‘Not my 14 arrested fault’ ---Leguan stelling contractor says was waiting two years to proceed with project in city raids SUNDAY, 14th MARCH, 2021 Follow or contact at: [email protected] / facebook.com/villagevoicegy / www.villagevoicegy.com GDF GETS BELL 412-EPI …Pres Ali says helicopter important step in recapitalising ‘CHOPPER’ of Defence Force …to enhance GDF’s air security capacity

The Bell 412EPI Helicopter about to make its landing Camp Ayanganna (Office of the President photo) COVID-19 update 9121 confirmed cases 206 Private cane Chinese Landing village deaths invaded by miners, police 52 farmers contribute big …lawmen demolish village gate; …as Uitvlugt surpasses target for second week council pursuing legal action new cases The Village Voice Newspaper is designed by Magazine and Newspaper Layout Designs 2 NEWS SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 Journalist cops first prize in investment competition ...offers Guyanese a means to preserve their history through print and video biographies

ffering Guyanese my dream but it will be a niche service appreciated by generations that allows per- to come.” sons to preserve Hamilton made her first Otheir life stories in biog- pitch to judges at the Herd- raphies for generations to manston Lodge on March come, 26-year-old journalist 10 where the competitors and author, Lisa Hamilton were narrowed from 20 to copped the first prize in the just five. The finals were International Decade for held on March 13 virtually. People of African Descent However, Hamilton did Assembly-Guyana (IDPA- not attend owing to her DA-G) Invest-A-Thon com- Sabbath. petition on Saturday. At Saturday's event Hamilton was able to Hamilton had prearranged convince a line-up of judges for the judges to be pre- that her business, Remi- sented with a pre-recorded niscence Bio, deserved an video in which the Reminis- investment of $500,000 cence Bio business owner along with sustained sup- explained in detail aspects port and opportunities for of her business such as development. contractual arrangements, Beginning on March marketing and advertising, 10, she pitched her business expected profit and more. to the judges as new and Owner and manager of Reminiscence Bio, Lisa Hamilton along with photos of two of her completed biographies In the end, she placed innovative. Reminiscence raphy packages as well as stage, she worked for developing her own busi- ask the class what we all first with ‘The Glasgow Bio, she put forward, is a other services which cater months with pro bono cli- ness plan and sifting out wanted to be when we grew Brothers’ (Phibian Farms) biography business focused to group biographies for ents to ensure that she de- opportunities for the print- up and the common occupa- securing second place on memorialising the life low-income persons; books veloped the right standard ing of the books. tions would be named but I with $250,000 and Tas- stories of theordinary and on a business' history; con- and quality of her products. Speaking to the Village would say ‘an author'. As min Pellew (Tazz Foods) extraordinary people around tractual biography services At times she said the jour- Voice News on Saturday, I grew, I got to understand securing third place with us. as part of the benefits pack- ney was lonely because Hamilton, who is also the that some jobs just weren’t $150,000. It caters, primarily, to age for large organizations it required a lot of work newspaper's Chief Report- as profitable or in demand, Phibian Farms is an persons at or above the pen- and editing services. and shared what she was er, told of the motivation so I tailored myself to fit aquaponics startup that aims sion or retirement age but Though Reminiscence working on with only a few behind the business but in into a profession I was good to be the regional leader in also considers that persons Bio was established in Au- trusted individuals. her capacity as owner and at that could earn me mon- the agricultural industry, at a younger age may want gust 2020 when Hamilton Hamilton wanted to pro- manager. ey,” she said. while Tazz Foods featured to commence or complete interviewed her first client, tect her idea at its infantile “From a very young “However, years later a line of dehydrated, ready- their biographies. she plans to launch official- stage. As such, she did most age, I would always turn I’m happy to be following to-eat meals. The other fi- The business offers ly in April 2021. of the groundwork such as heads in primary school my passion...and that now nalists also received prizes. both print and video biog- Before arriving at this designing her own website, when the teacher would not only will it be fulfilling TURN TO PAGE 03►

Second place winner: ‘The Glasgow Brothers’ (Phibian Farms ) and third place winner, Tasmin Pellew (Tazz Foods) Another photo of a biography completed by Reminiscence Bio SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 NEWS 3 Bell 412-EPI chopper landed …Pres Ali says helicopter important step in recapitalising of Defence Force ….to enhance GDF’s air security capacity

