TUESDAY 31st July, 2018
No.105352
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo
PM moves to
SANCTION PPP parliamentarian
– refers him to Privileges Committee for slandering the Speaker
PAGE
03
Stabroek Market
roof collapses again PAGES
14 &15
TWO KILLED in East Coast crash
PAGE
12
Satyanand Harripersaud
2
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Ifá priest takes young Guyanese back in time – as African community pays homage to past leaders Bishop Andrew Irving (Photos by Samuel Maughn)
By Lisa Hamilton MEMBERS of the African community paid their respects to several of Guyana’s late leaders during an all-white Libation Ceremony Sunday evening at the Square of the Revolution. Among those of our ancestors being honoured were Presidents Arthur Chung, Forbes Burnham, and Desmond Hoyte; Father of the Trade Union Movement in Guyana, Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow; Governor-General David Rose; veteran politicians Shirley Field-Ridley and
Dr Ptolemy Reid; and doyen of the art community, Philip Moore. Libation is a very integral part of the African spiritual tradition, commonly seen leading up to Emancipation Day in Guyana but can also take place when there is a birth, death or even a wedding. Sunday’s ceremony was led by Bishop Andrew Irving of the Ifá House of Santería and involved the singing of hymns, recital of prayers, drumming and dancing all in an effort to pay tribute to the memory of our ancestors. Set up near the 1763 Mon-
ument was a variety of offerings to the ancestors, among them candles, incense, water and sweet and strong beverages to sate their thirst, and coffee and sandwiches in case they were hungry. Explaining the concept behind this year’s ceremony, Bishop Irving said: “We’re honouring the men and women who would have made significant contributions for us being free and enabling us to live a good a comfortable life. “We do this for them, that in turn we would be honoured; they, now, by way of vision, by way of inspiration give us that direction so that we know where to go, what next to do, so that we can be able to accomplish all that we’re setting out to do.”
According to Bishop Irving, this year’s event was intended to serve two purposes, the first of which was to educate the youngsters, many of whom weren’t even born when some of those leaders were around. “Some of our young people attending schools today do not know who these people are,” he said, “so it’s not about just honouring them for the work that they did, but to help the young people to know who are some of the men and women who really rolled up their sleeves and got into the gutters. “Be it in education, be it in economics, be it in whatever form, they fought to make things better; we want them to know and to understand and to respect these people always.” He further explained that in the African culture, people not only believe that there is one God who is God the Creator, but also that that God can manifest him/herself in many forms and through various natural elements such as water, air and fire. “People have this notion that when we deal with ancestral work, it’s that we’re worshiping our ancestors,” he said, adding: “We do not worship our
An Ifá House of Santería member prepares the offerings at the start of the ceremony at the Square of the Revolution
ancestors; we merely honour them by respecting them. We worship the Creator, who is the giver; the sustainer of all life. And after the Creator, then we give respect to our ancestors, and then we give respect to the elements.” In a message to his fellow Afro-Guyanese, Bishop Irving said: “If we want to have a good, healthy and prosperous life, if we want to be better than we are today, we need to embrace our African spirituality; to become economically strong that we can help our brothers and sisters; the men-
folk respecting the womenfolk and likewise the womenfolk respecting the menfolk so that children can respect them. This is what African spiritualty teaches us.” The Ifá House of Santería is collaborating with the African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) as the organisation celebrates its 25th year of service to the country. Today, the ceremony will enter its third night with a candlelight procession and grand libation ceremony at midnight to usher in Emancipation Day.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
3
PM moves to sanction PPP parliamentarian – refers him to Privileges Committee for slandering the Speaker
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo making a case for Opposition MP Harry Gill to face the Committee of Privileges (Photos by Adrian Narine)
By Svetlana Marshall PEOPLE’S Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament Harry Gill has been referred to the Committee of Privileges over what has been deemed an attack on the Office of the Speaker of the National Assembly. At the heart of the matter is a letter written by Gill titled, ‘There are inconsistencies in the Speaker’s rulings on sub judice and other matters’ and published in the July 30, 2018 edition of the Stabroek News. In that letter, Gill is alleged to have brought into disrepute the integrity, credibility and impartiality of the Speaker by saying that he employs double standards when dealing with matters of the House. An excerpt of said letter reads: “The Hon Speaker of the National Assembly will be best advised to view some of the videos posted on social media to see how biased he appears, imposing his authority to disrupt an Opposition MP on a roll during the debates, or simply to prevent bad news from reaching the press.” At Monday’s Sitting of the National Assembly, the 95th to date, the Speaker, Dr Barton Scotland upbraided Gill, stating that in keeping with universal and best known rules of parliamentary practice, such as the Erskine May 24th Edition, the Speaker cannot be criticised, except by way of a substantive Motion. “If the Honourable Member, Mr. Gill was dissatisfied with the rulings or decisions of the Speaker, he could have taken a course of action provided in the Standing Orders, to which all members of this House have submitted themselves when they became
members of this House,” Dr Scotland said. “He has proceeded, instead, on a course of action which is totally impermissible under the Standing Orders. His conduct is an affront to the Office of the Speaker, the person of the Speaker, and to the dignity of this House,” Dr. Scotland told the House.
ONCE TOO OFTEN In cautioning Gill, the Speaker noted that this is the second time in two years that such a disregard for the rules of the House has been displayed by Members of Parliament. “Maybe the silence of this House on the previous occasions has emboldened the Honourable Member, Mr. Gill,” he posited.
PPP Member of Parliament, Harry Gill
While it was the Speaker that reprimanded Gill, it was Prime Minister and Leader of the House, Moses Nagamootoo, who, through a Motion, asked that the MP be sent before the Committee of Privileges in keeping with Standing Order 91.
According to Standing Order 91, any matter which appears to affect the powers and privileges of the National Assembly shall be referred to the Committee of Privileges, which is headed by the Speaker. From the very onset, the Prime Minister stated the government will not condone any attack on the Speaker of the National Assembly or the House. He told his colleagues on both sides of the House that Gill’s action transgresses the normative rules of the House, and from all indications was a premeditated political attack against the Speaker. As such, he felt, and told the House, that appropriate measures must be taken to ensure that there is no continuation or proliferation of the type of behaviour displayed by Gill. It was on that note that the Prime Minister asked that the matter be referred to the Committee of Privileges. In response, the Speaker informed Members of Parliament that the Motion, put by the Prime Minister, was properly made, and as such Gill was committed to the Committee of Privileges. “Honourable Member Mr. Harry Gill will answer to the Committee of Privileges for his conduct in this matter,” the Speaker said. But even before the Speaker could have ruled on the Motion moved by the Prime Minister, Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira stood in objection, and though it was made clear to her that the matter was not up for debate, she spoke nonetheless. BIASED DECISION Teixeira opined that the criticisms made by parliamentarians outside of the House cannot be questioned, contending that any such move would be a clear breach of their right to Freedom of Expression. In a statement released hours later, the PPP said, “After three years of demonstrable actions and decisions of partiality and bias on the part of the Speaker of the National Assembly, today (Monday), the matter reached its epitome.” According to the Parliamentary Opposition, Gill’s letter was based on facts, but despite that, the Speaker, without hesitation,
Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland
ruled that a case was made out for the matter to be considered by the Privileges Committee. “It was a vulgar case of a clumsily staged collaboration,” the PPP said, adding: “This is the latest exhibition of a crude assault, not only of parliamentary democracy and the right to free speech of a Member of the National Assembly in and out of the Assembly, but one of the most perverse decisions of a Speaker of the National Assembly in our living memory. “The travesty was compounded by the fact that the Speaker himself, being the subject of the alleged infraction, rather than recuse himself boldly presided over the Motion and essentially found that a prima facie case had been made out for the matter to be considered by the Privileges Committee. “That the Speaker found nothing wrong with being a Judge in his own cause, by itself, speaks volumes.” The PPP is holding fast that the Motion filed by the Prime Minister violates all the relevant Standing Orders, and has vowed to challenge it at every available fora.
Minister of State Joseph Harmon (fifth right), stands with executive members of the PSC on Monday, at the conclusion of their meeting
Minister Harmon meets PSC on GSDS, Dept. of Energy MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon on Monday held discussions with the executive members of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) on increased collaboration, along with the
Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) and the establishment of the Department of Energy. The meeting which was held at the Ministry of the Pres-
idency (MOTP) saw the two sides committing to frequent engagements so as to forge a better relationship in the months ahead.
4
Opposition shoots down duty-free concession motion
MEMBERS of the National Assembly have voted against the adoption of a Motion seeking to address matters relating to the cylinder capacity (c.c) for duty-free concession to be granted to the Accountant and Attorney-at-Law of the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU). The Motion was moved by Minster of Social Cohesion and Chairman of the Committee on Appointments, Dr. George Norton during a sitting of the National Assembly on Monday. Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) quickly shot down the Motion, noting that only the Minister of Finance and Commissioner-General of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) have the authority to deal with the issue. Dr. Norton attempted to move a Motion in keeping with the Anti-Money Laundering and Countering the Financing of Terrorism Act which states that the FIU shall have an Attor-
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
–advises appointments committee to consult finance minister, GRA boss
Opposition MP Irfaan Ali
ney-at-Law and Accountant who are appointed by the Committee on Appointments from a short-list provided, based on applicants in response to public advertisement. According to Dr Norton, the Committee, after deliberation, reached a consensus by majority and recommended Mr. Surendra Lall Boodhoo and Attorney-at-Law Yonette
Minister Norton making his presentation to the House at yesterday’s sitting
Romao Scarville as being suitable to be appointed as the Accountant and Attorney-at-Law respectively. He said the Committee also deliberated at its thirtieth meeting held on March 28, 2018, and agreed to offer
both appointees duty-free concessions for vehicles having a cylinder capacity of 2000. In response to the Motion, Opposition MP, Irfaan Ali argued that the approach was wrong and that issues
pertaining to the employees should have been addressed in the law. “The Motion wants to bring a benefit to two employees; we have to amend the law and make it part of the benefit in the law because
the Committee can’t just delegate the task to the National Assembly,” Ali said, adding: “Only the GRA commissioner-general and finance minister have the right to exercise this power of authority.” He as such advised the minister to make a recommendation to the Ministry of Finance for the provision, since the request was “wrongfully placed.” Opposition MP, Juan Edghill also agreed with his colleague parliamentarian that the request is outside the scope of the National Assembly. Dr. Norton, nonetheless, requested that the Motion be adopted by the House, but the ratio was 28 members against, and 26 for. Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin and Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, both from the government side of the House, abstained from voting while other members were absent at the time.
Linden Junior Mayor big on volunteerism, youth development By Vanessa Braithwaite THE Linden Mayor and Town Council (LMTC) have appointed 18-yearold Devon Beckles as the Junior Mayor of the town. Beckles is a fourth form student of one of Linden’s private secondary institu-
tions; MC’ Educational Institute. Beckles has the special privilege of shadowing Mayor of Linden Waneka Arindell and being the representatives of the younger population in Linden as well as his community in the Council. He meets with the Mayor twice a week, attend the Council’s monthly statutory meeting as well as social committee meetings in which he is able to raise concerns and make representation. Beckles is currently working along with Arindell to create a student government package which entails the framing of a student government body Mayor Waneka Arindell poses manual which will be pre- with junior Mayor Devon sented to the Ministry of Beckles TURN TO PAGE 5 Education.
DATE: DATE: 26/11/2016 28/07/2018 26/11/2016 30/07/2018
04 09 18 19 26 05 02 03 12 14 12 26 28 M N 11
06 16 13 08
14 14
21 10
24 25
26/11/2016 30/07/2018
04 7
07 0
03 1
26/11/2016 30/07/2018
05 9
04 4
01 9
26/11/2016 30/07/2018 02 12
09 01
10 14
11 19 13 11 14 09
18 10
5
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
House agrees to withdraw Child Rights Motion –to facilitate a more inclusive discourse on matter
By Navendra Seoraj THE Parliamentary Committee on Appointments has resolved to go back to the drawing board and reconsider the appointment of members of the Rights of the Child Commission. The move follows the withdrawal by the mover, Dr George Norton, of a Motion to adopt its ninth report in the relation to the appointments. Both Government and Opposition Members of Parliament (MPs) agreed that there was not consensus on the topic, so it would be best to take another look at the intended appointments. “We believe that the Commission is important, and must serve all our people. So we must look beyond the politics and be able to develop consensus,” Opposition MP, Bishop Juan Edghill argued during his response to the Motion on Monday. According to the Constitution, there should be not
less than five or more than 15 members of the Commission. Edghill contended that important stakeholders were left out. He noted that for instance the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana and the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha were listed, but there was no representative from the Christian denomination. Even the ministry with responsibility for child rights, he said, was left out of the equation. While he was making his point, members on the Government side of the House questioned why the Opposition was not a part of the initial consultations on the appointments. Minister of Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes argued that over the past year, the appointments committee has being trying to reach the organisations that were listed to be part of the Commission. “We went through a detailed process, and the minutes would support the
Linden Junior Mayor...
