Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 25-01-2021

MONDAY

Happy New Year

25th January, 2021

' No.106252

Guyana condemns Venezuela’s intrusion SEE PAGE 03

–– calls for immediate release of Guyanese fishermen detained in Venezuela –– vessels seized in the Waini River, boat captain says has evidence they were in local waters

Detained: Captain of the Lady Nayera, Richard Ramnarine

Detained: Shirvin Oneil

–– families of fishermen deeply worried, appeal for immediate release of relatives

Detained: Joel Joseph

Detained: Nick Raghubar

Detained: Javin Boston

Detained: Orland Roberts

More Dubai investors turn to Guyana

–– discuss opportunities in rice, poultry, other agricultural areas

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

More Dubai investors turn to Guyana –– discuss opportunities in rice, poultry and other agricultural areas

FLASHBACK: President Dr. Irfaan Ali (third right) and his team of ministers meeting with His Highness, Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum (fourth left) and his delegation from the UAE at the Office of the President in November 2020 (Office of the President photo)

By Navendra Seoraj GUYANA’S diversified economy continues to serve as a magnet for both local and foreign investors, with stakeholders from the Middle East being the latest of the lot to shift their attention to this nation, which lies on the edge of South America, and is connected culturally to the Caribbean. An investment team from Dubai, one of the wealthiest cities in the world, visited Guyana last week to discuss a wide range of opportunities, particularly those in the agricultural sector, Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha has said. The team’s trip follows a visit to Guyana by an eight-member delegation from the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in November 2020. The delegation, led by his Highness Sheikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum of Dubai, met with President Dr. Irfaan Ali and senior government officials, and held discussions on oil and gas; infrastructure and agriculture. It was reported that individual members of the eight-member delegation were interested in specific sectors, but this newspaper understands that the “key

sectors” took “centre stage”. Similarly, during the recent trip by private investors, the agricultural sector, which accounts for one-third of Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP), was the main area of focus. “I had a meeting with a group from Dubai [the private investors], and I submitted information on rice, poultry and other areas within the sector,” Minister Mustapha said during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle. Investors who were part of the initial eight-member team, had also signalled a strong interest in investing in agriculture, particularly sugar and livestock. Following this, a second team visited from Dubai and toured all of the sugar estates across the country. The team comprised of mainly experts, who had a specific task of analysing the operations and viability of these estates. “I had a chat with them after their visit to the estates, and they seemed very interested… Remember, they are technical people and not policymakers, so whatever they observe, they have to take back to the policymakers. But they were impressed with the

sugar industry in Guyana, in terms of investing and so on,” Minister Mustapha had said last December, following the visit of the second Dubai team. Dubai is no stranger to sugar, as this State is home to the world’s largest port-based sugar refinery, Al Khaleej Sugar Co. Stakeholders from the UAE are, however, not the only investors who are interested in Guyana’s agricultural sector, Minister Mustapha told this newspaper recently, noting that a number of other international investors are knocking at Guyana’s doors. “With what we are seeing, it is certain that we will have more investments this year… This year, we will launch transformative projects which will help Guyana to take off economically,” the minister affirmed. It was reported in December 2020 that the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest) was able to facilitate 55 potential investments valuing $276.6 billion within three months, paving the way for the creation of more than 10,000 jobs. According to information from Go-Invest, applications were received for invest-

ments across all platforms and sectors of Guyana’s economy. A business-friendly climate, supplemented by the anticipated economic ascension is being credited for the attraction of those expressions of interest. The aggregate investments are expected to create 9,386 direct jobs when the projects are fully completed. There will also be spin-off benefits which will reach suppliers, cottage industries, individuals and other sections of the economy. From 2017 to 2019, the unemployment rate in Guyana increased from 12.2 per cent to 13.4 per cent, but the new administration aims to reverse this over the next five years through the creation of 50,000 jobs. The country is moving closer to this vision, with the latest investments set to come on stream very soon. The Guyana Chronicle understands that of the 55 projects to which Go-Invest referred, 28 are local, 25 are Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs), and there are two joint ventures. The FDI agreements were predominantly within the tourism and services sectors. According to the investors’

projections, the value of the FDI projects totalled G$239 billion, while the joint ventureships totalled G$5.3 billion. The FDI projects include the construction of worldclass hotels across the country, to cater for the anticipated increase in visitors who are being attracted by the nation’s burgeoning oil and gas sector, and its spin-off benefits. The total investments in the hospitality sector value close to US$1 billion (G$215B). Proposals have been received from major players in the hotel industry such as Sheraton, The Element, Delta Marriott, Best Western Hotels and Resorts, the H-Tower Luxury Hotel, the Hyatt Hotels Corporation, the Radisson Hotels, and the Hilton Hotels and Resorts among others. According to a study by Oxford Economics, hotel operations and guest spending support eight million jobs across the US alone. The same study found that a typical hotel with 100 occupied rooms per night supports 230 local jobs every year. And the nation’s hotel and lodging industry brings other important benefits to local

communities. These businesses are a cornerstone for local economic activity, providing increased tax revenue, capital investment, tourism-related development and promotion, civic leadership, charitable contributions and sponsorship. These benefits are also expected to accrue to Guyana, as the country continues to function as an investment magnet. Outside of the hospitality sector, Nexus Machining of Guyana is partnering with Louisiana’s Machine Tech Inc, while GUYSON Engineering is partnering with K + B Industry Inc. of the U.S. On the local side, notable investments include the expansion of Royal Chicken Inc., which will be doubling its production line with state-of-the-art machinery. This investment is valued at G$531.2 million. According to investors’ figures, the value of local investments for the period August to November is G$27.9 billion, primarily in the agriculture, tourism, services and light manufacturing sectors. Those projects are projected to create at least 1,752 jobs when fully operational.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Guyana condemns Venezuela’s intrusion –– calls for immediate release of Guyanese fishermen detained in Venezuela

–– vessels seized in the Waini River, boat captain says has evidence they were in local waters –– families of fishermen deeply worried, appeal for immediate release of relatives By Navendra Seoraj FOR years Guyanese fishermen have plied their noble trade unhindered along the Waini River, but this comfortable practice was obstructed recently when Venezuelan naval troops reportedly entered Guyana’s territory and apprehended two vessels, the Lady Nayera and the Sea Wolf, which are both owned and operated by Guyanese. This act of ‘intrusion’ by Venezuela has since been condemned by local authorities, which have substantiated claims that both vessels, which were operating off the coast of the Waini Point, within Guyana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), were intercepted by Venezuelan naval vessel, “Commandante Hugo Chavez GC 24”, on Thursday, January 21, 2021. An exclusive economic zone, as prescribed by the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, is an area of the sea in which a sovereign State has special rights regarding the exploration and use of marine resources, including energy production from water and wind. Guyana holds the firm view that the Venezuelan vessel was illegally manoeuvring within Guyana’s EEZ and contiguous zone when

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd it intercepted, boarded and commandeered the Guyanese fishing vessels. According to information from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Captain Richard Ramnarine, of the Lady Nayera, and Captain Toney Garraway, of the Sea Wolf, after being apprehended in the Waini area, were instructed to chart a course to Port Güiria in Venezuela, where both vessels, which are registered in Essequibo, and the 12-member crew, who hail from Essequibo, have been detained. The Guyana Chronicle was informed on Sunday that the crew members of the Sea Wolf include Garraway, Er-

rol Gardener, Orland Roberts, Christopher Shaw, Shirvin Oneil and Randy Henry. The crew members aboard the Lady Nayera are Ramnarine, Ramlakan Kamal, Nick Raghubar, Javin Boston, Michael Domingo and Joel Joseph. From all indications, none of the crew members have been harmed, but details of their exact location in Venezuela are still unknown. Ramnarine, in a voice note shared with this publication early Sunday, confirmed at the time that the crew members were not harmed, but said that he was unsure where the Venezuelan authorities are taking them. “We have the boat with everything: The seine, fish; the glue. Everything is alright; the boat is at a marine place. We giving a statement here at the wharf, and they said we have to go to the station to make another statement,” the boat captain said, adding: “I do not know what will be the next step; they taking down our name, but the boat and everything safe.” It was clear that the boat captain was complying with the orders of the Venezuelan authorities, but he was still bewildered as to why they were apprehended in the first place. “My boat was driving when I was apprehended

Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha by the coast guard [Venezu-

by the Government of Venezuela of the detention of its nationals. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is currently seeking to ascertain the status and welfare of the crew members. Owner of the Sea Wolf vessel, Kumar Lalbachan, when contacted by this publication on Sunday, said both the Chief-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Brigadier Godfrey Bess, and Commissioner of Police (ag), Nigel Hoppie visited the lodging site of the vessels, “Big Bird Fisheries” in Essequibo to speak with relatives of the crew members. “The officials held a meeting with the family of the persons who were de-

the Guyana Chronicle understands that the crew members do not have access to quality Wi-Fi, and would only get proper connection during certain hours of the day. Access to Internet and other communication channels have not only obstructed communication between the boat owners and their crew members, but also the families of those men who are being held captive. Ramnarine’s wife, Sita Ramnarine, who was evidently worried about her husband’s well-being, has also condemned the fact that the boat captain has not been afforded a proper opportunity to contact local authorities. “We didn’t hear any-

The Sea Wolf, one of two Guyanese vessels which have been detained in neighbouring Venezuela elan navy]; my net was out of the water, and I was not in Venezuela water either,” Ramnarine said.

The Lady Nayera, while it was docked at home, here in Guyana

SOLID PROOF The boat captain went as far as to say that he has evidence to prove that his vessel was eight miles up the Waini River, and in no way close to Venezuelan territory. Although there have been unofficial reports about the well-being of the fishermen, the Government of Guyana has not yet been informed

tained; it was a very fruitful meeting, I would say… Prior to the meeting, we got a message that everything is okay, and that they will be releasing one of the boats by tomorrow [today],” Lalbachan said, adding that he, however, has to confirm whether the boat will actually be released. In the message received from his crew members, the boat owner was advised to send the documents for his boat; an order which he complied with. The documents have since been sent via WhatsApp, but

thing directly as yet; they are not getting proper signal… Hopefully, early in the morning or so, or late in the afternoon tomorrow [today], I will be able to contact him,” Sita said during a telephone interview with this publication on Sunday. She was particularly sad because her husband was expected home in a matter of days, because he had already spent about 13 days at sea. “Tuesday would have See page 7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Child abuse cases exceed 3,000 at the end 2020

AS at October 2020, the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) was examining a total of 2,761 cases of children being abused. Those figures have since jumped to 3,129 at the end of December, indicating an increase of 368 new cases during the last quarter of the year. Figures released by the Ministry of Human Services and Social Security indicate that 127 boys were being sexually molested, as against 688 girls. Subject minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud has described the numbers as ‘unsettling’. “I am horrified,” she said shortly after reviewing the ‘chilling’ report compiled by the CPA. “Analyses indicate that many of the victims were violated and abused by persons brought into the homes, especially by their mothers,” a statement from the ministry specified. Minister Persaud has since made an impassioned plea to mothers, especially those driven by economic hardship and financial opportunism, to “be very careful of the persons that you let into

your homes.” “You are exposing your children to the unknown, and you’re placing your children sometimes in harm's way. Be very conscious of your child's whereabouts, and with whom you leave your child,” Dr. Persaud appealed, expressing deep concern over the reluctance of parents to believe or act when children cite instances of violence. “Take it seriously; we owe it to our children to develop a culture in our homes, where you're open to listening to what they have to say about their well-being, and more importantly, about their own concerns for their safety,” the minister added. The closure of schools due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Minister Persaud pointed out, has pushed children into close proximity with the perpetrators of abuse and violence, which, unfortunately, limits the reporting options. The figures account for children between ages one and 18, who are faced with all forms of abuse, including physical, sexual, verbal, as well as neglect, abandonment, or being witnesses to abuse.

