Issuu

SATURDAY 15th JANUARY, 2022

No. 106605

Wartsila liable

- for any repairs/damage at Garden of Eden Power Station, says Prime Minister - company commits to immediately dispatching engineers to correct problems

SEE PAGE

At left: a clean-up exercise at Durey Lane on Thursday (Office of the President photo). At right: new look for Durey Lane: an artist’s impression of the Durey Lane Enhancement Project, Campbellville, Georgetown, which is set to be transformed into a family-oriented avenue (Walter Narine photo).

‘Operation Clean Up’ in action Tarik Braithwaite now an award -winning poet SEE PAGE

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Marine cages to arrest decline in fish catches SEE PAGE

High Court overturns magistrate’s decision to grant bail

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

- in high-profile matter involving Brazilians charged with cocaine trafficking, illegal entry

HIGH Court Judge Sandil Kissoon on Friday ruled that Senior Magistrate Alex Moore erred when he granted bail to two Brazilians who were charged for cocaine trafficking and entering Guyana illegally. Justice Kissoon ruled in favour of an application filed by Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., to challenge Magistrate Moore’s decision to grant bail to the two foreign nationals. Salem Nobrega De Alencar, 64, and André Pereira, 30, were arrested and charged following the discovery of some 1,000 pounds of cocaine aboard a plane that had crash-landed in a savannah at Orealla, in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), on May 20, 2021. Magistrate Moore, who

Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C. presides over the Springlands Magistrate’s Court, had granted the men bail in the sum of $3M each on the drug-trafficking charge, and another $50,000 each for the illegal entry charge during their second court appearance.

According to a release from the Attorney- General’s Chambers, while delivering his landmark ruling, Justice Kissoon on Friday expounded that irrespective of the magistrate’s decision to not respond to the proceedings filed against his decision, it does not act as a bar to prevent the Court from judicially reviewing the said decision. He also said that Magistrate Moore’s decision to admit the duo to bail, in accordance with conditions for granting bail under Section 94 of the Narcotics Act, Chapter 10:10 were not satisfied, given that said magistrate took into account factors relating to the offender, and not the offence, as is required by the said Section 94. It was against this backdrop, the release said, that Justice Kissoon found that

Salem Nobrega De Alencar and André Pereira at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court (Photo courtesy of Fresh Studio) there was no basis, fact or circumstances, existing or apparent, nor any Principle of Law or consideration relevant or applicable in the circumstances of the case to warrant or justify the decision of Magistrate Moore to release the men on bail. ‘PLAINLY IRRATIONAL, PERVERSE’ According to the AG’s Chambers, “The learned Judge held that the said decision was plainly not only irrational, but perverse; that Justice Kissoon further held that the learned magistrate committed grave errors in the interpretation and application of Section 94 and what constituted special reasons… and as such makes his decision liable to be quashed.” Lastly, Justice Kissoon reportedly found that Magistrate Moore quantified erroneous and irrelevant considerations, which had no bearing on the issue and matter before him, and that as such, his decision was not only erroneous in law, and without lawful basis, but also plainly irrational, untenable, perverse, and made without jurisdiction, as it fell outside the bounds of what can be construed as reasonable. In closing, the AG’s Chambers reported, “The learned Judge concluded that the decision of Magistrate Moore to

admit the men to bail was not a judicial one.” Back in August 2021, Justice Kissoon had suspended the bail which was granted by Magistrate Moore following the application made by Nandlall. The men, having been remanded to prison ever since, will now remain in custody until the hearing and determination of their trial, as they have no legal ties to Guyana, and pose a flight risk. Reports are that the pair had initially claimed that they were on their way to neighbouring Suriname to deliver a shipment of magnesium, but during an inspection of the aircraft shortly after it crash-landed here, 453 packs, each containing one kilogram of cocaine, were found onboard it. In toto, the cache amounted to almost 1,000 pounds of cocaine. Besides the drugs, two GPS devices, a radio system, three smartphones, and the men’s Brazilian identification cards were seized. On May 27 last, they appeared at the Springlands Magistrate’s Court for the aforementioned offences and were remanded to prison by Magistrate Moore. But when the case was recalled two months later, on July 22, Police Prosecutor

Orin Joseph laid over an analysis report for the drugs, police statements, photographs of a WhatAapp conversation taken from a cellular phone reportedly connected to the men and a compact disc with the police interviewing them. Prosecutor Joseph had also requested an additional adjournment to secure a few more statements from investigating ranks, as well as responses to inquiries made to the authorities in Brazil, Suriname and Guatemala. On that same date, the men’s attorney reportedly renewed an application for bail, on the grounds that his clients may have contracted COVID-19, and were being assaulted by other prisoners. Despite the prosecutor pointing out to the court that these claims were not supported by any medical or other evidence, Magistrate Moore released them on bail. Owing to the delay in releasing them from prison, their attorneys then moved to the High Court and filed Habeas Corpus proceedings before Justice Kissoon. In like manner, Minister Nandlall also moved to the court, filing proceedings for a judicial review against the magistrate’s decision to grant bail.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Wartsila liable for any repairs/damage at Garden of Eden Power Station

- company commits to immediately dispatching engineers to correct problems, says Prime Minister

Prime Minister Mark Phillips speaking to a reporter during a visit to the Garden of Eden power station PRIME Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips on Friday evening held a special emergency meeting with the management of the Wartsila Corporation, where they

agreed to immediately dispatch a team of engineers to Guyana to correct the technical challenges that have temporarily halted operations at the Garden of Eden Power Station.

According to the Prime Minister, the East Bank Demerara (EBD) facility is still under warranty, and as a result the contracted Finnish company would be liable for any and all

Technicians discussing the problem at the power station

expenses. “As a government, we will ensure that this project is fixed, and that Wartsila covers the cost, since there is a warranty in place,” the Prime Minister said, adding that at the emergency meeting, he and his team let Wartsila know how disappointed they are that the new plant has developed problems at such an early stage. POOR MANAGEMENT BY APNU+AFC He said that poor project management during the initial stages of the project by the APNU+AFC administration has resulted in numerous hindrances. “This 46.5-megawatt project was problematic from the start; the APNU+AFC Government embarked on this project in a rushed manner,” the PM said, adding: “From August 2, 2020, we have been dealing with a lot of

An unusual substance coming from the generators, which requires further investigation (Office of the Prime Minister photographs)

corrective work, as we seek to implement this project.” TEMPORARILY HALTED Late Friday afternoon, the Prime Minister visited the power station, and announced that operations at the facility will be temporarily halted as a result of technical challenges being experienced with the generators. On the advice of the technical officials, a decision was taken to shut down the generators to avert any Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) challenges or any damage that may occur to the facility as a result. “This is a decision that was made, based on safety. This is a US$55 million investment, and precautions are necessary; we don’t want anybody to be hurt, just because we decide to ignore what is happen-

ing and run the plant,” Prime Minister Phillips said, adding that with the Demerara Berbice Interconnected system now having less supply to cater to the demand for electricity, there may be load-shedding. Calling on the public to be patient, the Prime Minister said: “I want the people of Guyana to understand, from a safety and precautionary standpoint, that it is necessary that we shut down this plant to do further checks; we will make sure that the problems are fixed. Unlike the previous administration, we intend to ensure that our people are given the best. One of the objectives of our government is to end blackouts, and I intend to see that come to pass.” (Office of the Prime Minister)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

State-of-the-art culinary centre taking shape

HUMAN Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud visited the construction site

for the state-of-the-art culinary school being constructed at the Guyana Women’s Leader-

ship Institute, Cove and John, East Coast Demerara, on Friday. T h i s c e n t re w i l l

provide exciting training opportunities for women and men across Guyana in the culinary

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a hub for personal career growth and development, the ministry said.

