Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 12-01-2021

TUESDAY 12th January, 2021

' No.106240

Venezuela’s decree strongly condemned

–– Bi-partisan foreign relations committee supports efforts to safeguard Guyana’s sovereignty, territorial integrity

–– Canada joins US in calling on Venezuela to respect judicial process

SEE PAGE 03

Health Ministry to examine COVID ‘abnormalities’ 02 at Eureka PAGE

‘Pritipaul’ pumps 07 $16B into expansion of Providence facility PAGE

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (centre) watches on as CEO of Pritipaul Singh Investments Inc, Pritipaul Singh Snr. and other officials of the company demonstrate an aspect of the operations (Office of the President photo)

Braving the odds to excel amid a pandemic 14 PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Health Ministry to examine COVID ‘abnormalities’ at Eureka –– 'lab' commits to cooperating with authorities; CARPHA can analyse 10 samples per month By Vishani Ragobeer FOLLOWING reports that the Eureka Medical Laboratories Inc. discovered what appears to be an ‘abnormal’ makeup of COVID-19, which could possibly be a new strain of the virus, the Health Ministry has requested those test results from the private establishment for further examination. Responding to a question from the Guyana Chronicle during his daily update with the Department of Public Information (DPI), Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony maintained that Guyana does not have the capacity to conduct the genetic sequencing necessary to identify the various strains of COVID-19. But, he highlighted, “As it is, we have not received any such report from Eureka Medical Laboratories, and I have asked the Chief Medical Officer to write to Eureka for the results for what they purportedly have of these new strains that they have discovered in Guyana.” He noted that no such report has been received as yet, but the Ministry will

Genetic materials that allow microbiologists to determine whether a patient's sample contains markers for the COVID-19 virus are being extracted from samples collected from individuals at the Eureka Medical Laboratory (Adrian Narine photo)

await to see whether the establishment will provide those. On Monday, Director of the Eureka Medical Laboratories, Dr. Karen Gordon-Boyle confirmed that the Ministry requested the samples that Eureka has stated consisted of those abnormalities. It was her understanding that these samples would be sent to Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) for further analysis which would confirm whether these abnormalities are the new strain(s) of COVID-19. “We will certainly be cooperating because we would also like to know,” Dr. Gordon-Boyle said, adding later, “If the ministry sets up the protocols with CARPHA, and we see any such cases and we want to find out and the ministry is interested in finding out if it is a particular type of COVID, we will automatically make those samples available for the ministry to send wherever we want to send it.” She affirmed that the laboratory does not have the capability to perform any genetic sequencing, but she contended that based on the testing mechanism the laboratory employs, it can detect when there is some abnormality. During his update, the Health Minister also highlighted, “I know, as a matter of fact, that Eureka Medical Laboratories does not have the capabilities of doing the

genetic sequencing of the virus, and since they don’t have that capability, whatever they’re doing, they might be making inferences.” NOT GOOD ENOUGH The minister stressed that making inferences is “not good enough in this particular instance”. Last week, during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Virology Laboratory Manager at Eureka Medical Laboratories, Paul Cheddie said that it would appear as though variants of the COVID-19 virus may have been in Guyana since December, 2020. He made this assertion while explaining that based on the three-gene test Eureka has been conducting, it has discovered “abnormalities” when testing a number of persons who travelled abroad. These abnormalities, he explained, could possibly be new strains of the COVID-19 virus, but Eureka cannot make any definitive pronouncement, since the establishment does not have the capacity for genetic analysis. Eureka has been testing for three genes, or targets associated with SARSCoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19; these genes, Cheddie said, help to enable the COVID variants to bind to human cells, and, therefore, enter and infect the cells. He, however, highlighted that the variants can be identified because they have

one less gene (that is, they have only two genes). “When we see a positive of two genes versus a positive of three genes, that’s how we’re able to presumptively know that maybe we’re looking at something that is a variation of what we’ve previously been identifying,” Cheddi said. This ‘missing gene’ is the S-gene, and this has been documented internationally as the gene that has indeed ‘dropped out’ in the UK variant. According to the Verge, geneticist at the Francis Crick Institute in London, Theo Sanderson said that ‘flagging’ samples with the S-gene-dropout has been “very useful” in helping to identify potential coronavirus variants. TESTING WITH CARPHA The minister also indicated that CARPHA has been able to set up a project whereby they would be able to conduct a limited amount of genetic sequencing. Through this project, countries have been invited to send at least 10 samples per month. This, he reasoned, would allow countries to understand what strains or types of viruses exist. He reminded that the variant that is of much concern currently is the one that was identified in the United Kingdom (UK), called the B117. This ‘UK variant’, found to be more transmissible, was identified through genomic sequencing done in that country. “We in the Caribbean have not established such a surveillance programme using genetic sequencing and until we do that, it is going to be very difficult to analyse what strains we have circulating in the region,” Dr. Anthony affirmed. Meanwhile, in its updated Progress Report, CARPHA maintained that the risk of importation of the ‘UK variant’ to the Caribbean is “very high” due to incoming travel from the UK and Europe. The report also stated that four cases of the new variant have been confirmed in Jamaica.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Venezuela’s decree strongly condemned –– Bi-partisan foreign relations committee supports efforts to safeguard Guyana’s sovereignty, territorial integrity –– Canada joins US in calling on Venezuela to respect judicial process By Navendra Seoraj VENEZUELA’S recent claims to the seas and seabed adjacent to the coast west of the Essequibo River, which belong to Guyana, continue to receive strong condemnation from local and foreign stakeholders, with the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Foreign Relations, and Canada being the latest to add their voice to this matter. The parliamentary committee, according to a statement on Monday, unanimously condemned in the strongest terms the implementation of any law by Venezuela with extra-territorial application in contravention of international law and the rights of Guyana. This position was adopted by the committee, which is chaired by Opposition Parliamentarian, Raphael Trotman, after its members were briefed on the matter by Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd. The meeting was attended by Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret'd) Mark Phillips; Minister of Governance and Parliamentary Affairs, Gail Teixeira; and other members of the Government and Opposition sides of the House. Minister Todd, after entertaining several questions from the parliamentary committee, was told that there is need for continued vigilance in safeguarding the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana. The committee further assured the minister of its support of efforts of the Government of Guyana to take all necessary actions to safeguard the national interests of this nation. “Guyana stands united

and resolute in the protection of our sovereignty and territorial integrity,” the parliamentary committee said in its statement. The ‘unity’ at reference was also conveyed by Minister Todd to Chargé d'Affaires of the Venezuelan Embassy, Moses Chavez, during a meeting on Monday. Minister Todd registered Guyana’s strong objection to Venezuela’s latest claim to the coast west of the Essequibo River, noting that this was based solely on unilateral action, and without due regard for international law and the rights of Guyana. Reports are that since Guyana has sovereign rights over the coast west of the Essequibo River, as far as Punta Playa, it follows, consequently, that only Guyana can enjoy sovereignty and exclusive sovereign rights over the adjacent sea and seabed. This is precisely the issue that is before the ICJ, and which, on 18 December, 2020, the ICJ decided to resolve, i.e., whether Guyana or Venezuela has sovereignty over that territory. RESPECT THE JUDICIAL PROCESS Canada has joined the United States of America (U.S.) in calling on Venezuela to respect this judicial process. The Canadian High Commission, in a statement posted on its Facebook page on Monday, stated that Venezuela’s recent claim that it has sovereignty over the area adjacent to Guyana’s Essequibo coast is concerning. “The decision is in the hands of the International Court of Justice, and this judicial process must be re-

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugh Todd registering Guyana’s strong objection to Venezuela’s latest claim to the coast west of the Essequibo River, during a meeting with Chargé d' Affaires of the Venezuelan Embassy, Moses Chavez (Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation photo)

spected,” the high commission said. Assistant Secretary (ag) of the US Department of State’s Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs, Michael Kozak said Sunday that the U.S. supports the ICJ’s ruling that it has jurisdiction in the Guyana, Venezuela territorial border issue, which is the legal and peaceful way forward. “Maduro’s aggressive claims don’t change this; they only show the world his disregard for his neighbours and international law,” Kozak asserted in a post on his official Twitter page. Also, U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah-Ann Lynch reiterated the North American country’s call for a legal, peaceful resolution to the border controversy. Guyana is confident that the international court will

resolve the issue in its favour, and that this will also settle the issue of maritime rights in the adjacent sea and seabed. “I remind that sovereignty over this coast, and the land territory to which it is attached, were awarded to Guyana (then British Guiana) in the 1899 Arbitral Award, whose validity and legally binding character Guyana is confident the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will uphold unequivocally,” President, Dr. Irfaan Ali affirmed in an address to the nation on Saturday. He said that regrettably, by decreeing that the seas adjacent to this territory belong to Venezuela, at least two fundamental principles of international law have been violated. In the first violation, as outlined by President Ali, no State can unilaterally

determine its international boundaries, whether land or maritime. President Ali contended that the fixing of an international boundary under international law can only result from an agreement between neighbouring States, or a binding determination by an international court or arbitral tribunal. LEGAL NULLITY “Therefore, this attempt by Venezuela to attempt, unilaterally, to fix both its land and maritime boundaries with Guyana is a legal nullity, which cannot, and will not be respected by any other State in the world, including Guyana,” the Head of State affirmed. The second violation of fundamental international law referenced by President Ali, is based on the fact that

under well-established rules of international law, there is a fundamental principle that says, “the land dominates the sea”. This means that sovereignty, and sovereign rights in the sea and seabed emanate from title to the land that forms the coast to which those seas and seabed are adjacent. Leader of the Opposition, Joseph Harmon, in a statement on Sunday, urged Venezuela to utilise the ICJ as the forum to present its case, and to cease and desist from issuing these arbitrary decrees. “This decree is mischievous, illegal, and can only serve to foment tensions on an issue that is being peaceably resolved in the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Venezuela, as a Member State of the United Nations, is bound by the jurisdiction and rulings of the ICJ,” Harmon said in the statement. The A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Coalition, he avowed, stands resolute, and in solidarity with any reasonable action that the people of Guyana are likely to embark on to safeguard Guyana’s sovereignty. Renowned Guyana-born diplomat, Sir Ronald Sanders has said, too, that violations of international law will not be tolerated by the international community. While this decree is yet to be gazetted or elaborated on, Sir Ronald said: “What they put out informally is quite troubling, and it points to violations of international law. But, one has to wait to see how far they are going before you make a strong statement on this.”

CPCE to offer programmes Online WITH the new innovative and technological means of education delivery that the COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated, the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) sees the need to bring its system more in line with the modern-day practices, and is moving towards offering Online programmes. College Principal, Viola Rowe

recently noted, “The plan to offer courses Online will expand beyond curriculum.” She added: “The college is a powerful learning institution, which will continue to seek ways of demonstrating resilience and flexibility in carrying out our mandate to provide trained students. We acknowledge that the college must find new ways to provide access to teachers. I

would like to applaud the Ministry of Education for charting the course for the college to offer fully online programmes.” CPCE offers teacher training programmes for persons who are desirous of pursuing a career in teaching, with the programmes including a two-year Associate’s Degree in Education, with specialisations in early childhood, primary or secondary education; a three-

year Trained Teacher’s Certificate; and a one-year Associate’s Degree in Education. Programmes at the college are government- funded, with the students who would have successfully completed their studies at the college being expected to serve the government for a specified contracted period at an assigned public school. The College last month held

its 86th convocation ceremony, where some 501 students graduated, the largest graduating class for the school. Rowe noted that it was a particularly challenging year for the institution, given the restrictions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw schools and other learning institutions being required, by law, to close.