“Of the 3,129 cases, 1,698 were girls. The worrisome figures have revealed that 688 girls between the ages of 14 and 18 were sexually abused. Overall, 632 girls were neglected; 258 were physically abused; 104 experienced verbal abuse; 12 witnessed abuse, and four were abandoned,” the report indicated. Meanwhile, a total of 1,431 boys were abused throughout 2020, with 432 of them facing physical abuse, while 127 of them were abused sexually; 102 verbally abused; 10 abandoned; and four witnessed some sort of abuse. “Alarmingly, 42 per cent of the 2,822 perpetrators who committed these heinous acts

were mothers. The records showed that many of them physically abused their children. CPA records have also revealed that 596 fathers and 172 grandparents abused children,” the report stated. The ministry, in its statement, emphasised the importance of children’s welfare, pointing to the fact that some 1,638 of the victims benefited from short to long-term counselling, while 592 cases were handled by law enforcement officers. “Some 62 cases were placed before the courts, and 92 victims were removed from their parents’/guardians’ home and placed either in institutional care or with other relatives,” the report

Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud

concluded. Director of the CPA, Ann Greene has often underscored the need for more persons to report instances of children being abused, especially in the context

of the current pandemic. Minister Persaud is hopeful that the establishment of the ‘914’ toll-free hotline would encourage more reporting, so that the cases can be dealt with expeditiously.

A total of 1,431 boys were abused in 2020

Sheriff Medical seeking approval to offer PCR testing

THE Sheriff Medical Centre, located on Sheriff Street, Georgetown, is currently seeking validation and approval from the Ministry of Health before it can offer Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) test for the COVID-19 virus. “We haven’t done a lot of PCR tests...We tried to only use it internally (because) we’re still in the process of validation and engaging the ministry,” a representative from the private medical facility told the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday. The representative, who did not want to reveal his name, also assured that the centre was offering only antigen tests, though he admitted that they had previously offered “a limited amount”

of PCR tests. This medical centre, in November last year, advertised that it was offering PCR testing for persons desirous of getting the test done. Additionally, when the Guyana Chronicle called and inquired in November, it was related that they were indeed offering it. On Sunday, however, the Ministry of Health issued a public notice in the local newspapers indicating that only the National Public Health Reference laboratory and the Eureka Medical Laboratories Inc. (another private establishment) was approved to offer the COVID-19 PCR tests for international travel. TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Opportunities abound for Guyana in ‘Post-Brexit’ UK By Vishani Ragobeer GUYANA will be seeking to capitalise on the opportunities presented for increased trade with the United Kingdom (UK), opportunities presented by the departure of the UK from the European Union (EU), according to Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd. As reported by the BBC, the UK voted to leave the EU in 2016 and officially left the trading bloc -- it’s nearest and biggest trading partner -- on January 31, 2020. Despite that, both the UK and the EU have agreed to maintain many of the relations until December 31, so that there would be enough time for both sides to agree to the terms of a new trade deal.

“The post-Brexit era provides a lot of opportunities for Guyana, given the fact that the UK would have much more policy space to work with; so they won’t be confined to the rules of engagement under the EU umbrella,” Minister Todd affirmed in a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle. With its increased autonomy, he explained that the UK now has the ability to strengthen bilateral relations with a number of its partners, including Guyana. Already, the UK is Guyana’s largest trading partner in Europe and its sixth largest trading partner overall. Some 8.8 per cent of all of Guyana’s exports -- including sugar, rice and rum -- goes to that nation. “I’ve had discussions with the Minister of International Trade, [Ranil Jay-

awardena]... and he assured me that the UK is very focused on its trade relations, not only with Guyana, but with the rest of CARICOM and he’s already committed that they’re going to remove all of their barriers and hindrances that affect trade with Guyana and the UK,” Minister Todd highlighted. In 2008, the 15 Caribbean countries organised into a group called the Caribbean Forum (CARIFORUM) and the EU’s 28 countries signed on to an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to foster trade relations. Since then, trade between CARIFORUM states and the UK has been governed by the CARIFORUM-EU EPA. As of December 31, 2020, however, the CARIFORUM-EU EPA ceased to apply to trade between CARIFORUM states and the UK.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd

Resultantly, on December 30, Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, signed

and issued a Ministerial Order that gives effect to the CARIFORUM-UK EPA. This newer EPA serves as the fundamental mechanism that ensures continuity in the existing preferential trading and investment relations and facilitates uninterrupted market access and other EPA benefits for CARIFORUM states in trade with the UK. Recently, the Foreign Affairs Ministry explained that the CARIFORUM-UK EPA is a roll-over agreement from the CARIFORUM-EU EPA as it replicates all relevant sections of the existing EPA with necessary technical and administrative changes to make the agreement operable in a CARIFORUM-UK context. “I think we’re very optimistic that this new relationship, [the] UK having exited the union, would provide a lot of opportunities for us in

Sheriff Medical seeking approval to offer... This type of test is the ‘gold standard’ test used to diagnose whether someone is affected with COVID-19. The Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, had said that private facilities are at various stages of engaging the ministry on getting approval to offer PCR testing. He had explained that for a private institution to gain approval, their facilities would be assessed and deemed fit. The assessment would cover whether the institution has a PCR machine;

biohazard cabinets used for the extraction of the samples, and also if there is adequately trained staff Sheriff Medical, the Balwant Singh’s Hospital Laboratory, Eureka Medical Laboratories, the Dr. Leslie Persaud Clinic and Diagnostic Centre and the Woodlands Hospital Limited Laboratory are all listed by the Health Ministry as facilities which offer the antigen test only. These antigen tests, though not the same as the

‘gold standard’ PCR tests, are able to detect the presence of COVID-19, and not merely the presence of the antibodies produced by the body to help fight off the virus. Director of the COVID-19 Task Force, Colonel Nazrul Hussain, during a previous interview with the Guyana Chronicle, highlighted that once private institutions have been granted the licence to offer PCR testing, they would have to report how many tests are being done and what those

results are to the COVID-19 authorities. The total number of

tests done daily, as well as the total number of positive cases recorded, are put into

terms of our trade relations,” Minister Todd affirmed. The Foreign Minister noted that Guyana will continue to enjoy duty-free, quota-free access for its sugar to the UK market. Additionally, other provisions related to goods and services’ liberalisation, investment, and development cooperation will continue to apply. Even as Guyana looks to capitalise on the opportunities presented by the UK’s departure from the EU, Minister Todd highlighted that Guyana’s relations with the EU will not be affected. “We’ve already had discussions with the [EU Ambassador, Fernando Ponz Canto] here in Georgetown and all indications show that we will continue to have very warm and productive relations with the EU,” he said.

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a COVID-19 database and are disseminated daily by the Health Ministry.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Tajeram Mohabir

Role Model

FIRST Lady Arya Ali inspires Guyana with her public role, quickly rising to become a national celebrity, fashion icon, and a deeply motivating figure in community affairs. Ms Ali took on the task of cleaning up a hang-out spot of Georgetown, the seawall aback of Kingston, bringing a welcome aesthetic feel to this relaxing leisure park overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Since then, she has embarked on a national environment beautification agenda, aiming to make Georgetown a natural wonder. That project started a series of engagements from the First Lady, defining her role in the society. Ms Ali now serves Guyana as a role model, a shining inspiration for young women and an initiator of several humane programmes of compassion and charitable relief to the less fortunate. The First Lady has outlined her care and advocacy for the community of differently-abled persons, for children living in orphanages, and for young girls. Today, First Lady Ali is a household name with her humility, gentle nature, and smiling face a

refreshing picture across the Guyanese society. People everywhere look up to her with admiration and a sense of awe that she is so graceful in her public duties. In fact, the First Family of President Ali, First Lady Ali, and their toddler son, Zayd, make for gorgeous photography, a fairy tale family, young, inspiring, full of energy and verve and colour; cheerful, and a great symbol of a Guyana young, optimistic, and facing a future of glorious promise. Guyana today needs every hand on board in the task of propelling the society to its potential, and to reach every corner of the land sharing hope and promise to the people, ensuring that citizens everywhere benefit from the burgeoning development now happening. In the First Lady, the country sees that kind of leadership, an exemplary tackling of issues that show up and needing her leadership and her influence. The role of First Ladies is an interesting one, as the world sees with those of the United States. Mostly, First Ladies work quietly in the background, performing ceremonial duties and gracing social occasions in tow with their Head of State spouse. Around the world,

First Ladies are not headline makers, generally. In Guyana, most of the First Ladies historically played somewhat token national roles. In Ms Ali, Guyana is seeing youth, vigour, charm and grace on its national stage, and this is a graphic representation of the journey the country is on now, at this point of its history, with such breathtaking exponential growth of its socioeconomic development as a global oil nation happening. Her role as First Lady goes way beyond the merely symbolic, tokenism and ceremonial, because of the air she exudes to the nation. It is an air of youthful hope, of looking to a new future, of inventing a Guyana that is fashionable and world-class and cheerful and brimming with confidence and goodwill. Ms Ali is the ninth First Lady in Guyana's history, and the youngest. Educated at the University of Guyana, the First Lady knows what it is to grow up in this society, and to self-develop to achieve her dreams. Ms Ali could speak with personal experience to the life of young women today in Guyana who face their future, dreaming of developing and becoming educated, self-actual-

ised Guyanese. Young women across the society would especially look up to Ms Ali, seeing in her what is possible for them in today's Guyana; that they could aim high and dream big; that the modern Guyanese woman is empowered, capable, and ready for the big stage. The First Lady's personal story of how she grew up and became a national symbol of hope, class and grace is fascinatingly interesting. Like so many young women, she had to overcome odds and challenges, and learn how to tackle life with that winning attitude. Ms Ali is part of a generation who did not settle only for high school education, but was determined enough to finish university. A whole generation of young Guyanese of her age group now populate the society, young professionals with university education, scores of them doctors and lawyers and professionals. It is a new age for Guyana, with this generation of home-grown professionals of excellence and world-class standards and international ability about to lift the Guyanese nation to a whole new height of global success.