Human Services and Social Security Minister Dr Vindhya Persaud makes a point during her visit to the construction site on Friday

The culinary school under construction

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arts. This is just part of the many projects and upgrades for GWLI to provide training and

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Tarik Braithwaite is now an award-winning poet

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Author of “Trapped in Thought,” Tarik Braithwaite

By Naomi Parris WRITING since a lad, Tarik Braithwaite has always had a knack for penning his thoughts on paper, and perfecting his craft over the years has now led the young author to the title of an award-winning poet. Braithwaite’s first publication, a collection of poetry and prose called ‘Trapped in Thought,’ secured second in the TCK publishing readers’ choice awards last year. ‘Trapped in Thought’ is a motivational poetic non-fiction book that offers readers a collection

of confessional verses in the form of poetry. Each poem follows a sequence leading up to the ideal poem, which is the very last piece in the book that facilitates readers through a range of stages in the author’s life and offers them a synopsis on how poetry has aided him in becoming the person he is to date. Last year the book was nominated for the TCK publishing readers’ choice award and it was successful in securing second place in the award under the best general-fictions category.

TCK Publishing is an independent book publisher that publishes mass-market fiction and nonfiction. The company hosts a yearly competition whereby readers are given the choice to select a body of work which they believe is outstanding. Braithwaite related: “The journey has been wonderful being one of the first Guyanese to make it this far as in being awarded the second-place medal for the best general-fictions category. It has assisted us in so many ways. We were able to put Guyana out there on the international platform for writing.” In advising up-andcoming young writers, Braithwaite implored them to face fear and

doubt head-on and to never let it stop them from sharing their stories. “This art form is something that is gradually fading away and I want [to] implore those out there who have a passion in pursuing their dreams of writing to go ahead, the sky is the limit,” the young man said, adding: “I have had so many challenges when establishing this publication. I’ve had problems with the bank, I’ve had problems with getting the book out there, internationally, I’ve had problems with marketing and being able to put the book out there, considering I was a Guyanese author.” Braithwaite further urged potential writers

and poets to get themselves affiliated with the knowledge of the publishing world and take that leap of sharing talent with Guyana and the rest of the world. “However, having done my research and putting together a few strategies with my team, I was able to overcome the process and I just want to implore all you young writers out there who are pursuing a dream or passion to get out there and do whatever it is you set out to do with the aim of one day putting yourself and

your work on the map, both internationally and locally.” M e a n w h i l e , Braithwaite said a new project is in the works and will be available in March of this year. Without giving too much away, he stated that his second publication will be dedicated to women who persevered and blossomed despite the many challenges of life. To purchase a copy of the book you can visit Amazon and search ,“Trapped in Thought Tarik Braithwaite or the Book Hub, locally.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Guyana and the Commonwealth THE Government of Guyana recently hosted a visit by Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland. The visiting team was met by President, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, and other senior government functionaries including Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Philips; Senior Minister within the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh; Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira; Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugh Todd; Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill and Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond. Prior to that meeting, President Ali had met the Secretary- General in Glasgow, Scotland at the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference

of Parties (COP) 26 in November 2021. The visit provided an opportunity for Guyana to further deepen and consolidate relations with the Commonwealth of which Guyana became a member in 1970. In fact, Guyana became the 24th member of the British Commonwealth immediately after it attained Republican status in 1970 and has since played an active role in the affairs of that body. A Guyanese, in the person of Dr. Shridath Ramphal, once served as Secretary-General of the Commonwealth. The Commonwealth has consistently been supportive of Guyana in several important ways, most notably in terms of the country’s territorial integrity and in the area of democratic consolidation. The country benefitted significantly also in terms of technical assistance, especially in the area of

human resource development and climate change. At the September 2017 meeting of the Commonwealth Ministerial Group on Guyana, ministers noted Guyana’s concerns that the long standing controversy has impacted on the county’s economic development. Earlier, at a meeting of the Commonwealth Heads in Malta, leaders noted that the Geneva Agreement of 1966 between the parties provides for a range of mechanisms for an expeditious solution to the controversy arising from Venezuela’s contention of invalidity of the 1899 Arbitral Award and expressed their full support for the United Nations Secretary-General to choose a means of settlement in keeping with the provisions of the Geneva Agreement to bring the controversy to a definitive end. The Secretary-General reiterated the unequivocal and collective

support of Commonwealth member governments for the maintenance and safeguarding of Guyana’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. The matter has now been forwarded by the United Nations Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and despite some objections by Venezuela regarding the ICJ’s jurisdiction to hear and determine the matter, the Court has ruled that it has jurisdiction. This is indeed a forward step in terms of a final resolution and the support of the Commonwealth, the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and other friendly countries and institutions must be commended. Of no less significance is the role played by the Commonwealth Secretary-General in support of free and fair elections in Guyana which was under

threat by the APNU+AFC Coalition after it refused to concede power following its defeat at the March 2, 2020 Regional and General Elections. The Commonwealth fielded an Observer Group headed by the late Barbadian Prime Minister, Owen Arthur, and along with the several other local and overseas observer groups were vocal in the call for the results of the poll to be respected. Following the victory of the PPP/C, the Secretary-General extended congratulations to His Excellency, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, upon his swearing-in as President of Guyana in keeping with the Commonwealth Charter which recognises the inalienable right of individuals to participate in democratic processes, in particular through free and fair elections. She re-affirmed the Commonwealth’s unwavering commitment to supporting

the people of Guyana in their quest to strengthen democratic and inclusive governance and ensure sustainable socio-economic development in the country. This recent visit by the Commonwealth Secretary-General and her team provide an opportunity to both parties to cement existing relationships and explore new opportunities for co-operation and collaborative engagement. At a meeting with Senior Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, and other senior government officials, the Secretary-General spoke of Guyana as a major focus of the Commonwealth in terms of its management approaches as this may serve as a model for other states, especially as it relates to climate mitigation measures and the country’s low carbon approach to development.