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No one is above the law

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

–– Task Force ‘ramps up’ operations against those breaching COVID-19 guidelines

By Vishani Ragobeer IN a bid to mitigate the spread of the deadly coronavirus, the National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) has upped its operations and closed down several businesses that were found breaching the gazetted COVID-19 measures. “We have been sending out warnings to various businesses across the country. The Task Force would be ramping up its operations so people need to be vigilant; Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony

businesses need to comply with these regulations because they are there for a reason and that reason is to prevent the spread of the disease in Guyana,” Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony said on Monday,

during an interview with the Department of Public Information (DPI). On Sunday, the Guyana Chronicle was made aware that businesses across Georgetown were closed down. This newspaper was able to confirm that the Hard Rock Café -- a restaurant located at the Movietowne mall in Turkeyen, and Palm Court -- a bar and restaurant located on Main Street, in Georgetown were two such businesses that members of the armed forces shutdown on Sunday evening. According to Section (6) of the existing

COVID-19 guidelines however, indoor dining is not prohibited. Restaurants are only permitted to offer outdoor dining, drive-thru and takeaway services, curb-side pick-ups and deliveries. Outdoor dining is only permitted during the hours of 04:00hrs and 21:30hrs; all tables must be spaced six feet apart from each other, and no more than four persons should be seated at one table. Paragraph (3)(b) spe-

cifically states: “Indoor and buffet dining is prohibited.” The Movietowne-based restaurant has been allowing indoor dining at its premises. Bars, rum shops, cinemas (except drive-thru cinemas) and other such entertainment businesses are strictly prohibited. It was reported that in Berbice, there have been scores of arrests over breaches of the COVID-19 violations. “If everybody assists us, if we work collaboratively, we can all protect each other’s health, but if we’re going to violate these regulations, then it’s going to create problems for all of us,” Dr. Anthony lamented. Responding to comments about any selective closure of businesses by the task force, the minister said: “We have written to everybody and if they’re any institutions

that people are aware of that we have given a free pass to, then I’ll suggest that they contact the Task Force secretariat and they bring that to our notice because nobody is above the law.” On Monday, however, the Guyana Chronicle observed establishments still acting in contravention of the COVID-19 guidelines. Indoor dining and the use of bars, rumshops and other entertainment spots are prohibited because consuming food or beverages in these places could easily allow the spread of the coronavirus. Dr. Anthony explained that in order to consume anything, one would have to remove a mask. If someone is infected, there is a likelihood that the virus could be spread from the infected person to others in the environment.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Over 90 per cent of employees without union representation By Tamica Garnett NOTWITHSTANDING more than 50 per cent of the persons who make up Guyana’s workforce having only primary level education or less, just nine per cent of employees in Guyana are covered by a trade union, according to data compiled by the Bureau of Statistics. Veteran trade unionists believe that the low level of coverage has much to do with employees being intimidated by employers not to join trade unions. “You have a lot of employers in this country where even though you have an Act [law] in place, they are doing a lot of things to scare the employees off of joining the unions,” indicated Seepaul Narine, General Secretary of the Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU). Narine has over 30 years as a trade union representative, and is also Treasurer of the Federation of Independent Trade Unions in Guyana (FITUG), one of two umbrella trade union bodies in Guyana. The other umbrella body is the Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC). Narine noted that in many cases, the employees are too afraid to come forward, as they may face termination or discrimination for openly declaring their desire to join a union. “Many employees would wish to have a union, but once they know their jobs could be in jeopardy because the employer don’t want a union, then the protection of their jobs come first, and they would pull back,” said Narine. He said the Ministry of Labour (MoL) must do more to prosecute those employers who are discovered to be coercing employees against joining a trade union. In Guyana, trade unions

are covered by law under the Trade Unions Act Chapter 98:03, and it is against the law for any employer to prevent or dissuade any employee from joining a trade union.

As organisations that look after the rights of workers, trade unions are considered an important component for employees, as it provides protection to employees against

the exploitation of their employers. “When you don’t have trade union coverage, the employer could walk on you; they could do you anything.

When you have protection by the union, then the employer has to think twice about the treatment they mete out to employees,” Narine explained.

In the last quarter of 2019 and first quarter of 2020, over 90 per cent of employees were not covered by representation of a trade union (Photo credit: Guyana Labour Force Survey 2020 First Quarter Report)

In the last quarter of 2019 and first quarter of 2020, over 50 per cent of the working-age population had primary level education or below (Photo credit: Guyana Labour Force Survey 2020 First Quarter Report)

According to the Bureau’s 2020 first-quarter Labour Force Survey report, the workforce in Guyana comprises a total of 264,862 employed persons, but only some 15, 000 are covered under the protection of a trade union. This statistics represents little change in the situation since the Bureau first began the Survey in 2017, when it was discovered at that time that just 10 per cent of employees were covered by a trade union. Chief Labour Officer, Charles Ogle also agrees that unions play an important role, and help to make the labour landscape easier for the employees. LESS GRIEVANCES AND DISPUTE “I would glad for the workers to be unionized; it would be less grievances and dispute. If they are unionized, they are protected, and would have somebody to speak for them. They would have some amount of security in that representation,” Ogle shared. Ogle oversees employer/ employee disputes when reports are made to the MoL. Essentially, the MoL provides a safety net for unrepresented employees, providing an avenue for individual employees to lodge complaints. However, when a union is in place, the employees are represented collectively. Minister of Labour Joseph Hamilton, however, offers a different look at the situation, as to what he believes is responsible for the low representation of employees by trade unions. He posited that the situation is exacerbated by the need for more proactive effort from the trade unions. In Guyana, joining a trade union is voluntary, and Hamilton believes that the unions are not doing enough to attract the employees. TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Tajeram Mohabir

Tapping the diaspora PRESIDENT Dr Irfaan Ali gave a clarion call to Guyanese around the world to consider migrating back to Guyana, as the country prepares for exponential imminent growth and development. This same optimism and positive anticipation that is sweeping the country today, filled Guyanese worldwide with hope back in 1992 when Dr Cheddi Jagan's Government swept into power with a massive landslide victory. Many re-migrated in the 1990s, opening businesses, investing, and settling down in the countryside. Today, the world is under a strong internationalist mandate to globalise, to open up national borders to global trade and to embrace humanity as one big family. Thus, it would serve Guyana well to broaden the concept of this idea of the Guyanese nation. No longer is the nation only a local population. The Guyanese nation now spreads across the world in a far-flung Diaspora spanning every corner of the global village – from Australia and New Zealand to Sweden and Denmark and North America

and the Caribbean. Guyanese make up upwards of 10 per cent of the population of Barbados, and they have a big presence in Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, St Lucia, and St Kitts-Nevis, for example. This idea of a far-flung Guyanese nation, comprising the local population and the international diaspora, offers the country a monumental opportunity for progress on the global stage. This idea of a globalised nation informs not only China and India and Ireland and even the United States, but also Jamaica, as these countries network with their diaspora communities in a deliberate national policy of forming a global chain of human capital emotionally and patriotically investing heart and soul in their homeland. Jamaica reserves seats in its Parliament for members of the Diaspora to play a role in the local legislature. Guyana would do well to develop the idea of Guyana as the homeland, while engaging the far-flung Guyanese diaspora as an extended, international community of Guyanese. In fact, Guyanese everywhere in the world feel alive and connected to Guy-

ana, with romantic nostalgia the usual emotional appeal. Guyanese worldwide fly the Guyana flag, maintain Guyanese culinary culture, and talk the Guyanese way with proud flair. Guyanese everywhere feel a close connection to their homeland. Even the generation born overseas to Guyanese parents feels a heart connection to Guyana. This subtle psychological connection between Guyana and the worldwide diaspora of Guyanese people is a wonderful opportunity to form a national policy of global engagement. Many Guyanese feel reluctant to leave their well-established lifestyle in their adopted home countries, especially in big metropolitan cities, to migrate back permanently. They visit and enjoy a few weeks in Guyana, but invariably go back to their adopted home. So, even as many will be packing up to head back to the homeland as the country becomes a global success story, many others would want to play a role in the country, without having to re-migrate. It is, therefore, fruitful for planners to factor in this arm

of the Guyana development agenda, this human resource capital that is well established, well educated, well trained, and with international experience under their belt, as a significant resource base. Guyanese, globally, instinctively know what it is to function in a well-advanced society. And they long to give back whatever they can, including making investments and helping the less fortunate. Indeed, Guyana has a long history of the diaspora playing a crucial role in helping the nation through rough patches, such as with constant financial remittances, the programme for barrels to be shipped in to family, and in helping set up orphanages and homes for senior citizens, and with supporting the local education system through school associations in America, Canada and England. Even the political parties have extended overseas groups in diaspora communities, and politicians frequently travel for events in these locales. President Ali, a couple of weeks ago, addressed the Guyana Festival in Toronto, which this year was a virtual event, but

is usually a fun-filled week of activities in Canada. The Diaspora offers much more than the chance to re-migrate. They offer an ambassadorial role in their overseas communities to spread the word about Guyana's amazing character, to hype the nation and boost its image, to develop a global goodwill about the Guyanese nation. The Diaspora is a resource base for the homeland to develop an international network of Guyanese with vested interest in its progress, peace and prosperity. Guyana is ripe for global investments and everybody worldwide would be eyeing opportunities as oil and gas and the traditional sectors become major success stories. It would serve the nation well, were overseas Guyanese granted special access, and an elevated status, in the lineup to become a part of the Guyana story. Guyanese worldwide could be granted duty-free access to play a major role, and although such incentives already exist for re-migrants, a comprehensive diaspora programme of incentives to motivate, generate full confidence in,

and secure investments they make here, would be a forward- thinking move. The role of overseas Guyanese in national affairs – not only the economy – would go a long way to pave a path to the future that speeds up the country's progress. Guyanese started migrating in droves under the Forbes Burnham regime, when nationalisation affected many business owners, and for 28 years under the People's National Congress (PNC) regime, tens of thousands migrated. Today, decades later, many see hope and a future for their homeland, and they remain connected to their memories of growing up in Guyana. They want to play a role. It would thus be opportune for Guyana to develop a clear vision and a comprehensive national policy to engage every Guyanese everywhere in designing and shaping the future of the Guyana homeland.

