Guyana_Chronicle_Epaper_04_23_2020

THURSDAY 23rd April, 2020

' No.105978

‘No bogus COVID-19 test kits’ SEE STORY ON PAGE 03

--‘Food & Drug’ warns importers that only WHO-approved test kits will be allowed …will facilitate kits that utilise the RT-PCR method from countries listed by WHO 80% of Guyanese students want to remain in Cuba 12 PAGE

‘Local death rate from COVID-19 above WHO’s average’ 02 PAGE

… Minister Lawrence urges greater vigilance

Director-General of the Civil Defence Commission, Colonel Kester Craig, handing over masks to the Deputy Postmaster-General, Anastacia Jessemy-Lynch (Adrian Narine photo) (See story on page 9)

Rescuers recover body of missing Pomeroon farmer

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

‘Local death rate above WHO’s average’ … says Minister Lawrence ANOTHER Guyanese has won the battle against the Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease, but while this breeds some level of hope in society, Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence has reminded persons that the local death rate is above the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s average. Guyana had confirmed its first imported case of COVID-19 in Georgetown, on Wednesday, March 11, 2020. That patient, a 52-yearold Guyanese woman who had travelled from the United States of America to Guyana on March 5, 2020, was presented to the public health system on March 10. She died at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation on March 11. Since then, three of the woman’s relatives and 67

others had tested positive for the disease. Added to the recent recovery, the index patient’s relatives and six others have been deemed medically cleared by health authorities. Although ten persons have recovered to date, there have been seven deaths out of the 67 infected persons. This, Minister Lawrence said, represents a death rate of 10.4%, which is much higher than the average death rate, outlined by WHO, which is 2-4 per cent. “Considering these figures, I urge you to stop taking matters in your own hands, it is serious. Please call the hotline or utilise the app or call the nearest health facility near you,” said Minister Lawrence during a virtual update on the COVID-19 pandemic, on Wednesday.

She urged persons to take note of the increasing number of COVID-19 cases and the above-average death rate. “I cannot emphasize that your daily behavior is the key to flattening the curve and stopping the spread,” said the minister. Health authorities, on Tuesday, reported that the number of confirmed cases moved from 66 to 67 in 24 hours. With 18 cases being recorded last week, this minor increase shows a positive sign as authorities move forward to contain the spread of the disease. Minister Lawrence referred to Tuesday’s statistics in her update, noting that 328 persons have been tested for the disease so far and the results have shown that 261 of those persons are negative. Some 50 persons are,

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence

however, in institutional isolation while 17 persons are in institutional quarantine. Three of the infected persons are being treated in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU). One of the three patients is critical. “People, we need to take noted that there are 67 positive cases and 63 of those persons contracted the disease right here…our confirmed cases continue to climb and Georgetown has been identified as the epicenter,” said Minister Lawrence. Globally, there are over 2.3 million cases of COVID-19, with close to 163,000 deaths. And, with no approved treatment or cure, there is no assurance that persons will survive after contracting the disease. In the absence of approved medication, governments and authorities across the world have employed a number of preventative measures to contain the spread of the disease. Guyana Chronicle had reported recently that Guyana is on course to “flattening the curve” and reducing the spread of the COVID-19 disease. This was according to Resident Pan American Health Organization/World Health Organization (PAHO/ WHO) Representative, Dr. William Adu-Krow, who noted that this will only remain possible if government maintains the existing containment measures. Locally, the government had extended its emergency measures to combat the

dreaded disease, with the imposition of a 12-hour curfew on citizens. These emergency measures were taken pursuant to paragraphs (1) and (2) (b) of the directions issued by the President, in accordance with the Public Health Ordinance, Cap. 145, and published in the Official Gazette, Legal Supplement B, on March 16, 2020. The measures at reference took effect from April 3, 2020, and are expected to last one month, unless earlier terminated, extended or amended by notice of the Minister of Public Health, after an assessment of the prevailing public health conditions. “The measures in place are working and individual measures are working too, but we need to ensure that government enforces the existing measures…the few persons who do not go by these measures, need to comply…we need to see more improvement,” said Dr. Adu-Krow, during a virtual press briefing, on Friday. Already, there have been revised projections which show a reduction in the probable cases, but Dr. Adu-Krow said the new projections can only be maintained if the measures are maintained. On Friday, Dr. AduKrow, with the use of graphs, showed journalists how the projected cases moved from reaching 20,000 in a month to just under 1,000 in a month, with the implementation of the containment measures. If these measures were to,

however, be relaxed, Guyana could see about 5,000 cases in no time. As the country wages war against the deadly disease, President David Granger had said the efforts of the country’s frontline workers, in particular those within the medical field, should not go unnoticed. “I ask you… to think tenderly of our public health professionals and service providers; that is to say, our doctors, nurses, respiratory therapists and all other supporting staff, medical and non-medical, who are providing the required care for those in distress,” President Granger said, adding: “Public health practitioners are on the frontline of protecting those stricken by the disease; they have been working tirelessly, through this very difficult situation, to provide quality healthcare to those who have been infected and afflicted. Everyone in the public health system has played a vital part in the fight against this disease.” According to the WHO, COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by the newly-discovered coronavirus. The WHO said most people infected with the COVID-19 virus will experience mild to moderate respiratory illnesses and recover without requiring special treatment. Older persons and those with underlying medical problems such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic respiratory disease, and cancer, are more likely to develop serious illness. The WHO believes that the best way to prevent and slow down transmission is to be well-informed about the virus, the disease it causes and how it is spread. “Protect yourself and others from infection by washing your hands or using an alcohol-based rub frequently and not touching your face. The COVID-19 virus spreads primarily through droplets of saliva or discharge from the nose when an infected person coughs or sneezes, so it’s important that you also practise respiratory etiquette (for example, by coughing into a flexed elbow),” the WHO has advised.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Only WHO-approved RDTs allowed

--‘Food & Drug’ warns importers THE Government Analyst – Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) will not approve the importation and use of Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) that have not received clearance from the World Health Organisation (WHO), its Director, Dr. Marlan Cole announced on Wednesday. To date, the WHO has only approved the use of the Reverse Transcriptase-Polymerase Chain Reaction (RTPCR) method of testing for the identification and laboratory confirmation of COVID-19. “The Department will facilitate the importation of test kits that utilise the RTPCR method from the eight countries which have been listed by the WHO to produce IVD (In Vitro Diagnostic) test kits and laboratory reagents for the COVID-19 diagnosis. Those countries are Australia, Brazil, Canada, the People’s Republic of China, the Russian Federation, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, and the United States of America,” Dr. Cole said in a statement. “With regards to Rapid Diagnostic Tests (RDTs) that are either serological (blood

–antibodies) or antigen-based (viral proteins), none has been approved or validated by the WHO, as a result of several challenges associated with sensitivity and specificity,” he went on to explain. He iterated that the Food and Drug Department will only approve the importation and use of RDTs for COVID-19 diagnosis, which have been approved and validated by the WHO or a serious Reference Authority. The GA-FDD Director issued the warning in response to the increasing number of requests for the importation of medical devices, such as IVDs test kits and laboratory reagents, to facilitate testing for the Coronavirus (COVID-19). The surge in applications for the importation of the items at reference comes close to two weeks after the Government of Guyana authorised private health institutions to test for COVID-19.

established requirements for the import of medical devices, particularly IVD test kits and laboratory reagents, must be met. These requirements, Dr. Cole said, are in accordance with the laws of the Guyana Food and Drug Act, Chapter 34:03, Part VI, Section 32(2); the Food and Drug Regulations, Part VII, Section 115(c), and those articulated in the GA-FDD Application Form for a Permit to Import Medical Devices. He said that in order to acquire approval, importers and or

Rapid Serological Blood Test Kits and Rapid antigen-based Tests that have not been approved by the WHO for COVIID-19 Testing

INCREASED TESTING While increased testing is critical in the fight to contain COVID-19, the Food and Drug Department said that importers and distributors must be reminded that the

The RT-PCR Machine

distributors must be registered with the GA-FDD as an Importer, and obtain a Permit to Import medical devices (IVD Kits and laboratory reagents). Further to that, an import licence and Customs Entry must be submitted to the Department for approval and release. “Importers and or Distributors must demonstrate that Medical Devices are manufactured according to the International Standard Organization (ISO) 13485:2016 Standard. Importers and or distributors must demonstrate to the department by way of a Free Sale Certificate (FSC) that the medical device (in vitro diagnostic test kits and

laboratory reagent) is freely sold and used in the country of origin. The importer and or distributor must demonstrate to the GA-FDD that the company or individual is in possession of a Manufacturer’s or Distributor’s authorization from the manufacturer or a distributor,” Dr. Cole detailed. The GA-FDD Director said consumers, healthcare professionals, s well as public and private healthcare providers must be cognizant of the growing number of falsified medical products that claim to prevent, detect, treat or cure COVID-19. On March 31, 2020, the WHO issued a Medical Product

Alert on falsified medical products. The WHO said ill-intended persons have been capitalizing on the increased demand for medicines, vaccines, diagnostics and reagents, to creates and distribute falsified medical products in wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. “Due diligence is required from all actors in the procurement, use and administration of medical products, in particular those affected by the current crisis of, or related to, COVID-19. At this stage, WHO does not recommend any medicines to treat or cure COVID-19,” the international health organisation said. On the local arena, the Food and Drug Department is reiterating the need for importers and distributors to follow the respective guidelines, and exercise caution to avoid undue issues or delays, and to aid in the fight against the dreaded disease.

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Coronavirus:

(BBC) The head of the World Health Organization (WHO) has warned against complacency in the fight against the coronavirus, saying the disease "will be with us for a long time". Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus also warned of upward trends in Covid-19 cases in Africa, Eastern Europe, Central America and South America. He said that lifting lockdowns could cause infections to "reignite". Dr Tedros also defended the WHO's handling of the pandemic. He said he believed the UN agency had warned the world of Covid-19 early enough. "Looking back I think we declared the emergency at the right time and when the world had enough time to respond," he told a daily briefing in Geneva. The WHO declared Covid-19 a Public Health Emergency of International Concern

on 30 January and said it had become a pandemic on 11 March. Although many governments have praised the agency for its work, Dr Tedros has faced some calls to resign over the crisis, particularly from a number of US politicians. When asked about calls for his resignation, Dr Tedros said he would keep working "day and night" to save lives. There have been more than 2.6 million confirmed cases of Covid-19 globally and more than 181,000 deaths, according to Johns Hopkins University in the US. What did the WHO say? Addressing the news briefing, Dr Tedros said that while most of the epidemics in Western Europe appeared to be stable or in decline, for many countries the disease was just getting started. "And some (countries) that were affected early

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Lifting lockdowns could see virus 'reignite', WHO warns in the pandemic are now starting to see a resurgence in cases," he said. "Make no mistake - we have a long way to go. This virus will be with us for a long time."

suppressed transmission in many countries. But this virus remains extremely dangerous. "Early evidence suggests most of the world's population remains sus-

Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus says the virus remains "extremely dangerous"

He added: "There is no question that stay-athome orders and other physical distancing measures have successfully

ceptible. That means epidemics can easily reignite. "One of the greatest dangers we face now is complacency."

Speaking alongside him, executive director Dr Mike Ryan said that for large events such as sports fixtures to resume there would have to be a "new social contract" between the public and governments. He said people would have to accept "there is no such thing as zero risk". Earlier the UK government's chief medical adviser warned that the UK would have to live with some disruptive social measures for at least the rest of the year. Prof Chris Whitty said it was "wholly unrealistic" to expect life would suddenly return to normal soon. What criticism has the WHO faced? Last week, US President Donald Trump said the US would halt its funding to the agency, accusing it of mismanaging and covering up the spread of the coronavirus after it emerged in China at the

end of last year. It was not the first time that the WHO's response to the outbreak had come under scrutiny. In March, the agency was accused of being unduly influenced by China after a senior official refused to discuss Taiwan's response to the outbreak. Some health experts also say that the WHO's guidance on face masks has led to public confusion. On Tuesday, US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo reiterated criticism of China and the WHO. "We strongly believe the Chinese Communist Party did not report the outbreak of the new coronavirus in a timely fashion to the World Health Organization," he told reporters. "The WHO's regulatory arm clearly failed during this pandemic," he added. "Transparency and getting it right is critical to saving lives."

Coronavirus: First US deaths weeks earlier than thought (BBC) An autopsy in California has revealed that the first US coronavirus-related death came

Thursday, April 23, 2020 - 05:00hrs ~ 06:30hrs

weeks earlier than previously thought. The first previously known death in the US was

in Seattle on 26 February and the first in California on 4 March. New information from a Santa Clara county coroner changes that timeline. Autopsies on two people who died on 6 February and 17 February show they died with Covid-19. Samples from the autopsies were sent to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), which confirmed the presence of the virus, California's Santa Clara County coroner's office said in a statement on Tuesday. The death of a third Santa Clara individual on 6 March has also been confirmed to be coronavirus-related. "These three individuals died at home during a time when very limited testing was available only through the CDC," the coroner statement said. At the time, the CDC's criteria restricted testing only to people with a known travel history and who were showing specific symptoms. The coroner statement said "we anticipate addition-

al deaths from Covid-19 will be identified" as more deaths are investigated in Santa Clara county. The number of confirmed virus cases in the US has reached more than 825,000. At least 45,000 people have died, according to data from Johns Hopkins University. Elsewhere in California, health officials from Los Angeles confirmed an additional 1,400 cases of coronavirus in that county, an increase of almost 10% of the total number. There are now a total of 15,153 cases in Los Angeles. The sudden spike is a result of a "backlog" of almost 1,200 cases from a single laboratory, according to Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer. “Over the weekend we received a large backlog of test results from one lab," she said. "This is a tremendous lag in data reporting to the Department of Public Health and we are working hard to make sure we don’t have backlogs moving forward."

