Issuu

THURSDAY 10th December, 2020

' No.106209

$5B for Region Two SEE STORY ON PAGE 02

–– monies to be invested before year-end, 600 house lots to be developed E’bo teen first locally trained helicopter pilot SEE STORY ON PAGE 03 PAGE

Barge collides with Harbour Bridge

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Boy electrocuted while playing with electric drill

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President, Dr Irfaan Ali presents Esaan Garraway with his Certificate of Title during an outreach to Region Two on Wednesday. Garraway is one of three persons who finally received house lot titles, after waiting for many years (Office of the President photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

$5B to be invested in Region Two before year-end PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali has announced that more than $5 billion will be invested in Region Two before the end of the year, while emphasising that his Government stands committed to serving all Guyanese in keeping with its mandate. "Today, we have a very simple task, and that is to ensure we fulfill our mandate in public office, not impede service, [and] not increase the cost of service," he said during his visit to the region on Wednesday. The main aim of the visit by the Head of State was to resolve many of the issues faced by residents, which he noted were "resolvable”. In this regard, he pointed to the importance of the exercise and the potential impact it will have on the lives of the beneficiaries. The President also announced that a Rapid Response Team will be set up to address the concerns of the residents in the swiftest possible manner. He assured that there will be more such

More than $5 billion will be invested in Region Two before year-end

exercises as the Government will be moving forward in a spirit of collaboration and connection to the people. Alluding to a similar such exercise conducted in Region Six in November, President Ali said that, “After Region Six, residents are tremendously happy. Issues that were not resolved in years were resolved. What

it tells us is that these issues are solvable. But sometimes the bureaucracy does not allow us to resolve them. That is why at these outreaches we want the head of every agency, so you can make an assessment as to what areas of improvement the agency requires." The President is personally addressing the con-

cerns raised, which include access to electricity, water, land allocation concerns and drainage issues, among other areas. Throughout the day, scores of residents were given the opportunity to raise their issues with the high-level team during the outreach exercise.

MAJOR INVESTMENTS Following the start of the exercise, residents were updated on major investments in the pipeline which includes the construction of a water treatment plant, additional power generating capacity for the region, the implementation of a $50 million road programme, the commencement of a $70

million sea defence programme, the distribution of more than 4,500 cash grants and the rehabilitation of 50 miles of drainage and irrigation infrastructure. Agencies represented at the Presidential Outreach included the Office of the President, the Ministry of Housing and Water, the Central Housing and Planning Authority, the Ministry of Foreign affairs and International Cooperation, Guyana Power and Light (GPL), National Insurance Scheme (NIS), National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), the Ministry of Health, the Guyana Police Force and the Region Two administration. The exercise was also aimed at reducing the bureaucracy and will see the collaboration among various agencies to address concerns at the community level. (Public Information and Press Services Unit)

Long wait over

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

–– three Region Two residents receive certificates of title

THE long wait of three Region Two residents for a certificate of title finally came to an end following a swift intervention by President Irfaan Ali on Wednesday. The President made the presentation to the trio during his presidential outreach to residents of Region Two. All persons who received their ownership documents

had been waiting for a lengthy period of time. Esaun Garraway said he was given the royal runaround and was unsure when he would have gotten his title. “I checked the office steady and they kept saying that the title had to come from town,” he said before adding: “I feel good today, thanks to the government.” Mark Thomas, who has

been waiting for four-plus years, called the moment “a great sigh of relief.” Thomas was elated to have received the title from the Head of State and is now focused on building his home. Pratima Devi Sookdeo was also waiting for some time for her document. She came with the hope of receiving some assistance

President Ali presents Mark Thomas with his certificate of title

from the Head of State after her house was razed by fire. The President empathised with the Region Two resident and offered his assistance. The Head of State met with hundreds of residents on Tuesday at the Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) office in Anna Regina, Region Two, on Tuesday. His aim was to reduce the bureaucratic hassle that

Guyanese, especially those from outside of the city, face regularly. The President travelled to the region with representatives from the Office of the President, the Ministry of Housing and Water, the Central Housing and Planning Authority, the Ministry of Foreign affairs and International Cooperation, the Guyana Power and Light

(GPL), the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), the Ministry of Health, the Guyana Police Force and regional officials, among others. This presidential outreach comes after a successful one in Region Six last month. (Public Information and Press Services Unit)

President Ali presents Pratima Devi Sookdeo with her certificate of title

Pensioner Irving James leaves President’s meeting a happy man PENSIONER, Irving James left the Regional Democratic Council’s (RDC) office in Anna Regina, Region Two, a happy man on Wednesday after he was able to collect two months back pay of Old-Age Pension. The retiree had found it difficult to collect the money from last year which was owed to him. He met with President Ali at the Presidential Outreach on Wednesday and used the opportunity to explain his plight; the President immediately directed his team to solve the problem. “This uncle did not get his pension for two months, the ministry sorted it out in two hours,” President Ali announced afterwards.

A total of $39,000 was presented to James by Shannielle Hoosein-Outar, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Services. The pensioner was pleased with the outcome and thanked the President for his intervention, which he said was a relief. “After a run around, it’s ok… this is very nice in this crisis.” Scores of residents met the President and they were afforded the chance to raise pressing issues; key among them were various challenges regarding housing, land titling, pensions and infrastructure.

Irving James receiving his money from Shannielle Hoosein-Outar, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Social Services

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Barge collides with Harbour Bridge A BARGE on Wednesday afternoon collided with a section of the high-span of the Demerara Harbour Bridge, causing it to come out of alignment. Following a brief traffic interruption, authorities at the bridge corporation acted swiftly and were able to restore a smooth flow of ‘light traffic.’ This meant that only cars and cycles were allowed to traverse the four-decade-old structure. Heavier vehicles such as trucks were briefly

Scenes from Wednesday’s barge collision at the Demerara Harbour Bridge (taken from the Facebook page of Junior Public Works Minister, Deodat Indar

Thursday December 10, 2020 –– 1:00 & 13:00 HRS

stranded. However, late last evening, truck up to 12 tonnes were allowed to transit until further assessment. Adams confirmed, however, that marine vessels will not be allowed to transit under the DHB’s high-span until further notice Meanwhile, Junior Minister of Public Works, Deodat Indar, took the initiative to extend the operation time

of water taxis plying the Georgetown to Vreed-enHoop route until repairs to the bridge are completed. Additionally, the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) has also commenced an investigation into the incident. Adams maintained that the errant party will face consequences for the incident.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Boy electrocuted while playing with electric drill AN eight-year-old was electrocuted in his yard on Wednesday at Bee Hive, East Coast of Demerara, after he stepped on an electrical cord while playing with an electrical drill. Dead is Dashawn Doris, a pupil of Clonnbrook Primary School. Police said investigations

revealed that Doris was at home with his 21-year-old sister, who is a school teacher. At about 11:00hrs, she noticed that he was not around and called out for him to reply but got none. It is alleged that, at 11:15hrs, her younger cousin informed her that the boy was lying in the yard.

“She then went downstairs where she saw him lying motionless with froth coming from his mouth and an electric drill in his right hand. She raised an alarm and her aunt, along with neighbours, came to her assistance. They placed the boy in a taxi and took him to Dr. CC Nicholas Hospital where he was

pronounced dead by a doctor on duty,” police said. Police said that it was observed that the area where the boy was found had mud and the mud was moist. His body was examined and a burnt mark was seen on his right foot. Residents said the yellow drop cord was plugged into

an electrical outlet in the upper flat of the building and was used to operate a washing machine under the house. “The electric drill is usually in a small store room in the said yard. The drill and drop cord were seized and lodged at the police station. Investigations are in progress,” police noted.

Dead: Dashawn Doris

Facebook faces lawsuits that could force sale of Instagram, WhatsApp FACEBOOK Inc could be forced to sell its prized assets WhatsApp and Instagram after the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and nearly every U.S. state filed lawsuits against the social media company, saying it used a “buy or bury” strategy to snap up rivals and keep smaller competitors at bay. With the filing of the twin lawsuits on Wednesday, Facebook becomes the second big tech company to face a major legal challenge this year after the U.S. Justice Department sued Alphabet Inc’s Google in October, accusing the $1 trillion company of using its market power to fend off rivals. The lawsuits highlight the growing bipartisan consensus to hold Big Tech accountable for its business practices and mark a rare moment of agreement between the Trump administration and Democrats, some of whom have advocated breaking up both Google and Facebook. The complaints on Wednesday accuse Facebook of buying up rivals, focusing specifically on its previous acquisitions of photo-sharing app Instagram for $1 billion in 2012 and messaging app WhatsApp for $19 billion in 2014. Federal and state regulators said the acquisitions should be unwound - a move that is likely to set off a long legal challenge as the deals were cleared years earlier by the FTC. “For nearly a decade, Facebook has used its dominance and monopoly power to crush smaller rivals, snuff out competition, all at the expense of everyday users,” said New York Attorney General Letitia James on behalf of the coalition of 46 states, Washington, D.C. and