By Svetlana Marshall

The US$13.5M Bell 412- Head of State said. training,” the Chief-of-Staff EPI helicopter touched He said too that the ac- explained. down at Base Camp Ayan- quisition of the helicopter He added: “In terms ganna on Saturday, mark- also signals the start of a of national security, this ing an important step in new era of training and is a significant tool to en- the push by successive development. “This asset hance the effectiveness of governments to recapital- did not happen accidental- Internal Security and Joint/ ise the Guyana Defence ly, we have been investing Inter-Agency operations. It Force. continuously in the training, will also allow us to have a President Irfaan Ali, upgrading, and development substantial presence in as- who witnessed the arrival of human assets. With this sisting with the surveillance of the new Bell 412 heli- acquisition, comes a new and security of Offshore copter, said it will boost era of training and an up- operations of the oil majors the capacity of the Guyana graded era of development,” and operators in our fisher- Defence Force (GDF) in the President Ali said ies zones in the EEZ.” execution of its mandate. He Chief-of-Staff, Briga- Brigadier Bess, like said even as the Govern- dier Godfrey Bess, in his President Ali, said the air- ment moves to increase the address, said the helicopter craft is a national asset. President Irfaan Ali onboard Bell 414EPI during its Force’s assets, tremendous will enhance the Force’s “Today, I am happy to inaugural flight around Georgetown (OP Photo) emphasis is being placed delivery of air security ser- be accepting this Bell 412 copter was given the tradi- Guard’s vessels with the country safe, to protect our on building human capacity vices. “With this craft, the EPI helicopter, on behalf of tional water cannon salute aim of moving towards the borders. Without a doubt, to ensure effective and effi- Guyana Defence Force has the Guyana Defence Force at the commencement of the acquisition of new hardware with love for the country cient use of the assets. “We enhanced its air support to and also on behalf of the commissioning ceremony to support and bolster their and love for each other, have spent a lot of resources the Force. Operationally, government and people of at Base Camp Ayanganna. performance. there is nothing that could in upgrading our human we will be better able to Guyana. The Guyana De- It was brought to Guyana “So this is the begin- dent our sovereignty and resources to take care of conduct long-range aerial fence Force will engage from the USA by a crew ning of a new trend. Long territorial integrity.” these assets and to ensure reconnaissance, engage in its use and maintenance which consisted of Lieu- before we get to the end of Subsequent to the end of that we move towards a swifter troop movement in a manner that delivers tenant Colonels, Courtney this year, we will see new the commissioning ceremo- modern pool of capital ac- and insertion into our far- the best outcomes for our Byrne, Anson Weekes, and assets acquired for our coast ny, President Ali boarded quisition that will improve flung regions, perform people and our nation,” the Michael Charles; Civilian guard. We have to analyse the helicopter for its inau- our efficiency and enhance Casevac/Medevac, Search Chief-of-Staff assured. Terrence Holder and Bell the new requirements of gural flight around George- our national security,” the and Rescue missions and The Bell 412EPI heli- Ferry Pilot, Allen Niesen. our security sector based on town. The helicopter can our development path,” the Prime Minister, Briga- transport up to 14 persons, Head of State said. dier (Ret'd) Mark Phillips; has a maximum cruise He said a modern, for- Senior Minister in the Of- speed of 124 knots or 230 ward-looking security ar- fice of the President with km/h, a range of 357 nauti- chitecture is integral to the cal miles, and maximum en- protection of the country’s Responsibility for Finance, durance of 3.8 hours. It also growing economy and eco- Dr Ashni Singh; Minister has a cargo hook capacity nomic resources. of Home Affairs, Robeson of 4,500 lbs/2,041 kg. The However, he said Guy- Benn; Director General craft’s flight deck features anese must seek to under- of the Guyana Civil Avi- modern flight tech which stand the current constraints ation Authority, Lt. Col. includes high resolution of the GDF, and offer their (Ret'd) Egbert Field, Na- maps, terrain data and touch continuous support. tional Security Adviser to controls. “I ask our fellow Guy- the President, Captain Ger- anese, who are the greatest ry Gouveia, United States NEW TREND partners in our development Ambassador to Guyana, President Ali, in his and security, to continue Sarah-Ann Lynch and se- address, announced that to support the work of the nior officers of the GDF and a team will be deployed Guyana Defence Force and Guyana Police Force were The Bell 412EPI Helicopter being given the traditional water cannon salute upon its on Monday to inspect the to ensure that we all work in among officials present at arrival at Base Camp Ayanganna on Saturday (GDF Photo) performance of the Coast a collective way to keep our the ceremony. Journalist cops first prize in investment ...From 2... “I think what we most though they loved our busi- bell, Dr. Kiven Pierre, who appreciated her vision ing their history and this our history, one person at a appreciated from this ex- ness ideas, they didn’t give Saiku Andrews and Aggrey and assisted her in one way dates back to enslavement. time. At Reminiscence Bio perience, apart from the us false Marsh. Moving forward, or the other. Today, in the 21st century, we believe that there is no financial aspect, is the hope but useful cri- Hamilton said that she She told the Village what’s our excuse? Why better person to tell your wholesome advice we re- tique.” hopes her business will be- Voice News: “I want to don’t we know all we can story than ‘you’.” ceived from the judges,” The judges includ- come a sustainable success make a lasting difference. about our grandparents or Interested persons can Hamilton said. “They were ed business experts Dee as she has a bigger goal Many Guyanese come our parents? It is high time visit www.reminiscence- thorough, inquisitive and George, Terrence Camp- in mind. She thanks those from a place of not know- that we do more to preserve bio.com 4 INTERNATIONAL NEWS SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 North Korea unresponsive to behind-the-scenes Biden administration outreach - U.S. official ASHING- ar capacity.” TON (Reu- U.S. Secretary of State ters) - North Antony Blinken has held Korea has out the possibility of addi- Wnot responded to behind- tional sanctions, in coordi- the-scenes diplomatic out- nation with allies, to press reach since mid-February North Korea to denucle- by President Joe Biden’s arize. administration, including Sanctions have so far to Pyongyang’s mission failed to convince Kim to to the United Nations, a give up his nuclear weap- senior Biden administra- ons. tion official told Reuters on Blinken is slated to host Saturday. the first face-to-face discus- The disclosure of the so- sions between senior Biden far unsuccessful U.S. out- administration and Chinese reach, which has not been officials on March 18 in previously reported, raises Alaska. The Trump admin- questions about how Biden istration accused China of will address mounting ten- failing to enforce sanctions sions with Pyongyang over against North Korea. A its nuclear weapons and confidential U.N. report ballistic missile programs. here found that North Korea It also adds a new di- maintained and developed mension to a visit Ameri- its nuclear and ballistic mis- ca’s top diplomat and de- North Korean leader Kim Jong Un attends a plenary meeting of the Workers’ Party central sile programs throughout fense secretary will make committee in Pyongyang, North Korea in this photo supplied by North Korea’s Central News Agency 2020 in violation of inter- next week to South Korea (KCNA) on February 10, 2021. KCNA via REUTERS national sanctions, helping and Japan, where concerns eral channels starting in in publicly describing its tion official said it appeared Pyongyang would impact fund them with some $300 over North Korea’s nuclear mid-February, including in approach to North Korea, there had been no active di- the Biden administration’s million stolen through cyber arsenal are expected to be New York.” saying it is carrying out alogue between the United North Korea policy review, hacks. high on the agenda. “To date, we have not a comprehensive policy States and North Korea for which was expected to be The report by indepen- The senior Biden ad- received any response from review following former more than a year, including completed in the coming dent sanctions monitors ministration official, speak- Pyongyang,” the official President Donald Trump’s at the end of Trump’s ad- weeks. said Pyongyang “produced ing on condition of ano- said. unprecedented engagement ministration, “despite mul- During his election fissile material, maintained nymity, offered few details North Korea’s mission with North Korean leader tiple attempts during that campaign, Biden described nuclear facilities and up- on the diplomatic push. to the United Nations did Kim Jong Un. time by the United States to Kim as a “thug” and said graded its ballistic missile But the official said there not immediately respond to Trump’s efforts failed engage.” he would only meet him infrastructure” while con- had been efforts to reach a request for comment. to persuade North Korea to The U.S. official de- “on the condition that he tinuing to seek material out to the North Korean The Biden administra- give up its nuclear weapons. clined to speculate about would agree that he would and technology for those government “through sev- tion has so far been cautious The Biden administra- how the silence from be drawing down his nucle- programs from abroad. Jordan health minister sacked after oxygen outage kills seven COVID-19 patients MMAN (Reu- jor mismanagement in gov- ters) - Jordan’s ernment hospitals. health minister Jordan is facing a spike was dismissed on in COVID-19 infections ASaturday after seven people attributed mainly to the fast died following an oxygen transmission of the corona- outage in a hospital treat- ing coronavirus patients, virus variant first identified and police were deployed in Britain, and announced to hold back hundreds of stricter measures to curb angry relatives, state media the spread of COVID-19 and witnesses said. e coun- last week. try's health minister to The Jordan reported 8,300 oxygen failure on Saturday new cases of COVID-19 hit intensive care, maternity on Thursday, the highest and coronavirus wards in bore full responsibility for results of a judicial inves- hour. “How can a hospital like daily death toll since the the new Salt government pandemic first surfaced in hospital west of the capital the incident. tigation. King Abdullah visited this see something like this the kingdom a year ago. Amman. “This is a gross mistake Obeidat said he bore the hospital in a move of- happening?” he said on en- Prime Minister Bisher that cannot be justified or “moral responsibility” for ficials said was intended to tering the multi-million-dol- Jordan, with a population al Khaswaneh said he had accepted. I feel ashamed the deaths of the patients, defuse tensions. Anger with lar hospital, which went into of around 10 million, has fired Health Minister Nathir of it and won’t justify it,” who were being treated for the authorities has in the operation only last August. recorded 385,533 cases Obeidat. In a public apolo- Khaswaneh said, adding COVID-19 when wards ran past triggered civil unrest Some politicians said of COVID-19 and 5,224 gy, he said his government that he was awaiting the out of oxygen for nearly an in Jordan. the incident pointed to ma- deaths. SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 INTERNATIONAL NEWS 5 At least 12 killed in protests in Myanmar; civilian vice-president vows resistance to junta (Reuters) - Myanmar se- curity forces killed at least 12 people, witnesses and media reported, as the act- ing leader of a civilian parallel government vowed in a first public address on Saturday to pursue a “revo- lution” to overturn the Feb. 1 military coup.auto-gener- ated & edited.]Families and friends grieved on Five people were shot dead and several injured when police opened fire on a sit-in protest in Man- dalay, Myanmar’s sec- ond-biggest city, witnesses told Reuters. Another per- son was killed in the cen- tral town of Pyay and two died in police firing in the commercial capital Yan- gon, where three were also killed overnight, domestic media reported. “They are acting like they are in a war zone, with unarmed people,” said Mandalay-based activist Myat Thu. He said the dead included a 13-year- old child. Si Thu Tun, another protester, said he saw two people shot, including a Buddhist monk. “One of them was hit in the pubic together to restore democ- swathes of territory across Saturday’s protests the generals overthrew her Andrews on Friday dis- bone, another was shot to racy in the Southeast Asian the country. erupted after posters spread government and detained missed as “absurd” com- death terribly,” he said. nation and the acting leader “In order to form a on social media urging Suu Kyi and many of her ments by a senior Myan- In Pyay, a witness said of the country’s ousted federal democracy, which people to mark the death cabinet colleagues, claim- mar official that authorities security forces initially civilian government ad- all ethnic brothers, who anniversary of Phone Maw, ing fraud in the November were exercising “utmost stopped an ambulance from dressed the public for the have been suffering vari- who was shot and killed by elections. restraint”. reaching those who were first time. ous kinds of oppressions security forces in 1988 in- The coup in Myan- Addressing the U.N. injured, leading to one Mahn Win Khaing from the dictatorship for side what was then known mar, where the military Human Rights Council in death. Than, who is in hiding decades, really desired, this as the Rangoon Institute of has close ties to China, is Geneva, he called for a A truck driver in along with most senior revolution is the chance Technology campus. a major early test for U.S. united approach to “strip Chauk, a town in the cen- officials from the ruling for us to put our efforts to- His shooting and that of President Joe Biden. away the junta’s sense of tral Magwe Region, also National League for De- gether,” Mahn Win Khaing another student who died The U.S. President held impunity”. died after being shot in the mocracy Party, addressed Than said. a few weeks later sparked a virtual meeting with the Former colonial power chest by police, a family the public via Facebook, He said the CRPH widespread protests against Indian, Japanese and Aus- Britain on Friday warned friend said. saying, “This is the darkest would “attempt to legislate the military government tralian leaders on Friday, its citizens in Myanmar to A spokesman for the moment of the nation and the required laws so that known as the 8-8-88 cam- the first official summit of leave and South Korea said junta did not answer phone the moment that the dawn the people have the right paign, because they peaked the group known as the it would suspend defence calls from Reuters seeking is close”. to defend themselves” and in August that year. An Quad, as part of a push exchanges and reconsider comment. Junta-run media He was appointed act- that public administration estimated 3,000 people to demonstrate a renewed development aid to Myan- MRTV’s evening news ing vice-president by rep- would be handled by an were killed when the army U.S. commitment to re- mar. broadcast labelled the pro- resentatives of Myanmar’s “interim people’s adminis- crushed the uprising. gional security. The Kremlin said Rus- testers as “criminals” but ousted lawmakers, the tration team”. Aung San Suu Kyi “As longstanding sup- sia, which has close ties did not elaborate. Committee for Represent- A civil disobedience emerged as a democracy porters of Myanmar and its to Myanmar’s military, More than 70 people ing Pyidaungsu Hluttaw movement that started with icon during the movement people, we emphasise the was concerned over the have been killed in Myan- (CRPH), which is pushing government employees and was kept under house urgent need to restore de- mounting violence and mar in widespread protests for recognition as the right- such as doctors and teach- arrest for nearly two de- mocracy and the priority of was “analysing” whether to against the military’s sei- ful government. ers has expanded into a cades. strengthening democratic suspend military-technical zure of power, the Assis- The group has an- general strike that has par- She was released in resilience,” the four leaders cooperation. tance Association for Po- nounced its intention to alysed many sectors of the 2010 as the military began said in a statement released The U.N. Security litical Prisoners advocacy create a federal democra- economy and taken a large democratic reforms. Her by the White House. Council this week dropped group has said. cy and leaders have been portion of the workings National League for De- language from a statement The deaths came as meeting representatives of government out of the mocracy won elections in SOUTH KOREA CUTS that condemned the army the leaders of the Unit- of Myanmar’s largest eth- military’s hands. 2015 and again in Novem- DEFENCE TIES takeover as a coup, due to ed States, India, Australia nic armed organizations, ber last year. United Nations human opposition by China, Rus- and Japan vowed to work which already control vast PROTESTS On Feb. 1 this year, rights investigator Thomas sia, India and Vietnam. 6 SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 Follow or contact at: [email protected] / facebook.com/villagevoicegy / www.villagevoicegy.com Letters Editorial Hetmyer must earn his Electoral reform is an place in the WI squad Dear Editor essential way forward believe I speak for his dispensation that has seen especially shot selections legion of fans globally some former players on the and batting indiscipline. when I say that Shim- outside and the inclusion The West Indies team ron Hetmyer must do of players who are show- needs you even though for “One Guyana” what is necessary to win ing more discipline, better I you’re currently on the arch 2, 2021 has ignited reverberations, by the governing party, about back his test place and do shot selection and the ca- outside. Your fans, includ- the No Confidence Motion of 2018 and Elections 2020. Much of the so with urgency. No one pacity to place premiums ing me, want to see you doubts that Hety poten- on their wickets, Hety need focus has been on the condemnation of the PNC and the need to rid back on the field of play so GECOM of Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo. Unfortunately, this has tially is the next Windies to inculcate these traits batting star in the mould maximally in his cricketing we can delight in what we Mtaken the form of a monologue with the PPP/C officials and others of their choosing know you’re capable of. doing all of the talking, much of which takes the form of Judge, Jury and Executioner. of greats like Lara, Chan- makeup. The onus is on you as it has Societies normally have one legal compass for all, however there are multiple moral derpaul, Richards, Lloyd So please Hety seek the been on every great player. compasses that reflect the diversity of the society as is recognised and protected by and so on. coaching help you need, constitutional provisions, such as article 40 (1) (b) of Constitution of Guyana which But now that the test engage in the kind of prac- enshrines : “freedom of conscience, of expression and of assembly and association”. team is being somewhat tice that will ensure you Sincerely This enshrined provision, in this instance, is seemingly being observed in the breach reconstituted with a new can eliminate your flaws, Annan Boodram as the PPP and the PPP alone are commanding the national airwaves to expound their position on matters which are still to be adjudicated on in the court and issues that can only be said to be premised on conjecture rather than irrefutable facts. Trumping all of that, from a moral and legal perspective, are the following: We will vaccinate every Guyanese No matter what anyone may think of the Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo matters, those matters are before the courts and the accused should be the beneficiary of the established legal principal: innocent until proven guilty in a court of law (Ei incumbit as long as they are willing probatio qui dicit, non qui negat).However, the Attorney- General, the custodian of Dear Editor the law, on behalf of the State, is the one, not only pronouncing on the sub judice n the letter columns ICOM and the African grateful that it was pointed of the papers, some Union, but confirmatory out to her and that she was matters, but also prescribing penalties. concerns surrounding dates are not available at able to complete the card. In 2006, there was the misappropriation of a constituency seat in District 10 (Re- the vaccination cam- this time. Thus, we need to We have, since reading of gion 10). GECOM conceded that that had occurred but took no action to correct it, Ipaign have been raised. ensure that our campaign is this instance, highlighted although it was detected and drawn to their attention, prior to the Declaration. The The Ministry of Health not rolling ahead of avail- this example to the many subsequent Petition, on that matter, was thrown out on technical grounds similar to would like to thank Ms. ability. What we can as- hard-working public health those which saw one of the 2021 petitions being thrown out. The self-proclaimed Ryhaan Shah for raising sure everyone is that every nurses so that we have moralists of 2006 squatted on that seat for five years. these concerns. The Min- Guyanese and everyone 100% compliance with the In 2011, it is public knowledge that a fraudulent result was presented to the istry of Health would like residing in Guyana will be procedure, which includes Commission. Had that fraud been successful, the PPP/C would have been declared to clear up some of these vaccinated, as long as they the total completion of all the winner of the 2011 elections by a one seat majority. What was the reaction, at general concerns. want to be. the cards. that time, of the moralists? They claimed that the system worked. The fraudster was The Ministry of Health We are presently utiliz- Each person that is retained in the highest office of GECOM to oversee future elections. No disciplinary has started the vaccination ing two different vaccines vaccinated is also provid- campaign with more than - Sinopharm and Astra ed with a brochure that or court action was even contemplated. As fate would have had it, the non-renewal of 30 fixed-sites providing Zeneca. But every person describes the vaccine that contract, albeit opposed by the PPP/C, brought that charade to an end. The offender vaccines from 8.00am to vaccinated will receive the was used for that particu- walked scotch free and GECOM was even accused of ethnic cleansing in the face of 3.00pm. From next week, same vaccine for both of lar person. We are urging that non-renewal. these fixed-sites will be their doses. The Ministry's persons to examine their Here we are in 2021, when the system, by their standards of 2011, apparently supported by roving teams vaccination program is cards before they leave to worked in 2020 and is still at work to determine if there was malfeasance, albeit with that will visit specific very clear - there will no ensure that both the type starts, stops and sputters, however, the moralists in clear acts of duplicity are using communities, utilizing our mixing of vaccines. of vaccines used and the their moral compass to made determinations and propose penalties in defiance of due health centers or other ap- For this reason the date for their next dose process and justice. propriate sites for varying Ministry has introduced a are recorded. In addition, Their duplicity is even more glaring in their attempts to address the supposed prob- time periods. In addition, vaccination card (certifi- we have a number of au- lems with the electoral systems by simply going after Lowenfield, Myers and Mingo, we have teams that are cate) that records the type ditors working at each visiting homes of persons of vaccine used and the site that ask persons when for whom Village Voice holds no brief, except to observe that the age old problems who are not ambulatory. date it was given. There they are leaving to look which affect the proper conduct of elections are once again being swept under the We admit that we have are a number of details, at their cards. Although I carpet and the proposed limited changes are being driven by one partisan stakeholder. not been very aggressive including type of vaccine, am not one of those per- In 2015, the Carter Centre, in its Report, made a number of recommendations, in promoting the vaccine date of first doses, date of sons, I have personally including how to “Build Confidence in the Voters List”, inter alia. This has since be- campaign. While we have second doses (if already requested permission to come a concern of almost every Observer Mission. The CARICOM Mission (2020) received 100,000 doses of provided), date to return examine cards of persons specifically recommended: 1.” As soon as the results of elections are finalised and vaccines, we do not yet for second doses, that are already vaccinated. For declared, GECOM should commence or continue house to house registration so that have in our possession all included with the vaccine the more than 100 cards I the ‘bloated list’ can be cleansed”; and 2.”GECOM should seek the assistance of the the vaccines we need to cards provided. The details have looked at only in one Attorney-General Chambers or employ the services of a private legal drafting firm to vaccinate between 600,000 are also recorded within instance I found that the review all elections and electoral laws to legislate bases for cleansing of the voter`s and 700,000 persons with the records the Ministry of date for the second dose list.” These recommendations support GECOM`s pre-election attempt to complete two doses each. We do Health retain in our pos- was not provided. Still, we expect 100,000 doses of session. We do not deny must be diligent and ensure house-to-house registration and the Parliament`s unanimous appropriation of monies Astra Zeneca vaccines that in the one instance that, at all times, the cards to conduct the house-to-house registration in 2019, yet, all else is on the agenda except from COVAX, but no con- that was described in the are completely filled. the cleansing of the list. firmatory date has been letter to the media that the A commitment to inclusivity and an holistic approach to electoral reform is an given. We expect another public health nurse erred essential way forward for “One Guyana”. 150,000 doses from an ar- in not fully completing the rangement between CAR- vaccination card. We are TURN TO PAGE 07► SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 Column 7 DAMNING ALLEGATIONS AND CHARGES, OUR EXPERIENCES WOULD NOT PERMIT US TO DOUBT MEGHAN here were ism and white supremacy. and 1960s in British colo- Diana did change the game. you when the Again, nothing novel here, nies, dark-skinned qualified There is no hiding and no bomb was we have been doing this for professionals could not get amount of Goebbels-esque dropped? I 400 years. However, this jobs in banks and other in- spin will wash away this Wwas at home all prepped and time around, we have the stitutions of consequence. now revealed dastardly reali- should be fully surprised by Admittedly, in some African ready. Nothing about the in- public accounts of material When the British invaded ty. The truth will shine bright these damning allegations. societies, being ‘fair skinned’ terview was surprising, save witnesses who were em- the sub-continent of India, as the beautiful melanin in In all ignoble fairness to the is a matter of much priority. and except for the fact that bedded deep behind heavily they appointed fair-skinned Archie’s skin and falsehoods royal family, this misguided 70 million people in Nigeria we are humans with mela- fortified enemy lines and as a individuals to important ad- will remain as dull as the fear over the black skin did use skin-lightening products. nin and cannot be so easily consequence, unprecedented ministrative positions. We 317.4 Cullinan II Diamond not start and will not end This is the reality, so who can composed when royalists are credence has been lent to mustn’t forget the remarks in the Queen’s Crown. with them. However, these doubt the existence of royal concerned about what shade these accounts. Even if for of former Senate Majority allegations of negrophobia of melanin will be reflected the sake of being objectively Leader, Harry Reid in 2002 COLORISM place them in the company colorism behind the walls in their grandson. Now, wait, argumentative, we want to on Barack Obama and why So according to the Oprah of the ignominious, past and of an institution that has im- we have been taught to desist doubt her, our experiences he deserves support to be Winfrey interview, Harry present. Frantz Fanon gave posed colonialism and racism from concluding based on would not allow that. the presidential candidate told Meghan that someone us his testimony in ‘Peaux, in countless societies with one side of the story and for the Democratic Party. He in the upper echelons of the noires masques,masques, people of dark complexion? to try as much to garner all HISTORY ENTERS referred to Obama’s ‘light royal family asked if he was blancs’ (Black skin, white We long for a world the facts. However, if a kid THE CHAT skin’ as an important quali- not worried about what color mask) since 1952. Also, overt where the color of Archie’s goes to a chocolate factory Whenever these matters fication for receiving support his baby might be if the rela- and covert institutionalized skin is no more significance and returns to report that are prosecuted in the court of from the party. Given all that tionship progresses. Also, the colorism has made every than the color of eyes. We there is much chocolate in public opinion, history must sordid history and facts, how Duchess charged that there dark boy and girl fearful that cry for a world where the that factory, we might be enter the chat. If history has can we doubt the Duchess? was a deliberate decision not they may not make it unless only thing that matters is the very tempted to disregard her say, she will point to the This information is just to make Archie a Prince be- their skins are bleached. Be- the aforementioned lesson. fact that the Monarchy and one click away in this mod- cause of his skin color. His- sides, we mustn’t forget that content of his character but Meghan said what she said Buckingham Place serves ern open society in the 24- tory tells me, there is a huge India spends 100 million until then, our experiences and as difficult as it, we must as edifices that constantly hour news cycle, the old possibility that these dastard- on skin-lightening products will not allow us to doubt the try our best to dispassion- feed ideas of white suprem- arcane propagandistic meth- ly discussions and decisions due to rampant colorism. In damning charges and allega- ately unpack this credible acy, colonialism and racism. ods will not work. The jig occurred behind the walls of Asia, the measurement of tions made by the Duchess eyewitness account of rac- Lest we forget, in the 1950s is up, accept that Princess Buckingham Palace. No one beauty starts with whiteness. of Sussex. Letters Contract Issues at Ministry of Agriculture needs Resolution

