SATURDAY 16 th January, 2021
’ No. 106244
Three remanded
–– for brutal murder of Henry boys ‘I have full confidence in the Guyana Police Force, and the abilities of the Crime Chief and his team, and I am very happy we have made such great progress on this matter, since this was very important for us nationally. It is now a big step forward, and I am very happy,’ -President Dr. Irfaan Ali
Anil Sancharra, called ‘Dan Pole’ and ‘Rasta’
PAGE
03
Akash Singh, called ‘Monkey’
Vinod Gopaul, called ‘Magga’
Works on Ogle-Diamond Legislation coming to facilitate 16 GTU proposes 4th school term, 05 road could start soon 10 conducive business environment December exam for NGSA pupils PAGE
PAGE
PAGE
2
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
President Ali with the mayors and Minister of Governance, Gail Teixeira (third right); Minister within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Anand Persaud (sixth left) and Nigel Dharamlall, Minister of Local Government and Regional Development (fifth right) (OP photo)
Mayors, deputy mayors sworn in –– President urges councils to be facilitators of development
By Rabindra Rooplall COUNCILS are facilitators of development and should not be barriers, creating unnecessary bureaucracy, said Head of State, Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, as the government embarks on a transformative agenda. The Head of State issued the charge to the mayors and deputy mayors who were sworn in at his office on Friday. He said investment has changed tremendously but the laws and building codes have remained constant. As such, he said Central Government will be working with the municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) to bring laws and regulations up to speed with the changing dynamics that exist. “At the level of Central Government, we understand the changes that are taking place. The Capital City of Georgetown is not the same Capital City. The
level of commerce, the sophistication of investment have changed tremendously; the type of office buildings have changed,” President Ali said. He also noted that the length of time for the approval of building permits is appalling. “In some instances, it stays at some town councils and city councils sometimes for two years or three years, so what we have to do now is to work collectively on creating a single-window approval system in keeping with international best practices, so very shortly we will be engaging you on the modernisation of the institutional infrastructure, legislative infrastructure to establish a single-window approval system for building permits and construction permits,” the President told the mayors and their deputies. This, the President said, will greatly enhance competitiveness See page 4
Three remanded 3
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
― for brutal murder of Henry boys
THREE men were on Friday remanded to prison for the brutal murders of teen cousins, Isaiah and Joel Henry, whose mutilated bodies were found at the Cotton Tree backlands, on the West Coast Berbice, last September. Akash Singh, 20, called “Monkey”, of Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo (EBE); his stepbrother, Anil Sancharra, 33, called “Dan-Pole” and “Rasta”, of D’Edward Village, WCB; and Vinod Gopaul, 34, called “Magga”, of Yakusari, Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Berbice all appeared before Magistrate Peter Hugh at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. Gopaul and Sancharra were charged jointly for the capital offence, while Singh was charge separately. The trio was remanded to prison, and will make their next appearance at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court on February 2. “Meh ain’t know nothing about duh! Ah innocent,” Sancharra said to reporters while being taken into the court compound. “Nuh me,” claimed Gopaul, adding: “I innocent; his (Sancharra) brother calling my name wrongfully.” The mutilated bodies of Isaiah, 16, and Joel, 18, were found on September 6, 2020 in the Cotton Tree Backdam in West Berbice. A post-mortem found that
the Henry boys died from haemorrhage and shock, due to multiple incised wounds. They both sustained severed spines, along with multiple
Three days later, Haresh Singh, 17, was found, in a bloodied state as well, in the Number Three Village backlands, hours after he
Anil Sancharra, called “Dan-Pole” and “Rasta”
Akash Singh, called “Monkey”
chops about the body. The killers carved out a huge ‘X’ on Isaiah’s head, while they cut open Joel’s chest. It is suspected that the boys had died some 36 hours prior to being found.
left home on his motorcycle to transport water for his relatives who were working on their farm. The post-mortem on Singh indicated that he died of brain haemorrhage and
blunt trauma to the head, compounded by compression injuries to the neck. No arrest has been made for Singh’s murder. The
that Singh was arrested last Sunday, after an informant went to the police. Gopaul and Sancharra were later arrested.
Vinod Gopaul called “Magga”
DEAD: Isaiah and Joel Henry
gruesome deaths sent shockwaves throughout the country, and resulted in widespread public outrage and mass protests. The Guyana Chronicle was made to understand
It is alleged that Singh confessed to the crime, while Gopaul and Sancharra have remained silent. In his confession, Singh told detectives that during the month of August 2020,
he accompanied Gopaul and Sancharra to the backlands of West Coast Berbice to cultivate cannabis. However, after planting the cannabis, they left the area and later returned in September. Upon their arrival, they discovered that the farm was destroyed. It is alleged that on the day in question, the Henry boys were in the backlands, and were passing the said camp. Singh told the police that they asked the Henry boys if they wanted cannabis to smoke, but the boys instead asked if they had anything to eat. However, after the conversation progressed, the men told the boys about the destroyed field of cannabis, and they began laughing. This led the trio to believe that the boys had caused the destruction of the cannabis cultivation. Singh told the police that Gopaul and Sancharra attacked the two boys with cutlasses, and threated to kill him if he did not help them. He related that he took a cutlass and began chopping the two teens, and then marked an ‘X’ on the forehead of one the boys. Singh said that Gopaul and Sancharra left the camp on horseback with the boys’ bodies, and later came back to set fire to the areas where the murder occurred.
President happy with breakthrough in Henry boys’ murder PRESIDENT Dr. Irfaan Ali has expressed confidence in the Guyana Police Force and Crime Chief, as he noted his satisfaction with the recent breakthrough in the brutal murders of teen cousins, Isaiah and Joel Henry. The mutilated bodies of the boys were found at the Cotton Tree backlands, on the West Coast Berbice, last September. On Thursday, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) advised investigators to charge 19-year-old Akash Singh, called “Monkey” of Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo (EBE); his stepbrother, 33-year-old Anil Sancharra, called “Dan Pole” and “Rasta” of D’Edward Village, West Coast Berbice (WCB); and 34-year-old Vinod Gopaul, called “Magga”, of Yakusari, Black Bush Polder, Corentyne, Berbice.
The trio did not have legal presentation; they were not required to plea to charges, and were remanded to prison
until February 2, 2021, when the case will be called again at the Blairmont Magistrate’s Court, in West Berbice.
President Dr. Irfaan Ali
“I have full confidence in the Guyana Police Force, and the abilities of the Crime Chief and his team, and I am
very happy we have made such great progress on this matter, since this was very important for us nationally. It is now a big step forward, and I am very happy,” said President Ali. The mutilated bodies of the Henry boys were found on September 6, 2020 in the Cotton Tree backdam, West Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). Their gruesome murders sparked a week of violent protests in that region. On September 9, three days after the Henry boys were found, the body of Haresh Singh, 17, was found in a bloodied state as well, in the backdam of Number Three Village, hours after he left home on his motorcycle to take water for his relatives who were working on their farm. His murder appears to have been an act of reprisal.
Singh was found unconscious by his 12-year-old brother, while his motorcycle was found torched. He died while on the way to the New Amsterdam Hospital. A post-mortem found that the Henry boys died from haemorrhage and shock, due to multiple incised wounds. The spine of both lads was severed, while they both sustained multiple chops about the body. The killers also carved out a huge ‘X’ on Isaiah’s head, while they cut open Joel’s chest. It is suspected that the boys had died some 36 hours prior to being found. The post-mortem on Singh indicated that he died from brain haemorrhage and blunt trauma to the head, compounded by compression injuries to the neck.
4
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Miner found dead in old mining pit POLICE are investigating the alleged drowning of Albert Nurse, 31, of Amelia’s Ward, Linden, which occurred on Thursday about 20:30 hours at Banana Landing Backdam, Middle Mazaruni River. Reports indicate that on Thursday, at about 08:30 hours,
another miner returned to his camp and saw Nurse laying in his hammock and asked him what he was doing there. Nurse, who appeared to be intoxicated, allegedly jumped out of the hammock and ran away. Police said his body was later
discovered motionless in an old mining pit a few yards away from his camp. Law enforcement officials were summoned to the scene and found no marks of violence on the body. The body is currently at the mortuary awaiting an autopsy as investigations continue.
Mayors, deputy mayors ...
From page 2
and improve the ease of business status. “You have a partner in Central government for the development of the people of the country,” he said. The President called on the mayors and deputy mayors to uphold their oath of office. “The macro development agenda is critical because in most instances it acts as a direct impact or a direct link to what you do at the municipalities and town councils,” the President added. He said Guyana is embarking on a transformative agenda that will see key and critical infrastructure link being created, rehabilitated and re-established in some cases. These transformative infrastructures, he said, will aid in increasing productivity, efficiency, reduce the cost of doing business, create employment, and enhance the livelihood and welfare of all. “It is therefore imperative that we all not only embrace the common development trajectory but that we consult as we talk and we share ideas to ensure that at the end of the day the people of Guyana get the best service,” the President said. The sustainability and viability
President, Dr. Irfaan Ali of the councils are issues Central Government will be looking at. “The government has been providing direct help in the investments in many of the town councils but there is still a lot to be done and this can only be done through a facilitation process,” the Head of State noted. Also present at the swearing-in ceremony were Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall; Minister
within the Ministry of Local Government and Regional Development, Annand Persaud and Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Governance, Gail Teixeira, among other senior officials. The mayors and deputy mayors sworn in were: Georgetown: Mayor Ubraj Narine and Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore; Mabaruma: Mayor Chris Mark Phang and Deputy Mayor Carolyn Adelva Robinson; Anna Regina: Mayor Rajendra Lall Prabhulall and Deputy Mayor Lorna Fitzallen (elected); New Amsterdam: Mayor Winifred Heywood and Deputy Mayor Wainwright Mc Intosh; Rose Hall: Mayor Dave Budhu (elected) and Deputy Mayor Roydel Lewis (elected); Corriverton: Mayor Winston Roberts and Deputy Mayor Imran Amin; Bartica: Mayor Gifford Eldon Marshall and Deputy Mayor Arita Peggy Embleton; Mahdia: Mayor David Samuel Adams and Deputy Mayor Juewayne Mendonca-Burrowes; Linden: Mayor Waneka Odetta Arrindell and Deputy Mayor Wainewright Odida Bethune; and Lethem: Mayor John Theophillus Macedo and Deputy Mayor Debra Evadne King.