Facebook Chairman and CEO Mark Zuckerberg (Reuters photo) Guam. Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina and South Dakota did not participate in the lawsuit. James said the company acquired rivals before they could threaten the company’s dominance. Facebook’s general counsel Jennifer Newstead called the lawsuits “revisionist history” and said antitrust laws do not exist to punish “successful companies”. She said WhatsApp and Instagram have succeeded after Facebook invested billions of dollars in growing the apps. “The government now

wants a do-over, sending a chilling warning to American business that no sale is ever final,” Newstead said. Newstead also raised doubts about alleged harms caused by Facebook, arguing that consumers benefited from its decision to make WhatsApp free, and rivals like YouTube, Twitter and WeChat did “just fine” without access to its developer platform. In a post on Facebook’s internal discussion platform, Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg told employees he did not anticipate “any impact on individual teams or roles” as a result of the lawsuits, which he said were “one step in a process which could take years to play out in its entirety”. Comments were turned off for Zuckerberg’s post, as well as for other posts on the lawsuits shared by Newstead and Chief Privacy Officer for Product Michel Protti, according to copies viewed by Reuters. Newstead also warned employees not to post about the cases. Facebook did not

immediately respond to questions about the posts. PROTRACTED FIGHT Zuckerberg told employees in July that Facebook would “go to the mat” to fight a legal challenge to break up the company, calling it an “existential” threat, according to audio of internal company meetings published by The Verge. Although breakup remedies are rare, some antitrust experts said the case was unusually strong given damning statements by Zuckerberg plucked from Facebook’s own documents, like a 2008 email in which he said “it is better to buy than compete”. Other experts such as Seth Bloom of Bloom Strategic Counsel said the FTC complaint was “significantly weaker” than the DOJ’s lawsuit against Google. “We’re talking about acquisitions that are six or eight years old and it will be difficult for a court to order divestitures of many years ago,” Bloom said. Investors echoed similar

concerns. “I do not know if the FTC or DOJ will be successful in breaking Facebook up. I’m assuming this will be dragged out in the courts as FB defends itself,” said Daniel Morgan, a portfolio manager at Synovus Trust in Atlanta, Georgia. The lawsuits are the biggest antitrust cases in a generation, comparable to the lawsuit against Microsoft Corp in 1998. The federal government eventually settled that case, but the years long court fight and extended scrutiny prevented the company from thwarting competitors and is credited with clearing

the way for the explosive growth of the Internet. Last month, Facebook said it was buying customer service start-up Kustomer, in an acquisition that the Wall Street Journal said valued Kustomer at $1 billion. Facebook also bought Giphy, a popular website for making and sharing animated images, or GIFs, in May. That acquisition has already drawn scrutiny from the United Kingdom’s competition watchdog. Facebook shares fell as much as three per cent after the news before paring losses to close down 1.9 per cent. (Reuters)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Tajeram Mohabir

Connecting with the masses A HEADLINE, “600 houselots for Region Two - President Ali,” revealed the mettle of Guyana’s Head-of-State, who is no slouch in tackling and resolving contentious issues in the country with dispatch. The story apprised the nation that His Excellency Dr. Irfaan Ali had announced the pending distribution of approximately 600 house lots, which will be made available within six weeks to residents in Region Two. A presidential/ministerial outreach held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) on Wednesday, December 9, was filled with hope and expectation of fruitful outcomes, and the supplicants were not disappointed. As Minister of Housing and Water, Trade and Tourism in the previous PPP/C administration, then Minister Ali had demonstrated his acumen for proactive leadership with surpassing verve and energy. Noted for his decisive approach to problem-resolution, it is not surprising that, as Head-of-

State, his approval rating has shot up to 72 per cent, with his government achieving 69 per cent. The Irfaan Ali government has been grounding with the people and addressing their basic needs almost immediately after acceding to office on August 2, five months after the PPP/C achieved victory at the 2020 polls. The President has continued the tradition of successive PPP/PPP/C governments of taking government to the people countrywide and ministers are fanning out, with great regularity, to ensure that citizens know that their government will work indefatigably to better their lives, albeit fiscal constraints necessitate prioritising implementation of programmes and projects. President Ali has accomplished most of his 100-day promises and the people are very appreciative of the President’s decision to take government to the people and of his personal interactions with communities. The ministers are being lauded for their activism and per-

formance while executing their mandates on crucial issues, especially those pertaining to housing, education, the infrastructure, information, forestry, mining, oil, gas, agriculture, local government, and other matters that are crucial to job and wealth creation, and enhanced lifestyles. The accomplishments in governance of the Ali administration, within a few months, are winning the respect of even PPP/C adversaries, and trust in the new administration is inexorably, steadily being won through the hands-on approach by the ministers, with the President leading from the front. President Ali demonstrated how responsive he is to the people’s needs because his announcement was made after a resident requested a house lot, for which she is in dire need. According to a release, the houselots will be available in the Charity and Lima New Housing Scheme. The Head of State declared that more than $5 billion will be invested in the region

before the end of 2020. Additional to the house lot distribution, the President promised the residents that investments in the region will include, but not be limited to the construction of a water treatment plant, additional power-generating capacity, a $50 million road programme, and a $70 million sea defence programme at Suddie, the distribution of more than 4,500 cash grants and also the enhancement of the Supenaam Development Waterfront Project. He said that the aim of the outreaches that are happening in every region is to resolve issues that are faced by residents and promised that a Rapid Response Team will be established to solve outstanding issues expeditiously. At that venue land titles that had been pending for years were issued to persons. President Ali went down to meet with those unable to climb the stairs and address their concerns, especially issues pertaining to NIS matters. The President’s announcement of the Region Two house

lot distribution follows Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal’s revelation at a contract-signing ceremony done at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, that over $1B in contracts has been awarded to upgrade infrastructure at housing schemes According to the Housing Minister, some 40 contracts to the tune of over $1B were awarded to 22 companies for upgrades to these areas. He explained, “When we provide and make available house lots, we want to make sure the infrastructure is in place. We have, for this year alone, allocations being made of 2,300 house lots.” The contracts include road upgrades in Eccles, Herstelling, Parfaite Harmonie, Great Diamond, as well as works on access roads in La Bonne Intention (LBI), Ordinance, Williamsburg, and Experiment. Works will also be done on a number of internal roads, including at Mon Repos, Prospect and Providence.

A new ‘Father Christmas’ is in town

Dear Editor,

WELL, well, well, the familiar questioner always asks, “Is this the beginning of the end, or the end of the beginning?” Patient Guyanese are being provocatively privy to a mysterious oil saga, passionately dramatised in a longdrawn-out literature, painfully written by the astute pens of exponents with expert knowledge, sought out by sharp eyes with inquisitive minds and disgusted readers willing to digest a tale of venom and vinegar, while anxiously awaiting more telling rumours to make juicy gossips. This (flawless or faultless) piece of adumbration portrays James Bond acting the role of Perry Mason, after being edified by Sherlock Holmes in a movie directed by Alfred Hitchcock, and a story written by Allister Maclean! It unfolds a romance gone sour as revealed by Jane Austen in the usual Agatha Christie-like suspense manner, hanging on the thread of a JK Rowling horror. Herein lies the evil of Fu Manchu, striking with the deadly fangs of Dracula, dancing away with the prank of the Joker to hide in the shadow of Jack the Ripper. But, did the scent of blood

attract Jaws, or did the taste of blood leave the vampire unsatisfied? The Skull will certainly accompany the Zombie to enjoy another night of Walking with the Dead. The band, “Blood, Sweat and Tears” in their song, “Spinning Wheel”, rightly said, “What goes up, must come down,” and we certainly know what goes around, comes around! Ole people say, “Mouth open, story jump out”. There is a “Towering Inferno” which is slowly but surely burning away after being lit with the spark of dissatisfaction and now blazing “In the Heat of the Night”. A “Love Story” that went separate route is certainly heading towards the path of “Romeo and Juliet”. Is Julius Caesar being left to the mercy of Brutus, or is “The Tale of The Hidden Treasure” now being exposed by the awakening of “Rip Van Winkle?” Is there a Mark Anthony to assume the role of “The Avengers”, or will there be a need for “Dr. Zhivago” to round up “The Mercenaries” and create a “ Revolution”, as adumbrated by a jockey without a horse? The radio announcer is playing “Killing me softly with your song”, and the select audience is facing a choice of “The Day of the Jackal” and a “Two-Minute Warning.”

Guyanese proverb, “Moon a run till day ketch am,” is never too comforting and leaves a bitter taste in the mouth. When the “Iron Curtain” unfrocks itself, it is no longer meant “For Your Eyes Only,” and, behind closed door, conversations can reverberate a loud silence or can resonate a quiet uproar. Controlled feelings can lay quiet, submerged in a fatigued solitariness that can out last a life time or has a shelf life of tempered cognisance. We know when an animal is being led to the slaughter house, it becomes carefree and it defecates anywhere and everywhere, maybe out of fear, or, simply because it becomes carefree, or perhaps, it alludes to a degree of vengeance . Nothing remains a secret forever and the truth always flourishes. There can be many seasons in a year and the temperature always fluctuates, not due to excuses but practical reasons. A change of heart is welcoming in some areas while, an uncomfortable seat is laid in the direction of any recalcitrant. Is there consideration for motive, or does good always triumph over evil? To search for a possible explanation for our everyday doings will not be an exercise in futility but a time consuming programme. “The Invisible Man” no longer remains

“The Invincible Man”, but will “Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde” be on trial on “The Burning Cross?” How better off do we become with knowledge gained? What does it really mean? Is the essence of it good or bad? Will it have any effect on us, society or the environment? Will it affect us inwardly and outwardly? What is our reaction? Anger, surprise, shocked, dismayed, dejected, ashamed, unforgivable, unbelievable, unacceptable, unmoved or unconcerned? Is it time to start or stop worrying? What does this latest information translate into? Will it lead to the unveiling of more hidden secrets? Time will tell, for Mankind is only human, and the tolerance level does have a ceiling. This year, many families will be “Home Alone” but “Grincher” will not be able to steal Christmas again like he did for the past two years. A new “Father Christmas” is in town to ring the bells with a big bag full of gifts. Respectfully, Jai Lall