he Ministry of Agricul- is boiling ready to explode. forced into unnecessary expenses work and can’t cope. Monitoring cost by ministry staff over the last ture is beset with ongo- The Ministry summoned to in preparing tendering packages. and supervision process has fallen several years without any breach ing, unresolved contract the office contractors who bid for They fear nothing will change in considerably. The staff complains or problems. issues going back for contracts. Virtually no contractor the re-tenders. They believe there that it has become very difficult to The set back over the last sev- Tmonths. Contractors are complain- showed up for the one-on-one will be a repeat of what already monitor so many contracts; they eral months for the works program ing they are not getting contracts meeting. They complained that took place . can’t keep track. The process has in the Agriculture Ministry needs because they are reluctant to pay the contract tax is too high. As a In the meanwhile, emergency become very cumbersome. to be immediately addressed. It a hefty ‘contract tax’. The result result of their unwillingness to pay work is being done and paid for A PPP activist and watchman cannot be business as usual. The is contract work at NDIA has to play, the Ministry has canceled on a forced account basis. All has been put back to perform work become stagnant. Nothing pro- all tender bids and announced excavation work is being done on at the conservancy without tender- government leadership, President ductive seems to be happening re-tendering of work in billions of mini contracts with mini operators ing. It is riddled with corruption. and Vice President must act now in the Ministry. President Irfaan dollars of projects. on a forced account. Traditional He is paid several millions per to address ongoing contract issues and Vice President Jagdeo have Contractors complain that contractors are by-passed. The month for no kind of horse type and allegations of corruption. not taken measures to resolve the they have to re-tender in order system is now processing many labor. Virtually nothing is being problems at the Ministry. Contrac- and there is no guarantee projects contracts instead of a few. The done. The conservancy was main- Yours truly, tors are up in arms. The situation can be approved. Contractors are staff is overloaded with paper tained in house without additional Jagnarine Kumar

We will vaccinate every Guyanese as long as ... From 6... We have registered for awaiting to complete the in a limited way. available for registration in access any one of the vac- ant than making a choice as emergency use in Guyana WHO pre-approval process. We also utilize the Guyana - Astra Zeneca from cines already registered in to which we prefer if that a number of vaccines. We Should we proceed with the Stringent Regulatory Au- India, South Korea, the UK, Guyana that becomes avail- preference means we must have for decades utilized WHO pre-approval system, thority of the USA, Canada, Pfizer. Moderna, Johnson able for procurement. We wait. a registration system for we will not be able to vac- the EU and the UK. Thus and Johnson, Novavax, have engaged India, China, While we recommend vaccines and medicines cinate our people in any far, using this system, we Sinopharm and Sputnik Russia, Astra Zeneca, Pfiz- that every Guyanese and that is also being used for meaningful way. The WHO could register Astra Zeneca, V. All of these have been er, Moderna and will con- persons residing in Guyana the COVID-19 Vaccines. has so far only registered Moderna, Pfizer and John- registered in Guyana. But tinue to engage all of them. accept the vaccines offered, As part of our registration Pfizer, Moderna and the son and Johnson vaccines. of these, the only vaccines We will utilize any of the and while we are promot- process, we have utilized Astra Zeneca from India, Only Astra Zeneca in a available for procurement at vaccines from among these ing 100% vaccination of the WHO pre-approval pro- UK and South Korea. Pfizer limited amount, is available this time for countries like since we believe that time persons 18 years and older, cess. The WHO has not vaccines are not available from among these. Guyana are Astra Zeneca, is of the essence. Clearly Guyana does not practice completed their evaluation now and we have no way A third criteria utilized Sinopharm and Sputnik V some of these vaccines will mandatory vaccination. of all vaccines submitted to to determine how early we is any two or more of the and all of these are available not be available to Guyana them for pre-approval. Thus could access Pfizer vac- Stringent Regulatory Au- only in limited quantities. and developing countries Regards far, Sinopharm, Novavax, cines. Astra Zeneca from thorities recognized by Guyana has utilized Sin- anytime soon. We will wait Dr. Leslie Ramsammy Johnson and Johnson, and India has been made avail- the WHO. Based on this, opharm and Astra Zeneca. for them. Vaccinating our Advisor to the Minister Sputnik V are vaccines able to developing countries the following vaccines are Our policy is that we will, people now is more import- of Health 8 Column SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 You have tied our hands ou rather not await our hearts. Those reopened short time broth- sion visits. Our friends a know us. For suited criminals. Visited els. PPP reopened hotels. distant memory. Sad! Our we speaketh not us with hell. Agonising. PPP reopened clubs. PPP tears run dry. Our schools Shakespeare. We For they saw granny. My reopened stores. PPP re- shut tight. Our teaching Yspeaketh not Dickens. We granny. As just a statistic. opened ports. PPP reopened bared. But crying is of the speaketh not Rowling. We Death 102. Not a person. airports. PPP reopened past. Way past tears. Way speaketh not Orwell. We Dehumanised. And those malls. PPP reopened mov- pass PPP. They have re- speak us. The vernacular suited criminals. Indentured ie theatres. PPP reopened warded the wealthy. The you scorn. Do you care voters made of us. Pittance restaurants. PPP closed our business wealthy. The super Rejected us. We see harass- Rich. Poor. The rich who about us? Can you look for our inked index finger. futures. PPP reopened ev- wealthy. Who live in man- ments. Police harassment. voted for this illegitimate at us? So I thought. You Then forgotten we were. erywhere but schools. It’s a sions. Chauffeured in ex- For they visit us. Visit us Government. I challenge never do. You care not. Our reminder. Our abuse. year. A year and counting. pensive SUVs. But we have when the wealthy. Place you. Look at our shoes. For one of those am I. One And those suited criminals. Since an education was been discarded. They closed accountability on us. Even of your forgotten. One of Despise. We do despise. denied us. What bad have our schools.They have tied Would you wear those? if innocent. We see non-op- Look at our ragged clothes. your downtrodden. One of We really despise. Why put we done? What have we our hands. You have tied tions. Our lives flashing Have you ever seen those? your ignored. One of your us through hell? Why have done so bad? Why your our hands. Now what am in front of our very eyes. nobody. But you do know our futures in your fiery noose around our necks? I going to be? Surely not Run and death at the end Now step out of your lofty us. You should know us. furnace? Haven’t our young Handcuffs on our wrists? a doctor. Surely not a law- of an AK47. Submit to. mansions. Look into our At us you came. Empty hearts pained enough? Isn’t Shackles on our ankles? yer. Are your security guns Our beatings. Our brutal shacks. Would you dwell promises you brought. Pipe one year enough? Isn’t What ever happened to your readied? Ready for us. Even beatings. Our confession in those? Now our dinners. dreams you sold. Why do that enough? Why seal our no child left behind? The though you created us. Tell beatings. No confessions. Would your dogs eat those? this to us? Why do this to schools? Like Noah’s arc. affluent child our guess. For me. Just tell me. What have Bruised. Released. We see Can you see our boarded mom? Our mom. She is our One year. Twelve months. our community is forgot- we done so bad? What is the new charges. The unjus- beds? Would your head angel. She is our shero. She Without schooling. You ten. But dreams I do have. our destiny? You set us up tified warrants. Oppressive ever rest on those? And is special. She is caring. She speak of online schooling. Dreams we all have. For to fail. bails. No bail. We see the our schools. Look at the is brilliant. She is our father. But that’s online. We are my mother I promised. Our We want universities. fightings. We experience doors? Tell us how you Our teacher. Our doctor. not. For internet was denied mothers we promised. That We want doctors. We want it. The shank stabbings. feel? How do you feel that Our psychologist. Our sto- us. You speak of televised a doctor it will be. A doctor lawyers. We want teach- The pullings of crime. The they are sealed? For they ryteller. Our Economist. schooling. But television my promise. A doctor like ers. We want nurses. We grabbings of anger. The are our only route from Our accountant. Our law- was denied us. Minimum her. A lawyer my brother’s want accountants. We want burnings of frustration. The yer. A security. Minimum wage. Minimum options. pledge. A lawyer like him. Economist. We want en- riots against the system. Ten poverty. Our only escala- wage she pockets. Mini- Paper schooling occasion- The mirror his reflector. gineers. You offering us year in the box. Solitary. tor. Up the social ladder. mum wage she budgets. ally tantalise our brains. Everyday. Every second prison. Front page on your Twenty three in. One out. Our only rescue hoist. Out But minimum they are. of the day. Simulating a Kaieteurnews. Dead bod- Alone. We see the dark. Our of the drowning waters of COVID-19 Surely not a week’s learn- defence lawyer. Defending ies. Our bodies. Shot dead mind. Our companion. Until poverty. Our only light. Then it came. Uninvited ing. Surely not a day’s. But the poor. The forgotten. The by your police. Our deaths we lose it. And in our de- Guiding us out of the abyss to entry. Uninterested in our hunger for knowledge. discarded. Society’s scums. celebrated by your people. spair. We beg to know. We of criminality. One year but exit. Closer to home. Blind- Devours it in minutes. Why are you stealing our PPP-you’ve tied our hands. beg to know why the streets. you don’t care. But this we ed our eyes. Yet painful it dreams? Why? Why? Have PPP-you’ve tied our feet. The cruel streets. Had taken tell you. Our struggles. You was. Agonisingly painful. THE PPP/C you not seen the statistics of PPP-you’ve blindfolded us. us? So tell us. What have For in hospital she walked. Our mom’s heart is our likely outcome? What do you expect us to can ignore. But in years to we done so bad? PPP-what come. Yes in years to come. But out was carried. Visita- lacerated. She beseeched see? But see we do. We see have we done so bad? Is this At your mansions. We will tion denied us. Before she the school to welcome her TIED OUR HANDS a dark future. We see many what you wish for us? died. After she died. We two. But denied she was. Hopeless we are. De- like us. In our communities. be. At your doors. We will died. We all died. Then the For what visited her visu- spair. Dejected. Despon- Education system failures. GIVE US A BETTER be. In your castles. We will interment. Denied we were. al fields. Teared her eyes. dent. Disconsolate. No so- We see the streets. The WAY be. With face-coverings. No goodbyes. No hugs. PPP reopened rum shops. ciety wants us. All societies cops. Murderers. Ready to Covid has opened our Not Covid related. Give us No loves. Painful. Very PPP reopened Strip clubs. rejected us. Nomads. And eradicate us. The system. eyes. Opened our eyes to a better way. Give us our painful. But more pains PPP reopened bars. PPP again. Once again. Depres- Your system. Created us. the education disparity. education. 14 arrested in city raid …gun, ammo found on couple with motorbike ourteen persons were Saturday when they stopped on Saturday arrested as motor scooter #CF4860. At the police conducted sever- time a 29-year-old male and his al raids across George- 52-year-old pillion rider were Ftown. on the bike. The ranks carried Those arrested are between out a search on their persons and age 19-32. The raids were con- found one .38 revolver special ducted in: D Field Sophia; Duke firearm with three .38 rounds of Street, Kingston; Tiger Bag; ammunition in the pants crotch Albouystown; Middle Road, of the pillion rider. The serial La Penitence and Independence number is filed off. Boulevard. They were both arrested and Meanwhile, in an unrelat- escorted to the Ruimveldt Police ed exercise police said that Station and placed in custody. ranks of Regional Division Firearm and ammunition were 4A, were on motorcycle patrol marked, sealed and lodged. The and whilst proceeding south motor cycle was also lodged. along Ruimveldt Public Road Further enquiries in progress. SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 NEWS 9 Chinese Landing village invaded by miners, police …lawmen demolish village gate; council pursuing legal action By Alva Solomon

