Guyana Chronicle E-paper 10-12-2020

MONDAY 12th October, 2020

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All set No. 106150

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03

–– President says airports ready, prepared to operate safely

–– no passenger flight on first day: airline applications being reviewed, says Field

Housing project at Williamsburg to create 1, 000 jobs 04 PAGE

Investors ‘line up’ to enter 02 telecoms sector PAGE

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues shares a pamphlet with a minibus driver during a COVID-19 awareness walkabout at the La Penitence Market on Sunday (See story on Page 15)

Upgraded roads, 700 solar systems for Region Two 14 PAGE

Woman, 65, recovers from COVID-19 12 PAGE

C’tyne mother dies in 09 motorcycle accident PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, October 12, 2020

Investors ‘line up’ to enter telecoms sector ––Vice-President COMPANIES have begun expressing interest in providing various telecommunications services to Guyanese mere days after the Government announced the liberalisation of the sector. Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, on Saturday, said there has been mounting interest from investors since the sector was de-monopolised. “We have already had a new application, and we expect more from other people to come in with various sectors,” Dr. Jagdeo said. Some of those companies will come with either

an established telecommunication service or partial service. “We have already seen, in a few days, that Digicel said it wants to bring in a new subsea cable. We may have five other persons who want to bring in subsea cables, and they will now have the permission to do so,” the Vice-President relayed. Before the liberalisation of the sector, Digicel Guyana was unlicenced for some services. Dr. Jagdeo said the company can now apply for permission to offer the desired services. While the Guyana

Telephone and Telegraph company was licenced for extensive services, it can also now apply to offer services in new areas. Dr Jagdeo said the liberalisation of the sector would bring greater and cheaper bandwidth to the country. The more bandwidth, subsea cable and redundancy there is, the greater the services that will be delivered on this platform, he noted The VP added that the platform allows for a shift to next-generation services and will boost Guyana’s economy. Last week, Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips announced that the PPP/C Government was bringing an end

to the 30-year-old monopoly which had “left Guyanese weary, frustrated and lagging behind in the telecommunications arena.” The Vice-President said the PPP/C Government had been fighting for the liberalisation of the sector years before it went into Opposition. The Telecommunications Act 2016 was first laid by the PPP/C Government in the Ninth Parlia-

Vice-President, Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo ment in August 2011, and ment in 2016 by then Minlaid again in the Twelfth ister Catherine Hughes, Parliament in 2012, after again with bipartisan supextensive consultations port, the Prime Minister with both the public and stated. operators. The PPP/C GovernThe Act was finalised ment noted the former before the 2015 elections administration had four and was partially enacted years to do what it was by the Coalition Govern- able to do in a few weeks.

Still no agency to manage teachers’ housing fund FINDING an agency to manage the “House Revolving Fund” for teachers and ensuring the repayment of loans continues to hamper the implementation of the facility. The fund allows for teachers who are members of the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) to access interest-free loans for housing and was agreed to by the Government of Guyana and the Guyana Teachers’ Union (GTU) in 2006. In 2017, there was a proposal for the Ministry of Finance’s Student Loans Agency to manage the fund which currently stands at $200 million but there has been no forward movement on those plans. The GTU has once again brought up the matter during a meeting with the Ministry of Education (MoE) on Friday. “The major thing is the technicalities. How do we work out the modalities? Who would administer the fund? We need an agency with the capacity to administer it for us because the GTU doesn’t have the capacity. I don’t know which Government agency would be able to do it for us but the money is there and we need to get it going,” GTU President, Mark Lyte, said to the Guyana Chronicle on Friday. In 2011, the Housing Revolving Fund was established by virtue of the 2006 - 2010 multi-year agreement between the Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Education (MoE), and the GTU, where $30 million annually were to be deposited into the fund by the government, and the money put aside for the sole intent of being used to offer loans to the teachers to build their homes. Since then three cheques with a

GTU President, Mark Lyte total valued of $200M were deposited into a special account held at the Bank of Guyana. The fund continued under the GTU/MOE 2011 - 2015 multi-year agreement where more money was expected to have been deposited into the fund. The Audit Office, in its 2015 report, recommended that the Ministry of Education continues engagement with the Finance Secretary so that progress can be made on the issue. Lyte explained that there were even considerations of having one of the commercial banks administer the loans, but, with the loans being interest free, that proved to have some issues. “We wouldn’t want our teachers paying interest on our money, so it’s difficult to get a commercial bank to implement it for us. But having the money revolve will be a big thing, because we have to ensure that the teachers pay so that the other teachers can benefit,” Lyte related. Over the years, the Ministry of Finance Student Loan Agency has had its share of difficulties in recovering loans from students after they would have completed their studies.

All set

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, October 12, 2020

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–– President says airports ready, prepared to operate safely

–– no passenger flight on first day: airline applications being reviewed, says Field By Navendra Seoraj GROWING economic challenges caused by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has pushed local authorities to reopen its international airports to commercial travel, from today, and President, Dr. Irfaan Ali is confident they are ready and prepared to operate safely and in a way that minimises importation of COVID-19 cases. Though no flight is expected today, the country will soon see a number of commercial flights “touching down,” but there are strict guidelines which will have to be adhered to, said President Ali. “I have given the most careful consideration, after due consultations with many stakeholders including the ministers of public works and health, and the civil aviation authority, to reopen our two international airports, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and Eugene F. Correia International Airport, to commercial operations,” said President Ali in a message to the nation, on Saturday. Guyana’s two international airports have been closed to incoming commercial, international flights since midnight on March 18, after Guyana recorded its first COVID-19 case on March 11. The airports were initially scheduled to close for a two-week period; however, as COVID-19 cases in the country increased, the closures continued to be extended. But, growing demand for travel and pressing economic constraints, created by this disease and the necessary containment measures, have pushed the country to take decisive action, which, according to international reports is not unprecedented, amidst the global pandemic. CNN had reported that destinations like Dubai, the Maldives, Croatia, Bali, Thailand and Jamaica have already opened their doors to foreign visitors again. Jamaica, Guyana’s regional partner, has opened its borders even though the country recorded over 7,000 cases of COVID-19, with134 deaths. Guyana, with 3,469 cases (1,048 active cases) and 104

Director- General of the GCAA, Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field deaths, will be looking to contain local spread and simultaneously restrict imported cases, with strict control measures. “Both airports are prepared and ready to operate in a manner which would ensure the safety of all persons who work there and those who pass through,” said President Ali. The President said it is left to the private sector and the Ministry of Health to ensure that no one enters Guyana without being subjected to the highest standard of testing. Just Sunday, this publication reported that local facilities are equipped to handle any eventualities and protocols are in place to restrict the spread of COVID-19. STRINGENT SYSTEMS Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony had said he is confident that there are stringent systems and protocols in place to minimise the possibility of cases entering Guyana. “Preparation is good… we have thought out the system so nobody is going to come to Guyana without a negative PCR (Polymerase chain reaction) test… so that’s the first thing that people need to understand. “Not because the airport is open you can jump on a plane and come here. No, before you can even get on the flight you are required to have a PCR test at the point of origin. That test would have to be sent to us here in Guyana for us to validate it, and once we are satisfied then we allow the airline to

put you on the flight,” said the Health Minister. If the PCR test was done within 72 hours of arrival, persons would be allowed to go to their destination in Guyana, but once it goes over that time, travellers will have to undergo a second PCR test at the airport. “Once you complete that test at the airport, you will have to wait for your results before we allow you to proceed… so in that way it is going to be very difficult for somebody who is infectious to get past the system that we have set up,” said a confident Dr. Anthony. When asked what would happen to other passengers if someone from the flight tests positive here, the minister said authorities will work according to World Health Organisation (WHO) guidelines which stipulate that the persons sitting in front, at the side(s) and behind the infected person(s) would have to be tested. Additionally, there are physical markings and equipment at the airports, which will promote social distancing and sanitising. “I am satisfied on the advice of my ministers and director general of the civil aviation, that both our airports are fully prepared and ready to operate in a manner which will ensure the safety of all who work there and pass through them. “Like the rest of the world we have entered into a new means of international travel…we have taken our time in order to do it professionally and right,” said President Ali. Guyana and the rest of the world remain under the threat of COVID-19 pandemic, and while persons need to adopt to the “new way of life,” Dr. Ali assured that his government is doing everything within its means and with assistance of the international community to bring it under control. “In the meantime, we must be able to keep our economy functioning and growing…we must be able to put our country back to work,” said the President. NO FLIGHT TODAY Reopening the international airports is a step in this direction, and while the facilities are “opened for

business,” Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field said no passenger flight is expected today. Eastern Airlines, which has been conducting repatriation flights over the past few months, is expected to make a routine trip from Miami to Guyana on Tuesday, but even this airline will have to adhere to the new guidelines. “This (the reopening of the airports) has given the indication to the airlines to start setting up their schedules so that they can return to Guyana…we are in receipt of applications for scheduled flights back into CJIA… those applications, which include regularity and frequency of travel, are now under review,” said Field.

While he did not name any of the airlines, it was reported recently that American Airlines, Copa Airlines and Caribbean Airlines had all signalled their intention to recommence operations. It was reported, in August, that the Government of Guyana brought home over 2,000 Guyanese, including students, who were left stranded overseas as a result of the closure of airports, in an effort to combat the spread of COVID-19. There have since been flights from New York, Miami, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, Canada, St. Maarten, Jamaica, Grenada and Curaçao. But, with the airport reopening, regular flights are anticipated. With no approved cure or special treatment for

President, Dr. Irfaan Ali COVID-19, authorities are depending heavily on preventative measures to stop the spread of this disease. The emergency measures were made pursuant to paragraphs (1) and (2)(b) of the Direction by the President, given under the Public Health Ordinance, Cap. 145, and published in the Gazette, Legal Supplement –B, March 16, 2020. According to health authorities, the COVID-19 Emergency Measures (No. 8) will expire on October 31, 2020, unless earlier terminated, extended or amended by notice of the Minister of Health, after an assessment of the prevailing public health conditions.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday,October 12, 2020

Housing project at Williamsburg to create 1,000 jobs By Nafeeza Yahya-Sakur PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Saturday, an nounced the creation of a housing area in Williamsburg, East Berbice, Corentyne in the next four months that will provide direct employment for 1,000 persons. The project will begin with some 100 houses and increase to 200 houses by the first quarter of 2021, the President disclosed, at a meeting with residents at Train Line, Port Mourant, East Berbice, Corentyne. “In this community, we have the Williamsburg area; before the end of the year you will see work commencing in this area because we will create a new housing development. We will be spending more than $2.8B from the Central Government level and will create new infrastructure that will support drainage and irrigation, agriculture, bridges, education

and health care,” he said. The President, during the meeting, also used the opportunity to address the COVID-19 pandemic. He called on residents to take the necessary precautions even as the Government is working towards intensifying the fight throughout the country. “There are many opportunities that will unfold itself in Region Six. Within the next four months we will be back here to give you a broad outline of the new opportunities that will be available here in Region Six but as I said, today we are coming at a time when we know we are faced with a great pandemic, the COVID-19. I want to appeal to you to take this pandemic seriously; wear your mask. We are working on many fronts; we are trying to get the vaccine when it becomes available here as fast as possible. We are supporting the hospitals, the medical workers with PPEs. Yesterday (last Friday), we had 28 additional

ventilators in the country; we are working on putting in 19 more ICU beds at the Liliendaal COVID-19 facility. They are working on

bringing six of these beds in operation by Monday. Meanwhile, addressing issues related to nurses, sugar workers and the disci-

plined forces, the President asked for patience as the Government works towards delivering on its promise to improve the lives of every

A Port Mourant resident shares his concerns with President, Dr Irfaan Ali, on Saturday

citizen. “The investment we are making in sugar is geared at making it sustainable. The socio-economic impacts in the communities are too important for us to ignore; our commitment to the nurses have not weakened a bit; our commitment to the nurses and every single worker in this country will be realised. We have already set aside $150 M for frontline workers in the healthcare sector. Our police, army workers, sugar workers ,doctors, nurses, they all deserve better and will get better under this Government. I asked them for patience – give us a bit more time, have some patience, do not let politics stray you. We are going to deliver to you but we are coming from a broken system, a broken economy. Things will get better and as things get better we will do more for you, we will make your lives more comfortable,” he said.

Entertainment592 celebrates third anniversary ―100 children to get tablets, Internet ENTERTAINMENT592 in celebration of its third anniversary will be providing tablets and internet connectivity to approximately 100 pupils and students who are unable to access their learning materials during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, the company’s CEO/Founder, Shauna Parker, stated that she and her team decided to host a promotion in celebration of their three-year anniversary. “During the conversations we were talking about how we can grow the company and what more we can do during this time to help persons…so the idea came that…a lot of students do not have access to the new e-learning platform. So we decided that in celebration of our three years in business to do something to give back to the children,” she said. Since the doors to schools have been shut, teachers have had to find other means of communicating with their students. Online platforms are being utilised, but many students do not have access to a computer, a tablet or a phone while others do not have Internet connectivity. Originally, the team had started the initiative as a competition. However, after several conversations, the

team opted to identify a few children, who were experiencing difficulties accessing their learning materials via the internet.

