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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Logistics firm to hire over 200 –– boasts premium rates of pay, conducive environment for work By Navendra Seoraj INSPIRED by the right conditions for investment and expansion, local logistics and transportation management firm, Express International Inc. will be looking to widen its operations with the employment of over 200 Guyanese by the end of this year. Express International Inc., which was established locally in 2013, provides logistical support for its parent company, Express Trucking and Courier Inc, a US-based corporation with four other subsidiaries. The local subsidiary located at lot 27 Hadfield Street, already employs over 200 persons, majority of whom are Guyanese. Chief Investment Officer and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest), Dr. Peter Ramsaroop, has said that Guyana, with a growing economy and an environment that is conducive for commerce, is becoming a hub for investments, as is evidenced by Express International’s expansion here. “Express International Inc. has positioned Guyana as an entry market in outsourced logistics management and with many jobs going offshore from the U.S, Guyana is set to capture and expand in this

market. “I am pleased that the company has taken the position to expand its operation in the Guyana Market. The creation of over 200 higher paying jobs indicates that Guyana truly is open for Investments,” Dr. Ramsaroop said in an invited comment on Tuesday. The firm aims to work along with the Government of Guyana to add over 200 jobs before the end of 2021. This move forms part of its goal of diversifying its offerings to the local and international population through opportunities in ground transportation and air freight, in the global supply chain. In the space of eight years, the company has moved from strength to strength, exhibiting traits that are worth emulating by both local and foreign businesses. According to information shared with the Guyana Chronicle, Owner and President of Express International Inc., Guyana-born Ken Deocharran, who had moved to the U.S., always dreamt of returning to his country of birth and contributing significantly to local development. After doing his research and examining the market at that time, Deocharran took the bold step of establishing the op-

The new Express International office at lot 27 Hadfield Street erations at Patentia, West Bank Demerara (WBD), starting with just one employee, who was serving as a dispatcher for a fleet of over 15 semi-tractor trailer units operating in the U.S. for major air freight and dedicated lane clients such as Amazon, DHL Global Forwarding, FedEx Trade Networks, UPS, and others. GROWTH From one dispatcher, the company grew with the addition of more dispatchers who provided 24/7 support to the fleet. All driver communication on pick-up and drop-off details, route recommendations, delays with deliveries, and administrative matters were handled by the local team. Gradually, other groups were added to support the drivers, such as track and trace agents, driver and fleet managers, and an all-inclusive safety team supporting with weather, video, and log monitoring. The team of over 200 persons now manages their entire fleet from Guyana, with only the drivers and a handful of employees based in the U.S., to satisfy the regulatory standards in that nation. During the period of transitioning to Guyana, and to date, the level of customer satisfaction continues to improve with countless unsolicited testimonies from clients. “Thanks to the great reputation of the parent brand which passed 99 per cent of its growth to the Guyana office, Express quickly outgrew its operational space causing the local business to move twice until securing its current location in Hadfield St. Georgetown,” the company said. EXCEPTIONAL ‘ORGANIC’ GROWTH The firm continues to see exceptional ‘organic’ growth fuelled by the high level of customer and client experience, allowing it to grow by over 100 per cent despite the pervasive novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. As was the case across the world, when COVID-19 hit, companies were cautioned

to implement protective strategies and business continuity plans. Express’ first approach was to protect its staff. And, the company, through prudent management, has been able to retain all of its employees and even add to their headcount. “Safety was and continues to be a critical part of their success with more than 50 per cent of their employees working from home until the company feels it is safe again for a full return to the office,” Express International said. Deocharran, in a brief statement, said the efficiency and quality registered by the company during and outside of the pandemic, has surpassed that of the subsidiary in the U.S. The local firm is known for paying premium rates and an environment conducive for transparent employee feedback and one that aids in the improvement of its work environment. Dr. Ramsaroop said the company has demonstrated that it can bring more specialised vertical application and that Guyanese possess the capabilities of performing at international levels. “The Guyana Office for Investment is excited to partner with Express International as it continues to expand its operations in Guyana and to fulfill our President’s [Dr. Irfaan Ali] mandate for the creation of jobs. “Specific to this area of investment, the company is working with investors to expand the technology sector through innovation by facilitating outsourcing projects in Guyana. Express International Inc. is one such project,” he said. This project is one in a slew of projects which are scheduled for this year. It was reported in December 2020 that Go-Invest was able to facilitate 55 potential investments valuing $276.6 billion within three months, paving the way for the creation of more than 10,000 jobs in 2021 and beyond. The Guyana Chronicle understands that of the 55 projects to which Go-Invest referred, 28 are local, 25 are Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs), and there are two joint ventures.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

NBS mortgagers to retain $100M per annum –– as increased loan ceiling, economic conditions motivate decrease in interest rates By Navendra Seoraj MOTIVATED by an increase in the loan ceiling for low-income earners and the general economic conditions, the New Building Society (NBS) has reduced its interest rates, placing aggregately $100 million per annum into the pockets of mortgage holders. The NBS has, over the years, played a critical role in providing affordable financing to Guyanese to realise their dream of home ownership. The bank’s ability to further contribute tangibly to the dream of many Guyanese was augmented when the government announced an increase in the mortgage ceiling for low-income loans. Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, in presenting Budget 2021 to the National Assembly, had announced a general increase from $10 million to $12 million in the ceiling for low-income loans. The ceiling at NBS, however, will be increased to $15 million. This adjustment to the ceiling was formalised when the official approval letter was handed over by Dr. Singh to the bank, at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, on Wednesday. In acknowledging the government’s adjustment to the loan ceiling, Chairman of NBS, Floyd McDonald said: “The New Building Society Limited wishes to place on record its pleasure to have its mortgage ceiling increased from $12 million to $15 million. The NBS has played and is playing a critical role in providing affordable financing to Guyanese to realise their dream of home ownership. It is in this context that we hail the increase in the mortgage ceiling and look forward to playing a more formidable role in the housing sector.” The bank, he said, recognises that the government will be engaging in active efforts to improve the nation’s housing stock, so the move to increase the ceiling is a welcome development

which Guyanese are looking forward to. In this regard, the NBS commits itself as an active partner to support the enhanced housing drive and to delivering finance to thousands of Guyanese, who will benefit from the government’s programme. The bank’s commitment, as said by McDonald, is justified by the reductions in mortgage interest, which will take effect from April 1, 2021. In outlining the specific reductions, the chairman said the interest on loans up to

ceiling approved by the government. We know that our collective efforts will redound to an improved standard of living for Guyanese,” McDonald said. Improving the standard of living, especially access to housing, has been a target of successive People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) Governments over the years, Dr. Singh said. Utilising data related to just NBS in order to defend his statement, the senior minister said when the PPP/C had assumed office in 1992, the

Chairman of NBS, Floyd McDonald

Chairman of NBS, Floyd McDonald, receives the official approval for the loan ceiling increase from Senior Minister in the Office of the President with responsibility for Finance, Dr. Ashni Singh, in the presence of Minister of Housing and Water, Collin Croal and Minister within the Ministry of Housing and Water, Susan Rodrigues (Elvin Croker photo)

$6 million will be 4 per cent per annum instead of 4.25 per cent, while loans above $6 million to $12 million will attract an interest rate of 5.95 per cent compared to the previous 6.75 per cent. Additionally, loans above $12 million up to $15 million will attract 6.25 per cent interest per annum. READY AND LOWCOST FINANCING “The reduction in interest rates will aggregately put into the pockets of mortgage holders some $100M per annum. This is in keeping with our mandate to ensure that Guyanese can acquire ready and low-cost financing and, therefore, become home owners. “The Society is indeed appreciative of the improved

interest rate charged by the bank, which was reflective of the broader economic conditions, was 18 per cent. “As a result of the work we have done over time, we are pleased that we are at a point where people can borrow a loan at an interest rate as low as four per cent,” Dr. Singh reasoned. In speaking further about the bank’s progression under successive PPP/C administrations, the senior minister said: “In 1991, the NBS gave 125 new loans, while in 2012 and 2013, the NBS issued 1,224 new loans and 896 new loans in 2014.” His firm belief is that this “phenomenal growth” is predicated on the policy environment created by the PPP/C. The new administration, he said, has already an-

nounced a menu of measures to create an improved policy environment which meshes well with the financial sector. Other banks, while not increasing their ceiling to $15 million, are also participating in the government’s initiative under the general category, which includes an increase from $10 million to $12 million. Collectively, the interventions in the financial sector and other measures form part of the government’s plan to facilitate home ownership. Having already distributed 3,800 house lots so far, the government, through the Ministry of Housing and Water, will be looking to achieve a target of 10,000 distributions by the end of this year. Minister of Housing and Water, Colin Croal, advised NBS that based on the government’s target, the bank should be expecting 8,000 potential mortgagers within the next six months. Measures such as the zero-rating of construction materials have already been instituted to motivate greater home ownership. With a solid foundation in place, the government, he said, will be able to move with some level of alacrity to reach their primary goal of making 50,000 allocations within five years.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Restorative justice training for all teachers, probation officers

–– training commences for Amerindian leaders ALL probation officers and teachers will eventually be trained on restorative justice to ensure less imprisonment since such punishment has not been a deterrent to crime. This is according to Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney-General, Mohabir Anil Nandlall, during his remarks at the opening ceremony of the Training of Facilitators in Restorative Justice. The event, which targets Amerindian village leaders, commenced on Wednesday at the boardroom of Sleep-in Hotel, Church Street, Queenstown, Georgetown. The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) is supporting Guyana in training teachers, probation officers and community leaders in reforming offenders. The Restorative Justice Programme dates back to 2018, when experts began collecting data from various stakeholders. The main objective of restorative justice is to reduce the prison population in Guyana. “It is one of the new innovations that the experts

Attorney General, Mohabir Anil Nandlall

Another component of restorative justice, he said, brings the offender and victim together to “melt the ice of hate and animosity” that may lead to more violence and more incarceration.