How the nation cherishes its new First Lady as she settles into her role as a national figure of youthful influence! Ms Ali has already become an adorable icon on the national stage. Guyanese are not historically accustomed to having national figures who are their role models. There are many heroes, in politics, sports, entertainment, the arts, but hardly any who stand out as literally a role model for the young, especially young women. Today, here is First Lady Arya Ali gracing the Guyanese stage with such humility and charm and optimistic cheerfulness, such grace and elegance and class. For all Guyanese, Ms Ali stands out as a dynamic symbol of what's possible in the new Guyana, and for young women; she represents a refreshing new role model to emulate and look up to and see what's possible, illustrating that service to the nation is a high, noble, graceful calling.

Suicide helpline should be revamped Dear Editor, THE recent arrest of a young person for attempted suicide drives home the need for suicide to be decriminalised. It is moot to reiterate that but for the politicising of this issue it would have been a done deal since 2016. May we also once again point out, that last year, the International Association for Suicide Prevention embraced the call for suicide to be decriminalised everywhere in

the world, where that is still not the case. And so The Caribbean Voice (TCV) hopes that the intent to get this done, expressed by the Minister of Health recently, will finally come to fruition. Many nations have mandated that anyone who verbalises suicide ideation or exhibits signs of suicide be immediately reported, so that that person can be provided with necessary help. The TCV believes that it is time for Guyana to join those nations. Of course,

mandatory reporting would entail a national campaign to sensitise the population about warning signs and suicide-ideation language, as well as to emphasise that no signs or ideation should ever be treated as a joke, no matter how many times an individual may have exhibited same and no matter how drunk a person may be when exhibiting same. Also, given that ingestion of poison in the leading means of suicide in Guyana,

we strongly urge that immediate steps be taken to mitigate the effects of ingested poisoning. In 2016, the then government had announced plans to establish poison-control centres in various areas across the country. Those plans are still on paper. Meanwhile, in a May 2019 discussion with TCV, toxicologist Verrol Simmons of the University of the West Indies, St. Augustine Campus, Trinidad & Tobago, we were informed

that Dr. Simmons was willing to travel to Guyana and impart training with respect to steps that can be taken to immediately mitigate the effects of poisoning while medical help is sought. According to Dr. Simmons, he was told in 2014 by a Guyana Government representative that he would in fact be facilitated to provide that training, but the invitation never materialised. This invitation should now be sent. This training can be a

component of a pesticide suicide safety and prevention programme. Many such successful programmes have been implemented around the world with the World Health Organisation supported Shri Lanka Hazard Prevention Model being highly touted. We suggest that a train-thetrainers programme be implemented in both respects and those so trained can then fan out across the nation to pass on the training. TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Guyana condemns ... From page 3

been 15 days for them, and they would be home for Thursday… When they go out to sea, it usually takes 16 to 17 days to return,” the boat captain’s wife said, noting that the fishing route has been the same for all the years, so it is bewildering that the Venezuelans would choose to commit such an act now. SHOW OF AGGRESSION The Government of Guyana has considered this act a wanton show of aggression by the Venezuelan armed forces against Guyana and Guyanese citizens. “This Venezuelan action amounts to an interference with the sovereign rights of Guyana in its EEZ, contrary to international law,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry said. What is more disturbing, is that this act comes on the heels of the issuance of a decree by President of Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, claiming Venezuela’s sovereignty and exclusive sovereign rights in the waters and seabed adjacent to Guyana’s coast, west of the Essequibo River. Based on reports emanating from Venezuela, the decree points to the creation of a strategic zone for nation-

al development, called the “Territory for the Development of the Atlantic Façade”, which the Bolivarian Republic envisages will provide it adequate protection, and safeguard its jurisdiction. However, since Guyana has sovereign rights over the coast west of the Essequibo River, as far as Punta Playa, it follows, consequently, that only Guyana can enjoy sovereignty and exclusive sovereign rights over the adjacent sea and seabed. “I remind that sovereignty over this coast and the land territory to which it is attached, were awarded to Guyana (then British Guiana) in the 1899 Arbitral Award, whose validity and legally binding character Guyana is confident the International Court of Justice (ICJ) will uphold unequivocally,” President Dr. Irfaan Ali affirmed during a recent address to the nation. He said that, regrettably, by decreeing that the seas adjacent to this territory belong to Venezuela, at least two fundamental principles of international law have been violated. In the first violation, as outlined by President Ali, no State can unilaterally determine its international boundaries, whether land or maritime. President Ali contended that the

fixing of an international boundary, under international law, can only result from an agreement between neighbouring States, or a binding determination by an international court or arbitral tribunal. “Therefore, this attempt by Venezuela to attempt, unilaterally, to fix both its land and maritime boundaries with Guyana is a legal nullity, which cannot, and will not, be respected by any other State in the world, including Guyana,” the Head of State affirmed. The second violation of fundamental international law referenced by President Ali is based on the fact that under well-established rules of international law, there is a fundamental principle that says, “the land dominates the sea”. This means that sovereignty and sovereign rights in the sea and seabed emanate from title to the land that forms the coast to which those seas and seabed are adjacent. ‘ABDUCTION’ Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha reiterated the Government’s position on this issue, but specifically condemned the ‘abduction’ of Guyanese fishermen.

“We are very concerned, because the people are claiming that they are in our water, so it is illegal to hold them up,” Minister Mustapha said in an invited comment on Sunday. The vessels, he said, fall under the Ministry of Agriculture’s Department of Fisheries, so the issue demands his direct attention as well. “A notice was dispatched by the Foreign Affairs Ministry to Venezuela, and we have spoken to the owners of the vessel,” the minister said. Each family member, when contacted by this publication, said they are eagerly awaiting the return of their relatives, because, in some cases, they are the sole breadwinner of the house. The Government of Guyana has demanded the immediate release of the crew and vessels. It further exhorts the Government of Venezuela, and its agents, to behave in a manner consistent with international law, and good neighbourly relations. The international community, the Government of Guyana said, will be kept informed of all actions undertaken by Venezuela to undermine the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Guyana. The Commonwealth, CAR-

ICOM, United States of America and Canada have all signalled their full support for Guyana in this ongoing border controversy which is before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). Guyana is seeking to obtain a final and binding judgement that the 1899 Arbitral Award, which established the location of the land boundary between the then British Guiana and Venezuela, remains valid, and that the Essequibo region belongs to Guyana, and not Venezuela. Most recently, the ICJ, on December 18, 2020, ruled that it has jurisdiction to hear the Guyana, Venezuela border controversy case. It was reported that Guyana is confident that the international court will resolve the issue in its favour, and that this will also settle the issue of maritime rights in the adjacent sea and seabed. But, under international law, this is now for the ICJ to decide. This judicial process is one which international and regional stakeholders support, because they believe it will bring a peaceful end to the controversy.

Joe Biden and Kamala Harris sworn in for all of the U.S. Dear Editor, IF we are to believe that only blessings fall from above, then, when light snow fell on Wednesday in Washington DC, that must have certainly been blessings for America’s inauguration ceremony. After all the speculations, reservations, doubts, hopes, fears and anxieties, Joe Biden took the oath of office at noon, to become the 46th president for all of the United States of America. He takes charge in a deeply divided nation, inheriting a confluence of crises arguably greater than any faced by his predecessors. History was made as Kamala Harris was sworn in as the Vice- President, the first woman to hold this position. The former U.S. Senator from California, being the first non-Caucasian person and the first person of South Asian and Caribbean descent, was elected to the vice

presidency and becomes the highest-ranking woman ever to serve in government. She was sworn in Wednesday by Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latino to serve on the Supreme Court. The oaths were taken in the presence of the families of both the President and the Vice-President, past Presidents, Barack Obama, Bill Clinton, George Bush Jr. and their respective wives. Wednesday marked a day of “history and hope” for a country that has “learned again that democracy is precious,” as per Biden’s speech. A tension-filled moment consumed with emotions and elation, there was bitter-sweetness shared in an ambience heralding royalty and loyalty, friendship and unity and peacefulness and happiness. The alert environment was wary with precautions and tight security pervading in a highly armed, defensive mood, but ready to be offensive in a battle zone.

It was a cold atmosphere in a winter month that conducted an open-air programme to house limited guests and people from all rank and file under a pandemic-restricted protocol situation. Two notable absentees were the outgoing President Donald Trump, and his wife, former First Lady Melania Trump. It was a satisfying occasion to see past Vice-President Pence and past Majority Leader of the Senate, Mitch McConnell, present to defy the snobbery of Trump. With the pomp and circumstance granted to a foreign leader visiting the nation’s capital, the taxpayer-funded ceremony treated Trump to a military band playing “Hail to the Chief” as deafening sounds from a 21-gun salute echoed across Joint Base Andrews. The event was witnessed by a few, but was mostly boycotted by many who were once considered close to President Trump. Some intimated that Trump would resort to childish

antics while others suspected the former President to try to leave a child or two at the White House. Before leaving, he did grant clemency to some 143 people but was legally advised not to grant for himself or his family in his final hours, which would have reflected pre-emptive guilt. A day that was electrified with the dynamic performing artistry of Lady Gaga singing the National Anthem, Jennifer Lopez rendering, “This land Is your land” and “America the Beautiful,” followed by Garth Brookes wooing the crowd with “Amazing Grace.” The words and feelings certainly touched all to reflect and ponder on a divided nation, suffering tremendous damage from a mob of anarchists. In the new President’s closing remarks, Joe Biden cautioned, “The dream for justice will be deferred no longer.” Every little girl in America can now look up with a glee in her eyes and hope in her heart that

Suicide helpline should be ... Also, there is need for an upgraded support mechanism that includes counselling across the board, instead of selectively. Moreover, a national campaign needs to be launched to make the

general public aware of this mechanism and how to access the help without having to jump through hoops. Again, the suicide helpline should be revamped, taking cues from the do-

mestic violence hotline recently launched, among them easy and quick access to counselling, trained phone responders, and linkages with the police to ensure that help is quickly

available for those in need. Of critical importance is the need to build trust in those who operate the hotline and those who provide the necessary counselling and other interven-

dreams do materialise and there is equal opportunity for all. People of all ethnicities can stand proudly to know that they can be properly represented. The world once again can be proud of America and look up to this nation for leadership, guidance and protection. Of significant importance and perhaps, stealing some of the limelight of the day, 22-year-old Amanda Gorman, the youngest inaugural poet ever, read a work she finished after the Capitol Hill riot. “We’ve seen a force that would shatter our nation rather than share it; would destroy our country if it meant delaying democracy. But while democracy can be periodically delayed, it can never be permanently defeated.” Her poetry drew tears and persuaded the gathering to ponder on the events that led up to the siege of Capitol Hill on that dark day of January 6th by rioters and protesters,

FROM PAGE

one that threatened the very lives of Representatives from the House and senate for both the Democrats and Republicans. In his 21-minute speech, President Joe Biden called for Americans to unite and confront the perilous challenges before them: a deadly coronavirus pandemic and economic turmoil, as well as divisions over American leadership, immigration and climate change. He asserted that “democracy has prevailed.” The day stamped strength, determination and virtue, when lies and deceit can no longer fool the nation and must subside into the background, while, truth, honesty and honour will once again survive to underscore the dignity of being on the front line. Respectfully, Jai Lall