FROM PAGE 4
He will be accompanying Arindell to the United States Embassy on the August 9 where he is expected to meet with Ambassador Perry Holloway on topics such as constituency literacy and student leadership amongst other topics pertinent to youth develop in local governance. He was also appointed as a member of the Fourth Youth Parliament. Beckles also receives a monthly stipend from the Council. He told this publication that being appointed as Linden’s junior mayor was one of the greatest things that happened to him since it was strengthening his drive for volunteerism and youth development. “I always love to offer voluntary service that is needed to help drive development in Linden and Region 10. I am able to sit in and raise concerns and that makes me feel good,” Beckles said. He related that his community, Christianburg was experiencing garbage collection issues and he was able to raise it at the social committee meeting and that issue has since been resolved. The young achiever boasted of being a part of the YMCA
Young Challengers Youth Club and is also the head prefect for his school. “Every single activity the school has, I take part in it and the school door is always opened to the general public to come in an air you views.” Beckles is hoping to sit six subjects at CSEC next year. LMTC embarked on the junior mayor programme and it saw a group of students from the various secondary schools in Linden vying for the post. The programme is geared towards equipping youths with the requisite skills and knowledge needed in the local government arena. One of the challenges the present councillors face, Arindell says, is the lack of knowledge relating to local governance, since most of them have never functioned in a political capacity before. “The main aim of the programme,” the mayor says, “is having continuity in leadership at the local level. It was birthed out of the struggles the councillors faced following Local Government Election, entering without any prior training.” The students, all fourth formers, were each fur-
attempts to reach people; the Commission has not had the support of the Opposition in this process,” she said, adding: “We started off working together in the interest of the country, and all of a sudden the Opposition decided that they would not participate.” Minister Hughes contended that the Committee did not have an “underhand” approach but instead worked as a united Committee. “Given the challenges and the circumstances,” she
said, “I personally recommend that we withdraw the Motion.” Opposition MPs Ganga Persaud and Gail Teixeira both agreed that the issue should be taken back to the Committee where there should be informed collaborative discourse and a consensus. After noting the recommendations, Dr. Norton, who is Chairperson of the Committee on Appointments, requested that the Motion be withdrawn so that
the Opposition could partake in the meetings. Had the Motion been adopted, the organisations that were identified would have been invited by the Clerk of the National Assembly to meet as a group to select their nominees. Dr. Norton said the list of organisations was approved by the National Assembly during the tenth Parliament. The Committee’s first approach since then was to enquire whether the organisations still function, but the responses were limited, he said. Seeing that the Committee was given a deadline of February 13, 2018, they decided to issue advertisements in the newspapers, but some of the organisations were unresponsive. Said he: “The list we presented only reflects agencies which were functioning, and we decided not to consider some of the entities that were seeking to be included because they were unresponsive.”
nished with a booklet on local governance which they had to study and were tasked with completing an essay which were judged by
councillors. The other students that competed have been titled junior councilors and meet at the Council every week to discuss
issues. MC’ Educational Institute will also receive $500, 000 from LMTC to embark on a project to better the lives of the students.
Opposition MP, Juan Edghill in full flow
6
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Celebrating Emancipation TOMORROW marks the 180th Anniversary of the historic occasion of the Emancipation of Slavery that occurred on August 1, 1838. It brought to an end in excess of 400 years of the most brutal and inhumane system ever created by Man for the treatment of his fellow men, because of the prejudiced and unsupported view that the colour of one’s skin rendered him sub-human, and that such a perception therefore rendered him to be subject to dehumanisation. It has long been determined that such a ridiculously false and jaundiced theory cannot be sustained by any rational, scientific study and evidence. Slavery, as an experience of Africans being categorised as beasts of labour with absolutely no human rights, has been well chronicled with innumerable revolting accounts of a system that expunged all forms of personal control from the millions of hapless humans, whose further status
as commodities rendered them as chattel property. And this was whether on plantations in the then British West Indies, other parts of the British Empire, or in North America. In this denuded state, African slaves became dehumanised in every form, and were subjected to the most unspeakable horrors and unimaginable cruelties. This was an abhorrent institution that began with the terrifying horrors of the Atlantic Crossing, where millions of Africans opted to commit suicide by throwing themselves overboard rather than face the unknown, to the millions that were crushed by the unceasing cruelty and demands of plantation slavery. The well-known truism and understanding that Man was born to be free gave full expression in the dozens of revolts that epitomised the natural spirit of Man, to rebel against such forms of physical oppression. The seminal African slave rebellion of St Dominigue,
re-named Haiti, and led by Toussaint L’Ouverture; that of Berbice in 1763, led by our national hero, Cuffy, and in 1823, led by Quamina and Jack Gladstone, are examples of the resistance of African slaves to their unnatural condition as enslaved humans. This unceasing expression of the human will to be freed, allied with the gradual support of abolition and some evangelical groups that were convinced of the immorality of this atrocity of slavery, the influence of the enlightenment; global economic changes that resulted in a decline for the need of slave labour in the Caribbean, eventually led to the abolition of the iniquitous trade in 1807. This was followed by the Slavery Abolition Act in 1833 that became effective on August 01, 1834, and finally, full emancipation in 1838. Of course, Emancipation did not bring any benefits in terms of compensation for the tens of thousands of African slaves, inclusive
of those in the then British Guiana; instead, it resulted in the compensation of the slave owners for the loss of their slaves and labour. It is against this background that the descendants of enslaved Africans’ demand for reparations have to be understood as just, given the hundreds of years of free and uncompensated labour, at such great human cost, which not only built and contributed to the wealth of the western industrialised countries, but which has also created defined socio-economic disparities in the global economic balance of power. In Guyana, reference is made to the many canals that were manually dug by slaves and the seawall, the sea defence built by slaves to keep out the roaring Atlantic Ocean. It is only apt that we refer to the still continuous, daily battles against racial discrimination that are experienced by Africans in many regions of the world. In Guyana, Afro-Guyanese are in
the process of repositioning themselves after over two decades of marginalisation, driven by race-influenced socio-economic policies that have resulted in their being at a marked disadvantage. But nevertheless, Afro-Guyanese can proudly proclaim and celebrate their rich culture that has become an indelible part of the national family, as well as their sterling contribution to the many facets of what is now a modern Guyanese nation. And this, of course, must begin with the Village Movement that has resulted in the national communities and village geographic structure; every avenue of what has evolved into the national education system; industrial science; medicine; the arts; the legal and judicial systems; trade unionism and politics; agriculture; entertainment; and sports. Truly, they deserve their place in the national calendar, as a main pillar of the Guyanese nation. To this segment of the
nation, one must extend fullest appreciation for the toil, sweat and blood, and great suffering of our Afro-Guyanese forbearers, especially their battle to forge an independent and self-sufficient life in the difficult and hostile environment of post-emancipation life. To the wider context of the nation, emancipation greetings are extended as ONE PEOPLE, ONE NATION, ONE DESTINY to also mean freedom from all forms of prejudices, hatreds, fears, and selfishness that have become obstacles of a better understanding of us and greater appreciation of each other as Guyanese, and as a nation. For these are the ills that are self-defeating, and can only restrict us in our spiritual and material advancement. Most important is that the negatives, if not expunged from our psyche, prevents us as individuals and collectively from doing the very best for our country.
The ‘Krauss’ Question Dear Editor, FROM the mightiest perch of all time and like a God who knows it all “Krauss” honed in on Guyana and in one fell swoop slapped a question which hangs like a cross on an entire nation. He began in Clonbrook, a tiny village on the East Coast, obscure even to the local population as if writing about the US but starting in Nebraska …is not suspicious and this is not too far- fetched a notion – here’s why; Clonbrook was
probably meant to play off “Klondike”, the popular ice cream bar with the emblematic “endangered” polar bear, most likely intended to insinuate that the local fishermen could suffer the same fate But more than that … when someone with already a dim view talks about children going to school in canoes and neglects to mention the long history from colonial rule to the present - against tremendous odds, it’s time for Guyanese to wonder who is behind “Krauss”.
Who needs to stare into the bow of small boat as if Guyana is not worth much more, of course there are plenty rivers and streams, nature galore - and industries too, plus the mighty Kaieteur in all its glorious splendour – who can ask for more. And when it is comes to “constructive criticism”, who needs it from a “fly by night” - in and out - seemingly in someone’s pocket, as if working from a script to malign Guyana and undermine its petroleum future,
especially since initial estimates increased by “leaps and bounds” no one predicted . But come to think of it I don’t believe the same kind of questions dogged puny Trinidad – how many “paved highways?” The critics play favourite when it comes to who they target if they see a push over, they quickly pull over - and “rain on your parade” – on purpose All through history, people and place have been cast away, written off forever never to have had a chance to
chart out a course peacefully on their own, always the inevitable gang-up of critics who think “they have all the answers”, you are not good enough, smart enough, or I dare say, white enough Enough is enough, Guyana should not become someone’s “social experiment” to be tinkered with as they see fit and suit their own slanted narrative – from the get go it has been down this road before and will not take it – not any more, time only for prayers for a mutually ben-
eficial relationship with the experts alone, Exxon. As the popular folk song puts it: “Dis time nah lang time this nah deh before time”, it’s been long time since the yoke of the British has been pried from our “guggle pipe” and we stand united against “cloak and dagger” operatives bent on a crusade, to forestall Guyana and “kick the can down the road” – to no end – without a trace. Regards, Ram Narine
7
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Police investigating break-ins at GPSU –as security guard, money, TVs, documents go missing
By Svetlana Marshall HUNDREDS of thousands of dollars, two television sets and several pieces of documents were reportedly discovered stolen from the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU). The discovery follows a series of break-ins at the Union suspected to be attempts at undermining its leadership. On Monday morning police investigators were seen processing the crime scene at the Union’s Regent Street and Shiv Chanderpaul Drive headquarters. In making the disclosure on Monday, GPSU President Patrick Yarde said that over the past two weeks, the Union has had approximately four break-ins, the last of which was on Sunday night. He said the first incident took place on Monday July 16, 2018. “The initial staff of the accounts department discovered that we had a robbery. The police were called
in. A significant amount of cash was stolen,” Yarde detailed. According to him, the money was withdrawn from a commercial bank on Friday, July 13 to offset expenses relative to an Executive Council meeting which was set for the following Monday. Yarde declined to disclose the amount of money that was stolen. “I think we said enough when we said a large sum of money was taken,” he said. “The police report has the amount, and I would not be going into much detail unless I am advised of that by our attorneys and the police. “We would not be do ing anything to jeopardise the police investigation, but we are saying it is a significant amount,” he told reporters. STRUCK AGAIN Approximately two weeks after, thieves reportedly struck again at the GPSU headquarters on Sunday. A security guard, whose shift came to an end at around
GPSU President Patrick Yarde
19:00h on Sunday, reportedly told GPSU officials that when he left the premises and handed over the shift to another guard, everything was intact. But when GPSU staff turned up for duty on Monday, a television which was situated in the lower flat of the two-storey building was
Settlement plan being finalised for Venezuelan migrants- Felix THE Government of Guyana is in the process of establishing a homestead settlement area for the 260 confirmed Venezuelans, who are occupying areas in Barima-Waini (Region One), Minister of Citizenship Winston Felix announced on Monday. According to the Ministry of the Presidency’s Public Information and Press Services Unit, Felix at the conclusion of the third multi-agency coordinating committee meeting held at the Ministry of Citizenship, Shiv Chanderpaul Drive, Georgetown, said the resettlement area will allow the Venezuelans to be self-reliant. “It is intended that we [will] develop something like a homestead where families are accumulated and eventually we can move them into cash crop farming. We can encourage that so that in the first instance they can feed themselves and if they have surpluses they can sell. We are looking at crops for their sustenance and their immediate needs. Once you get that...going then the next thing is to guide them into areas in which they can sustain themselves. The immediate outcome is that we want to see them properly settled and they must be able to sustain
Minister of Citizenship Winston Felix
themselves…,” he said. The economic turmoil facing Venezuela has resulted in the past few months in many Venezuelans seeking refuge in neighbouring countries. Many are in search of food and housing. The minister noted that the agencies on the committee will continue to play their roles in lending whatever assistance is necessary to those in Region One while assessing the migration of Venezuelans into Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region Seven). “In the meantime, the Ministry of Health is continuing its vaccination [efforts]… [The Department of] Immigration is continuing the registration and support work… The Police [are] also following through with the
support work to this committee. So, all agencies, locally, are locked into this committee to provide services and support for the Venezuelans in Guyana. We are also exploring the situation in Region Seven [in order] to find out where [the Venezuelans] are and what numbers we have to [cater for],” Felix stated. The multi-agency coordinating committee has also been working alongside the United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), International Organisation for Migration (IOM) and the United Nations Human Rights’ Council (UNHRC) to determine areas of collaboration and support. Rather than criminalise the Venezuelans, Minister Felix said that the committee and by extension, the Government, have chosen to respond to the situation in a humanitarian manner, with concern for the safety, health, and accommodation of the migrants. Monday’s meeting included United Nations Resident Coordinator, Ms. Mikiko Tanaka, and other representatives from UNICEF, IOM, Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Ministry of Public Health, Ministry of Social Protection, among others.
found to be missing, as was the security guard who reportedly commenced duty at 19:00h on Sunday. “This morning we discovered that there have been a series of breaking and entry in the building. A television from my office is missing, as well as documents. There
was an attempt to get in the safe in the Union,” Yarde told reporters. In the Accounts Supervisor’s office, several attempts were seemingly made to get into different filing cabinets and drawers. “So far we have discovered two Sony flat- screen televisions missing,” Yarde said, adding: “I mention to you the money, the cabinet that was penetrated, the drawer that was damaged, and the safe that we can’t get opened up to now… And documents that are missing.” It is yet unclear how the thieves gained entry into the building, as the windows of the lower flat are heavily grilled. After Sunday’s apparent break-in, the police were again called in, and a search has been launched for the security guard who was on duty the night the television set and documents went missing. AN INSIDE JOB From all indications,
Yarde said, the thief or thieves had inside knowledge of the layout of GPSU headquarters, and appeared to have been looking for particular items. “Undoubtedly it is targeted in our opinion,” he said, adding: “To get to my office, you have to go through three doors, and it is amazing how precise the things people are going for.” Asked whether the union had taken a decision to beef up security following the first robbery, Yarde responded in the negative. “There wasn’t a beef up in security because the first incident seemed to us as a robbery after money; the other incidents all occurred over this weekend,” he said. The building is manned by a lone security guard at any given time. Security guards there are hired directly by the Union following what Yarde described as “a clear procedure” inclusive of securing police clearance.
