‘Guyana must keep up with trending technologies’
– Passionate web developer says
old-fashioned thinking kills innovation
29 th November, 2020
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Local Web Applications Developer Anton Kwang (Photo courtesy of Anton Kwang)
Sunday, November 29, 2020
No. 106198
Small businesses benefit from over $51M in grants
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$250M in road upgrades for 13 Tuschen/Zeelugt PAGE
UG graduate 14 runs thriving business after failing to land a job PAGE
The Guyana Defence Force (GDF), in observance of its 55th anniversary, held a paratrooping display near its Base Camp Ayanganna in Georgetown, Saturday (Alva Solomon photo)
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Over 100,000 vehicles registered since 2013 – Traffic Chief –– more roads needed to reduce traffic congestion
By Rabindra Rooplall OVER 100,000 vehicles have been registered in Guyana since 2013 and with no new roadways, traffic congestion is inevitable until new carriageways are built to give drivers more options. This is according to Traffic Chief, Senior Superintendent Ramesh Ashram, who noted that Friday’s traffic backup on the East Bank of Demerara (EBD) was as a result of new traffic arrangements. Traffic on the EBD car- Traffic Chief, Senior Superriageway was backed up for intendent Ramesh Ashram almost eight hours, resulting On Monday last, pedesin commuters being stuck trian Kevin Monderson, 34, for hours, as a result of traf- of Tucville Squatting Area, fic cones being placed in the Georgetown, was struck centre of the roads. down and killed on the AgDuring an interview ricola Public Road, Greater with the Sunday Chronicle, Georgetown during the third the Traffic Chief said that lane traffic. these traffic cones will now He was killed on the be moved to the end of eastern carriageway when the roadways during peak the third lane for north hours to ensure pedestrians, bound traffic was activated; cyclists, and motorcyclists motor lorry, GPP 8215, was have a safe space for them- proceeding north along the selves, instead of utilising western drive lane of the the same corridor with mo- eastern carriageway and tor vehicles. collided with him when he
crossed the roadway. The Traffic Chief noted that the fatal accident was unfortunate but noted that there will be a daily monitoring of traffic activities especially when the three lane, to or from, the Demerara Harbour Bridge is activated as the need arises daily. He noted that traffic ranks will be posted strategically to ensure no overtaking or obstruction of the traffic. Construction of a new Harbour Bridge is expected to commence soon; the bridge will stretch from Nandy Park, East Bank Demerara to La Grange, West Bank Demerara. It is believed that the traffic situation will reduce significantly once this bridge is in place. INCREASE IN FINES Meanwhile, the Traffic Chief said he recommended 20 offences to be placed on the ticket books, along with an increase in fines that vary from $15,000 to $25,000. Some of the offences the Traffic Chief wants to be ticketed include failure to give right of way to emergency vehicles, failure to conform to signs, breach of traffic light signals, tinted motor vehicle, and restriction of use of cellphones while driving, amongst others. This year’s national road
Traffic ranks performing duties at the Demerara Harbour Bridge on Saturday (Delano Williams photo) safety week was observed there has been a national group 25 to 42 years acunder the theme “Stop curfew in place since March counts for 60% of all road Speeding, Don’t Drink and due to the COVID-19 pan- deaths and that the largest Drive, Stay Alive” demic. number of persons who die, During the feature adDespite these measures, by gender, are men. dress last Monday at Par- Benn noted that the death He highlighted as well liament Park, located on rate due to accidents has that the cause of these fatalthe corner of Brickdam and gone up significantly. ities ranges from absence of High Street, Georgetown, The statistics, Benn said, brakes, lights, casual use of Home Affairs Minister, showed, too, that the most the roadways, drunk drivers, Robeson Benn, said that dangerous period to be on drug users, etc. “we find ourselves in par- the road ways is between Motorcyclists are known ticularly tragic and alarming 18:00hrs to midnight. This for riding without helmets, circumstances related to the is because the majority of he continued. great and accelerated loss of the road fatalities took place “There should be a camlife due road accidents.” during that period. paign for pedestrians to Statistics show that there He also pointed out that avoid using dark clothing at has been a 37% increase motorcyclists and pedal cy- nights,” said Benn. in road fatalities this year clists accounted for a large Benn also asked for when compared to 2019. number of all road deaths 50 more speed guns to be Benn explained that this so far. made available for traffic is quite alarming, because Benn added that the age ranks.
Reg. One donates school boat, engine to Unity Grant children – several schools being rehabilitated
OVER 30 students from Unity Grant, enrolled in the Warapoka Primary and Nursery schools, will now have easier access to education through the donation of a 30-ft boat and a 15 horsepower engine. Regional Executive Officer (REO) Barima-Waini (Region One), Tikaram Bisesar, said the
donation is the realisation of a commitment made to residents during an outreach earlier this year, the Department of Public Information (DPI) noted. He said that the community’s previous boat was irreparable. so the region pledged to provide a vessel for the students, who travel approximately two hours from the
village to attend school. This boat will cut travelling time in half. “At this moment, we have already given the boat to the community and so all left is to deliver the engine. The Regional Education Officer will soon make the trip to See page 3
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Small businesses benefit from over $51M in grants –– small businesses ‘reorganising’ operations to ‘bounce back’ –Dr Porter By Navendra Seoraj
MICRO, small and medium-sized businesses have felt the brunt of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, but some entrepreneurs were able to ‘cushion’ the severe effects with financial aid from the Small Business Bureau (SBB), which has so far disbursed over $51 million in grants. Reduced spending in the local economy, which has been constrained by the necessary COVID-19 prevention measures, has erased any semblance of ‘decent’ profits which would have been recorded by businesses prior to the dreaded pandemic. Small businesses are often referred to as the lifeblood of any economy because they give entrepreneurs the opportunity to create meaningful jobs and foster local economies, allowing money to stay closer to communities. And, throughout the world, many persons have gone out of business because of extended ‘lockdowns’ caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. This has been the case in developed nations, so the effects on Guyana — a nation with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of just about US$4 billion — are understandably harsh. The SBB, in doing its part to ensure that businesses are able to navigate the pandemic and stay afloat, has disbursed over $31 million in regular grants to 158 persons and over $20 million through a special “COVID-19” relief grant to over 137 businesses. Businesses, from both categories, were able to access up to $200,000 from the SBB once they met a certain criteria, said Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the SBB, Dr. Lowell Porter, in an invited comment to the Sunday Chronicle. Those grants are intended to serve as a stimulus for small businesses to stay afloat and can be used to offset expenses, pay staff, purchase supplies, among other
things. The Guyana Chronicle had reported that the aim of the bureau’s initiative was to strengthen and sustain small businesses, through the provision of relief grants to sustain business operations and retain employees, along with training and development support to establish and market businesses through online platforms, diversify businesses and forge supply partnerships. The bureau had recently conducted an online survey which received 243 responses from small businesses. And, of those responses, 63 per cent had indicated that they had to close completely because of the pandemic. In recognising the importance of this aspect of the commercial sector, the government has allocated $100 million to the Small Business Development Fund, which is managed by the SBB. The bureau already has approximately 10,000 businesses in its database, and the development fund will create an opportunity for prospective small business owners to access loans and grants. Although businesses are able to leverage this support, once they satisfy the requisite criteria, the gradual reopening of the economy has released the ‘stranglehold’ created by the COVID-19 pandemic, allowing businesses to increase their profit margins. The government has taken steps to rejuvenate ailing sectors and restore stability, but has maintained focus on safeguarding the health of every Guyanese through various control measures. Among some of the resuscitative measures are the reopening of the country’s international airports; the reduction in the hours of the national curfew; extension in the time for businesses to operate; and the authorisation for businesses to operate in a safe manner, although at half of its regular capacity, in some cases.
REORGANISING Businesses have been responding well to those resuscitative measures, and, according to Dr. Porter, they are now reorganising themselves to “bounce back.” “It is not going to be an easy task because a lot of them have lost a lot, so it would be hard for them to get back to some semblance of production or productivity. It will take them a while,” said the CEO, adding that the rate of recovery “boils down” to the recovery of the general economy. The economy, he reasoned, has to grow in order for businesses to grow. There must be a demand for goods and services, but, considering the economic existing conditions, that demand does not exist. “The spending power of people is not available immediately…I do not know if we will see a real robust resurgence before the end of 2020,” said Dr. Porter. President Irfaan Ali, in outlining measures included in Budget 2020, had said that the government, after re-prioritising and re-programming fiscal measures, has managed to add $20 billion in relief to the “pockets” of Guyanese at a time when the nation is faced with the effects of COVID-19, and the recently-concluded protracted electoral process. The conduits of relief include revised tax measures and sweeping incentives. The broad objectives of those measures which feature in government’s emergency budget are to stimulate economic activity; get persons back to work; increase Guyana’s productive capacity; reduce the cost of doing business; improve efficiency; and facilitate growth and development of businesses. Despite the implementation of those measures, there will not be an immediate spike in economic activities, but Dr. Porter is optimistic that 2021 will be a
CEO of the Small Business Bureau, Dr. Lowell Porter better year. Available information shows that Guyana is fast becoming a business magnet, attracting major foreign and local investors who are keen on pumping money into this fledging Petroleum State, which is anticipating an “economic boom.” Hoteliers, agro processors, key players in the global energy sector and many other investors are either already in Guyana or are interested in penetrating the country’s growing economy. In order to capitalise on the impending development, small businesses would have to assess their current position and reposition themselves, if need be, to effectively satisfy the increasing demands. “What we would need to ask is would they have capacity or do they have the financial and capital resources,” said Dr. Porter. Those areas need to be analysed before small businesses can benefit or become part of Guyana’s economic ascension.
Reg. One donates school boat, engine ... From page 2
take the engine,” the REO said. Unity Grant boasts a population of just under 100 persons including children. It is located along the Waini River. In addition to this, Bisesar
said the regional administration has also started to rehabilitate several schools and to install the necessary amenities to bring them into compliance with the COVID-19 measures.
The works include some rollover projects that the administration hopes to complete on schools like the Port Kaituma Primary and Secondary and the construction and enclosure
of living quarters at Manawarin. Renovations are also ongoing at the Matthews Ridge Nursery and Primary as well as extension to the Whitewater Primary School, among other things.
“Most of the works commenced. We are hoping that everything can be completed by year-end and in other instances, we will have a few rollover projects in 2021, but those will be major infrastruc-
tural projects,” Bisesar said. The administration’s education programme is quite extensive and it hopes to improve the delivery of education in the region, the REO said.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Ethiopian PM claims capture of Tigray capital (BBC) - Ethiopia’s Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed says government forces are now “fully in control” of the regional capital of the northern Tigray region. The army earlier entered Mekelle as it stepped up its offensive against the Tigray People’s Liberation Front. The leader of the TPLF told Reuters it would continue to “defend our right to self-determination” and “fight these invaders to the last”. Hundreds have been killed and thousands displaced in the conflict. It began earlier this month after Mr Abiy announced an operation against the TPLF, the regional party, accusing it of attacking the
Ethiopian army’s northern command HQ in Mekelle. In a statement on Twitter, Mr Abiy said the army was in full control and that this “marks the completion of the [military’s] last phase”. “I am pleased to share that we have completed and ceased the military operations in the Tigray region,” he said. The army had released thousands of soldiers taken by the TPLF and was in control of the airport and regional offices, Mr Abiy said, adding that the operation had been carried out with “due care for citizens”. There have been fears for the 500,000 people living in the city. Mr Abiy said: “We now have ahead of us the
critical task of rebuilding what has been destroyed... [and] returning those who have fled.”
Details of the fighting are hard to confirm because all phone, mobile and internet communications with the
Tigray region have been cut. In a text message to Reuters, TPLF leader Debretsion Gebremichael did
not directly comment on the situation on the ground, but said of the government forces: “Their brutality can only add [to] our resolve to fight these invaders to the last.” He added: “This is about defending our right to self-determination.” An earlier TPLF statement, reported by AFP, urged “the international community to condemn the artillery and warplane attacks and massacres being committed”. It also accused the Eritrean government of involvement in the attack on Mekelle. Analysts say the TPLF could now be preparing to return to the mountains to launch a guerrilla war against the federal government.
Brexit negotiations restart in person as clock ticks down
(Reuters) - Face-to-face negotiations between Britain and the European
Union over a trade deal restarted earlier on Saturday as the two sides
Sunday, 29 November, 2020 ― 03:30hrs ~ 05:00hrs
make a last ditch attempt to reach an agreement with just five weeks to go before their current relationship ends. There is currently no call scheduled between UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson and EU Commission president Ursula von der Leyen, a UK source told Reuters, after the Times newspaper reported the pair would speak in the next 48
hours. The first sign of movement -- either towards a deal or that talks are crumbling -- is likely to be a call between Johnson and von der Leyen. The Times also reported that the European Commission has started to “lean on” EU negotiator Michel Barnier to reach a deal with Britain, raising hopes that an agreement could come.
EU negotiator Michel Barnier arrived for talks in London on Saturday morning. He had said on Friday night that he was “very happy” to be back in the city and would keep working with “patience and determination”. Barnier and Britain’s negotiator David Frost are working to secure a deal before the UK’s transition period with the EU ends on Dec. 31. Both sides said on Friday that there were still big differences to overcome, as they both called for the other to compromise on the three main issues of contention - fishing, state aid and how to resolve any future disputes. Johnson talked of “substantial and important differences”, while Barnier
referred to “significant divergences”. Britain left the bloc on Jan. 31 this year and a “nodeal” final exit would snarl borders, spook financial markets and disrupt delicate supply chains that stretch across Europe and beyond -- just as the world grapples with the vast economic cost of the COVID-19 outbreak. On the major sticking point of fishing, some media reports on Friday suggested that Britain had rejected an EU proposal on the value of fish quota that European fleets catch in British waters that are due to be restored to the UK. The Times said Johnson and von der Leyen were due to talk to find common ground on fishing quotas.
SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
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GTA launches Moraikobai, Wakapau, Seven Curry tours ― to offer unique experiences, boost village economies
THE Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) on Saturday launched the Moraikobai Village Tour, the Wakapau Tour and the Seven Curry Tour at Whirlwind Village in Sophia.
these innovative tours. The day tours, she said, “fit perfectly in the schedule of busy families just in need of a day trip or a business traveller with an extra day to spare. The tours being
launched today all aim to give travellers meaningful captivating experiences as they actively engage with the history, people culture and food. They will provide travellers with access to one-
Meanwhile, GTA Director, Carla James said the day tours are in keeping with the goal to promote sustainable tourism in Guyana through collaboration and to maximise the local socio-economic and cultivation outcomes. “Moraikobai and Wakapau have now reached the visitor-ready stage which simply means that the community tourism enterprise activity or attraction has been assessed by the GTA,
[is] ready to accept visitors, meet quality and safety requirements and has initiated the process to secure all the applicable tourism licenses,” she said. She added that the tours are great additions to the product offerings to destination Guyana, which have been designed with the domestic and diaspora traveller in mind. “Domestic and diaspora travellers will play a great role in the recovery of the
tourism sector, which we are working to reopen in a phased approach way, by mid-December,” she said. At the launch, the tours were introduced by representatives who revealed details about the unique culture and history of the communities. The Seven Curry tour allows the tourists to experience making seven types of curries after gathering their ingredients during a six-hour journey around Georgetown.
Patrons being treated to a sample of Seven Curry (DPI photos)
These tours were designed to provide locals and travellers with unique experiences that will take them beyond the popular destinations, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported. In her virtual address, Minister of Tourism Industry and Commerce, Oneidge Walrond said she is happy that the GTA has developed
Representatives of Wakapau tell a captivating story
A representative of Moraikobai paints the Canje Pheasant
Eon John, ‘The Singing Chef’,performs one of his songs
of-a-kind insider experiences that engage all of the senses.” According to the DPI, Minister Walrond also said the plans reflect the Government’s policy on tourism. The new approach has already started to garner interest from both local and diaspora travellers eager to experience the beauty of Guyana. The Ministry is also interested in partnering with communities to develop community-based or led tourism, which will boost their economies. “I have interacted with tour guides, boat operators, kitchen staff and other workers in some communities and I appreciate the benefits of tourism on many of their families,” Minister Walrond said. She expressed the hope that more communities would collaborate with the Department of Tourism so that their unique tourism interests and attractions could be explored and marketed.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Laying the Groundwork ON August 2, 2020, the PPP/C Administration regained power to serve the people of Guyana. The new government did the impossible and made history in preparing an emergency budget in just under 29 days amid the prolonged transitioning from the previous administration, while battling a global pandemic which our country was unprepared to handle. Many Guyanese have been greatly affected by the pandemic, which also had an impact on the economy. Citizens were faced with challenges such as the loss of jobs resulting in a decline of their spending power which affected the business and banking sectors immensely. Hundreds if not thousands of households were unable to provide the basic necessities needed to survive on a daily basis. The interior regions of the country suffered the most of all since they are isolated from the city and had limited supplies of goods to survive upon as the lockdown was enforced. The entire economy was basically at a standstill. Under the previous administration, limited relief was offered to the country. As such, it was left upon the private sector to come to the rescue of the country by providing food supplies, along with cleaning materials for the less fortunate homes. On September 25, 2020, an emergency budget to the tune of $330B was passed by the National Assembly. Of this
$330B, $4.5B was set aside to provide relief to all households which amounted to $25,000 per family. Guyana has an estimated population of 750,000. If on average there are 500 households in one village that is $12.5M that will be injected back into the village economy through spending on consumption goods and services. Guyana has many villages. If we estimate that there are about 200 well populated villages, then that will amount to $2.5B. By providing cash grants to these families, they, in turn, will go to the stores to stock up their homes with essentials which would encourage businesses to reopen and rehire staff as demand and supply increase. This results in rising spending power along with increased domestic incomes as jobs are recreated and families are able to earn again to invest into the economy in getting their needs, along with paying bills and settling outstanding bank loans and credit terms. The emergency budget also provided many tax reliefs to the citizens on items which were taxed by the previous government. These include all medical supplies, hinterland travel and cellphones, building and construction materials, exports, as well as machines and equipment (duties have also been removed, though tax concessions have been granted to the mining, agricultural and forestry sectors). The corporate tax on private education and healthcare has also been removed and the ban on importing
vehicles older than eight years (introduced by the former government in 2016) has also been lifted. Many can now better benefit from the services provided privately by schools and hospitals that the government is unable to provide on a larger scale. This will also increase spending as persons are better able to afford these services. The government has also made it easier for persons to be able to afford themselves a vehicle. The banks and dealerships will be the top beneficiaries of this relief, as interest will be earned and more vehicles will be sold, respectively. The Ministry of Public Works was allocated $34.4B to improve infrastructure such as working on the Ogle Bypass Road and the East Coast Railway Embankment Road to relieve the heavy traffic along the East Bank areas. This will help to facilitate all the new vehicles also joining the roads. The Health Ministry received $51.7B, of which $14.3B was set aside to procure drugs and medical supplies to provide better health care for the people of Guyana and to help combat the deadly virus that we all currently live with. Also, allocated to the Housing Ministry was $3B. This will be used to open new housing communities to provide thousands of house lots across the country. With the removal of taxes on construction and building materials, this sector will soon be on a booming
trajectory. With taxes being removed from all exports, this will help the manufacturing and agricultural industries to take advantage of expanding their markets regionally and internationally, thereby increasing the country’s GDP and earning the country foreign exchange. In conclusion, it can be seen that the emergency budget and COVID-19 relief cash grant have been set with the aim of revitalising the economy. The COVID-19 cash grant will help the country greatly in having the businesses up and running again and having jobs recreated to contribute back to the economy. Based on this analysis, one can agree that the government has put forward a realistic and achievable approach in handling the situation in turning the economy around in 2020, despite the rough landing on August 2, 2020 and formidable challenges in a pandemic environment. With such a foundation having been set, the economy is set to take off in 2021 as we remain on the edge of our seats for the 2021 budget which, one can anticipate, will position Guyana for resilient and vibrant growth and development – especially with the high steam of foreign investments to the tune of billions of U.S. dollars flowing in. Investors’ confidence is on the rise, evidently and demonstrably so. Guyana has a bright future over the next decade!
Rhetoric must translate into assertive action Dear Editor, IT is long past the time when rhetoric should be considered ‘assertive action’ in the context of domestic-violence prevention. The fact is that many have talked the talk over the years but not followed up by requisite action; an attitude that reflects otherisation, the attitude of expecting others to walk one’s talk. I’m aware that many years ago at least one NGO involved in domestic-violence prevention had approached the Georgetown
Chamber of Commerce and Industry to partner in the journey to reduce this form of abuse and had offered appropriate, free training to all members of the chamber. To date that offer has not been acknowledged. However, the recent outpouring of the chamber gives hope that attitudes have changed and so I suggest that chamber follows up its words with necessary action by ensuring that it be designated a domestic-violence-free zone, along with all its members and that domestic-violence prevention training be offered to all its members and their staff. All its members should also include
counselling and other support services for all their employees should any such employee be experiencing domestic abuse. Also, the chamber should ensure that all its members foster ongoing domestic violence prevention by collaborating to set up billboards and other signage, by including messages in their advertisements, especially on radio, TV and in the newspapers, by supporting NGOs that are engaged in domestic violence prevention and by having their leaders become spokespersons for domestic violence prevention. Further, within their respective commu-
nities and among their employees, all the chamber’s members should foster training of lay counsellors who can be the first responders with respect to domestic-violence prevention. I know of NGOs that offer such training for free. In short, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry should lead the way in walking its talk with respect to domestic-violence prevention, thereby setting an example for others to follow. Yours sincerely, Annan Boodram
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
A better tomorrow starts with the children of today Dear Editor, THE United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child highlights the need for a few things with regard to children. These include the right to health, education, family life, play and recreation, an adequate standard of living and to be protected from abuse and harm. The reason that these were made into legal frameworks was because the collective countries in the world understood that children were being exploited at most, and these rights were being withheld from them at the least. In order to rectify this issue, the global collectivity decided it best to guide each nation, household and person, in the ways of ensuring the global future, by protecting the societal privileges of our children. In the vast majority of cases, the cultural, structural and even social barriers that prevent parents and other persons who care for children (even older siblings in some cases) are so prevalent that children’s rights are unknowingly neglected. In other cases, the dissemination of information means nothing since all the guidelines on how to properly care for children is ig-
nored anyway. In both cases, however, the development of the society is negatively affected. Some parents and guardians have expressed displeasure at having international organisations and external bodies tell them how to treat children. Some people stick to traditional methods that infringe on the developmental process of children, simply because their own developmental process was negatively affected by certain ‘upbringing’ techniques. This frequent disregard for the effective development of our society is often overlooked; but destructive all the same. If the needs of children are of such importance that various countries (including our own) have made it a global priority, then it should be a matter of great importance (and address) for us, the people, also. If children are to have a safe space to live and to play, to have an education and sufficient healthcare plus food, protection from harm, etc., then there is no justification for keeping these things from them. Giving the child the things that the he/she needs to grow and be successful does not take any power away from any person, but
instead, ensures that the child is raised to recognise that the society they live in affords them their needs strictly through hard work that was employed to do so. Many adults walk around without knowing their rights even in workplaces or in society. They are unaware of how to handle a situation where they are pulled over by the traffic policeman or how to safely oppose a specific piece of legislation that they deem harmful. There is a myriad of situations where even adults’ rights are ignored or abused. Even though these privileges are afforded to them by the fact that they live in a society. This usually happens because such people were never introduced to the concept of children’s rights during the time when they were children, leading to them being unaware of the concept of rights, even in adulthood. Society itself has developed over a long and difficult process of trial and error that was supplemented by the efforts of the collective. We see issues and we work together to solve them. So, when that police officer tries to arrest you without giving you a reason, you should know that you
have the right to ask for a reason. If you were never taught about these rights, then you would grow up to think that you don’t have any when the truth is: that, society affords citizens privileges, based on the efforts of past citizens to fix a particular problem or meet a specific need. Children have curious minds and if they are taught that they have the right to education, play, safety, care and all of these other things then they recognise how these rights will support them and their peers to grow up in a much safer society. By educating children about their rights we are ensuring a future where people are aware of their rights and work together to ensure it is afforded to everyone. Parents and children alike will benefit from such a process, since parents will also develop a greater sense of responsibility and pride, knowing that they are not just raising their child, but also investing into the future of this green planet. A better tomorrow starts with the children of today. Yours sincerely, Khadidja Bâ
Thumbs up for grounding with the people Dear Editor, EVERYWHERE I travelled on the coast last week interacting with the public at random, I heard, primarily, praises for the performance of government and some ministers (those who constantly mingle with the public). The President and his government have an almost 100 per cent rating for their performance so far – over three months into the administration. The personality and style of President Irfaan Ali and his team are very different from the predecessors. The ministers are very active, getting things done. They are going around communities on the ground themselves to address public issues with some earning sky-high ratings. Some ministers, like Anil Nandlall, Zulfi Mustapha, Collin Croal, Susan Rodrigues, Nigel Dharamlall, Vickram Bharrat, Vindy Persaud, among others, came in for special praise, especially for their activism and making their presence in the public. People, a large majority, including growing numbers of supporters of the coalition, are thankful for the change in administration, expressing delight and gratitude at ridding the country of the coalition. The $25K household COVID grant has boosted the image of the government, with many asking why the coalition could not have helped them during the early period of the pandemic. A large majority saw the previous coalition regime as a burden on the backs of the people. “Thank God they are gone”, is the response of many about the coalition, when
asked about the change in administration. Members of the former coalition’s, top-tier leadership in particular, should go out and interact with the public to get a sense of how they are viewed among their own supporters. The response among many is not pleasant and descriptions of their performance are not flattering – horrendous, appalling, dreadful, among other negatives. On the other hand, the description of the performance of the current government, that of some ministers in particular who seem truly immersed in their jobs, is the complete opposite – praiseworthy, commendable, impressive, among other positives. Those I interacted with say that this new group of ministers, the President and PM are very interactive and engaging with the public, while the Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo is very interactive with the media. Most of the current ministers find time to interact with people. The ministers are not stuck in air-conditioned offices. They are doers. They don’t just talk. They walk the talk. In contrast, the previous group of ministers of the coalition and their assistants were viewed as “wanting only to sit in office on the throne. That is why they get shai out”, said some poll respondents. The Attorney General, Anil Nandlall leads in performance as “the best minister” of the government. And there is no comparison of him with his predecessor. Respondents in the current poll say it is like comparing the taste of lime with ripe sapodilla. Nandlall dazzles with his brilliance and erudition of law. People like the idea of ministers visiting their communities. Those I interacted with say Mustapha, Croal, Rodrigues, and Dharamlall are lauded
for being very active on the ground. They seem to have a presence everywhere. Agriculture Minister Mustapha seems to be loved by farmers. He has gone to almost every part of the country, trying to sort out agricultural issues. Farmers say he is the total opposite of Noel Holder, the coalition’s former Minister of Agriculture. Mustapha is described as very engaging and handson. Farmers say he listens to them, accepts their complaints, and acts. He champions the interests of farmers unlike his predecessor. Accolades also come in for Natural Resources Minister Vickram Bharrat who is described as very calm, savvy, articulate, and reasonable. Vickram Bharrat has the support of the miners who say he listens to them and that he is nice to people. He has a wonderful personality and he has learned the job very fast. Miners express confidence in him, saying he is doing a great job. Infrastructural issues are also being addressed promptly. Telecommnication is a serious problem, with people everywhere complaining of poor service, dropped phone calls and wifi signals. The good news is that complaints across all ministries are being dealt with almost instantly, at times by ministers themselves. People express concerns about COVID which is a serious and challenging issue -- Dr. Frank Anthony is praised for his effort in addressing the threat posed by COVID. There is now more testing unlike under the coalition when few tests were conducted. The Health Ministry is making a determined effort to control the spread of the virus with limited resources.