5
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
GTU proposes fourth school term, December exam for NGSA pupils – during meeting with MoE officials
AS the Ministry of Education (MoE) continues to deliberate on a way forward for Grade Six pupils who are scheduled to write the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) this year, officials on Thursday met with representatives of the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) to hear their views. Aside from suggestions already proffered by other stakeholders, the GTU has proposed a fourth school term followed by a written exam in December. “The meeting went well. GTU made recommendations with what they thought should happen with the Grade Six, and we had a healthy discussion on the pros and cons of what they were saying, and now we have to mull on that,” Minister of Education Priya Manickchand said after the meeting had ended. Thursday’s meeting was the third of its kind held between the two bodies as part of the ministry’s plans to engage key stakeholders on the way forward for these pupils. Last week consultation meetings were held with over 2000 parents and more than 700 Grade Six teachers. The other options suggested thus far include having the students write
GTU General -Secretary Coretta McDonald the “Full exam. Papers One and Two, up to Grade Six content”; “Full exam. Paper One and Two, up to Grade Five content”; “No exam and use the Grade Two and Four Assessment results to place students”; “Paper One alone up to Grade Six content”; and “Math and English alone up to Grade Six.” UNDECIDED However, while the option of not writing the examinations and simply placing the students in schools has been put forth, the general consensus from stakeholders has been that the pupils should be given the option to write an assessment of some sort. What form the assessment will take and when it will be done
remains undecided. Parents for the most part have largely supported the writing of the full exams with Papers One and Two, but with content up to Grade Five. Written annually during the Easter vacation period, the usual practice is for pupils to write Paper One and Paper Two for Mathematics, English, Social Studies and Science. The accumulation of those scores determines what secondary school the child would be placed at. Depending on their performance, students can be placed at one of the six “national schools” which are all based in the city, or they can be placed in a school within their region. Over the years, the assessment has become a big deal for the pupils and their parents, with most pupils putting in much effort to be among the “top students” who are awarded places at the senior secondary schools. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, primary schools were closed in March last year. There has been much uncertainty over the way forward as it pertains to the hosting of the 2021 NGSA and the reopening of the schools to prepare pupils in the event that there will be a written exam. In 2020, the abrupt
closure of schools resulted in the exam being pushed back to July of that year. Schools were partially reopened for the pupils to facilitate face-to-face interaction with their teachers. SAFETY FIRST Minister Manickchand had maintained that the writing of the NGSA is largely dependent on when the ministry will be able to reopen schools for pupils. However, she said that decision rests with the Ministry of Health (MoH). Manickchand said she explained this position to the GTU officials, who expressed agreement and an understanding of the situation. “We’re pretty much done the assessments [of the schools], so it’s not whether we are physically ready, it is more about the numbers [of COVID-19 cases], and based on health
Minister of Education Priya Manickchand giving us permission to go back in. We all accepted that it would be based on the Ministry of Health,” she said. GTU General-Secretary Coretta McDonald, said the GTU concurs that moving forward with any partial re-opening of schools for the primary level should involve the advice of the health authorities. “We have to be absolute-
ly certain our children are safe before we open school. We have to take into consideration, we have to look at washing troughs, sanitisers, bins, cleaners to ensure that they sanitise classrooms, care packages for teachers, ensure rotational systems are in place and so on. Those are the factors we have to narrow down on, if the MoH gives the clearance,” she said.
6
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Beautiful Guyana CLIMATE change now defines the global landscape, determining how the world formulates development policies, how mankind shapes the future, and how people design sustainable lifestyles, with many countries, for example, banning disposable plastic food containers. Guyana stands on an interesting pedestal regarding climate change, because here is one of the world’s most promising oil-and-gas countries, simultaneously housing over 80 per cent of its landmass with lush, green virgin forests neighbouring the Amazon region. In Vice-President Bharrat Jagdeo, Guyana boasts a leader who became one of the outstanding Caribbean and South American advocates on the global climate change front when he served this nation as President. Indeed, the Guyana Government built a strong international reputation over the years for being in the forefront of the climate change agenda. Guyana was the first country in the world to sign a forestry agreement with Norway to preserve the natural environment and to operate the forestry sector through sustainable methods. The Amerindian communities are well versed and expert at preserving the natural ecosystem and the raw environment and in farming with sustainable methods. Guyana is green and lush and sunny and breezy, its natural environment, a global marvel of man co-existing with nature in
a harmonious way. Trees abound across the land, from coast to coast, decorating villages from the coastland to the hinterland, and in Georgetown the trees along Main Street are old and ancient, yet flourishing with bright aesthetic greenery. Even in the mangrove trees serving as sea defence, one sees that Guyana is not only the land of many waters and rivers and waterfalls, but also the land of nature, of a kaleidoscope of flora and fauna and of forest floors teeming with wildlife and exotic species and a brilliant galaxy of animals, birds and reptiles that make the ecosystem alive, organic, breathing fresh oxygen into the earth’s atmosphere. Guyana would do well to operate a special public relations platform that showcases its natural beauty and raw ecosystem to the world, and that educates and entertains Guyanese about the wonder of their country. Just about all of the country’s resorts take advantage of this natural beauty to operate tourist destinations and experiences that are the best ecotourism resorts in the Caribbean. In taking stock of where the country is today, of knowing the possibilities for tomorrow, of auditing the national assets and resources that position Guyana’s unique offering to the 21st century global village, the nation would do well to develop a multimedia outlay, write and design and draw up a great story around its natural beauty and ecosystem underbelly. The United States space agency,
NASA, reported this week that the year 2020 ranks as the hottest year on record on earth. That is a sobering wake-up call for the world. And global leaders are taking urgent action, with the Paris Climate Agreement under intentional implementation around the world. The 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations now underway, with oversight from The Elders organisation, aim to create a new global order that functions precisely to clean up the earth’s pollution and to curb the excessive carbon footprint of the Industrial Age over the past 100 years. Guyana is one of the few countries in today’s world that is blessed with a rich oil-and-gas industry, while simultaneously hosting a vibrant, alive organic natural ecosystem on much of its landmass. The Guiana Shield, running parallel to the Atlantic coast and spanning Guyana, Venezuela, Brazil and Suriname, is shaping up to be the mecca of the 21st century, with oil and gas and the natural ecosystem co-existing. It is imperative that policy makers make this a workable, symbiotic relationship, with harmony between the oil-and-gas sector and the natural ecosystem being the uppermost consideration in development of the oil-and-gas sector’s economic promises. Environmentalists are starting to grumble that the oil-and-gas sector may damage the purity of Guyana’s natural environment. Whilst it would be an im-
portant checkpoint to cultivate a good watchdog movement for matters of the natural environment, the country needs to be careful that these concerns do not become paranoia and extremism. The oil-and-gas sector and the natural environment could co-exist with technology causing an alignment that fuels the socioeconomic development of the society, at the same time as the natural environment flourishes under the magnificent Guyana sun. This balance is crucial for the country to cultivate and maintain. The Iwokrama initiative serves the nation well and its contribution to science and to research is invaluable. The nation would also do well to showcase this area of Guyana to the world with more deliberate focus on this country as a natural wonder, and a scientific one at that. Isn’t it a brilliant blessing for this nation that it is one of the world’s rare treasure houses in this 21st century global village, housing a rich, promising oil-and-gas sector, alongside one of the global village’s most interesting, vibrant, alive, organic and fascinating ecosystem on the planet? Guyanese live in one of the world’s most treasured lands today, and government would accomplish a great service to the country to engineer a social space for citizens to celebrate their good fortune. Indeed, in the world of climate change, Guyana is one of the glamourous countries in the world.
Solving the Henry boys and Haresh’s murders Dear Editor, IN reference to your news reports (GC Jan 14, 15), I am pleased to read that the police appear to have solved the murders of the Henry boys of West Berbice; the killings led to days of violence against Indians. The arrested killers of the Henry boys are Indians, but race was not a factor in their killing. The police determined that drugs was the factor in the killings. Apparently, the three accused and the two Henry boys knew each other, as we are learning from the police reports. The report suggests they were with each other on the night of the killing. Why the boys were killed and by whom will be determined at a trial. It was wrong for the accused to kill the boys; it was a heinous crime. The accused, if found guilty, must go to the gallows, as those with whom I conversed suggest. Race seemed to have been a factor in the killing of Haresh Singh; he could have been killed in reprisal of the two Henry cousins, or because he knew the Henry boys: Wrong place at the wrong time. Haresh was also a
friend of the Henry boys. As I penned from the outset in August, the killings were drugs-related. The police were looking at the wrong causes for the killings. Coconuts was never a reason for the killings. And the police initially held the wrong people for the killings; the police did an injustice to those people. It was the police’s confinement of the owners and workers of the land where the bodies were found that led to the wave of racially-inspired violence against Indians. I happened to have studied criminology when I did my Sociology doctorate. The gruesome manner in which the two boys were killed immediately suggested to me it was drugs-related. I penned accordingly, and suggested that the police examine a drugs angle. Haresh’s killing was tied to the murders of the Henry boys. But what has not been determined is why he was killed? Was it a race-related reprisal killing? Did he know something? Did he know who killed the two boys and was silenced? Did he stumble upon some drugs evidence? Did he know who harvested the marijuana, and burnt the fields that angered the killers of the
Henry boys? Was there in-fighting over the ‘ganja’ fields? The three accused are not angels; they seem to have lived a life of crime, moving from one location to another, typical of growers of marijuana. The police will, in due time, provide answers to the above questions. Now that the police have solved the killing of the Henry boys, they need to do the same with Haresh’s unsolved case. Clearly, as inferred by the police, there was a turf war over marijuana fields. In reading media reports, it is clear that the three accused come from different areas; they were lured by the planting of marijuana. It is a lucrative business, and, apparently, they have been in the business for a while. As we’ve learnt, the three accused were angry over their weed being harvested and the fields burnt, but they were not certain who harvested and burnt the fields. They can’t go around killing people; drugs is a killer, not only because it destroys one’s health, but because it destroys the brain. The killers’ behaviour is unacceptable, even if they killed the
boys while they were under the influence of weed, not acting rationally. They must be brought to justice, and it must be done expeditiously. Such a crime must not be tolerated. And strong measures are needed for drugs-related crimes. Drugs is a big problem in the country; all over, youngsters are smoking weed. Government needs to address this menace. As I’ve learnt from my studies in criminology, when a person is intoxicated from drugs, they act irrationally. They lose their senses; they engage in violent acts. It is a danger to human life; measures must be taken to deter the smoking of weed. Police must make raids on weed fields. The police have not made any arrests in Haresh Singh’s killing. Now that they have solved the Henry boys’ killings, the people who killed Haresh Singh must also be brought to justice. It would be good if the police can bring closure to Haresh’s inquiry as well. Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram
7
