Guyana chronicle e paper 12 03 2017

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Walk away No. 105115

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2017

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–– ‘don’t use violence against the woman,’ prime minister urges

(VAT Inclusive)

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Leave no one behind: Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and wife Sita Nagamootoo; Guyana Chronicle Board Chair Geeta Chandan-Edmond; acting General Manager Moshamie Ramotar; and board member Sherod Duncan with staffers of this newspaper at the unveiling of a banner in support of the 16 days of activism in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women on Saturday (Delano Williams photo)

Guadeloupeans looking to do business here Page 3

Poor farmer Linden councillors defies disability Page 12

–– returns to field to provide for family

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‘rock the boat’

Walk away

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

–– ‘don’t use violence against the woman,’ prime minister urges

MALES are being urged to walk away from situations that may lead them to become violent to their partners. Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo advanced this message to the country’s male folk as he unveiled Guyana Chronicle’s banner in support of the 16 days of activism in observance of the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

“Walk away!” the prime minister, who is performing the duties of president, said just after unveiling the Chronicle’s banner which is in keeping with the theme, “Leave No One Behind: End Violence against Women and Girls.”

The prime minister, who was accompanied by his wife Sita Nagamootoo, said as a youngster his father always encouraged him and his brothers to walk away from situations that could lead to violence.

And his father’s advice has lived with him throughout his life, he said.

“If you don’t think you can get along with one partner, walk away … you are going to get something that will not require you to use violence -- or extremism,” he stated as members of the Board of Directors of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL), management and staff gathered at the front of the premises on Saturday morning.

He congratulated the entity for its participation in the campaign to eradicate violence against women and girls here, but reminded that the campaign must be continued.

“It is not a campaign for a day, it is a campaign that should go on until we are able to bring some level of information flow, education flow to those who would say ‘I didn’t know,’” the prime minister stated.

That aside, he urged that no one be left behind in the fight to eliminate violence against women and girls; and noted that it is a personal choice that men have to make in their relationships.

“Don’t beat,” he stated emphatically, while referencing the Holy Bible which says “a soft word turns away wrath.”

“You don’t have to be violent if you’re upset, if you disagree… even if you are provoked; you can walk away…. relationships are based on respect, equality, the notion that you are no greater than your female counterpart,” he declared.

STRONGER AND SMARTER

Prime Minister Nagamootoo reminded that while women are deemed the fairer sex, they are also stronger and smarter.

“In fact, they are creators and without our women, there would be no universe; no humanity… start respecting the foundation,” he stated, as he called on men to do some introspection and rediscover who they are.

“Even though we are described as man, man does not mean that you have to be crude, it is not synonymous to being mean, vulgar, cruel… we have a softer side to us and we have to discover that side,” the acting President noted.

According to him, “men deserve to be woken up, shaken up; to be told it is about time that they show respect for their partners and women generally.”

He believes Guyana would be better off since much is

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo blows out the candles on his birthday cake at the Guyana Chronicle on Saturday, as Mrs Sita Nagamootoo looks on (Adrian Narine photo)

News Editor Tajeram Mohabir receives several creative and historical works written by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo .Also in photo are Mrs Sita Nagamootoo (centre) and Chairperson of GNNL’s Board of Directors, Geeta Chandan-Edmond (right) (Delano Williams photo) spent on treating instances of violence against women and girls.

“It is a cost to the nation when you have to divert money that could otherwise be spent on other things,” he stated, while noting that Guyana can become a model country if the males take a stand against violence against women and girls.

Similarly, Mrs. Nagamootoo said she has been an advocate for women and girls for a long time and believes like the theme for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence Campaign, that the time is now to end violence against women and girls.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife Sita Nagamootoo look at printed pages of the Guyana Chronicle newspaper while in the Proofreading Department,on Saturday. Also in photo is Chairperson of the GNNL Board of Directors, Geeta Chandan-Edmond (Adrian Narine photo)

NO FACE “Violence has no face; violence is always hidden and we should encourage our women and girls to come out and speak when things are happening in their lives they don’t like -- moral or physical,” said Mrs Nagamootoo.

She noted that women and girls are not the only classification of victims and noted that men and boys are also abused.

“We should be careful because sometimes when they are abused, that happens because of us… we must not Turn to centre page ►

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

Guadeloupeans looking to do business here

By Navendra Seoraj

A DELEGATION from the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) of Guadeloupe and Martinique have journeyed to Guyana in the hope of starting a trade relationship with local businessmen.

Guadeloupe and Martinique are overseas departments of France in the Caribbean, with each having populations of less than 500,000 people. Both also have a strong East Indian presence due to their high dependency at one point on indentured labour for a once vibrant sugar industry.

While the Martiniquans are more focused on culture, and do not have an immediate interest in business relations, the Guadeloupeans, on the other hand, are ready to create a new avenue for trade.

And although both countries are mainly focused on agriculture and tourism, they also have a huge importation bill, so the business community, particularly those from Guadeloupe, are looking to add Guyana to their list of importers.

The group’s visit here is at the invitation of the Prime Minister Mr Moses Nagamootoo, who was in Guadeloupe back in May to help celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Abolition of

Indian Indentureship there.

The prime minister, while in Guadeloupe, had reportedly invited persons from the island to come and explore what Guyana has to offer in terms of trade, tourism and even culture.

Asked on Saturday

“They came at short notice; it was probably because of the recent hurricane that hit Guadeloupe, which left them to look for supplies that they would not have gotten from the other islands,” he said, adding: “They came desperately

one of the things they are desperately in need of is lumber.

“They did not come here to seek relief; they want to buy,” he said.

“They are basically saying that they have money, and are asking us to deliv-

And their main objective, he told the Guyana Chronicle on Saturday, is to engage in cultural exchange. He said that since they arrived here, they have had the opportunity to meet with farmers and other key stakeholders in the agricul-

Members of the delegation from the Global Organisation of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) of Guadeloupe and Martinique (photo by Adrian Narine) how he felt that the Guadeloupeans and Martiniquans did take him up on his offer, and so soon, the PM said though he was a bit taken by surprise, he couldn’t be more happy to accommodate them.

looking for contacts that they could get for fish, coconut, sugar, rice and even fresh fruits and vegetables.”

Noting that the group has submitted a long list of items they require immediately, the PM said that

er,” he added.

According to President of GOPIO Guadeloupe, Mr Michel Narananissamy, the delegation arrived here on Tuesday to start discussions with government officials and businesspeople.

tural sector.

The delegation has also had the opportunity of meeting with officials of the Guyana Office for Investment (Go-Invest), during which discussions they learnt about the opportuni-

ties and avenues that they have to invest in.

“We have noticed different products, and we are right now looking to see if the prices are competitive, so that we can start to import products from Guyana as soon as January 2018,” Narananissamy said.

Some of the key sectors they have a deep interest in, he said, are water, agriculture and tourism.

“We are hoping that the prices are competitive enough when compared to the current prices we pay to import products, because we want to start the relationship with Guyana as soon as possible,” he said.

And, given that the laws here are business-friendly, he says it is easy for them to have a clear view of what they want to do.

The delegation, which is expected to return to their countries on Tuesday, is awaiting certain documents from Go-invest that are pertinent to their decision-making process.

One of the businessmen on the team who deals specifically with lumber, said that while Guyana has the potential to meet their demands, it needs to add some element of value to the products.

He said he is quite prepared to assist in that area, once the consultancy period is over.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 3, 2017

Trump rushes to Flynn’s defence --says his dealings with Russia were ‘lawful’

US President Donald Trump has said the actions of former national security adviser Michael Flynn after the 2016 presidential election were lawful.

Mr Flynn has entered into a plea deal, and agreed to cooperate with an inquiry into alleged collusion between Mr Trump's team and Russian officials.

The president said on Twitter that he fired Mr Flynn "because he lied to the Vice-President and the FBI".

He said there was "nothing to hide" in the actions of his transition team.

Mr Flynn has pleaded guilty to making false statements to the FBI about contacts with Russia's then ambassador, Sergei Kislyak in December 2016, after Mr Trump was elected but before he became

president.

Under the terms of the plea deal - with Special Counsel Robert Mueller, who is investigating alleged collusion - Mr Flynn pleaded to a lesser charge and a shorter sentence than he might have otherwise faced.

It has prompted speculation that he has incriminating evidence on one or more senior members of the Trump administration.

The charging documents against Mr Flynn state that he was directed to make contact with Russian officials by a "very senior member" of the Trump transition team.

Several US news organisations report the very senior official now under the spotlight is Jared Kushner, Mr Trump's adviser and sonin-law.

President Donald Trump

US intelligence agencies say Russia's President Vladimir Putin directed a State effort to influence the US election in favour of Mr Trump.

Mr Trump has repeatedly denied that his campaign or transition team colluded in Russian ac-

tions. Speaking to reporters on Saturday, he said: "What has been shown is no collusion, no collusion.

There has been absolutely no collusion. So we're very happy."

Mr Flynn was questioned by the FBI shortly after Mr Trump took office in Jan-

uary about his December meetings with the Russian ambassador. He was forced to resign in February, 23 days into his job.

According to the FBI's statement of offence signed

by Mr Flynn, he discussed Russia's response to US sanctions as well as a UN Security Council resolution on Israel, at the direction of the Trump team.

Under the Logan Act, it is illegal for a private US citizen, as Mr Flynn was during the transition period, to conduct foreign affairs without the permission or involvement of the US government.

The charge of making false statements normally carries up to five years in prison, but under the terms of his plea deal, Mr Flynn faces a lighter sentence of only up to six months, court filings show.

The administration has sought to distance itself from Mr Flynn. White House lawyer Ty Cobb said on Friday: "Nothing about the guilty

plea or the charge implicates anyone other than Mr Flynn."

Michael Flynn previously served in the Obama administration before being fired. Mr Obama reportedly advised his successor not to hire the former general, but Mr Trump appointed him to one of the most senior positions in the country.

Mr Flynn is not the first former Trump official to be charged. In October, Mr Trump's former campaign manager, Paul Manafort, and his business associate Rick Gates were accused of conspiring to defraud the US in dealings with Ukraine. Both have denied the charges.

Another ex-aide, George Papadopoulos, has also pleaded guilty to making false statements to FBI agents.

The revelation that Mr Flynn is cooperating with Mr Mueller overshadowed a significant victory for Mr Trump, whose sweeping tax reform bill passed the Senate on Friday night.

If signed into law, the Bill, which scraped through with 51 votes to 49, would be the first significant legislative achievement of Mr Trump's presidency. (BBC)

Sunday december 3, 2017 - 4:30 & 14:30hrs Monday december 4, 2017 - 5:00 & 14:30hrs

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 3, 2017

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Suspect in Bouterse murder trial allegedly commits suicide PARAMARIBO, Suriname, CMC – Ruben Rozendaal, one of the co-defendants in the mass murder trial involving Suriname’s President Desi Bouterse, has died after allegedly committing suicide by bleeding to death following a cut on his left arm.

A doctor who examined Rozendaal, whose body was found in his apartment in the capital late Friday night, said that the death of the 61-yearold was due to blood loss.

Rozendaal appeared in court on Thursday, where the military prosecutor, Roy Elgin, had sought a 10-year jail term for the former army officer.

According to the prosecutor, Rozendaal had participated in the planning and extra-judicial killing of 15 political opponents of the then military government on December 8, 1982 that was headed by Bouterse.

Elgin argued that there was a script for the December murders, and that the former army officer had played a

specific role in that script.

The prosecution argued that Rozendaal’s role was to collect two men, one of whom was former sports minister André Kamperveen, who was executed at the then military headquarters Fort Zeelandia.

Rozendaal was also the army officer who had blown up and set ablaze the head office of Suriname’s most powerful trade union at the time, De Moederbond. The prosecution said it was seeking the 10-year jail term because of his cooperation.

Following Thursday’s court hearing, Rozendaal, who said he had expected to be acquitted, became very emotional, insisting that as a soldier, he was merely following orders.

“If I didn’t obey, maybe I would have been the 16th person who would have been killed,” he told the military court, saying he had no idea that the men he had been sent to arrest would be killed.

He later told reporters, “I’m not going to be able to bear this; it hurts. Maybe I

have to sacrifice myself, so that society will believe that Rozendaal didn’t participate in the planning, and was not present during the killings.

“And no one should

vember 30, 2017. A total of 25 former military officers and civilians were charged with the murder of the 15 men that included journalists, military officers, union lead-

Ruben Rozendaal

blame me; it will be my will.”

On Friday, he was found with his left arm slit by a razor blade.

