Guyana Chronicle E-paper 09-30-2018

30th September, 2018

Tough challenge ahead No.105413

– New GuySuCo board to hit the ground running

Keep the Arawak language alive 11

PAGE

09

PAGE

– ministers urge residents of St Cuthbert’s Mission

These indigenous children perform a beautiful dance at St. Cuthbert's Mission Heritage Day celebration on Saturday (Adrian Narine photo)

Clothes Jordan woos Middle East vendor killed Investors in accident

PAGE

02

PAGE

03

2

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

PM Nagamootoo appeals to private sector to provide agri financing

PRIME MINISTER Moses Nagamootoo on Saturday called on the private sector to provide cheap and affordable financing to the agriculture sector.

He made the appeal while delivering remarks prior to declaring open the two-day Regional Agricultural Commercial Exhibition (RACE) being held by the regional administration of Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) at the sports ground, Paradise Village, West Coast Berbice.

PM Nagamootoo, standing in for President Granger who was unable to attend, noted that the Small Business Bureau had disbursed millions of dollars in loans to small business peo-

ple; that thousands of young people were receiving training for small business startups in organisations such as the Hinterland Employment Youth Scheme (HEYS).

“These beneficiaries have been trained for developing small cottage industries and they are doing so; and they are making quite a decent livelihood out of their businesses.”

He added: “Food production equals to job creation and job creation leads to wealth creation.”

He stressed that even with income from oil production soon to be a significant part of the economy, agriculture will always be at the forefront.

He said: “I urge the private sector in Guyana to get into the action; to put their money where their hearts are and we know that their hearts are in Guyana. This government intends to depend on collaboration between the state, the region and the private sector to work in partnership to build the economic potential of Guyana as the breadbasket of the Caribbean and beyond.”

Prime Minister Nagamootoo, accompanied by his wife Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, officiated at the cutting of the ribbon to declare the exhibition open.

Other speakers included Chairman of the Region 5 Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Mr Imran Saccoor; Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Ovid Morrison and parliamentarian for Region 5, Ms. Jennifer Wade.

Other officials present included Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; Minis-

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo with wife Sita Nagamootoo Social Protection Minister, Amna Ally; Social Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton; and others at the exhibition

A section of the gathering at the exhibition

ter of Social Protection, Ms. Amna Ally; Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Ms. Delma Nedd, and Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Communities, Emil McGarrel.

The Region 5 RACE is being held under the theme: “Sustaining a green economy through food security.”

Exhibitors at the first day included agricultural organizations such as the Guy-

ana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), NAREI, Agri Machinery owners, the Health Services Department of the Region, Food for the Poor, the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) , agro-processors and vendors of beauty products, among others and a contingent from the Arawak community of Moraikobai in the upper reaches of the Mahaicony River.

Visitors were also able to purchase fresh greens and

vegetables produced by the Regional Agricultural Model Farm located at Fort Wellington, WCB. The opening programme, chaired by Carol Smith-Joseph, was spiced with cultural presentations by the Moraikobai Youth Group, African and tassa drumming and a fusion of Indian and African drums.

The entertainment by local entertainers such as chutney artistes, Bunty and one man band, continued late into the first night.

Clothes vendor killed in accident

By Vishani Ragobeer

FORTY-year-old clothes vendor, Cyon Caunders of lot 101 Melanie, East Coast Demerara (ECD), died after he was struck down while walking on the Good Hope Public Road, ECD on Saturday afternoon.

According to information received by the Guyana Chronicle, a motor lorry bearing registration number GRR6081 and reportedly owned by China Railway First group- Guyana Incorporated, was involved in the

accident which claimed the life of the pedestrian.

Reports indicate that the lorry was proceeding east along the Northern side of the public road, in keeping with the speed limit.

The driver, a 28-year-old resident of Little Diamond, EBD, alleged that the pedestrian was walking east on the northern side of the road some distance ahead of the lorry. Soon after, as the driver was in the vicinity of KSM investments, he further alleged that the man suddenly crossed the road, moving south and into his path. The vehicle was only a short distance away and

though the driver applied the brakes, the man was struck down and the vehicle subsequently ran over him, crushing his head.

Caunders was taken to the Guyana Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) but was pronounced dead on arrival by a doctor on duty.

He was also identified by his mother.

The driver, who abandoned the motor lorry and fled to his residence, was subsequently arrested by police. A breathalyser test conducted on him showed no traces of alcohol in his system. An investigation into the matter is ongoing.

3

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Jordan woos Middle East investors MINISTER of Finance, Winston Jordan and Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson accompanied by a technical team from the Ministry of Finance, have just concluded a visit to the Middle East which was intended to attract diverse investments and forge closer banking partnerships with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) as part of Guyana’s preparation for its impending oilbased transformation.

Minister Jordan signed a significant loan agreement with the Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) for US$20M which will be going towards major upgrades to the Guyana Power and Light as part of its Development and Expansion Programme for 2014 to 2021 as well as a US$900,000.00 grant agreement for the Reverse Linkage Project which aims to enhance the stability and sustainability of Guyana’s rice sector. The project seeks to diversify the rice sector with the production of new varieties of rice with an increase in rice export.

The delegation also visited Kuwait with the intention of formally requesting a write-off of a decades-old loan. Minister Jordan explained to the Kuwait Times newspaper; “We had borrowed around US$10 million from Kuwait in the 1970s. It was during a time when we really needed help and Kuwait was very generous to reach out and give the money we needed. But now, the amount has grown to about US$70 million because of interest. This is the reason why we are here.” Minister Jordan also urged Kuwaiti businessmen to invest in Guyana’s growing economy and met the Deputy Chairman of Kuwait Chamber of Commerce and

– requests write off of 1970s loan – looks for closer partnership with Islamic Development Bank Industry, Mohammad AlSaqer in this regard.

The trip was part of a broader recognition that aims to develop and diversify Guyana’s economy, partnerships with overseas investors and lending agencies. Minister Jordan, in explaining the vision of Guyana’s Green State Development Strategy, said “We will be doing a very unique experiment whereby we will be using resources from oil and hydrocarbons to project ourselves in a renewable state.”

During the visit to Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Dr. Nasser Mohammed AL Ahmed AL-Jaber AL-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Prime Minister 20062011, who visited Guyana, on July 19, 2010, hosted a grand luncheon/banquet for 40 persons which included Ministers Jordan and Patterson; Donna Yearwood, Head, Debt Management, Ministry of Finance; Guyana’s Ambassador to Kuwait Professor, Dr. Shamir Ally; wife Dr. Maryann Beebe Ally, and 35 high ranking Kuwait officials, including His Excellency Khaled Suliman AL-Jarallah, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, who was on the team to Guyana on July 19, 2010.

His Highness assured the ministerial delegation that Kuwait and Guyana are brothers and sisters, and thanked Guyana for its support for Kuwait’s Election at the United Nations Security Council and other international agencies and added that Kuwait is looking forward to more active participation in Guyana.

Ambassador Dr. Ally, in his quarterly briefings to His

Ministers Winston Jordan and David Patterson during their recent visit to the Middle East

Highness, discussed among other matters, visa waivers in Kuwait and Guyana for diplomatic and government officials and a Kuwait embassy in Guyana.

Head of delegation, Winston Jordan raised Guyana’s US$10 million debt incurred in 1973 to Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA), and a special request for a waiver of the accumulated US $64 million interest, and a repayment sched-

ule for the US $10 million loan. Both His Highness and the deputy foreign minister promised to pursue the relief to Guyana. Minister Jordan also mentioned the opportunities for Kuwait investments, for public private partnerships in agriculture, business and education.

ISDB VISIT Prior to the Kuwait visit, the team spent the past week

visiting the Islamic Development Bank in Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) at the invitation of the IsDB President, Dr. Bandar Hajjar.

The delegation was exposed to the five entities comprising the IsDB Group, the functional areas of the bank, the financial and technical support available and the process of accessing this support. Guyana has access to a US$900M resource envelope from which US$20M will support GPL’s upgrade. The Projects Department of the Ministry of Finance is currently working with other ministries and agencies to develop projects to tap into the remaining funds.

The ministers shared information on Guyana and areas of greatest interest to the country. During the welcoming formalities and exchange of courtesies, Minister Jordan presented a plaque with several samples of wood species from Guyana to the vice president for Country Programmes, Dr. Mansur Muhtar. The plaque will be prominently displayed in the bank.

Guyana became the 57th member country of the IsDB in 2016, and has set a record with the speed with which three agreements for loan and grant support have been finalised. This is due to the high Turn to page 9 ►

4

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Death toll on the rise in Indonesia

– as quake-induced tsunamis kill hundreds PALU, Indonesia (Reuters) - More than 400 people were confirmed killed, many swept away as tsunami waves triggered by a massive earthquake crashed into the Indonesian island of Sulawesi, and authorities expected the toll to rise sharply on Sunday as news arrives from remote areas.

Dozens of people were reported to be still trapped in the rubble of a hotel in the city of Palu, which was hit

by waves as high as six meters (20 feet) following the 7.5 magnitude earthquake.

Hundreds had gathered for a festival on the city’s beach when the wall of water smashed onshore at dusk on Friday, sweeping many to their deaths and destroying anything in its path. Indonesian President Joko Widodo was scheduled to visit evacuation centres in the city on Sunday.

The Head of the National Disaster Management

Agency (BNPB), Willem Rampangilei, told reporters in Sulawesi late on Saturday the death toll from Palu had reached 420 people, according to news website Kompas. “ I t ’s e s t i m a t e d t h a t

10,000 refugees are scattered in 50 points in Palu city,” he was quoted by Kompas as saying. “We are having difficulty deploying heavy equipment to find victims under the rubble of buildings because many of

the roads leading to Palu city are damaged.”

Earlier, authorities had put the death toll at 384.

Amateur footage shown by local TV stations showed waves crashing into houses along Palu’s shoreline, scattering shipping containers and flooding into a mosque in the city.

Dozens of injured people were being treated in makeshift medical tents set up outdoors.

Photos confirmed by authorities showed bodies being lined up along the streets on Saturday, some in bags and some with their faces covered with clothes.

China sees surge in HIV-AIDS cases CHINA has announced a 14% jump in the number of its citizens who are living with HIV and AIDS. More than 820,000 people are affected in the country, health officials say.

About 40,000 new cases were reported in the second quarter of 2018 alone.

The vast majority of new cases were transmitted through sex, marking a change from the past.

Traditionally, HIV spread rapidly through some parts of China as a result of infected blood transfusions. But the number of people contracting HIV in this way had

been reduced to almost zero, Chinese health officials said at a conference in Yunnan province.

Year-on-year, however, the number of those living with HIV and AIDS in China has risen by 100,000 people.

HIV transmission through sex is an acute issue in China's LGBT community.

Homosexuality was decriminalised in China in 1997, but discrimination against LGBT people is said to be rife.

Because of the country's

conservative values, studies have estimated that 70-90% of men who have sex with men will eventually marry women.

Many of the transmissions of the diseases come from inadequate sexual protections in these relationships.

Since 2003, China's government has promised universal access to HIV medication as part of an effort to tackle the issue. (BBC)

Sunday September 30, 2018 - 8:30hrs to 10:00

29-09-2018 3 6 16 21 23 28 13

26-09-2018

E

4, 10, 12, 15, 16

3, 7, 11, 24, 25

5, 1, 7

4, 0, 0

5

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Public, private engagement necessary for oil and gas – Dr. Bynoe ...Hughes, Fields & Stoby establishes presence in Houston, Texas

Head of the Department of Energy at the Ministry of the Presidency, Dr Mark Bynoe

GUYANA must improve its systems of governance and transparency, inclusive of public procurement to reduce potential downstream leakages associated with petroleum revenues.

This is according to Dr David Mark Bynoe, Head of the Department of Energy of the Ministry of the Presidency.

He made the remark during an address at the Georgetown Marriott Hotel on Friday night, when the local law firm Hughes, Fields and Stoby announced its partnership with the U.S.based firm Access Point, to become the first local, legal and business protocol firm to establish a Houston, Texas presence.

The move was made in recognition of the emerging importance between the American energy capital and Guyana, as an emerging energy powerhouse.

Speaking to an audience which included several ministers of government, including Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson and Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin, Bynoe said that the department continues to seek to engage those who may have a mandated responsibility and comprehensive advantage as the oil and gas sector evolves.

He said a mixture of public and private engagement would appear more feasible, noting that the department must also engage members of the public, schools, technical institutes, universities and the private sector to ensure that they are prepared not just for oil and gas, but for the first-oil and the resources emanating thereafter.

“The best we can do for our people is to build their

Greg Clark, an attorney who will manage the local law firm’s offices in Houston, Texas.

A section of the gathering at the event.

capacities, to be able to participate in the move that is projected to come from oil revenue,” he told the gathering.

Dr Bynoe said the department is keen to ensure that the systems of transparency and governance will ensure that all receive equal opportunities. He said the department wants to ensure that all Guyanese benefit from oil and gas revenues and as such, it aims to commit systems and work with other stakeholders to ensure that it is a first.

He said the body continues to seek partnerships “to seek maximum returns” which would derive from the sector to the benefit of all Guyanese. He cautioned that while Guyana remains open for business, there should be “balanced relationships” as

the sector evolves.

Dr Bynoe noted that oil revenue is a catalyst for longer, transitional and sustainable development. He said there must be evolving capacity to ensure that in years

to come, Guyanese can do it themselves where the sector is concerned.

Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes speaking on the partnership of the law firm with Access Point, noted that in

Attorney-at-law Nigel Hughes as he addressed the gathering on Friday night.(Photos by Adrian Narine)

preparation for the “new beginning”, the firm determined 18 months ago that it is critical and significant that it improves its human capital resources to international standards to prepare for the demands of an unrelenting international business environment.

He said the law offices will be on hand in Houston to guide potential clients through what will be a complex process of establishing business relationships in Guyana.

He said that from legal representation right through to assistance with appropriate business protocols and linkages, to a network of officials in the public and private sec-

tor, a client’s every need is attended to. Hughes said that new linkage provides a new image for Guyana.

U.S. partner, Greg Clark, who worked with ExxonMobil as well as Occidental Petroleum Company, a large oil and gas company as that organisation’s general counsel in the past, will lead the Hughes, Fields and Stoby team in Houston.

Clark expressed hope that his presence will expedite a more timely service on behalf of the law firm. Clark said that what is unique about Guyana as compared to the other countries where he worked, is that the laws were already in place.

6

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Trinidad, honey and CARICOM TWO weeks ago, on September 19, the Trinidad and Tobago Prime Minister Dr Keith Rowley signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Energy Sector Cooperation between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago.

As a result of this signing, other trade issues were raised with Dr Rowley. One such issue was Trinidad's banning transshipment of Guyana's honey through Trinidad. This law was in operation for 80 years from 1935, but its amendment was only sporadically raised at CARICOM meetings. The last time it was raised was in May at the Council for Trade and Economic Development (COTED) meeting, when the ball was thrown back into Trinidad's court when they were permitted to enact necessary legislation at their discretion.

Now the matter has been raised again on the signing of the MoU on Energy Sector Cooperation and Dr Rowley seemed optimistic that the discrimination against Guyana's honey would be removed, once the entry of Guyana's honey would in no way affect Trinidad's biodiversity.

The T & T Minister of Agriculture, Mr Bharat, appeared to be less compromising than his prime minister. In Mr Bharat's words: "I am not afraid to say that we're very defensive of honey because we have a very strong sector and good record in honey. . .But we've committed to have another look at the law to see if we could create that environment

to which we could allow in transit, once it doesn't stay in the country." Mr Bharat is obviously taking up a protectionist approach towards honey, which would seem to run counter to the CSME and the movement towards Caribbean integration.

Honey is one of the most ancient foods known to the human race. It was used from the time of the New Stone Age and there is evidence of this from various parts of the world.

It was widely used in religion and there are references to it in all the various ancient religious books and scriptures. Its medical uses were found in the most ancient of texts and references -- Egyptian, Babylonian, Greek and Indian -- where it was used to treat the same ailments for which it is used today.

Its medical uses are numerous. It helps brain-function; it is used in treating inflammation and ulcers; it is a skin treatment and used as a beauty aid; and it positively helps various organs of the body, including lung, heart, liver and kidney. It is one of the most reliable treatments in Alternative Medicine and its use in Formal Medicine has been growing.

Pure honey never deteriorates or goes bad; and there are examples of honey preserved in Egyptian tombs for thousands of years which are still usable! In fact, bacteria cannot grow in pure honey.

There was always a shortage of honey in the world and all countries, from ancient times, welcomed the importation of honey.

And this has continued to be so today, where honey-producing territories such as Europe, North America and Australia still import honey. This growing demand for honey is caused by larger numbers of people becoming more affluent and moving away from cane sugar and other sweeteners such as corn syrup; and also because people are becoming more health conscious.

So far, we have been referring to pure honey, sometimes called raw honey. In the modern world, with the advance of technology and growth of irresponsible greed, honey has begun to be adulterated in some countries by the addition of substances such as glucose, dextrose, molasses, corn syrup, starch and so on. This adulterated honey is often passed off as pure honey. Countries with appropriate technologies such as Europe, North America and Australia have been able to detect honey forgeries and ban such imports. Chinese honey has been one of the most adulterated.

There has also been legislation in almost all developed countries requiring that if adulterated honey is sold locally, the labels must clearly state the percentages of honey and other added substances.

Trinidad and Tobago is the only country in the world which prevents transshipment of honey and bans honey from being on board a ship or aeroplane from being at least a mile away from Trinidad. If therefore, a ship or plane finds itself in Trinidad waters or air-

space and has honey on board, it will either have to dispose of the honey in the ocean or pay a fine. Also, no honey could be imported into the country. The ostensible reason for this legislation is to prevent the importation of any diseases which may infect the Trinidad and Tobago honey industry.

Honey is a substance in which bacteria cannot grow and Guyana-produced honey has never had any record of being affected with any disease and has always enjoyed a reputation of being pure and healthy honey.