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

37 COVID-19 survivors discharged; testing to reveal more cases continues

(TRINIDAD GUARDIAN) The Ministry of Health is reporting that 37 COVID-19 survivors have been discharged from health facilities in Caura, Couva and Sangre Grande. And in its latest COVID-19 Update, as of the afternoon of Wednesday April 22nd April 2020, the Ministry is reporting no changes in the numbers of persons confirmed infected, or those who have died from the disease. The Ministry also reports that testing continues apace at CARPHA, with the number samples submitted rising to 1,449. The following is the complete update from the Ministry... TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO COVID-19 (NOVEL CORONAVIRUS) UPDATE #128 As part of the national drive to safeguard the health of the Trinidad and Tobago

population in the face of the global COVID-19 outbreak, the Ministry of Health continues to provide up-to-date information on the country’s status in this regard. As of the afternoon of Wednesday April 22nd, 2020, the Ministry reports the following: 1,449 = Number of samples submitted to the Caribbean Public Health Agency (CARPHA) for testing for COVID-19 115 = Number of samples which have tested positive 8 = Number of deaths 37 = Number of persons discharged Of the total number of positive cases, 52 of these positive cases came from the group of nationals who recently returned from a cruise: * 49 positive cases from the group of 68 nationals who returned from the cruise together; * 3 positive cases from the group of nationals who

returned from the same cruise separately from the other 68 nationals. The Ministry of Health reminds the public that COVID-19 can be spread by touching surfaces that

water prior to sanitisation. A simple solution of 1/3 cup of household bleach to one gallon of water is quite effective. The important elements of sanitisation are disinfecting frequently and thoroughly

erly with soap and water - Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser if water and soap are not available * Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze

are contaminated with the novel coronavirus. It is important to regularly sanitise commonly touched surfaces (e.g. table-tops, handrails, doorknobs and trolleys). If dirty, they should be cleaned using a detergent or soap and

and using the cleaning product correctly. The public is also strongly advised to take the following personal hygiene measures to protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19: * Wash your hands prop-

- Dispose of tissue immediately after using - Cough and sneeze into the crook of your elbow if you do not have a tissue * Avoid touching your face * Stay home if you are

ill

* Avoid close contact with people who have flulike symptoms * Practise social distancing - No kissing, hugging or handshaking, and avoid unnecessary gatherings - Maintain at least 2 metres (approximately 6 feet) distance between yourself and others, especially anyone who is coughing or showing signs of flu-like illness. Additionally, all public transportation vehicles should operate with windows open and limit their occupancy by 50 percent. The Ministry will continue to provide accurate information to the public in a timely fashion. The public is therefore urged to disregard and avoid sharing all unconfirmed, misleading and/ or false information about COVID-19 (formerly Novel Coronavirus).

‘It Would Be Devastation’ - May Pen Hospital CEO Urges Clarendon Residents To Report Aliens To Avoid Spike In Coronavirus Cases

St Andrade Sinclair

(JAMAICA GLEANER) The CEO of the May Pen Hospital is calling on Clarendon residents to stick to the guidelines by the health authorities and report any strange persons seen in the parish who might be fleeing from other parts of the country, as the fight against the deadly coronavirus continues. “Be vigilant. If you know of any Portmore persons coming to the community, call the police or doctor or myself,” he urged residents last week, “because anyhow this thing come into our inner-city communities, it would be devastation.” Addressing a digital meeting of the Clarendon Inter-Agency Network Meeting last week, St Andrade Sinclair

said that the hospital would not be able to handle a surge in COVID-19 cases, pointing out that although a ward was being retrofitted at the health facility, there would be a significant need for other spaces to treat cases. The maternity ward at the May Pen Hospital is now being retrofitted to isolate and treat COVID-19 cases in Clarendon. “The hospital capacity is 170 beds, and what we have done [is] we have taken away the female surgical ward, which usually houses maybe about 30-35 beds,” he said. Sinclair revealed that when the works are completed, the ward will have about 20-25 beds, adding that the number could change as construction is still under way.

23 CASES, 1 DEAD Up to 6 p.m. yesterday, Clarendon had recorded 23 cases of the virus, with seven patients already recovered and one death. The hospital CEO said that with the current national projections, if there is a surge in COVID-19 cases in the parish, accommodation would be needed elsewhere. “Mandeville has something similar. They have 30 beds. They, too, would need help. Almost every hospital will need help,” he said during his presentation. “We are going to need help from the private sector. There is no doubt about that.” Pointing to offers being made by hoteliers for the Government to use their facilities, Sinclair said that he would be

looking to the private sector for similar offers in the event that the need surfaces. “ ... Our hospitals would not be able to withstand any type of surge. We are just a category C hospital, where we are only equipped to handle certain things. We just have to pray as we are in no position to deal with that onslaught like New York,” he said. Up to 6 p.m. yesterday, New York had recorded 258,361 of the 823,251 cases in the United States. New York has also registered more than 19,104 of the 44,805 COVID-19 deaths in the country. Sinclair commended the Government for the work being done, noting that the rapid response since the virus surfaced locally has been “unbelievable”.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Homeschooling and alternative approaches to learning WITH schools expected to remain closed for the foreseeable future, parents and caregivers are now confronted with the reality of an extended period of homeschooling for their school-aged children. The Ministry of Education(MOE)’s recent decision to keep schools closed amid the current coronavirus (COVID-19) global health pandemic was taken to ensure that children remain at home, where they should be safe from the virus as we collectively work to flatten the curve in Guyana. By continuing to practise the recommended hygiene and social-distancing measures, it is hoped that we will eventually see a fall in COVID-19 cases, at which point we should be able to resume our lives. In the meantime, the MOE, on their website and Facebook pages, has listed

a number of Online learning resources that are available to ensure your child’s continuous learning and development at this time. It is strongly recommended that parents, caregivers and students access the Online materials, and incorporate them into their learning schedules. The onus of teaching has now been shifted to parents and caregivers, who, at this time, might already be adjusting to the new and added pressures of living in quarantine circumstances. We have already covered the financial and economic impacts of COVID-19 on families, and we have already covered some of the social issues now affecting many households. At a time when parents and caregivers are facing mounting pressures, the reality of homeschooling takes on challenging new dimensions. Nonetheless, parents must continue to play a crucial role

in their children’s learning and development, in the absence of the formal schooling arrangements we normally have in place. Parents must remain mindful that this is a particularly stressful time for children, and students as well, many of whom were expected to undertake key formal assessments in the Spring and Summer terms. When this publication spoke with students at the onset of the pandemic, many were concerned about the far-reaching effects that postponing the scheduled assessments and examinations might have on their ability to take the next steps in their learning path. Although we have a very strong education culture in Guyana, with our students constantly leading the charge in the Caribbean with stellar examination results and performances, nonetheless, we have a number of infrastruc-

tural inadequacies, which, at this time, would have an effect on our students’ ability to perform well or at all. For many low-income families who cannot afford laptops or computers, and who do not have access to the Internet, the current circumstance only serves to exacerbate existing barriers to their success. It also raises serious questions about access to education, an important human right, and a key differentiator in breaking social-mobility barriers. Whilst no other alternative than school closures is possible at this time, we must remain cognisant of the barriers which continue to affect low-income families and students. A consorted effort to ensure their inclusivity and access to education at this time is needed. Despite the current circumstance, there are a number of schools and learning institutions which have taken

to Online learning platforms and Online classes to ensure their students remain actively engaged with the learning process. When this publication spoke with a number of schools, both publicly and privately-funded, the shift to Online learning had already commenced. The benefits of this transition are multifold; students are able to attend virtual classes, where they will receive information in the manner in which they are accustomed, and in the traditional learning context. These sessions are interactive, and can be accessed from anywhere, at any time, as many sessions are recorded. Again, there are problems with access to the necessary equipment to facilitate this type of learning for some students, but, surely, Online learning has to be an adequate substitute for conventional learning at this time. As we collectively try to

navigate our world during the current global health pandemic, we must remain mindful of the impact COVID-19 is having upon our children and young people. The rapid transition from a formal learning environment to homeschooling and virtual learning must be considered. Children and students are used to interacting with their teachers and classmates in order to enhance their learning experience, and without the classroom setting, students may be less inclined to stay motivated, and may become bored in this new context. Nonetheless, we must continue to work with our children, and inculcate within them the importance of education, whatever form it takes at this time.

Have an attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving -- for life and good bodily health Dear Sir, IT must be said that the National Coronavirus Task Force, established by President David A. Granger, has been working, doing all things practicable to keep Guyanese safe from this evil that has suddenly befallen the nations of the world. The post-coronavirus world would be very different from the one we knew before emergence of this pandemic. In a real sense, it is the end of the world as we know it. Yet, in the midst of all the consequences and known and unknown impacts of this unprecedented public health challenge upon our society, coupled

with our financial and other limitations, the government is reaching out with support to vulnerable individuals and local communities across the country. In addition to remodeling and repurposing the Ocean View International Hotel, the government has refitted the Cliff Anderson Sport Complex, the National Gymnasium, and sections of the Georgetown, Diamond, and West Demerara Hospitals for the treatment, isolation and quarantine of COVID- 19 patients. It has to be said that the government is way ahead of the critics. Sure, they will always be those who would argue that more can be done; still, no

one can reasonably doubt the good intention of the government to protect and care for all Guyanese citizens. It is clear, therefore, that the government must not only be commended, but also fully supported by us all. I think one of the ways we can support this national effort is by paying attention to, and complying with rules and measures thoughtfully put in place to secure the integrity of the health and safety of the public. Hand washing, social distancing, wearing a mask when out in public places, and being considerate of others when shopping essential items are things we must do without a fuss; we owe this personal responsibility not

only to ourselves but also to our families, communities and country. Indeed, in these very trying times, we are our brother’s keeper. However, one of the heartbreaking things about this coronavirus is that individuals who are working on the frontline to provide healthcare to patients stricken by this infectious disease are themselves being infected and dying from it. Reports from around the world show that over 100 doctors, nurses and healthcare workers have died from COVID-19. These healthcare workers do their duties under pressure, and in some cases, without the appropriate personal protective equipment. Many are making the ultimate sacrifice, with their lives, in the line of duty and service. In Guyana, our doctors,

nurses and allied healthcare workers have been doing their best, in not ideal work environment. Many of them leave their homes and families, sometimes before first light, and late at night, on shift rotations, to provide healthcare to those who need it. In some cases, they make it look easy, by ignoring their personal needs and situations to give care to the sick and afflicted at our hospitals. Honestly, it is a good demonstration of their commitment to their work, and patriotism to their country. Now, with COVID19, and an environment reminiscent of war times, they are being called upon to make greater sacrifices to work with the national team to help keep Guyanese safe. Sadly, some members of the public tend to take their commitment and efforts for granted. My own

view is that, perhaps, some arrangement could be worked out to ease the burden of having them queuing up at our local commercial banks and supermarkets; they should be given some level of priority. This would not only facilitate their work schedules, but also serve as an incentive to encourage them to keep doing their best at our health institutions. All in all, I encourage every Guyanese to have an attitude of gratitude and thanksgiving for life and good bodily health; to encourage your relatives, neighbours and friends to obey the rules; and to protect yourself at all times. Remember, we are living in serious times. Regards, Royston King

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Let our children be children --during this COVID-19 pandemic Dear Editor, SINCE March 2, we have been in uncharted waters in Guyana. Now, with schools closed, the zoo and various other places children could go during school breaks are now off-limits, and parents are working at home (or wishing they were working). We are living through a global pandemic. What is a parent to do in Guyana? Yes, even as we are together with our children 24/7, this is to remind ourselves to let the children be children! The good news is: Children don’t need constant stimulation. The idea that parents have to enrich every second of their child’s life was a crazy lie, even before COVID-19. Children never needed all that scholarly stimulation and all those Online classes and “teachable” moments. Do you know how

Einstein spent much of his time as a child? His father apparently gave him a compass when he was five. Legend has it that he marvelled at the fact that no matter what position he put the compass in, the needle always pointed north. And he spent hours with that compass… And on building houses, using cards! That’s right! Just imagine young Albert, balancing cards and learning absolutely nothing. Except… well … patience…and concentration… science and physics. The point being not that you should run out and get your little ‘munchkins’ a compass or a pack of cards, so they can win the Nobel Prize before school physically resumes. (In fact, in these times, don’t run out for anything!) The point is that children have always been bored, and they’ve always come up with

things that seem like a total waste of time to adults (I’m instantly thinking of that ridiculous "slime"!), but maybe they aren’t. I'm sure there are the parents right now of older children who are worried their children are turning into video games fanatics. But, is that terrible? Nothing is interesting to children (or any of us) if it’s not at least a little challenging. So, even if a child is working on passing a level, or achieving the goal of whatever is the biggest video game out now (I have a few more years before my toddler reaches this stage; in my days, it was Mario on a N64, Pacman and duck hunt), he is learning focus, frustration, tolerance and determination. Those are transferable skills; not wasted hours. Video games are absorbing because they turn kids on, not off. So don’t worry about those.

Don’t worry, either, if a child seems to be slacking off in the homework department; think back on how much you loved Easter, August and Christmas vacations. Wasn’t it a huge relief to finally not have to worry about grades and tests? Before COVID-19, childhood anxiety levels were going through the roof. In a July 2019 Pew Research Center report, seven out of 10 teens said anxiety and depression were “major problems among their peers.” Now children have, basically, a long, strange, twisted vacation. Yes, for many, school is still continuing, with all these Online classes the Ministry and schools implemented, but it’s not taking the same number of hours, and all their after-school activities are cancelled, too. This opens up a vast swathe of free time that many children have simply never had before! I urge you to take advantage of this

potential of turning it into a period of growth, mentally and emotionally. Though not every youngster will become an Einstein while under this ‘lockdown’, many seem to be turning into the children they would have been, had they grown up a generation or two earlier, with more time to discover their real interests and hobbies (remember those days?), before childhood got so structured and busy. It really hit me last evening, as our son had simple joy in tossing little shredded paper from a homemade Easter basket at me, shrieking excitedly, "Got you!". He then proceeded to go look for his father, and did the same with him, with it landing smack on his dad's plate. A month or two ago, it would never have reached that stage, but last evening, we were both so chill, and he was just being a child, exploring and playing... Gleefully. What I mean to convey

is: It’s all okay; our children will be fine. In fact, they’re growing, simply because children are always growing and learning from everything, building houses of cards, imagination pretend games, running in the backyard in the mornings, climbing a tree, playing with dirt and mud, doing chores with Mommy, baths, helping with projects with Daddy, building something, jumping in muddy puddles, seeking out insects outdoors, looking at videos, but most of all from that vital resource more rare and precious than toilet paper: free time. I urge you all to think of the ‘lockdown’ as a Master's Programme in chilling. You can help your children so much by simply stepping back. Regards, Mommy ‘V’

Heal our nation; audit the March 2, 2020 elections Dear Editor, MAKE no mistake about it, Guyana’s March 2, 2020 elections remain contentious, not because we do not know that the APNU/AFC ‘Coalition’ received the overall majority of votes, but because of efforts to sabotage the work of GECOM, instigate fraudulent voting, and disrupt our electoral system. It is clear, from the behaviour, language and posturing of PPP/C representatives and persons linked to the party that the party invested heavily in an all-out effort to design chaos, claim disenfranchisement and victimization by said chaos, and blame it all on GECOM and the ‘Coalition’. The continued impasse is the sole responsibility of Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP/C, who once appealed a ruling that upheld the constitutional provision which limits Presidents from serving more than two terms in office, because this lends itself to a dictatorship, among other unsavory effects. This is the same person who organised a group calling themselves ‘Guardians of Democracy’; the same person that refused to call Local Government Elections in Guyana for 23 years.