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Guyana needs to be wary of Think Tanks such as the IEEFA Dear Editor, IN my previous letter, I promised to expose what might be the perceived modus operandi of the IEEFA. Readers who are following the oil and gas debate in Guyana would recall that Tom Sanzillo would have pronounced without being privy to any facts, and an understanding of Guyana’s development contexts altogether, that the project is a recipe for bankruptcy. On January 10, 2021, I prepared a detailed response to Tom’s analysis, which was sent to the IEEFA directly, inviting Tom to an open debate. In my response to Tom, I argued that the analyses by the institute, therefore, are undoubtedly weak and incogent. My full response can be accessed here: https://jbconsultancy.info/compilation-ofjbs-full-response-to-tom-sanzillo-directorof-financial-analysis-at-ieefa-on-guyanas-oilgas-sector-open-debates-parts-12-3/. Interestingly enough, the very next day after my full response was sent to the IEEFA, the Global Witness announced the sudden withdrawal of their controversial report on Guyana’s oil. This caused me to wonder whether the Global Witness’s withdrawal of its report on the Guyana oil deal was a coincidence. Perhaps not, because the Global Witness also seems to have some affiliation with the IEEFA. Such view can be deduced quite logically, though. All professions are a fraternity, and both Institutes regard themselves as international Think Tanks; thus, it’s a fraternity. To satisfy my curiosity to determine whether there is some connection between the IEEFA and Global Witness, I actually found a blog by the Global Witness which cited the work of the IEEFA. Therefore, one can safely conclude that there may be some connection, and, after all, it’s a fraternity. See link to the blog here: https:// www.globalwitness.org/en/blog/taxingtimes-for-adaro-what-happened-next/May. Now let’s do some digging to find out who really is the IEEFA, and who funds them. By doing so, knowing who they are and who funds them will give crucial insight into the Institute’s agenda, and whether it has the ability to conduct any objective analysis, or whether their work will be purely biased. Based on information on the IEEFA’s website, the Institute’s mission is to “examine issues related to energy market trends, and policies. The institute’s mission is to accelerate the transition to a diverse, sustainable and profitable energy economy.” The IEEFA receives its funding from global philanthropic organisations, and individuals such as Rockefeller Family Fund, and KR Foundation, to name a few. Upon examining the mission of the funding organisations, their mission is essentially driven by advocacy work and campaigns to keep fossils in the ground. The position of the IEEFA, therefore, can be logically and partly explained by the fact that the financiers of the IEEFA are institutions whose missions are to keep fossils in the ground. While nothing is wrong with this, it would appear, however, that it doesn’t matter whether the analyses put forward make sense or not, or have any substance or not, ignoring context, practicality and realism altogether. More so, it is normal for international Think Tanks to have their own prerogative,
but they usually do so, as demonstrated by the IEEFA and Global Witness, at the expense of contaminating the society of developing countries like Guyana. This is not to say that the global movement to transition to alternative sources of energy is a bad thing; neither am I denying this phenomenon, owing to the global impact of climate change. In fact, Guyana is a signatory to both the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, of which part of that goal is to transition to 100% renewable energy, and the Paris Agreement. Notwithstanding, the practicality is such that it will take some years – another 30 – 50 years or so -- to achieve these goals, especially in the case of Guyana, and not just from the global perspective. To substantiate this view, let’s put this into context; that is, let’s examine an overview of the global energy transition and its potential impact on the future of the global oil-and-gas industry. The global transportation sector is one of the main drivers of demand for crude over the next 30 – 50 years, and at least 40 per cent of the world’s energy needs will need to be supplied by oil and gas by 2050. Let’s break this down. Global Commercial Aircraft * Global commercial aircraft fleet as at 2020 stood at 29,000 * Estimated to grow by four per cent annually to reach 39,000 by 2028 * Annual production is 1000 * It takes 5-6 years on average to build an aircraft in some cases 10 years * If we have to replace all the aircrafts in the world it will take 29,000/1000 = 29 years to build and replace plus 10 years to develop electric planes total number of years to replace all the aircrafts globally to electric will be approximately 39 years GLOBAL NUMBER OF CARS * As at 2020, this figure is some 1.2 billion cars globally of which 7.2 million are electric cars (six per cent of global cars are electric) * Global average rate of production for electric cars is 2.1 million which means it will take 57 years to replace all the cars in the world to electric cars Global number of Trucks/commercial vehicles * As of 2020, an estimated 425 million of which 27.2 million or 6.4% are electric commercial vehicles * Annual average production rate of electric commercial vehicles is 6000 at which rate it will take 70,833 years to replace all the commercial vehicles in the world to electric. This means that to replace all the commercial vehicles including trucks in the world to greener vehicles in 50 years’ time, manufacturers will have to produce 8.5 million such vehicles annually which is 142,000% greater than current global annual output for such vehicles. This is obviously impractical. Global stock of Ships * As of 2019 total world fleet of ships stood at 95, 402 * It takes about 18 months to build a ship * Ship orders per year is about 1,000 * Therefore, will take 95 years to replace the world stock of ships to greener ships Global Energy Transformation 2050 (29 years from now)
* Oil and gas are still forecast to meet more than 50 per cent of the world’s energy needs by the end of 2040 * Renewable energy needs to be scaled up at least six times faster for the world to achieve the goals set out in the Paris Agreement, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA, 2018). CONTEXTUAL SUMMARY * The Global transportation sector is one of the main drivers of global demand for crude oil products. * If the world, therefore, stop extracting crude oil and indeed leave all the fossil in the ground tomorrow – then it will take 39 years to replace the global stock of commercial aircrafts to electric aircrafts; 57 years to replace all the cars in the world; 70,833 years to replace all commercial vehicles both light and heavy which includes trucks or increase global output by 142,000 per cent to bring down the number of years to 50; and 95 years to replace all the ships in the world. * What will this mean for mankind? It means that the world will go into regression to the cave age (if there was such an age); where with no cars, mankind would have to walk; with no aircrafts, would have to travel the world by sea again which will take months; with no commercial trucks and ships, there can be no commerce, global trade / movement of goods and people will halt, and half of the world might be in blackout. * By 2050, renewable energy can make up 60 per cent of the world’s final energy consumption, provided that renewable energy investments are scaled up by at least six times (IRENA, 2018). * Therefore, if the world economy fails to scale up renewables and other alternative sources of energy by six times, it will take
more than 100 years for the world economy to transition to at least 60- 70 per cent alternative sources of energy and over the next 100 years to fully transition to 100% clean/ alternative sources of energy. * This means that for the next 30 – 100 years, at least 40 per cent of the world’s energy needs might need to be supplied by oil and gas. In view of the foregoing, it can be safely concluded that the global oil and gas sector has another 20 years as a safe window where the industry is likely to remain commercially viable. After 20-30 years, the industry can become unsustainable – unless oil companies manage to develop such innovative technologies that can lower the cost to produce one-barrel of oil to US$15 - US$20 from a current average of US$35. This is not impracticable within 20 years’ time, which, if achieved can extend the industry life to another 20-30 years before the world economy is fully transitioned into 100% renewables / alternative sources of energy. Editor, having said all of this, one can safely deduce that the IEEFA and its confederates lack the ability, and the incentive to conduct any objective and thorough analysis on energy transition within the context of Guyana. Clearly, as I have contended, the Institute is biased and has its own prerogative which is not in the interest of Guyana and its people. More so, the work of the Institute is disconnected from pragmatism, realism and Guyana’s contextual development history and trajectory. Yours Faithfully, JC. Bhagwandin Principal Consultant/ Financial Analyst JB Consultancy & Associates
8
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Brazilian Foreign Minister reaffirms support for Guyana –– urges peaceful resolution of border controversy through ICJ
BRAZILIAN Foreign Minister, Ernesto Araújo, has reaffirmed his country’s support for
Guyana and called for a peaceful resolution through the International Court of Justice
(ICJ) in the border controversy with neighbouring Venezuela. Minister of Foreign
Minister of Foreign Affairs, Hugh Todd, in a virtual discussion with Brazilian Foreign Minister, Ernesto Araújo Affairs and International Cooperation, Hugh Todd, on Friday, met virtually with his Brazilian counterpart to brief him on recent actions taken by Venezuela against Guyana, in particular, the recent decree issued by Venezuela. He emphasised Guyana’s position, which is for a peaceful resolution to the controversy and further conveyed President Ali’s stance of relying on the International Court of Justice for a solution to the matter. Minister Araújo reiterated that his government did not recognise the validity of the decree as it was issued by an “illegitimate government”. Brazil also views such actions from the Venezuelan regime as troubling. The two ministers took the opportunity to reiterate their commitment to cooperation in the developmental areas recently discussed during the visit of Minister Araújo to Guyana in November 2020. At the 2018 Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, Commonwealth Heads committed
their full support for the International Court of Justice (ICJ) as the means to be used for the settlement of the border controversy between Guyana and Venezuela. On June 30, 2020, Guyana, in its virtual presentation in the Arbitral Award of October 1899 (Guyana v. Venezuela) case said that not only is Venezuela’s current interpretation of the Geneva Agreement illogical and erroneous, but also in stark contrast to the interpretation the Spanish-speaking country had when it signed the very agreement in February 1966. Represented by a battery of international lawyers, Guyana said the agreement, in unambiguous terms, empowered the United Nations (UN) Secretary-General to determine an appropriate resolution mechanism to enable a peaceful settlement, which is the 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 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. Commonwealth Secretary-General, Patricia Scotland, in a recent statement, urged that the process now underway at the ICJ must be respected. This judicial process is also supported by CARICOM as the regional bloc believes that it is intended to bring a peaceful and definitive end to the long-standing controversy between the two countries. Canada and the US have also called on Venezuela to respect this judicial process.
9
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Women ‘alarmingly’ outnumber men at UG –– 2019/2020 annual report reveals
IN keeping with a worldwide trend, females in Guyana continue to alarmingly outnumber males at the university level. Staggering disparities can be seen at the University of Guyana (UG), across all its campuses and facilities. The gap between the two genders increases as the statistics move outside of the Georgetown area, and the inequality persists even across varying age ranges, and new and continuing students. In the university’s annual report for the 2019/2020 academic year, statistics reveal that of the 8291 individuals who were enrolled at the institution’s Turkeyen Campus, just 36.7 per cent are males. The women outnumber the men in all of the faculties, except Agriculture and Forestry, and Engineering and Technology. With 791 male students on roll, the Faculty of Engineering Technology is the most popular among the males, followed by the
Earth and Environmental Sciences. Of the overall enrollment at Turkeyen, 4858 were continuing, and 3433 were new students. However, in both cases, females dominated, although the disparity was less among the new students than the continuing. Among the new students, there were 861 more females than males, while among the continuing students, there were 1344 more females than males. When categorized, based on age range, again, women dominate each age range, with enrollment being highest for students aged 16 – 25, and those over 41. For students aged 16 – 25 years, there are 2667 females to the 1676 males enrolled. There are almost twice as many females than males for the enrollment over 41 years. The pattern is very similar at the University’s Berbice Campus. At the Berbice Campus, which offers programmes under five faculties, but does not include Faculty
Disparities between male and female enrollment at UG persists, even across age ranges Faculty of Social Sciences, with 613 male students. However, males only account for 27.7 per cent of the students in the Fcaulty of Social Sciences, since the number of females is over 1600. The Faculty of Social Sciences is the most populous at the Turkeyen Campus with 2215 persons enrolled. The Faculty of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation follows with 1364 students, of which 34.3 per cent are males. The Faculty of Natural Sciences comes in third, with a total of 1092 students, 44.6 per cent of whom are male. In Engineering and Technology, men comprise 81.12 per cent of the student population; however, this is the only popular faculty where men are in the lead. In Agriculture and Forestry, which has a total enrollment of 243, males account for 56 per cent. Additionally, the university’s Institute of Distance and Continuing Education (IDCE) programme has 40 males on roll, while the Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences has 337. Men comprise 47.5 per cent in the IDCE programme, and 40.7 per cent in the
of Engineering and Technology, males only account for 24.6 per cent of the 695 students enrolled there. Here, the females outnumber the males in all faculties, except Agriculture and Agriculture, where men account for 59.3 per cent of the 27 students enrolled in that programme. Again, Social Sciences is the most popular faculty, accounting for 212 students. According to the report, there are just 50 males in this faculty. The second most populous faculty is the Faculty of Education and Humanities, which has a total of 209 students, inclusive of 21 males. At the university’s five IDCE centres across the country, women consistently account for no less than 80 per cent of the student population. In the case of the centre at Anna Regina, on the Essequibo Coast, all but one of the 80 students there are female. The IDCE centres are in Georgetown, Bartica, Berbice, Linden and Anna Regina. The greatest disparity is present in Georgetown, where there are 322 more women than men.