Guyana Relief Council thanks donors Dear Editor,

THE Guyana Relief Council (GRC) extends its best wishes for a new year filled with hope, happiness and peace for everyone. The GRC is a charitable non-governmental organisation which renders assistance to any person/ family whose life becomes disrupted by any form of disaster – natural or manmade, wherever it occurs throughout the 10 regions of Guyana. The GRC has been pro-

viding almost 100 per cent coverage for all fires occurring in the country and providing much-needed assistance to persons irrespective of colour, creed, religious backgrounds or political affiliation. During the period under review the GRC rendered assistance to fire victims from Regions Three and Four. A total of six families were assisted, consisting of 30 persons. There were also welfare cases assisted during this period and are as follows (1) Wakapao residents were given assistance and this was

facilitated by Mrs. Marlyn Matthews; (2) St. Cuthbert’s Mission (3); The Guyana Red Cross Society’s Children’s Convalescent Home; and (4) Ogle/Industry Senior Citizens Group. Grappling already with limited resources, the council continued to provide essential assistance to persons/families whose lives were disrupted because of disaster. However, the GRC was unable to conduct any fund-raising activities for the year, the needs were fulfilled only by the ardent support and generosity

of donors who stood by us and continue to do so in these most challenging and unprecedented times. These donors are The Guyana Relief Council of the USA; the Inner Wheel Club of Georgetown; Edward B.Beharry Group of Companies; Mr. Ron Ramnarayan of New York; Tesouro Resources; Mrs. Doris Lewis; the New Building Society; Dr. & Mrs. Omar Khan of Trinidad; Food For The Poor; Mrs. Thelma Tappin of Canada; the Guyana Rice Development Board; Mr. & Mrs. Geoff DaSilva of

Canada; John Lewis Styles; Laparkan Trading (Guyana); Shoe Source; RUBIS; the National Milling Company; Ms. Punowtie Atmadeo and Sterling Products Limited. We publicly acknowledge your commendable generosity. The council needs your help to continue this service to humanity. Your generosity enables the GRC to provide timely and relevant relief to persons who suffer disasters in Guyana. Please send your donation of cash or kind to our office at Lot X West of Public

Road, Riverview, Ruimveldt, Georgetown. We can also be reached by Telephone # 225-3081 or 225-2874 and email: guyanareliefcouncil@ yahoo.com. No donation is too small and will be accepted with much gratitude. The GRC’s office remains closed to facilitate leave for its small staff. Many blessings and a better 2021 is wished for all. Yours sincerely, Suparna Narine Secretary

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

‘Pritipaul’ pumps $16B into 342 criminal expansion of Providence facility cases for trial in –– President Ali says long-term vision of private sector integral to crafting gov’t policies IN keeping with the need for innovation amidst a volatile global economy, Pritipaul Singh Investments Inc. has invested US$75 million (over G$16B) in retrofitting and expanding its Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) location to a state-of-the-art facility, with greater production capacity.

from the Office of the President, both facilities were inspected by President Dr. Irfaan Ali during a tour on Monday. During his tour of the Providence facility, the President was informed about the ongoing expansionary work, which is expected to create additional jobs. “What’s happening at

sidered paramount in the crafting of policies and implementation of programmes which will facilitate growth, President Ali said. The Head of State said that the relationship between the private sector and the government is synergetic, and extremely important to the overall development of Guyana.

January assizes

in the fishing industry, but, in the end, the traditional aspect of this industry raked in $16,033,405,740, while aquaculture mustered $207,251,016. President Ali had an opportunity, during his guided tour, to see through the eyes of an investor how operations in this sector have been driv-

FLASHBACK: Justice Brassington Reynolds inspecting the Guard of Honour during the April 2019 assizes opening ceremony.

President Dr. Irfaan Ali (centre) watches on as CEO of Pritipaul Singh Investments Inc, Pritipaul Singh Snr and other officials of the company demonstrate an aspect of the operations (Office of the President photo)

This company is one of the largest, modernised and most diversified fish and shrimp-processing producers in Guyana. Its operations consist of several well-developed entities which aid in the harvesting, processing, packaging and storage of seafood products. Those entities include the fleet, shrimp and fish-discharging, shrimp-processing plant, fish plant, smoked-fish plant, plate freezing, fish packaging, holding room, quality assurance, warehousing, general stores, dry docking, machine shop, general maintenance, the ice plants and general office. The company, since its establishment in 1999, operated at McDoom alone, on the lower East Bank, until it acquired its second production plant by purchasing the former Georgetown Seafoods and Trading Company’s assets at Providence. According to a statement

Providence, we have to consolidate Pritipaul Singh Investments; we are moving our operations, as we have two locations. Instead of having two locations, we are consolidating the business. Because what is happening in the world environment, because of economic situation, and to become more profitable it is wiser to consolidate the business and maximise our efficiency,” the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Pritipaul Singh Snr. said. The businessman said the facility at Providence, after being retrofitted, will have the capacity to take up the challenges of the fishing sector, whether aquaculture or traditional fisheries. He said, too, that his company will also be instrumental in the marketing, production and exporting of fish. Long-term goals and visions like those which were outlined by Singh are con-

“I think that it’s necessary to appreciate what happens in the sector. I’m also very happy to hear of the long-term plans of Pritipaul Singh Investments, not only in wild catch, but looking at aquaculture. The number of persons employed here is enormous; his contribution to the economy definitely is very enormous, without a doubt,” the President said. Since being elected to office in August 2020, President Ali has maintained that all sectors, including fishery, would be bolstered. It was reported recently that the “rough tides” of 2020 were not enough to restrict progress in the fishing industry, which remained resilient throughout the year, and even managed to secure revenue of in excess of $16 billion. Ecological challenges compounded by a protracted electoral process and a global pandemic made last year no easy one for stakeholders

ing growth. “I thought it necessary today to come out and to visit one of our largest production facilities, in terms of our fishery sector, and the products they export. It was a delight and a great pleasure to visit Pritipaul Investments. What I’ve learned today is the magnitude of this investment; the size of the sector itself, and opportunities that lie within the sector,” the Head of State said. President Ali noted, too, that it was imperative that he visited the facility to gain a better understanding of its processes and functions. The President, over the next few weeks, plans to visit more processing facilities to obtain information for the crafting of programmes and policies to respond to the needs of operators.

UNDER strict COVID-19 health guidelines, the January session of the Demerara Criminal Assizes will open today at the High Court in Georgetown, and several high-profile cases are on the list for trial. There are 342 cases listed to be heard. Madam Justice Jo-Ann Barlow, Justice Brassington Reynolds and Justice Navindra Singh have been rostered to preside during this session. The list includes 67 cases for murder, 15 for manslaughter, 171 rape- related matters and other cases such as abduction, wounding, robbery under arms, possession of narcotics and stealing a child. Muslim scholar Nezaam Ali, who is currently serving a 45-year sentence for raping a nine-year-old boy, is among the high-profile cases on the list. Ali will go on trial for eight additional counts of sexually abusing eight boys. The crimes were allegedly committed between 2011 and 2012 and includes sexual activity with a child under 16 years and sexual activity with a child by abusing a position of trust. Another well-known case is that of former Bishops’ High School teacher Coen Jackson, who is set to go on trial for engaging in sexual activity with a child under the age of 16, while being in a position of trust. He is currently out on bail. Additionally, for the capital offence of murder, Regan Rodrigues, called ‘Grey Boy,’ will go on trial for the murder of political activist Courtney Crum-Ew-

ing. The bullet-riddled body of Crum-Ewing was found at Third Avenue, Diamond New Scheme, East Bank Demerara, on March 10, 2015. The 40-year-old was shot twice to the temple, once to the back of the head and twice to the stomach. Mark Lowchee called “Mark Lee” is also expected to face trial for the September 21, 2003 murder of Collis DeAbreu at Fifth and Light Streets, Alberttown, Georgetown. Meanwhile, the ceremonial opening of the assizes has been suspended because of the pandemic. In an effort to balance public health and safety imperatives with the need for continuing access to justice and openness, practice-direction protocols have been put in place for the smooth and safe resumption of criminal jury trials. This practice direction shall operate together with the constitution and other laws, the COVID-19 Emergency Measures of the Ministry of Health and the relevant practice directions issued by the Chancellor of the Judiciary (ag), Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards last year. The objective of this practice direction is to preserve the right of the accused to a fair trial while maintaining the integrity of the judicial process. It will also ensure that jury trials and court practices are designed to minimise the exposure of judges, jurors, court staff, the accused, witnesses, attorneys, members of the media and the public, to infection.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Pandemic worsens situations for vulnerable women, children –– as persons affected by domestic violence contend with additional mental health strain By Vishani Ragobeer SUE, (not her real name) is a survivor of domestic violence. She has been abused by her partner in the household where she lives with the partner and their daughter. Eventually, she made the decision to leave the abusive relationship, hoping to find ways of healing the physical and emotional scars she endured over the years. Since March last year, Guyana has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is well ventilated that this pandemic has disrupted ‘normal’ life, resulting in adverse ramifications for economies and exacerbating inequalities. It has also led to the devastation of the social services sector, and constrained the support that can be provided to vulnerable persons like Sue. And Bibi Ahamad, a psychologist and women’s rights activist, emphasised that among such vulnerable persons, women in particular, “hopelessness” may be becoming as prevalent as the coronavirus. “Hopelessness; full hopelessness, is a serious issue that has stepped in, and causing survivors to even become suicidal,” Ahamad told the Guyana Chronicle in a recent interview, adding, “Mental health issues like these tend to be associated with abuse.” This sense of hopelessness, she explained, stems from a vulnerable individual feeling trapped within the household with an abusive partner, since there have been constraints to leaving the home, for work or otherwise, presented by the pandemic. “Before, maybe some of those abusers were to come in at various times; some of them don’t come home for a few days, and so there is a ‘breathing space’ for the persons being abused, but during the lockdown, these victims don’t have any real breathing space,” Ahamad lamented. Further, the psychologist highlighted, “Persons reported that their abusers had nothing to do, because they couldn’t work, and many of

them turned to alcohol and drugs. The abuse escalated to not only physical, but the verbal and emotional escalated on, and beyond what they expected.” Prior to the pandemic, Sue’s partner, a fisherman, would often ‘head to sea’ for a number of days at a time. While he is away, the young woman would be able to take care of herself, and find some amount of solace. In the earlier months of the pandemic, when there were more rigid restrictions in place, that sort of solace disappeared. SAD SITUATION “Women would call me at 2 or 3 o’clock in the morning, because that’s the only time that they can call me,” Ahamad said, explaining that at this time, their partners are often sound asleep. Should the partner be aware that the women are trying to seek help, ‘airing the household’s dirty laundry’, he may become irritated, and that may trigger an outburst. Cognisant of this situation, that has only marginally improved with the limited relaxation of some restrictions, the psychologist reasoned that the sense of hopelessness is still pervasive. This is further exacerbated by the economic implications of the pandemic, which limit the employment options many women may turn to, including domestic work or provide care-giving services. Women’s rights activist, Danuta Radzik also told this newspaper that it is more difficult for women to find some sanctuary while staying with a friend or relative. This could be because persons are wary of the spread of COVID-19, or simply because they, too, are financially constrained, and are not capable of providing any extra support. “Where would you go? You can’t go back to the abuser’s place, and you can’t necessarily go to a friend or even family,” Radzik said. Radzik lamented that domestic violence is not a peculiar issue birthed in the pandemic, however. She contended that it has been its own “pandemic” for too

Psychologist and women’s rights activist, Bibi Ahamad

Mental Health Unit Director, Dr. Util Thomas

Battered woman by Dre Jacobus

long, owing to the root issues of gender inequality, and gender discrimination. And, perhaps, it has been exacerbated by the pandemic. Since March to the present day, Ahamad has been providing support to a group of 25 women, through the Caribbean Voice, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that provides aid to vulnerable groups like women and children, and also mental health support services. During that time, the NGO has been able to provide counselling and some supplies; food and personal items, to these women so that they could take care of themselves. Also, two of these women were provided with support to leave the abusive households. Yet, the feeling of hopelessness lingers. Ahamad

related that many of the women believe that they would not be able to take care of themselves and their children, should they leave. Some also live in fear of angering the abusive partner, who they are ‘cooped up’ with in the house. “They know to themselves that it’s not a healthy relationship, but when hopelessness steps in, suicidal thoughts tend to follow that, and many of the persons I dealt with; the victims of abuse, had suicidal thoughts, or attempted during this time,” Ahamad disclosed. As she continues to help them, by listening, counselling or providing tangible support when possible, she remains cognisant that the violence these individuals endure has an adverse effect on their mental health as well.