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

The perils of a taboo: gender-based violence Dear Editor,

IN the back of our minds, there has always been the burning (childish) question of, is the world coming to an end and if so, when and how? Recent space developments and the advent of daily technology being improvised, suggest gross uncertainty if not certain doubt. The world is encountering varied speculations regarding the advent of the deadly COVOD-19 and entertaining far-fetched reactions towards its repercussions. Space X’s success in launching its 100th successful flight to the space station and the arrival on earth of the Japanese probe with asteroid dust, reflect mankind’s ingenuity in advancing the race for trying to understand the mystery of the universe with the help of science. Skeptics also wonder if this is not man’s interference beyond the sublimity of mankind’s domicile. If so, then, this intrusion may translate into strange encounters and unprecedented circumstances. The world is engrossed with climatic changes. Economic and political injections create social implications. While dictatorship and discrimination derail many societies, the freedom of expression and the fight for equality continue to gain momentum. The increase of poverty and suffering highlight the attention for attraction. Is this cyclic wave a result of inhumane behaviour or the effect of an intervention from a higher order? Leaving the door open is making room for a sleepless night. Maybe this chain reaction may explain this rush of violent madness which is gripping Guyana’s shore and creating havoc with family life. Is there something in the air which is controlling people’s minds and gripping the hands to plunge knives into the bodies of partners? Does hallucination contribute as a grey area for concern? How delusive can the imagination become? What excuse encourages this gravitational pull towards eruptive behaviour? Are the social and economic implications the only explanation for this rampant upheaval? There is no comfort in reflecting on Guyana’s figures relating to gender-based violence. One death is one too much and 17 are simply preposterous and atrocious. The United Nations call for 16 days of activities to bring an awareness to this agitated furore, is being

met with Guyana launching its “Enough with the violence” campaign by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security. First Lady Arya Ali is also involved, along with other women’s organisations to render services in this direction. A quick look at some discussed forms of domestic violence includes: 1) Physical Abuse – an intentional act of applying force to someone’s body in an attempt to harm that person. Included but not limited may reflect, kicking, biting, choking and hitting. 2) Financial Deprivation – the event of an abuser controlling or taking away the victim’s money in order to suppress them. 3) Emotional/Psychological Abuse – this display unfolds in the forms of verbal attacking, belittling, insulting or ridiculing someone. Also inclusive is undermining their self-image, self-worth and self-confidence. Even intentionally disregarding or downplaying someone and their efforts, are regarded as abusive. 4) Sexual Abuse – forcing a partner into undesired sexual acts may include incest, rape or inappropriate touching. Experts’ reviews recognise a cycle of violence as documented: In an abusive relationship, there is a repeated cycle involving domestic violence: a tension- building phase leading to an abusive incident to follow the honeymoon phase and ending up back again with the tension-building phase. Tension-Building Phase – tension increases and there is a breakdown in communication. The victim becomes fearful or feels as if they are “walking on eggshells” around the abuser. Honeymoon Phase – the abuser may apologise, buy gifts, or be extra affectionate to “make up” for the abuse. Promises are made to change, stop abusing or making a commitment that it will never happen again. But once this phase is over, the tension-building phase commences again and the comforting promises the abuser made will be broken. There are some warning signs one can become wary of to protect oneself and also others. Psychologists pinpoint your partner/spouse mistreats or abuses you by doing one or more than one or all of the following: 1. Accuses you of having an affair constantly. 2. Criticises everything you

do, including name-calling 3. Punches the wall, throws objects and seems mentally unstable. 4. Threatens to hurt you, kill you or your children/family. 5. Makes you feel worthless, stupid and yells as the main form of communication. 6. Controls every single aspect of the family’s finances without your input. 7. Even though you work, he gives you an “allowance” and you must justify every single expenditure. 8. Stops you from wanting to work outside the home. 9. Stalks you, checks where you are and who you are with at all times. 10. Hits, pushes, pulls hair, punches. 11. Locks you inside the home until his return. 12. Forces you to have sex. Trained professionals advise some norms for consideration for female behaviour that may work against women becoming abusers, especially when alone or far away from immediate help: 1) Defer to men. 2) Be nice – you can “catch more flies with honey.” 3) Adapt to things you don’t like; endure what you can’t control. 4) Soothe other people’s anger. 5) Shut up! Keep your feelings to yourself – especially anger. 6) Keep the peace. 7) Keep the family together. 8) Take responsibility for how men treat you. 9) Don’t be too “demanding.” Discussants opine possible resolutions to be adopted and implemented as solutions: While we struggle to find the solutions, women continue to cower in fear, tell doctors that they fell down the stairs to explain injuries from merciless beatings and lawyers and case workers should continue to plead with them to stay away from their perpetrators. 1. Citizens can do better to bring awareness to the situation by being responsive and responsible. 2. Representative for the United Nations (UN) Women Multi-Country Office in the Caribbean, Toni Brodber, said teaching youth positive conflict resolution techniques can help prevent violence in relationships before they begin. 3.All must work in every home, school, office, church, society, organisation, community, in every part of our

country to expose violence against women where it exists, support the women, work with the perpetrators, create safe spaces, educate persons and share solution. 4. A zero-tolerance campaign against violence against women can bring an end to the seemingly unending wave of violence. 5. Join the movement on social media. 6. Establish emergency hotline, which will link survivors to agencies, advocacy programmes, referral pathways, microenterprise industries, public-private skills employment database matching and offer immediate help to extricate them from violent situations. 7. A 24-hour Hotline Operator will offer support, referral to victims and survivors, family, friends and professionals via an integration of the services available at both the Domestic Violence Unit and the Childcare and Protection Agency. 8. For couples who ‘live home’ even after children are produced in the relationship: are there signs of an abuser that can be discerned early on in a budding relationship, which can then be nipped in mandatory pre-counselling before matters proceed too far? 9. Most abuse and violence are committed by “significant others.” We bear much of the responsibility for choosing them. Let us become educated for the signals sent out by abusers. 10. Report every incident of violence, since by doing that you can save a life. It was Maya Angelou who advised, “If you are going down a road and you don’t like what’s in front of you, and look behind you and don’t like what you see, get off the road! Create a new path because, hope and fear cannot occupy the same space. Invite one to stay.” Respectfully, Jai Lall

The ballot watchmen and diplomats saved democracy Dear Editor, THE country must forever be grateful to the small number of ballot watchmen and the ABC diplomats for protecting the integrity of the ballots that allowed for the survival of democracy and declaration of the PPP as the winner. A small number of others also played critical roles behind the scenes to get the ABCE countries and CARICOM leaders to apply pressure on the Granger administration to concede defeat, and for GECOM to do the right thing: Declare the right winner. While several individuals are enjoying ministerial perks and government positions, they must never forget that they owe their position to the ballot-box heroes who kept watch 24 hours daily over five months to prevent ballot tampering, and the others noted above. And there were also several females who provided support, and brought meals for the heroes; there were heroines behind the scenes. While it was agreed that a recount of the ballots would be undertaken, a plan was hatched to have agents clandestinely enter into the containers storing the ballot boxes and tamper with them, which would have changed the result and/or raised questions about the integrity of the outcome. It would show greater number of ballots for APNU+AFC than the PPP. It was a cinch to get into the container, as we’ve since learnt from the Belgium drug experience with a seized container; the Guyanese container in Brussels laden with US$1B drugs clearly illustrated that a sealed container can be tampered with. After the container was cleared by Guyana’s customs and sealed, drug kingpins tampered with the container, undetected, and drugs were placed inside. Analogously, agents had been rounded up and organised to use their expertise to enter into the ballot containers and tamper with the boxes with duplicate ballots. The entire operation was in place. Experts were on standby to take the doors off the containers with the locks and seals in place, change the contents, and refit the doors. But the ballots watchmen made this skullduggery plan very difficult; this group of patriots stayed within close distance of the containers from just outside GECOM compound, and at the CARICOM compound, monitoring the containers with their physical presence and with cameras. They did so around-the-clock; they were the ballot-box heroes that saved the election outcome. The group took turn watching and sleeping in shifts over a 24hour period for several months, come rain or shine. Had they not kept watch over the containers for 24 hours daily, during the determined efforts to rig the election, the rigging would have been affected; the PPP would not have been declared the winner. Not all of those heroes were recognised or rewarded for their work. The diplomats of the ABCE countries and Prime Ministers of CARICOM were also heroes; they saved the country from the rigging by refusing to accept the fraudulent count of the shameless Mingo, Myers, and Lowenfield. The diplomats were responsible for the correct declaration of the PPP as the winner. Yours truly, Haresh Singh Kumar

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Technical, vocational centres vital to strengthening labour force –– stakeholders say Guyana must be prepared to respond to economic growth with requisite skills