The group of persons , including two policemen attached to the Aquero Police Sta- The gate which was broken down by the policemen and the miners as they invade tion at Santa Rosa, Moruca as they entered the village of Chinese Landing recently. the village of Chinese Landing recently. he controversial mining which is located in the Moruca ribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) pointed out too, that at no time, Free, Prior and Informed Consent issue at the remote vil- sub-region, has since engaged the overturned a ruling of the Guyana was the village council a party (FPIC) mechanism. lage of Chinese Landing attention of a prominent city attor- Court of Appeal and ruled that to the CCJ’s deliberations and as The village council said that in the North West Dis- ney to assist them in their fight to the GGMC had no authority to such, the village is reiterating that since 1998, it has been trying to Ttrict has once more ignited after rid the area of the issue. order Vieira, in November 2010, the ruling does not give rights to solve the problem and even came two policemen stationed at Santa The issue is an old one and it to cease all work at his Chinese the miner to operate within their to an agreement with Vieira, but Rosa, Moruca led a group of per- dates back to 1995 when miner, Landing operation in spite of titled lands. sons connected to a miner and Wayne Vieira, was granted pros- having a mining permit to do so. While giving a background it was noted that the miner man- demolished the village gate while pecting rights and later in 1998, According to the ruling, the into the history of the issue, it aged to manipulate and coerce the gaining entry to the area recently. mining permits, to mine on the CCJ’s decision rests on the fact was noted by the village that in village council to his benefit. In The incident, which occurred village lands of the Carib commu- that Vieira had no agreement with 1976, Chinese Landing received 2004 , the village council decid- on February 26th , 2021 and nity, by the authorities. the Chinese Landing-Tassawini its land title from the government ed to cut ties with the miner and which was shared on social me- The village has been seeking Village Council at the time the and in 1991, the village received since then it has been nightmarish dia by the villagers sent a chills for a solution to the issue as it Cease Work Order (CWO) was an absolute grant over its lands. gaining the attention of the then through the village as the armed claims the miner and his workmen issued by the GGMC. As such, Vieira entered the fray in 1995 PPP-Administration to address policemen, both of whom are operate on the its village lands at what the CCJ’s ruling did, was ef- when the mining sector, which their concerns. attached to the Aquero Police their whims and fancy. The village fectively restore the High Court’s fell under the purview of former The APNU+AFC adminis- Station at Moruca, spoke on the council has been seeking the inter- decision and awarded Vieira costs Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, tration was also engaged on the behalf of the miner as they entered vention of the Guyana Geology to this effect. granted permission to the miner the village and assisted a group of and Mines Commission (GGMC) In 2019 , village captain Orin to prospect and later mine at matter by the village council but men as they demarcated boundary and the government to revoke Fernandes said at a press confer- the village without the village’s no clear decision was ever made lines. The men told the villagers the permit of the miner, citing its ence in the city that the ruling consent. GGMC converted those by that government to assist the that they were follow the miner’s devastating impact on their village of the CCJ did not give Vieira prospecting permits to mining per- village.The villagers are hoping orders. economy. the authority to continue mining mits, again without any notice to that the courts will now rule in Reports are that the village, In December 2017, the Ca- within the village lands. It was the community and violating the its favour. Eastville pensioner killed in road accident 73-year-old house- motorcar. fisherman Danram Som- er, that while proceeding front of his vehicle to col- up in an unconscious state wife is the latest In a statement police waru of Unity E.C.D. in the said direction he lided with her. by public-spirited citizens A road fatality. Mir- said that the accident oc- Enquires disclosed observed the pedestrian As a result of the colli- and taken to the George- iam Johnson of Lot 8 curred about 06:00 hrs that the motorcar was standing in the centre of sion Johnson fell onto the town Public Hospital Eastville H/S E.C.D died on the Annandale Public proceeding east along the the road and as he ap- road surface where she where she was seen and Saturday morning after Road, ECD involving mo- northern side of Annan- proached, she ran north sustained injuries to her examined by a doctor on being hit on the Annan- torcar #PRR6925 which dale Public Road when it across the road into his head and other parts of duty who pronounced her dale Public Road by a was driven by 22-year-old was alleged by the driv- path causing the left side the body. She was picked dead on arrival. 10 NEWS SUNDAY MARCH 7, 2021 Leguan stelling contractor says was waiting two years to proceed with project ….after facing a 234 day suspension, contractor tells press amid moves to terminate contract

By Svetlana Marshall

Owner of S. Maraj A court Marshal and a representative from the Attor- Contracting Services, ney General’s Chambers serving Owner of S. Maraj Sattrohan Maraj Contracting Services, Sattrohan Maraj with legal docu- ments, with claims amounting to well over $400M.

Some of the pre stressed concrete piles that were A side view of the Leguan Ferry Stelling, however, the highlighted section, manufactured for the Leguan Stelling Project Sattrohan Maraj says was not catered for under the contract awarded to his company

. Maraj Contracting Department (T&HD) and the The suspension, which said once the recommence- was served with a lawsuit, be 90.’ Hence the design Services had report- Ministry of Public Works. was in accordance with the ment order was issue the though approximately month length of 80’ according to edly been waiting “This contract was sus- General Conditions of Con- company proceeded with the prior, he had explained in the contract bill of quantities two years to proceed pended for 234 days…in tracts Section 21, affected project focusing primarily detailed the plethora of is- will be short. The Test Pile Swith the major component of March 2019 to November all aspects of the project and on the wooden component sues surrounding the proj- was done during the period the $413.2M Leguan Ferry 2019,” Maraj told reporters took immediate effect. based on an Order which ect, in the particular the January 15-18, 2019.” Stelling Rehabilitative Proj- on Friday during a visit to “Further, you are ad- was issued one month prior component involving the Maraj told reporters that ect after facing a 234-day the Leguan Ferry Stelling. vised that all works are to to the March, 2019 suspen- pre stressed concrete piles, since the test pile was con- suspension in 2019, Sattro- Though the contract remain under suspension sion. to the Attorney General and ducted in January, 2019, han Maraj said in defence for the rehabilitation of the until further directed in writ- “…be advised that re- Minister of Legal Affairs, T&HD has failed to arrive at of his company, even as main carriage way (timber ing by the Management garding the matter of the Anil Nandlall. a decision on the length of the the Government moves to component) and the con- of Transport and Habours adequacy of the concrete In that letter dated Feb- pre stressed piles to be used, terminate the contract, and struction of the northern Department,” a section of pile lengths, you are required ruary 19, 2021, Maraj ex- reiterating that the current file legal proceedings with section (concrete slab) of the letter dated March 22, to commence works to the plained: “Upon the granting design length stated on the bill claims amounting to well the Leguan Ferry Stelling 2019 read. other sections of the facility/ of possession of the site, I of quantities is short or insuf- over $400M. had been awarded in Sep- It was not until Novem- stelling not being affected by requested Soil Investigation ficient to execute the project. In the termination letter tember 2018, it was not until ber 6, 2019 that T&HD is- the issue,” the Order dated Report since a significant He noted, however, that on issued by the Attorney Gen- December, 2018 that the sued the contracting firm February 14, 2019 read. section of the works require November 2, 2020, the De- eral, Anil Nandlall, it was commencement order was with a recommencement He clarified that at the to Supply and Driving of partment issued the company indicated that the project had issued. However, records order. “Approval has been time the recommencement 14’’x14’’x80’ Pre Stressed with a Variation Order for the been delayed for approxi- show that approximately granted for the rehabilitation order was issued in No- Concrete Pile. No soil inves- design of 30 60’x14’’x14’’ mately 20 months. While three months after, the then to recommence effective vember, 2019, the issue sur- tigation was done by T&HD. pre stressed concrete piles. acknowledging that the con- Acting General Manager of November 8, 2019,” the rounding the concrete piles My consulting engineer then It was anticipated that those tract, which was awarded T&HD Yolanda Hughes had letter, signed by then T&HD had not been resolved. In proposed the Supply and piles, which were prepared on September 20, 2018 had issued S. Maraj Contracting General Manager Marclene fact, he claims that to date, Driving of 3No. Pre Stressed and available for inspection encountered significant and Services with a suspension Merchant, read. T&HD has failed to ade- Test Pile in the absence of since January 2021, would repeated delays, Maraj said letter to facilitate the pro- Speaking to a pool of quately address the issue. a Soil Investigation Report. have been merged with the the delays were no fault of curement and delivery of all reporters at the Leguan Ferry On Friday, even as he T&HD approved the driving 14’’x14’’x40’ pre stressed his company, as he laid the greenheart timber piles for Stelling on Friday, Maraj spoke to reporters, Maraj of one 14’’x14’’x120’ test concrete piles, which were blame down at the feet of the timber component of the The 120ft pre stressed concrete test pile that was driven pile, that result shows that produced since January, 2019. the Transport and Habours project. in the Essequibo River near the Leguan Stelling since the finish deck level will January, 2019 TURN TO PAGE 18► SUNDAY MARCH 7, 2021 NEWS 11