The prosecution is seeking a 20-year jail term for Bouterse and the five co-defendants, but has indicated that it will seek an acquittal of the 10 others.

The “December Murder Trial”, with Bouterse as the main suspect, began on No-

ers, lawyers, businessmen and university lecturers.

There is growing speculation here that the sentencing could be made in mid-2018.

Since Bouterse became President of Suriname in elections held in 2010, he has tried several times to stop the trial.

Among the measures were the Amnesty Law in April 2012, and his invoca-

Haiti to assume CARICOM chair --early next year

PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti, CMC – Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Secretary-General Irwin LaRocque has held talks with President Jovenel Moise, who becomes the next chairman of the 15-member regional integration movement in February next year.

A brief statement posted on the CARICOM Website on Friday says that LaRoc-

que met with Moise here on Thursday “to provide his usual briefing to the incoming chairman.”

Moise will replace Grenada’s Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Mitchell following his six-month stint as chairman of the regional grouping under the rotation system.

Moise became head of state of the French-Speaking CARICOM country in February, after a long-running

political crisis.

The 48-year-old banana exporter, who had never held political office before, was the handpicked candidate of former president, Michel Martelly.

Moise initially won the first round of voting in October 2015, but the results were subsequently annulled amid allegations of massive fraud.

But, he prevailed in the elections last November, and vowed to stimulate the economy and create more jobs on

taking up office.

The CARICOM website has noted that Haiti will also host the 29th Inter-Sessional Meeting of CARICOM Heads of Government in February, and representatives of the Haitian government and the Guyana-based CARICOM Secretariat “have started joint preparations for the meeting, which is expected to further advance a number of critical issues for the Community.”

tion in June 2016 of Article 148 of the Constitution, which gives the government certain powers to instruct the prosecutor-general to stop a criminal trial.

Both attempts failed, since the High Court ordered that the “December Murder Trial”, as it is referred to here, should continue until there is a verdict.

Throughout the years Bouterse has maintained his innocence, insisting that he never participated in the murders, and that he was never present at Fort Zeelandia when the men were executed.

Rozendaal was the only co-defendant who said in court that Bouterse was present, and that he shot and killed army officer Soerindre Rambocus and union leader, Cyrill Daal.

“Desi Bouterse himself shot Cyrill Daal and Soerindre Rambocus. He (Bouterse) was my best friend, and on numerous occasions we talked about ‘The December Murders’; I was his confidant.

Bouterse can be compared to the Godfather,” Rozendaal

said in March 2012.

He also claimed that Bouterse was present when the 15 men were killed.

“I’ve seen corpses at halfpast-six in the morning on December 8; he (Bouterse) lied to us that the men were planning a coup, and that’s why they were arrested,” Rozendaal said, adding: “I believed him then, but it turns out that this was not true; this was not a military operationl; they were just brutal and cowardly murders.

“The people were seized from their homes and transferred to Fort Zeelandia.

These persons were treated like beasts.”

Rozendaal was one of the so-called ‘Group of 16’ young army officers who toppled the Henck Arron administration during a coup on February 25, 1980 after a dispute between the government and military personnel who were seeking to establish a trade union.

The ‘Group of 16’, led

by Desi Bouterse, remained in power behind the scenes until the general elections on November 25, 1987.

6

Editorial

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 3, 2017

Listening to the people and changing course THERE were two important announcements by the government this past week that should give some encouragement to those who believe that despite our contentious party politics, our leaders can still reach for political compromise. First, The Finance Minister in his budget presentation announced the removal of the Value Added Tax (VAT) on education. Second, Minister Harmon revealed that the government would soon release the contract with Exxon Mobil. As was expected, the opposition was quick to downplay the significance of these announcements by claiming that they were the products of opposition pressure rather than government foresight.

Well, they were both. In a democratic society, critiques and protests are critical to the process of oversight of government. We have not always executed that function in the most responsible manner and our governments have not always been as open as they should be to dissent. In this regard, credit should be given to those individuals and groups which maintained the pressure on the government to change course on these two issues.

The tax on education was seen as an added burden on the already poor and powerless in the society. While the government’s objective was to force delinquent owners of private schools to pay their fair share of taxes, the policy ultimately negatively affected those at the bottom of the ladder. Further, the very fact of

taxing education in a society that once embraced free education from nursery to university suggests an insensitivity to the emotional attachment of the poor to education as a source of social mobility.

That the government has now rescinded the tax is a victory for all Guyana. But above and beyond that, it shows a government that is willing to listen to the pleas of the people and to act in accordance with those wishes. After all, democratic governance is about allowing those who are affected by a decision to be able to affect its outcome. In this regard, the government must be commended. Not too often have we seen governments in Guyana and the wider Caribbean alter a policy after protests from the citizenry. This is a most uplifting development. As Minister Jordan noted, this change will cost the government $342 million. But the government has decided that the security of citizens far outstrips potential loss of revenues.

The same sentiment must be attributed to the decision to release the contract with Exxon Mobil. It should be remembered that it was the WPA, a junior partner in the coalition, which first called for the release of the contract. The party noted in part that “There is no justifiable reason for not publishing this contract. Seeking public comment on it is our democratic obligation.

And engaging the widest possible sharing of views can only help the coalition government to make wiser decisions. Further, as we as a government continue

to request from the public their unwavering trust in us, and the decisions we make, we should not give them or our opponents’ reason to suggest that we should not be trusted.”

It was clear that the WPA privileged democratic commitment over secrecy. They were joined by Transparency International, other civil society organisations and the opposition PPP. The government had argued that it could not release the contract due to contractual agreements. It is therefore to its credit that the government has evolved to the point of full disclosure.

The statement by Minister Harmon must be pleasing to supporters and detractors of the government. Speaking to reporters, he offered this explanation for the government’s changed position: “We listen to the people and we are not deaf to the concerns that are being expressed by various sections of our communities. We believe that it is important that we take the public into our confidence with respect to not only this contract, but other contracts which might affect our dealings with other companies in relation to the national resources and the national patrimony of Guyana.”

In the final analysis, government must be of the people and for the people. And a mature leadership is one that is not afraid to admit errors and correct them. We hope that in the future, prior consultation would prevail. But for now, commendation for the government is in order.

President cannot be faulted for appointment of GECOM commissioner Dear Editor, GUYANESE are now beginning to understand the inherent challenges of coalition politics, as reflected in its end product of a coalition government. As a put-together of groupings and personalities of differing interests and ideologies, each competing for particular offices that will afford positions to influence the course of policies and decisions of government. It is an arrangement that will inevitably have differences because of the reality of having to apply solutions to practical situations. It is always a question of which segment of the whole will prevail.

The recent appointment of Working People’s Alliance(WPA) nominee Mr. Desmond Trotman as the new commissioner to replace

the deceased Ms. Sandra Jones on the Guyana Elections Commission(GECOM), highlights the dynamics as to what is perceived as a coveted right by the principal partner, the Alliance For Change(AFC), as against what is absolutely necessary in a very important situation.

Any appointment as commissioner to the national elections administrative body has to be someone who understands the dynamics of the electoral body, in terms of its function and relation to national politics, and being able to bring to such an important table the necessary wherewithal and critical acumen for proper decision-making. This means that it is not a place for learners, especially at this given time.

No one can fault the President in his deliberate judgment, since he had requested all parties to submit nominees. It afforded the

opportunity for him to determine the proper suitability of each candidate. He knew what were the determinants for the nominee – “not fake experience,” as he correctly concluded.

Editor, a word about young people and women being considered for critical senior positions of importance within the state echelons.

There seems to be a deliberate misunderstanding in this debate, especially as to the suitability of young Guyanese for elevation.

Truth be told, there are many young nationals currently staffing middle-ranking and senior positions of state. This has been a policy of the coalition government from its inception. It may not be in the quantum as desired, but there has been a steady move in this much-clamoured-for direction.

But there are going to be exceptions, in

terms of what the particular office is, and the background knowledge required, apart from academic qualifications. Neither of the substantive AFC candidates would have fulfilled the former requirement.

And with regard to the female back-up nominee, it is quite unconscionable for the AFC also to imply that women are not being considered as aspirants to such pivotal positions. This party must be reminded that it was the PNC government that began the placement of women to its cabinet and other senior public service postings, and the diplomatic corps as well.

Even now, there are women in many senior state offices, particularly on state boards.

Regards Earl Hamilton

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 3, 2017

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Mind what you say --Min. Lawrence warns, in hope of deterring stigma, discrimination associated with HIV/AIDS

By Vishani Ragobeer MINISTER of Public Health, Ms Volda Lawrence, on Friday made quite an unusual request.

That request had to do with taking a pledge to be always mindful of what one says or does, particularly in the presence of persons who might be living with HIV/ AIDS. “If we can eliminate stigma and discrimination, then it means that we would be able to achieve our goal of the elimination of HIV and AIDS in Guyana,” she urged patrons gathered Friday evening at the National Cultural Centre for the annual ‘Flame & the Ribbon’ concert, now in its 25th year, in observance of

World AIDS Day. That was after she’d elicted a promise that they would do as asked, always bearing in mind that Persons Living with HIVAIDS (PLWHIV), or any malady for that matter, are at their most fragile and sensitive at this time in their lives.

She made the point, too, that while Guyana may have made significant strides in reducing the number of persons affected by HIV/AIDS, there’s still much more to be done in terms of support in keeping the figures down.

So as persons could have a fair idea of where we are in the Region, Minister Lawrence said: "Today, Guyana has moved from Number Two in the Caribbean, to Number Seven on the list of persons

affected by HIV and AIDS." On the downside, however, things don’t look so good for the Region in general, as according to the minister, the Caribbean has the second highest rate of HIV prevalence

in the world after sub-Saharan Africa, with an estimated adult prevalence rate of 1 per cent, and approximately 250,000 people living With HIV. In Guyana, about 8000 people are affected by HIV/

Persons enacting a skit at the ‘Flame and the Ribbon Show’ Friday evening at the National Cultural Centre

Adolescent mothers empowered

First Lady Sandra Granger examines works by the adolescent mothersFirst Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger examines work designed by WAD

THE seventh batch of adolescent mothers who successfully completed a Women Across Differences (WAD) programme graduated last Friday.

Among this group, eight mothers benefited from child care and first-aid training, 15 benefited from the care of the elderly as well as first-aid training and one successfully completed the ICT programme.

WAD is a network of women committed to serving individuals and vulnerable groups through education, empowerment and advocacy in order to promote social change.

Through the collaboration of the Georgetown Public Hospital and the Childcare and Protection Agency, the participants were referred to the programme which provided them with higher learning and a safe environment and support system.

Coordinator of WAD, Clonel Samuels-Boston, noted that the programme in which the women participated “began in 2008 and was sponsored by the United Nations population fund for five years.”

Samuels-Boston said the aim was “to provide a second chance to girls because

of their socio-economic circumstances which hinge on sexual abuse, poverty, lack of parental support and guidance and a societal culture which discriminates against them.”

Addressing the graduates, First Lady Sandra Granger encouraged them to put this second chance provided them to good use.

“This programme has proven that there are second chances, it has helped you the participants to understand the risks you may face with repeat pregnancies, it has taught you to nurture and care for your baby and yourself, it has encouraged you to ask questions about the things you may not understand until you get the answers you seek, it has made you positive about yourself as a viable human being capable of contributing to our society.”

She also urged the young

women to further their studies and not be afraid to venture into Science Technology Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

According to the First Lady, “This is where the jobs will be in the future.

Seventy per cent of our jobs will require knowledge of computer science, 60 per cent of the jobs will soon be done by robots, so we need to get in and do not ever believe that you must have a low-paying job. Get involved in STEM.” Since its inception, the programme has benefited more than 475 adolescent mothers and is designed to address the areas of personal development, skills for life, functional literacy, sexual and reproductive health and rights, entrepreneurial and income-earning skills training and psychosocial support.

Minister of Public Health, Ms Volda Lawrence, addressing the audience at the start of the programme (photos by Adrian Narine)

AIDS, but according to the minister, only about 5000 are receiving care.

And while the reduction in the number of persons living with HIV/AIDS is remarkable, she stressed that there should be concern for those who are not receiving the treatment.

Moreover, she said concern should be given to those persons within the 14–24 age group who are being tested

positive for HIV. “The drugs are available,” she said, but posited that it is the stigma and discrimination in society that scare people from accessing what is afforded to them.

The minister also commended Artistes in Direct Support (AIDS), the non-governmental organisation (NGO) responsible for the show, on sustaining this support for 25 years, and for being the voice of people living with HIV/AIDS. This year’s show used the creative arts, drama and song and dance, to raise awareness on HIV/AIDS and other ailments like Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) while dispelling any form of stigma or discrimination.