Accordingly, we are of the opinion that it could not cause any danger to the Trinidad honey industry if it were in transit or imported into the Trinidad market. The Trinidad legislation not only affects Guyana, but other CARICOM and CSME countries and seems to be anachronistic and not in consonance with the CARICOM goal of closer integration, especially economic integration.

Credible scientific assessment should be done of both Trinidad's and honey from other CARICOM countries to ascertain if they are disease-free and thereafter allow the Caribbean free market to operate. Decisions of the Caribbean Court of Appeal could also be persuasive in such matters. We are of the opinion that small trade matters such as the importation of honey under CSME rules should be quickly resolved and not be allowed in any way to covertly or overtly inhibit Caribbean integration and free trade.

Exxon is to be commended; not criticised

Dear Editor,

IT pains me to see people like Sean Ramcharan given the opportunity to write such misguided pieces. For a country with our history and ideology; for a country which has been forgotten in terms of foreign interest and investment, it is deeply disturbing to see people like him write pieces like this. To start with, who is he to call out Exxon on their sponsorship of the Guyanese sports teams? As a business owner, I understand the pressure that Exxon is under to sponsor teams, activities and other things; it upsets me to see him given space to spew nonsense.

How does a sponsor become the owner, benefactor and saviour of the country and its peoples?

I commend Exxon for sponsoring the team, and for not only allowing it to have the money needed to participate, but for contributing to Guyana indirectly in the areas of sport tourism and even further (I bet Mr. Ramcharan did not know) CSR activities and capacity-building efforts for youth through the sponsorship. The idea that the money Exxon is spending will most likely be cost-recovered from Guyanese oil is absolutely inaccurate; the money that Exxon is spending on sponsorship is as every other business owner in

this country, they are not getting that back and if you have evidence of otherwise, please share Mr. Ramcharan before you blatantly mislead people.

Who are you Mr. Ramcharan, to comment on a fair deal for Guyana, are you an energy expert?

An expert on contracts? Exxon has done a fair job at clarifying their position and many international experts such as Wood Mackenzie and Rystad have indicated that based on similar frontier contracts around the world, it is in the middle spectrum. You need to understand that when this contract was signed in 1999, there was no interest in Guyana; the government did what it had to do to attract investment and I commend them. Any business owner knows if you have a product that no one knows about you have to incentivise people to try and like it before they purchase. In Guyana’s case, there was no discovered oil, so the government gave attractive, yet fair terms to contractors to incentivise them to explore. Now when Exxon finds oil you want to switch all the terms in your favour; how is that fair? Indeed, if Guyana insisted on renegotiating its international reputation would be ruined, foreign companies would note its instability and its inability to honour signed contracts and they would not want to invest in the country. This is not myopic, it is a fact and a real possibility.

How can you compare Trinidad to Guyana?

Trinidad has had companies operating in an oil industry for over 100 years. Guyana has not even started production and you want to start renegotiating. You refer to an exit being suicidal for them, not for us. May I remind you that without Exxon’s discovery or investment, we would not be having this conversation; without their discovery and them expressing confidence in developing the resource offshore, there would be no other foreign oil interest as seen prior to the Liza 1 discovery in 2015. So I’d task you with restructuring your arguments to support your comment.

With Guyana honouring this contract not only shows stability, but gives other companies the confidence to express interest; when they express interest you have better grounds to ask for more.

You are very short-sighted, Exxon’s contract is not the only one and will not last forever. If you renegotiate now, then Exxon will only confirm that Guyana does not know what the hell it wants and will just be less encouraged to make future investments. Further of course, in the case of a breach in contract, then the parties have to pay damages. So I ask you what has Exxon done to breach the contract? What have they done to warrant changes in the terms that incentivised them to explore when there was none?

Your final statement is what is wrong with the thinking in Guyana. You want to hold an international oil company hostage, but I ask you, who does this benefit? Do you think that Guyana is all Exxon has? No, but right now Exxon is all Guyana has. Let’s face it: Exxon found what they did offshore and are entitled not by the contract, but the Petroleum Act to develop the resource and quite frankly, to do this at no cost to the government is great. I think we would be having a greatly different conversation if Exxon had told Guyana to put up half the development cost (which they would be entitled to cost recovery). So don’t refer to the sponsorship of national activities and activities for our country’s youth as a public relations exercise, be cognisant that they are not obligated to spend anything in this area and that they are doing it to show their commitment to Guyana. You should help yourself understand what your business is and leave the oil and gas business alone.

Regards Yogendra Singh

7

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Fixing the public transportation problem

Dear Editor

I WRITE to you after years of thought, discussion and research on the issue of transportation in Guyana.

And after these years of contemplating our local dilemma, I have come to one and only one solid unchangeable conclusion: that for as long as bus operators have a chance to earn more than each other on a daily basis, we will continue to face the transportation woes with which we have been plagued for the last few decades.

It is therefore imperative that we as a people, through our elected government representatives, decide with finality to completely eliminate financial competition between bus operators.

If one bus operator is paid a fixed monthly amount of money for his transportation services, he would no longer feel inspired to break the law so rampantly as he is presently doing, when he decides to commit a number of infractions.

The first of those is speeding. Bus operators only speed on our roads in order to ensure they pick up the most passengers and make the most money they can on a daily basis. This speed culture has become contagious as a result of this minibus culture that has been allowed to grow almost freely in our land. It is associated with illegal overtakings over double lines, illegal overtaking on turns and many other speed-related traffic offences. But what it is best known for is the high number of accidents it causes in Guyana.

So much so that Guyana now ranks as a country in which road accidents are as numerous, and as fatal, as those in war-ridden countries such as Iraq -- all because we have failed to regulate our transportation system satisfactorily enough to guarantee safety for our citizens.

The second of those infractions is overloading. Bus operators only pack their buses beyond capacity in order to ensure that they make as much money as they can per trip. This leads to a high level of discomfort among passengers and in cases of accidents, takes a lot more lives per accident.

The third is illegal stops.

Bus operators stop abruptly sometimes in the middle of the road just to ensure that they pick up even those passengers who are not on a bus-stop, nor anywhere near an area where a bus can safely stop without inconveniencing other drivers on the road and without causing road rage and road accidents.

The fourth is loud music.

Bus operators, especially those working routes that are traversed by many schoolchildren, blast loud music as a means of attracting more young people into their buses in order to maximise the amount of money they make per trip; a bus full of schoolchildren means more money than a bus full of grown-ups who take up more space per seat and would likely refuse to sit on each other as schoolchildren are usually bullied into doing.

The fifth transgression is the use of touts. Bus operators have continuously used touts and touts have continuously plagued bus parks over the last two decades, despite attempts to get rid of them in the past.

Touts are used merely to ensure the bus gets packed faster and leaves the park faster, even if not in the right order of first-comefirst-served, which in turn means more money for the bus operator. Touts are extremely annoying and can be seen all over Guyana, pulling and tugging, especially at our elderly folk as they literally fight each other, sometimes with weapons and cigarettes in mouth, to get more passengers in their respective buses.

All five of these illegal activities are motivated by money and cause passengers extreme danger, discomfort, delay, and irritation. For as long as bus operators are earning variable amounts of money, based on the number of passengers they manage to break the law to carry per day, and on their own terms and conditions, we in Guyana will not be experiencing truly “public” transportation.

These buses are not only privately owned, but privately run. They are their own bosses and passengers have no authority to which they may turn for redress or issue resolution. Presently, bus operators are kicking out passen-

gers for protesting -- politely or otherwise -- against loud music and speeding, and for breaking their own terms and conditions imposed on those passengers illegally and unilaterally.

In fact, the only term and condition presently imposed on passengers by the government is the price for the transportation services provided by these privately run buses. All other terms and conditions of the transportation service they provide are privately determined by each bus operator. And even the price is varied by the bus operator when he decides to either bully passengers, especially younger ones, for more money; or to charge more at night; or to give a passenger half a seat for the price of one; or to place a passenger to sit in another’s lap, while still charging for a seat.

I n t h e s e p re m i s e s , I propose, strongly, that all bus operators be paid a fixed monthly sum for their services. I propose that passengers no longer pay operators in cash. I propose that passengers present, to the bus operators, bus passes bought at accessible locations, which locations would then pass the proceeds over to a central body responsible for using those proceeds to pay the fixed monthly sums to the bus operators. The central body will also be responsible for exercising regulatory and disciplinary control over bus operators; for determining routes and hours of work for each bus; for ensuring no routes are abandoned after certain hours of the day (or on holidays or weekends or rainy

days or hot days); and for receiving complaints from the public about errant bus operators, etc.

This system would need to be either introduced in phases and/or introduced on a full scale after considerable notice has been given to bus operators that they would, from a future date, no longer be allowed to work any routes unless they do so through the central body for a fixed monthly sum. They would need time to register their vehicles and have them be approved for the job.

Research would need to be done to determine the best starting amount to be paid to each bus operator to cover gas, mechanical maintenance and profit etc.

Once in place, this system would reduce speeding as bus operators would no longer need to speed in order to make money, as the money would be the same monthly fixed amount, whether he picks up two passengers or a million per month. Passengers would not only feel safer in the bus, but would actually be safer too. It would also reduce overloading, as bus operators won’t need to overload to make the fixed monthly sum either. Passengers would feel more confortable in their seats now. It would reduce instances of illegal stops, as bus operators would be able to afford to only stop at bus stops and drive off if passengers are not at the bus stop on time to enter the bus. Passengers already in the bus would now feel that they will get to their destination on time and safely, instead of having to tolerate buses stop-

ping for many minutes at the most unlikely places to search for, or wait on, new passengers to make that extra dollar. And it would reduce the use of loud music, as the central body would have more control over what goes on in each bus. Passengers would be able to play their own personal music in headphones if music is needed for the journey. They would at the same time be able to enjoy the silent trip if that is their preference. They would also be able to have a conversation whether with other passengers or on the phone as they see fit, without being disturbed by annoying, loud music.

Touting would become obsolete.

The police would also spend a lot less time stopping buses for doing illegal things on the road and can focus on bigger issues. Passengers would be able to get on a bus and know that their destination is not the next police station.

There are several industries that would flourish if this system is introduced. Tourism would see a direct benefit as tourists would feel safer getting onto a bus. Trade would also see an increase as people choose to use more public transportation than wasting money on reconditioned cars that only make our city more congested.

The drivers affected by

the future introduction of the parking meter system would be more willing to leave their cars at home and hop on a bus to save money spent on gas, car repairs, and parking.

There is an infinite list of benefits that will come to Guyana as we start to use this system which, incidentally, is generally accepted across the world as the only acceptable system of transportation given to the public.

Proper transportation is imperative for any nation hoping to develop and to keep its citizens happy.

Freedom of movement is not a privilege for the privileged class, but a right and an absolute necessity. And freedom of movement must not be served raw, but must be served well cooked and garnished with safety, comfort and reliability, if it is to ever be used by a satisfied populace.

Too many Guyanese are running from the transportation presently being provided and choosing to spend large of sums of money they cannot afford to spend to buy old, unreliable cars and pay for taxis. It has to stop. Our people are suffering. If legislation is needed to make this a reality, then let’s get cracking.

Regards John M Fraser LLB

8

Tricks and Terror Tactics RECENTLY, in addressing some issues relating to the upcoming local government elections, I severely castigated the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) for resorting to old political tricks and terror tactics.

Wondering why I should be so severe on my former party, someone observed: “But you were once PPP.” My response was that after the great Cheddi Jagan died, the soul of the party flickered for a while; then became unattractively dull. It became, not long afterwards, the pseudo PPP. So, when I learned about the tactics of this post-Jagan PPP in the lead-up to local government elections, especially towards my village, I felt justified that I had distanced myself from this political rump.

TAMIL BIRTHPLACE This contorted PPP, it appears, has made Whim, a tiny fishing village in Berbice, the battleground for the November 12 local government elections. The reasons are obvious: It has been traditionally a PPP stronghold; exclusively an Indo-Guyanese community and my “Tamil” birthplace.

A former Dutch estate, Whim was once populated predominantly by rebellious Madrasi immigrants, who were consigned to live near to newly freed African slaves. Their co-existence would become an epic story of inter-ethnic cooperation, which would be the subject of a future column.

But, by its own, Whim produced sterling local leadership. My Pa, his brother,

Ramsammy (David Whitlingum); their cousin Jailall Bharrat; Permaul, Kassim and Seepersaud had, for many years, served as village leaders. They tried as best as they could, with limited resources, to improve conditions in the village.

When President Cheddi Jagan approached me in 1995 to become Minister of Local Government, my response was that I was hardly knowledgeable in this area. He replied, during a brief conversation at the National Park on May Day, that I should just follow what my father had done for his people.

PEOPLE’S POWER I became, for the first time after 25 years, the Minister of Local Government with no ministry building and almost no staff, or vehicles. I walked into, and embraced, the grassroots. For me, local government was participatory democracy. It was people’s power!

I went down memory lane to figure out what has changed since I was removed as Local Government Minister. The evidence of neglect is as glaring as it is disgraceful in most Indo-Guyanese villages or neighbourhoods.

As Vice-President, Khemraj Ramjattan observed yesterday, the PPP feels that it has transport to these villages and has sought to exercise ethnic dominance over them.

Now that the PPP is challenged, it has resorted to old political tricks and terror tactics, mainly against the small but strategic Alliance For Change (AFC), of which I am the “Party Elder.”

The evidence is abundant and credible that the PPP has cunningly planned a campaign to terrorise candidates and supporters of the AFC. Initially, it has deployed guerrilla methods to infiltrate and then sabotage.

I have credible information that before Nomination Day, known PPP activists begged to be placed on the AFC lists of candidates, but were rejected. Had they been included, they could have easily protested that they were coerced or bribed to become AFC candidates or backers, as we saw in the shameless midnight melodrama in Whim Wednesday last, when the permanent professional picketers besieged the office of the returning officer under the pretext that their signatures on AFC lists had been forged.

WICKED DEMANDS Had the officials given in to their wicked demands to have backers removed, the AFC’s list of candidates could have been invalidated on the grounds that they included persons who were already PPP candidates. That was a ploy, a trap, to lure an unsuspecting party into the PPP’s end-game of ousting

the AFC from the local polls, and accusing the Elections Commission of rigging the electoral processes or acting in “collusion.”

This was made very evident yesterday when the party’s members of the Elections Commission charged that there were “suspicious activities” regarding acceptance of nomination lists with alleged crooked signatures on behalf, and in support, of candidates for coalition parties. With an apparent straight face, one PPP zealot recklessly implicated the Guyana Elections Commission in what he described as “fears about collusion” with the government. And with a self-righteous judgment, he clumsily wielded the sledgehammer at the commission that “the machinery cannot be trusted …to deliver free, fair and transparent elections.”

That, to my mind, is what the post-Jagan, defeatist PPP wants to establish: That elections in Guyana are not credible.

THREATENED BY HACKS Yesterday, Sita and I received in the prime minister’s yard several persons from our home villages, who confided that they have been threatened by PPP hacks. I recalled how, while I was in the PPP, there were campaigns to boycott the shops of persons who

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

did not support the party, or had defected from it. Party supporters were told not to attend the jhandis of “PNC pundits” (who were dubbed “bandits”); not to attend their weddings, birthdays, ninedays; not even their funerals.

The post-Jagan PPP has re-invented that dastardly racist past, which is why a “big-mouth” party leader went on Berbice TV and, after identifying by names some AFC candidates who are my relatives, advised: “You know what to do.”

I hold him personally responsible if any harm should come to my family or relatives in Whim-Bloomfield!

OPPORTUNITY FOR LEADERSHIP It seemed that we are back to the old days when it was par for the political course to “oppose, expose and depose.” But in an enlightened period of democracy, the methods must be fair, not foul. The local government elections must not be an occasion for war; it must be an opportunity for involvement and leadership.

When I went to Paradise on Friday for the Regional Agricultural and Commercial Exhibition, I looked around but did not see the PPP leaders who have been elected to the Mahaica-Berbice (Region Five) Regional Democratic Council. The

regional chairman and the PPP regional councillors boycotted this important event that was intended to showcase the achievements of this great region.

With every good intention, Imran Sacoor, President of the Region Five Chamber of Commerce, whom I described as “a regional patriot”, while complimenting the Coalition Government for development works in the region, noted that much more could be achieved if funds were available to build farm-tomarket roads and dams into cultivation areas. I responded that for 2018, monies allocated for capital works in the region amounted to $415M, but that the elected PPP leaders were not interested in promoting development that would make the Coalition Government look good.

In these local government polls, while the APNU+AFC Coalition remains in government, the election of elements who are committed solely to “oppose and depose” would be a betrayal of the ideals of our republic to invite, encourage and promote genuine, grassroots, participatory democracy.

I may be tempted to advise the opposition to come clean, play fair. But, as old people say, you cannot teach old dogs new tricks.

Second Liliendaal crash victim succumbs Mikhail Punch, 25, of Sparendaam Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, on Saturday, succumbed to injuries he sustained in an accident on Friday morning.

At the time of the accident, Punch was the driver of motorcar PWW676 when he lost control of the vehicle and collided with a lamp pole at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown. He, along with Isaiah Corlette, 25, and a female occupant were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital

Corporation (GPHC) but Corlette was pronounced dead on arrival.

The three had, earlier on Thursday evening, visited the Guinness Bar at Plaisance, East Coast Demerara and while on their way home, the crash occurred.

Motorcar PWW676 was proceeding west along the southern side of the road when the driver lost control and collided with a utility pole which caused the car to topple and the occupants to

Mikhail Punch

be flung outside.

Reports indicate that the female, a resident of Leopold Street, Georgetown, remains a patient in the Intensive Care Unit at the GPHC.

9

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Tough challenge ahead – New GuySuCo board to hit the ground running

By Svetlana Marshall The Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Board of Directors has been made official now that it has been published in the official gazette.

The names of the newly-appointed directors were published in the official gazette on Saturday. According to the gazette, the members of the Board of Directors were submitted by Agriculture Minister Noel Holder and approved by Cabinet to serve for a period of two years – September 1, 2018 to August 31, 2020.