A section of the gathering of Amerindian Village leaders at the Training of Facilitators in Restorative Justice Programme (Adrian Narine photo)

have come up with to deal with criminal behaviour, violent conduct, deviant conduct etc. It has been found that the traditional theories and methods of dealing with criminal behaviour and violent conduct have not yielded the results anticipated,” the Attorney-General said.

Thursday March 11, 2021 –– 03:30 hrs

He noted that the theories and methodologies of punishment and reform have not yielded the type of success needed for the development of society. Nandlall noted that over the centuries, there has not been any discernable decline in criminal, deviant and violent conduct. “In fact, there may have been an increase or an upswing in these unfortunate atrocities, so clearly, the conventional old method that have been used and are still being used in most quarters of the world have not deliv-

ered,” he explained. As a result, the Legal Affairs Minister said sociologists, psychologists and criminologists have been forced to find other methods, theories, strategies, and plans to address the issue. In sharing an example, the Attorney-General said if someone is charged for murder, restorative justice “goes back to understand, examine, to evaluate what were the causal circumstances, the factors that would have agitated the murderous act and it tries to address that or those social issues.”

TRASH OUT DIFFERENCES “Restorative justice puts the two parties together and have them trash out their differences and to do a retrospection by themselves to understand what caused the violence in the first place,” Nandlall said. The Legal Affairs Minister said, originally, 100 persons were earmarked for training and some of those who benefitted from the programme included teachers, religious leaders, judicial officers and probation officers. He said that currently, after the Amerindian leaders complete their training, they are expected to return to their respective communities and practise what they learned at the training sessions. “We believe that restorative justice is so important that we should spread the programme even wider, as a result, we have written to the Minister of Human Services and we are requesting a partnership with the ministry that will allow us to train every probation officer in the country,” he noted. When a probation officer intervenes in disputes, the Attorney-General said their

skill and training will extend with restorative justice. Further, he said that the Education Ministry was also contacted to partner in training all teachers countrywide. “We have trained some as we have done some probation officers, but we believe that the programme can have its fullest impact if we are able to train all the teachers in our country, because while we are dealing with the situation at the adult level, where better to begin, than at the level of the children in the school to target the next generation, so that the next generation will grow up not like this generation without the benefit of restorative justice training,” he explained. He noted that restorative justice can begin to play an early part in the formative years of childhood and when the seed is planted, it will have a positive effect and impact in keeping them away from the prisons “because that is the ultimate objective of the programme”. Most importantly, he noted that a batch of persons will be trained to be trainers and conduct such required sessions in the future as not to only depend on foreign consultants for guidance. Additionally, the Attorney-General said there will be a scholarship programme for the field and areas of restorative justice.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Jagnarine Singh is new CEO of NAREI AGRICULTURE Minister, Zulfikar Mustapha, on Wednesday, confirmed that former head of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Jagnarine Singh, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NAREI). Minister Mustapha, during a brief phone call interview, told the Guyana Chronicle the new appointment is a part of his ministry’s plan to refocus the organisation’s policy and mandate to ensure Guyana is a food-secure state. The minister disclosed that Singh was introduced on Wednesday afternoon to the rest of the staff at NAREI’s Mon Repos headquarters, where they made a commitment to give the new CEO their full support. During the brief introduction, Mustapha stated that he urged the new CEO and his team to work in partnership to change the

–– says on-line

crops,” he said. The new CEO (ag) said there needs to be some amount of improvement to the services offered to farmers and noted that science must be incorporated into the extension services offered to the farmers. “This (NAREI) used to be the central agricultural station and I would like for us to go back to those days when we used to be the central agricultural station in the country. Over the years at the rice board, I remember I had some problems with soils management and I had to end up going around the circle and sending soil samples to Miami. Guyana, a big agriculture producing country; we need to enhance and improve our services to the farmers. Not just soils, but our technical and diagnostic capacity in all areas of plant science. With the extension services, as much as I see, it is being driven on social media. I would want some science involved. The scientists must be involved. What-

ever we are doing must be climate smart, it must be sustainable and profitable, so that our farmers can live a good life. The little plots we have around the country, I want to see them grow and move from just trials to a more economic value to the individual, the community and to the country as a whole,” Singh was quoted in a Ministry of Agriculture release as saying. Minister Mustapha also charged the new CEO (ag) with implementing quarterly training exercises for extension officers in order to keep them abreast with developments in the sector so that they can be better equipped to deliver the kind of services required. “The traditional crops that we have been giving guidance on, we have to improve on that. I’m tasking the new CEO (ag) to develop a plan to improve what we are doing now. Show us what we’ve been doing, where we want to go in terms of increasing productivity, getting

more farmers on board, and what it will take for us to get there. Additionally, His Excellency, President Irfaan Ali, has instructed that Guyana must become self-sufficient in the production of protein for the poultry industry. I am also tasking the CEO and his team with crafting a plan to accomplish this. $500M has been allocated in this year’s budget to commence infrastructural work in the Intermediate Savannah. A number of investors have expressed interest in this sector, so we have to ensure the necessary infrastructure is in place,” Minister Mustapha said. Singh takes over from Dr. Oudho Homenauth, who was employed by the agency for the past 20 years. Minister Mustapha said that even though Dr. Homenauth will no longer serve in the capacity of CEO, his contribution to the development of the sector and the institution over the years remain invaluable.

programme that benefitted five Coalition ministers Minister Zulfikar Mustapha hands over an appointment letter to the new CEO (ag) Jagnarine Singh outlook of the organisation and the agriculture sector. “I also stressed that NAREI will have to change their way of doing things because they can’t do this the same way and want the same results. So NAREI has to be repositioned and refocused with their policy,” the minister said, adding: “I gave them a charge and I told them that they will have to lead the agenda in food security in our country and the region

and also in those non- traditional crops like soya and corn.” The minister stated that he is expecting the new CEO and staff of the organisation to work more efficiently in the development of food production and food security. “I am hoping that the team at NAREI now will be more efficient and to help us to develop the food sector, especially the traditional and non-traditional

Man pleads guilty to swindling women out of money for turn-key houses, motorcar NEIL Benjamin, who was charged numerous times for fraud, on Wednesday, appeared in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and admitted that he conned two women out of money by falsely pretending he could provide turnkey houses and a motorcar. Benjamin of Section ‘C’ Enterprise, East Coast Demerara, pleaded guilty to the two fraud-related charges when they were read to him by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. He was later sentenced to two years in prison for the first charge and 18 months in prison for the second charge. Between June 6, 2020 and December 30, 2020, at Georgetown, with intent to defraud, he obtained $1,168,000 from Odessa Bobb by falsely pretending to her that he was in a position to obtain two houses and land from the Ministry of Housing for her, knowing same to be false. He also admitted that between December 19, 2020, and January 8, 2021, at Carmichael Street, Georgetown, with intent to defraud, he obtained $360,000 from Vanetta James by falsely pretending that he was in a position to purchase and deliver a motorcar to her, knowing same to be false. The court was told that Benjamin and Bobb are known to each other. During

the middle part of 2020, Benjamin contacted Bobb, informing her that he knows of someone who works at the Ministry of Housing. Benjamin told the woman about a turn-key house located in Perseverance, East Bank Demerara and she later expressed her interest in purchasing the property. Benjamin informed her that the house would cost $4.2M. Bobb agreed to the price and started the transaction with $600,000 which was said to be the processing fee. Bobb later told Benjamin that her uncle, who resides in the USA, was also interest in purchasing a turnkey house. Bobb’s uncle sent a total of $568,000 for her to make a payment to Benjamin

on his behalf. While Bobb was performing duties at her workplace, one of her colleagues brought to her attention a news article concerning Benjamin and several fraud offences laid against him in 2017. The woman immediately made a report to the police and an investigation which was conducted, resulted in him being arrested and charged. Regarding the second matter, the court was informed that James made contact with Benjamin via Facebook and they eventually become close friends. James invited Benjamin to her house. While there, he overheard her talking about saving

money to buy a car. Benjamin later questioned her about the type of car she wanted and informed her that he could get an affordable one from a dealer. He even took the woman to the dealership to view a range of cars from which

she could make a selection. Between the periods mentioned in the charge, the woman handed over $360,000 to him as down payment towards the purchase of the vehicle. She was given receipts which were

signed by Benjamin. However, James never received a car. She later learnt that the man had been charged with several fraud-related offences. A report, which was made to the police, led to his arrest.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Key role of legislators

LEGISLATORS play a vital role in the evolution and development of society, with the constant need to update laws and legislative frameworks, to enact new, advanced parameters for the proper legal functioning of the nation, and to provide guidelines and a workable environment for justice, fairness, and equality for every Guyanese. Attorney-General, Anil Nandlall S.C., commented recently that his ministry will be busy over the foreseeable future with a hectic legislative agenda, ranging from proposed constitutional reform, to evolving laws to accommodate the emerging importance of the oil and gas sector, and modernising existing legal systems and enacting new ones to sync with the times, across every sector of the society. Updating all the country’s laws and bringing every facet of the justice system up to scratch requires an enormous amount of work, and Minister Nandlall piloted through Parliament last month a comprehensive overhaul of the Law Reform Commission, a professional body appointed to study the legal landscape and report on the necessary process to keep laws updated and relevant at all times. Nandlall demonstrates a keen sense of what is required within the justice sector. And his leadership in reforming the commission to include experts from a wide cross section of society is forward-thinking and shows that he understands the need for every sector to play a role in formulating laws and legal systems.