The future’s looking good for Guyana

Dear Editor, THE World Bank, in its latest Global Economic Prospects, projected that Guyana’s economy would grow by some 49.7 per cent in 2022. This is staggering and is worth a big shout from all of us here. According to the Finance Head, Dr. Ashni Singh, this anticipated economic growth comes as no surprise given the government’s work to boost investor confidence. To really grasp the enormity of Guyana’s projected financial well-being, I need to contextualise a few things. First, the International

Monetary Fund, the IMF, suggested that the global economy shrank by 4.4 per cent in 2020. The organisation described the decline as the worst since the Great Depression of the 1930s. The only major economy to grow in 2020 was China. It registered a growth of 2.3 per cent. It adds that “We see the world economy growing by 5.7 per cent through the end of 2021. We expect growth to slow to 4.6 per cent in 2022.” Secondly, the World Bank has cut its forecast for global economic growth in 2022, saying that COVID-19 flare-ups,

supply chain shortages, and waning government support have resulted in a “pronounced slowdown” of the recovery from the pandemic. So, no one can doubt how well Guyana is beginning to fare. According to Finance Minister, Dr. Ashni Singh, this kind of optimism, based on real figures, is a result of the work that the government has put into creating an investor-friendly environment. He detailed that “We are pleased to see the positive revision in the World Bank’s outlook for Guyana. This is good news, but we

are not surprised. This is in fact to be expected given our government’s strong policy stance as it relates to economic growth, to investment, to job creation and income generation for the benefit of all Guyanese.” Let us be reminded that when the administration belatedly took office in August 2020, a lot of work was necessary, as the country was in dire straits, but as Dr. Singh pointed out, financial jurisprudence prevailed resulting in several immediate interventions “… aimed at stimulating economic activity, including injecting liquidity in the economy

through the COVID-19 cash grant, reduction of taxes, and increased public expenditure in critical infrastructure projects were undertaken.” All these have paid great dividends. So, for the minister, there is no big surprise in Guyana’s high rating, as “What we are seeing now is the result of measures and interventions such as these.” One more thing and that is, right in the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, an unprecedented flood hit Guyana, to the point that “… we are still grappling with the tail end of the effects of the severe and

devastating floods that we had in 2021…” the minister aptly pointed out. I expect now that with what has so far unfolded since August 2020, Guyanese can be very up-beat. Why? The government promises to remain resolutely committed to ensuring that the economy achieves strong growth a n d v e r y i m p o r t a n tly, strong growth that is translated into business opportunities and job creation and income for Guyanese people. Yours truly, Attiya Baksh

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Intergenerational equity is substantial and protected in NRF

Dear Editor, OPPONENTS of the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) Act 20 of 2021 have referred disparagingly to this piece of historic legislation as a “thieving one” much to the astonishment of the government and many analysts. It appears that this resistance -- whether real or staged -- was prompted mainly because of an improper understanding of the structure and operations of the Natural Resource Fund. Some critics have even gone further by insisting that, under the existing NRF formula, the government would leave no funds for intergenerational equity and emergency. While these assertions are misleading and could be dismissed as political polemics and platitudes, it is obvious that that the NRF funding formula is not properly explained and understood. Critics impute sinister motives to its design and operation. To allay their anxiety or fear, it is important that the NRF’s structural and operational rationale be explained also in the wider context of provisions of the NRF Act. The management of the NRF is the responsibility of the Board of Directors, while the Public Accountability and Oversight Committee is responsible for oversight (monitor, evaluation), and the Investment

Committee is responsible for advising on the investment mandate. The Bank of Guyana is responsible for the operational management of the fund, while all oil revenues are deposited into the Consolidated Fund and any withdrawal must be approved by Parliament. There are also rigid reporting and audit requirements to allow for transparency and accountability. The NRF formula allows the government to draw down for expenditure on physical and social infrastructure projects: 100 per cent on the first US$500 million (meaning a withdrawal of US$500million); 75 per cent for the second US$500 million (meaning withdrawal of US$375 million); 50 per cent for the third US$500 million (meaning a withdrawal of US$250 million); 25 per cent for the fourth US$500 million (meaning a withdrawal of US$125 million); five per cent for the fifth US$500 million (meaning a withdrawal of US$25 million); and three per cent on the excess for the first US$2.5 billion (meaning a withdrawal of US$128,349,060). Raw data for this analysis allow for the computation of crude estimates on oil production and crude oil prices. These are neither Exxon nor government estimates, but they have been computed from information gathered from several

sources. In computing estimates for the period 2022 to 2026, assumptions were made on oil production and oil prices. It is known that oil prices are volatile and are not always determined by market forces (supply and demand) but by strategic considerations. Certain assumptions were made in the computation of estimates. (I) the average price of crude oil is US$80 per barrel. (ii) There could also be equipment downtime: one day per month is calculated for this loss in production. (III) Guyana’s share of profit oil (12.5 per cent) is paid in oil; therefore, a cost (like freight, commission, etc) are incurred for the sale of oil. This factor is included in the estimates. (iv) In making these crude estimates due cognizance was given to the growing movement towards alternative sources of energy and the progressive reduction in the use of fossil fuels. (v) The government also receives funds for flaring but the amounts (though small) are not included. The table below provides an illustration on how the NRF fund works. For a six-year period, 2022 to 2026, based on projected oil production figures, and at an average cost of US$80 per barrel, Guyana could earn US$6.778 billion, of which 18.5 per cent represents royalty and 81.5

per cent represents Guyana’s share of profit oil. Under the funding formula, the government could draw down US$1.403 billion (which represents 20.7 per cent of total oil revenues). Thus, contrary to the fear being expressed by critics, 79.3 per cent (or US$7,166 per capita) of the natural resource fund would remain in the Consolidated Fund for intergenerational equity and emergency. If oil prices rise and if production expands as projected, the total revenue will also increase, but if the opposite happens, the total revenue will decline. The US$18 million signing bonus was not included in these calculations since there is no information on the disposition of this fund. Also, the gas-to-shore pipeline is likely to be a private

enterprise project, so this was excluded from the estimates. Based on estimated production figures of 750,000 barrels per day from 2026 onwards, it would take over 30 more years for oil extraction to become depleted (by 2060). The estimates also indicate that Exxon and partners would have recovered (cost) of US$46 billion by 2026. At a general information level, it is noted

that once the cost recovery period (prospecting and exploration) ends, Guyana’s share of profit oil will increase substantially. (It was not possible to identify the cost recovery period). Finally, the main idea of this letter is to provide readers, including critics, with a better insight or understanding on how the NRF is structured and how it would work. Yours sincerely, Dr Tara Singh

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Marine cages to arrest 861 inmates equipped with employable, decline in fish catches

A marine cage project will soon be established, which will guarantee fisherfolk close to $8 million annually (FAO photo) PRESIDENT, Dr. Mohamed will host consultations with Irfaan Ali, has said his gov- fishermen and women about ernment is moving ahead the new plan. with the roll out of a number “… and when you examine of innovative solutions, to the numbers, each one of those ensure the livelihood of fish- marine cages can bring in a net erfolk is maintained. value of close to $8 million Guyana’s fisheries industry annually. And you could pay is not the only one battling back for the investments within with a decline in fish catches. six months,” Dr. Ali explained. Research points to the issue He said communities withbeing a global concern. in the hinterland district will To this end, the Head of also benefit from the major State said the government will intervention. not sit idly by and allow the “… then in hinterland industry to fall. community we are looking “We are not sitting back. at [installing]marine cages in We have a responsibility to the rivers where the water is find solutions and that is what flowing so that we can grow we are doing. We are working tilapia there in a more natural every single day on finding environment.” innovative solutions,” he emThe initiative, President phasised. Ali noted, will assist with the President Ali said a marine reduction of operation costs. cage project will soon be es- He said profits gained will tablished, which will guarantee meaningfully enhance the livefisherfolk close to $8 million lihood of residents throughout annually. He said Agriculture the district. Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, A marine cage is a system