The newly-appointed directors are John Dow (Chairman), John Browman, Richard Cumberbatch, Paul Cheong, Vishnu Panday, Fritz Mc Lean, Ramesh Persaud, Roy Hanoman, Claude Housty and Dr. Harold Davis as an ex-officio member.

It was gazette by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon.

At a recent press conference, the agriculture minister told reporters that once the appointment of the members of the Board of Directors has been published in the official gazette, he will distribute the appointment letters.

Touting the board as one of the best boards to govern the sugar corporation to date, Minister Holder said the new directors come with a wealth of experience in the field of agriculture and more so sugar production and manufacturing.

“Everyone on the board

Agriculture Minister Noel Holder

knows sugar and knows agriculture, and they have a lot of experience not only in Guyana but internationally,” he told reporters. According to him; the board, headed by John Dow will meet in the coming week. As agriculture minister, he is likely to meet with the board shortly after its first meeting.

Under this new board, the agriculture minister is optimistic that the sugar corporation, which has fallen on difficulty times in recent years, would begin to return to a state of profitability.

“It can’t do so by producing 55,000 tonnes of sugar cane per hectare, that has to be raised to 70,000 tonnes of sugar cane and beyond,” he said.

But in an effort to increase the yields, Minister Holder said that millions of dollars would be needed to rehabilitate and upgrade the

three remaining factories.

“The factories are all run down and they need to be refurbished,” he posited.

According to him, the new Board is fully aware of its mandate. He noted that the Commission of Inquiry into the sugar corporation had clearly stated what needed to be done to revive GuySuCo and by extension the local sugar industry.

“Get your fields in order, that means you have to buy new field equipment, new tractors, you have to get your factories up to standard and then having got to that stage of increased productivity, we then move on to value added, having got the factories and the fields in order you can now go to do plantation white sugar, a higher value product… having done that, the last stage is cogeneration. But you cannot do cogeneration, if you don’t have bagasse, and currently you probably barely have enough bagasse produced at 55,000 tonnes of sugar per hectare,” Minister Holder said as he explained the stages of transformation GuySuCo is expected to undergo.

Shortly after the announcement of his appointment was made, Dow told the Guyana Chronicle that it would be an uphill task to bring the sugar corporation back to affordability but he is up for the challenge.

VETERAN Dow now sits at the helm of the corporation with ex-

Jordan woos Middle... level of interest the bank has in expanding its operations into Latin America and the Caribbean. Islamic banking is very different to traditional western banking in that it espouses a more ethical approach to lending which shares the risks equitably between lender and borrower.

Presentations were made by the senior management of each of the five entities that make up the group: the International Islamic Trade Finance Corporation (ITFC), the Islamic Corporation for the Insurance of Investment and Export Credit (ICIEC), the Islamic Research and Training Institute (IRTI), the Islamic Corporation for Develop-

ment of the Private Sector (ICD), and the Islamic solidarity Fund for Development (ISFD).

Guyana is a member of only the IsDB and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation which is a precursor to being able to join any of the other entities in the group.

The five subsidiary entities focus mainly on the private sector. Minister Jordan has invited the representatives of these entities to visit Guyana by the first quarter of 2019 to assess the appetite and capacity of the local private sector to utilise the Shariah compliant financial products and other services of the IsDB group. These include facilitat-

From page 3

ing access to Islamic Capital Markets, export credit and investment insurance, political risk insurance, mobilising financial resources, promoting entrepreneurship, encouraging trade and investments between and among member countries, providing trade related capacity building, research and training inter alia.

The Guyana team noted that the focus of the IsDB group is closely aligned with those of the country - human development, achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, narrowing the infrastructure financing gaps, creating jobs and building capacity.

perience in the sugar industry spanning more than four decades having worked in Guyana, Zambia, Jamaica, and Barbados.

Dow is hopeful that the sugar industry, under his watch, returns to a state of profitability. However, he also made it clear that it is no easy task given GuySuCo’s current state of affairs and the price of sugar on the global market.

“As you know the sugar industry, because of the low price of raw sugar worldwide, is now suffering,” he said.

The challenges in the sugar industry are not limited to Guyana, Dow said, while noting that Jamaica, Belize, Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago have experienced difficulties, and in some cases, continue to experience their fair share of challenges.

“As you may know, Trinidad had to shut down their industry, Antigua went out of sugar many years ago…. In the Caribbean really it is only Guyana, Belize, Jamaica and Barbados

that are still producing sugar and I think that you will find that only in Belize, the actual production has improved, but all the others, Jamaica, Barbados and Guyana…for example, Barbados had three factories up to mid-2002, they now only have one, and that is the situation, it is very challenging,” he explained to this newspaper.

Like the Agriculture Minister, Dow believes that with increased production of value added products, the sugar corporation would be able to revive itself.

“Well I don’t know if we could ever attain profitability in the near future, but certainly, that it is the sort of thing we would be looking at, what can be done to improve the local sugar industry, in the sense of getting it to a point where hopefully it can be self-sufficient or only need minimum subsidies,” Dow said.

He emphasised that a lot depends the price of sugar over the next two years, and the corporation’s ability to expand in other areas such as the production of planta-

tion white sugar and cogeneration while improving on its current products. Sale of plantation white sugar to the local, CARICOM, and USA markets could see the corporation earning more and simultaneously displacing the importation of refined sugar regionally.

Dow noted too that based on his analysis, the corporation needs to maximise its output. “We need to improve our yield in the fields – that is very important. Right now our yields are not to the level tonnes cane per hectare, it is not up to the level we would like it to be,” he noted.

Alluding to the findings and recommendations of the 2015 CoI into GuySuCo, Dow, while noting that the report is still relevant, said much work needs to be done to improve the present infrastructure.

“GuySuCo has a lot of equipment that should have been replaced over the years but haven’t had the opportunity to be replaced because of low capital,” he pointed out.

10

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Understanding Energy...

Examining costs and audits WITH first-oil production in 2020 fast approaching, many Guyanese are naturally curious about the costs of exploration and development and what role the Government of Guyana played in approving them.

For example, last week it was widely reported that the government did little or no verification of the pre-contract and development costs for the exploration of the Stabroek block and the ongoing development of the Liza Phase 1 project.

Given the complexity of both the operations and their related costs, it is worth examining the development process in Guyana and comparing it to other projects in an international context.

The increase in pre-contract costs, beginning with US$100,000 in 1999 to a cumulative total of US$460 million in 2015, is indicative of the general cost of offshore exploration activity. Though it is a large figure, the $460 million is not surprising, given that the significant deep-water, oil-exploration efforts such as those that occurred in the late 2000s and mid 2010s are costly.For

example, just the drilling of Brazil’s deep-water discovery Tupi well in 2007, is said to have been $270 million and the costs leading up to the drilling would be much higher.

According to figures that Exxon’s subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited provided to the government, they spent approximately $140 million for seismic surveys on 20,000 km of ocean floor and more than $65 million to pay geologists, geo-scientists and engineers to identify promising oil formations. It also cost $230 million just to drill the first exploratory well at the Liza site.

It’s important to note that pre-contract costs are not “paid” by the government.

The Exxon-led consortium risked their capital on these exploration efforts, with no guarantee of finding oil. Now that oil has been discovered, these expenses are part of cost-recovery, a standard provision in production-sharing agreements (PSAs) across the globe. Cost recovery allows companies to recoup all of the costs, without profit or mark-up, for exploration and development -- mostly

in the first few years of production – from the initial oil produced, and before profit oil is shared between the government and the consortium. The $460 million was the cost already incurred and accrued under their 1999 Petroleum Agreement and has been carried forward into the current agreement.

Reports have also drawn attention to the treatment of Exxon, its partners and in fact, the entire offshore oil and gas industry under tax laws. Guyana’s tax terms under the contracts were purposely designed in a way that would attract foreign investment to what was, at the time, an unproven and risky Region. Typically, the tax and royalty conditions in production contracts vary, based on the estimated potential of the reserve at the time that the agreement is drawn up.

That tax plan has paid off, with Guyana looking at sizeable investment and the potential for tens of billions of U.S. dollars in oil revenues by the mid-2020s.

Former petroleum advisor Jan Mangal has also publicly said that the $4.4 billion cost of developing the Liza Phase-1 project could be re-

duced by as much as 20 percent; however, he provides no insight into where this saving could come from. In reality, the $4.4 billion figure is simply an estimate of project costs for a project that is not yet complete. These costs can’t yet be audited, because the companies are still in the process of incurring them and final numbers won’t be available until after the project is complete.

If the actual costs billed to ExxonMobil are lower than the $4.4 billion estimate, then the company simply has less cost to recover. Exxon and its partners must outlay their own capital for development, so they are incentivised to keep costs as low as possible, while maintaining project integrity and safety.

Whatever the final figure, by most international measures $4.4 billion seems far from unusual. Oil and gas projects are highly capital intensive. For instance, a new deep-water oil-drilling project off the East Coast of Canada that was announced in July, will cost Norwegian driller Equinor and the regional government an estimated $5.2 billion U.S. to develop. That project is

estimated to produce only 300 million barrels of oil, compared to an estimated 450 million for Liza Phase 1.

Guyana’s oil find is also unique, in that the country must develop production capacity from scratch. Frontier exploration and development is inherently more expensive, since so much of the equipment and materials have to be brought in from far away, local personnel must be trained and the supporting infrastructure – such as ports and roads – must be improved.

Floating production storage and offloading vessels (FPSOs) themselves cost around $500 million to $1.5 billion dollars. The Girassol FPSO, for example, which now operates off the coast of Angola, cost a reported $756 million. Exxon and its partners are already in the process of building a larger FPSO for the Liza Phase 1, the Liza Destiny, which is slated to cost around $1.2 billion and will produce 120,000 barrels per day.

Exxon is also employing two deep-water drilling ships, which can cost upwards of $300,000 U.S. per day on multi-year contracts.

All these costs are on top of

the costs of laying undersea pipe; installing control and pumping systems; drilling wells; building shore bases; renting, maintaining and crewing support vessels and helicopters and employing hundreds of trained staff.

Examined in the context of the resources required for offshore development and compared to other international development projects, the numbers seen here are less shocking and really quite normal.

If questions remain about whether and how exactly the government verified all these costs, an audit should be conducted, and it needn’t be a contentious matter.

Audits are a routine part of doing business in the oil and gas world; and the IMF and World Bank have well-established programmes to aid countries in conducting them.

Guyana would be right to continue accepting this kind of help to ensure that costs are accurately accounted for under Article 23.2 of the PSA, which allows Guyana to audit all recoverable costs.

Works on Uitvlugt,Diamond water treatment plants moving apace MINISTER of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, along with Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) Managing Director, Dr. Richard Van-West Charles and a team yesterday visited the two water treatment plants currently under construction at Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerara, and Diamond, East Bank Demerara.

These visits followed a visit, on Friday, to the water treatment plant in Sheet Anchor, East Canje, Berbice. The Uitvlugt facility is some 25 per cent complete, while over at Diamond, the project is 27 per cent complete.

The three plants, on which construction began earlier this year, are part of a $3 billion project to improve the quality of potable water across the country, with over 50,000 residents expected to benefit from

the three facilities.

The Uitvlugt facility is expected to service some 21,550 residents; covering 15 villages from De Kinderen to Cornelia Ida. GWI Regional Manager, Denise Woolford, pointed out that once the plant goes into operation, it would mean that the entire West Coast area, from Vreed-en-Hoop to De Kinderen, will be receiving treated water.

“The project is expected to improve GWI’s service in the region in two aspects, one - the level of service, and two - the quality of water that customers will now receive. Currently customers receive water directly from the source, which means that the iron content is as natural as it gets. Once the treatment plant comes on stream customers will receive an iron content that aligns

Project Manager, Richard Persaud, (left) explaining works at the water treatment plant site to Minister Ronald Bulkan (right) and others (DPI photo)

with the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) standard,” Woolford explained.

This treatment plant would

be the fourth on the West Coast, as there are already treatment plants in Pouderoyen, Fellowship and Vergen-

oegen.

The plant is designed for a capacity of 10 million litres per day.

Thus far at the Uitvlugt facility the fence is already completed, while works are ongoing on the sedimentation tank, the filters, the ground storage tanks and administration building.

At Diamond the fencing is considered 50 per cent complete, while works are also ongoing on the sedimentation tanks, filters, ground storage tanks and administration building. The Diamond treatment plant is expected to serve 23,266 residents stretching from Herstelling to Great Diamond.

According to Project Manager Richard Persaud, it is expected that the concrete works at both sites would be completed by the end of this year and mechanical works can begin. The plants are expected to be completed by the latter half of 2019.

11

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Keep the Arawak language alive – ministers urge residents of St Cuthbert’s Mission

By Alva Solomon AMID the annual celebrations marked by a variety of indigenous foods and crowds of visitors at St Cuthbert’s Mission, Soesdyke/ LindenHighway, residents were on Saturday urged to ensure the Arawak

its effect on the various aspects of indigenous culture, especially the language.

“I want to call you to action to become a language champion,” he said to a resounding applause.

Norton pointed out that according to the United Nations Declarations of Human

have “this valuable, priceless asset to die.”

He said government can only do so much to preserve indigenous heritage and noted that at the end of the day, the onus is on the people, particularly the parents, to teach the children about their heritage.

brings the village to life.

The couple, who sold indigenous foods such as cassava bread and labba, noted that last years’ may have been bigger in terms of the crowds since the village was the designated heritage village.

Young dancers perform during the celebration

Michelle Kattow, who sold craft items at St Cuthbert’s Mission during the celebration on Saturday (Delano Williams photo)

A visitor to the village as she sampled the wild meat which was on sale

A visitor receiving the final touches on his face

Several visitors as they sampled kebabs made with wild meat

Several dancers after performing on stage during the annual Indigenous Heritage Month celebrations at St Cuthbert’s Mission on Saturday

A villager, called the “axe man”, pummels his axe into a log as he searched for the famous tocuma worms which are usually found inside the Ite tree

language is preserved.

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie GarridoLowe and Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton, implored the residents to teach the language to children as early as kindergarten age.

According to Minister Garrido-Lowe, the nine Indigenous tribes in Guyana have emerged with their language and way of life intact.

“We have lots to celebrate, “ she said as she noted the progression of indigenous people over the years in Guyana.

The minister noted that the continuity of the language of the people must be consciously kept in mind as she noted that the indigenous tribes can speak their respective languages. She said that in the village, the traditions have been passed down to every other generation, and said it is time that “we take the baton and be conscious of what is passed down to the children of tomorrow”.

Minister Norton told the gathering that time has had

“Teach them about who they are. Today we pay tribute to our ancestors,” he said, noting that the indigenous culture has shaped the Guyanese identity.

During the celebrations on Saturday, there were various booths with many featuring indigenous craft, beverages and food items.

David Phillips and Maryann Phillips, a couple who have settled at the village for decades, said every year the annual heritage celebration

David Phillips and Maryann Phillips stand alongside their children at their food stand on Saturday

Rights of Indigenous Peoples’, their ability to speak their language is considered a human right. He said everyone within the villages has a responsibility to preserve their language and culture.

Norton also informed the residents that the first time he heard conversations in Lokomo was on his way up the Mahaica Creek to visit St Cuthbert’s Mission.

He reiterated the importance of the Awarak language and urged the residents not to

These visitors decided to move away from the crowd to much more quiet surroundings in order to eat their indigenous foods

12

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

‘Help stop discrimination against – UN reps urge media operatives LGBTI people’ MEDIA operatives in Guyana have been urged to join the movement aimed at addressing the stigma and discrimination faced

by Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender and Intersex (LGBTI) people in the country.

Addressing a small number of reporters during a UNAIDS training workshop on Saturday at Signature Inn, UN Resident Coordinator Mikiko Tanaka said the United Nations (UN) looks to the media to uphold the cardinal principles of journalism in contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2030 Agenda which sets the stage for an inclusive society. Tanaka said reporters must be mindful that their reports do not cause harm to marginalized groups in society including the LGBTI people. Stigma and discrimination, she posited, drive LGBTI people underground and affect their uptake and utilization of HIV and other health services.

“The expectations are

UNAIDS Country Director for Guyana and Suriname, Dr. Martin Odiit; Executive Director of Guyana Trans United, Quincy McEwan and UN Resident Coordinator, Mikiko Tanaka, addressing media operatives on Saturday during the one-day training seminar

that [with] this media training, you will be more empowered to assist in upholding the human rights of LGBTI people and protect-

“Alessandra Hereman told reporters that while transgender persons have recorded many successes, there are still some stumbling blocks in the areas of education, health and jobs. She recalled being a patient in 2005 at a public hospital and, though identifying herself as a transgender, was placed in a male ward against her will.”

ing them against abuses such as violence and discriminatory laws and practices which constitute serious violations of international human rights law.

“In this way the media will have a far-reaching impact on society, contributing to decreased vulnerability to ill health including HIV infection, social and economic exclusion, reducing strain on families and communities, and impacting positively on economic growth, decent work and progress towards achievement of the Sustain-

able Development Goals,” Tanaka explained.

In 2014, a survey conducted here found that HIV prevalence in the country is highest among transgender persons with an overall prevalence of 8.4 per cent while transgender sex workers have an even higher prevalence of 10.2 per cent.

“The UN efforts to address inequalities experienced by LGBTI people have largely been advanced through the health lens and the work of our HIV, Health and Development Group.

UNAIDS and UNDP are supporting national partners to promote inclusion of LGBTI people by working at the nexus of HIV, sexual orientation and gender identity,” the UN Resident Coordinator explained while noting the focus now is more on inclusive development and not only on HIV and its services.

UNAIDS Country Director for Guyana and Suriname, Dr. Martin Odiit said UNAIDS looks forward to partnering with the media to raise awareness on transgender – their challenges and successes. He is convinced that the initiative will make transgender more visible.

“Because transgender are living in a society where significant stigma and discrimination against trans-

gender people exists, they are pushed into situations that may result in higher rates of drug and alcohol abuse, sex work, incarceration, homelessness, suicide, unemployment, lack of familial support and violence,” Dr. Odiit explained.