8
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Dr. Mark Bynoe appointed
Head of Department of Energy DR. Mark Bynoe, Environment and Resource Economist and former head of the Project Development and Management Unit of the Caribbean Community Climate Change Centre (CCCCC) has been appointed by the Government of Guyana to head its Department of Energy. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon on Monday confirmed Dr. Bynoe’s appointment. “He has actually been appointed,” Harmon said on the corridors of Parliament on Monday. He disclosed that Cabinet will be briefed today on the said appointment after which, a formal announcement will be made. “The president did introduce him to the quintet of ministers responsible for oil and gas,” the Minister of State told the Guyana Chronicle while noting it is likely that Dr. Bynoe will begin his tour of duty from August 1, 2018. The quintet of ministers, Ministers of Finance, State, Public Infrastructure, Business and Natural
Resources, have been tasked with paying attention to the organisational structure of the department, legislation to be introduced for the sector, negotiation with potential investors, exploration and production licences, public communication responsibilities, the engagement of technical experts, the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, capacity building measures, the review of fiscal contractual terms and the transfer of responsibility from the Ministry of Natural Resources to the Department. Asked to outline the environment and resource economist’s roles, the Minister said, “Duties are being finalised right now… the question of organisation, the structure, functions of the department.” “They [the Department of Energy] will basically take over the duties of the Ministry of Natural Resources’, Petroleum Unit, so all of those functions that were performed by them will now move to the Department of Energy,” Har-
mon added. The former Director, School of Earth and Environmental Sciences (formerly Environmental Studies Unit), University of Guyana is the holder of a Doctorate in Economics (Environmental Economics) from the University of East Anglia, United Kingdom, A Master’s Degree in Resource Management), University of Edinburgh, Scotland; a Postgraduate Diploma in Development Studies, University of Guyana; a BA Geography/Economics (Double Major) from the University of Guyana; a Certificate in Environmental Economics and Policy Analysis, Harvard Institute of International Development, Harvard University, United States of America; and a Certificate in Programme Monitoring and Evaluation hosted by the Commonwealth Secretariat, St. Georges University in Grenada, Grenada. Meanwhile, the soon to be established Department of Energy will focus primarily on the country’s up
and coming oil and gas sector and the Department falls directly under the Ministry of the Presidency Dr Mark Bynoe (Caribbean and will Community Climate Change Centre) receive direct guidance from within the Ministry of the PresiPresident David Granger. dency. The move by the administration The Ministry of the Presito establish a Department of Energy dency had made it clear that the follows a proposal submitted by Natural Resources Minister was Natural Resources Minister Rapha- not stripped of his responsibilities el Trotman, to have a specialised in the oil and gas sector. “The attention placed on the petroleum Natural Resources Minister has sector, given the complexity of provided sterling leadership in tasks that exist with the administer- the development of the sector ing of such resources. and it is under his stewardship Earlier this year, government that significant progress has announced that Minister Trotman, been made in capacity building will hand over the oil-and-gas sector and preparations for ‘first oil’,” given Cabinet’s approval for the MOTP said in a release earlier establishment of a new department this year.
House passes Animal Welfare Bill – in favour of more contemporary regulations, better standards
Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder speaking about the benefits of the Animal Welfare Bill
By Navendra Seoraj DESPITE some dissent from the Parliamentary Opposition, the National Assembly late Monday passed the Animal Welfare Bill, which seeks to change the approach to the care of animals by implementing contemporary regulations. Prior to the passage of the Bill, the House adopted a report which was prepared by the Special Select Committee on the Animal
Welfare Bill 2016. That committee was tasked with examining the Bill, clause by clause, with the assistance of technical officers, said its chairman, Dr. George Norton during his presentation to the National Assembly on Monday. The Bill was sent to the committee after its second reading on February 9, 2017, and during its review, the concerns of members of the Opposition were taken on board.
Dr Norton said that among those concerns were that regulations which dealt with issues such as animal handlers, trainers and the transportation of animals should have been made available before the passage of the Bill. The opposition had also contended that the Bill referred to facilities which were not built, but should be constructed before the implementation of the Act. Among other concerns that were raised had to do with whether persons would incur additional costs because of the new legislation, and if they would be penalised after the Act was implemented. After considering those and other concerns, Dr Norton said at a meeting on June 14, 2018 that the committee had agreed that the report should be presented to the National Assembly. Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder expressed satisfaction with the Bill, as out of 40 clauses, 21 were amended, and three new ones were added. The minister argued that the Bill will ensure that Guyana is ready to access the export market for non-traditional agricul-
tural products, because the country will be up-to-date with international standards, particularly those of the European Union (EU) and the US. He said the Bill in its present form also aims to improve animal health and safety by ensuring that the protection and wellbeing of domestic animals are considered, especially with regard to their shelter, food supply and humane treatment. “The future of animal production is headed towards prioritisation of environmental and animal welfare matters related to the exploitation of the different animal species,” Minister Holder said. “Through modernisation of our production systems, with sustainable welfare and environmental practices, we can achieve the impacts on growth, meat quality and profitability, thereby enhancing our export possibilities,” he added. As he went on to explain, improving the welfare of animals will result in improved productivity and benefit home consumption and exports. While the Bill had many positive outlooks, Opposi-
tion Member of Parliament (MP), Zulfikar Mustapha argued that the new regulations would be burdensome to local farmers, because they will require them sourcing additional funds for operational purposes. Mustapha’s argument was roundly supported by fellow Opposition MP, Alister Charlie who contended
that the Bill only caters for urban farmers and neglects those in the rural areas. Dr. Norton sought to respond to their arguments by reminding them that technical officers from the Ministry of Agriculture and other stakeholders were involved in the process of reviewing the legislation.
Opposition MP, Zulfikar Mustapha makes a point during his presentation yesterday to the National Assembly (Photos by Adrian Narine)
9
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Do like Qatar
– use coming oil wealth to drive tourism, new THAG president urges gov’t By Lisa Hamilton THE Government of Guyana would do well to craft a National Tourism Strategy to advance not only the tourism sector but economically, socially, environmentally and culturally as well. This advice comes from newly-elected President of the Tourism and Hospitality Association of Guyana (THAG) Mitra Ramkumar, who sat down with the Guyana Chronicle to flesh out the benefits of such a plan. An accountant by profession, Ramkumar bolstered his argument by providing statistics from the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO), which in 2017 ranked tourism as the world’s third largest export after chemicals and fuels. According to the report, international tourist arrivals worldwide stood at a total of 1.2 million in 2016, while it is being projected that the number will increase significantly by 2030 to some 1.8 billion. Ramkumar’s idea for the strategy comes, in part, from his research on oil-rich Qatar, which he says is using its oil wealth to significantly pro-
pel its economy by crafting a National Tourism Sector Strategy up to the year 2030. But unlike Qatar, which had to create its tourism sector from scratch, Ramkumar says, Guyana already has a head-start with its vast opportunities in the area of eco-tourism. He also said that with the development of the right infrastructure, which a National Tourism Strategy can provide, a variety of other sectors will benefit greatly from the “trickle-down effect”. “If you craft a strategy and you focus on tourism, what does tourism ask you to do? It asks you to have better drainage, better roads, cleaner environments, respect the for people, and law and order, unity. What tourism asks for is what we should want anyway,” Ramkumar said, adding: “What tourism does is that it creates an intransit population that will drive businesses in all the sectors.” Noting that the tourism industry has proven itself to be a “hard-currency earner” but that Guyana is yet to fully capitalise on the numerous benefits to be derived from it, Ramkumar said that Qatar’s
bid to host the 2022 World Cup was not by chance but a strategic move to attract more persons to visit the country, thus creating more revenue for its other sectors. It’s a strategy he sees as “an investment” into checking all the boxes to qualify for such an opportunity, and said this is what Guyana needs to do to begin to reap the rewards of its countless untapped tourism possibilities. ALL-INCLUSIVE He, however, cautioned that the strategy should not only involve the government but the opposition and private sector as well, no matter who is in power. “Regardless of how many times the government changes going to 2030, we must have one plan and we must stick by it, Ramkumar said, adding: “The plan must have a buy-in from the opposition, government, civil society, private sector, villages and communities, so that everybody has a say and a stake into this plan.” Ramkumar, who at one point served as Treasurer of the former National Parks
Commission, said that he was especially pleased when he learnt that there was a move afoot for talks to begin between the opposition and the government, as this could significantly help push the agenda to craft a national tourism strategy. This burying of the hatchet between the two factions, he says, couldn’t come at a better time, as it can also lend itself to Guyana, with its rich cultural heritage and six races all living in harmony, becoming a major tourism attraction. “Tourism not only requires peace, because people don’t want to come to a country that has wars and civil wars,” Ramkumar said, adding: “It promotes peace as well; it encourages people to embrace each other’s culture and respect each other’s religion. In my view, that is why tourism is so special for Guyana.” Contending that Guyana is now in a position to fund such a strategy as the one he is proposing, with its ever increasing oil finds, Ramkumar said: “We need money to fund this plan, and we’re going
New THAG President Mitra Ramkumar
to earn serious money from this oil. “I don’t know why people are in this kind of ‘doomand-gloom’ mode, because, in my view, we should be excited; Guyana will be an economic powerhouse, and what we need to do now, instead of finding all the negatives that we can find, is put our heads together. “Look at the negatives and look at the positives as well, as to what we can do with this money to really build tourism.” Ramkumar said that with a national tourism strategy, Guyana has the opportunity to become a model for the world by striking a balance between benefitting from oil and at the same time protecting the environment. One of the initiatives the plan will call for is, land zoning for protected and special areas to prevent land degradation, deforestation and
Town Clerk reports…
No progress with National Capital Planning Commission
Councillor Heston Bostwick wants the Engineers Department to be more vigilant and demolish squatting houses/structures after people move
TOWN Clerk Royston King has lamented that the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has failed to set up a National Capital Planning Commission, recommended by President David Granger more than two years ago. “Two years later and we
still have no planning commission,” King said recently when speaking on the issue of squatting in the City. The Commission is expected to address squatting, which King said is a “very serious” problem at the moment for the City Council. In squatting areas, King
said, faeces allow for aquatic, aggressive growth in canals which restricts free flow of water in them. “We cannot even clean some canals because our machines cannot get through. And we can’t ask squatters to put up septic tanks and houses because both are wrong,” he observed. Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen noted that even in such squatting communities, the public health inspectors attached to the City Council will have to visit. Councillor Heston Bostwick believes that the City Engineers Department should have been
more vigilant on the issue of squatting at the West Ruimveldt Front Road in Georgetown. He said he was aware that over 75 persons were given house lots and have removed from the location, but because the structures were allowed to remain, they have become reoccupied. “These houses should be demolished after people moved,” he posited. During his visit to the City Council in 2016, President Granger had proposed the establishment of the ‘Planning Commission,’ which would see a structured
approach being utilised for the development of Georgetown. The objective of the commission would be to create policies that would chart urban renewal in the city. The President had said that the body could review past and future plans for the capital as well as outline issues that would be addressed. “The city must be sanitary, it must be clean. We all aim at a clean city, a green city, a serene city, a safe city,” he said. Any urban plan created, however, must be in keeping with what is required by the City and must be in collaboration with Central Govern-
harm to wild and marine life. He suggests that the crafting of the plan begins by the end of 2018 ahead of first-oil, should his advice be considered. As THAG prepares to submit its budget proposal for 2019 to Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, the body fully intends to push for a National Tourism Strategy. Said Ramkumar,“I’ve spoken to the Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA) about it already, so when we submit our budget proposal, it’s something that we are going to ask for; we’re also going to submit it to Minister Gaskin.” He added that the initiative would also fulfill Minister Jordan’s call for the diversification of the country’s economy, and help stakeholders understand how to better invest in areas which align with the country’s long-term goal. ment, the Central Housing and Planning Authority, the Ministry of Communities and organisations they would be working with to develop Georgetown, Granger had said. He urged that keen interest be placed on the location of entertainment hubs and business complexes, which ought not to intrude into areas designated as residential zones. “Locations should be identified for the construction and development of aesthetically picturesque roadways and malls, arcades for vendors.” Apart from squatting, the plan will include solutions for addressing other challenges which face the city including problems of drainage, unlawful activities and crime, ignorance of zoning laws, improper vending and noise nuisance and garbage disposal.