The ministry now has a handle on the extent of growth of infected people unlike under the previous government when COVID infected was kept in secret. COVID grants from WHO, India, UK, Canada, China, and the U.S. were not properly handled. Test kits were hidden and results concealed, away from the public. Adequate protective steps were not taken to control the spread of infections. – people unknowingly spread the virus. Not enough tests were done, even though 1700 kits were donated to the government in the first month of the pandemic. One could not get an accurate assessment of the presence of COVID among the public. The secrecy of the operations of the Health Ministry led to the spread of the virus and the spike in the number of cases. Cases were first reported to the minister as opposed to the patient and attending doctor. The number of cases was under-reported for political reasons. Politics crept in to the COVID-19 programme. That has all changed with the change of administration in early August. Dr. Frank Anthony has limited time to interact with the public on so many health issues as he tries to control the spread of the virus that has been taking a growing toll on people. His performance is rated as very good. Overall, the President and his ministers, the Vice-President and Prime Minister have earned the respect and admiration of the public. They are worthy of commendation. Yours sincerely, Dr. Vishnu Bisram
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Guidelines for HIV drug PrEP coming soon –– talks to begin on transgender medicine
MINISTER of Health, Dr. Frank Anthony, has announced that guidelines are coming for the use of HIV drug Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The drug is for people who do not have HIV but who are at very high risk of getting HIV. The pill, to prevent HIV is taken daily. On Friday, Minister Anthony told DPI for World AIDS Day 2020, the Ministry of
Health plans to introduce a more comprehensive guideline for use of the drug. “The Ministry would shortly release guidelines pertaining to that, and for those persons who would be eligible for PrEP to ensure a proper roll out. We believe that with a comprehensive programme for PrEP, we can prevent many infections from happening. It is estimated that we have a lot of
new infections and PrEP is one way that we can reduce new infections for HIV.” Minister Anthony said a partial programme is already in place for several ‘discordant couples.’ A discordant couple is a pair of long-term sexual partners where one has a sexually transmitted infection and the other does not. Dr. Anthony said this programme would be expanded.
“We want to expand to ensure anyone who is at risk for HIV would have access, so that’s a new introduction, a new thing that we want to do. We will be partnering with a number of clinics across the country to ensure this happens, partnering with a number of persons and NGOs who would normally offer care of persons at risk and persons who have HIV.”
Minister of Health, Dr Frank Anthony The Ministry will also begin the discussion on improving transgender medicine. “We are planning a set of webinars with persons who have been affected by HIV, and those webinars include looking at transgender medicine, because that’s a need; we do have a number of transgender persons who are HIV positive and we need to have more special-
ised care for those persons who need that particular type of care,” he said. World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1. The day has been dedicated since 1988 for raising awareness about the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of the HIV infection and for mourning those who died of the disease.
Min. Benn hands over boat to Leguan/Wakenaam CPG MINISTER of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, on Saturday, handed over a boat to the Wakenaam and Leguan Community Policing Group (CPG). This was done at the Ruimveldt Police Station. Minister Benn said the boat will strengthen the capacity of the CPG to effectively undertake their duties, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI). He said it would “reinvigorate community safety, enhance security, reduce tensions and improve confidence on all sides.” The boat, powered by a 40-horsepower engine will be used to traverse through Leguan and Wakenaam in the Essequibo Islands-West Demerara region (Region Three). The Minister noted that the CPGs are the link between communities and the police. It was also highlighted that additional resources will be provided to improve
community security across the country. Earlier this month, the Ministry of Home Affairs restructured and relaunched CPGs with a focus to rebuild, boost its membership and restore trust within communities to prevent crime. During the launch, Minister Benn said “the promoting of safe communities and neighbourhoods can only come through enabling and rebuilding of community trust and confidence through a system of volunteerism, using law abiding citizens to bolster and aid the lawful, professional and human rights embracing efforts of Guyana Police Force.” There are 166 CPGs with 2,903 members which represents a decline in groups by 20 per cent, and about a 40 per cent decline in membership. Minister Benn said the goal is to increase membership to 5,000 countrywide.
Minister of Home Affairs, Robeson Benn, hands over boat to Leguan/Wakenaam CPG
36 new labour, safety officers to be trained MINISTER of Labour Joseph Hamilton has disclosed that the Ministry of Labour will be training 18 new labour officers and 18 new Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) officers in 2021. The move by the ministry comes as Minister Hamilton called on employers and their employees to work collaboratively to promote a more efficient and safe working environment. Minister Hamilton stated that since he took office in August, there have been reports of seven workplace-related deaths. He highlighted that while five of the deaths occurred at mining operations, two of them occurred in Georgetown, which he believes could have been prevented. “Just in Georgetown we have to deal with incidents of people losing their lives on the job. People are up on four-storey buildings
and guys are up there with no harness, no safety hats, no safety boots, they’re barefoot or in slippers; they are walking on a 2x4 plank and all sorts of things,” said Hamilton. On November 9, 2020, a 29-year-old sanitation worker fell from the fourth storey of the new infectious diseases hospital at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara. The man was at the time using a freight lift, which is only intended for transporting food and laundry at the facility, when it collapsed, causing him fatal injuries. Minister Hamilton further stated that while the ministry lacks some senior personnel to carry out key labour and OSH functions, qualified persons are currently being sought. He stated, however, that while those persons are being sought, the process of training labour and OSH officers will commence in 2021.
“We have to have the bodies, we have missing senior persons; we have to find the qualified persons and bring them into the system. We don’t have enough labour officers and that is why I have been making the point that we are attempting to ensure that in every region we can have at least two labour officers and that is what we are working towards, and that is part of the engagements we had with the Regional Democratic Council. “Also, we hope to have in every region two health and safety officers to deal with those matters,” Hamilton explained. He added that the ministry, in an effort to promote further efficiency, has taken the decision to divide Georgetown into three sections so as to ensure that labour and OSH officers in the region have a smaller area of focus, so that closer attention can be paid to issues that may arise.
Additionally, Minister Hamilton disclosed that the ministry intends to implement public education programmes to engage both employer and employees on workplace labour and safety practices. “We plan to do a robust public relations programme in the new year to alert people to the dangers surrounding safety matters; we have to speak to both employers and employees because in engagement with [the] private sector some of them have said when they buy the gear the guys don’t want to wear it; they say the boots too heavy the vest got them too hot and all these things, so we plan, at the level of labour and OSA, to do robust public relations campaigns to inform people about issues of labour and occupational safety and health that are impacting work environments,” the labour minister said.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Labour Min. to issue order to increase private sector minimum wage MINISTER of Labour, Joseph Hamilton, will soon be issuing an order to increase the private sector minimum to $60,000. Speaking at a press briefing on Friday last, Minister Hamilton explained that under the former A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) administration, a tripartite committee was convened
to discuss the issue of increasing the minimum wage in the private sector. However, meetings of that tripartite committee were stalled and so, a decision was taken by the new People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) administration to re-establish a new committee which will immediately continue the discussion on the proposed $60,000 increase, the Department of Public
Information (DPI) reported. The new committee will include representatives from the relevant unions, the Private Sector Commission, the Guyana Manufacturing Service Association, and all the Chambers of Commerce. Correspondence was sent to the respective organisations, which have since responded naming their representatives for
the tripartite committee, Minister Hamilton said. “Once that is sanctioned, hopefully next week, at the highest level of government, I will [hold] a meeting to discuss the matter… because, as I understand it, no one has an objection to the raising of the minimum wage and I have had discussions with all the sides.” However, the private sector has raised the issue
of the COVID-19 pandemic and its negative impact on businesses. “So, I have an understanding about that but I can assure you that not so long from now, I will issue an order regarding the minimum wage rise to $60,000,” Minister Hamilton assured. The private sector minimum wage has not increased since 2017 when it was raised from an hour-
Minister of Labour, Joseph Hamilton ly rate of $202 to $255, taking the monthly wage from $35,000 to $44,200. The minimum wage in the public sector currently stands at $70,000.
AG addresses concerns of citizens at weekly meeting PLEDGING his commitment to the people of Guyana, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, conducts a weekly grassroots exercise known as ‘taking government to the people’, in an effort to address issues affecting citizens. The exercise is conducted every Saturday, at Annandale, East Coast Demerara, from 10:00hrs to 12:00hrs and has been ongoing since Septem-
ber 2020. When the Sunday Chronicle visited the forum on Saturday, there were over 150 persons in attendance, hailing from Essequibo to Berbice. They had the opportunity to voice their concerns pertaining to a wide range of issues they face. Nandlall addressed the concerns by having one-on-one discussions with the aggrieved parties, and for issues not within his ministerial
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall meets a group of fishermen on Saturday
Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, interacts with two citizens
portfolio he recommended the relevant ministry to the citizens and would contact the subject minister to make sure the matter is dealt with. A group of 20 fishermen, from Enmore, East Coast Demerara were present at the event on Saturday; they explained that the channel at Enmore, East Coast Demerara was blocked and their boats were unable to moor. Nandlall informed the group that it was a matter for the Minister of Agriculture, Zulfikar Mustapha, who meets with members of the public every Friday at his ministry. Nandlall took the contact information of the group and passed on same to the Minister of Agriculture.
“Taking government to the people is a campaign promise by the PPP/C and it has always been the style of politics of the party since Jagan. The tradition was continued by Bharrat Jagdeo. He took his entire cabinet to the people and now we are back in government we will continue it,” Nandlall told the Sunday Chronicle. He urged Guyanese, regardless of their political affiliation, to participate in the forum every Saturday. The initiative is expected to be rolled out across the country, so that persons from remote areas would not have to travel long distances to meet a government minister
Relief hampers distributed to Orealla/ Siparuta THE Civil Defence Commission (CDC), on Saturday, distributed over 335 food hampers, and cleaning hampers, along with 720 bottles of vitamin C tonic to the Deputy Toshao of Orealla and Siparuta, Randy Herman. Herman expressed gratitude on behalf of all the villagers and councillors to the CDC for what he sees as “a timely assistance” since the communities face an uphill battle to return to a COVID-free status, the Department of Public Information (DPI)
reported. Orealla and its satellite village, Siparuta, located in East Berbice-Corentyne (Region Six), 33 miles South of Crabwood Creek in the Corentyne River – has recently experienced a surge in COVID-19 infections, which has led to a complete lockdown of the villages. The COVID-19 task force, the Ministries of Health and Amerindian Affairs and the CDC are collaborating to stem the spread and provide relief to the residents. Also on hand to collect the
supplies were Management Development Officer, John Ramsingh and Liaison Officer, Eyon Boyal of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs; and Village Councillor, Shondalene Russel. Captain Hubern Collins of the CDC noted that the government agency continues to lead the COVID-19 relief response to vulnerable citizens across Guyana. He appealed for continued observation of the COVID-19 protocols while calling for increased vigilance and surveillance to stem the surge.
Residents offload the relief hampers for distribution
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Scenes from GDF Paratrooping THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF), in observance of its 55th anniversary, held a paratrooping display near its Base Camp Ayanganna in Georgetown, on Saturday (Alva Solomon photos)
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Politics & Society Forum
A Momentous Moment
ON December 21, 2018, Charrandass Persaud, a backbencher in the APNU/AFC coalition government, delivered a bombshell when he voted with the then PPP/C opposition on a No-Confidence Motion (NCM) against his sitting government. What happened next resembled a heretofore scene of sheer pandemonium revealing that the government of the day had fallen. Within hours, the government accepted the NCM and indicated that it would hold fresh elections in ninety days as mandated by Guyana’s constitution. A slew of reports emerged such as the New York Times’ Guyana’s Government Falls in No-Confidence Vote confirming that the government had indeed taken an unexpected nosedive from “grace to gutter.” The government, we learned, declared its intention to acquiesce to the demands of the NCM. Meanwhile, Persaud reiterated that his motive was based on his conscience, a declaration that was challenged immediately by a host of inchoate theories that Persaud was in cahoots with the opposition. Then something strange happened. From the casket of despair and disappointment, the
government declared that it would challenge the NCM in court on its interpretation as to what constituted an absolute majority in the National Assembly. The APNU/AFC coalition upheld the position that PPP/C needed not one but two extra votes for the motion to be successful. The argument was that half of 65 was 32.5, but since there could be no half vote, the figure would be rounded to 33 and that an absolute majority could only be possible from 34 votes. Upon learning of this bizarre argument, some individuals became angry, while others were chortling. Some were egging the government on to hold on to power with the hope of castling their access to the political feeding trough. Notwithstanding these dynamics and the flipped position of the caretaker status government, the legal battles that ensued to justify that the NCM was invalid, were defeated and dismissed by Guyana’s High Court and the Caribbean Court of Justice, Guyana’s final or apex court. The rest is now a history of historical pappy shows. Perhaps every Guyanese is familiar with the NCM and its associated shenanigans and might ask: why even entertain an event that
occurred two years ago? I find and feel no great pleasure in writing about the NCM. I am paying attention to the NCM not to provide an antechamber to criticize a once “rising” administration but rather to contextualize and historicise it as an interesting moment in its own right. I do not think I am off, although some may scoff at me for rubbing new salt in an old wound. When the modern history of Guyana is written, however, the events of the NCM should be analyzed indepth and not be relegated to passing notes. I suppose there are many lessons to be learned from the NCM. One lesson is that power is dispensable not only at polling stations but also through a NCM in Parliament, sometimes requiring just a single vote. The APNU/AFC coalition government slipped into power with a slim majority but paid little heed to its fragile coalition status. The administration, in Guyanese local parlance, was simply power-drunk, unloading undeserved benefits such as salary increases onto itself while practically ignoring the masses. Do you remember the closing of the sugar estates without any alternative plans? This reckless rut was happening in an atmosphere
Professor Lomarsh Roopnarine
when the political appointees/recipients of handouts had gone past their political shelflives and outlived their usefulness. The leadership was so confident in bluffing the citizenry with faux so much so that it became unphased by what William Shakespeare said in Hamlet, “Something stinks in Denmark.” Au contraire, the administration gravitated to the following Chinese proverb, “Heaven is high, and the Emperor is far away” allowing its absolute hierarchy free rein while the head honcho had limited knowledge as to what was going on in his flock of chieftains. What is even more disturbing is that these behaviours had not only damaged the practice of just politics in unprecedented and irreparable ways but to bring these individuals - who want to return to power - to any sort of clean and uncaged image would require more than what the most erudite psychologist can offer. I am confident that Guyanese will remember the No-Confidence Motion that occurred on December 21, 2018, and the APNU/AFC coalition’s determination to dodge and defy it. (lomarsh.roopnarine@ jsums.edu).
Understanding Energy
What does a Biden administration mean for Guyana?