World AIDS Day 2017 was observed under the theme: “The Right to Health.” Describing the theme as "very apt," the minister also related that it is the right of people to ensure that the government provides the necessary tools and finances to ensure you have access to treatment and care.

8

Different strategy in changing times

EXPECTEDLY, the 2018 National Budget has received popular acceptance.

In public relations terms, it was not only bigger but better, in many respects. At $267 billion, the budget is $46 billion bigger than that of 2015, when our coalition took office.

The budget cannot be faulted on size or on social content. It has a bottom-up framework, with something for everyone, starting from the grassroots.

As in any democracy there would be criticisms from a few interest groups, including the parliamentary opposition. The latter would belly-ache over what the budget does not include. However, it serves no useful purpose for an opposition to just make a morbid assessment of the budget and try to sell pie-in-the-sky prescriptions.

A different strategy is needed for the changing times.

POSITIVE POLITICS We need positive politics where the opposition would participate in, and not boycott, pre-budget consultations.

The new times require bi-partisan cooperation in shaping the nation’s development and social agenda, not civil disobedience. The new times in the advent of an oil-and-gas economy, demand all-inclusive, national governance, not narrow, ethnic-driven agendas.

But, in my opinion, this will not happen. Not any time soon; not under the present opposition leadership.

It needs a visionary leader who would look towards the future and not be pre-occupied with building ethnic fences to pre-empt or prevent possible prosecution for past wrongs.

The better interests of the constituents of the opposition require engagement, not withdrawal.

CONSTRUCTIVE EXCHANGES When the debate starts tomorrow the Guyanese people would expect civilised and constructive exchanges.

They would expect not only criticisms, castigation and condemnation but practical suggestions and proposals on how our united country could move forward, faster.

The constructive nationalist approach becomes more appealing because several of the usual political whip-

ping boys will not be available this time around. For example, the government cannot be flogged for a tax on private tuition fees, which has been removed. The opposition cannot whip up the issue of concessions to the mining, forestry and transportation sectors.

These have been granted. And disclosures of government’s contract with oil-and-gas investors have been assured, which has blown away a whole lot of anticipated noises in the House.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

And with acid contempt and dry mockery, it added: “These fellas are specialists whose work is so practiced and fluid that to look at them is to look at the Bolshoi Ballet performing Swan Lake!”

It then went on to describe the work of cane-cutters as “a thing of beauty to behold.”

It scornfully ended with this asinine comment: “Ballet dancers can’t cultivate cash crops!”

WHIPPING BOY The only whipping boy that is left is the sugar industry.

There would be plenty crocodile tears from the opposition mourners who themselves had bankrupted the industry and broke its back with a debt of $85 billion. The chief pallbearer had predicted that “without Skeldon, sugar is dead.” He then poured, like water on a duck’s back, $50 billion ostensibly to modernise the Skeldon factory, but Guyanese didn’t get as much as a quack from that duck.

Another “duck” was slaughtered in 2011, long before the coalition came to office, when the LBI factory was shut down and then disguised as a measure to “integrate” LBI with Enmore operations. The cackle only started when GuySuCo decided five years later, to complete the “integration.”

Guyanese know only too well who has placed the sugar industry on life support. Guyanese would know also that to keep sugar alive our government in the last 30 months, rolled out $31 billion to GuySuCo which, additionally, raked in billions from sale of sugar lands.

Next year, government will dish out a further $6 billion to help GuySuCo regularise operations of three factories on five cane-producing estates.

INDEPENDENT PRODUCERS However, the recommendation for sugar workers to be independent producers was made 130 years ago in 1887 by the West Indian Royal Commission.

In advocating “peasant proprietors,” the Commission stated: “It seems to us that no reform affords so good a prospect for the permanent welfare in the future of the West Indies as the settlement of the labouring population on the land as small peasant proprietors; and in many places this is the only means by which the population can in future be supported. …no other reform offers the same prospect of permanent, though possibly moderate prosperity, and of political stability…as the settlement of the native population as proprietors and cultivators of small portions of land…”

Workers should therefore have an option whether or not to cut canes. Times should tell students graduating from high schools with between 10 and 20 CXC subjects, that they too could become “ballet dancers” if they choose to cut canes.

I bet that the off-spring of cane-cutters would rather enter universities or choose work involving technology than to be “ballerina dancers” on the stump-strewn, rugged and at times slippery mudbeds of the canefields.

CANDLE OF HOPE I still hold the view that sugar will not fail if the industry is streamlined to get the best from both fields and factories, and peasant cane farmers and sugar workers are brought into the production chain.

I am of the view still that former cane- cutters should be given redundant land to cultivate cash crops or manage fish farms. Today, I am lighting a candle of hope for sugar workers who would opt for self-employment.

But there needs to be a sincere will to see this happen. The unions and their political handlers don’t want sugar workers to be self-employed. They are content with cane-cutters languishing in the sugar fields.

Their mouthpiece, Guyana Times, is the new ideologue of the post-Jagan PPP. On Saturday, November 24, it argued that canecutters, even if provided land, cannot do other crops. They don’t have skills, it claimed,

WITHDRAW AND WALKOUT The sugar industry has been bleeding but the unions have held on to their share of the soup, and they are determined to keep sugar workers tied up with cane-trash in order to collect weekly dues.

Moving cane-cutters to independent cash- crop farming would take the morsel from the greedy mouths of the labour aristocrats and their political bosses.

This romantic spin that cane-cutters are ballet dancers on a Bolshoi Theatre stage, is pure crap. It is time that sugar workers tell the ethnic headhunters who feed on their present plight as political fodder to come off their backs!

Without being able to use sugar workers as their whipping boys, I suspect that the views of the opposition on the 2018 budget would be flat and dry, except for the eventual retreat, withdraw and walkout!

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

Burnham’s ideas then and now

LINCOLN Lewis has taken me to task for saying that Burnham’s ideas are a thing of the past. He accused me of divisiveness and of being disrespectful to the former President. I must admit that I was surprised by Lincoln’s conclusions; he clearly took my statement out of context.

I said Burnham’s ideas are a thing of the past and followed up with a qualifying statement---that African-Guyanese have no relationship to those ideas and don’t care for them. In other words, I was making the larger point that the ideas on governance and development by the political leaders of the immediate post-colonial period have no resonance in any Caribbean country today. That was all I was saying.

Perhaps Lincoln instinctively believes the myth that once one opposes a leader, as I did in Burnham’s case, one would always say negative things about that leader. So, he proceeded to read hate and venom in my statement rather that reading the statement in the context in which it was made. For the record, at the time of Burnham’s rule, many of us opposed his authoritarianism and some of the anti-people policies that invariably flowed from such rule. That did not take away from the correctness of some of his policies which were part of an ideological thrust that was shared by most political leaders and parties in the Caribbean and the so-called Third World.

Burnham’s ideas were developed as he governed—one cannot honestly discuss his ideas outside of his governance. In that sense, it is more useful to talk about his praxis.

Sometimes people confuse ideas with policies that flow from those ideas. I have heard a lot of Burnham’s admirers talk about his policy initiatives as if they were ideas in and of

themselves. Whether it was National Service, the Harbour Bridge, free education or housing reform, these were policy initiatives which flowed from ideas.

Burnham’s political ideas were part of a larger body of post-colonial ideas about development in the newly independent countries. He believed that it was the State that should be the engine of development; that the State had a major role to play in the redistribution of resources—an imperative in countries such as Guyana. He, therefore, subscribed to the idea of a socialist political economy.

At the level of politics and governance, he believed that the political party should be paramount to the State and that the leader should be paramount to the party. In other words, he subscribed to the notion of the personalisation of political power. On the matter of foreign policy, he believed that size should not deter a country from playing a major role in hemispheric and global affairs.

It was from this idea that his activist, progressive foreign policy flowed, including his Caribbean regional integration initiatives and his stance on African Liberation. Although he did not use the term, Burnham believed in a Caribbean Civilisation that arose out of our unique historical experiences.

Perhaps Burnham’s lasting contribution to political praxis in Guyana was his ability to be deeply ideological while being pragmatic in governing. In a sense, that approach was forced on the leaders of his time who had to contend with local and global forces beyond their control. But Burnham was more adept at it than others. He knew when to be anti-communist and when to be Marxist-Leninist. He knew how to be Black Powerist without being Black Nationalist. He knew when to be an-

ti-imperialist and when to be pro-west. Some have called it political opportunism, but that is a very harsh dismissal of a mode of operation that was very common in Burnham’s time.

The point I was making in the statement that offended Lincoln is that those ideas which drove Burnham and guided his praxis are no longer in play.

Even if Lincoln and other idealists of yester-year think those ideas are relevant, the fact is they do not have any resonance in our contemporary situation. Fortunately, or unfortunately, our country and Region have moved on in that regard. The State is no longer seen as the engine of development.

Anti-imperialist, Third Wordlist foreign policy no longer holds sway. Paramountcy of the party is frowned upon. The notion of the maximum leader is not as seductive as it used to be.

Were some of Burnham’s ideas on socio-economic reform and how government could be used in that regard on target? Absolutely! Are some of them still useful today?

Absolutely. Do Burnham’s people and his party use them? Absolutely not. Why? They don’t, and they can’t, because the society has moved into a neo-liberal era that has no tolerance for or knowledge of socialist ideas and the use of government to effect social reform.

For example, President Granger, who I believe deeply admires Burnham, has declared that it is not the role of government to provide jobs. He has said that there is no need for a State media. He has advocated the privatisation of sugar.

There can be nothing more anti-Burnham than those policy preferences--the whole premise of Burnham’s ideas was the role of the State as facilitator of empowerment of the

poor and as the engine of development. Does that mean that Granger is not Burnhamist?

Absolutely not. He just feels that Burnham’s ideas in that regard are no longer applicable to our society. In fact, from the time of Hoyte to the present, no PNC leader or elections manifesto has articulated Burnhamist ideas.

They would make references to some of his policies and projects, but never privilege the ideas from which those policies arose. That is all I was saying. As calypsonian, Chalkdust would ask—Am I lying?

I will submit that Burnham remains a towering figure in Guyanese politics, not so much for his ideas—I don’t think he was first and foremost an “ideas man,” even though he was driven by some fundamental ideas. He remains a towering figure largely because for half of our ethnic community, he is the hero-leader who measured up to the leader of the other side. He wielded power in a manner that at one level gave a sense of security to African-Guyanese, even if in the process of doing so he offended their democratic instincts.

As I said in a previous column on Burnham, unfortunately, our society is not hospitable to critical analysis. We function in a state of binaries—good vs evil. And our highly charged zero-sum ethno-politics encourages such a tendency. Burnham, like the Jagans, Rodney, Hoyte, Kwayana and the other major political leaders deserve more critical treatment.

More of Dr. Hinds ‘writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his website www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics.com.

Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com

Linden councillors ‘rock the boat’

By Naomi Marshall

COUNCILLORS of the Linden Town Council are accusing Mayor Mr Carwyn Holland of treating staff with disdain and flouting the laws of Guyana.

The latter accusation has to do with his instructing his secretary not to allow his deputy mayor, Ms Waneka Arrindell into his office in his absence.

It all came to a head on Thursday during a meeting at the Linden municipality, with councillors expressing deep concern and disappointment over the overbearing manner in which Holland treated his secretary and the deputy mayor just before leaving for China two weeks ago.

Among those concerns is the alleged disdainful manner in which Holland locked his secretary out of his office and told her to find

somewhere else to work. According to the councillors, a complaint to that effect was lodged during an administrative meeting.

As the secretary told Holland to his face when the issue was raised at Thursday’s meeting: “You were not directly polite about it.”

She later noted that Holland subsequently apologised to her, saying that at the time he told her so, he was in Georgetown and had inadvertently taken the keys with him.

Contending that the allegations against him are largely unfounded, Holland said he is still to fathom why persons would describe him as haughty.

At this, Councillor Wainwright Bethune replied, “Mr. Holland, the way you deal with people; the way you talk to people is very disrespectful.”

Also brought up at the administrative

meeting was Holland’s instructing his secretary not to allow the deputy mayor into his office in his absence.

Councillor Lennox Gaspar felt that was the last straw. “It is very disturbing and distasteful.” To which Holland shot right back: “I feel that’s my personal space, and I have personal items, etc, in my office.”

At this, the councillors decided to read him the riot act, so to speak, by quoting excerpts of the Laws of Guyana governing his particular indiscretions.