Guyana is coming into a whole new paradigm as socio-economic development increases at a rapid exponential pace, with every sector moving fast into new, deeper legal currents. Keeping up with the changing landscape is a mammoth task, and the Attorney-General shows that he understands, with a keen sense of the times, what is required for Guyana to flow along smoothly. The legal and Justice system is one of the most vital lifeblood of the country in these times of rapid advancement. On top of all that is the new world order now unfolding, which Guyana would more and more play an important role in as an oil and gas producer, and a net-clean climate generator. The World Economic Forum and the United Nations are leading a monumental shift in how human society works across the global village. This new global order aims for a more equitable, humane, climate-conscious humanity, with the uppermost concern being net-zero climate footprint. In fact, the upcoming global Climate Summit in November, hosted in Glasgow, England, will set out a new global agenda, for every country in the world to re-work the value system on which society pivots, away from economic benchmarks, to clean climate benchmarks. That fundamental philosophic transformation will require every country in the world to implement a wholesale makeover of the legislative framework around social and economic activity, and Guyana would engineer a new way to measure its Gross National Product, to include its most

valuable asset in today’s world, as a clean climate net generator and a part of the Amazon lungs of the world. These are weighty issues, and Nandlall has his hands full, to keep Guyana up to date with such a fast-paced, mammoth shift in how the global village works, while simultaneously keeping the local legal system on track. In fact, the parliamentary agenda to bring Guyana into sync with the new world order emerging post-COVID is going to see a busy National Assembly over the next five years, even just to align with new, emerging international standards. It is not anymore just a matter for a national finance system of integrity and credibility, but rather, for the enactment of a slew of new and updated legislation that aligns this country with the new global landscape, because the world is now engineering a new value system by which business, government, culture, and every aspect of society would function. There is a fundamental, important, crucial seismic shift happening within human consciousness, which is moving Mankind from an economic worldview, into a climate sustainability worldview. As the 21st century unfolds, much progress and reform of how human society works is underway, with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals under a timetable of five more years, and the World Economic Forum’s Great Reset aiming for huge social and economic changes by 2030, and the Climate Agenda pushing for a net-zero emissions world by 2045. These timetables and new societal foun-

dation transformation have direct impact on Guyana, and how Guyanese live. And much of the necessary structures and systems for Guyana to work well within this new, emerging world order lie in the legislative branch of government, and in the leadership hands of Attorney-General Nandlall. Showing that he fully understands the task at hand, Nandlall told the media, last month, that “the Law Reform Commission is expected to hire researchers, social scientists, financial minds and persons trained in different disciplines, who will constantly review issues arising in the country and then consider whether we can find a legislative solution. In addition to legally-trained persons, the commission must also have persons trained in social sciences, in the natural sciences, in economics, and commerce and in law enforcement. Scientific research may have to be done; social surveys conducted; economic and commercial activities examined to inform legislative policies and law reform itself”. These are exciting times, as the world prepares to usher in a futuristic new humanity post-COVID, with technology paving the way for a new global village of equality, fairness and justice. Positioning Guyana to play its rightful role in that new atmosphere requires a deep comprehension of what is at stake, and the human resources, skills set, and leadership necessary for Guyanese to move with the times and surf the tides of change with practical legislative intelligence.

Celebrating Mahashivratri

Dear Editor, MAHASHIVRATRI, the great night of Shiva (Maha –Great, Shiva – Power, Ratri – Night) is celebrated on the 13th/14th night of the dark Phalgun (Feb or March) every year. On this auspicious day, devotees observe fast and keep vigil all night. Unlike most Hindu festivals which include expression of cultural revelry, the Maha Shivratri is a solemn event notable for its introspective focus, meditation on Shiva, self-study and social harmony. This year, it is celebrated by devotees throughout the world including Guyana on the 11th March. Varanasi (former Capital of Kashi), about 3,000 years old, has become one of the seven sacred cities of Hindus. Famous as a Shiva Nagari, it is the holy

city of Lord Shiva and has become the biggest pilgrimage destination. Lord Shiva is known by 108 names, a number mathematically and scientifically significant in Hindu scriptures. Lord Shiva is perhaps the most complex of Hindu deities and one of the most powerful. According to the Smarta traditions, He is limitless, transcendent, eternal, formless, unchanging as well as changing; a symbol of death after life as Moksha; seen as the lord of all three times, i.e., past, present, and future. In Hinduism, Lord Shiva is regarded as the representation of the Supreme Being and is believed to be at the core of the centrifugal force of the universe. He is known as the third element in the Hindu Trinity (Trimurti), the other two members being Lord Brahma the creator and Lord Vishnu - the protector. Shiva is the destructive form of the Almighty.

As the circle of destruction and recreation, Shiva’s primary responsibility is maintaining the life cycle. Scholars say, as the Mahakaal, Shiva destroys and dissolves everything into nothingness but as Shankara, he also reproduces that which has been destroyed and dissolved. His symbol of Lingam represents this reproductive power. Shiva is often shown with many faces, as creator, destroyer and preserver in total command of the cosmos. He contains both good and evil. He is moody, free of inhibitions, easy to please, protector of the down trodden, and has the power to alter the laws of destiny. Thus, it is Lord Shiva who is known as the God of mercy and kindness. He protects his devotees from all evil that are always around us. He blesses his followers with grace, knowledge and peace. On this night, many stories are revealed

with the significance of Maha Shivaratri. In the Shaivism tradition, Mahashivaratri marks the night when Lord Shiva performed the ?Tandava?, the heavenly dance of creation, preservation and destruction. It is also believed that on this day Lord Shiva was married to Parvati Ma and its consummation takes place via different interpretations. Maha Shivaratri is considered the day when Adiyogi, the first guru awakened his consciousness at the material level of existence. According to Tantra, at this stage of consciousness, no objective experience takes place and the mind is transcended. The meditator transcends time, space and causation. Another interpretation is the objectified manifestations or aspects of two eternal

See page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

No sign of repentance from election riggers and supporters Dear Editor, I BLESSED a house last Sunday and then I blessed a bus. The house was new, so that did not take long, only the instructions to the inhabitants did. The bus was second hand, so I sat five minutes quietly in it with the owner and said nothing. The formal blessing was short, but the time was for my sins. You see, I am not an ordained priest, so I have no authority but my personal standing before God to get rid of any demons that came with the bus. (Ordained priests can have authority without personal standing. They are a convenience for those who believe in the power given to the Church, and who may not know the personal rectitude of the exorcist.) It is a year since the last elections and there is no sign of repentance from those who claim to be Christians for the wrong things that were transparently, nay brazenly, done. This is the third letter on the repentance required for rigging elections. The last one was written 10 years ago, while the late AFC leader, Sheila Holder, was alive. She agreed with me that the PNC needed to repent in order to get the country moving forward. We knew that those who did not repent, justified a wrong unto themselves, and would be prone to do it again.

So the 2020 attempt to rig was no surprise to me. Let me explain something about Christianity that the unbelievers and the apparent Christians do not know. There is a court in heaven for every baptized Christian [Revelation 12:10], because Christians are endowed with much power – to cast out demons, heal the sick, and other good works – which the Devil has massively succeeded in fooling them they cannot do. When a Christian sins, the Satan (prosecutor) says to God, “He is following my law of sin.” God, the Judge of the universe, will agree, and the sentence is, “He is yours.” And demons are assigned to possess the culprit, for even more evil to follow. When, however, the sinner comes to his senses and repents, the law [Acts 2:21, Romans 10:13] allows the Redeemer (defender) to take over and say to the Satan, “Away, he is mine now.” And angels are assigned to the penitent. There are those who will say that others must also be called to repentance. However, it is the Christian who is supposed to have the higher standard and lead the way, because he must be holy [Matthew 5:48], not the non-Christians. The reward of the Christian is the House of God [Ephesians 2:19], because of what he must be prepared to suffer, while the reward of the others could be the Kingdom of God. Again, there are those who disparage