This is not democracy; in fact, it is the machination of someone whose intentions are bad for the people of this country. His refusal to give way to a new type of political dispensation, leadership and culture of cooperation, and his belief that he is the be-all and end-all of the PPP/C and Guyana is the type of thinking that resulted in the PPP/C, under his leadership, becoming the most corrupt and one of the most violent governments ever in the English-speaking Caribbean. Even the United States, Canada and the UK have several PPP/C representatives on their watch list; in some instances, the visas of some of these persons were revoked. You see, some political parties and politicians subscribe to the tactic of divide, conquer and rule. This tactic has been used to engineer slavery, conquests and forced labour, but it has also been used to manufacture conflict by governing politicians who use the said conflict to justify State-sponsored violence against people they perceive to be their political competition, or aligned to them. What is this competition I speak of? It is not even a competition, but, sadly, many of our

so-called politicians think of elections as competition for the power, money and privilege. Elections are not a competition like a race, football or cricket match. However, some Guyanese politicians operate like it is. They feel that once their party wins an election, this means they can do as they please; the spoils of the victor. Rather than being motivated by continuously improving lives of and service to the people, like improving the role of our education system in shaping civic-minded and multi-skilled Guyanese for example, or boosting our capacity to increase value-added production of our agricultural and other natural resources, these politicians are motivated by money, power and privilege. And since these indecent, dishonest and treacherous politicians have managed to sow seeds of hate, division and distrust among some Guyanese of African and Indian descent for so long, (some Guyanese knowingly and foolishly repeat this hate and divisiveness), they perceive an elections victory as an opportunity enrich themselves by stealing from the State and Guyanese people, and to suppress anyone who disagrees. Think about it, how many Min-

sters, associates, party members and even relatives of the former PPP/C-led Government have become multi-millionaires and billionaires, literally overnight? It certainly wasn’t as a result of their salaries from working eight-hour shifts, five days a week. It is more likely they stole money from our treasury, used their privilege and access to information and resources to position themselves for land, business opportunities and so on. If the goal of securing a majority of the votes, or enough to form a Cabinet was service to the people, I can guarantee that over 50% of Guyanese politicians would make a living otherwise. In fact, I will double down on this bet by saying these persons would not even be living in Guyana right now. Enter an elections audit. It should be no surprise, then, which measures were taken to: (1) Sabotage the work of GECOM, the electoral system, manipulate the voting process and even intimidate GECOM officials (recall the invasion of the GECOM Command Centre by representatives of the PPP/C, men with guns and several small party representatives in the wee hours of the morning then again

one day after in the afternoon) were carried out in the lead up to, on and after elections day, (2) the utterings by Bharrat Jagdeo that the PPP/C will not accept any result showing they did not receive the majority of votes, (3) the resolve by the APNU/ AFC Coalition and its supporters that the Coalition received the majority of votes and they too will not accept anything less and (4) our nation’s history with manufactured distrust and polarisation, an elections audit should be welcome. It is hopeful that this audit will unearth all illegalities and the intellectual authors of these as well as propose recommendations on reforming our electoral system, the formation of Cabinet and so forth. By all means, an elections audit is a useful, perhaps the most useful step we all can take to commence with the work of healing our self-inflicted wounds, the affected institutions of the State and to continue providing improved public services and raising living standards of Guyanese whether you live on the Coast, Hinterland, Corentyne or elsewhere. Regards, R. Chung-A-On

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Young nurse battles pastor for mother’s property at Charity …Housing official says man of the cloth is a ‘bully’ WHEN Natusha Smith was 9 years old, she witnessed her father’s last breath after he was fatally stabbed by a businessman at the Charity waterfront on the Essequibo Coast. That was in September 2006. Several years later, when she was 13 years old, in November 2011 to be precise, her mother, Stacy Benn, died tragically in a vehicular accident, aback Buck Hall on the Essequibo River. Benn and a male passenger perished when their pick-up overturned while descending a hill. At the time of their parent’s demise, Smith and her four brothers were living in an incomplete house their parents were trying to build, at the Charity Extension Housing Scheme, on the Essequibo Coast. Subsequently, with no adult supervision, the children were taken in by other relatives. Five years later, in 2017, Smith started a battle of her own when she approached the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) office at Anna Regina to have the lot transferred from her mother’s name, to her name. At the time, Smith managed to train and qualify herself as a nurse. The house

was allotted to Benn before her demise by the housing

Reports are that, in February this year, persons start-

The man allegedly threatened the resident and he allegedly

death certificates. And the last time I went to him he took a statement from me and tell me to keep in contact with him,” Smith said of an official at the CH&PA office at Anna Regina. On Saturday, residents

Workmen at the property on Saturday

authorities. PASTOR FRANCIS “After I got a job I was trying to get it in my name but they kept pushing me around,” she said of the housing authorities at Anna Regina. She said that she kept visiting the office with an aunt with whom she grew with until adulthood. “And suddenly this guy come out of nowhere and got it,” she said. The person she was making reference to is said to be a ‘Pastor Francis’.

ed to remove pieces of the structure where Smith’s family home stood. Then, as the weeks tapered out, workmen were observed on the site and were packing truckloads of sand to build a foundation at the site. This was observed by several residents who immediately grew worried, and angry at the same time, as they are familiar with the siblings’ misfortunes. One resident posted a photograph of the site recently on Facebook and this reportedly angered Francis.

I cried for my country, when I read about the threats to Justice Claudette Singh Dear Editor, I CRIED for my country when I read the news that people are threatening the life of Justice Claudette Singh, who is the Chairperson of GECOM. How can Man’s heart be so cruel to want to threaten the lives of others, because you do not agree with them, or do not like what they do? I am sad that my fellow countrymen and women continue to believe that their verbally abusive behaviour is okay. It is even more saddening that this has moved from hurling racial slurs to thinking they are God, to want to take someone's life, or put a price on the life of another. (How shameful and lawless this is!) In these moments of sadness, with how the races are going at each other's throat, party supporters are fighting, Justice Singh's words that she is not fearful make me feel all is not lost. It is nice to know that there are still people in position who will not allow a threat to stop them from doing what is right.

To those who don't want a recount, and think that insulting Justice Singh, threatening her, or calling her false names, I say "shame on you!" Only cowards and bullies behave the way you do. Editor, I add my voice in condemnation of the threat on Justice Singh's life; I add my voice to let the bullies, the cowards and the intolerant know there are many like Justice Singh who are not afraid of them. To those people, I know that my speaking out will not still your voice, will not make you put away your pen, will not stop you tapping poisonous words from your keyboards, will not stop you printing ugly things, or, as my mother would say, "If you have nothing nice to say, be quiet." You will continue with the crass behaviour until enough voices are raised in condemnation; enough persons unfriend you, or withdraw from supporting you. Regards, Beniprashad Rayman

noted in his threats that he is well connected. ”He told persons he got money and he isn’t afraid of the police,” a resident said. Housing Official calls pastor a ‘bully’ According to residents in the area, after they observed the workmen at the site, they visited the housing office at Anna Regina with Smith but were given a cold shoulder by persons there. “Every time I go to him he kept telling me to photocopy the papers for the land and my mom’s and dad’s

Natusha Smith

decided to make the matter public on social media platform Facebook. It was noted that, after a resident posted a photograph of the works ongoing on the property, a housing official from Anna Regina contacted the resident and promised to have the matter settled. Persons noted that the official is on record as saying that he gave the ‘Pastor’ permission to temporarily build a church on the property. This angered residents who noted that some maleficence may be afoot since Smith has been visiting the hous-

ing office frequently for the past three years to transfer the lot into her name from her mother’s. ”They know very well what they did, somebody sold the lot to this pastor,” a resident familiar with the matter noted. The Guyana Chronicle obtained a mobile number for the housing official and when contacted on Tuesday, he said that the pastor has been ‘bullying’ the rightful owners for the property. Asked if any measures were being taken to address the matter, the man said that the housing officers were going to place signs at the lot, ordering the workmen to desist from entering the property. During the conversation, the man asked repeatedly for the matter not to be published in the newspaper. Reports are that, on Tuesday afternoon, housing officials indeed placed sign posts at the property, but, later in the afternoon, the signs were thrown at the back of the property by unknown persons. Smith noted that she is desperately seeking the intervention of the higher authorities to address her plight. “That house lot is the last thing that is left of my parents’ memory and I am not giving up on it; that is where most of my childhood memories are,” the defiant young lady noted.

Interesting articles on Brian Lara Dear Editor, I RECENTLY perused two articles in the local press in relation to Brian Lara's world record-breaking 375 and 400 not-out test innings. The articles contained several interesting facts. This has titillated me to briefly do a bit of research and analysis on some of the batsmen who scored 300 or more runs in a single test inning, starting from April 3, 1930 when Andy Sandham scored the first triple-century 325, to November 2019 when David Warner pulverised the Pakistan bowlers for 335 not out. It is apposite to note that 26 batsmen scored 30 triple-centuries, and one blasted a quadruple. Four batsmen twice scored over 300 runs in a single test inning. They are: Donald Bradman, 334 and 304; Brian Lara, 375 and 400 not-out; Virender Sehwag, 309 and 319; and Chris Gale 319 and 333. Donald Bradman scored his triple-centuries in July; Brian Lara in April; Virender Sehwag in March; while Chris Gale broke the sequence by making his triples in April and November. Two triple-centuries and one quadruple were recorded at the Antigua Recreation Ground in St. John. Lawrence Rowe, Brendon McCullun and Azhar Ali each scored 302 runs in a single test inning. Apparently, the 330s appears to be a corridor of death for batsmen. Here are the batsmen who perished in that virus-infected corridor: Andy Sandham, 325; Donald Bradman, 334; Wally Hammond, 336 not-out; Hanif Mohamad, 337; Graham Gooch, 333;

Mark Taylor, 334 not- out; Chris Gale, 333; and David Warner, 335 not-out. Perhaps, Inzamam-ul-Haq and Michael Clarke were afraid of the deadly virus, so they stopped batting at 329. Matthew Hayden, who scored 380, was very fortunate to survive the virus, as he was dropped at long- on at 336. Sanath Jayasuriya escaped the 330s virus by the skin of his teeth; he departed at 340. No other batsman ended his score in the 340s or 350s. The next highest score was 364 by Len Hutton, the world record. Garfield Sobers broke that record with 365 not-out. Brian Lara dethroned Gary Sobers with 375, which was broken by Matthew Hayden's 380 against Zimbabwe at the WACA Ground in Perth, Australia. Six months later, Brian Lara again climbed back to the apex with an astonishing 400 not-out. He is still basking there. Mahela Jayardene made a spirited effort to take away the crown from Lara when he slammed 374 against South Africa. There are many more exciting things to be written about the 300+ Club. One can find much more great information by checking out Cricinfo, or reading ‘400 Not-Out: A History Of World Records’ by Guyanese, Vijay P. Kumar. Somehow, I feel that this is a good point for me to stop. Yours faithfully, Clinton Conway Assistant Commissioner of Police (Retired)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday April 23, 2020

Rescuers recover body of missing Pomeroon farmer

RESCUERS, late Wednesday afternoon, recovered the body of missing farmer, Ryan Khayum, from the Pomeroon River. Khayum and three others were flung from a ‘goods’ boat after a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) vessel crashed into its stern on Monday night in the vicinity of Martindale along the Pomeroon River. The young man and his wife, Chandanie, and two other men, who are said to be his cousins, were in the vessel around 21:00hrs on Monday night when the GDF Coastguard vessel crashed into them. The GDF, in a statement, said that the vessel, GDFS HAWK 1028, which had four ranks on board, was returning from Charity to the Floating Base along the Pomeroon River when it collided with the one in which the civilians were travelling. Khayum’s wife is hospitalised at Charity with head injuries, while the two injured men were discharged on Tuesday. The Khayums would usually carry their ‘goods’ to Charity to sell to buyers who would ship those items, such as vegetables and coconuts, to the capital for resale. The Khayums left Charity in their

Farmer Ryan Khayum

‘goods’ boat, which was powered by a small 15hp engine, for their home on Monday evening, sometime after nightfall. Reports are that the GDF ranks from the Floating Base are in the habit of travelling to Charity on Monday nights to party, and would

hurriedly leave the area for their base, minus lights on their boat. The injured men related that as they passed Martindale, they heard the GDF vessel in the distance but saw no lights. They related that the vessel rammed the stern of their vessel, pitching Ryan and his wife into the water. Reports are that the ranks attempted to escape from the scene, as they were unaware that the couple was not the only occupants of the small vessel. Chandanie Khayum related to her family members that she felt someone trying to push her downwards into the water. She related that the person then left her in the water, while her husband called out for the others to help her. The injured woman and the two other men were taken to Charity in a civilian vessel, and later rushed to the hospital. At Charity, residents noted that the soldiers appeared heavily intoxicated, causing persons to immediately become concerned. They related that it was the third night-time accident on the Pomeroon waterway involving the GDF vessel. The GDF said, on Monday night, that it has launched an inquiry into the accident.

