, including those in Regions Three, Five, Six, Seven and 10, to meet with affected residents and gauge firsthand, the impact of the flooding on their lives and livelihoods. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Four more COVID-19 deaths, 48 new cases FOLLOWING four recently confirmed COVID-19 deaths, Guyana’s overall toll now stands at 409, the Ministry of Health announced on Sunday. The latest fatalities are three females: a 45-yearold from Region Four died on June 2; a 51-yearold from Region Six who died on June 3,; and an 82-year-old from Region Seven who died on June 4, along with a 68-yearold male from Region Two who died on June 4. They all died while receiving attention at a medical facility. There are currently 1,888 active COVID-19 cases in Guyana following the addition of 48 new cases as at June 6, the ministry’s daily COVID-19 dashboard revealed. Even as new cases were recorded, 24 persons were reported to have recovered from the virus, bringing the total number of recoveries to 15,374.

The 48 newly confirmed cases were recorded in Regions Three, Four, Five, Six, Nine and 10. Thirty of the newly confirmed cases were females with the remaining 18 being males. Region Four accounted for 30 of the new cases. Region Three recorded four new cases; Regions Five, one; and Region Six, two; Region Nine, eight; and Region 10, three. It was reported that the new cases came from among the 814 tests that were conducted. The country has now recorded a total of 17,665 confirmed cases since the first COVID-19 case was reported in March 2020. Of those still infected, 20 are being kept in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the National Infectious Diseases Hospital, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. Currently, there are 103 persons in institutional isolation, 1,759 are

in home isolation and six are in institutional quarantine. Many of the persons infected with the virus are said to be asymptomatic, that is, they are not exhibiting symptoms. The updated COVID–19 Emergency Measures are in force from June 1, 2021 to June 30, 2021. They may be extended or amended by notice of the Minister of Health, after an assessment of the prevailing public health conditions of the pandemic. As per the current measures, all persons are required to wear face masks when leaving their homes. Physical distancing and adequate sanitization are also important. The current curfew time is 22:30hrs to 04:00hrs. Persons with symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to call the COVID-19 hotline numbers: 231-1166, 226-7480, or 180/181 for assistance.

Minibus driver allegedly drives away after hitting cyclist

A MINIBUS driver reportedly fled the scene after hitting down a 16-year-old pedal cyclist on the Mon Repos Public Road, East Coast Demerara, on Saturday evening. A police report stated that the driver, after the accident, stopped the vehicle so that passengers may render assistance to the victim but drove way when they began to do so. The driver, who is also the owner of the minibus bearing registration number BWW 5336, has been identified as Quincy Trotman, 37, of Doch Four Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara. He was arrested and is at the Beterverwagting Police Station as an investigation continues The victim, Vishwanauth Doodnauth of Dr. Miller Street, Triumph, East Coast Demerara, is reportedly in serious condition. According to a police report, around 21:40hrs, Doodnauth was riding along the thoroughfare when the route 44 minibus bearing registration number BWW 5336, collided with him. Doodnauth and his younger brother were at the time on separate cycles heading from north to south along the public road. The police report stated that the accident occurred while Doodnauth was riding south across the southern carriageway onto the southern driving lane and the minibus

was proceeding west along the southern driving lane. The collision led to the pedal cyclist toppling from his bicycle and onto the surface of the road, thereby receiving injuries about his body and losing consciousness. The minibus stopped and several passengers disembarked in a bid to render

A view of the route 44 minibus from the front, displaying damage consistent with the accident

The rear view of the minibus showing the number plate bearing registration number BWW 5336

assistance, after which the minibus drove away. The pedal cyclist was picked up in an unconscious condition by public-spirited citizens and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty and admitted a patient in the Intensive Care

Unit suffering from intracranial haemorrhage. The police reported that checks were made in the vicinity of Mon Repos with the description given to the police and the said minibus was found on the Mon Repos Public Road, bearing damage consistent with the accident.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Heartbreaking, time to support each other –– says Minister Persaud during hamper distribution in Kwakwani, WBD communities

EVEN as flooding across Guyana caused severe devastation and suffering to residents, Minister of Human Services and Social Security Dr. Vindhya Persaud has taken note that the situation has moved Guyanese to come together and support each other. On her visit to Kwakwani, Region 10, and other badly affected areas over the weekend, Minister Persaud and a team from her ministry saw firsthand the dire circumstances that people are enduring at the moment. “What I’ve seen here is devastation and people are very resilient as they try to cope with the floods. They need to be supported over the long-term to rebuild and recover from what has disrupted their lives and displaced many of them. I am humbled by their spirt in [the] face of this great difficulty and deeply concerned

by how badly the lives of families, the elderly and children have been affected. It was heartbreaking,” Minister Persaud expressed. The Government of Guyana has been on the ground across the country since the beginning of the rainy season, intervening and providing as much assistance as possible. The team took hampers into Kwakwani, along with long boots, baby and feminine care packages, mattresses and pillows. They then made their way to Patentia, West Bank Demerara, where the team went from house to house distributing 500 food hampers, along with mattresses and pillows for those who were badly affected. Other areas such as Vriesland and Two fields were also provided for. Permanent Secretary Shannielle Hoosein-Outar was also on the trip, along with her deputy Anjanie

Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud, presenting a hamper in Kwakwani, Region 10 Ramlall; Principal Personnel Officer, Rafael Boodhoo, and other staff from the ministry. “It broke my heart to see how people are suffering. The flood has resulted in persons losing their homes, some have relocated and some remain trying

to salvage what remains,” Hoosein-Outar said, adding, “While we know that they may need much more at the moment, it was beautiful to see them smile even though they are in such a tough situation.” She mentioned also that the ministry is very grate-

ful that many companies have donated. “It really is amazing to see what a great outcome we have when we all work together.” Boodhoo observed that many people in Kwakwani were removed from their homes, forced to sleep under makeshift tents and in some cases, had their rations and belongings completely destroyed by the floods. “While visiting some of the homes in the affected waterfront area, our boat was floating above their fences and right up to their verandas, where parents and children were both eagerly awaiting our arrival. It was truly devastating to witness. But there was a glimmer of hope in the smiles we saw as Minister Persaud interacted with them; we could see the relief in their eyes and we made a promise to continue our support to ease their suffering,” he expressed.