Celebrating ... From page 6

and fundamental principles of existence identified as Purusha and Prakriti. They represent the two highest realities of existence. Both are indestructible and eternal. Both have known and unknown, manifested (vyakta) and unmanifested (avyakta), being (sambhuta) and nonbeing (asambhuta), gross (sthula) and subtle (sukshma), formed (murtha) and formless (amurtha), visible (drsya) and invisible (adrsya) aspects. Hindu tradition equates them with Father God and Mother Goddess. As Ardha Narishwara (half-male and half-female), the Hindu tantra, symbolically defines their union as the Shivalinga, in which the cylindrical part represents Purusha and the circular base, Prakriti. Shivratri is also a day of thanksgiving to the Lord for protecting us from annihilation. On this day, it is believed that Lord Shiva became ‘Neelkantham’ or the blue-throated one, by swallowing the deadly poison that arose during the churning of “Kshir Sagar” or the milky ocean. The poison was so deadly that even a drop in his stomach, which represents the universe, would have annihilated the entire world. He held it in his neck, which turned blue because of poison. According to the Shiva Purana, the Mahashivratri puja involves six steps which are: Taking a bath to purify the soul, mind and body; bathing of the Shiv Linga with the

holy water of Gange, then bathing with milk and honey; apply vermilion paste which represents the virtue; offer fruits, Madar flowers and the Belpatra leaf which are given in hopes of obtaining a long life and satisfaction of desires; the lighting with diya to represent achieving more knowledge; worshipers also apply three horizontal lines of holy ash on their forehead - just like the Lord Shiva which represents spiritual knowledge, cleanliness and penance. Hindus wear garland made up of the Rudraksha, while worshiping the Lord Shiva. It is believed that the Rudraksha tree was originated from the tears of Lord Shiva. May this Shivratri overcome darkness and ignorance in the world so that all Guyanese can focus to achieve the goals of ethics and virtues of self-restraint, honesty, kindness to others and forgiveness. Do enjoy the four Prahars on Maha Shiv Ratri which has a lot of faith-centered ideals and cultural presence. While the practices have evolved, the bigger picture and worshipping ideals have remained. As Guyanese attend their Mandirs abiding with the COVID-19 protocols, may all receive Lord Shiva’s blessings. Happy Mahashivratri. Respectfully, Jai Lall

Christians who associate with riggers and their apologists. However, it is the lot of Christians to minister to the unrepentant with some of the power the Devil wants them to forget. I try to do my part, and so in this season of Lent, it is time to repent.

Their pastors must explain the benefits to them and the country of getting rid of the demons. Yours sincerely, Alfred Bhulai

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Guyana receives over US$61M for fifth oil lift

–– untouched Natural Resources Fund tops G$58B

The Liza Destiny Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel

By Navendra Seoraj GUYANA’S burgeoning oil-and-gas-sector continues to pump finances into the country’s Natural Resources Fund (NRF), with some US$61,090,968 (approximately G$13B) being earned from the sale of the nation’s fifth oil lift. The Government, in keeping with its commitment to accountability and transparency in the petroleum sector, has announced that the country received its latest payment after the

sale of 997,420 barrels of oil which were lifted from ExxonMobil’s Liza Destiny on February 5, 2021. The nation, new to the petroleum sector, sold its first one million barrels of crude on February 19, 2020, raking in nearly US$55 million. In its second million-barrel sale, the country received US$35 million, US$46 million as proceeds from the sale of its third million-barrel of crude, and US$49.3 million from its fourth oil lift. Based on a consolidation of all the lifts to date, the

country has sold 5,009,797 barrels of oil valuing US$246,542,662. Along with the earnings from the oil lifts and over US$21 million in royalties and interest, Guyana has close to US$267,668,709 in its NRF, at the U.S. Federal Reserve Bank. Under the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA), Guyana receives two per cent royalty and 50 per cent profit oil, which is what remains after the producer recovers the production cost. Vice-President, Bharrat

Jagdeo, had said no money from the fund will be used until the Government amends or repeals the existing NRF Act. The Government had committed to addressing important issues of transparency and ensuring systems and institutions are in place before those funds are utilised. Sections of the media also reported President, Dr Irfaan Ali as saying Guyana’s oil revenue will remain untouched until a series of reforms are enacted to strengthen the Government’s regulatory infrastructure for

the oil and gas sector. It was reported, in August last year, that oil revenues must be used to build the economy of the future which must feature supportive infrastructure such as good transport, deep-water harbours and modern airports as well as to strengthen the productive sectors. “The oil resources have to be spent in a fashion that doesn’t create the Dutch disease where relative prices are changed and kills the competitiveness of other sectors,” Vice-President Jagdeo

had said. He said too that oil revenues will be spent to improve the lives of the citizenry and Government will pass local content legislation that will address the issues of the business community and ordinary Guyanese. Already, a draft local content policy has been developed, and this includes a series of phased targets for improved local participation, benefits and general advancement across all sectors, which will be achieved within the next 10 years, should the timeline remain unamended at the end of the ongoing national consultation exercise. The overarching aim, as outlined by the Government, is to create a policy which guides and regulates local participation in existing and emerging sectors. This policy and subsequent legislation must be responsive to change and provide the ‘space’ to accommodate expansions in an economy such as Guyana’s, where there has been an increase in investors’ interest. The Government of Guyana, through the Ministry of Natural Resources, has so far worked with both international and local professionals to craft a comprehensive policy, which includes realistic and realisable targets. The existing local content policy document, in its crude form is not final. The idea is for the various stakeholders and segments of civil society to examine the draft document and propound realistic and pragmatic targets.

Mandela Avenue accident victim died from crush injuries –– ranks visit relatives, promise ‘comprehensive’ investigation AN autopsy conducted on the body of 60-year-old Ghansham Cooblall, who was killed in an accident at Mandela Avenue, revealed that his death was caused by multiple crush injuries. The post mortem was performed on Wednesday by government pathologist, Dr. Nehaul Singh. Cooblall’s

body was subsequently handed over to his relatives for cremation. Also, on Wednesday, Deputy Superintendent Fredella Boyce led a team of ranks from the Ruimveldt Police Station and Cadet Officer Stephen Harris on a visit to the dead man’s home. The ranks met with the

family members of the deceased and assured them that a comprehensive investigation will be conducted, and that no stone will be left unturned. Pastor Roberts from the Cops and Faith Religious Organization who accompanied the ranks, prayed for the family and reassured

them with positive words of encouragement. According to reports on March 8, 2021, about 10:55 hours there was an accident involving #GRR9016 driven by a 33-year-old man of Phase 3, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD) and Cooblall of Curtis Street, Albouystown,

Enquiries disclosed that the left side front of the motor lorry came into contact with Cooblall, who at the time was crossing the road. As a result of the collision Cooblall fell onto the road surface where the left side front wheel ran over him. Cooblall was later picked up in an unconscious condi-

tion and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was seen and examined by a doctor on duty, and pronounced dead. A breathalyser test was conducted on the driver which revealed no trace of alcohol in his system. Investigations are ongoing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

UG, NASA, SERVIR-Amazonia sign agreement to help Guyana manage climate risks THE University of Guyana (UG) will be benefitting from an inter-institutional collaboration that will strengthen the development of information services for mangrove mapping and monitoring, following the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SERVIR-Amazonia and the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) on Tuesday. UG, in a press release on Wednesday, said that the SERVIR-Amazonia, a subsidiary of SERVIR Global, is part of a joint development initiative by NASA and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) and that the MoU will remain in effect until December 20 of 2023. According to the release, the MoU will prepare the nation’s Geospatial Scientists for the monitoring of Guyana's ecosystems which will be enhanced via academic research. The partnership will result also in the monitoring and evaluation of mangroves in Guyana using the latest geospatial technologies and satellite imagery to map the extent and structure of mangrove forests along the coastland. This will allow for both the Government of Guyana and civil society actors to better analyse mangrove-related land-use changes and act on hotspots of deforestation to stop them on time.

UG will participate in the co-development of the mangrove monitoring platform, and support the validation of data products with field data

The data retrieved will allow for better land-use planning, policy-making and actions that protect mangroves from being converted to other land uses, as well as to plan mangrove protection efforts for farmers in low-lying coastal regions. UG will participate in the co-development of the mangrove monitoring platform, and support the validation of

data products with field data. It will also engage in workshops and training events led by SERVIR-Amazonia and its partners, and participate in activities related to the methodological development to monitor mangrove forests along Guyana’s Coast. The signing of the MoU is the culmination of a series of workshops over the last 18 months led by NASA sci-

entists and those from UG’s Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences (FEES) and Centre for Study for Biological Diversity (CSBD) which included over 15 GoG entities. Dr Temitope Oyedotun, Dean of UG’s FEES, who spearheaded the project, thanked all partners for their unwavering support in sharing knowledge and

technology. He said the project was conceptualised with a conversation in 2018 and he is pleased that it has blossomed into one that will benefit not only the university but also the people of Guyana and the Caribbean. The agreement was signed by the Professor Paloma Mohamed Martin, Vice-Chancellor, University

of Guyana and Jesús Quintana, Managing Director for the Americas of the Alliance of Bioversity International and International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT) and attended by senior officials of UG and representatives of NASA and USAID. In her remarks, Professor Mohamed said the university is aligned with Guyana’s goal as an environmentally responsible State. She said the signing of the MoU with SERVIR-Amazonia and partners is part of a response to improve the use of geospatial data and information. The Vice-Chancellor said, too, that via the historic signing of the agreement, the research conducted will assist the university with the development of its human resiliency systems programme, its new geosciences programme, and data sciences programme now in its developmental stage. Similarly, Quintana celebrated this important milestone. “The Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT works on landscape and biodiversity conservation, as well as on digital inclusion. Based on our joint research we can collectively innovate and design better policies to confront the challenges the Amazon basin faces.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