GWI gives notice of water disruption for central Georgetown

n an effort to support the on the six interconnections, all Ministry of Public Works and in an effort to expedite the works its contractor Sinohydro in and minimize the period of water their ongoing Sheriff Street/ disruption to the city. IMandela Avenue road expansion Wednesday’s activity is just project, Guyana Water Incorporat- one of many such exercises slated ed is facilitating the relocation and to get underway while road works interconnection of transmission continue. mains off of the carriage way of We sincerely apologise for the existing roadways. the inconvenience caused to the In a press release GWI said to citizens of Georgetown during the conduct these works it would need disruption of their water supply. to shut off the water supply to However, it must be noted that Central Georgetown, resulting in a this road expansion project gives disruption of water service to cus- GWI the opportunity to replace tomers. The next scheduled dis- ruption is on Wednesday, March the aged pipe network that exists, 17, 2021, to facilitate six inter- while preventing and breakages connections of 16-inch transmis- during road construction. Upon sion lines located between East completion, it will ultimately La Penitence Police Station and improve water supply to the city the turn by the North Ruimveldt over a long-term basis. Multilateral Secondary School. We thank our valued custom- This relocation exercise will help ers of Central Georgetown for to accommodate the construction their patience and understanding, of a roundabout road on Mandela as we collaborate with the minis- by the school. Four subcontractors try of Public Works to fast track will be working simultaneously these activities. 12 Feature SUNDAY MARCH 7, 2021 Guyanese artist shines in Trinidad ver the years she would practice Her work can be best described as Ab- her sketches during her spare time stract by definition but by no means limited but it was not until 2019 that she to this style of creativity. She is interested in decided to take her paintings to a creating space, distance, and depth through Ohigher level and even Coca Cola recognised the use of colour, texture and visualimagery. her creativity as she continues to perfect her Her choice of medium includes acrylic skills. on canvas, wood and mixed media and she Guyanese Oleisa Scott told the Village remains excited about exploring various Voice that for most of her teenage to young styles and techniques throughout her creative adult life, she has always had a fascination journey and thereby discovering her own for recreating images through sketch. This unique perception of what Art means to her. led to her first public exhibition during a The response. Well she said positivity summer vocational Program for which she has been the tone of support and it has been received the 1 st place award for her con- so favourable, that oner of her pieces titled tribution to the visual Arts at the Secondary “She Glows in the Summer Heat” caught the School level in 2001 here in Guyana. eye of former Massey Group CEO, Paula In 2006, the former Saint Joseph’s High Ramkumsingh who purchased the item. She student moved to Trinidad and Tobago said too that other have expressed an art in where she embraced change by embarking commissioning her pieces and she was also on a new journey on the shores of the Twin approached by some to teach art as team Island Republic. While there she received building exercise. her formal education in the faculty of hu- Oleisa said it is her goal to be able to manities earning a Bachelor of Science Degree in Education but at the same time, utilize her skills to educate, communicate, visual arts remained dear to her heart. inspire and encourage a deeper appreciation As such throughout the years, she for art and beauty. engaged in sketching various images as a Oleisa is currently a member of the Art hobby and pass time but in 2019 , her inter- Society of Trinidad and Tobago, the oldest est peaked after attending a Sip and Paint institution for fostering and promoting ap- session as a team building exercise with her preciation for the Arts in the twin Islands. fellow co-workers. At that moment, a burn- She is also a member of the The Women in ing desire to practice art more holistically Art Organisation of Trinidad and Tobago. As became ever more prominent in her thoughts regards the latter, she has received inspiring and she set about producing her pieces. words from that body’s President , Ms Mi- Thereafter her abstract Art work chelle Davis who described Oleisa as a true “Flames” was exhibited at the Art Society artist. She noted that Oleisa’s sense of colour of Trinidad and Tobago during the annual is amazing and different. exhibition for members in November 2020. At the moment, her creations are on dis- The captivating piece was further photo- play at the ongoing exhibition entitled ‘Toute graphed and selected by Coca Cola to be part One of Oleisa’s creations entitled ‘Symbols of a past civilisation’ is currently Bagai: A Carnival Exhibition’ and Oleisa’s of the “First” drive through exhibition within on display at an exhibition in St James, Trinidad and Tobago. artwork is featured among some of the big- the capital city of Port of Spain. The event is entitled ‘Toute Bagai: A Carnival Exhbition’ gest names in the industry on the island.

Guyanese artist Oleisa Scott stands next to her artwork during an exhibition in the Twin-island Republic. SUNDAY MARCH 7, 2021 Feature 13 Linden ‘MUAs’ team up to launch own cosmetic line By Naomi Marshall

Falana Rogers Setra Oselmo Products from the ‘Majesty Collection’

etra Oselmo and Fa- USA. collaborated with nail tech- at myself in the mirror and lana Rogers are big She obtained her first nician commonly known was like, what are you do- names in Guyana’s cosmetic certificate at age as ‘Ebony Creative Hand’; ing? You are so beautiful makeup industry and 17 from Sacha Cosmetics makeup artists, Decarla and have so much to offer Shave leveraged their pop- in Trinidad, after which Hodge, Red Parris and the society,” she recalled. ularity to foster women she worked as a makeup latest collaboration with Oselmo told Village empowerment through their consultant at Pennywise Setra Oselmo. Voice, “I was taught to go new cosmetic line, ‘Majesty Cosmetics. Oselmo is an natural and not wear make- Collection’. In 2016 she was also award-winning cosmetol- up but I always had a little The Majesty Collection able to complete profession- ogist and fashion designer, stash and it literally made includes an eye shadow al makeup training with one who grew up in Notting- me feel great again and that palette with 15 pigments of Trinidad’s well known hamshire, Upper Demer- is how I ended up getting signifying royalty. The new celebrity makeup artists, ara-Berbice, but currently involved in cosmetology line also features six in- Dion Samuel. lives in Linden. and I found that I liked tense shades of matte lip- This motivated the At age 20, Oselmo was make up more as time went sticks, five different styles young woman to move to involved in a vehicular ac- by and the whole feel of of ‘100% mink’ lashes and Guyana and open her first cident which left her perma- when women look at them- three shades of highly pig- makeup studio in Linden nently paralysed. Although selves when I’m done with mented highlighters. June 2017. This venture she is reliant on a wheel- their makeup. They seem so According to Rogers, was challenging for Rog- chair to get around, she happy and confident. All I the Majesty Collection is ers since she was not well certainly does not allow it know is that makeup saved not just another make up known at the time and had to keep her down. line, but the products are of little to no clients. In 2010, three years af- me and a lot of my clients excellent quality and bud- However, she definitely ter the accident, Oselmo too.” get-friendly. did not allow the challenges successfully completed a According to Oselmo, She added that the cos- to stop her from progress- cosmetology programme planning for the makeup metic line also represents ing. Later that year she and began her ever evolving line began in April 2020 “sister hood, women em- migrated to the USA and career as a makeup artist and was not an easy process powerment, women of all had her first child in 2018 and fashion-designer. since perfection was the races, hard working moth- which motivated her to keep Asked what does goal. She also disclosed that ers, strong women in soci- pushing. Makeup done using products from makeup mean to you, the the makeup line was initial- ety, women crowning each With the thought of the ‘Majesty Collection’ 33-year-old- said, makeup ly scheduled to be launched other, women in business, how difficult it was to find ette, and then she was able “I’ve gotten the chance is what actually saved her on November 26, 2020 but and it also honours great affordable, great quality to add more products such to meet a lot of talented life. her sister passed away on women who have passed on makeup in Guyana, she as eyelashes, lip-glosses, people while in this industry “Make up goes very November 24, which caused and never got to fulfil their launched her very own lipsticks, glitters and addi- and they are not recognized deep for me, it is what actu- a delay in the launch. dreams.” makeup line later 2018, Fa- tional eyeshadow palettes. enough for what they can ally saves me because I was The Majesty Collection Twenty-six-year-old lana Cosmetics and would Over time, the mother of do so by collaborating with on the verge of, or literally was launched March 4, Rogers is an internationally have distributors based in one came up with the idea some of them will help get attempted suicide and I did 2021 and is dedicated to trained makeup artist who Guyana, of which Setra of collaborating with local them out there in a positive not even realize that was Oselmo’s late sister, Sisi was born in Linden Guyana Oselmo was one artists from Guyana in order way,” Rogers told Village what I was doing because Oselmo who also played a but was raised in Trinidad Her first product was the to give them the recognition Voice GY. I was in such a depressive significant role in the plan- and is currently base in the Luminous eyeshadow pal- they deserve. Thus far, Rogers has state so after that I looked ning of the cosmetic line. 14 NEWS SUNDAY MARCH 7, 2021 $185 million Lethem airstrip commissioned

The extended Lethem aerodrome runway An aircraft taking off from the new runway he transformation wave of development in from South America and would soon be outgrown role in commerce and the and Sons, the Government of the Lethem Lethem and Region Nine going to South America,” and so, we will have to have development of the country. has answered and has de- Aerodrome into as a whole. The Minister he said. new investments in terms Recognising this, he said, livered,” he said. At the a regional hub is said Guyana is strategically This will complement of hoteling,” the Minister the Government has begun level of the GCAA, he said Tcloser to realisation, as the placed as a link between the construction of the added. upgrades and expansion of air traffic controllers are Ministry of Public Works the Caribbean and South Linden to Mabura Road These developments runways at airports across already being trained for the commissioned the $185 America, and therefore, the for which over $32 billion will also contribute to the the country. “Listening to million new and extended intention is to upgrade the (US$160 million) was ear- expansion of other sectors, some of the complaints and Lethem aerodrome. Mean- runway on Friday last. Lethem Airport into a re- marked. Minister Edghill including tourism, agri- comments of not only the while, the GO-Invest CEO The construction of the gional hub. The next phase said the Government is en- culture and communica- pilots who continuously said this is the first step of new runway, which was will see the construction of gaging the private sector for tion. Director-General of send their remarks to the President Dr. Mohamed done by H. Nauth and Sons the terminal building, where the construction of a bridge the Guyana Civil Aviation Civil Aviation Authority Irfaan Ali’s commitment of Civil Engineering, will al- passengers transfer between across the Kurupukari Riv- Authority (GCAA), Lieu- about the runway not being an international hub in Re- low larger aircraft to land ground transportation and er. “This means that you tenant Colonel (ret’d) Eg- as good as it should, but gion Nine. Mr. Ramsaroop at the Lethem Airport, the the facilities that allow them will have 24-hour traffic in bert Field, Chief Executive they heard the complaints said he would be returning Department of Public In- to board and disembark and out of the Region, but Officer of GO-Invest, Mr. from the residents wanting to the Region to engage the formation said in a press aircraft. people must be able to get Peter Ramsaroop, Regional to have a good runway, so private sector on investment release. “This will bring the next from here into Northern Chairman, Mr. Brian Alli- that they can traverse to and Speaking at the commis- wave of development. You Brazil, deeper Brazil and cock and Mayor of Lethem, from Georgetown. opportunities, incentives sioning ceremony, Minister are not just landing now, but other parts of South Amer- Mr. John Macedo also at- With this programme that are available and how of Public Works, Hon. Juan you can have international ica. The traffic and the -po tended the commissioning. bring undertaken, and I the Government can partner Edghill said the new run- check-in of passports, prop- tential are great. With that, The GCAA head said would say excellently and with them to further devel- way would facilitate a new er customs, flights coming the hotel capacity in Lethem aviation plays a critical perfectly done by H. Nauth op the region. Medical team to conduct COVID-19 screening, testing in Lower Mazaruni he Region Seven Miles, Wineperu and Ka- looking to establish similar Phillipai. Dr. George said COVID-19 Rap- buri and other villages are facilities in other locations the group was only able id Response Team expected to benefit from soon. to inform residents about (RRT) would soon this initiative. Additionally, a medi- the disease and measures Tbe intensifying its sensiti- “Last year, these river- cal outreach is scheduled outlined by the Health Min- sation, testing and screen- ine communities especially to start at Waramadong istry. ing efforts in the Lower Batavia and Riverview were and Kamarang mainly, in a The team had also vis- Mazaruni communities what we considered to be fortnight. ited Waramadong, Kama- through a medical outreach Covid hotspot areas since “We have a team sta- rang, Chinowieng, Jawalla, planned for next week. they had a lot of cases so tioned there, (Warama- Imbaimadai and other ar- Head of the RRT, Dr. this exercise is more us dong) about two doctors, eas. “At the beginning of Terrence George told DPI going back to the areas to and we will start testing at this month, we start getting the aim is to determine the conduct testing. We are not Paruima since we received complaints from persons incidence of the disease in going to be testing the same complaints that persons are about respiratory system riverine communities by individuals, but we will having some respiratory problems so they were test- increasing testing there. conduct random testing,” problems. The last time ed and we got four positives The team participated in a Dr. George said. my team visited this area, in Kamarang and so on. COVID-19 related training He said the Region is they refused strongly … Now, we are doing a com- programme this week to currently facing some dif- to be tested but now with prehensive contact tracing ensure it is adequately pre- ficulties establishing an their current situation, this in those areas to try to stop pared for the exercise. isolation facility within the A health care worker conducting a COVID-19 test decision was reconsidered the spread of Covid,” he Residents in Riverview, riverine communities, in and will begin as soon as added. To date, the Region However, facilities have which house about three to Karrau Creek, Batavia, keeping with the Minis- possible,” Dr. George said. has recorded a total of 783 Kartabu, Itaballi Landing, try of Health’s COVID-19 been established at Ka- 20, and five to 10 persons The team had encoun- positive COVID-19 cases. Four Miles, Seventy-four measures. marang and Waramadong, respectively. The Region is tered similar resistance at (DPI) SUNDAY MARCH 7, 2021 NEWS 15 Full Court suspends order for costs in FMAA preliminary case ….sets March 31 for hearing of interlocutory application for conservatory orders