According to the Laws of Guyana, Municipal and District Councils, Chapter 28:01, Article 17 (1), during any period when the mayor is, for any reason, unable to perform the functions of his office, those functions shall be assumed and performed by the deputy mayor.

Article 17 (5) also reads: “In the event of

the deputy mayor, or a councillor, performing the functions of the office of the mayor for seven consecutive days or more, the deputy mayor or the councilor, as the case may be, shall, during such period, have at his disposal, in lieu of the mayor, the funds placed at the disposal of the said office in the manner specified for the payment of such funds.”

As one councillor pointed out, Holland ought to have taken into account the circumstances that may have caused the deputy mayor to want to use his office.

“I can’t understand how you get personal items and private items,” the councillor said, adding: “If I get my personal computer, my cellphone or whatever, I would remove them. Any other document is the municipality’s and of the people of Linden.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

Minister Scott & Labour Dept courting fire by facilitating poor industrial relations environment ANY administration that appreciates the importance of the people to a nation’s production and productivity would be mindful of ensuring the maintenance of a harmonious labour relations environment.

Labour is not the enemy of any government or employer, but labour historically has had to fight to be treated with respect and dignity, and even though the workers’ achievements are enshrined in laws etc, they have to consistently struggle to ensure they are not denied.

Industrial relations is practised and guided by a body of rules, laws, International Labour Organisation (ILO) Conventions, agreements and time-honoured principles. Those involved in this relation are the trade unions that represent the workers/employees’ interest; management that represents the employer’s interest; and the Labour Ministry-- now reduced to a department-- that represents

the State. The role of each is clearly defined and though coming from different angles, are mutually bound by the laws etc to work in the interest of the collective.

History has shown that the employer, where not held to account, would treat workers with little or no regard, seeing them as incidental to the process, not the architects and executers of, and should therefore be valued. This is where the government plays the role of seeking to ensure management and workers’ representatives function consistent with established guidelines. Where government fails to carry out its role, it creates or becomes the enabler of the problem.

In the case of the Labour Department that has responsibility to avert and settle labour disputes, we are witnessing an emphasis on settling disputes and not seeking to avoid them. This dangerous and lopsided approach will foster and facilitate a hostile environment,

undermine production and productivity.

The view being enunciated by representatives of the Labour Department that they are the arbiters in the industrial relations system is ill-conceived. The role of this department is that of conciliating in labour matters. The subject minister is the Chief Conciliator, acting on behalf of the Government of Guyana, who has sovereign responsibility to ensure laws, conventions and so forth are being respected.

To confirm that the department has no arbitrary authority, reference is made to the Labour Amendment Act (1983) which gives the minister the authority to refer labour issues to compulsory arbitration.

When protocols such as these are drawn to their attention they become annoyed rather than see the importance of arming themselves with the knowledge and acting accordingly.

Let me draw attention to the specific case of the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) and the Guyana Bauxite and General Workers Union (GB&GWU) to make the point of the serious problems labour is facing.

Last year government took a decision to return tax-free overtime and premium hours worked to these workers. This benefit was fought for by bauxite workers and their unions in 1988, during the Desmond Hoyte administration, and was extended to the sugar workers. The Bharrat Jagdeo government took away this benefit and kept it in sugar, but GB&GWU never stopped pursuing the fight to have it returned.

Earlier this year the GB&GWU and government signed an agreement to return this benefit which BCGI, at the time, refused to sign, claiming it does not recognise the union, although the Trade Union Recognition Board has certified it as the bargaining unit. When workers last week wrote management issuing an ultimatum, a copy of which was sent to Minister Keith Scott, that they were going to proceed on strike action if the agreement was not honoured by 30th November, it was at this point that the company was prepared to sign the document and put systems in place for the workers to have

their benefits.

Instead of the minister accepting that the Labour Department was not strident enough to get BCGI to sign the document, a signature achieved on Wednesday due to the workers’ militancy, he accused the union of wanting the department to do the union’s job. The decision to return the benefit was made by the government and it was the government’s responsibility to have the decision enforced, not the union.

Prudent industrial relations necessitate putting mechanisms in place to avert strikes or other industrial action rather than wait for such to occur and then move to intervene and settle. Had this matter resulted in a strike or go-slow, the Labour Department would have had no one to blame but itself, given that the union had continued to keep it abreast with the company’s refusal to implement the decision over a period of a year. Government over the period never instituted any sanction on management to cause it to act accordingly.

While sovereignty belongs to the people, it is the government that protects, safeguards and ensures it. In October GB&GWU wrote the BCGI requesting a meeting to discuss three issues, among them is the non-activating of government’s tax-free decision. To date the company has not responded, of which the minister and Labour Department are aware.

The GB&GWU’s concern as expressed at the meeting with the minister on Thursday, 29th November, is that the department meeting with BCGI on Wednesday without the presence of the union, at a time when the workers were preparing for industrial action, gives the impression that the coalition government is concurring with the management to address matters about the workers at the exclusion of their union. This is tantamount to supporting BCGI’s claim not to treat with the union and fostering a hostile industrial relations climate.

It is time the coalition takes note and acts accordingly if it is to be believed that there resides the desire to ensure a stable environment.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

Housing Authority explores more affordable housing options

By Svetlana Marshall

THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) is exploring a number of options as it seeks to find alternative solutions for citizens with very low incomes, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Lelon Saul said.

During a recent press conference, Saul disclosed that the CH&PA has held discussions with the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GM&SA) on a number of options.

One such option is the construction of starter homes (20x16) with hard wood.

The CH&PA CEO said for applicants with very low affordability, the wooden starter homes would be ideal.

“We will be able to deliver a housing unit for approximately $1.7M but what is important here is quality control,” he posited. However, he underscored the im-

portance of securing quality timber for such an initiative – treated lumber with very low moisture content.

The CH&PA CEO believes that together the housing authority, private developers and financial institutions can make a significant difference in the lives of citizens who have very low incomes.

“But of course the financial institutions are concerned about security and whatever they give. If they are going to put their money into a housing unit, they would want to finance something that they know would last a very long time, and that is why it is important that we use quality timber that can last a long time, maybe 40 years or 50 years,” Saul explained.

As a result, a joint technical working group was established and tasked with examining the challenges that the CH&PA faces.

CH&PA CEO Lelon Saul Currently, a position paper that addresses the challenges facing the housing programme, is before Cabinet. It includes solutions that target low and middle- income households, including young professionals.

Additionally, it explores public-private partnerships

towards community solutions; access to more affordable financing including graduated interest rates; and shared ownership/phased equity.

Even as the Cabinet analyses the position paper, the CH&PA CEO said he is pleased with government’s decision to make housing even more affordable, especially for low and middle-income earners.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan, in presenting to the nation the 2018 National Budget pegged at $267.1B, said in an effort to support the housing sector and encourage the building of lowcost houses, government has proposed to exempt from VAT, complete housing units costing up to $6.5 million, that are built by, or on behalf of CH&PA or any other approved entity. This measure will take effect in 2018.

Saul told reporters that

the tax exemption will benefit the “small man”. He explained that currently a housing unit set at $5M, the buyer would be required to pay 14 per cent VAT. “I can tell you previously, people would have complained about the 14 per cent that they had to pay on the housing units, and I am elated for them because you could see more people owning their home and even though it might appear to be insignificant, it is not. It means a lot to the ordinary man,” Saul said.

Also in 2018, CH&PA will invest US$10M to build 250 core houses as it seeks to meet the needs of the poor and working class.

Core houses will be constructed in the housing schemes that span Ogle on the East Coast of Demerara to Golden Grove on the East Bank of Demerara in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica), and La Partfaite Harmonie

in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

From that lot, 100 families from the Sophia-Cummings Lodge community are in line to receive core houses.

“Each of these units cost approximately $4M, and those houses basically will be given free to deserving residents. Of course, they will be criteria that must be met,” Saul posited.

It was made clear, however, that though these core houses are intended for the poor and working class, they will not be given to squatters.

“Those who are squatting in Sophia would not benefit from core houses… here we are speaking about people who are living on regularised lots, and those people who have legitimate house lots but they are living in shacks. Those are the people who would benefit from the intervention,” the CEO further explained.

Ministers put Paramakatoi in Christmas spirit

CHILDREN from the village of Paramakatoi on Saturday were filled with much anticipation, excitement and good cheer as Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, continued Government’s Christmas drive for 2017.

Saturday’s exercise took place at the Paramakatoi Primary School and saw many children receiving gifts for Christmas. Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, accompanied Minister Ally and a team from the Ministry of Social Protection to help with this good gesture.

Speaking briefly, Ally extended best wishes to the people of Paramakatoi on behalf of President David Granger after which the pupils of Paramakatoi Primary School entertained Ally and her team with songs,

poems and special surprises.

The villagers expressed gratitude towards the ministers and team, as this was the first time Paramakatoi has ever experienced a Christmas exercise of this magnitude.

After the short programme, both ministers helped in the distribution of gifts to the children from whom only smiles emanated.

No child was without a gift at the conclusion of the distribution.

This Christmas drive has been a yearly exercise by the APNU sector of Government and has continued even upon their ascension to office, a statement from the Ministry of Social Protection stated.

Ministers of Social Protection and Communities Amna Ally and Ronald Bulkan sit with children of Paramakatoi Saturday during a Christmas gift distribution exercise

All smiles! These two youngsters eagerly await their gifts Saturday as the Ministry of Social Protection distributed Christmas gifts to the children of Paramakatoi

Excited children gathered at the Paramakatoi Primary School Saturday to receive Christmas gifts, compliments of the government

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

Poor farmer defies disability –– returns to field to provide for family

By Ariana Gordon

IT is the desire of 69-yearold Ernesto Farias of St Ignatius Village, Region Nine, to have a thriving fish farm that will help him to sustain his family.

Recently, Farias, who was a well-digger, told the Guyana Chronicle that he has lost lots of markets because of the rainy season which resulted in massive floods across the Rupununi.

But not daunted by the floods, he is determined to expand his fish farm, but is in search of help to properly develop the farm. As such, the father of seven is hoping that the Ministry of Agriculture can assist him in

I came here,” he said.

Before the accident, he said he had pneumonia but was unaware.

A number of tests were done on him at the Lethem Regional Hospital to no avail, he said, pointing out that he was only diagnosed after he fell into a 21-foot well and hit his head, rendering him unconscious for three days.

He was rushed to the Lethem Regional Hospital, after which he was transferred to a hospital in neighbouring Boa Vista, Brazil.

It was then he was diagnosed with pneumonia, an infection in one or both lungs which can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi.

A section of Ernesto Farias’ fish farm located in St. Ignatius Village, Region Nine Sixty-nine-year-old fish farmer Ernesto Farias (Delano Williams photos)

A boat moored beside a fish trap set by Ernesto Farias, along the Takutu River

A section of Ernesto Farias’ farm lands. He plants oranges, coconuts, and cassava, among others to the various areas of his improving his trade.

“I got eye turn and fell small fish farm.

When he began, he said He noted that now, with in the well and hit my head the advent of technology, and I was left paralysed… it was in the dry season and “Things are different.” While for 11 months I couldn’t there was a scarcity of water accepting that he is of the eat, or talk ---that’s why so he had to pump water older generation, Farias be- I had to do a lot of thera- from the Takutu River to lieves it is never too late to py; I couldn’t move these the farm every day into the learn. hands,” he recounted, pond, which is about six feet The farmer told the Guy- while noting that it was deep. From then onwards, all ana Chronicle that it was out the fish farm that helped seemed well.

“Then I got through with of desperation that he started with his therapy and alhis small fish farm, located lowed him to regain some the fishes and I got sales and I did alright – sales was gobehind the National Agricul- strength. ing good… everyday people tural Research and Extension use to come and buy fish institute (NAREI), in the said NO GIVING UP village.

Though not back to $1200 a kilo… they come He recounted that the where he was physically, and they catch the fish themfish farm was started three Farias said he continues to selves and the children come years ago after he fell into a persevere since he has got and enjoy catching fish with rods,” he said with a slight well he was working on and his family to maintain. became incapacitated for “This was a little stream, grin on his face.

But just as his fish farm about a year.

I dug it doing therapy every “It is about three years day for three months, me started to boom, the rainy now I started the fish farm alone and then my wife came season came and water rising because I had an accident and asked what I am going to from the Takutu River resultand I had to do a lot of thera- do here…. I say I am going ed in massive floods which py. For me to go to Lethem, to mine fish… the first set of washed away all of his fish.