set up in lakes, reservoirs or ponds to confine fishes. It allows water to pass freely between the fish and surrounding water resource, thus maintaining good water quality and removing waste. Further, Dr. Ali said pre-feasibility studies were also conducted for the growing of prawns and tilapias. About 100 acres of land were already identified for prawn production that will give the nation enough capacity to take care of the demands. Additionally, over 70 fishing ponds will be constructed in East Berbice Corentyne, Region Six for the rearing of shrimp with the aim of expanding the nation’s aquaculture industry. The fisheries department, along with the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), is overlooking the project. “So, we are not sitting back and be observer of the reducing fish catch out there. Globally there is a reduction and we have seen the scientific explanation (as) to why that reduction is there. There is no political directive given to the fish not to come here,” the President added. The Agriculture Minister continues to meet with fisherfolk to listen to their concerns and iron out other matters affecting them. (DPI)

relations building skills

Senior prison officers with some of the inmates EIGHT hundred and six- joinery, family reconcilia- and become better individty-one inmates housed at tion, tailoring, culinary arts, uals. the Mazaruni, New Am- art and craft, cosmetology, He said the prison direcsterdam, Camp Street and barbering, crops husbandry torate remains confident that Timehri prisons were, on and veterinary sciences. as the prison infrastructure Wednesday, recognised afDirector of Prisons (ag), continues to be developed, ter successfully completing Nicklon Elliot, said inmates more prisoners will beneseveral training courses were given an opportunity fit from such rehabilitative in various programmes, to participate in the various training. aimed at preparing them programmes which focused He made it clear that refor re-integration into soon imparting skills with the habilitation of prisoners is an ciety. aim of preparing them for ongoing process, stating that Among those who graced their reintegration into the “we are adequately preparing the stage well decked out in society. them whether it is with skill their gowns were high profile Elliot also explained that or educational training, so and special watch inmates. the prison service has an that when they are released Convicted and remanded obligation and mandate to back into society, they are prisoners were also given provide prisoners with skills productive citizens.” an opportunity to participate to facilitate their reintegraThe graduates were all in the training areas such tion into society, adding that presented with a certificate as entrepreneurship, anger the prison’s task is to help the in recognition of their sucmanagement, carpentry and inmates realise their mistakes cessful participation.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Snr. policeman slaps Rickford Burke with hefty lawsuit

DETECTIVE Inspector Prem Narine has filed a five-million-dollar defamation of character lawsuit against Rickford Burke, US-based political commentator and ally of the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition party. Narine, through his attorney, Sanjeev Datadin,

moved to the Demerara High Court and filed a Statement of Claim against Burke, who is the President of the Caribbean Guyana Institute of Democracy (CGID). The senior cop is also seeking an injunction order restraining Burke, whether by himself, his servants or agents or otherwise, from further publishing or caus-

ing to be published the same or similar defamatory words against him. In his lawsuit, Narine contends that Burke published a series of posts on his personal blog and Facebook page during the month of October 2021. The post reportedly relates to the murder of 35-year-old Kevin Andries, who was killed on October

11, 2021, Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD), during a confrontation with the police. According to Inspector Narine, the posts are not only false and without factual justification, but also part of a sustained campaign “to brutally defame his personal and professional life”. In his Statement of Claim, Inspector Narine

Political commentator Rickford Burke says he was not present when the incident occurred; that all he did was investigate the matter. He is arguing that the published statements were intended to lower his character, morality and honesty in the eyes of right-thinking members of the public, as

Inspector Prem Narine they are in electronic circulation on social media, by direct and indirect means. Among other things, Narine is claiming that his reputation has been seriously harmed, and he has been caused to suffer considerable hurt, distress and embarrassment, considering the fact that he is a senior member of the Guyana Police Force, which serves and protects the citizens of Guyana.

SWAT rank charged with manslaughter, granted $1M bail

- as probe into fatal shooting of Essequibo businessman winds down

Police Constable Sherwin Peters POLICE Constable Sherwin Peters was on Friday charged with manslaughter, but released on $1 million bail for the fatal shooting of 29-year-old Essequibo businessman Orin Boston last September. Peters, 32, of Central Amelia’s Ward, Linden was hauled before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, where he was arraigned, virtually, before Magistrate Esther Sam of the Anna Regina Magistrate’s Court. Particulars of the charge allege that the unrepresented Peters, a member of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) unit of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), on September 15, 2021 unlawfully killed Boston at his Dartmouth, Essequibo Coast home. Attorneys-at-Law Nigel

DEAD: Essequibo businessman, Orin Boston Hughes and Konyo Sandiford have applied to appear as interested parties in the case on behalf of Boston’s family. The matter has been adjourned until February 1, 2022. According to a police report, on September 15, 2021, ranks were conducting an anti-crime operation in Regional Division Two, when, at about 04:40 hours, they went to Boston’s house to conduct a search. It is alleged that during the course of the operation, Peters shot Boston in the upper left arm. Boston’s wife, Feona, reportedly claims that at the time of the incident, her husband was in bed, and asleep. The popular businessman was pronounced dead on arrival at the Suddie Public Hospital.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Baby boy among six dead from COVID-19 as Guyana adds 865 new cases

GUYANA has now recorded 865 new COVID-19 cases and six deaths, including the death of a 14-monthold baby boy within the last 24 hours, according to a release from the Ministry of Health. In his daily COVID-19 briefing on Friday, Health Minister Dr Frank Anthony, said it was difficult to determine how long the COVID-19 wave would last, adding that all precautions were necessary. Turning his attention to COVID-19 cases at places of work, Dr Anthony said employers must enforce vaccination policy including the need for booster shots. He emphasized the need for persons to wear their masks to properly cover their noses and mouths. “Unfortunately, the mask has become like a style. People are wearing it under their nose, they are wearing it under their chin, and if you wear it like that, it’s not going to have any value,” the health minister bemoaned. Dr Anthony said that it was not only about govern-

ment enforcing regulations. “Each one of us would have to take on our own set of responsibilities. Individually, we have the responsibility to do the right thing. If we are in a work environment, in that environment, we need to ensure that things are done properly,” he added. The Health Minister believes the lack of personal responsibility on the part of the population was gravely affecting the country’s fight against the deadly COVID-19 virus. Dr Anthony said in Latin America and the Caribbean, there has been an increase in COVID-19 cases by 78.8%, and, in Europe, an increase by 37%. “This is not unique to Guyana. We live in a global connected environment, and what happens elsewhere would also impact us in Guyana,” the health minister cautioned. Some 28,000 doses of Johnson & Johnson vaccines are expected in Guyana, today, Dr Anthony confirmed. This donation, from the Kingdom of Spain,

GTT COO: ‘We would never ask a customer for money’