Authority (NDMA) to help provide Internet access to those students who are unable to access data and Wi-Fi. “Now if they have the devices we can help to provide the Internet service to them or if they don’t have the device we will be able to donate the device to them as well as the Internet access to them,” Parker said.

help in educating the nation’s children during these uncertain times. “If you know you have a service that can help somebody reach out to them let them now that hey I have this service happening and I know that you’ve been having a difficult time, we are here for you, we want to show you that in this coronavirus sea-

She used the opportunity to call on persons who may have the means to assist others to share their services to

son everybody needs help,” she said. “COVID-19 came unexpected. It is not something

Shauna Parker CEO/Founder of Entertainment592

“We decided that we are going to identify at least 100 … less fortunate students that don’t have access [to the Internet] whether it be a laptop or basic school supplies or Internet to donate to them.” Additionally, Parker noted that she and her team are currently in talks with the National Data Management

that you know we actually planned to happen. It came at a very unfortunate time and it affected many individuals including our children, who are the most vulnerable at this

time,” Parker added. Persons who are interested in this promotion can call the number 6427406 or send an email to entertainment592co@gmail.com.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, October 12, 2020

‘Girls are change makers’

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– First Lady joins world in celebrating girls

RECOGNISING that girls and women throughout the years have been coming into their own, First Lady, Arya Ali, on Sunday, said they have been increasingly innovative in becoming change makers. She expressed these sentiments as she joined the rest of the world in observing International Day of the Girl Child. This special day is observed on October 11 every year as a way to support more opportunities for girls, and to increase awareness of gender inequality facing girls around the world. Several organisations, including the Ministry of Social Services, held observance activities and showed their support to the specific issues facing the girl child. This year’s theme, “My voice, our equal future” highlights the fight of girls to have access to equal opportunities in the education, skills development and training, and the overall improvement of the status of girls.

The First Lady, in her message, spoke of how girls have managed to progress despite the many societal challenges. “We have seen remarkable achievements in the advancement for girls over the last few decades. Girls are proving to be unscripted and unstoppable, organizing and mobilizing themselves to tackle national issues such as education inequalities, gender-based violence and climate crisis,” stated the First Lady. She spoke of the importance of reflecting on the role girls and women play in the society and how their actions are impactful in changing the way society functions. She highlighted that this year’s observance is especially important since girls are being disproportionally affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. “This year the Covid-19 pandemic has compounded many of those issues disproportionately affecting women and girls in many ways. Essential services such as access to sex-

COVID-19 death toll reaches 104 By Navendra Seoraj THE novel coronavirus (COVID-19) has claimed the life of a 40-year-old woman within the past 24 hours, taking the death toll to 104. Local authorities said the woman from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), died while receiving treatment at a local health facility on Sunday. The Ministry of Health expressed condolences to the family of the victim and pledged to make every effort to provide all the necessary support during this difficult time. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a newly-discovered coronavirus. Most people who become sick with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms, and recover without special treatment. The WHO had said that 81 per cent of the persons who contract COVID-19 will have mild symptoms, while 14 per cent will have severe symptoms, and five per cent will need intensive care. Health authorities have so far tested 15,963 persons, with 12,494 proving negative, and 3,469 positive. Some 64 of those cases were recorded within the past 24 hours. While 2,318 persons have recovered from this disease, 104 persons have died and there are 1,048 active cases which include 113 persons in institutional isolation, 919 in home isolation, and 16 in the COVID-19 ICU. Authorities have said that cases are being detected because more tests are being done. Sample taking was also increased across the

country because the authorities believed that many cases were going “under the radar”. This suspicion had prompted the authorities to distribute more sample kits across the country, especially to regions where the infection rate is high. Most of the cases have so far been recorded in Regions One (Barima-Waini), Four (Demerara-Mahaica), Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). “We are sending out more kits, so there will be an increase in sample collection… the testing itself has components; one is sample collection, and then there is the processing of samples,” said Health Minister, Dr. Frank Anthony, in a recent report. The actual testing will be done centrally at the National Reference Laboratory, because regional facilities lack the capacity and technical skills needed to get it done. While the Government hopes to improve capacity in those regions, the immediate need for sample-testing takes precedence, especially with the high number of asymptomatic cases. It was reported that processing time for samples taken from persons to test for the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) will be reduced from about eight hours to twothree hours, as Government received a new automated Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing machine from China. The machine and supporting equipment, valuing around G$17 million, were handed over by China’s Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun, to the Ministry of Health, on Friday. With the automated machine, authorities will be able to do about 96 tests in about two hours, and if there are several shifts, 500-800 tests could be completed easily in one day.

ual reproductive health services have been disrupted. Economic hardships due to the pandemic are also greater for women, according to the World Bank,” she said. The First Lady stated that she is cognisant that barriers such as discrimination, biases and lack of training continue to stunt efforts to narrow the gender gap despite the achievements and efforts made to date. Further, she made reference to the United Nation’s report that since the COVID-19 pandemic has begun, the number of reports globally on domestic abuse against women has risen significantly. She called on everyone to be cognisant of the prevalence of this issue and its effects on girls. She added that improving the situation for girls and women on a sustainable basis would call for a coherent set of measures geared toward changing structures, policies and values that sustain social injustice. The First Lady stressed that there must be a solid resolve to recommit

First Lady, Arya Ali to the goals of social progress and social justice in shaping a world where girls find their rightful place on equal terms with boys. “In doing so, we must also amplify leadership and actions which inspires solutions to positive change,” she said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, October 12, 2020

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Growth in the Americas MoU

AS government inexorably forges ahead with its delivery of pre-election promises to the Guyanese people, there are forces just as relentlessly bent on destroying the fabric of the nation on which unity can be achieved and progress catalyzed to optimum capacity for growth and development. The content of the Growth in the Americas Memorandum of Understanding signed between Guyana and the United States projects support from the U.S. that will facilitate the construction of several infrastructural projects to upgrade and build new facilities and systems in Guyana. The United States clarified that construction and facilitation of these proposed landmark projects will be conducted in a fair and transparent manner, with no political ties. The framework of these bilateral agreements was programmed between the Government of Guyana and U.S. Secretary of State Michael Pompeo during his visit to this country, subsequent to the March 2 elections, and was signed between Secretary Pompeo and Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd.

These cooperative ventures will enable Guyana to achieve the realisation of several new projects in the infrastructural and energy sectors long in advance than the country’s projected action plan, given its fiscal constraints., During the signing ceremony at State House, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Audrey Waddell observed that the joint agreement will facilitate collaboration between Guyana and the United States in identifying and implementing joint ventures in infrastructural growth, integration, and energy security. According to the terms contained in the collaborative agreement, infrastructure within the context of the framework refers to water, energy and hydrocarbons, buildings, airports, basic sanitation, information technology, logistics infrastructure, roads, railways, bridges, ports, and tunnels. Ms Waddell posited: “The framework will also help catalyze private capital and facilitate financial market growth for infrastructure development by identifying programmatic and project-specific investment opportunities,” Coordination, supervision and oversight will be the responsibility of a

working group comprising senior representatives from both countries. This group will also be tasked with the formulation of a work plan, projected to be developed to fast-track achievement of the objectives of the framework within an estimated three months of its effective date. Secretary Pompeo was adamant that all foreign direct investment will be conducted with best business protocols-- fairly and transparently. He asserted: “I think every country understands that when America shows up we ask for nothing more than a fair shot at the competition, rule of law, contracts that are enforceable, a set of property rights. We don’t apply political pressure connected to our commercial enterprises,” even though he recognised that there are other nations that operate very differently, He assured Guyanese that acceptance of U.S. tenders would not be forced through any kind of pressure – political of otherwise -- averring: “That’s not how American businesses roll. We show up; we hire locally. We are great environmental stewards. We abide by the rule of law. We respect countries’ sovereignty. Those are the things that I think nations are looking

for, and I think the new leadership here in Guyana is looking for.” Secretary Pompeo’s assurance that all collaborative ventures will be executed with goodwill between, and to mutual satisfaction and benefit of, both countries; is gratifying to all patriotic Guyanese who have the nation’s interest at heart; but, sadly, the perennial naysayers and doomsayers are in their usual negative mode and prognosticating consequent doom-and-gloom scenarios. Worse, they are strategising to effect the failure of the planned collaborative initiatives, even before any concrete plan has been formalised, nor the fructification of any joint venture realised. However, government is undeterred and is forging ahead with a progressive, people-centric development, by leaps and bounds, brilliantly creating fiscal space in a destroyed economy and engendering hope in a previously despairing nation. With “big brother” Secretary Pompeo watching over the Guyanese nation, the government will achieve Guyana’s full potential for economic growth and social development, hopefully within a short time frame.

Parliamentarians should be indoctrinated with rudiments of Gandhi’s teachings Dear editor, GUYANA’S fine son of the soil, the distinguished and brilliant Attorney General and Minister Of Legal Affairs, the honourable Mr. Anil Nandlall, gave a splendid performance last Wednesday night when he highlighted some of Mahatma Gandhi’s works and life, during a virtual programme sponsored and organised by the New York Hindu of Federation Mandirs, headed by Pt. Ram Hardwar who is also priest-incharge and spiritual adviser at the Shri Surya Narayan Mandir in Jamaica. His short but comprehensive presentation covered the history and philosophy of Gandhi’s teachings, its perfection and relevance then and now and the valuable application in resolving many of today’s

violent global issues and political and economic upheavals. Quite impressive also, was the sterling contributions from many of the youths from various mandirs from the popular Queen’s neighbourhood. Noteworthy also, was the young and rising star, the stalwart Pt. Ayush Sharma from Guyana, son of Pt. Rudra Sharma, whose timely interjection of Gandhi’s attributes, coincide with Mr. Nandlall’s speech which also highlighted Gandhi’s peaceful and persistent battle with the might of the British Empire, to almost single-handly defeat them to gain independence for India. The Attorney General also informed all that this accomplishment caused a domino effect to arouse all the other colonies under British rulership, including then British Guiana, to commence the fight for freedom.

The universality of Gandhi’s message is meant for an everlasting posterity. The unique combination of truth and non-violence is dynamic in its relevance to today’s application in worldly affairs. All leaders throughout the globe should embrace his policy of “SatyaGraha,” i.e., the perpetual insistence to “hold on to truth,” allowing that premise to carve a foundation that can guide them eternally to make the right decisions, whenever challenged with any minor or major problems. No wonder all civil rights leaders refer to Gandhi’s teachings for his practical principles, including Cheddi Jagan, Martin Luther King Jr., Nelson Mandela and James Bevel. His influence bears testimony to the making of Barrack Obama, Kofi Annan and Mother Theresa. From a simple man, his thoughts and

ideas transgressed to divine teachings, all of which are philosophically inclined from the theological studies of Hinduism, Islam, Christianity, Sikhism, Buddhism and other related factions. His concept of peace is adumbrated by the United Nations and the creation of “International Peace Day” signifies the respect and pertinence of this potent lesson to help shape mankind’s destiny. It is worthwhile to note the paramount importance that the Hindu Scriptural Text, the “Gita,” played in molding his awareness and awakening. Gandhi was often quoted as saying that, whenever he was confronted by any issue and uncertainty hovers above him, he would lovingly turn to the See page 8

