Issuu

MONDAY 22nd March, 2021

' No.106308

Border patrol ‘beefed up’

...to curb spread of COVID-19

...more soldiers, people’s militia to patrol Regions 8 & 9

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03 08

CJIA ‘lands’ Guyana $491M since reopening See story on page 02

These aircraft were recently observed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport at Timehri, East Bank Demerara – a sign that the aviation sector is on the road to recovery (Photo courtesy of Av. Trainer_JK CJIA)

President Ali pays final respects to murdered Sophia boy 09 PAGE

While guests were ‘sporting’ at her ‘kangan’

…UG graduate was writing ‘finals’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

CJIA ‘lands’ Guyana $491M since reopening –– arrivals top 43,000, but strict COVID-19 measures remain in place

By Navendra Seoraj AFTER being rattled by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and “squeezed dry” because of the necessary restrictions instituted to curb the spread

of the disease, the aviation sector is on the road to recovery, with the Cheddi Jagan Internaitonal Airport raking in over $491 million since its reopening in October 2020. International travel had

taken a dent especially in the early stages of the pandemic, since other countries closed their borders to protect citizens and reduce the risk of having imported cases. In Guyana, the two international airports, the Cheddi Jagan

International Airport (CJIA) and the Eugene F. Correia International Airport, were closed to incoming commercial international flights on March 18, 2020, after Guyana recorded its first COVID-19 case on March 11. The airports were initially scheduled to close for a twoweek period, however, as cases in the country significantly increased, the closure continued to be extended. But the new government, after an analysis of the situation, thought it best to reopen the airports on October 5, 2020, under strict conditions aimed at reducing the possibility of Guyana recording imported cases of COVID-19. According to information shared with the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday, the sector, since being carefully reopened, has shown positive signs. Studies show that the most direct activities associated with aviation create G$20.7 billion in annual economic activity. This represents 3.2 per cent of Guyana’s total gross domestic product (GDP). Moreover, nearly 12,000 Guyanese jobs are supported

Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill

by the aviation industry, the majority in either transportation or tourism. This accounts for nearly one in twenty jobs in Guyana. Air passengers also generate roughly G$1.7 billion in travel tax revenue for the government. Owing to the pervasive pandemic and the control measures, not just in Guyana, but also across the world, the aviation sector is not expected to “bounce back” fully; however, once there is consistent travel, a positive outcome is still possible. This positivity is already

visible locally, with arrivals topping 43,000 passengers since the reopening of CJIA. The Guyana Chronicle was reliably informed that total passenger movement was 84,728, with 40,742 persons departing and 43,986 arriving. Additionally, international aircraft landings totalled 1,007 for the period in review. In September, prior to the reopening of the airports, aviation in Guyana was down by 89 per cent; this was a slight recovery from the 92 per cent decline in May 2020. This ‘slight recovery’ was due mainly to domestic travel, which continued throughout the pandemic, but under ‘strict’ guidelines. In a previous interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lt. Col. (Ret’d), Egbert Field, had said: “The aviation industry shrunk by over 80 per cent within the past few months, and that is not only due to flights coming into and landing in Guyana, but because the over-flights were tremendously reduced as well. TURN TO PAGE

Border patrol ‘beefed up’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

...to curb spread of COVID-19

...more soldiers, people’s militia to patrol Regions 8 & 9 By Vishani Ragobeer AMID concerns over the continued illegal crossings from Brazil, where there is a high prevalence of COVID-19 cases, patrols and checkpoints at the Guyana/Brazil border at Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) will be increased in a bid to reduce the importation of COVID-19 cases. Last Wednesday, members of the National COVID-19 Task Force (NCTF) engaged the regional authorities and residents in Regions Eight and Nine; this was done as part of efforts geared at intensifying monitoring of the porous and expansive Guyana/Brazil border. While there, the enforcement of the National COVID-19 guidelines and other issues, such as trafficking in persons, were discussed. “One of our missions is to restrict cross border movement at the Takutu Bridge and at illegal crossing points at the Guyana/Brazil border in order to prevent any new strains of COVID-19 from coming into Guyana,” Director of the NCTF, Colonel Nazrul Hussain, told the Guyana Chronicle subsequently. Since March last year, the border between Guyana and Brazil has been closed as part of efforts to mitigate the spread of the novel coronavirus, and, earlier this year, flights from Brazil ceased. Though these restrictions were instituted, trade has been permitted but only on Thursdays via the Takutu Bridge, which is the official crossing between the two countries. The size of the border has allowed persons to travel across using several ‘back track’ routes or illegal crossings. Cognisant of this, Colonel Hussain noted that the

Task Force would be increasing the number of soldiers monitoring the border and adding several new checkpoints. “We plan to use the ranks of the Guyana People’s Militia to be able to assist in this regard… and we will be mobilising the local ranks from the Guyana Police Force because we will be increasing the force in the area,” Colonel Hussain also highlighted. While he did not disclose the location of the checkpoints, for obvious security reasons, Colonel Hussain noted that focus will be placed

A gate and COVID-19 checkpoint constructed at the front of the community of Saurab, which is the gateway to the ‘Deep South’ (Vishani Ragobeer photo)

Officers who are now monitoring the Takutu Bridge in Region Nine (Upper takutu-Upper Essequibo)

on monitoring the national border and internal travel in both regions. “We will also be doing similar activities in Region Eight to take care of border villages like Orinduik and Kanapan and in Region Nine, areas including Karasabai, Aishalton and inland at Annai,” the NCTF Director explained. In tandem with the size of the manpower to be tapped for this operation, several modes of transportation will be used to police the border and in-region travelling. These include pickups, ATVs, boats, drones, bikes and horseback patrol. Importantly, the Colonel not-

ed that while there will be a ‘crackdown’ on travelling, the NCTF is cognisant that a large portion of the economic activity and sustenance of the two regions depend on engagement with Brazil. As such, the trade between the two countries will be allowed to continue but it will be robustly monitored by the National Task Force, including the Regional Task Forces, the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and Immigration authorities. The Colonel emphasised, “At the end of the day, you want to be able to protect them (the residents) and the country but still allow them to sustain themselves with

A stakeholders’ meeting with members of the National COVID-19 Task Force on Wednesday

food supplies, do business, construction and so forth.” But the local authorities, including the police officers who are spearheading Operation ‘Covicurb’, will ensure that all COVID-19 guidelines, such as social distancing, wearing masks and adequate sanitisation, are enforced. Guyana’s south and south-western border is shared with Brazil and while communities in Region Nine and to a lesser extent, Region Eight, have enjoyed fruitful engagements with that country, the COVID-19 pandemic has presented a worrying situation. Many Guyanese have taken up residence in the bordering areas in Brazil.

Since last year, however, Brazil has recorded 293,000 COVID deaths while more than 12 million persons have been infected with the coronavirus. More recently, there has been the emergence of newer variants of Sar-Cov-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) known as the P1 and P2 variants in Brazil. These variants are reportedly more transmissible, which means that more persons can become infected, and the P1 variant, in particular, has the ability to partially escape from protective immune responses produced by current COVID-19 vaccines. ILLEGAL CROSSINGS In January, the Regional

CJIA ‘lands’ Guyana $491M since ... “The impact on the aviation industry, both locally and globally, was devastating, because you could not travel due to closure of airports. And apart from that, a number of states were locked down; nobody moved into that state or out; the state was locked down. For instance, there was lockdown in London, Paris and so on; practically no movement between countries. And that is what aviation is all about; moving from one state to another.” The aviation expert explained that when

a country is locked down, as was the case in many of them during the early stages of the pandemic, there is no aviation movement, and no aviation business. As a result, many airlines filed bankruptcy, retrenched staff, and even had to “shut shop” completely. And, while there has been some level of travel globally, a study done by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) titled, “Effects of Novel Coronavirus on Civil Aviation: Economic Impact Analysis”, shows

that airlines could suffer aggregately a loss of close to US$343 billion in gross passenger operating revenue. Guyana, however, is hoping to stay afloat by gradually increasing traffic through its ports under strict COVID-19 guidelines. Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, commended aviation stakeholders for the work they have done so far, especially in ensuring that the necessary arrangements are in place to protect not only employees, but the

Chairman of Region Nine, Brian Allicock, voiced his concerns over the illegal crossings between Guyana and Brazil. Allicock related that many of the illegal crossings occur at night, where, despite the best efforts to patrol the area by the armed forces and community policing groups, travellers are able to “slip through”. He also highlighted that many of the persons who cross illegally travel in “cliques” that allow them to better maneuver the border restrictions. Earlier in March, when the Guyana Chronicle travelled to the ‘Deep South’ area in Region Nine, the South Rupununi District Council (SRDC) had already taken steps to ensure that the spread of COVID-19 was mitigated in the region. In Aishalton and at several other communities, gates were erected at the entrance to the communities to monitor and record travel, allowing the village councils to engage in its own contact tracing, if need be. The gate monitors — which are women from the village — are tasked with recording the names and temperature of each person. At Saurab, which is the gateway to the ‘Deep South’, there is a fixed checkpoint too. Here, all vehicles heading into the Deep Southwhere there have not been any COVID-19 cases- are checked for foreigners. Recently, however, three COVID-19 cases were discovered in Sand Creek, in the South Rupununi area. According to information from the SRDC, two of these cases were imported from Brazil while one was imported from Georgetown. The community is currently in a two-week lockdown, whereby travel by bus into or out of the community is not permitted.