“With this rainy season I it is $1000. I have to spend fish I put here was Cootei,” every day so instead of that, he explained, as he pointed lose a lot, the water rise about

Fish farmer Ernesto Farias feeds his fish 10 feet… up to the kitchen…

I tried but I couldn’t do better… I had about four types of nets around the pond here, but the force of the water lift up the net and all the fishes are gone,” he said.

But notwithstanding the difficulties to start all over again, Farias said he is committed to ensuring that his fish farm is successful.

“I’d like to uniform it, make it nice… here was a little stream and I went five feet down and I have pipes

under there to drain this water--- pipes pulling fresh water as well,” he said and accepted that there must be better techniques he can use to ensure that his fish farm is safe and hygienic.

Currently, he has only Lukanani fishes but he hopes that by early 2018, he can expand the types of fishes within his farm.

“It is hard starting over,” he told the Guyana Chronicle, while noting that he will not give up. “I have my

disability but I still farm, I have my cassava farm, I rear ducks, many died as a result of the flood…but I will keep pushing.

“If I can get some help, this farm can be something even tourists will want to see… I don’t know that there are too many fish farms in this country, I could be wrong…but mine, though small can show the types of fishes we have here in the Rupununi,” he continued.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

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forget that as women we must respect also our men and boys and ensure they return that respect to us,” she said.

Mrs Nagamootoo in her charge called for all to speak out against violence and noted that oftentimes, conferences and workshops organised do not target many of those in need of help.

“We have to ensure that we bring them out and help to educate them. We have to help to

educate them, bring them out to attend conferences, workshops – read out things to them and let them understand their rights and so on,” declared Mrs Nagamootoo.

Meanwhile, chairperson of the board of directors of the GNNL, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, described violence against women and girls as the “worst form of human rights violation” and noted that the media is a powerful weap-

on than can advocate for gender equality.

“We believe we have a role to play to eliminate violence against women and girls and since November 25, we started an aggressive campaign to eliminate violence.

“We want our women and girls, on the coast or hinterland to live a life free of violence…

I want us all to strengthen our efforts; together we can have a

Chairperson of the GNNL board of directors, Geeta Chandan-Edmond hands over a gift to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, as part of the prime minister’s birth anniversary celebration (Delano Williams photo)

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo (left) his wife Sita Na of directors, Geeta Chandan-Edmond (right), look at the (Delano Williams photo)

$1.7B invested in y IN keeping with its commitment to enhance the opportunities available to young people, the Government of Guyana has allocated $1.7B on youth programmes.

Additionally, the Government has allocated funds to be given to varying youth and educational facilities as subventions for 2018.

Among those benefiting are the Bina Hill Institute which has a Youth Learning Centre aimed at building the capacity of youth of the North Rupununi and Guyana by developing leadership skills, fostering a love for the indigenous culture and management of the environment, while expanding upon the existing social and cultural frameworks, thus preparing them for life in an ever-changing world.

Government has allocated $50M for the institute which focuses on training youth in natural resource management, forestry, wildlife management, agriculture, tourism, business studies, life skills, traditional skills, basic computer skills, mathematics and English,

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan among other areas.

The Adult Education Association has been allocated $38, 408, 00, an increase of approximately $13M from last year’s $25, 356,000, while the Critchlow Labour College has once again been allocated a $15M subvention.

The Kuru Kuru Cooperative College has been allocated $30, 735,000 in comparison to last year’s

SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017 violence- free world,” Chandan-Edmond stated.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo and Mrs Nagamootoo toured the refurbished interior of the Guyana Chronicle where they got an opportunity to interact with staff at all levels. The prime minister and his wife were pleased with the recent efforts by the board of directors and management of the entity to rehabilitate the Lama Avenue, Bel Air, Georgetown complex.

But that was not the end; the prime minister and his wife were treated to a surprise birthday treat by the management and staff of the Guyana Chronicle.

He was presented with a token of appreciation along

with a cake which he stuck with his wife.

Saturday’s surprise activity formed part of many activities in which the prime minister was involved for his 70th birth anniversary, which was celebrated on Thursday.

Of the activities, the prime minister visited the Auchlyne Primary School in East Berbice, where not only he and his wife Mrs Nagamootoo spent their formative years, but President David Granger as well.

On November 9, the Guyana Chronicle has a formal programme which will speak to violence against local women and girls .

agamootoo (centre) and Chairperson of the GNNL board e unveiled banner against violence on women and girls

youth programmes $23, 642,000.

Meanwhile, the Boy Scouts and Red Cross Association have been allocated $200,000 each, while the Girl Guides Association and the Mildred Mansfield Youth Club have both been allocated $50,000 in the 2018 budget.

A proposal for $60,000 has been made for the West End Committee in next year’s budget, while the Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) has been allocated $100,000, the National Youth Commission, $400,000, the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA), $1, 100,000 and the Salvation Army (Drug Rehab Programme), $10M. Finance Minister Winston Jordan during the presentation of the 2018 budget last Monday said globally, young people are increasingly recognised as crucial partners for development and have the power to shape the future, not only for themselves, but, also, for their organisations, communities and country.

“In Guyana, our young men and women are calling for meaningful civic, eco-

nomic, social and political participation. In response, Government has crafted a multi-faceted, multi-tiered and multi-agency approach to create the enabling environment through which our youth can express their multi-talented capabilities, capacities and values in a wide and varied cross-section of endeavours,” he stated.

Jordan acknowledged that youths represent a significant proportion of Guyana’s population and that the future success and growth of Guyana depends on how equipped this section of the population is to handle emerging and future challenges.

He said his government stands resolutely to ensure that concerted efforts are made in satisfying the needs of our young people.

“In this regard, government‘s approach to the development of our young people is based on the twin pillars of youth empowerment; and youth employment and entrepreneurship,” he told the National Assembly.

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Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, his wife Sita Nagamootoo, Chairperson of the GNNL board of directors, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, stand with staff of the Guyana Chronicle on Saturday. Also photographed is Sherod Duncan, member of the GNNL board of directors (Delano Williams photo)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

Sandra Jones laid to rest

President David Granger greeting relatives and friends of the late Sandra Jones FORMER Human Resources Management Consultant and Commissioner on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Sandra Jones was laid to rest Friday following a stirring funeral service at the Trinity Methodist Church.

In attendance were President David Granger; Technical Advisor, Tertiary Education to the Minister of Education, Vincent Alexander; Chairman of the Guyana Oil Company

(Guyoil) Lance Carberry; Member of Parliament Samuel Hinds; and former Minister of Public Works, Robeson Benn, among other officials.

In his tribute, Vincent Alexander recalled Jones’s tenure at GECOM where she had performed admirably.

He said Jones had taken her job seriously and functioned exceptionally.

“She became the commissioner with in-depth knowledge of the operation…. She was also good in her counselling; I sought and welcomed her wisdom on many issues.

Her contributions to debates and decision-making were also overwhelming.”

Alexander further noted that Jones’s contribution also involved field work while she was a commissioner. “We at GECOM have lost a valuable one, may her soul rest in peace.”

Guyana Oil Company (Guyoil) Chairman Lance Carberry also shared similar sentiments, noting that Jones was a dedicated professional and a great person.

Carberry, who first met Jones as a schoolgirl, noted that she was an industrious worker in the bauxite industry and

has contributed greatly towards the transformation of Guyoil.

Former PNC parliamentarian Dunstan Barrow recalled his experiences and memories with Jones and other residents and friends paid tribute to the late stalwart.

In 2012, following the death of Robert Williams, President Granger, who was then leader of the opposition, appointed Jones as Commissioner to GECOM. In 2015, upon the establishment of the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the Public Service by President Granger, Jones was appointed a commissioner, given her skills set and long-standing experience in the field.

As recent as October, she served on the Government’s negotiation team for talks between the administration and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU) for wages and salary increases for 2017.

Jones, who was awarded the Golden Arrow of Achievement in 2016 in recognition of her long and effective service in the field of management consultancy, passed away at the age of 71 on November 19, 2017, after a period of illness.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

NTC frets over budgetary allocation

By Vishani Ragobeer

CHAIRMAN of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Joel Fredericks, has voiced dissatisfaction over the $16M budgetary allocation for the Council in the 2018 National Budget.

Speaking at a press conference Friday at the Regency Hotel, Fredericks said the Council operates on a subvention from the government and despite lobbying for an increase from the $16M allocated for 2017, the Council was again allocated $16M in the budget.

NTC Vice-Chairman Lenox Shuman told reporters that when the Council had presented its initial budget proposal to the Finance Ministry, it amounted to some $88M, but the Council subsequently reduced the sum to a final amount of $37M after engagements with the ministry.

The vice-chairman claimed that the Council was informed that the amount was still too high and that the furthest acceptable increase to the 2017 allocation would be 10 per cent (or $1.6M).

However, the amount remained at $16M. “At minimum, what we would have agreed on [is] $36M to $38M a year,” Shuman said.

Defending the sum requested, he highlighted that some $4M is required to fa-

Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Joel Fredericks (right) and Vice-Chairman Lenox Shuman at the press briefing on Friday cilitate one of the four quarterly meetings for Council executives, pointing out that the quarterly meetings alone would consume the total budgetary allocation.

In keeping with the NTC’s mandate for good governance, he explained that this cannot be achieved from Georgetown, but rather through outreaches to the far-flung indigenous communities.

And the Council is also mandated to provide for the preservation and use of indigenous languages and developing strategies for sustainable use of their lands and resources.

While detailing other expenses the Council would incur, he questioned: “How do we do that if we’re not funded appropriately?”

On the plus side, Fredericks highlighted that the NTC for the first time has its own secretariat located at 239 Quamina Street, Georgetown.

He, however, posited that the acquisition of the secretariat should have also necessitated greater budgetary consideration, since the Council would now be operating independently there.

Another point of dissatisfaction for the NTC is the lack of alacrity in dealing with the revision of the 2006 Amerindian Act, under which the NTC is constituted.

Shuman postulated that this is a “very poor” piece of legislation that the indigenous community have been calling for its review for many years, since it in-

fringes on the rights of indigenous peoples as stated in Article 149G of the constitution.

A sum of $1B is needed for revision of the act, but only $10M was allocated.

Seeking to push forward with the revision of this act, Shuman related that engagements were held with other indigenous organisations over the past three days in Georgetown.

Here, a decision for the establishment of a Steering Committee to guide revision of the act was en-

dorsed and the participants at the meeting agreed on the composition of the Steering Committee, the terms of reference for the Steering Committee and the criteria for persons to be selected to the Steering Committee, among other features.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between the Council and the Amerindian People’s Association (APA) to work together to foster development of the indigenous peoples.

Despite his disappoint-

ment, Shuman said he still has hope.

“What we‘re hoping for is since the budget hasn’t been finalised as yet, only presented at Parliament [and] hasn’t been passed as yet, we’re hopeful that the government would take some of these issues on board and see how they can adjust the budget to see how they can accommodate maybe an earlier subvention for the NTC and maybe something to support the Amerindian Act.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 3, 2017

Digicel rolls out ‘Golden Ticket’ promotion

DIGICEL, one of Guyana’s leading cellular service providers, on Saturday launched their Christmas Promotion, during which the company is expected to share $18M in gifts with their lucky customers.

The company’s Camp and Regent Streets dealer store was abuzz with activities where the promotion was officially rolled out, as scores flocked the store for their chance to be the first to cash in on the great offers.

To be eligible, according

to the company, customers just have to spend $3,000 or more at any Digicel store and they will be given the opportunity to choose a ‘Golden Ticket’.

Customers may also top up, buy a handset or pay their post-paid bill to get a coveted ticket. The ticket has a scratch off section, which when cleared, reveals the cash prize of $1,000, $2000 or $5000 that can be redeemed immediately at the store.

More importantly, with

this promotion that runs throughout December 2017, every eligible customer is a winner.

For customers who want to gift their loved ones, or themselves with trendy handsets that won’t break the bank, Digicel just might be the place to shop this Christmas.

According to the company, customers will enjoy up to 50 per cent off on selected devices, and Digicel will seal the deal for them by gifting them a monthly data bundle

Digicel’s CEO Gregory Dean and a customer check out some of the handsets on sale

First winner! This customer (second from left) was the first winner in the promotion. Also in photo is Digicel’s Marketing Manager, Ramesh Roopchand (Adrian Narine photos)

inclusive of three Gigs of Free Data.

New customers who purchase a Sim card will also receive three Gigs of Free Data which will automatically be added to their purchased data plans equally over three months, starting immediately in December and ending in February.