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, October 12, 2020

Hinduism is pro-environment Dear editor, OVER the last few weeks a number of volunteers began cleaning on the seawall. This most commendable effort must be supported by all, as keeping the environment clean is not only a civic duty, but one as a human being. As a Hindu priest, I am disheartened by the remains of ‘Pooja’ (ritualistic worship) paraphernalia, murtis and other items scattered on the seawall and beaches across the country. During many visits to the beaches, I am saddened to see persons walking, driving and even imbibing on these items. I cannot help but acknowledge the remarks from non-Hindus who rightfully sees these acts as ‘unclean, dirty and disrespectful’. This reflects negatively on the entire Hindu community; desecrating Mother Earth is not a Hindu value. It time that we reconsider: 1. What materials to be used in rituals? 2. How to dispose of used ‘pooja’ items? 3. Where can Hindus engage in water-based rituals? Generally, all pooja items are biodegradable. However, with recent inventions such as foil, plastic, etc, our poojas are churning out unnecessary waste. In fact, a pooja usually concludes with a Havan (Fire offering), which purifies the atmosphere. As such, we should always be cognisant of any waste materials we leave behind. Dwipedi (1993) in Human Responsibility and the Environment: A Hindu Perspective explained that Hindu scriptures defined humanity’s relationship to nature and noted that an important part of that conduct is maintaining proper sanitation. For Hindus, water is considered a powerful medium of purification and also as a source of energy. In the Rig Vedas, prayers are offered to the deity of water: ‘The waters in the’ sky, the waters of rivers, and water in the well whose source is the ocean, may all these sacred waters protect me’ (Rigveda 7.49.2). As such, from that standpoint, the healing property and medicinal value of water has been universally accepted, only when it is pure and free from all pollution. As a deterrent to polluting the environment, persons engaging in unsocial activities and in acts polluting the environment were cursed from a scriptural viewpoint : ‘A person, who is engaged in killing creatures, polluting wells, and ponds and tanks, and destroying gardens, certainly goes to hell’ (Padmapurana, Bhoomikhananda 96:7-8). In 2009, the Convocation of Hindu Spiritual Leaders adopted the inaugural Hindu Declaration on Climate Change at the Parliament of the World Religions, which was later re-introduced in the lead-up to the Paris Climate Conference in 2015, gaining endorsements from various Hindu organisations and activists worldwide. Within the declaration, Hindu leaders made specific references to teachings from religious texts to highlight how Hindus have an inherent duty to protect the environment. Indeed, in the midst of various global discourses on pollution, religious leaders in Guyana need to become vocal advocates for changing certain practices with a view to protecting the environment. We, as priests, must be the drivers for this much-needed societal change. We must explain that no bad omen will befall if things are done differently-- moreso, in keeping the environment clean. After all, cleanliness is not next to godliness but it IS godliness. Tay (2019) cited the Atharva Veda mantras to remind Hindus of the need to behave respectfully towards “Mother Earth” by making sure that any personal activities do not hurt her vitals, body, or appearance. Many Poojas involve oblations to Prithvi Maa (Mother Earth). Tay cited the Puranas on the Ganges River, or Ma Ganga, which is depicted as the Goddess who descended to Earth to save the world. This forms the basis for Hindus worshipping at the ‘river’ side. Given the religious importance of keeping the environment clean, the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha, the country’s largest Hindu organisation has been appealing to Hindus to use only biodegradable items in Poojas and that no foil papers, murtis, plastic or cloth should be dumped into the waterways. Other recommendations from the said body included placing leaves, flowers, fruits and other biodegradable materials into deep

waters. In fact, for Ganesh Chaturthi, the Sabha has urged persons not to immerse Ganapati murtis since many are not biodegradable. Persons were urged to simply sprinkle water on the murtis and to keep them. It must be noted that the immersion is not sanctioned by the scriptures, rather it was an adopted practice in the 18th century. Persons need to understand that being environmentally conscious is actually honouring Mother Earth and Ganga. It can be considered grossly disrespectful to these great Devis to engage in littering. In Guyana, pollution from Ganesh Chaturthi celebrations is not a major issue since it is not celebrated on a large scale. However, it has shown potential to expand. Many Hindus opt to dispose of broken and old murtis into the waterways. This should be done only to clay murtis. Kumar (2019) warned that many murtis are made with Plaster of Paris (PoP), sometimes with small quantities of plastic and cement. PoP contains calcium sulphate hemihydrate, a material that takes anywhere between months and years to fully dissolve in water. In doing so, it reduces oxygen levels in the water, killing the fish and other aquatic life. Additionally, the bright paints contain heavy metals such as lead, nickel, cadmium, and mercury. These heavy metals can affect the PH balance of the water, making it more acidic and thus further poisoning its inhabitants (Kumar, 2019). In 2019, Pandit Rajin Balgobind explained, ‘Visarjanam’ [immersion] forms part of the conclusion of every Puja and items such as murtis, flags, sarees should not pollute our environment. To this end, he recommended that: 1. Sari (used in Pooja) should be gifted to someone, or a mandir, or used by the individuals themselves. 2. Fruits, including coconuts can be consumed as “prasadam.” 3. Broken murti can be fixed and this is completely acceptable. 4. Pindas from Shraadh rituals can be fed to cows. It is important to note that it is not compulsory to hoist flags. Alternatives to this can include hoisting small flags or hoisting same at home. Earlier in the year, Pandit Roop Sukhram, a Guyanese Hindu scholar based in Florida wrote extensively on disposing after-Poojaa items. He echoed similar sentiments in condemning the dumping of items into the ocean since it is considered a ‘nasty, disgraceful, stupid and sinful’ act. For Bhümau-nikhanatim or disposing of Poojaa items, he recommended burial. He cited Yajur Veda - Taittireeya Braahmana as the authority. He explained by the performance of Yajña (worship), that Lord Shiva, through the features of both Prithivee - Mother Earth and Ambikaa Maa is being worshipped. As such, in every respect, the Vedas have endorsed

that everything came out of Bhagavan Shiva - God. Hence, since the Earth is Rudra, subsequently, upon the completion of this blissful Yajña all items are committed to the Earth. Thus, the items of the Poojaa are buried. From this standpoint, it is proper and acceptable to bury all Poojaa items upon the completion of any Poojaa. Apart from the issue of disposing used Pooja items, Hindus have been asking that areas be designated for their worship. To this end, I urge the local NDC and municipality to work with Hindu leaders to allocate places for worship. The constitution caters for religious freedom and as such, the State must act as the enabler to allow for this fundamental right to be respected. This can help in controlling the waste since it is no secret that non-Hindus also use the waterways for worship. I urge my Hindu brothers and sisters that for their next pooja: 1. Please ensure no waste is left behind 2. Use biodegradable materials: Example instead of a foil paper, use banana leaves; instead of dumping plastic bottles, use alternatives 3. Ensure there is a disposal plan, which factors in environmental care 4. Recycle items which can be reused. 5. If waterways are to be used to throw away biodegradable items, try to disperse as far out in the water as possible. Further, I urge that pandits and mandir devotees use Vasant Panchmi, Phagwah, Ganga Dusshera and other Earth-themed occasions to explain the value of keeping the environment clean to their congregation. It is evident that Hinduism has always believed in environment care. Additionally, I am appealing to devotees to desist from disposing of domestic wastes into the waterways. Every time we desecrate the environment, think of it as hurting the same Goddess, to whom we offer reverence. As outlined above, there are many alternative methods which can be employed to guide our conduct. It must be pointed out that using any above methods WILL NOT reduce the benefits derived from the pooja nor will it bring any harm to you and your family. These are all superstitious constructs which must be rejected. Lastly, I urge all citizens to play their part in keeping our environment clean, and free from pollution. Your’s in Dharma Pandit Deodat Persaud Reliance Settlement Sanatan Mandir

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, October 12, 2020

Guyanese should get into O&G sooner –– former T&T Energy Minister By Vishani Ragobeer GUYANESE should position themselves in the oil and gas industry in as soon as the next five years in order to establish themselves before the industry begins to mature, according to Former Minister of Energy in Trinidad and Tobago, Kevin Ramnarine. “The opportunities for Guyanese to get a foothold in this sector is really in the next 10 years, and more so in the next five years,” the former minister posited, in a recent online forum discussing the opportunities for Guyanese in oil and gas. He said that those indi-

viduals who are able to get into the sector sooner rather than later will secure the “first mover advantage” and would be able to surmount the challenges of the learning curve of the industry before others who join the industry later. Already, Guyana’s fiveyear development of its oil and gas sector has been hailed as unprecedented. In December last year, Guyana began production. This production is expected to increase over the next few years. According to Ramnarine, the 2020 decade will be a period of “incredible growth” of the Guyana economy due

to the country’s nascent oil and gas industry. Thereafter, by the 2030s, he opined that the industry will begin to mature before heading into its operations and maintenance phase. The former Energy Minister, who is no stranger to Guyana’s oil and gas sector, opined that Guyana may have another 10 years of drilling and exploring wells and blocs offshore. Through this time, the country will be able to determine whether there are more oil reserves which can be feasibly tapped into. His opinion was guided by his cognisance of the “creaming curve”, a con-

cept from energy economics. Guyanese Economist, Dr. Clive Thomas, in one of his weekly columns, explained that this creaming curve illustrates the relationship between cumulative aggregated volumes of oil reserves growth on the linear Y axis (or the vertical axis) and, on the linear X axis (or the horizontal axis), the number of wells dug over time. The steeper the curve (that is, a larger volume of oil reserves from a smaller number of wells) the more rapid is the revealed rate of discovery. On the other hand, he explained that the flatter the curve is, the more gradual is that rate and/or the smaller the size or the drier the wells discovered are. By the end of this decade, Guyana may very well

be in peak oil productionwhich could potentially be the second highest output in Central and South America, second only to Brazil. The World Bank highlighted that in peak production, Guyana may be producing up to 1.2 million barrels of oil per day. Earlier this year, the Norway-based, Rystad Energy, stated that by the year 2030, Guyana’s total annual oil revenues can approach $30 billion within 10 years and could send the country’s GDP “skyrocketing”. Due to this, the former minister stressed that the “iron is hot” for Guyanese to get into oil and gas. But even so, the jobs in Guyana’s upstream oil industry are largely technical and limited. Therefore, many experts

Former Minister of Energy in Trinidad and Tobago, Kevin Ramnarine have said that Guyanese should focus on downstream and spinoff sectors. Welding and fabrication was one specific sector the Former Minister said Guyanese can get into. “It will require some degree of training of the existing welders in Guyana to get to industrial welding standards, but that ramp of training shouldn’t take too long,” he reasoned.

MP Dharamlall sets record straight Dear editor, IN an article published on October 11, 2020 in the Kaieteur News, headlined: “Minister Dharamlall instructs staff to contract company founded by son,” I wish to state in unequivocal terms: 1. The headline is totally misleading

and malicious, since no instruction was ever given by me to any staff to use any particular company to print 80 posters. Moreover, I was totally unaware that portrait posters were being procured. 2. Since the note was brought to my attention last week, I took action to halt the procurement process and a memo to this effect was sent to the office of

the PS. 3. It is evident, therefore, that this nefarious act to impugn my integrity was contrived by known APNU+AFC elements still on the payroll of the ministry. 4. For this matter to now be put in the public domain by member of staff and APNU+AFC activist, Ganesh Ma-

hipaul, whose employment has been under scrutiny, points to his intent aimed at besmirching my character. 5. Our policy at the ministry is to ensure that all processes are followed and can withstand public scrutiny. Yours faithfully, Nigel Dharamlall M.P.

Parliamentarians should be indoctrinated ... From page 6

golden pages of the Gita to look for the answer and, that book never failed him in finding the correct and perfect mode of required action. Today’s society is plagued by deceit and dishonesty to paint a picture of falsity, augmented with mendaciousness and crookedness to indent a portrait of pretence. It is sad to note that so many national and international figureheads are failing in their rightful duties to uphold the integrity that is demanded for such prestigious positions. In Guyana, from 2015 to 2020, the thwarting of lies by PNCR tongue-twisters fooled many Guyanese. Their political agenda for personal satisfaction insinuated massive destruction and created mayhem with violence. Their financial greed corrupted the flow of rules and regulations. Law and order decayed during their governance and the valour in honour declined. Part of the judiciary system became confused with loyalty and legality. As a result, economic development was held in abeyance, legitimacy was compromised

with corruption, the making of a nation was replaced by the raping of the Treasury, progress was substituted by poverty and happiness was converted to suffering. Guyanese should ponder the immediate massive salary increments for parliamentarians, the secret signing of agreements, the disasters from the passing of the No Confidence Motion (NCM), the expensive and fruitless court cases, the illegitimate appointment of James Patterson as Chairman to GECOM, the dictatorship by bullies, the splurging of unnecessary expenses, the perks from expensive and exuberant over-budgeted transactions, the long drawnout election process, the election rigging and fraud, the internal manipulation of GECOM, APNU+AFC’s high-handed attitude and hooliganism, their vulgar and shameful display with the diplomatic representatives, the scant respect for all election observers, their control of the law, their vindictiveness in discrimination and prejudiced permeation, the unilateral treatment for one favoured ethnic preference over the partial priority

with other ethnic inequality, the dangerous propaganda spread via the controlled national news media, radio stations, TV, newspapers and internet, PPP/C transparent revelations for APNU+AFC’s gross unaccountability and their monstrous undermining of democracy in totality, throughout the national environment. Guyanese and international players are not in the least surprised by the outcome of APNU+AFC losing the national and regional elections. The making was so obvious from the results of the last two local elections and the PPP/C’s reign of supremacy and the announcement of PNCR and AFC’s demise. The world reflects on the unnecessary and reckless protests and demonstrations orchestrated by APNU+AFC, especially with a direct and callous exposure to the deadly COVID-19 pandemic. There were irresponsible parades in front of Parliament, the ACCC, the courts, GECOM and the streets. Lack of prevention, treatment and control of this virus plummeted to a disorganised level, creating chaos and confusion from its inception and as a

consequence, the uncontrolled spread of this disease by the uncaring task masters. The APNU+AFC’s lack of foresight in a wide and variable spectrum is the root cause for the PPP/C working overnight and at a disadvantage to clear the backlog of performance in hindsight. Yet, there are many Guyanese who, blinded, will follow the ill advice of the APNU+AFC leaders who are bent on conducting mischief and mayhem, to disrupt the peace of this nation and allow violence to rule the order of the day. Perhaps, the Attorney General should indoctrinate parliamentarians with the rudiments of Gandhi’s teachings, so that there will be more King Jr, Mandela and Obama in the making. To quote Gandhi, “An education which does not teach us to discriminate between good and bad, to assimilate the one and eschew the other, is a misnomer.” Who is prepared to give up the sword for the pen? Respectfully, Jai Lall