– company warns against scammers amidst recent and upcoming promos THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) is urging all subscribers to be vigilant of scammers, in light of the company’s recent Christmas promotion and upcoming anniversary promotion. Chief Operations Officer (COO) of Mobile Service, Richard Stanton, said that, while the company has not received a huge amount of scam reports compared to previous years, the company is still keen on advising customers to be vigilant. “Based on reports over the years, customers are oftentimes urged to top up an account, send MMG or even pay money to uplift prizes. We would never ask a customer for money to uplift any prize,” the COO stressed. He added: “All of our promotions are reflected on our social media pages and even on our website via https://www.gtt.co.gy/ promotions; so we urge our

GTT COO, Richard Stanton subscribers to be aware of these scammers to avoid being conned.” The COO also reminded that customers can query promotions through the company’s customer care line on 0488, its live chat via gtt.co.gy and through its customer service representatives at any GTTstore.

boosts Guyana’s aggressive vaccination drive to ensure the entire population is immunized, thus reducing the likelihood of death from the virus. Dr Anthony warned that, with the Omicron variant, persons should get the COVID-19 booster shot as that creates the best possible defence against the variant that is more easily spread than

any other variant previously, and which presents very similar symptoms to the flu. Guyana’s adult vaccination rate now climbs to 81.3% with some 416,994 persons already receiving a first dose vaccine. For second dose vaccination, 303,373 persons or 59.1% of the adult population has been inoculated. For children between

Health Minister, Dr Frank Anthony, during Friday’s COVID-19 brief 12 to 17 years, 31,525 adolescents have received first dose vaccines, and 22,309 adolescents have received

their second dose vaccines. 24,509 doses of COVID-19 booster shots have been administered.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

CONTINUATION ON PAGE 21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Guyana/Chile in cultural exchange programme

THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and the Embassy of Chile in Guyana, on Thursday, held a sight specific intervention and performance event, commemorating the recent completion of the “Wind Research: Georgetown” Guyana 2022 exchange programme.

The programme saw Chilean visual artist, Claudia Vásquez executing a mentorship experience for 15 local artists. The general objective of the intervention was to value the notion of wind and movement, focusing on the visibility of the wind and the various forms that it draws

according to the place where the work is located, through interaction with a fabric. At the event, which took place at the National Cultural Centre, there was an incorporation of vibrant Guyanese culture as the work of art was displayed through music, dance and video recording. Speaking at the event,

Visual artist, Claudia Vásquez; Chilean Ambassador to Guyana, Juan Manuel Pino Vásquez and Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr. (DPI photo)

on behalf of the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport was Director of Culture, Tamika Boatswain, who said the event was important to the ministry because to mentor young artists was a special experience due to the nature of the art form. “I would like to express heartfelt gratitude to artist, Mrs. Claudia Vásquez who happens to be the first artist of Chile to hold such a cultural exchange programme between Guyana and Chile,” she said. She said, too, that while that form of art was new to Guyanese artists, it was, in theory, a part of the History curriculum at the Burrowes School of Art. “It is hoped that this experience remains alive in the sight of all the artists who have been involved and have benefited tremendously, and that they themselves would find ways to incorporate this form of art in their future endeavours,” she noted. Meanwhile, Chilean Ambassador to Guyana, Juan Manuel Pino Vásquez

A cultural performance at the event hosted at the National Cultural Centre on Thursday (DPI photo) highlighted the significance of the project and its unique aim. “Her (Mrs Vasquez) presence in Guyana aims to give continuity to her most recent creation entitled ‘Investigation around the wind’ which is why it is called land art. It is intended to reflect the relationship between humans and the earth,” he said. Additionally, the project will establish a dialogue with the geography and traditional

dances of Guyana, promoting the development of a new imaginary and creative action. Interventions in Guyana were carried out in Bushy Park, Nova Beach, and at the Seawalls. The artist also donated portraits of her art form to the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, Castellani House and to the Embassy of Chile in Guyana. (DPI)

RUBIS enhances standard of living for Joshua House residents

TEAMRUBIS has recently donated furniture and household items to the Joshua House Children Centre, located in South Cummingsburg, Georgetown. The centre is home to some 25 children, 13 boys and 12 girls, between the ages of six and 17. According to a release,

during a visit to the centre late last year, RUBIS Retail Accounts Executive Joylyn Johnson observed the challenges the centre was experiencing. As a result, RUBIS decided to commission the construction of chests of drawers and other supplies for the children to improve

their standard of living. Mrs Johnson explained, “It was evident that there was a dire need for furniture and household items. It is always an unfortunate occurrence that results in a child living in an orphanage or a home. It is therefore necessary that everything that is done con-

tributes to a pleasant living experience. RUBIS Guyana Inc. conducted a needs assessment and concluded that its contribution should be long-term in nature. Our efforts will go towards enhancing the environment and help in organising their storage.” Gladys Accra, Adminis-

(L-R) Gladys Accra of Joshua House at the presentation of items with Joylyn Johnson of RUBIS

The furniture donated to the children’s home

trator/Supervisor at Joshua House expressed appreciation to the management and staff of RUBIS for the company’s very generous contribution of items valued at $1,260,000. “The 13 chests of drawers, 25 sheet sets, two full-length mirrors and 10 clothes baskets are all very much needed at the moment and will greatly assist us in making the children’s dormitories much more

comfortable and organised. They will certainly enjoy using the items donated,” she said. RUBIS has been a strong supporter of initiatives to support the development of young people across the country, including donations of school supplies and devices for online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, the release said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Guyanese must be the main beneficiaries of oil and gas sector Officer of the MASSY

of companies, Ger- Aircraft Owners’ Association of Guyana supports Local Content legislation Group vase Warner, which alleges

THE Aircraft Owners’ Association of Guyana (AOAG) has expressed full support for Guyana’s Local Content Act, contending that the legislation provides the opportunity for Guyanese companies and people to become the primary beneficiaries of the development of the country’s oil and gas resources. “The AOAG fully endorses the fact that our government, as is universally practiced by countries committed to the development of their oil and gas resources around the world and within our hemisphere, including Trinidad & Tobago, Suriname, Brazil and Canada, has dedicated legislation enabling the local private sector to compete on a global scale in the oil and gas industry,” the AOAG said in a release. Representing the ma-

jority of Guyana’s domestic aviation services, the AOAG said it is particularly pleased that this legislation affords the local industry an environment for equitable participation and capacity

building in the servicing of the oil and gas industry, in particular, and Guyana’s development in general, locally and internationally. On Thursday, several other members of the busi-

ness community took to social media to voice their outrage following a leaked e-mail from CARICOM Private Sector Organisation (CPSO) Chairman and President/Chief Executive

that Guyana’s Local Content Policy violates the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. The email which has been circulated across social media read, “At the Executive Committee today we agreed that the legislation appears to violate several provisions of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. As a result, the CPSO will take on raising these concerns first to the GoG and then ultimately to the Caribbean Community.” The Private Sector Commission (PSC) in a statement Thursday night questioned the legitimacy of the CPSO which constituency consist of some Pan Caribbean companies and affirmed that the organisation does not represent the interest of the local private sector. The commission noted that the purpose of Local

citizen must do their part to ensure a clean environment. The exercise, dubbed “Operation Clean Up”, is a collaborative effort between the Joint Services and the Private Sector, with support from the Ministries of Public Works, and Local Government and Regional Development. The campaign will see heightened activities involving Cabinet Ministers this Saturday and Sunday, January 15 and 16 across the wards of Georgetown.