WIDER MENTAL IMPACT OF COVID “Whether we want to admit it or not, the prevalence of mental health issues is in 15 to 20 per cent of the population, or approximately one in five persons,” Director of the Mental Health Unit of the Ministry of Health, Dr. Util Thomas said at a recent forum. In Guyana, providing support to individuals and their mental health has been fraught with challenges, key among them stigma, which has been a major deterrent to vulnerable persons seeking appropriate help. The local capacity to treat with these issues is still developing. While stakeholders continued to grapple with these challenges, up came the COVID-19 pandemic, which placed an even greater strain

on the services that could be offered, Dr. Thomas lamented. According to the Department of Psychiatry at the University of Oxford and the Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, last November, one in five people who have COVID-19 are diagnosed with a psychiatric disorder such as anxiety, depression and insomnia within six months of being tested for the virus. “The pandemic is one example where physical illness is a stressor that can lead to mental illness. However, there are also social and cultural factors which interfere with health, and eventually mental health,” the director said. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), violence against women is both a major public health problem and a violation of human rights. Violence, the WHO said, is a leading cause of injury and disability, and it is a risk factor for other physical, mental, sexual and reproductive health problems. Up to November 2020, a total of 17 women have been killed by their spouses, leaving 43 children motherless, according to Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud. Numerous other women have been, and continue to be, abused physically, sexually, verbally and emotionally. In 2019, the first comprehensive national survey on gender-based violence in Guyana revealed that 55 per cent of all women experienced at least one form of violence at the hands of their partner. Ahamad, Radzik and many other stakeholders, really work day in and day out to provide support to persons like Sue. Though the pandemic presents an additional challenge, there are efforts being developed that are geared at providing novel solutions amid the pandemic and its constraints. These include the Human Service Ministry’s 914 toll-free hotline to report domestic abuse and the Mental Health Unit’s tollfree 655-SAFE (655-7233) hotline for counselling.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Army officers to reappear before PAC –– unable to provide information on $8M maintenance of one vehicle

By Navendra Seoraj GUYANA Defence Force (GDF)’s Accounting Officer, Commander Vernon Burnett has blamed the high cost of vehicle maintenance on the shortage of Army vehicles, and the need for an upgrade of its “old fleet”. He gave the foregoing explanation when he appeared before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Monday. The meeting ended after Commander Burnett could not provide answers requested by members of the committee, which comprises Government and Opposition members. Based on the Auditor-General’s report for 2016, the GDF spent $239.6 million on the repair and maintenance of 64 of its vehicles. In one instance, it was found that $8.5 million was spent that year to maintain

GDF Accounting Officer, Commander Vernon Burnett (second right) along with other officers of the GDF before the PAC on Monday (Adrian Narine photo)

one vehicle, an expenditure that drew the attention of both Government and Opposition members of the PAC. Many questions asked about this expenditure could not be answered immediately, as Burnett said the informa-

tion was not readily available. Chairman of the PAC, David Patterson and other members of the committee deemed this unacceptable, but consistent scrutiny prompted the army’s accounting officer to say: “Most of our fleet is

really old, but we don’t have enough vehicles to conduct the operations that we are required to do. “As we speak, many of our commanders and senior staff officers are out of vehicles; their vehicles are being

taken away, and they have now been provided for operational duties on the borders, and even on the coast.” Admittedly, the army, he said, has been spending a lot of money on maintenance, but this is also the case because the old fleet is not being upgraded in a “timely manner”. Despite his explanations, the PAC members continued to question the accounting officer about the $8M expenditure, but no more information was forthcoming, although multiple officers of the army were present. While Commander Burnett could not answer questions related to the type of vehicle, he said the expenditure covered major repairs on one of the Force’s pick-up vehicles. Further information on this vehicle was later provided by the PAC Chairman, who said it was a Bed-

ford four-tonne tipper truck, which was assigned to the 4th Engineering Battalion. According to a breakdown of the expenditure, $1.4 million was spent in January; $231,580 in February; $1.7 million in March; $960,400 in April; $1.5 million in May; $824,000 in June; $943,200 in July; $10,000 in August; $236,800 in September; $379,500 in October; $75,800 in November; and $128,600 in December. Further questions related to this and other issues were asked, but, considering the accounting officer’s inability to answer those queries, it was suggested that the GDF officers return at a later date for further scrutiny on the same audit report. Members of the PAC concurred with this proposal.

‘Brains’ charged for cutlass attack, damaging property DERECK Gaskin, who reportedly damaged a number of items while chopping another during an argument over a stolen cellular phone, on Monday appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and

was released on $20, 000 bail by Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus. Gaskin called “Brains” pleaded not guilty to two charges – damage to property and unlawful wounding. It is alleged that on De-

cember 3 last at Curtis Street, Albouystown, he damaged one PVC ceiling, a wooden table and ceramic tile, together valued at $49,000, property of Nicketta Plass. Further, it is alleged that Gaskin on the same date and

Over 90 per cent of employees ... ISSUE OF TRUST “Trade unions, over the decades, have played a dedicated, vibrant role, representing workers’ interest, but the issue is that they [employees] don’t trust them [trade unions],” the minister said. He added: “At the end of the day, if people don’t have confidence in their leadership, they will not want to become part of the trade union, so the onus is on the trade union to reinvent themselves. What worked for [Hubert Nathaniel] Critchlow and so can’t work now; it’s a different workforce, and they are yet to learn that. That is why trade unions are suffering, and they will continue to suffer.” He contended that the issue may be one of not just the lack of representation for workers, but also a matter of who the workers get to represent them. The minister noted that there is a need for the injection of fresh blood into the trade union representatives, as opposed to the many longstanding members that currently exist. “Trade unions have done

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Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton

Chief Labour Officer, Charles Ogle

themselves a disservice by having leaders who have taken over for the unions, and see it as if they own it,” the minister said. “Trade unions are not replenishing leadership; people are there for decades, even though unproductive, even though not serving the trade unions, they still have themselves there in all kinds of positions. The leadership has these dinosaurs that hold on to the union, so it is for the union… They have to change, if they don’t, they

will become extinct like the dinosaurs.” Narine agreed that there is need for more proactive effort from the trade unions. “The trade union movement needs to strengthen itself, and be more aggressive in terms of looking at membership. They need to be more relevant in society; that is a bad comment as a trade unionist, but that is the fact. Unions need to be vibrant; vigilant, and need to represent their members,” Narine concurred.

at the same place, unlawfully wounded Jermain Johnson. Prosecutor Austin told the court that the two men are known to each other but are not on speaking terms. Gaskin had accused Johnson of stealing his mother’s phone. On the day in question, Johnson was at a shop in Albouystown when Gaskin and another man entered.

Johnson was approached and asked to return the stolen phone. Once again, Johnson denied knowledge of the theft. Gaskin then became angry, reportedly took a cutlass and dealt Johnson several chops about his body, including the head. During the chopping incident, Gaskin reportedly damaged the items

mentioned in the charge. The matter was immediately reported to the police and Gaskin was subsequently arrested and charged. Magistrate Isaacs – Marcus granted the accused $10,000 bail on each charge. The matter was adjourned until February 16.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Local textile manufacturers providing coveralls for FPSO in Singapore

DENMORE Garments Manufacturers Inc. and Caribbean Clothing Company Limited-- both local companies-- secured contracts to manufacture a total of 2,000 coveralls for construction workers in Singapore. The workers are supporting construction of the Prosperity, which will become the third floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel in Guyana. The first shipment has already made its way for distribution to personnel of ExxonMobil, SBM Offshore and Dyna-Mac. ExxonMobil Guyana’s production manager, Mike Ryan, said this is part of ongoing efforts to ensure that Guyanese businesses are involved in varying aspects of the company’s activities. “It is a great example of continuing to build capabilities here in Guyana—making a difference through supplier utilisation and development,” he said, adding: “As more projects come online, there will be more opportunities for Guyanese

companies. There is a lot of expertise here in Guyana and so we are looking forward to people pushing the limits of what they are capable of doing and helping us to responsibly develop Guyana’s resources.” Ryan shared the view that donning locally manufactured personal protective equipment (PPE) will inspire an additional sense of pride among the workforce in Singapore and, hopefully, those who fabricated the quality coveralls in Guyana. Meanwhile, SBM Offshore’s Regional Head of Operations, North America and the Caribbean, Michiel Heuven, stated that this is an expression of his company’s commitment to Guyana. “In the case of the FPSO, we have looked at the different services which we believe can be developed in Guyana. The coveralls are a very good example where we felt we could bring the specifications required in the oil and gas industry and the specifications within SBM Offshore, over into Guyana and work together with local

Representatives of the two companies handed over samples of the coveralls to ExxonMobil and SBM Offshore officials

partners,” he added. Representatives from the two companies recently handed over samples of the coveralls to ExxonMobil Guyana and SBM Offshore. “It is a fantastic oppor-

tunity for the company itself, but more importantly, it really provides the opportunity for larger companies to see what Guyanese companies are capable of supplying,” said Brooke Glassford of Caribbean Clothing Company Ltd. He continued: “From inception, we have been providing personal protection equipment (uniforms) and 2010, we started with fire retardant units for miners and welders. This allowed us to really pivot smoothly into PPE specifically for oil and gas.”

After sales fell by nearly 50 per cent due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Glassford indicated that this contract provided the company the ability to rehire staff. “We hope that this contract with SBM Offshore and ExxonMobil will really open the floodgates for more opportunities,” she expressed. Upasna Mudlier of Denmor Garments Manufacturers Inc. said her company is “honoured and very proud that we can be a part of this. To be able to contribute to Guyana’s economy, we are

proud about that aspect, and that we are able to provide more employment opportunities for Guyanese.” She explained that Denmor is currently acquiring ISO compliance — an international standard for organisations —to be able to further serve the industry. Mudlier added: “Our company was able to take advantage of the numerous courses offered at the Centre for Local Business Development, in Georgetown, to gain a competitive edge and serve this sector to better.”