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Over $2B in infrastructural works for Region Six PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has committed $13.2 million to the rehabilitation of three community grounds in East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six) and announced that some $2.9 billion will be spent on infrastructural works in the region. The President on a visit to the region on Saturday announced the allocation of $2.5 million to rehabilitate the Skeldon Line Path Ground; $9.5 million for the Train Line Community Ground in Port Mourant; and $1.2 million for the Angoy’s Avenue Ground in New Amsterdam. Works vary at each of the three grounds but will include fencing, rehabilitation of facilities, cleaning and works on the fields. Additionally, the Head of State also handed over sports gear to several clubs within the said communities. During the visit, the President also used the opportunity to listen to the concerns of residents in each community

Agriculture Minister Zulfikar Mustapha hands over a football and other sports gear to an Angoy’s Avenue club representative as President Dr Irfaan Ali; Minister within the Ministry of Local Government, Anand Persaud; and Public Works Minister Juan Edgill and others look on and signalled his commitment to ensure that every promise made in the PPP/C’s manifesto is realised within the next five years. Speaking directly to upcoming developments in Region Six, the Head of State noted that an additional

Essequibo man feared drowned A POPULAR dryer operator who went swimming at Hamburg Beach on Sunday has gone missing, and his family fears that he might have drowned. Humal Juggernauth, 25, of Spring Garden, Essequibo Coast was last seen swimming with his uncle. According to information reaching this newspaper, Juggernauth, who works at the Golden Fleece Rice Investment (GFRI), popularly known as Hakh Rice Mill, went to the beach for a family picnic. At around 15:00 hrs, he and his uncle went to take a dip, but when his uncle returned to shore, Jugger-

Humal Juggernauth nauth was nowhere to be seen. It was then that family members realised that he was missing, and launched a search, but did not find him. Relatives subsequently made a report to the Aurora Police Station.

$2.9B has been allocated for the region, outside of the Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) budget. “In this region alone we have redirected expenditure in the capital programme; outside of the regional budget, we are going to spend

$2.9B in this region and these monies will be spent on community infrastructure, markets, agricultural development, schools, health centres, bridges roads, playgrounds.” The President also talked up the recent achievements of his government and an-

nounced to residents that the cash grants for COVID-19 will commence on Monday in East Berbice- Corentyne. The announcement was met with thunderous applause. “We know the tremendous difficulty this region went through as a result of

the closure of the estates and as well as Rusal. We also know the tremendous difficulty our farmers went through with the addition of VAT on key inputs, electricity and water; what pensioners went through of removal of electricity subsidy and with the application of VAT on water. I am happy to report [that in] just less than four months we were able to restore all those benefits back to as promised in the manifesto. Most importantly, we have been able to return [the] cash grant to the children and as promised in the manifesto and before the end of the five years it will be $50,000 per child. We have been able to restore the $4,000 uniform grant. The $25,000 cash grant for COVID relief voucher for every household will commence on Monday. These are the things the government delivered in less than two months,” he said.

Corentyne mother dies in motorcycle accident A 26-year-old woman tragically lost her life on Sunday after the motorcycle she was on crashed into a steel rail on the Seawell Public Road, Berbice. Dead is Radha Shivcharran, of Lot 86 Belvedere, Corentyne, Berbice. According to reports, at approximately 10:45 hrs, Shivcharran was the pillion rider on motorcycle bearing registration number CK 4094, which was proceeding west along the southern carriageway at a fast rate of speed. While

negotiating a left bend in the road, the driver, who has been identified as 36-year-old Kenny Teakadharry of Albion, lost control and collided with a steel rail on the northern side of the road. As a result of the collision, Teakadharry and Shivcharran were flung from the motorcycle onto the roadway. Teakadharry sustained a broken right foot, while Shivcharran sustained severe injuries, and was bleeding from the neck. They were picked up and taken to the New Am-

sterdam Hospital, where Shivcharran was pronounced dead on arrival. According to Shivcharran’s mother, Nandranie Shivcharran, when her daughter left home that day, she did not indicate where she was going. About half an hour after she’d left, she received a message saying that her daughter was involved in an accident. The woman said that based on information she received, the driver of the motorcycle was attempting to overtake a canter at the

The deceased, Radha Shivcharran time of the accident. There are also reports that he was racing with another motorcycle. Besides her mother, the young woman also leaves to mourn a nine-year-old child. Police are currently investigating the accident.

Suspected crook, thief arrested in separate searches POLICE, acting on information, on Saturday carried out a search at a house in Onderneeming, La Parfait Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD) and found an illegal weapon and a ‘black tope’. The search followed an arrest of a 23-yearold man the previous night, who was found in another house in Onderneeming, WBD. Police seized a black. 32 Taurus pistol firearm without serial number and seven matching rounds, along with one black handle knife and one ‘black tope’ in the north western bedroom under a mattress. Police took possession of the items and escorted the suspect to the La Parfaite Harmonie Police Station as investigations continue. Meanwhile, on Sunday, policemen, acting upon information received, went to the home

of Randy Joseph, 36, called “Buxton” of Lot 64 James Street, Albouystown, who is a known character and while arresting him, he was shot in the leg. Police said Joseph is wanted for questioning for several robberies and larceny from the person. “The ranks entered the house, searched same, and found Randy Joseph hiding under a bed. He was told to come out, which he did. Subsequently, as one of the policemen was attempting to restrain Joseph, he held on to the rank and attempted to disarm him of his service revolver and a round when off hitting Joseph on his upper left tight,” police said. Joseph was afterwards arrested and restrained with the assistance of the other The firearm and rounds seized by cops ranks and escorted to the Georgetown Pub-

The knife and ‘black tope’ that were seized lic Hospital where he is currently receiving medical attention.

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3 Mothers’ influence IF some mothers could see the future, they would want to turn back the hands of time to repair their mistakes; but they only get one chance. Some make a good impression, others, not so good. However, when children become adults carrying around pain, or negative memories from their childhood, there is nothing a mother can say, do or rectify. MOTHER NUMBER ONE My son has never been one on the

‘bright’ side. I was a single mother who raised him alone. One thing I can say though, he is a hard worker. I was impressed when he invested in a house and gave me a room. In his late twenties, my son had three children with a lady, and his son, Ronnie, came to live with us. His children grew up quickly, and soon his eldest girl, Donna, had two children. As a great grandmother, I was happy to care for one of Donna’s children when she left for the States. Two-yearold Gracie would stay with us until her

mother sent for her. I may have been old, but I loved Gracie like she was my daughter. I bathe that child and anoint her down with oil, I put her on my lap and sang her to sleep, I took her to school, and cared for her. When Ronnie left for work, he’d say to me, ‘Don’t give Gracie food’. But as soon as his back was turned, I’d say, ’come child’ and give Gracie half of my dinner. During her late teens, Gracie’s mother sent for her. By then Gracie had two children. I am bedridden and very old, but I love when Gracie writes to say she is doing well.

MOTHER NUMBER TWO My mother and father were married in their twenties, and before long, they had three children. Dad paid for mom to attend hairdressing school so she could have a career, and she graduated with honours. After that, and while my siblings and I were in primary school, things began to change. We’d heard our parents quarrel before, but now it was consistent. As children, we didn’t realise the factors at play, or why their relationship seemed to be heading downstream. Mom went out more and came home late, and dad started reading the bible and carrying it around; and we children felt unprotected, unloved and unsure of the future. As they quarrelled one night, Mom screamed at Dad, she was leaving and taking the children. Dad shouted back, no single man would take in a woman and her three children, but he was wrong. Mom’s new partner, an ex-policeman, had a big house. He took us in and treated us fairly well. My heart, however, was with my father. He had worked hard to provide for us and helped our mother to stand on her feet, and she took us away from him. Eventually, our parents divorced, and after 8 years or so, Mom left her partner. My sibling and I grew up living between Dad, our Mom, and whatever situation she was in at the time, and with extended stays at our granny’s house. The first decade of my life had structure, routine and meaning. I felt safe and sure of the future. Both my parents were in my life every day; that meant more to me than either of them could ever know, and then - the rug was pulled out from under my feet. As an adult, I still feel bitter towards my Mom for the choices she made and

how it has impacted our lives. Her decision robbed us of our home, our security, and a proper relationship with our Dad. Adults who fall out of love and wish to go their separate ways must first put sensible measures in place for the provision and welfare of their children. When I get married, there must have the understanding that if we are blessed with children, their welfare comes first. They must always have a safe, stable environment with a healthy, balanced ambience. If we can’t produce that much, for them, then we are not fit to be parents. MOTHER NUMBER THREE My husband Mike and I have four children, a nice house and good jobs. But things were not always so organised in our lives. We met when I was 13; I had my first child at 14, but I always knew I could be more than just a mother. Mike was studying engineering, so I started studying too. Unplanned however we had our second child, baby Solomon. Soon after, my mother sent for me and the children to join her in New York, which we did, and eventually, I applied for Mike. Six months after his arrival, we married, and later, had two more children. After 4 decades of marriage, I can tell you this; it has been a bumpy ride. My husband hasn’t always been faithful, and I’ve lived through some heart-wrenching times. What keeps me going and what I will never forget is the love instilled in me as a child. My great grandmother in Guyana loved me so much, she nurtured me and cared for me in a priceless way. She made me into the person I am today. Her kindness and devotion empowered me to persevere, despite the odds being stacked against me. As a mother, what would you do to ensure your children have the worthwhile, fulfilling upbringing they deserve? We must think about their future, we must put children first. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

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GTU, MoE discuss policy, salary issues

THE Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) and the Ministry of Education (MoE) have met to discuss salary increases as well as unresolved issues in relation to benefits for teachers and the need for a review of some old policies that may not be currently relevant to the school system. Following Friday’s meeting, the two sides committed to meeting monthly on the ongoing issues. The GTU and MoE had last signed an agreement in 2018 which covered the period of 2016 - 2018. However, though the agreement expired in 2018, the GTU had stated that the agreement carried open-ended clauses for all agreed benefits -- including salaries -- to continue annually until a new agreement is signed. “With the current agree-

DRAFT PROPOSAL “We had drafted a proposal and we were yet to enter discussions for that. So we are willing to come to the table with that proposal modified, so that we can commence the discussions. As soon as the ministry indicates that they are ready we will be re-submitting our new multiyear agreement to them,” Lyte said. Speaking about the need for modifications, Lyte said: “We would want to re-look at the one that we submitted. Given the COVID situation, we want to look at if there is anything we want to add or change.” But even as the two sides look to begin discussions on the new agreement, as pertains to the 2016-2018

ment there is an eight per cent per annum, until we have a new agreement,” GTU President Mark Lyte said, pointing out that “The minister was briefed and I know she is going to have her staff work with the Ministry of Finance to iron that out.” In 2019, teachers had received 8.5-9 per cent salary increases in line with what was administered across the board to public servants. In early 2019, the GTU had submitted a proposal for an agreement to cover the 2019-2021 period; however, having the agreement discussed with the MoE was delayed due to a number of issues, including the holding of General and Regional Elections in 2020. A new government was sworn in, in August this year. Given the time that has elapsed and situations brought on by the COVID-19 epidemic, Lyte said the union is looking to rework the proposal and re-submit another to the new government.

agreement there remains some matters that have not yet been entirely honoured. “The outstanding benefits have to do with implementation of the debunching. There has been a lot of work to put the stuff in place for debunching, but we are yet to see that rolled out. We also have the House Revolving Fund; a lot of work was put into that but we are yet to see it roll out. For some teachers who were employed in 2016 to present there are still some issues with their salary scales, so that is something we also highlighted. There was also a difference in our two per cent as agreed on from 2016 and that has to be dealt with as well,” Lyte related. As regards policies, Lyte noted that owing to the ongoing COVID-19 situation whereby schools have remained closed physically, but teachers are conducting classes virtually, there are some customary requirements for teachers that do not apply to this situation; and so that will need to be

looked at, in addition to aged policies that may be outdated.