While at Patentia, Boodhoo reflected that the team walked to every house to hand deliver packages of relief to every household. “Residents were eagerly awaiting our arrival and we asked them not to come into the floodwaters; we went to them. Some residents indicated that it is the first time they would have received a flood relief hamper while some others indicated that it’s the first time they received one in their hand from a Minister of Government,” Boodhoo further commented. The Human Services Ministry has every intention to continue to support the affected communities and Minister Persaud has expressed gratitude to her tireless and dedicated staff and to the members of the community and community leaders who volunteered with the ministry’s team.

Flood-affected Pomeroon residents request planting materials, empolder works By Indrawattie Natram RESIDENTS in the Lower and Upper Pomeroon River, who have been severely affected by the recent flooding, have asked the regional administration for planting materials, to raise the river embankment and for additional emplodering

works to be done in their communities. These requests were made on Wednesday during outreaches held by the Regional Executive Officer (REO), Devanand Ramdatt and team at Karawab, St Monica and Kabakaburi; Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva and team at Abrams Creek, Siriki

and Jacklow and a team led by Prime Minister Representative, Arnold Adams, at Aberdeen, Hackney and Lilydale. The teams met with residents at specific times during the day. Ramdatt told the Guyana Chronicle that stagnated water is still on the land at

A flooded yard at Jacklow, Lower Pomeroon River Karawab and St Monica. He said while most of the floodwater has receded, there is evidence of stagnant water in several communities in the Pomeroon. He said during his meetings, residents and cash crop farmers requested planting materials, particularly seeds and fertilizers. They also asked for emplodering work to be done on farmlands. According to Ramdatt, the regional administration have asked leaders to make submissions based on the impact of the flooding in their respective communities. The leaders have up to Friday to make those submissions, after which the regional administration will make several rec-

ommendations and requests to the relevant ministries. Additionally, he said it was observed that many livestock farmers, who have suffered tremendous losses, were present at the meetings. The Guyana Livestock Development Association (GLDA) is currently gathering information from those farmers so that the necessary recommendations for assistance can be made on their behalf. On the Essequibo Coast, there are no reports of flooding. However, due to the persistent rainfall, pumps remain in operation. Several mini-excavators are currently in various communities assisting with the clearing and

desilting of drainage trenches. The regional officials, along with the overseers and D&I staff continue to monitor the rainy weather. Meanwhile, remedial works are currently being done in the Dartmouth community. A mini-excavator is being used to conduct cleaning works so as to lessen the likelihood of future flooding. Over 10 pumps were put into operation to ensure that there is effective drainage on the coastland. A visit to the pump at Three Friends revealed that it was in operation and was pumping water. Residents and rice farmers said they are very thankful for the efforts being made by the regional administration. It was also noted that pumps are being repaired and serviced regularly to ensure that they can work effectively during the rainy season. The region has been experiencing flooding since May 25. St Monica, Karwab, and Kabakaburi were severely affected. This newspaper was informed that water has receded from the rice lands in the region and in communities along the Essequibo Coast. Thus far over 2000 food hampers were distributed in the Pomeroon River and Charity. Black tanks were also sent into the Pomeroon River so that residents can store and consume safe water.

Hampers distributed to Region Three flood victims 11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

SEVERAL ministers of government returned to flood-ravaged Region Three communities on Saturday to distribute hampers to affected residents. The interventions were made following President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali’s visit to the region on Friday to assess the extent of the devastation there. Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand and Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, first stopped at Naamryck, where they assured residents of the government’s full support. The community was flooded after heavy rainfall caused the conservancy to overflow. This resulted in flooded homes and loss of crops and livestock. Minister Manickchand told residents the government will not leave them in hard times. “Please know that you will not be left alone. We are going to look at how we can repair economically and otherwise, the damage that would have been caused to you. So, we just want to

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar distributes hampers in Region Three

briefly tell you that so that you do not worry and distress yourself unnecessarily,” she said. Additionally, Minister Indar said excavators have been deployed to imploder the conservancy dam to prevent further overtopping. However, he noted that the government will provide more relief. “Tomorrow, the NDC Chairman will get some hampers and some cleaning items. We are packing it… last night we start to pack it; they are still packing it now. Tomorrow they will

The excavator at work on the conservancy dam

come and they will deliver to him and he will come to the neighbourhood and at least give some food hampers and cleaning items. In addition to that, when this is over, when the water recedes, the team will come in here from Agriculture to do an assessment of the damage…. Right now, the priority of government is to make sure that you have food and you have shelter, that is the main thing and to minimise the damage as much as we can,” he said. The ministers then visited Patentia, Vriesland, Belle West and other areas to deliver food hampers and a quantity of cleaning supplies as promised by President Ali. During that exercise, they were accompanied by Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud. Minister Persaud thanked the business community for contributing to those in need. “Last evening, we quickly got together 500 hampers. I really want to thank the staff and all those who donated towards this-- AmCham,

NA Market vendors’ assistant missing since April 12

JAMACY Reynolds, who would offer assistance on a daily basis to vendors at the New Amsterdam Market, as they plied their trade, has been missing for almost two months. The jovial 28-year-old woman was last seen on April 12. While her favourite vendor Wavney and sister claim they have not seen her, the woman’s mother, Pearl, is worried and now wonders whether she would ever see her first born again. Pearl was distraught and was teary when seen on Saturday. She had received a telephone call, stating that the headless remains of a female had washed ashore at Corriverton, Corentyne. She was fearful that this information would confirm

Missing: Jamacy Reynolds

her worst fears but a telephone call to Police Divisional Commander, Jairam Ramlakhan, and a subsequent investigation by his ranks stationed in the Upper Corentyne district, proved that the information was false. Meanwhile, Pearl is anx-

iously awaiting her daughter’s return to her Sheet Anchor, East Canje home. This publication was told that Reynolds visited her mother’s home on April 12, seeking some clothing, and later left. Reynolds lived in the New Amsterdam community of Mount Sinai which is commonly referred to as Angoy’s Avenue. She shared a relationship with Quacy, a small business entrepreneur. According to Pearl, her daughter was diagnosed with post-partum depression after giving birth eight years ago. The child was handed over to paternal relatives. Although, she seemed cheerful, she suffered silently from mental health challenges, this publication was told.