AFTER a contentious election earlier this month, former Vice President, Joe Biden, is now recognized as the next president of the United States. The Biden administration has already announced that it will focus on the environment by reducing U.S. emissions and reintroducing many rules and regulations rolled back during the Trump Administration. This shift could have substantial impacts on global energy markets and could even prove beneficial to countries like Guyana. As he takes office, Biden is likely to use Executive Orders, or unilateral decrees to change the status quo, to enact restrictions on fossil fuel activity. He has already said that he plans to implement new restrictions on hydraulic fracturing (fracking) in the United States, which could curb the rapid growth of U.S. shale oil exports. These exports have grabbed a significant share of the global market over the past decade, leading to lower oil and natural gas prices. Although the fracking process is not used offshore Guyana, the practice, combined with horizontal drilling, has largely led to the emergence of the United States as one
of the largest oil suppliers. Biden has vowed to join or re-join various international treaties, like the Paris Agreement, a global response to the threat of climate change through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Guyana is already a signatory to the Paris accord and even with our drilling activity, we remain within our commitments. But, for the U.S., rejoining could lead to additional restrictions on new domestic fossil fuel production. Biden is also viewed as likely to impose strong new limits on offshore drilling in areas like the Arctic and Atlantic coasts. The shift towards a more heavily regulated environment in the U.S. is likely to have significant impacts on the global oil industry and could push companies to invest elsewhere. Many oil companies, majors and smaller players alike, have invested heavily in U.S. fracking projects over the past few years, but new restrictions on land leasing could push those investment dollars towards other markets like Guyana. New restrictions on fracking could also tighten future oil and gas supplies, resulting
in higher prices and higher demand for Guyana’s oil. The same goes for further production declines in Venezuela and Mexico, which are both grappling with an array of problems in the near term. Analysis has shown that Guyana’s contract stands up well in a variety of price situations, but obviously, higher oil prices would result in substantially more revenue for the country. In contrast to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela, Guyana boasts high quality “light and sweet” crude oil. As the globe moves toward tougher environmental regulations, demand for this type of oil is increasing since its relative purity makes it easier and less energy intensive to extract, refine and process. This shift has already reduced investor interest in areas like Canada’s tar sands, where heavy oil requires more energy to extract and produces more toxic byproducts. Light and sweet crude wins a higher price on the international market because of this. Global demand for high quality oil will continue to increase over the next few decades as the industry works to fit into evolving, more environmentally friendly trends. As analysts have noted, demand for
this oil is likely to also be driven up further by any global emissions reduction policies, which would make it harder for heavier and more costly oil to compete. Many companies like BP and Shell are in the process of orienting their production towards the lower cost, lower emission sources of oil that are likely to be less impacted by future policy shifts. The government appears aware of this opportunity for Guyana. Vice President Jagdeo has already stated that Guyana “wants to accelerate production” and develop its resources quickly as the country does not have the time to spare. According to estimates from the Inter-American Development Bank, peak global oil demand could occur as soon as the next ten to fifteen years. That means Guyana’s window of opportunity is closing. Guyana’s relatively cheaper, more environmentally friendly-to-produce oil coupled with the government’s push to produce oil in a timely manner are critical to making the most of that chance while it’s here.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
The Science of COVID-19
COVID-19 and Pregnancy (Part I) SINCE the first report (December 2019) of the COVID-19, the number of confirmed cases and associated mortality and morbidity has increased rapidly. Pregnant women are considered a highrisk group because of concerns about the effects of COVID -19 on them during and after pregnancy and on their neonate. Due to changes in their bodies and immune systems, we know that pregnant women can be badly affected by some respiratory infections. The overall risk of COVID-19 to pregnant women is low. However, pregnancy increases the risk for severe illness with COVID-19. Pregnant women who have COVID-19 appear more likely to develop respiratory complications requiring intensive care than women who aren’t pregnant.
Pregnant women or recently pregnant women who are older, overweight, and have pre-existing medical conditions such as hypertension and diabetes seem to have an increased risk of developing severe COVID-19. LATEST RESEARCH New research findings published in the September 2020 edition of the BMJ help to shed light on the risks of COVID-19 for pregnant women and their babies. The paper suggests that pregnant women seen with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are less likely to experience a fever or muscle pain, but if they develop severe disease, they are more likely to need intensive care than non-pregnant women with COVID-19. There is currently no data to suggest increased risk of miscarriage or early
pregnancy loss in relation to COVID-19. It isn’t yet known how frequently COVID-19 causes problems during pregnancy or affects the health of the baby after birth. Some research suggests that pregnant women with COVID-19 are more likely to have a premature birth and their babies are more likely to be admitted to a neonatal unit. MOTHER TO CHILD TRANSMISSION It is still not known for sure if a pregnant woman with COVID-19 can pass the virus to her fetus or baby during pregnancy or delivery. Early studies indicated no evidence for vertical transmission of COVID-19 from mother to child in late pregnancy, but more recent reports indicate that vertical transmission may
occur in some cases. To date, the active virus has not been found in samples of fluid around the baby in the womb or breast milk. Community efforts to control the spread of the COVID-19 virus might affect your access to routine prenatal care. It is strongly advised that antenatal and postnatal care should be regarded as essential, and that pregnant women will continue to need at least as much support, advice, care and guidance in relation to pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood as before. It is recommended that in-person appointments be deferred by seven days after the start of symptoms of COVID-19 or 14 days if another person in the household has symptoms. Where in-person appointments are required, pregnant patients with symptoms or confirmed COVID-19 who require
obstetric care are advised to notify the hospital or clinic before they arrive in order for infection control to be put in place. REMOTE APPOINTMENTS To minimize the risk of infection, some appointments may be conducted remotely via teleconferencing or video conferencing, where possible. This is being done especially for those in the early stages of low risk pregnancy by the Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Department of the Ministry of Health in several regions. Talk to your healthcare provider about whether the use of virtual prenatal care is an option for you, if it’s available in your area, and how it works. Ask your healthcare provider if there are any tools that might be helpful to have at home, such as a blood pressure monitor. To make the most of any virtual visits, prepare a list of questions ahead of time and take detailed notes during the visit. If you have certain high-risk conditions during pregnancy, virtual visits might not be an option. Ask your health-care provider about how your care
Dr. Narine Singh Chief Medical Officer might be affected. Contact your health-care provider right away if you have COVID-19 symptoms or if you’ve been exposed to someone with COVID-19. It’s recommended that you are tested for the virus that causes COVID-19, if testing supplies are available. Call your health-care provider ahead of time to tell him or her about your symptoms and possible exposure before going to your appointment. I f y o u have COVID-19 and are pregnant, your treatment will be aimed at relieving symptoms and may include getting plenty of fluids and rest, as well as using medication to reduce fever, relieve pain or lessen coughing. If you’re very ill, you may need to be treated in the hospital In Part II next week, we will look at labour and delivery, breastfeeding, post-partum guidance and safe medical treatment to conclude this topic. Do not miss the conclusion! This article is submitted as part of the Ministry of Health’s COVID-19 public information and education programme. For questions, email ministersecretaryhealth@ gmail.com.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
$250M in road upgrades for Tuschen/Zeelugt By Jared Liddell REHABILITIVE works are set to commence on four major roads in the Tuschen Housing Scheme on the East Bank of Essequibo this weekend, while $65M in works will also be spent to upgrade the roads in Zeelugt, the neighbouring village. This was disclosed by Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, during a visit to the communities on Saturday. The contracts for Tuschen, worth $185M, were awarded for works to be done on the Tuschen perimeter road; Light Street, Tuschen; Pharmacy Street and Sheriff Street, Tuschen. The roads stretch from the main access road and run straight through the scheme, from north to south. Minister Indar disclosed that since taking office, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) government conducted sur-
veys to assess the state of the roads in the country and has identified some of them for immediate works and rehabilitation. He stated that the residents of Tuschen have long been plagued with deplorable roads that make it difficult for them to travel in and around the community. Minister Indar further stated that the works, once completed, would afford residents relief, since they would be able to move around the community during rainy seasons without any difficulty. According to Indar, the residents would no longer be faced with added costs of unnecessary vehicular repairs due to the state of the roads. The roads that are being rehabilitated lead to supermarkets, pharmacies and even to the community’s health centre. Minister Indar noted that persons having to use the road to access the health centre should have a smoother and easier path of seeking medical help. “Imagine you’re sick and you’re getting
The state of one of the access roads at Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo
Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, Deodat Indar, along with a team assessing the deplorable state of the roads at Tuschen on Saturday a stroke or you’re getting a heart attack, or you’re pregnant and you’re trying to get to the health centre, with all of the ups and downs, it could worsen your condition by the time you get there; it’s very unnerving, no one seeking medical attention should have to go through that,” said Minister Indar. The minister issued a special appeal to residents, especially truck drivers, to use the road with care once it is rehabilitated. “I have observed that the drivers of big trucks break up the road and drive without any conscience; sometimes they park on the parapet so they break the end of the road. And once the end and the shoulders start to break, the water gets into the bedrock and the road starts sinking, and that’s how the roads keep getting worse,” Minister Indar explained. He further indicated that the ministry
will also be grubbing, grading and shaping several other streets in the community, so as to further alleviate the suffering of the residents. Regional Chairman, Inshaan Sheik Ayube said the upgrade is “timely.” “I want to tell you that for the last five years no works was [sic] done in this area. I think it is a good initiative that the government and Minister Indar and his ministry has [sic] taken to ensure that services reach the residents in terms of better roads. The residents deserve better than they were forced to endure for so long, so I am happy that the government is moving in this direction,” the regional chairman said. Meanwhile, over in Zeelugt North, West Coast Demerara, four streets will also be rehabilitated: Peter Street; Mandir Street; Short Street; and Bahdoor Street.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
UG graduate runs thriving business after failing to land a job By Jeune Bailey Van Keric IT is rare nowadays to find people who know such techniques as needlework and food preservation, but less thant wo generations ago, it would have been commonplace for every person to learn. Sewing is one of those forgotten traditions. It was while she was awaiting a response from her many job applications that Shumaine Thompson, 27, of St Ann Street, New Amsterdam, Region Six, a graduate of the University of Guyana (UG) started to develop her love for sewing by looking at various YouTube videos. Thereafter, she bought her first sewing machine but experienced waves of trial and error. Nevertheless, she was not daunted by her mistakes and persisted until the title of being the youngest seamstress in New Amsterdam was bestowed upon her. Thompson, who graduated from UG with a Diploma in Marketing (distinction), had previously attended Vryman’s Erven Secondary School, a learning institution which is not held in high regard in Region Six. “To say I was disappointed with a placement there was an understatement. But I studied hard as I wanted to be placed at another school. But the harder I tried, the more often I was rejected,” she told the Guyana Chronicle.
Shumaine Thompson at work
A design by Shumaine Thompson
At the conclusion of her secondary school years, she earned seven subjects at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination. Thompson soon after earned a Diploma in Commerce from the New Amsterdam Technical Institute. “So, after all this, I sent out several applications for a job, preferably business- oriented. And, so there I was browsing through YouTube videos on sewing. After purchasing my first machine, I sewed and wore my products and persons fell in love with the clothing line, and I developed a passion. So, after two years of trial and error, I started the business. But I later learnt that persons have various body type and so I had to learn to master that. However, my customers kept coming and its five years now and they still keep coming. I so happy because hard work and dedication do pay off,” chuckled Thompson. Most purchased garments are sewn for a
general body type and the style is duplicated hundreds of times over. The tailoring of garments by a professional, though usually costly, is a rewarding exercise. Also, the greatest barrier to sewing is the time committed to the work compared to buying a dress online which takes a few seconds. However, the tailored garment will be one of a kind designed just for the user. This requires a lot of patience and Thompson, who hails from a humble background, is always prepared to make full use of the opportunities that come her way. The young seamstress who lost her mother as a teenager, grew up in a sibling- headed household and is very grateful for their support. The proud owner of “Shumaine Custom Made”, Thompson looks forward to opening a designing school where fellow youths can learn a skill and become gainfully employed.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
28 new COVID-19 cases recorded
GUYANA continues to record a rise in the number of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) cases, with recent statistics showing that the country recorded 28 new cases within the past 24 hours. The new cases were recorded in Regions One (Barima-Waini), one case; Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), one case; Four (Demerara-Mahaica), seven cases; Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), five cases; and Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), 14 cases. Health authorities have so far tested 29,521 persons, with 24,183 being negative and 5,338 positive. Of the positive cases,
4,317 persons have recovered and 149 persons have lost their lives. The remaining cases include 87 persons in institutional isolation, 782 in home isolation and three in the COVID-19 Intensive Care Unit (ICU). According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Most people who fall sick with COVID-19 will experience mild to moderate symptoms and recover without special treatment. The WHO had said that 81 per cent of persons who contracted COVID-19 will have
Albouystown businessman arrested with unlicenced firearm A BUSINESSMAN was arrested Saturday and taken to the Ruimveldt Police Station after police found an unlicenced 9mm Taurus pistol with 16 live matching rounds resting on top of a barrel cover in his bedroom. The suspect, Damein Naughton, 36, of James and Garnette St. Albouystown, Georgetown was told of the offence and cautioned by the police before being taken into custody.