SOCIAL PRESSURES He noted that the social pressures greatly increase their HIV risk and severely limit their ability to obtain adequate care once infected.

“UNAIDS calls for special efforts to be made to intensify outreach in locations of high HIV transmission with services for populations at higher risk of infection. The media can bring the needed visibility to key populations most affected in different regions,” he told the reporters.

Executive Director of Guyana Trans United, Quincy McEwan, said it is hoped that the local media fraternity would help in removing the existing stereotype with respect to transgender people. “We realize that we as trans persons cannot advocate for ourselves without having the media meaningfully engaged, and one of the things is, we need to change the landscape of Guyana,” McEwan told reporters.

Alessandra Hereman told reporters that while trans-

gender persons have recorded many successes, there are still some stumbling blocks in the areas of education, health and jobs. She recalled being a patient in 2005 at a public hospital and though identifying herself as a transgender, was placed in a male ward against her will.

A final year student at the University of Guyana, Hereman said the discrimination faced there is a daily one. “It is my final year at university and unfortunately, for the past four years I have been entering the male washroom, just to use the washroom… because they don’t have a policy where trans people can use the washroom based on their gender,” Hereman explained.

In an effort to eliminate the stigma and discrimination faced by LGBTI people, which would see them accessing more healthcare services, recommendations coming out of a national dialogue on HIV and the Law in 2015 included decriminalizing cross-dressing and establishing a mechanism of support that ensures that the unique challenges faced by trans Guyanese are addressed.

A ‘cross-dressing’ case is currently before the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ). Four transgender Guyanese women have asked that country’s final appellate court to strike down an 1893 post-slavery vagrancy provision which led to their convictions in 2009. Gulliver (Quincy) McEwan, Angel (Seon) Clarke, Peaches (Joseph) Fraser and Isabella (Seyon) Persaud were charged and fined in 2009 for wearing women’s clothing for an improper purpose under Section 153 (1) (XLVII) of the Summary Jurisdiction (Offences) Act Chapter 8:02 – an 1893 vagrancy law. The one-day workshop was organized and supported by UNAIDS, Guyana Trans United and the Caribbean Vulnerable Coalition (CVC). UNAIDS Adviser from the Caribbean Office, Cedriann Martin facilitated the training seminar for reporters and other media operatives.

13

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Vendor accuses mayor of victimisation – after testifying at CoI

“They put out an even larger stand right where I was selling.”

According to the woman, she was given no prior notice to move, despite the fact that she was up to date on the payment of all her fees.

VERY UNPROFESSIONAL She also claims that the manner in which she was treated by the mayor was very unprofessional. “I ask them to please give me somewhere to vend because I am selling perishables.

Ms. Green said to me the market clerk will deal with that,” Roberts said, adding: “She was very rude to me. When I ask her to relocate me to another spot, she talk to me like if is an animal she speaking to.”

Roberts said that though she has been relocated, the

Melissa Roberts at her fruit stand at the Bourda Market

By Tamica Garnett BOURDA Market vendor Melissa Roberts last Tuesday evening had her fruit stand unceremoniously removed from her vending spot, allegedly on the instruction of City Mayor,Patricia Chase-Green.

Roberts believes her forcible removal is payback for testifying at the City Hall Commission of Inquiry (CoI) on Monday.

Roberts was allowed to reappear before the CoI on Friday to tell her side of what she deems to be blatant victimisation against her.

The CoI, which is being held at the Critchlow Labour College on Woolford Avenue and is being presided over by Retired Justice Cecil Kennard, heard that at approximately 18:30hrs on Tuesday, Roberts was approached by the mayor and the clerk of markets and told she had to move from the spot where she has been vending for over two-and-ahalf years.

Roberts said that she was told that she was being removed because she was

blocking the entrance to a supermarket.

However, pictorial evidence shows that Roberts was not vending in front of the supermarket as claimed; that rather, her stall was located next door to the supermarket,in front of an alleyway between the supermarket and another building;and while there were indeed other collapsible stands in front of the supermarket’s entrance, according to Roberts, those stands actually belong to the supermarket.

Roberts said that after she was moved, the supermarket put out more tables and took over the spot that she had vacated.

“I am selling at that spot, Numbers 46 and 47, for two years and eight months,” she said.

“They said I block the entrance of the supermarket, but I am not in front of the supermarket; I am at the side, between two buildings.

It’s the supermarket that is operating all day, and coming out in the afternoon with collapsible tables and produce outside.

area to which she has been assigned is woefully inadequate.

“Where they locating me, between the cheese man and the watermelon man, is a three-foot space; it cannot fit my perishables, because is 21 different fruits I sell,” she said.

“So I decided to go in the middle of the road and sell Tuesday night, because I could not accommodate there.”

After being unable to vend for all of Wednesday, she ventured to City Hall on Thursday.

“I went back to the market clerk and the acting town clerk and ask them to please relocate me to a proper spot that I could get to carry on my trade,” she said, adding: “Both of them told me that I have to wait until next week Tuesday for them to

give me a space to sell.

“I cannot vend; I need to vend. I don’t have nowhere to sell; my perishables is there perishing.”

When contacted Friday for a comment, the mayor said she had nothing to say.

“I have no comment on any issue with regards to the CoI,” she said.

It was last Monday that Roberts first appeared before the CoI to testify about another incident that had occurred in July, when she was confronted

by Town Clerk Royston King and told to remove her stand.

“Mr. Royston King seized all of my produce on the 21st of July when I came out to sell, saying he don’t want me to sell there anymore,” Roberts testified. “He didn’t say why; he didn’t comment.”

At the time, Roberts

said, she had been locked up at the City Constabulary from 11:00hrs to 14:00hrs for refusing to remove her fruit stand from Robb Street, in the vicinity of the Bourda Market.

After she was released, Roberts said, she still didn’t dismantle her stands, which resulted in some $250,000 worth of fruits of hers being seized by members of the constabulary.

The vendor has since sought legal advice and was given a letter by her lawyer to deliver to King, who, on realising what she’d done, subsequently gave her back her spot.

The woman said that although she was given the go-ahead to resume vending in the location, her fruits eventually perished with no apology or compensation from King.

14

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

(Minister within the Ministry of Public Health)

Workplace safety: A correlation between employee’s health and wellness There is an old adage that says: “prevention is better than cure.” Before one allows something adverse to occur, it is wise if one can take the necessary steps to avoid its occurrence in the first place. Public Health is defined by the World Health Organization (WHO) as: “the art and science of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health through the organised efforts of society.”

Within the Public Health school of thought, it is accepted that public health focuses on activities that strengthen the capacities and services within the public health sector, with the primary aim of providing conditions under which people can maintain a healthy lifestyle, improve their health and wellbeing, and/or prevent the deterioration of their health.

The WHO succinctly states that public health focuses on the entire spectrum of health and wellbeing, not only the

eradication of particular diseases.

THE CORRELATION BETWEEN SAFETY AND WELLNESS There is a critical connection between safety and wellness. However, there is the tendency of some organisations to treat them as separate initiatives. The separation of safety programmes from wellness programmes in the workplace need not be a reality. Some tend to argue that because these two fields approach their objectives from different assumptions, priorities and methods, this coordination may pose a significant challenge. However, within the workplace, wellness and safety go handin-hand. A safe worker not only is an employee who follows the safety rules for compliance, but one who is healthy, safe, and attentive.

Health and wellness does more than improve the general well-being and morale of a company’s employees.

It also could lead to a more productive workplace, where the prevention of injuries can ultimately result in a safer work environment.

ESTABLISHING SAFE WORK SPACES In the workplace, health and safety regulations are paramount to the well-being of the employees and the employer. Many hazards are present in today’s workplace environment, and it is the employer’s job to keep their employees safe at all times.

Health and safety procedures in the workplace help to greatly reduce illnesses and injuries among employees. These procedures can help both employees and employers understand the potential hazards in the work environment. Training in health and safety procedures is important and effective, as it will educate employees on proper workplace procedures, practices, and behavior to prevent possible injuries and illness or con-

tamination from improper hygiene. Honestly, paying for work-related injuries and illnesses can negatively affect the bottom line of any business, which is a big reason why implementation of health and safety procedures is absolutely necessary.

Potential hazards are present in almost every work environment. Equipment, chemicals, certain behaviors and activities, and even furniture can potentially cause injury or harm to workers.

Health hazards can range from contamination of food due to unsafe handling or preparation practices, to an infectious disease outbreak caused by improper hygiene and personal care. If a business deals with certain dangerous chemicals or gases, there is always the risk of improper handling, maintenance, or storage, which could lead to dangerous exposure for workers. In these cases, it is strongly advised that ALL workers must follow specific hazardous material handling guidelines.

SIMPLE WAYS TO REMAIN SAFE AT WORK This column cannot provide adequate space to comprehensively explore the many ways employers can create safe work spaces for their employees. However, we will attempt a cursory glance at some very basic steps that can be followed to ensure that employees function in a safe and healthy work environment.

ELIMINATE POTENTIAL HAZARDS Keep the workplace free from recognised physical and chemical hazards and make sure it is in compliance with Occupational Health and Safety standards, rules, and regulations. Through constant education and internal communication within the workplace, these strategies can serve to remind employees about proper body mechanics, forklift safety, necessary Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), as well as identify ways they

can avoid slips, trips, and falls. Employees must be properly trained to identify and report potential problems and safety violations and take immediate steps to have those issues resolved.

MAKE SURE ALL WORKERS ARE PROPERLY TRAINED It cannot be overemphasised that organisations and businesses must provide all their workers with safety training using language they can understand. This training should be given to all new workers as part of their induction process, with refresher courses offered to (or required for) existing workers or when workers change jobs (within the same company).

ENSURE WORKERS HAVE THE PROPER EQUIPMENT Employees must have use of safe tools and equipment at all times. These equipment and tools must also be properly maintained. Workplace signage is an effective tool for reinforcing injury prevention. If Personal Protective Equipment are required for a particular job, then employees MUST wear them at ALL times.

PROVIDE VISUAL SAFETY AIDS AND MESSAGES Use color codes, posters, labels and/or signs to warn employees of potential hazards. Additionally, place occupational health and safety posters in all work and recreational areas – and use additional signage to reinforce safety information.

SIMPLE WAYS TO PREVENT THE SPREAD OF INFECTIONS AND VIRUSES IN THE WORKPLACE There are some very simple but effective things a person can do to prevent the spread of infections and viruses in the workplace. Here are a few guidelines that you should follow: ● Wash your hands frequent-

ly for at least 20 seconds.

This is according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If you need a timer? Hum the “Happy Birthday” song from beginning to end twice. ● Stay home if you are sick (so you do not spread the illness to other people). ● Use a tissue, or cough and sneeze into your arm, not your hand. Turn away from other people. ● Use single-use tissues.

Dispose of the tissue immediately and appropriately after use. ● Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing or using tissues. ● If working with children, have them play with hard surface toys that can be easily cleaned. ● Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth (viruses can transfer from your hands and into the body). ● Do not share cups, glasses, dishes or cutlery.

Workplaces can help by: ● Having an infection control plan. ● Providing clean hand-washing facilities. ● Offering alcohol-based hand sanitisers when regular facilities are not available. ● Providing disinfectant sprays for cleaning door knobs, handles and other hand-held devices. ● Providing boxes of tissues and encourage their use. ● Reminding staff not to share cups, glasses, dishes and cutlery. Be sure dishes are washed with soap and water after use. ● Removing magazines and papers from waiting areas or common rooms (such as tea rooms and kitchens). ● Making sure ventilation systems are working properly.

Preserve your health and wellbeing at all times. Be sure to know all the occupational health and safety procedures of your respective workplaces and follow them carefully.

Your health and safety is your business and your responsibility.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, September 30, 2018

Delivering on promises

15

…hundreds attend first ever youth conference

Minister Dr. George Norton

HUNDREDS of Guyanese youths last week participated in the inaugural youth conference in Guyana. The event provided a platform for meaningful engagement with key stakeholders on youth centre topics.

The inaugural Guyana National Youth Conference was held over two days at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre under the theme ‘Youth Perspective for empowerment and Development to foster a better Guyana.’

At the opening of the event, Social Cohesion Minister with responsibility for youth, culture and sports charged those in attendance to use the conference to push for the changes they want to see and also to make an impact within their communities.“At the Department of Youth, we recognised that Guyana’s development depends largely on the development of the country’s youth, regardless of ethnicity, cultural background, age, political preference, sexual orientation and gender identity,” Dr Norton said.

The conference was aimed at providing an opportunity for pertinent information to be disseminated by the relevant authority pertaining to topics that are of concern to the country’s youths.

It also sought to provide a forum for the youths to have meaningful dialogue among themselves and with key youth development stakeholders. “This is your opportunity.

We want to ensure that the most feasible and impactful solutions are implemented to [address] problems affecting Guyana’s young people,” the minister stated.

Minister Norton reminded the youths in attendance that government was listening to them and that through the Department of Youth, some $1.7 Billion will be spent in 2018 on programmes geared at equipping youths with the necessary skills geared to empower them. He urged participants to be vocal “the policyholders are listening to you and you must use every opportunity you get to make an impact and be heard,” he said.

DAY 1 Day one of the conference started with participants being informed via presentations. The first presentation was delivered by Liaison Officer of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), Adler Bynoe who spoke extensively about “Youth, Health and Well Being. His spirted discourse

lasted for more than 40 minutes as the young attendees were given staggering statistics as it relates to HIV & AIDS and the number of young people who were affected.

Additionally, participants heard a presentation by Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) Managing Director, Joel Simpson on ‘The Role of Youth in Democracy and Governance-Youth Participation and inclusion.” Plenaries were used after both topics to bring out challenges and recommendations based on both discussions for the day and the participants used the opportunity to discuss these.

Delon Sancho from the Guyana National Youth Council (GNYC) and the Caribbean Environment Youth Network (CYEN) speaking at the conference said: “I hope that out of this discussion we start the work, on many occasions we have the plans and ideas but we never complete it. I got a chance to meet new faces in youth development and to network at the cocktail reception. Today, during the plenaries we look at how to put systems in place and how the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) impact development and democracy in a Guyanese context and we try to work our best to create an environment where Guyanese youths can participate and be involved in a significant way,” he said.

A participant from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), Khema Rootharan spoke about the challenges that they face in her village: “we need more work to be done in the area of combatting suicide… as you know in Berbice we have one of the highest rates of suicide here and this has contributed to the national numbers which puts Guyana in the bracket of one of the countries most affected by this.

One of the other issues we have is teenage pregnancy and I feel that the discussion for this needs to start from home as our parents are also our educators. These are just some of the factors hindering the development of our youths in our community. While I know that the ministry has been playing its part I look forward to more being done,” she stated.

Ms Amaniah Cort, a Community Action Officer with the Ministry of Public Security in the Mocha Arcadia community spoke about the youths that are affected in that community: “I work with youths who are at risk for crime and violence, meaning that they are not working or at home. We provide opportunities for these youths to have access to vocational and skills training and with this we provide them with a stipend.” Cort said the conference has brought a number of issues to the table and the discussions were insightful.

“I would like for policyholders and those persons in government who have the authority to make changes in our society to impact youth to listen to the voices of the young people, listen to what we

have to say, listen to the opinions that we are providing you with and I am certain that if the relevant information is provided and more engagements are made that they would make the right decisions,” she stated.

OPPORTUNITIES On the final session of day one, organisers presented scholarships to three students. They are: Sahria Roberts, Atesha Hiles and Shazam Somwar from Mr. Fazil Bacchus CEO of the Cacique Accounting College. He implored the youths to take their finances seriously as this

Ms. Melissa Carmichael Director of Youth

is one of the ways they can manage a successful business or your home. Director of Youth Ms. Carmichael-Haynes wrapped up the day’s session by telling the youths to continue to engage the ministry as continuous work is being done to foster their development. She reminded them that the conference itself was birthed out of their suggestions and it was something that the ministry has facilitated since they are listening to their concerns.

BUILDING PEACE The second day of the conference saw the newly appointed Commissioner of Police Leslie James presenting on the Role of Youth in Building Peace. Mr James stressed the need for youth inclusion in every aspect of society: “young people without you we cannot grow and we recognise this.

The Guyana Police Force is here to help and while we face our own challenges we are committed to developing Guyana I have worked in many divisions in the Guyana Police Force and today I am the commissioner so I am aware of the many challenges facing our nation’s children across the board. Come 2019 you can expect “A New Guyana Police Force” we know that more training and engagements need to be done and are working on it,” he stated.

After his presentation the youths engaged the commissioner in an impassioned debate about his topic and how their communities could be assisted.

According to an in-depth evaluation on the impact of ICT on youths published in 2003 World Youth Report prepared by the Unit-

ed Nations, ICT has changed the way young people interact socially, as digital communication has increasingly replaced traditional forms of interaction.

Mr Eldon Marks CEO and founder of Version 75 Solutions discussed “The Role of ICT and Innovation in Advancing Youth Development-Education, Entrepreneurship and Development” he told the participants that ICT also offers a hub of opportunities for youth empowerment and education. He said that ICT is increasingly being used to improve lives and that more youths should jump at the opportunity of getting into the field.

“A Green, Inclusive and Prosperous Guyana that provides a good quality of life for all its citizens based on a sound education and social protection, low-carbon resilient development, green and decent jobs, economic opportunities, individual equality, justice, and political empowerment. Guyana serves as a model of sustainable development and environmental security worldwide, demonstrating the transition to a decarbonised and resource efficient economy that values and integrates the multi-ethnicity of our country and enhances the quality of life for all Guyanese. ”These sentiments were echoed by the Director of the Department of Environment Mr. Alvin Doris who delivered his presentation on the “Youth involvement in Implementing the Green State Strategy” he stressed the need for youths to play their part and to get involved as Guyana’s emerging

oil sector is upon us. This discussion was followed by meaningful dialogue as the youths wanted to know how to play their part and how they can be involved.