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flying public. “And, while we look forward to a full reopening of the sector, there would be no slacking up of measures,” Minister Edghill affirmed in an invited comment on Sunday. Airlines flying to Guyana include American Airlines, Eastern Airlines, Caribbean Airlines and Copa Airlines. Trans Guyana Airways, a local airline, has also been flying to and from Barbados.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

While the guests were ‘sporting’ at her ‘kangan’ … UG graduate was writing ‘finals’

By Rehana Ahamad AS she stared at the exam questions on the computer screen, Vedo Mohan-Bisnauth was slightly distracted by the sounds of Vanita Willie’s ‘Poowah’ playing next door, where her ‘kangan’ celebrations were in full-swing. A ‘kangan’ is a religious term that is used to describe the third day of celebrations during a Hindu wedding. “At one point, I even stopped to sing for a bit,” the newly wed recalled. And even though she was tempted to “swing she waist”, she kept remembering her mother’s advice of there being “a time and place fuh everything”, and that afternoon of August 10, 2020 was time for her final examination, the results of which would determine the

success of her journey towards attaining a Bachelor Degree in Early Childhood Education, and ultimately advancing her career as an educator. The 26-year-old Golden Fleece, West Coast Berbice resident has been a teacher attached to Perth Nursery School in Branch Road, Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara, for nine years. Her employment would mark the realisation of a treasured childhood dream. “Growing up I always wanted to be a teacher. I used to play teacher in my neighborhood and teach the smaller children,” a candid Mrs. Mohan-Bisnauth told the Guyana Chronicle during an interview on Sunday. Once she was hired, the young woman wasted no time in enrolling at the Cyril Potter College of Education where she studied for two years. “I [later] became an assistant mistress at Perth Nursery School in 2015,” Mohan-Bisnauth related. She then moved on to pursue her degree at the University of Guyana (UG). “My journey wasn’t an easy one. It consisted of many long days and sleepless nights,” the young teacher recalled. Although she resided in Berbice, Mohan-Bisnauth was enrolled at

UG’s Turkeyen Campus; as a result, she was forced into a life of daily and lengthy travel. “I had to be on the road since 6:15am and get a car to UG because they were making the four-lane [East Coast Demerara highway] and the traffic used to be terrible in the mornings. I decided to take cars to UG despite the fares being much higher than taking a bus.” On the days when exams were being held, Mohan-Bisnauth would be forced to leave home much earlier. “Whenever my husband, who was my boyfriend back then, is available he would take me to class or sometimes pick me up. Sometimes he would take me and wait on me for three or more hours,” she related. When COVID-19 struck, Vedo’s parents were somewhat relieved that their young daughter would no longer have to commute at nights. “They would call my phone all time especially if they know that there isn’t any bus at the park. They would get so worried,” the

a lot more sacrifice,” Mohan-Bisnauth admitted. Nonetheless, as the months went by, she would adapt to the new system. Soon after, her boyfriend would become her fiancé, and wedding plans commenced in high spirits.

Vedo Mohan-Bisnauth, draped in the colours of her success young graduate recalled. However, even though studying in the comforts of her home might have seemed ideal, the young teacher said that it brought on its unique challenges, both as a teacher, and as a student. “Some online classes weren’t fun and it would just throw you off track. I really had to keep my focus on. Then, if it’s blackout the entire class session is missed. I hated that...I had to balance my studies and it came with

NUPTIAL NIGHT TRADED FOR STUDIES “When everything was coming closer and I would say ‘gosh, there’s so much work to be done in limited time,’ my sisters would tell me ‘you got this, I know you can do it.’ My husband was always there for me; he would ask me when my exam is and when were the due dates for my assignments. He made sure I have time to complete my work, even if it meant we had to cancel all our dates,” a smiling Mohan-Bisnauth related. She noted that just as the wedding date approached, her final examinations followed. “Actually, the exam was scheduled for my wedding day. I froze when the lecturer announced the date. My colleagues told him that exam can’t be on that day because a student is getting married. The lecturer

After completing her final exam, ‘Vedo’ returned to enjoy her ‘kangan’ couldn’t believe. In fact, right after class I messaged him personally and told him it was me who was getting married. I sent him an invitation for evidence,” the young woman related. Reflecting on her wedding night, ‘Vedo’ said her peace of mind rested on her doing some amount of studying, so she opened her books and began to read. After what seemed like a moment, morning came and it was ‘E’ Day; not elections day, but the day of her final examination. “It was very challenging, because my in-laws’ internet was down and I had to go over to their neighbour’s house to use their internet. It wasn’t ideal, but that didn’t stop me,” Mohan-Bisnauth assured. She added, “My husband kept coming to check on me to make sure that I was getting through with everything and so.” After a few hours of fighting off the temptations to burst into song and dance, the young woman was finally able to complete, review, and submit her test answers on time. When the results were released, Mohan-Bisnauth was contented with grades. She was pleased to know that even amid all the distractions and commotions, she was able to pass with Credit. Vedo, a first-generation degree holder, said that her successes were not all hers, since she had a solid support system that stood behind her every step of the way. “My family is really my true support. They were always there for me. I am thankful for them. My mom and dad would wait up for me every night; they never went to bed until I’m home,” Mohan-Bisnauth said. Asked about her next step, the newly-wed said that she plans to take a break from studying to enjoy spending time with her loved ones. Her advice to her peers is, “Opportunities only come once; take it.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

UG observes ‘International Day against Racism’ IN observance of “International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination” on Sunday, the University of Guyana (UG), in collaboration with the United Nations (UN) has planned a series of activities to commemorate the event. The activities include a virtual panel discussion, a free one-week UG Human Relations course, and a presentation on “Time for Youths to Unite Against Racism and Make Justice for All A Global Reality” by the UG Chancellor, Professor Edward Greene. The International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination is observed annually on the day the police in Sharpeville, South Africa, opened fire and killed 69 people at a peaceful demonstration against apartheid "pass laws" in 1960. In 1979, the UN General Assembly adopted a programme of activities to be undertaken during the second half of the Decade for Action to Combat Racism and Racial Discrimination. On that occasion, the General Assembly decided that a week of solidarity with the people struggling against racism and racial discrimination, beginning on 21 March, would be organised annually in all States. This year, the event is being celebrated under the theme “Youth standing up against racism”. In Guyana, the activities started off on Sunday with a UG Clubs on Campus Virtual Panel Discussion, which featured a moderated conversation involving five UG students, who shared their perspectives about “What do we mean by race?”, and “How do we experience or exhibit prejudice or discrimination?” The panel included 23-year-old medical rehabilitation student, Elton Newton, who is of mixed Amerindian and Japanese descent; 20-year-old Junisha Johnny, who is of Amerindian descent; UG Biology and Chemistry Club executive, Ezikiel Alleyne, and Deneka Francis, both of whom are Afro Guyanese; and 19-yearold aspiring Cardiovascular Surgeon, Tameshwar Rajaram, who is Indo-Guyanese. Sunday’s moderators were former UG Student Society (UGSS) President, Devta Ramroop; current UGSS executive, Marissa Scott, and 24-year-old physiotherapist, entrepreneur and start-up consultant, Malcolm

Wills. Among those who participated and gave remarks at the end of the webinar were UG Vice Chancellor, Dr. Paloma Mohamed-Martin, and UN Resident Coordinator, Mikiko Tanaka. Tanaka commended the hosting of the panel discussion, pointing out the importance of discussing racism in society. “It was a great discussion and being able to have this kind of open conversation is so important. And at the end of the day, whatever society you’re in, it’s the people that need to shape the value, and at the end of the day, all of this racism and inequality relate to the basic principles of human rights that every individual should be valued equally and have equal rights. We hope to work with the university to stimulate and continue these discussions,” Tanaka remarked. Members of the panel also shared their experiences about racism they would have faced. Newton recalled being labelled derogatory terms because of his Japanese heritage. Johnny shared her thoughts on perceived stereotypes of indigenous people in Guyana and how members of the indigenous community also contribute to perpetuating the racism against themselves by not addressing it. Francis, aspiring Marine Biologist, said she was discriminated against while taking public transportation; she also touched on stereotypes relating to employment options that persons often relegate her race to. Rajaram shared his experiences of being discriminated against by teachers and members of society because of his race and his body weight. The university’s activities continue with the UG Human Relations Course (UGH1101) which will run from March 21 - 28, and persons can register at https://uog.edu.gy/courses/ ugh1101-human-relations. The presentation by UG Chancellor, Professor Edward Greene, is set for Tuesday from 10am – 12pm, and persons can register at https://zoom.us/webinar/ register/WN_OR6bRjWdTnuDjOQNCPF3VA. The university will also be hosting a “Peace Tree Planting Exercise” on Friday, March 26. However, this activity, which will run from 10am – 11am, will be for special invitees only.