Disparities between male and female enrollment at UG is evident at both campuses
Females greatly outnumber males at UG’s Turkeyen Campus
10
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Works on Ogle-Diamond road could start soon By Rehana Ahamad
WHEN the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) assumed office in August, 2020, efforts were made to reduce the cost of the proposed Ogle-Diamond bypass road. This resulted in alterations being made to the original project plan, and further approvals being required from the financier of the project – the Government of India. According to the High Commissioner of India to Guyana, Dr K. J. Srinivasa, the redesigned project documents have already been submitted and are currently being deliberated on by the Government of India. “Since the original specifications of the road have changed, we had to go back to our headquarters for some additional clearances, which we are now at the end of that particular process,” Dr. Srinivasa told reporters at a media engagement on Wednesday. He believes that approvals to the changes are likely to come within the first quarter of the year. “I think in the next couple of weeks, we should have some good news on that front,” the Indian envoy said. Senior Minister of Public Works, Juan Edghill, reminded that the redesigned project has saved Guyana close to US$158 million. “Since we took office, we have moved from a 200 plus million (US) dollar project, and we have fitted the road into the monies
that were available, which is US$50M,” Edghill told reporters on Wednesday. Before the PPP/C demitted office in May 2015, former President Donald Ramotar had conducted an official visit to India, where he received the commitment of a US$50 million loan from the Indian Exim Bank to fund the proposed bypass road. When the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) took government that same year, the designs of the project were altered, drastically increasing the cost of the project to some US$208 million. The loan agreement, secured by the Ramotar administration, was signed in 2017 by the then APNU+AFC Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan. With the recent modifications, the construction of the 20-kilometre road will be covered entirely by the US$50 million loan. Junior Minister of Public Works, Deodat Indar, had explained that the new road is expected to be constructed from Ogle, East Coast Demerara, to Haags Bosch on the East Bank, after which a structural link will be created to Diamond, East Bank Demerara. According to Indar, a connection had to have been made to Diamond, since previous plans to link the road to Mocha Arcadia on the East Bank of Demerara, would have been too cost-consuming due to swampy areas that would have had to be developed. “For you to do those swamps, the cost
An artist’s impression of what the Ogle-Diamond bypass road will look like of the earth works pushed up the cost to US$208 million. Remember, the Indian Government only had US$50 million allocated to this project. So, we had to redesign the project to bring it to the original design,” Indar posited in an interview with the Department of Public Information. Nonetheless, Minister Edghill said that continued efforts are being made to “aggressively pursue the finalising” of the modified designs. “So very soon, you might be invited to a signing ceremony,” Edghill teased. High Commissioner, Dr. Srinivasa said
that he is also very pleased with the progress of all of the India-sponsored projects being executed in Guyana. “The projects are well under control and we are expecting these projects to proceed on time,” Srinivasa said. Once completed, the bypass road, coupled with the construction of a new Demerara Harbour Bridge, is expected to bring tremendous relief to East Bank and East Coast commuters, while opening up virgin spaces for housing and other investment opportunities.
Cops lauded for escorting sick child to GPHC FOUR ranks of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) were, on Friday, lauded for their quick response in getting a sick child, who was in an emergency situation, to the hospital. On Wednesday, while on duty, the ranks encountered a young woman who was desperately trying to get her child to the hospital for urgent medical attention during the busy mid-morning rush hour. The ranks where approached and told of the situation. They immediately swung into
action and with their flashing lights and police sirens were able to clear the heavy traffic so that the vehicle transporting the woman and her child could have made its way quickly to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Akash Persaud, who was at the time accompanying the woman and her child, recounted that while en route to the hospital, they encountered heavy traffic. Even though he was driving with his hazard lights on, an indication to other drivers that there was an
The ranks of the Brickdam Police Station Impact Base who were recently lauded for their assistance. From left are Lance Corporal 24380 Pellow, Constable 22381 Simon, Constable 24163 Leitch and Const able 25408 Cockfield emergency, no one showed any consideration. “We left the office and got the child, but the traffic was crazy, being in the middle of the mid-day rush. Though I had on my ‘hazard’, no one seems to care and one guy even cussed about my urgency,” he related. However, Persaud observed a police vehicle nearby and approached the ranks explaining the situation and urgency. The ranks without hesitation provided assistance by escorting Persaud, his colleague and the sick child to the hospital. “In the heat of it all, I saw a police vehicle
approaching. I gestured for them to stop [and] they did. I told them of the situation at hand and requested that they give us an ‘escort’ to GPHC - A&E. In no time and no questions asked, they turned the vehicle around, put on the siren and got us to the A&E gate. [They] even asked the guard to open the gate so that I can drive in. I did not get the names of any of those four gentlemen, nor the number on the vehicle, they left immediately,” he added. Persaud praised and thanked the ranks for their assistance. “I say, thank you, this is what service & protection is,” he said.
11
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Moraikobai gets 6AM to 6PM curfew –– to help mitigate further spread of COVID-19
By Vishani Ragobeer A 06:00 hours to 18:00 hours (6AM to 6PM) curfew has been introduced in the village of Moraikobai, in Region Five, to add to the efforts being engaged in to mitigate the further spread of the virus, COVID-19 there. On Tuesday, Region Five recorded 35 new cases, taking the total number of cases recorded in the region to 148 and Minister of Health Dr. Frank Anthony said that 33 of
those positive cases were recorded in Moraikobai. These 33 positive results were garnered from a total of 71 tests done there. Since then, health officials returned to the village to conduct further testing. On Friday, Dr. Anthony said that a team of health officials, regional officials and law enforcement officers went into Moraikobai on Thursday and engaged the residents on the health situation. “They had discussions with the residents, from the report I received, it
seems the residents are more receptive, more people are cooperating, they have agreed that they will abide by a (6AM to 6PM) curfew,” Dr. Anthony highlighted. He explained that the residents are still allowed to move about and engage in their economic activity during the day, since this curfew is not a complete lockdown as other communities had. There is currently a national curfew in place to help curb the spread of COVID-19 in Guy-
ana; this curfew begins at 22:30 hours daily and ends at 04:00 hours. The spike in cases observed in Moraikobai has, however, prompted a lengthier curfew. The team also spoke to bar owners in the community, encouraging them to comply with the COVID-19 regulations which indicate that bars, rumshops and other such entertainment spots should not be open. Many additional COVID-19 tests have been done and the results are expected shortly. “Hopefully we’ll start seeing an improvement in terms of compliance with the regulations and the medical team will continue to do testing and monitor those currently isolated to see whether or not they develop additional symp-
toms,” Dr. Anthony said.
60 NEW CASES Meanwhile, the country recorded 60 new cases of COVID-19 according to the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 Dashboard for January 15. These new cases take the country’s total to 6,805 cases recorded since March 2020. The new cases were recorded in Region One (three cases), Region Two (six cases), Region Three (six cases), Region Four (28 cases), Region Five (one case), Region Six (nine cases), Region Eight (six cases) and Region 10 (one case). And, they were recorded from 361 tests done. Additionally, a total of 6,083 persons infected by COVID-19 have recovered with 15 more persons recovering over the last 24-hour period. Even so, there are 586 active cases. Four of these active cases are in the COVID-19 In-
tensive Care Unit (ICU), 493 in home isolation, 34 in institutional quarantine, and 55 in institutional isolation. The total number of deaths has remained at 170. 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; 2267480; or 180/181 for assistance.