Human Services and Social Security Minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud distributes food hampers in Region Three

the business community, the corporate world-- for coming together with the Ministry of Human Services and ensuring that today we can not only bring food items but care packages for children, for women, mattresses for people who would have been up to their ears in water,” she said. Minister Indar said he is pleased with the integrated response by government to

ensure that affected persons are given assistance. “This morning, Minister Manickchand also arranged from the CDC, through Prime Minister, and we are very thankful for the CDC and the Prime Minister for 1000 hampers to be sent into the areas of Belle West, Canal Number One, the conservancy, Number Two conservancy, some for Uitvlugt and some of the

other villages on the West Coast that were affected,” he said. Meanwhile, Minister Manickchand said the government is committed to addressing the needs of its people and those severely affected will be catered to first. “Be sure about us as a government. There would not always be easy times, we are absolutely certain about that, we will try to make it easy but there would not always be easy times. “One thing people can count on us for across the country is that we would not leave you alone. So, we will be here with you in hard times and in good times and that is our commitment to every community in Guyana,” Minister Manickchand said. President Ali and Ministers of Government have been fanning out countrywide to bring relief to those affected by the flood. (DPI)

Croal joins hands in beautifying Prospect 12

RESIDENTS of Prospect New Housing Scheme, East Bank of Demerara (EBD) were on Sunday joined by Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, for a tree-planting exercise under the Prospect Phase One Community Aesthetic Enhancement Project. Residents were each given two plants, an oleander plant and a fruit tree of their choice, which were donated by the Ministry of Agriculture and Central Housing and Planning Authority

(CH&PA), to be sowed as part of the community beautification project. According to a CH&PA press release, during the exercise Croal pronounced on the activity’s significance as it relates to enhancing the environment and strengthening community involvement; he also informed the residents that important lessons pertaining to taking care of the environment and sustainability are ingrained in such activities. “While Community Development Projects are sim-

Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, planting an oleander plant as part of the community enhancement project

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

ple, they are meaningful and impactful; they are geared at strengthening communities and ensuring that you’re resilient and sustainable,” he is quoted as saying, while highlighting the importance of community involvement as key stakeholders in building cohesive and sustainable communities. Minister Coral was joined by CH&PA Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Sherwyn Greaves and the CH&PA Community Development Department. Greaves shared similar sentiments as the minister and highlighted that the exercise will be replicated in other communities. He

added that the CH&PA is beyond just building new housing areas, but equally important is building wholesome communities with safe spaces, the press release noted. Also present at the activity was Priscilla Brummell, District Crop Extension Officer at the Ministry of Agriculture and Deputy Director of the CH&PA’s Community Development Department, who spearheaded the activity. Residents were also told of the ministry’s plan to address the issue of cattle freely roaming the area as plans are in place for relocation.

Plants being distributed to residents of Prospect, East Bank Demerara, under the community enhancement project

Robber ‘sneaks up’ on elderly couple A 56-year-old housewife of Columbia, Back Street, Essequibo Coast and her husband were on Saturday evening awakened to an intruder in their house, who allegedly made off with a quantity of jewellery and cash. According to Police Headquarters, enquiries disclosed that the victim, who resides with her husband and grandson, secured her home and retired to bed around 21:30hrs, but was subsequently awakened by a noise in the house and awoke her husband. The couple then noticed the silhouette of a male in the dark and both started to scream for help, which startled the intruder who made good his escape through a window. The police reported that the victim further stated that subsequent to turning on the lights, she discovered that her wardrobe was broken into and a number of items were missing, along with several louvre panes from a window. It was reported that some four gold chains valued at $378,000; one gold band valued at $240,000; three pairs of gold bangles worth $54,000 and $20,000 in cash were missing. A report was later made at the Anna Regina Police Station and an investigation is in progress.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Two arrested for Rose Hall Town store robbery, items recovered

TWO male suspects have been arrested and are reportedly in custody following a burglary at the A&S Store at Rose Hall Town, Corentyne, Berbice. A number of cellphones and an amount of cash were reportedly stolen during the robbery. According to Police Headquarters, the owner of the store, a businesswoman, reported that around 18:30hrs on Thursday last she secured the shop and went home. Upon her return around 08:15hrs on Friday last, she observed that the western door of the store was opened, and the glass case which contained several cellular phones was missing. She immediately raised an alarm and the matter was reported to the police. Some 12 iPhones valued at $2.4M; five iPhone 12 Pro Max valued

The recovered cellphones

at $1.6M; 35 Samsung Galaxy phones worth $1.5M; one Digi Tronic tablet worth $65,000 and $20,000 in cash were reported missing. The police reported that as their investigations continued on Saturday, a cordon and search exercise was carried out on the home of a suspect in Williamsburg Village, Corentyne, Berbice, who identified to the police where he had hid several

cellphones stolen during the burglary. Further investigations also led to the arrest of a second male. Some 23 cellphones were recovered by the police, with the assistance of the first suspect and have been identified by the business owner, all of which have been lodged as evidence. Both suspects remain in custody pending charges.

Four psychiatric patients recaptured the facility by way of a door on the southern side of the building. According to the police, three of nine initial escapees were recaptured on Saturday, while a fourth voluntarily walked into the hospital. According to the police, the fire erupted around 19:15hrs following an altercation among three of the 31 male patients housed in the Chalet Four Male Admission Ward of the hospital. On hearing the ruckus, the matron along with the supervisor and two male nurses, rushed to the ward, only to see smoke coming from inside it. They could also hear the patients shout-

-one still missing

FOUR of the five patients who escaped from the National Psychiatric Hospital at Canje, East Berbice, during a fire on Saturday evening, have been recaptured, while one remains at large. This information was contained in a press release issued by the Guyana Police Force on Sunday. Firefighters and hospital employees were unable to detain several patients who were able to escape from the facility amid the ruckus. While firefighters were attempting to extinguish the fire, nine patients used the opportunity to escape from

ing for help. The Guyana Fire Service (GFS) and the police were subsequently alerted to the situation by officials of the hospital. All four escapees, the police say, have burns about their bodies and are currently receiving medical attention. Eleven other patients who received burns about their bodies were rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where they were admitted and are in stable condition. Eight patients who did not receive injuries during the ordeal were relocated to the Acute Centre, while three are being housed in Chalet One.