COVID-19 death toll reaches 205

–– spike seen in Region Four cases ONE year after the first confirmed COVID-19 case, Guyana has recorded a total of 8,929 cases, and the most recent numbers show a spike in Region Four. Additionally, the number of fatalities rose to 205, on Tuesday, following the death of a 59-year-old man from Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica). He succumbed while receiving treatment at a medical facility. Since the first case was confirmed on March 11, 2020, the government has implemented various strategies to aid in the fight against the virus. These include mass education exercises through collaboration with local DJs and radio personalities, and the implementation of the National COVID-19 Emergency Measures. On March 10, 2021, the Health Ministry disclosed that a total of 81 new cases

have been recorded within a 24-hour period. According to the ministry, this figure includes 43 cases from Region Four, which indicates a significant spike in transmission within the region. Of the total figure recorded, 44 are males with the remaining 37 being females. Region Three recorded 26 new cases, while Regions One, Two, Seven, Eight and 10 recorded one new case each. Region Five recorded an additional three new cases, while Regions Six and Nine recorded two new cases each. It was reported that the 81 new cases were recorded from a total of 743 tests. The country has now recorded a total of 8,929 confirmed cases since the first COVID-19 case was recorded. Following the recovery of 11 more persons, the total

number of persons who have recovered to date stands at 8,211. The country presently has 520 active cases. Currently, there are 32 persons in institutional isolation, 472 are in home isolation and eight are in institutional quarantine. Many of the persons infected with the virus are said to be asymptomatic, that is, they are not exhibiting symptoms. Aditionally, eight persons are being kept at the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at the National Infectious Diseases Hospital at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. The updated COVID–19 Emergency Measures are in force until March 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, 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 from 22:30 hours to 04:00 hours Persons who are exhibiting

symptoms of COVID-19 are asked to call the COVID-19 hotline numbers: 231-1166; 226-7480; or 180/181 for assistance.

Labourer found dead at Port Kaituma

THE Guyana Police Force is currently investigating the death of John Williams of Quarry Top, Port Kaituma in the North West District (NWD), which occurred on Wednesday. The labourer whose age

is unknown was discovered lying face down by a neighbour. Williams was rushed to the Port Kaituma Hospital where he was pronounced dead. His body is presently

at the Port Kaituma Mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination. Police investigations into the man’s death are ongoing.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Shaheed’s Girls’ Orphanage receives donation from WIST Ministries THROUGH its Charity Arm, Worship in Spirit and in Truth (WIST) Ministries International recently made a donation to the Shaheed’s Girls’ Orphanage, which was damaged by a fire in February. The fire of unknown origin broke out on February 1 in the dressing room of the upper flat of the orphanage’s Oleander Gardens, East Coast Demerara building,

and care through timely donations. In a recent report, the orphanage’s director, Raheema Rahaman, had indicated that girls who range from ages three to 17 years and were directly affected by the tragedy, were in need of items such as clothing. “We usually need public assistance, but of course, we didn’t anticipate this,” said Rahaman. “The girls need clothing as well… the only clothing they have left

Some of the items that were donated by the Worship in Spirit and in Truth (WIST) Ministries International leaving over 20 girls in dire need of personal items. WIST member, Krest Cummings told the Guyana Chronicle that the organisation believes that one of the best ways to serve a community is through generosity. She said the organisation actively seeks to assist those in need and provide support

are the ones that are hung out on the line,” she added. Cummings stated that the WIST team acted through its Charity Arm, by gathering essential items for all the girls who suffered as a result of the fire. Items such as garments, footwear, toiletries, and testaments were packed and delivered to the orphanage on March 5.

‘Lowchee’ acquitted of 2003 ‘Blue Iguana’ murder

MARK Lowchee, called “Mark Lee”, who was on trial at the High Court for fatally shooting a man outside the Blue Iguana nightclub in 2003, was, on Wednesday, acquitted of the crime by a jury. Lowchee, who is partly handicapped due to a stroke to his left side and uses a cane for assistance, was arraigned before Justice Navindra Singh for the capital offence which read that on September 21, 2003, at Fifth and Light Streets, Alberttown, Georgetown, he murdered Collis DeAbreu. A 12-member jury, on Wednesday, after deliberating for almost two hours found Lowchee not guilty of the crime. The State was represented by prosecutor Tiffani Lyken while Low-

Mark Lowchee, called ‘Mark Lee’ chee was represented by Attorney-at-law, Ravindra Mohabir. According to reports, on the day in question, there was a misunderstanding between Lowchee and the owner of the nightclub over a glass belonging to the Blue Iguana.

DEAD: Collis DeAbreu It is further alleged that Lowchee pulled out a gun and discharged several rounds in the vicinity of the nightclub, hitting De Abreu to the chest and injuring other patrons. De Abreu was taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital and was pronounced dead on arrival.

Dharamlall condemns harassment of COVID-19 cash grant distributors THERE seems to be a growing number of cases where the teams conducting the distribution of monies as part of the Government’s COVID-19 cash grant are being harassed and assaulted by members of the public. On Tuesday, reports surfaced of a woman, armed with a knife, harassing and threatening the distribution team, while assaulting a rank of the Tactical Services Unit (TSU), causing damage to his tactical vest.

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall, who oversees the countrywide distribution efforts, has condemned the growing number of attacks on the distribution teams. “I think it is heinous that the distributors are being assaulted,” Dharamlall posited. The minister made mention of a few cases occurring along the East Coast of Demerara where persons were physically attacked. The minister insisted that the Guyana Police

Minister of Local Government and Regional Development, Nigel Dharamlall Force must work assiduously in ensuring that “condign action” are taken against alleged assaulters.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Cornelia Ida ground to be transformed into mini-park –– as part of the ground enhancement project, Minister Ramson says

THE community ground at Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara, is set to undergo a massive redesign that will transform it into a multi-purpose facility that is similar to a “mini national park structure”. This was disclosed by Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson, on Tuesday, during a walkabout at Success Housing

Scheme, East Coast Demerara. Minister Ramson stated that this move comes as part of his ground enhancement project which will see several community grounds undergoing significant rehabilitative and maintenance work. Further, he disclosed that the Cornelia Ida community ground will be one of the first grounds to benefit from the

initiative. “We are changing the orientation of many of the grounds because the population is changing, their expectations are changing, so some of the grounds we are actually going to turn into parks. We have already had to engage with the Cornelia Ida community to turn that ground into a park, something equivalent to a smaller

version of the National Park,” said Ramson. He informed that several other community grounds will be redesigned to not fit in with a specific sport. He believes this would ensure maximum usage of these spaces within the communities. “Some of the other grounds, too, they are going to be a lot more specialized in particular sports, so

some grounds are going to be particularly built, designed and enhanced for particular sports, like one ground will be focusing on cricket, another ground would be focusing on football, and we are going to have some multi-purpose facilities on the other grounds,” Minister Ramson explained. He disclosed that the ministry undertook surveys to ensure that the redesign of the grounds would meet the needs of the communities. He made reference to the pilot Cornelia Ida ground that is being set up to provide the residents with the opportunity to engage in various activities, including leisure time and health and fitness. “As a resident, you want to be able to use community grounds in a different way. Not everyone wants to play cricket. My mom or the aunties in the village, they don’t want to play cricket, sometimes they don’t want to watch cricket, they want to be able to use these grounds for leisure purposes, they want to be able to use it for social purposes, they also want to be able to use it for fitness and exercise because it helps them to lead a better and healthier life and increase their life expectancy,” Minister Ramson said. He added that even though the project is in the infancy stage, he and his team are taking an aggres-

Minister Charles Ramson sive and wide-reaching approach to ensure that the aim is met. Minister Ramson said that this project is expected to benefit all communities across Guyana. He reminded that while this project will benefit the residents, they have a responsibility to ensure that it is a success by taking care of the facilities. “We have really awakened this sense of national pride and wanting to be able to build on partnerships. You’ve heard me speak about it on a number of occasions now. You’re really going to see how that translates into a lot of tangible things because when we start doing these community projects, it’s the community that has to participate, it’s the community that has to be involved in the management,” Minister Ramson noted.

Mabaruma man hospitalised following ‘wake house’ stabbing POLICE are currently investigating the stabbing of a Hubu Hill, Mabaruma, North West District (NWD) man at a “wake house” in the community on Tuesday. The injured man has been identified as Micheal Pierre. According to a police press release, Pierre is currently being treated at the Georgetown Public Hospital after being air-dashed from Mabaruma Regional Hospital. According to Pierre’s mother, he left to attend a “wake” in the community about 18:30hrs on Tuesday but returned around 22:30hrs with blood gushing from five stab wounds to his upper body, which he claimed were inflicted by a man who was disrespecting his (Pierre’s) girlfriend. The suspect has since been arrested and a knife believed to be the weapon used to commit the act recovered.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Region Three COVID-19 Task Force identifies La Parfaite Harmonie as hot spot THE Region Three COVID-19 Task Force recently visited La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara and reminded residents that prolonged close contact is the source for most COVID-19 infections. As such, the task force reiterated that physical distancing combined with emphasis on hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and frequent sanitisation of the environment will be the most effective mitigation approaches until the population is vaccinated. This was disclosed by Region Three Coordinator for the COVID-19 Task Force, Halim Khan, during an interview with the Guyana Chronicle. “Parfaite Harmonie is a hot spot for COVID-19 cases and we want to educate the population on the correct ways in which they should operate and safeguard themselves and others,” he said, adding that “Outbreaks have been attributed to large family gatherings, religious

Region Three Coordinator for the COVID-19 Task Force, Halim Khan (fifth from left), is immediately flanked by Regional Vice-Chairman, Omesh Satyanand and Regional Health Officer, (RHO), Dr. Erica Forte, along with volunteers who assisted in the outreach

services, funerals, and entertainment activities.” During the outreach in the community, masks and fliers on educational topics on COVID-19 were shared, along with requisite advise to those

who inquired about their wellbeing and safeguarding their families against the pandemic. “When we visited the community recently, we saw a lot of people wearing their masks to protect their chin and

not their nose and respiratory system,” Khan noted. The Regional COVID-19 Coordinator explained that the degree of importance of these measures is considered to be from top down, with

physical distancing being the most important, followed by personal protective equipment (PPE) and non-medical masks (NMMs) in terms of preventing transmission of COVID-19.