While giving a feedback about the Youth Conference Deanna Softley said that she was grateful for the opportunity to attend the event: “this conference has brought young people from all over the country and I have been able to network we have been able to share our vision and our ideas. The topics discussed on both days were all very key areas that affect young people and that were needed to be addressed. I look forward to our ideas and rec-

ommendations bearing fruit as we move forward,” she stated.

Dr. Patrice Douglas founder of “Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights Adventures (SRHR) commented: “ I must say kudos to the Department of Youth, as they have done an excellent job and this is a much needed initiative and it is one whereby young people are given a chance to share our opinions and we are being heard here today.

It is my hope that key stakeholders can come together and address the problems that are facing young people,” she said.

EMPOWERMENT More scholarships were awarded from Global Technology. Ten participants who attended the conference were chosen from all of the administrative regions to access full foundation courses from the intuition. Yvonne Barrow, Gabriella Watson, Shemar Davis, Kunal Briglall, John Carew, Trevon Johnson,

Shahad Husain, Annalisa James, Krystal Thomas and Kenisha Grant were all winners, Noah Rjack and Deanna Softley both received tablets from Courts Guyana.

“Take a step wherever you are and keep advocating. Change may not happen right at this moment but it will happen. The ministry has been making strides to reach you and we know it takes baby steps and we are making those steps. The Department can be reached if you have proposals and queries so be the change agent that the policy makers would like to see” stated the Director of Youth.

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, September 30, 2018

80 graduate from youth leadership training from,” Minister Norton said.

He also expressed much satisfaction with the fact that the programme saw the participation of persons from each of the 10 Administrative Regions.

The minister reminded the young people that as the next generation of leaders the future of Guyana depends on their readiness to take charge and lead the country into an era of increased prosperity. “… Get involved…Guyana needs you. It needs you to shatter

Lauristan Chow recieving certificate from Hon. Minister Norton

Eighty young persons from across Guyana graduated from the 16th Youth Leadership Training Programme on Sunday, September 23, 2018.

A simple graduation ceremony was hosted at the Madewini Training Centre at the end of the programme.

Participants had to complete some 20 contact hours of study in the areas of Youth Leadership training, Leadership and Management in Youth Work, Youth Organisation, Disaster Risk Management, Organisational Development, Group Dynamics and Team building, Communication and effective public speaking, Meeting and Meeting Procedures, and Event Planning.

Delivering the feature address at the graduation ceremony, was Minister of Social Cohesion, with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton who congratulated the graduates and encouraged them to use the knowl- Dr. Rei-Launya recieving certificate from Ronald Austin Jr. edge gained to effect positive changes within their communities. “The effectiveness of this course must be reflected at the community level… whatever training you undergo, you must old barriers and pave the way for unity among all our people be able to impact positively on the community that you are because there is so much truth to saying that united we stand,

Social Cohesion in practice…

IN August, the Department of Social Cohesion hosted their second Annual Inter-Village Exchange Programme in Region Two. This activity is one of the Department’s flagship programmes which seeks to build capacity among young people at the community level through providing a pathway to enable individual empowerment with anticipat-

ed benefits at the community level.

The activity which commenced August 14th, concluded on August 24th.

During this period participants were meaningfully engaged in community projects, cultural presentations, skills training and games which sought to foster social cohesion and embrace their diversities.Participants were

The Second Inter-Village Social Cohesion Exchange Programme

exposed to skills in information technology, metal works, wood works, bakery, cookery and craft.

Participants were engaged by both public and private sector agencies and peers who delivered on their various professions through interactive discussions and informational sessions. Some

Opening Ceremony

divided we fall” Minister Norton underscored.

Receiving one of the awards for ‘Leadership Best Exemplified’ was Lauristan Choy of Berbice, Region Six. Reflecting on the programme, the young man said, “For me, it was empowering, it allowed me to understand leadership and I was able to gain information on being an effective public speaker. I was able to learn about event planning which definitely would enable me to be a better leader when I return to my community and I am able to inspire and empower other young people.”

Dr. Rei-launya Amsterdam also copped the aforementioned title. She said that being part of the programme has been inspiring, expressing hope that more and more young people will apply to be part of such initiatives that are to come. Meanwhile, Minister Norton congratulated the Department of Youth for executing a well-planned programme, as well as the youths who participated. “I also commend your families – your parents and well-wishers for supporting you through this process, and I thank the educators and instructors for being diligent in sharing their knowledge with you,” Minister Norton added.

agencies in attendance were The Small Business Bureau which addressed the topic of Economic Development and Social Cohesion, the Ethnic Relations Commission which spoke to the roles and functions of the Ethnic Relations Commission in promoting harmony in Guyana, Institute

of Private Enterprise Development which shared information on how participants could access small and medium size loans for economic ventures.

There was also participation from the Ministry of Public Health, Caribbean Voice and President’s Youth Award Republic of Guyana among many others.Delivering the feature address was Minister of Social Cohesion, with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton. Minister Norton expressed to the participants the satisfaction and pride he felt as the Inter-Village Social Cohesion Exchange Programme for 2018 was being launched.

He posited that every programme spearheaded by the Department of Social Cohesion is aimed at promoting unity and embracing diversities. He further added that a significant part of social cohesion is education, and a large part of education is socialization.

“Through this one week of interactions, we hope that each of you are able to see

that despite how unique you maybe from each other, you all share an equal place on this beautiful ‘Land of Many Waters.’” The Minister said.

“This also means that each of you also has an equal responsibility to ensure the development and prosperity of your country and Guyana’s true potential can only be realized when our people are united.”

Minister Norton encouraged the participants to listen intently, as they may find many life lessons which can be a guide to a bright future. He also added that by joining hands, they can create a brand new Guyana- A Guyana where all are accepted, loved and included in all decision-making processes.

He reassured the participants that the work they are doing in their respective communities have not gone unnoticed, added, he told the youths that they have the full support of the government. This activity saw participation from over 100 young people within the region.

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, September 30, 2018

Social Cohesion in practice…

Promoting a culture of peace, reconciliation, harmony and trust: Craig/Good Success Domino tournament IN a world where divisions are easily created, the Department of Social Cohesion has been working with the mandate to unite the citizens of Guyana.

Complete unity among all Guyanese cannot be achieved overnight, however, substantial progress has been made with regard to getting more and more persons to join the ‘oneness wagon’.

Apart from setting up core groups to ensure that the needs of all sections of society are adequately addressed nationally, the Social Cohesion Department has been conducting a number of sensitization sessions.

These are aimed at educating Guyanese on the tenets of social cohesion, and how every person can benefit from embracing diversities and inclusion.

Stemming from these sensitizations are two-day training sessions on Diversity Education and Inclusion. Upon conclusion participants are required to execute a community project aimed at fostering social cohesion. This is to ensure that they were able to fully grasp the concept of embracing diversities and promoting oneness.

So far, a total of 73 training sessions have been executed, with the number of sensitizations running far beyond that figure.The Craig/Good Success Unity Group from the East Bank of Demerara was one of the many groups which were tasked with

spearheading a community project. Theirs kicked off on Saturday, September 15, 2018, at the Craig Primary School.

The weather was bright and sunny and the activity was a grand domino competition, which saw incredible participation from residents of both Craig and Good Success.

As the games begun, it was a magical fete to see every person, comfortable in their own skin, eagerly bonding with others who were equally special and unique, but at the same time, completely different - a display of diversity.

The games of domino sparked laughter, discussions, and ignited an atmosphere of unity – one that residents immediately noticed and craved more of.

According to Heeraman John, the competitions were not only fun, but it afforded him the opportunity to reconnect with old friends.“Everybody does be suh busy with demown things that abi don’t really find de time to catch up, so me glad to see all ah these people hay today. Is people that me bin know fuh long years, but yuh know when yuh get old, yuhna really go out much to see people, but is the domino mek me come out today. Me love dominoes, so this here is nice time,” John said.

The elderly security guard declared that he will be an avid supporter of all the com-

Scene from the grand domino competition hosted at the Craig Primary School on Saturday, September 15, 2018.

munity-building activities that the Craig/ Good Success Unity Group decides to host.

“This hay is nice…me like how everybody come together and enjoying a nice day,” John added.Joan Stanislaus is a young domino player who lauded the initiative, as it was able to grab the attention of the community’s youths.“In these areas, we have countless young people who are not doing very much and I think it is important for them to engage in something constructive, and what can be more constructive than trying to build a peaceful and unified country” the young woman queried.

Meanwhile, SubrajDhanraj said that while his only domino skill is “matching tickets”, he used the opportunity as one to socialize with his friends and fellow villagers.“I am really just here to give my people the support. A friend of mine is part of the competition and I just wanted to come out and catch up with some other people that I haven’t really been able to hang out with for a while now,” the University of Guyana student said.

Dhanraj lauded the intention of bringing the community together, recommending that continuous initiatives be had to encourage

wider support.“As Guyanese, everybody loves sports, so I think if the group hosts different kind of games, it would really get the attention of more and more people,” the aspiring chemist said.According to Kobena Paul, a member of Craig/Good Success Unity Group, the domino competition was just the beginning of great things to come.“We are now Social Cohesion ambassadors, so we are planning to increase our efforts of building unity in this country,” Paul said, Another member, GokaranSukhdeo reflected on the Diversity Education and Inclusion training, referring to it as inspiring.

“It really opened my eyes to know how we are as humans, and really shed some light on how we should be – less judgmental, more helpful and understanding and so,” Sukhdeosaid.The other members of the Craig/Good Success Unity group include Joseph Thorne, Leofrice Roberts, Percell Moore and Donia Stanislaus.Technical Officer of the Department of Social Cohesion, Ms. Olive Gopaul commended the group for a job well done, reminding them that they have the important task of promoting respect and good relations among the members of their community.

‘Dochfour/Greenfield Harmony Group graduation awards ceremony Sustaining Unity and Development through community participation’ THE Department of Social Cohesion on Saturday, September 22nd collaborated with the Dochfour/Greenfield Harmony Group to execute an award ceremony for students within the communities who excelled at this year's national and regional examinations, as well as sports.

This activity was the result of sensitization secessions conducted within the communitiesfollowed bya two-day training session on Diversity Education and Inclusion.To promote sustainability of the outcomes of those sessions, participants are encouraged by the Department of Social Cohesion to form groups which exist to foster community development and enhance cohesive practices.

The Dochfour/Greenfield Harmony Group is the brainchild of six neighbouring communities which were the beneficiaries of the very first Diversity Education and Inclusion Training in 2016. The communities involved were Ann’s Grove, Dochfour, Clonbrook, Beehive, Greenfield and Two Friends.

Dochfour/Greenfield Harmony Groupwas created to collectively foster development within their respective communities while embracing their diversity. The activities hosted by this group demonstrates their understanding of what is required to bridge the divide within communities or a network of communities.

Coordinator for the Department of Social Cohesion, Ms. Sharon Patterson delivered the feature address; in her address she stated that the ministry is particularly pleased to be associated with this event as it is the site of their inaugural Diversity Education and Inclusion Training in 2016.

Ms. Patterson,further stated,“The Department is prepared to provide support for future community projects initiated by the ‘group’ which serve to bring the community together for the common good; whether those activities are in in culture, sports or in keeping with the green state strategy.”Parents were encouraged to socialize

their children to accept and respect diversity and not influence them negatively with prejudices or other forms of discrimination.The attendees were told by Ms. Patterson that diversity should be viewed as an asset despite age, geographic location, race or gender. Diversity is something which should be cherished.

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Sunday, September 30, 2018

Enhancing citizen and community safety and security, social inclusion and acceptance for diversity: Highbury, East Bank Berbice ON September 16th, the Department of Social Cohesion hosted one of their countrywide sensitisation programmes in the community of Highbury, East Bank Berbice.

During this outreach, members of the community were provided with the opportunity to not only express their challenges but also to collaborate with the Department in the process of finding solutions.

Present to deliver the feature address was Commander of ‘B’ Division, Clifton Hicken, who responded to the concerns of safety and security which were expressed by residents of Highbury and neighbouring communities.Commander Hicken charged the residents to become the eyes and ears of the ‘force’ as there is no progress with-

out unity and collaborative efforts.

In his quest to foster a better relationship between the Division and the community, the Commander told residents that under his watch every member of the

force in ‘B’ Division will be a part of the community- interaction will be a smooth process.

The Commander in his interactions with residents provided the opportunity for members to contact him with ease should problems within the community arise which

Meet our Honourable MInister, Permanent Secretary and Department Heads

Who we are and what we do at the Ministry of the Presidency, Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport.

Minister of Social Cohesion, with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Hon. Dr. George Norton, M.D., M.P

Mr. Christopher Jones Director of Sport

Ms. Tamika Boatswain Director of Culture

Ms. Melissa Carmichael Director of Youth

Ms. Melissa Tucker Permanent Seceratary

Ms. Sharon Patterson Programme Coordinator, Department of Social Cohesion

About: The Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport falls under the umbrella of the Ministry of the Presidency; headed by the Minister of Social Cohesion who has responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport.

The Ministry of Social Cohesion was established by the Government of Guyana in May, 2015 and is responsible for Nurturing Individual and Community relationships towards building a Unified Guyana.

Public Relations Unit

Contact: 226-3665, 226-3738, 226-7568

fall under his purview. In her address, Ms. Natasha Singh-Lewis, Technical Officer within the Department of Social Cohesion expressed appreciation for person’s participation and attendance. Ms. Singh-Lewis engaged the audience during the delivery of her speech on issues of diversity, inclusion and access.

She was keen to educate the attendees on the Vision and Mission of the Department. Added, she provided information on the work of the Department of Social Cohesion in the quest to deliver on its mandate of community and national development, while providing them with an overview of the meaning of social cohesion.Members of the audience lauded the efforts of the Department for creating the forum for them to express their challenges and allow input in thedecision making-process.

Origins of the Department of Social Cohesion: The Department of Social Cohesion was established after the 2015 General and Regional Elections. His Excellency President David Granger has advocated the need for the citizens of Guyana to build a strong and unified country.

The Department of Social Cohesion was established to promote this vision. The following are the pillars on which policies to foster cohesion and harmony would be built:  Promotion of equal access to education  Increased employment opportunities  Enhanced social protection  Reduction of poverty  Reduction of inequality  Promotion of political inclusion The vision of His Excellency was supported by stakeholder participation from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) during the period, July 2016 to February 2017. A Five (5) year strategic plan was drafted to promote and enhance social cohesion.

Consultations were conducted throughout the ten administrative regions of Guyana in an effort to be inclusive on policy formulation and pragmatic elements for cohesion and harmony. As a result, the Department operates with a mandate for the promotion of social cohesion guided by the following objectives:  Promoting inclusive growth and reducing socio-economic inequalities  Fostering integration, inclusion and equitable benefits in the development processes  Promoting social inclusion and acceptance for diversity  Enhancing citizen and community safety and security  Enhancing citizen participation in political processes and decision making  Promoting inclusionary democracy, at the national, regional and local levels and strengthening the role of social partners in the socio-economic processes.  Promoting a culture of peace, reconciliation , harmony and trust Vision of the Department of Social Cohesion: “A unified Guyana where diversities are embraced, conflicts resolved, networks and collaboration with stakeholders strengthened, equity promoted and decision making processes result in equal opportunities and benefits for all.”

Mission of the Department of Social Cohesion: “”To support actions that strengthen key partnerships across sectors, facilitate bridging of gaps within and across communities and contribute to social, economic, cultural, spiritual well-being and enriched livelihoods for all.”

The core values which guide the operations of the Department of Social Cohesion are:  Inclusivity  Integrity  Reliability  Responsiveness  Service  Transparency and Accountability  Trust

19

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

GPSU reaches out to youth must have youth representatives,” Gardener affirmed and stressed that the central committee will function to liaise with younger members across Guyana.

The functions for the youth committee include its responsibility for organising and coordinating youth activities, as well as actively facilitating upward mobility for the young workers.

But with the central committee encompassing young

A section of the gathering of young GPSU members

By Vishani Ragobeer THE Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) in a bid to boost the capacity of its young members and reinvigorate its youth committee, on Saturday hosted a two-day seminar at its Regent Street and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive headquarters, Georgetown.

The seminar was held under the theme: “Education and empowering young workers to be productive and innovative future leaders” and was in observance of Caribbean Youth Day 2018.

Young GPSU leader Duwane Boston, said the semi-

nar is geared at getting young people to discuss the challenges facing them; the role of the union in promoting their interests; proper work ethics and attitudes; and the recruitment of new, young workers, among other topics.

“At the end of this workshop on [September 28], there will be the formation or reorganisation of a youth committee,” he said.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle, Vice-President of the union Dawn Gardener, noted that the GPSU already has a youth committee -a standing committee it is mandated to have, but now a central youth committee will

be formed.

“We’re going to have representatives from all the other locations making up one central committee, and at the same time, we’re going to have [youth] committees in every region,” Gardener explained.

Present at the seminar were some 50 young members from across Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six and 10. These form part of the network of young workers under the GPSU across the country.

“There is a policy decision at the GPSU that whenever we have any engagement or delegation, we

Early-morning outing nearly turns tragic – when vessel runs into cable anchoring ‘dragga’ on Upper Mazaruni River

A COMMUNITY outing on the Upper Mazaruni River to celebrate the culmination of Indigenous Heritage Month nearly turned tragic, but for what can only be described as a miracle.

It happened last Monday when a party of some 30 residents of all ages from the village of Jawalla set out to visit the site of the famed Karowrieng rock paintings, a journey of some six hours.

With passengers seated on mattresses placed over plastic crates, the boat made its way slowly up the river in the early hours of morning.

In the darkness, they could barely make out what appeared to be a Brazilian ‘dragga’, an operation more powerful than the traditional dredge, up ahead.

Then, without warning, the steel cable anchoring

the ‘dragga’ to trees across the river, an illegal practice, rose up out of the water, and whipped one of the passengers at the front of the boat across the face.

Had he not cried out in pain, causing others to take evasive action, there’s no telling what might have happened.

Thankfully, because everyone dove for cover, the cable skimmed overhead and no one else was injured.

On the other hand, had they been seated as they should have been, they could all have been either swept overboard or beheaded by the taut cable.