10
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
‘Ordinary people making Freed of trafficking; an extraordinary impact’ fined for overstaying WHEN we see young people in advocacy, we must appreciate and give recognition to their efforts in making people’s lives better and making their country a better place to live. The Betterment Brigade Foundation (BBF) is one with great vision. This foundation was established in May of 2018 by a 20year old ambitious woman, Francine Wintz. This newspaper spoke with Francine about this new foundation and on what grounds it was established. Francine shared that BBF is a non-profit organisation that maintains an interest to equip children with skills and knowledge, so they can reach their true potential and make childhood dreams come-to-life. Because she recognises the importance of having a quality education, she along with her volunteers in the group, will strive to provide the necessary resources and offer mentorship in the literacy and mathematics sectors. She said that volunteerism is one of the best platforms for anyone seeking elevation in their personal or professional development. Being able to connect with like-minded people and building a network surrounded by so much positivity, is what allowed her to become part of an amazing community, bigger than herself. “I always wanted to give back because I’m aware that a lot of children weren’t afforded the opportunities I had growing up; many of which I took for granted. But I never knew where to start, or what I should do. I was casually lying down in bed when I had the really wild idea of creating my own group. I was literally trying to talk myself out of it. But after approaching my mom, she encouraged me to give it a shot. Fast forward four months, I did, and I’m living without regrets,” Francine said. Thus far, the foundation has a membership of 26 young people between the ages of 16-30, who all share the same interest in making a positive contribution in the lives of children in Guyana. On Saturday, July 28 they held their first workshop at the St. Ann’s Girls Orphanage and they have a host of other activities planned out to execute their aim. Their target for future interventions is mainly persons who need a listening ear or have had some unfortunate experiences, with specific focus on abused females and abandoned children.
Founder of the Betterment Brigade Foundation, Francine Wintz
“Starting August 2, we will be donating clothing to Hope Children’s Home and from August 4, we will be implementing our first Literacy & Mathematics Project for children eight years to 14 years, at Bless the Children Home in Industry ECD. Despite their ages, the reality is that they are much behind compared to where they should be at that life stage. “The first academic issue we will begin to address next week is Phonics. While there, we will assess the needs that the children have and plan a teaching agenda based on their capabilities. Things we will cover during our time there are English, Math and Art,” the young woman shared. To a lesser extent, BBF holds close to the heart lending a helping hand to the elderly and persons in need. Various activities including feed-on-wheels, donation of personal care items, home visits and so much more are organised by the group of young people, to target people in Guyana. “Children are our best investment for they are the future. Every child deserves the right to live freely. Every child deserves to be loved. Every child deserves a brilliant beginning. Every child deserves an opportunity to thrive - regardless of their ethnicity, where they live, their circumstances, or their unique learning traits. Finding effective ways to facilitate long-term improvement in education and addressing social issues are among the most urgent matters globally,” said Francine Wintz.
DAYS after being freed for aiding in the trafficking narcotics, four Colombians were brought before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts charged for overstaying in Guyana. Yeison Sanchez, 27; Jesus Ameya, 52; Reginaldo Jaramillo, 36 appeared before the Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and were each fined $20,000 after pleading guilty to the charge with the aid of an interpreter. It is alleged that Sanchez, after being granted to approval stay in Guyana from October 18, 2017 to November 17, 2017, overstayed until January 2, 2018. It is also alleged that Ameya, after being granted approval to stay in Guyana from August 4, 2017 to September 19, 2017, overstayed until January 2, 2018. Additionally, it is also alleged that Jaramillo, after being granted approval to stay in Guyana between August 25, 2017 and September 24, 2017, overstayed until January 2, 2018. However, Wilinton Reyes, 36 appeared before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman and admitted that between September 23, 2017 and October 22, 2017 he overstayed until January 2018. He was fined $50,000 with immediate deportation. The foreign nationals were represented by attorney-at-law Bernard DaSliva, who told the court that his clients spent the last few months on remand while on trial for aiding in trafficking of narcotics charge.
Yeison Sanchez
Wilinton Reyes
Reginaldo Jaramillo
According to reports the four Colombians came in 2017 to Guyana legally at different ports of entry and were each given one month’s stay in the country. On January 2, 2018 ranks from CANU carried out a raid at Grand Woodland, Pomeroon, Essequibo and the men were busted along with others and with 11.410 kilograms of cocaine.
The foreign nationals were later placed before the Court and charged for the offence. The matter was last week thrown out from the Suddie Magistrate’s Court by Magistrate Ester Sam due to insufficient evidence. However the four men were then taken into Police custody and charged for overstaying.
Private sector boosts ACDA Emancipation celebrations By Gabriella Chapman
Some of the young volunteers in the Betterment Brigade Foundation
Jesus Ameya
AUGUST 1, 2018, Guyana will observe Emancipation Day with celebrations across the country to commemorate the abolition of slavery in 1834. Emancipation Day is also observed in many former European colonies in the Caribbean and areas of the United States and Canada on various dates in honor of enslaved people of African descent and other forms of slavery. The African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) execute an annual celebration to commemorate this memorable day. This year,
as they prepare to pull off the biggest celebration in 25 years, private sector businesses lend their support through monetary donations to ensure that 2018’s celebration is done with full success. July 30, 2018, the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company presented ACDA with a check in support of their 25th Emancipation Festivities slated for tomorrow. GTT said in a press release that they were proud to support this celebration in remembrance of the struggles encountered in the fight for freedom. They salute our Afro-Guyanese brothers and sisters as they celebrate Emancipation Day 2018.
Meanwhile, Courts Guyana is said to give a donation at their company’s annual Staff Emancipation Dress Competition on July 31, 2018. On August 1st, Emancipation Day, thousands will take to the National Park from 10am for a string of events beginning with a Sunrise Service at 5:30am. Events to follow include dance, drumming, dress, shanto singing, rap, poetry and reggae competitions, ACDA’s educational booth displays creative float costumes, races and other sports and games, acrobatic performances, skits and eating competitions.
11
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Market revenue collectors objecting to new system – Mayor says follow guidelines or leave OFFICERS have been objecting to the new system for revenue collection at the municipal markets, but Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen has since said they can choose to follow the system in place or leave. The Mayor and City Council (M&CC), in the interest of greater transparency and accountability, had decided that beginning March 1, last, all casual and itinerant vendors would pay their rent and other fees at special booths and no longer through revenue collectors. “No monies would be collected by anyone other than persons officially assigned in those booths to do so,” Town Clerk Royston King had said about the new system. The new initiative was rolled out first at Bourda
Market and was intended to be taken to the other municipal markets. The mayor recently told city councillors that revenue collectors have been objecting to the new system. “There have to be changes in all the departments of the city council. As long as you are in the system, you have to work with the guidelines. We are your employers. If we change a procedure, and you don’t want to do it, then the choice is yours,” she told councillors at their recent statutory meeting. In keeping with the change, the town clerk had explained that there will now be verifying officers in place of revenue collectors. “They, along with staff from the City Treasurer’s Department and Internal Audit, will check and verify
The most recent statutory meeting in progress at City Hall
receipts. Those who are not in possession of official council receipts would not be permitted to sell or carry on business.” “The objective is to allow the vendors to make a livelihood in a clean and safe environment,” King said, adding: “This would enhance financial accountability, transparency and reduce security vulnerability in this facility.”
Mayor ‘tired’ of complaints against Engineers’ Department SENIOR building inspectors of the Mayor and City Council’s (M&CC) Engineers Department are to be placed before the Human Resources Department for disciplinary action should they continue to work in a lackadaisical manner. Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen made the threat at the most recent statutory meeting of the M&CC, while noting that she was tired of receiving complaints against that department, headed by City Engineer Colvern Venture. “I’m tired of complaints against the engineer’s department involving senior building inspectors. You’re dodging the people, hiding from them, telling them to come back over and over. By the next statutory meeting, if two particular plans are not approved, I will call the names of the officers and have them put before the Human Resources Department,” a furious ChaseGreen stated. On other occasions, citizens are told their plans are on Venture’s desk but when he is called, he claims to know nothing about it, Chase-Green further noted. “People are coming to pay money and you’re saying you’re going to lunch? This is the only agency I see turns away money.”
At a previous meeting, Chase-Green had threatened to take action against Venture if he failed to control the officers under his charge. “The attitude of those in the engineer’s department stinks; their attitude towards citizens is unacceptable,” she lamented. She said it was high time that some officers from that department go home, because they are at work doing absolutely nothing. “You have officers in the yard liming whole day,” she charged. Chase-Green pointed out that when these officers are picked up and taken into the fields, they produce the reports months after; and worse yet, give the excuse that they have to revisit the location before submitting the reports. “These officers are not doing what they’re expected to do,” she said. “I’m tired of hearing the same names over and over again. You have senior officers sitting down doing nothing.” The mayor also lamented the fact that despite their behaviour, the municipality has to find money to pay their hefty salaries every month. “It is time the nonsense stops,” she said. “If the Engineer cannot take control of the department, we will have to take control
of him.” With respect to allegations in the past of rampant corruption in the City Engineer’s Department, ChaseGreen once famously said: “The only time you hear about the City Engineer’s Department, is when they are taking bribes all over the place.” She had also complained once during a statutory meeting about the abysmal treatment being meted out to the public by the City Engineer’s and City Treasurer’s Departments. “Go and come, go and come, go and come” is what customers are subjected to, without any consideration being paid to the time and cost that citizens have to expend, the mayor had said. “You come to the Treasurer’s Department,” she had said, “and you’re told to come back tomorrow; come back the next day; oh, we ain’t get it yet; come back the next day. “Nobody takes the time to ask if you have the passage to come back, or if you are going to be allowed time off to come back. Sometimes you come for your salary and you hear, ‘Oh come back.’ They don’t know if you’ve got to take your sick child to the doctor with that money, and I am disturbed about that.”
12
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Ex- soldier found guilty of fatally shooting friend By Michel Outridge TEARS of joy and sorrow flowed in Court 1 in the Demerara High Court on Monday afternoon when a 12-member jury after deliberating for more than two hours returned with a guilty verdict against former soldier, Allister
Woolford. Relatives of both the deceased and the accused were present and after the verdict of 10-2 was announced by the foreman many of them were moved to tears. It was justice for the mother of the deceased who cried with joy even though she was sad for losing her
young son while, on the other side the relatives of the accused cried in despair and seemed to be shell-shocked. It finally dawned on them what had taken place when Allister Woolford was handcuffed and placed in custody until August 27, 2018 at 15:00hrs when he will return before the trial
judge Sandil Kissoon for the presentation of a probation report followed by sentencing. On Monday afternoon former soldier Allister Woolford was convicted for the December 8, 2014 manslaughter of Devon Howell at D’Andrade Street, Newtown, Kitty.
The convict Allister Woolford at the Demerara High Court on Monday
According to state prosecutor Mandel Moore, Allister Woolford on November 21, 2014 shot and killed his friend, Devon Howell. Devon Howell succumbed to his injury on December 8, 2014 while a patient at the GPHC. Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh testified after being deemed an expert in the area of forensic pathology that he performed a post mortem
on the body of Devon Howell on December 10, 2014. He related that the body had a circular wound on the right side neck. The bullet exited through the left side. Dr. Singh gave the cause of death as respiratory failure as a result of fractures. More than 10 witnesses testified in the trial before Justice Sandil Kissoon and a 12-member jury which lasted just over a week.