Khan encouraged the residents to practise physical distancing since it is the most effective way to reduce the risk of transmitting COVID-19 in community settings.

PADF donates children’s books to National Library

THE Pan American Development Foundation (PADF) donated to the National Library, 50 copies of Un Cuento de Esperanza/ A Story of Hope, a bi-lingual English and Spanish storybook for children. According to a release, the presentation was done during a simple handing over ceremony at the National Library on Monday, by PADF Project Director, Jermaine Grant to Nadine Moore, Deputy Chief Librarian. Un Cuento de Esperanza/

A Story of Hope is a children’s book with a very captivating storyline and activity pages. The book tells the story of a Venezuelan migrant child’s journey to Guyana, as experienced through the eyes of Gabriela and her mother. The book is tailored to young readers and introduces the topic of migration with hopes of generating positive conversations in safe spaces. Through its Caribbean migration programme, which is implemented in Guyana and

Trinidad and Tobago, PADF provides support to Venezuelan migrants, returning Guyanese and host communities in areas such as education, livelihoods and skills training, psychosocial support, legal assistance and support combating gender-based violence. The storybook in part aims to build the foundation for empathy and greater understanding between migrants and host communities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

An aerial view of the Parliament Square on the corner of High Street and Brickdam, which is set for a full rehabilitation by the Ministry of Housing and Water through the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA photo)

Parliament Square to be restored

By Naomi Parris

HOUSING and Water Minister, Collin Croal, on Wednesday, announced that the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) will be overseeing the restoration and rehabilitation of Parliament Square located at the corner of High Street and Brickdam, Georgetown. The minister, during a tour of the area which once housed a beautiful garden and recreational park, told reporters that following a request made by his ministry, the square is now under the management of the CH&PA and works will soon commence to restore it to its former glory. Minister Croal disclosed that the initial project was spearheaded by now President, Dr, Irfaan Ali during his tenure as the Minister of Housing and Water in 2012; however, in 2015 when the Government changed, the Mayor and City Council was given the sole responsibility to maintain and oversee the affairs of the area. The minister, in expressing his disappointment, given the current condition of the square, said that poor management by the City Council led to the area now being a known spot for vagrants and persons to dump their garbage in and around the premises. “You have a fountain

A section of Parliament Square covered in overgrown bushes and garbage (Carl Croker photo)

here that has not been maintained, you have all the lights that have been damaged; it’s now overrun by vagrants; you have around this facility the dumping of garbage and this certainly is not what was intended for this park.” He added that with new management under his ministry, “persons can host activities here, small activities of course keeping in mind the COVID situation. We want persons to come here, take pictures and enjoy that

nice, whole and comfortable atmosphere.” The minister further stated that security measures will also be put in place to ensure that vagrants are unable to gain access to the premises as well as to provide members of the public with a sense of comfort and security. Additionally, a management committee will be established to oversee authorised events at the square. “We have set up a management committee for persons

who want to utilise this facility when we are finished with our rehabilitation works. They will have to write to Central Housing for usage,” Croal said. In expressing his disappointment in what the park has become, CEO Greaves stated that a management committee set up by CH&PA will supervise the rehabilitation of the square. “We are extremely disappointed to see what has become of this facility; those

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Water, Andre Ally, along with Housing and Water Minister, Collin Croal, and the CEO of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves, during an inspection and tour of Parliament Square (Carl Croker photo)

of you who would have been here in 2014 and 2015 would have seen how beautiful this place was and people would enjoy coming here in the evenings,” Greaves said, adding: “It is sad to see what it has become and now we intend to bring it back to its glory.” Greaves added that works will commence shortly and the Parliament Square will be restored to the beautiful

garden and urban park it once was. “You will see over the coming weeks and months, work being done here to bring it back to its former glory and even better.” “We will get the fountains working, get the fence working, put in new seats [and] new lights,” the CEO added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Rice millers owe Region Two farmers millions –– REO recommends ministerial intervention By Indrawattie Natram MOMENTS after announcing that rice harvesting has commenced and that farmers are being offered $3000 for a bag of grade A paddy, Region Two Vice-Chairman, Humace Oodit revealed that two millers have millions of dollars in payments outstanding for previous crops. He was, at the time, delivering a report concerning agriculture in the region during a statutory meeting of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) on Wednesday. Oodit told the council that two millers still owe rice farmers money. He did not disclose an exact figure, but the Guyana Chronicle was subsequently informed that the payments amount to millions. Also, the millers were not named. The council was informed that rice farmers

are currently being offered prices ranging from $3000 to $2800 by millers based on the quality of the paddy. According to the vice-chairman, the Technical Field Officers from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) continue to sensitise rice farmers using on-field demonstrations to show them how to deal with paddy bug infestations. He said that several field demos were conducted and based on the reports, there has been a noticeable decline in the prevalence of the bug. Regional Executive Officer (REO) and clerk of the RDC, Devanand Ramdatt, in commenting on the contents of the report, said that he is very concerned that rice farmers are still owed for paddy from the last crop. He suggested that Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, be informed of such happenings so that immediate interven-

tion can be made. Ramdatt also registered concern regarding the failure of combine operators to use low-beds and rubber paths, which has led to recently repaired roads being damaged. He informed that necessary actions were taken and some of the roads were fixed by the owners. The REO used the opportunity to call on rice farmers and those involved in the harvesting process to exercise caution while using the roadways. Meanwhile, this newspaper interviewed several rice farmers and they expressed dissatisfaction with the prices being offered for their paddy. They have since called on Minister Mustapha to re-visit the region to address the numerous concerns they have regarding the purchasing of paddy by the millers. This newspaper con-

Regional Vice-Chairman Humace Oodit reading his report during the RDC statutory meeting tacted a few millers who explained that their prices are usually set based on what is being offered on the international market. Corporate Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman of the Board of Directors of Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited, Aadil Baksh, said that the company is yet to begin purchasing paddy from farmers. However, he noted that the Imam Bacchus compa-

ny intends to reward the “good farmers” with a better price. Baksh explained that over the years farmers were given one price for all the grades of paddy, a practice which he described as demotivating. He assured that the company will be offering a higher price to those farmers who have grade A paddy. Further, he explained that given the fact th-at his mill is not as big as the oth-

er mills on the Essequibo Coast, the company usually resorts to its last crop payment as the defaulting price. Baksh said based on experience, the pricing for paddy is often driven by the prices offered internationally and the contract to export. It is because of this a miller cannot commit to a price unless he/ she has an international contact, he explained.

Police Force Chaplin reinstated hours after being sacked HOURS after his appointment was revoked, the Guyana Police Force Chaplain and Coordinator of the COPS and Faith Community Network, Pastor Patrick Doolichand, was reinstated. The force, on Wednesday afternoon, issued a brief statement in which it was announced that Reverend Eric Bassant, former Assistant Commissioner, has been appointed Force

Chaplain. That appointment took effect on March 9, 2021. “As such, Reverend Patrick Doolichand appointment as Force Chaplain was revoked effective today March 10, 2021,” the statement said without providing any further details. The Guyana Chronicle was made to understand that Doolichand was handed the marching ordered after making offensive com-

ments in his prayer delivery during the recent Annual Police Officers’ Conference. The letter to Doolichand read “the prayer segment of the precipitated His Excellency, Ministers of Government and other distinguished guests to express utter disgust at such repugnant, fallacious and inappropriate utterances at this dignified and professional activity.” However, hours later,

the Police Force issued a second statement in which it indicated that its earlier decision has been reversed and that Pastor Doolichand had been reinstated. “The appointment of Pastor Patrick Doolichand as the Chaplain of the Guyana Police Force which was revoked earlier today Wednesday March 10, 2021 - as posted on social media - has been reviewed and the revocation letter has been

immediately withdrawn.” It stated that the Commissioner of Police (ag), Nigel Hoppie, has communicated with Pastor Doolichand and he has consented to continue serving in the capacity as Chaplain of the Guyana Police Force. “Further - contrary to what was stated in the

revocation letter - His Excellency the President, Dr. Irfaan Ali, has indicated that he appreciated the eloquent and forthright prayer by Force Chaplain Pastor Doolichand at the Annual Police Officers’ Conference and that he never had any issue with it,” the statement added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Pipe relocation may cause disruptions in water supply in Central Georgetown THE fast-tracking of the Sheriff Street/Mandela Avenue road expansion project may cause an increase in the frequency of disruptions of water supply to customers in Central Georgetown. According to a Guyana Water Inc (GWI) release, this project, which was delayed in

lines. During this process, water supply to customers of Central Georgetown is either lowered or completely stopped after informing the public. GWI said this is especially done when the transfer includes transmission lines which range between 10 inches and 16 inches diam-

which must be taken in handling pipelines which are over 60 years old, and account for more than 50 per cent of the old pipes from which the water supply is transferred to the new pipelines. Another cause for disruption of water supply in Central Georgetown is the Shelter

GWI’s CEO, Shaik Baksh (centre) on site at Mandela Avenue, where old pipelines are to be decommissioned 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, includes replacing over seven kilometers of transmission and distribution pipelines from the carriage ways of the expanded roads. Due to the delay, more interconnections to the new pipelines need to be accomplished in a shorter period. The pipelines to be relocated on both sides of the carriage way are sections of ring mains with over 107 connection points (tees) which distribute water into the streets and wards of the City. Upon relocating the new pipelines, the old pipelines in the carriage ways are decommissioned and water supply is transferred to the new pipe-

eter pipes, since high flows from the pipeline would hinder work execution by the craftsmen. GWI Chief Executive Officer, Shaik Baksh, stressed the importance of the project for the improvement of water supply in the Capital City. “We are working closely with the contractors and a special team has been assigned to ensure that the works progress smoothly. It’s our aim to ensure that water supply disruptions are at a minimum during this process,” he stated. Challenges which may affect the water supply to customers include extra care

Belt /Lamaha Street 22-inch Transmission Line upgrade project which replaces an 18inch cast iron (CI) pipe which is over 60 years old. “While GWI sincerely apologies for the inconvenience caused to the citizens of Georgetown during the disruption of water supply, it must be noted that the successful completion of these projects will ultimately improve water supply to the city over a long-term basis. “We thank our valued customers of Central Georgetown for their patience and understanding during this period,” the release concluded.