A composite photograph showing the interior and exterior of the National Psychiatric Hospital after the fire.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Berbice Dharm Shala continues to welcome the poor

-donations, vehicle needed By Jeune Bailey Van Keric

THE Dharm Shala, a home for the destitute, was birthed by the late Pandit Ramsaroop Maharaj, whose vision in 1940 was to address the needs of the poor, the sick and the homeless in Berbice. Consequently, at Garrison Road under the famous Canje Bridge in East Berbice and a short distance from the National Psychiatric Hospital, five buildings were erected through donations from individuals. The home was opened the following year by Governor of British Guiana, Sir Wilfred Jackson, L.C.M.G . Initially, the bottom flat of the building was used as a school to address the education needs of children in the environs. Subsequently, the building was rebuilt and modernised by Pandit Mahahraj, who managed and maintained the facility until his demise. In 2013, the mantle of management was passed on to his daughters Kella and

Pamela Ramsaroop. A building erected on the precincts of the Dharm Shala houses a Hindu temple and an Anglican chapel and is the only local one of its kind. It was opened in 1942 by the then Governor of British Guiana, Sir Gordon Lethem, K.C.M.G., and is divided into two parts. One part houses the temple, and the other part an Anglican chapel, which met the religious needs of the residents of the home. The structure has since been given recognition by the National Trust of Guyana. The caretaker, Gary Erskine, noted that it was the Anglicans who donated the land and it was a Hindu priest who erected the edifice. The Anglicans and the Dharm Shala coexisted and in honour of that relationship, the dual place of worship was erected, he said. ALL ARE WELCOME Over the years, the home has accommodated persons from China, Bangladesh, and Caribbean countries, Niger,

The Dharm Shala Hindu Temple and Anglican Chapel

Suriname and Colombia. It is the only home in the country where people from all walks of life and without any finance can live until they are back on their feet. It once housed a Nigerian engineer who fell on “hard times” ; a doctor from Bangladesh who preferred to live amongst the “common people”; a national of China who was robbed of his earthly possessions, and other nationalities who were either passing through or had faced one of life’s many challenges. It is also a place where family members “drop off” relatives without looking back. There are instances

when sons dropped off their mothers, citing unresolved disagreements with wives or other relatives. No one visits these women. There are other occupants whose immediate families are deceased and have left them with no other alternative but to seek refuge at the home. One resident was rescued from the cemetery and a female who was recovering from a mental illness was brought to the facility with only a not- working television and a bedside cupboard in her possession, after they were reportedly put out of the nearby National Psychiatric Hospital, where they were institutionalised. There are other stories of children abandoning their parents. Some were evicted from their homes, while others received restraining orders from the court. They all sought and found refuge at the home which depends heavily on the benevolence

of others. Meanwhile, 72-year-old Eldon Bollers is the oldest inmate and he seldom walks unsupported. According to him, he sustained an injury to his back while serving a sentence at the Camp Street Prison in Georgetown. He does not allow this physical challenge to restrict him from travelling around the township of New Amsterdam, where he could be overheard greeting passersby. Bollers was unable to say when he entered the home, but recalled it was sometime after 1988 when he had completed serving a sentence for assaulting a peace officer. He has fathered three children and claims he has several grandchildren. The pensioner admitted his failure to keep in contact with his children and is unsure of their whereabouts. Bollers expressed appreciation to his caregivers and the other residents of the home whom he said are his “family.”

BENEVOLENCE Effective management of the home which currently houses 40 residents, is made possible through charity and donations from kind-hearted individuals. Recently, Suresh and Bosy Ghamandi donated $100,000 in honour of their father who died a few months shy of his 100th

The oldest resident, Eldon Bollers

birthday. In addition to such kind-hearted persons, the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) has taken on the responsibility of ensuring that the home’s environment is maintained. A medical observer recently told the Guyana Chronicle that the home needs a vehicle of its own to transfer residents to the New Amsterdam Hospital when they need to seek medical attention. Requests for vehicles to transport the sick are denied by officials because they are either on a transfer run or are out of the district. Many times, the elderly have to be taken to the hospital in a wheelchair, and sometimes those trips are detrimental. The facility is currently being supervised by Dennis and Gary Erskine with the assistance of two females and several able-bodied residents.

600 hampers for flood-ravaged Region Seven GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

MINISTER of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, on Sunday, said that the Government was preparing some 600 food and cleaning hampers to be distributed to Region Seven communities severely affected by flood. The minister said an estimated 600 homes in riverine communities across the region have been affected by above-normal water levels. Those communities have recorded water levels measuring eight to ten feet above normal levels, she noted. “The flood of 2021 is distinct from the 2005 flood in that it has affected all regions of Guyana. The impact, I believe, as the President has said, will be seen for many months to come,” Minister Teixeira

Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira

told the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Sunday. She indicated that Regions Seven, Eight and Nine have been severely impacted by the Mazaruni River overflowing with water from the Amazon Rainforest. This overflow has caused several mining communities in mid-Mazaruni to be inun-

dated, forcing residents to move to higher ground. The communities include Martin Landing, Tamakay, Issano and Isseneru. Farmlands in Region Seven have also been inundated. Minister Teixeira said the Government is still assessing the number of acres of land and mining camps that have been affected.

In Bartica there is flooding in Falmouth, River View, Batavia, Karrau, Kartabo and Itaballi, among others. “In Upper Mazaruni, there again there are enormous amounts of water in the rivers and soon more coming down. We expect that the impact in Upper and mid-Mazaruni isn’t over as yet.” The worst affected village is Jawalla, the minister noted, where 61 homes were severely flooded. Those residents were evacuated to higher land. As part of the Government efforts to support flood-affected communities, Minister Teixeira said hampers were distributed to Bartica residents on Friday and Sunday. More hampers will be delivered on Tuesday to

A flooded Region Seven home

mid-Mazaruni communities. Health workers will also be visiting communities in the region this week. Minister Teixeira indicated that Region Seven has since resuscitated its Regional Disaster Committee which includes representatives from the Guyana Defence Force, the Regional Executive Officer and the Prime Minister’s Regional