Technical and manpower support are being provided by the Guyana Defence Force, the Guyana Police Force and other government agencies; with deployments across 13 locations including, Durey Lane, Cemetery Road, Hadfield, Sussex, Princess, Smythe and Durban Streets; Regent, Robb, Church, Camp and Sheriff Streets. The “Operation Clean Up” coordinators are encouraging citizens residing in

the targeted locations to join the campaign activities and for others to initiate clean up exercises of their own, for which support could be requested. President Ali had announced in his New Year’s message that his government intends to lead a national resurgence of sustained public cleanliness that promotes environmental health across the country, which goes hand-in-hand with the rapid developmental transformation already taking place.

Guyana’s transformational agenda also focuses heavily on achieving a restoration of national pride and patriotism, even as the country coalesces towards a singular identity. On the part of the private sector, the cleanup is a follow through from a commitment it has made. The commission had said that it will be partnering with the government in the cleanup exercise on January 15-16, 2022.

Guyanese companies and people must be the primary beneficiaries of the development of the country’s oil and gas resources, says the Aircraft Owners’ Association of Guyana

Content straddles countries, regions and continents and forms an integral part of the petroleum sector. “The PSC wishes to note, in fact, that Trinidad and Tobago has had in place for more than 50 years, a regime of local content ‘predicated on maximising citizens’ ownership, control and financing of all activities along the energy resources sector”, thus giving preference to Trinidadians. “The commission is satisfied that the policies expressed in Guyana’s Local Content Act are not dissimilar to those of Trinidad and Tobago’s and do not violate the revised Treaty of Chaguaramas. “We therefore stand by and fully endorse the aims and objectives of the Act which are designed to ensure that Guyanese companies and nationals benefit from the Oil and Gas sector,” the Private Sector Commission of Guyana said.

‘Operation Clean Up’ begins in City CENTRAL Government, the Guyana Defence Force and the private sector on Thursday commenced a massive clean-up exercise in the City. The exercise started in Drury Lane, Campbellville, Georgetown. A post from President Dr Irfaan Ali’s facebook page said the exercise is being replicated across the country, municipalities and neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs) and every

That release had also stated that the exercise will be done in collaboration with the Joint Service, the Public Works Ministry, the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority and the Solid Waste Management Unit. The effort by the PSC is in response to a call from President Irfaan Ali for the commission to support the clean-up exercise. Below are scenes of the exercise on Thursday (Office of the President photo)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Sea, river defences to be enhanced through sustained CDB, EU partnership

- Minister Edghill says AS Guyana continues to face threats of global warming and rising sea levels, Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, has signalled the government’s intention to continue working with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and the European Union (EU) to finance sea and river defence works here. “We continue to work with our partner, the CDB, in terms of financing and

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

works in sea and river defence. Just recently, the EU, when the high level delegation came to Guyana, praised Guyana for the success story of how we have been able to work on our sea and river defences and have committed funding to continue to support both and the planting of mangroves,” Minister Edghill said. In December 2021, the EU, as part of its budget support programme, approved the disbursement of some €7.5 million for Guyana. It was related at a news

Sea and river defence structures were enhanced in 2021, through significant investments by local and international authorities conference, on Tuesday, that the funds represent the final tranche of payments under a multi-year programme valued at €30 million, which came on stream after Guyana lost Europe as one of its preferential markets for sugar. Minister Edghill told reporters at his office that over the years, funds received under the EU’s budget support programme for Guyana were expended on the enhancement of critical sectors including housing, climate adaptation, improved infrastructure, and importantly, repairing the country’s fragile sea defences. The EU Ambassador to Guyana, Fernando Ponz Cantó, specified that under the programme, Guyana was able to build in excess of 10 kilometres of sea defences, while maintaining almost 60 kilometres. “You have [also] planted six new mangrove sites; mangroves are those wonderful trees, as you know, that not only improve the quality of the air, not only improve the environmental richness of the country, but it also protects the country from the rising sea level,” Ambassador Cantó said. Outside of the fund, Minister Edghill said that the local sea and river defence was strengthened with some 6,695 metres built and the maintenance of 64,651 metres of structure. BUDGET 2021 As part of its overarching plan to strengthen the country’s sea and river defence infrastructure, the government allocated a total of $5.1 billion for river and sea defence works in Budget 2021. Earmarked for last year was the construction, reha-

bilitation and maintenance of sea and river defence infrastructure in Dantzig, Prospect, Content, Fairfield, Zealand, Cane Garden, Uitvlugt, Anna Catherina, No. 63 Beach, Manila, and Bygeval. During his presentation of Budget 2021, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Singh, had said the consequences of climate change, including rising sea levels, on Guyana’s sea and river defence infrastructure, could have a devastating impact on Guyana’s economy, since most of its inhabitants are on the low-lying coastal plain. The minister made specific reference to the fragility of the Dantzig, Mahaicony sea defences, which had suffered a massive breach that devastated residents, particularly the farming community, which suffered loss to property, livestock and farming activities. Additionally, a sum of $50 million was budgeted to construct geotextile rubble groynes, and to conduct topographic surveys. Minister Edghill had said the government will do all that it could to achieve the country’s development agenda. “As a government, we are not going to be hamstrung where development of Guyana is concerned. Guyana will be developed in a sustainable way, in a responsible way and while in some development we may lose a few mangroves, we will be planting more mangroves,” the minister affirmed. He said the government is not callous on the destruction of mangroves, as it recognises the importance of

the country’s sea and river defence. Edghill said: “We value mangroves, we will plant more mangroves and where development is taking place and where mangroves will be destroyed, we will have to have some compensatory effect to ensure that everything is done in a sustainable and orderly manner.” MAJOR WORK Further, during the second quarter of 2021, the government expended $233 million on riprap sea defence at Anna Catherina, on the West Coast of Demerara (WCD). Similar projects were also undertaken at Uitvlugt and Zeelugt during the year. The Uitvlugt project, which costs $226 million, covers 300 metres of sea defence, and forms part of a comprehensive set of sea defence works being undertaken in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara). Those works, totalling $620 million altogether, also stretched across the communities of Anna Catherina and Zeelugt, covering a total of 800 metres of shoreline across the WCD. The contracts for works at Uitvlugt and Anna Catherina, which surpassed $459 million, were awarded to Puran Brothers Disposal Incorporated, while the $159,899,600 contract for work at Zeelugt was awarded to Platinum Investments Incorporated. Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, had previously said that the government recognises the discomfort and dangers that inadequate sea defences could bring to a community.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

CONTINUATION FROM PAGE 16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Tough battle expected at DeSinco National U12 Rapid Championships A NUMBER of experienced national junior players are expected to battle in today’s DeSinco National U12 Rapid Championships, which will be held online on tornelo.com from 14:00hrs. Over 30 youngsters will battle in today’s Open and Girls competitions. Stiff rivalry is expected from a seasoned group of male players. Arysh Raghunauth from Queen’s College, Nicholas and Alexander Zhang, Omar Shariff and Mahir Rajkumar from Mae’s School and Jacob MacDonald from School of the Nations all have experience at the Junior World Rapid competition and are all capable of winning. Raghunauth was second in the tournament in 2020, losing on a tie-breaker to

Kyle Couchman who is too old this year to play. In the U10 and U8 sub-categories, Julian Mohabir is a strong favourite. The U8 player could possibly threaten some of the more seasoned players. FEMALE COMPETITION With the federation increasing its number of young female players, this year’s U12 championships will have its own female competition. Big names such as Anaya Lall, Farrah Gaskin and Kataleya Sam are expected to do well while developing players and newcomers will have to change to enhance their game. The tournament would be supervised by FIDE Arbiter, John Lee.