Women granted bail for Christmas Day fight

THREE Agricola, East Bank Demerara women who were allegedly in a fight on Christmas Day, on Monday appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on assault charges, and were each released on $10,000 bail by Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus. Georgiana Barry, Kim Bumbury, and Destiny Deally pleaded not guilty to their respective charge when it was read to them. The first charge, which was read to Barry, alleged that she, on December 25

last year at Caesar Street, Agricola, Greater Georgetown, unlawfully assaulted Deally. Deally, it is alleged, assaulted Barry so as to cause her actual bodily harm. Bumbury, on the same date and at the same location, unlawfully assaulted Barry, so as to cause her actual bodily harm. According to the facts mentioned to the court by Prosecutor Austin, the three women are known to each other. Barry and Deally reside in the same house, while Deally's husband is

Bumbury's cousin. On the day in question, Deally made a statement which offended Barry, and an argument ensued between them. The argument later turned into a physical altercation. Bumbury, who witnessed the fight, intervened, and later became a part of the brawl. She allegedly assaulted Barry. The matter was reported to the police, and the women were arrested and charged. The matter was adjourned until February 15.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Minister Indar unhappy with state of works in Region Two

By Richard Bhainie MINISTER within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, on Sunday expressed his dissatisfaction with the pace of works on roads and sea defence, along the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). Minister Indar expressed his discontent to Region Two roads engineer Philip Amos and Region Two, district one engineer, Saeed Mohamed, who accompanied him to inspect several sites of ongoing projects in the region. Indar enquired about the status of each of the sites he visited and blasted the engineers for failing to hold contractors accountable to their contractual obligations. He also expressed disappointment with contractors for failing to execute and complete projects within the contractually agreed time. “I am not happy with what I am seeing,” Indar pronounced, stating that delayed projects are to the detriment of residents who are left to suffer, and taxpayers who should benefit from the projects. The minister inspected ongoing works at Market Road, Supenaam, the contract for which was awarded to contractor S. Jagmohan Construction. He was informed by Amos that the works are 30 to 40 per cent complete; at Mandir Street, Hibernia, he was informed that residents will be able to benefit from an improved street within the

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, enquiring about the status of works from Region Two roads engineer Philip Amos, and Region Two district one engineer Saeed Mohamed

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar discussing the status of ongoing works at East Street with contractor Mohammed Ramzan Ali Khan

Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar and Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, inspecting the Charity River Dam

next two weeks. In the community of Affiance, Indar visited works

in progress at School Street; the contract for these works was awarded to Vish Turbo

Contracting Services and the works are approximately 40 per cent complete. Contractor Mohammed Ramzan Ali Khan is currently undertaking works at Bad Street, Affiance, which are approximately 75 per cent complete. He is also responsible for works at East Street and Back Street, Paradise. DEPLORABLE STATE Minister Indar also visited the Onderneeming Main Access Road, Onderneeming Housing Scheme Phase 3 and Red Village, where he witnessed the deplorable state of the roads and committed to immediately intervene. At the Charity River Dam, Minister Indar met with Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dha-

The deplorable condition of the Onderneeming main access road

ramlall, who is also the Region Two representative in Parliament, and discussed issues raised by residents. Residents in the area complained bitterly about a particular businessman who has erected a concrete fence which prevents water from receding from the road. The ministers spoke to the businessman about the issue and agreed on an amicable resolution in proceeding with the matter. While at Plantation Andrews, the minister denounced the lackadaisical attitude of contractor BK International towards execution of the crucial and urgently needed rip-rap sea defence works. The project, which was slated to officially commence on January 21, 2020 and be completed on August 21, 2020, had been further extended to December 31,

2020. However, even though there was a breach of the initial and extended deadline, a mere 15 per cent of the project has been completed, while the contractor has already received 70 per cent of the payment. At his last stop, Indar inspected more rip-rap sea defence works at Suddie, the contract for which was awarded to Samaroo Investment on November 30, 2020, at the cost of $92 million. The minister also expressed concern about the slow pace at which the contractor is executing the project. Minister Indar noted that the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) government intends to take stern action against contractors who fail to fulfil their obligations and execute works as promised.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Deep-water harbour for Pomeroon River being mulled

Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva (right) speaking about the proposed deep-water harbour. Also pictured are Regional Executive Officer Devanand Ramdatt (centre) and Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Odit Bank and regional officials shortly after the meeting had ended. From left to right are GBTI’s Chief Executive Officer James Foster; Regional Chairperson Vilma De Silva; GBTI’s Anna Regina supervisor Taje Ahlam; Public Relations and Marketing Manager, Pamela Binda; Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Odit; and Regional Executive Officer (REO), Devanand Ramdatt

By: Indrawattie Natram REGION Two Chairperson Vilma De Silva is optimistic that with the dredging of the Pomeroon River mouth, a deep-water habour can be built to strengthen trade and rake in huge profits for the region’s cash-crop farmers. She made these comments during a recent meeting with senior officials of the Guyana Bank of Trade

and Industry Limited (GBTI). Bank officials met with senior members of the Region Two administration ahead of its flood-relief distribution exercise at Charity. During her interactions with the bank’s team which was headed by Chief Executive Officer James Foster, the Regional Chairperson pointed out that Pomeroon has great economic potential and with the right infrastructural investments, the region can

produce food for all Guyana and the Caribbean. She stated that a company discussed a proposal for the establishment of a deep-water harbour in the Pomeroon River with her office some time back. She did not provide further details. De Silva said now that the Ali administration is in office, she will be making the necessary representation to central government and the relevant authorities with the

aim of making this proposal a reality. “I will personally engage [in] talks with our President on this, because once this is done, I see a bright future for those cultivating in the Pomeroon River,” De Silva stated. She said once heavy-duty vessels can make their way up the river, trade in the region will be expanded. De Silva, who is the owner of the Henvil Coconut

Farm, explained that a vessel takes seven hours to travel from the Pomeroon River to Georgetown and 36 hours to reach Trinidad. “Dredging of the Pomeroon River mouth channel will enhance trade. Vessels will be able to come directly [in to] conduct trade and return to their destinations, Region Two needs this,” De Silva said. The Regional Chairperson informed that apart from her personal efforts, the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) will be making the necessary recommendations

to push the idea. Meanwhile, Regional Executive Officer Devanand Ramdatt who was also part of the discussions, said there is a lot of infrastructural development to be done in the Pomeroon River and it will require a multi-stakeholder approach. He endorsed the idea of vessels coming directly into the Pomeroon River to conduct trade. The REO emphasised that this will be a huge investment, for which the necessary representation has to be made.

Pay-raise negotiations for GuyOil workers deferred to March By Rehana Ahamad EMPLOYEES of the Guyana Oil Company (GuyOil) have resumed work with the hope that the entity’s management would reconsider its position and agree to wages and salary increases come March. The workers, who downed tools just before the holidays, resumed work on Christmas Eve Day, following what was described as a fruitful intervention from the Ministry of Labour, headed by Minister Joseph Hamilton. According to President of the Clerical and Commercial Workers’ Union (CCWU) Sherwood Clarke, both the Union and GuyOil were summoned to a reconciliation meeting, where a decision was taken to defer consultations to March 31, 2021, which marks

the end of the first quarter of the year. According to Clarke, both parties, at the time of the last meeting, had maintained their earlier stance. “The management is offering zero increases, and the Union is sticking to its position, and demanding eight per cent, based on appraisal, or five per cent increase across the board,” Clarke told the Guyana Chronicle on Monday. In addition to wages and salary increases, some 300 unionised GuyOil workers countrywide were also expecting Christmas bonuses, all of which was initially agreed to by the company’s previous Board of Directors in July 2019. The relatively new General Manager of the oil company, Trevor Bassoo, had defended the company’s withdrawal

CCWU President, Sherwood Clarke

from the agreement, explaining that even though GuyOil empathises with its workers, it is not financially able to abide by a previous decision to give

increases in wages and salaries. This, he said, was owing to the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic that had taken a devastating toll on the economy. The

company’s struggles, he noted, were further compounded by the national curfews and lockdowns instituted in 2020. “The situation at this point in time does not allow us, or permit us, to issue any of those two specific forms of remuneration that the union requested,” Bassoo noted in a previous interview with this publication. Meanwhile, the union’s president continued to insist that the oil company had been operating at a profit, and can therefore afford to give back to its deserving employees. “These are essential workers being denied; at the extraordinary meeting, they agreed that as long as the company made profits, the increases would be paid. They had their recent AGM, and declared $2.9B as profit,” Clarke specified. He also defended the

workers’ request for Christmas bonuses. “GuyOil workers are considered frontline workers. They didn’t take days off and stay indoors; they continued their work,” Clarke told this newspaper. Meanwhile, Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle had previously expressed the ministry’s commitment to facilitating respectful and considerate negotiations between the two parties. CCWU’s Clarke is hopeful that within the next few weeks, the management of GuyOil would find some way to honour the initial agreement made with staff. “We have to keep our fingers crossed, and try to be as optimistic as we possibly can,” a hopeful Clarke said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Braving the odds to excel amid a pandemic

By Rehana Ahamad

DESPITE all the disasters that characterise 2020, it was a year that uncovered

the genuine resilience and incredible bravery of many people, especially Guyanese, and more particularly those who were in the midst of var-

ious academic pursuits when the coronavirus pandemic hit. Whether it was the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), the Caribbean Sec-

ondary Education Certificate (CSEC) or various tertiary programmes, Guyanese have weathered the storm to victory. There are many persons such as Sursatie Bholaramsingh, who lost her job, and battled depression during her pursuit of her Master of Laws (LLM). Because of the pandemic and all the violence that surrounded our six-month-long General and Regional Elections, many suffered losses of income and closure of their businesses. “I could not afford basic things. My family’s income reduced, but the cost for everything else remained the same: The light bills, water, Internet, university fees, all remained the same,” Bholaramsingh told the Guyana Chronicle. Bholaramsingh’s husband, who has his own company, was also faced with challenges of reduced profits and contracts. “This whole thing was depressing for me,” Bholaramsingh said. She recalled being faced with a heartrending decision, which resulted in her putting a pause on her children’s education. “I had to stop my kids from pursuing their studies, and that really broke my heart,” the woman said. Bholaramsingh said her family’s finances, coupled with the local elections drama, and the emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic, had taken a significant toll on her mental health. “I refused to go out or meet or talk to friends and family, because of how I felt; depression is real,” she asserted. Notwithstanding the many challenges, Bholaramsingh continued her studies, which were already in progress. She recently completed her LLM (Oil and Gas) with a distinction at School of the Nations Incorporated. “I was over the moon,” Bholaramsingh said, explaining that her journey to a distinction was no easy task. She explained that she was forced to self-study via the Internet. “I could not understand the Online studies half of the time,” Bholaramsingh noted. She said that her challenges were further compounded by poor Internet connections, and in many instances, the usual doses of blackout. “I took the textbooks, and also did extensive reading with articles I downloaded and printed when I did have some Internet, but even so, the printing was still quite costly,” Bholaramsingh related. Despite having an LLM, along with a Master of Business Administration and a Degree in Accounting, the state of the world was such that Bholaramsingh was unable to secure a job. As it is, she remains unemployed. “With more than 20 years’ experiences, it is my desire to work with the Oil-and-Gas Industry, but nothing has been panning out,” she lamented. The woman explained that enabling her children to continue their studies is presently her major focus. “…And that is taking an arm and a leg from me,” Bholaramsingh posited. Even with all the hurdles to complete her LLM, Bhol-

aramsingh said that she remains committed to pursuing her doctorate. “Education is important,” she maintained.

maintained.