Four in custody for armed robbery FOUR men were detained on Tuesday night for armed robbery following raids in sections of Georgetown. In police custody are a 21-year-old block maker of Howes Street, Charlestown;

a 19-year-old painter of Russell Street, Charlestown; a 21-year-old miner of James Street, Albouystown; and a 21-year-old mason of Howes Street, Charlestown. The raid exercise was

conducted at Stabroek Market Square; North Ruimveldt, and Howes and Russell Streets, Charlestown. The route 44, 45, 47 and 42 minibus parks were also targeted.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Hope for West Indies! Maroon men win first ODI

(ESPNCRICINFO) - A brilliant century from Shai Hope - his tenth in ODI cricket - led West Indies to a crushing eight-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the first ODI in Antigua. Set 233 to win, West Indies knocked off the runs with three overs to spare, with the sort of ruthless efficiency it is generally so difficult to execute against Sri Lanka, particularly on slower tracks that might have something in them for spinners. A 143-run opening stand between Hope and Evin Lewis, who scored an uncharacteristic, yet impressive, 90-ball 65, effectively froze Sri Lanka out of the game before their spin bowlers had a chance to get stuck into it. A clinical unbeaten 37 from Darren Bravo guaranteed Dimuth Karunaratne’s men would not be permitted a sniff after that stand was broken, the total Sri Lanka had put up after winning the toss proved to be well below par. While Sri Lanka’s innings had also begun with a glistening century partnership, West Indies had the advantage of knowing exactly what was required, and were laser-focussed on achieving it with the minimum fuss possible. There was limited running between the wickets early on but Hope and Lewis continued to find a boundary an over or so, both particularly severe on any line they could work through the covers. They brought up

fifty inside nine overs, with Sri Lanka introducing spin right after, but at that point, the openers began to milk the singles, the left-right combination never quite letting the Sri Lankans settle into a rhythm. Perhaps it was the pitch - which offered limited purchase for the slower bowlers - or maybe Sri Lanka had an off-day, but rarely have that side’s spinners looked as toothless as they did today. There was inevitability to the hundred-partnership, and the ease with which both batsmen brought up their half-centuries, and how West Indies shrugged off the wicket of Lewis, will have surprised even the most partisan West Indies supporters. There was even time for a bit of flair as Hope stormed to 99 with a six over long-on, before a glorious drive brought up three figures. If anything, it was the pace of Dushmantha Chameera that appeared to trouble West Indies most, and the fast bowler, who has often been troubled by back injuries, was responsible for both wickets that fell. Lewis was undone by a perfect yorker that he failed to get his bat down for, before a peach of a slower delivery whooshed past Hope’s bat and clattered into his off stump just after he had brought up a hundred. They were just consolation strikes for today, but if Chameera can remain injury-free, his importance to his side, both for this series and in the long-term, could be exciting.

In the morning, Sri Lanka played out a topsy-turvy innings that began with a sparkling 105-run opening partnership, but West Indies continued to strike throughout the 50 overs to repeatedly peg the visitors back, bowling them out for 232 inside 49 overs. Half-centuries from Danushka Gunathilaka and Karunaratne at close to a runa-ball saw Sri Lanka bring up the three-figure mark inside 19 overs, before a spate of wickets through the middle order saw much of that hard work undone. It included a deeply controversial incident where Gunathilaka was given out for allegedly obstructing the field after West Indian captain Kieron Pollard appealed, and the couple of run-outs that followed put West Indies on top. There was plenty to like about the Sri Lankan innings once they won the toss and batted first, but the only thing likely to be remarked upon at any length is the moment of Gunathilaka’s dismissal that changed the tide of the game. Pollard, who was hugely influential through the innings, had just dismissed Karunaratne with his second ball, before he served Gunathilaka a short delivery in his next over. Pathum Nissanka, on debut, set off for a single his partner wasn’t remotely interested in, and Pollard, sensing a run-out opportunity, raced to get hold of the ball, nestled beside Gunathilaka’s feet.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday March 11, 2021) COMPLIMENTS OF THE XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) SL won by 43 runs (2) Hasaranga Da Silva

Today’s Quiz:

(1) What was the result of the third T20 int’l in the recent series between the WI & SL? (2) Who was voted Man of the Match?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

GABBFF releases tentative Calendar of Activities

Guyanese athletes set to feature at NCAA National Indoor Championship

THE Guyana Amateur Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (GABBFF) has announced its slate of competitions for the remainder of 2021 with the nearest competition set for May. The Federation, which held its virtual Bodybuilding show last December, will commence the 2021 season with the Novices Championship which is scheduled for May 29 in Linden, followed by the Intermediate Championship in Berbice on July 31. Guyana will then field a team for the International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness (IFBB) Saint Marteen Diamond Cup, billed for that country for July at a date to be finalised soon.

Next up will be the Central American Caribbean Championships, tentatively set for El Salvador in August. The date for this event is still pending also. That competition will be followed by the Mr. Guyana Seniors Championship scheduled for September 26 at the National Cultural Centre. At the conclusion of that event, the top performer will move on to represent Guyana at the Darcy Beckles Classic in Barbados and the Arnold Classic South America Championship later in the year. The Darcy Beckles Classic is marked to unravel in September at a date to be announced later while the Arnold Classic South America is set for October 29-30, 2021.

… Chantoba Bright, Natricia Hooper and Andrea Foster on show By Rawle Toney

Marlon ‘Bolo’ Bennett was crowned Mr Guyana 2019.

Vreed-en-Hoop win the PKF, Barcellos, Narine & Co. Cup Youth Tapeball VREED-EN-HOOP won the PKF, Barcellos, Narine & Co. Cup Youth Tapeball seven-a-side four-over cricket competition, which was played at the D’Urban Park Tarmac over the weekend. Vreed-en-Hoop Youths defeated the youths from Vergenoegen Bible Club by two runs in the final after scoring 46-3 in four overs and restricting the opposition to 44 when their allotted overs expired. Reaz Majeed topscored with 15 runs for Vreed-en-Hoop while Avinash Persaud did likewise for the Vergenoegen Bible Club. Bernard Barry from West Ruimveldt Youth team won the prize for taking the best catch in the tournament. Seventeen teams participated in the competition and at its conclusion a representative, Mrs Narisha McKellar from PKF, Barcellos, Narine & Co. presented the prizes to the winners and runners-up. Coordinators of the event were Sister Laurien Tracey and James ‘Uprising’ Lewis.

The winning Vreed-en-Hoop side

ENGLISH RACING TIPS Carlisle 08:30 hrs Shanroe Tic Tec 09:00 hrs Lady ChuffNell 09:30 hrs Victory Echo 10:40 hrs Scottish Accent 11:15 hrs Mister Watson 11:50 hrs Skipping On SOUTHWELL 09:15 hrs Loose Chippings 09:50 hrs Swinton Noon 10:25 hrs Dabirstar 11:00 hrs Kommander

Kirkup 11:35 hrs Duke Of Firenze 12:40 hrs Motawaafeq Wincanton 10:15 hrs Putdecashonthe dash 10:50 hrs Just Go For It 11:25 hrs Sandford Castle 12:00 hrs Kilbrook 12:30 hrs Admiral Balko 13:00 hrs Ishkhara Lady 13:35 hrs Go Dante IRISH RACING TIPS Thurles

ALL eyes will be on the NCAA National Indoor Championship, which begins today in Fayetteville, Arkansas, at the Randal Tyson Track Centre. As some of the top collegiate track and field athletes look to make their claim as the best in their respective disciplines across the USA, in the mix will be Guyana’s Chantoba Bright, Andrea Foster and Natricia Hooper. Bright will turn out for Kansas State University, while Foster will feature for Clemson University and Hooper will compete for the University of Florida at the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) championships, which will wrap-up on March 13. Though the Championship gets on the way today, Foster will compete tomorrow in the women’s 800 metres. The Guyanese will be just one of six athletes from Clemson at the Championship. She qualified to the National event after clocking two minutes 03.54 seconds (2:03.54) to finish third in the women’s 800 at the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Indoor Championship earlier this month. The time, a Personal Best, was the third fastest in the school’s history. Meanwhile, Bright will also be on show yomorrow in the women’s Long Jump. Bright reached the National Championship in the Long Jump following a fourth-place finish in the BIG 12 Conference, where she had leaped a distance of 6.43 metres. However, on Saturday, Bright and Hooper will go head-to-head in the women’s Triple Jump. At the Southeastern Conference (SEC) Championships, Hooper leaped 13.43 metres to finish third in the Women’s Triple Jump. The Guyanese is ranked 5th All-Time in the Gators’ history in the Women’s Triple Jump for her mark of 13.53 metres (set in 2019). Bright, on the other hand, at the BIG 12 Conference, scored a Personal Best (PB) 13.60 metres to finish second in the Women’s Triple Jump. Nicola Martial’s 13.62 metres is Guyana’s National Indoor Record.