he Full Court has Service Commission or the suspended an order salaries or presiding over for costs issued by the Courts by way of direct Justice Nareshwar charge on the Consolidated THarnanan in the preliminary Fund would be unconstitu- case – Ganesh Mahipaul tional.” etal v the Attorney General Attorney-at-Law Suean- et el – challenging the re- na Lovell, in her affidavit to cent passage of the Fiscal the High Court had made a Management and Account- similar case as an Officer of ability (Amendment) Act of the Supreme Court Registry. 2021, and has set March 31, Lovell stated that the 2021 for the hearing of an Constitution specifically interlocutory application for provides that all Courts and conservatory orders. all persons presiding over On March 5, 2021, Jus- the courts shall exercise their tice Harnanan had declined functions independently of to issue the interim orders the control and direction of sought by the applicants, any person or authority, and who are a group of politi- shall be free and indepen- cians, trade unionists and dent from political executive civil society representatives, control. and had ordered them to pay “It is further provided cost to the tune of $200,000 that all courts shall be ad- to the Attorney General Anil ministratively autonomous Nandlall. and shall be funded by a However, the appli- direct charge upon the Con- cants, through their battery Senior Counsel Roysdale Forde Attorney General and solidated Fund,” she posited. Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall of lawyers led by Senior sage of the Fiscal Manage- ability. The Attorney General Counsel Roysdale Forde and ed out that the FDA was Service Commission and the ment and Accountability Under the Fiscal Man- has reportedly taken um- Attorney-at-Law Khemraj filed on February 22, 2021, Supreme Court have filed (Amendment) Act of 2021 agement and Accountability brage at the fact that the Ramjattan, filed a Notice of and served on February 26, Affidavits in support of the has impaired the financial (Amendment) Act, constitu- Police Service Commission Appeal and a Notice of Ap- 2021. The matter was fixed case. independence and auton- tional agencies are mandated is among the applicants but plication to the Full Court, for March 15, 2017. “That’s In an affidavit dated omy of the Constitutional to submit their budget pro- Forde said such should not challenging Justice Har- 17 days to prepare. Parlia- March 11, 2021, Attor- Agencies, listed in the Third posals to a Minister of Gov- be the case. nanan’s decision. ment finished on March 4,” ney-at-Law Tiffany Ho- Schedule of the Constitution, ernment for approval then “The country should be When the matter came though the independence of to the Minister of Finance the Senior Counsel posited. henkirk, who is currently up on Friday, March 12, Forde contended that the stationed at the Court of proud that the Police Service those agencies are protected for inclusion in the National Commission and the other 2021, the Full Court of the by Article 222A, 212 (G) Budget but such a method delay in submission on the Appeal, and is the Secretary representatives of the Public High Court, comprising Jus- and 122 (A). is unconstitutional, null and part of the Attorney General (ag) to the Judicial Service Service Commission and tices Franklyn Holder and Article 222A, in par- void, Forde and Team have is part of a plot to concretize Commission (JSC), said the the Teaching Service Com- Sandil Kissoon, suspend- ticular, states: “In Order to argued. Government’s control over JSC is among constitutional mission together with Ms. ed the order for costs, and assure the independence of Meanwhile, in the case constitutional agencies. agencies listed under the set March 31, 2021 for the the entities listed in the Third of the Fixed Date Applica- “The application for an Third Schedule of the Con- Dawn Gardiner and Coretta hearing of the interlocutory Schedule- (a) The expendi- tion – the substantive matter extension of time is part of stitution. Mc Donald representatives application for Conservatory ture of each of the entities – the case will come up on a scheme in to consolidate Hohenkirk said the inde- of the Public Service em- Orders pending the hearing shall be financed as direct Monday, March 15, 2021 control over the Constitu- pendence of the JSC is guar- ployees and the teachers. and determination of the charge on the Consolidated in the High Court, however, tional Agencies and to ren- anteed by the Constitution. They are standing up to substantive matter. Fund, determined as a lump the Attorney General has der the Court proceedings “The procedure for ap- protect the Constitution, in Among the key conser- sum by way of an annual reportedly failed to file his challenging the constitu- propriation requires that defence of the Constitution vatory orders being sought subvention approved by the defence. Instead, he has tionality of the Fiscal Man- the Minister of Finance lay whilst Nandlall and his car- is an order restraining the National Assembly after a applied for an extension of agement and Accountability before the National Assem- tel are seeking to undermine Minister of Finance and or review and approval of the time of 14 days to do so, on Act, and the Appropriation bly estimates of revenues the Constitutional Agencies the Senior Minister in the entity’s annual budget as the grounds that individuals Act nugatory, essentially and expenditure of Guyana, guaranteed and assured in- Office of the President from a part of the process of the critical to his defence, such seeking to make the unlaw- however, estimates of ex- dependence and financial disbursing moneys pursuant determination of the national as the Senior Minister in the ful reductions of Expendi- penditure that are a direct autonomy enshrined in the to the Appropriation Act budget.” Office of the President with ture of the Constitutional charge on the Consolidated Constitution. He is supposed of 2021 in respect of any Further, it states that responsibility for Finance, Agencies and the unlawful Fund are to be excluded to be the principal legal offi- expenditure or any appropri- each constitutional agency Dr. Ashni Singh, had been disbursements of Expen- from the appropriation ap- cer of the installed Govern- ated expenditure approved must manage its subven- occupied with parliamentary diture by this fraudulent proval process. ment and rather than upjold or purportedly approved by tion as it deems fit for the affairs. Government a fiat accompli. Accordingly, I am ad- the Constitution he swore to the National Assembly in efficient discharge of its But in an interview with They want to delay the hear- vised by Senior Counsel, uphold, he continues to run respect of the Constitutional functions, subject only to Village Voice News on Sat- ing,” the Senior Counsel told Mr Stephen G.N Fraser, around like a poodle sniffing Agencies listed in the Third conformity with the financial urday, Senior Counsel Roys- Village Voice News. and verily believe that any out legitimate land transac- Schedule of the Constitution. practices and procedures dale Forde rubbished the In both the interim and legislative or administrative tions, pursuing vendetta and The battery of lawyers approved by the National excuse proffered by the At- substantive matters, repre- measure which impedes witch hunting,” Forde told have argued that the pas- Assembly to ensure account- torney General. It was point- sentatives from the Judicial the funding of the Judicial Village Voice News. 16 NEWS SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 Private cane farmers contribute big …as Uitvlugt surpasses target for second week

itvlugt Estate for of the 1st crop, 2021, Guy- techniques to harvest more of bagasse/fossil fuel usage 174 hectares of sugar cane Commenting on this the second con- SuCo’s engineering corps than 28,000 Metric Tonnes contributing to reduction in which they supplied to the Estate’s performance, Guy- secutive week along with all factory team of Cane to produce 2,068 cost, better quality of sugar Uitvlugt Estate factory for SuCo quoted its CEO, Sase- has achieved its members worked diligently Metric Tonnes sugar over a cane harvested because of sugar production. This rep- narine Singh as commend- Uweekly production target, to rectify major defects ob- two-week period of opera- the strategy in the industry resents an increase of over a feat attributed the resil- served during the pre-crop tions,” the statement added. to go back to the basics in 100% when compared with ing not only Uitvlugt, but ience of sugar workers and factory trials also known as As a result of the im- the agronomical practices the same two-week period also all the teams from the government’s interventions steam trials. “This week, the proved efficiency of factory and getting the nutrients for last year. various Estates “for their at the Guyana Sugar Corpo- Uitvlugt factory recorded a operations, sugar productiv- the plant on time, less extra- According to GuySuCo, resilience, resourcefulness ration’s (GuySuCo). total of 125 grinding hours, ity levels continue to climb neous matter as a result of after a dismal 2020, Estate and resolves to sweat the as- At the Uitvlugt Estate, a significant improvement steadily from approximately repairs to cane dumper area Manager of Uitvlugt Yud- sets to create greater value the corporation’s lone op- compared to 116 the pre- 14.5 tonnes cane per tonnes conducted prior to crop, histhira Mana, opportunities from the mon- erating estate in Demerara, vious week. At Uitvlugt, sugar (TCTS) to an aver- better quality sugar crystals Attributed the improve- ies invested in the process.” workers were extremely the factory is expected to age of 12.97 TCTS. “The due to repairs completed ment in the Estate’s pro- jubilant as they achieved grind for 130-135 hours per estate has more access to at the crystallizers and a ductivity in 2021 to the He also thanked them for 1,006.6 Metric Tonnes week,” GuySuCo statement improved cane transport new boiler chimney which workers’ resilience, injec- pushing production and (MT) of sugar, surpassing read. routes and factory operation is allowing better combus- tion of over $50M towards sale of packaged sugar as the week’s production tar- The sugar corporation in 2021 compared to 2020 tion and performance in the factory repairs conducted the industry shifts its focus get for the second week said thus far, the Uitvlugt which directly contributed boilers and more consistent prior to commencement of to meeting the needs of all of complete grinding at Estate harvested a total of to this improved perfor- steam generation on the Es- the 1st Crop 2021 and most customers with the aim of the factory since the com- 416 hectares of cane (42% mance. Notable improve- tate,” GuySuCo said. importantly the continued providing products of great- mencement of the 1st crop of which was provided by ments pertaining to the fac- As of week ending confidence of the private 2021, GuySuCo said in a private farmers. “Both the tory’s operations this crop March 12, 2021, private farmers in the ability of the er value packaged hygieni- statement Saturday evening. private farmers and the Es- include: increase power farmers of Region #3 (Es- Estate’s management to cally. Singh also reiterated According to the corpo- tate used semi mechani- generation due repairs in the sequibo Islands/ West De- produce sugar of the highest that the price for packaged ration during the initial days cal and manual harvesting power house, a better mix merara) harvested a total of quality. sugar has not increase. SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 NEWS 17 Gov’t engages forest 52 new Covid sector stakeholders cases, one death –– aims to strengthen collaboration n a day when it and his family and to allow Region Four has the for increased productivity recorded 52 new them to mourn their tragic highest number of con- OCovid-19 infections, loss in peace. firmed cases with 4,215 fol- the Ministry of Health here The number of con- lowed by Region One with edges the challenges the has also announced the firmed COVID-19 cases 1025 and Region Seven industry continues to expe- death of a 71-year man in Guyana surpassed 9,000 with 787 cases. Region Two rience in value- adding and bringing the total fatality on Friday and is now at has recorded the lowered productivity. The policy im- from the virus to 207. 9 121. According to the number with 239. plemented from 2020-2025 The 71-year-old male Ministry’s statistical report, Guyana recorded its first would ensure that Conces- from Region Four (Demer- five persons remain in the COVID-19-related death sion Holders, Sawmillers, ara-Mahaica) died while re- COVID-19 ICU while 32 on March 11, 2020, under and Timbers Dealers will ceiving care at a medical fa- persons are in institutional then APNU+AFC Govern- be allowed to export Logs cility. The MOH expressed isolation and another 591 ment. Data shows that from at varying export levy rates sincerest condolences to the persons in home isolation. March 11 to August 2 when dependent on which sched- family of the deceased and Eight persons, the Ministry the coalition demitted Of- ules of timber species they undertaken to make every said, are in institutional fice – a period of six months Minister of Natural Resources, Vickram Bharrat and fall under. effort to provide all the nec- quarantine. — the previous Administra- James Singh of the Guyana Forestry Commission However, given the essary support during this To date, 4,694 males tion recorded a total of 21 he Ministry of that the Ministry of Natural financial and other con- difficult time to render any have contracted the virus COVID-19 related deaths. Natura Resources Resources through the Guy- straints over the past few assistance needed. in Guyana while 4, 427 However, from August 4, says its focus is on ana Forestry Commission years, there has been a de- The Ministry is also females have been tested 2020, to March 12, 2021 – enhancing the eco- will continue to promote crease in exports. There- appealing to the general positive. Collectively, 8,287 eight months — the country Tnomic viability of the Guy- and support Forest Sectors fore, the Natural Resources public to respect the con- persons have recovered recorded 185 additional ana Forestry Commission Operators involvement in Minister encouraged all fidentiality of the deceased from the disease. COVID-19 deaths. through the promotion of wood processing by saw- forest sector stakeholders sustainable forest manage- mills and lumberyards, to recognize the importance ment activities, increased and exporting of Guyana’s and potential of the sector production and, value-add- forest produce. Sawmills, and continue to invest. In ing forest products for ex- lumberyards as well as ex- this regard, to support an ports. porters of forest produce increase in production for This is in keeping with have made significant con- domestic consumption and