Representative. “Our goal is to protect lives and to ensure that people are safe, as well as ensuring that they have food supplies.” Minister Teixeira said that, in Amerindian villages, Toshaos have been instructed to establish shelters at health centres, benabs and schools.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Ninvalle is the right man! – Minister Ramson … Sport Minister praises newly appointed Director of Sport By Rawle Toney MINISTER of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, is optimistic of recently appointed Director of Sport, Steve Ninvalle, changing the landscape of sports in Guyana. Ninvalle is now Guyana’s third Director of Sport following Neil Kumar and Christopher Jones, since the 1993 Sports Commission Act was assented to by former president Samuel Hinds, after it was passed in the sitting of the Sixth Parliament on December 3 that year. “We’ve been doing a lot of projects since my appointment and we don’t want there to be any slowdown in that progression and there should be a smooth transi-

tion,” Minister Ramson said. Ramson, who was at the time speaking to Chronicle Sport while on the visit to the National Gymnasium with Ninvalle and National Sports Commission (NSC) Chairman, Kashif Muhammad, explained that making the correct decision on who will be the country’s Director of Sports was one of the many reasons why the announcement was delayed. “We were careful about who would’ve been the Director of Sports…Steve is also known in many other fraternities, including the media. But he also comes with a background at the Ministry,” the Minister noted. Minister Ramson believes that with Ninvalle also serving as a former Deputy Permanent Secretary and Member of Parliament, it places him in a position of already knowing and understanding the role he has to play as Director of Sports. “Everyone knows the Deputy Permanent Secretary is pretty critical to the operations and management of any ministry, so he has that long history of management and public management and that institutional knowledge that he comes with.”

Ramson further stressed, “so, it’s somebody that we have a lot of confidence and we’re very optimistic and we know that sport is in a far better place now with the new sports commission and the Director of Sports.” Ramson said the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport will continue to support the NSC “and we will see that the projects and the overall policy of the Government is implemented, so that it meets the needs of young people, especially that are interested in sports and fulfilling a pathway that they have a career in sports too.” “As the Minister rightfully said, this new commission will be carrying out the mandate of the Ministry and I would expect all hands will be on deck,” Ninvalle said. Ninvalle, a former Journalist and current president of the Guyana Boxing Association, said the advancement of sports in Guyana “is a purely team effort and I must say that I feel more confident having the Minister that we have and a chairman like Kashif Muhammad. There’s a lot more work to be done and if we focus, we will be able to carry out the work that we have.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Serena Williams out of French open (BBC) - Serena Williams is out of the French Open after a shock 6-3 7-5 defeat by 21-year-old Elena Rybakina. In an absorbing match, the 23-time Grand Slam winner was outmuscled by the Kazakh, who will now seek to take advantage of an open women’s draw. The American tried to lift her level but instead became the latest top-10 seed to depart the women’s singles. Her next chance to equal Margaret Court’s record of 24 Grand Slam singles titles comes at Wimbledon from 28 June. “It was definitely close,” Williams said. “There is literally a point here, a point there that could change the whole course of the match. “I’m not winning those points - they could literally change everything.” Questions about how long she can keep competing at Grand Slams are inevitable but the 39-year-old is not giving much away. “I’m definitely not think-

ing about it at all,” she said. “I’m definitely thinking just about other things but not about that.” Williams’ wait goes on Williams, 39, has not won a Grand Slam title since the Australian Open in 2017 and with seeds tumbling throughout this French Open, the draw seemed to be opening up for her. Indeed, her victory over compatriot Danielle Collins on Friday was impressive and she seemed to be getting better as the tournament progressed. However, on the day her contemporary, Roger Federer, pulled out of Roland Garros to take care of his body before Wimbledon, it felt like a changing of the guard on Court Philippe Chatrier. Williams never got to grips with Rybakina’s ferocious strokes - she did not win a point on the Kazakh’s serve until the third game and that was from a double fault.

She briefly raised her level at the start of set two to pin back her opponent but unforced errors crept back and Rybakina seized control. It is rare to see Williams given the run-around by power-hitting, a trait in the women’s game that her 15 years of supremacy established. But, with the array of talent emerging, doubts grow about how long Williams can compete at the highest level and if she will ever attain the Grand Slam record. Who wants to win the women’s singles? For 21-year-old Rybakina, this landmark win may be the start of something special as she enters the quarter-finals of a Grand Slam for the first time. She was two months old when Williams won her first Grand Slam title in New York in September 1999 and was not overawed by her first appearance on a show court and her first match against Williams. The world number 22’s

exhibition of giant hitting kept her illustrious opponent penned back in a bruising first set. After Williams broke her in game seven, Rybakina immediately responded to break back and take the first set on her fourth set point. Nerves crept in during a competitive second set with both players trading unforced errors and breaks of serve. But, after gifting Williams a way back into the match with two wild forehand errors, she found her form again to break to love and serve for victory in impressive fashion. There are only three players left in the draw ranked higher than her and two of them, Sofia Kenin and Maria Sakkari, play each other in the fourth round on Monday. Her quarter-final opponent will be Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova and after that, it would be a match with either of the unseeded duo, Paula Badosa and Tamara Zidansek, in the semi-finals.

Croatia suffer defeat to Belgium

Young’s Hawks beat 76ers in opening game

(BBC) - Trae Young scored 35 points as the Atlanta Hawks beat the Philadelphia 76ers 128-124 in the opening game of their NBA play-off series. Young starred in Atlanta’s first-round series win over the New York Knicks, averaging 29 points a game. And the 22-year-old was on form again, leading the Hawks to a 19-point lead with eight minutes left. Philadelphia produced a late fightback, including scoring 11 straight points, but Atlanta held on. Game two of the best-of-seven Eastern Conference semi-final series is in Philadelphia on Tuesday. The series winners will face either the Milwaukee Bucks or the Brooklyn Nets for a place in next month’s NBA Finals. Young also made 10 assists, while Bogdan Bogdanovic and John Collins each added 21 points for the Hawks. Joel Embiid, who is nominated for this year’s NBA most valuable player, returned from a right knee injury

Young (right) was the fifth overall pick in the 2018 NBA draft

for the 76ers and scored a game-high 39 points with nine rebounds and four assists. Seth Curry added 21 points, Tobias Harris had 20 points and 10 rebounds and Australian guard, Ben Simmons, had 17 points and 10 assists. At one point early in the second quarter, Atlanta held a 53-27 advantage, with the 76ers going almost six minutes without scoring. “They hit us in the mouth to start the game,” 76ers coach, Doc Rivers, said. “They were the more aggressive team. They were the more physical team. They got off to a better start.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday June 07, 2021)

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Romelu Lukaku scored his 60th goal for Belgium

(BBC) - England’s opening European Championship opponents, Croatia, suffered defeat by Belgium in their final warm-up game. G a r e t h S o u t h g a t e ’s side beat Romania 1-0 in their last friendly and face

World Cup finalists, Croatia, next Sunday. Inter Milan striker, Romelu Lukaku, scored the winner in the first half, spinning and finishing from close range following Jason Denayer’s flick-on.