Three more COVID deaths GUYANA recorded three more COVID-19 deaths at the weekend, taking the overall death toll to 217 since the first case was recorded in March 2020. Thus far, 18 persons have now died for this month. According to information provided by the Ministry of Health, a 70-year-old female from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) died on Saturday while she was being treated at a medical facility. On Sunday, the Guyana Chronicle was reliably informed that a 50-year-old man from Campbellville, Georgetown, and a 69-yearold man from Kitty, Georgetown, succumbed to the disease. Their deaths are not reflected in the Ministry’s COVID-19 Dashboard for March 21. Meanwhile, 64 new cases were recorded from 996 tests conducted. These new cases were recorded in Regions Three (five cases), Four (43 cases), Six (one case), Seven (12 cases), Nine (one case) and 10 (two cases). The newly infected persons are 18 men and 46 women. Importantly, nine more persons have recovered after being diagnosed with COVID-19, taking the overall number of recoveries to 8,498. The total number of persons diagnosed with this disease since March last year is 9,649. There are 12 persons in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU), 57 persons in institutional isolation, 867 persons in home isolation and 13 persons in institutional quarantine. This means that there are 949 active cases in Guyana. All Guyanese are urged to observe the protocols of the COVID-19 emergency measures, which emphasise the need for correct and consistent use of a face mask when leaving home, the importance of maintaining the six-foot physical distance from others, and the need for good hand hygiene to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. If you or anyone you know is displaying any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or need any additional information, kindly contact the COVID-19 Hotline 231-1166, 226-7480 or 624-6674 immediately or visit the Ministry of Health at www. health.gov.gy

–– 64 new cases recorded

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

Progress within a pristine planet

EMERGING developing nations around the world today face a different playing field than did the old industrial giants of the 20th century global village, and this is an important consideration that directly impacts Guyana’s development agenda. Although it may seem to be an unfair imbalance in the way that mankind holds up certain values for one set of nations and different values for others, the new worldview emerging in this century is a real factor, and cannot be ignored or circumvented. Today, 21st century progressive thinking pushes global development to consider the full ramifications of humane socioeconomic progress, rather than just raw economic growth, with even the old measurements of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) undergoing a major shift in how the planet’s overall wealth is gauged. In fact, the new way aligns well with Dr Cheddi Jagan’s thesis for a New Global Human Order, which the United Nations has adopted. Global leaders are working hard behind the scenes to prepare for the Glasgow Climate Conference in November, with the main goal and monumental ambition to cause a rapid transformation of mass consciousness across the international arena, away from that old way of seeing only raw economics, to a new way of placing clean climate measurements at the heart and core of development and progress across the planet. This applies to countries, companies, and communities; the full gamut of human society. For the first time in human history

there is a serious global movement of influential world leaders to cause mankind to live for a humane world, with the earth’s natural environment the uppermost accounting measurement in how progress is gauged, quantified and measured. The Climate Conference is the 26th annual conference of the United Nations Conference of the Parties, called COP26, and organises a worldwide gathering of political leaders, business tycoons, and influential organisation heads from all over the world, to map out the new way of doing things in the world, with the main goal of causing a shift across the global village for development and progress to move away from the bare, raw, detached numbers of economic considerations, to always measure progress only in terms of impact on the global climate, on the pristine planet. Guyana stands at a beautiful place in this emerging world scene, as a net-clean climate generator with upwards of 80 per cent of its natural forests intact, and as a major emerging global oil-and-gas producer. Guyana’s contribution to this new world order could well be to show the global village how these two seeming contradictory development paths could converge and complement each other, and lead to progress, peace and prosperity, while preserving the planet’s pristine nature, without compromising the earth’s integrity for sustaining life and maintaining a thriving natural ecosystem. Much of the Guyanese leadership for

this resides in the hands of Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo, whose work within the natural environment movement is wellknown around the world. His presence on the international stage as an advocate for sustainable development is second to none in the Caribbean, and his leadership on the local scene with the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS) equips him with the leadership acumen and knowledge to take on this agenda for this country. More importantly, the government’s job is to fit Guyana within the new global framework on how development and progress happen, and how it is all measured and how accounting integrity aligns with ensuring that the single most important goal is a pristine planet, rather than mere raw economic boom. COP26 aims to bring global influential leaders together to ensure that the Paris Agreement goals are achieved with positive results. This Climate Conference is different from past ones, in that it moves away from imposing mandates on countries to implement the goals of the Paris Agreement. This strategy of mandated imposition was not working, with significant pushback and even protests disrupting plans and projects to implement the goals at national levels. At the COP26 gathering, a new way is rolling out, one that seeks to cause a shift in how mankind sees development and progress, whereby the underlying value that development and progress should aim for, and the accounting measurements

that tell this story, should align more with a pristine planet than with profits and the bottom line. What good, in other words, is a company or country or community that declares profits and black ink instead of red at the end of the financial year, if the pristine planet suffers irreparable damage from that profitable operation? COP26 in 2021 is marking over a quarter of a century since the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change commenced positioning global consciousness towards a more humane global order that aims solely for sustainability and preservation of the ecosystem, one that positions people to see only a pristine planet, rather than polished playthings that damage the earth’s natural ecosystem. No longer can countries aim for mere industrialisation and building out industrial development, with concrete and steel marking the path of progress, as Europe and North America did over the past 100 years of the Industrial Age. In the new world, progress and development must align with preservation of the pristine planet, and for emerging developing nations such as Guyana, and even the big ones such as South Africa, China, India, Brazil and Russia, this new consideration which will be a new mass consciousness that could start sweeping the world by this year-end, would determine how the future unfolds and what the road ahead looks like as progress takes on a new face across the earth.

GECOM must take necessary, critical, and decisive actions now Dear Editor, IN the build-up to, and during the March 2, 2020, General and Regional Elections, a distasteful malady enveloped and attenuated national and international confidence in the body with constitutional responsibility for conducting what must be its most sacrosanct undertakings. Sadly, the snail’s pace of addressing causal factors and remedying obvious failures are still to be purposefully addressed, and these are likely to have dire consequences if not swiftly and effectively dealt with. It must be a strong matter of concern to those involved at the commission level, that much public evidence exists, together with the prosecution of several of its key officials, fuelling the highest levels of mistrust and doubts. Unless their functionality is driven by extra-terrestrial considerations, our GECOM Chairwoman and Commissioners must be aware of the broad public conviction, and the perception that the roles played by its contaminated officials in the Secretariat resulted in glaring attempts to derail the elections by delivering concocted and false results. There is also no doubt that public rationale and analogy, assure that had it not been for the strong stand taken by the international community together with the never die position of the combined opposition, democracy in Guyana would have died for at least the next few decades. GECOM has become a ‘sore-eye’ and an enigma to which our citizens demand an

immediate solution. Definitively, no coverups in this respect will be tolerated. Yet, the required strong, appropriate, and necessary corrective measures have not been demonstrated or sufficiently signalled to assure our nation of another similar future debacle. It is, therefore, imperative that the Chairwoman and Commissioners of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), act now to quell the massive distrust and win the confidence of the nation. GECOM must provide assurances that the institution with the necessary changes, in purposeful pursuit of conducting free and fair Local Government Elections and providing credible results. Guyanese are not prepared to accept the pussy-footing of GECOM on the serious issues concerning the known employees whose actions are seen in the eyes of the public at home and abroad, as ‘riggers’ of elections. The blatant and barefaced officials who are now before the courts, must be removed immediately from the GECOM payroll. Guyanese are even more vocal now and justified in demanding that the Chairperson of GECOM get rid of all those riggers. They have placed this nation under duress for five long months, and are disappointingly continuing to receive their big salaries together with drivers and security protection. The widespread condemnation of a most disgraceful GECOM Secretariat established the disproportionate and biasedly imposed discretion by staff with administrative latitude, at the 2020 Elections. The European Union Mission report revealed that GECOM failed to take