By Navendra Seoraj GUYANA’S ability to service the nascent oil and gas sector and spill-off economic activities with the requisite expertise and skillsets, hinges on the increased utilisation of technical and vocational training centres which are accredited by reputable institutions or authorities. A business-friendly climate, supplemented by the anticipated economic ascension, has served as a magnet for investors, both foreign and local. And, while this augurs well for the nation, it has exposed a deficiency in the labour force, which is viewed as underprepared to service the potential economic activities, especially those related to the oil and gas sector. Guyana, with a population of just over 750,000, has focussed mainly on primary production in traditional sectors over the years, but this new attention has created unprecedented opportunities for the nation and its people. Outgoing Canadian High Commissioner, Lilian Chatterjee, had said that Guyana lacks a skilled and sizeable labour force to service the “explosive” oil-linked growth that is coming. “You are already witnessing an influx of global political leaders and investors who want to do business in Guyana. Get ready. This is just the beginning. But, that [skilled] workforce does not exist right now in Guyana. You do not have the population yet to be the engine of your rapid growth,” said Chatterjee. In the absence of the requisite skillset, the diplomat said Guyana will have to accept a foreign labour force while it works on developing local capacity to absorb the unprecedented growth the country is expected to undergo. Local stakeholders have accepted this reality, but, naturally, the road to development must start somewhere. And, Chairman of the Council forTechnical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and the Board of Industrial Training (BIT), Clinton Williams, believes that this ‘journey’ must start with investments in, and the utilisation of, more technical

institutes. intention to establish a world“We need to ensure that class petroleum institute and we develop a capacity to training centre in Guyana. generate the wide range of The Government, having skills that are needed on a continuous basis. This means that we must have the physical capacity and the human resources to produce these skillsets, which must be certified by accredited international institutions. “This can best be realised via an accelerated training of trainers programme utilising all available technical and vocational institutions and outsourcing of training resources and personnel,” said Williams in an invited comment on Wednesday. Vocational Technical Education (VTE) is a type of education that prepares people to Chairman of the TVET Council work in various jobs, and BIT, Clinton Williams such as trade, craft or technician. Vocational technical education is some- recognised this shortfall, has times referred to as career started discussions on having education or technical edu- a world-class petroleum institute in Guyana, very soon. cation. “It will not only provide Some of the main occupational skills required in training for Guyanese, but for the oil and gas sector include human resource in the oil and welding in different posi- gas sector across the region,” tions, types and under water; said President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, under water escape; and en- in a recent report. It is Williams’ view that vironmental and occupational facilities must, however, be safety and health. Guyanese-owned Oil- supplemented by the right field Services Company attitude to respond to the TOTALTEC has already growing demand for labour announced that it will be in- and skills. “Guyana needs to ensure jecting US$2.4 million (over G$516 million) into its Inter- that it has the human resourcnational Petroleum and Mar- es and develop an attitude to itime Academy (IPMA) to respond with the requisite improve its capacity, amidst skills and competencies to Guyana’s growing oil-and- align with the new norms which demand the right atgas sector. The plan is to invest titude for the jobs….local US$1.8 million into Heli- authorities need to be ISO copter Underwater Escape certified and our people need Training (HUET) and other to possess the right attitude, offshore-related training fa- skill and knowledge compecilities, while an additional tencies,” Williams reasoned. US$600,000 will be invested TARGETED into working capital. PROGRAMMES This is, however, just Chief Executive Offione facility offering such training. And, Williams be- cer (CEO) and Chairman of lieves that Guyana needs to TOTALTEC, Lars Mangal, respond to the increasing advised too that in order to opportunities by having more better service and support the requisite facilities (similar to domestic oil and gas sector TOTALTEC to train persons with a higher degree of local labour force participation, and hone their skills. One positive sign in this there must be programmes regard, has been the Govern- which are targeted at young ment’s announcement of its people.

Mangal, an oil and gas expert, said: “The emerging oil and gas sector will offer a wide range of opportunities,

tivities is critical, but more pertinent is access to ‘equal’ opportunities. And, already Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, has advocated for locals working in the oil-and-gas sector to receive wages that are on par with their foreign counterparts. The minister said he is of the belief that locals in the oil-andgas sector, when functioning in the same capacity as foreigners, should be paid the same wages, as they would be carrying out the same functions.

EQUAL PAY “In my engagement with CEO and Chairman of TOTALTEC's the oil compaOilfield Services based in Guyana, nies, I was clear Lars Mangal as crystal, making two points to them. but certain areas, especially One, equal pay must be for in operations, these positions equal work; if you bring in will require candidates to expatriates to do work, once start at basic levels which they are doing the same job would be considered ap- like a Guyanese, the Guyaprentice labour or operator nese must be paid the same positions. wages like them. We cannot “It is important to under- have you paying five and ten stand that the vast majority times more to an expatriate of positions in operations than a Guyanese,” the Labour will be offshore in a marine Minister said. environment particularly in Outside of the oil and gas the early phases and prior to sector, information shared onshore support operations with this publication shows being more progressively that the hotel developers, developed and served from who acquired private land, Guyana.” will create close to 3,000 While the facilities which direct jobs through their coloffer such specialised train- lective US$640 million ining are not abundant, he ad- vestment. vised persons to participate in There will also be indioutreach programmes admin- rect jobs and opportunities istered by international and which would accrue to not local companies in the sector. only individuals, but also Persons need to con- companies and small busistantly be on the lookout nesses. for advertisements related to But, critical in the adtraining opportunities from vancement of those investcompanies like Schlumberg- ments will be local content, er, Guyana Shore Base Inc, because, while the opportuBaker Hughes, Halliburton nities will be there, it is left and TOTALTEC. to the investors to hire GuyMangal was frank that anese to “do the job”. operational positions in oil Most of the investments and gas will not suit every are from indigenous comindividual, but many oppor- panies, but excuses in the tunities beyond operations past — while not from these will emerge as the sector investors — have been about develops for functions of Guyanese lacking the expersupport, finance, human re- tise to function effectively. sources, procurement and This notion has since been so forth. cast out by officials, who Participation in those ac- have time and again said that

more Guyanese are qualifying themselves. Head of the Department of Economics at the University of Guyana, Sydney Armstrong, has been one advocate for local content to be on the front burner of every investment made in Guyana. This increased attention that Guyana’s economy is witnessing is not unique, as it was observed in countries like Trinidad and Tobago, Nigeria, Ghana and even Suriname, where there have been discoveries of major oil resources. “What you find is, generally, in countries which have discovered oil and gas, you would see a lot of businesses coming to their doorsteps… oil and gas is a lot of money and businesses are going to try to get in on that money,” said Armstrong during a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle. But Guyana, unlike other countries, has other lucrative resources like land, minerals, fresh water and other things which are very attractive to investors. CONDUIT FOR GROWTH So, as Guyana prepares to absorb those opportunities and attention, Armstrong advises that the country must develop a local content policy, to serve as not just a safeguard, but as a conduit for persons to capitalise on the potential opportunities. “The local content policy needs to specify in terms of components of labour, especially when we talk about massive hotels… Guyanese must be able to benefit from the construction process and also be a part of not just lower levels of the general operations, but also be managers, supervisors and so on,” said the economist. A Government-appointed Local Content Panel comprising Shyam Nokta (chair), Carl Greenidge, Anthony Paul, Kevin Ramnarine, Carvil Duncan and Floyd Haynes, had recently handed over their report to Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat. President Ali has since confirmed that work is underway to analyse the report and create a draft local content policy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

NIS moves speedily to address residents’ issues in Region Two PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali has instructed the representative of the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to “fix it now” after hearing multiple concerns by Region Two residents during Wednesday’s Presidential outreach. One of the resounding issues raised was the challenge with payment remitted to the insurance scheme. President Ali said all

Guyanese should be treated fairly and that all agencies and government offices should be working to enhance their lives. The NIS head, Holly Greaves, assured the President that the issues would be addressed forthwith as she subsequently met with the aggrieved residents. The outreach is aimed at reducing bureaucracy and enhancing collaboration

among various agencies to address concerns at the community level. Representatives from the Office of the President, the Ministry of Housing and Water, the Central Housing and Planning Authority, the Ministry of Foreign affairs and International Cooperation, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL), the National Insurance Scheme (NIS),

the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), the Ministry of Health, the Guyana Police Force and regional officials, among others, met with the President at the Regional Democratic Council, in Anna Regina, Region Two. (Public Information and Press Services Unit)

President, Dr Irfaan Ali

E’bo teen first locally trained helicopter pilot

By Rehana Ahamad

BECOMING a certified helicopter pilot is “a dream come true” for 19-year-old Captain, Azam Ally, who created history by being the first person to receive his training and certification right here in Guyana. Previously, aspiring pilots had to secure helicopter training overseas. On Wednesday, Ally’s historic achievements were honoured by way of a simple ceremony hosted in the boardroom of the Ministry of Public Works, where he was presented with his ‘license to fly’ by Senior subject Minister, Juan Edghill. “I feel very honoured,” Ally said, upon receiving his certification. Reflecting on his journey, Ally said that he had always admired the field of aviation, and was determined to pursue it when he grew up. “Also, I always looked up to my brother, who is just a year older than me. He is

a pilot too, and I wanted to follow in his footsteps,” Ally told the Guyana Chronicle.

ister Edghill. Both brothers are attached to Air Services Limited.

the rotorcraft maintenance programme, which provided him with the foundation-

Azam Ally receiving his plaque from Senior Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

At Wednesday’s ceremony, Ally’s brother, aircraft pilot, Mirza Ally, looked on with pride as his younger sibling also collected a plaque bearing a personal letter of commendation from Min-

The younger Ally started his aviation career in 2019 as a trainee aircraft mechanic in the aircraft maintenance department of Air Services Limited. After a successful stint, Ally was assigned to

al knowledge of rotorcraft maintenance. In 2020, upon completion of one year in maintenance, Ally was given the opportunity by Captain Mazahar Ally to begin training as a helicopter pilot.

His training commenced on August 3, under the tutelage of Captain Buddy Chance, a veteran helicopter pilot, and one of two approved helicopter flight instructors at Air Services Limited. Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority, Lt. Col. Egbert Field (ret’d) maintained that all the training was done in Guyana. He related that Ally successfully accumulated 50.2 hours of flying, 12.2 of which were done solo. “These hours are very important when it comes to licensing our pilots… he also had to do our written exams…He had to undertake 100 questions,” Field said. He related that Ally secured 92 per cent passes in the examinations, a score that is considered a very high ranking for any aviation examination. Ally’s Initial Flight Training was done on the Robinson R-66 Helicopter and on September 03, 2020, he did his first solo

flight. This was followed on December 8, 2020, by his private pilot check ride with Captain Chris Kirkcaldy of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA). This was also a success, qualifying Ally for his pilot’s licence. “This is to fly private helicopters,” Ally told the Guyana Chronicle. He said that while securing this licence is a major accomplishment, he does not plan to stop there. Ally’s next step is to pursue a licence to fly helicopters for commercial purposes. Such trainings are not yet offered in Guyana, and would have to be done overseas. In wrapping up his remarks at Wednesday’s ceremony, Ally expressed appreciation to all those who have helped him turn his dream into a reality – his mother, grandmother, aunt, and brother, as well as his trainers and mentors at Air Services Limited.