M e a n w h i l e , o n D ecember 13, rather than the usual Christmas visit to children’s Homes, Digicel will be hosting the kids to an action-packed day of events, when Digicel’s San-

ta Express makes it way to the GMR&SC Parking Lot, Thomas Lands.

It is expected to be a day of fun and frolic that will include: games; performances by various artistes; face painting; an assortment of light refreshments, Go-kart rides and the ever-popular bouncy castles. Best of all, Santa will be on hand to share his special Christmas spirit.

“We want to connect to our customers this Christmas in ways that meet their needs and also instantly reward

new customers to Digicel,” said Gregory Dean, Digicel’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO).

According to the company’s CEO, “From our cash prizes to our discounts on handsets, it’s been about deepening our relationship with them by adding further value to what we already offer.

We are also excited about the Santa Express and spreading Christmas cheer with a twist this year with the deserving girls and boys”.

Disaster risk reduction vital to Caribbean’s development –– Minister Holder tells regional climate workshop

AS the Caribbean seeks to further develop its weather-monitoring capabilities, new projects must be implemented to further enhance forecasting and early warning, and expand the water resources- monitoring network This is according to Agriculture Minister Noel Holder, during his address at the Caribbean Regional Climate Outlook Forum (CariCOF) two-day workshop which commenced Wednesday at the Marriott Hotel.

The new projects, the minister said, will be in direct support of the Region’s ‘green-energy’ thrust and disaster risk reduction drive, while continuing the accumulation of basic climate

data which is vital for understanding past and current climate change.

“Climate-monitoring is considered absolutely necessary to provide important guidance in order to navigate in the more uncertain world of climate change, and attempt to adapt to those changes effectively and in the most cost-effective manner,” Minister Holder said.

He opined that the effects of climate change on Guyana can be handled in two distinct ways, these being by either mitigating its effects, or employing longterm adaptation measures to minimise its effects, while ensuring continued agricultural development.

“Various scenarios of

Agriculture Minister Mr Noel Holder, addressing the CariCOF workshop at the Marriott Hotel (Rabindra Rooplall photo) any immediate crisis can be predicted, therefore, press on with the development and delivery of real-time seasonal climate forecasts and interpretation across relevant time and spatial scales,” he told the gathering.

Noting that mitigation ideally involves an increase in the number of pumps and pump stations, kokers, canals

and sluices to increase ability to remove excess water from the land, Minister Holder said: “Mitigation does not really assist in improving the country’s economy, but rather prevents economic losses resulting from excess water on our agricultural lands due to rising sea levels.

“This implies that to

afford the additional cost to the nation’s agricultural economy, new coastal lands must be brought under the plough. It will also require that we effectively utilise our coastal assets in an economically and financially sound manner.”

He, however, said that all efforts in the area of climate change, be it mitigation or

adaptation, would be futile in the absence of an efficient and effective hydrometeorological service to catalyse and promote these activities.

The workshop saw in attendance UWI’s Ainsley Henry; Dr. Yves Robert Personna of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB); and Chief Hydromet Officer, Dr. Garvin Cummings.

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South Africa Racing Tips Scottsville 08:55 hrs Scent Of The Tiger 09:30 hrs One Man Show 09:05 hrs Gingerbread Man 10:40 hrs Southern Sun 11:15 hrs Lady Li Lay English Racing Tips Leicester 09:10 hrs Octagon 09:45 hrs The Romford Pele 10:15 hrs Generous Day 10:50 hrs Grand Coureur 11:20 hrs Knocknamona Carlisle 08:20 hrs Uncle Alastair 08:50 hrs Wide Awake 09:20 hrs Benie Des Dieux 09:55 hrs Craig Star 10:25 hrs Smuggler’s Stash 11:00 hrs Too Many Chiefs 11:30 hrs Forest Des Aigles Irish Racing Tips Fairyhouse 08:30 hrs Mitchouka 09:00 hrs Makitorix 09:30 hrs Apple’s Jade 10:05 hrs Bleu Et Rouge 10:35 hrs Death Duty 11:10 hrs Presenting Percy 11:40 hrs Dinons

SCOREBOARD GUYANA JAGUARS 1st innings (O/N 180-4) T. Chanderpaul c Rampersaud b Warrican 52 C. Hemraj run out (Greaves) 79 L. Johnson* b Carter

02

V. Singh c Rampersaud b Greaves 15 S. Chanderpaul c and b Warrican 30 G. Motie not out A. Bramble lbw b Warrican K. Paul b Williams

72 0 19

S. Rutherford c Harding b Nurse 25 V. Permaul b Nurse

4

K. Joseph c Brooks b Nurse

0

Total: (all out; 105.4 overs) 314 Extras: (b-4, lb-4, w-1, nb-8) 17 Fall of wickets: 1-115, 2-120, 3-147,4-173, 5-219, 6-219, 7-264, 8-302, 9-314, 10-314 Bowling: Greaves 13-1-44-1, Harding 15-2-45-0, Nurse 8.4-233-3, Stoute 20-7-35-0, Warrican 29-6-91-3, Carter 6-1-8-1, Williams 14-5-50-1 Barbados Pride 2nd Innings A. Alleyne c Paul b Rutherford 32 S. Mosely c Singh b Joseph S. Brooks b Paul

5 22

K. Stoute c wk Bramble b Paul 11 K. Williams lbw b Paul

11

J. Carter not out

14

J. Greaves c wk Bramble b Paul 0 A. Nurse not out

1

Total: (for seven wickets; 37.2 overs) 126 Extras: (w-1, b-24, nb-3)

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Fall of wickets: 1-9, 2-37, 3-61, 4-80, 5-98, 6-105 Bowling: Joseph 9-4-23-1, Paul 17.2-8-38-4, Rutherford 10-3-402, Motie 1-0-1-0 Position: Pride lead by 106 with three second innings wickets standing

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 3, 2017

England fail to press home advantage under Adelaide lights SCOREBOARD

By Nick Mulvenney ADELAIDE (Reuters) Craig Overton made Australia captain Steve Smith his maiden Test victim but England could not drive home their advantage under the Adelaide lights and the hosts finished the first day of day-night Ashes cricket on 209 for four on Saturday.

It was the story of the day for the tourists after captain Joe Root had won the toss and sent the Australians in to bat under ashen skies only for his bowlers to fail to make the breakthroughs the decision demanded.

Peter Handscomb, who was 36 not out, and Shaun Marsh, unbeaten on 20, batted out the remainder of a tense final session and will resume on day two as Australia look to build on their thumping 10-wicket victory in the opener at the Gabba.

“At the end of the day whether you bat or you bowl, you’ve got to do it well,” Australia batsman Usman Khawaja said.

“I wouldn’t say we’re streets ahead but I’d say we’re pretty happy with four for 200. It’ll all depend on how we bat tomorrow, though.”

Australia survived the rain-disrupted first session with all 10 wickets intact

Pacer Craig Overton became England’s 681st player, receiving his Test cap from John Emburey ©Getty Images

and openers Cameron Bancroft, run out for 10, and David Warner, caught behind for 47, departed in an extended second.

England struck straight after the second break to remove Khawaja for 53, leaving Smith, whose unbeaten 141 was the difference between the sides in Brisbane, to again carry the burden.

With what sun there had been long gone and the Adelaide Oval bathed in the bright artificial light, though, Overton found the perfect length with an off-cutter and Smith played on for 40 - his bails flashing red as they flew into the night air.

“It was a pretty nice one,” said Overton, who came in for Jake Ball in the only change to the England side. ’ ”He’s one of the best players in the world and so good to get that one to start with and, hopefully, I can continue with that tomorrow.

“We’re pretty happy even though we didn’t quite get the rewards we wanted. We’ll come back tomorrow with a new ball and hopefully take a couple of early ones and then we’ll be right on top.”

RECORD CROWD The crowd of 55,317 was a record for cricket at the ground, bettering the 50,962 that packed into the ground for the second day of the 1933 “Bodyline” test.

Although relations between the sides have not

AUSTRALIA 1st innings C. Bancroft run out (Woakes) 10 D. Warner c Bairstow b Woakes 47 U. Khawaja c Vince b Anderson 53 S. Smith b C. Overton 40 P. Handscomb not out 36 S. Marsh not out 20 Extras (lb-3) 3 Total (for 4 wickets, 81 overs) 209 Fall of wickets: 1-33 C. Bancroft,2-86 D. Warner,3-139 U. Khawaja,4-161 S. Smith To bat: T. Paine, M. Starc, P. Cummins, J. Hazlewood, N. Lyon Bowling: J. Anderson 20 - 3 - 45 – 1, S. Broad 19 - 7 - 39 – 0, C. Woakes 15 - 2 - 50 – 1, C. Overton 17 - 3 - 47 – 1, M. Ali 10 - 1 - 25 – 0.

yet approached the lows of that series, there were plenty of words exchanged in the middle and umpire Aleem Dar at one stage felt the need to step between Smith and England’s James Anderson.

Anderson verbal aggression was reflected in his bowling in the final session when he had Khawaja caught by James Vince at gully but he and fellow pace spearhead Stuart Broad will be disappointed with their earlier contribution.

It was Chris Woakes who ended more than 80 overs over the last two Tests without a wicket for an England bowler when he lured Warner into a thick edge that Jonny Bairstow swallowed up behind the stumps.

The seamer should have had his second wicket before the end of the second session but Mark Stoneman dropped a Khawaja top edge at deep backward square and the left-hander had time to bring up his ninth half century with a crisp four.

India cruising after Kohli, Vijay tons

By Amlan Chakraborty

NEW DELHI (Reuters) India’s run-machine Virat Kohli and in-form Murali Vijay smashed big centuries in a massive 283-run stand to deflate Sri Lanka on the opening day of the third and final Test on Saturday.

The tourists claimed two wickets in the morning session and two more in the final one but it otherwise was a microcosm of a series dominated by the hosts as India scored at more than four runs an over to reach 371 for four 4 at the close.

Kohli remained not out after a majestic 156, which contained 16 fours and followed his 104 not out in the first test in Kolkata and 213 in Nagpur.

The 29-year-old also joined the 5,000-test run club in his 105th innings.

Rohit Sharma was on

six at the other end, with the hosts chasing a record-equalling ninth consecutive 2test series win after Kohli won the toss.

Right-handed opener Lokesh Rahul made way for the left-handed Shikhar Dhawan as India, 1-0 up in the series, shuffled the top of their batting order for a third match in a row.

Dhawan could not make the most of the opportunity, though, his attempted sweep shot off Dilruwan Perera finding Suranga Lakmal at deep square leg.

The opener made 23 before becoming the off-spinner’s 100th test victim in a Sri Lankan record of 25 tests, two less than spin great Muttiah Muralitharan.

Cheteshwar Pujara hit four boundaries before walking into a Sri Lankan trap.

Paceman Lahiru Gamage stationed Sadeera Sa-

marawickrama at leg slip and bowled the perfect delivery which Pujara tickled to the fielder to depart for 23.

Kohli, however, was simply unstoppable as the right-hander scored at nearly a run a ball, treating the weekend crowd to some exciting shot-making.

Gamage was on the receiving end of Kohli’s sublime batting in an eventful 37th over when the batsman hit the bowler for three boundaries - a drive through extra cover, followed by a leg glance and an imperious pull in front of square.

Vijay brought up his 11th test century with a ninth four, celebrating the feat with a little jig.

The right-hander, who scored 128 in Nagpur, hit 13 boundaries in his elegant 155 before a lapse in concentration.

Left-arm wrist-spin-

SCOREBOARD INDIA 1st innings M. Vijay st Dickwella b Sandakan 155 S. Dhawan c Lakmal b D. Perera 23 C. Pujara c Samarawickrama b Gamage 23 V. Kohlinot out 156 A. Rahane st Dickwella b Sandakan 1 Ro. Sharma vnot out 6 Extras (lb-1 nb-6) 7 Total (for 4 wickets, 90 overs) 371 Fall of wickets: 1-42 S. Dhawan,2-78 C. Pujara,3-361 M. Vijay,4-365 A. Rahane To bat: R. Ashwin, W. Saha, R. Jadeja, M. Shami, I. Sharma Bowling: Suranga Lakmal 14 - 2 50 – 0, Lahiru Gamage 17 - 6 - 68 – 1, Dilruwan Perera 21 - 0 - 97 – 1, Lakshan Sandakan 23 - 1 - 110 2(nb-3), Dhananjaya de Silva 15 - 0 - 45 – 0.

ner Lakshan Sandakan, one of the three new faces in the Sri Lankan team, dismissed Vijay and Ajinkya Rahane stumped in successive overs in the final session.