decisive action as the electoral process derailed into chaos and illegality. It states that “GECOM abdicated its constitutional duty to take all actions necessary to ensure compliance with the law by any of its officials, despite unequivocal powers to remove and exercise disciplinary control over them.” The report further contends that “With confidence in GECOM already undermined by limited inclusiveness and transparency, the post-election crisis exposed a dysfunctional commission unable to control its administration.” The obvious question is why is the Commission and its Chairwoman moving so slowly to correct the ‘slow poison’ which the body can be treated. It is known that the EU Observer Mission made several recommendations in its report that are expected to contribute to the necessary reform of Guyana’s Electoral system. While some elements require broader levels of consultations towards necessary legislative amendments outside of GECOM’s Control, there is no evidence emerging from the Commission led by Chairwoman Justice (retired) Madam Claudette Singh, of a willingness to assert the mantle of control over its Secretariat. Failure to act promptly must be viewed as an absolute aberration of responsibility, that is tantamount to its CEO Keith Lowenfield’s astringent and suffocating agenda. Editor, with Local Government Elections due, we are yet to see if the muscles of the 2020 handicapped commission will remain constricted by the apparent Lowenfield’s tentacles. He

misused and abused the allowed administrative leverage as the Secretariat’s CEO, which was the source of all the frustration and ills that took place over those unforgettable five months. The time is opportune for the GECOM Commissioners to put a motion to the next meeting of the Commission, to dismiss Keith Lowenfield promptly. This is given his ‘lone ranger’ type public defiance to the commission and chairwoman that, certainly justifies the loss of confidence. Let us see how the votes will go in this respect since contemplated undercutting surprises must be met with the appropriate timely reactions. Significantly, the Carter Center noted that “the 2020 election was a true test of Guyana’s democracy, highlighting deep divides that persist in Guyanese society and the ways that the current political and electoral systems reinforce these divisions. It is critical that key leaders in Guyana now reach across the divide and work to ensure that fundamental electoral and constitutional reforms are completed as an urgent priority, well before the next election.” Notwithstanding, the paramountcy of purpose for engendering national confidence in the organisation’s implementation and, upholding electoral policies in a free, fair, and transparent manner resonates with GECOM. The Chairwoman and commissioners must therefore, move to demonstrate these ideals now!! Yours sincerely, Neil Kumar

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

DR. CHEDDI B. JAGAN: HIS LIFE AND TIMES, 1918-1997 By Tota Mangar Continued from Sunday’s edition SETBACKS Her Majesty Government, highly influenced by the local conservative elite and under considerable pressure from the American State Department, suspended the Constitution and overthrew the legally elected Dr Jagan’s Government after only 133 days in office, “ostensibly to prevent the establishment of a communist state in the only British colony on the South American continent.” Inexplicably, an interim Government comprising entirely of nominated members, many of whom were rejected at the 1953 polls was installed, in spite of mass protests. This development was indeed a tremendous blow to Dr Jagan and his nationalist movement, the PPP. After all he was unjustly and unceremoniously deposed under the guise of a communist threat. That was followed by intense harassment and detention of himself and his leading activists. In 1955, the party, Dr Jagan and the nation at large, received a further setback when the nationalist movement was fractured into two groups, a Jaganite and a Burnhamite PPP. Despite this split, Dr Jagan continued the arduous task of nation-building. This charismatic leader, with determination and persistence, led his party to successive victories at the 1957 and the1961 general elections and for a time he seemed certain to lead the country to political independence from Great Britain. Unfortunately, his administration and the country at large were gripped with violent demonstrations, riots, strikes and racial disturbances surrounding the 1962 Kaldor Budget and the 1963 Labour Relations Bill. This period clearly illustrated the turbulent waters the country had to endure. Loss of several lives and the destruction of properties and the dislocation of people to the tune of hundreds of dollars were the sad reality of life during this dark period of our country/s history. IN THE POLITICAL WILDERNESS [1964-1992] At the general elections of 1964 Dr Jagan lost power largely through the Duncan Sandys’ newly imposed electoral system of proportional representation. Even though his party polled the most votes a coalition of the People’s National Congress [PNC] and the United Force [UF] came into office. According to historian, Dr James Rose, the circum-

stances surrounding the December1964 elections were “one of the grossest acts of political betrayal in the history of British Imperialism.” As Prime Minister, Mr Burnham shouldered the responsibility of leading the country to independence while his former colleague and by then bitter rival, Dr Jagan, served as Opposition Leader. This post-1964 period of the nation’s political history saw Dr Jagan in opposition for the next twenty-eight years through circumstances beyond his control. He was the victim of successive brazenly and highly controversial elections during this time. But it would seem that those long years in the opposition brought out the very best of him in terms of commitment, grit and determination. To a large extent, despite tremendous odds he was able to keep his party intact and even solidify it. For a long time, he was the foremost voice “defying the debilitating autocracy which rigged successive elections to retain political power and party paramountcy.” At the same time, flawed economic policies and managerial inefficiencies, production decline, a depletion in foreign currency reserves, shortage of raw materials and spares and a growing national debt took its toll on the national economy. Migration of Guyanese to neighbouring Suriname, Venezuela and Brazil and to the Caribbean and North America increased at an alarming rate. Quite significantly, Dr Jagan utilised every available opportunity and forum- grassroots, legislature, university, international and global- to analyse the social, economic and political injustices manifest in his country at the time. He truly believed in unity as a means of attaining peace, progress and prosperity and he unceasingly sought to find novel ways and means of moulding a race and class alliance to effect national liberation. In pursuit of these objectives, Dr Jagan was instrumental in the formation of the Patriotic Coalition for Democracy [PCD]. The activities of that organisation, the trade union movement and other liberal forces and individuals, along with strong international support, eventually led to numerous electoral reforms which paved the way for the restoration of democracy in Guyana. RETURN TO POWER In October, 1992, under free and fair elections, internationally supervised, Dr Jagan made a historic and triumphant return to office, having been once more successful at the polls. This was indeed a remarkable

comeback and ample reward for the long years of unending sacrifice, struggle, courage, dedication and determination. In almost fairy-tale fashion he became Guyana’s first democratically elected President at the head of an innovative PPP/Civic government which began, in earnest, a process of restoration and reconstruction. Improvements were vigorously pursued in the area of physical infrastructure including sea defence projects, rehabilitation of drainage and irrigation systems, upgrading of roadways, bridge repairs and the construction of new health and education facilities. Progress was also made in rural potable water supply and electricity generation. No other political leader in the modern world of ours has successfully reemerged in power after such a prolonged period in the political wilderness. On this achievement Dr Jagan wrote, “our victory at the polls was greeted with nationwide rejoicing. The Guyanese people welcomed the new air of freedom and enthusiastically moved to support the new Government’s drive to rebuild the country”. In his later years he was in the forefront of the just call for a New Global Human Order and debt relief where poverty stricken Third World countries were concerned. This call did receive much sympathetic hearing from both donor countries and lending agencies. Unfortunately, Dr Jagan died on March 6, 1997 at the Walter Reed Army Hospital in Washington D.C. at a critical time in Guyana’s strenuous efforts to rebuild and consolidate democracy. His loss is immeasurable. Perhaps at this stage it is worthwhile to reflect on the words of his wife, Her Excellency, the late President Janet Jagan when she said: “He was not given the time to complete his dreams... to eradicate poverty, to build a strong and independent nation, to consolidate the democracy he had struggled to restore and above all to unite the nation.” CONCLUSION Dr Jagan is widely regarded as the Father of Our Nation. He moulded our political consciousness from the late colonial period. His life was one of unswerving dedication to the Guyanese people. In the face of grave difficulties, he championed the cause of national unity, social justice and economic development. He was a model of consistency and was a nationalist, regionalist and internationalist in every sense of

the word. While some did not understand his ideological message, they all understood and respected his honesty, sincerity, integrity, humility and abiding concern for the needy and oppressed. Dr Jagan was not only an exceptional political leader with attributes of sincerity, integrity and humility but he was an incredible political historian in his own right. His major works; WEST ON TRIAL, FORBIDDEN FREEDOM, THE CARIBBEAN REVOLUTION, THE CARIBBEAN WHOSE BACKYARD, THE USA IN SOUTH AMERICA, A NEW GLOBAL HUMAN ORDER and a host of other publications bear ample testimony to this. These sources are essential for the study of modern political history of Guyana, the Caribbean and Latin America and the third world in general. In the annals of modern history Dr Jagan’s career would certainly elicit comparisons with that of other great twentieth century leaders such as Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, Dr Martin Luther King,

Nelson Mandela, Jahawarlal Nehru, Jomo Kenyatta, Kwame Nkrumah and Julius Nyrere. This month of March

commemorates both the birth and death anniversaries of this remarkable son of Guyana. The name Cheddi Jagan lives on.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

Retired sergeant sets sight on master degree

By Rehana Ahamad

AFTER diligently serving the Guyana Police Force for almost 30 years, Charlene Phillips retired in January 2021 as a decorated police sergeant. As her retirement date drew near, reality dawned; Phillips would no

longer be part of the uniformed efforts to protect the nation. This meant that she needed an alternative outlet via which she could continue to serve her country and social work seemed like an ideal fit. After being inspired by former Commissioner of Po-

lice Leslie James, Phillips wasted no time in enrolling for the Social Work programme at the University of Guyana’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE). “He said these words to some ranks that he had engaged in a meeting when he was the Commander of ‘A’

Division...he said, ‘Go and get yourself enrolled at UG [University of Guyana]; go and take up some studies.’ I took up the challenge and I will continue until I get my master’s,” a determined Phillips told the Guyana Chronicle during an interview on Sunday.