Coronavirus: World risks 'biblical' famines due to pandemic - UN

The world is at risk of widespread famines "of biblical proportions" caused by the coronavirus pandemic, the UN has warned. David Beasley, head of the World Food Programme (WFP), said urgent action was needed to avoid a catastrophe. A report estimates that the number suffering from hunger could go from 135 million to more than 250 million. Those most at risk are in 10 countries affected by conflict, economic crisis and climate change, the WFP says. The fourth annual Global Report on Food Crises highlights Yemen, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Afghanistan, Venezuela, Ethiopia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Nigeria and Haiti. In South Sudan, 61% of the population was affected by food crisis last year, the report says. Even before the pandemic hit, parts of East Africa and South Asia were already facing severe food shortages caused by drought and the worst locust infestations for decades. Addressing the UN Security Council during a video conference, Mr Beasley said the world had to "act wisely and act fast". "We could be facing multiple famines of biblical proportions within a short few months," he said. "The truth is we do not have time on our side." In

a call to action, he added: "I do believe that with our expertise and our partnerships, we can bring together the teams and the programmes necessary to make certain the Covid-19 pandemic does not become a human and food crisis catastrophe." A reality check The WFP chief - who has just recovered from Covid-19 - began his Security Council briefing by saying "excuse me for speaking bluntly." There is no blunting what could happen in a world facing - even before this global health crisis - what David Beasley called the worst humanitarian catastrophe since the Second World War. In an interview, he also expressed fear that 30 million people, and possibly more, could die in a matter of months if the UN does not secure more funding and food. But this is also a world where donors are reeling from the steep financial cost of their own Covid-19 crises. Mr Beasley says no-one told him they would turn their back on the most vulnerable. But he admitted they would need to take stock at home first. He warned that chaos elsewhere could circle back around the world. His blunt warning: "One way or another, the world will pay for this." Better to work

together, he says, on the basis of facts, not fear. The WFP's senior economist, Arif Husain, said the economic impact of the pandemic was potentially catastrophic for millions "who are already hanging by a thread". "It is a hammer blow for millions more who can only eat if they earn a wage," he said in a statement. "Lockdowns and global economic recession have already decimated their nest eggs. It only takes one more shock like Covid-19 - to push them over the edge. We must collectively act now to mitigate the impact of this global catastrophe." Earlier this month, this WFP said it was set to halve aid to parts of wartorn Yemen controlled by Houthi rebels due to a funding crisis. It said some donors had stopped their aid over concerns that deliveries were being obstructed by Houthi forces. The WFP feeds more than 12 million Yemenis a month, 80% of whom are in areas controlled by Houthi forces. Yemen confirmed its first case of Covid-19 earlier this month, with aid agencies warning that the disease could quickly overwhelm the country's weakened health systems.

CDC donates 5000 face masks to pensioners

Director-General of the Civil Defence Commission, Colonel Kester Craig, handing over masks to the Deputy Postmaster-General, Anastacia Jessemy-Lynch (Adrian Narine photo)

IN its efforts to keep all the people of Guyana safe from the Coronavirus, The Civil Defence Commission (CDC), on Wednesday, donated 5,000 face masks to the Guyana Post Office (GPOC) to distribute to pensioners. At the short handing-over at the CDC, Director-General of CDC, Colonel Kester Craig said that the elderly is one of the most vulnerable group hence many efforts to keep them safe should be implemented – the face mask being one of them. “As we know, GPOC and Ministry of Social Protection, and other organisations, are doing all that they can to reduce the amount of persons going to collect their pensions. However, despite all those interventions, you may have persons who will be assembling, and we have decided that it is best to ensure that they are protected out there, and we’re giving these masks for that purpose… We are looking at vulnerable groups and the pensioners have been recognised as one of the most vulnerable groups. They are considered high risk, and we want to ensure that they are protected. Hence, we are here and we are happy to give these masks to GPOC and ensure they are able to distribute to the pensioners across the country when they are collecting their pension. Apart from that, we are also monitoring the implementation of the new measures and give the GPOC whatever support we can give from the CDC at this point in time,” Craig told the media. He noted, too, that in total, 12,000 masks were procured from a drive that the CDC started about three weeks ago. From this drive, persons were encouraged to send in samples, and from locals, small businesses, and other individual suppliers, 12,000 were received. For that, Craig took the opportunity to thank the supporter for coming onboard to ensure that there is adequate masks to give out to our citizens. Receiving the donation was Deputy Postmaster General, Anastacia Jessemy-Lynch. She told the media that these masks will be distributed from tomorrow when pensioners start coming to collect their pension at the various post offices across the country. “We will ensure that this is distributed countrywide. We have 64 locations countrywide and so we have to send out the masks so that everyone is protected at this time… We all have to work together to make this possible. Our senior citizens have laid the foundation for us and we want to ensure that they are safe at this time, so it takes a collaborative effort on all parts. So, today, we are thankful for this and it’s good to know that everyone is coming together at this time to play our part for the survival and development of Guyana,” Jessemy-Lynch said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Persons living with HIV urged to take ‘extra precautions’ against COVID-19

---NAPS’s Food Bank ready to provide hampers THE Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) disease has proven to be more dangerous for persons who have pre-existing conditions, and that includes persons who are HIV positive (HIV). Considering evidence that has shown the dire effects of COVID-19 on persons with comorbidities, Programme Director of the National AIDS Programme Secretariat (NAPS) Dr. Dr. Rhonda Moore has encouraged HIV-infected persons to take extra precautions in order to stay safe from COVID-19. “NAPS and by extension MoPH is making a call to persons living with HIV to reduce the risk of contracting COVID-19. “If you are living with it and you are not on treatment or virally suppressed, you are at increased risk of developing the most severe form of this disease (COVID-19), which will require hospital stay and in most cases ICU care…it is also very possible

that you may die,” said Dr. Moore in a virtual message on Wednesday. Dr. Moore reminded persons that the HIV virus already attacks the immune system, making it difficult for someone’s body to fight off any infection. “If you are already on treatment and continue to use it as the doctor advice [sic], good job…if you have never used treatment, I encourage you to call the hotline at 2278683, extension 215 and we will direct you to the nearest treatment centre in your region,” she said. Persons who were taking HIV treatment, but stopped, were urged to visit their nearest treatment centre in order to restart treatment. By doing this, Dr. Moore said persons will be helping NAPS to help others. “When I spoke about viral suppression early, it means that as a result of using your treatment the HIV virus is under control

Programme Director of NAPS, Dr. Rhonda Moore

and your immune system can fight other infections,” she said. Despite being a bit stronger due to viral suppression, she urged persons to be 100 per cent safe by staying home unless it is absolutely necessary to leave their homes. She advised persons that if they must venture out, they

should wear a face mask; maintain social distancing and ensure that they eat healthily because a balanced diet can go a far way in protecting them. For all those persons who need additional support for a balanced diet, she said the NAPS’ Food Bank is prepared to work with various treatment sites to provide hampers. The Guyana Chronicle had reported that COVID-19 has proven to be a “real killer,” especially in cases involving persons who have co-morbidities. This was according to doctors of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). At the time of the report, Guyana had reported six deaths due to the disease and while the loss of life is never pleasant, doctors have said most of the persons who had died had co-morbidities. In medicine, comorbidity is defined as the presence of one or more additional conditions co-occurring with a primary condition; in the countable sense of the term, a

comorbidity is each additional condition. “Most of the people who passed, have [sic] co-morbidities…some had diabetes, hypertension, asthma and one of them even had severe pneumonia, which, without COVID, can also cause death…these, coupled with the complications related to COVID-19 can be dangerous,” said Head of the Department of Internal Medicine at GPHC, Dr. Genellys Camps during an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle. Among the persons who lost their lives to the deadly disease was local Drag Racer Deryck Jaisingh, called ‘Mad Dog.’ It was reported that Jaisingh was also being treated for malaria and reports are that he was diabetic. Guyana’s first COVID-19 victim, 52-year-old, Ratna Baboolall was also hypertensive and diabetic. Jermaine Ifill, an emergency medical technician (EMT) who had also succumbed to the dreaded COVID-19, had also been treated for pneumonia.

Two other persons who died from the disease were OSA Collins, a 78-year-old resident of New Amsterdam and 77-yearold John Percy Leon Lewis. In Guyana, as part of strengthening the systems in place to reduce the spread of the virus, the Public Health Ministry had said that alternative arrangements were created for patients who are immuno-compromised to collect their medications without putting themselves at further risk. These patients include persons who have Cancer, HIV, Tuberculosis, Sickle Cell and other diseases. They were also advised to take extra precautions in order to safeguard themselves. The World Health Organisation (WHO) had said that 81 per cent of persons who contract COVID-19 will have mild symptoms, while 14 per cent will have severe symptoms and five per cent will need intensive care.

Diversify Your Crude Market ---- API says key lesson to be learnt from COVID-19

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT GUYANA GOLD BOARD-PORT KAITUMA OFFICE Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced persons to fill the following vacant position at Guyana Gold Board’s Port Kaituma Branch Office: 1. Supervisor SUPERVISOR: The successful candidate should have knowledge of various accounting produres and would have previously functioned in an administrative capacity. Having working knowledge in the gold trading industry would also be an asset. Applicants must possess: 1.

ACCA Level II complete plus five (5) subjects CXC/GCE ‘O’ Levels (grades 1-3 / A-C), inclusive of English, Mathematics and Principle of Accounts.

2.

Computer literacy in Microsoft Office Suite plus three (3) years’ experience in accounting.

An attractive salary and remuneration package is offered. The individual residing in Georgetown, if successful, must be willing to relocate to Port Kaituma. Interested & suitably qualified persons are invited to submit their completed applications along with updated Curriculum Vitaes (CVs) to: The Administrative Manager Guyana Gold Board 133 Crown and Albert Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown Or by email: acameron@ggb.gov.gy No later than Thursday, April 30, 2020. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. Additional details can be obtained from GGB’s website: www.ggb.gov.gy .

OF the many lessons Guyana could learn from the detriments to the global oil industry due to the global pandemic, a key one is the importance of having a diverse range of refiners in various regional markets. In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Chief Economist at the American Petroleum Institute (API), Dr. Dean Foreman, said that while much of what had happened in the global crisis was unforeseen and unknowable, there are still lessons to be learnt. “If there’s a key lesson, it is that strong customer relationships ultimately are critical in times like this. It would therefore benefit Guyana the most to solidify the market for its Liza crude oil and build a diverse and enduring customer base among refiners in different regional markets,” he said. Last month, the Chief Economist had advised the country to set out early to establish its niche in the global market, specifically for the country’s Liza crude. He had explained that the new grade is medium in its viscosity (as measured by API gravity) and sweet (low in sulfur) and should be suited for refineries in the US Gulf Coast, Europe and Asia Pacific that need such crude oil match for their catalytic cracking units. Although the demand for oil is currently low, Dr. Foreman said that this will eventually change as the virus

Chief Economist at the American Petroleum Institute (API), Dr. Dean Foreman

subsides and persons within specific regions and countries begin to travel again. If the country were to build a diverse and enduring customer base among refiners in different regional markets, it would ensure that, in the event of another crisis, the country has options to which it can sell its crude based on which regions are able to buy. In the specific case, Dr. Foreman stated: “We remain confident that demand will be resilient as the effects of COVID-19 diminish. As this occurs, where and how fast crude oil trade picks back up would influence short-term movements.” For now, he said that Guyana is not likely to suffer gravely economically as a result of falling oil prices as the country was not previously reliant on such revenues. “As a newcomer to global oil production, Guyana is well suited in the sense that the immediate downturn may

not present pervasive fiscal, employment and economic challenges as it has in many longstanding producers,” he said. Added to that, other experts have stated that is unlikely that ExxonMobil will shut down its operations in Guyana as it is more feasible to remain even if operating at a loss. The Economist said that shutting in wells is generally a last resort if there are no other economic options. “If firms maintain a high degree of assured crude oil and product placement in their business, then scaling back production rather than shutting it in would likely best suit their operations,” he said. Ultimately, he said, the future of oil trading ultimately will depend on the long-term competitiveness of oil supply in competing for market share globally.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday April 23, 2020

World Bank predicts sharpest decline of remittances in recent history

The economic crisis induced by COVID-19 could be long, deep, and pervasive when viewed through a migration lens, the World Bank said in a report: “COVID-19 Crisis Through a Migration Lens.” In the report the Bank said lockdowns, travel bans, and social distancing have brought global economic activities to a near standstill. According to the Bank host countries face additional challenges in many sectors, such as health and agriculture, that depend on the availability of migrant workers. Migrants face the risk of contagion and also the possible loss of employment, wages, and health insurance coverage. This Migration and Development Brief provides a prognosis of how these events might affect global trends in international economic migration and remittances in 2020 and 2021. Considering that migrants tend to be concentrated in urban economic centers (cities), and are vulnerable to infection by the coronavirus, there is a need to include migrants in efforts to fight the coronavirus. REMITTANCES The Bank said migrant remittances

provide an economic lifeline to poor households in many countries; a reduction in remittance flows could increase poverty and reduce households’ access to much-needed health services. The crisis could exacerbate xenophobic, discriminatory treatment of migrants, which calls for greater vigilance against such practices. The World Bank said that the magnitude of internal migration is about two-and-a-half times that of international migration. “Lockdowns, loss of employment, and social distancing prompted a chaotic and painful process of mass return for internal migrants in India and many countries in Latin America. Thus, the COVID-19 containment measures might have contributed to spreading the epidemic. Governments need to address the challenges facing internal migrants by including them in health services and cash transfer and other social programmes, and protecting them from discrimination,” the report noted. MIGRATION TO FALL Additionally, the Bank said that migration flows are likely to fall, but the stock of international migrants

may not decrease immediately, since migrants cannot return to their countries due to travel bans and disruption to transportation services. Migrant workers tend to be vulnerable to the loss of employment and wages during an economic crisis in their host country, more so than native-born workers. Lockdowns in labour camps and dormitories can also increase the risk of contagion among migrant workers. Many migrants have been stranded due to the suspension of transport services. Some host countries have granted visa extensions and temporary amnesty to migrant workers, and some have suspended the involuntary return of migrants. In 2020, remittance flows to low- and middle-income countries are expected to drop by around 20 percent to $445 billion, from $554 billion in 2019. In the midst of this sharp decline, the relative importance of remittance flows as a source of external financing for low- and middle-income countries is expected to rise. This is because foreign direct investment is expected to decline by even more, due to travel bans, disruption of international trade, and wealth effects of declines in the

stock prices of multinational companies. This Brief estimates that it could fall by more than 35 percent. Private portfolio flows through stock and bond markets could fall by over 80 percent. The global average cost of remittances declined to 6.8 percent in the first quarter of 2020, from 6.9 percent a year previous. This remains far above the Sustainable Development Goal target of 3 percent. Remittance service providers have been affected by lockdowns, shorter business hours, and social distancing. This has increased the relative importance of electronic transfers, since some cash-based services and remittance operators have been closed or impacted negatively by the crisis. Although the use of digital payment instruments for sending remittances is increasing, poorer and irregular migrants often lack access to online services. They require the origination and distribution of funds through banks, payment cards, or mobile money. ONLINE TRANSACTIONS Online transactions (like cashbased services) require remittance service providers to exercise vigi-

lance against fraud and financial crime, to comply with antimoney laundering and countering the financing of terrorism (AML/CFT) regulations. However, such due diligence has become difficult amid staff shortages. So far, government policy responses to the COVID-19 crisis have largely excluded migrants and their families back home. But there is a strong case for including migrants in the near-term health strategies of all countries, given the externalities associated with the health status of an entire population in the face of a highly contagious pandemic. Also, governments would do well to consider short-, medium-, and long-term interventions to support: (i) stranded migrants; (ii) the remittance infrastructure; (iii) loss of subsistence income for families back home; and (iv) access to health, housing, education, and jobs for migrant workers in host/transit countries and their families back home. The pandemic has also highlighted the global shortage of health professionals and an urgent need for global cooperation and long-term investments in medical training.