Underdogs Camptown versus overlords Police in tonight’s Turbo Final

By Stephan Sookram THE much-anticipated finale of the Turbo Knockout Football competition will take place this evening at the Ministry of Education ground in an underdog versus overlord battle.

The overlords, in this case, are the Police FC boys who have won two titles on the trot with the recently-concluded Mayors Cup in Linden and before that, the Corona Beer Inaugural title.

Police, through captain Winston Tanner, are obviously banking on carrying on their momentum from the Hamilton Green cup, saying, “We just came off a finals victory on Thursday and we are looking to continue the momentum into this Turbo final.”

“I want to encourage the football fans to come out and support an exciting final between the Guyana Police FC and Camptown”, Tanner added.

Their opponents, Camptown FC are however putting in the hours, according to captain Lezhan Lord, who stated, “We’ve been working hard; morning, evening and basically every day preparing for this finals.”

He continued, “It means a lot to us to be in this turbo finals and its means a lot for us to win it also; so we are coming strong and bringing our ‘A’ game.”

Co-director of the tournament’s organisers, Troy Mendonca contended that the hype has been built up and the stage set for an eagerly-anticipated final.

“We have works ongoing on the field to ensure that our spectators are comfortable and tomorrow (tonight) is shaping up to be an epic final,” Mendonca said.

Tonight’s final begins at 21:00hrs with the third place play off between Pouderoyen and Grove Hi-Tech commencing at 19:00hrs.

From back page

`I will miss ‘Nationals’,...

“Unfortunately, this is my last year at ‘Nationals’ and I have to now focus on bigger things,” Williams told Chronicle Sport after his dominating showing at the games.

The 2017 IAAF World U-18 Championships 400M silver medallist is not known as a ‘talker’, but he expressed his gratitude to those who supported him during his years competing at the schools championship.

“I will miss these games,” Williams said, adding “this is where everything started for me; everything I know about competing, winning and losing, I learn from Nationals, but now it’s time to start a new chapter in my life.”

Since his showing in Nairobi, Kenya this year, where he ran a personal best of 46.72 seconds to finish behind Jamaica’s Antonio Watson (46.59) to win Guyana’s lone medal at the games, several colleges in the USA came calling, but Williams said his decision on which school to attend will be based on where will be best to study, and still allow him to compete at the highest level internationally and on the NCAA circuit.

“Right now, to be honest, I’m just happy to

accomplish everything I have so far, but none of it would’ve been possible without the support of my coach. He’s the one who ensures that I do all the right things; he’s like a father-figure to me and I’m grateful for all he has done so far and will continue to do. Thanks to everyone who was there to help me along the way at ‘Nationals’ and I will miss these games,” said Williams.

The athlete is also popular for his always humble approach and is known for not being boastful.

Along with several other top junior athletes, both locally and overseas, Williams is among the shortlist of athletes by the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) for next year’s Commonwealth Games in Australia.

Some believe that the AAG should explore the idea of exposing the already world-rated junior athlete to the highest level of senior competition internationally, and set a platform for their ‘Road to Tokyo’.

Meanwhile, Williams will return to MHS, where he will continue his studies to come out on top at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) (Unit Two).

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 3, 2017

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Analysis of the eight World Cup groups

GROUP A Russia, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Uruguay Russian coach Stanislav Cherchesov: “I cannot say if I am happy or not after the draw. The group is what it is.”

“My emotions ahead and after the draw are the same. I smiled when we got Uruguay because they asked to have a friendly match against us and we did not agree. They were chasing us and finally got us.”

Russia Deputy Prime Minister Vitaly Mutko: “This is a fine group (for Russia). We don’t know much about the Saudi Arabia team but it must be a disciplined and stubborn team.”

Cairo’s Al Ahram newspaper: “The Pharaohs could hardly have hoped for a better outcome to Friday’s draw.”

GROUP B Portugal, Spain, Morocco, Iran Portugal coach Fernando Santos: “It’s a very deceptive and treacherous group. Portugal have to accept that we are one of the favourites but if you look in a bit more detail, you can see it’s very difficult. Spain are naturally favourites, as I’ve always said.”

Spain coach Julen Lopetegui: ”Portugal are a great team, the current European champions and with a host of top-level footballers. The majority of Morocco’s players are playing in Europe and they knocked the Ivory Coast out and haven’t lost any games.

“Iran didn’t concede a single goal in qualifying and have a coach who has been there a long time.”

Iran coach Carlos Queiroz: “Personally, I‘m happy because Spain and Portugal are two very special teams for me. For Iran, it’s going to be really tough... the most important thing is to play with ambition and leave the World Cup honourably.”

Morocco coach Herve Renard: “Our first match against Iran will be decisive....It looks difficult on paper but nothing is impossible in football. We have to believe in ourselves and continue with the same dynamic... it’s going to be marvellous.”

GROUP C France, Australia, Peru, Denmark Denmark defender Peter Ankersen: “France are really strong but I saw their

GROUP H Poland, Senegal, Colombia, Japan Poland forward Robert Lewandowski on Twitter: “Hello my brother @jamesdrodriguez. I remember your great goals during the last World Cup. I hope you will remember mine from Russia.”

Colombia coach Jose Pekerman: “We were worried about getting one of the big names, I wanted a balanced group and I think

The nations coaches pose for a photo after the draw on Friday. (REUTERS/Kai Pfaffenbach)

games against Sweden.

There are places where you can hurt France. The other two teams, Australia and Peru, I‘m not too familiar with them but immediately I think it’s a good enough draw.”

Peru coach Ricardo Gareca: “I like the group, I think it’s an interesting group with very good teams... and all teams who try to play and I think that can fit in well with our characteristics. I think it suits us.”

Noel Le Graet, president of the French Football Federation: “We have to work hard and not judge anybody.

You can’t go into a World Cup and think this and that opponent is easy, that would be a great mistake.”

GROUP D Argentina, Iceland, Croatia, Nigeria Former Argentina captain Diego Maradona: “It’s not a bad group at all. Argentina have to improve... we can’t play as badly as we have been doing.”

Argentina coach Jorge Sampaoli: ”The only thing I can tell our fans is that we will make Argentina proud.

I also have the best player in history, that’s always a plus.

“Nigeria are an unpredictable side. With Nigeria you don’t know who you’re going to get. They’re very dangerous.”

“Our opponents will go there with few obligations and a lot of enthusiasm, the World Cup has given them a unique opportunity.”

Iceland captain Aron Gunnarsson: ”This is an incredibly difficult group...

This will be an experience but really difficult.

“Argentina have one of the strongest squads in football... the Nigerian players

are great athletes, physically strong and it’s difficult to cope with them.”

Croatia coach Zlatko Dalic: “It could have been better but it could also have been worse. I think we can navigate our way into the knockout stages but it’s going to be tough... (Argentina) are the favourites of course but we won’t roll over.”

Nigeria striker Odion Ighalo: “I am happy that we are not going to play Brazil and Germany in the first round. With this draw, we have a good chance of qualifying from the group. It’s a tough group and we have to work really hard.”

GROUP E Brazil, Switzerland, Costa Rica, Serbia Brazil coach Tite: “More than evaluating the group, what I always have in mind is the evolution and consolidation of the team. These are top-class adversaries and that’s why they are here.”

“I will do everything to make us improve. I have been in charge for 16 games, that is like three months in a club.”

Switzerland coach Vladimir Petkovic: ”Brazil are not the only opponents in the group, the others are also difficult.

“We must be prepared for Costa Rica, they are awkward opponents. Serbia have always had good individuals and this time they have formed a good group.”

Serbia FA vice president Savo Milosevic: “It’s always good to have one entertaining opponent in your group and Brazil are one, without question. The other two rivals, Costa Rica and Switzerland, are ones we can hold our own against

and I am confident we can go through... if we play our best football.”

GROUP F Germany, Mexico, Sweden, South Korea Germany coach Joachim Loew: “This is a very interesting group of opponents.

What we want to do in the group stage is set a foundation for the successful title defence. This is our goal.”

Germany goalkeeper Manuel Neuer: “Mexico play aggressive football, we can cope well with Sweden and we know what to expect given they eliminated Italy.

South Korea are a strong team.”

Sweden coach Jan Andersson: “Clearly Germany are the favourites, they are very good and a great footballing nation. I‘m not that up on Mexico and South Korea but it’ll be about studying from now on.”

GROUP G Belgium, Panama, Tunisia, England Belgium coach Roberto Martinez: “It is a challenging group, I think it is the most demanding group in terms of travelling.”

England manager Gareth Southgate: “To have played in a World Cup for my country was an incredible honour. To lead them there as a manager is beyond that.” ”Remembering the Tunisia game in 1998, it was the first thing that went through my mind. It was a fantastic day and it’s nice to be able to relive that.

“We know everything about Belgium. I think that will capture the imagination back home as they have so many players in our league.

They have probably the best group of players they’ve ever had.”

we’ve got that. When you get to a World Cup the past is not important, memories are just those, every team starts from scratch... The most exciting thing is Colombia are here.”

Former Senegal goalkeeeper Tony Sylva: “We have a decent group but we must be cautious...

Nothing will be easy, but it is a group in which we have a chance and so now we must begin our work.”

Region One Steering Committee installed

Moves closer to becoming GFF Regional Member Association REGION One has moved one step closer to becoming a Regional Member Association (RMA) of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) with the establishment of a steering committee yesterday at Moruca, sub-district Region 1.

The committee was presented with its Terms of Reference (ToR), which includes among others, the development of a Constitution and the registration of clubs in the region.

President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, who is among a three-man visiting team, said the GFF is pleased to offer the structure and organisation necessary to enable the region to maximise its resources: “The expansion of football across Guyana is beyond the mandate of the GFF’s Executive Committee. We also have a moral obligation to give every young boy and girl the opportunity to play football; and within the Barima-Waini community there are a lot of passionate and talented young footballers.

The only way that the GFF can give them the level of support that is needed to bring structure and organization to the game is by having the steering committee start the important work of leading Region 1 towards full-fledge membership of the Guyana football fraternity.”

Forde said while this is considered an ad-hoc committee under the GFF’s Constitution, with a sixmonth life-span, “our goal is to propose Region One’s

GFF president, Wayne Forde

membership to the Congress in May 2018 but, of course, that will be based entirely on the work the steering committee does to demonstrate to the Executive Committee that they’re worthy of being inducted as members of the Guyana Football Federation.”

“Government’s support to this endeavour is critical, given the logistics of integrating Region 1 into national football,” said Forde.

“We also take this opportunity to invite the NGOs and all stakeholders within the Region 1 community to come on board and support the work of the steering committee and do whatever is necessary to help Region One’s integration into national football.”

Forde added that the establishment of the Steering Committee will see GFF’s immediate technical support to the region via capacity-building sessions to identify coaches, referees and others, as necessary.

Other members of the visiting team are Dion Inniss, GFF’s Executive Committee member, and Ian Greenwood, GFF’s Technical Director.

26

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 3, 2017

De Grandhomme hits second quickest century by a Kiwi in Test history A blazing century from Colin de Grandhomme saw New Zealand take complete control of the first Test against West Indies in Wellington.

De Grandhomme's maiden international century came off just 71 balls – the equal ninth fastest and second quickest by a Kiwi in Test history – at Basin Reserve on Saturday.

The all-rounder was explosive from the outset as the Black Caps reached 447-9 at stumps on day two, holding a lead of 313.

Ross Taylor (93) had earlier fallen short of a record-equalling century, while Henry Nicholls (67) and debutant Tom Blundell (57 not out) also made fifties.

Kemar Roach (3-73) was the Windies' best bowler on a bad day for the tourists, who are facing a 1-0 series deficit.

The Windies struck rel-

Colin de Grandhomme led the charge with his maiden Test hundred off only 71 balls ©Getty Images

atively early on day two as Jeet Raval (42) edged Roach through to Shane Dowrich.

Taylor and Nicholls helped New Zealand – who resumed at 85-2 – into a lead and, while the former had a few problems against short balls, they looked relatively comfortable.

A top-edged hook from Taylor saw him bring up his 50 as the pair helped the Black Caps reach 181-3 at lunch.

Just three balls into the second session and the Windies suffered a huge setback.

Nicholls was caught behind but replays showed Jason Holder (1-85) had overstepped, leading to the left-hander being recalled.

The new ball gave the tourists some much-needed energy and Roach took the big wicket of Taylor.

Roach got a delivery to come back into the righthander, who was plumb lbw, although the Windies needed a review to get the breakthrough.

It left Taylor on 16 Test centuries, still one behind Kane Williamson and Martin Crowe for the most for New Zealand Nicholls and Mitchell Santner (17) fell quickly in the final session, but it allowed De Grandhomme to take over.