Sources say that although this particular incident had no more serious consequence than a severe fright for the passengers, navigating the Mazaruni River between

Jawalla and Imbaimadai constitutes a daily hazard for residents of Indigenous communities.

Even the most experienced of boat captains are daily challenged by the constantly changing tide as a result of the sand-banks caused by tailings from mine sites.

Individual villagers are increasingly fearful of the dangers posed by river travel on this stretch of the Upper Mazaruni River, which remains the only physical means of communication between these communities and Kamarang, where most sub-regional public services, such as police, health, education, mining and agriculture are located.

members from across the country, Dawn explained that there will be less an inclination to always call upon persons in Georgetown.

“You’ll look to persons in the other regions and choose people who are best suited for the job,” she said.

This central committee is expected to meet at least once per quarter to discuss youth-related matters.

Young leader in the GPSU, Duwane Boston

20

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Mercilesss beating of horses stirs activists

By Lisa Hamilton

THE merciless beating of horses and the overloading of horse-drawn carts are becoming a major concern for residents, authority bodies and animal welfare groups even as the Animal Welfare Bill is set to be enacted soon.

In the country’s capital city, among all forms of modern transportation, it is not uncommon for one to notice a handful of horse-drawn carts delivering lumber, cement and other items from one location to the next.

Those who utilise this means of transportation have done so for decades and long before there were paved roads or even a feasible alternative.

Take a trip to any lumber yard throughout the day and one would see horses stationed, awaiting the on loading of materials or simply tied to a post on standby by their owners.

However, while this practice serves as a means of employment and livelihood for some in society, many are concerned about the daily treatment meted out to those animals.

Founder of the Animal Welfare Activists of Guyana (AWAG) group, Shanti Mathews

I t s f o u n d e r, S h a n t i Mathews, told the Guyana Chronicle that she started the group after her personal encounter with a fatally injured horse just outside her mother’s house.

“This was the beginning of the seeds of change in me that I was so impacted that I felt that I’ve got to do something for horses and donkeys…all that I’m doing is to help all the animals, but especially horses and donkeys because they are totally neglected in Guyana and no organization is covering them,” Mathews said.

However, with levels of cruelty still prevalent in this regard, some in public through AWAG have begun to call for the practice of horse labour to be done away with altogether.

Matthews said that while this may certainly seem as a means for the ill-treatment to cease, such a solution is easier thought up than executed.

“Even if they say ‘just don’t bother with horses and

on horses for their livelihoods and removing this option could pose financial challenges to this bracket.

Speaking with a horse and cart owner working in collaboration with a particular lumber company in Georgetown, he told the Guyana Chronicle that such a change “would affect us... real cruel too.”

Currently, there are no regulations which oversee the registration of horses, but registration is conducted for horse carts which traverse the busy roadways similar to vehicles.

“You can go and buy a horse if you want. I do delivery,” the man concurred, adding that there is no other requirement, apart from branding for ownership, safe for: “You have to get cart licence from the GRA.” Presenting to him an overview of the Animal Welfare Bill and what it could mean for animals in Guyana, he appeared concerned but was also willing to speak on

A horse collapses on the road under the strain of pulling a heavy cart of numerous bags of cement

Over the years, animal activists groups as well as individuals such as Syaeda Manbodh have facilitated the treatment of abandoned and diseased horses left on the wayside.

On other occasions, the carcasses of those unfortunate animals have also been handled by the above mentioned.

Concerned with the way animals in general are treated in Guyana, the Government in July passed the Animal Welfare Bill 2016 which will reform animal welfare laws addressing the care and safety of animals.

The bill states that animals must have adequate food, care and space; should not be subject to torture, suffering or fear and should be provided adequate shelter from adverse weather and climatic conditions, among a list of other guidelines.

It also appoints fines up to 50,000 and imprisonment for up to three months to any person who abandons an animal, whether domestic, companion, wild or otherwise, kept under their control.

Although it is yet to take effect, this is good news for the Animal Welfare Activists of Guyana (AWAG) group which was launched in 2017 with aims of improving the lives of all animals while changing the mindset of those cruel to them.

A horse owner conducts his daily delivery trade of lumber by means of horse cart (Delano Williams photo)

donkeys anymore, just take them off the streets and just have the cars’, where are these animals going to go?

There is no sanctuary in Guyana for horses and donkeys… so what would happen in that case is that their owners would abandon them to the streets of Guyana and they would get into accidents or they would take them to the slaughter house to be slaughtered and then they’d be no horses and donkeys,” she responded.

Before such a decision is made, Matthews believes that there must be a clear strategy to create horse and donkey sanctuaries, even as she suggests unused portions of farmlands as a possible option.

However, these are presently only suggestions as the issue of how the government will go about dealing with these concerns when the bill is enacted is yet to be publicly decided.

This must be done meticulously as, on the flipside, quite a few persons depend

the possible life span of one of the horses.

“It depends. You could work a horse today and it could fall down and dead today. They have horses that fall down with stoppage of water; horses are just like humans. But you have to take care of them, you have to feed them good, feed them what they’re supposed to get and a horse can last 10 years, 15 years, 20 years, 25 years,” he listed off.

The horse owner added that the care needed also includes proper feeding and vitamins with one bag of horse feed at a cost of $6000 being able to last for up three weeks.

He also added: “You have to buy corn, you got to buy oats, you got to buy barley, you got to buy tonic, you got to buy B-Complex and these medicine.”

Should the government move to do away with the age-old practice, the man asserted: “If they rule it out they got to Turn to page 21

21

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, September 30, 2018

Big turnout at STEAMS explosion

By Vanessa Braithwaite SCORES of nursery, primary and secondary school students of Region 10 on Friday were joined by their parents, teachers and education officers at STEAMS Explosion.

The event was hosted by the Department of Education in observance of Education Month and commenced with a march on Burnham Drive.This was followed by the viewing of several colourful and creative exhibits featuring STEAMS: Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Mathematics and Spirituality. It was held under the theme, “Education for a good life through innovations and STEAMS.” The teachers who worked tirelessly on the game-based projects were able to showcase their innovative skills and how same is incorporated into the classroom. The objective of the STEAM explosion was to illustrate how fun and creative learning can be, through STEAMS

and therefore, the traditional ‘chalk and black board’ mechanism is gradually becoming non-existent.

Regional Education Officer (ag) Keane Adams, said the event seeks to inspire teachers to embrace the advent of STEAMS. “It is hoped that we will be inspired because after inspiration comes revelation; when we are inspired, we are empowered to perform and this performance will manifest itself through contribution.” She said that the department will continue to provide quality education by supporting STEAM-based learning, which will impact the lives of teachers, parents and most importantly students, who will enjoy an interactive educational experience.

Regional Education Officer Shivon Greene Brewster, emphasised the spirituality aspect of STEAMS, which is the latest addition to STEAM which was previously STEM. Spirituality, she said, focuses on the state or quality of

From page 20

Mercilesss beating ... give we money for us to buy a canter because I can’t afford it.”

He made the remarks as he compared that both a horse and cart averages at $300,000 while the cost for a vehicle would run somewhere in the millions.

Despite these uncertainties, Matthews wants to see the bill, when enacted, involving the participation of law enforcement which she believes is currently too easy-going on the issue.

“The police on their own is a big issue with their indifference. I’ve gotten lots of reports of police indifference to animal cruelty. It has happened right in front of them and they’re just standing there doing nothing. We need the Government to make the police step up and take it seriously,” she urged.

At the time, the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA) has been identified as the body in charge of administering the law.

Agriculture Health and Food Safety Specialist within the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Mark Pierre believes that despite the fact that a clear path has not yet been set, horses and horse carts will one day become a thing of the past.

“The horses will have to, eventually, be banned from off the road because the traffic is getting too much and the world is moving away from that,” he told this newspaper.

Other Caribbean coun-

tries have also down scaled or completely eliminated the use of such while some other countries utilise modern horse-drawn carts as carriages for tourist attraction.

However, until then, Pierre stated that plans are in the works for the welfare of horses and similar animals to be addressed.

“We have regulations planned for draft animals [horses and bullocks]…to be regulated to compliment the bill. The bill is just the general Act that gives you the general provision. The regulation gives you the details and one of the regulations would be for draft animals,” he said.

Also, to aid the Government in its decision-making process, an Animal Welfare Commission will be established.

It will comprise experts from the disciplines of veterinary medicine, human medicine, biology, pharmacy, biochemistry and agronomy, as well as representatives from animal protection associations.

It will be responsible for advising the Minister of Agriculture on current scientific and technical developments in the field of animal welfare and providing opinions on matters relating to animal protection.

The Commission will also submit annual reports on its work; establish its rules of procedure and issue opinions on proposals for legislation in the field of animal protection.

A teacher engaging students of Regma Primary in a mathematical game

being, dedicated to God. “Religion and spiritual things are valued, especially as contrasted to material things,” she posited.

The exhibits were for all three levels of learning: nursery, primary and secondary. The music department as well as the special needs department also showcased how learning is best done through STEAMS. Numeracy and literacy topics were transformed into innovative games, which captured the attention of students, who were all busy trying to solve

the problems. Nursery school teacher Marcia Henry explained that the games make the classroom more fun.

“Because these things are so attractive, the child is drawn to it, you are able to associate things, objects and shapes and you must make teaching fun; when you make teaching fun, the children want to learn, want to come to school, so instead of doing traditional classroom things, you are now doing games, so you are having fun while you are learning,” she said.

22

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

23

24

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

25

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

Big wins for BV, St Agnes as COURTS Pee Wee football gets going

THE 2018 edition of the COURTS Guyana Inc. and Smalta Supreme Pee Wee football tournament

commenced yesterday at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue.

BV decimated St Stephen’s 5-0 with a brace from Omari Dennis (35th, 39th) along with single strikes from Jaden Harris (9th), Mark Glasgow (15th) and Malachi Washington (28th).

St Agnes caned their opponents Parfaite Harmonie (Genesis) 9-0 with Shawn Murray registering strikes in the 9th, 23rd, 26th, 27th, 28th.

A brace from Tromel Cutton (22nd, 32nd) along with lone strikes from Justin Alcindor (1st) and Darius Chester (4th) did the job.

There was no play in the opening game between Smith Memorial and Clonbrook while Victoria drew Redeemer 1-1. Victoria’s scorer was Kenny Hally (19th) while Nicholas Watts (26th) was on target for Redeemer.

Mocha won via walkover Den Amstel while Mae’s through Jaden Dipchand (13th), Darille Charles (25th) and Mike

Holder (36th) beat Timehri 3-0.

North Georgetown won via walkover Goed Fortuin with St Margaret’s and Soesdyke playing to a goalless stalemate and St John Bosco Orphanage drawing Marian Academy 1-1. St John had Jude Daniel on target in the 6th minute with Asher Adams equalising in the 28th St Ambrose won via walkover from Craig while the Grove vs F.E. Pollard match was not played as well and South Ruimveldt won via walkover from Colaaco.

Sophia won via walkover from Ann’s Grove and the same result applied for Tucville against J.E. Burnham.

St Pius beat Enterprise 4-1 with Kaden Wellington (2nd, 28th) doubling his money to complement the goals scored by Keron Garraway (29th) and Chance Niles (32nd). Jude Hilliman (3rd) scored for Enterprise.

West Ruimveldt through Syon Sampson won 1-0 against Golden Grove.

Matches continue next Saturday.

ENGLISH RACING TIPS Epsom 09:00 hrs Two Blondes 09:30 hrs Three Comets 10:05 hrs Arigato 10:35 hrs Corazon Espinado 11:10 hrs Port Of Call 11:45 hrs Central City 12:15 hrs Your Choice

IRISH RACING TIPS Naas 08:50 hrs Magna Grecia 09:20 hrs Hermosa 09:55 hrs Twilight Payment 10:25 hrs Check My Pulse 11:00 hrs Gordon Lord Byron 11:35 hrs Tylery Wonder 12:05 hrs Mount Everest 12:35 hrs Tony The Gent

MUSSELBURGH 09:10 hrs Nate The Great 09:40 hrs Lang Toun Lady 10:15 hrs How Bizarre 10:45 hrs Rasheeq 11:20 hrs Crotchet 11:55 hrs Poetic Steps 12:25 hrs Our Place In Loule

SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS Greyville 08:35 hrs Belfry 09:15 hrs Cat’s Legacy 09:50 hrs Nafaayes 10:25 hrs Roy Had Enough 11:00 hrs Ninjinsky’s Son

26

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

Warriors, Ramblers claim OMSCC titles

Dover names 26-man provisional squad for CONCACAF U-20 Championship

By Frederick Halley

By Rawle Toney

TORONTO, Canada - After failing in two attempts to capture the coveted Division One title of the Ontario Masters Softball Cricket Clubs (OMSCC), including a narrow one-win loss to last year’s winners Our Own, Warriors Cricket Club finally broke the jinx when the 2018 tournament concluded at St Bede’s ground, Scarborough here last Sunday.

In what was certainly one of the biggest crowds to witness finals staged by the OMSCC, Warriors registered a comfortable seven-wicket victory over newcomers Dant Masters while Ramblers held their nerves to win a thrilling and nail-biting Division Two encounter against Reliance Lions which was decided off the final delivery on the adjacent Littles ground.

The low-scoring Division One clash, which generated much attention following Dant Masters last-ball triumph over defending champions Our Own the previous weekend, saw Warriors reach 90 for three in 17.5 overs, chasing Dant Masters’ modest 86 for seven in their allotted 20 overs.

It took a sensible unbeaten third-wicket partnership of 53 between former Guyana Under-19 stalwarts, Rovendra Mandolall (29 not out) and Eion Katchay (19 not out), to seal victory for Warriors after they were in a spot

WAYNE Dover, head coach of Guyana’s National U-20 Men’s team, has named a 26-man provisional squad as Guyana prepare for their first match of the CONCACAF Men’s U-20 Championship against Guatemala on November 2 at IMG Academy, Florida, USA. The all Guyana-based players squad will include four goalkeepers, seven defenders, 11 midfielders and four forwards. Two of the forwards were selected from the recently-concluded Indigenous Heritage Games.

In an invited comment, Dover said training commenced last Sunday with physical evaluation of the players, adding that “the week began with physical evaluation of the players to test the level of fitness of players.

“Our aim as a staff is to qualify and we made it clear to the players the level of discipline, dedication, commitment and hard work that is required to achieve the objective. The teams in the group are very tough on paper but we all know that the matches are played on the field, and every team have a chance to win and qualify once they apply themselves.”

“During the Indigenous Heritage Games, we did some scouting and identified two talent, who will add strength to the U-20 national programme,” said the head coach.

Neston Brown and David Coates, both from the Rupununi Football Association, will join the team in the new week.

“Brown is a left full back, a position which has slowly become a dying breed in Guyana. He possesses qualities, which once harnessed properly can see him become a senior national player who can perform as (Walter) Moore and (Chris) Bourne did with distinction.

Coates, on the other hand, has demonstrated qualities as a forward, which can match the talent we have seen in the past such as Gregory Richardson. We will nurture them to realise their potential,” Dover said.

Guyana were drawn in Group F of the Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) Under-20 Championship, scheduled to take place November 1-21, at the IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, USA. A record 34 CONCACAF Member Associations will participate in the tournament and, unlike the previous format which included regional qualifiers in the Caribbean and Central America and one final championship, this year’s redesigned competition will ensure that all the participating teams have access to play more top-level football matches.

Guyana will open the tournament against Guatemala on November 2, followed by an encounter with Cayman Islands on November 6 then a clash with Curacao on November 8. The Guyanese will close off their group stage against El Salvador on November 10.

SQUAD: Goalkeepers: Sese Norville (Milerock), Jermaine Cumberbatch (Den Amstel FC) and Denzil Smith (Eagles FC). Defenders: Cecil Jackman (Fruta Conquerors), Nixon Robertson (Buxton United FC), Javier Smith (Milerock FC), Rishawn Ritch (Fruta Conquerors), Neston Brown (Rupununi FA) and Kevin Padmore (Grove Hi-Tech FC).

Midfielders: Ryan Dowding (Santos FC), Brentsley Allicock (Milerock FC), Stefan Reynolds (Flamingo FC), Nicolas McArthur (Fruta Conquerors), Ryan Hackett (Fruta Conquerors), Job Caesar (Fruta Conquerors), Kelsey Benjamin (Western Tigers), Chris Macey (Den Amstel FC), Tyrese Forde (Santos FC), Andre Mayers (Capital FC) and Rondel Peters (GFC).

Forwards: Leon Richardson (Fruta Conquerors FC), Adrian Aaron (Camptown FC), Dwayne Robeiro (Milerock FC) and David Coates (Rupununi FC).

Winners of Division Two, Ramblers, celebrate with their fans. of bother at 37 for three.

The consistent Mandolall struck two sixes and two fours. Another former youth player, Eyaz Mohamed contributed 16 before he went via the run out route.

Earlier, Dant Masters were made to struggle throughout their innings with only Munniram Karran (33 with three fours) and Zaheer Haniff (20 not out) offering any resistance.

Terry Mathura bowled immaculately to capture one for three in his three overs, two of which were maidens while Anil Persaud took one for seven and Rabindra Diaram one for nine.

A significant feature of the innings was the three run-outs, all effected by Eyaz Mohamed.

The Division Two battle between the evenly-matched

contenders saw Reliance Lions needing nine runs in the final over, entrusted to Farook Inshan after being set 145 for victory. In the end, Ramblers prevailed with Reliance left high and dry on 142 for six.

Rakesh Ramotar had earlier set the stage for Reliance Lions with a blazing 51 which included five sixes and a four while Hazaar Azweem was undefeated on 35 with four fours and a six. Polly Shivrattan was Ramblers’ best bowler with two for 25.

Ramblers were led to a challenging 144 for seven in their allotted 20 overs through Hardat Chablall who hit 39 (2x4, 3x6), Ron Etwaroo 32 (2x4, 2x6) and Mokeem Sattaur 22 (2x4, 1x6). Roy Brittania claimed three for 19.