Linden frontline health workers, cops, appreciated -- for their daily service to the region amid the COVID-19 pandemic

A TIMELY donation has been made to the frontline health workers of the Linden Hospital Complex and ranks of the Region 10 Police Division, in a show of appreciation for their service to the region amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The donation consisted of bread and tennis rolls to add to their daily meals. It was as a result of a

collaborative effort between social activist, Mark Benschop, who garnered support from Game Xpress; the Caring for Others NGO and Demerara Bakery, which is located in Linden. The sizeable donation was handed over to the Hospital Management and Commander of Region 10, Hugh Winter, by Executive Mem-

ber of Caring for Others, Jermaine Figueira. He said the NGO, like many others, is doing its part to aid in the fight against this invisible and deadly enemy, COVID-19. “The government alone cannot do it; it requires a collective effort to make government plans a success with adhering to the public advisory and more in particular, physical distancing and

staying at home. Our community and country can never be ready to deal with an epidemic, but resources are limited so it’s upon the citizens to be responsible and stay home.” Figueira said Benschop reached out to him and the Demerara Bakery-- a local bakery in Linden-- happily came on board. He said words cannot capture how grateful and thankful he is to these workers who are putting their lives on the line every day to

protect us “They are the real heroes and the best way we can help them is by staying home and providing them with all the protective gears and tools they need to support their efforts. The Civil Defence Commission has already commenced relief efforts in Linden and several businesses have made donations to the RDC and LMTC, as well as to vulnerable families, in its food hamper drive.

Caring for other Executive, Jermaine Figueira making the donation to the acting CEO of the LHC, Michelle Bollers and to Commander of Region 10, Hugh Winter

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday April 23, 2020

80% of Guyanese students want to remain in Cuba THE Ministry of Public Service is convinced that some form of mischief is afoot, regarding recent media reports that Guyanese students in Cuba are seeking evacuation, when investigation shows that 80 per cent of the students would prefer to remain in Cuba. The media reports were obtained from a letter sent to the Ministry of Public Health by a group of students which made its way to the press. However, in a public message on Wednesday, Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, said that the news articles do not accurately describe the sentiments of the majority of Guyanese students currently studying in Cuba. ìHaving done the necessary investigation, it was recognised that the letter holder and the content of the letter did not adequately reflect the views of the majority of the students in Cuba and thus there was no need to entertain a discussion on evacuation. Instead, it was recognised that other forms of assistance would be required at this time,î she said. As a result, all 77 funded and self-funded students will be receiving hampers from the Guyana government. Sarabo-Halley said that the Ministry has been in constant contact with Student Affairs Officers in Cuba, China and all other countries where Guyanese are studying on scholarships. ìWhen the COVID-19 virus started in China, we decided on and maintained a certain line of action despite disagreements from many. But, to date, the students who remained are pleased now that they did not leave, as China is opening up and school will recommence shortly,î she said. However, the Minister said that those who chose to return home are now uncertain as to when they will be able to return to China due to international travel restrictions in place indefinitely. Meanwhile, Permanent Secretary of the Department of Public Service, Soyinka Grogan, said that Student Affairs Officer attached to the Guyana Embassy in Cuba, Dr. Melissa Corlette-Sengwe, has relayed to the Ministry that 80 per cent of the students would prefer to

Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley (DPI photo)

Permanent Secretary of the Department of Public Service, Soyinka Grogan

remain in Cuba. She said that this is primarily the position of sixth year medical students and post-graduate students who do not want to leave their studies to come home which would render return uncertain. Grogan said that students are continuing their education online and have otherwise been provided with adequate water supply and are about to receive Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for protection against the virus as soon as the items are cleared by immigration. In the absence of those equipment, the students are using cloth masks that the university would have issued them and theyíre trying to make life as is as every other county,î she said. ìHowever, the letter that was published in the newspaper, that letter was published as a result of advice given by persons in Cuba and it was published prior to the decisions that the government would have made.Grogan said that some students who did not participate in the letter in

question are displeased that the message was generalised as they are not in support of the requests. In a letter from Guyanese medical and post graduate students sent to the media on Wednesday, similar displeasure was expressed. We do not subscribe to this unsubstantiated and negative depiction,î the students said. ìWe are students in Cuba as well. Some of the issues raised in the article are unknown to us. It is true that a few students want to go home to their families. However, they must be honest and tell the truth and should not create the impression that Guyanese students are stranded in Cuba under inhumane conditions. This is simply not true for the majority of us. Our colleagues must realise that Guyana has students in many countries around the world. Evacuating the ones in Cuba alone would be seen by the other students in other countries as discrimination.

They also stated that students are not being forced to work but have the option to stay home. They stated that the Ambassador of Guyana to Cuba has instructed students not to leave their homes for work unless they have the necessary PPEs and has even made special effort to ensure students remain indoors. ìOne hospital had a problem and the Guyanese student/doctor who was attached to that institution got a personal letter that was directed to her hospital from the Guyana Ambassador. As a result, that individual is now home,î the letter stated. Additionally, as doctors and student doctors here, we have preference to not join any line to buy stuff countrywide. Buses are also provided to pick us up from home and take us back home. The majority of us are living quite comfortable and safe here. Weíre using this period to study, do research and complete projects some of us feel that the motive here is to make our country look bad. We are Guyanese. We love our country. Most of us here in Cuba try to make the best of the situation. We want to qualify ourselves and go home. We have no political motivations. However, one Fifth Year student reached out to the newspaper on Wednesday contending that it has been over four weeks since she has been out of classes because the internet was not free of cost to facilitate online classes. She complained that foreign students are quarantined on campus with four students per room and the food provided is subpar. The student complained of discrimination met out by the locals when visiting supermarkets and travelling in public transportation. ìOn different occasions I was also asked to disembark from public transportation for being a foreigner and locals on the bus felt uncomfortable with me being there. Though this isnít the view of all locals, we are being discriminated against and stigmatised by the mere fact that we arenít Cuban,î the student said. She maintains that the matter is not a political one and that she simply wanted to share her current experience in the country.

Cops hunting for Lusignan prison escapees POLICE are still on the hunt for prisoners who escaped from the holding bay at the Lusignan Prison, in the wee hours of Monday. The men, Anthony Padmore, Kenraul Perez, Sasnarine Bisnauth and Ganesh Dhanraj escaped from the facility around 03:46 hours on the day in question, during the heavy rainfall. However, the discovery was made by prison officials during roll call at 06:15 hours, when the four prisoners did not answer to their names. The relevant CCTV footage was examined, and the Guyana Police Force (GPF) alerted. The prisoners made good their escape, by jumping the eastern fence. The ranks on duty, at the material time, have been interviewed and are cooperating fully. So far,

no prison rank has been found culpable. Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels, on Wednesday, April 22, 2020, told Guyana Chronicle that members of the Joint Services have not made any progress as yet in recapturing the four inmates. Padmore, 26, is serving a three-year sentence for trafficking in cannabis. He is from Ogle Street, Beterverwagting, East Coast Demerara. His next of kin is listed as his mother who lives at Juicetown, Berbice. Kenraul Perez, 26, of Mabaruma, North West District, a murder accused, is also among the escapees. His next of kin is listed as his father who lives at Timehri, East Bank Demerara. Bisnauth, 24, of Tuschen Housing Scheme, West Coast Demerara has been charged

for two counts of robbery and armed robbery. His next of kin is his listed as his mother who lives at Anna Catherina, West Coast Demerara. Dhanraj, 32, of FaÁade, Parika, West Coast Demerara, was also charged with murder. His next of kin is his mother, who resides at Parika.

Sasnarine Bisnauth, Anthony Padmore, Ganesh Dhanraj and Kenraul Perez

Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels

In October 2018, three prisoners escaped from the Lusignan Prison. The three prisoners escaped from the Lusignan holding bay at about 04.30hrs on Monday, October 15, 2018. Double-murder ac-

cused Travis Evans, Sudesh Dyal, who was on remand for break and enter and larceny, as well as escaping from lawful custody and Dexroy Pollard, who was also on remand for break and enter charges, escaped from the facility but was later recaptured by the police.

Paul Goriah, who escaped from the Lusignan Prison and Cobena Stephens, called ìOJî, who escaped from the Georgetown prison during the destructive prison riot on July 9, 2017, are also still on the run.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday April 23, 2020

Businessman mobilises relief for Barticans

By Navendra Seoraj A CIVIL effort by a team called the Bartica COVID-19 relief team, has prevented hunger and distress from reaching some of the vulnerable households in the town during a time of crisis, caused by the dreaded Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. With persons losing their jobs and others running out of ways to preserve their livelihood, the relief team, led by Entrepreneur, Krishna “Rico” Persaud, took a decision to mobilise support for “vulnerable” households. The support came in the form of hampers containing essential food supplies, said Former Deputy Mayor of Bartica, Kamal Persaud, in an invited comment, on Tuesday. Persaud, who is Krishna’s sister and a member of the relief team, said the group has so far distributed 110 hampers, valuing close to GYD$2M. Persaud’s brother funded the initiative through

personal funds and with assistance from other private individuals and businesses. “We have conducted two exercises so far…the first aspect was the distribution of food hampers to vulnerable people in Bartica,” said the former deputy mayor. She believes that such initiatives are important, especially at this time when persons are more vulnerable due the economic slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. With decreased profits, businesses have laid off workers or sent them on no-pay leave, leaving them without a source of income and possibly without food on their plate. Necessary measures, which were implemented by authorities to reduce the spread of the disease, have also resulted in children being home from school. “Because school is out, children will be home and they would need attention and food… without a source of income, finding food is becoming dif-

Medical personnel of the Bartica Regional Hospital receiving the sanitisers and other supplies from the Bartica COVID-19 relief team

ficult in some homes…so we thought it was important to ensure that families with children get hampers because not having money is one thing, but once they have food, they could manage,” said Persaud. The team also provided assistance to elderly persons and persons with disabilities, but while these hampers were timely, she said a lot of persons expressed concerns about how they will sustain themselves and relieve the burden on their own. “There are a lot of elderly persons and single-parent families that depended on relatives abroad to send money for them, but due the global effect of the disease, their relatives have not been able to sustain this initiative,” the former deputy mayor lamented. Persaud said the team will continue the effort and distribute more hampers very soon,

but their support will not stop just at individuals and families. The team recently distributed $150,000 worth in sanitisers and toilet paper to the Bartica Police Station and the Bartica Regional Hospital. In recognising the need to protect and support first responders, the team decided to extend their initiative. Persaud said her team’s initiatives are, however, geared at supplemented the Civil Defence Commission (CDC)’s hamper distribution initiative, which reached over 1,700 households so far. Person’s interested in supporting the Bartica COVID-19 relief team, can make contact with Krishna at 682-5360 or Kamal at 608-1455. When asked about the general response to the COVID-19 pandemic, in Bartica, Persaud said, authorities are doing everything to ensure that persons get the right information and know the necessary steps to follow in

Officers of the Bartica Police Station accepting supplies from the Bartica COVID-19 relief team, led by Krishan Persaud (second from right)

order to stay safe from the disease. “There is only so much the authorities could do…it is on the citizens to follow the established guidelines and ensure that they take precautions in order to stay safe from the disease…persons in the commercial sector and others have been adhering, but there are some persons who have been neglectful and choose not to wear face masks and follow other guidelines,” said the former deputy mayor. She said some sections of the religious communities have also been flouting the measures in place, but authorities have been doing their part to ensure that persons stay in line. The Department of Public Information had reported that the Bartica Mayor and Town Council is creating a database of persons in the township whose incomes have been affected by the novel coronavirus pandemic. In a weekly address Bartica Mayor, Gifford Marshall disclosed that the council was expected to begin registering the

names of affected persons from April 15 into the new week. “This way when the municipality receives resources, we will know to whom to direct these resources,” he stated. The mayor also reported that the sanitisation exercise will continue, and was boosted with the recent receipt of two units. “We will be sanitising the areas that are heavily populated such as First and Second Avenue, Bartica/ Potaro Housing scheme and the municipal market.” Residents were called on to be cognisant of the role of sanitation workers and consider their safety when disposing of garbage. “They are a very important arm of this municipality and we cannot afford for them to fall sick, especially at this time. So, we are asking that you responsibly dispose of your waste.” Mayor Marshall also reiterated the importance of heeding the stay-at-home policy and only going out if accessing essential services or travelling to and from work.