12
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Guyana’s future will be secured for generations –– through wise investment of oil proceeds, says Attorney-General By Richard Bhainie
LEARNING from the experiences of other countries, proceeds from the oil-and-gas industry will be injected into developing and transforming other sectors, so
that Guyana’s economy can keep on an upward trajectory, long after the oil rigs cease. Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs Anil Nandlall, S.C., during an interview on Trinidad and Tobago
WESN Content Capital, “Unwind”, with Siewdath Persaud, elaborated on the government’s plan to invest heavily in the diversification of the economy. Nandlall explained that the new-found oil, a non-renewable natural
Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C. resource, will inevitably be exhausted. However, the government is cognizant of the mistake made by other oil-producing nations, whereby they have depended on oil to sustain their economies, and failed to plan for life after wells go dry. “We don’t want to end up like countries that invest exclusively in that sector, and when the oil is finished, you have serious economic problems,” Nandlall said. In those regards, while reaping the benefits directly associated with the oil-and-gas industry, and those which would erupt indirectly, the government will channel proceeds from that sector to massively transform the traditional and other sectors of the country. Nandlall explained that the magnitude of Guyana’s potential resides in the agricultural and manufacturing sectors, the capability of which, once properly developed, can radically transform the country into an economic giant in the world. He explained that currently, Guyana’s agricultural sector operates at a cottage primary industry;
however, Government intends to transform the agricultural sector into “a value-added and mega-production sector”. Guyana possesses the factors necessary to facilitate the agricultural boom, especially the land. And with the proper resources available, Guyana can produce, at an enormous scale, a variety of crops, which will allow the country to once again boast the status of “Bread basket of the Caribbean”. However, the intention of the government is not to only produce, but to convert the products into a variety of goods, through the manufacturing sector. “We are blessed with hectares of arable agricultural land; we can produce the greatest volume of fresh food that we can -tin; that we can bottle and supply this hemisphere like no other country,” Nandlall explained. The Attorney-General acknowledged that the cost of fuel in Guyana, which has consequently affected the cost of electricity, has acted as a prohibitive measure in fostering the manufacturing sector, therefore restricting the country’s potential. However, one of the most advantageous benefits known to be associated with the oil- andgas industry is that of low-cost fuel, which will, in turn, allow for the unleashing of the country’s full potential. “We envision that once we are able to reduce the cost of electricity, then that will be the greatest impetus that we can implement into our country, to get the other economic actors and other sectors of our economy fluid and operational, at
International development consultant, Deodat Maharaj the level that we would like it to be,” Nandlall said. Present during the interview was international development consultant, and former Deputy Secretary-General of the Commonwealth and staff member of the United Nations, Deodat Maharaj, who lauded the initiative. “Countries that gain mineral resources and natural resources, and they start tapping into it, specifically oil, there’s a sense of euphoria; a sense that the money will last forever. We have seen it in Nigeria, Venezuela, and we have seen it in Trinidad, in the glory days of oil money,” Maharaj said, adding: “It’s good to hear the AG speak about diversification, because you have to think and invest in alternative and other sectors; not when the money is gone, but at the time when you are getting your financial resources.” He explained that the plan to have an “effective diversification strategy” from the inception of the unearthing of the crude, and to invest heavily in the agricultural sector is the right plan for Guyana.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
13
Human Services launches ‘Young Influencers’ programme
Minister of Human Services and Social Security, Dr. Vindhya Persaud and British High Commissioner (Ag), Mr. Ray Davidson along with some of the youths who will be participating in the ‘young influencers’ programme (DPI photo) THE Ministry of Human Services and Social Security on Thursday evening launched its ‘Young Influencers’ programme at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) as part of its efforts to push the country’s youth to participate in voluntary work to better their communities. According to a Department of Public Information (DPI) press release, subject minister, Dr. Vindhya Persaud explained that the one-year programme will seek to empower youths, and encourage them to harness their abilities to make a meaningful impact on their respective communities. Minister Persaud, in her opening remarks at the launching ceremony, said the idea of the forum is not only to empower youths, but to be able to influence others in a positive direction, and to create linkages with other youths across the country. “Influence is not something that should be misused; it should not be seen as power. It should be seen as a tool, or an instrument or mechanism where you can guide people along a path that is beneficial to them, by being the best example, and not just saying you are the best example,” she was quoted as saying. The programme will bring together 25 outstanding young people from across the country, who would be actively involved in community outreach and other developmental programmes. The first batch of influencers will be exposed to public-speaking training, and would be educated about social and other issues plaguing the society, especially youths. “A big part of what you will do is to reach out into communities and work with young people like yourself, who may not have had the opportunity to have mentors; who may not have the
best of exposure, and who may have had difficult experiences, and those things would have allowed them to see themselves in a limited way,” Minister Persaud said. She added that the aim is also to create an experience, through volunteerism, that will encourage the youths to move forward in a way that would also allow them to benefit. The youths would also have the opportunity to conceptualise a project that engages young people in a positive way. Once the project is viable, funding will be made available for its implementation. Meanwhile, British High Commissioner (Ag), Ray Davidson lauded the initiative, which he said provides a platform for young people to think outside the box, and make a difference in society. “You, Guyana’s youth, can make a difference; whether it is changing peoples’ attitudes, suggesting and introducing reforms, becoming an entrepreneur, volunteering for projects within your communities, or just simply saying ‘no’ when you see injustice and discrimination. You might be young, but you can make a difference,” he said. The High Commissioner stressed on the benefits of volunteerism, and how it can help to not only make a difference in the lives of others, but also help individuals cope with stress emotions, gain professional experience, and impact job and scholarship opportunities. He referred **to the Chevening Scholarship Programme which offers a one-year Master’s Degree programme for Guyanese youths every year. “I am on the sift panel for applications. One of the first things I will look for is what volunteer experience does the applicant have. This will play a major part in deciding whether a scholarship is awarded,” he said.
14
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Single window approval system for construction permits – says President Ali PRESIDENT, Dr. Irfaan Ali said that Central Government will soon engage the municipalities to bring the laws, regulations and building codes “up to speed” with international best practices. The Head of State made this announcement to the Mayors and Deputy Mayors who were sworn in at his office on Friday. “At the level of Central Government, we understand the changes that are taking place, the Capital City, Georgetown, is not the same Capital City. The level of commerce, sophistication of investment have changed tremendously; the type of office buildings have changed. But the laws have really remained constant, the regulations have remained constant. The building codes have remained constant. And these are some of the things that Central Government will be working on,” he said. The President pointed to the impor-
tance of this process given the country’s transformative agenda. He said that studies have pointed to a major deficiency in the length of time for approval of building permits. “In some instances, it [the permit] stays at some town councils or City Council for some time, two years, three years. So what we have to do now is to work collectively on creating a single window approval system in keeping with international best
President Ali addressing mayors and deputy mayors at the swearing-in ceremony
practices.” As such, he stated that Central Government will be engaging the regional bodies on the modernisation of the institutional and legislative infrastructure to establish the single window approval system for building permits and construction permits. This, he emphasised, will greatly enhance competitiveness and improve productivity. (Public Information and Press Services Unit)
NDIA expends $2M on desilting of Somerset outfall –– Budget 2021 to set framework for comprehensive upgrade of countrywide D&I system RESIDENTS on the Essequibo Coast continue to benefit from a number of drainage and irrigation works as government continues to put systems in place to mitigate flooding in the region. The National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA), on Tuesday last, completed clearing and desilting of the Somerset Outfall channel. This channel is said to drain excess water from the Somerset main canal, as well as, the Tapakuma Lake. The works, which were executed to the tune of $2M, ties into a series of drainage works being done in the region to bring relief to persons who were affected by flooding over the past few weeks. Heavy rainfall, coupled with a lack of much-needed maintenance works to a number of canals and drains in both residential and commercial areas in several parts of Charity and Pomeroon, resulted in many residential, commercial and farming areas experiencing instances of flooding. Agriculture Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, said that the ministry is currently engaged in a number of ongoing projects of this nature around the country. “The NDIA is currently executing a number of projects that involve desilting and clearing of a number of outfall channels and canals. Most of these structures have not been maintained for a number of years and that has contributed to a lot of the flooding farmers have experienced during the rainy season,” Minister Mustapha said. The subject minister further disclosed that farmers across the country can look
NDIA machine while working to desilt the Somerset Outfall channel forward to a number of works being executed once the 2021 budget, which is scheduled to be presented in the National Assembly next month, is passed. “NDIA, which is one of the most important agencies under the ministry’s umbrella, has been operating without a clear work programme for a number of years. No ground work was done to know what works were needed in these farming communities. During my many community outreaches since becoming Agriculture Minister, the most pressing issue was the lack of proper drainage. Build-up in these outfall channels and canals contributes to the poor drainage experienced in these communities. Without a proper work programme, Central Government cannot make funds available to carry out these works. Since taking office, I’ve instructed the NDIA to go into the communities and see what needs to be done, develop a work
programme so that we can make proper representation for these works to be done,” Minister Mustapha said. This, he said, will set the framework for a comprehensive upgrade to the nation’s D&I system. Minister Mustapha went on to say that with rising sea levels and somewhat unpredictable weather patterns due to climate change, government is keen on improving the current drainage system in an effort to mitigate instances of flooding. Last year, the National Assembly approved some $18.4B for the development of the agriculture sector, of which $9B was allocated to the NDIA for drainage and irrigation works across the country. Prior to 2020, the agriculture sector saw a constant decline in budgetary allocations, which resulted in notable contractions to, what is considered, one of Guyana’s most important productive sectors.
15
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Guyana on alert for ‘Brazil strain’ of COVID-19 By Vishani Ragobeer
THE local authorities have been on the alert for the new strain of COVID-19 discovered only a few days ago in Brazil, and emphasis has been placed on ensuring that there are no illegal border crossings, according to Minister of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony. “We are very concerned (about the Brazilian strain) and because of its proximity to us, we also must pay attention to that,” the minister said on Friday, during his daily COVID-19 update. He, however, related that the land border between the two countries, the Takutu Bridge, has been closed for sometime now. Limited travel is allowed on Thursdays where goods are brought to Guyana or taken across to Brazil. This arrangement, Dr. Anthony affirmed, is properly supervised by the authority of both countries. Travel between the two countries has, nevertheless, presented some issues since it is an expansive border that is difficult to patrol. To address the illegal crossing that may occur, the Health Minister said that there have been increased patrols from the joint services in both countries. “We don’t want our cases to spike and if it is a variant that is very transmissible, then that can easily see an increase in cases,” Dr. Anthony lamented. “The health authority in Region Nine has been alerted and they have been on the lookout for any changes in the epidemiological pattern and we have our kits
that are up there, samples come out of there regularly and so we are going to pay closer attention to what is going on in the bordering areas,” he said. He also related that the Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO), which has a network of 21 laboratories able to detect the COVID variants, has already estimated that the variant might be in a number of South American countries. Genomic sequencing, a type of genetic analysis, is what is needed to identify and characterise the variants, or strains, of COVID-19. Guyana does have the capacity to conduct this type of genetic analysis but it has engaged the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) on doing so. In addition to this newer variant in Brazil, other variants of concern have been identified in the United Kingdom (UK) and South Africa. According to the BBC, it is not unexpected that new variants have developed since all viruses mutate as they make new copies of themselves to spread and thrive. Not all mutated viruses become more concerning, though. “One of the characteristics of that (Brazil) variant is that it is more transmittable meaning that you can get it much more easily and that is why we will have to take precautions,” Dr. Anthony said, emphasising the need for persons to continue wearing their masks and maintaining an appropriate social distance. As of Friday, the UK placed a ban on travellers coming from or passing through
Guyana and all other countries in South America, Portugal and Cape Verde amid growing concerns over the new variant of COVID-19 identified in Brazil. The UK, of itself, is grappling with its own variant which has also proven to be
more transmissible. CARPHA flagged the UK and South Africa variants and reported that there is a “very high” risk of Caribbean countries importing these variants. Four cases of the ‘UK variant’ were recently detected in Jamaica.
16
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Legislation coming to facilitate conducive business environment By Richard Bhainie WITH an invigorating plan to foster investment, the government will construct a legal architecture to facilitate a conducive environment for growth and development in every sector of the economy. This was disclosed by Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C., during an interview on Trinidad and Tobago’s WESN Content Capital “Unwind” with Siewdath Persaud. In the interview the Attorney General spoke about his ministry’s role in encouraging investment in Guyana. The Attorney General explained that he is
tasked with overhauling and revamping the entire legal system of the country, which includes developing and implementing legislation to create the environment and atmosphere conducive to the transformational development Guyana will undergo. In anticipation of the phenomenal hospitality industry foreseen for Guyana, consequent upon agreements and expressions of interest by international brands to invest in Guyana, policies for the hospitality sector will be introduced. “At least five international, branded hotels have evinced an intention to start operations here; in fact, three will be constructed this year.
We have numbers of expression of interests from all across the world for town houses and condominiums to be established and to be built here, so we have to update our laws to accommodate these kinds of investments,” he said. Nandlall highlighted that the country will also see new zoning policies, updated public health legislation and policies for the oil-and-gas industry and the externalities associated with it. “The oil-and-gas sector alone carries with it a comprehensive amalgam of legislation that we have to implement, and in this regard we are going to retain an international company that will guide us in this respect,” Nandlall said.