“We need to sit and look at what are the essential records that would be needed

at this time. There are also several other policies established

decades ago that need to be revised, so why not look at them now”? Lyte said.

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Woman, 65, recovers from COVID-19 –– says virus is a ‘serious thing’ she would not want to experience again By Vishani Ragobeer JOY (not her real name) is a 65-year-old woman. She sells cold drinks from a cooler on the pavement of the busy shopping centre of Regent Street. Sometimes, atop her cooler, she has mints, regular sweets and cigarettes, also for sale. If you stop to purchase a cold ‘Coke’ from her, you can tell that she greets you with a warm smile on her face from the way her mask rises, just barely, from its position of rest over the lower half of her face. She hurries to sanitise the money she collects, as well as her hands, as she is very cautious about her contact with her customers. Her reasoning is simple, really. Back in April, on her birthday,

Joy holds up her negative PCR test result for COVID-19 which she received just before leaving the hospital she was taken to the West Demerara Regional Hospital because she had contracted the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). Joy also has a heart condition, which, combined with her age, makes her more vulnerable to this virus. “The coronavirus is a serious thing, I telling yuh,” Joy told this newspaper. “It really stress me out.” On Saturday, April 4, the woman realised that the symptoms she was experiencing for a few days had not subsided. In fact, she said they felt like they were worsening. She felt tired, weak, and had lost her appetite. By this time, the COVID-19 pandemic had spread to Guyana just less than a month before. She was acutely aware of the virus. “Is right out here (on Regent Street) I get the virus,” Joy recounted, as she nervously looked around at the shoppers going in and out of nearby stores. “Every day I does be out here; I don’t go nowhere, so is right here I had to get it from,” she said. And so she called the COVID-19 hotline. Before long, it was confirmed that she had indeed contracted the virus, and was taken See page 16

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Gem Madhoo clears the air on ‘Days Like Dese’ fallout By Naomi Parris VETERAN producer and long-standing member of the local entertainment community Gem Madhoo-Nascimento has finally broken her silence on the apparent rift between herself and fellow creative writer, Randolph Critchlow. To back up a bit, some three years ago, the two decided to pool their creative juices as writer/director and producer to bring to local television the home-grown ‘sitcom’, ‘Days Like Dese’. Back then, the series was reportedly set

Randolph Critchlow in the living room of a mixed-race middle-income Guyanese family of good standing and moral ethics. There were children, friends, grandparents, uncles, neighbours and cousins of various income levels and living standards. Social cohesion was reflected deeply in the component of the extended family, while issues affecting our everyday life, such as domestic abuse, climate change, recycling, trafficking in persons, conservation of basic utilities all played a major role in the grand scheme of things, and the accent was on education through comedy. However, from all indications, trouble had begun brewing in Paradise about two or so years ago, when Critchlow started to act strangely, and had basically dropped out of sight just when the company needed him most, as they were in the middle of doing Season Two of the show. According to Madhoo-Nascimento, “Suddenly, he wouldn’t answer his phone, nor return calls, and I had to source other scriptwriters, including myself, to provide the remaining three scripts for that Season to satisfy my deadlines.” Then, out of the blue, things would take an ugly turn around

Gem Madhoo-Nascimento mid-September when Critchlow took to social media to issue a “Public Notice”, to the effect that he was claiming creative rights to the show’s title, along with any royalties associated with its use. ATTACK ON HER CHARACTER Nascimento, in an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Thursday said she believes Critchlow’s decision to go public by way of social media is an attack on her morale and character. “What I want is to establish my reputation, because of what it did when he went on Facebook,” Madhoo-Nascimento said, adding: “The whole story is about the sitcom; I was asked by a major sponsor to start up a sitcom. While I was thinking about it and how I’m going to conceptualise and so on, he came to me and said that he has an idea to put on a sitcom, and I said we could collaborate.” She said that together, they brainstormed ideas to find a name for the script, and that what they eventually came up with was her idea and not Critchlow’s. “We came up with a list of names for it… I chose the one, ‘Days Like Dese’, which is the issue he is making all this noise about it… When we had our contractual arrangement, it was for him as a creative person in the production; there was no difference for like, ‘I’m paying you for the name, and I’m paying you for the script,’” Madhoo-Nascimento said, adding: “I hired him onboard as a creative person, but now he is making a big story that, ‘Days Like Dese’ is his name; that he came up with the name, and I must pay him royalty for it. That is the issue.” According to Critchlow, however, “In the initial stages of the show, there was no name to it. It’s a very specific and narrow area I am talking

about; I am not claiming rights to the show, but I am saying to her the use of the name is essentially my intellectual property.” Madhoo-Nascimenmto told the Guyana Chronicle that in her almost 40 years of working in theatre and producing content for television, radio and plays, she has not once underpaid or deprived anyone of their creative rights. “In all my years of dealings as a producer,” she said, “I have always discussed fees with

whomever I am working, whether it’s an actor, a singer, a dancer… I’ve always paid everyone.” She also disclosed that she has not heard from Critchlow since he took to Facebook to air his grievance, and that she has no intention of contacting him to address the matter. And neither will she be taking legal action against him, she said. Critchlow, on the other hand, believes that the country needs an umbrella body to look out for the

interests and rights of local performers when issues such as these arise, as in the absence of copyright laws, it’s difficult to iron them out. He also spoke about the lack of cooperation in the industry, whereby many attempts were made in the past to discuss the creation of such a body, but nothing ever came of those meetings. “There is a lot of competing interests and some persons may not agree that this is a good thing for the creative industry at this

time, because it would put a lot of restrictions,” he told the Buzz in an interview late last week. “I think this is important so that issues like these, we would have a body to defend them,” Critchlow said, adding: “Nothing would be done without a proper contract, so in the event of issues like these, there is an organisation that is looking out for your interest. At the end of the day, these things happen, and we have no representation.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, October 12, 2020

Upgraded roads, 700 solar systems for Region Two By Indrawattie Natram PRESIDENT Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali has committed $32.4 million to upgrade the Suddie recreational ground and several roads in Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam). The President made this known to residents during a meeting on Sunday at the Suddie Child Care Centre. During his address to a massive gathering, the Head of State announced that $2.4 million will be used for the upgrading of the recreation-

al facility and another $30 million has been earmarked for the upgrading of miscellaneous roads under the Ministry of Public Works. These inventions, he said, are geared at making life for the residents of the Pomeroon-Supenaam region more comfortable. He said there will be tremendous improvements in the sporting sector in the region and he took the opportunity to hand over sports gear to two sports clubs. President Ali told residents that his government

President Ali interacting with residents at Suddie

has rolled out a series of initiatives that will create better job opportunities for the younger generation, as well as generate economic growth, especially in the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) sector. Additionally, he informed residents that free university education is in the pipeline and that government hopes to achieve this within the next five years. Regarding the rice industry, President Ali said policies were established to ensure that farmers benefit from tax relief and lower-input costs. He said that the government is in discussion with Panama to ensure that money owed to Guyanese for rice shipments are paid. More research is being explored on various varieties of rice in an effort to increase productivity and yield in the rice sector, residents were told. Meanwhile, President Ali told toshoas who were present that government will be providing support in various forms to Amerindian communities. He informed them that there will be a solar system per household programme that will benefit all nine Amerindian communities in Region Two. Over 700 solar systems will be disbursed and the President said these will help to boost education delivery in these hinterland communities. President Ali also informed residents that government has also launched a massive housing programme which will boost the con-

Many requested photographs with President Ali struction industry. He also assured them that there will be tremendous improvements in every sector, as well as job-creation opportunities. During the meeting, residents raised concerns about medical emergencies in the hinterland communities, the

poor quality of water supplied to the Lima Sands community, and assistance for Venezuelan migrants. Special committees will be set up to deal with all the issues raised. At the end of the meeting, residents took selfies and photos with the Head of State who was on his first

visit to the region since assuming office. Minister of Natural Resources Vickram Bharrat, Minister of Communities Nigel Dharamlall and Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill were among those who accompanied President Ali.

GDF condemns solider’s assault of policeman THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF), on Sunday, condemned in the strongest terms, the actions of one of its ranks who appeared to be involved in a physical altercation with a policeman in a video being circulated on social media.

“His actions are a direct contravention of the expected conduct of ranks. All members of the GDF are subjected to the laws of Guyana and so the force stands ready to support the GPF in their investigations and expects that the soldier is held accountable for his actions,” the army noted. The GDF lance corporal was caught in a video beating a police constable in a line of traffic at the western end of the Demerara Harbour Bridge on Friday. He was arrested and is expected to be charged soon. Reports indicate that Police Constable Wilson was conducting anti-crime patrol duties at the western end of the Demerara Harbour Bridge. He was directing the east bound traffic which had two lanes that merged into one on the Meer-Zorgen Public Road, West Bank Demerara (WBD). During the process, he observed a dark grey motor car trying to change lane and in the process, caused congestion of traffic. As a result, Constable Wilson approached the driver of the vehicle, which turned out to be the GDF lance corporal of the Coast Guard Section and told him of the offence committed and then instructed him to pull to the corner of the road. According to police, the driver of La Parfaite Harmonie, WBD, after being instructed by Constable Wil-

The injured constable in the aftermath of the confrontation son, became annoyed, exited the vehicle and chucked the policeman. Police said that Constable Wilson then warned the driver about his behaviour and asked him to desist, which he ignored and proceeded to further assault the policeman by choking him and cuffing him about his face and body, causing him to receive injuries. Upon seeing this, other ranks intervened and managed to arrest the driver and escorted him to the La Grange Police Station where he remains in custody as investigations continue. The police constable was later escorted to the West Demerara Regional Hospital where he was seen and examined by a doctor. He was treated and sent away.

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Paruima boy excels at CSEC exam –– attributes success to balance between ‘play’ and schoolwork By Naomi Parris PREPARING for a big examination can sometimes be nerve-wrecking, especially if it is one that may determine your next move towards a successful adulthood. Adding to the anxieties, students in Guyana, across the Caribbean and around the world were forced to sit major examinations during a global pandemic. However, for 17-yearold Conway Elliman, the COVID-19 pandemic was the least of his worries when he was preparing to write the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination. The DC Caesar Fox Secondary student overcame many challenges and obtained three Grade Ones, five Grade Twos and one Grade

Three. He was dubbed the valedictorian of his school and plans to pursue a career in the field of computer technology. Elliman, who was born into the Arekuna tribe and hails from Paruima, an Amerindian settlement located in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni), was awarded with a hinterland scholarship in 2015 following his success at that year’s sitting of the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). “When I excelled at the [National] Grade Six Assessment in 2015 I felt as though this was a great accomplishment and being awarded a hinterland scholarship was exciting,” he related. The excitement of starting a new school in the city wore off when Elliman became home sick. Due to the lack of funds, he had to

return to home to continue his studies. “During the five years I was able to attend three schools which were Christ Church Secondary in Georgetown, Pariuma Mission Academy in my home village and DC Caesar Fox Secondary [at] Waramadong,” he said. Elliman recalled the challenges he endured while pursuing his secondary education. “Life in secondary school was not easy. It was challenging because I wasn’t close to home at most times, and, when it came to financial aid, it was a struggle for me because the resources that I needed to study were not enough.” These challenges became even more burdensome, when schools across the country were abruptly

closed to limit the spread of the virus. During this time, teachers had to introduce their students to e-learning (electronic learning) utilizing a variety of online platforms. TREMENDOUS SUPPORT In Elliman’s case, the limited access to the internet resulted in him having to attend school in a nearby village in order to complete his secondary education. “During the pandemic we had to be six feet apart from each other and avoid close contact with the people from the district, and also we were restricted from attending classes, everyday, which had a negative effect on learning,” the young man said.

Nevertheless, he noted that the tremendous support and love he received from his family and fellow classmates kept him going even on the days when he felt like giving up. “When I received my preliminary results I felt like this would give my family a good name as well as myself and also the village, because it has been a while since Paruima has really reached to the top.” The young man is happy that he decided to complete his education despite the fears surrounding COVID-19. “It was not an easy decision to go back and complete my secondary education because of the coronavirus that everyone is afraid of … but after I attained my results, I plan to work in my field of interest,” he said. Elliman, who is a believer

Conway Elliman (Photo by Chris Elliman) of the proverb “All work and no play makes jack a dull boy,” disclosed that extra-curricula activities, like sporting events also contributed to his success in the examinations. “I would like to urge young indigenous people to take up interest in sports since work with no play doesn’t get you anywhere and we also need to know how to balance those too.”