Division One champions Warriors and their supporters

At the presentation ceremony which followed, Mandolall and Karran were named Most Valuable Players (MVPs) for Warriors and Dant Masters respectively, earning $50 each for Littles Sports Club while the MVPs for Ramblers and Reliance Masters were Inshan and Ramotar, who collected $50 on behalf of Caribbean Wave Restaurant.

Zaheer Haniff was also the recipient of a cash incentive from Donna Bodhoo for taking the best catch while special cash prizes of $100 (Canadian) were presented to Munniram Karran and Eyaz Mohamed, compliments of businessman Nirad Lall.

The win by Warriors also marked a significant milestone for Terry Mathura, who was also part of the winning Skeldon team in the OMSCC Over-50 tournament and also donned colours for Carr Tec which won the Ontario Softball Cricket League (OSCL) Conference B playoffs championships.

At the presentation ceremony, OMSCC president Azeem Khan lauded the efforts of the participating teams and the commitment shown throughout the season. He also showered praise on the several sponsors and reminded those present that the OMSCC presentation dinner and dance is set for Saturday, November 10 at Eastown Banquet Hall, Scarborough.

27

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

Manchester United crash again as City cruise past Brighton LONDON, England (Reuters) - Another Manchester United defeat, this time 3-1 at lowly West Ham United, confirmed their worst top-flight start for 29 years and piled more pressure on manager Jose Mourinho who once again questioned the mentality of his players.

With Manchester City completing a routine 2-0 win over Brighton & Hove Albion to go top of the table ahead of the evening kickoff between Chelsea and Liverpool, the focus remained on United after their elimination from the League Cup by Derby County and Mourinho’s decision to strip Paul Pogba of the vice-captaincy.

The Portuguese reacted to his latest West Ham’s Marko Arnautovic setback by lambasting his team for their celebrates scoring their third “quality and mental approach” while former United legend Rio Ferdinand, goal. (REUTERS/Eddie Keogh) who is now a respected TV pundit, to open the scoring with record-signopenly questioned how long Mourinho ing Felipe Anderson producing an will remain in charge. audacious back-foot flick.

“There are some big decisions to An unlucky own goal increased their be made at United now,” Ferdinand lead but even a superb strike from Marsaid on BT Sport. “There will be con- cus Rashford made little difference, with versations at the top level, about the Marko Arnautovic scoring the winner. future of the manager and the squad, Mourinho was predictably unhappy. because the basics are not being done. “One goal is offside, the second goal is There has to be something said.” own goal and the third goal is referee’s If Mourinho hoped his decision mistake but for the next game we have to field an unfamiliar 3-5-2 formation to have a better start,” he said, adding and omit his misfiring striker Alexis that Pogba, who was substituted in the Sanchez from the squad in favour of An- second half, was “trying hard”. thony Martial would prompt a positive The contrast with Manchester City reaction, he was mistaken. could not be more marked, with Pep West Ham took just five minutes Guardiola’s high rollers brushing aside

the limited challenge of Brighton with goals from Raheem Sterling and Sergio Aguero, who linked superbly with the Englishman to net his seventh goal in all competitions this season.

With seven games gone, City are already nine points better off than their neighbours.

Elsewhere, goals by Jamie Vardy and Harry Maguire secured Leicester City’s 2-0 win over Newcastle United, who have lost their opening four home games for the first time amid British media reports of a possible takeover fronted by Peter Kenyon, the former Manchester United and Chelsea chief executive.

Harry Kane scored twice, including a penalty, as Tottenham Hotspur inflicted further woe on bottom-placed Huddersfield Town. Arsenal also won 2-0, at home to Watford, although both goals came in the final 10 minutes as Unai Emery’s side were made to work hard for their seventh successive win in all competitions.

Wolverhampton Wanderers’ Ivan Cavaleiro scored with his first touch in the Premier League as Southampton were beaten 2-0. The Portuguese capitalised on excellent work from Adama Traore as the promoted side continued impressive start to the season.

Gylfi Sigurdsson had an eventful afternoon for Everton, atoning for his missed penalty with two goals in the 3-0 win over Fulham, who have never won at Goodison Park in the league.

Kane double at Huddersfield sends Spurs fourth

By Simon Evans HUDDERSFIELD, England (Reuters) - Harry Kane scored twice as Tottenham Hotspur moved into fourth place in the Premier League with a 2-0 win at bottom club Huddersfield Town yesterday.

But Spurs, who face Barcelona on Wednesday in the Champions League, have more injury concerns, with defender Jan Vertonghen and midfielder Mousa Dembele both being replaced at half-time.

Attacking midfielder Dele Alli missed the trip to Yorkshire, also suffering from a hamstring injury, and while Tottenham never looked in real danger at Huddersfield, the injuries will be a blow to manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Kane, who scored twice in the corresponding fixture last season, opened the scoring in the 25th minute, rising well to angle home a header from the familiar source of a pinpoint Kieran Trippier corner.

Nine minutes later the England international doubled the lead, this time from the penalty spot after Danny Rose went down under a challenge from Florent Hadergjonaj after a clever exchange with Son Heung-min.

It was a decision which riled the home crowd but while there was little contact on Rose, Hadergjonaj paid the price for tugging the shirt of the

Tottenham’s Harry Kane celebrates scoring their second goal with Son Heung-min. (REUTERS/Andrew Yates) Spurs wing back.

Huddersfield striker Laurent Depoitre rattled the woodwork with a volley just before the break and Terriers’ substitute Isaac Mbenza brought a fine save out of Paulo Gazzaniga, which sparked some late pressure from the home side.

The Yorkshire crowd roared their side on until the end but for all their immense effort, their predictable long balls caused little trouble for Tottenham’s defence.

“A very good win, very pleased.

The attitude was fantastic,” said Pochettino.

“It was a tough game against a team desperate to win. They were helped by

their unbelievable fans, among the best I have found in England. Which is why we are so pleased to have three more points in the table today,” he said.

Huddersfield manager David Wagner, whose team have just two points, said the response of the fans showed that his team were not far away from getting positive results.

“I think everyone who saw this game obviously saw that my team performed on a very good level,” said the German.

“If you have such an incredible atmosphere in the stadium after a defeat ... the players left everything on the grass - without any reward that’s true – but if you perform consistently … the reward will come.”

Ronaldo sets up all three goals as Juve beat Napoli TURIN, Italy (Reuters) - Cristiano Ronaldo was involved in all three of his team’s goals as leaders Juventus came from behind to beat 10-man Napoli 3-1, in a Serie A top-of-the-table clash yesterday to maintain their perfect start to the season.

Dries Mertens gave Napoli an early lead before Ronaldo provided a pinpoint cross for Mario Mandzukic to head in the equaliser and then set up an easy second for the Croat when his shot hit the post.

Ronaldo’s goal-bound header also provided the third Juve goal for Leonardo Bonucci after Napoli had left back Mario Rui sent off for a petulant kick at Paulo Dybala.

AS Roma upset the form book with a 3-1 derby win over neighbours Lazio, who had won their last five games in all competitions, while Inter Milan beat Cagliari 2-0 to notch their third league win in a row.

Leaders Juventus, aiming for an eighth title in a row, have 21 points from seven games, six clear of last season’s runners-up Napoli. Sassuolo and Inter have 13 points followed by Lazio in fifth place on 12 and Roma in sixth on 11.

“Ronaldo is enjoying himself,” said Juventus coach Massimiliano Allegri. “He has integrated very well. His precision in the passing moves is exceptional.

I think this was his best match of the season.”

Piotr Zielinski fired against the post after six minutes as Napoli made a bright start and they were rewarded four minutes later.

Bonucci’s risky diagonal ball out of defence was intercepted by Allan who quickly found Jose Callejon and the Spaniard laid the ball off for Mertens to tap in.

Juventus needed a piece of Ronaldo brilliance to get back into the game in the 26th minute. The Portuguese twisted and turned past Elseid Hysaj and then dropped a perfect cross onto the head of Mandzukic who powered a downward effort past David Ospina.

Ospina then got down well to stop a Ronaldo free kick and did even better to block the rebound to prevent Juve getting a quick second.

Four minutes after halftime, Ronaldo collected the ball on the edge of the area, fired a shot against the post and Mandzukic followed up to turn the rebound into the net.

Mario Rui was sent off for a second bookable offence after aiming a kick at Dybala and, although it seemed a fair decision, the Napoli players were enraged by the Argentine’s theatrical reaction.

Napoli threatened an equaliser when Callejon got through but his shot was blocked by Wojciech Szczesny and Bonucci wrapped up the game, tapping in Ronaldo’s header at the far post following a corner in the 75th minute.

Ronaldo could have had a goal himself but fired a shot into the side-netting after getting clear of the defence.

“We played well for the first 20 minutes then our opponents took control of the game,” said Napoli coach Carlo Ancelotti. “We need to continue improving. We will be competitive right until the end.”

Rome overcame their poor start to the season by beating Lazio for the seventh time in their last nine meetings.

Lorenzo Pellegrini back-heeled Roma ahead, on the stroke of halftime, shortly after replacing the injured Javier Pastore.

But an awful mistake by Roma defender Federico Fazio allowed Lazio back into the match. The Argentine was dispossessed as he tried to dribble around Ciro Immobile, who ran on to fire the ball wide of Patrick Olsen for his first goal in a Rome derby.

But Roma were back in front within four minutes when Aleksandar Kolarov fired the free kick through a huge hole in the Lazio wall.

Defender Fazio completed the win, and atoned for his earlier mistake, by meeting a free kick with a towering header to score four minutes from time.

Argentine forward Lautaro Gonzalez headed Inter in front after 12 minutes at San Siro, his first goal for the club since his move from Racing Club, and Matteo Politano volleyed the second in the 89th minute.

28

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

Agarwal, Siraj earn maiden call-ups for Windies Tests MAYANK Agarwal has been rewarded for his rich vein of form with a maiden call-up to the India Test squad for the home series against Windies, while the in-form Prithvi Shaw has been retained, with one or both standing a chance to make their debut during the twomatch Test series.

Pacer Mohammad Siraj has also been selected in the Indian Test squad for the first time.

The 15-man squad announced by the MSK Prasad-led selection panel yesterday didn’t include both Murali Vijay and Shikhar Dhawan, while KL Rahul, who scored a hundred in the final Test against England at The Oval, in what was otherwise a low-key series for him, has held on to his spot.

Mayank scored 1 160 runs in eight Ranji Trophy games last season at an average of 105.45, with five hundreds, two fifties and a highest of 304*.

He extended his prolific form to the current season, with productive outings in the List-A games in England, as well as the first-class and 50-over games against both South Africa A and Australia A in August-September.

He has achieved 50-plus scores in six of his last 13 outings since August, including a knock of 220 against South Africa A in a four-day game. Shaw, too, has been making the right noises since his first-class debut in January 2017, having scored seven hundreds and five fifties, including three-figure scores against Windies A and South Africa A. Siraj has been consistent with his performances for India A in recent months, picking up 40 wickets in his last five first-class games.

Mayank Agarwal After a rich haul of 15 wickets in the first-class games in England, he followed it up with 14 wickets in the two four-day games against South Africa A, and 11 against Australia A in one game. The Hyderabad pacer has already played international cricket, having featured in a couple of T20Is. Rishabh Pant, who was also responsible for India’s terrific fightback in The Oval Test with his maiden century, is expected to continue his role in the Indian XI as the wicketkeeper, with Dinesh Karthik being left out after a poor run in England.

Apart from Cheteshwar Pujara, Virat Kohli and Ajinkya Rahane, the middle order also includes Hanuma Vihari, who scored a half-century on debut in India’s last Test. Meanwhile Karun Nair, who didn’t get a single game in England, has been left out.

With the selectors not naming

Hardik Pandya in the squad - who was left out of the final Test against England before picking up a back injury during the Asia Cup - India will be without a seam-bowling all-round option for the Windies Tests.

Meanwhile, Ravichandran Ashwin, who struggled with a hip injury during the England Test series, has retained his place, as has Ravindra Jadeja, with the spin duo also expected to play the all-rounders’ role.

Kuldeep Yadav provides the third spin option for India, having been recalled to the team after being left out for the last three Tests in England following an average show at Lord’s.

Ishant Sharma was also not considered for the series owing to an injury, while both Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar have been rested, with the latter only recently featuring in the Indian line-up during the Asia Cup after missing the England Tests due to a back injury.

Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav and Shardul Thakur will handle the fast-bowling duties with Siraj being the fourth option.

The two-Test series gets underway from October 4 in Rajkot, while the second Test will be played from October 12 in Hyderabad, followed by five ODIs and three T20Is. India Test squad: Virat Kohli (c), KL Rahul, Prithvi Shaw, Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara, Ajinkya Rahane, Hanuma Vihari, Rishabh Pant (wkp.), R Ashwin, Ravindra Jadeja, Kuldeep Yadav, Mohammed Shami, Umesh Yadav, Mohammed Siraj, Shardul Thakur. (Cricbiuzz.com)

Marsh, Hazlewood named Australia vice-captains ALL-ROUNDER Mitchell Marsh’s ‘lineage’ is a reason why he has been named one of Australia’s new Test vice-captains, according to selector Trevor Hohns.

Marsh will share the role with pace bowler Josh Hazlewood.

Marsh and brother Shaun have previously been accused of enjoying favouritism because of their father Geoff, a former Australia opener, coach and selector.

“Given his lineage, Mitch understands the responsibility which comes with representing Australia,” said Hohns.

Australia are preparing to meet Pakistan in their first series since the ball-tampering scandal, which resulted in previous captain Steve Smith and vice-captain David Warner being sacked and banned.

Wicketkeeper Tim Paine remains as skipper,

Mitchell Marsh with Marsh and Hazlewood, 27, promoted after what Cricket Australia described as “an extensive selection process which involved input from the players, coaching staff, national selection panel, and the Cricket Australia board”.

Candidates made presentations to an interview panel that included Hohns, coach Justin Langer and former captains Greg Chappell and

Mark Taylor.

Mitchell Marsh’s recall to the Australia side during last winter’s Ashes side was met with a mixed response, but he responded with a maiden century in the third Test in Perth.

Similarly, when Shaun was included in the Australia side for the first Ashes Test, former Australia paceman Brett Geeves wrote: “Shaun Marsh’s reselection has to be impacted by the special qualities of Papa Swampy’s snags, showcased at his famous BBQs, sponsored by the red wines of the Margaret River, when the Cricket Australia boys are in town.”

In ‘Papa Swampy’, Geeves was referring to Geoff Marsh and ‘snags’ is an Australian term for sausages.

Shaun, like Mitchell, made two centuries in the se-

ries and both are in the Australia squad for the two Tests against Pakistan in the UAE. Indeed, Mitchell, 26, will be Paine’s sole deputy for that series as Hazlewood is injured.

“We believe the new leadership model will best support the captain,” said Hohns. “It is a successful model used across various sporting codes around the world, and we see it benefiting the group not just from a tactical perspective but also to help drive the team’s values and standards on and off the field.

“We also feel the new model provides great balance.

There is strong and even representation of both the batting and bowling groups, which is important when making decisions which are in the best interest of the team.”(BBC Sport)

No institutional doping in Kenya athletics - WADA KENYA shows no signs of operating an “institutionalised” doping system, says a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) report after a two-year study.

WADA launched an investigation into widespread doping in Kenya in December 2016, focused on distance running.

It found that 138 Kenyan athletes had tested positive for banned substances, 113 of them in competition, between 2004 and August 1 this year.

But WADA said there is “no evidence of an institutionalised system”.

In a report released yesterday, it said: “The doping practices of Kenyan athletes are unsophisticated, opportunistic, and uncoordinated.

“Doping in Kenya is drastically different from other doping structures discovered elsewhere in the world.”

WADA reinstated Russia’s anti-doping agency on

Kenya’s three-time world champion Asbel Kiprop is currently suspended after testing positive for EPO. September 21, ending a three-year suspension that followed a major scandal over alleged state-sponsored doping.

A WADA-approved anti-doping laboratory was established in the Kenyan capital Nairobi in August.

Several recent high-profile doping cases have involved Kenyan athletes.

Former Olympic 1500m champion Asbel Kiprop tested positive for banned blood-boosting agent EPO in an out-of-competition test in November 2017.

The 29-year-old denies wrongdoing but said in June he had given up trying to prove his innocence.

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said last month that Kipyegon Bett, who won 800m bronze at the 2017 World Championships in London, had tested positive for EPO, having previously been provisionally suspended from competition for “refusing or failing to submit” to a drugs test.

Kenyan-born Bahrain runner Ruth Jebet, the current steeplechase Olympic champion and world record-holder, is also facing disciplinary action for alleged doping offences.

WADA’s report found the most abused substances were the steroid nandrolone and EPO, and that medical personnel were sometimes involved in helping athletes dope.

“Some local medical practitioners and quasi-medical personnel are unaware and/or wilfully blind to their role in facilitating the access of athletes and their entourage to prohibited substances,” the report said.

Kenya, a major force in middle and long-distance running, missed two deadlines in 2016 to prove to WADA that it was tackling cheating in athletics, following a series of positive drug tests and allegations of corruption.

The country was declared in breach of global anti-doping rules by WADA in May 2016 and threatened with sanctions, leaving Kenyan athletes at risk of missing the Rio Olympics.

However, Kenya’s anti-doping agency was removed from the “non-compliant” list shortly before the Games, after WADA said anti-doping legislation introduced by Kenya’s parliament had brought the country in line with the 2015 World Anti-Doping code.

Kenyan athletes won 13 medals in Rio - six gold, six silver and one bronze. (BBC Sport)

29

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

Europe take 10-6 lead into Ryder Cup final day

By Martyn Herman

PARIS, France (Reuters) Europe will take a healthy advantage into the final day of the Ryder Cup after emerging from yesterday’s fourballs and foursomes matches with a 10-6 lead over the United States.

Inspired duo Tommy Fleetwood and Francesco Molinari led the charge with two victories over a struggling Tiger Woods to take their tally so far at Le Golf National to four points.