TAKE NOTHING FOR GRANTED

Sursattie Bholaramsingh

Tonesia Jacobis

ESSENTIAL WORKER Education, for 22-year-old Dominique Clarke takes the same level of importance. In 2020, she had been pursuing a Bachelor of Laws Degree at the University of London, through Nations University’s School of Law, amid great challenges, the most significant being the fact that she was classed as an essential worker, and was therefore forced to work on rotation during the height of the pandemic. “It affected my study timetable severely,” Clarke related. As per her normal routine, Clarke said that she worked 08:00hrs to 16:00hrs, after which she would attend classes from 17:00hrs to 19:00hrs. Clarke explained that she would then schedule in her nap time from 21:00hrs to midnight; she would then wake up and resume study from 01:00hrs to 05:00hrs. As the staff rotations kicked in, Clarke said her schedule went haywire. Things got even worse, as exam time approached. “I had taken my annual leave for exam preparations in April, only to have the exams pushed to July,” the young woman related. Instead of sulking over the changes, Clarke said she decided to use her time wisely, and study even harder. But the exams suffered even more delays, owing to the pandemic. “The second delay of exams started to take a toll on me mentally; I was feeling drained, and at my wits end,” she noted. Due to her family’s financial challenges, Clarke said that she was forced to self-study. “I was a bit disappointed, as I wanted to graduate with Upper Second-Class Honours, but I was awarded Lower Second- Class Honours,” she noted. Clarke said that even though she wasn’t too keen on experiencing the many challenges that came her way in 2020, she values the lessons it taught her. “I am much more tenacious and resilient. As I'm preparing to commence my Master's Degree in International Business Law at the University of Bedfordshire through Nations University, I am positive that whatever is thrown my way, no matter the workload, I am capable of excelling,” an optimistic Clarke

Similarly, for young Tonesia Jacobis of Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), the coronavirus and all the events of 2020 have aided her growth as a more resilient person. At the height of the pandemic-inspired lockdowns and strict curfews, the 18-year-old was preparing for what would be one of the biggest examinations of her life. The Mackenzie High School student was preparing to sit the 2020 Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). “I had to adjust to school being Online,” Jacobis said. She highlighted her major challenge was having to selfstudy, while learning and adopting time-management skills. “This posed a major deterrent to me,” the teenager said. Jacobis said that lockdowns and curfew had no social impacts on her life, since she had always been an introvert at heart. “I’m used to being home, then school, so the COVID social distancing, curfew and quarantines were not that drastic for me,” she posited. The young student said that even though she did not achieve her desired results, 2020 has taught her to be content and happy with being alive, and being afforded the opportunity to continue her studies. Jacobis, in 2019, was a top student of Mackenzie High School, copping nine Grade Ones, and two Grade Twos. “For CAPE, I wrote four subjects: In Economics, I got a Grade Two; Management of Business, I got a Grade Four, and Communication Studies, a Grade Three. In Accounting, I got no grade; something that CXC (the Caribbean Examination Council) is yet to correct,” Jacobis said. She noted that despite all that 2020 entailed, she remains thankful. “In some way, I would say my biggest lesson of 2020 is taking simple things for granted that now you realise are really big deals,” the youngster said. She noted that the past year has inspired her to re-evaluate the things that are important. “… And notice the things that are not, and prioritise my life better, and never give up and keep moving forward,” an optimistic Jacobis said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Leopold Street man arrested in apartment with gun

A 20-year-old labourer of Leopold Street, Werk-enRust, Georgetown was arrested Sunday after police found a .32 Taurus pistol with four live rounds in an apartment at Durban and Cross Streets, Werken-Rust, where he ran into after trying to flee police. Police said ranks were responding to a report of threats in Durban Street and observed a man who ran into an apartment with his right hand holding on to his pants crotch. A policeman gave chase and the man was caught and a search was conducted on his body, but nothing was found. However, a search was then carried out in the apartment in his presence since he was the only person in the area and a

.38 pistol and a magazine containing four live rounds were found. The man was thereafter cautioned and arrested, taken to the police station and

placed into custody. The firearm was lodged at the station and is to be examined by a ballistic expert as investigations continue.

The firearm and rounds seized

Gunmen flee after discharging firearm in South Ruimveldt POLICE are looking for two men who discharged a loaded firearm in South Ruimveldt, Georgetown before they realised police were in the area on motorcycle patrol. The men fled the scene dropping a Glock 17 Pistol, with four live rounds behind. “On January 9, 2021, ranks on motorcycle patrol in South Ruimveldt, heard an explosion suspected to be gun shots. Upon investigating, they observed a silver-grey Fielder wagon motor car. They also observed a man that came out of the front passenger seat of the said car with what appeared to be a black gun in his right hand; he then pushed same into his pants crotch,�

police said. Another man, police said, came out of the motor car and, on seeing the police, the driver drove off in fast rate, while the men ran into a nearby yard. The policemen then gave chase and the men jumped a concrete fence, making good their escape, during which the firearm was dropped. The firearm, police said, appears to be that of a Glock 17 Pistol, along with a magazine containing four live rounds. The items were taken to the police station and lodged. They are to be examined by a ballistic expert as investigations continue.

The seized firearm

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

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Phil Neville to leave England job for Beckham’s Inter Miami

ENGLAND women’s manager Phil Neville is set to become the new boss of David Beckham’s Inter Miami.The 43-year-old became England boss in January 2018 and his contract was due to end in July. He was also set to take charge of Great Britain’s women’s football team at the Tokyo Olympics the same month. But he will now join friend and former team-mate Beckham at his MLS franchise, which sacked manager Diego Alonso last week after a poor first season. A Football Association (FA) announcement is expected later this week with the organisation now needing to appoint a different Team GB manager. The former England, Manchester United and Everton defender led the Lioness-

es to their first SheBelieves Cup victory in 2019 and fourth place at the World Cup later the same year, but results since that tournament have been poor.

navirus and the FA made clear they wanted someone in place for the delayed Olympics and Euros, plus the 2023 World Cup, it was decided that a parting of ways would

Phil Neville was set to step down as England manager in July

Neville’s contract coincided with the 2021 European Championship, to be held in England. Yet once that was moved to 2022 because of coro-

be more suitable. The Netherlands boss Sarina Wiegman will take over from Neville as England manager in September. (BBC Sport)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

‘physical evaluation’ By Rawle Toney TWENTY- five of the shortlisted 32-players called by Head Coach Marcio Maximo, on Sunday undertook the mandatory fitness and evaluation test, as the Golden Jaguars begin preparation for their March 25 clash against Trinidad and Tobago. Assistant Coach Charles ‘Lilly’ Pollard, along with Fitness Coach Wilson Toledo took the players through their paces at the National Training Centre. Jobe Caesar, Sheldon Holder, Quincy Adams and Trayon Bobb were the notable players absent on Sunday’s fitness evaluation. Last week, the GFF announced that they had tested 32 locally-based players and ten staff members, but when contacted, General Secretary Ian Alves told Chronicle Sport that the number of players who turned out, represented the number of players and staff who cleared to do so. Alves said the Coaching Staff was concerned that the longer they waited, would mean that they would have less time with the players and ultimately hampering their preparation plans. Meanwhile, the GFF told members of the yesterday that they were “pleased to report that

everyone involved in the ongoing training exercise have been cleared by the Health Authorities to do so.” When asked by Chronicle Sport, directly, if all 32 players and staff returned a negative test, the Federation’s Public Relations Officer, Keeran Williams, couldve only point to the vague release issued. According to the GFF, the fitness tests provide important information for the coaching staff and will inform individual and squad training regimes in the run up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in March. GFF president, Wayne Forde, promised to take “every precaution necessary to ensure that the squad and staff remain safe and well during this time, including regular testing for COVID-19. We look forward to the full resumption of training in the coming days, as long as conditions allow, and remain ready to take any action required if the pandemic enters another difficult phase.” Forde said that “considering the lack of competition over the past year, we are pleased to report that the squad is already looking in good shape thanks in part to the individual training plans they were given by the GFF technical team during the lockdown.” Golden Jaguars were drawn

in Group F alongside Trinidad and Tobago, The Bahamas, Puerto Rico and St Kitts & Nevis. Following their March 25 clash with Soca Warriors, Golden Jaguars will return home to roar against The Bahamas on Tuesday, March 30. On Friday, June 4 Guyana will travel to St Kitts & Nevis for their third game and then host Puerto Rico on Tuesday, June 8.

SAUL Alvarez Canelo won the World Boxing Association (WBA) Best Boxer of the Year award for his victory over Callum Smith to confirm himself as the top pound-forpound fighter today. Boxing had a year of many setbacks but managed to move forward. The end of the year could not have been any more perfect, with the reappearance of Canelo on December 19th in a great performance against the previously unbeaten reigning champion. The Mexican had gone

through several contractual problems that cast some doubt on his return to the ring, however, he stayed in the gym until they were sorted out . As soon as the situation was solved, Canelo was ready to fight for the Super Middleweight belts against Smith, the best in the division until that moment, and defeated him by unanimous decision at the Alamodome in San Antonio, Texas. Alvarez, 30, proved to be steady at 168 pounds, put up an aggressive fight, worked

well with his waist motion and nullified any chance of the Liverpool native. Canelo is now the owner of the WBA and WBC titles. He could only fight once in 2020 but it was the most important fight of the end of the year. He has announced that his plan for 2021 is to have three fights and face the best in the division. The public wants to see more of Canelo, who has proven to be the face of boxing. The WBA congratulates him for being the Boxer of the Year. (Fightnews)

SEE SHORTLISTED PLAYERS BELOW: GOALKEEPERS: Alex Murray, Sese Norville and Shawn Adonis. DEFENDERS: Raphael Edwards, Sherwin Skeete, Jeremy Garrett, Eric Moore, Shemar Wilson, Colin Nelson, Quincy Adams, Kevin Dundas, Nicolai Andrews, Rishaun Ritch, Lionel Holder and Trevon Lythcott MIDFIELDERS: Daniel Wilson, Marcus Wilson, Curtez Kellman, Threvon Pluck, Kersey Benjamin, Delwin Fraser, Pernell Schultz, Ryan Hackett, Trayon Bobb, Omari Glasgow, Dorwin George, Nicholas MacArthur, Darron Niles, Jamar Harrigon and Job Caesar. FORWARDS: Sheldon Holder and Abumuchi Benjamin.