Operation COVI-CURB taken to La Penitence Market MINISTER of Public Affairs within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy, and Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues on Sunday conducted a COVID-19 awareness walkabout at La Penitence Market. The ministers and their teams fanned out from the Toolsie Persaud parking lot to distribute masks, T-shirts with the advisory slogans, ‘COVID-19 Kills--Stay

Alive’ and ‘Wear your mask, wash your hands and keep your distance,’ to vendors, shoppers and others. Operation COVI-CURB stickers with the slogan, “No mask, No ride,” were given to drivers and mini-bus operators traversing the area. This activity follows closely on the heels of a similar exercise held yesterday at the Stabroek, Skeldon, Leonora and Kitty markets. The initiative is another

Minister of Public Affairs within the Office of the Prime Minister, Kwame McCoy gives this vendor a pamphlet as Operation COVI-CURB is taken to markets across the country

Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water Susan Rodrigues, sharing masks at La Penitence Market activity to complement the Joint Services-driven Operation, COVI-CURB. On Friday, Health Minister Dr. Frank Anthony told the Department of Public Information (DPI) that the ministerial outreach at markets is part of a plan to reach unserved groups. “We are hoping to cover a substantial part of the country, especially the market areas, community gathering spots where we can talk to people, explain to them the importance of doing the prevention measures and hopefully that would get people to start taking on these preventative measures more,” Minister Anthony said. Prime Minister Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips launched Operation COVICURB on Thursday, October 1 to reinforce the COVID-19 safety measures. Since then, personnel from the Joint Services, together with volunteers have fanned out across the country to distribute

masks and to educate the public about the importance of adhering to the precautionary measures. The activity has been held in Timehri, East Bank Demerara, New Amsterdam and Corentyne, East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six), Linden, Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice (Region 10) and in the city. On Saturday, October 3, a hotline was set up for persons to call and report breaches of the COVID-19 measures. In addition, on Wednesday, October 7, Minister McCoy in collaboration with the Guyana National Road Safety Council debuted the “No Mask, No Ride” campaign for public transportation. The government, the Ministry of Health, PAHO/WHO and other agencies continue to encourage the public to adhere to the guidelines to curb the spread of the disease. (DPI)

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Woman, 65, recovers ... From page 12

to the hospital for institutional care. There, the doctors did health checkups on Joy and the seven other COVID-19 patients twice daily; once in the morning and once in the evening. She was fed good food. “Greens and so,” she recalled fondly. While the hospital staff were very friendly, she was not in the comfort of her own home and rarely felt at ease. COULDN’T SLEEP At nights, however, she could not sleep, because she is accustomed to sleeping with her lights on; since a youngster, she’d always been afraid of the dark. And so, while in hospital, she played games all night on her ‘Tablet’, because she had no one to keep her company. It was only during the day that she would be able to get a few hours of sleep. Initially, she said, she was put on the ventilator, as the coronavirus was affecting her severely, causing her lungs to fail. While her body fought off the infection, this machine helped her to breathe. It wasn’t the most comfortable thing, either, but it was necessary. A few weeks later, she was taken to the Diamond Diagnostic Hospital where she received the last of her institutional care for COVID-19, before she was allowed to go back home. Her daughter and granddaughter had also contracted the virus from her, and they, too, were taken to this hospital after she began receiving care. She was not told when her final day would be, but on the day the doctors informed her that she could go back home, which was Tuesday, May 7, the first thing she rushed to do was pack her bags. Soon after, she got into a taxi (she wasn’t going to risk travelling in a minibus) and went straight home to her home in Sophia. Though Joy has since returned to her humble “cooler business” on Regent Street, she is now extra cautious. On numerous occasions she has tried to encourage other persons in her vicinity to take the necessary precautions, such as wearing a mask, to protect themselves from COVID-19. To a large extent, however, her attempts are met with taunts. She said that she has even been “cussed out” by male porters working at the nearby stores. SALES AFFECTED Joy’s sales have also been affected, as persons there are hesitant to purchase from her; her only sales come from those persons who pass in vehicles on Regent Street, or from persons who don’t usually frequent the area. It is baffling to the elderly woman that persons stigmatise her for once having COVID-19, and would not purchase from her, but yet, many of those same persons refuse to take the necessary precautions to protect themselves from the virus otherwise. “How I look at it is that plenty people gonna have to get the (coronavirus) for them to take it seriously,” Joy said, adding: “They gonna wait until things get bad before they believe that this thing is a serious thing.” She sighed, defeatedly, and wiped the top of her cooler with a cloth soaked in diluted bleach. COVID-19 was a harrowing experience for her, and she really does not want to experience that again.

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equals Schumacher’s record of 91 Formula One wins England surprise Belgium Hamilton By Alan Baldwin great achievement, really,” said wide at turn one and damaged Mick, whose father suffered his tyres with Hamilton close - Lewis Hamil- serious head injuries in a 2013 behind and going ahead at with 2-1 Nations League (REUTERS) ton equalled Michael Schum- skiing accident and has not turn two. acher’s all-time record 91 been seen in public since. Bottas then reported a loss win at Wembley Formula One wins on Sunday “Thank you so much, of power during a virtual safety with an Eifel Grand Prix it’s such an honour,” said car period five laps later and By Hugh Lawson

LONDON (Reuters) - Marcus Rashford’s penalty and a deflected strike from Mason Mount helped England come from a goal down to overcome top-ranked Belgium 2-1 at Wembley on Sunday and climb above them in their UEFA Nations League group. Romelu Lukaku opened the scoring for the visitors from the penalty spot in the 16th minute after being brought down by a lunging tackle from England’s Eric Dier. It was the Inter Milan striker’s 13th goal in his last 11 matches for his country. The Belgians pressed forward, with Yannick Carrasco and Kevin de Bruyne finding space and time to create seven shots on goal to England’s two in the first half. Part of England’s struggle to make opportunities stemmed from manager Gareth Southgate fielding a five-man back line, and perhaps from his decision to leave midfielder Jack Grealish - man-of-the-match for his creative efforts in a midweek 3-0 friendly win over Wales - on the bench. Nevertheless, when England won a corner late in the half, Belgium’s Thomas Meunier clumsily pulled down the hosts’ captain Jordan Hen-

derson to concede a penalty. Rashford converted from the spot to register his 11th goal in an England shirt. England then picked up the pace in the second half and got their reward through Mount in the 64th minute with a shot that took a heavy deflection off the boot of Belgium defender Toby Alderweireld, looping over keeper Simon Mignolet into the far corner of the net. “It doesn’t matter how they go in. I found myself with a bit of space in the box and only had one thing on my mind, to get the ball out of my body and shoot. A big deflection, but you’ll take them,” Mount told Sky Sports. Despite Belgium pushing forward repeatedly, England kept their shape and ran the clock down to record a win that put them on seven points in the Nations League group to Belgium’s six. “They made it tough for us, we were hanging in there at halftime, we got back into it at 1-1, and we knew we could regroup then, talk about the things we could do better, and fix the problems we were having,” Mount said. “We’ve got the mentality, we’ve got the work ethic to get better and better and that’s the path we’re on.”

King Nadal continues ... with this city and this court is unforgettable.” The 39-year-old Federer, who has been recovering from knee surgery this year, congratulated his friend. “As my greatest rival over many years, I believe we have pushed each other to become better players,” Federer posted on Twitter, along with a photo of him with Nadal. “Therefore it is a true honour for me to congratulate him on his 20th Grand Slam victory.” DOOR SHUT Before the match Djokovic had said Roland Garros was Nadal’s home and the Spaniard did not once leave the door ajar for the Serbian to make a comeback into the match. Djokovic, 33, who had won five Grand Slam finals in a row since losing to Stan Wawrinka at the 2016 U.S. Open, still leads Nadal 29-27 in career meetings but the scar of Sunday’s defeat will run deep. The drop shots on the slow claycourts served Djokovic well in earlier rounds and he used plenty of them in his opening game on Sunday but Nadal ran most of them down, blunting the Serbian’s weapon and gameplan. Djokovic struggled with his first serve and was unable to come up with a Plan B as Nadal continued to be the aggres-

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sor while making just two unforced er- rors in the opening set to hand his opponent a rare bagel in the opening set. Nadal showed exemplary athleticism and court coverage to get his racket to Djokovic’s crunching groundstrokes as the bewildered Serbian watched on, fast running out of ideas on how to win important points. In the second set there was no letup in intensity from Nadal, who continued to hit deep returns to keep his opponent pinned to the back of the baseline. Djokovic got on the board at the start of the second set after managing to save three breakpoints but Nadal maintained his iron grip by breaking the Serbian’s next two service games to take a 2-0 lead in the match. In a high-quality third set, Djokovic broke Nadal’s serve for the first time for 3-3 but dropped serve on a double fault in the 11th game before the left-hander went on to bag his 100th victory at Roland Garros with an ace. “Today you showed why you are the king of clay. Today was a tough match, I was outplayed by a better player today,” said Djokovic after losing his third final to Nadal at Roland Garros.

victory that catapulted the Mercedes driver closer to a seventh world championship. While the Briton triumphed at the Nuerburgring, the German circuit where Ferrari great Schumacher won five times, team mate Valtteri Bottas suffered a huge hit to his title hopes with a first retirement of the season. Hamilton, celebrating his seventh win of the season, is now 69 points clear of the Finn -- equal to nearly three race wins -- with six rounds remaining. Red Bull’s Max Verstappen finished second, and took a bonus point by seizing fastest lap from Hamilton right at the end, with Australian Daniel Ricciardo third for Renault in his first podium since 2018 when he was at Red Bull. That was also Renault’s first as a constructor since their return in 2016. Schumacher’s son Mick, the Formula Two leader who could be racing against Hamilton next season, presented the Briton with one of his father’s red helmets from his second stint in F1 with Mercedes. “Congratulations and this is on behalf of all of us. A

Hamilton before stepping up onto the podium at the circuit closest to Schumacher’s boyhood home in Kerpen. “I don’t even know what to say. “When you grow up watching someone you generally idolise them, you know, really just in terms of the quality of the driver they are but what they are able to continuously do, year on year and race on race and week on week,” added the Briton. “Seeing his dominance for so long, I don’t think anyone and especially me didn’t imagine I’d be anywhere near Michael in terms of records. So it’s an incredible honour and it’s going to take some time to get used to it.” Hamilton said he only realised the significance of what he had done when he came into the pitlane after taking the chequered flag. UNLUCKY BOTTAS Bottas had started on pole, with Hamilton second on the grid and raising concern about his steering wheel, and came out ahead through the opening corners after a wheel-to-wheel battle with his team mate. The Finn opened the door, however, on lap 13 when he ran

was retired by the team in the pits. “Unlucky. What can I say,” the Finn told Sky Sports television. The safety car was deployed late in the race when McLaren’s Lando Norris pulled off with a smoking engine and both Hamilton and Verstappen were persistent in complaining over the radio about the slow pace and their tyres going cold. Hamilton managed the restart smoothly and from then on it was just a question of managing the final laps to the historic finale. Mexican Sergio Perez was fourth for Racing Point with McLaren’s Carlos Sainz fifth and Pierre Gasly sixth for AlphaTauri. Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc finished seventh and Nico Hulkenberg went from last on the grid to eighth as a standin at Racing Point for unwell Canadian Lance Stroll. Romain Grosjean scored his first points of the season with ninth for Haas and Italian Antonio Giovinazzi was 10th for Alfa Romeo. His team mate Kimi Raikkonen, the 2007 world champion making a record 323rd Formula One start, was 12th.