Some of the hampers which were distributed to vulnerable households in Bartica

ILO Caribbean hosts high-level confab on impact of COVID-19 on the world of work A webinar hosted by the International Labour Organization (ILO) Caribbean Office this week, gave senior officials from governments, employers’ and workers’ organisations a platform to discuss how COVID-19 is affecting Caribbean labour markets and possible solutions for the region. Under the title, “The world of work in a time of COVID-19”, the high-level tripartite dialogue drew over 300 participants from governments, employers’ organisations, workers’ organisations, UN agencies, the media, academia and the general public. It was framed within the umbrella of International Labour Standards, an essential reference in recovery processes and strategies. During the debate, panellists shared information on adopted policy measures and their effectiveness in mitigating the

impact of the crisis on companies, production, and as well as the goal of protecting workers and jobs and preserving income and livelihoods. The Honourable Vance Amory, Minister of Nevis Affairs, Labour, Social Security and Ecclesiastical Affairs for Saint Kitts and Nevis, began the discussion with an overview of social protection measures that were developed in consultation with tripartite partners and implemented by his government to deal with the unprecedented crisis. During the session, Senator the Honourable Jennifer Baptiste-Primus, Minister of Labour and Small Enterprise Development for Trinidad and Tobago, highlighted the collaborative approach by government, business and labour to implement health and safety protocols and best practices to safeguard the health of the labour force. Other featured speakers included

regional representatives of employers’ and workers’ organisations who shared their perspectives on how Caribbean countries can effectively cope with the crisis. Mr Wayne Chen, President of the Caribbean Employers’ Confederation (CEC), advised that the pandemic presents an opportunity to leverage technology to continue to deliver education, and that the situation is also a time for workforces to upskill and grasp opportunities created by the crisis. “This is an opportunity for all of us to reset our economies and societies,” he said. Mr Andre Lewis, President of the Caribbean Congress of Labour (CCL), stated while the COVID-19 pandemic presents challenges, it is a chance to remodel economies across the region. “The way forward puts people before profit, puts health before wealth, an economic model that is community-based driven in a soci-

ety that has a basic income guarantee for all. In other words there must be social protection for our societies,” he explained. Members of the ILO’s senior management team for Latin America and the Caribbean also participated in the discussion by drawing on the ILO’s COVID-19 policy response framework for economic and social recovery in the immediate, medium and long term. "A healthy worker is the most important thing for the post COVID-19 world," said Mr Vinícius Carvalho Pinheiro, Director of the ILO Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean, who emphasized the importance of investing in workers’ health and safety during and after the pandemic. “This is a time where more than ever before we need to come together to craft solutions

that work. Workers, employers and governments together can make sure we not only address the immediate impact but find opportunity to build a better future of work,” explained Ms Claudia Coenjaerts, Director of the ILO Decent Work Team and Office for the Caribbean. The session was part of an ILO Caribbean “Resilient with Decent Work” Webinar Series for representatives from governments, employers’ organizations, workers’ organizations and other stakeholders to discuss the economic and social impacts of COVID-19, as well as effective policy responses. The next ILO Caribbean webinar will take place on 28 April 2020 (World Day for Safety and Health at Work) and will focus on Safety and Health at Work in the Face of the COVID-19 pandemic.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Economic treatment by triage

By Rawle Lucas THE Guyana economy entered its 11th year of continuous growth, with gold as its leading foreign exchange earner, the oil and gas industry joining the ranks of its production structure, and foreign investment in the construction and real estate industries set to expand rapidly. A future of continuous growth and the personal upliftment of the people of Guyana in 2020, and beyond, are things that the Granger administration had in store for the Guyanese people with his Decade of Development in hand. Earlier, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had projected that the Guyana economy would grow by 86% in 2020, making the promise of continued prosperity look possible and bright. Work on bringing greater wellbeing to the people of Guyana has been stalled by the undeclared elections. The brisk start to the economy in the first quarter of 2020, with revenues from first oil reaching Guyana’s bank account and foreign investment projects being launched,

was dealt a significant blow also by the unanticipated arrival of the deadly Corona Virus. By the time the first known case of the deadly disease, called COVID-19, had arrived in Guyana, the World Health Organization (WHO) had already deemed its outbreak a pandemic and major economies around the world had begun to suffer significant deaths and shutter operations. The disease seemed to be spreading like wildfire wherever it landed and the only practical way of containing it was to limit person-to-person interactions and urge the practice of proper hygiene. Countries, including Guyana, decided to close their borders to stop people from entering their geographic space. Not knowing who in the country already had the disease, the Government restricted the movement of people within the country using stay-at-home orders. Where movement and interaction among people were necessary, Government also called for the practice of social distancing. These physical policy measures resulted in the involuntary closure, presumably temporarily, of many businesses in the do-

mestic economy. Only essential services like communications, security, water, electricity, health, transportation and food supply have been permitted in Guyana with severe restrictions around them. Like the rest of the world, Guyana is facing a disruption to its economy that did not originate from the usual source, the bursting of an asset bubble or a prolonged slump in the business cycle. It was self-inflicted for good reason. The defensive actions of the country have altered the economic and financial prospects of many people and businesses in Guyana. Guyana gets nearly all of its gross domestic product or GDP from international trade. Over 70 percent of that is realized from four markets, namely Canada, CARICOM, the EU and the USA. As much as 78 percent of the country’s imports is made up of capital and intermediate consumption goods that are used to produce goods that Guyanese consume or export. These imported goods come from countries like Japan, South Korea, the UK, China. With the economies of those countries badly affected by the pandemic and Guyana

having to join the rest of the world to restrict international travel, one could easily see

Dr Rawle Lucas

how the usually open economy and the people that depend on it could encounter adverse conditions. In the face of this reality and the continued uncertainty as to when global production will resume in full, the international financial institutions continue to project high levels of growth for Guyana. A most recent estimate of growth in GDP of over 51 percent was articulated by the World Bank for 2020. The substantial growth projections about the economy hinge on the emphasis that is placed on gold as a store of value asset, on oil prices and the performance of the latter industry. Gold prices have shown a marked increase rising by 12 percent over where it was at the start of the year. However, gold prices have not been able to maintain a positive trend as a result of the uncertainties in the capital markets and doubts about sustainable demand in the two biggest markets, China and India, for the metal. In contrast, oil prices slumped considerably as a result of the price war that was waged between Russia and Saudi Arabia. That price war and the effect that it will have on Guyana’s GDP are reminders that Guyana continues to be a price taker in the products that it exports and its economic growth remains in the hands of others. How well the economy will do in 2020, therefore, is highly dependent on how fast Guyana contains the Covid-19 disease and the speed with which our major trading partners become fully operational during the course of this year. Comments coming out of the major economies in Asia, Europe and North America do not offer much hope for a return to full operation or recovery for the rest of this year. Further, the price of oil is expected to remain relatively low as oil consumption is down an estimated 35 percent as a result of the widespread global defence against the coronavirus. Oil prices were likely to go lower with the sight of bankruptcies

appearing on the horizon of the US economy, the largest economy in the world. The setback in the oil industry must be a reminder to Guyanese that all that glitters is not gold and the habit of counting one’s chickens before they hatch was never a good one. Just like that, the phenomenal economic growth expected for Guyana is in jeopardy. The hope for the country at this point is for oil prices to rise quickly above Guyana’s breakeven point. While we wait for that to happen, the challenge that remains is how to help the Guyanese people in this radically altered economic environment. The severity of the crisis will not be known for some time. What is known already is that people have lost income because of the mandatory lockdown policies that have curtailed pavement vending, school-perimeter vending, and air, road and water payloads. Social distancing has virtually paralyzed the tourism, hospitality and entertainment industries. One estimate given about the hire car industry is that demand is down about 70 percent. Only taxi services with contracts are earning some money. Incoming air cargo volumes are estimated to be down close to 40 percent. Fuel consumption too, another useful indicator of economic volume, is also estimated to be down close to 40 percent since COVID-19. Seaport traffic remains high, but one expects to see a decline as idle businesses see a build-up of their inventories and no need to replenish them with the customary regularity. Cellphone usage could also be taking a hit as people reorder their priorities in the face of lost revenues and possibly dwindling savings. The combined impact is a decline in national welfare. The question then becomes how do we address this issue? Keynesian economic thinking has already been taken off the table by virtue of the health risks and the parliamentary straightjacket in which the country finds itself. It must be said that if there is an authority to stop Guyanese from going about their daily lives, then there must be one to help them get through this crisis. Government has stepped forward to ease the financial burden on consumers by removing the value-added tax or VAT from products essential to the fight against COVID-19 and to daily living. Many businesses have already granted various sorts of relief and support to their staff and customers. Some businesses have agreed to pay their staff between 60 to 90 percent of their current salary. The issue is how long can they keep that up in the face of falling demand and declining cashflows. So,

when the paycheck stops or it is cut further, what is next for affected breadwinners? It should be clear that under the current circumstances Guyana is facing a national emergency. The more that Guyanese adhere to the stay-at-home and social distancing policies, the faster the economy can be reopened. That is good for our health, but not the current and impending economic struggle of Guyanese. In this highly contentious and combative period of intense political rivalry in Guyana, there is the temptation to eschew cooperation and collaboration in favour of partisan interests. Great leaders know that at some point the condition of their people and their institutions ought to take centre stage when threatened by a common enemy. At this time in Guyana, a conversation between all stakeholders is needed, if only to make sure that the health and financial threats facing the Guyanese people are contained. The search for any effective solution has to include the private sector, especially those with deep pockets, plenty compassion and a lot of faith in this country. Even with the uncertainty as to when the economy will be reopened, it might be possible for large incorporated businesses to support their staff for longer than most. They might also be able to support a wider national effort that distinguishes the need for help by the severity of people’s vulnerability, in other words treatment by triage. It would involve calling on them to touch their sacred cow, their accumulated capital in exchange for a future promise of monetary and fiscal benefits. Below is a perspective as to the capacity of large corporations to help in this situation. The combined cumulative retained earnings in 2018 of six such corporations in Guyana was equivalent to 15 percent of the country’s GDP, 40 percent of the private sector deposits in the banks and 65 percent of the country’s 2018 money supply. With only six entities considered, that is a small estimate of the capacity of the private sector to help. The details of the engagement are beyond this article. For the private sector to move in that direction, there must be a quid pro quo from the public sector side which could be honoured in the near future. To get there, one would need all relevant political groups to be involved in fashioning a solution whose short-term obligation can be implemented by any government of this country.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Don’t forget the orphans

---Shaheed Boys’ and Girls’ orphanage running low on all necessities By Lisa Hamilton SINCE March 2020, the Shaheed Boys’ and Girls’ Orphanage has been running lower and lower on supplies needed for smooth functioning and, coupled with the emergence of COVID-19, 45 children are now more in need. In an invited interview on Wednesday, Director of the orphanage, Raheema Rahaman, said that, in such a time where many have grown closer to their families for support, orphans need not be forgotten. “The whole of March month, we had an election problem and then we had the virus right after. So, everybody had to be shut in and couldn’t come out, so we had to cope. I have to cope,” she said. “We’re low on every single thing.” The Boys’ Orphanage is located in Kitty, Georgetown, while the Girls’ Orphanage is located in Oleander Gardens, East Coast Demerara. There are 18 boys and 27 girls between the ages of 1 and 16. “We have babies that need to get pampers. Nobody is bringing in anything except some special people that I really had to reach out to,” Rahaman said. She has been relying on the assistance of her family and close friends who are not able to give regularly. Meanwhile, she and others working at the orphanages have done their best to explain to the children the seriousness of the virus and the need for them to wash their hands often and ensure sanitary surroundings. However, they are almost out of cleaning and sanitization products and are in need of durable face masks for adults and kids. Rahaman

has cut off visitation to the children and accepts any items at the gates. To keep them active, they utilize the field for stretching, exercises, playing and deep breathing. RELIGIOUS PRACTICES AFFECTED Another negative spinoff of COVID-19 on the orphanage, is the cancelling of congregation for the month of Ramadan and community iftars with taraweeh prayers now to be had at home. On the Islamic calendar, Ramadan is the month in

The Girls’ Orphanage

ing in the fasting but with the COVID-19 lockdown,

food items are needed; cleaning products and hygiene

Some of the girls listen to Director of the orphanage, Raheema Rahaman, at the orphanage back in 2019

which Muslims refocus on purifying their souls through self-reflection, self-sacrifice and prayer. Daily, from dawn to sunset, Muslims practise compulsory fasting and abstinence from other activities. Fasting is important during Ramadan as it allows Muslims to devote themselves to their faith and come closer to Allah, or God. At the end of the fast, families and friends usually get together for ‘iftar’ to break their fast. Rahaman said that the children will be participat-

they no longer have external means to break their fast and the number of persons who would assist with food for iftar has almost come to a halt. “Last year we were overbooked with iftar,” she said. “These are people who used to give every year but they had to cancel. Now it’s that they don’t have to give or they’re not coming out of their homes. We have not gotten anything for March except one and two clothing and close friends who dropped in stuff at the gate.” Should persons wish to give, Rahaman said that basic

products such as soap. These are the necessities a part from the finances still needed for bills and maintenance work. She explained: “Just as how you want to make sure that your house is full with the basic food stuff, that’s all we want.” Bank Details for Assistance * Shaheed Boys’ and Girls’ Orphanage Account Number 4013223 * Demerara Bank Ltd. 230 Camp & South Road, Georgetown Tel: 225-0613

Remanded drug trafficker killed

POLICE are investigating the murder of remanded prisoner Jason Dundas, who was killed at the Lusignan holding bay on Tuesday, April 21, 2020. Enquiries disclose that Dundas, 30, formerly of Ann’s Grove, East Coast Demerara, was involved in an altercation with other inmates which resulted in a scuffle. He was reportedly wounded with improvised weapons made by the inmates. Dundas was brought out by other inmates from the holding bay and he was examined by prison officers, who observed

Jason Dundas

that he had injuries to the left side of his face and body. He was taken to the infirmary and subsequently rushed to Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. Dundas was pronounced dead on arrival. Investigation is still ongoing. On August 27, 2019, Dundas was nabbed by police with over $21M (43.772 kilograms) worth in cannabis at his stall in the Stabroek Market area. He was charged for drug trafficking and was remanded for the offence.