The firearm and ammunition seized by police
mild symptoms, while 14 per cent will have severe symptoms and five per cent will need intensive care. But the COVID-19 disease has proven to be a “real killer”, especially in cases involving persons who have co-morbidities such as diabetes and hypertension, among others. Persons are encouraged to take extra precaution because there is no approved cure or specific treatment for the disease. Guyanese
were also reminded to observe the protocols established in the COVID-19 emergency measures. Anyone who displays any of the symptoms associated with COVID-19, or needs any additional information, can contact the COVID-19 Emergency numbers – 231 1166, 226 7480 or 624 6674 immediately – or visit the ministry’s website at www. health.gov.gy.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
A family of lawyers … young Essequibian admitted to the Bar HAILING from a family of lawyers, 23- year-old, Twedale Marks, of Queenstown Village, Essequibo Coast, breathed a sigh of relief, when she was admitted to the Bar to practise law in Guyana. Her petition was presented by her sister, attorney-at-;law, Tracy Marks, before Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George-Wiltshire, C.C.H, S.C. at the Demerara High Court, on Thursday. Twedale described her journey as pressuring, as her family was vigilant of her throughout. “I had four other relatives who were well established in the legal profession and I was expected to do just as well or even better than them,” she explained. Upon graduating the best Arts student at the Anna Regina (Multilateral) Secondary in 2014, and with no where to stay in Georgetown, Twedale
Newly appointed attorney, Twedale Marks proceeded to President’s College to commence her Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) studies
and to utilise the dormitory facility offered. There, she was the Best Graduating Law Student, and was granted the Toussaint Boyce Award. She then made her way to the University of Guyana, where she graduated within the top 10 of the class of 2018 and was offered a place at the Hugh Wooding Law School. Her journey, however, was not without challenges as she was constantly in and out of the hospital during the course of her studies. Twedale explained that becoming an attorney was not her first choice; it is her ultimate dream to become a Diplomat. “I want to make an impact on the regional and international level. I want to build international relations between Guyana and her regional and international allies,” she explained. However, by observing
the “drive and discipline” of her cousins and sister, she was committed to following in their footsteps and to pursue law which will inevitably contribute to her getting one step closer to her dream. “I know many may ask, but why didn’t you do international relations. I do plan on taking it up in the future but I believe that law was going to set a good foundation for me and that I would be able to add value with a legal background,” she said. Recognising a shortage of attorneys to represent the people of Essequibo, the young attorney is committed to serving her county. “There aren’t enough attorneys on the coast to address the legal problems that many Essequibians are facing; as a result Essequibians travel to Georgetown to seek out an attorney; I believe this is a problem that I can solve by being present and being there for my fellow Essequibians,” she said. She spends her free time
Twedale Marks and her sister, attorney-at-law, Tracy Marks volunteering with VOICE because I come from a famGuyana, a not for profit or- ily of excellence and I was ganisation which seeks to always reminded that no improve children’s speech matter what I decided to do and writing skills. in life, I should give it my The Chief Justice (ag) best,” Twedale explained. tasked the young attorney Being daughter of a with emulating the qualities housewife and a mechanic, of her predecessors, and to she expressed her heartfelt execute her oath with excel- gratitude towards her parlence, a word which resonat- ents and extended family ed with her. that played a role and con“This resonated with me tributed to her success.
Girl, 14, gives birth after allegedly raped by stepfather RESIDENTS in an East Berbice Corentyne village are enraged over the lackadaisical way in which the authorities are handling an alleged rape case involving a 14-year-old girl who gave birth on Saturday morning. The child, who suffers from a hearing disability, had claimed that she was raped by her step-father. Even though a report was made to the police, the stepfather was never arrested. A relative explained that the teenager was left alone with the stepfather earlier this year during which he allegedly raped her while he was under the influence of alcohol. The Sunday Chronicle understands that the child told her mother about the alleged rape but the mother did not believe her; instead, the mother and the stepfather gave her a sound thrashing. The child was eventually sent to live with a relative three weeks ago; she refused to eat and the relative took her to a nearby Health Centre where the medical team revealed she was 33 weeks and five days pregnant. “When the mother bring her, she said the child and she stepfather keep
getting problems and if me can keep she for a little while,” the relative said. According to the relative, she did not believe when the doctors told her the teenager was pregnant. “I did not believe because she belly just swell a little and I thought they were wrong so I carry her to do an ultrasound and they confirm that she was 33 weeks pregnant.” The relative immediately confronted the mother who also denied that the child was pregnant. “She (the victim) tell she big sister since she understand her and she (the sister) explained to me and the mother what happened but them keep saying the child is lying and beat she again. So I carry her to the probation officer and they are investigating but said they will have to do a blood test when the child born,” the relative noted. Residents and relatives are angry that the suspect is yet to be arrested and are calling on the authorities to act swiftly so that justice can be served. Meanwhile, when contacted, a senior police officer said he was unaware of the matter.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Healthcare workers grateful but not entirely satisfied with bonus
–– GPSU laments inadequate consultation By Vishani Ragobeer HEALTHCARE workers are grateful for the yearend bonus announced recently by President Irfaan Ali, but highlighted that they are not wholly satisfied with only two-week’s worth. “I’m happy that at least he is giving something but I think a month tax-free would have been better,” highlighted Jeanel Lewis, a nurse with the Cardiology Unit of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). Lewis explained that though she is working in an at-risk environment and interacting with many persons who may be infected with the COVID-19 virus, she is not benefitting from the risk-allowance. “Healthcare professionals will get two weeks equivalent bonus pay before the end
of the year,” President Ali said, during his remarks at a ceremony to initiate the retrofitting of the Leonora Diagnostic Hospital, on Thursday. This bonus, he explained, will be for all health workers who, in this case, will be classified as frontline workers. Another concern raised by Lewis was what measures or relief will be put in place in the New Year to recognise and encourage the healthcare workers who will have to continue working amidst a pandemic. Since March of this year, healthcare workers in Guyana have been grappling with the COVID-19 pandemic. The government, in the recent 2020 Emergency Budget, allocated some $150 million for frontline health workers in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic, amidst their calls for an equi-
table working wage, as well as a risk allowance for the ‘extraordinary’ job they have been doing on a daily basis. Cardiac sonographer, Ramona Chanderballi also said, “I was surprised that we are getting a bonus but it’s very welcomed.” Chanderballi, who works in medical imaging, was also elated that the President acknowledged that all healthcare workers are frontline workers. “He’s probably one of the few Heads of States to have done that and reward all healthcare workers across the board since the pandemic started,” she emphasised. A few other healthcare workers indicated their pleasure for this as well. Another nurse with the GPHC, Ishaku Zechriah, told the Department of Information (DPI), “I think it is encouraging, particularly [since] there has
McDoom resident arrested with marijuana, tobacco leaves A 29-year-old resident of Middle Street, McDoom, East Bank Demerara, was arrested on Friday after marijuana and tobacco leaves were found while he was a passenger in a truck in CuyuniMazaruni, Region Seven. The vehicle he was travelling in was stopped at the Sherima Police Outpost located at 14 Miles Issano, in Region seven, and a search of the truck’s tray resulted in the discovery of a bulky plastic parcel. When opened, police said it con-
tained two plastic parcels which had a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis, along with some tobacco leaves. The police showed the suspect the narcotics and he was cautioned of the offence and later admitted ownership of the marijuana and tobacco leaves. The driver and occupants of the vehicle were then escorted to the Bartica Police Station and are in police custody assisting with the investigation.
The marijuana and tobacco leaves that were found by police
Registered Nurse at the Cardiology unit of the GPHC, Jeanel Lewis
Registered GPHC nurse, Ishaku Zechriah (DPI photo)
Employee Assistant Officer at the GPHC, Lancelyn Lawrence
been multiple agitation to compensate for the increased workload and risks associated with the pandemic. I think the President’s response is appropriate.” Employee Assistant Officer at the GPHC, Lancelyn Lawrence, said, “I’m happy to know that the President is thinking about the healthcare workers.” Others expressed stronger dissatisfaction. One nurse in Linden, who wished to remain anonymous, indicated that she was not satisfied with the “one-time” payment and called for a risk-allowance to be paid. She simply described this bonus as “not good enough”.
INADEQUATE CONSULTATION The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), on the other hand, labelled the President’s announcement of the bonus as “arbitrary”, given that the decision was made without the full input of the union. In September, many healthcare workers staged protests in order to be reclassified as frontline workers and to receive compensation and benefits due to the service they were providing amidst the pandemic. The GPSU and the government have been negotiating these concerns, but no definitive, mutually agreed upon decision has been reported as yet.
Through a statement issued to the media, the GPSU highlighted the challenges the workers have been facing since March and noted that the pandemic has implications which will continue for a while. This, the GPSU reasoned, means that the risk faced by workers will endure for some time. “Mr. President, your considered reward of a one off two weeks’ pay for these workers is disheartening under these circumstances,” the statement read, and highlighted that a bonus is no substitute for a risk allowance. Moreover, the GPSU said that the bonus provided should have been at least one month’s tax free salary.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
New lawyer aims to help ‘real people with real issues’ FILLED with an innate desire to help persons through the legal field, 27-year-old Khawn Rodney was admitted to the bar on November 26, after completing his studies at the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) earlier this year. Rodney’s petition was presented by attorney-at-law, Nikhil Ramkarran to Justice Fidela Corbin-Lincoln. In a recent interview with the Guyana Chronicle, he expressed how happy he was to complete his legal studies and be an attorney-at-law. But Rodney was not always intent on pursuing studies in the legal field. In fact, he was a student of the sciences all through high school at the Mae’s Secondary and up until ‘A’ Levels at the School of the Nations. His aim was to become a
Attorney-at-law, Khawn Rodney medical doctor. Somewhere along his journey though, he decided that this was not the field he wanted to pursue, and he began pursuing law. “Despite not having a passion for law at the said time, what I do know is
whatever I set out to do, I put my best foot forward and aim to do it to the best of my ability.” Rodney first studied sociology for one year at the University of Guyana (UG), before entering into the Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) programme. Upon completing his LL.B in 2018, and graduating in the top 25 of his class, he left to attend the HWLS in Trinidad and Tobago to read for his Legal Education Certificate (LEC). “The more I studied law over the years, my appreciation and passion grew for it as well,” the young lawyer said, adding later, “It felt good being a part of a cause to give back to the less fortunate as well, ensuring that they too have access to justice and are not precluded because of financial constraints.”
Khawn Rodney (second left) with his parents, Hector and Maple Rodney, and Justice Fidela Corbin-Lincoln (second right) after being admitted to the bar Rodney related that during and serve people.” to his success too. During his time at the HWLS, as a Apart from the legal stud- those turbulent times when Student-Attorney at the Legal ies and experiences he was Rodney felt as though he was Aid Clinic, he was able to exposed to, another highlight “succumbing” to the journey, assist “real clients with real is his experience living and his family believed in him and issues.” attending school in a foreign his friends provided him with He recalled working with country. much-needed support. single mothers who were “I was now independent Now that he is an attorfiling for maintenance with and got to experience the way ney-at-law, he offered some fathers and women who were of life in a foreign country. advice to any student who is victims of domestic violence This also opened up the op- considering a legal profession and went to the clinic seeking portunity for me to interact as well. legal aid to obtain restraining and learn about the cultures “Just how law students orders. of other law students from get their rewards, I think “Those were just some across the region. I am for- they should not shy away matters where you needed to tunate to now say that I have from their challenges but they act with a sense of urgency,” close friends across the region should embrace their chalhe reflected. now.” lenges also,” Rodney said. Though he acknowledged As with all things, how“When you overcome that his prior desire of be- ever, the journey was not challenges, inevitably, this coming a medical doctor was without challenges. Rodney builds character, you gain perhaps one of the ways he recalled that there were nu- knowledge and you gain skills believed he could help people, merous sleepless nights and which will allow you to be the time he has dedicated to breakdowns which he faced exemplary attorneys-at-law volunteering over the years is without the comfort of his in the future.” what led him to law. loved ones. Towards the end Beyond just law, Rod“Being of service to peo- of his LEC journey, too, the ney emphasised that once ple sparked that inner desire COVID-19 pandemic and its you learn how to persevere in me to serve people further,” ramifications took a toll on his through the challenges, you Rodney said. And this, he be- mental health. will be successful in any enlieves, is what he will endeav“Above all, perseverance deavour. our to continue throughout his was definitely a key attribute Currently, the attorcareer. one had to possess to success- ney-at-law is hoping to garRodney is not interested fully complete the final year ner as much court exposure in corporate law or serving at law school,” he said. as he possibly can, whether as an in-house counsel for Additionally, he shared it is working with the public companies. Instead, he said, that his family and friend legal sector or through pri“I want to work for the people support system was crucial vate firms.
Driver flees after crashing into pedestrian in Parika A PEDESTRIAN was killed Friday night after a speeding car crashed into a median on the Hydronie Public Road at Parika, East bank Essequibo (EBE), where the victim was standing. Dead is Kayum Alie of Bushy Park Squatting Area, EBE. Police said that the accident occurred about 21:55h and they are on the hunt for the driver who fled the scene. Police investigations revealed that the car was proceeding south along the western driveway at a fast rate of speed, when the driver lost control and collided with the pedestrian, who was standing by the median waiting to cross the road. Upon impact, the car turned turtle and then collided with a nearby shop, which
is situated on the western side of the carriageway. As a result of the collision, the pedestrian received injuries about his head and body; the driver then exited the car and made good his escape on foot. The pedestrian was then picked up by the police and taken to the Leonora Diagnostic Centre, where he was pronounced dead. The body is currently at the Ezekiel Funeral Parlour Mortuary awaiting autopsy. The car is, reportedly, owned by Sheldon Holder of Doctor Charles Scheme, East Bank Demerara and is currently lodged at the Leonora police station.
SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Observing National Disability Week …
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PWDs hopeful of new measures for accessibility By Telesha Ramnarine
THE disability community here in Guyana is looking forward to the implementation of a number of new measures that could make their lives easier, such as audible signals at traffic lights and curb cuts at the end of sidewalks. Those are just two of the possibilities that are on stream for persons with visual disabilities and those who may be using a wheelchair. They emanated from talks between the disability community and the Government of Guyana. The audible signals are linked to visual pedestrian signals and they advise people who are visually impaired when they can cross the intersection and in which direction. In some places, when pedestrians hear a “cuckoo” sound, they can cross in a north/south direction, while if they hear a “chirp,” they’ll know it means they can cross in an east/west direction. The discussions so far have been very fruitful to the point that persons with disabilities (PWDs) are now optimistic that their lives will soon change for the better, Programme Coordinator of the Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD), Ganesh Singh, has expressed. Speaking with the Sunday Chronicle, in the context of National Disability Week 2020 which will be observed from today (Sunday), Singh informed that since the new government took office, the disability community has met with several government ministers, including President Irfaan Ali, Vice President Bharrat Jagdeo, and the Office of the First Lady. “We are very optimistic with the government’s plans…and what we’re hearing is very positive and gives us a lot of reasons to be optimistic that, in the future, there will be a lot of changes in the lives of persons with disabilities,” Singh said. What the PWDs really want include a society that is more accessible, equitable and one that promotes their independence and produc-
tivity. “We would like to see more persons with disabilities employed, both in the public and private sectors. Many of them live in poverty because of the fact that they cannot get jobs; they have no financial independence and this is something major for PWDs.” Singh said they would also like to see buildings being erected with wheelchair access and the building codes being updated, and more so, enforced. “We had engagements with Public Works Minister, Juan Edghill, and he is working to get traffic lights at some of the busy intersections in Georgetown with the audible signals so that persons would know when to cross. We are also working with them [the authorities] to have some curb cuts at the end of sidewalks so that you can know when it’s the end of the sidewalk and you know it is a pedestrian crossing, and so on. We are working with his office to have measures in place to promote accessibility,” Singh explained. Disability rights activist, Theresa Pemberton, has been involved in the disability community since 2005 due to blind cricket and, from 2008, she joined the GCOPD. “I have seen much improvement over the years, especially in the areas of education and skills training,” she observed. However, she noted that a lot more needs to be done with regards to respect for PWDs and affording them equal rights. They must also be given the opportunity to achieve their full potential as a citizen, she said. Meanwhile, National Disability Week has been observed since 2007 and the week of activities is planned to surround International Day for Persons with Disabilities which is on December 3, a date designated by the United Nations since 1992. This year, the theme is, “Building Back Better: toward a disability-inclusive, accessible and sustainable post COVID-19 World,” and the Disability Community
Programme Coordinator of GCOPD, Ganesh Singh
here has planned a few virtual activities due to the need for physical distancing. A number of public service announcements will be produced which will be broadcast on various radio stations, and recorded messages which will be aired on two television programmes that the community will be having.