Shaheed Boys and Girls Orphanages in need of assistance CHRISTMAS is beginning to look very grim for some in Guyana. There is no doubt that from the introduction of the restrictions in March, hundreds of persons here in Guyana have struggled to remain on their feet. Businesses have had to cut salaries, terminate and send home staff, and make other circumstantial changes to protect themselves against risk—and loss—during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has been established time and again that the effects of the lockdown are different from situation to situation— some more harsh than others, but some Guyanese have

managed to trounce the difficult circumstances and try to carry on their lives as best as possible. Although some individuals and businesses have been able to adapt within the difficult positions they have found themselves in, the same cannot be said for some Guyanese. Some have suffered loss and have been forced to seek help in carrying on with their lives. Among those are the residents of the Shaheed Boys’ and Girls’ Orphanages. “Since March, we had cancellations [for bookings], when we had that election problem. So everybody’s staying indoors, and scared

to come out, and all these different things,” Raheema Rahaman, Director of the Orphanages, related earlier this year. “Now, nobody’s coming out,” She lamented while disclosing that “We’re low on every single thing.”

Although Christmas is not usually a large event at the orphanages, staffers there say that they usually try to make the holiday even the slightest bit special, since the children come from diverse backgrounds.

“Persons would bring in gifts and so on for them,” the secretary of the orphanages, Merissa Permaul, reminisced in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle. “Just to cheer them up, for maybe a little while, but nothing much, nothing elaborate,” she said. “It is hard,” Thandy Newton, the house mother of the orphanages added, noting that “We had a few donors that would assist, but other than that, it’s really hard, because most of the people now—especially the normal working people that would donate, they can’t, because of the COVID-19.” “The priority is the children,” she stated, adding:

“We need finance—we still got to pay staff, buy gas, you know, regular maintenance and bills and stuff like that.” The orphanages are currently home to 48 boys and girls, with ages ranging from two to 16. They are in need of food supplies, sanitation and hygiene products and detergent, among other basic necessities. Persons who are desirous of contributing can call the orphanage at (+592) 226-9620, or contact the Director, Raheema Rahaman at (+592) 629-1001. Visits to the orphanages have been restricted, in order to protect the children, and all donated items are accepted at the gate.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Kairuni gets $1.1M coconut nursery –– nurseries to be established countrywide

A section of the beds at the coconut nursery at Kairuni

AGRICULTURE Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, recently commissioned a new coconut nursery at Kairuni on the Linden/Soesdyke Highway. This is the first of two nurseries that will be commissioned before the end of 2020. The facilities are said to have the capacity to produce 25,000 additional seedlings per year. According to a release, the nursery at Kairuni, which was developed at a cost of GYD$1.1M, is in keeping

government’s plans to promote and boost coconut production in Guyana. While offering remarks at the commissioning, Minister Mustapha said the ministry is working to ensure proper coconut planting material is easily accessible to farmers across the country. “At the Ministry of Agriculture, we are on the verge of developing the coconut industry. We’ve been invited to be a member of the International Coconut Community. We are working to have those

arrangements finalised so that we can benefit from that platform in the coming year. Coconut has potential to contribute heavily to the development of our economy. That is why Government is putting the efforts, energy and resources into developing the industry. Over the next five years, we plan to decentralise the access of proper coconut planting materials. Today’s activity marks the first step in our decentralisation efforts. Farmers on the East Bank and Region 10 will no longer

have to travel to the East Coast to purchase coconut plants. We will also be commissioning another nursery at Charity very soon. Next year, I plan to establish a nursery in Berbice and over time, move to other parts of the country like in the interior,” Minister Mustapha said. The subject minister also encouraged farmers to get involved in cultivating other varieties of coconuts available in Guyana. “Based on the current demand, this nursery only carries the 18 months coconut variety at the moment, which is grown for the water. But I want to encourage you to also look at the other parts of the coconut, in terms of the nut, oil production and copra,” Minister Mustapha added. General Manager of the Hope Coconut Industries Limited, Ricky Roopchand, while offering remarks, said

that the launch of the nursery marked an important day for Guyana’s coconut industry and the farmers of Regions Four and 10. RIGHT DIRECTION “The establishment of this new coconut nursery, which is a new initiative under the Ministry of Agriculture’s programme at Kairuni, is indeed a step in the right direction. I’m sure you can all agree that it augers well for the continued development and expansion of our country’s coconut industry. We realised that one of the major constraints of the coconut industry was the lack of access to an adequate supply of good planting material. This nursery will be significant in addressing this issue. Farmers in Linden, the East Bank of Demerara and those along the Linden/Soesdyke Highway will now have easy access to adequate amounts of high quality coconut seedlings at an affordable cost. The time taken and the long distances to travel to Hope Estate to purchase coconut seedlings, which many of you can agree is expensive, is now a thing of the past,” Mr. Roopchand said. Coconut runs third in Guyana’s agriculture sector, after rice and sugar, and first in the country’s non-traditional sector in terms of earnings. It is also the third largest industry in Guyana, currently occupying about 25,000 acres. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), Dr. Oudho Homenauth encouraged farmers to explore inter-cropping while they wait on their trees to bear. INTERCROPPING “When you plant a coconut tree, whether it’s the 18 months, the three years or the five years variety, you

don’t get anything from it immediately. That is why one of the activities we are involved in currently is doing intercropping, of course with commodities or crops that have a market. That is what we’re promoting and you will see a lot more of that in place,” Dr. Homenauth said. Caribbean Agriculture Research and Development Institute (CARDI) country representative, Jhaman Kundun, said that, given the progress made in Guyana’s Coconut industry thus far, CARDI will be extending its research and development works for another five years. “CARDI has been partnering now, for about four years under a regional coconut programme funded by the European Union (EU), promoting the resuscitation of the coconut industry across the Region, with Guyana forming a major part of that. Initially when we started, there were no coconut nurseries in the country and the Hope Estate was identified to streamline this initiative. We are happy today to see that it has taken on and decentralised into other parts of the country and this is speaking volumes to the importance of this crop. We are here to continue, mainly in the coconut sector, as we’ve gotten an extension of the project for another five years,” Kundun said. Budget 2020 saw a sum of $1.25 Billion allocated to NAREI to aid the promotion of agricultural diversification with a focus on coconut, and horticulture by NAREI and Hope Coconut Estate. In addition to the establishment of the two coconut nurseries at Charity and Kairuni, farmers will also receive training to establish their own nurseries.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Mexican Ambassador, Agri Minister explore areas of collaboration

Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha with Mexican Ambassador to Guyana, José Omar Hurtado Conteras

AMBASSADOR of the United Mexican States, José Omar Hurtado Conteras, has discussed areas of collaboration in the agriculture sector, when he met Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, at his Regent Street office on Wednesday. According to a release, during their discourse, the two officials discussed areas in which Mexico and Guyana can propel the sector while Minister Mustapha indicated that Government is willing to facilitate lands for persons interested in investing in corn and soya bean. “Over the years, we’ve been importing things like corn and soya from other countries at a cost of almost US$25M annually for the poultry industry. In this year’s budget we’ve put systems in place to offer incentives to encourage investments for the production of corn and soya. We can facilitate the acquisition of lands for these projects. There is a lot of land available in the Intermediate Savannahs. If you can make representation for investments in those areas, we would be very interested. Of course, with investments there would be job creation and this Government is committed to creating jobs for our people,” Minister Mustapha said. In addition to corn and soya bean, Minister Musta-

pha also spoke about facilitating knowledge transfer through training to improve Guyana’s agricultural practices. He added that, in addition to investments, it was important to develop Guyana’s human capital if Government is to achieve real economic development. Ambassador Conteras said that his office was willing to work with Government, functioning as a facilitating party between the Ministry and Mexican investors for the agriculture and other productive sectors. He also spoke about opportunities for collaboration in an effort to boost Guyana’s coconut industry. “We have a very special programme now for coconuts but this programme has stopped for the while because of the pandemic. It’s not possible to execute it virtually because it involves technical training in Mexico. Once things begin to normalize, we can explore having some of your technical people participating in this programme,” Ambassador Conteras said. The two also discussed areas for collaboration to improve Guyana’s rice, other crops and sugar industries, climate smart agriculture through the use of shade houses and boosting the livestock to increase meat production.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Police investigating issuance of false receipts for house lots payment

The resident showing President Ali the false receipts

THE police are currently investigating alleged malpractices surrounding the issuance of false receipts for the sale of house lots to a resident in Region Two. The resident on Wednesday showed the receipts to President Irfaan Ali during his presidential outreach held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council. Commander Crystal Robinson along with detectives immediately launched an investigation into the allegations. When questioned by the President about monies being collected and residents not getting their lots, Regional Housing Clerk Suean Seewnarayan said she became aware of the matter when she joined the department in 2018. Seewnarayan said the payments were never deposited through the RDC Accounts Department. Â President Ali, who was

very concerned, ordered members of the Guyana Police Force to launch an investigation into the matter. He also said that housing matters need to be dealt with promptly. Chief Executive Officer of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves, said several issues were raised against Regional Housing Officer Reuben Henry, and as such, his employment was terminated last week. Greaves said the CH&PA will be hiring two new staff members since the region is plagued with housing issues. Many persons related that they applied for house lots many years ago but never received a feedback. Many persons are still awaiting land titles, while others have made payments and their monies were not deposited. An investigation has been launched by the relevant authorities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