Stakeholders at one of the engage the Government’s commit- tributions to the Natural export, the Guyana For- ment to supporting forest Resources sector. Evidently, estry Commission will be sector operators to ensure over the past 10 years, the advertising vacant areas the potentials of the sector GFC has issued approxi- for logging in the Berbice, are realised through new mately 300 sawmill licences Demerara, Essequibo, and investments and incentives annually, he added. North West for eligible to the sector, which was Further, Minister small, medium, and large- evident in Budget 2020 and Bharrat stated that the sec- scale forest operations. 2021, the ministry said in a tor contributes significantly Additionally, the Minis- release. to the economy of Guyana try will continue to engage According to the min- by the creation of employ- all forest sector operators to istry recently Minister, ment and the expansion of explore collaboration in the Vickram Bharrat and the the sawmilling and export areas of road maintenance management of the GFC market. GFC statistics in- and other incentives to sup- met with sawmillers and dicate that between 3000- port the sector. exporters to discuss oppor- 5000 persons have been The Ministry of Natural tunities and challenges fac- employed annually in this Resources and the Guy- ing the sector. The meeting very competitive and vastly ana Forestry Commission was convened to listen to expanding sector. will continue to engage all stakeholders and coordinate He also pointed out that forest sector stakeholders efforts to promote produc- the recently approved Log to ensure the potentials of tion and economic benefits. Export Policy serves as the sector are realised by Minister Bharrat assured an interim measure by the adopting sustainable forest the stakeholders present Government that acknowl- management practices. 18 NEWS SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021

Sleep-Inn owner, other arrested during Covid crackdown anks from the Nation- 4A during which several persons place, Clifton Bacchus and two prietor Meer Rahaman and 18 pa- Moffett and his assistant Akeem al Covid Task Force, were detained for breaching the bartenders were arrested as well trons were arrested. At Kairos Bar Carmichael were arrested. They Guyana Defense Force curfew. as Chinese nationals who were at Charlotte street Bourda, George- were all placed on cash bail pend- and the Guyana Police Among the places raided were: the casino. town, Manager Mark Alleyen was RForce on Friday night conducted Sleep-In Bar & Casino on Church Across at Club Altitude Sandy nabbed. At Club Privilege Main St ing court. There was no incident, an Operation in Regional Division Street. Owner of the business Babb St Kitty, Georgetown, Pro- Georgetown the Bartender Delon police said in a release.

Leguan stelling contractor says was waiting two years From... 10... “I am still awaiting ap- in January, 2021 that an ed by seven (7) months, piles, only one test pile was on the island, and a threat driveway, that is what we proval to proceed with the extension was granted. owing to an impasse as it driven and the information was issued that S.Maraj had to do; we did additional concrete works from Janu- In a letter dated January relates to the acquisition of ascertained at the end of Contracting Services would 25 piles, another variation ary 2019 to February 2021, 29, 2021, T&HD General the concrete test piles, an the exercise was inclusive. be stripped of all of its con- 25 additional greenheart that is, a period of two (2) Manager advised the S. increase in the quantity of Hence the consultant had tracts. To date, three con- piles in the higher ramp sec- years,” Maraj said in his Maraj Contracting Services timber members for various recommended driving four tracts issued to the company tion, we had completed that letter to the Attorney Gener- that the expected comple- sections of the Stelling and (4) additional test piles. have been terminated since too, we had driven cluster al – a position he iterated to tion date for the rehabili- unfavorable tidal condi- Having resolved this issue the change in administration piles, we had driven fender reporters on Friday. He said tation of the Leguan Ferry tions at the location which with the Contractor, the on August 2, 2020. piles and we are waiting the 30 pre stressed concrete Stelling is September 2021. affected the encasement of concrete section of the proj- The contractor ex- on transport and harbor to piles are now sitting in his A day prior, Merchant the greenheart timber piles. ect will be addressed.” pressed disappointment that tell us well to start the con- plant yard along with the had explained the reason Also maintaining the ferry Maraj strongly believes a section of the Stelling crete section,” Maraj told others manufactured since behind the decision, even operation while works were that his contractor was ter- that was not catered for reporters. 2019. “We are waiting for as she acknowledged that ongoing.” minated based on inter- under his contract, is con- According to him, the them to tell us, where to there were “several chal- It would appear that ference on the part of the stantly being highlighted timber component of the drive these piles,” Maraj lenges and issues” relating in that letter, Department Region Three (Essequibo in the press. That section is project is 95% completed told reporters. to the rehabilitation of the agreed to address the con- Islands- West Demerara) a wooden dilapidated area while the concrete section, Notwithstanding the Stelling. crete component of the Regional Chairman Ishan that once housed a building due to the indecisiveness of challenges, Maraj said Gov- In that letter dated Jan- project to allow for it to Ayube and Chairman of that was broken down for T&HD, is approximately ernment’s decision to ter- uary 28, 2021, T&HD Gen- continue. Leguan’s Neighbourhood the reuse of materials. 45-48% completed. minate the contract and to eral Manager wrote: “The Another section read: Democratic Council (NDC). “We had completed all Now that his company file legal actions against the contract for the rehabilita- “In the case of the impasse According to Maraj, the of our wooden section that has been sued, Maraj said company came as a major tion of the Leguan Ferry as it relates to the acqui- Regional Chairman’s son- we were supposed to do… he would be hiring a lawyer surprise, since, it was only Stelling has been extend- sition of the concrete test in-law is also a contractor As you can see here, the to defend his case. SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 SPORT NEWS 19 Man City beat Fulham 3:0

Sergio Aguero’s last Premier League goal had come 417 days ago against Sheffield United

(BBC SPORT) Sergio shoddy defending to round after a jinking run were the Rejuvenated by recent games at Craven Cottage, in a good place and we will Aguero scored his first Pre- home goalkeeper Alphonse highlights of a first-half results, including a superb an issue that needs to be continue." mier League goal since Areola for the second. performance lacking in co- win at champions Liver- resolved if they are to retain Manchester City manag- January 2020 as Manchester And with the game un- hesion. pool, the Cottagers ap- their top-flight status, start- er Pep Guardiola, speaking City extended their lead der control, Aguero rounded Aguero, the fourth peared to have the measure ing with the visit of Leeds to BBC Sport: "We knew at the top of the Premier off the scoring with a sec- highest scorer in Premier of a side that had won their next Friday. it [would be difficult]. You League with a win at strug- ond-half penalty after To- League history, also had last six meetings by an ag- 'We are in a good place' just look at Fulham's last gling Fulham. sin Adarabioyo had fouled an inauspicious start to the gregate score of 18-0. - what they said results they don't concede The result sees Pep Ferran Torres. evening, touching the ball Assured in their defen- Fulham boss Scott goals. We do well. In 90 Guardiola's side move 17 on fewer occasions than sive work, Andre-Frank Parker told BBC Match of minutes generally we were points clear at the summit, CITY ROLL ON both goalkeepers in the first Zambo Anguissa, Harrison the Day: "Disappointing. so solid and, yeah, we won with second-placed Man- Guardiola ‘very pleased’ half. Reed, Kenny Tete and Ola There's no denying the mis- again. chester United having two with Man City performance But after the break it all Aina all showed up well at takes we gave away for the "They defended really games in hand. While Fulham manager changed, as much by good the other end of the pitch, goals were sloppy. well man-to-man. In the For the Cottagers it Scott Parker chose to be- fortune as design. although there was a no- "You are playing against right moment we did it and represents a dent to their gin without a recognised Cancelo's curling ticeable void at the apex of a team that in any moment I'm very pleased for all the survival hopes after they centre-forward, there were free-kick saw Stones dart their attack. of the game can hurt you. players and the commitment missed the opportunity to also surprises in the City through a static Fulham But in just 15 sec- You have to be switched on. from the players in the lock- move out of the bottom starting XI. defence to prod home, be- ond-half minutes the game That's probably the deciding three, which is compounded Guardiola elected to fore Joachim Andersen's was gone, primarily from factor of the game. er room before the game. by the fact they have also field a three-man defence clearance ricocheted off the sort of errors that Parker "The season is not going We travel to Budapest now played more games than while Jesus and Aguero Ivan Cavaleiro to send Jesus and his players have worked to be defined by a team we and prepare for another final both Brighton and Newcas- were deployed in tandem up through for a simple second hard to eradicate. have played tonight and the before we get ready for the tle - the sides directly above front for the first time since and Aguero had the final Tosin's failure to react quality they have. Individ- quarter-final of the FA Cup. them. February 2020. word. to Cancelo's free-kick and ually, I wanted to leave an "I will arrive well [with It had looked like being If it was designed to Fulham architects of Andersen's error for the sec- imprint and individually we a fit squad] in Budapest a tight affair, with Fulham give a City side missing their own downfall ond goal were particularly did that. We will dust our- through rotating. Some- testing a much-changed the creativity of Raheem ‘Sloppy’ mistakes cost out of character for players selves down and move on. times the players don't be- City side during a relatively Sterling, Kevin de Bruyne us - Parker who have laid the defensive "This is the part of the lieve me, I want everyone even first period. and Ilkay Gundogan some Prior to the game Guar- platform for Fulham's re- season when trophies are involved. Sometimes it is However, John Stones incisiveness in attack, it did diola had spoken glowingly cent improvement. won and rewards are won. difficult but everyone has to tapped in Joao Cancelo's not initially seem to have of opposite number Parker, Another concern for It's the nitty-gritty of it. make a contribution to win free-kick two minutes after worked. and for the first 45 minutes Parker is that his side have It's the defining moment. games and we will arrive at the break before Gabriel A Torres snapshot and it was easy to understand now lost five of their last We understand that. It's the the end of the season fight- Jesus benefited from some Bernardo Silva's low effort why. seven Premier League home stretch for us. We are ing as best as possible." 20 SPORT NEWS SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021