Belgium meet Russia in their Euro 2020 opener on 12 June before facing Denmark on 17 June and Finland on 21 June. Meanwhile, midfielder Kevin de Bruyne will join world number one side Bel-

gium, on Monday, after undergoing minor surgery on a facial injury. The Manchester City player, 29, fractured his nose and left eye socket in the Champions League final defeat by Chelsea.

TODAY’S QUIZ:

(1) What are the best Test innings bowling figures by a West Indian against Pakistan to date? (2) What are the best Test innings bowling figures by a Pakistani against the WI to date?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Robinson suspended from all International Cricket (ESPNCRICINFO) - Ollie Robinson has been suspended from all international cricket pending the outcome of a disciplinary investigation following historic tweets he posted in 2012 and 2013. As a result, Robinson is unavailable for selection for the second Test against New Zealand starting at Edgbaston on Thursday. Announcing his suspension on Sunday, the ECB confirmed that Robinson will leave the England camp immediately and return to his county, Sussex. Robinson issued an apology on Wednesday after admitting to posting “racist and sexist” comments on Twitter as a teenager. News of the tweets emerged shortly after Robinson walked onto the field at Lord’s in his Test debut earlier that day. It was

also just after England and New Zealand players had stood on the side of the field shortly before the start of the first Test in a ‘moment of unity’ with the home players wearing T-shirts which denounced various forms of discrimination. Speaking after the drawn first Test, in which Robinson took a total of seven wickets - with 4 for 75 and 3 for 26 and scored 42 in England’s first innings, Joe Root, the England captain, said that while Robinson’s debut had been “exceptional” from an on-field performance point of view, his historical actions off-field were unacceptable. “He’s contributed well with the bat, his performance with the ball was excellent,” Root said. “He’s showed high levels of skill and he’s definitely got the game that can be successful in Test cricket.

“But in regards to the stuff that’s happened off the field, it’s not acceptable within our game. We all know that. He addressed the dressing room straight away. He obviously spoke to you guys and other media outlets straight away, fronted up to it. He showed a lot of remorse from that point onwards. You can see it’s very genuine from how he’s been around the group and the team. “I couldn’t believe them [the tweets], personally. I didn’t really know how to take it on the surface. I think the most important thing is Ollie is part of this dressing room and we had to support him. We had to try and do everything that we could to give him an opportunity to learn and understand he has to do better. “I think it’s a great lesson for everyone within our game

that we can all do more. We all have to keep looking to educate ourselves, trying to better the environment for everyone, trying to be as inclusive as we can, keep making everyone feel comfortable to play what a wonderful sport we have.” In the lead-up to the first Test, Root had said that the ‘moment of unity’ would mark the start of a year of action to improve inclusivity and diverstiy within the sport. “It starts with us players at the top of the game,” he said on Sunday.” We set out the week with that moment of unity and we’re doing a lot of work behind the cricket that we want to make big change in the game and we want to make it more inclusive, more diverse. “I think the most important thing is we keep trying

Ollie Robinson has been suspended pending an investigation (AFP/Getty Images) to do everything we can to better our sport, that we keep learning and we keep finding ways of making our game as best as we can. “We can look back about how this could have been handled better, but the fact is it shouldn’t have happened. And if we continue to keep trying to better the game right now, then in years to come this shouldn’t be an issue. This shouldn’t be something that happens within cricket. We’ve got to move forward from this, learn from this and do everything we can to make sure it doesn’t happen again.” The ECB promised to conduct a full investigation

once the Tweets emerged. After play on Wednesday, Robinson said: “On the biggest day of my career so far, I am embarrassed by the racist and sexist tweets that I posted over eight years ago, which have today become public. I want to make it clear that I’m not racist and I’m not sexist. “I deeply regret my actions, and I am ashamed of making such remarks. I would like to unreservedly apologise to anyone I have offended, my teammates and the game as a whole in what has been a day of action and awareness in combatting discrimination from our sport.

England, New Zealand first test drawn

(ESPNCRICINFO) There are often many different ways to end up at the same destination. The first Lord’s Test in two years had seemed destined for a draw after losing the entire third day to rain, and drawn it surely was as the teams shook hands at just gone 7:00pm on the final evening. But there was peril and intrigue along the route, as New Zealand sprung a declaration on England after a brief shower brought about an early lunch. The carrot of chasing 273 in 75 overs had been dangled, though England were clearly wary of the offer. The home side looked outmatched for much of this first Test and the nerves were palpable when they fell to 56 for 2 shortly before tea, a wicket away from their youthful middle order being exposed. In the end, there was not enough life in the pitch nor sand in the hourglass for New Zealand to make a concerted victory push. Dom Sibley batted more than four hours for a barnacle-encrusted

half-century, as he and England’s captain, Joe Root, ensured against jitters with an 80-run stand that stretched into the evening session. Even if there was no great final-day drama, the crowd were nevertheless keen to get in on the act, cheering the sweaty indefatigability of Neil Wagner - who went against type to crowbar out Rory Burns, England’s first-innings centurion, and Root across two canny spells of searching swing bowling - as well as Sibley’s almost heroically shot-shy approach to accumulation. Sibley ended a run of six consecutive innings without reaching double-figures to record his highest score since making 87 in Chennai earlier this year. New Zealand have only won once before at Lord’s, during their previous series victory in England back in 1999, but they resolved to give themselves a chance of another after resuming their second innings with a lead of 165. They took that on by more than 100 for the