He added: “The public’s health as well is very, very important and no one will want to come and invest unless they feel safe health-wise, so we have to revamp the entire public health sector and progress has begun with a menu of legislation that is under review.” He explained that the legal sector plays an imperative role in encouraging private investment and the government will be seeing that necessary arrangements are in place for investors to feel safe doing business in Guyana. “No company will want to invest where there is no respect for the rule of law and where they cannot effectively settle their disputes and where their investments are not
protected by the highest form of legal and constitutional accord and imprimatur,” he said. A consistent provision emanating from contracts within the oil-and-gas industry is one which encourages disputes to be settled by alternate methods of dispute resolution. In those regards, a new arbitration act will be tabled. Government has so far contracted Justice Courtney Abel, a prominent legal practitioner within the Caribbean, to review all of Guyana’s existing laws and regulations in the subject area and make appropriate recommendations for the repeal, reform and passing of new laws. Th es e p o licies r eflect the government’s
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, S.C. intention to facilitate the overarching policy of the PPP/C government to encourage investment from and through partnership with the private sector. “We believe that a partnership with the private sector is what will transform Guyana in the manner that we want it to be transformed and in which it is capable of being transformed,” Nandlall said.
17
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
GDF partners with Region Two administration to repair Adventure Public Road
R E G I O N T w o Vice-Chairman, Humace Odit, has commended the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) ranks stationed
at the Anna Regina base for partnering with the regional administration to repair sections of the public road at Adventure
GDF ranks working on the Adventure Road
Abusive language charge dismissed against lab technician By Richard Bhainie AN abusive language charge against Priya Singh, 30, of the Little Diamond, East Bank Demerara was, on Friday, dismissed by Magistrate Esther Sam at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court. It was alleged that on September 20, 2020, Priya Singh, a laboratory technician attached to the National Blood Transfusion Service (NBTS) verbally abused Indrawattie Natram, in front of her Essequibo Coast, Region Two home. The charge, which was initiated as an indecent language charge and subsequently changed to one of abusive language was dismissed based on the fact that there was no evidence to support the virtual complainant’s claim.
on the Essequibo Coast. Odit said the servicemen volunteered their time on Thursday and Friday to help with maintenance work on parts of the thoroughfare. Approximately 50 feet of the public road had deteriorated and needed urgent repairs. The materials were provided by Region Two administration. “It is a partnership and I am happy that this is growing. The work of the officers is commendable and they have indicated that they will also help in visiting conservancy
structures as well as help to repair D&I,” Odit said. The motorists who use the roadway on a daily basis were most affected. This newspaper was told that whenever it rained, the huge potholes on the roadway would become filled with water and often times, motorists were unable to drive properly. Several motorists, who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle also commended the efforts of the GDF ranks and other key stakeholders in rectifying the situation.
Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Odit (right) inspecting the work being done by GDF ranks on the Adventure Road “The huge potholes in the Adventure road was a disaster waiting to happen. I am happy that this was fixed before anything worse happened,” Ravin
Carroll said. The servicemen will assist the region with filling other potholes in roads along the Essequibo Coast.
18
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Dagron Tours and Wilderness Explorers reopen THE Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) has announced that Dagron Tours and Wilderness Explorers have been granted conditional approval to welcome travellers to their offices and host them on tours. According to a release, the two entities have met the National COVID-19 measures and the authority’s recommended Hygiene and Sanitation Protocols. Dagron Tours and Wilderness Explorers bring the total to 15 tourism businesses that have received conditional approval to reopen and are marked as safe for travel since December 1, 2020. “The strides our industry has made towards reopening is most definitely noteworthy. It is my belief that the businesses that have already received their conditional letters of approval and are benefitting from the Safefor-Travel marketing campaign will serve as a form of encouragement to other businesses to reassure them that as long as they take the necessary steps and implement the stipulated measures, they too will be able to reopen,” said GTA Director Carla James. Domestic and international travellers are advised to use only GTA-approved tourism businesses to book
The process for this approval will follow the same two-step process as conditional approval for the reopening of tourism businesses, which are: submission of a business’s written Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) to the GTA for a desk review and on-site inspection of businesses to verify the implementation of the SoPs and conditional approval by the GTA. Businesses that already have their internal SoPs template are required to submit these which must clearly outline the specific Wilderness Explorers has met the National COVID-19 measures and the Guyana Tourism Authority’s (GTA) recommended Hygiene and Sanitation Protocols and plan their tour activities. at 40 per cent capacity, but guidelines set out to meet the These businesses that have only with the approval of the requirements and apply to the been granted their condition- Guyana Tourism Authority. GTA for conditional approval approval are reminded to Monitoring and inspecting al to reopen for this purpose. maintain the protocols as out- restaurants to ensure that Approved restaurants will be lined by the Guyana Tourism all COVID-19 protocols as marked with official signage Authority and the national, stipulated by the Ministry provided by the GTA indicatgazetted safety measures. of Health are in place before ing that they have been safely “Failure to adhere to they are allowed to offer in- reopened for indoor dining these measures will result door dining will fall strictly and the maximum capacity in the revocation of the con- under the purview of the that is permitted to dine. ditional approval tied to the GTA with support from the Restaurants that fail to COVID-19 measures,” the Mayor and City Council, adhere to the stipulated mearelease said. Ministry of Health and the sures as outlined by the GuyThe amendment to the regional health offices. ana Tourism Authority and COVID-19 National SafeRestaurants must modify the national, gazetted safety ty Measures gazette made indoor spaces to allow for measures will be subject to on January 13, 2021 allows ‘socially distanced’ seating immediate closure for a periindoor dining at restaurants allotments and follow other od of one month.
hygiene and sanitation protocols in place. Inspections are scheduled to commence on Saturday January 16, 2021. As a reminder, Tourism Accommodation Establishments (Hotels) are required to also adhere to the process to be listed as “Safe for Travel” and are encouraged to submit their Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) to Micheala Lindore (+592-696-8959), Tourism Business Support Officer within the GTA at micheala@guyanatourism. com and copy Carla James, Director of the GTA at carla@guyanatourism.com.
GTT ‘outage’ causes disruption in landline and cellphone services MANY mobile and landline customers of the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) found their services disrupted on Friday morning due to an “outage”. Around 09:00 hours, customers reported being unable to make calls to non-GTT cellphone numbers. The company subsequently released a statement on its Facebook page, acknowledging the issue and noted that it was being looked at. “Notice to our valued customers: Landline calls to mobile numbers are currently affected across all networks. Our technicians are aware and are working to resolve as soon as possible. We apologise for this inconvenience,” the statement said. Approximately one hour later the company issued another message stating that the “service has been restored due to swift action by GTT technicians.” The company did not say what caused the issue. However, when contacted, a customer service representative for the company would only say that there was an “outage” in the system.
19
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Region Two residents thankful for street lights By Indrawattie Natram
RESIDENTS living in several communities in Region Two (Pomeroon-Su-
penaam) are grateful for the intervention made by Minister of Local Government and Regional Development Nigel Dharamlall
One of the lights being installed
to have street lights installed. The minister recently distributed a total of 140 street lights to five Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) within the region. Immediately after collecting the lights, the respective NDC Chairpersons began the installation. Chairman of the Annandale/Riverstown NDC, Charran Sarabjeet, said his NDC was given 28 lights which were installed at Riverstown, Airy Hall, Perseverance, Zorg and Golden Fleece. Sarabjeet explained that during several face-the-community meetings that were held recently by regional officials, residents had requested street lights. He said he was happy that this request was fulfilled within days of it being made. The Aberdeen/Zorg-EnVlygt NDC also received 28 street lights. Its Chairperson, Jayashree Persaud said the lights were evenly distributed in the villages that are in her NDC. Persaud said
UG to soon launch programme in echocardiography THE University of Guyana College of Medical Sciences and the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) in collaboration with the Institute of Health Science Education, the University of Calgary and Libin Cardiovascular Institute of Alberta Affiliate Programme will be launching a new programme in echocardiography very soon. According to a release, the programme is in keeping with the university’s continuous effort to promote and provide better cardia health care to citizens of Guyana. This programme is another affiliated programme in the College of Medical Sciences/ Faculty of Health Sciences, UG. It is a specialist (Fellowship) programme for suitably qualified physicians, leading to ASE Level III certification in echocardiography and is scheduled for a duration of 12 months. Even though echocardiography was previously available to some degree at private, for-profit hospitals, it was not available in an accredited or formalised fashion within the public hospital system. There were no formally trained or accredited echocardiography technol-
On completion of this programme, successful participants will be awarded a fellowship in echocardiography from the University of Guyana ogists or cardiologists with formal echocardiography certification in Guyana, even within the private medical sector. “Therefore, there has been limited access to cardiac diagnostics in Guyana, particularly in the public health care system. This programme is timely and necessary, especially given the prevalence of cardiac disease affecting adults and children in Guyana,” a release from UG said. Echocardiography is ultrasound imaging diagnostic test of the heart and associated structures, which has become routinely used in the diagnosis, management, and follow-up of adults and
children with any suspected or known heart diseases. It is a non-invasive test with no known risks or side effects that is most widely used in cardiology to provide a wealth of important information, including the size and shape of the heart, pumping function (including location and extent of any tissue damage), heart valve structure and function, and congenital abnormalities of structure and function of the heart. On completion of this programme, successful persons will be awarded a fellowship in echocardiography from the University of Guyana.
too that residents are elated over the installations and commended the efforts of all stakeholders involved. Meanwhile, People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) councillor and resident of Charity, Faraz Baksh, said residents in his community are also extremely content as street lights were placed at strategic points. He said that given the fact that most of the communities are very dark at night, the newly installed street lights will provide security for businesses. Dyal Singh, a resident of Golden Fleece, said he is happy for the lights in his community. “In the night, the place is dark and many people are scared in the area. We are happy and thankful, at least it starts and we would like a continuation,” Singh said. Regional Executive Officer Devanand Ramdatt during the first statutory meeting for January informed the council that the NDC in the Pomeroon River also received street lights.
One of the lights which was installed in the Golden Fleece area He said while the area does not have streets, the lights will be placed on
the government buildings and health posts located alongside the river.
20
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
21
22
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
23
24
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
25
26
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
27
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Marnus puts Australia in command
(ESPNCRICINFO) - Australia took command of the first day of the final Test, through Marnus Labuschagne’s fifth Test century. India were forced to contend with perhaps the worst blow in a tour of many blows, the loss of their best bowlers in Jasprit Bumrah and R. Ashwin, and did a reasonable job of it through their newcomers at first. They could not, however, sustain that through the day as Labuschagne’s anchor innings of 108 played perfect foil for the positive, pace-setting innings from Steven Smith, Mathew Wade, Cameron Green, and Tim Paine. From 87 for 3, Australia stretched to 274 for 5 at stumps, and in the meantime, India’s medical staff got an addition to their responsibilities: a potential groin injury for Navdeep Saini, who went off to get scans after bowl-
ing 7.5 overs. True to the theme of the entire tour, the day could have gone differently if the fielding had gone different-
ly. Ajinkya Rahane dropped Labuschagne on 37, shortly after India had dismissed Smith. The chance to build
pressure on the lower-middle order seemed to have slipped with that, but a halfchance did come India’s way not long after.