Charlene Phillips has now ventured into serving her nation by way of social work

As her academic journey commenced, Phillips grew even more skilled at multitasking and ensuring a sense of balance in all areas of her life. When the novel coronavirus struck Guyana in March 2020, ‘Sarge’ was automatically placed in the at-risk category, but her role as a frontline worker meant that her commitment to the people of Guyana came first. Without hesitation, Phillips cast aside her fears and continued to effectively execute her functions as an officer of the law. “They were some cases where I forgot that there was a virus and still had persons up close who wanted that listening ear,” Phillips cringed. She recalled having to steer a tight ship to ensure that her ranks were safe as they too continued to ‘serve and protect.’ “While some [members of the public] were not into the wearing of any mask, I would advise my ranks to stand back, but still listen,” Phillips related. “All in all, I am thankful that for the period I was at work I pulled through,” she added. Phillips told the Guyana Chronicle that even though COVID-19 has put a strain on the entire world, it did not affect her studies and her life as a student. The New Amsterdam, Berbice resident said she was able to complete her courses before the novel coronavirus struck Guyana

in 2020. However, it was her duties and responsibilities as sergeant that clashed with her role as a student. “Being in charge as a subordinate officer in charge of a station, my functions [were] to see the day-to-day operations at [the] station. I always try to cover all the important areas and then run out to classes and return, once the task is not completed,” Phillips recalled. She said that even though pursuing a tertiary education was an integral part of her continuing to serve Guyana, her dedication to her then active profession was a means of honouring her family’s legacy of serving and protecting the people of Guyana. “I think it was in my DNA, because my dad and brother were firemen…I didn’t make up my mind, though, until I was 25,” Phillips disclosed. Reflecting on all the ups and downs that continue to characterise her life, the retired sergeant emphasised the impact her mother had in shaping the woman she is today. “My life growing up, in my family, my mom, although a single mother, had instilled some serious values in us; we never had the cause to go looking or seeking for anything, because she made sure that we had everything,” Phillips reflected. She said that her mother’s upbringing continues to reaffirm the importance of serving humanity and giving, whether in tangibles or in service. “One day she brought home a chocolate and we had additional family members visiting and my mom ensured that whatever we had was shared evenly among us. To this day that’s how it is,” Phillips said. In moving forward, the recent UG graduate indicated her plans to continue her education in the area of Guidance and Counselling. “I am presently preparing to do another programme,” she posited. Phillips said that her academic endeavours continue to benefit from the unwavering support of her children.

Wakenaam woman dies in fire THE Police are investigating the death of 79-year-old Bissoondai, known as Seema, whose charred remains were found in her Zealandia Estate, Wakenaam Island house on Sunday morning. One of the woman’s sons told police that she was last seen alive at around 05:45hrs on Sunday. At around 06:30hrs, another son, who lives next door, noticed smoke emanating from

the house and, upon checking, he found his mother on the floor engulfed in fire and a green kerosene stove at the side. The woman was taken to the Wakenaam Cottage Hospital where she was pronounced dead. The body is at the Wakenaam Cottage Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. Investigations are ongoing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

President Ali pays final respects to murdered Sophia boy

PRESIDENT IRFAAN ALI, on Sunday, joined the family and friends of the late Anthony Cort at Sandy’s Funeral Parlour to bid farewell to the 10-year-old whose life was tragically cut short on March 11. Cort was shot dead by bandits during a home invasion in ‘C’ field Sophia, Greater Georgetown. President Ali comforted Cort’s mother, Denise McPherson, and other relatives who gathered at the funeral home to say their final goodbyes. The President, in his brief remarks, said this is a time for all Guyanese to unite in prayers in support of the grieving family. “As a nation, let us come together and pray for this

family who tragically lost their loved one and for all of the other families who have also lost loved ones in this pandemic,” the Head-ofState was quoting as saying by the Office of the President. Home Affairs Minister, Robeson Benn and Foreign Affairs Minister, Hugh Todd, accompanied the President and also offered their condolences to the family. The Guyana Chronicle had reported that a now deceased Cort and his mother were at the home of a businesswoman when two armed men invaded the property and stole a quantity of cash and jewellery. Cort was in the upper flat and a number of persons

Dead: Anthony Cort

were in the bottom flat at the time of the robbery. According to reports, the bandits ordered the victims to the upper flat of the house. The boy reportedly exited a bedroom at the same time and one of

President Irfaan Ali, comforting the lad’s mother (Office of the President photo)

the bandits opened fire, hitting him in the left shoulder. Realising it was only a child, the bandits fled the scene, jumping the back fence of the yard, making

good their escape. Emergency services were summoned and they pronounced the child dead at the scene. A 16-year-old boy has since been charged and

remanded to prison for the murder of the lad. While the teenager has been identified as the prime suspect, police are currently seeking his accomplice.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

Leave our babies, let them grow

MOST children (5 - 10 years old) or pre-adolescent (11 - 13 years old) on this planet are not walking around thinking about sex or sexual encounters. These are not natural childhood thoughts or desires. Only if children are raised in a sexually explicit environment where they have seen people having sex in

real life or via porn or have been sexually abused, will they develop a warped curiosity about sex and their sexuality, while relatively young. When children’s lives are infiltrated by sex, it affects their personality and their outlook on life. Child sexual abuse diminishes the victims’ life chances due to the trauma

they experience and continue to endure. It is not the children’s fault that they were exposed to carnal activities and knowledge before their time. Usually, there are uncaring, selfish or thoughtless adults to blame. For example, a mother who knew very little about the man she brought into her home. A father who let

his grown nephew sleep in the same room as his young daughters. A father who betrays the bond and trust of his daughter by molesting her. The grandmother who turns a blind eye to her son’s sexual liaisons with boys and girls under her roof. Because children do not understand the implications or emotions related to the

sexual act, and because those who interfere with children are perverted, abused children are left with distorted views on the act, leading to some of them becoming oversexed. Over-sexed children appear to think and know far too much about sex for their age and are commonly known as ‘force-ripe’. If sexualised children had a choice, they would undoubtedly prefer to live a happy childhood without exposure to sexual activity. A secure and positive childhood is the foundation for creating level-headed, happy adults of the future - adults who will make valuable contributions to our workforce and society. Only responsible adults can care for children the right way and direct them on the correct path in life. Adults have the power to teach children positive attributes and morals that will last them a lifetime. On the contrary, they also have the power to deny children their rights and subject them to a horrific existence, where childhood memories are best forgotten. Childhood is important because it shapes a person’s thinking and future in a major way. Researchers claim that children who have positive childhood memories have less chance of developing depression or poor mental health in adulthood. A Parent’s care towards his/her child is meant to be instinctive. There may be some trials and errors along the way, but parents will overcome obstacles and correct mistakes with the right mindset. To provide the best outcome for children on all levels, parents must look out for their educational, moral, and spiritual welfare. To ensure an adequate childhood, parents also need to guarantee their children’s emotional, physical and sexual safety from infancy. For some parents, safeguarding children is not instinctive nor natural. Something is missing from their perception or understanding of childcare. The roles that parents play are distinctive in a child’s development. They need to first bond with their child and care for his/her needs, which include loving, nurturing, encouraging, and providing food and proper health care. This will help children grow and develop with a sense of stability and well-being. When these elements are

not provided, children live in vulnerable situations and are at risk of harm. As children grow and become teenagers, parents may need to adapt and make adjustments to suit. However, children will always need their parents’ positive support, love and guidance in one way or another. For children who grow in an abusive or sexual environment, the development stages are ad hoc at best. What they have been exposed to, at which age, and the subsequent damage that may affect their lives on a longterm basis; is anyone’s guess. In some cases, child abuse and sexual molestation are ingrained in families, and children grow into versions of their parents. They carry out or allow identical behaviour, generation after generation, without questioning their actions, the damage or consequences. Neither do they have a desire to do better and/or break the cycle. The Childcare and Protection Agency, Ministry of Human Services and Social Security is obligated to build the public’s awareness concerning child abuse in Guyana. Guyana’s laws are for the whole of Guyana far and wide, every region, every village, every household. They should be enforced by law authorities wherever they are breached. Children have rights; they are not sexual objects to be used at the whim of depraved adults. Adults should know better than to mar the childhood and development of children in such an irreparable way. In some cases, adults, whom children whole-heartedly trust with their lives, their well-being and upbringing, are the ones to adversely affect their childhood and development Some adults have a lot to learn about caring for children correctly. We are hopeful that this weekly column acts as an advocate for behavioural change in negative parenting and helps to alleviate child abuse in Guyana. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child call the CPA hotline on 227 0979 or write to us at childcaregy@gmail.com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF HUMAN SERVICES AND SOCIAL SECURITY