Canelo named WBA Boxer of the Year

Rigorous COVID-19 testing schedule for Windies

DHAKA, Bangladesh, (CMC) – West Indies’ Test and one-day contingent will be subjected to a robust testing regime after they arrived here Sunday for their five-week series, becoming the first international side to tour Bangladesh since the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The Caribbean side are scheduled to face the hosts in three OneDay Internationals and two Tests from January 20 to February 15, but will be without ten first choice players who declined selection because of fears over the COVID environment in the country. Health authorities here reported 1 071 new infections on Sunday, along with 25 more deaths. The overall infection tally stands at 522 453 and the death toll at 7 781. The Bangladesh Cricket Board has opted to engage in rigorous testing of the travelling party, with testing taking place prior to and during both the one-day and Test series. West Indies were expected

to be tested on arrival and again following three days of isolation in their hotel rooms. Once tests return negative, players will be allowed to begin training. After a week, players will be tested a third time and yet again prior to the one-day series, with testing continuing prior to and during the two-Test series from February 3-15. Further, the BCB confirmed that all hotel and support staff along with caterers, involved with West Indies, will also be tested. “We will be strict about the entire tour. The biggest thing is that there will be a number of tests,” said BCB spokesman Jalal Yunus. “All the floor attendants at the hotel and catering staff have been tested, and the same applies for any service provider including net bowlers and the board’s photographer.” Fast bowling all-rounder Romario Shepherd tested positive in Guyana before the squad departed

the Caribbean and had to be replaced by pacer Keon Harding. Test captain Jason Holder and white ball skipper, Kieron Pollard, were among the ten opting out of the tour, forcing selectors to include a plethora of uncapped players in both formats. Following a one-day warmup on January 18 at the National Sports Institute on the fringes of Dhaka, West Indies will face the hosts in the opening two One-Day Internationals at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium in Dhaka before heading to Chattogram for the third match on January 25. West Indies then play a fourday warm-up at the MA Aziz Stadium in Chattogram starting January 28 before the opening Test bowls off six days later at the Zohur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium in the same city. The final Test gets underway on February 11 at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

Defiant India hold on for famous draw at SCG to set up decider INDIA showed incredible defiance to bat out the final day in a memorable draw with Australia in the third Test and take a thrilling series into a decider. The tourists resumed on 98-2, chasing an unlikely 407 to win, and lost captain Ajinkya Rahane early on. Rishabh Pant countered with a sublime 97 and Cheteshwar Pujara dug in for 77 during an absorbing second session in which it seemed India could even pull off the third highest fourth-innings chase in Test history. But after both fell before tea to leave Australia needing five wickets in the final session, Hanuma Vihari and Ravichandran Ashwin battled superbly to survive 256 balls to steer India to 334-5 at the close. Vihari’s unbeaten 23 off 161 balls was even more impressive given he batted for most of his innings with a hamstring injury, while Ashwin made 39 not out off 128 deliveries. Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine dropped three catches, while his vaunted fast bowlers and off-spinner Nathan Lyon toiled on a pitch that did not deteriorate as much as expected. The series remains level at 1-1 heading into the fourth and final Test in Brisbane starting on 15 January. India, who were bowled out for 36 in the first-Test defeat, need only a draw to retain the Border-Gavaskar trophy, while Australia have not lost at the Gabba since 1988. This was an enthralling

finale, but the third Test will also be remembered for allegations of racist abuse against India players by members of the crowd at the SCG. Cricket Australia said on Monday it could issue “indefinite” bans to any spectators found to have racially abused India players.

Paine missed a catch to remove Pant for three and he punished the mistake ruthlessly, carting Lyon for three massive sixes as he reached his third Test fifty from only 64 balls. He was dropped again by Paine on 56 - also off Lyon and continued to attack, leading himself to the brink of a stun-

still appeared determined to go for victory but began to change tack after Vihari injured a hamstring taking a quick single, a decision that was reinforced once Pujara was dismissed soon after. That left India on 272-5, with 43.4 overs remaining in the day and several factors firmly in Australia’s favour.

Paine takes the blame-reaction India captain Ajinkya Rahane: “Our talk this morning was all about showing character and fight to the end and not think about the result, so we’re really happy with the way we fought. “Special mention to Vihari and Ashwin in the end showing that character - it was really great to see. “Credit to Pant. We

promoted him because it was about that left-hand, right-hand combination in the middle and it worked out.” Australia captain Tim Paine: “We were pretty confident in forcing victory with our attack. We created enough chances all day so it’s a tough one to swallow, especially for me. “I’ll cop the blame for that, move on and look forward to Brisbane. “It was a wholehearted effort from the boys and things just didn’t go our way.” Australia batsman Steve Smith, who was named player of the match, on ABC Grandstand: “They fought really hard. It was a pretty benign surface - it looked on day four it might start to play tricks, but it didn’t and India played really well.” ( )

SCOREBOARD Rishabh Pant now averages 40.66 from 15 Tests

Pant brings hope of the improbable Given Rahane fell to Lyon in the second over of the day, that India looked on course to execute one of the greatest run-chases of all time during the second session underlined what a special knock Pant played. He had not kept wicket since being hit on the elbow by Pat Cummins on day three, but was promoted to number five and played his natural attacking game with aplomb to put the pressure back on Australia.

ning century and India to 250-3 with plenty of time to score the further 157 required. But in the last over before the new ball, he skipped down the pitch to Lyon and sliced to Cummins at gully. Pujara proved an excellent foil in characteristically watchful style as he steadily accumulated 77 off 205 balls before he was bowled by a sublime delivery from Josh Hazlewood. Technical and mental defiance Even after Pant fell, India

Vihari was injured and out of form, Ravindra Jadeja would have had to bat with a dislocated thumb if required and India’s tail is weak. But Vihari and Ashwin, who has four Test centuries, played a defensive masterclass to stave off Cummins, Hazlewood, Lyon and left-arm fast bowler Mitchell Starc, while substitute fielder Sean Abbott also dropped Ashwin on 15. With their chances of victory fading, Matthew Wade and Paine in particular became increasingly vocal in

Paine’s days as captain are numbered ― Gavaskar

SYDNEY: Former India captain Sunil Gavaskar on Monday slammed Australia skipper Tim Paine for sledging Ravichandran Ashwin during the drawn third Test here, saying his behaviour was “unbefitting” of a leader and could cost him his captaincy. Australia’s famed bowling attack threw everything at India on the fifth day but couldn’t break their resolve as the visitors hung on for a memorable draw at the SCG. “I don’t know I am not an Australian selector, but his days as captain are numbered. If you allow the Indian team to bat 130-odd overs without getting wickets, this is a very good Australian attack The bowling changes, the field placements, everything could have made a difference to the result,” Gavaskar told India Today.

trying to put off Vihari and Ashwin by sledging them, with the stump microphone picking up several barbed comments. Yet the next over after an exchange with Ashwin, Paine dropped an edge from Vihari off Starc and, with it, Australia’s hopes of taking a 2-1 series lead, before he decided to shake hands on a draw with one over remaining.

Paine’s dropped catches played a key role in the partnership of Hanuma Vihari (23 not out off 161) and

words with Ashwin to disturb his focus during the last session and ended up dropping Vihari after that.

Australia captain and wicketkeeper Tim Paine

Ravichandran Ashwin (39 not out off 128), who batted for more than 42 overs for a 62-run stand to save the Test. In frustration, the 36-yearold tried to exchange some

“Tim Paine was more interested in talking to the batsman rather than his field placing and bowling changes. So I won’t be surprised if there is a change in the Austra-

lian captaincy after the series is over,” Gavaskar said. Paine dropped three catches during the match. “If you drop simple catches, Rishabh Pant got two edges, they were not difficult catches, the last one which he missed off Vihari was also which he could have left to the first slip,” the former India skipper said. “He was a little bit disturbed, his concentration was not there after that little episode with R Ashwin.” In the 122nd over, Paine could be heard on stump mic, trying to sledge Ashwin. He even used an abusive word during the chatter. “First and foremost, it was unbefitting of a captain of a national team to be talking about something other than cricket,” Gavaskar said. “By all means, you want to have a go at the opposition, you talk about their cricket,

AUSTRALIA 1ST innings 338 India 1st innings 244 Australia 2nd innings 312-6 declared INDIA 2ND innings o/n 98 for 2 Rohit Sharma c Mitchell Starc b Pat Cummins 52 Shubman Gill c Tim Paine b Josh Hazlewood 31 Cheteshwar Pujara b Josh Hazlewood 77 Ajinkya Rahane c Matthew Wade b Nathan Lyon 4 Rishabh Pant c Pat Cummins b Nathan Lyon 97 Hanuma Vihari Not Out 23 Ravichandran Ashwin Not Out 39 EXTRAS: 0b 3lb 6nb 0pen 2w 11 TOTAL: (131.0 overs) 334-5 Fall of Wickets : 1-71 Gill, 2-92 Sharma, 3-102 Rahane, 4-250 Pant, 5-272 Pujara Did Not Bat : Jadeja, Bumrah, Siraj, Saini Bowling : Mitchell Starc 22-6-66-0 (2nb), Josh Hazlewood 26-12-39-2 (1nb), Pat Cummins 26-6-72-1 (2nb), Nathan Lyon 46-17-114-2, Cameron Green 7-0-31-0-43 (2w), Marnus Labuschagne 4-2-9-0 (1nb)

you can tell the batsmen he doesn’t know how to play, you can say he is no good. “All those kinds of things are completely acceptable because you’re talking crick-

et. But when you talk about something else, it shows your frustration. It shows you are not able to bear the fact that the opposition is putting up a fight.” (The Times of India) 11:10 hrs Another Emotion 11:40 hrs Steel An Icin

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

No place for USA, Canada and CCC LA Lakers and LA Clippers win, Boston Celtics v in Regional Super50 tournament

WITH strict quarantine restrictions currently in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Cricket West Indies (CWI) was forced to reduce the number of teams for this year’s Regional Super50 tournament. The 47th edition of the tournament will revert to only the six regional franchises taking part, which would mean that defending champions, the West Indies Emerging Players, along with Canada, USA and the Combined Colleges and Campuses would miss out. This will mean the six leading franchises--Jamaica Scorpions, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force, Guyana Jaguars, Barbados Pride, Leeward Island Hurricanes, and the Windward Island Volcanoes—are the only teams participating this year. The reduction in the teams competing in the tournament also means a change to the tournament’s scheduling. Last season, the teams were split into two groups;

the fixture reduction now means that the tournament will be played over one round with each team playing five matches. Last year, the tournament was played at four venues in

Chris Gayle, Chadwick Walton and Sherfane Rutherford and Carlos Brathwaite were the four West Indies players selected to play in

the Pakistan Super League following the 2021 Draft held in Lahore on Sunday. Each of the six teams was required to select 16 players

two countries-- Trinidad’s Queen’s Park Oval and the Brian Lara Academy, and the Conaree Sports Club and Warner Park in St Kitts-- hosting all the matches. However, this year, the

tournament will be played in Antigua and Barbuda from February 7 to February 27. The fixtures will be announced soon by Cricket West Indies (CWI). (Rajiv Bisnauth)

The Combined Colleges and Campuses won the 2018-2019 tournament

Four Windies players selected in Sunday’s PSL draft

From left: Chris Gayle, Sherfane Rutherford, Chadwick Walton and Carlos Brathwaite

Gayle, arguably the best T20 batsman of all time, was a platinum selection for the Quetta Gladiators, while Rutherford was a diamond selection for Peshawar Zalmi. Chadwick Walton was selected from the gold category by the Karachi Kings. Multan Sultans selected Brathwaite as a supplementary player. Most notably, Dwayne Bravo and Evin Lewis, players who had reportedly registered for the draft went undrafted. Ninety players from the West Indies registered for the draft, the most from any country or territory. Eighty players from England registered for the draft while there were 40 from Sri Lanka and an estimated 30 each from South Africa and Afghanistan.