Marnus Labuschagne
However, that chance, at first slip, was also put down. Labuschagne was two short of a fifty at that
point, and went on to add 60 more. In that time, he witnessed Wade bat in a more restrained manner than he has all series, as
they added 113 for the fourth wicket. Wade didn’t compromise on the attacking spark
he’s shown all series, and took a particular liking to driving past mid-off against pace bowling. But an 87ball 45 ended, yet again, with a harmless lob into the leg side as he looked to pull T. Natarajan, who claimed his first Test wicket. Labuschagne would be the next, out in the exact manner as Wade, a top-edge hanging up for Rishabh Pant behind the stumps as an ostensibly slow pitch showed signs of grip and lift off a length. None of those signs showed up in the last hour of the day, however, as Green and a counter-attacking Paine put on an unbroken 61-run stand, including seven overs against a largely ineffective second new ball. The ball had swung all day, but India’s fourp ro n g e d p a c e a t t a c k wasn’t incisive as much as Australia’s batsmen were sloppy.
Root Test century helps England strangle Sri Lanka ESPNCRICINFO) - Joe Root’s first Test century since November 2019 has helped England tighten their grip on the second day of the first Test in Galle. Root went through 2020 without a century - the first time in his Test career he has gone through a full year without one - and dropped out of the Top-10 in the ICC’s batting rankings in the process.
But here he has provided a demonstration of his enduring class in negating the sharply turning ball with calm authority and moving to his 18th Test century in
Sri Lanka will have to bat substantially better than they managed in the first innings if they are to make England bat again. If they require an ex-
into gaps and his ability to sweep both in front and behind square, he has provided a masterclass in playing spin bowling. Kusal Mendis, at short leg, took so many
Joe Root’s sweep was a regular feature in his hundred, v Sri Lanka, 1st Test, Galle, 2nd day, yesterday
the process. More importantly, he extended England’s lead to 185 with six first-innings wickets still in hand by the time rain returned at tea to bring an early close.
ample of how to go about things, they could do far worse than emulate Root. With his judgement of when to go forward and back, his ability to manoeuvre the ball
blows you suspect a boxing referee might have suggested he had taken enough punishment. Never has Root scored so many runs in a single innings from the sweep.
It was Root’s eighth score of 150 or more in Test cricket and the highest score made by an England player in a Test in Sri Lanka. The previous highest was Kevin Pietersen’s 151 made in Colombo in 2012. Root was given assured support from debutant Dan Lawrence. The pair added 173 in 43.1 overs - England’s highest-ever stand in Tests in Sri Lanka - for the fourth wicket, with Lawrence losing little by comparison. Indeed, were you to put together a highlights package of the day, it would be Lawrence’s strokes that dominated. There were cuts, drives, sweeps and, shortly before lunch, he launched Lasith Embuldeniya for a slog-swept six that would have pleased Pietersen or AB de Villiers, the men his father told the BBC he idolised growing up. All in all, it suggested England might just have found a man with the character and skill to flourish at this level. Sterner tests loom, no doubt, but this was an accomplished first international innings from Lawrence.
28
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
CARIFTA 2021 could be confirmed for July JUST under a month ago the North American, Central American and Caribbean Athletic Association (NACAC) president, Mike Sands, stated the association will conduct a survey among its membership to determine if the April 3-5 date for the CARIFTA Games in Bermuda is feasible. The NACAC recently carried out that survey and most of its members found the April schedule to be a bit too demanding especially with the nuisance that is COVID-19.
President of the Athletics Association of Guyana, Aubrey Hutson, who was a part of that survey, said that he believes CARIFTA 2021 would most likely be held in the month of July. Hutson said, “CARIFTA may be pushed back to July based on my last discussion even though it’s not confirmed as yet. We know having it in April is a tough ask. So most of the countries basically were asked to do a survey and from discussions with most of those countries April was too tough and so there was
a June option.” “Most of us opted not to use June because of CXC and that’s because most of our athletes are around CXC age. So they’re (NACAC) pushing from July, so once we get confirmation from NACAC that it’s going to be in July, I guess the coaches then could again look back at their programmes and how to prepare the athletes,” Hutson disclosed. According to a report by The Nassau Guardian in December 2020, Sands
said: “At this time, we are still moving full steam ahead but there are several challenges that we are faced with. First of all, we have to look at the established protocols regarding COVID-19 in the host country. Secondly, we have to respect the protocols in the countries of the established member federations and how it pertains to travel in and out of those countries. “At our last meeting, we took a position to conduct a survey among the membership to determine the viability of
the date in question and whether or not that date is doable. “COVID-19 is still out there and there would have been a spike in certain parts of the region. We’re looking at several options, but I can tell you that cancellation is not an option at this time. It’s just a matter of staying with the current date or switching to a later date.” Bermuda currently has over 100 active cases of COVID-19 and only 12 recorded deaths in the nation of just over 60 000 people.
If CARIFTA 2021 remains on schedule during the pandemic it’s almost inevitable that all incoming guests to Bermuda would have to take a COVID-19 RT-PCR test and receive a negative result. The pandemic forced the region’s most prestigious junior athletics championships to break its 49-year record of hosting with its first cancellation in 2020. In 2019, Guyana achieved their record medal tally with 10, eclipsing the nine they won in 2018.
Weightlifting Association not planning too many activities in 2021 ― Open Championship scheduled for May
Flashback: If the Open Championships is held it might be an outdoor event
THE Guyana Amateur Weightlifting Association executive members have decided to tread lightly in 2021 and will limit their activities for the year. Technical Director of the association Deion Nurse called the year a “short and temporary one”. He noted that there are a few administrative engagements in the first quarter, but in terms of competitions, he said that the association would monitor the Covid-19 pandemic and if all is well, it would host its Open Championships on May 2.
Nurse noted that even if the conditions were perfect for the hosting of the event earlier in the year it would be difficult since the athletes have not been training at the level required. “Most of the athletes have been doing minimum works home, this is not the ideal thing. Since the re-opening of the gyms, turn out has been poor, however we are expecting things to get back slowly.” Next month, the GAWA is hoping to run off its Electoral AGM. That meeting is tentatively set for February 6. According to Nurse, the
International Weightlifting Federation’s Electoral Congress is scheduled for late March and the local body will also pay keep attention to that. If conditions are right for the hosting of the Open Championships, Nurse said that the association would also look to do a training course in the second quarter of 2021. “We only have one plan for now, by April we will be in a better positioned to make further decisions. We are trying to also finalise a Level 2 Conditioning Coaching Course.”
29
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
GMR&SC Endurance meet shifted OFFICIAL word from Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) has confirmed the postponement of the season’s opening Endurance race meet. Initially set for January 24, the meet will now be held on January 31 according to president of the Club, Rameez Mohammed. “Due to some urgent track work that needs to be done, we have had to push back the Endurance meet by one week. I hope our drivers can understand that this is for their importance as we do not want to put them in unnecessary danger,” Mohamed said. While the work will not take long, according to the GMR&SC president, he wants to ensure that it is done properly so as to not do the same thing twice. “It isn’t a big lot of work that needs to happen but we want to be sure that once we complete this, we won’t
English Racing Tips Lingfield 07:45 hrs Merweb 08:15 hrs Gypsy Dancer 08:50 hrs Kestenna 09:25 hrs Intuitive 10:00 hrs Dutugamunu 10:35 hrs Pholas 11:10 hrs Recon Mission 11:45 hrs Swiss Pride Market Rasen 08:20 hrs Ivilnoble 08:55 hrs Martello 09:30 hrs Fawsley Spirit 10:05 hrs Langer Dan 10:40 hrs On The Blind Side 11:15 hrs Eileendover 11:50 hrs Easy Bucks Warwick 08:40 hrs Frankincense 09:15 hrs Amoola Gold 10:25 hrs Make Me A Believer 11:00 hrs Notachance
need to go back and do any more work in that section.” Already, several competitors have geared themselves for the event after the COVID-19 pandemic cut short the racing season in 2020. Many competitors have expressed faith in the club putting off the event, albeit under a strict COVID-19 policy.
“We are going to have a limit of two drivers and specific mechanics per car; our pits are more than 6ft wide but we will utilise every other pit to ensure that teams are spaced out and we also will do temperature checks of all individuals on race day.” “Masks by our marshals and officials will also be strictly enforced as well as
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Saturday, January 16, 2021
COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD – 83 Garnett street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)
(1) Jack Noriega-9/95 (vs IND, Trinidad, 1971) (2) Winston Davis-7/51 (vs AUST, Leeds, 1983)
TODAY’S QUIZ:
(1) What is the highest individual score in a Test innings by a WI player to date? (2) What is the highest individual score by a WI player in an ODI game to date?
ANSWERS ANSWER S IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE
11:35 hrs Come On Teddy 12:05 hrs Gold Bullion Irish Racing Tips Fairyhouse 08:00 hrs Youmdor 08:30 hrs Roseys Hollow 09:05 hrs Manitopark AA 09:40 HRS Ballyshadow Rose 10:15 hrs Chatam Street 10:50 hrs Port Stanley 11:25 hrs King Alex 12:00 hrs Gerri Colombe American Racing Tips Aqueduct Rac2 1 Beautiful Karen Race 2 Violent Trick Race 3 Charlie Five O Race 4 Full Moon Fever Race 5 Mcerin Race 6 Jump For Joy Race 7 Its Gravy Race 8 Vacay
Race 9 South Of The Shore Arab Emirates Racing Tips Meydan 09:30 hrs Hamama 10:05 hrs Bright Start 10:40 hrs Welsh Lord 11:15 hrs King Of Arms 11:50 hrs Irish Freedom 12:25 hrs Gold Factory South Africa Racing Tips Kenilworth 07:50 hrs Duchess Of Sussex 08:25 hrs A Good Year 09:00 hrs The Summons 09:35 hrs Captain Flinders 10:10 hrs All Lit Up 10:45 hrs Brave New World 11:20 hrs Water Spirit 11:55 hrs Mia Black
sanitation points for all our competitors. We are also mandating all personnel to utiliee gloves and other
safety equipment,” the GMR&SC boss stated. Meanwhile the event has already secured spon-
sorship from Secure Innovations and Concepts Inc., First Class Auto and Sheriff Security among others.