600 house lots for Region Two -- President Ali

Power and Light (GPL), National Insurance Scheme (NIS), National

President, Dr Irfaan Ali, speaking during the Region Two outreach

Region Two residents came out in their numbers at the outreach

PRESIDENT, Dr Irfaan Ali, has announced that an additional 600 house lots will be developed and distributed to residents in several Region Two communities. The President made this disclosure on Wednesday as he met with hundreds of residents at the Regional Democratic Office in Anna Regina (Pomeroon-Supenaam) during a Presidential outreach. The Head of State explained that plans for the development of the 600 house lots will be completed within

weeks while the infrastructural work will be initiated by mid next year. Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves, further explained that the areas identified for the house lots are Charity and Lima Sands. The addition of the house lots will benefit hundreds of families living in the region. President Ali, who had a successful outreach last month in Region Six, is currently addressing the concerns of the residents of

Region Two. His goal is to reduce the bureaucratic hassle that many persons face. So far, hundreds of residents were afforded the chance to raise pressing issues, key among them were various challenges regarding housing and land titling. Agencies represented at the presidential outreach include the Office of the President, the Ministry of Housing and Water, the Central Housing and Planning Authority, the Ministry of Foreign affairs and International Cooperation, Guyana

Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), the Ministry of Health and

the Guyana Police Force . (Public Information and Press Services Unit)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

No serious crimes recorded in Berbice sub-division

Commander Ramlakhan (centre) with ranks responsible for the massive reduction in serious crimes within the number two sub-division

THE Berbice number two sub-division (Borlam Turn to Tarlogie) recorded no serious crimes for the month of November, according to police statistics. When contacted, Divisional Commander, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan, said this is the first time in many years such an achievement was ever made and it was as a result of the numerous police/community engagement. He said that during November, there were more than 37 cordon and search exercises where 108 places were searched for drugs,

arms, ammunition and wanted persons. The commander noted that 34 arrests were also made and eight persons were charged with the offences of robbery under arms, receiving stolen property, break and enter and larceny (all of which occurred in the previous month) and possession of narcotics. Superintended Ramlakhan noted that he reached out to all ranks involved and personally commended them for their work in ensuring that proactive approaches are used in policing.

Firearm, camouflage clothing seized in Berbice raid

The seized firearm

LAW enforcement officials arrested a 28-yearold unemployed man of Number 79 Village, Corentyne, Berbice, on

Wednesday, following the discovery of a firearm and camouflage clothing TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

– Stand Up for Human Rights fundamentally, it requires an appreciation of the dignity to which everyone is entitled in their daily lives. In 2020, people around the world, in countries big and small, democracies old and new, have had to face up to threats to their fundamental civil, political, economic and social rights.

Mikiko Tanaka UN Resident Coordinator Message on Human Rights Day IN 1945, the UN Charter made human rights a fundamental point of reference in the post-war social and political order. Agreed by the ‘peoples of the United Nations’, the Charter proclaimed that our shared humanity was a greater unifier than any single element of our identity, like colour, sex, language, religion, or nationality. It recognized the dignity and worth of each and every human person, and reaffirmed a shared faith in rights, justice and respect for all. Three years later, in 1948, the nations of the world adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Since then, the expression and protection of human rights has shaped every element of the UN’s work. The UN Sustainable Development Agenda for 2030 puts rights and freedoms at the heart of our shared future. Launched in 2015, the 2030 Agenda recognizes that practical improvements in people’s lives can be achieved through the extending and protecting of human rights. All UN member states, including Guyana, made a pledge to ‘leave no-one behind’ from the 2030 Agenda:

Mikiko Tanaka, UN Resident Coordinator

in effect, countries renewed their commitment to the universalities first expressed in the Charter and Universal Declaration. The pledges enshrined in the UN Charter, the Universal Declaration, and the SDGs remind us of what makes a life human. They are the rights to life itself, to live free from insecurity or violence, the right to an education, to work, and the right to freedom of opinion and expression, among others. Securing and protecting these rights and freedoms require great courage on the part of citizens as rights holders, and governments as duty bearers. Today, it requires a renewed urgency to tackle poverty, redress inequity, and root out discrimination. More FROM PAGE

Firearm, camouflage clothing...

The seized camouflage clothing

in his home. Police said the search was conducted at around 03:30hrs in four houses. In one of the houses, the cops unearthed a 9mm semi-automatic pistol with one magazine and five live rounds. They also found three camouflage shirts, two camouflage pants, one camouflage mask, one camouflage bag,

two grey hoodies, and five smartphones. The items were lodged and the suspect is in custody assisting with the investigation. Additionally, during the police raids, an 18-yearold and a 32-year-old of Dukestown and Number 79 Village were arrested for questioning in connection with robbery under arms.

Governments have faced tough choices in determining how best to protect citizens. COVID-19 has shone a light on inequity. It has prevented us from moving freely. It has prejudiced the interests of some of the world’s most vulnerable groups: children have been unable to go to school; some women find

themselves confined in their homes, locked in with domestic abusers; millions of workers have lost their jobs and incomes; persons living with a range of impairments have found it even harder to break barriers that exclude them. As we look to the future, we must find ways to reemerge from the crisis stronger, with a renewed focus on human rights as part of the sustainable development agenda. On International Hu-

man Rights Day, the UN reaffirms the universality of human rights. They are for everyone, everywhere. When we emerge from the hardship of the pandemic, all of us with a stake in Guyana’s future must recall the benefits of solidarity and cooperation, and aim to put human rights at the centre of our work. It is the recognition of, and reclamation of, our rights as humans that will uplift all people and ensure no-one is left behind.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Supreme Court launches Public Education and Engagement Programme Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards

THE Supreme Court of Judicature, on Wednesday, launched a Public Education and Engagement Programme aimed at building public trust and confidence in the Judiciary and the judicial system during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The programme launched virtually on the Supreme Court Facebook platform is supported by the Canadian Government and the Judicial Reform and Institutional Strengthening (JURIST) Project. The launch was addressed

Chief Justice (ag), Madam Justice Roxane George

Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Lilian Chatterjee

by Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards OR, CCH; Chief Justice (ag), Madam Justice Roxane George CCH, SC; Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana, Lilian Chatterjee; Director of the JURIST Project, Gloria Richards-Johnson; and Registrar of the Supreme Court, Sueanna Lovell. According to the acting Chief Justice, before the pandemic hit, members of the Judiciary, along with members of the Bar Association and the JURIST project coordinator and communications specialist, were working together in a public education and engagement working group. At the time, the group, along with a consulting firm hired by JURIST, was in the process of developing a public education campaign designed to build public trust and confidence in the Judiciary and the judicial system. “The pandemic reordered our communication strategy. It was fortuitous that we were already engaged because the working group was able to commence a campaign entitled ‘We Can Still Hear You’,” the CJ said. The CJ explained that this campaign aided the court in assuring citizens that, despite the pandemic, the judicial system continued to function and that there was access to justice as their matters could still be heard. The ‘We Can Still Hear You’ campaign featured judicial officers such as judges and magistrates delivering messages on social media and radio which opened up a new dimension between the court and the public. The CJ in her remarks highlighted the domestic violence application, as being in the category of urgent cases which require special attention due to the risk to family members, especially women and children She also highlighted the recommencement of jury trials

as the court seeks to ensure that accused, especially those in custody, have their trials conducted in a reasonable time as mandated by the Constitution of Guyana. She also spoke about the recent launch of the Court website (https://supremecourt. gy) which provides general information and an online filing mechanism. “The pivot to the COVID-19 communications campaign was an imperative but the communications project to build public trust and confidence in the Judiciary remains a very important focus of our partnership with JURIST as we return to implementing our core communication strategy we will build on the 'We Can Still Hear You' campaign to educate the public about our Judiciary and our judicial system,” the CJ stressed. Meanwhile, the Canadian High Commissioner to Guyana explained the need for the public to understand the value of the judicial system and its works. “If the public does not understand the value of the judicial branch they would not be willing to support it through their taxes and other funding or serve their role on juries or trust the decisions that come from the system,” the High Commissioner said. “A strong judiciary is one that listens to those they serve,” the High Commissioner said as she commended the Guyanese Judiciary for launching the programme which seeks to ensure the “wheels of justice are still turning” despite the pandemic. “Whenever anything changes, the ability of the courts to hear any matters that concern our citizens, their families, their property, their business or their relationships or even the State, the courts must find a way to respond quickly, safely and efficiently,” the Chancellor of the Judiciary said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

GFF commences payments for 2014 world cup qualifiers Mexico THE Guyana Football Federation has commenced one-off payments of US$500 to national team players and staff assigned to the 2014 FIFA World Cup “home” qualifier against Mexico, following an in-depth, independent investigation into the matter. The move draws a line under a divisive issue that previous administrations had failed to address, despite the long-held concerns of one of the most gifted groups of players and coaches Guyana has produced. “We are pleased to be able to resolve this matter at last, following a transparent and detailed investigation,” said GFF president Wayne Forde. “The investigation showed that it is right for the GFF to make this one-off payment now as a gesture of goodwill to some of Guyanese football’s greatest servants.” “We hope that this payment will go some way to repairing the disappointment that many of our national heroes have rightly felt due to this matter, especially after years of loyal service to the Golden Arrowhead.”