Two killed in East Coast crash
By Leroy Smith A FAMILY in Cane Grove, Mahaica and one in Canje, New Amsterdam are in mourning after the death of two young people. They were killed in an accident on Sunday evening on the Bee Hive Public Road, East Coast Demerara after returning from a night out. Dead are Satyanand Harripersaud of Cane Grove and Varsha Khemraj of Canje, Berbice. Khemraj had been staying with her aunt at Cane Grove at the time of the accident. She had been in the city for the past month while Harripersaud returned from an overseas vacation on Saturday. According to family members, the two were home and decided to go to the KK Gas Station where they met with friends. They left Cane Grove just after 20 hours, relatives indicated to this publication. It was while they were returning that the accident occurred. According to reports, Harripersaud was driving along the road when a car emerged from one of the cross streets without coming to a halt at the major road. This caused Harripersaud to take evasive measures to avoid a collision and he ended up slamming into a car which was traveling in the opposite direction. After the impact, the car
Harripersaud was driving careened into a trench on the opposite side of the road. They were both pulled from the vehicle and were said to be in an unconscious state. They were immediately taken to a hospital nearby where they were pronounced dead on arrival. During our visit to the Cane Grove residence of Harripersaud, his family had gathered in mourning. The aunt of the now dead young lady was also present at the home. The police in a statement said the accident took place at around 22:15 hours and involved motor car PSS 9153 owned and driven by Satyanand Harripersaud, 37 (deceased), with occupant Varsha Khemraj 19 (deceased) and motor car PTT 5270 driven by a 24 year-old resident of Atlantic Gardens, ECD. Enquiries disclosed that motor car was proceeding east along the northern carriageway and motor car PTT 5270 was proceeding in the opposite direction. The driver of PTT 5270 alleged that the other vehicle suddenly swerved into his path and collided with the front right side of his vehicle after which it careened north into a canal. The driver of PTT 5270 who was unhurt, is in custody assisting with the investigation; a breathalyzer test was conducted, and no alcohol was detected in his breath.
13
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Four remanded for trafficking
By Leroy Smith FOUR young men were on Monday remanded to prison by Magistrate Peter Hugh at the Vigilance Magistrate’s Court, East Coast Demerara. The court heard that on Saturday July 28 in the East Demerara Magisterial District 34-year-old Inderjet Beepat, 29-year-old Jason Dhanpat, 29-year-old Jermain Hikel and 24-year-old Teairre Ackeem Cush had in their possession 116.294 kilogrammes of marijuana for trafficking. The men were remanded to jail until August 8, 2018 when the prosecutor in the matter will return for submissions and disclosures.
According to reports, the young men were under the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) radar for a while. This newspaper learnt that the ranks moved in on the men early on Saturday morning and intercepted a wooden vessel and a taxi, both of which were said to be loaded with bulky bags of suspected marijuana. In court, the magistrate did not request of the prosecution whether there was any objection to bail, but rather asked of the men if they had any special reason as to why the court should grant them bail for the alleged offence. Beepat, a truck driver of Sheet Anchor Village Canje, told the magistrate that special consideration should
be given to him since he was involved in an accident some time back, and due to a problem with his left foot he is unable to sit in the washroom properly. Dhanpat, a father of four of 9-9 Theatre Ally, New Amsterdam, put forward as his special reason for seeking bail, a difficulty he has breathing. Hikel, who resides at the same address as Dhanpat, told the court that he should be granted bail given the beating which he alleged that he sustained at the hands of two of the investigating ranks. And, when he was asked to point out the ranks to the court, Hikel only identify one and said the other was not in the courtroom.
Fire razes GFC’s
Soesdyke living quarters SEVERAL apartments in a building which housed the living quarters of employees of the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) at Soesdyke, East Bank Demerara were gutted by fire on Monday. Reports are that the fire of unknown origin razed the building within minutes around midday on Monday. There were no reports of injuries. Members of the Guyana Fire Service responded to the scene and are currently undertaking an investigation into the incident. A screen grab of the building on fire
The men after they appeared in court on Monday
Cush, who resides in North East La Penitence, also told the court that he suffered a beating at the hands of the investigating ranks and also alleged that one of the ranks even threatened to kill him. However, the magistrate after listening to what the respective accused men, informed them that neither of the special reasons given to
the court had qualified them to be granted their pre-trial liberty, as such they were all remanded. Meanwhile the CANU prosecutor informed that one of the four accused had been on the agency’s radar for some time. He was even arrested and detained for a period in two separate matters but had to be released as evidence was not forth-
coming. Dhanpat, Hikel and Cush, prior to their arrest on Saturday were employed as a fisherman, carpentry/mason and plumber, respectively. They were in the custody of CANU since they were detained, but following their court appearance on Monday they were handed over to the police.
14
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Stabroek Market roof collapses again
A section of the derelict roof at Stabroek Market.
By Michel Outridge ANOTHER section of the derelict roof at Stabroek
Market collapsed again early Monday morning threatening the lives and limbs of vendors, some of whom
were present when the incident happened. A vendor, who did not wish to give his name told the
A makeshift tent erected by vendors.
Guyana Chronicle that he was asleep in his stall when he was aroused by crackling sounds coming from the roof and his
only thoughts were “I hope I don’t die” because he suspected it was the roof giving way once again.
Over time sections of the roof have collapsed but fortunately, no one has been injured in these mishaps.
15
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
Part of the collapsed and rotting roof at Stabroek Market.
The man reported that after the crumbling sounds subsided he ventured out of the stall and noted that it was about 01:30hrs on Monday and he tried clearing some of the fallen beams and zinc sheets to get out of the stall he was resting in. He said he was thankful the debris did not fall directly on the stall because he might have been trapped and injured. The vendor told this newspaper that like him most vendors have erected makeshift tents to shelter from the rain and blistering sun with the use of tarpaulins but remain afraid that one day the entire structure would come crashing down on them. When the Guyana Chronicle visited the Stabroek Market on Monday afternoon many vendors were at their stalls but refused to talk out of fear of victimisation but all contended that repairs needed to be effected to reduce the threat the current structure posed for them. Another vendor said: “Meh nah want it to break down. Weh meh gon go, I make my money selling here but the condition is scary because I don’t know when this roof will come down.” The Stabroek Market Departments Clerk of Markets was contacted for a comment on Monday but he referred all questions to the Public Relations Department since he said they were not allowed to talk to the media. However Public Relations Officer Debra Lewis could not be reached for a comment and the telephones of both the Mayor and Town Clerk went unanswered. The condition of the roof of the Stabroek Market is derelict to say the least, and has constituted an eyesore and a threat to human lives and property for several years. With each passing day, the situation keeps getting worse. Meanwhile, out of circumstances, and in order to eke out an honest livelihood, business operators are forced to daily endure the dangers to
which they are exposed and take the chance of walking and conducting business in such an environment. Many have concerns about their safety and that of their customers and clients, but are afraid to speak out for fear of being victimised. “Time and again we does complain, and nothing happening, but eventually we come to the realisation that we better stop talking, because what they might do is cordon off the area and tell we that we going there at we own risk. When that happens, it means we can’t earn to meet we expenses.” Among the activities taking place under the derelict covering are: speedboats and other boats plying the Stabroek/Demerara River crossing; the loading and offloading of plantain and other vegetable boats coming from the Pomeroon and other riverine areas around Regions 2 and 3 (Pomeroon-Supenaam), and (West Demerara-Essequibo Islands); daily vegetable vending; grocery stalls (wholesale and retail). In 2017, during a meeting at City Hall, it was announced that approximately G$400M was to be spent on rehabilitating the dilapidated Stabroek Market wharf. This disclosure was made by Town Clerk Royston King. He had noted that the unsightly structure was to be torn down and replaced with a mall-like facility, complete with a boardwalk and entertainment area. “Vendors ought not to worry, as they will be given first preference to return, once the project has been completed. However, due to the modernisation, they will be asked to pay a little more rent,” King had explained at the time. This venture is yet to materialise much to the displeasure of vendors. The portion of the stelling which faces the Demerara River has, for years, been an eyesore for the thousands who use the speedboat service every day.
The section of the roof that give way early Monday morning.
16
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
YFC launches campaign to stamp out Domestic Violence THE youth arm of the Alliance for Change (AFC) political party, the Youth For Change (YFC) has launched a campaign that seeks to stamp out Domestic Violence from every region of Guyana. At the small launch of the campaign at the Umana Yana on Sunday, Chairperson of
the YFC, Juretha Fernandes, related that it is the role of all Guyanese-even the youth demographic- to stand against domestic violence. Presenting on Domestic Violence and the role of Youth, she noted: “As every society, local or foreign, we face social ills. Situations that we have the power to
either directly or indirectly influence the necessary changes needed to reduce its impact.” And to this end, she posited, “The impact of domestic violence is real.” Throughout the evening, presentations were made by youths who shared their own knowledge or experiences with domestic violence. They
Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan (second from right); Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman (fourth from left); Crime Chief, Paul Williams (right) among other dignitaries gathered at the launch of the Youth For Change (YFC)’s Domestic Violence elimination programme
illustrated effectively that domestic violence is a societal ill that affects everyone. Fernandes related, “We’re going to take a domestic violence campaign throughout the length and breadth of Guyana. We have engaged persons from every region so far, but we have been strategic in the focus that we’re going to take and how we’re going to prioritise the regions,” she said. “We are looking at the statistics for the reported cases of domestic violence and the divisions with the highest number of reported cases are the ones we are going to,” she said. According to her, there are statistics which show that Guyana has moved from 7069 reported cases of domestic violence cases in 2010, to 2080 reported cases in 2017. For her, while this decrease is remarkable, it is attributed to the myriad of awareness campaigns initiated across Guyana. Cognisant of the strides
that have been made, she opined that the “informed, bold and fierce generation” of youth can add to the efforts of eliminating the issue. Empowering women has been a tactic used to curb domestic violence, but the YFC is hoping to zero in on the male perspective now. “We’re going to the communities, we’re going to places where men hang out [because] we want to hear what men have to say about the situations they are having, the difficulties they face and we want men to build a community where they will empower each other so that we will actually try to curb this issue once and for all,” Fernandes said. And though this is a YFC initiative, other groups have given their support. The chairperson affirmed: “Domestic violence is not a YFC specific thing, it affects all groups and we are prepared to do the right thing to tackle this issue.”
The fight is over at last …says CWSS Principal on acquiring 6th form status THE Christianburg Wismar Secondary School (CWSS) in Region 10 has achieved Sixth Form status, and now joins the Mackenzie High School (MHS) which held the monopoly in this regard for years. This is according to a missive from the Ministry of Education (MoE) which states that the move was another step towards closing the gap in education delivery across Guyana. CWSS will now be able to accommodate the many Linden students who want to pursue the Caribbean Advancement
Proficiency Level (CAPE), especially in the vocational field. “This intervention comes at a time when Guyana is expected to experience a ‘purple patch’ with the emerging Oil and Gas sector. The MoE [has] recognised that the educational thrust of Guyana is along the Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM) path. Therefore it is important that the schools’ curricula respond to the needs of the society,” the release noted.
Turn to page 18
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
17
M&CC launches ‘City Week’ affair –ahead of week-long 176th anniversary celebrations
closer relationships among employees through sports and cultural and other forms of social activities; to provide an opportunity for the business community to showcase locally- produced items; to help the Council form better alliances with other critical stakeholders; and to improve the Council’s corporate image. Some of the activities that have been scheduled include such ticketed events as a mayoral dinner and cocktail reception, which is expected to earn the Council some muchneeded money. The Ministry of Social Cohesion, under whose purview such an event falls, will also be hosting a cultural extravaganza, while municipal games are City Mayor, Patricia Chase-Green at the launch Friday night also planned along with a ‘Seniors Treat’ and health of ‘City Week’ fair. Most of the activities THE Stabroek Market a municipality. are slated to be held at the Square was on Friday The week-long affair, Stabroek Market Square, evening hotter than usual as which is estimated to cost in followed by a big celebration the Mayor and City Council the vicinity of $19M, is slated on Main Street on the final (M&CC) officially launched to commence on August 19 day of activities. City Week which forms part and conclude on August 25. Addressing the gathering of its calendar of activities to According to the M&CC, at the launch, Mayor Patricia mark the 176th Anniversary the objective of having Chase-Green noted that while since Georgetown was made such an activity is to foster Georgetown is a beautiful
city, it does have its fair share of challenges. As such, she used the opportunity to call on the city’s citizenry to do their part to help restore it to the Garden City it once was. “We are asking everyone to join with us and to assist us in keeping this city clean,” she said.
“It is your city; it is my city; it is our city! We love to be in it; we love to have you in it, so I ask of you as we launch our anniversary celebrations in August to join with us in every single possible way to maintain, and help us to keep Georgetown clean.” Georgetown gained
official city status on August 24, 1842 during the reign of Queen Victoria. At the time of Independence on May 26, 1966, Georgetown was 6.5 square kilometres. On April 29, 1970, the boundaries of the city were extended, thus enlarging it to 40 square kilometres.