Ricky Ponting teaching Hetmyer how to pull perfectly

LEARNING the art of playing a perfect pull shot from the peerless Ricky Ponting is a dream that Shimron Hetmyer is living during his stint with the Delhi Capitals. The explosive middle-order batsman showed glimpses of his destructive self during his 24-ball-45 knock against Rajasthan Royals on Friday.. The first of his five sixes was a pull shot off Andrew Tye, executed to perfection. “It’s been fun to be around Ricky. A very good guy. He is right now working on my pull shot. He has observed that in last few games, people have been bowling short to me. So far he is working on my pulling and he has done one hell of a job with me,” Hetmyer sounded like a disciple in awe of his mentor while talking about the Capitals head coach. “He is teaching me the art of being a better finisher and I am getting there gradually.” Hetmyer is being sent to bat at number 5 or 6 depending on match situations and by his own admission, that’s an aspect he is still coming to terms with each and every match. “The role of a floater is not something that I was accustomed to really. I am still working towards getting better with each and every game. What I try to do now is to ensure that every game, I have to hit a six. At least, one six. Working towards that at

moment,” Hetmyer, a former U-19 World Cup winning captain said, aware that he hasn’t hit too many big shots in 72 T20 games, he has played. Hetmyer, is a much better player of spinners among his Caribbean contemporaries, something he attributes to growing up in Guyana, which back in the day used to be one place that assisted slow bowlers. “It could be, yes I agree,” the 23-year-old said, adding, “The pitches in Guyana are pretty similar to what we get here and in the Indian sub continent with regards to spinners. I had no choice but to adjust to it and get better.” “Playing spinners from an early age helped me get better and then coming to international cricket, it helped that I was able to rotate strike if the sixes are not coming,” he explained. He is a couple of months short of his 24th birthday and has already played 86 international games across three formats (16 Tests, 45 ODIs, 25 T20Is). When he looks back, he feels surprised at the speed at which his transition has happened. “Probably, I moved a bit faster (transition) than I expected to be honest. I didn’t expect to be where I am at the age of 23 actually but I thank God everyday and all the people, my support system who have helped me to reach where I am today.” “There has been ups and

downs but ups mostly. I am working at getting better and finishing more games for my team or at least get them to winning positions,” the soft-spoken Hetmyer said. A junior World Cup in his bag as a captain, does West Indies captaincy cross his mind? “I try not to think about West Indies captaincy that much. But if I am honest, it will always be at the back of my mind somewhere. Everyday, I wake up, I only think about cricket and get better at my game,” he said. Delhi Capitals’ core is pretty young with 23-yearolds Hetmyer, Rishabh Pant, 25-year-old skipper Shreyas Iyer, pace spearhead Kagiso Rabada who is also of same age and opener Prithvi Shaw, weeks short of his 21st birthday. Having peers around helps when one needs to stay put in a bio-bubble, which is not the case for fun-loving blokes in their early 20s. “It’s been pretty tough personally. I am someone who likes to go shopping and stuff. Being locked up and not being able to go out see this sights has been a little bit tough for me. “It’s been better, having good friends around, having a young team also helped me a little bit more free. Us being basically the same age group, it helps a lot to have all those guys around.” (PTI).

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Rajasthan Royals return to winning ways in IPL RJASTAN Royals returned to winning ways in the Indian Premier League (IPL), producing a stunning late onslaught to down the Sunrisers Hyderabad by five wickets in Dubai. The Royals appeared in danger of suffering a fifth straight loss when, replying to Hyderabad’s total of 158-4, they were left needing 54 from the final four overs in their run chase. However, Rahul Tewatia and Riyan Parag combined to see their team home with a delivery to spare, the latter sealing victory with a towering six over cover. Tewatia, though, had crucially gone after Hyderabad’s key bowler in Rashid Khan, the leg-spinner’s final over - the 18th of the innings - leaking 14, as he smashed 45 off 28 deliveries. Parag finished up unbeaten on 42 from 26 as an unbroken stand worth 85 covered for the failures of the big names at the top of the order, including the returning Ben Stokes. The England all-rounder had earlier sent down just a solitary over as the Sunrisers set a competitive target thanks to contributions from captain David Warner (48) and Man-

ish Pandey, who made 54. Stokes back, but Archer hits the spot

forming England player in action. He bowled a seriously quick over up front to interna-

knocked over the Royals’ top order cheaply, including running out Steve Smith for five.

tional team-mate Jonny Bairstow, then returned later in the innings to emphatically clean up Warner as the Sunrisers skipper looked to cut loose.

Yet Tewatia had other ideas, particularly when it came the pivotal over from Rashid. Having gone for just 12 from his previous three, the Afghanistan bowler was the subject of two outrageous reverse sweeps, both of which went to the boundary.

Rahul Tewatia and Riyan Parag’s unbeaten 85-run stand powered Rajasthan Royals to a win against Sunrisers Hyderabad

It was a low-key comeback to cricket for Stokes. Having not played since August for family reasons, he made six from five balls as an opener for the Royals when batting alongside Jos Buttler (16). Instead, it was Jofra Archer who was the top-per-

TEWATIA TURNS THE TABLES It seemed the Sunrisers were set to prevail having

Pakistan move Zimbabwe ODIs to Rawalpindi, smog fear looms LAHORE, Pakistan (Reuters) - Pakistan’s upcoming three-match one-day international series against Zimbabwe has been shifted to Rawalpindi due to logistical reasons, the country’s cricket board said on Sunday. Multan was scheduled to host the 50-over matches which would now be played at the Pindi Cricket Stadium from Oct. 30, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) said in a statement. The subsequent t h r e e - m a t c h Tw e n ty20 series between the teams, originally scheduled in Rawalpindi, will be played at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium from Nov. 7. “After Multan became unavailable due

to logistical and operational reasons, we took the opportunity to revisit the entire schedule and have come up with an itinerary that is suitable for the teams...” PCB director Zakir Khan said. The scheduling could be messed up again because of winter smog, conceded Khan. “We are in regular touch with the meteorological department and seeking their forecast for smog during November,” he said. “We will continue to liaise with the met office and monitor the situation, and, if required, will make necessary changes.” Zimbabwe last visited Pakistan in 2015 for a limited-overs series.

Premier League, UK govt critical of reform plan from top clubs By Simon Evans

MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - Proposals from Liverpool, Manchester United and the Football League (EFL) for major changes to the structure of the Premier League were met with swift criticism from England’s top flight on Sunday and the UK government and fans. Liverpool and United are backing a plan to radically change the Premier League’s structure, giving more power to the big clubs, reducing it from 20 clubs to 18 for the 202223 season and scrapping the League Cup and Community Shield. The plan would see the Premier League commit to providing 25% of the league’s revenue to Football League (EFL) clubs and a 250 million-pound rescue fund to help with the immediate impact of the COVID-19 crisis. The plans, dubbed “Project Big Picture”, have been put together by Liverpool’s American owners Fenway Sports Group, with support from United’s Florida-based owners the Glazer family. Manchester United and

Liverpool did not respond to a request for comment. EFL chairman Rick Parry said the reforms were needed to address “a chasm which has become unbridgeable” between the second tier and the Premier League. But it was not clear how many Premier League or EFL clubs had been consulted about the proposals and the Premier League itself was critical of the plans. “In the Premier League’s view, a number of the individual proposals in the plan published today could have a damaging impact on the whole game and we are disappointed to see that Rick Parry, Chair of the EFL, has given his on-therecord support,” the league said in a statement. The Premier League said it supported a “wide-ranging discussion on the future of the game” including competition structures, calendar and finances. “Football has many stakeholders, therefore this work should be carried out through the proper channels enabling all clubs and stakeholders the opportunity to contribute,” the

statement added.

CRITICAL STANCE A spokesperson for the Department of Culture Media and Sport, the UK ministry responsible for football matters, also took a critical stance.

“Sustainability, integrity and fair competition are absolutely paramount and anything that may undermine them is deeply troubling. Fans must be front of all our minds, and this shows why our fan led review of football governance will be EFL chairman Rick Parry

“We are surprised and disappointed that at a time of crisis when we have urged the top tiers of professional football to come together and finalise a deal to help lower league clubs there appear to be backroom deals being cooked up that would create a closed shop at the very top of the game,” the spokesperson said.

so critical.” The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) also came out against the plan. “Once again it appears that big decisions in football are apparently being stitched up behind our backs by billionaire club owners who continue to treat football as their personal fiefdom,” the FSA said in a

statement. The proposal includes 8.5% of annual net league revenue to go on “good causes” including the Football Association. The 25% of remaining Premier League and Football League revenue would go to EFL clubs. This would replace the current system of “parachute payments” to clubs relegated from the Premier League. The plan does not, however, call for the top six to be given a greater share of television revenue. Parry, the former Premier League and Liverpool chief executive who has expressed concern about the state of EFL club’s finances, said there needed to be change. “What do we do? Leave it exactly as it is and allow the smaller clubs to wither? Or do we do something about it? And you can’t do something about it without something changing. And the view of our clubs is if the (big) six get some benefits but the 72 also do, we are up for it,” he told The Telegraph. The proposal is likely to meet with resistance from

smaller Premier League clubs, especially the idea of a change to the “one club, one vote” system, in place since the league was formed, as a breakaway from the Football League, in 1992. The plan calls for the nine clubs with the longest continued presence in the league, which includes the “big six”, to be given “longterm share-holder” status and the ability to make changes with the support of six of the nine. As well as reducing in size from 20 clubs to 18, there would be a change to the promotion and relegation exchange with the second-tier Championship. The bottom two clubs would be automatically relegated from the Premier League and replaced with the top two from the Championship. The 16th-placed Premier League club would go into a playoff with the Championship’s third, fourth and fifth-placed teams. The plan would need the support of 14 of the Premier League’s 20 clubs to be approved.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday,October 12, 2020

Suryakumar and De Kock fire Mumbai Indians to go top of IPL SURYAKUMAR Yadav and Quinton de Kock blasted half-centuries as Mumbai Indians beat Delhi Capitals by five wickets to replace them at the top of the Indian Premier League. Shikhar Dhawan carried his bat for 69, but was starved of the strike as disciplined bowling from the defending champions restricted the Capitals to 162-4 in Abu Dhabi on Sunday. Krunal Pandya took 2-26, while Jasprit Bumrah and Rahul Chahar also kept it tight in a frustrating innings for Delhi at Sheikh Zayed Stadium. The Indians reached their target with two balls to spare to join their opponents on 10 points at the summit, Suryakumar and De Kock setting them well on their way to consigning the Capitals to just a second defeat. Suryakumar (53 off 32 balls) made a second consecutive half-century and De Kock (53 from 36) got his second of the tournament before Ishan Kishan chipped in with a brisk 28. Kagiso Rabada, the leading

wicket-taker in the 2020 edition of the IPL, claimed 2-28 but Rohit Sharma’s side were not to be denied a fourth win in a row.

follow suit. Dhawan landmarks in vain Indian opener Dhawan clattered Krunal over midwicket

Quinton de Kock and Suryakumar Yadav’s fifties guided Mumbai Indians to a five-wicket win over Delhi Capitals

Mumbai were made to pay for a lack of runs after Shreyas Iyer – who made 42 – won the toss and elected to bat, Krunal capping an impressive allround display by hitting two boundaries in the final over from Marcus Stoinis. Anrich Nortje had taken it down to the wire by conceding just three off the penultimate over, but Stoinis was unable to

for his 100th IPL six as he batted through the innings. The dangerous left-hander also reached the 1,000-run mark for the Delhi franchise, but faced just 52 balls as the Daredevils failed to fire. Delhi were missing the injured Rishabh Pant and omitted Shimron Hetmyer, with Alex Carey taking the gloves and making an unbeaten 14 after

coming in at number six. Krunal and Bumrah bowled eight and seven dot balls respectively, also conceding just one boundary apiece in an impressive performance in the field for Mumbai. De Kock and Suryakumar slay Capitals Axar Patel gave Delhi a major lift by removing Rohit with the final ball of the fifth over with 31 runs on the board. De Kock struck three sixes and found the rope four times before Ravichandran Ashwin sent him on his way, Prithvi Shaw taking the catch at deep square leg to leave the Indians 77-2 at the halfway mark. Suryakuma followed up his blistering 79 in the win over Rajasthan Royals with another key knock, though, hitting six fours and a solitary six before Kieron Pollard and Krunal finished it off. The excellent Rabada took his wicket tally to 17, six more than Bumrah and Trent Boult, in the battle for the purple cap but he would no doubt have swapped those dismissals for a win.