10:30 hrs Cappacon 11:05 hrs Cloudy Tuesday 11:40 hrs Fortune Street 12:15 hrs Krickett 12:45 hrs Sean Hogan 13:15 hrs Low Lie The Fields 13:45 hrs Deploy The Get away AMERICAN RACING TIPS Gulfstream Park Race 1 The Biggest One Race 2 Calibrator Race 3 Too Sexy Race 4 Emolga Race 5 Charlotte The Brit Race 6 New York Style Race 7 Morocco Race 8 Prevalance Race 9 Little Bit Good

Race10 Indoctrinate ARAB EMIRATES RACING TIPS Meydan 10:30 hrs Great Image 11:05 hrs Express Route 11:40 hrs Bright Star 12:15 hrs Meshakel 12:50 hrs Ackaamel 13:25 hrs Boston George SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Turffontein 08:15 hrs Coming In Hot 08:50 hrs Night King 09:25 hrs Fast Draw 10:00 hrs Puerto Manzanu 10:35 hrs Laetitia’s Angel 11:10 hrs Speech Maker

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, March 11, 2021

Big Man Cricket Tournament will go on … WJ Enterprise; NALICO join By Rajiv Bisnauth CHAIRMAN of the Big Man Cricket-Guyana (BMC-G), Rajendra Singh, has stated unequivocally that the tournament scheduled to bowl off on March 13 will go ahead despite non-approval from the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB). “We are going ahead with the tournament ... all our logistics are in place. We have an official launch on Friday (tomorrow), so nothing will stop us from playing the tournament,” Singh, who was the Marketing Manager of the GCB for a number of years said. This is not the first time the GCB has shot down plans to host the tournament, which was originally scheduled for last November. The board did not sanction the event then, since they said it would have infringed

on the sanctioned Over-40 competition. After what it deemed “a painful period of deliberation”, the committee had opted to postpone the tournament. However, GCB has issued a release reiterating its position on the hosting of the Big Man Cricket tournament. The board stated that the tournament has not received approval from the governing body and any action to host the tournament contrary to approval by the GCB will be seen as “subverting the role and responsibility of the board.” Applications for approval of a cricket match or event – outside of what is detailed in the list of approved and pre-approved cricket – must be made in writing to the Cricket West Indies (CWI) at least 30 days prior to the start of the event. BMC-G had already

obtained approval from the Ministry of Health, COVID-19 Task Force and the Minister with responsibility for Sport for this tournament. It is understood that twelve teams have registered for the tournament, namely Upper Corentyne, Jai Hind, The Godfathers, East Coast Strikers, Georgetown Royal Rangers, Sarjoo Tigers, Regal Masters, Everest Masters, West Bank Warriors, West Demerara Vipers, Essequibo Eagles and Ras Tafar Eye Patriarchs. The competition will be for players who are over 45 years as of January 2021 and will be a 25-over affair. This signature tournament will be conducted on a round-robin basis with two semi-finals and a final and will feature matches being held at grounds in all the counties. The final and semi-finals

will be live-streamed with accompanying commentary. The tournament will run until April 18. Apart from trophy and cash prizes for the top teams, there will be several individual awards, including a motorcycle for the man-ofthe-series. Meanwhile, WJ Enterprise and North American Fire & General Insurance Company Limited (NAFICO) are the latest entities to join the growing list of sponsors. WJ Enterprise, the sole distributor of Croxley Paper/ Copy Rite Paper and Stationery Supplies, has been in the Wholesale Distribution business for several decades and is the leading distributor of Supermarket, Restaurant and Bakery Goods in Guyana. Both Heeralall Naraine of WJ Enterprise and Basil Mahadeo, who serves as the Chief Executive Officer

Kavita Sukhu, representative of WJ Enterprise hands over the sponsorship cheque to Chairman of BMC, Raj Singh. of the Insurance Company agreed to co-sponsor this tournament since they believe it would help to get our senior cricketers

more actively involved in the game of cricket ,which ultimately would lead to healthier lifestyles and enhancement of community.

BCB/Jeremy Gordon Challenge Cup

Guymine beat Tucber Park A to lift first title in decades AFTER being off the scene for several years, the once powerful Guymine Cricket Club started the long climb back to the top with a thrilling six-wicket victory over Tucber Park A in the final of the BCB/ Jeremy Gordon Grassroots tournament. The Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) has now successfully completed seven of the ten grassroots tournaments it has planned to play, in an effort to return the passion for the game after an enforced break due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Early morning showers forced the organisers to reduce the first round of matches to ten overs per side. Tucber Park defeated home team Edinburgh by 29 runs while Guymine fought hard to get past East Bank Blazers by six wickets off the last ball of

the match. In the final, Tucber Park, batting first, reached 95 for 8 from their allotted 15 overs. Berbice Under-9 captain Gevon Shultz topscored with 27 and received support from former Guyana Under-19 player Garfield Benjamin with 18. Veteran Charlie Shepherd took 4 for 22 with his crafty off-spin. In reply, Guymine were made to work hard for the required runs as Tucber Park kept the screws tight. Despite some extras and ordinary fielding, Guymine struggled and the game was only completed off the last ball. Former Berbice youth player, Joel Seitram, top-scored with 22, decorated with one six and two fourss while Roger Williams

contributed 18. Medium pacer Orlando Tanner took 2 for 10 from his three impressive overs while Benjamin ended with 2 for 5 runs in a memorable final over. With five runs to defend, Benjamin was hit for a boundary but recovered to remove two batsmen before conceding a wide to end the match. Charlie Shepherd was named man-of- the-final. Jeremy Gordon, a former member of Tucber Park CC, now resides in Toronto, Canada. The fiery fast bowler who has represented Canada at the international level expressed his support for the development of the game in the Ancient County. BCB executive member Neil Rudder hailed the tournament as a resounding success and expressed thanks to Gordon for his sponsorship.

Rudder also congratulated the hosts Edinburgh CC for making sure that all the COVID-19 guidelines, set by the BCB, were followed during the day. The six other tournaments to be successfully completed are Karran and Sons (Kennard Memorial Ground), Nagamootoo Brothers Cup (Whim ground), Narsingh Deonarine Cup (Chesney), Chattergoon Brothers Cup (Fyrish ground), Shimron Hetmyer Cup (Canje ground) and Hetmyer Challenge Cup (Cumberland ground). The remaining tournaments to be played shortly are: Mukesh Appiah Cup (Kendall’s Union cricket ground), Troy Halley Cup (Bush Lot ground) and Lillian Nandu Memorial Cup (Port Mourant ground).

Former Prime Minister Hinds hails GGA, as Assuria Golf tourney tees off … says golf a great sport for youths By Clifton Ross FORMER Prime Minister (PM) of Guyana, Samuel Hinds, teed off the inaugural Assuria 3-Hole Golf Championship during yesterday’s opening, lauding the Nexgen Golf Academy for ensuring the sport is accessible to all Guyanese. The 4-day event, played under strict COVID-19 guidelines, saw a packed field during yesterday’s opening day at the Academy on Woolford Avenue. Hinds, along with his grandson Marcus, was a prime example of the contrast between age groups who still show similarities when on the greens. The former PM added that with the golf programme entering school, it’s

likely that more pupils will take up the sport, adding that it’s utterly important to expand golf beyond the local shores and reach similar standards to that of cricket, football etc. Assuria General Manager Yogindra Arjune thanked Mr Hinds for his support of golf and the Nexgen Academy. He noted that the company is expected to continue its support of golf, more so with the driving range easily accessible in Georgetown. Meanwhile, golfers will compete in four categories - Men’s, Women’s, Under-12 and U-21, Prizes include, Nearest to the Pin and chances to win a round trip ticket compliments of Copa Airlines.

Former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, his grandson Marcus, Assuria General Manager Yogindra Arjun as well as GGA president Aleem Hussain and other executives at the launch of the Assuria 3-Hole Golf Championship

Chantoba Bright in action for Kansas State University

Guyanese athletes set to feature at See story NCAA National on page 24 Indoor Championship

Hope for West Indies! Maroon men win first ODI

… Chantoba Bright, Natricia Hooper and Andrea Foster on show See story on page 26 Andrea Foster (L) and Natricia Hooper

Former Prime Minister Hinds hails GGA, as Assuria See story Golf tourney tees off on page 27 … says golf a great sport for youths

Former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds tees off

BCB/Jeremy Gordon Challenge Cup

Guymine beat Tucber Park A to lift first title in decades See story on page 27

The winning Guymine cricket team

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THURSDAY, MARCH 11, 2021