Kai Havertz had two of Chelsea's best chances Leeds hold Chelsea as Tuchel unbeaten run continues (BBC SPORT) Thomas Tuchel responsibility to create more and Bamford was injured. Chelsea came to scoring would He was also inspired in saving said Chelsea need to be "more to maybe have more big chances." Despite those distractions, the have been disappointing for the Raphinha's close-range effort as he clinical" after being held by Leeds In failing to beat Leeds, Chel- visiting side still created the best visitors as victory would have was moving the other way when in a high-tempo goalless encoun- sea missed out a chance to move chances in a robust first half as strengthened their grip on a top he got a hand to it, and substitute ter. above third-placed Leicester. the returning Mount, Pulisic and four-place and put them a point Reece James did well to stop a late The Blues stretched their un- But Tuchel's run of 10 Premier Ziyech combined well behind behind second-placed Manchester Llorente shot. beaten run under the German man- League games unbeaten since the Havertz, who played in a false- United. ager to 12 games, but wasted sev- start of a new manager's reign is nine role. But with Mendy on form Had that gone in, Leeds would eral good chances including two second only to Nottingham For- The German, who has had a against a Leeds side who contin- have been well-placed to say they for £71m forward Kai Havertz, est's Frank Clark and Chelsea's tough start to life at Chelsea after ually posed questions, it means deserved victory. who started in attack. Maurizio Sarri. contracting coronavirus, showed Tuchel's side have only conceded But a point against an in-form Despite lacking fans to add Leeds, who have only won some confident touches and went two goals since he replaced Frank Chelsea team will also be of com- edge to the clubs' long-standing one of their last six games, were close to opening the scoring in Lampard in January. fort on a wet and windy day which rivalry, both sides were unlucky dealt a blow in the first half when either half. Leeds United 0-0 Chelsea: did no favours for their quick not to score as they both hit the they lost top scorer Patrick Bam- His chance after half-time was Thomas Tuchel takes issue with passing game on a sticky pitch. woodwork and tested their oppo- ford, on his 100th appearance for the most wasteful when he had 'slippery' Elland Road pitch The biggest worry, however, sition keepers. the club, to injury in front of the time and space in the box, but his Leeds impress but Bamford would have been watching Bam- Leeds almost went behind watching England boss Gareth right-footed shot was tipped over. injury causes worries when Luke Ayling's clearance hit Southgate. Tuchel said of the 21-year-old: This was another example of ford go off during the first half. team-mate Diego Llorente and "Unfortunately he could not finish how Leeds can entertain and frus- The striker came off worse in a looped over keeper Illan Meslier CHELSEA WEATHER like he finishes in training and like trate in equal measure. challenge with Antonio Rudiger to hit the bar before Edouard Men- LEEDS STORM TO EARN his talent allows him to finish, Roared on by Orta from the and left the field clutching his hip dy tipped Tyler Roberts' chip onto POINT because we had enough chances. directors' box and from Bielsa in after trying to struggle on. the same part of his goal. Without fans, Tuchel might "But in general, this is a posi- the technical area, they had the Rodrigo replaced Bamford Mendy also saved well from have expected a gentle introduc- tion where he feels comfortable Chelsea players huffing and puff- after 35 minutes and with the Raphinha's effort to deny Leeds, tion to the traditional Leeds-Chel- and I trust him in this position." ing from the start in what was only Spanish forward taken off after who avoided a third straight de- sea rivalry, which stretches back Mount, who pulled the strings their third Premier League draw of 79 minutes, but Bielsa said it was feat. to the 1970s. on the left, also set up a chance the season. because he lacked match fitness. "We have enough quality to But the German seemed unset- for Pulisic, who fired at Meslier, Although Llorente almost In mid-table and 10 points use the chances better and to be tled by Leeds' director of football and tested the Leeds keeper from scored what would have been a more clinical," said Tuchel, who Victor Orta, who was a vocal pres- range. Ben Chilwell and N'Golo comical own goal, they recovered above the drop zone, Leeds are in played a back four and picked ence throughout the game. The Kante were also wasteful from quickly with Bamford and Roberts no danger of relegation but their Mason Mount, Hakim Ziyech and two had a heated debate over fair the left. linking up well to engineer a chip hopes of reaching the top 10 will Christian Pulisic behind Havertz. play even though Chelsea kicked The fact a first-half mix-up in that brought out the best in Chel- be hampered without main striker "It is our responsibility, my the ball out once they realised the Leeds defence was the closest sea keeper Mendy. Bamford. SUNDAY MARCH 14, 2021 SPORT NEWS 21 Sean Williams and Donald Tiripano fight back after Rashid Khan bags five-for Zimbabwe 287 and 266 for 7 (Williams 106*, Tiripano 63*, Rashid 5-105) lead Afghanistan 545 for 4 dec by eight runs (CRICINFO) Sean Williams and Donald caught behind. Madhevere faced three balls Tiripano saved Zimbabwe from an innings on this occasion after first-ball ducks in his defeat and ensured Afghanistan will bat previous two Test innings. again in Abu Dhabi. They shared an unbro- In the Williams mould, Sikandar Raza ken stand of 124 for the eighth wicket, with opened his account by hitting a Khan long- Tiripano reaching his first Test half-century hop for six, went after another short deliv- and Williams completing his second hun- ery to offer a chance at catching height to dred in as many matches. Hamza at deep square leg, which was par- The pair came together when Zimba- ried over the rope, and lofted Khan over his bwe were 142 for 7 and needed another head for a third six, but his enthusiasm got 116 runs to make Afghanistan bat again. the better of him. In the next over, he tried Rashid Khan had just completed his fourth to hit Khan through midwicket but ended up five-wicket haul in only his fifth Test, and edging to second slip. Three balls later, Burl was only one wicket away from ten in the was out for his second duck of the match, match for the second time in his career. trapped lbw in front of leg stump, and in Tea was still over half an hour away Khan's next over, Chakabva missed a sweep too, and Afghanistan seemed on the brink to depart the same way. of a big, series-levelling win. By stumps, Zimbabwe could have folded from there however, they had bowled a further 42.4 but Tiripano and Williams built solidly overs without taking another wicket, leav- while offering just one clear chance. Tiripa- ing questions hanging over their decision to no was on 33 when he stepped out to slog enforce the follow-on. Hamza and missed, giving Afsar Zazai a Afghanistan have now spent 197.3 stumping chance, though the ball kept low overs on the field in the space of two days, and sneaked under his gloves. Tiripano and Khan has bowled 79.3 of them. This, seemed to read Khan out of the hand for for a bowler who has made his name in the most part, though there were a couple of shortest format of the game, is a workload anxious moments against him, including equivalent to nearly 20 T20 games back- to-back. two massive appeals - for a catch at short Forty-three of those overs have come leg and another behind the stumps - in the Donald Tiripano and Sean Williams put on a century stand to same over, both rightly turned down. Two in the second innings, with Asghar Afghan give Zimbabwe the lead Abu Dhabi Cricket turning to his star legspinner repeatedly balls after the second appeal, Tiripano with successes few and far between at the Musakanda and Wesley Madhevere falling fered width, he drove square for four more, reached fifty by hitting Khan over his head other end. As the bowlers tired and the ball in the space of six balls post lunch, and and when Hamza tossed it up, Williams for four. lost its fizz off the surface, Williams and Sikandar Raza, Ryan Burl and Regis Chak- slog-swept over midwicket for six. By then, Zimbabwe were closing in Tiripano prospered, using the slowness of abva falling in the space of 14 balls as tea Williams' short-ball technique almost on erasing the deficit. Williams, who had the surface to their advantage by reading approached. let him down when, two overs after lunch, moved swiftly through the nineties with a the turn off the pitch. Tiripano showed he Kasuza and Masvaure started the day he gloved a hook off Sayed Shirzad, but pair of boundaries off Ahmadi, killed two had a range of shots too, playing a number cautiously, scoring just 10 runs in the first Nasir Jamal at wide slip could not hold on birds with one stone off Khan, slapping a of reverse-sweeps off Amir Hamza's left- 11 overs. Then, Masvaure decided to take to an overhead chance. Williams was on 35 short ball to the cover-point boundary to arm spin. on the offspiner Javed Ahmadi and found at the time. bring up his hundred as well as move Zim- For all that, Afghanistan remain favour- boundaries behind square on the on and off At the other end, Khan continued to babwe into the lead. ites to win this Test match, with Zimbabwe side as Ahmadi tossed it up. In Ahmadi's pose problems for Musakanda, who strug- Only six more overs remained in the effectively 8 for 7 with a whole day left to next over, Masvuare was caught-and- gled to read the googly. He went forward day, and Khan showed Zimbabwe they still play. bowled driving a full-toss carelessly in the to defend one that took the inside edge and have a mountain to climb on day five if they The ball turned every now and then on air. Four balls later, Kasuza played inside evaded leg gully but was eventually trapped are to get anything out of this game other day four and occasionally kept low too, the line trying to defend a Khan googly and lbw by another. than defeat. In the final over of the day, but the surface remained good for batting edged to Rahmat Shah at first slip. Sean Williams reached a fighting cen- Tiripano had to summon up all his watch- throughout. Considering that, Zimbabwe The loss of the top two did not put tury in the last session Abu Dhabi Cricket fulness and defensive nous to keep out two will be disappointed with the bulk of their Williams off his usual approach and he That brought the 20-year old Wesley balls that skidded through at shin height second-innings showing. They lost wickets counterattacked as soon as he was given the Madhevere to the crease, and his series from just short of a good length. Three more in clusters with openers Kevin Kasuza and opportunity to. When Ahmadi gave him a only got worse. He fell for his third duck in good balls in the space of an hour should Prince Masvaure falling in the space of half-tracker, Williams dispatched it through three innings when he hung his bat out to a still do it for Afghanistan, but Zimbabwe five balls in the morning session, Tarisai wide long-on for four. When Ahmadi of- Shirzad delivery that straightened and was can still dream. Test cricket at its best Jason Holder is still an integral member of West Indies team - Roger Harper e might no longer where under the leadership opportunity for the team had come in for a lot of “That’s the first thing. by the captain of of Kraigg Brathwaite, Hold- to move forwards,” said stick from past players like His field placing [leaves] Hthe West Indies but er’s replacement, the West Harper. former fast bowler Andy a lot to be desired and I Jason Holder still has a lot Indies swept the home side “I look forward to him Roberts, who has been to contribute to the success 2-0. Still, Harper believes performing exceptionally among the all-rounder’s believe the time should of the team going forward. Holder can be an asset to well in his role as a player harshest critics. “I think come where he takes in- That is the sentiment of the team now that he has and still as a leader as one Jason Holder as a captain structions from the coaches Chief Selector Roger Harp- been freed of the captaincy. of the senior players in this on the field is lost. I don’t who can see the game better er, who was commenting on “I really think that Jason team. It was great to hear think he’s aware what is than he can.” However, the decision to replace Ja- is a very integral part of the him say that he’s commit- going on the field because son Holder, who captained Test team and West Indies ted to giving Kraigg all the if I win a toss as a captain it was not all doom and the Caribbean side for five cricket going forwards. He support needed and hearing and before lunch on a green gloom for Holder during years. In that time, Holder plays all three formats and the new captain saying that top pitch I am having a man his tenure as captain. It was led the West Indies to 11 I think it’s an opportunity they have a very close rela- on the point boundary then while he was captain that he Test victories, five draws for him to really focus on tionship. I think that augurs I am lost,” Roberts said in climbed to being ranked as and 21 losses. taking his game to higher Jason Holder very well for West Indies January while criticizing Holder opted out of the levels. I think that with him cricket going forward.” the Barbadian’s defensive the best Test all-rounder in recent tour of Bangladesh, at his best and with Kraigg given the captaincy, it’s an In recent times, Holder on-field mindset and tactics. the world. Sports

Arsenal beat Chelsea behind closed doors at Wembley to win the 2019-20 FA Cup FA Cup final and World Snooker Championship on list of pilot events to test return of fans (BBC SPORT) The FA pilots is yet to be decided. final could still see a crowd Secretary Oliver Dowden. to lift all legal limits on tors including travel to and Cup final - potentially in But BBC Sport under- of that size or larger attend, "We will be guided by social contact. from events. front of 20,000 fans - and stands the possibility of with the DCMS adding the science and medical ex- The events will provide The Premier League the World Snooker Cham- having 20,000 fans at the that "a number of pilots perts, but will work flat out data on how large-scale plans to have fans in pionship are among the FA Cup final is being ex- will include spectators and to make that happen. crowds could be able to re- grounds at the final two proposed pilot events to test plored by DCMS and the fans not socially distanced" "We want to get the turn to stadiums safely after the return of big crowds to Football Association. The while others will have so- people back to enjoying this point. rounds of matches this sea- venues this year. proposals would need to be cial-distancing measures what they love and ensure Attendees will have to son, by moving a round The Department for agreed with Brent Council. in place. some of our most important return a negative test before of fixtures to 18-20 May Digital, Culture, Media Under the four-part plan This year's World growth industries get back the event and will also be before the scheduled final and Sport (DCMS) says it to lift the coronavirus lock- Snooker Championship is on their feet." tested afterwards. round of games on 23 May. will stage "around a dozen" down, announced in Feb- set to take place from 17 The pilots are part of The non-socially dis- The English Football sporting and cultural events ruary, the government said April to 3 May at the Cru- the Events Research Pro- tanced events will also test League has said it is "en- this spring. "up to 10,000 people" could cible Theatre in Sheffield. gramme (ERP) and will a range of "non-pharmaceu- gaging" with the govern- The FA Cup final takes be allowed in stadiums for "These test events will inform the government's tical mitigating interven- place at Wembley on 15 sporting events if the pilots be crucial in finding ways to decisions on step four of tions" such as the "layout ment over the potential for May. are successful, but not be- get fans and audiences back roadmap out of lockdown, of the venue, face coverings a small number of fans to The DCMS said the fore 17 May. in safely without social which will begin no earlier and ventilation", while the attend the Carabao Cup fi- number of spectators at the However, the FA Cup distancing," said Culture than 21 June, when it hopes ERP will also look at fac- nal at Wembley on 25 April.