18
GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, July 31, 2018
The fight is over... The subjects that will be taught for the September 2018 CAPE programme at CWSS, is Geometrical & Mechanical Engineering Drawing, Electrical & Electronic Technology, Computer Science and Pure Mathematics. This ultimately would lead to an Associate Degree in Technical Studies from the Caribbean Examination Council (CXC). Additionally, such pursuits will allow for the exemption from
courses at the University of Guyana (UG) should the students go on to that tertiary institution. Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle on the news, was Principal Cleveland Thomas who said that it was more than a rewarding feeling to know that a fight that started since 2005 had finally ended, and the teachers, many of whom are retired, would have really pushed for this to materialise. “I am happy to know what the
teachers would have been fighting for since 2005 has finally come to pass, and in September 2018 we will be getting Sixth Form, it is a satisfying feeling,” he said. According to the MoE, the CWSS has one of the strongest technical vocational education programmes in Region 10. This is evident in the CSEC results in the technical subjects. The school is equipped with four large workshops and two Information Technology (IT) labora-
From page 16
tories to offer a multilateral programme. The school is a grade [B] institution, with a matriculation rate that ranks high among the other listed [A] Grade schools in Guyana. Matriculation is defined by CXC as a pass of at least five CSEC subjects, at one sitting, at Grades I to III, including English A and Mathematics. Over the past five years the school recorded a consistent improvement in student matriculation. In 2013, only 29 per cent of the CSEC candidates matriculated. By 2017, 48 per cent matriculated. Over the past three years a total of 233 students matriculated from this school. Thirty-one per cent (or seventy-two) of the students, who matriculated from the CWSS over the past three years, were from the Industrial Technology Department (ITD). In 2015 and 2016, 83 per cent of the candidates passed and in 2017, all the candidates (100%) passed. THE HARD WORK STARTS Thomas said that it was also a bitter sweet feeling, since the attainment of sixth form status means that the hard work now begins for him and the rest of the staff, since there is a lot of responsibility that comes along with the status. He is confident, however, that he will get the support as always but will be the one leading the way, since he is the only one at the school that has the
Christianburg Wismar Secondary School Principal Cleveland Thomas
experience of teaching at a sixth form school, which is Mackenzie High and Bishops High School. The teachers, however, have been preparing for this news through strategic planning since five of them would have successfully read for their degrees in the Industrial Technology (IT) field and the others are trained teachers who also acquired certificates at the Government Technical Institute (GTI). Teachers are also trained in the fields of Communication Studies and Caribbean Studies. “We have been strengthening the base,” Thomas related. Thomas, therefore, urged the students that will benefit from this opportunity to let their attitude speak for them as a determined and dedicated spirit come along with success. In addition, the extensive repairs that are ongoing at
the over 40-years’ old school will allow for the sixth form attainment to come with a fresh look as well. A total of $229 M has been allocated for the rehabilitation which entails the entire building being overhauled. CWSS is one of the top performing schools in Linden and in 2015, for the first time, the school copped seven of the top 10 places in Region 10 for CSEC and continues to acquire places in that top bracket. This performance was repeated in 2017. The school’s pass rate has also increased to 67 per cent. It has also managed to extend its curriculum by adding Spanish, Economics, Theatre Arts and Physics to the list. CWSS has also been making headlines for its football team that has been repeated champions at the annual Digicel Schools Football Competition.
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
19
20
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
21
22
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
Gold for ‘Bruce’ at CAC Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships Campbell takes Bronze in Men’s Mr Physique GUYANA’s four-member team finished with two gold and a bronze medal at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships which concluded Sunday night in Mexico. Compliments of bodybuilder, Selvon ‘Bruce’ Whatley (Masters and middleweight gold medallist) and Emmerson Campbell (Men’s Mr Physique), Team Guyana was able to earn hardware at the 45th edition of the championships held in Mexico City. The nation’s other representatives, Caerus Cipriani
(Men’s Mr Physique) and Alisha Fortune (Body Fitness) were not as fortunate. Cipriani fell just short of the podium, finishing fourth in his class (under 182cm) of six, while Fortune was unable to make it in the final six after pre-judging. After the weekend’s outing, Whatley’s medal count swelled to four for the last two CAC events. In 2016, he snared a gold and a silver in The Dominican Republic. The annual fixture was cancelled last year following the hurricanes that ravaged parts of the Caribbean and the earthquakes in Mexico. It was the second CAC
medal for Campbell, a threetime and reigning national physique champion. At his last outing, he won silver in his class. Campbell thanked Fitness Express, the National Sports Commission/ Ministry of Social Cohesion, Bounty Farm Ltd, the local bodybuilding federation and others for making his sojourn a success. Grenadian, Damion Daniel received his IFBB Elite Pro Card after winning the bodybuilding overall title. The 46th edition of the event is scheduled for Puerto Rico next year.
Hetmyer jumps a massive 77 places in ODI rankings LONDON, (CMC) – Rising batting star Shimron Hetmyer’s heavy scoring in the recent one-day series against Bangladesh has seen him jump a massive 77 places in the ICC batting rankings. The 21-year-old lefthander was the biggest mover in the latest release of the rankings, and now lies 59th in the charts currently topped by Indian stroke-maker Virat Kohli. Hetmyer found a purple patch in the three-match series against the Tigers, pummeling 207 runs at an average of 69. He struck his second ODI hundred (125) in the second match
in his native Georgetown last Wednesday, helping the Windies to a narrow threerun series-levelling victory. The former ICC Under-19 World Cup-winning captain scored 52 in the opening ODI which the hosts lost by 48 runs, and chipped in with 30 in Saturday’s last match when the Windies slipped to a 18-run defeat to concede the series 2-1. Hetmyer made his ODI debut last December on the tour of New Zealand and has since played 12 matches. Veteran Chris Gayle also gained in the rankings, leaping 12 places to 66th after scores of 40, 29 and 73 while Shai Hope moved up five spots to 45th, after scoring 148 runs at an average of 31, including a half-century in the final contest. The right-handed Hope is the highest-ranked West Indies batsman, with the
Marlon Samuels, who missed the series through injury, the next best at 52nd. In the bowling charts, off-spinner Ashley Nurse jumped into the top 50 after moving up 25 places to 38th while leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo broke into the top 100 at 92nd, after climbing 31 spots. Nurse finished with three wickets and Bishoo, four, while captain and fast bowler Jason Holder also ended with four scalps. Again, there are no West Indies players in the top 20, with Holder the highest-ranked at 27th. India’s Jasprit Bumrah tops the rankings in an unchanged top 10. Meanwhile, Bangladesh star opener Tamim Iqbal was rewarded for his two centuries in amassing 287 runs, jumping four places to a career-best 13th.
From back page ►
Grant-Stuart set ... Grant-Stuart, who has been competing with success against able-bodied riders on circuits in Guyana and abroad, has always been relishing the challenge of competing against other differently-abled riders. It became a reality in April when he competed in Canada. His current trip to Italy has been realised with the assistance of the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Soesdyke Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Grace Kennedy and the Key Store. Riders from Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Belarus, Brazil, Greece, Hun-
gry, Indonesia, Ireland, Iceland, Slovenia, Switzerland, Slovakia, Sweden, United Arab Emirates, Ukraine, USA, Venezuela, Canada, China, Columbia, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, The Dominican Republic, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Malaysia, Netherlands, Spain, Estonia, Finland, France, Great Britain, Germany, New Zealand, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Romania, South Africa and the Russian Federation will be competing. Grant-Stuart has been listed as an MC-5 cyclist.
23
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
Kenya wants no discrimination in new IAAF anti-doping rules By Isaack Omulo NAIROBI (Reuters) - Doping is a global menace and there should be no discrimination in the tough new anti-doping rules announced by the sport’s governing IAAF at its council meeting in Buenos Aires last week, a senior Kenyan athletics official said on Monday. Under the rules approved by the International Association of Athletics Federations, Kenyan athletes will be among those required to have at least three out-of-competition doping tests in the 10 months before a world championships or Olympics. “The rigorous dope testing Kenyan athletes will be subjected to is a necessary evil to safeguard the interest of the majority of those who overwhelmingly run clean,” Barnaba Korir, a member of Athletics Kenya’s (AK) Executive Committee, told Reuters. “It’s however our belief this is done with the assurance that doping is a global menace and has to be fought as such without discrimination. AK will cooperate fully to fulfil its objectives and help reduce and eventually
eliminate this vice.” Up to 50 Kenyan athletes have failed dope tests in the past six years, among them 2016 Rio Olympics marathon champion Jemima Sumgong and former Olympic and three-time world 1,500m champion Asbel Kiprop, who has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing. Kiprop’s case is with the Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU), an independent body that manages all doping-related matters, which is due to hold a hearing in London next month. Under the new anti-doping rules announced on Friday, the IAAF has divided its member federations into three categories which will have different obligations based on their success in athletics and the perceived risk of doping. Kenya is in Category A along with eastern African rivals Ethiopia, Belarus and Ukraine, who were described by the IAAF as “member federations majorly at risk of doping.” Previously, obligations under the anti-doping code were focused mainly on individuals rather than member federations.
Former Olympic and three-time world 1,500m champion Asbel Kiprop has repeatedly denied any wrongdoing
The AIU recommended the new regulations to the IAAF as a crucial step in protecting the integrity of the sport. The power to categorise members into one of the three groups will rest with the AIU board and the new rules will come into effect from 2019, a year before the Tokyo Olympics. The AIU replaced the IAAF’s anti-doping department in April last year and handles aspects including testing, intelligence and investigations related to misconduct within the sport. From page 24►
American Racing Tips Finger Lakes Race 1Passporttovictory Race 2 Paterson Hill Race 3 Imasuperstar Race 4 My Mission Race 5 Fleeting Race 6 New Yprk Event Race 7 P J Advantage Race 8 Torn Apart South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:30 hrs Angioletta 09:05 hrs The Sultans Secret 09:40 hrs All The Bids 10:15 hrs Born A Bully 10:50 hrs Love Dove English Racing Tips Yarmouth 08:40 hrs Frank’s Legacy 09:15 hrs Weld Aldar 09:50 hrs Sexy Secret 10:25 hrs Final Rock 11:00 hrs Hakam 11:30 hrs Tai Sing Yeh 12:05 hrs Indian Warrior Goodwood 08:50 hrs Afaak 09:25 hrs Confiding 10:00 hrs Sir Dancealot 10:35 hrs Stradivarius 11:10 hrs Al Mureib 11:45 hrs Duke Of Firenze 12:15 hrs Move Swiftly Perth 12:45 hrs Youghal By The Sea 13:50 hrs Go Another One 14:25 hrs Lotus Pond 15:00 hrs Strong Team 15:30 hrs Crack Of Thunder 16:00 hrs The Jam Man Irish Racing Tips Galway 12:20 hrs Exchange Rate 12:55 hrs Winter Escape 13:25 hrs Hermosa 14:05 hrs Would Be King 14:40 hrs Bond Street 15:10 hrs Dream Focus 15:40 hrs Beau sachel
BCB launches Patron ...
RHTYSC Vice-President Mark Papannah hands over the sponsorship cheque to Dr. Cecil Beharry.
The tournament would be played on a knock-out basis, with the winner taking home $150,000, while the first, second and third runners-up receiving $75,000, $50,000 and $25,000, respectively. Dr. Beharry expressed gratitude to the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club for its sponsorship, and expressed confidence that the tournament would be well organised.
He noted that the BCB is totally committed to the development of cricket in the Ancient County, and hailed the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club as a true friend of Berbice cricket. President Granger, the Ministry of the Presidency, Minister Joseph Harmon and Bakewell have all contributed towards the tournament.
WBCA completes successful cricket Academy GCB makes donation to WBCA THE West Berbice Cricket Association (WBCA) recently completed a successful cricket Academy at the Fort Wellington Secondary School. According to the President of the association, David Black, the two-week programme saw close to fifty youths participating. According to Black, while the youths were engaged in the fundamentals of the game, a number of topics related to everyday society were also discussed.
Meanwhile, to offset some of the expenses, the GCB on Friday last assisted the association. Secretary of the GCB, Anand Sanasie, made a financial donation on behalf of the board to the President of the association at the GCB’s office at Regent Road, Bourda. The GCB hopes that this donation will go a long way as the board supports the sporting initiative and wishes the WBCA all the best in their efforts to keep cricket alive in West Berbice.