TRUNP National in Bedminster has been stripped of the US PGA Championship in 2022 as its organisers felt using the course as host would be “detrimental”. The PGA of America voted to terminate the agreement on Sunday. US President Donald Trump, who owns the course, has been accused by Democrats and some Republicans of encouraging last Wednesday’s riot in Congress. A representative for the Trump Organization said they were “incredibly disappoint-

one of 17 courses around the world owned by Trump, was due to host the major in May 2022. Another of his properties, Trump Turnberry in Ayrshire, Scotland, has not been selected to host an Open Championship by the R&A since Trump bought the resort in 2014 - with the host venues now finalised up to 2024. Turnberry’s Ailsa course has hosted The Open on four occasions since first staging the championship in 1977, most recently when Stewart Cink won in 2009.

Trump National stripped of 2022 US PGA Championship

in the draft; three from the platinum, diamond and gold categories, five silver, and two each from the emerging and supplementary categories.

ed” with the decision. “It has become clear that conducting the PGA Championship at Trump Bedminster would be detrimental to the PGA of America brand and would put at risk the PGA’s ability to deliver our many programmes and sustain the longevity of our mission,” said PGA of America President Jim Richerson. “It was a decision made to ensure the PGA of America and PGA professionals can continue to lead and grow our game for decades to come.” The course in New Jersey,

Miami Heat called off

THE Los Angeles Lakers continued their unbeaten run on the road with a comfortable victory over the Houston Rockets. Anthony Davis scored 27 points on his return from injury to help the Lakers to a 120-102 victory. Defending champions Lakers have won all five of their away games this season. Elsewhere, Kawhi Leonard surpassed 10,000 career points as the Los Angeles Clippers beat the Chicago Bulls. Leonard scored 21 points in the third quarter as the Clippers rallied to win 130-127. The Boston Celtics’ game against Miami Heat was postponed over coronavirus safety measures. Miami did not have the required minimum of eight available players, while Celtics themselves only had eight. Denver Nuggets claimed a 114-89 win over New York Knicks and Golden State Warriors beat Toronto Raptors 106-105 despite a poor shooting performance from Stephen Curry. Curry made two shots from 16 attempts - his worst performance in his career - before Damion Lee secured victory with four seconds remaining. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scored a season-high 31 points for Oklahoma City Thunder as they beat the Brooklyn Nets 129-116, while Utah Jazz beat the Detroit Pistons 96-86. (BBC Sport)

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Tuesday, January 12, 2021

COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD – 83 Garnett street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) (1) (2)

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: 16 Tests WI 10; BANG 04; Draw 2

TODAY’S QUIZ:

(1) Who has played most Test matches for the WI to date? (2) Who has played most ODIs for the WI to date?

ANSWERSS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE ANSWER R&A chief executive Martin Slumbers said there were “no plans” to stage any of its championships at Turnberry and that the governing body would “not do so in the foreseeable future”. “We will not return until we are convinced that the focus will be on the championship, the players and the course itself and we do not believe that is achievable in the current circumstances,” Slumbers said. The PGA of America is now searching for a replacement host for one of the game’s biggest

four men’s individual events. “We have had a beautiful partnership with the PGA of America,” Trump’s representative added. “This is a breach of a binding contract and they have no right to terminate the agreement.” US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has shared with lawmakers plans to remove President Trump from office before starting an impeachment process, following the riots in the US Capitol building. (BBC Sport)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, January 12, 2021

World Squash tips Guyana to be at forefront

ACCORDING to an article published by the World Squad Federation (WSF), the organization is very impressed with Guyana’s highly talented junior unit and believes that during the next decade, the nation can be elevated to the forefront of the sport. At the head of that junior category are the likes of Shomari Wiltshire, Michael Alphonso, Abosaide Cadogan and Kristen Gomes, who all won their respective categories at the 2019 Caribbean Area Squash Association (CASA) Games. What was commendable was Wiltshire’s U-17 category victory which saw him drop only a single game in the tournament. He has

captured every junior title since the U-11 category and has also had an outstanding stint outside of the Caribbean. The WSF opined that the driving force behind the progression of these top junior players is the National Coach, Carl Ince. Ince, who has been a part of the Guyana squash unit for quite some time, is a Level 4 Elite England Squash Certified Coach. In the article titled ‘State of Squash – Guyana’, Secretary of the Guyana Squash Association, Lorraine Ince-Carvalhal, describes his contribution to the GSA as “immeasurable’’. WSF also stated that the nation’s senior team is also

very strong, with both the men’s and women’s side taking clean sweeps at the CASA 2019 event. Unfortunately, the impact of the COVID-19 has put a peg in the continual progression of the Sport, like many others. In May of 2020, CASA announced the cancellation of their Caribbean Championship and thus forced the cancellation of all Squash events in the Caribbean Area. Guyana was only able to host the BCQS International Masters and the annual Bounty Farm Handicap tournaments before the pandemic arose. The notice on the CASA website read: “The utmost priority of the Caribbean

GSA’s National Coach, Carl Ince

Area Squash Association is the health and well-being of all athletes, officials, coaches, and parents, or otherwise known as the “CASA Family”. As a result, the Caribbean Area Squash Association Executive has made the following decisions with the best interest of our family, as it relates to the Junior CASA 2020 (Bermuda) and Senior CASA 2020 (Jamaica) due to the unprecedented impact of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2) on the CASA Region.” This included: “The postponement of the XXXX Junior Caribbean Squash Individual and Team Championships scheduled for 19 - 25 July 2020 in Hamilton, Bermuda,

until 2021. The postponement of the XXVI Senior Caribbean Squash Individual and Team Championships, scheduled for 15 - 23 August 2020 in Kingston, Jamaica, until 2021.” “Doubles will be introduced at the 2021 Junior Championships as was intended for the 2020 Championships and age groups will remain the same as proposed at the 2019 Annual General Meeting.” Meanwhile, the GSA, headed by David Fernandes, has progressed quite successfully and they are currently trying to integrate squash with the WSF pandemic guidelines which has proven to be challenging, but very achievable.

Powell targets three more Australian cricket mourns former sub-10s, Olympic medal in 2021 Test opener Colin McDonald AUSTRALIAN cricket is mourning the loss of former Test opener Colin McDonald, who was known for his fearless style and later in life played a key role in the development of the National Tennis Centre in Melbourne. McDonald, 92, passed away in Melbourne, having played 47 Tests between 195152 and 1961, scoring 3107 runs at 39.32, including five centuries. His best series were against England in 1958-59 when he posted 519 runs at 64.87, and against the West Indies in 1960-61 with 337 runs at 33.7, which featured the tied Test. The Scotch College product was known for his toughness when facing fast bowling, and wore many hits – and bruises – to the body from the likes of Wes Hall, Neil Adcock, Frank “Typhoon” Tyson, Fred Trueman and Brian Statham in an era of unprotected pitches when batsmen wore little protective gear. He played in two premierships with Melbourne Cricket Club – in 1948-49 and 195859 – and captained Victoria for five seasons. In an interview with Scotch College’s in-house magazine, having published his memoirs, CC – the Colin McDonald Story, McDonald was asked about his most memorable Tests. “ I n t h e f o u r t h Te s t against England in 1958-59 at Adelaide I made my highest score, 170. In the second Test against England in 1956 Jim Burke and I had an opening

stand of 137, of which I made 78,” he said. “Making 91 in front of 90,800 people at the MCG in the fifth Test against the West Indies in 1961 is also fondly recalled. Of course, the famous tied Test with the West Indies in 1960-61 will always be remembered.” McDonald’s knocks of 32 and 89 at Old Trafford in 1956 in Jim Laker’s famous 19-wicket match haul were also career highlights.

later was the executive director of Tennis Australia, where he was an important figure in the Australian Open shifting from the Kooyong Lawn Tennis Club to a modern home at Flinders Park in 1988. CA chairman Earl Eddings said McDonald “will forever be remembered as a legend of Victorian and Australian cricket”. “He was fearless against the fast bowlers and skilful

Jamaican Olympian and former 100 metres champion Asafa Powell

Colin Mc Donald played 47 Tests between 1951-52 and 1961 for Australia

His fondness for Richie Benaud was also obvious. They made their Test debut together against the West Indies at the SCG in 1952, with Benaud later going to captain the side. “He was enthusiastic – he knew the game backwards. All the players loved him. Of course, he was a fine all-rounder. He was a very good cricketer who made all his own luck,” McDonald said. McDonald spent time as a schoolteacher, an ABC cricket commentator and

when playing the spinners both in Australia and across tours of England, the Caribbean, South Africa, India and Pakistan,” he said. “Australian cricket is a better place for Colin’s many years of outstanding service at international and state level, as well as his club career with Melbourne University, Melbourne Cricket Club and Brighton. Our sincere condolences and best wishes go out to Colin’s family.”

JAMAICAN Olympian and former 100m world record holder Asafa Powell said he intends to get to that elusive mark of 100 legal sub-10 times and an Olympic medal before he hangs up his spikes. Powell, 38, holds the record for most legal sub-10 times in the 100m but wants to extend it for at least another three races as he approaches the twilight of his career. Plagued by injury throughout his career, especially in the past few years, the last time Powell broke the 10-second barrier, his 97th, was in 2016 when he ran 9.92 in Hungary. However, the four-time Olympian remains undaunted as he vies for a fifth Olympiad this summer. “The Olympics have been put off until this year but the goal is still the same. It’s just another year and we as athletes know how to prepare and get ourselves ready. My biggest

goal this year, apart from the Olympics is getting my next three sub-10s and I want to seal that off and going to the Olympic Games, making it on the podium, that would be a big dream for me,” he said. To get those sub-10 times, Powell is going to need to compete at meets that are in short supply because of the prevailing conditions. The pandemic has wreaked havoc on track and field in the last 10 months. Meets at all levels have been cancelled across the, including some that had been scheduled for this past weekend. Last season, several Diamond League meetings, as well as lower-tier meets, were either postponed or cancelled outright as the Covid-19 virus raged across the globe. Powell said athletes will have to find a way to live with the virus until the situation improves.

“We have to learn to adjust to it, learn to compete with no fans, nobody in the stadiums. I think it’s going to be the new norm. Europe is where we compete the most so if there are putting off track meets that means we have to find other alternatives, stay home and compete until the Olympics or whatever it is,” he said. Should he achieve his goals this season, Powell said he has no immediate plans to retire and will continue competing until his body tells him otherwise. “The body will tell me. I am just going to keep going. I am not going to go forever, but I am a family man now so I can’t keep running and training forever. After the three sub-10s and the Olympic Games, I will feel a lot more satisfied and then consider if I go another year or just cut it off.” he said. (Sportsmax)

Golden Jaguars fitness coach Wilson Toledo guiding players through their fitness evaluation over the weekend at the GFF’s National Training Centre at Providence

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‘physical evaluation’

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John Campbell (left) chats with assistant West Indies coach Monty Desai on arrival

Paine’s days as captain are numbered ― Gavaskar

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TUESDAY, JANUARY 12, 2021