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tions and to ensure that those who call are comfortable confiding in whoever is assigned to help them. Finally , as with domestic violence hotlines, we urge that suicide helplines with

an appropriate message be also sent to all mobile phone users on a regular basis. Sincerely The Caribbean Voice

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Licensing, malpractices, abuse to be addressed in EMS legislation

By Rehana Ahamad APPROXIMATELY 75 Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs) are currently operating under the medical licence of Dr. Zulfikar Bux, founder and Director of Guyana’s pioneer Emergency Medical Services (EMS). This means that Dr. Bux is answerable to any legal matters that may arise in relation to the work of EMTs. “My licence covers their work, so every legal matter, I will have to defend; being the medical director, they are working under my licence as a physician,” Dr. Bux confirmed. He said that the landmark EMS legislation, which is currently being drafted, intends to bring resolution to a number of issues, including the issuance and revocation of licences for first responders. The legislation, accord-

ing to Dr. Bux, would require the implementation of a comprehensive and legally established process, accompanied by specific criteria, etc. “The EMTs cannot continue to function under a medical doctor’s licence. Having legislation in place, they would be certified to execute their functions; they would have their own autonomy. Not to just work in the public system, but it will give them the freedom to also collaborate and work with other healthcare providers as well,” Dr. Bux posited. The EMS Director revealed that the draft legislation will also address concerns of malpractices and disciplinary actions in the case of negligent first responders. “There will likely have EMTs who will have malpractice issues, but there isn’t a way to address it right now,” Dr. Bux noted.

He drew reference to the fact that matters of physician negligence are independently dealt with at the level of the Guyana Medical Council, while issues pertaining to the EMTs are often unanimously and single-handedly addressed by one person, without a proper legal framework. “The EMTs are dealt with by a regular system through the fire service, or me making a decision based on what is best in medicine, but it should not be an individual, dependent decision-making process,” Dr. Bux said, specifying that the legislation will comprise of a system that is “defensible to both the person making the [disciplinary] decision and the person who is receiving remediation.” The document, once tabled and approved by the National Assembly, will also give rights to both members of the public as well

Pioneer and Director of Guyana’s Emergency Medical Services, Dr. Zulfikar Bux

as the EMTs, in cases of complaints. “We want to have some amount of legal coverage for what we’re doing…the more people we transport, the more amount of intricacies you would find happening, and we want to have some amount of legal coverage,” Dr. Bux said. Because the provision of Emergency Medical Services is new to Guyana, there are currently no laws that govern how patients are transported from their home to the hospital, or how to deal with a host of problems that are likely to arise during transport. More specifically, the EMS legislation is expected to provide guidance relating to the con-

duct of EMTs in cases where patients are refusing medical interventions. “We don’t have any legislation to say that it is okay to leave a man who is dying, because he says he wants to be left that way,” Dr. Bux highlighted. He said that the EMS legislation will also serve as a tool to ensure the protection of first responders, who often face abuse by members of the public. “There are people who are abusive to EMTs while they tend to patients at a scene, and right now there is no protection in legislation to cover the EMTs when they go on the scene,” Dr. Bux said.

He added, “We had case recently, actually, where the EMTs arrive on the scene and the person was dead, and the family wanted transport so they called the ambulance to transport, but persons got aggressive after the EMTs decided to retract and leave.” Dr. Bux explained, “The law is, once a person is dead, EMTs are not supposed to transport that person to the hospital; they have to get the police involved to certify and see whether it was a case of homicide or any issues with the dead itself,” Bux added, as he emphasised the need for early implementation of the important legislation. “We need documents to show that if X happens, this is how you respond or this is what you do and this is what you are not supposed to do and so on. The only legislation that Guyana has really caters for in-hospital patient care.” Dr. Bux is optimistic that the laws would be in place by year end, to cater for the notable 2021 expansion slated for the Emergency Medical Service. “I am looking forward to the support to make sure it happens so that we can continue our expansion in a more efficient way.”

76 new COVID-19 cases recorded

–– Health Ministry confirms two more deaths THERE have been 76 additional COVID-19 cases recorded over a 24hour period, with three regions recording 20 or more cases, according to the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Dashboard for January 24. This dashboard indicates that there have been 76 new cases recorded from 451 tests. These new cases take the country’s total to 7,298 cases recorded since March, 2020. Importantly, 6,370 of the persons infected have recovered thus far, an additional nine persons over the 24-hour period. The cases were recorded from Region One (one case), Region Two (one case), Region Three (three cases), Region Four (22

cases), Region Five (six cases), Region Six (23 cases) and Region Seven (20 cases). There were 45 men infected and 31 women. There are also 769 active cases, seven of which are in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU); there are 713 in home isolation, 13 in institutional quarantine, and 36 in institutional isolation. The ministry, on Sunday, also confirmed the two additional deaths reported by this newspaper. A 60-year-old man from Turkeyen and a 78-year-old man from Berbice are the latest fatalities, taking the local death toll to 172. The updated COVID–19 Emergency Measures are in force from January 1, 2021,

until January 31, 2021. They may be extended or amended by notice of the Minister of Health, after an assessment of the prevailing public health conditions of the pandemic. As per the current measures, however, all persons are required to wear face masks when leaving their homes. Physical distancing and adequate sanitisation are also important. The current curfew time is 22:30 hours to 04:00 hours. Persons with symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to call the COVID-19 hotline numbers: 231-1166; 226-7480; or 180/181 for assistance.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

China to fund multipurpose indoor sports facility at Anna Regina VICE-Chairman of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), Humace Odit, has revealed that the town of Anna Regina will soon benefit from a multipurpose indoor sports facility, compliments of the People’s Republic of China. Odit made the revelation during an interview with reporters at the sidelines of an event at Supenaam on Saturday. Odit disclosed that on January 23, 2021, he met with the outgoing Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun, along with the Assistant Director of Sports, Melissa Dow-Richardson, and a team from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, when discussions were held about the proposed design for the facility. He said the project is earmarked for construction at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground and will take approximately two years to complete. Odit further explained that a cost has not been decided, but

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Regional Vice-Chairman, Humace Odit, with outgoing Chinese Ambassador, Cui Jianchun, at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground

the project will be funded by the Chinese government in collaboration with the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Region Two administration. According to the Vice-Chairman, based on the consultations, the project

is expected to commence in July 2021. Upon completion, the facility will provide indoor training for various sporting activities. Odit commended the Chinese government and noted that the project will impact Essequibo in a positive way and youths will benefit directly. He said

Sophia man shot by police

A TWENTY-EIGHT-year-old resident of Plum Park Dam, Sophia, Georgetown, was shot in his upper left thigh by the police on Friday last, after he allegedly attempted to attack a rank of a police mobile patrol. Police, in a statement, noted that the incident occurred at around 11:00 hours at Plum Park Dam. A video of the incident has since gone viral on social media. The Guyana Chronicle understands that a police corporal, along with three other ranks, were on mobile patrol duty when they observed four males at a roadside shop acting in a suspicious manner. According to the police release, the ranks immediately stopped to question the individuals when the suspect allegedly threw a zip-lock plastic bag on the ground. Police claimed that the bag contained a small amount of leaves, seeds and stems, suspected to be cannabis. The man subsequently ran away and made good his escape. The ranks, in their search for the individual, passed later at the same shop and noticed the man. They approached him, informed him of the offence committed and while attempting to arrest him, the individual picked up a glass bottle and attempted to hit the police corporal. The corporal withdrew himself from the reach of the individual to avoid getting hit, however, the individual began to use a series of obscene language while he continued to advance towards the corporal and threatened him with the bottle, according to the police. The man was warned to desist, but continued, and as a result, the corporal, upon realising that he was in danger, discharged a round which hit the individual in his upper left thigh.

The suspect is seen lying on the ground after he was shot by the cop

The rank immediately escorted the man to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Regional Commander, Senior Superintendent, Khali Pareshram, informed the Guyana Chronicle on Sunday that the individual was discharged from the hospital on Sunday and investigations are ongoing.

An artist's impression of what the multipurpose indoor sports facility will look like

based on discussions with the outgoing ambassador, similar projects will be done in Regions 10 and

Six. Odit added that negotiations are also ongoing for Guyana to provide coaching for youths in Chi-

na to play cricket and, in exchange, they will train youths in Guyana to play Table Tennis.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Training grounds for children

A child’s home is meant to be his training ground. A place where he is taught important lessons in life and qualities such as honesty, fairness, patience, morals and values. The child will take his cue from the adults around him. If they are loving and affectionate, warm and considerate, the child will grow to be the same. Along the way there will be incidents where the child makes a mistake. He may do something wrong or bad, but this is expected. Part of the training consists of parents helping the child to avoid mishaps; or to at least be aware of the consequences of his actions. The objective of the training is to enable a child to be resilient, well-mannered, considerate to others and smart; in as much as he is able to perceive immoral settings and dishonest people and retreat out of harm’s way tactfully. Every day of a child’s life is a learning day, regardless of how monotonous it may seem to the child; and parents have their work cut out. It is their job to provide the necessary ‘grounding’ to enable their child to go forth equipped for survival in this ever-changing world.

The foundation that parents need to consider initially is how they bond with their child. Bonding is a very special part of the entire journey for the child, it makes him feel secure, loved and protected. Children get by whether their parents are genuinely tuned into them or not. They live with either the frustration and irritation or love and affection that emits from their carers and they adapt accordingly. Due to the discrepancies that exist in their upbringing, and the lack of an authentic bond, the child may grow harbouring fear, resentment, anger, or annoyance towards his carers. He may, on the other hand, simply be indifferent to his home life and the people who raise him. A lack of guidance, and his indifference, however, could result in behavioural problems. Spending quality time with children is part of the training required for success. Pay attention to your child regardless of his age. If he has an interest, hobby or a special talent, encourage him to explore and enhance his ability. Teenagers tend to spend more time doing their ‘own thing’ and grow away from adults. But that’s no reason to leave your child to his

own devices. Time and attention from understanding parents cannot be equalled. Talking to your child and listening to him are precious moments; they should not be hurried, over-looked or dismissed as time-consuming. When children become adults, they will remember who was there for them and cherished moments shared or they may remember having no one in whom they could confide and so resorted to self-help. Because technology has overtaken so much of our lives, people seem to communicate using technology more than they do in person, but never encourage technology to break the human bond you have with your child. Children should be able to speak to their adult carers (parents, grandparents, aunty or uncle) about anything and know they will receive unbiased, thoughtful, clear advice and conversation. They should be treated with respect and their views and opinions sought when family decisions are being made. Even if the child has a silly or outrageous contribution to make toward a decision or wishes to discuss a peculiar matter – listen to him. By listening you know your child more

and can guide his thinking process if it needs your assistance. By listening, you can tell if your child is gaining maturity and a perspective on life or whether he has any shortcomings, such as needing a boost of confidence. The training ground is where children will learn attributes that will see them well in life, it should be a positive environment, even if it is a one-parent family. Hostility, resentment, and bad feelings toward the absent parent should not be present, or visited upon the child. Children need to focus on their lives and what they are going to do. Adult problems are not their concern. The root of children’s emotional development depends on their relationship with their parents. Based on positive input from parents, e.g. nurturing, constant interaction, love and protection, a child would learn to talk about his feelings and better understand the feelings of others. Parents can help their child identify emotions while he is young (three years old and upwards) and as they occur. “It seems that has made you feel sad”. “When he grabbed your hat, were you angry?” As they grow, children will learn to control their emotions when faced with

difficult situations and will manage failures and disappointments in life, appropriately. Children need to play indoor and out. They need to create, to build, to enquire, to explore and to challenge themselves occasionally; don’t hold them back. Assess the level of danger or safety in a situation beforehand and give them the opportunity to test their skills. Some parents need to put their fears aside and think of what children will gain from stretching their abilities rather than always playing it safe. Home life will affect the entire life of a child; create a positive environment and listen to your children - keep them safe, loved, and protected. 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