The Golden Jaguars had lost 3-1 to Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in June 2012 in the third round of CONCACAF’s qualification process for the biggest prize in football and were due to play a blockbuster home tie as part of the group round robin in October. However, the GFF leadership at the time sold the hosting rights for the match, which ultimately took place in Houston, Texas in October 2012. Guyana lost 5-0 and finished bottom of the group. At the time, there were claims that the team had been offered a cut of the hosting rights deal, and players have lobbied for recognition since.

The current Forde-led Executive Committee, which took office in 2015, pledged to resolve the issue and appointed an independent consultant to investigate the matter. “This generation of footballers was a credit to the nation and it has been a source of shame that this issue remained unresolved under previous administrations,” said Charles ‘Lily’ Pollard, a member of 2012 squad, former national captain and current Senior Men’s Team Assistant Coach. “ “I would like to thank the current GFF leadership for taking this issue seriously and for working diligently to investigate and

resolve it. I hope we can all now close the door on this chapter and I look forward to working with the GFF to create a new generation of heroes.” Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, also part of the squad in 2012, said: “I am grateful for the actions of the GFF and the Executive Committee in finding a workable solution for the Mexico payment. For many of the players, it was always more about the principle than the money - we wanted our voices to be heard and for a fair solution to be found. I’m glad we can now move on and focus on the future of our football.”

Gabriel hopes 50th ... From page 23

for me, it’s a blessing. I want to thank God for that, along with family and friends who have supported me throughout my career thus far and hopefully I can go on to much better and greater things.” Now on his third tour of New Zealand and yet to be involved in a winning result, Gabriel said one of the challenges remained the type of ball used in the series. “I think generally the wickets are good. I just think the ball is a bit different,” he explained. “We’re accustomed using Duke balls back home and most of the places we go are Duke balls. So that makes it a bit tougher in terms of less sideway movement (here) and things like that

but I think New Zealand are a good team and they will always give us a good fight.” In Wellington, Gabriel will find himself yet again pitted against Williamson, a player he has now faced in three Tests but yet to dismiss. He said the key to Williamson’s wicket was staying patient. “You’ve got to be prepared to work hard,” Gabriel pointed out. “He’s a guy who’s not going to give you many chances so you have to be able to focus and be mentally strong to run in each ball and put the ball in the right spot and hope for something to happen. “He’s not going to give you his wicket so you have to work hard for it.”

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday December 10, 2020) COMPLIMENTS OF THE XTRA ENERGY DRINK, STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) NZ won by an innings & 134 runs (2) Kane Williamson (NZ)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) How many Test matches WI & NZ have contested in the WI to date? (2) What is the scorecard?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Hamilton unsure of racing in Abu Dhabi (BBC) - Mercedes say Lewis Hamilton’s health is “improving” - but still do not know whether he will be able to race in the year’s final grand prix this weekend. The world champion missed the Sakhir Grand Prix in Bahrain last weekend after contracting coronavirus. Hamilton remains in isolation and must return a negative test result before he is allowed to travel to Lewis Hamilton won Bahrain Grand Prix but could Abu Dhabi. “His condition’s improv- not race when F1 returned to Sakhir last weekend. ing but we won’t know Mercedes debut in Bahrain as before Saturday’s final closer to the time if he will and was prevented from practice session, which runs be driving,” said team boss winning only by a pit-stop for an hour and starts at Toto Wolff. mix-up and then a puncture. 10:00hrs GMT, three hours “We’ll do everything we Russell has been named before qualifying. can to get him in the car and as Mercedes’ representative Hamilton released a vidwe know he’s determined to alongside Valtteri Bottas in eo message on social mebe back as soon as possible. the official FIA news con- dia on Tuesday in which he But his health is our main ference last Thursday. said he was “feeling great” priority, so we will see what The latest Mercedes and had just completed his the situation is and then could put Hamilton in the first physical training sesmake the call.” car and still race is on Sat- sion since his positive test. George Russell is in line urday for qualifying. “It has been one of the to replace Hamilton if he The team said it was hardest weeks I’ve had for cannot race. “possible” they would make some time,” he said, adding: The 22-year-old Wil- the decision as to wheth- “I hope I can get back in the liams driver starred on his er Hamilton races as late car soon.”

The pit-lane tyre mix-up on Sunday, which affected both cars as they were stacked one behind the other, was caused by a radio issue which led to some mechanics not getting the message to take out tyres. Wolff said it had “uncovered an underlying problem with our intercom, and we’ve put measures in place, both technically and in the way we operate, to make sure it doesn’t happen again”. He also said Mercedes will be running a “slightly different livery” on their cars in Abu Dhabi “featuring everyone’s name on the car to honour the huge commitment and determination from everybody in (the team’s UK bases at) Brixworth and Brackley”. “Everyone has pushed hard this year, raising the bar through this massively intense season, and we hope this gesture goes some way in showing the appreciation we have for everyone involved,” Wolff added.

Charles fails again as Stallions lose to Tuskers (CMC) – Johnson Charles’ timid start to Sri Lanka Premier League continued yesterday as his Jaffna Stallions went down by six wickets to Kandy Tuskers. Opting to bat first at Mahinda Rajapaksa International Cricket Stadium, Stallions were bundled out for 150 off their 20 overs and Tuskers easily chased down their target with five balls to spare. For Charles, the game proved another disappointment as he made only 17 off 13 deliveries before succumbing in the fifth over with the score on 44, holing to a running catch at midoff by South African Dale Steyn off fast bowler Nuwan Pradeep. Charles, a former West Indies T20 opener, had earlier lost Avishka Fernando without scoring to the sec-

Former West Indies opener Johnson Charles ond ball of the contest but put on 32 for the second wicket with Charith Asalanka who made 18. However, it was Pakistani star Shoaib Malik who really rescued the innings, stroking 59 off 44 balls with five fours and a six, putting

on 59 for the fourth wicket with Minod Bhanuka who made 21. Once Bhanuka perished, however, Stallions lost their last seven wickets for 49 runs. In reply, Asela Gunaratne powered the run-

chase with an unbeaten 52 off 37 deliveries, striking five fours and a six as he added 56 in an unbroken fifth-wicket stand with Irfan Pathan who hit a 19-ball unbeaten 25. Captain Kusal Perera had earlier propelled the top order with his 42 off 36, posting a crucial 51 for the fourth wicket with Gunaratne. In the other game of the doubleheader at the venue, Jamaica and West Indies batsman Chadwick Walton retired hurt on seven as his Galle Gladiators suffered a four-wicket defeat to Dambulla Vikings. Vikings head the 5-team standings with 11 points – two clear of Stallions, with Andre Russell’s Colombo Kings third on eight points.

South Africa confirm first tour of Pakistan in 14 years (CRICINFO) - South Africa have confirmed their first tour to Pakistan since 2007 - they will play two Tests and three T20Is between January 26 and February 14 next year. They will travel to Pakistan on January 16 and go into quarantine before the Tests are played in Karachi and Rawalpindi, then they shift to Lahore for the T20Is. South Africa will be the third World Test Championship team to travel to Pakistan after the resumption of top-level cricket in the country following a long hiatus, after Sri Lanka’s visit in 2019 and Bangladesh’s earlier

South Africa will be the third World Test Championship team to travel to Pakistan. (Gallo Images/Getty Images) this year. “South Africa confirming a tour to Pakistan and playing matches at the three major centres is fabulous news for Pakistan cricket and its fans,” PCB director Zakir Khan said in a statement. “South Africa are one of the most popular sides in Pakistan even though they last played here in 2007, but the fans have been following their performances closely and now look forward to welcoming them.” South Africa will arrive in Pakistan fresh off the cancellation of the ODI home series against England after a breach in the bio-secure facilities at Newlands led to positive cases emerging in both the South Africa and England camps (though the England tests later returned negative). That threw the South African home series against Sri Lanka and Australia next year in jeopardy, with the possibility South Africa would be compelled to play out those matches away from home. Combined with the Pakistan tour, that would mean South Africa could spend large amounts of time next year away from home. Cricket South Africa (CSA) director - and the captain of the South African side when they last toured Pakistan - Graeme Smith, said: “As someone who has toured the country on more than one occasion back in my playing days, I know how much passion the people of Pakistan have for the game as well as the love and support that the Proteas enjoy there as a team. “I would like to thank the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for the hospitality and transparency they showed our security contingent when they travelled over there a few weeks ago. The report on their findings and recommendations gives us confidence as an organisation that all of our team’s security, playing and accommodation needs will be met and that the wellbeing of the team will be the top priority. We look forward to embarking on this historical tour.” While South Africa have not played a series in Pakistan for 12 years, there has been significant South African involvement in cricket in Pakistan over the past three years. In the three-match T20I series between Pakistan and World XI, five of the visiting squad were South Africans, including former South African skipper Hashim Amla, and the current captain Faf du Plessis.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Estwick praises New Zealand cricket culture for huge part of success … Adopting similar qualities could enhance Windies identity By Clifton Ross WELLINGTON will host the second and final battle for the Windies of 2020 and Estwick was firm on the players to quickly regroup mentally and game-wise, chirping adjustment as a key factor within the team. “You have to adjust quickly, the pitches are very good; it’s a completely different ball also New Zealand are a disciplined side. They leave the ball well and all who come to New Zealand know they’re in for a very tough series because they’ve got the game where they want it,” said Estwick. The 59-year-old said it was important for the West Indies to adopt a culture similar to that of their opponents, as the Kiwis have a number of leaders in the side capable of marshalling the team with the same success to that of captain Kane Williamson. “They have built their unit on and off the field and you can see it. They also have a lot of leaders within that group and that takes some pressure off Kane as well, because when you look you see Southee (Tim) leading the bowling group and Ross Taylor leading the batting. “So it’s a core of experienced players with leaders all around the park and that is what we’re aiming for. Good sides have leaders and that takes pressure off the captain; so it’s the culture that sets New Zealand aside

West Indies assistant coach Roddy Estwick from most,” said an adamant Estwick. The Caribbean boys lost the first match by more than

100 runs and an innings, making tomorrow’s match even more important as they seek to avoid a clean sweep and Estwick was firm that players need to step up or play a less tedious form of cricket, should they not be able to cope and perform at the highest level of cricket. “We are representing 8 million people back in the Caribbean so we can’t just roll over. We’ve got to stay in the fight and stay in the contest but you have to be prepared to work hard. The bowlers have to be prepared to bowl long spells and the batsmen got to be prepared to bat for a very long time.” He continued, “This is Test cricket and this is one of the better teams in the world so you need to do these things and if you’re not prepared to, go play T20 cricket because you’ve got to be able to scrap, fight and battle and put a price on everything you do. There’s no hiding place in Test cricket especially in New Zealand. You can’t relax for one minute,” professed the assistant coach. In closing, the former Barbados player believed that while Kemar Roach’s absence, due to the passing of his father remains a huge blow to the bowling side having one of their key bowlers gone, it is a nice opportunity for a few of the younger players, who are in contention to be a possible replacement for the Windies, to lead the bowling at this time.