National player Anaya Lall is a front runner in the female division

Arysh Raghunauth is one of several big names in the male division

Petersen’s superb knock Sri Lanka trounce... caps South African victory FROM PAGE 35

(REUTERS) - Keegan Petersen scored a superb 82 as South Africa completed a seven-wicket victory in the third Test and a 2-1 series win over world number one India on an unforgiving Newlands pitch, having chased down their challenging target of 212 yesterday. It is just the fourth time in 133 years that a team has scored more than 200 in Cape Town to win, and follows on from South Africa's epic seven-wicket victory in Johannesburg in the second Test when they needed 240 in the fourth innings. Petersen, who was the leading scorer in the series with 276 runs, was the anchor for the home side, but there were also important unbeaten contributions

from Rassie van der Dussen (41) and Temba Bavuma (32) as they put on 57 for the fourth wicket. The result means India are still in search of a first Test series victory in South Africa having had high hopes when they won the opening match. "It was a very hard-fought series, but I think South Africa did amazingly well to fight back in the second Test and then capitalise on the same momentum in the third," India captain Virat Kohli said at the post-match presentation. "I think in both Tests they won, they were much more clinical with the ball in the crunch moments, and to be honest, there was a bit of a lapse of concentration from us as well, which cost us. They

were deserving winners at the end." South Africa, who were underdogs for the series despite home advantage with their inexperienced side, had started the day on 101 for two and had plenty of alarms on the difficult pitch against the high-quality Indian seamers, who might have had more reward with better luck. India were left hugely frustrated by the technology used for dismissal referrals and might have talked themselves into some trouble with their deliberate on-field comments into the stump microphones. Elgar believes the win is an important step forward for his side, who have lost a host of experienced players to retirement in recent years.

Head wrestles back control for Australia (ESPNCRICNFO) - An accomplished century from Travis Head wrested back control for Australia on an entertaining first day of the fifth and final Ashes Test, which was ultimately curtailed by rain. It must have felt like three steps forward, 224 back for England as Australia slumped to 3 for 12 inside the first 10 overs then recovered to 6 for 236 by the time Cameron Green fell, shortly before steady drizzle halted play in the third session of the day-night fixture in Hobart. After a particularly fruitless day for Mark Wood, he employed shortball tactics to finally prise out a dan-

gerous-looking Green and offer some hope for the tourists. Green had played an excellent innings, unfurling some breath-taking cover drives en route to his 74, but it was Head - with whom he shared a 121-stand for the fifth wicket who stole the show. Returning to the side after his COVID-19 enforced absence in Sydney, Head scored his second century of the series - this one off just 112 balls before falling to the very next delivery, chipping Chris Woakes to Ollie Robinson at mid-on to fall for 101. Head screamed "No!" as the ball looped up off the bat for a soft dismissal to give England a much-needed break-

through shortly before the tea break and, had he managed to stick around, Australia's claims to have won the day would have been reinforced. As it happened, the hosts finished the day in a far better position than had seemed likely in the first 90 minutes or so. With England having won the toss on a green pitch providing movement off the seam early, Robinson returned after missing the drawn fourth Test at the SCG and cashed in. He had David Warner out for a 22-ball duck with a delivery that was just back of a length and just outside off to find a decent edge, taken by Zak Crawley at second slip.

Sakuna Liyanage stroked a classy 85 for Sri Lanka

off a decent batting expo from the young Asian side. Bowling for the Scottish was led by right-arm seamer Sean Fischer-Keogh who returned 3 for 56. Help came from Jack Jarvis and Oliver Davidson who snapped up 2 wickets apiece. Jarvis then returned with the bat to almost be the hero of the day, smashing 55 with 3 sixes and as many fours, but came up short in the end as Scotland could muster only 178 inside 49 overs. The chase looked positive for Scotland, who had 7 players reach double-figure scores, including 5 in the top 7. After a good show with the ball, opener Davidson (15) and his partner Charlie Tear (17) got things going before losing their way. Samuel Elston (13), Tomas McIntosh (19), Lyle

Roberson (14) and Charlie Peet (10) were the others to reach double figures but were not equipped for the skill and class of the left-arm spinner Wellalage and company. The surface and the seawall breeze played well into the craft of Wellalage who bagged wickets at the start, middle and back end of the innings to keep his team in a dominant position and give them the momentum as they prepare for their next challenge. Action continues today at Providence with India battling South Africa, while Ireland play Uganda at Everest. Over in Trinidad and Tobago, PNG will tackle Zimbabwe while UAE and Canada will meet at the Conaree Sports Club, St Kitts. (Clifton Ross)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

Weak batting plagues West Indies again

(CMC) – Captain Ackeem Auguste struck a half-century but West Indies Under-19 remained haunted by their batting woes, and slumped to a six-wicket defeat to Australia Under-19 in their opening match of the ICC Under-19 World Cup on here yesterday. In a hugely disappointing start to their campaign but a continuation of their recent form, the hosts could muster only 169 all out in the 41st over at the Guyana National Stadium, with the left-handed Auguste stroking a fluent 57 from 67 deliveries. Wicketkeeper Rivaldo Clarke chipped in with 37 from 42 balls while McKenny Clarke arrived late to smash a swift 29 from 35 deliveries. In reply, opener Teague Wyllie carved out a compact, unbeaten 86 as Australia Under-19 strolled to their target in the 46th over. Nivethan Radhakrishnan followed up his earlier three-wicket haul with 31 while Cooper Connolly made 23 after also taking a three-wicket haul with his left-arm spin. Entering the contest on the back of defeats in their two warm-up matches, West Indies Under-19 needed a strong performance especially with the bat but none was forthcoming. In fact, they crashed to 12 for three in the sixth over after Matthew Nandu edged the second ball of the morning from Tom Whitney (320) and was caught behind

McKenny Clarke hits out during his breezy 29 down the order against Australia Under-19s yesterday

without scoring, and Teddy Bishop (5) and Shaqkere Parris (4) followed cheaply. With a half-century in the last warm-up, Auguste extended his decent form, hitting eight fours as he put on 95 with Rivaldo Clarke whose knock included four fours. However, all their hard work went to waste as the duo of Radhakrishnan and Connolly ripped through the middle- and lower-order to send the last seven wickets tumbling for 62 runs. Rivaldo Clarke drove Radhakrishnan loosely to mid-off in the 22nd over, Giovonte Depeiza missed a straight one and was lbw in the next over to Connolly without scoring before Rising Stars lost the key wicket of Auguste, holing out to deep square off Connolly in the 25th over. Arriving at number nine, McKenny Clarke opened his shoulders with two fours and three sixes to gather precious runs towards the end for his

side. Fast bowler Johann Layne then produced an early strike for the hosts, getting Corey Miller to play on without scoring in the third over, before his new-ball pace partner Shiva Sankar had Isaac Higgins (9) caught at the wicket in the eighth over at 21 for two. Any hopes of making further inroads were stymied by Willie, however, the right-hander facing 129 balls and counting eight fours while adding 53 for the third wicket with Connolly and 75 for the fourth wicket with Radhakrishnan. By the time Nandu had Radhakrishnan taken at point from his off-spin in the 39th over, victory was out of West Indies Under-19’s grasp and Willie took the Australians safely over the line. Rising Stars face Scotland Under-19s in their second outing at Warner Park in St Kitts and Nevis on Monday.