Dharamlall calls for Mayor Narine’s resignation MINISTER of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, has charged that Georgetown Mayor, Ubraj Narine, lacks leadership skills and therefore needs to resign, but the Mayor, on the other hand, launched a diatribe against the minister. The Mayor went live on his Facebook page on Friday to complain about remarks Dharamlall made in another section of the media, and among other things, accused him of lacking knowledge on how the local government systems work. “I respect you, but your IQ is not there. You have a way of myopic thinking and that would not really play out, especially with me as mayor of Georgetown. Not me,” Narine said. Minister Dharamlall, in an invited comment, told the Sunday Chronicle that the Mayor does not have a clear

understanding of what his roles are and where his legal mandate ends. “And it is through his incompetence that Georgetown is deteriorating. I will arrange a training session for all mayors and councillors for them to better understand their roles and responsibilities,” Dharamlall said, adding: “It is a pity that the Mayor of the capital city is focussed on making live Facebook videos rather than going out to get a grip of the concerns of citizens; total lack of leadership by Ubraj. He should resign as mayor and allow more competent people to lead the city.” According to Mayor Narine, Dharamlall told the press that between 2016 and 2019, the City Council raised over $12.7B but that it remains unclear where those funds are kept. The Mayor said the government owes the City Council over $1B. “This is not now. I called

spiritual knowledge to guide me,” the Mayor said. Meanwhile, Dharamlall told the Department of Public Information (DPI) recently that he is aware of many financial and procurement transgressions that have occurred at City Hall over the last year. He had noted that discussions with City Treasurer, John Douglas, revealed alarming findings, including that the council spent about $120M on staffing, and employed 707 persons, including over 250 pensioners. The minister said it is clear that the government cannot wait on the Minister of Local Government and Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine City Council to improve Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall Georgetown, and to this even on the Coalition to pay end, it has partnered with up their rates and taxes,” agencies. Mayor Narine said to date. various ministries to conhe asked Auditor General, “They does play underhe noted, adding that the duct infrastructural works Deodat Sharma, on August hand business. I am not arrooutstanding monies are split targetting roads, bridges, 21, 2020, to conduct an audit gant and full of ignorance… among the Guyana Police canals, markets and other of City Hall but he has not I will use wisdom. I’m a man Force, Guyana Power and Light, and other government received a response from him of God and I will use my infrastructure.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Association formed to address long-standing issues pilots face

By Tamica Garnett NOTING the urgent need for a proper search-and-rescue mechanism and the need for proper maintenance of airstrips at interior locations as unaddressed issues severely affecting the aviation sector in Guyana, pilots are praising the formation of the Guyana Pilots Association (GPA) to collectively address long-standing issues. The body was incorporated in December 2019, and has put in place an executive headed by the President, Paul Ramdat. It is also currently in the process of working on its constitution, and hopes to also meet with officials of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Ministry of Public Works (MoPW) and other necessary agencies to begin lobbying for better conditions for pilots. “The GPA was primarily formed to represent the interests of our pilots as it[sic] relates [sic] to their safety, security, personal welfare and way of life. [It] is not a union and cannot fight any personal grievances between pilots and their employers, neither do we intend to undermine the work of our GCAA,” a statement from the GPA said. The association’s current objectives include promoting fraternalism among pilots in Guyana, both private and government; to provide educational programmes with reference to aviation-related issues, policies and possibilities; to urge, support and advocate the passage of legislation and regulations affecting pilots in Guyana; to participate in research in aviation-related matters that will contribute to the advancement of the piloting profession in Guyana; and to participate in search-and-rescue operations, among others. “The pilots in Guyana, we work in really rough conditions and over the years there hasn’t been any representation from us on our side. There’s the GCAA that looks at the companies, but nothing representing us, so we vowed to change that,” explained Ramdat, who has been flying for the past 10 years, and is a Line Training Captain at Trans Guyana Airways.

Captain Learie Barclay, Director of Operations for Roraima Airways

Captain Shelly Dookram

Captain Paul Ramdat, President, Guyana Pilots Association

A collective body to represent pilots’ interests has been a long time coming, and though previous attempts were made, nothing concrete had materialized; however, many of the pilots were deeply appalled at the treatment of a pilot who was involved in an accident and decided that

enough was enough. “There was an issue with how a particular pilot was treated after an accident, where his medical attention was delayed because the investigators wanted him to go in their custody for drug and alcohol-testing, even before dealing with the pain he was feeling and injuries he had suffered. I think that was one of the things, we were really upset about that,” commented Learie Barclay, Director of Operations for Roraima Airways. Barclay boasts some 21 years experience as a pilot, and is a member of the GPA. Leading the issues that the association hopes to lobby for is the state of Guyana’s search-and-rescue infrastructure, or lack thereof. “Instead of search and rescue in Guyana, we have search and recovery, because it takes so much time to get to you [and] when they get there, all they can do is recover your body from the jungle floor, by the time they get there you’re dead. “So that is a real burning issue on our part. You are going to work and you want to know that you would be taken care of if something happens,” Barclay told this newspaper. His sentiments were shared by his co-worker, Shelly Dookram, who is also the GPA secretary. “Search and rescue is a big thing for us; up to this day we can’t locate a captain who went missing. It’s a scare for you coming out of your house going to fly, and if you get into an accident you don’t know how fast they would respond. Sometimes the deployment of pilots to go look is not as fast as it should be. And there is no proper company that has the technology on board to locate you in quick instances instead of days, so search and rescue is a big priority,” Dookram expressed. The pilots are also calling for improvements in some of the airstrips in the hinterland locations. They’re [airstrips] not all bad, but overtime they have deteriorated. It’s an ongoing issue. It may not be just the airstrip has the problem, sometimes its animals on the

runway, or conditions that happen and we are looking for the Ministry of Public Works to deal with it, so it would be good to have a collective voice to go to them rather than one person,” shared Captain Francis Camacho, Deputy Chief Pilot at Trans Guyana Airways. Camacho further noted

that the lack of proper weather reporting at the airstrip locations is also affecting the pilots. “We don’t have a lot of weather-reporting stations. Right now how it works is you call up somebody in the interior and ask them how is the weather, and they will give you it in a layman’s

terms. But in aviation, there are specific terms you are supposed to use; however, we don’t have that at any facility outside of Timehri [Cheddi Jagan International Airport] and Ogle [Eugene Correia International Airport],” he explained.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Captain Mike Charles launches new tourism video

Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips delivering the keynote address

GUYANA Defence Force (GDF) Pilot, Captain Michael Charles, launched his fourth tourism promotion video, titled ‘Sounds and Colours of the Rainforest’. The one-hour long piece forms part of a fascinating series that Charles has developed over the years, called “Guyana -Yours to

Discover,” which promotes Guyana as an ideal eco-tourism destination. The latest video, launched almost a decade since the third, was beautifully voiced by Michella Abraham-Ali and features some of Guyana’s most interesting creatures and breathtaking sceneries, with emphasis on some of the hidden gems contained

Captain Michael Charles

in the rural regions. Charles, who has travelled extensively throughout Guyana, has been hailed as a pioneer when it comes to showcasing Guyana’s tourism product to the world. Delivering the feature address at the launch of the video on Thursday evening at the Arthur Chung Confernece Centre, Prime Minister, Brigadier (ret’d) Mark Phillips said Charles has become a frontrunner when it comes to showcasing Guyana’s captivating tourism product. “Like his other productions, this latest video can become an essential mar-

keting tool. I encourage the sales and marketing arms of our tourism agencies to consider how this video can be deployed to enhance its reach, appeal and impact,” the Prime Minister said. The Prime Minister believes that Charles has played an important role in building Guyana’s reputation as one of the world’s foremost eco-tourism destinations. He expressed appreciation to the pilot, noting that the latest production confirms Guyana’s potential as a global leader in eco-tourism. Meanwhile, in her re-

marks, Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond said that the video serves as an important tool that can be used to entice persons to visit Guyana. “I previewed the production and I assure you that it represents a pulsating and exhilarating journey across destination Guyana,” Walrond told the gathering. She said that the video is a timely and appropriate reminder of Guyana’s beauty, which, she indicated, can be fully explored safely, even amid the COVID-19 pandemic. “It is critical to continuously spotlight our destination so that it could remain at the forefront of the minds of visitors delayed by travel restrictions,” the minister posited. She also used the forum to underscore the need for increased domestic tourism. “Every region in Guyana is now actively developing its tourism offerings… this aligns with the need for locals to explore our beautiful country, by spending more time visiting local destinations,” Walrond added. Creator of the videos, Captain Charles, has had almost four decades of wholesome experiences, traveLling throughout the length and breadth of Guyana. As a pilot, he has flown over some of the most exhilarating waterfalls and sites that many Guyanese have

not yet seen. Charles said he recognised his privilege and felt compelled to share his experience with not only his fellow Guyanese, but the rest of the world as well. “The sights and sounds that I have seen in those 37 years have been unmatched; the joy and accompanying awe could not remain a personal experience,” the former military officer said. In his brief remarks, Charles said that his latest video took him eight years to produce, but despite all the hard work and investments, he is contented that the creation of the pieces adds to a worthy sacrifice. “It takes a great deal of financial investment and personal sacrifice to produce these videos… my son was a little boy when I started,” Charles related, expressing hope that the videos would continue to encourage tourists, both local and foreign, to invest in exploring what this 83,000 square miles paradise has to offer. Thursday’s launch was also attended by Minister of Public Service, Sonia Parag; Junior Minister of Housing and Water, Susanne Rodrigues; Minister of Amerindian Affairs, Pauline Sukhai; Ambassador of the European Union to Guyana, Fernando Ponz Canto, along with other members of the diplomatic corps, and stakeholders of the local tourism industry.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Health centre commissioned at Onderneeming –– 2,000 residents to benefit MINISTER of Health Dr. Frank Anthony on Saturday commissioned a stateof-the-art health centre at Onderneeming, Sand Pit Road, in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam). The health facility had its doors opened to residents last week and already 180 children have been registered to access primary health care services. Speaking at a simple ribbon-cutting ceremony, Dr. Anthony said the facility was opened with the intention of delivering care to the people living within the environs of the Onderneeming Sandpit area. He said that residents have suffered for far too long to access primary

health care services. “We have been working to develop health care and to make it more responsive by bringing it to the people, and we see that the doors of this facility have been opened one week now and already 180 children were registered to access the services,” Dr. Anthony said. He assured attendees that a doctor will be posted at the facility soon and residents can expect tremendous changes, noting that children in the community will now be able to receive their necessary vaccines without travelling long distances. The health centre will greatly assist in the fight

against chronic and noncommunicable diseases by treating patients or making referrals. Regional Health Officer Dr. Ranjeev Singh, said approximately 2,000 residents will access primary health care services within the community. Additionally, Medical Superintendent (ag), Dr. Sheneer Reid, said that the opening of the health facility will ease the burden at the Suddie Public Hospital. Dr. Reid promised that doctors, nurses, and a mid-wife will be sent to the centre regularly to offer essential services.