Dom Sibley taps one to Images loss of four wickets during a lively morning session, which was curtailed by the arrival of rain, and then chose to set England what would have been the third-highest chase on the ground. With Sibley searching for form and Burns playing in typically lugubrious fashion, the opening pair signalled England’s intent. If not exactly shutting up shop, they were certainly prioritising a stock take out the back. Signs of variable bounce did little to coax

the off side AFP/Getty greater intent, and Burns was struck a painful blow on the hand when Tim Southee got the ball to kick up from a length. England had taken more than 23 overs in adding 49 for the first wicket when Wagner broke through. Following the blow from Southee, Burns almost fell to the same bowler when he gloved the ball just short of slip, and the introduction of Wagner’s left-arm angle of attack only played on his uncertainty. After nine dot balls, which included an unsuccessful swipe, Burns

fenced uncertainly to send an outswinger low to second slip. With the atmosphere getting tense, Sibley edged Wagner through the cordon for four, and then with tea approaching, Zak Crawley threw the bat to be caught in the gully. As in the first innings, he had fallen for two, driving ambitiously at a full, wide delivery from Southee. That left New Zealand needing eight wickets going into the final session, with England notionally looking to score 217 from 43 overs. Root eked his way to 4 off 38 balls, confirming that there would be no attempt to ruffle Kiwi feathers, and although he fell to Wagner, pinned on leg stump despite a review with the shadows beginning to lengthen, New Zealand could muster no further inroads. The morning began with Wagner in the thick of the action, too, as New Zealand’s nightwatchman carved and clipped a pair of boundaries in Stuart Broad’s opening over. Wagner fell in the

next, top-edging a pull to give Ollie Robinson his seventh wicket on debut, but frustration began to mount for Broad, who had gone five consecutive innings without taking a wicket, as he saw Tom Latham dropped by the diving Crawley at midwicket. He soon had a moment of succour, though, when trapping the New Zealand opener lbw for his first dismissal in 488 deliveries. With the watchful Latham gone, Ross Taylor upped the tempo during an innings of 33 off 35 that saw Robinson swung into the Tavern Stand and Mark Wood sliced over the rope at third man. Another swipe at Wood saw Taylor caught behind, and with the players staying out during a rain shower, Henry Nicholls also fell trying to lift the scoring, as he gloved a reverse-sweep off Root’s off-spin. New Zealand’s declaration was another enterprising move but the series will now be decided by the next week’s encounter at Edgbaston.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Chinkoo and Dhanpaul lead Meten-Meer-Zorg to victory in NYNCL Saturday 30-over battle FORMER Guyana U-19 cricketer, Looknauth Chinkoo and former Demerara Senior Inter-County cricketer, Yutesh Dhanpaul, scored half-centuries en route to a 100-run Meten-Meer-Zorg Cricket Club (NY) victory when they tackled Ocean 11 CC in the New York National Cricket League (NYNCL) Saturday 30over competition over the weekend. The predominantly Guyanese Meten-Meer Zorg club, which is currently in the top three in Group B of the league, batted first and scored 2528 from their 30 overs. After both openers fell cheaply, Dhanpaul joined Chinkoo at the crease and the two batted for almost nine overs, adding 99 runs in the process. Dhanpaul fell first af-

Looknauth Chinkoo and Yutesh Dhanpaul both scored half-centuries in the game. ter having scored 64 runs fours and four sixes. from 35 balls. He belted Middle-order batsman, six sixes and five fours Ewart Nicholson, supduring his innings. ported with a blitz of an Chinko also scored 64, innings, 45 runs (5X6s, but from 41 balls with four 1X4) from 20 balls, which

helped to push the score to 252-8 by the end of the 30th over. K Singh led Ocean 11 with 3-27 from four overs. The top-order batsman then struck a half-century as his team attempted to chase down the needed total. His 62 runs (6X6s, 2X4s) from 45 balls was the lone shining light for the side as Nicholson bowled him and spun webs around the other batsmen. The Trinidadian cricketer’s off-spin bowling picked up 4-40 from six overs. Eventual Man-of-thematch, Chinkoo, also got two wickets with his offspin, while he was also instrumental in a run-out and a catch, which helped to further undermine the batting side. In the end, Ocean 11 succumbed for 152 in 26 overs.

Archibald second at NACAC New Life Invitational GUYANA’s Emanuel Archibald finished second in the Men’s Long Jump at the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) New Life Invitational. The event, which is part of the World Athletics Continental Tour (Silver), took place in Miramar, Florida, on Saturday. Archibald, Guyana’s national record-holder in the long Jump, leaped a distance of 7.95 metres to finish behind America’s Damarcus Simpson (8.06m), but ahead of Ifeanyichukwu Otuonye (7.69m) from the Turks and Caicos Islands. Archibald is competing to

achieve the Olympic Standard of 8.22m before the International Olympic Committee’s June 13 cut-off date. However, if he doesn’t, he’s hoping to have enough ranking points to get the nod from the IOC and World Athletics for Tokyo. Archibald had set the country’s new national record in the men’s long Jump (8.12m) in 2019 in Jamaica. He started his seasons this year with an 8.10m leap which, at the time, was world-leading in the Long Jump. In fact, 7.95m is his fourth best legal jump of all-time.

Meanwhile, Andrea Foster, competing in the women’s 800m finals, ran two minutes, 16.69 seconds to finish eighth. Jeremy Bascom, who competed in the 100m, ran the preliminaries with Trayvon Bromell, but his 10.75 seconds was not good enough to advance to the finals. Bromell would go on to clock the seventh fastest time in the men’s 100m by running 9.77 seconds to win the men’s 100m at the event. It is also the fastest 100m time in the world this year, so far.