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ECLAC explores role of Caribbean Ministries of Social Development during COVID-19 The Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC), as part of its outreach under the auspices of the Presiding Officers of the Regional Conference on Social Development in Latin America and the Caribbean, convened a virtual meeting on Tuesday, to offer countries an opportunity to share information on the actions being taken to meet this challenge, and on potential areas for collaboration and support. This meeting was attended by representatives of Caribbean regional organizations and UN Resident Coordinators of the sub-region, as well as heads of UN agencies, funds and programmes. Social protection systems are coming under considerable pressure with the implementation of mitigation strategies to control the spread of COVID-19 in the Caribbean. Efforts to mitigate the negative effect of the pandemic on the well-being of those most at risk are now underway across the Caribbean. Attention is being given in particular to those most economically vulnerable, notably women, youth, older persons, persons with disabilities and migrant populations. Addressing the ministers of Social Development of the Caribbean, ECLAC Executive Secretary, Alicia Bárcena, underscored that “in urgent circumstances such as those we now face, it is you, the leaders responsible for social welfare, who are charged with finding solutions to the needs of those living on the street, persons with disabilities, migrants, and senior citizens”. The meeting recognized that the crisis will affect several social sectors, including health, labour and education, with a disproportionate impact on vulnerable people with underlying health conditions, older people, unemployed youth, underemployed, women, unprotected workers and migrant workers. In the Caribbean, medical and health facilities are insufficient for the level of potential demand and are heavily dependent on imports of equipment and inputs. This is a major problem because, to date, 24 countries around the world have restricted exports of medical equipment, medicines or their ingredients. It is expected that COVID-19 will affect the job market by increasing unemployment and underemployment, and impact the quality of work, by reducing wages and access to social protection for the most vulnerable groups, such as informal sector workers. The loss of labour income will translate into lower consumption of goods and services, and could drive many workers into poverty. The novel coronavirus will also disrupt activities in educational establishments, and will have a significant impact on learning, especially for children in rural areas in light of existing disparities in access to digital devices and broadband Internet. More generally, the limited access to ICT implies a low level of readiness in the sub-region to operate in a virtual environment in the current crisis. High dependency on food imports creates additional challenges in terms of food security; challenges that are further aggravated by the specific vulnerability of the Caribbean to climate-related natural disasters. Moreover, the looming 2020 hurricane season, which starts in less than three months, places the subregion and its people at greater risk, even as it grapples with the impacts of the pandemic. In this context, it was considered urgent that policies be fully coordinated to address the health crisis, which has brought grave socio-economic impacts. ECLAC called for regional coordination and cooperation in the face of the pandemic, taking into account the Regional Agenda for Inclusive Social Development (RAISD) agreed by the member countries of the Conference in Mexico City, in October 2019. The meeting, which was held online, was attended by ministers and senior decision makers from Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, Aruba, The Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Curaçao, Dominica, Grenada, Guadeloupe, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Sint Maarten, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Islands, and the United States Virgin Islands. Following an introduction and presentation of the social and economic situation of the region by ECLAC Executive Secretary, Alicia Bárcena, each country representatives had the opportunity to briefly present the actions being taken by their respective governments.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Cricketing heads meet to plot way out of crisis CRICKET has never faced a crisis quite like this. With much of the world still deep in Covid-19 pandemic-induced lockdowns, administrators are facing an unprecedented situation. At some point in the near future, sport will resume but in what form, when and where exactly, no-one knows. Today, the chief executives of the 12 full-member countries along with the ICC management will convene via a conference call to start plotting what a new landscape might look like. Today’s meeting is merely the starting point of a process that will remain a work in progress for the foreseeable future. The ICC has said the aim of this virtual meeting - and there really only is one item on the agenda - is to check in on the health of members and how they are coping with the effects of no cricket, as well as collectively work on contingency planning and sort out priorities between the resumption of international bilateral cricket, domestic cricket and global events. Based on conversations with various boards, ESPNcricinfo lists some of the key issues that will rank high on the list of priorities to be addressed on Thursday.

is the biggest marquee event left in 2020 outside of the IPL. Currently the ICC remains optimistic about the event going ahead in case Australia opens its doors to host the tournament. However, the tournament comprises 16 teams, which means each will need their respective government’s approval. What happens in case one of the participants is denied permission? What would be the quarantine process in individual countries? Will air travel resume completely to allow players to travel to Australia? These will be some of the questions that the chief executives’ committee (CEC) will make note of and it is clearly a complex issue as one of the officials who will be sitting on the call, said. According to one official, the fate of the T20 World Cup is the most important issue for a number of boards outside the biggest few. Those boards rely heavily on revenue distributions from the ICC and a disruption to any event - as PCB chairman Ehsan Mani warned - could have serious financial repercussions for some members. What members might be looking to discuss is a rough idea of a timeline by when a definitive decision on the tournament needs to take place.

Men’s T20 World Cup Scheduled for October-November this year, this

World Test Championship

The WTC is nearly nine months old with the final

scheduled for July 2021. However, not all teams have played the same number of series. Pakistan head coach Misbahul-Haq had suggested recently that the WTC should be put on hold instead of attempting to tinker with the original format where each team is meant to play a total of six series. Not everyone agrees. One chief executive felt that with “nearly 40%” of the WTC already played, suspending was not the best option. “If we have cricket back in July even if it in biosafe stadiums, behind close doors, I don’t see a need for it [suspending]. But it is a big if.” The ICC, it is believed, will not make a hasty decision on the WTC. One key determining factor will be what percentage of WTC series are lost when bilateral cricket resumes. If it is not a significant chunk, then the ICC will want the nine countries in the Championship to collectively work out windows in the FTP. “Like in the UK, the government is quite keen to restart sport behind closed doors because they believe it is quite good for the morale of the nation,” the official said. “It will start at different places at different times and we’ll ease back into it. That’s when the genuine rescheduling and decision making around the competitions like WTC will start.” (ESPN Cricinfo)

Gayle to join Zouks for new CPL season CASTRIES, St Lucia, (CMC) – T20 specialist Chris Gayle will be suiting up for the St Lucia Zouks in the 2020 Caribbean Premier League (CPL), after being released by his home franchise, the Jamaica Tallawahs. The franchise announced Wednesday that it has signed the 40-year-old as its marquee player for the eighth edition of the tournament that is scheduled to begin in August if it is not affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Gayle, who is the leading T20 run scorer of all time – having made 2,344 runs at the CPL – played for the Tallawahs in the first four seasons, then went over to the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots for two years, before rejoining the Tallawahs in 2019. Chris Gayle will be playing for the St. Lucia Zouks in the 2020 CPL. (Credit: CPL) The announcement of his move came a day after Zouks disclosed that Daren Sammy would return as

the team’s captain. Commenting on Gayle joining his squad, Sammy said it was “great news for St Lucia Zouks and for me as a captain to have the universe boss on my side”. “Chris is one of the most successful T20 batsmen in the world and with his experience with our young openers, a lot can be learnt from Chris,” he said of the man who has amassed the most centuries in the format. “I welcome him to the Zouks franchise. Chris will be in St Lucia and the fans will be happy that Jamaica has released him. I will have a motivated Chris Gayle looking to prove a point that he is one of the leading T20 batsmen in the world. I can’t wait for CPL 2020 and hopefully the Coronavirus will be under control and we can have an exciting T20 tournament. Welcome home, Chris Gayle!” Sammy added. Zouks coach Andy Flowers was also excited about the addition of the veteran cricketer to his side.

“I have got a long association with Chris running all the way back to his debut Test match in Trinidad back in 2000. I’ve seen his exploits in all three forms of the game and I am really looking forward to working with him and Daren Sammy toward a special year for St. Lucia cricket,” he said. The CPL is currently set for August 19 to September 26, but organisers are keeping an eye on the COVID-19 pandemic and liaising with medical advisors and governments to determine if play will go ahead. Chief operations officer, Pete Russell, has said there is a possibility the tournament could be played without international players and using only a few stadiums as venues to mitigate against widespread contact. In addition to the Zouks, Tallawahs and Patriots, the CPL will see the participation of Trinbago Knight Riders, Guyana Amazon Warriors, and defending champions Barbados Tridents.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

Corrupters using social media to get to players during lockdown: ICC

By Nagraj Gollapudi and Umar Farooq

IN a proactive measure, the ICC’s Anti-Corruption Unit (ACU) has asked players across the world to remain alert to corrupt elements attempting to take advantage of the current global lockdown by trying to contact them via social media. The ACU believes what might seem to be an “innocent” message from an “unsolicited contact” may actually be a “prelude to a corrupt approach”. Consequently, on April 14, the ACU sent out an ‘Alert Notice’ to all member boards, players, player agents and players’ associations, asking everyone to be vigilant against the “current risk of contact” by corruptors. The ACU felt it was appropriate to issue the warning mainly because the cricketing community, much like the wider public, was spending more time accessing social media at a time when governments worldwide have

severely restricted any outside movement. “With most of the world experiencing lockdowns and restrictions, it has left many with time on their hands, some of which can be filled on social media,” the ACU said in the notice, accessed by ESPNcricinfo. “The creativity some have shown has been remarkable, but there is a darker side. “We have seen evidence that corruptors are using their time to contact players through social media, particularly Instagram, WhatsApp and Facebook. To the unaware this can seem innocent, but that is not always the case and it could be a prelude to a corrupt approach.” That the ACU warning was not a case of the watchdog being overcautious was confirmed by an international player agent who manages players from several countries, including Associates. This agent, who also administers social media accounts of some of players, said that he had seen suspi-

CC ACU general manager Alex Marshall (Getty Images)

cious elements trying to send out cryptic messages. The agent said he had promptly sounded out the relevant cricketing authorities. According to the ACU, the corruptors could present the player with potential sponsorship opportunities in this phase when several cricketers, especially those in the domestic circuit, are likely to get no earnings. “Some will try to make what may seem like innocent contact to offer sponsorship opportunities,” the notice said. “They may claim to be representing team owners and

Pakistan’s Malik asks for cricket ban to be dropped FORMER Pakistani cricket captain Salim Malik pleaded with sporting authorities Wednesday to drop his lifetime ban and allow him the chance to coach. Malik, 57, was found guilty of match fixing after a judicial inquiry in 2000 in a scandal that rocked the cricket-mad nation. Australians Shane Warne, Mark Waugh and Tim May had accused him of offering them bribes to underperform during their tour of Pakistan in 1995. His ban was lifted by a Pakistani court in 2008 but the decision was not endorsed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) or the International Cricket Council. Malik has argued that he deserves a “second chance”. “I have wanted to serve my country and players as a coach,” he said in a video message. Former fast bowler Ata-ur-Rehman was also banned for life in the inquiry while six other players were fined. Malik said he had spent years lobbying the PCB to

reverse the ban. “Whenever I tried to serve as a coach I was not considered,” said Malik, who played 103 Tests and 283 one-day internationals in a career that stretched from 1982 to 1999.

have been allowed to return to the sport. “Mohammad Amir, Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Sharjeel Khan have been playing but I have been ignored,” he said. Butt, Asif and Amir

Salim Malik, seen here in 2008, was banned for life after he was accused of offering members of the Australian team bribes to underperform (AFP Photo/FAROOQ NAEEM)

He applied to be Pakistan’s batting coach in 2012 and was also in contention for the head coaching job at the National Cricket Academy in 2008 but was overlooked on both occasions. Malik argued that other players guilty of foul play

were banned for five years in a spot-fixing case in 2010, while Sharjeel was handed a similar sentence in 2017. Three of Malik’s former teammates said they supported lifting the former skipper’s ban earlier this month. (AFP)

offer a place in a franchise tournament. They sometimes use false names and untraceable numbers from a variety of countries. “They may invite players to travel once restrictions are lifted to a place like Dubai or India to meet the ‘owners’. We have even seen

the Maldives used for such meetings. Player agents, some of whom have been targeted for such approaches, have an important role to play in protecting players. It is good practice to ask for proof of who you are dealing with or push the contact towards agents.” The ACU reminded the players and their agents to stick to 3 Rs’ principle: “RECOGNISE what is happening, REJECT the offer, REPORT to the Anti-Corruption Unit.” Alex Marshall, the ICC ACU general manager, pointed out that although cricket might have stopped temporarily, the corrupt elements were still active. “Covid-19 may have put a temporary stop on the playing of international and

domestic cricket around the world, but the corrupters are still active and as a result, our work with Members, players, player associations and agents continues,”Marshall told ESPNcricinfo. “We are seeing known corrupters use this time, when players are on social media more than ever, to connect with them and try to build a relationship that they can exploit at a later date. “We have reached out to our Members, players and their wider networks to highlight this issue and ensure they all continue to be aware of the dangers of approaches like this and do not let their guard down whilst there is no cricket being played.” (ESPN Cricinfo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

On this day April 23, 1986: English cricketer Jim Laker died at age 64 ..remembered for his record 19 wickets in a single Test match in 1956

By Simon Evans (REUTERS) - Jim Laker, who died on April 23, 1986, remains one of England’s finest spin bowlers and is best remembered for his record 19 wickets in a single Test match in 1956. Not only was that performance against Australia, at Old Trafford, a Test record, it has never been matched even in first class cricket, with only two players coming within two wickets since. Yet while the memory of the ‘Laker Test’ remains strong, his impact on the game was much broader -- he was a key part of the Surrey team which won seven county championships in a row between 1952 and 1958 and claimed 193 wickets in 46 Tests over an 11-year period.