Community Health Officer Verelyn Small cuts the ribbon to officially open the health centre in the presence of Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony (left) and other officials

New pump station for Andrews, Reg. 2

–– will provide drainage for more than 100 acres of land RESIDENTS living in the extreme north of the Pomeroon-Supenaam region will soon experience improved drainage as plans are on stream to build a new pump station at Andrews on the Essequibo Coast. Last Thursday, a team of key stakeholders met at the project site for the first time and engaged in further discussions. The team included Regional Chairperson, Vilma De Silva; Vice-Chairman, Humace Odit; the Prime Minister’s representative, Arnold Adams; Deputy Chief Executive Officer, National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), Dave Hicks;

Project Manager from CB & Associates, Surendra Singh; Regional Engineer, Kawan Suchit; NDIA Regional Engineer, Nanram Narine; Chairman of the Evergreen/Paradise Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC), Lionel Budhram; and Sea Defence Engineer, Saeed Mohamed. Speaking to residents, rice farmers, and the regional team, Hicks said the meeting was an initial stage towards the construction of a state-ofthe-art pump station. He explained that CB & Associates was contracted to conduct the design for the project; the company will be responsible for conducing consultations and developing a hydraulic

The area earmarked for the construction of the pump station

design. The company’s Project Manager explained that the

first site visit was done to meet with stakeholders and to interact with farmers and

other residents. Singh said that the company will be visiting the site regularly, and he used the opportunity to remind officials that the project is still in its designing stages. He made a commitment to update regional officials and other stakeholders on the status of each visit and the progress of the project. Meanwhile, De Silva said she was happy that this project will be executed in Andrews. She urged CB & Associates to conduct consultations with the residents and farmers; she also requested weekly reports from the respective agencies on the status of the project. The Vice-Chairman, Humace, in his comments, noted that when the project is completed, drainage will be provided for more than 100

acres of lands in the area. He said the sluice, at the moment, cannot effectively assist in draining of the land, especially during the rainy season. The Prime Minister’s representative also urged for inclusive engagements with community members. Adams said that the comments made by farmers and residents are important during the designing phase. Former coalition councillor, Hardat Narine, who spoke on behalf of residents, expressed eagerness for the commencement of the project. He said that the area has been in need of a pump station for several years now as whenever it rains, many rice fields are inundated.

Suspected thief beaten by Belfield residents ….after breaking into house of elderly woman A SUSPECTED thief was caught by some residents of Belfield, East Coast Demerara (ECD) on Sunday morning and dealt a sound thrashing before he was handed over to the police. The man, who is yet to be identified, allegedly broke into the home of 85-year-old Ivan Lyken, who resides in the village, and stole some food items, valuables and cash. Lyken said she woke up at around 01:00 hours to use to the washroom and then retired to bed.

Shortly after, she saw a “figure” removing her handbag from the bedside and so she started to scream. “I woke up and when I turn, I see this man just pick up my bag off of the bed head and walk outside and I get up and walk behind him and start hollering for ‘thief, thief’, but by then he had gone up the road.” The elderly woman said her handbag contained all of her personal documents. “I didn’t mind what he take; even if he had taken gold,

The suspected thief who was caught and beaten by residents

all I was interested in is that I get back my pension book, my ID card, my passport and all my papers.” Lyken said the thief also made his way into her kitchen and emptied her fridge. “He went in the fridge take out all the things, he bring out all the things and tumble it up.” He allegedly also stole two cellphones and $11,000 in cash. According to Lyken, the perpetrator broke a part of her concrete fence to gain access to the yard, since the gate was locked with a padlock and chain. He is believed to have gained entry into the house by removing several window

The fence, which the alleged thief broke down to gain entry into the woman’s yard

panes from the side of the house. According to Lyken, the perpetrator was found by

residents as he tried to hide in a neighbour’s yard; this is when he received a severe beating.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Local businesses to benefit from incentives …including duty-free concessions, says GO-Invest CEO

GUYANA has been deemed a hotspot for investment, given the growth trajectory of the economy, and with major foreign investors taking notice, the government is keen on ensuring that all local investors have opportunities to benefit and grow. This is according to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), Peter Ramsaroop, who noted that, over the last three years, approximately 56 local businesses have benefitted from fiscal incentives, while an additional 35 applied and were allocated industrial and/ or commercial lands to aid in the expansion and development of their business. Ramsaroop, during an interview with this newspaper, stated that GO-Invest is working to introduce several incentives this year specifically for local business investors. He pointed out that one major initiative local in-

vestors can look forward to in 2021 is duty free concessions for their businesses. Ramsaroop explained that these concessions would be applicable to equipment and machinery that will be used to expand and modernise operations. He noted that this concession would allow the businesses not just to increase their output capabilities but will also allow them to have increase overall profits. Ramsaroop indicated that the businesses which would benefit from duty free concessions include those engaged in beverage manufacturing; packaging manufacturing, value added agro-processing and packaging; and commercial printing. Additionally, local businesses engaged in agriculture related activities such as poultry production, rice production, cash crops and integrated farming, are also set to benefit. GO-Invest is also looking at tax incentives to promote

continued sustainability in addition to ensuring that local businesses have the ability and capacity to partner with foreign investors. “We are aggressively pursuing local companies having the opportunity to partner with foreign direct investors, so we are fostering joint ventures. So when we see a foreign investor come in looking for expertise in a particular area and we know of local businesses, we bring them together to see if they want to do a joint venture as expansion,” Ramsaroop stated. The GO-Invest CEO explained that the government is working to ensure that both local and foreign investors have the opportunity for growth and expansion, noting that the government is of the unwavering belief that Guyanese citizens and local investors have equal opportunities to benefit from Guyana’s economy as those of foreign investors.

Chief Executive officer of the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest), Peter Ramsaroop.

“There is no differentiation between a foreign inves-

tor and a local investor from our perspective; they have

the same rights, the same incentives and the notion that foreign investors are coming in and taking our resources, our local investors have the same opportunities to expand their operation, that we are finding more and more of them doing that, fining capital to expand and so,” Ramsaroop explained. Meanwhile Ramsaroop also noted that although the COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted businesses around the world, local businesses continue to be resilient and committed to achieving their goals, adding that the government intends to continue supporting local growth and will continue to partner with these businesses throughout 2021.

Speeding motorcyclist dies in accident

AN accident on the Sir David Rose Avenue Public Road in Mackenzie, Linden on Saturday, resulted in the death of 29-year-old Adriel Drakes of Blue Berry Hill, Wismar. Police Headquarters, in a statement, noted that a car, driven by 68-year-old Clifton Cadogan, a pensioner of Blue Berry Hill, was proceeding north on the western side of the road, when Drakes, who was proceeding in the opposite direction, lost control of his motorcycle while negotiating a left bend. Police said Drakes was riding at a fast rate of speed and collided with the right side front of the car; he fell on the road’s surface and received Dead: Adriel Drakes injuries about his body. Drakes was picked up by public spirited receiving treatment. The vehicles were citizens in an unconscious state and taken to lodged and the driver of the car is in custhe Linden Hospital Complex; he died while tody assisting with investigations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

'Stevedore' children appeal for help with online learning have nothing better for them to do,” she concluded. As it is, more than 50 children within Stevedore Housing Scheme do not have access to electronic devices, Wi-Fi or data services which they need to complete their online learning. “More could definitely be

Yvonne Reid-Hamilton, a resident of Stevedore Housing Scheme, helps her children with their worksheets (Delano Williams photo)

By Mesha Sealey WITH the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, there is no doubt that, for many, challenges which might have existed before, have been significantly heightened and multiplied. From the loss of employment, fear of contracting the disease and increased financial strain, to rapidly debilitating mental states, we can all agree that the coronavirus made some of our worst fears a reality. While for some, school might have been the place to see friends and socialise, it was, for others, an escape from their home lives, where they could have access to food, books and other resources that may not have been available at home. This was the case for many learners residing at Stevedore Housing Scheme in Georgetown. While online learning was proposed as a method of ensuring that learners are kept actively occupied, there lay, for many, a fatal

flaw within this approach. Though many may agree that the online system is the most propitious system for keeping children abreast with their academic education, as it reduces risk of contracting the deadly virus, a large number of learners are still bereft of electronic devices, or even an internet connection needed to access online learning materials. Previously, the Ministry of Education had implemented a “blended multifaceted approach” to incorporate teaching via various internet platforms, the Learning Channel, radio and print materials, but some parents say that such is not enough. “Not everybody has the means that they want for these children. Of course you have the television and the worksheets, but when you have a set of children of different ages, it’s not enough,” one single mother of Stevedore Housing Scheme explained during an interview with this newspaper.