West Indies, Australia celebrate 60th anniversary of famous Tied Test … Sir Worrell, Benaud then respective captains

CRICKET Australia and Cricket West Indies marked the 60th anniversary of the ‘Tied Test’ at the Gabba with an international video conference featuring Alan Davidson, Neil Harvey, Lance Gibbs and Peter Lashley, all of whom played a role in one of the most celebrated matches in history. Earl Eddings, Chair of Cricket Australia, paid tribute to all those who took part in the famous Brisbane Test of 1960-61 and the enduring bond between the two cricketing sides. “The first Tied Test, which began 60 years ago today at the Gabba, will forever be regarded as one of the greatest matches ever played,” Eddings said. “When Joe Solomon ran out Ian Meckiff for the final wicket, the cricketing world stood captivated and a famous rivalry was born. “There were heroes on both sides. For the West Indies, Sir Garfield Sobers hit a sublime first-innings century, Sir Frank Worrell struck half-centuries in both innings and Wes Hall claimed nine wickets for the match. “For the Australians, Norm O’Neill starred with 181 in the first innings and Alan Davidson, in one of the great all-round performances, took 11 wickets for the match and top-scored with 80 in the second innings. “In the Caribbean as in Australia, the Tied Test is

Australia captain Richie Benaud and West Indies captain Sir Frank Worrell

regarded as a seminal sporting moment defined by tremendous skill, fierce determination and a spirit of friendship that endures to this day. “It took 83 years for Test cricket to produce its first ever tie. It will be remembered for eternity.” Ricky Skerritt, president of Cricket West Indies (CWI) said matches between the two cricket nations have always been keenly contested and the mutual respect and rivalry is alive today in pursuit for the Sir Frank Worrell Trophy. Skerritt added that the West Indies looked forward to hosting the Aussies in 2021. “Remembering the first-ever Tied Test match from 60 years ago is a celebration of the greatness of Test cricket,” Skerritt said. “It also reminds us that astute leadership, teamwork, and a never-say-die attitude are the same key qualities still required for Test match success today.” West Indies Squad: Sir Frank Worrell (captain), Sir Conrad Hunte, Cammie Smith, Rohan Kanhai, Sir Garfield Sobers, Joe Solomon, Peter Lashley, Gerry Alexander, Sir Wes Hall, Sonny Ramadhin, Alf Valentine, Lance Gibbs, Chester Watson, Seymour Nurse, Jackie Hendricks, Tom Dewdney Australia Team: Richie Benaud (captain), Colin McDonald, Bobby Simpson, Neil Harvey, Norman O’Neill, Les Favell, Ken MacKay, Alan Davidson, Wally Grout, Ian Meckiff, Lindsay Kline.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, December 10, 2020

Enmore Orphanage receives cheque from GGA/NexGen Golf Academy … Director lauds golf fraternity for brightening Christmas By Clifton Ross THE Hope Children’s Orphanage received early Christmas presents, compliments of NexGen Golf Academy and overwhelming support from Guyana’s golf fraternity, who held a fundraiser last Sunday with proceeds going directly towards the children’s home. During the simple ceremony held yesterday at the Hope Children’s Orphanage,

Guyana Golf Association (GGA) president Aleem Hussain and association member Michelle Codrington, personally handed the cheque to Director of the Orphanage Kenneth Finlayson. Finlayson told the GGA executives that the gesture was timely and it came at a time when things have been rocky not only for the less fortunate but also for all Guyanese and the rest of the world. Mr Finlayson noted that this move would

definitely give the children a much better holiday than previously anticipated, adding that he was looking forward to garner more support to complete the planned building expansion which had been stalled due to lack of funds and materials. “Persons or companies interested in making contributions to the orphanage can contact Mr. Hussain who has agreed to do whatever it takes to help us complete the project,” said Finlayson. The Enmore Orphanage head further

expressed his gratitude while the children enthusiastically sang Christmas carols as they recalled the fundraising event held in their honour last Sunday. Meanwhile, according to Hussain, the academy and golf in general over the years have played a huge role in off-course development of the country; with the local golf fraternity being involved in a number of charitable events - this being no different as he promised bigger things in the future.

Ramnauth, Deodat, Glasgow among Gabriel hopes 50th milestone 29 shortlisted by BCB for U-19 team can yield positive results RAMPERTAB Ramnauth, Seon Glasgow, Nigel Deodat and others were recently named following the Berbice Cricket Board’s (BCB) shortlisting of 29 players for its preparation ahead of the 2021 domestic season. The aforementioned players, along with numerous other talented stars from the Ancient County, will continue staking a claim for spots in the Berbice Under-19 team; following a couple trial games held recently. With one more trial run left, players will follow that up with a mini-camp which will further help to identify

the final crop who will then represent Berbice at the Inter-county level. Among the favourites, Ramnauth has to be right up there as one earmarked for great things in the future. He lit up the Dave’s West Indies Imports youth tournament with his batting class and is arguably one of the brighter young talents from Berbice. He showed it with his half-century in the last trial game. Meanwhile, trials continue in Berbice as coach Winston Smith and company will be keen on priming the youngsters, getting them back into the right mental

Batsman Rampertab Ramnauth has been shortlisted by the BCB for the U-19 team.

(CMC) - Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel hopes his 50th Test match for West Indies starting here tomorrow can coincide with a turnaround in their fortunes, especially against the backdrop of the heavy defeat in last week’s first Test.

All-rounder Seon Glasgow state ahead of the new year and season, following months off due to COVID-19. Shortlisted players for the U-19 team::Nigel Deodat, Marvan Prashad, Tomani Caesar Abdul Ramsammy, Zeynul Ramsammy, Fawaz Gafoor, Rampertab Ramnauth, Ricardo Ramdihal, Seon Glasgow, Shamar Angel, Chandrapaul Govindan, Gourav Ramesh, Doorasammy Mahadeo, Gevon Shultz, Leon Swammy, Lloyd David, Akash Heeralall, Jeremy Sandia, Inzam Shazam, Tyrese Sealey, Jonathan Rampersaud, Aaron Beharry, Isai Thorne, Reyad Karim, Isiah Anderson, Christopher Deroop, Mahendra Gopilall, Collis Noble, Sarwan Chaitnarine. (Clifton Ross)

to show improvement. “I think we need to learn from our mistakes. What happened in the last game I think we need to put that (behind us). That is the past, we can’t really focus on that too much,” Gabriel said here yesterday.

New Zealand piled up 519 for seven behind captain Kane Williamson’s career-best 251. That haul put him on the brink of another milestone as he now needs only another three wickets to reach 150 and become the 11th West

Shannon Gabriel celebrates a wicket, New Zealand vs West Indies, 1st Test, Hamilton, 2nd day, December 4, 2020. The 32-year-old Trinidadian is poised to become only the eighth West Indies fast bowler to reach the milestone when he leads the Caribbean side’s attack in the second Test at the Basin Reserve here. Though the wounds are still fresh from the innings and 134-run defeat in Hamilton, Gabriel said the Windies understood what was required and were determined

“We’ll just look forward to the future, stick to our basics and concentrate on what we have to do as a team together and work together. “We know what our mistakes were, we know where we fell down in the last game so we’re just trying to keep it as simple as possible and to go out there and play our best cricket.” Gabriel picked up three wickets in the last Test as

Indies fast bowler to pass the threshold. “Ten years ago if somebody had told me ‘Shannon you’re going to play 50 Tests matches for West Indies’, I would want to know if they were smoking or on some kind of drugs or something,” Gabriel said. “So it’s a good opportunity See page 20

Estwick praises New Zealand cricket culture for huge part of success … Adopting similar qualities could enhance Windies identity See story on page 22

West Indies assistant coach Roddy Estwick

Enmore Orphanage receives cheque from GGA/NexGen Golf Academy … Director lauds golf fraternity for brightening Christmas

See story on page 23

FLASHBACK! Javier Aquino (#11) fights off Guyana’s Walter Moore in the first half at BBVA Compass Stadium on October 12, 2012 in Houston, Texas.

From left - NexGen Golf Academy’s Michelle Codrington presents the fundraiser cheque to Director of the Enmore Orphanage, Kenneth Finlayson (centre) in the presence of GGA president Aleem Hussain.

GFF commences payments for 2014 world cup qualifiers Mexico See story on page 20

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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2020