Awareness materials like T-shirts and brochures will also be distributed to the public and PWDs will be going on various programmes to talk about disability- related issues. The goal of the week of activities is really to raise awareness on the issues that affect PWDs, and what their rights are.
Disability Rights Activist, Theresa Pemberton
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Housing Minister ends land title wait for some L – system backlog to be addressed
MINISTER of Housing and Water, Collin Croal, on Friday, ended the wait for land titles for sever-
al Lethem, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region Nine) residents. The Minister and a team,
Minister of Housing and Water, Colin Croal, hands over a Certificate of Title to land to Esther Haniff
including Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA), Sherwyn Greaves, and Permanent Secretary, Andre Ally, visited the region to conduct the exercise. “You are a part of our front burner of dealing with regions … Sometimes when we speak to persons they think that we are just coastland-based but all citizens across our country are equally important,” Minister Croal was quoted as saying to the Lethem residents, according to the Department of Public Information (DPI). Some 557 of the 70,000 backlogged land applicants are from Region Nine. The Minister said this is an issue the CH&PA will be working to address in the near future, as well as strengthening the regional offices. Among the first to receive a title was, 25-year-
Minister of Housing and Water, Colin Croal, interacts with residents of Lethem (DPI photos) old mother of two, Esther Haniff. “Since the beginning of this year, they said it would take six months and now we’re at the 11th month,”
Hanif said. Nevertheless, she has revealed that she has big plans in the pipelines for herself and family. “Now that I have my
title, I would be able to go into the bank to get a loan to finish my house and build on it. […] Right now, I’m living in one of my mom’s houses so now I would be
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Lethem residents
Salesman shot in failed Corentyne robbery POLICE are on the hunt for two men who reportedly shot and attempted to rob employees attached to the Sunshine Supermarket at Chesney Front, East Berbice, Corentyne on Saturday. Injured is Lochan Matadeen, a salesman, who was shot in the region of his abdomen by masked men who escaped on a motorcycle. According to Ravin-
dra Hardyal, 32, another salesman, it was just after 16:00hrs when he was supervising the loading of some goods on to the truck when the two bandits accosted them. Hardyal, who was still visibly traumatised, said one of the bandits sported a helmet and brandished the gun; he took Matadeen to the back of the truck while the accomplice, who had
on a black face mask, held Hardyal at knifepoint. “Them just jump off the bike and the one with the helmet pull out a gun and carry Lochan to the back of the truck; the next one pull out a knife and hold me to the side. But he didn’t watching me, so I pull out a piece of wood that was on the truck side and lash he and try to run,” Hardyal told the Sunday Chronicle.
Ravindra Hardyal shows where the bullet grazed him
Lethem resident, Renta Paticio able to get a house for my children,” she said. Another recipient, Dion McLean, said that he has been waiting for about five years to receive his title. “I’m very happy to receive my title today. It was a long wait, but I’m very glad […] The main thing is that the wait is over and I’m very happy with the Government for providing me with this title,” he said. The 31-year-old taxi driver’s title is for land at New Culvert City, where he started construction after paying for the land. Renta Paticio was ecstatic. “When I got the call that I will be coming and receive
my title, I was so excited and now that I’m here, and I’m holding my title, I’m so excited that I will start constructing my house as soon as possible,” she told DPI. Paticio is a caregiver at the regional hospital. She is currently living in Government-provided quarters in the town. She told DPI that she has been waiting 11 months for this moment. She too will be building in Culvert City. After the title distribution, the Minister and Housing officials facilitated one-on-one sessions with the residents to address their housing concerns.
The truck the bandits attempted to rob
A tussle ensued between Matadeen and the gunman during which two shots were fired and Matadeen was shot. “I just hear blam, blam and them man just jump on them bike and disappear. When I watch, I see Lochan over the road holding he belly and then I feel me face burning. When I realise, is the bullet graze me face,” Hardyal said. Matadeen was taken to the Anamaya Memorial Hospital where he remains a patient. Police investigations are ongoing.
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Ramson to focus on ‘core leadership’ at NSC before appointing commissioners By Rawle Toney AS Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson, presses on with his plans and vision to transform sports in Guyana, one particular area of importance – the National Sports Commission – will have to wait a little longer before Commissioners are installed and a Director of Sport is hired by the Commission. The reason, according to Minister Ramson, is ensuring that the core leadership at the National Sports Commission (NSC) is satisfactory, while examining the work of the body of the last five years and ensuring that previous failures are not repeated so that sports can truly benefit. Minister Ramson, asked by Chronicle Sport on the sidelines of his visit to the community of Agricola, yesterday, for an update on the NSC and the installation of the Commissioners, said, “If you have a board that hasn’t done anything, then you have got to get to the bottom as to why they have not done anything before hurried decisions are made. The board hasn’t been functioning the way it should and it clearly requires leadership to make it function in the way that it is intended to.” “A new leadership is necessary to make things function the way that it should,” Ramson said, while adding that he’s “not going to just aggressively appoint boards if they haven’t been working as they should.” “I am the Minister responsible for the board, so I will have to account for their performance and their subvention that they will receive. So I have to be satis-
fied that the Commission will be functioning as it should and then be able to make the appropriate appointments as time goes by,” Ramson said. The youthful minister was pleased to highlight that in the absence of the Commissioners and a Director of Sport, “sports now have the energy and the intensity and the passion being led by the ministry and we’re proud to know that we’re doing it this way. We’re going to be able to hand over to a Sports Commission in the not-toodistant future.” In 1993, Samuel Hinds, in his capacity as acting President of Guyana at the time, assented to the National Sports Commission Act which was passed in the sitting of the Sixth Parliament on December 3 that year. The Act was passed to make provisions for the establishment and functions of the National Sports Commission, which was identified to be responsible for, among other things, the promotion of sports and its organisation by all available methods including to make grants, provide for the establishment, erection and maintenance of sporting and other recreational facilities; to encourage, in cooperation with any sports organisation, the attainment of high standards in sports and to encourage the conduct of sporting activities in accordance with the national policy on sports. Neil Kumar was the first to be named as Director of Sport and he served in that capacity from the establishment of the NSC, until the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) lost pow- TURN TO er in PAGE 36
PM T20 Softball ... Legends. Savage Legends turned back the efforts of Parika Delenders in the other semi-final, winning by 39 runs. Batting first, Savage Legends made 168 for seven with Ramnarine Persaud hitting a top score of 56. Carl Scarce took two for 31. Parika Defenders were restricted to 129 for eight when their innings ended with Asif Ahmad hitting 46. Vishnauth Gobin claimed two for 25. Today’s action gets underway at 9.00 hrs. The winners of the Legends Over-50 category will cart off $200 000, while the runners-up will receive $50 000. The man-of-the-match in the final will receive a trophy while man-of-the-se-
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ries will c o l lect a 50-inch Smart TV valued at $120 000. In the Masters Over-45 category, the winners will pocket $200 000 and the runner up $50 000 while the man-of-the-match in the final will receive a trophy and the manof-the-series will take home a 50-inch Smart TV valued at $100 000. In the All Stars category, (Open), the winners will receive $200 000; the runner-up $50,000, manof-the-match in the final will receive a trophy and the man-of-the-series will collect a 40-inch Smart TV valued at $70,000.
SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
`We could have helped Maradona’, charges Klopp LIVERPOOL, United Kingdom (AFP) - Liverpool Manager Jurgen Klopp said Diego Maradona’s life encapsulated the highs and lows of being a world-famous footballer as he lamented that more was not done to help the late Argentine superstar. Maradona died on Wednesday at the age of 60 after a long struggle with addiction to alcohol and drugs, sparking a huge outpouring of emotion for one of the greatest-ever players.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp
Klopp described his one meeting with Maradona as like “meeting the Pope”, but believes the love shown after his death could have helped prevent some of his excesses. “His life shows how nice life can be when you are a world-class footballer and how difficult it can be as well,” the Liverpool boss said yesterday. “He was a very impressive figure. I met him once, which, for a player of my level it was like meeting the Pope to be honest, it was really special. “Football will miss him, I will miss him and you can see in the reactions all over the world if we had shown our love for him without wanting to have a selfie, just showing
him the respect he deserved while he was still alive, I think we could have helped him. ”Closer to home, Klopp will be able to lead Liverpool in front of their own supporters next weekend for the first time since the club ended a 30year wait to win a league title. Fans have been shut out of top-level matches in England since March, but a relaxation of coronavirus restrictions will allow supporters back into stadiums in some parts of England. Liverpool and London have been placed into the Tier-2 category, based on infection rates, meaning up to 2 000 fans will be able to attend matches. But Premier League clubs based in Tier-3 areas, such as Manchester and Birmingham, are not allowed to open their gates. If the situation improves and areas are put in Tier 1, clubs will be allowed to have up to 4 000 fans. Klopp welcomed the return of supporters and does not believe it will give an unfair advantage to certain clubs. “We are all really waiting for little steps in the right direction, not only in football, in all parts of life,” he said. “This thing with tier one, two and three is the best idea we have in the moment in this country. “I understand why there are some discussions (saying) it will be an advantage for some clubs. I said before I knew what tier Liverpool will be in, it’s not an advantage or disadvantage, it’s just making small steps in the right direction.” Liverpool’s clash with Wolves on December 6 will be the first match at Anfield with spectators since a Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid in March.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER Sunday, November 29, 2020 COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel: 683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD – 83 Garnett street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) Seymour Nurse-258 (Christchurch, 1968-69) (2) Glen Turner-259 (Bourda, 1972) TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Which WI has taken most Test wickets against NZ to date? (2) Which NZ has claimed most wickets in Tests against the WI to date?
ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE
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Bairstow powers England to T20 victory in Cape Town
(AFP) - Jonny Bairstow powered England to a five-wicket win over South Africa in the first Twenty20 international at Newlands
in Cape Town on Friday. Bairstow thrashed 86 not out off 48 balls as England chased down a victory target of 180 with four balls to
spare. England were struggling at 34 for three before Bairstow and Ben Stokes (37) changed the momentum of
the match with a fourth-wicket stand of 85.
apart from two or three players.”
four instead of opening as he often does in white-ball cricket. “It’s something you’ve got to enjoy,” he said. “You learn to craft your innings in different ways.” Bairstow hit nine fours and four sixes, finishing the match in style with his fourth six which sailed into a building sight on the northern end of the ground. Former captain Faf du Plessis top-scored for South Africa with 58 off 40 balls after his side were sent in on a cool evening. South Africa’s first international match since March was staged without spectators because of COVID restrictions. South African captain Quinton de Kock refused to blame the Hendricks over. “I don’t think it was just the one over. It was the way Jonny and Ben played. We didn’t play badly. They played really well.” The teams meet again in a day game in Paarl today.
Jonny Bairstow’s six that secured England’s victory (AFP)
Even so, South Africa still had a realistic chance of winning as England went into the last four overs needing 51 runs. But left-arm fast bowler Beuran Hendricks conceded 28 runs in the 17th over, including three wides, which cost eight runs, as Bairstow and England captain Eoin Morgan went on the attack. Morgan said the win was “extremely pleasing, given that we were pretty average
Morgan said England’s bowlers “missed areas”, although left-armer Sam Curran claimed a career-best three for 28 in South Africa’s innings of 179 for six. And he was disappointed with the batting start, although he praised Bairstow and Stokes. “Jonny and Ben, rebuilding the way they did, set up the win nicely,” he told SuperSport television. Bairstow batted at number
GFF extends condolences ... prayers are with his family and the Argentine people”. The former Argentine striker who celebrated his birthday on October 30, had a 21-year senior career which spanned from 1976 to 1997, before he became a manager of several clubs between 1994 to the time of his passing. Maradona was a 4-time World Cup player who captained his team to glory in 1986 in Mexico against a formidable West Germany team.
His first World Cup in 1982 saw his team, the defending champions, not progressing as expected due to internal tension. In 1990, he captained his side to a WC final against West Germany once more, but his performance was plagued by an injury, which saw the opposing team lift the title. In 1994, he played only two World Cup matches before the Argentine side were eliminated in the round of 16. His last goal scored for his
Ramson to focus ... the 2015 Elections to the APNU+AFC coalition. Christopher Jones was installed in the position in 2015. Howeverm following the March 2, 2020 elections, and the announcement of the return of the PPP/C Government on August 2, many have since been speculating as to who will be Guyana’s third Director of Sport in 27 years. According to the National Sports Commission Act, Section 11 (1), “The Commission may, after consultation with the minister.
employ upon such terms and conditions as it thinks fit a Director of Sport, and such other officers and employees as the Commission deems necessary for the proper carrying out of its functions.” The Act outlines the Director of Sport as being the “Chief Executive Officer of the Commission, and subject to any general or specific directions of the Commission, be responsible to the Commission for ensuring that the functions of the Commission are properly discharged and objectives achieved.”
TURN FROM BACK PAGE
country was against Greece while the following match against Nigeria which they won 2-1 was his last game. Following his exploits Maradona published his autobiography, ‘El Diego: The Autobiography of the World’s Greatest Footballer’. The first biography published by Jimmy Burns was ‘Maradona: The Hand of God’. TURN FROM PAGE 34
The Director of Sport shall be responsible for “managing the Secretariat of the Commission; managing the funds as directed by the Commission and preparing quarterly financial reports, accounts for presentation at meetings of the commission; causing minutes of meetings to be kept, and keeping members of the Commission informed, particularly by presenting an activity report at each meeting of the Commission.”