Labuschagne’s Sheffield Shield best puts Queensland in command

MARNUS Labuschagne picked up his prolific form from the last Australian season with his highest Sheffield Shield score of 167 from 230 balls to put Queensland in command against Tasmania as he was well supported by Bryce Street and Matt Renshaw. Tasmania were left to rue a wasteful morning session where their fielding could not support some challenging pace bowling as Labuschagne was given three lives - including two in one over against Jackson Bird - after Peter Siddle had removed Joe Burns early to claim his first wicket for the state. Queensland scored at barely more than a run an over during the first part of the morning session, but their early repelling of Tasmania’s strong pace attack would bring rewards later and the second two sessions brought 259 runs from 64 overs. Labuschagne was 12 off 43 balls when the over began against Bird during which he would be spilled twice - both tough chances to second slip and midwicket - and by lunch, when he later revealed he opted to change to a lighter bat, had himself a foundation. His scoring rate contin-

ued to pick up during the afternoon and he went to tea on 97, bringing up his century shortly after the interval off 151 balls - his second fifty taking just 51 deliveries. “I thought I was quite scratchy to about 30, I didn’t feel like I was batting that well but after lunch it all came together,” he said. “I changed to a much lighter bat, every time I tried to drive it I just nicked it so I was like, that one’s gone.”

two of the chances missed, operating in his medium-pace mode. Street was a vital partner in laying Queensland’s strong position as he, too, picked up from last season where he faced more deliveries in the Sheffield Shield than anyone else during a hugely impressive first summer. That doggedness was again on display as he took 87 balls to reach double figures but knew the value of putting miles in the Marnus Labuschagne celebrates his century (Getty Images)

It was his fifth Shield century but first since March 2018, since when he had made nine other first-class hundreds: five for Glamorgan and four for Australia. He converted into 167 before finally being extracted late in the late by a terrific yorker from Beau Webster, who was the fielder involved in

bowlers’ legs. His half-century came from 173 balls before he fell to a Riley Meredith short delivery which he top-edged to long leg and briefly Tasmania threatened to bring themselves back into the contest when Nathan Ellis won an lbw decision against Usman Khawaja. As with several

Narine reported for suspect action again, placed in ‘warning list’ SUNIL Narine’s bowling action has been reported again, this time at the end of the Kolkata Knight Riders’ thrilling two-run win over the Kings XI Punjab in their IPL 2020 match in Abu Dhabi on Saturday. Narine played a key role in the game, bowling the 18th and 20th overs in the Kings XI chase on his way to returns of 2 for 28. “The report was made by the on-field umpires [Ulhas Gandhe and Chris Gaffaney] according to the IPL’s Suspected Illegal Bowling Action Policy,” an IPL statement said, adding that Narine would be placed “on the warning list” but would be permitted to bowl unless there was another report against him. If that were to happen, Narine would be “suspended from bowling” in the tournament until cleared by the BCCI’s committee that deals with suspect bowling actions. Narine has been in trouble

during the now-defunct Champions League T20 in 2014, and as a result, he was forced to miss the Knight Riders’ final encounter against the Chennai Super Kings. He returned with a remodelled action not long after but chose to skip the 2015 50-over World Cup saying that the comeback would be “a little too much too soon”. Narine was subsequently reported during the 2015 IPL, when he was cleared to bowl, then reported and sent for a re-test, then banned from bowling his offspinners, and finally cleared again with a “final warning”. Narine’s action was reported again during the 2 0 1 8 edi-

tion of the Pakistan decisions against him last S u p e r year, Khawaja did not look League, too impressed. but he was Renshaw, recast as a midcleared dle-order batsman, joined in a Another report will result in soon after. stand of 125 with the increasSunil Narine being suspended Narine ingly expansive Labuschagne from bowling in IPL 2020. (BCCI) has been a which took Queensland into with the authorities for his part of the Knight Riders the lead. bowling action in the past set-up since joining the T h e b re a k t h ro u g h too, most notably in No- team in 2012, when his 24 came against the run of vember 2015, when he was wickets at an economy rate play when Renshaw was reported after West Indies’ of 5.47 went a long way in run out by a direct hit from third ODI against Sri Lanka helping the team win the Webster at cover - a tight in Pallekele. IPL for the first time. call for the on-field umThat was the first time He had a good year in pire - but despite also seeNarine’s action had come 2013 too, picking up 22 ing the back of Labuschaunder the scanner in an wickets with an economy gne, Tasmania still faced international game, though rate of 5.46, though the conceding a hefty lead. he had been reported twice Knight Riders had a rough (ESPN Cricinfo) time of it. His 21 wickets (economy 6.35) were again crucial in 2014 when they won the title for the second and last time till date. Monday, October 12, 2020 More recently, Narine has added top-order pinch-hitting COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – to his repertoire and conSTABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) tributed significantly to the Knight Riders’ campaigns in & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD – 2017 (224 runs, strike rate 83 Garnett street, Campbellville, Georgetown 172.3), 2018 (357 runs, strike (Tel: 225-6158) rate 189.89) and 2019 (143 runs, strike rate 166.27) with ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: the bat, but he had been off (1) 13 the boil this season and has (2) Suresh Raina been pushed down the order. TODAY’S QUIZ: With the ball, he has (1) Who were the IPL 2010 Champions? taken five wickets from six (2) Which team lost the final in IPL 2010? games so far, at a strike rate of 26.4 and an econoANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE my of 8.09.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday,October 12, 2020

Nigel Hinds Financial Services to host an appreciation, recognition for Guyana’s CBC men’s Championship team GUYANA, led by teenage sensation, Stanton Rose, won the elusive Caribbean Senior Men’s Championship, and the International Basketball Federation’s (FIBA) Ameri Cup pre qualifiers competition, which was played in Suriname at the Anthony Nesty Sports Hall in June 2018. And to honour the achievement of that team, there are plans in this COVID-19 year by former president of the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), Nigel Hinds, who was at the helm when this was attained, to acknowledge the players of that Junior Hercules-coached all-conquering Guyana side. Hinds, through his Financial Services, is preparing to host a celebratory event in appreciation and recognition of the Caribbean’s Senior Men’s Basketball Champions on Sun-

day, November 15, 2020, at 16.00hrs. The recipients of prizes include players and coaches of the 2018 team, inclusive of the overseas-based players who will participate via zoom video. There is to be other recognition of former national players, basketball administrators, cheerleaders and supporting staff, according to a release from Nigel Hinds. While the venue has not been named, it is anticipated that the governing Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), now under the stewardship of Mike Singh, who served as the second in command when Hinds was at the leadership position, along with his current executive, will be there to give support. That winning male team comprised Stanton Rose (Captain), Harold Adams, Shaine Webster, Denzil

Devonish, Kevon Wiggins, Timothy Thompson, Orland Glasgow, Anthony Moe, Ray Victor, Travis Belgrave and Travis Burnet. Rose was at the end of the tournament. The teams which contested that CBC Senior men’s championship were Antigua & Barbuda, Barbados, Bermuda, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Montserrat, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines and host, Suriname. Rose’s most impressive game was against St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) in the group stage as he cannoned a tournament high 41 points, while he knocked in 23 in the final against Antigua and Barbuda. Being the stand-out player of that CBC championship, Rose was granted a scholarship to Jacksonville College in Texas, United States. Guyana previously

reached the Senior Men’s tournament final when it was staged in Guyana in 1994, but were beaten in the final against Barbados. However, the other time a Guyana team reached any final was in 1996, when the Karen Abrams-led Linden Alphonso-coached women’s team carted off Guyana’s first ever senior tournament as they defeated Jamaica in the Women’s final in Trinidad and Tobago. Unlike then when much recognition was not given the victorious women’s team, Hinds is leaving no stone unturned to ensure the team which did Guyana proud two years ago, is comforted somewhat hence this gesture. The organisers say that there is to be strict adherence to the required COVID-19 guidelines for this special event. (Joe Chapman)

GGA, other entities support GTU as part of World Teachers’ Day

T H E G u y a n a Te a c h e r s Union (GTU) was the recent beneficiaries of hampers, compliments of Nexgen Golf AcademyCIMGRO Maraiko Bay Resort and Survival Shopping Complex. Awards ranged from phone credit, hampers, plaques, powerpacks and other forms of recognition to help honour these hard-working teachers.

the country’s first international golf course in the near future, as part of recognizing the contributions of teachers. Parshu Arjune, of Survival Shopping Complex, said that he will provide special treatment and discounts for teachers throughout the month as a part of his company’s way of giving back. With the ongoing pan-

tion systems throughout the country, and teacher leadership is critical in terms of the contributions teachers have to make to provide remote learning, support vulnerable populations, reopen schools and ensure that learning gaps have been filled.” He said. According to Hussain, “[GTU] President, Mark Lyte and General Secretary,

Some of the teachers display their hampers

President of Nexgen Golf Academy and the Guyana Golf Association (GGA), Aleem Hussain, joined forces with GTU, along with a few of Guyana’s premier business entities, including CIMGRO Maraiko, which is expected to develop

demic creating difficulties with education worldwide, our teachers have to be stronger than ever as they chart new territory in education. “The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly added to the challenges facing our educa-

Coretta McDonald, have done an excellent job of getting the message out that teachers are an important part of the fabric of our society and it is important for all Guyanese to see their teachers as everyday heroes,

not just as day babysitters while you work. “ Hussain continued, “Our teachers make sacrifices every day and just one day is not enough to show them how much we care, especially in light of their new challenges this year,” said GTU president, Mark Lyte. “We wanted to help celebrate World Teachers’ Day in a big way this year, for 2020 has taught us all to better appreciate the importance of those who choose to spend their lives teaching others,” according to Ms. McDonald. Mr. Hussain reflected “It is important to recognize the impact educators have on our country and the world remembering that their students will become our doctors, lawyers, business owners and future leaders.” Some of the teachers recognized were: Hazel Pyle Lewis, Retiree, served as Regional vice-president Demerara; Wendy Doris, Retiree ( Gt); Elaine Haynes ,Retiree (Reg #3); Jackie Butcher, Retiree (Reg #4) Avril Crawford, former President, Gen. Sec., RVP Dem. , Chairman WAC; Roger Small, former treasurer, practicing teacher; Roger Parris, HOD-Charlestown Secondary; Janice Williams, Patentia Secondary( Reg #3); Romayne Atkinson, Brickdam Secondary. (Gt)

Stanton Rose was the captain of the Guyana team

Guyanese born basketball player gains scholarship to West Virginia school GUYANESE born, Turks and Caicos-based teenage basketball player, Azel Carmicheal, has gained a scholarship to the Greater Beckley Christian School in West Virginia. The 17-year-old point guard, who left these shores at the tender age of three, is one of the stars at the school level on the Caribbean island. “I’m extremely excited and grateful for this opportunity. It’s honestly a blessing to receive such a great offer, all thanks to my coach, Ciaran O’Neill, and my parents for making it happen; I couldn’t thank them enough. From this point forward, I’ll put my all into my academics and basketball. I intend to work hard and would continue to stay humble.” The Linden-born said that since migrating, he has returned home approximately eight times and has played with family and friends; but his love and passion for the sport started in high school in Providenciales (the main island in terms of population and financial activities) in the TCI. He led the Clement Howell High School team, Eagles, to three championships, including the TCI National High School Championship in December of 2019. In that competition, he was named MVP. Prior to leaving for the US last week, Carmichael lived with his parents and siblings. His mother is an accountant, while his father is a mechanic. Known for his mid-

range jumpers and ball-handling skills, the 5’11 player is now hoping to take his game to the next level. “I have a very high level of confidence going into the USA and I am hoping to improve my game even more and learn a lot of new things that can develop my game.”

Azel Carmichael is looking to further develop his game in the US

Though small in terms of size and population, TCI’s geographic placement near the US (736 miles from Miami) makes it a prime visiting spot for US basketball teams (high schools and clubs) and individual players. Among regular visitors is seasoned NBA player, Trevor Ariza. The 35-yearold forward (currently with the Portland Trailblazers) is a second generation Turks Islander.

Michael Schumacher’s son Mick presented Hamilton with one of his father’s old helmets, from his last F1 season with Mercedes in 2012, to recognise the achievement

Hamilton equals Schumacher’s record SEE PAGE 24

of 91 Formula One wins Shimron Hetmyer scored a match-winning 45 ag`ainst RR. His knock was studded with five sixes

PAGE 24

Ricky Ponting teaching Hetmyer how to pull perfectly

French Open - Roland Garros, Paris, France - Spain’s Rafael Nadal celebrates with the trophy after winning the French Open final against Serbia’s Novak Djokovic (REUTERS/ Christian Hartmann) PARIS (Reuters) - Spaniard Rafael Nadal inflicted one of the most humiliating defeats on great rival Novak Djokovic in the French Open final on Sunday, thrashing the world number one 6-0 6-2 7-5 to lift a record-equalling 20th Grand Slam men’s singles title. Tennis fans would have been salivating at the prospect of another epic clash in one of the sport’s greatest rivalries but it proved to be one of the most one-sided Grand Slam finals in the Open era under the closed roof of Court Philippe Chatrier. The roof, which made its debut at this year’s rescheduled Grand Slam, was closed just before the start of play, sending fans and pundits on social media into a frenzy on which player would benefit from the indoor

King Nadal continues Paris reign with record-equalling 20th Slam

conditions. Most thought it would favour the Serbian’s game against the 34-year-old Nadal, who was bidding for a 13th title on the red claycourts at Roland Garros. But Nadal adapted brilliantly as he has done all fortnight to the new brand of balls and the much colder and wet conditions at this year’s event which started in late September rather than its usual May-June slot due to the COVID-19 pandemic. “Of course, we were hoping for a great final and this is not going to go down as a great final. I am more surprised, I didn’t think Rafa was going to play this well,” Eurosport tennis expert and seven-times Grand Slam champion Mats Wilander said.

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The stakes were high for both players in their ninth meeting in a Grand Slam final - they were tied 4-4 previously - with the added incentive of lifting another major trophy in the battle to be considered the men’s “Greatest of all time”. Nadal has now tied Roger Federer’s haul of 20 majors with Djokovic, the last active player to beat the Spaniard at Roland Garros, three adrift. “To win here means everything. I don’t think today about the 20th and equal Roger on this great number, today is just a Roland Garros victory and that means e v erything to me,” the world num- TURN TO ber two said. PAGE 24 “This love story I have |

MONDAY, OCTOBER 12, 2020