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

Essequibo fire victim accuses GPL of negligence

-says hanging electrical wire was not properly fixed AS the Gafoor family come to grips with Saturday’s fire which completely destroyed their Aurora Village, Region Two home, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) is being blamed for the tragedy. Family members, on Sunday, were adamant that had GPL responded to their report of a hanging electrical wire, the disaster could have been averted. They have concluded that the fire is electrical in origin. Owner of the house, Sherifan Gafoor, told the Guyana Chronicle that several days ago, she had cause to lodge reports at GPL’s Anna Regina office after observing a hanging electrical wire in front of her premises. She said employees came and fixed it, but every time there was a heavy breeze, the wire would spark. When contacted, the power company’s Public Relations Officer (PRO), Shevon Sears, informed this newspaper that a comment would be provided when the Guyana Fire Service

presents a report. The PRO said that once a person makes such claims, the fire department has to present a report to GPL. Meanwhile, Gafoor believes that if urgent measures were taken by the GPL officials when the reports were made, the fire could have been avoided. Recounting the ordeal, the 55-year-old woman said that she was sitting outside when she saw an electrical wire sparking. In the blink of an eye, her house was engulfed. She estimated her loss to be more than $15 million. “My home had everything. I was living upstairs with my grandchildren and son, and my daughter [was] living downstairs in a fully furnished apartment,” she said. While she is thankful that everyone was outside at the time of the fire, Gafoor said she is very sad that all her hard-earned valuables, inclusive of jewellery, cash and household items, were burnt.

Sherifan Gafoor and one of her grandchildren

“We were living in a small house; my children and husband help and we trying to build our house and furnished. It was one step at a time. I can’t believe that everything just went,” the emotional woman told this newspaper. One of her daughters, Afeerah Gafoor, was admitted to the hospital after experiencing an anxiety attack. The

woman fell ill shortly after witnessing the tragedy. The incident reportedly occurred around 17:00hrs; the fire also burnt a nearby unoccupied house. Seven persons, including three children, are now homeless. Gafoor told the Guyana Chronicle that she and the other members of her family are in need of assistance. She

The charred remains of the house

said they were unable to save anything, not even pieces of clothing. Her sister is presently accommodating them at her Adventure home. When asked if she will accept assistance from the public, she responded in the affirmative. She used the opportunity to call on businesses, organisations and citizens, in and outside of the region, to

assist her family to rebuild their home, and to provide donations in the form of clothing, footwear and food. Anyone who wishes to assist the family can call 6859976. Officers from the Anna Regina Fire Station have launched an investigation into the origin of the fire.

Child and adolescent mental health to become a priority …as health workers trained to educate teachers on identifying conditions By Vishani Ragobeer RECOGNISING that there has been limited focus on child and adolescent mental health, the Mental Health Unit of the Ministry of Health has trained health workers to engage teachers across Guyana to recognise these conditions in learners and subsequently, to refer those learners to treatment services. Last week, 15 health workers from Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six and 10 benefitted from intensive training on identifying conditions in children and adolescents at the Mental Health Unit at Quamina Street, Georgetown. These health workers included doctors, psychiatrists, social workers and a health education officer. These regional representatives are now required to train teachers in their respective regions to identify the issues that a child or adolescent may be facing. Teachers, however, would only be trained to recognise conditions and not diagnose children or adolescents. “Ideally, we would like to train all teachers but there are more than 10,000 teachers and that is going to take forever. That’s why we selected healthcare workers from the regions and they will do the training in the regions,” Director of the Mental Health Unit, Dr. Util Richmond- Thomas told the

Sunday Chronicle. The Director highlighted that she has asked the regional representatives to train at least one group of teachers per month. The unit, she said, would be able to provide funding to support these representatives with the training sessions in their respective regions. She explained that once teachers are trained to identify the conditions manifested in children and adolescents, they would be able to engage the relevant mental health authorities. This, she affirmed, would allow for timely interventions to help the younger folk. According to the director, the keen focus on mental health is relatively new in Guyana and, as such, more emphasis must be placed on directing a specific or concerted focus on child and adolescent mental health in Guyana. “Whereas over the decades, we have been having adult psychiatrists who have been taking care of the adults to an extent, there has never been any focus on children and adolescents and they have unique needs,” Dr. Richmond-Thomas explained. She also explained that the presentation of mental health conditions is different in children and adolescents. As such, many times, these conditions go unrecognised and untreated or treated inadequately. Once early interventions are not done, these conditions

are left to progress. To add to the concerted focus on child and adolescent mental health, Guyana secured the services of two child and adolescent psychiatrists in recent times. Dr. Baressa De Clou is one of those two psychiatrists whose work entails the promotion of mental health, prevention of mental illnesses and the treatment and rehabilitation of patients of the child and adolescent population with mental illnesses. She was part of the training organised by the Mental Health Unit and in an invited

comment, she emphasised that there are nuances to working with children. According to her, there is a wide spectrum of mental health illnesses associated when dealing with children. These include developmental disorders, and behavioural disorders, eating and sleeping disorders, among others. Additionally, when treating children and adolescents, the mental health workers are also working alongside the family. Through the task of providing services to this vulnerable group of younger

persons, Dr. De Clou noted that there are significant challenges faced in her line of work. Aside from the evident shortage of children and adolescent psychiatrists, she said there is a need for more clinical and educational psychologists, nurses and social workers. Additionally, the local infrastructure does not yet adequately cater for providing services to this target group. Dr. De Clou does not have her own working area but instead, she works out of the psychiatric department at the Georgetown Public Hos-

pital Corporation (GPHC). “We would like to have an observational section and separate areas for child and adolescent psychologists to conduct the standardised tests specific to children and adolescents,” she said. Dr. Richmond-Thomas acknowledged that the work in the area of child and adolescent mental health is nascent, but she emphasised that the unit will be lobbying the central body of the Ministry of Health for an increased focus in this regard.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

Teachers excited for COVID-19 ‘jab’

By Tamica Garnett

WITH the COVID-19 vaccine expected to be made available to all teachers in the near future, some are very happy that the profession is among the priority list for inoculation. Two weeks ago, the Ministry of Education (MoE) and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) issued a joint statement noting that a sensitisation campaign will be conducted to encourage teachers to get vaccinated, since vaccination is not compulsory. “I’m very glad that we are being able to take the vaccine. It is good because we have to encounter thousands of children every day,” commented one teacher, from a secondary school in the city. The teacher, who prefers not to be named, is encouraging teachers to get on board and ensure they are vaccinated, once there are not any risk factors preventing them from doing so. “The only thing that would stop me from taking the vaccine would be my medical history. But I’m waiting on my doctor to confirm that I can take it and then I will be taking it. I would advise everyone to get it, because we do a lot of things and put a lot of things in our bodies that we don’t know much about or that are unhealthy like alcohol and tobacco, so we shouldn’t be afraid of a vaccine that has been tested and tried all over the world that will only help in the long run,” she said. Other teachers are hopeful that the roll out of the vaccine for teachers will be able to fast track the reopening of schools. “I think it’s good for those interested and if it is effective school will reopen sooner,” commented one primary school teacher from Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni). Schools in Guyana have been closed for over a year now, and have only been partially re-opened for Grades 10, 11 and 12 a few months now. The schools have remained closed pending advice from the Ministry of Health (MoH) based on how the COVID-19

pandemic in Guyana progresses. Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, received the first dose of her vaccine on Tuesday last at the Burn’s Memorial Presbyterian Church, where she helped to organise a vaccination exercise in collaboration with the Health Ministry. She is encouraging teachers to not only get the vaccine but to ensure they get the correct information about the vaccines. Minister Manickchand implored the general population and teachers particularly to inform themselves as much as they can about the issue of vaccination. She said they must read and make informed decisions and not be influenced by “chatter, propaganda and rumors.” She reminded that the decision to take the vaccine will remain a voluntary one. “Whether they take the vaccine or don’t take the vaccine, that has to remain a personal choice. I took the vaccine because I thought it was a good thing, and, having read everything on the issue and having spoken to people who are in the field of medicine, I thought it best to take it so I could protect my family and the people around me,” the Education Minister shared. A date for the roll out for the vaccination of teachers is yet to be announced. Once available, however, the vaccination option will be open to teachers from both public and private schools. The teachers will be issued with letters from the Ministry of Education in an effort for them to be easily identifiable to health personnel. The government has prioritised the vaccination of medical frontline workers, and persons over 60 years old. Members of Parliament were also included, and several were recently vaccinated. Guyana has thus far received 103,000 doses of the vaccines. As of Friday last, more than 15,000 persons had been vaccinated locally. Guyana’s vaccination rollout is being monitored by a pharmaco-vigilance

committee, and vaccination is ongoing in all 10 regions. It is expected that the next group of persons to receive these COVID-19 vaccines would be persons over the age of 50.