Blundell played the support act as De Grandhomme

Pierre maiden five-wicket haul gives Red Force innings victory BASSETERRE, St Kitts, (CMC) – Left-arm spinner Khary Pierre’s maiden five-wicket haul in first class cricket engineered a dramatic Leeward Islands Hurricanes collapse and lifted Trinidad and Tobago Red Force to a comprehensive innings and 16-run victory inside three days here Saturday.

The hosts were seemingly cruising towards a large total having reached 86 without loss before losing 10 wickets 51 runs to be all out for 137 in their second innings at Warner Park.

Pierre, 26, in his seventh first class match, finished with five for 44 after going wicket-less in the first innings while leg-spinner Imran Khan claimed four for 17 to follow up his three wickets in the first innings.

Paired with his unbeaten 84 on Friday, Khan was voted Man-of-the-Match.

Montcin Hodge topscored with 54 and his

left-handed partner Chesney Hughes got 42, but number nine Jeremiah Louis, with 17, was the only other player to make it into double figures.

Resuming the day on 60 without loss faced with a first innings deficit of 153, there was no sign of the collapse to follow, when Hughes and Hodge pushed on nicely.

While Hodge faced 198 balls in 3-1/2 hours at the crease and counted four boundaries, Hughes stroked five fours and a six in a 96ball knock.

The breakthrough came, however, when Hughes missed a wild pull at off-spinner Bryan Charles and departed bowled offstump.

Hodge added a further 22 for the second wicket with Akeem Saunders who made nine before playing back and falling lbw to Khan.

The rot then set in quickly. Khan curled a leg break

SCOREBOARD FASTEST TON..

WEST INDIES 1st Innings 134 West Indies 2nd Innings (overnight 85 for two) T Latham c Roach b Holder 37 J Raval c wkp Dowrich b Roach 42 *K Williamson c Hope b Roach 1 R Taylor lbw b Roach 93 H Nicholls c Gabriel b Cummins 67 M Santner b Cummins 17 C de Grandhomme c Powell b Chase 105 +T Blundell not out 57 N Wagner b Chase 3 M Henry c wkp Dowrich b Gabriel 4 T Boult not out 2 Extras (b4, lb2, nb13) 19 TOTAL (9 wkts, 127 overs) 447 Fall of wickets: 1-65, 2-68, 3-109, 4-236, 5-272, 6-281, 7-429, 8-437, 9-442.

Bowling: Gabriel 26-3-8-1, Roach 19-5-73-3, Cummins 24-7-74-2, Holder 27-7-85-1, Chase 23-2-83-2, Brathwaite 8-0-46-0.

Position: New Zealand lead by 313 runs with one wicket intact. attacked, the latter bringing up his 50 off just 44 balls.

De Grandhomme's clean-hitting took whatever hope the Windies had away, a boundary and three through

deep point seeing him to his maiden ton.

The tourists managed to take a couple of late wickets, but New Zealand are still well on top.

SCOREBOARD HURRICANES 1st Innings 207 Red Force 1st Innings 360 Hurricanes 2nd Innings (overnight 60 without loss) M Hodge b Pierre 54 C Hughes b Charles 42 A Saunders lbw b Imran Khan 9 D Thomas b Imran Khan 0 T Warde c and b Pierre 1 S Burton b Pierre 0 +J Hamilton lbw b Imran Khan 2 *R Cornwall llbw b Pierre 5 J Louis c Ramdin b K Pierre 17 E Berridge lbw b Imran Khan 0 S Berridge not out 1 Extras (lb2, nb4) 6 TOTAL (all out, 67.4 overs) 137 Fall of wickets: 1-86, 2-108, 3-108, 4-111, 5-111, 6-114, 7-119, 8-120, 9-127, 10-137.

Bowling: Primus 3-1-18-0, Webster 7-3-15-0, Charles 21-5-41-1, Pierre 26.4-11-44-5, Imran Khan 10-4-17-4.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday December 03, 2017)

Left-arm spinner Khary Pierre grabbed five for 44 from 26..4 overs

around Devon Thomas’s defensive push and knocked over his off-stump before the right-hander had scored and Terrence Ward (1) and Shane Burton fell in successive deliveries to Pierre, to leave Hurricanes tottering on 111 for five.

Jahmar Hamilton, short of runs this season, saw his

poor form continue when he missed a sweep at Khan and was lbw for two and captain Rahkeem Cornwall perished for five at 119 for seven, missing a pull at Pierre.

Hodge’s long innings came to end when he was eighth out, bowled after Pierre got one to spin past his defensive prod.

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to Friday’s quiz: (1) Courtney Walsh (43 wickets) (2) Richard Hadlee (51 wickets) Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the first ever Test series between the WI & NZ played in the Caribbean?

(2) Who were the captains involved in the series?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 3, 2017

27

CWI/PCL 4-day tournament….

Seamers put Jaguars on top

By Rajiv Bisnauth THE Guyana Jaguars’ seamers produced a sensational bowling display to keep the three-time defending champions on track for victory against Barbados Pride in the fifth round Cricket West Indies (CWI) Professional Cricket League (PCL) four-day game at the National Stadium, Providence yesterday.

Pacer Keemo Paul struck four vital blows while Sherefane Rutherford and Keon Joseph grabbed the other three wickets to leave the tourists facing a difficult final day.

Leading by 20 runs, the Jaguars then rocked the visitors in their second innings, and when bad light stopped play, the Pride were tottering on 126-7, a lead of 106 runs.

Paul claimed 4-38 in an incisive, 17.2-over spell while Rutherford had 2-40, and Joseph 1-23.

Earlier, night-watchman

balls, but soon after the partnership was broken when Paul (19) was bowled by Kenroy Williams shortly before lunch.

After the interval Rutherford joined forces with Motie and contributed a 34-ball 25, which took the hosts pass the visitors first innings 294, before off-spinner Ashley Nurse (3-33), claimed the final three wickets of Rutherford (25), Veerasammy Permaul (4),

and Keon Joseph (0).

With the pitch starting to show some variable bounce, the visitors then made a poor start to their second innings, when Joseph had Shayne Moseley caught in the slip corridor for five with just nine runs on the board.

Fellow opener Anthony Alleyne and Shamar Brooks (22) attempted to resurrect the innings, but immediately after

Keon Joseph provided the first breakthrough in his third over of the innings. (Adrian Narine photo)

Gudakesh Motie rose to the occasion, scoring a gritty unbeaten 72 from 147 balls, inclusive of ten fours and a six, as the hosts took a vital first innings advantage.

Resuming the day on 1804, the three-times defending champions progressed to 219, with veteran batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul (30) adding 15 to his overnight total before left-arm spinner, Jomel Warrican (3-91),

removed both Chanderpaul and Anthony Bramble (0) off consecutive deliveries.

The 43-year-old Chanderpaul was caught and bowled, while Bramble was adjudged leg before wicket. However, Motie, who resumed the day on three, shared a 45-run seventh-wicket partnership with Paul; Motie flourished as his innings progressed.

His fifty came off 97

St Pius register big win as MoPH/Smalta Girls tournament continues

One of the eight goals scored by St Pius in their drubbing of Tucville. (Adrian Narine Photo)

ST PIUS were big winners during round three of the ongoing Ministry of Public Health (MoPH)/ Smalta Girls U-11 football tournament on Saturday.

The side were 8-0 victor over Tucville, thanks to Kerry Boyce who scored four goals. Her goals came in the 1st. 5th, 13th and 28th minute. She gained assistance from Breann Solome who scored in the 9th, 24th and 30th, as well as Akesha Sibdhani in the 26th.

In the first game of the day, St Angela’s won via walkover from School of the Nations, while in Game two, it was easy sailing for North Georgetown who overcame Redeemer 3-0.

Jada Maison’s brace in the 10th and 20th along with Ameza English (11th minute) accounted for the goals.

Game four went in F.E Pollard’s favour as they beat off South Ruimveldt 2-0, thanks to Shania Lord in the 26th and Ciara Fraser in the 30th.

Stella Maris also found themselves on the losing side to West Ruimveldt by a 4-0 margin in game five. Akila Smith was on target on all four occasions with strikes in the 18th, 20th 25th and 29th.

There was a no-contest between Enterprise and Sophia.

Matches continue next weekend.

Keemo Paul picked up four wickets in Barbados Pride’ second innings. (Adrian Narine photo)

tea, Paul had also found just enough movement to trouble Brooks, who was bowled by a ball that shaped to swing away but then straightened to pass between bat and pad, to make it 37-2.

The 19-year-old Paul then dismissed Kevin Stoute (11), who was undone by a good ball that moved away fractionally off the seam.

Alleyne and Williams then survived a testing period until Alleyne went off Rutherford for a 77-ball 32.

But the Jaguars were further inspired by Paul, who trapped Williams leg before wicket for 11, before he had Justin Greaves taken at the wicket for one.

Rutherford then bowled Ashley Nurse (1), but Jonathan Carter (14 not out) and Mario Rampersaud (one not out), survived until play ended.

See scoreboard on page 23

Heywood returns to Guyana GRFU applaud RAN and FRMU for assisting with hospital expenses GUYANA Rugby Football Union (GRFU) female player, Abioce

Heywood, who had suffered a concussion that resulted in her being hospitalised in Mexico City during the just-concluded Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens championships, was discharged on Thursday last and returned home last evening.

Heywood was admitted to the ICU on Saturday last, on the opening day of the two-day championship, following a collision with an opposing player during the final game against the Dominican Republic.

According to reports out of Mexico, it is now the belief that her concussion injuries may have been suffered during the previous game against Trinidad and Tobago in which both players remained motionless on the ground for several minutes.

In a video replay of the game, the Guyanese player is seen collapsing to the ground after having gotten up and continuing to play.

The Guyana Defence Force (GDF) player, Heywood, returned home

Abioce Heywood tackled hard during her clash with Jamaica.

last evening in the company of team physio, Abiola Blair, also of the GDF, and female team manager, Petal Adams, who also serves as the GRFU General Secretary.

The GRFU said it wishes to express sincere gratitude and appreciation to fellow Union FMRU (Rugby Mexico) and its supporters along with Governing body, RAN, for answering the appeal of the GRFU in terms of assistance in meeting immediate payments to the Mexican Hospital that en-

sured Heywood’s immediate access to ICU Facilities and after-surgery care, including discharge.

The GRFU indicated that the final cost for Heywood’s hospitalisation exceeded the total insurance the Union had on her.

Heywood’s costs for hospitalisation was in the vicinity of some $200,000 Pesos (USD $10738).

The Union has informed that a full statement on Heywood would be issued in the coming week.

Seamers put Jaguars on top

Page 27

`I will miss ‘Nationals’, but it’s time to move on’ – Daniel Williams

By Rawle Toney DANIEL Williams, the 17-year-old track and field prodigy from Linden, was the brightest star at the just-concluded National Schools Cycling, Swimming and Track and Field Championships, but now, the Mackenzie High School sixth-form student believes it’s time to shift his focus on pursuing a career in Mechanical Engineering and landing a medal for Guyana at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, Japan.

Williams is no stranger to the championships, and throughout his years competing at the event, he was the stand-out athlete in all his disciplines.

He holds the 100, 200 and 400 metres records in the U-14, U-16 and U-18 categories, but the 2017 edition of the games would be the last time ‘Nationals’ would see Williams.

This year was the first time in the history of the games that the event was held at the Leonora Track and Field Facility, and some of Guyana’s top athletes didn’t disappoint.

Williams, competing in the U-18 category, broke the 100, 200 and 400 metres records, and finished third in the high jump, after his coach Johnny Gravesande pulled him from the event when he was in contention for a top-of-the-podium finish. He was adjudged ‘Champion Boy’ in the U-18 and helped District 10 to claim their 17th overall title.

Turn to page 24

Daniel Williams receives his U-18 Champion Boys trophy. (Delano Williams photo)

Underdogs Camptown versus overlords Police in tonight’s Turbo Final

Football legends pose with Putin at 2018 FIFA World Cup draw

Page 24

Who will lift the trophy? Police Captain Winston Tanner (right) and Camptown FC skipper, Lezhan Lord will battle for the Turbo Trophy tonight (Adrian Narine Photo)

Russian President Vladimir Putin (left), Brazilian football legend Pele (centre), and Argentina legend Diego Maradona pose for pictures ahead of the final draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup football tournament at the State Kremlin Palace in Moscow, Russia, yesterday. (Photos: AFP)

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER, 3, 2017