Born in Yorkshire, Laker viewed himself as a batsman and quick bowler but was persuaded to try his hand at off-spin. He realised his potential during wartime inter-service games on matting wickets in Egypt. Emerging in county cricket with Surrey after World War Two, Lake r , tall

Jim Laker died on April 23, 1986 at the age of 64

Reifer set to take over at Tallawahs: Gleaner report

K I N G S TO N , J a m a i c a , (CMC) – Former West Indies head coach, Floyd Reifer, is set to take over the top coaching role at the embattled Jamaica Tallawahs for this year’s Caribbean Premier League. According to the Gleaner newspaper here, Barbadian Reifer is one of several changes expected to take place at the Kingston-based franchise for the August 19 to September 26 campaign, following a dismal last season which saw them finish bottom of the standings and miss out on the playoffs. A former West Indies captain, Reifer oversaw the Windies disastrous World Cup campaign last year after replacing Englishman Richard Pybus. “When you have a team that came last in the competition, obviously there are going to be changes, it can’t be business as usual,” chief executive officer, Jeff Miller, said. Under head coach Donovan Miller, Tallawahs managed just two wins in 10 outings in their worst-ever showing in the sevenyear-old Twenty20 domestic league. This was in spite of a star-studded lineup which included the likes of superstars Chris Gayle and Andre Russell, along with West Indies all-rounder Rovman Powell and New Zealander Glenn Phillips. Jamaican Miller, who was part of the successful Talla-

and with a high, elegant bowling action, showed that his effectiveness was by no means limited to such surfaces. Having settled in the south of England after the war, he was signed by Surrey and by 1948 he earned his first Test appearance, in Barbados.

wahs unit of 2016 before moving to St Kitts and Nevis Patriots and then returning home last year, says he was yet to be informed about any changes at the franchise. However, he said he was already in talks with several other franchises and was confident of

His emergence led to inevitable overtures from his home county but despite Yorkshire’s best efforts, he stuck with Surrey. His greatest achievement was back in the North, however, during a rainy and blustery test at Old Trafford, eight years after his England debut. England batted first and made 459 all out with Peter Richardson scoring his maiden test century and David Sheppard also making a hundred and there was little indication of what was to come. With his Surrey team mate, left-arm orthodox spinner Tony Lock, operating at the other end, Laker ran through the Australians taking 9-37 as the tourists were bowled out for 84. His seven wickets after

tea were at a rate of one every three balls. There was anger among the visitors about the surface, with former Australia spinner Bill O’Reilly writing in the press that “This pitch is a disgrace. What lies in store for Test cricket if groundsmen are allowed to play the fool like this?” Following on, Australia battled through the rain delays into the fifth day, with opener Colin McDonald’s 337-minute 89, in such tricky batting conditions, a brave and skilled innings. Yet Laker was too much for them again and he ended with all 10 wickets. Australia captain Ian Johnson put aside concerns about the wicket and was generous in his praise. “When the controver-

sies and side issues of this match are forgotten. Laker’s wonderful bowling will remain,” he said. He was right but Laker still had plenty more to offer the game. He caused controversy with his autobiography in 1960, which attacked the last remnants of the amateur-professional divide in the game and led to him losing his pass to Surrey’s Oval ground and honorary MCC membership – although both were later restored. Laker went on to be a respected television commentator for the BBC, for whom he had become the first cricketer to win the Sports Personality of the Year award after his exploits in Manchester.

Rohit expects ‘different ball game’ against reinforced Australia NEW DELHI, (Reuters) - Locking horns with a reinforced Australia will be a “different ball game” if India get a chance to contest the series Down Under later this year, opener Rohit

Sharma said on Wednesday. Exactly when the tour will go r ife Re ahead is still up in the head coach Floyd Former West Indies Talair as the coronavirus lawahs have won the CPL pandemic has brought landing a key position for twice, in the inaugural year professional cricket to the upcoming tournament. in 2013 and then again in a halt globally, but that “I haven’t spoken to 2016. India opener Rohit Sharma uncertainty has not CEO Jeff Miller since Nostopped Rohit from vember of last year,” Miller looking forward to what he exsaid. pects to be a close contest. “The last time we spoke, “It will be a great series,” (Thursday, April 23, 2020) he had asked me to write a Rohit told India Today news report on the team’s perforCOMPLIMENTS OF THE XTRA ENERGY DRINK channel. mance from last season, which – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) & India won a Test series in I did and sent to him and the CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Australia for the first time on owners, and that was it. the 2018-19 tour, prevailing over Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) “What I can tell you, the depleted hosts who missed though, is that I have been in Steve Smith and David Warner talks with two to three other ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: through ball-tampering bans. franchises, and I am almost (1) Kumar Sangakarra-140 (Galle, 2001) With the batting mainstays 99 per cent sure, once we (2) Brian Lara-115 (St. Vincent, 1997) back in the side, revenge will be get the green light, that I will on Australia’s mind when India be coaching in the CPL this TODAY’S QUIZ: return this summer. season.” “Australia, in their own (1) Who is the first SL bowler to bag a five-wicket Team manager Andrew backyard and with those two haul against the WI in Tests? Richardson is also expected guys, it will be a different ball (2) Who is the first WI to take five-wickets in a to leave the Tallawahs, with game, I know that,” said Rohit. Test innings against Sri Lanka? reigning champions Bar“As a team, we are also bados Tridents the likely playing our best cricket right destination. Answers in tomorrow’s issue now... If it happens, it’ll be a

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

great series to be part of.” Cricket Australia is yet to announce dates and venues of the Tests which will take place after the Twenty20 World Cup. However, the pandemic has also raised doubts about whether the Twenty20 World Cup can be contested as scheduled from Oct. 18 to Nov. 15 in Australia. Whenever the Australia v India series does go ahead, it will be particularly important to Rohit as he has revived his long-format career by reinventing himself as a Test opener. Rohit missed the Test series in New Zealand after suffering a calf injury in February and knows he must perform in the next away series to prove his credentials. “I was quite looking forward to playing in the challenging conditions in New Zealand but unfortunately the injury happened at the wrong time,” said the limited-overs stalwart. “I can’t wait to go in Australia and test myself.” Rohit hoped his fellow players, currently in lockdown in their homes, would get adequate time to shake off the rust. “Especially for me, because I was injured before all this happened. I have a lot of work to do before I start playing. “My fitness test was just around the corner when lockdown happened. So the first thing for me would be to pass the fitness test and then obviously, hit some balls because it’s been a while.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, April 23, 2020

BCCI president and former India captain Sourav Ganguly

No cricket in India in the near future: Sourav Ganguly

SOURAV Ganguly, the president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has ruled out any chance of cricket taking place in the near future due to the massive coronavirus pandemic. India is currently under a complete lockdown until May 3, which was earlier extended from April 14. Amidst the grave global situation, Germany is mulling the start of Bundesliga, their football league, sometime from May. Even as it’s set to resume sporting action globally, Ganguly, who is also a former Indian crick-

eter, stated that the scenario in India and Germany are different. “The social reality of Germany and India are different, there will be no cricket in India in the near future. There are too many ifs and buts involved. More importantly, I don’t believe in sport when there is a risk to human life,” Ganguly was quoted as saying in The Times of India (TOI). Harbhajan Singh, who flourished under Ganguly in Team India, also reverberated his former skipper’s words. The veteran Punjab

off- spinner was of the opinion that top-flight cricket shouldn’t resume till the time a vaccine comes out. “When IPL teams travel, there’s a huge crowd at the airports, hotels, outside the stadium. How are you going to stop them if you are looking to maintain social distancing? There should be no top-flight cricket till there is a vaccine for Covid-19,” Harbhajan said. The COVID-19 has put to doubts the future of a number of tournaments globally. Recently, Sunil Gavaskar, the legendary batsman, said that India and Australia could swap hosting rights for the 2020 and 2021 edition of the T20 World Cups. Earlier this week, the

cash-rich Indian Premier League (IPL) was also postponed indefinitely after the lockdown was extended. Talks of conducting the tournament behind closed doors and without foreign cricketers have also been doing the rounds. However, as per Gavaskar, holding high-profile events like the IPL and the T20 World Cup in empty stands won’t be a walk in the park. “Did you see the crowds during our practice sessions at Chepauk when we said we can’t allow people inside the ground. Lives are at stake, you can’t control Indian crowds that easily. Yes, there will be financial losses, but we have to live with it,” he mentioned. (CricTracker)

Depression a worrying side effect of virus shutdown for idle footballers

PARIS, France (AFP) — Prevented from doing their jobs and often confined at home, there are concerns about the mental health of isolated professional footballers during the novel coronavirus pandemic. A study by global players’ union FIFPRO published Monday warned of a sharp rise in the number of footballers reporting symptoms of anxiety and depression since the game was suspended worldwide. “We have had many concerns about players with their mental re-

sponse to the isolation. Many of the foreign players don’t have family with them, spend a lot of time on their own, away from their loved ones, which is very challenging,” said Jonas Baer-Hoffmann, FIFPRO’s general secretary. The union’s survey of 1,602 players in 16 countries revealed 13 per cent of men reported symptoms of depression, and 16 per cent symptoms o f anxiety.

Among women the numbers were higher: 22 per cent for depression and 18 per cent for anxiety. It is a major increase from a similar study done in January and indicates that the same worries felt by the general population about the pandemic are combining with the difficulty of adapting to life without football. Michael Bennett, the director of player welfare at England’s Professional Footballers’ Association, told the BBC that at first it may feel like “a honeymoon period” but added that “we always thought the longer it went on that’s when it would hit home”. As Baer-Hoffmann suggests, not all players have been lucky enough to have family with them. Spain great Andres Iniesta has spo-

ken of his struggles with depression when starring for Barcelona and the important role his family played. Players on short-term contracts at clubs below the elite may fear for their future careers, but even at the top of the men’s game, where wages are often astronomical, there are concerns. Philippe Godin, a sports psychologist at the University of Leuven in Belgium, says many footballers are experiencing the same feeling of emptiness that often hits players on retiring. In Germany, the widow of a Bundesliga star, who took his life, has given tips on how to stay positive. Germany goalkeeper Robert Enke committed suicide in 2009 after a long battle with depression. His widow, Teresa Enke, runs the Robert Enke Foundation, which offers support for athletes suffering from depression. There are some players who are fortunate enough to be back training, including in Germany, where authorities hope to resume top-flight matches next month.

Umpire’s call should be removed if DRS is available worldwide-Ian Gould

‘ U M P I R E ’s c a l l ’ should be removed from the decision review system, says former umpire Ian Gould. The DRS was introduced into Test cricket in 2009 and it is now used in all three international formats.

62, told BBC Radio 5 Live’s Tuffers and Vaughan Cricket Show. “ I t ’s u n f a i r. I t doesn’t equal the game up.” The use of DRS is irregular in women’s cricket. Global tournaments run by the

Englishman Ian Gould umpired in 74 Tests and 140 ODIs

Gould said umpire’s call, which relates to an lbw decision, should not be used if DRS is available worldwide. “You have to have DRS worldwide and if you do that, I’d take umpire’s call out,” said Englishman Gould, who stood in 251 international matches. If a player reviews an lbw decision and less than half the ball is hitting the stumps, the on-field umpire’s call stands. Teams no longer lose a review if a review is shown to be umpire’s call. “My argument is you can’t go to one place and have 37 cameras on every decision you make, then you go somewhere else and there’s only 10,” Gould,

International Cricket Council tend to have the technology, but bilateral limited-overs series do not. In the men’s game, Cricket Ireland could not afford the technology for their Test against Pakistan. Gould, who retired last year, said umpires were “not massive fans” when the technology was first introduced. “If a batsman came forward and was hit on the pad, then it was not out,” he said. “Then all of a sudden you were seeing these things in front of you. “That was the hard bit. When I first joined, a lot of senior umpires felt as though they were being shown up.” (BBC Sport)

India and Australia are the top two sides on the World Test Championship table (Getty Images)

Cricketing heads meet to plot way out of crisis PAGE 20

Latapy demands US$1 million owed by TTFA Former Jamaica Tallawahs star Chris Gayle PAGE 20

Gayle to join Zouks for new CPL season PAGE 23

AMIDST money worries and their ongoing dispute with FIFA, the Trinidad and Tobago Football Association now has to contend with a demand from former coach Russell Latapy who says the TTFA has owed him money for years and he needs to be paid immediately. Latapy, 51, played 81 matches for Trinidad and Tobago from 1988 to 2009 scoring 29 goals. He would eventually go on to coaching the national team between 2009 and 2011. He served as an assistant coach in 2009 and again in 2017. Speaking with the Nation Newspaper in Barbados where he is now the head coach of that country’s national team, Latapy says that the TTFA owes him a tidy sum of about US$1 million. “I am still being owed that money since 2009. It is not rocket science. The

football association, based on reports from the newspapers, I would like to think that some of the money they owe me is also included in the TT$50 million (US7.4 million),” he said. “It is money that I worked for and, like anything else; if I work for that money I am not asking any favours.” The TTFA’s financial woes are the primary reason behind FIFA’s decision to appoint a normalization committee to oversee the daily operations of the association until an election can be held to elect a new executive that will replace William Wallace and his Russell Latapy coached administration that was voted T&T national team between in during elections held in 2009 and 2011 November 2019. The matter is now before the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

CSA to make decision on Windies tour next month

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa (CMC) — Cricket South Africa (CSA) is expected to make a decision on the future of the tour of West Indies next month, after Monday announcing the can-

cellation of the limited overs series against Sri Lanka. South Africa are scheduled to face West Indies in two Tests and five Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) from July 15 to August 16, but that tour now seems likely to fall victim to the novel coronavirus pandemic which has already resulted in 2.4 million infections and 166,000 deaths globally. Media reports here said

CSA officials would decide on the Windies series in “midMay”. Cricket West Indies has already scrapped some of its domestic tournaments, but said recently it was continuing to monitor developments, and would liaise with the partner boards before making any determination on upcoming series. In announcing the cancellation of the tour of Sri Lanka set for June, CSA’s Acting C h i e f

Executive Officer Jacques Faul said decisions regarding tours would be made in the players’ best interests. “It is very sad that we have been forced to take this step and we will reschedule the tour as soon as cricket returns to a sense of normality and our international fixture list allows,” Faul said. The English-speaking Caribbean has recorded over 800 infections from the virus known as COVID-19, with 49 deaths reported.

No cricket in India in the near future: Sourav Ganguly Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

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THURSDAY, APRIL 23, 2020