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Diego Maradona: Tunisian referee Ali Bin Nasser relives ‘Hand of God’ match By Souhail Khmira, Football Writer, Tunisia
THE Tunisian referee from England’s infamous defeat by Argentina at the 1986 World Cup says he is “proud and honoured” to have helped Diego Maradona score the “goal-of-the-century”. Maradona, who died last Wednesday at the age of 60, beat several England players on a mazy dribble from just inside his own half before scoring to put Argentina 2-0 up, four minutes after scoring the controversial goal he famously credited to the ‘Hand of God’. Referee Ali Bin Nasser, now 76, also said he had no option but to award the first goal and recalled how Maradona gave him a signed shirt when they met again in 2015. On the second goal of the game, Bin Nasser told BBC Sport: “He took off from midfield, and I was shadowing him closely. When you’re refereeing someone like Maradona, you can’t take your eyes off him. “They tried to take him down on three occasions, but his desire for victory kept pushing him forward. “Every time I would shout ‘advantage’ until he reached the box. “I was watching from outside the box, wondering how this player shook off
three defenders, and sprinted for nearly 50 metres. I thought ‘the defenders will try to take him down now’. I was expecting that to happen and was ready to whistle for a penalty.
contacts, we wouldn’t have witnessed something that magnificent. That advantage I gave is one my proudest achievements.” Bin Nasser added that the 1986 quarter-final, played in
in the air with Peter Shilton, and they were both facing away from me. “They were facing my assistant referee, the Bulgarian Bogdan Dochev. “I was hesitant at first, I
aged 80, would later say that “FIFA did not allow assistants to discuss decisions with the referee”. “If FIFA had put a referee from Europe in charge of such an important game, the first goal of Maradona would have been disallowed,” he insisted. However, Bin Nasser says the sportsmanship shown by the England players was
“When England scored their goal, I secretly wanted them to score the equaliser,” admitted Bin Nasser. “I wanted to enjoy that game for 30 more minutes. It was an absolute joy from start to finish. “Despite the heat that day, I wanted things to go on. It was a beautiful game between two great teams.”
Referee Ali Bin Nasser recalls the day Maradona came to meet him in 2015 Diego Maradona scores 1st goal with his Hand of God, past England goalkeeper Peter Shilton in 1986 (Photo by Bob Thomas/Getty Images)
“To my surprise, he dribbled past another defender and the goalkeeper (Peter Shilton) to score what would become ‘the goal-of-the-century’. “I’m proud and honoured as a person and as a referee for having played a role in that historical achievement. “Had I whistled (for) a foul in any of the first three
Bauxite Flyers Club plans first Speed Sundays Time Trial for next Sunday AS Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycle Club prepares to host the second of a three-stage time trial for Sunday, December 6 in the bauxite mining town, the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF)-sanctioned event is being dubbed the Speed Sundays Time Trial, since it the first of its kind to be organised by the Linden cycling club. The Assistant Secretary of the Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycle Club, Jeffrey Yearwood, said it is the second such race as far as he was aware for GCF, after government had given the green light to have the three-stage event held; but it had no name and as part of the marketing strategy the Bauxite Flyers thought it important to give the event a name, hence the Speed Sundays Time Trial. Approaches were made by the Linden Bauxite Flyers Cycling Club for assistance with some sponsorship and among those who have given pledges of support are KD & J Supermarket, Bolo’s Variety Store, Bernard’s Variety Store, Semple and Sons Hardware and Variety Store, Southgate Hardware and Country Grill. The race will start outside KD & J Supermarket at Amelia’s Ward for the Seniors and Open cyclists, who will go to Moblissa Hill on the Linden Highway and back to the starting point, while the juniors, juveniles and women will also start outside KD & J Supermarket but will journey to Bamia Hill and back. These distances are to be confirmed with the GCF but for each stage there will be individual prizes for the various winners in addition to the overall winner Yearwood explained.. Lindener Marlon ‘Fishy’ Williams won the first leg last Sunday and the second is next Sunday in Linden while the third is set for Berbice on Sunday, December 13. (Joe Chapman)
front of nearly 115 000 fans at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City was the “highlight” of his career, despite his decision to the controversial first goal. “I remember it vividly,” he continued. “The English defender (Steve Hodge) had the ball, sent it back and Maradona was
glanced over to Dochev, who was headed back to the centre of the pitch, confirming the goal. He didn’t signal for handball. “The instructions FIFA gave us before the game were clear - if a colleague was in a better position than mine, I should respect his view.” Dochev, who died in 2017
“beautiful”. He recalled: “Gary Lineker came over to me and said ‘please referee, handball!’ I replied: Please play!’ “To me, that was 100% a goal according to FIFA guidelines.” SECRET HOPES Lineker pulled a goal back for England with nine minutes remaining and then came close to an equaliser.
When Maradona came to Tunisia in 2015, he visited Bin Nasser at his home. “I told him ‘it wasn’t Argentina that won the World Cup that year, it was Maradona’,” said the Tunisian. “He replied: ‘Had it not been for you, I wouldn’t have been able to score the goal of the century.’ “He gave me a signed jersey that said ‘Para Ali Mi Amigo Eterna’.” (BBC Sport)
Australia’s Smith channels Barry Bonds in quick-fire ton By Nick Mulvenney
SYDNEY, Aistralia (Reuters) - Steve Smith’s 62ball century in Australia’s victory over India in the first one-day international against India yesterday ranked among the very best in 50-overs cricket, according to Australia skipper Aaron Finch. Finch scored 114 but was happy to concede that there had been something special in the innings produced by Smith, who, he revealed, compared his best hitting to Major League Baseball’s greatest home-run slugger. “He calls himself Barry Bonds when he gets into those sort of moods,” Finch said of Smith. “He struck it beautifully, the way that he moved, the intent that he showed was second to none; that’s as good a one-day innings as you’ll see.” Almost 18 000 fans were on hand to watch the runfest at the Sydney Cricket Ground, which launched
India’s long-awaited tour Down Under. While Finch was happy with Australia’s tally of 374, he described the performance as “patchy” and
first home international since March. “Half the guys have been playing (Sheffield) Shield and the other half have been playing IPL
Steve Smith hit the third-fastest ODI hundred by an Australian at the SCG on Friday
was less impressed with a series of dropped catches and misfields that allowed India to stay in the match. “You’ve got to take them,” he said, brushing away a suggestion that the players were rusty in their
and training hard during quarantine. “If we took the chances we probably could have put the game beyond doubt a bit earlier.” The most costly miss could have been when
Adam Zampa dropped a relatively simply chance to remove Virat Kohli for one run, although in the end the India captain only added 20 runs to his tally before Finch caught him out off a Josh Hazlewood ball. Zampa redeemed himself with four for 54 to end any hopes of an Indian victory, proving to Finch that he was his country’s top spinner in white ball cricket. “Getting good players out under pressure is what it’s all about and he certainly did that,” Finch said. The second of the three one-dayers is at the same ground today, but the hosts could be without Marcus Stoinis for the match after the all-rounder left the SCG during Friday’s match with an injury he picked up while bowling. Cricket Australia said Stoinis has suffered left side pain and will undergo scans to determine the extent of the injury.
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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 29, 2020
Fitting Sir Wes Hall statue TODAY will be another very special day in the life of Sir Wesley Hall. On the eve of Barbados marking its 54th year of Independence, a statue of Sir Wesley, a West Indian cricketing great, known for his exploits as a fast bowler, will be unveiled at Kensington Oval. Fittingly, it is erected next to the statue of his former Barbados and West Indies teammate and long-standing friend, The Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers, who is regarded as the world’s greatest-ever all-rounder. A charismatic figure on and off the field, Hall, tall and muscular, played 48 Test matches between 1958 and 1969, taking 192 wickets at 26.38 runs apiece, including five wickets in an innings nine times and ten wickets in a match on one occasion. He took 546 wickets at an average of 26.14 in 170 first-class matches. Hall also served as a West Indies chief selector, team manager and president of the regional Board. In addition, he was a Barbados Government Minister of Tourism and Sports and Member of Parliament.
Now aged 83, Hall was first selected on the 1957 tour of England with only one firstclass game to his name. He was then chosen for the 195859 tours to India and Pakistan and finished with 46 wickets in eight Tests.
Wesley Hall
In the third Test against Pakistan in Lahore, Hall became the first West Indies bowler to claim a hat-trick, dismissing Mushtaq Mohammad, Nasimul-Ghani and Fazal Mahmood. He also featured in the famous tied Test against Australia in Brisbane in December 1960, taking match figures of nine for 203, including five
for 63 in the second innings. He bowled the last over of the match as Australia, requiring six runs for victory with three wickets standing, were bowled out for 232 on the penultimate delivery. Against India in 1961-62, he took 27 wickets at an average of 15.74. In 1963 against England, Hall formed a fearsome pace attack with another famous Barbadian and his close friend, Charlie Griffith (now Sir Charles), as West Indies dominated, winning the fiveTest series 3-1 In another epic finish at Lord’s, Hall bowled unchanged for three-and-a-half hours in the second innings, taking four for 93 off 40 overs as the match ended in a draw with England, chasing 234 for victory, finishing on 228 for nine.` Hall also played a key role in helping West Indies to their first series win over Australia in 1965. He took 16 wickets. He retired at the end of the 1968-69 tour of Australia and New Zealand. In 2012, Hall was bestowed the honour of Knight Bachelor
in the Queen’s Birthday Honours list for his “contribution to sport and the community”. He was inducted into the ICC Hall of Fame in 2015. On his knighthood, he said: “It is an unbridled joy to have received such an accolade.” As far as his induction into the Hall of Fame was concerned, Hall received his commemorative cap from fellow ICC Cricket Hall of Famer, Courtney Walsh, during the lunch break on the opening day of the second Test between West Indies and Australia at Sabina Park. Commenting on his inclusion into the ICC Cricket Hall of Fame, Hall said: “I feel privileged and indeed honoured to be given this tremendous award. I have noted the list and it has some tremendous cricketers – heroes who have made the game what it is today. So, I am humbled to be included among these many great names of the game. “Anytime you get these kind of encomiums, it is memorable. It is fantastic to receive the award in the West Indies
and in front of adoring fans, which makes it even more special. I have represented the West Indies as a cricketer, as the team manager, and as the president of the WICB, so I will treat this as something I value and will always remember. “Fast bowling was my hallmark and I enjoyed my moments on the cricket field. I enjoyed representing the people of the West Indies and contributing towards the development of the game in the region. Cricket has been extremely good to me and I was happy to give back to the game. This honour, presented to me by the ICC, is one I will cherish. It is not just for me but the people of the West Indies.” Now, in scrutinising some of my privileged interviews with Hall, there is one dating back to the 2006 series against India in the Caribbean when he reckoned that West Indies needed to find at least three fast bowlers firing at over 90 miles an hour in their quest to return to the top of international cricket. “I have been very consistent with my views on the
future of West Indian cricket. I said three or four years ago that we have turned the corner but the proviso has always been with me that whenever we produce three fast bowlers of about 90 miles an hour we will be on top of the world,” he said. “I say so because I have always recognised that since 1923 with George Challenor, 1929 with the great master George Headley, we’ve had batsmen. Following George would be the 3Ws (Sir Frank Worrell, Sir Clyde Walcott, Sir Everton Weekes), then Sir Garry Sobers, Sir Viv Richards, Clive Lloyd, (Rohan) Kanhai, (Seymour) Nurse, Basil Butcher all these great players and then you enter (Gordon) Greenidge and (Desmond) Haynes, and Brian Lara. “For those 75 years we’ve always had batsmen in the first three in the world. There is no doubt about it. But you have to bowl people out twice to win a game,” he said. An ordained minister, Sir Wesley has also stood out as a public speaker. He deserves his many accolades. (Extracted from Barbados Today)
Pooran named in West Indies A Few rewards for Windies bowlers red-ball squad to face New Zealand A against defiant Kiwi reserves ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) Pooran and Rovman Powell, reason that he has not played – Eight members of the West Indies Twenty20 International squad – headed by vice-captain Nicholas Pooran – will join six Test reserves to form a West Indies ‘A’ squad to face New Zealand ‘A’ in a two-match series next month. Pooran, Fabian Allen, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Rovman Powell, Romario Shepherd, Oshane Thomas and Hayden Walsh Jr will feature in the two four-day, first-class matches from December 3 to 6 at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui and from December 11 to 14 at Saxton Oval in Nelson. “This series will give our players an opportunity to play first-class cricket against foreign opposition, as well as experience different conditions in New Zealand,” Windies chief selector, Roger Harper said. “It will also help to keep them in the frame should the need for replacements for the Test team arise, as we will have players who have been playing red-ball cricket and in form to consider.” No captain was named, but CMC understands that West Indies selectors will rotate the position for the two matches to have insight into the leadership qualities of the players under consideration – most likely
a stand-in West Indies ODI captain last year. The selectors will keep a keen eye on the performance of Pooran because the lefthander has not played a firstclass match since December 2014 and his exploits in whiteball formats for the Windies have prompted calls for his selection to the Test side.
Nicholas Pooran has not played a first-class match in six years
Pooran has played only three first-class matches in his career – for Trinidad & Tobago Red Force – and West Indies selectors have been hesitant to heed calls for his Test selection because they have generally indicated that they are not aware of his current form or capability in the longer formats, for the simple
much red-ball matches in recent times. Pooran’s hiatus from firstclass matches has been caused by a vehicular crash in January 2015 in which he suffered a career-threatening leg injury and his globetrotting to domestic Twenty20 leagues on his return to the game from that setback about three years ago. Except for former West Indies Under-19 pacer Jayden Seales, all of the other players have played first-class matches to varying degrees and success in the last three seasons. Seales, 19, is yet to make his first-class debut, but he played a handful of T20 matches for champions Trinbago Knight Riders in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) this year in his native Trinidad. He has been a part of the Windies Test reserves on the current Tour of New Zealand. It’s a decision taken by the selectors, which they have described as “developmental” for the young pacer. Squad: Fabian Allen, Nkrumah Bonner, Joshua DaSilva, Brandon King, Kyle Mayers, Preston McSween, Shayne Moseley, Nicholas Pooran, Rovman Powell, Raymon Reifer, Jayden Seales, Romario Shepherd, Oshane Thomas, Hayden Walsh Jr.