Thompson- Herah wins 100m; 200m at NACAC New Life Invitational (SPORTSMAX) - ELAINE Thompson-Herah won both the 100 and 200m at the inaugural NACAC New Life Invitational in Miramar, Florida, on Saturday. Also, at the meet held at the Ansin Sports Complex, the training ground of Briana Williams, the 19-year-old emerging star broke her national U-20 record for the third time in what was her sixth race in a week. Thompson-Herah led from start to finish to take the 100m in 10.87 seconds. The USA’s Tiana Bartoletta established a season-best 10.96 sec, just ahead of Williams. The 2018 World U-20 Champion lowered her previous best of 10.98 sec, set on May 30, to 10.97. The reigning Olympic 200m champion would end the day unbeaten, running a season-best 22.54 sec to win the 200m. The USA’s Kyra Jefferson was second in 22.77 with Great Britain’s Jodie Williams third in 23.10. Trayvon Bromell ran a world-leading 9.77 to win the 100m ahead of Marvin Bracy, who clocked a season-best 9.85 sec for second place. Chris Royster was third in 10.08 sec. Daveon Collins won the men’s 200m in 20.73, beating Kyle Greaux of Trinidad and Tobago and Teray Smith of the Bahamas who ran 20.84 sec and 20.92sec for second and third, respectively. Deon Lendore of Trinidad and Tobago won the 400m in 45.48 to beat 2008 Olympic champion Lashawn Merritt, who ran a modest 46.22. Alonzo Russell of the Bahamas ran 46.44 for third. The USA’s Wadeline Jonathas won the women’s one-lap sprint in 51.91. Jamaica’s Tiffany JamesRose was second in 52.74 while Nnenya Hailey was third in 52.90. In the field, Fedrick Dacres threw a season-best 66.01m in the men’s discus but lost to Samoa’s Alex Rose who threw 67.12m to win. Kai Chang threw 63.33m for third place. In the 400m hurdles, world champion Dalilah Mohammad was an easy winner in 54.50. Jamaica’s Ronda Whyte finished second in 55.65 with Yanique Haye-Smith of the Turks and Caicos Islands clocking 56.12 for third. The men’s race was won by Costa Rica’s Gerald Drummond in 49.47 over Jamaica’s Shawn Rowe who ran 49.53 for second place. Eric Cray from the Philippines was third in 49.68. Ajee Wilson ran out an easy winner in the 800m clocking 2:01.50, more than a second faster than Jamaica’s Jasmine Fray who came home in 2:02.60. Siofra Cleirigh Buttner ran 2:02.71 for third. Michael Dixon won the 110m hurdles in 13.16 over Ronald Levy, who clocked 13.23. Zaza Wellington ran 13.44 for third. Nigeria’s Tobi Amusan ran 12.44 for her victory in the 100m hurdles, winning by the proverbial city-block over Costa Rica’s Andrea Vargas, who clocked 12.76 and the Bahamas’ Pedrya Seymour, 12.86.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, June 7, 2021

Perez wins in Baku after Verstappen crashes out

(Skysports) - Sergio Perez won an extraordinarily dramatic Azerbaijan GP for Red Bull after teammate Max Verstappen lost a certain victory in a highspeed accident five laps from the end, and Lewis Hamilton botched the subsequent restart to ruin his own chance of success. After Aston Martin’s Lance Stroll had already suffered an accident when his left-rear tire suddenly let go at around 200mph on Baku’s long main straight, Verstappen’s afternoon suffered a similarly scary conclusion on lap 46. Verstappen was headed for a key victory to stretch his title lead over Hamilton to 15 points when his own left-rear tire suddenly let go and the Red Bull slammed into the outside wall on the pit straight. Kicking the failed tire after exiting his crashed car, a frustrated Verstappen trudged away and seemed set to lose the points lead to Hamilton, who was now running second to Perez. But there was one final extraordinary final twist to come. After the race was redflagged and the cars returned to the pit lane while the track could be cleared, the event was eventually restarted late into the Baku afternoon with a second standing start from the grid for the final two laps.

Hamilton, whose Mercedes brakes were smoking as he lined back up on the grid, got a better getaway than Perez and appeared set to lead from the Red Bull into Turn One. But, inexplicably for a driver who makes so few mistakes, Hamilton ran straight on into the escape road as the pack streamed through the corner behind him. With so little time to recover, the world champion finished 15th - ending a record run of 54 races in the points stretching back to 2018. “Just on the restart, I think when Checo [Perez] moved over towards me I clipped a switch and it basically switches the brakes off, and I went straight,” explained Hamilton to Sky F1, who had referred to a switch that adjusts brake bias as ‘the magic’ over the radio. “Very hard to take but I’m mostly just really sorry to the men and women in the team who have worked so hard for these points.” With neither title contender scoring points, Verstappen therefore retains his four-point championship advantage. An unexpected one-twothree after late Baku drama Perez certainly enjoyed his fair share of good fortune but the Mexican was already driving a strong race. Gaining two places off

Winners: (L-R) Second placed Sebastian Vettel of Germany and Aston Martin F1 Team, Pierre Wache, Chief Engineer of Performance Engineering at Red Bull Racing, race winner Sergio Perez of Mexico and Red Bull Racing and third placed Pierre Gasly of France and Scuderia AlphaTauri

the start to run fourth, he jumped Hamilton through the pit stops and then kept the Mercedes at bay despite the world champion often running within DRS overtaking range of him. Now a double-race winner in F1 after his long-awaited maiden triumph with Racing Point in Bahrain last December, Perez becomes the first driver other than Verstappen to win for Red Bull since Daniel Ricciardo in 2018. Sebastian Vettel has replaced Perez at his former

team this year, now known as Aston Martin, and the German four-time champion starred on Sunday to take a remarkable second for his first podium since leaving Ferrari. The German, fifth two weeks ago in Monaco, had started 11th on the grid but hauled himself up the order via a long first stint before completing quick-fire overtakes on Charles Leclerc and Pierre Gasly after the Stroll-triggered Safety Car. But AlphaTauri’s Gasly, a consistent front-runner

all weekend, still took a deserved third for the third podium of his young career after overtaking Charles Leclerc at the restart. Leclerc had started on pole but the Ferrari did not have the race pace to challenge and had quickly been overhauled by Hamilton and the two Red Bulls. He eventually secured fourth, just ahead of McLaren’s Lando Norris who had recovered well from a grid penalty and then poor start. Fernando Alonso was 10th at the late restart but

the wily Spaniard was on the move for the two-lap dash to the flag and secured sixth place for the best result of his F1 return with Alpine. Yuki Tsunoda was seventh in the second AlphaTauri for his first points since March, with Carlos Sainz eighth for Ferrari after an early error. With Valtteri Bottas enduring a dismal afternoon and finishing 12th, Mercedes unusually ended with no points from the weekend and so slip further behind Red Bull in the standings after Perez’s win.

Emanuel Archibald competing at the 2021 South American Track and Field Championship.

Archibald second at NACAC New Life Invitational see story on page 26

Serena Williams out of French open see story on page 24

Director of Sports, Steve Ninvalle; Minister of Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, and NSC Chairman, Kashif Muhammad during a visit to the National Gymnasium.

Ninvalle is the – Minister right man! Ramson … Sport Minister praises newly appointed Director of Sport

see story on page 23

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Elena Rybakina has yet to drop a set in the French Open so far

Thompson-Herah wins 100m; 200m at NACAC New Life see story Invitational on page 26 MONDAY, JUNE 7, 2021