24
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
Ball-tampering a ‘cry for help’ in unbalanced sport – Dale Steyn By Sudipto Ganguly MUMBAI (Reuters) - South African paceman Dale Steyn believes this year’s Australian ball-tampering scandal could be viewed as a “cry for help” because the balance between bat and ball in cricket has become so skewed in favour of the batsmen. Steyn, one of the most prolific wicket-takers of his generation, did not condone the actions of the Cape Town trio but said the incident exposed the need for cricket to change to prevent the loss of the art of reverse swing bowling. “It’s obviously not on, but if you think about it, it’s almost like a cry for help. We need to do something,” Steyn told Reuters in an interview. “There’s so much in favour of batsmen these days. Fields are small, two new balls, powerplays, bats have got bigger than they used to be, the list can go on. “You bowl a ‘no ball’ and it’s a free hit. But I have never seen a rule change that favours the bowler.” Steyn, who is tied on 421 wickets with Shaun Pollock as South Africa’s highest wicket-taker in Tests, felt the desperation to get the ball to swing was forcing cricketers to flirt with regulations. Typically, swing bowlers use the new ball to deviate it in the air to outwit batsmen but Pakistan fast bowlers stunned the world in the 1980s by introducing reverse
swing to test cricket. The skill of making an old and battered ball move in the air in the opposite direction to conventional swing was developed into an art form in the following decade by their successors Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis. In March, with South Africa already leading by more than 100 in the second innings for the loss of a single wicket on the third day of the third test, a trio of Australians hatched a plan to tamper with the ball to get that reverse swing. They paid a heavy price with batsman Cameron Bancroft, who was spotted with sandpaper in his hand, suspended for nine months, while Steve Smith and David Warner were stripped of the captaincy and vice captaincy and handed one-year bans. “It’s a big plea and it would be a sad day to see (reverse swing) disappear,” Steyn said at a promotional event for GoPro. “I grew up watching Akram, I grew up watching Waqar and all these geniuses run in and reverse swing the ball. “And you just don’t see it today. What inspiration will other fast bowlers have if they don’t have anybody to inspire them to become fast bowlers. You might as well put a bowling machine there and everyone try and become a batter.” The International Cricket Council in 2011 introduced
Crown Mining Supplies golf tournament on tomorrow By Rajiv Bisnauth THE Crown Mining Supplies golf tournament is back in full force, and will take place tomorrow at the Lusignan Golf Club course from noon. The company confirmed the sponsorship package yesterday when they handed over a cheque and a set of trophies to officials of the Lusignan Golf Club. Speaking at the handing over ceremony, director of the business entity, Nadine Persaud, pointed out that the company is pleased to be a part of the development of golf locally, since the company’s goal is to promote golf in Guyana. She noted too that tournaments of such nature bring together Guyanese in a unique and enjoyable way. Avashti Persaud, another director of the company, said that while golf is a very challenging game, their company is keen on driving youth development and, as such, are urging young person’s to not only come out and witness the competition, but also try their hand at the game.
Nadine Persaud, a director of Crown Mining Supplies, hands over the sponsorship cheque to the LGC treasurer, Aasrodeen Shaw. Also sharing the moment were President of the Lusignan Golf Club, Aleem Hussain, along with Patanjilee Persaud and Avashti Persaud.
During his remarks, the LGC treasurer Aasrodeen Shaw expressed gratitude to the company, noting that corporate support is vital to the growth and development of the sport. The tournament will award players in all 3 flights and prizes will be awarded for 1st to 3rd Best Net scores, the Best Gross and the Nearest to the Pin. Crown Mining Supplies also said that $100,000 is up for grabs for the participant who hit the ball further than the
club’s top four golfers. Also, the winner will walk away with one PARSUN 40 outboard engine. Meanwhile, Managing Director of Crown Mining Supplies, Patanjilee Persaud, and Permanand ‘Max’ Persaud, who is a shareholder of the company, are both expecting a good competition, since the majority of the country’s top golfers have indicated an interest in the day’s event.
Dale Steyn is tied on 421 wickets with Shaun Pollock as South Africa’s highest wicket-taker in Tests.
an extra new ball in one-day games, a move which many believe has made the already batsman-friendly 50-over format even more difficult for the bowlers. India batting great Sachin Tendulkar, among others, recently called for a return to the use of one new ball from each end in order to revive the moribund art of reverse swing in the format. Steyn agreed, adding that other rule changes like the limit of two bouncers per over were more of a hindrance than a help for bowlers. “They changed the rule and said we will bring two new balls into the game,” the 35-year-old added. “I don’t want a new ball when I am bowling in the subcontinent. I want an old ball that can’t get hit out of the ground. I want a ball that when I bowl doesn’t have true bounce, so that the batsman can’t hit it. “These are not rules that favour the bowler at all. They are, if anything, add to the batsman.”
Archibald makes it into BCB launches men’s 100m semi-finals Patron Green EMANUEL Archibald opened Guyana’s bid in athletics at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Colombia with a good start on Sunday by making it into the semi-finals of the men’s 100m after finishing second with a time of 10.21 seconds in his first round heats. Running in heat one of four, Archibald was overpowered only by Antigua and Barbuda’s Cejhae Greene, who had a time of 10.02 seconds. However, the semi-finals was as far as Archibald could go after his 10.17 seconds time left him in fifth place in his second run, also on Sunday. His semi-final heat was won by Jamaica’s Nesta Carter with a time of 9.92 seconds. Archibald finished just behind Barbados’ Burkheart Ellis who clocked 10.10 seconds and qualified for the finals. Archibald will now move his sights to the men’s long jump, which he’s set to compete in today. Meanwhile, Winston George was scheduled to be out on the track last night in the men’s 400m semi-finals heat, where his season’s
Economy Tournament
Emanuel Archibald
best of 46.54 seconds ranks him fourth in the heats. The Olympian will be back on the track today in the men’s 200m heats, which will close off his participation at the games. Also slated to be on the track last night was Jenea McCammon in the women’s 100m hurdles. She will continue with the women’s 200m tonight. Of the other athletes representing Guyana, Leslain Baird and Commonwealth Games gold medalist Troy Doris will be out on Thursday in the men’s javelin and men’s triple jump events, respectively.
THE Berbice Cricket Board on Saturday last launched the second edition of the Patron Green Economy tournament. The sponsorship was provided by the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, where vice-president of the club, Mark Papannah handed over a cheque to treasurer of the Berbice Cricket Board, Dr. Cecil Beharry. The tournament, which would be held in honour of President David Granger’s 73rd birth anniversary, would also be used to educate Berbicians on the impact of climate change. Secretary/CEO of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Hilbert Foster, said the tournament’s format would be one hundred balls per innings. The teams expected to participate are: West Berbice, Blairmont, Police, Tucber Park, Young Warriors, Rose Hall Canje, Albion, Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets, Port Mourant, Upper Corentyne and Skeldon. Turn to page 23►
25
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
Mind over matter for India batters: Rahane …Tourists vice-captain outlines the keys to success as they prepare for the first Test against England INDIA’s batsmen face a test of character when they take on hosts England in their five-match Test series starting at Edgbaston on Wednesday, says vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane. India were beaten 3-1 in the Test series on their last tour of England four years ago as the team led by MS Dhoni struggled for consistency in all departments. However, Rahane believes the current squad has what it takes to reverse that result. The middle-order batsman is a fine example of how far the squad has come in four years; when India last toured England, he had just five Tests to his name, and applied himself well in the foreign conditions, with a century and a pair of fifties. Now 30, Rahane has played 45 Tests, scored nine hundreds and even captained India in Virat Kohli’s absence, most recently against Afghanistan last month. “In terms of skill both teams are on par. It will be a test of our mind and character here,” Rahane said. “We want to play good cricket rather than think about the result. If you (think about the result) you put pressure on yourself ... it’s all about mindset, especially playing in England, and how quickly you adjust and handle the situation.” India lost the one-day international series 2-1 while they won the Twenty20 competition by the same margin, but the white-ball showdowns were the appetisers to what promises to be an
India vice-captain Ajinkya Rahane.
absorbing five-match Test series. Rahane said the key to succeeding in the longest format would be to play with patience and respect the conditions. “Patience is the key in England,” he said. “It also depends on the weather: if it’s sunny, it’s very good to bat. If it is cloudy it is good for the bowlers. “If the weather changes, it is important for the set batsman to hold back, respect the bowler and the conditions. If you are really set here, you should make it count.” (AAP & Cricket Network)
Freedom Cup billed for tomorrow TWO fast rising cricket teams-the Enmore Community Centre Cricket Club and Blairmont Centre Cricket Club-- will battle each other tomorrow in a 30-overs a side game at the Enmore Community Centre ground for the FREEDOM CUP” The two teams have played one match against each other in the last eight years, but a fierce battle is expected. Both clubs have developed over the years and have produced numerous players at the national level. The entrance fee for tomorrow’s game is free, while the crowd will be treated to a10/10 encounter afterwards. The first game is expected to bowl off at 11:00hrs, while the 10/10 will start at 16:00hrs. Coloured clothing along with white balls and lighted bails will be used. There will be other attractions such as table tennis, both senior and junior, Cartoon Character walkaround, live ball by ball updates by international commentator, Inderjeet Persaud, among others. The ECCCC squad is: B. Ramkelawan (Captain), A. Khan, R. Singh, R. Hiralall, N. Gobin, C. Surat, S. Jainarine, V. Moonsammy, M. Jeenarine, D. Managal, S. Jainarine, V. Ishwardin, C. Mars, Y. Dyal, D. Narine and I. Hassan The BCCC squad: K Jawahir (Captain)), Z. Inshan, W. Hassan, P. Ramdhan, N. Deodat, M. Prashad, S. Baksh, I. Khan, S. Dhani, F.Subhan, S. Glasgow Jr, D. Mc Calmon, R. Chatura, D.Clements, and A. Harrilal.
Barbados Tridents sign towering fastbowler Mohammed Irfan
Mohammad Irfan has been drafted by the Barbados Tridents for the 2018 Hero CPL season.
PAKISTANI fast bowler Mohammad Irfan has been called up by the Barbados Tridents for the upcoming Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL), which runs from August 8 to September 16. The 36-year-old will replace fellow left-armer Junaid Khan, who has become unavailable. Irfan has played just four Tests but has excelled in the white-ball format, where he has taken 83 wickets in 60 One-Day Internationals and 15 wickets in 20 T20 Internationals. Overall in T20s Irfan has claimed 94 wickets in 82 appearances. “It is a disappointment not to have Junaid available but the experience of another left-arm quick like Mohammed Irfan will be an asset to our campaign,” said Tridents head coach Robin Singh. “He is no stranger to international cricket and this know-how,
coupled with his unique ability with the ball, means he will be a key part of the Tridents attack and a handful for opposing batsmen.” Tridents open their season against Guyana Amazon Warriors on August 12 in Providence before taking on St Lucia Stars on August 17 at the Daren Sammy Cricket Ground. The Jason Holder-led side will then clash with Jamaica Tallawahs at the Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill, United States before hosting five matches at the historic Kensington Oval in Barbados between August 25 and September 2. Tridents close out their campaign with fixtures against St Kitts and Nevis Patriots on September 4 at Warner Park in St Kitts, and against Trinbago Knight Riders on September 7 at Queen’s Park Oval.
Guyanese perform well at Teacher’s Union Championships A team of eight young Guyanese athletes represented Guyana well at the Caribbean Union of Teachers (CUT) Games in Bermuda earlier this month (July), winning two gold, a silver and three bronze medals. One of the gold medals was won with a record-breaking performance after Orlando Carrington set the boys Under-9 cricket ball throw record at 44.75m. Carrington also took a bronze in the 150m dash with a time of 22.57 seconds. National Schools Championship record-holder, Somaiya Orna, also placed in the cricket ball throw, taking silver in the girls Under-9 category, covering 18.44m. She placed fourth in the
150m (27.67s). The other gold was landed by Annalee Williams in the cricket ball throw, clearing 37.88m in the girls Under-11 category. Wesley Tyndall, who was a star junior athlete for North Georgetown last year, took bronze in the boys 200m Under-15 race. Also doing well on the team was Neron Wilson who accumulated 25 points from his participation to triumph as champion boy in the boys Under-11 category. Wilson won a bronze medal in the boys 300m (1:02.73s), while he placed fourth in the 100 m (14.44), fifth in the 200m (37.43sec), fifth in the long jump (3.68m) and fourth in the cricket ball (45.65m)
The Guyana team with manager, Ceon Bristol, (right) and Guyana Teachers Union President, Mark Lyte (front row, left)
The other athletes on the team were Eurica Blucher (4th in the girls Under-13 shot put) and Ameish Murphy (4th in the girls Under-13 cricket ball throw).
The Games is a two-day event organized by the CUT and is aimed at bringing athletes together from the body’s ten member nations. The championship is for
junior athletes from the Under-9 to the Under-15 age categories. The Guyana team was selected based on their performances at the National
Schools Championship held in November 2017. The team was accompanied by team manager, Ceon Bristol, and chaperone Pauline Williams. Bristol was very pleased with the team’s performance, and looks forward to taking a larger team to future outings. “The team performance in my opinion was great, taking into consideration the length of time we spent travelling to meet Bermuda. Each athlete was able to score points for the team. Secondly, we need to do some early planning in order to take a larger team to compete for the champion trophy,” Bristol said.
26
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
FIFPro complains of insufficient Gayle rested but Samuels, break for World Cup players Russell return for Twenty20 series BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – Fit-again all-rounders Marlon Samuels and Andre Russell have returned to the West Indies Twenty20 side while talisman Chris Gayle has been rested, in a 13-man squad named to face Bangladesh in the three-match Twenty20 International series starting here tonight.. The squad, belatedly announced late Monday and almost 24 hours before the first game at Warner Park here, sees little change from the unit which contested the Hurricane Relief T20 at
jury to take their place in the squad. While Samuel missed the preceding one-day series, Russell played the first game before being forced to miss the remaining two fixtures. Opener Gayle, who gathered 142 runs in the ODI series, will sit out the rubber that features the last two matches at the Central Broward Regional Park in Fort Lauderdale, United States. “We have rested Chris Gayle and have added leftarm pacer, Sheldon Cottrell for variety to the bowling attack,” said chief selector Courtney Browne.