QUEENSTOWN, New Zealand (CMC) – West Indies prospective Test bowlers continued to find wickets hard to claim on the Tour of New Zealand, when they met defiance from the Black Caps reserves in their tour match yesterday. Pacer Chemar Holder was the most successful Windies bowler taking two for 51 from 15 overs, but New Zealand ‘A’ reached 249 for four, replying to the visitors’ first-innings total of 571, before bad light stopped play almost an hour early on the third day of the four-day, first-class match at John Davies Oval. The West Indies attack claimed only four wickets in a three-day, warm-up match that ended this past Sunday at the same venue as the team prepares for the two-Test series against the Black Caps senior team. But Windies head coach Phil Simmons said he was not concerned because the bowlers had generally been far more successful in Tests over the last two years than the batsmen and he was confident they would again rise to the challenge. Simmons may have to recalibrate a bit, after the Caribbean side against failed to make inroads into the New Zealand ‘A’ batting, which was led by Test reserve Will Young with an unbeaten 80, and openers Henry Cooper with 54 and Rachin Ravindra with 52. The West Indies attack
for this match, however, does not feature their regular Test new-ball pair of Kemar Roach and Shannon Gabriel, but they would have hoped for more success after Black Caps reserves resumed from their overnight total of 45 without loss.
West Indies pacer Chemar Holder
The Windies failed to break the opening stand during the first hour, and Ravindra, a century-maker in the three-day match, reached his 50 from 98 balls in the first half-hour after the morning drinks break, when he swept off-spinner Rahkeem Cornwall through backward square leg for his fifth four. Cornwall, however, made the breakthrough after the pair put on exactly 100, when he trapped Ravindra lbw playing forward. A half volley outside offstump from Jason Holder was punched square to bring Coo-
per to his 50 from 139 balls a little before lunch was taken with the New Zealanders on 126 for one. In the second over after lunch, Chemar Holder had Cooper lbw playing across a full-length delivery, and in the pacer’s next over Joe Carter edged a loose drive at a wide delivery that moved away and was caught behind for one. The visitors had New Zealand ‘A’ wobbling on 137 for three, but Ken McClure joined Young and they stabilised the innings for close to an hourand-a-half with a stand of 49 for the fourth wicket. But Test captain Holder had McClure lbw for 20, playing back and across to a well-pitched delivery that moved back about 10 minutes before tea was taken with New Zealand ‘A’ on 192 for four. After the break, West Indies bowlers failed to find a way through McConchie and Young, whose 50 came from 114 balls, when he tugged part-time off-spinner Kraigg Brathwaite to midon for a single, and the pair put on 53 – unbroken – for the fifth wicket before the gathering gloom ushered the end of play. The first Test between New Zealand and West Indies starts on Thursday, December 3, at Seddon Park in Hamilton, and the second Test begins on Friday, December 11, at the Basin Reserve in Wellington.
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GBA to give incentive to National Open champions … Keevin Allicock cops Olympic scholarship
THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will be implementing a reward system for champions of each elite division at the National Open. This was revealed by GBA president Steve Ninvalle yesterday. Ninvalle said that his organisation is committed to rewarding champions in each of the divisions as it is believed it is the right way to go. “In this day and age rewards are important. Research has shown that incentives increase performance and can act as motivator. The executive
of GBA is of the view that despite our constraints we need to find a way to reward our top fighters. In view of this there will be rewards given to elite champions of each division of the National Open,” Ninvalle said. “Persons who gravitate towards boxing usually come from depressed communities in Guyana and any incentive would be welcomed. At this time GBA will only be able to provide this reward in the elite category of the National Open but the future plan is to have it done at all three statutory events,” he added.
Top Caribbean bantamweight Keevin Allicock
Ninvalle did not divulge what form the incentives would take but he confirmed that it did not exclude monetary. “What I can confirm is that it will be an inclusive package and takes us one step above where we were when we inherited the sport. If you ask for my personal opinion I would say it’s a wonderful idea but will be better when implemented,” Ninvalle added. GBA has three statutory events in each calendar year - Andrew Lewis National Novice, Lennox Blackmoore National Intermediate
Thunder crush Stars by seven wickets to win Women’s Big Bash title By Jack Skelton, BBC Sport SYDNEY Thunder crushed a poor Melbourne Stars by seven wickets to win the Women’s Big Bash League title.
move, the team has been awesome and it’s amazing to be a part of the start of their journey.” The entire WBBL season was played in Sydney because of COVID-19 restrictions, with around 1 600 so-
Sydney Thunder won the inaugural WBBL title in 2015-16 but have not reached the final since
The Stars elected to bat first but crumbled to 86-9, the lowest-ever total in a WBBL final, against a superb Thunder bowling performance. England captain Heather Knight (26 not out) hit a six to secure victory as she and Rachael Haynes (21 not out) eased their side to 87-3 off just 13.4 overs. It is Thunder’s second title, having won the first WBBL in 2015-16. “I’m so chuffed, what a performance by the bowlers,” said Knight, who joined a largely young Thunder squad from Hobart Hurricanes this season. “I’ve really enjoyed the
cially-distanced fans watching the final at the North Sydney Oval. KNIGHT BRINGS CALM IN THE CHASE Knight has proved to be a brilliant signing for a Thunder side that struggled last season. She finished the tournament with 446 runs, the most by a Thunder player in a single WBBL campaign. Though Stars never truly threatened to defend such a low total, Katherine Brunt removed England team-mate Tammy Beaumont for 16 before Rachel Trenaman (23) and Sammy-Jo Johnson (one)
fell in quick succession. But Knight used her experience to calmly accumulate alongside Thunder captain Haynes, to make the result all-but safe, before both freed their arms to win the title with 38 balls to spare.
Villani for one and taking the key wicket of Lanning (13) after the Australia captain had been dropped on zero by Beaumont. Ismail was backed up superbly by Sammy-Jo Johnson (2-11), who trapped South
Shabnim Ismail (right) was named player-of-the-match after a sublime opening spell for Sydney Thunder
Knight saved the best for last with a towering six down the ground to wrap up a dominant win. “There was so much belief, so much positivity in our team, I’m just so happy,” said Haynes. DISMAL STARS FAIL TO SHINE Melbourne Stars finished top of the group table and dominated Perth Scorchers in their semi-final but their batting line-up failed to adjust to the pitch after captain Meg Lanning opted to set a total. South Africa pace bowler Shabnim Ismail (2-12) was magnificent, removing Elyse
Africa batter Mignon du Preez lbw for just four, before England’s Nat Sciver chipped to cover for 11. Alanna King then fell to Knight for a duck to leave Stars reeling on 37-5 and, despite 20 from Annabel Sutherland and Brunt’s 22 not out, they could not surpass the previous lowest total of 99 in a WBBL final by the Scorchers in 2017-18. Remarkably, Thunder’s victory could have been even more dominant had they not spilled three easy chances, though Haynes made amends for her drop by taking four catches overall.
and the Terrence Alli National Open. The advent of COVID-19 has resulted in none of the three being held this year. Guyana is ranked as one of the top countries in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, the GBA president disclosed that top Caribbean bantamweight Keevin Allicock has received an Olympic Solidarity Scholarship. Ranked number 19 in the world, Allicock picked up the Scholarship after Guyana Olympic Association and GBA held discussions. The scholarship is tailored to provide as-
sistance in preparation for the Olympic Qualifier and Olympics. “We want to thank the president of GOA, Mr K. Juman-Yassin, Mr Garfield Wilshire and the entire executive of GOA for making this scholarship a reality. “ Earlier this year Allicock, Colin Lewis, Desmond Amsterdam and Dennis Thomas had a three-month preparation stint in Cuba leading up to the scheduled April Olympic Qualifier. However, the COVID-19 pandemic forced the cancellation of the event.
ICC must stage world events WELLINGTON, New Zealand – (Reuters) New International Cricket Council (ICC) chairman Greg Barclay told Reuters on Wednesday his organisation must deliver their pinnacle events over the next three years or there will be serious financial consequences for the sport. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the ICC to reschedule three of their world tournaments, and Barclay, confirmed as chairman of the global governing body on Tuesday, said they were contracted to deliver them within the current broadcasting agreement. “We have got to deliver the world events that are to come and those that are postponed,” Barclay told Reuters by telephone on Wednesday of the agreements that expire in mid-2023. “Not just for the cricketing outcomes but there are commercial concerns as well.” The men’s 2020 Twenty20 World Cup in Australia and 2021 women’s World Cup in New Zealand were moved to 2022, while the men’s 2023 World Cup in India was pushed back to later that year. “If we fail to deliver all of those events then we will be penalised by the broadcasters and we won’t receive the last of the ongoing payments,” added Barclay. “That, in turn, is going to affect the ICC’s ability to invest in its own programmes and enable it to make distributions to members. Unfortunately a lot of the ICC members are heavily reliant on those disbursements.” Barclay replaces interim chairman Imran Khwaja, who temporarily succeeded India’s Shashank Manohar after his second two-year term ended in July. Commercial lawyer Barclay, who has served as New Zealand Cricket’s representative on the ICC board for the last six years, said that while the election process had been “drawn out” he was keen to get to work. One of his tasks is to ensure that women’s cricket continues to make progress. “We have an obligation that it’s a game for everyone,” he said. “We have got to continue to move towards parity.” He was also eager to develop the game in non-traditional markets and felt the United States was an area they could tap into, especially with the work already done in recent years. “We have to look at regions where there is good potential for growth,” he said. “The U.S. appears to be the place to go. “It has a massive advantage in that its traditional audiences from sub-continental Asia have massive Diasporas in North America and there are large audiences there for cricket. “We should continue with that.”
PM T20 Softball Cup climaxes today at Everest …Regal to contest two finals
Eric Thomas slammed his second century of the tournament yesterday
THE fourth edition of the Prime Minister T20 Softball Cup, organised by the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc, in conjunction with the Prime Minister’s Office and the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, climaxes at the Everest Cricket Club ground, Camp Road, today with the finals in all three categories of the annual tournament. Unlike the previous finals, today’s action will see no spectators in attendance, based on the Ministry of Health and the National COVID-19 Task Force guidelines. Regal will vie for supremacy in two categories with their Open team renewing rivalry with archrivals Speedboat in what is slated to be a mouth-watering contest. Speedboat had the distinction of winning the title in 2017 and 2018 but failed to qualify for last year’s semi-finals while Regal had to be contented with sharing last year’s title with Grill Masters of Berbice following glitches with the floodlights. Welman Masters, who failed on two consecutive occasions to get over the line against Regal Masters will be contesting their third consecutive final in the Over-45 category when they oppose Fisherman Masters after defending champions Regal Masters failed to reach the semi-final stage of the competition. Regal Legends will however defend their title, which they captured in the inaugural year when they face off against Savage Legends who got the better of Fisherman Masters in yesterday’s
semi-final, played at Everest. Regal whipped New York’s President’s XI to earn their right in today’s final. Led by a fine unbeaten 61 from skipper Chien Gittens Regal upstaged upstarts Spartans of Berbice in their Open semi-final encounter played at the Queen’s College ground yesterday. Set the challenging task of scoring 185 for victory, after Spartans had reached a respectable 184 for nine, Regal achieved the task in 18.2 overs. Roy Persaud led the bowling for the winners with figures of four for 33. In the other semi-final, played at the same venue, Speedboat raced to 253 for six in their allotted 20 overs with Greg Singh blasting 84 and Sarfraz Esau 56. Hemchand Deochand took two for 33. Ariel made a fight of the huge total but fell short by 19 runs, reaching 234 for nine when their overs expired. Quentin Sampson, who hit a century on the opening day, was again among the runs with a splendid 85. Kishore Smith took two for five and Bryan Mangar two for 24. Over at Lusignan, Wellman Masters made light work of Success Masters, rushing to 87 for one in 9.4 overs after limiting their opponents to 85 for eight in their 20 overs. Greg DeFranca was unbeaten on 51 when victory was achieved. Fisherman Masters also took care of HS Masters in another low-scoring affair, reaching 74 for two in 10 overs after dismissing the latter for 73 in 14.5 overs. Keith Fraser led the way for the winners with 51. At Everest, Regal’s Eric Thomas was again in subline form, following up his unbeaten 120 versus Rockaway Legends on Friday with a blistering 111 in yesterday’s semi-final versus New York President’s XI. Taking first strike, Regal Legends reached 218 for four in their allotted 20 overs before limiting the New York-based side to 166 in 19.1 overs, winning by 52 TURN TO runs. Mohamed Rafeek made 54 for the losers while PAGE 34 Fazleem Mohamed ended with three for 33 for Regal
GFF extends condolences to AFA on Maradona’s passing AFTER the passing of an iconic sporting figure, Diego Maradona, the foot-balling community continues to lend its support to the Argentine people. Recently, president of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), Wayne Forde, sent condolences to the Argentina Football Association (AFA) president Claudio
Tapia, via email. The letter read: “On behalf of the Guyana Football Federation and our passionate football community, I am moved to write to you to express my sincerest condolences following the shock news that the beautiful game has lost one of its greatest artists – Diego Maradona.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Charles Ramson Jr, checks the crossbar of a goal on the Agricola playfield during a visit yesterday, with other members of his ministry (Photo compliments: DPI) SEE PAGE 34
Ramson to focus on ‘core leadership’ at NSC before appointing commissioners … says board to be announced in not-too-distant future Diego Maradona lifted the World Cup title in 1986 SEE PAGE 38
As the global football community mourns together, we stand in solidarity with our Argentinian brothers and sisters to remember the life of a true legend of football – a mercurial genius who touched so many lives with his supernatural talent and unforgettable style. I was fortunate enough to meet Diego during the 2017 FIFA Congress. His warmth and compassion stood out, along with his strong love for the game and the football family. It was a personal highlight for me as a lifelong football fan and someone who continues to play even during my tenue as the GFF president. In Diego’s presence, everyone is an adoring fan. Watching Diego grace the field inspired generations of players and fans. He towered above the game of football. His legacy will live on. All those moments of magic will never be forgotten. While football has sadly lost one of its great sons this week, we know that his exploits will continue to inspire us even if he will never be replaced or surpassed. Our thoughts and TURN TO PAGE 36
Fitting Sir Wes Hall statue
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2020