SCOREBOARD

WEST INDIES U19 innings

AUSTRALIA U19 innings

S. Parris lbw b Salzmann 4 M. Nandu c wkp. Snell b Whitney 0 T. Bishop c wkp. Snell b Whitney 5 R. Clarke c Higgins b Radhakrishnan 37 A. Auguste c Kellaway b Connolly 57 G. Depeiza lbw b Connolly 0 A. Mahase b Radhakrishnan 6 J. Layne b Radhakrishnan 12 M. Clarke c Radhakrishnan b Whitney 29 S. Sankar c & b Connolly 7 O. Amory not out 0

C. Miller b Layne 0 T. Wyllie not out 86 I. Higgins c wkp. R Clarke b Sankar 9 C. Connolly b Amory 23 N. Radhakrishnan c Mahase b Nandu 31 C. Kellaway not out 10 Extras: (lb-5, w-5) 10 Total: (4 wkts, 44.5 overs) 170 Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-21, 3-74, 4-149. Bowling: Layne 7-0-19-1, Shiva Sankar 7-0-34-1, M. Clarke 5-0-25-0, Amory 10-129-1, Mahase 7-0-29-0, Nandu 8.5-2-29-1. Result: Australia Under-19 won by six wickets. Player-of-the-Match: Teague Wyllie. Toss: West Indies Under-19.

Extras: (b-2, lb-2, w-7, nb-1) 12 Total: (all out, 40.1 overs) 169 Fall of wickets: 1-1, 2-12, 3-12, 4-107, 5-109, 6-112, 7-124, 8-131, 9-145. Bowling: Whitney 8.1-2-20-3, Salzmann 5-1-19-1, Cahill 3-0-13-0, Harkirat Bajwa 7-0-48-0, Nivethan Radhakrishnan 10-048-3, Connolly 7-1-17-3.

Misfiring West Indies must solve issues before tomorrow’s decider

CMC – A misfiring top order has left West Indies with issues to resolve ahead of Sunday’s decisive third One-Day International against Ireland, and captain Kieron Pollard is not opposed to trying new combinations as his side take aim at an important series win. In both matches at Sabina Park so far, the Caribbean side have suffered early collapses, slumping to 62 for four in 19th over in the opening ODI and then 111 for seven in the 34th over, before recovering on both occasions to get behind the 200-run mark. And with the usually prolific Shai Hope, newcomer Justin Greaves, Nicholas Pooran and Roston Chase all failing in both games, Pollard said thought would be given to how best to improve the top order for the decider. “It’s not something we have talked about just yet … but if that is something that after consideration and after consultation it’s something we think is best, then it’s something that we have to do,” Pollard said. “The definition of insanity is doing the same things over and over [and expecting a different result] so let’s see what happens over the next couple days.” He added: “There are things to work on in that dressing room but I think we need to put the pieces of the puzzle together pretty quickly from a batting perspective.” It was Pollard’s robust 69 along with debutant Shamarh Brooks’s silky 93 that hauled West Indies out of trouble in the first ODI, the pair adding a Sabina Park record fifth wicket stand of 155, to power their side to 269 and a 24-run win in the end. And though Brooks chipped in with 43 in the second match on Thursday, Pollard managed only one, and it was left to the rookie pair of Romario Shepherd (50) and Odean Smith (46) to bail West Indies out of trouble. Shepherd smashed seven fours in a 41-

West Indies captain Kieron Pollard

ball knock while Smith belted two fours and five sixes in a 19-ball stunner, the duo putting on a crucial 58 for the ninth wicket. While hailing both players, Pollard stressed it was important the specialist batsmen took responsibility for their performances. “Special praise must go to Romario Shepherd and Odean Smith,” noted Pollard. “These guys have gotten an opportunity to play cricket in the international arena and they’re coming out and showing the determination and the hunger. “Odean Smith in that situation I told him ‘just play your natural game’, and he went out and showed what he can do. “Sheppie, even when Odean came you saw the batsmanship, he took a back step and let Odean go for it.” He added: “As an individual and a batter, I take it on my chest – failing in this game – but I guess the rest of the guys, they have to do that [as well].”

ICC Under-19 World Cup 2022 …

Sri Lanka trounce Scotland by 40 runs at Everest

A ROBUST knock of 85 from middle-order batter Sakuna Liyanage, coupled with 4 wickets from spinner Dunith Wellalage, helped Sri Lanka U19 romp to an easy 40-run win over Scotland yesterday at the Everest Cricket Club (ECC) ground. The Camp Road venue came alive as match two had a bit of sizzle due to both young teams looking good during their opening round contest, with the Asians drawing first blood. Batting first, Sri Lanka posted 218 all out despite the lone run-a-ball half-century from Liyanage. Opener Chamindu Wickramasinghe hit 28, Sadisha Rajapaksa 24, and 30 from lower-order batter Raveen De Silva capped

Dunith Wellalage spun webs around the Scottish at Everest yesterday TURN TO PAGE 34

Weak batting plagues West Indies again

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 15, 2022

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35 McKenny Clarke hits out during his breezy 29 down the order against Australia Under-19s yesterday

The presentation ceremony at Crown Mining on Church Street earlier this week

Almost 40 to play Crown Mining golf competition today ALMOST 40 golfers are expected to play today’s Crown Mining medal play golf competition at the Lusignan Golf Club course. According to information from the club, up to yesterday afternoon, 36 persons had registered for the 18-hole competition - the first for 2022. Tee-off time is 12:30hrs and golfers will take part in a shotgun start. There will be three flights: for golfers with handicaps of nine and under; for golfers with handicaps of 10-18 and for golfers with handicaps of 19-36. Prizes will be given to the best net finishers in each flight, while the champion would be decided by the golfer with the best overall net score. Prizes will also be awarded to the second and third best overall net finishers and the best gross scorer.

Golfers can also win nearest to the pin on hole number four and the longest drive on hole number five. At the tournament’s launch earlier this week, Executive Manager of Crown Mining, Nadine Persaud, handed over the sponsor’s cheque to the Lusignan Golf Club treasurer Maxim Mangra, and expressed the company’s commitment to continue its almost decade-long partnership with the Lusignan Golf Club. LSG vice-president Paton George was on hand to thank Crown Mining on behalf of the management and members for its continuous commitment. Meanwhile, it was announced that a sample of Crown Mining’s TOLSEN power tools and construction equipment would be on display at the golf course today.

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SATURDAY, JANUARY 15, 2022