Thomas Bjorn’s European side, bidding to retain the trophy lost at Hazeltine two years ago, dominated a misfiring American side in the morning fourballs, taking the series 3-1.

The U.S. offered more resistance in the foursomes, winning two matches, but they could not eat into the deficit.

Jim Furyk’s side need eight points from today’s 12 singles matches, to retain the trophy.

Fleetwood is the first European rookie to win four points in a row while he and Molinari, dubbed ‘Molliwood’ after a sensational weekend, are only the second pair to win four points from their opening four matches in Ryder Cup history.

Having crushed Woods and Patrick Reed in the fourballs they then gelled superbly to beat a deflated Woods and American

Paris, France: Europe golfers Tommy Fleetwood and Francesco Molinari celebrate after winning their match during the Ryder Cup yesterday afternoon at Le Golf National. (Mandatory Credit: Ian Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports)

rookie Bryson Dechambeau by an even more emphatic 5&4.

Woods, who dragged himself through two matches yesterday, showed occasional bursts of brilliance but he has now lost 19 of his 29 matches in fourballs and foursomes and seven in a row.

Justin Rose, rested for the morning fourballs, returned to partner Henrik Stenson in the foursomes to a 2&1 defeat of Dustin Johnson and Brooks Koepka - ranked one and three in the world.

Europe did not have it all their own way though it was a pleasant, breezy day south-west of Paris.

Three-time major winner

Jordan Spieth and Justin Thomas set the benchmark for the Americans with two points yesterday.

They earned a gritty 2&1 win over Spain’s Jon Rahm and Ian Poulter in the fourballs and returned later to beat Poulter and Rory McIlroy 4&3 in the foursomes having lost the opening two holes.

Only twice in Ryder Cup history have a team come back from a fourpoint deficit going into the singles, although holders Furyk’s side need only draw to retain the trophy.

After being second-best for two days, however, a Sunday counter-attack looks as though it will be beyond them.

Mohammed stars with hat-trick Team chemistry critical for Jamaica Scorpions, says Head Coach to give Windies Women 2-0 lead TAROUBA, Trinidad (CMC) – Anisa Mohammed’s spectacular hattrick paved the way for an easy West Indies victory as the women grabbed a

eight in their 20 overs.

The Windies then made light work of their run chase, cruising to 102 for the loss of just one wicket, thanks mainly to an un-

Anisa Mohammed grabbed five wickets including a hat-trick to lead the Windies to victory over South Africa. commanding 2-0 lead over South Africa in their fivematch Sandals T20 International Home Series here, Friday.

The 30-year-old Mohammed, the all-time leading T20 wicket-taker, grabbed the ninth hat-trick in women’s T20Is off the last three balls of the innings to help limit the Proteas to just 101 for

beaten 79-run second-wicket partnership between Natasha McLean and captain Stafanie Taylor.

But the spotlight belonged to Mohammed, who bamboozled the visitors with her mesmerising offbreaks on her way to picking up five wickets.

Hayley Matthews had actually been the early de-

stroyer, dismissing Lizelle Lee and Sune Luus for ducks, to leave the visitors in early trouble at 4 for two.

Spirited responses from captain Dane van Niekerk, who top-scored with 36, Chloe Tryon (21) and Mignon Du Preez who made 27, led a brief fightback as they rallied the score up to 82 for three.

However, it was Mohammed’s fourth over, and last of the innings, that turned the game on its heels, as she struck four times in five deliveries.

She accounted for van Niekerk with the second ball of the over, before deceiving Marizanne Kapp with her spin to have her stumped by wicketkeeper Aguilleira for 14. Mohammed then bowled Saarah Smith and Masabata Klaas, both without troubling the scores.

Following the dismissal of Matthews for 17, the pair of McLean and Taylor carried the Windies to an easy victory.

McLean finished unbeaten on 42 from 46 balls, while Taylor scored 35 not out, off just 30 balls, as van Niekerk used seven bowlers in an attempt to find a breakthrough which never came.

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – If the Jamaica Scorpions are to be successful in this year’s Regional Super50 competition, head coach Robert Samuels believes that creating a strong team chemistry will be key.

Samuels said as part of preparations for the tournament which runs from October 3 to 28, the 14-man squad will be spending

son, are in Zone B along with the Pride, Leeward Islands Hurricanes, Combined Campuses and Colleges (CCC), and United States.

Their first game is against the CCC on October 4.

Samuels maintained that preparations had been going well, even though the core of the team missed a significant part of training

The Jamaica Scorpions will be looking to improve on last year’s performance where they were eliminated at the group stage. quality time together in an effort to strengthen their bond.

“We are spending time with each other getting to know each other, trying to get the chemistry right to go out on the park and play.

“The first thing I need out there is a team, and once I have a team out there I know Jamaica Scorpions are going to do well,” Samuels, the former Jamaica and West Indies opener said, during an interview after training at Kensington Park on Tuesday.

The Jamaica Scorpions will be looking to improve on last year’s performance where they were eliminated at the group stage The Scorpions, who lost the 2016-17 final to the Barbados Pride before crashing out at the preliminary stage last sea-

due to the Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

“The guys are not short on cricket because of the CPL, but in terms of playing together as a team, we are a little bit short there.

“The preparation hasn’t been bad, (but) it was hampered a little bit because we had several players in the CPL, so we were looking at other players,” he explained.

“We had some practice games and (Nkrumah) Bonner, for example, got two hundreds, (Paul) Palmer got a hundred and Gordon Bryan bowled well.”

Samuels, who played six Tests for the West Indies for an average of 37.2, added that preparation up to the team’s departure will culminate in a squad match at the end of the week.

30

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

BCCI President’s XI rattle up 360 for six on opening day VA D O D A R A , I n d i a (CMC) – West Indies leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo snared three wickets, but bowlers were made to toil on the opening day of their two-day warm-up match against the Indian cricket board’s President’s XI. After winning the toss and choosing to bat, the President’s XI racked up 360 for six before declaring at the end of their 90 overs.

The home side were led to their eventual total thanks to an unbeaten century from Ankit Bawne, and half-centuries by Mayank Agarwal and Shreyas Iyer.

Aside from two early strikes by fast bowlers Shannon Gabriel and

Devendra Bishoo Sherman Lewis to get rid of Prithvi Shaw and Hanuma Vihari respectively, the majority of the day’s play was dominated by the Indians.

The duo’s dismissals

led to a 92-run partnership between Mayank Agarwal and captain Karun Nair, and they carried the score up to 132 before Agarwal became the first of Bishoo’s three victims, falling

Bolt to prove his worth by Christmas or face the boot USAIN Bolt, just as has been in many seasons before a big championship while his illustrious career was still ongoing, is in a race against time.

Bolt, the world record-holder over 100 metres and 200 metres, needs to show the Central Coast Mariners, he has what it takes to earn a professional contract in Australia’s A-League.

Bolt, generally accepted to be one of the greatest sprinters of all-time, has been attempting to achieve his dream of being a professional football player, going on a number of tryouts, the last one an extended stay with Australian top-flight team, the Mariners.

According to Mariners coach, Mike Mulvey, Bolt will have until Christmas, at the latest, January, to prove his worth.

Mulvey said, at first, he said he would give Bolt up to a year if necessary.

However, that length of time may not be necessary.

“I think a reasonable assumption would be around about Christmas time, maybe January, when we should be really judging on whether he’s really improved or not,” said Mulvey.

A contract for Bolt would be worth approximately $2.2M per year and while club owner Mike Charlesworth likes

Usain Bolt during his debut for the Central Coast Mariners the increased visibility of investing, and we’re the the club with Bolt as part same. Of course the FFA of the setup, he doesn’t would want to capitalise, intend to take on paying but won’t do that until they Bolt by himself. know he’s up to the level,” Charlesworth, it is said, he said. is asking the government Bolt doesn’t seem too to foot some of the bill, bothered by the new timeamounting to just under lines, focusing instead on $700 000. his next expected fixture.

“We wouldn’t be doing “If I get to start it will this if we didn’t feel he be a big thing for me,” said had a realistic chance of Bolt. making the grade,” said “It shows that the work Charlesworth.

I’ve been putting in since “However, if a con- I’ve been here is really paytract offer is forthcoming, ing off, and the coach has we have an expectancy confidence in me as he sees that the FFA will con- the improvement and the tribute. As would be the work I’ve been putting in,” case with any marketable said the sprinting legend. player,” he added.

Mulvey can’t afford “(The FFA) will want a to make a mistake either, level of credibility - which as the coach was brought of course we do too,” said in to transform a side Charlesworth. that finished last in the “The FFA wants to A-League a season ago. look at Bolt closely before (Sportsmax)

10 runs short of a deserved century.

His knock of 90 came from 111 balls and he struck 14 boundaries and two sixes, and was another reminder to selectors ahead of the first Test match on October 4.

Gabriel then picked up his second wicket, having the captain Nair caught for 29.

However, Bawne and Iyer came together in a 113run fifth-wicket stand to take control of proceedings.

Iyer hit a brisk 61 off just 64 balls through the afternoon, with a more sedate Bawne eventually taking control on his way to his 18th first-class century.

Bawne’s unbeaten 116 came from 191 balls during which he stroked 15 bound-

aries.

Iyer though was eventually dismissed by Bishoo, who also accounted for wicketkeeper Smit Patel

after tea.

Bishoo was the Windies’ most successful bowler grabbing 3-104 while Gabriel took two for 41.

Scoreboard PRESIDENT’S XI innings P. Shaw c Hetmyer b Gabriel 8 M. Agarwal c Hetmyer b Bishoo 90 G. Vihari c Dowrich b Lewis 3 K. Nair c Bishoo b Gabriel 29 S. Iyer c Hetmyer b Bishoo 61 A. Bawne not out 116 S. Patel c Dowrich b Bishoo 15 J. Saxena not out 18 Extras: (b-4, lb-5, nb-11) 20 Total: (6 wkts declared, 90 overs) 360 Fall of wickets: 1-17, 2-40, 3-132, 4-145, 5-258, 6-306.

Bowling: Gabriel 8-1-41-2, Paul 10-1-53-0, Lewis 10-6-13-1, Warrican 18-3-44-0, Bishoo 21-1-104-3, Chase 12-1-57-0, Brathwaite 11-4-39-0.

ICC releases latest version of DLS system THE International Cricket Council (ICC) yesterday released the updated version of the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) System along with the new ICC Code of Conduct and ICC Playing Conditions.

These will come into effect from today, when the first ODI between South Africa and Zimbabwe will be played in Kimberley.

This is the third version but second update of the DLS System since its introduction into international cricket in 2014 and has been carried out following a detailed ball-by-ball analysis of scoring patterns, including in the Powerplays, in all limited overs internationals played during the previous four years.

This means the current analysis is based on information from 700 ODIs and 428 T20Is, which comprise over 240 000 outcomes of individual deliv-

eries.

The latest analysis has revealed that teams have been able to extend their acceleration patterns for longer periods, and the average scores in ODIs have continued to increase. This means that par score calculations will assume that teams will be able to score a slightly higher proportion of their runs towards the end of an innings.

In finalising the updated version, the scoring patterns between ODI (final 20 overs) and T20 were analysed, as were the scoring patterns between men’s and women’s international matches.

The study has confirmed that in both cases, while overall scoring rates are obviously different, wicket-adjusted resource utilisation rates are essentially identical.

As such, it has again been confirmed that a single version of the DLS System is compatible with all formats.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday September 30, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) &CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to Friday’s quiz:

(1) Jeff Dujon-60 dismissals (58 catches/2 stumpings) (2) Mahendra Singh Dhoni-48 dismissals (40 catches/8 stumpings)

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Where and when was the first WI/IND Test match contested?

(2) Who were the captains involved in the first WI/IND Test?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

31

SUNDAY CHRONICLE September 30, 2018

Spinners, top order spur DCC to NBS 40-over final … beat UG by 162 runs, to clash with GCC in final

By Rajiv Bisnauth A COMPLETE all-round performance from hosts, Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), propelled them to the final of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)-sponsored New Building Society (NBS) 40over tournament, after they completed a 162-run win over the University of Guyana (UG) yesterday.

The tone for the victory was set from the start, after the hosts were asked to bat first. Their top order made batting look easy with opener Sachin Singh (67), Alphuis Bookie (53) and Raymond Perez, (55*), as they piled up 283-6.

Singh and Steven Sankar added 74 for the first-wicket, a partnership which was dominated by the left-handed Singh.

However, as the stand was looking ominous, left-arm spinner Damion Vantull bowled Sankar, who hit four boundaries in his 27. Singh and Bookie then came together and piled on the runs and took complete control over proceedings.

Singh, the West Indies youth player reached his 50 off 52 balls, but Dennis Ashmead Nedd Heywood provided the breakthrough with the wicket of Singh, who ,during his stay at the crease, struck seven fours and four sixes.

Bookie and Perez then took the score to 186 before Bookie was dismissed off the bowling of Nicholas Bollers (3-57). He struck six fours and a six in his knock. DCC then suffered a mini-collapse, losing three quick wickSachin Singh ets. However, those dismissals did not prevent Perez and Xaviee Smith from progressing at the backend of the innings. Perez hit five sixes in his innings, while Smith hit a four and two sixes.

The UG batsmen then struggled in the run chase with only Ershad Ali (49) and Linden Austin (19) showing some resistance.

The batsmen failed to handle DCC’s wily spinners, with West Indies Under-19 left-arm spinner, Ashmead Nedd (5-31), simple unplayable. Off-spinner Dennis Squires, who claimed 3-17, started the demolition, with the first three wickets.

Inability to read the spinners led to UG batsmen being defensive, which pushed the run-rate up and eventually ended their hopes of a recovery. Leg-spinner Sankar and Smith were the two other successful bowlers for DCC who will now meet powerhouse GCC in the final.

GCA/Friends of Cricket Under-17 (100 overs) Tournament

Singh, Jodah lead GCC to big win

By Faizool Deo

A MAIDEN century by 15-yearold Rahul Singh and an equally impressive half-century from his 13-year-old skipper Zachary Jodah, propelled the Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) to a whopping 260-run win over Bel Air RUBiS in the opener of the GCA/Friends of Cricket Under-17 (100 overs Tournament.

Although it was the Singh and Jodah show early yesterday morning, GCC were able to demonstrate their all-round capabilities later in the day by knocking over their opponents within 20 overs for a meagre score of 72.

Batting first, after winning the toss, GCC looked in control at home, especially with West Indies

Thaddeus Lovell celebrates the first of his three wickets.

U-15 player Mavindra Dindyal smashing the ball to all parts of the ground; but the game could have gone in either direction when the opener fell for a quick 43 runs (8x4) and number three batsman Ravaldo Phillips followed for eight.

Singh and new batsman Jodah, however, extinguished any hope that the visitors had with some smart cricket. The pair batted well together by running short singles and playing each shot on its merits.

Although Singh’s innings was not chanceless, it was well executed.

In total, the Valmiki Vidyalaya High School student spanked six fours and three sixes in his score of 119 runs his highest score to date in any form of cricket.

Medium pacer Omari Lallbachan ended the partnership when he bowled Singh with a slower ball, but the damage was already done. Jodah and the century-maker had tallied a whopping 165-run third-wicket partnership and had carried the score from 93 to 258.

Jodah lost his wicket later in the innings and finished with 73 runs (3x4), while Arayan Persaud added 33. GCC reached 332-6 (inclusive of 10 additional runs due to a fielding infraction), by the end of their 55th overs.

RUBiS looked a defeated team from ball one in their chase. Thirteen year-old medium pacer Thaddeus Lovell did the damage early, while left- arm spinner Persaud, who flighted the ball well, cleaned up after. The pair combined for seven wickets, with Persaud finishing as the pick of the bowlers with

GCC opener Rahul Singh scores his maiden cricket century yesterday. four wickets for three runs from 4.1 overs. Lovell took three wickets for 21 runs from five overs.

Although the home team fielders supported their bowlers well, Dindyal stood out at midwicket as he took a diving catch and orchestrated a runout.

Mark Sukhai led RUBiS’ attack with 16 runs before his team folded in 19.1 overs.

Please note: According to the competition rule, the team batting first can use up to 55 overs if they are not bowled out, which would leave 45 overs for the team batting second. However if the first team is bowled out before 55 overs, the team batting after will get 55 overs.

Dover names 26-man provisional squad

for CONCACAF U-20 Championship see story on page 26

National U-20 players engaged in one of the physical tests during the first week of training

Ninvalle nominated for AMBC presidency

PRESIDENT of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle has been nominated by countries in the Caribbean to be their candidate for the presidency of the Americas Boxing Confederation (AMBC) when the AIBA elections are held in November in Moscow.

Ninvalle has been nominated by more than the five countries that the AIBA constitution stipulates, Chronicle Sport has been informed.

The move marks the first time that a person from Caribbean community has been nominated for the high office with the elected candidate also serving in the important capacity of an AIBA vice-president.

Contacted for a comment yesterday,

Ninvalle only said that he felt humble and honoured by the confidence some of the Caribbean countries have shown in him. He, however, noted that the nomination is only the first step in clearing several hurdles in the path to the presidency.

“This would not be an easy task by any means and I expect the unexpected.

We have never had someone from CARICOM attempting such a high office in AIBA. The next few weeks will tell a lot,” Ninvalle said.

The AMBC, whose current president is Argentine Osvaldo Bisbal, runs boxing in North, Central and South America and the Caribbean, and has a total of 42 affiliated

countries. The president of AMBC automatically becomes an AIBA vice-president.

In 2014, Ninvalle became the first from the Region to be elected to the AIBA Executive Committee. Last year he moved a step further when he was temporarily appointed to the AIBA Executive Committee Bureau.

The Executive Committee Bureau functions in place of the executive committee for all matters requiring settlement between two meetings of the executive committee.

It consists of five members, namely the president, two vice-presidents (with voting rights) appointed by the president, and two voting executive committee members, appointed by the presi- GBA president Steve Ninvalle has been dent. AIBA has 2003 affiliated countries. nominated for the AMBC president position.

Big wins for BV, St Agnes as COURTS Pee Wee football gets going Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

See Page 25

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2018