The woman, who is mother to eight, elaborated that the children had difficulty accessing appropriate learning materials due to the fact that all the members of her household share one smartphone, which is already overloaded with work for her son, who attends secondary school. “While he is on the phone doing his schoolwork, nobody else can really use it, you know. So we are at a disadvantage,” the woman conceded. “The thing is, the teachers are saying they want these children to do their work, but the teachers, or the people that are setting the curriculum, they don’t realise the circumstances the children living in. “They are not going about asking to see if they could give a helping hand to those in need, and see who you could help to get the work done,” another mother lamented. “We finding it really difficult to deal with this situation, because children can’t get their work done, and we don’t

Youth shot three times after leaving popular night spot A TWENTY-TWO-yearold labourer of East La Penitence, Georgetown is nursing three gunshot wounds after he escaped an execution attempt in the wee hours of Sunday. Osafo Johnson was shot to the hands and left side abdomen by four men at around 04:45 hours at Barbie Dam, East La Penitence, in the presence of his wife, Yunnyzy Medina, 26. Police Headquarters, in a statement, noted that

Johnson and his wife left the Tower Hotel on Main Street, Georgetown in a Toyota Axio motorcar, which is owned and driven by David Green, to go home. Police said Green stopped the car at Barbie Dam for the couple to walk in to get home, when two cars drove up from behind and blocked his path. The occupants of both cars exited and started to call out Johnson’s name. Police said Johnson and his wife

exited the car and ran, when one of the men discharged several rounds at him, causing him to receive three gunshot wounds. Johnson was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he is said to be in a stable condition. Two 9mm spent shells and one suspected 9mm war head were recovered at the scene. Green has been detained by the police as investigations continue.

done when it comes to helping out the children in the area… because if you look around, you can see a lot of people need help,” said one High School student. All schools in Guyana have been closed since March 2020, when Guyana recorded its first case of

the virus. However, on November 9, 2020, secondary schools reopened for faceto-face learning for grades 10, 11 and 12 as those students are preparing to write the 2021 Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate and Caribbean Advanced Proficiency examinations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Fernandes’ free kick gives united victory over Liverpool (BBC) - Bruno Fernandes’ superb 78th-minute freekick gave Manchester United victory in a thrilling FA Cup tie with old rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford. Liverpool led a fantastic contest through Mohamed Salah, who then equalised after Mason Greenwood and Marcus Rashford had struck for the hosts either side of the break.

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But in a game which had everything last week’s drab stalemate between this pair at Anfield lacked, Fernandes came off the bench to have the final word after Fabinho had fouled Edinson Cavani on the edge of the area. Fernandes might have been slightly off the pace in recent games but when Ole Gunnar Solskjaer needed his £47m inspiration to come up with another special moment, the Portuguese delivered, bending his shot round the wall and beyond Allison’s reach. The victory earns United a home meeting with an inform West Ham side managed by former boss David Moyes in the fifth round. But the search for form goes on for Liverpool,

whose only win in seven games since that seven-goal hammering of Crystal Palace came against Aston Villa’s kids in the last round, and who have a meeting with Jose Mourinho’s Tottenham looming on Thursday. Fernandes the matchwinner, Rashford shines It was not quite the ending Solskjaer served up when he won a previous fourthround meeting between these sides but, as in 1999, they had to come from behind. And while Fernandes applied the devastating finish, that goal should not be allowed to overshadow Rashford’s contribution to United’s victory. So much has been said about the England forward as a social crusader it is

sometimes easy to forget he also needs to be judged as a footballer. At only 23, he is still a long way off his prime but he is developing into an outstanding forward, with vision to match his speed and finishing ability. The pass that created Greenwood’s equaliser was superb. Taking possession just inside his own half, Rashford delivered a 60yard pass with such accuracy all Greenwood needed to do was take one touch to control with his chest before drilling low into the far corner. Rashford’s raw pace put Liverpool’s defence under constant stress and the delicate touch that took him past Rhys Williams by the

touchline in a move that ended with Paul Pogba curling wide was sensational. And then there was his goal, which needed a perfectly-timed run to go beyond the Liverpool defence and reach Greenwood’s through ball, and then a cool head to apply the finish. At that point, it seemed United had the game under control. It did not quite work out that way and once again, Fernandes, who has won four Premier League player of the month awards out of the seven he has been eligible for since leaving Sporting Lisbon less than 12 months ago, underlined his credentials as English football’s most influential player at present.

SECC questions selection criteria use for Super50 squad THE South Essequibo Cricket Committee (SECC) in a statement is questioning the selection criteria used to select the Guyana Jaguars Super50 squad, since the committee has expressed its “displeasure and disappointment” at the non-selection of left-arm spinner Antony Adams. The statement read, ‘South Essequibo Cricket Committee (SECC) demands an explanation for the non-selection of Antony Adams by the Guyana Jaguars selectors; Cricket is a game of love and unity, it’s that game that brings our Guyanese people and cricketers together. Therefore, the SECC wishes to make a statement on the non-selection of Antony Adams and other players from the county of Essequibo by the selectors and coaches of the Cricket Guyana Inc. (CGI) Guyana Jaguars Franchise team for this year Regional 50 overs tournament. The SECC would like to register its displeasure and disappointment with the non-selection of Antony Adams, especially at a time when Veerasammy Permaul, the leading left-arm spinner, is not available due to Cricket West Indies duty. We strongly believe that this is the time Adams should have been given his opportunity at the Regional level, after his consistency over the last three years at the CGI franchise

competition and academy. The SECC would like to condemn in the strongest possible terms the treatment given to Adams over the years as it relates to Jaguars’ selection. We would like to see the players such as Adams, Kemol Savory, and Ricardo Adams, all of whom are from the county of Essequibo and have done well over the years at the CGI franchise competitions, be treated with respect and be given fair opportunities to represent their country at the senior level. Undoubtedly, Antony Adams would have fulfilled the selection criteria with his performances, which are a testimony for the Essequibo Franchise team to be crowned champions in the CGI 50 overs format competitions in 2018 and finished runners-up in 2019 under Adams’ captaincy. In the 2018 CGI 50-overs competition, Adams batted at number seven and scored a total of 187 runs with two half-centuries, and still managed to capture the award of most wickets, a total of 12 and a best of 4-26. In the 2019 CGI 50 overs competition he finished with a total of 189 runs, again with two half-centuries, a best of 65, and captured 13 wickets with a best of 6-26. It must be noted that the Chairman of Selectors, who is also a

former Assistant Coach of Guyana Jaguars, stated in the press, “The criteria is based on performances, you have fitness test involved and you have to consider potential players you can develop. Performances are big, but as I said fitness is just as big as performances”. However, SECC was reliably informed that there are players selected, who have not passed the required fitness test and the records are there to show. We therefore, would like to know what grounds and which criteria were used to select those players. The ‘Cinderella County’ is known to produce great cricketers and therefore believe this was the right time where players like Anthony, Savory, and Ricardo should have been part and parcel of the Guyana Jaguars team. The continuous non-selection of Antony Adams and other Essequibo players cannot be accepted. The SECC is humbly calling on the selectors and coaches, especially Rayon Griffith, who hails from South Essequibo Coast, and by extension the CGI for an explanation. We would like for the CGI to conduct a full review of its operations in the selection of players so that it can represent a more unified team, one which the entire country can be proud of.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

Does Bishoo’s omission from Super50 squad signal the end of his career ? asks Rajiv Bisnauth THE decision of the national selectors to overlooked leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo for the forthcoming Regional Super50 tournament is a clear statement of their determination to start rejuvenating a spin department that is showing signs of fraying at the edges. At some point the selectors were always likely to have to confront the stomach-churning decision of knowing when to decide the fate of Bishoo’s career. In attempting to determine exactly how Guyana’s and by extension the regional side fortunes will shape up without him, the local selectors have decided there is no better time than the present. After the selectors opted to look beyond spin twins Neil McGarrell and Mahendra Nagamootoo, Bishoo and his Albion clubmate Veerasammy Permaul played a crucial role in the transformation of Guyana’s cricket and together they served the nation’s cricket for over a decade where the team gradually emerged as a leading one in regional cricket. Although the man from Albion is yet to retire from any form of the game, he is unlikely to return to the national fold or even the regional sides as the selectors, both locally and regionally have clearly indicated that he is no longer part of their plans. Having made his debut for Guyana in March 2008, playing alongside the likes of Shivnarine Chanderpaul and Ramnaresh Sarwan, Bishoo made an impact straightaway as he picked up a five-wicket haul in his maiden firstclass innings.

in a T20 game against England in March 2019. His last ODI was against the same opponent in March 2019, while his last Test was against Bangladesh in December 2018. Bishoo credits all his success to his parents. Having lost his father over two decade ago, his moth-

Devendra Bishoo

Having churned out wickets at the domestic level for Guyana, Bishoo’s turning point came in the 2010 West Indies T20 tournament, when he helped Guyana win the tournament and also helped them qualify for the Champions League T20.He won the Man-of-the-series in that tournament, picking up 10 wickets in four matches at an astonishing average of 8.20 and with a superb economy rate of 5.12. Guyana put on a poor show at the Champions League, but Bishoo came out of the tournament with his head held high. With sustained success, Bishoo was constantly knocking on the doors of the regional selectors who eventually answered, ahead of the 2011 World Cup. Having been named in the provisional 30-member squad for the world event, he failed to make the final cut. But serendipity ensured his arrival in Chennai, where he delivered upon his promise with a three-wicket haul on ODI debut against England, albeit in a losing cause. In what was a successful 2011, Bishoo picked up 65 wickets

across international formats and was named the ICC Emerging Cricketer of the Year. After the early success, 2012-2015 was a torrid time in Bishoo’s cricketing career. While his performances were on the retrograde, the likes of Sunil Narine and Shane Shillingford were quickly rising through the ranks, and the wrist spinner had to endure a tough three-year period on the sidelines. Bishoo eventually forced his way back into the West Indies team on the back of consistent performances in the domestic circuit and has been at it ever since making it back. A six-wicket haul against Australia in Roseau and eight wickets in an innings against Pakistan in a 10-wicket haul in Dubai are among his memorable achievements in the last few years. At 35, Bishoo boasts a wealth of experience, having played 36 Tests and 42 ODIs for a combined 155 wickets. However, injury has plagued his career over the last few years, leading to him spending more time off the field than on it. Bishoo last played for West Indies

er gave him the strength to achieve his goals. Everytime he goes out on the field wearing the West Indies cap, he takes a moment to remember his father, who had wanted him to be part of the West Indies. Today, looking at the rise of Devendra, Mohanlal Bishoo would be a very proud father indeed.

He took 387 FirstClass wickets from 103 games while capturing 109 wickets from 81 List A games. Success and failure have been alternating visitors in Bishoo’s cricketing home but the pragmatist that he is, he has been an unprejudiced host to both.