30
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
Roach wants more aggression, discipline from Windies pacers … Spinners have big roles in Test series By Clifton Ross WEST Indies speedster and bowling attack leader, Kemar Roach, wants some ferocity and edge from his pacers when the Test series begins; backing their spinners as possible secret weapons against hosts Bangladesh. The Barbados speedster told the media yesterday that barring the missing big name players who will miss the tour due to COVID-19 concerns, he feels the current unit capable of bringing the heat to the home side when the Test series commences. “We have a job to do, me and Sharon (Gabriel) and Alzarri (Joseph) as well. The spinners will obviously do the bulk of the work but I think once we do what we are best at, which is taking wickets, it will help the team and the bowling unit,”. said Roach. West Indies will want to have a good look at the current squad mixed with a few veterans and a number of new, but focussed and in-form players like Joshua DaSilva and others. Roach believed that this is the ideal opportunity to test the
various new weapons against a formidable opponent. “If we can do that (take wickets), we can obviously execute our plans better. We have been planning well and having conversations with the bowling coach so we know what we want to do”. The pacer continued, “It’s about obviously planning well as I said, and know what you want to do as a group and as a team. We are doing good practice and have the confidence and hopefully we can take that into the practice matches and into the Test series. Things are in motion and we’re looking forward to the series”. Roach stated. This situation is similar to that of way back in 2009 when Roach made his surprise debut against the same Tigers, following a pay dispute with the regular squad members and the-then WICB. As a result, the Caribbean Boys fielded a ‘second-string team’ with Roach being among those players to grab that opportunity and turn heads during the series, with his first 5-for coming in his second interna-
West Indies fast bowler Kemar Roach
Review the Professional setup, says Roberts By Rajiv Bisnauth THE professionalisation of First Class cricket in the West Indies was aimed to revolutionise the game in the region, but after over half a decade, the system, which was projected to significantly lend to the improvement of performance at the First Class and International stages, seems not only badly broken but also ridiculously stagnant. Under the new system being rolled out by thethen West Indies Cricket Board (WICB), now Cricket West Indies (CWI) and supported by the West Indies Players Association (WIPA), each territory had become a franchise. Each franchise will retain 15 players who will work as a unit on a day-
to-day, year-round basis in each territory under a head coach and support staff. The six franchises are Barbados, Guyana, Jamaica, Leeward Islands, Trinidad and Tobago and Windward Islands. However, renowned West Indies fast bowler Sir Andy Roberts believes that the system needs urgent attention since not much progress has been made since its implementation. “I am not in favour of the professional setup. The reason is that everything is focussed on fifteen players that the franchise employs. What happens to the rest of the cricket? The money just goes to these fifteen players and their support staff, and there is nothing going to the hundreds or thousands of cricketers left
around the region,” Sir Andy pointed out. Roberts, a former West Indies coach himself, added “So we have to be fair and try and develop everybody, not just fifteen players. I am very disappointed that we don’t have two or three players coming out of the franchise system and going straight into the West Indies team and performing well on the international circuit, I can’t see that.” Roberts further stressed that the system should be relooked in a holistic manner, involving, not only CWI but also the stakeholders at large. “So this thing needs to be relooked at from a holistic point of view where everybody is going to be involved with the cricket, not CWI alone, and not just fifteen players, I
would like for somebody to show me where I am wrong,” Roberts said. In conclusion, Roberts suggested: “I think what they should do is employ four, five or seven of each of the franchise top players and let the rest of the moneys go into a pool to help the remainder, not just fifteen players.” Unlike the other five franchises, Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) was extremely decisive in its approach to the new system. It had unveiled the new Cricket Guy Inc., which oversees the franchise and has since proactively continued to lead the way in formulating and enhancing the territorial professional Franchise structure, with a comparative 3-tier contract system.
tional Test match. Now as one of the top pacers in international cricket and the current leader of the Windies bowling attack, especially in Tests, a matured Roach wants to continue his progression and wants the incoming group of players to make the most of the opportunity and carve out a career for themselves, similar to what he had done. “Yeah, that’s where it started, obviously back home. I have played against them a couple of times, both ODIs and Tests. There has always been a good fight and they are a mentally tough team. They try very hard to do the right thing but it’s all about us, going there as a team and just putting our best foot forward,”. Roach said. “We have to focus on what we do, execute our plans and play Test cricket as hard as we can. I think I was pretty inexperienced and I think the guys handled pressure pretty well. Now we are experienced, most of us. And it’s the second time we are here in recent times,” he concluded.
Sport Ministry, GABF not recognising Halendino Sports Company ‘trials’ THE Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport and Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) yesterday issued parallel statements distancing themselves from the Halendino Sports Company and its proposed January 23–24 ‘trials’ for football and basketball players. Listed as one of the supporters of the initiative, in a short release, the Ministry said they are in no way affiliated or supporting the Halendino Sports Company or event. Guyana Football Federation (GFF) was the first to condemn and issued a statement of ‘no sanction’ for the event which will be led by Guyana Prison Service Cadet Officer, Khalifa Hale; while GABF, similarly has not approved or sanctioned the event and as such, registered members of the Federations are not authorised to participate. While the Sport Ministry stopped short by saying they are in no way affiliated, the two Federations took it a step further and warned of punitive action if any registered player or official should participate in the unsanctioned activity. (Rawle Toney)
31
GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, January 16, 2021
WI vice-captain Ambris looking to score big against Tigers … wants youngsters to stick to basics during series By Clifton Ross WEST Indies ODI vice-captain Sunil Ambris believes the new-look team can spring a few surprises against Bangladesh, thus overcoming their challenges of fielding a relatively young side. A veteran in the Regional system and with 13 matches in his combined Test and ODI career, the 27-year-old believes he too has a lot to prove and is backing the newbies and the possible debutants to shrug off any jitters and put their best performances out. “I think this is actually the first tour that I am confident that I am starting. I’d like to use this tour to cement myself in the playing XI for the other tours. We are a very inexperienced batting team. But we have some talented batsmen who can turn a match any time if they can set themselves,” said Ambris. Ambris is also among a few players, like skipper Jason
Mohammed and Guyanese Veerasammy Permaul, who either made their debut against the Tigers or last played international cricket against the Bangladeshis. The St Vincent-born batsman played 3 of his 8 ODIs against Bangladesh back in 2019, where he had a fifty as Windies lost the 3 games. However, looking to make amends, Ambris said he was determined to make this opportunity count and wants his bat to do the talking. “Personally, I am looking to score. I would love to get at least one hundred out of these three games. I think that would do me a lot of good. My cricket has not changed at all’ my tendency is to stay positive. I try to play smart cricket, sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t. However, it often works against Bangladesh”. He continued, “I think with the bowling that we have in these conditions, we would be able to defend anything
West Indies vice-captain Sunil Ambris
between 240 and 270. Hopefully the pitch here would not be much different. But I don’t think it will be that easy. I will have to work a little bit more than I did in Ireland, as the pitches there were really good for batting.” he explained. Spinner Hayden Walsh Jr recently tested positive for COVID-19. Ambris closed off by speaking of his teammate, his own state of mind currently and his advice to the youngsters; Ambris was upbeat but still wary of the threats both on and off the cricket field. “Stick to what you know - (his advice to the youngsters). Many of them are newcomers to international cricket but should try not to be worried too much, just play hard and smart cricket. “Walsh’s situation is very sad, I wish him speedy recovery but that’s out of my mind now. I just want to think ahead, try and stay safe and be positive,” he ended.
Use of State-owned sports facility is a Government policy decision – Wayne Forde By Rawle Toney
PRESIDENT of Guyana Football Federation, Wayne Forde, believes the use of any state-owned sport facility is a policy decision for the Government of Guyana and not a particular sporting entity or Association. Since the finals of the Kashif and Shanghai ‘Bounce Back’ football tournament at Guyana National Stadium on January 1, there has been much debate about the playing of football at the facility which was built for the hosting of Cricket World Cup in 2007. The stadium, Guyana’s lone ICC-recognised cricket facility at present, has hosted its fair share of football matches, both locally and internationally, as well as other Regional and international sporting events over the past 14 years.
However, reports surfaced recently depicting a damaged pitch, purported to be that of the National Stadium after the January 1 event. The claims were deemed false by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, after a visit by Minister Charles Ramson Jr and team. GFF president Wayne Forde, speaking for the first time on the matter, stating that his Federation doesn’t have the authority over any stateowned sports facility and the policy with regard the use of those facilities, lies squarely with the Government. “The use of government facilities is a policy decision of any government and we (GFF) as a sporting discipline in Guyana, we have to operate within the policy framework of the government,” Forde said. According to Forde, GFF’s responsibility is “to
request the use of a venue and if the granting of approval is within the policy framework within the Government of Guyana and that approval is granted, then it is our right to use the venue in the most responsible way and most respectable way”. “If they are conditions that are attached to the approval, then it is our responsibility to honour those conditions as well,” Forde noted. Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, had this week told Chronicle Sport, that “the Guyana National Stadium is not owned by anyone; it’s owned by the people of the country. It’s not owned by any sport, it is owned by the various sports which require its usage in order for them to be able to advance their standing nationally and globally.” Ramson believed that the issue was a “concerted at-
tempt to malign the ministry and also to prevent the use of the national stadium for football,” adding that “GFF is required to also be prepared for their World Cup preparation and representation which is going to be in March of this year”. Forde lauded Ramson’s position on the matter, pointing out that he’s “happy that the Honourable Minister has signalled the policy-posture of the Government of Guyana.” Asked about his and the GFF’s relationship with the Government of Guyana, Forde lamented that the nature of the relationship between the government and any sporting body, usually has much to do with the quality of the relationship between the president and the minister, and he was “pleased to say that Minister Charles Ramson and I have a very good rela-
tionship.” “He’s very accessible and I try to be as accessible as I can to him. So we have a really good relationship.
Fundamental to the relationship is that we understand each other; we both have a huge responsibility,” the GFF boss related.
Ramson meets CWI
― Guyana to host Pakistan in August
(Press Release) - On the request by the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport for an urgent meeting with Cricket West Indies (CWI), a meeting was held today (15th January, 2021), via Zoom, where the Ministry shared its position that the body calling itself the "Guyana Cricket Board" is illegitimate under the laws of Guyana, and that their representation on the CWI ought to be reviewed. CWI’s delegation was led by President Ricky Skerritt. The CWI delegation was informed that the Ministry has disengaged from the body since the restoration of the Cricket Administration Act and will not have further engagement with the body until there is full compliance therewith, including deciding to deny the body entry to the Guyana National Stadium, although access has been allowed to participating players and coaches only. The Minister also shared plans for future investment in cricket development in Guyana and discussed various operational matters with CWI, including the planned schedule for regional and international cricket matches and tournaments. The Ministry is pleased to share with the public that Guyana is confirmed to host several regional and international matches at the Guyana National Stadium in 2021, including when Pakistan tours the West Indies in August.
SEE PAGE
28
CARIFTA 2021
could be confirmed for July
Claudrice McKoy won the U-20 Women’s 1500m at the 2019 CARIFTA Games.
Matthew Gordon claimed gold in the U-17 3 000m at the 2019 CARIFTA Games
SEE PAGE
29
GMR&SC
Endurance meet shifted Endurance racing action has been pushed back by one week
Review the Professional setup, says Roberts
SEE PAGE
31
SEE PAGE
30
Sir Andy Roberts
FLASHBACK! GFF president Wayne Forde (right) presents a customised ‘Golden Jaguars’ replica jersey to Minister Ramson in the presence of Dion Inniss, at their first meeting in August of 2020
SEE PAGE
31
Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limited, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 226-3243-9 (General); Editorial: 227-5204, 227-5216. Fax:227-5208
|
SATURDAY, JANUARY 16, 2021