Fit-again batsman Marlon Samuels has returned to the squad.
for West Indies on the tour of New Zealand earlier this year, and is coming off a stint in the recent Global T20 Canada league where he grabbed 16 wickets for Vancouver Knights. In fact, most of the squad are coming off outings in the inaugural tournament in Toronto, a tournament which Browne said had provided the ideal environment for the Windies B side players to grab the attention of selectors. “The strong performances of the young players in the Windies B team during the T20 series in the Canada’s Global T20 League and this augurs well for our T20 game.” Chris Gayle
Lord’s earlier this year. Veteran Samuels and fellow Jamaican star Russell have both recovered from in-
“The team reflects the last squad that performed well in the charity match in the UK.” Cottrell last played a T20
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday July 31, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 2256158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 6 (2) Ramnaresh Sarwan & Mohammed Ashraful (Johannesburg, 2007) Today’s Quiz: (1) Marlon Samuels played four T20 Internationals against BANG. How many runs he scored? (2) Samuel Badree played a solitary T20 against BANG. What were his bowling figures?
The opening game here bowls off at 8 pm while the Florida doubleheader at the weekend is carded for the same time. West Indies swept the Test series 2-0 while Bangladesh rebounded to capture the ODI series 2-1, winning the decisive third match by 18 runs at Warner Park here on Saturday. SQUAD – Carlos Brathwaite (captain), Samuel Badree, Sheldon Cottrell, Andre Fletcher, Marlon Samuels, Evin Lewis, Andre Russell, Denesh Ramdin, Rovman Powell, Keemo Paul, Ashley Nurse, Chadwick Walton, Kesrick Williams.
ZURICH (Reuters) - Global footballers’ union FIFPro says that at least 15 World Cup players have taken part in UEFA club competitions less than four weeks after returning from Russia, leaving without a sufficient close season break. The union reiterated its call for a mandatory rest period of at least four weeks between the final game of one season and the start of pre-season training for the next. “Players are coming under too much pressure, caught between the needs of their clubs and their own personal well-being,” said the union in a statement. “While FIFPro understands the financial implications of the UEFA Champions League and UEFA Europa League for clubs, the health of these players is being put at risk because of such a congested match schedule.” The group stage of the World Cup in Russia, which was officially part of last season, finished on June 28 while the final was played on July 15. The first round of qualifying for this season’s Champions League began on July 10, meaning that the two seasons in effect overlapped by a few days. Iceland’s Arnor Traustason played — and scored — for Swedish champions
Entries continue to come in for Platinum Auto Expo AS entries continue to flow in, organisers of Platinum Auto Expo are expecting a huge turnout as preparations intensify for the August 5 event to be staged at the Guyana Motor Racing & Sports Club (GMR&SC), Thomas Lands, Georgetown. The Expo, which has been absent from the list of entertainment for some time, is anticipated to see intense rivalry among competitors in all 27 categories. Organiser Mahendra Boodhoo, speaking recently, said the event is expected to attract some of the best vehicles in terms of glitz and glamour, while those with the fancy lights, shining rims and cleanest sound system will all have the opportunity to win prizes. Boodhoo, a former racer and President of the GMR&SC, noted that the
Mahendra Boodhoo
occasion is one where families can come out and enjoy a day of fun, while the occasion also presents an opportunity for those with a deep appreciation for excellent looking vehicles and those who just love to compete in such competitions. He added that the Expo is open to all and over $1million in cash prizes and trophies will be up for grabs for winners in the respective
Malmo in a 3-0 win away to Kosovar side Drita in a Champions League qualifier on July 10. Serbia World Cup squad members Nemanja Radonjic and Milan Rodic played for Red Star Belgrade in a Champions League qualifier on July 11 and compatriot Vladimir Stojkovic played for Partizan in the Europa League the following day. While clubs from smaller leagues are already involved in European qualifiers, big clubs are on lucrative tours abroad. On Sunday, Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho said his team’s World Cup participants should consider cutting their holidays short to help the depleted team in the opening stages of the Premier League season. Several players from United’s first-choice starting line-up, including Frenchman Paul Pogba, Belgian Romelu Lukaku and Englishman Jesse Lingard could miss the opening league fixture against Leicester City in less than two weeks’ time. England defender Phil Jones and forward Marcus Rashford are expected to return early to help prepare for the start of the season. Mourinho, frustrated after seeing his side lose 4-1 to Liverpool in the U.S. on Saturday, has suggested that others should do the same.
categories. Boodhoo said competitors are currently working feverishly to excite the fans with their thorough preparations. Among the categories to be contested are: Best Antique bike, Mini Extreme Face Out cars, Best Rims, Best Graphic Bus and Car, Cleanest SUV, Best Technician, Biggest Bike. Additionally, Boodhoo disclosed that fans will be entertained throughout the day with displays set to commence at 14:00 hrs, while gates will be open from 12:00hrs. Patrons wishing to buy tickets in advance will pay $1500. Also, a star-studded line-up of local entertainment talent will grace the stage, including Granny Ivelaw, Chiney Man and Chow Pow. Interested persons can contact the organisers on 617-2651 or 627-2369. Some of the sponsors on board are: A. Ali & Sons, GT Motorsports, Stag Beer, Caribbean Motor Spares and Ramchand Auto Spares.
27
GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday July 31, 2018
EBFA / Juicy Juice U-13 League – Day 7
Diamond United continue dream run, Agricola & Herstelling post back-to-back wins - United at top of table DIAMOND United has continued their dream run in the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) / Juicy Juice Under-13 League by posting their second win of the weekend and has also assumed the top spot in the points table, a feat they have never done at any level before. The United lads romped to a come-from-behind 4-1 win over Samatta Point/Kaneville on Sunday afternoon to follow up on their 10-1 triumph over Hararuni Eagles on Saturday at the same venue-- Timehri Red Ground. Also achieving back-toback wins on the weekend were Agricola Red Triangle, which has now moved into third place overall and Herstelling Raiders which recorded the first wins of the league; they are now in sixth place in the 10-team league. Diamond started tentatively against the Samatta Point/ Kaneville side and found
themselves trailing after only one minute of the clash, with Denzel Hunte putting Samatta Point ahead. Despite falling behind, Diamond kept their composure and was able to equalize from the penalty spot in the 19th minute through Joel Ross. The scoreline remained locked at 1-1 on the half-hour halftime break and it was all Diamond United in the second half as they controlled proceedings, scoring three unanswered goals through strikes from Shaquan Joseph with a double in the 37th and 52nd minute and Rick Ramatar adding his name to the scoresheet in the 49th minute. Agricola earned their fourth win in as many matches with a 6-0 win over Swan Football Club and again orchestrating the victory was the league’s leading goal scorer, Eon Daniels, who netted a helmet-trick and has blasted a total of 19 goals in four matches.
Diamond United scorers from right: Mario Richards, Shancie McGrachen, Mohamed Amin, Abdullah Amin and Shaquan Giles.
Albert Adams
Daniels got into the fray after Floyd Boyce opened the scoring with goals in the 18th, 19th, 22nd and 59th minute from the penalty spot. Small in stature but playing like a seasoned campaigner, Seon Grant also tucked in one for the Agricola boys in the 38th minute from the spot, pushing the ball wide to the left of Swan’s goalkeeper and captain, Kevon De Goias. Herstelling Raiders, having lost two matches on the trot, found the winning for-
mula to notch up two wins on the weekend. They took care of Kuru Kururu Warriors 4-1 on Saturday and followed on Sunday with a 2-1 triumph over Hararuni Eagles. This win was set up by Albert Adams who accounted for both goals-- in the 26th and 52nd minute. The Eagles, in their first tournament, had found the equaliser in the 45th minute but soon after, the Raiders restored the one-goal advantage which they held on to until the final whistle was sounded. Timehri Panthers continued their winning ways when they posted their fifth win in as many starts-- a 2-0 victory over neighbours-- Soesdyke Falcons. Omar Sam in the 22nd minute and Joshua Clen-
Minister Broomes makes contribution to Victory Valley footballers IN an effort to keep the youths of Victory Valley, one of the deprived communities in Linden, meaningfully engaged through sport, a resident, John Brown, has embarked on a community football tournament which is held every Sunday at the Community’s playfield. Junior Minister of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, on Sunday made a contribution of the winning trophy, medals and balls to the teams and pledged her continuous support for the community competition, since it is geared towards positive development of the youths. Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira also donated footballs and jerseys to the players. “They have youths in the Valley that got great skill but we never got the chance to go out and play for people see we, so we decide to bring the people to we…. I expect betterment for the youths in the Valley from this” pro-
Minister Simona Broomes, MP Jermaine Figueira and footballers of Victory Valley pose with the trophy and t-shirts that were donated
moter Brown said. Teams from all over Linden are expected to participate in the tournament. Minister Broomes, in her short comment, said that she will continue to support not only sports development but development as a whole in Victory Valley. She stressed that this sort of community development should not be only in Linden, but the entire Region 10. “I am here to support you,” she reiterated MP Figueira said that himself and Minister Broomes, in an effort to see community development, have been working assiduously with the youths and residents of Victory Valley. “We believe sports can be a vehicle to develop in the community and that is why we are happy that Minister Broomes has seen it fitting to partner with us so that we can continue to promote football within the community. This will have a spinoff effect on the other communities. Figueira attested to the
many prolific footballers that came out of Victory Valley. “With the help and assistance, much more talent can be identified and developed.” Renowned football promoter Kashif Mohammad is optimistic that this very little promotion will grow, as his did, into a national icon. He too commended the minister for supporting the initiative, since there is far too much negative rhetoric coming out of the Valley and this small promotion is the start for betterment. Chairman of Victory Valley CDC, Roberts said, “We thank you for the support minister, because football is the youths right now.” Victory Valley residents said that they will continue to support Minister Broomes, since she continues to support them not only in sports but in every area needed for development. The community presented the minister with a custom-made t-shirt in expression of appreciation for all her charitable works.
kian in the 29th minute were the goal scorers for the young Panthers against a tough Soesdyke lineup. The other match on Sunday saw Diamond Upsetters marching to their biggest win of the league to date via a 6-1 scoreline against Kuru Kururu Warriors. Mario Richards started the ball rolling, scoring in the 2nd minute and he was followed by Shancie Mc
Cracken in the 5th minute and Abdullah Amin in the 19th minute. Shaquan Gilkes was on target in the 41st minute after which Mohamed Amin hit in back-to-back goals in the 43rd and 52nd minute. The Warriors was able to pull one back through Tireek Agard in the 49th minute. Action will continue this weekend at the same venue.
Latest Points Standings Team Diamond United Timehri Panthers Agricola Diamond Upsetters Swan FC Herstelling Raiders Soesdyke Falcons SPKV FC Hararuni Eagles KK Warriors
P 5 5 4 5 6 4 5 5 6 6
W 5 5 4 3 3 2 1 1 1 1
L 0 0 0 1 3 2 3 4 5 5
D 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0 0
GF 31 18 30 16 9 9 7 6 4 5
GA GD Points 4 +27 15 1 +17 15 4 +26 12 9 +7 10 14 -5 9 16 -7 6 12 -5 4 24 -18 3 23 -19 3 26 -21 3
Ramdhanis and Mangra head into CAC Badminton action today GUYANA’s top badminton players will head into action today at the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games in Barranquilla, Colombia. Narayan Ramdhani will be the first Guyanese player to step on to the court when he faces Jamaica’s Gareth Henry in their Men’s Singles Round of 32. Jonathan Mangra will then face Esteban Hurtado Rojas of Costa Rica in the same Round of 32 before partnering with Narayan in the Round of 16 Doubles. The Guyanese male duo will take on Cesar Brito and Reymi Cabreras of The Dominican Republic in a bid to qualify for the quarter-finals. Narayan’s younger sister, Priyanna Ramdhani will also be in action when she takes on Panama’s Nathalie Fedney Vidal in the Women’s Singles round of 16 for a spot in the quarter-finals. The Ramdhani siblings
Narayan Ramdhani
will also team up in the Mixed Doubles to take on Barbados’ Damien Howell and Tamisha Williams in their round of 16 match.
Gold for ‘Bruce’ at CAC Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships
Campbell takes Bronze in Men’s Mr Physique PAGE
22
‘Bruce’ Whatley captured gold in the Masters and middleweight categories at the CAC Bodybuilding and Fitness Championships.
Hetmyer jumps a massive 77 places in ODI rankings PAGE
22
The top three Men’s Physique medallists in the under 174cm class. At far right is Emmerson Campbell.
Grant-Stuart set for UCI Para-Cycling Road World Championships in Italy AFTER his debut win at the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) C1 Para Cycle Road Race in Montreal, Canada, in April this year, differently-abled cyclist, Walter Grant Stuart is now set and ready for the UCI Para-Cycling Road World Championships in Maniago, Italy, which begins on Thursday. Turn to page 22►
Rising batting star Shimron Hetmyer.
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
TUESDAY, JULY 31, 2018