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Estwick says Windies looking to end ODI series with win, ahead of Tests By Clifton Ross ON the eve of the final ODI, West Indies Assistant Coach Roddy Estwick is urging the guys to get their act together quickly as they seek to salvage the series following back-to-back drubbings by Bangladesh. Estwick spoke virtually on Sunday, the eve of the final match as he explained that the team had been in high spirits looking ahead to the final 50 over game and the upcoming Test series. “The team is in good spirits, the Test boys are supporting the 50-over boys because we are all in the bubble together. We had a practice session this afternoon and it looked like a better pitch than the one in Dhaka. We are expecting bigger scores, and better batting conditions. It is up to the players to believe in themselves. They are representing the West Indies, and you have to be proud of playing for your country.” said Estwick. West Indies ODI captain Jason Mohammed following the first loss, made specific mention of the tough conditions and equally tough batting pitch, something Estwick echoed but said they were keen on overcoming going forward. “When you look at the pitch in the last ODI, it was so dry. It was very difficult to win the toss and bowl, it would have been even more difficult to score in the second innings. We have to be honest that we didn’t bat well, we didn’t get partnerships and never got into any kind of rhythm and kept losing wickets in clusters”. With the West Indies looking to avoid a 3-nil hammering, the assistant coach further explained that it was important to get a win and end the series on a high as they prepare for the equally important Test series. “Any little advantage we get in the next game is going to be so vital. Someone standing up and getting a big hundred or a 5-wicket haul just to give us some kind of momentum and confidence. Once you are not winning, the confidence gets low. We are working very hard to lift the confidence in the players. We are having discussions and honest practice sessions”. Said Estwick In closing, Estwick defended his young team despite them showing more fight on previous tours late last year. He however added that it was the big leagues and players will need to learn quickly and improve as they seek to forge a solid international career. “The players are trying but for a lot of the players, 50-overs is new to them, and the conditions in Bangladesh are even more foreign to them. But you can’t hide behind that; you are an international cricketer and you have to find ways to improve your game and team’s overall performance”. Estwick ended.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday January 25, 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) Mominul Haque/Tamin Iqbal-9 Test centuries each (2) Mushfiqur Rahim-34

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What was the result of the first ODI of the current WI/BANG series? (2) Who was voted Man of the Match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

NBA roundup…

76ers, Lakers and Jazz register wins (REUTERS) - NIKOLA Jokic had 29 points and 22 rebounds, Jamal Murray scored 26, and the visiting Denver Nuggets beat the Phoenix Suns 120-112 in double overtime on Saturday night. Michael Porter Jr. had 14 points and 11 rebounds, JaMychal Green scored 16, Monte Morris added 13 and Gary Harris finished with 10 for the Nuggets, who swept the two overtime games in Phoenix on successive nights. Chris Paul had 21 points, 13 assists and nine rebounds, Jae Crowder also scored 21 points and Deandre Ayton had 17 points and 13 rebounds for the Suns before fouling out in the first overtime. Cameron Johnson scored 19 points and Mikal Bridges had 11 for Phoenix, which played without leading scorer Devin Booker, who suffered a left hamstring strain in the Suns’ overtime loss on Friday night. Philadelphia 76ers 114 - Detroit Pistons 110 Joel Embiid had 33 points and 14 rebounds to lead Philadelphia past host Detroit, which was without Blake Griffin and Derrick Rose on the second night of a back-to-back. Ben Simmons supplied 20 points, nine rebounds, seven assists and three steals, while Tobias Harris tossed in 17 points for the Sixers. Seth Curry added 14 points as Philadelphia won its third straight game. Wayne Ellington led seven Pistons in double figures with 17 points. Svi Mykhailiuk contributed 15 points and Sekou Doumbouya had 13. Jerami Grant was limited to 11 points on 3-for-19 shooting. Grant had scored 20 or more points for 14 consecutive games. BROOKLYN NETS 128 - MIAMI HEAT 124 Kevin Durant scored 31 points as Brooklyn never trailed and survived multiple fourth-quarter comeback attempts by Miami and a career-high 41-point night by Bam Adebayo in a victory at New York. Kyrie Irving added 18 of his 28 points in the fourth, including 10 in the final 2:41. Joe Harris added 23 and tied a career-high with seven 3-pointers. James Harden did not make a field goal until the fourth quarter and finished with 12 points and 11 assists as Brooklyn shot 53.7 percent, tied a season best with 19 3-pointers, and collected a season-high 34 assists. Adebayo surpassed his previous career-high of 30 points on Dec. 10, 2019 and made 14 of 20 shots but did not hit a field goal in the final 5 1/2 minutes. Goran Dragic added 19 while Duncan Robinson and Kendrick Nunn finished with 18 apiece as the Heat shot 70 percent in the fourth and 47.2 percent overall. Los Angeles Lakers 101 - Chicago Bulls 90

Anthony Davis #3 of the Los Angeles Lakers shoots the ball against the Chicago Bulls on January 23, 2021 at United Center in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Jeff Haynes/NBAE via Getty Images) Anthony Davis scored a game-high 37 points, and Los Angeles rolled to a win over host Chicago. The Lakers improved to a perfect 9-0 on the road to start the season. LeBron James notched a double-double with 17 points and 11 rebounds for Los Angeles, which won for the seventh time in their past eight games. Zach LaVine finished with 21 points and 10 rebounds to lead the Bulls, whose three-game winning streak came to an end. Coby White had 14 points, while Patrick Williams (13) and Lauri Markkanen (12) also scored in double digits. Minnesota Timberwolves 120 - New Orleans Pelicans 110 Naz Reid scored 20 points to lead six players in double-figures as short-handed Minnesota defeated New Orleans in Minneapolis. Anthony Edwards added 18 points, Jarred Vanderbilt had 16 points and 11 rebounds, Jarrett Culver and Malik Beasley scored 16 each and Jordan McLaughlin had 11 as the Timberwolves won for just the second time in 13 games. The Timberwolves played Saturday without Karl-Anthony Towns and Juancho Hernangomez, who are sidelined because of COVID protocols, and D’Angelo Russell, who was resting. Brandon Ingram scored 30 points, Eric Bledsoe added 28 and Zion Williamson had 19 points and 11 rebounds to lead

New Orleans. Utah Jazz 127 - Golden State Warriors 108 Steph Curry moved up to No. 2 on the NBA’s all-time 3-pointers list, but that was about the only thing that went Golden State’s way in a blowout loss against Utah in Salt Lake City. Donovan Mitchell led a balanced and explosive offensive performance for the red-hot Jazz -- who led the whole game and by as many as 40 -- with 23 points, seven rebounds and six assists in just 27 minutes. Five other players scored in double-figures for Utah, who won their league-leading eighth consecutive game. Houston Rockets 133 - Dallas Mavericks 108 Eric Gordon and DeMarcus Cousins delivered their best performances of the season as Houston claimed a wire-to-wire victory over host Dallas. Gordon scored a season-high 33 points on 6-for-9 3-point shooting while Cousins posted his second double-double with season bests in points (28) and rebounds (17). The Rockets, who led by as many as 26 points prior to extended garbage time, won both ends of a road backto-back by following up a one-point win at Detroit on Friday with exceptional shooting Saturday, including 16 3-pointers.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, January 25, 2021

BCB Cricket Development Programme 2021…

RHTY&SC teams donate to BCB, UCCA

THE Berb ice C rick et Board (BCB) and their plans to develop their clubs, players and teams continued recently as donations continued to pour in. The gifts were compliments of the ten cricket teams of the club under their massive cricket development programme which seeks to assist other clubs to reach the standards of the RHTYSC. The teams are Poonai Pharmacy Under 12 and Under 13, Farfan and Mendes Under 15, Bakewell Under 17 and Second Division, Pepsi Under 19 and Intermediate, Namilco Thunderbolt Flour Under 21 and First Division,Metro Females . The teams also handed over a donation to the Upper Corentyne Cricket Association. The BCB received five cricket trophies, stationery, cleaning detergents, security equipment and a set of COVID-19 protective items. The Upper Corentyne Cricket Association, the

RHTYSC Assistant Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu hands over donation to BCB Secretary Angela Haniff in presence of other executives. most vibrant sub association in Guyana received five trophies, box of balls, educational posters and COVID-19 protective items including face masks, face shields and

hand sanitizers. The club also handed over four school bags and educational materials to the family of an injured cricketer of No72 Village. The

player was badly injured in a fight and Foster, in his capacity as president of the Berbice Cricket Board, had committed himself to assisting the family with food

hampers, a cricket bat and educational materials. All of the commitments have been fulfilled. BCB Secretary/CEO Angela Haniff expressed

gratitude to the RHTYSC for the timely assistance while UCCA Vice President Sydney Jackman hailed the club as a true friend of the sub association.

Players can give a good account of themselves’ - Crandon By Rajiv Bisnauth

To be a National selector, one must first of all have a thick hide. This helps a great deal in warding off the generally unfair criticism that is traditionally hurled at them. It is not possible to please everyone but it is always easy to poke holes in the selectors’ arguments. One selector told me years ago that he had grown immune to criticism. However, after announcing a 15-man squad for next month’s Regional Super50 tournament, the nation’s senior selection panel came under fire. I have always tried to take things from their viewpoint and generally have come to the conclusion that most of the criticism against them is unwarranted and unfair. To be sure, generally about ten players pick themselves. It is the selection of

Esaun Crandon the remaining five fringe players and the omission of a few that invites all the selector bashing. To this end, Chairman of Selectors, Rayon Griffith, who is currently in Bangladesh with the West Indies senior team told News Room Sport on Thursday

that performance, is not the sole criteria for selection, and that fitness, is also an extremely important aspect that they consider. The criteria are based on performances, you have fitness tests involved and you have to [consider] potential players you can develop. Performances are big, but as I said, fitness just as [big as] performances,” Griffith said. While the fitness assessment was deemed creditable by head coach Esaun Crandon, the performances from most players from the 15-man squad during the three practice games, is cause for concern. The collective failure of most of the top-order batsmen needs introspection for it will impact not only the composition of the squad, but the balance of the playing XI. On the other hand, the bowlers hardly put a foot to wrong. The fast-bowling unit of Romario Shepherd, Nail Smith and Keon Joseph has impressed. It’s

a clear indication that the group has enough variety to sustain its success during the super50 tournament. The spinners’, leftarm spinner Gudakesh Motie and off-spinners Kevin Sinclair and Ramal Lewis, were equally impressive. Nevertheless, when action bowls off on February 7, the Guyana Jaguars will be aiming for a 10th regional 50-over title. To achieve another milestone at the regional level, head coach Esuan Crandon in an invited comment yesterday said he is happy with the squad selected and is optimistic about the players giving a good account of themselves during the tournament. Crandon, the former national fast bowler, is of the opinion that the squad is one of the most well-balanced units, comprising the maximum number of match-winners, and he feels it is the best chance for the Guyanese to bag their tenth coveted title at this level. “I think we have a decent

team on paper, a bit of experience, pretty much balance in terms of youth and experience. Probably we would have liked to have (had) the services of Rutherford or Paul, who would bring their all-round ability that would have been an ideal spot, but it is what it is,” Crandon said. The last title was achieved in 2005 when they defeated Barbados in near darkness in the final of the KFC Cup at the GCC ground, Bourda. Prior to that, Guyana reigned supreme in 1980, 1983, 1985, 1993, 1995, 1998, 2001 and 2003. Jaguars Super50 squad reads: Chandrapaul Hemraj, Trevon Griffith, Christopher Barnwell, Leon Johnson (Captain), Shimron Hetmyer (vice-captain), Assad Fudadin, Keon Joseph, Romario Shepherd, Kevin Sinclair, Ramaal Lewis, Nial Smith, Gudakesh Motie, Anthony Bramble, Akshaya Persaud and Tevin Imlach.

The West Indies players take part in a drill, Bangladesh vs West Indies, Chittagong, January 24, 2021

Estwick says Windies looking to end ODI series with win, ahead of Tests See story on page 22

BCB Cricket Development Programme 2021…

RHTY&SC teams donate to BCB, UCCA See story on page 23

UCCA Executives poses with RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster after the presentation

Does Bishoo’s omission from Super50 See story squad signal the end of his career ? on page 21 Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

MONDAY, JANUARY 25, 2021