Minister of Education, Priya Manickchand, received her first dose of the COVID-19 vaccine on Tuesday last

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

Monday March 22, 2021 – 00:30hrs - 02:00hrs Monday March 22, 2021 – 11:00hrs - 12:30hrs Tuesday March 23, 2021 – 01:00hrs - 02:30hrs Tuesday March 23, 2021 – 12:00hrs - 13:30hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

Holder responds to captaincy snub with five-for

CMC – Jason Holder shook off the disappointment of losing the captaincy to snatch his eighth Test five-wicket haul and surpass 200 first class wickets, as West Indies began the new Kraigg Brathwaite era by dominating Sri Lanka on the opening day of the first Test here Sunday. Playing for the first time in 38 Tests without the burden of leadership, an inspired Holder scythed through the Sri Lanka innings to finish with five for 27 and send the visitors tumbling for an inadequate 169 in their first innings, 80 minutes before the close. Veteran Kemar Roach also bowled superbly to pick up three for 47 and continue as the all-time wicket-taker at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium with 33 scalps from six matches. Left-handed opener Lahiru Thirimanne produced a tenacious top score of 70 while wicketkeeper Niroshan Dickwella weighed in with 32 but both perished in the final session as Sri Lanka lost five wickets for 19 runs in a wretched 58-ball period. Tasked with surviving the last hour of the day’s play, Brathwaite (three not out) and John Campbell (seven not out) endured few alarms as they guided West Indies safely to 13 without loss at the close. “It’s good to get back out on the field for West Indies [in Tests]. Obviously it’s been a couple months {away],” said Holder, who missed last month’s two-Test series in Bangladesh. “I’m just glad today was my day and I could contribute heavily towards the team’s cause and glad I could put the team in a pretty good position.” Sent in, Sri Lanka made an uncertain start before losing their first wicket two overs before the drinks break when captain Dimuth Karunaratne (12), dropped on 11 by Jermaine Blackwood off Roach in the previous over, turned the fourth ball of off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall’s third over into John Campbell’s lap at short leg at 17 for one. And West Indies struck again in the third over following the drinks break, claiming new batsman Oshada Fernando for four via the run out. The right-handed Fernando responded to Thirimanne’s call for a quick single but found himself short of his ground at the striker’s end as Brathwaite swooped from short cover with a direct hit, leaving the tourists in further trouble on 29 for two.

Thirimanne found an ally in the experienced Dinesh Chandimal (4) and were navigating a safe passage to lunch when the righthander perished to the first

ball of the final over before lunch, feathering a defensive prod through to wicketkeeper Joshua Da Silva to give Holder his first wicket. On 54 for three at lunch,

scoreboard SRI LANKA 1st innings D Karunaratne c Campbell b Cornwall 12 L Thirimanne b Holder 70 O Fernando run out 4 D Chandimal c wkp Da Silva b Holder 4 D de Silva b Roach 13 P Nissanka c Holder b Roach 9 N Dickwella c Cornwall b Holder 32 S Lakmal c Brathwaite b Holder 3 D Chameera b Roach 2 L Embuldeniya lbw b Holder 3 V Fernando not out 1 Extras (b4, lb6, w5, nb1) 16 TOTAL (all out, 69.4 overs) 169 Fall of wickets: 1-17 (Karunaratne), 2-29 (Fernando), 3-54 (Chandimal), 4-76 (Dhananjaya), 5-92 (Nissanka), 6-150 (Dickwell), 7-160 (Thirimanne), 8-163 (Lakmal), 9-164 (Chameera), 10-169 (Embuldeniya) Bowling: Roach 16-2-47-3, Gabriel 9-2-22-0, Cornwall 14-6-25-1, Joseph 11-2-32-0, Holder 17.4-6-275, Mayers 2-0-6-0. WEST INDIES 1st Innings K Brathwaite not out 3 J Campbell not out 7 Extras (lb1, nb2) 3 TOTAL (all out, 13 overs) 13 To bat: N Bonner, K Mayers, J Blackwood, +J Da Silva, J Holder, R Cornwall, A Joseph, K Roach, S Gabriel. Position: West Indies trail by 156 runs with all 10 first innings wickets intact. Toss: West Indies. Umpires: G Brathwaite, J Wilson; TV – N Duguid.

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Sri Lanka twice attempted to build partnerships during the second session only for the persevering Roach to intervene on each occasion. Dhananjaya de Silva, starting his innings after lunch, looked to be getting entrenched when he spent 45 minutes over 13 in adding 22 for the fourth wicket with Thirimanne. However, he perished with the hour mark approaching, deceived and comprehensively bowled by an in-swinger from Roach after watching the two previous deliveries seam away. Four overs later, Roach struck again, this time getting debutant right-hander Pathum Nissanka to edge to second slip where Holder took a sharp catch low to his left at 92 for five. On the ropes, Sri Lanka

were revived by Thirimanne and Dickwella, who combined for the best stand of the innings by adding 58 for the sixth wicket. Thirimanne, resolute in defence but unable to really score freely with wickets falling at the other end, faced 180 deliveries in just short of five hours at the crease and punched four fours. Dickwella, also left-handed, hit two fours off 76 balls in nearly an hour-and-a-half. They guided Sri Lanka safely to tea on 129 for five with Thirimanne unbeaten on 56, having raised his seventh Test fifty about three-quarters of an hour before the interval. And the pair kept West Indies without further success for another 40 minutes after tea before the floodgates opened.

Dickwella threw his bat at a wide delivery from Holder and edged a chest-high catch to Cornwall at first slip and four overs later with just 10 runs added at 160 for six, Thirimanne’s resistance ended when he inside-edged a widish, full length delivery from Holder onto his stumps. Holder claimed his fourth after Suranga Lakmal got a leading edge attempting to flick, and watched as Brathwaite completed an excellent catch running back at backward point at 163 for eight. The end then came swiftly as Roach spectacularly removed Dushmantha Chameera’s off-stump for two and Holder gained a marginal lbw decision against number 10 Lasith Embuldeniya, to complete his five-wicket haul.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

Leitch bowls Police to emphatic victory against GNIC in first-division cricket KELVIN Leitch decimated GNIC’s middle order in their second innings to propel the Police Sports Club to an emphatic innings and 100-run victory in their GISE, Star Party Rental, and Trophy Stall First-Division Two-Day Cricket match over the weekend. Scores in the match GNIC 110 and 94 and Police 304. The Lawmen managed 62 runs in the morning session on Sunday after restarting from a commanding score of 242-6. Quentin Sampson was run out before he could have added to his overnight score of 106, while former West Indies U19 cricketer Kevlon Anderson, who was left not out on 93, pushed his score to 106 before he was trapped LBW by Jerimi-

Police’s middle-order batsman, Kevlon Anderson showed class in his century over the weekend. ah Benjamin. Anthony Adams (14), Leitch (17 1X4, 1X6) and West Indies fast bowler Ronsford Beaton (22 1X4, 3X6s) wagged their bats a bit before the innings ended. Dwaine Dick, who

spun his way to four wickets on Saturday, finished with 4-75 from 20 overs, while Benjamin supported with 2-36 from 12 overs. Trailing by 194, GNIC started their second innings with the hope

of batting out the day, but it was not to be as the top order buckled before the middle order was bamboozled by the off-spin of 28-year-old Leitch. Leitch bowled wicket-to-wicket, which resulted in two clean bowled and two LBW dismissals. He had good support from left-arm-spinner Anthony Adams. David Dick, who lost his wicket via the runout route, led GNIC with 27, while Benjamin added 13 and Jeffrey Blair, who was the last batsman standing, 12. In total, GNIC only lasted 25.3 overs in their second innings. Leitch, who is a former U19 intercounty player for Berbice, finished with 5-25 from 6.3 overs, while Adams finished with 2-21 from 11 overs.

Lord, Seegobin bowl GCC to victory against GDF in NBS Second-Division cricket CAPTAIN Devon Lord and Deonarine Seegobin combined for eight wickets to lead home team, the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) to a 33-run victory against the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) to re-start cricket in the Capital City. In their NBS Second-Division 40-over encounter on Saturday, GCC won the toss and opted to take first strike. The army players had the unbeaten side in trouble with the top order falling cheaply. Openers Winston Forrester (09) and Seegobin lost their wickets via the off-spin of GDF’s Captain Leon Andrews, while Keith Simpson befuddled the middle order with his left-arm spin. Simpson, who was disci-

Devon Lord finished with 4-17 from seven overs pline in his line and length, led the attack with 3-14 from seven overs. Support came from Colvis Sam, who picked up two wickets to the end.

Keith Simpson led GDF with 3-14 Had it not been for an eight-wicket stand between Bernard Bailey (28) and Carlos LaRose (23) GCC would not have made it to the three-digit mark. In the

end, they were routed for 128 in 34.1 overs. Former national youth player Junior Sinclair, playing in his first game for GDF, gave the visitors a solid start. Following the loss of Andrews for three, he and Martin Singh continued to push the score and the side was cruising at 71-2 before the wickets began to tumble. Only Sinclair with 36 (2X4s, 2X6s) and Singh with 24 (2X4s) reached double figures as Lord, with his left-arm spin, and Seegobin, with his medium pace, unravelled the visitor’s batting. By the 32nd over, the match was over with GDF bowled out for 95. LaRose and Stephon Wilson supported with one wicket each.

Leicester thump Manchester United for FA semi-final spot (BBC) - Leicester City reached their first FA Cup semi-final for 39 years with a fully deserved win over Manchester United at King Power Stadium. Brendan Rodgers’ side will face Southampton at Wembley with Chelsea and Manchester City meeting in the other semi-final. Leicester, who lost to eventual winners Tottenham in the 1982 semi-final, were the more vibrant and positive team against off-colour United as manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer once again tasted defeat in the latter stages of a cup competition, his ploy of resting the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Luke Shaw failing to produce the desired result. The Foxes’ hero was in-form striker Kelechi Iheanacho, who struck twice and now has nine goals in nine games. He took advantage of Fred’s awful backpass to round Dean Henderson to score in the 24th minute after the hapless Brazilian was played into trouble by captain Harry Maguire. Mason Greenwood crowned a crisp United move to equalise before half-time but Youri Tielemans restored Leicester City’s lead with a fine low shot seven minutes after the break before Iheanacho took advantage of shocking marking at a free-kick to head in Leicester’s third after 78 minutes. Superb Leicester show their class Injuries have robbed Leicester of the creative edge provided by James Maddison and Harvey Barnes, as well as the defensive excellence of James Justin, but they still had too much for miserable Manchester United here. And it was fitting that the two players who got the goals to secure that precious semi-final place, and only their second win over United in 23 years, were Iheanacho and Tielemans - the Foxes’ two most influential performers. Iheanacho has had mixed fortunes since his £25m move from Manchester City in August 2017 but it is testimony to the player’s own attitude and persistence, alongside the patience and coaching of manager Rodgers, that he has re-emerged as such an influential figure. He has always had the natural scorer’s instinct but here he provided goals and link-up play while the cultured Belgian Tielemans was the architect of most good things. Leicester City will now face Southampton - the team they beat 9-0 at St Mary’s last season - but the prize at stake is now so enticing it is unlikely there will be a hint of complacency from Rodgers and his players. There could have been nerves when Jamie Vardy missed the sort of opportunity he normally gobbles up at 2-1 but there was no wavering in self-belief and Iheanacho’s second sealed the deal. Leicester are in a very favourable position in the Premier League’s top four and now have an FA Cup semi-final to look forward to in what is shaping up to be a potentially memorable season.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday March 22, 2021) COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) Moratuwa, SL (1993) (2) Richie Richardson & Arjuna Ranatunga

Today’s Quiz:

(1) How many WI players have now contested Test matches against the WI? (2) How many SL players have now played Test matches against SL?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, March 22, 2021

GCA launches youth cricket programme in Agricola

A youth cricket clinic for youngsters between the ages of 08-17 years old was organised by the residents of the Agricola community with assistance from the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) through their cricket development outreach programme which heralded the launch of youth cricket in the community. Participants in this camp were exposed to various activities to improve their agility, flexibility, ball-handling and batting techniques. This was all conducted following strict COVID-19 prevention guidelines. This joint initiative is the first step towards the establishment of a youth cricket

club within the community. The community group and the GCA will also combine their resources to build a cricket batting cage in the north-eastern section of the community ground to facilitate batting and bowling sessions. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Charles Ramson, also paid the facilities a visit and give the youths some words of encouragement. The coordination of this sport in the village comes following consultations in early 2020 with the youths of the community who indicated that in addition to other organised sports currently being played-- football and boxing-- they also wanted to play cricket. However, the

emergence of the COVID-19 pandemic had delayed efforts by the group of volunteers to organise the youth cricket club. In addition to the development of the cricket club in the community, the group also has plans, and is seeking support, to develop a range of social programmes to guide the youths into early adulthood such as the provision of tutoring support services, exposure to various life skills and job preparedness trainings. Currently, the group is also actively engaged in a project to create a community playground as a recreational space for its youngest residents, which will be located opposite the community’s

Some of the younger children receiving instructions. sports ground. While the GCA provided the technical support to conduct the clinic, the group received donations from sev-

eral residents and businesses from within the community in the form of snacks and refreshments. Contributions were also received from

Banks DIH limited. Each participant received a certificate of participation at the end of the day’s session.

D’ Edward CC advance to Faizal Jafferally T20 final

D’Edward Cricket Club is into the final of the Faizal Jafferally T20 competition.

THE D’ Edward Cricket Club has advanced to the final of the Faizal Jafferally T20 competition for teams in West Berbice after a victory over Blairmont at the Cotton Tree ground on Saturday. According to information from the Berbice Cricket Board, D’Edward CC will now play Cotton Tree in the final of the event. Led by Heralall Bridgelall, who scored an unbeaten half-century, D’Edward CC comfortably reached 141-6 from their allotted overs in last weekend’s clash. Bridgelall struck two sixes and four fours in his innings of 74, while Kevon Jawahir supported with 21 (2X4s, 1X6) and Jaipaul

Heralall with 15. Javed Karim was the pick of the bowlers for Blairmont, finishing with 4-30. Support came from Nigel Deodat, who picked up 2-12. In their turn at the middle, Blairmont fell just short of the needed total. Deodat led the attack with 54. He struck six fours and two sixes, while Karim added 41 (3X4s, 2X6s). Despite the performance of the pair, Blairmont were still restricted to 124-6 from their 20 overs. Keith Fraser (2-27), Jawahir (2-26) and H. Harrylall (2-18) shared the wickets for D’Edward CC.

South American Aquatics Championships…

Seaton improves on final day GUYANA’S two-man team that attended the CONSANAT South American Swimming and Diving Championships concluded their participation on Friday when the event culminated in Buenos Aires, Argentina. On the final day, the pair competed in the Men’s 50m Freestyle which was won in a time of 22.38s by Venezuelan Vivas Mestre. He finished ahead of Brazilians Martins Peixoto (22.68s) and Guimarae Alcara (22.70s). Guyana’s Leon Seaton clocked 24.84s to finish 21st but improved by -0.49s on his seed of 25.33s. His coun-

try mate, Andrew Fowler, wrapped up his performance with a time of 25.70s in that event, to place 24th overall. The Olympic selection time for the Men’s 50m Freestyle is 22.67s while the Olympic Qualification time is set at 22.01s. On the penultimate day of the competition, Seaton and Fowler competed in the Men’s 50m Butterfly, which was won by Argentine Rober Strelkov in a time of 24.39s while Brazilians Melo Baganha (25.54s) and Dias Perseguin (24.55s) were second and third. Fowler and Seaton clocked 27.48s

and 28.62s in that event to end in 20th and 21st positions. It is important to note that the 50m Butterfly is not an Olympic event. However, the event’s world record is overseen and ratified by FINA, the world governing body for the sport of competitive swimming. The 50 fly WR is one of the youngest on the books, as it is among the stroke 50’s which have only been tracked since the 1990’s. Meanwhile, on the opening day of the event, the Guyanese pair tested their mettle against the South American contingent in the Men’s 100m Freestyle.

Seaton turned in a time of 56.05s, while Fowler stopped the clock at 56.33s. Prior to the race, Seaton entered with a time of 55.27s while Fowler’s seed was 54.10s. However, none of those times were sufficient enough to hit the Olympic Standard which is 48.57s. These two local swimmers, along with Jamila Sanmogan, are the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association’s (GASA) Olympic hopefuls that are currently seeking qualification to the games before the May 30 deadline.

Jason Holder holds the ball aloft after completing his eighth five-wicket haul in Tests, West Indies vs Sri Lanka, 1st Test, North Sound, 1st day, March 21, 2021 © RANDY BROOKS/AFP/Getty Images

Holder responds to captaincy snub with five-for See story on page 21

Kelvin Leitch finished with a five-wicket haul for Police in their second innings.

Rahkeem Cornwall celebrates claiming the opening wicket of Dimuth Karunaratne, West Indies vs Sri Lanka, 1st Test, North Sound, 1st day, March 21, 2021

Leitch bowls Police to emphatic victory against GNIC in first-division cricket See story on page 22

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MONDAY, MARCH 22, 2021