Issuu

18 AFC says Cummingsburg Accord achieved initial objectives PAGE

‘Shun evil companions’ No. 105188

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2018

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

… Brigadier West urges Joint Services ranks to avoid bad company

… says no proof of increase in illegal activities by members

PAGE

Brigadier Patrick West

'UK to reopen dialogue on 04 Greenheart ban' PAGE

NA Town 13 Council shuts down illegal morgue PAGE

Mother, 03 daughter on cocaine charge PAGE

Essequibo Is We Own! Arapiah Primary’s Sheniah Williams representing Region Nine in the 5 – 7 Dra-

matic Poetry competition reminding the audience that Essequibo belongs to Guyana, during the National Children's Mashramani Calypso and Dramatic Poetry Finals at the National Cultural Centre on Friday (Photo by Adrian Narine)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

National Forestry Policy review for completion –– annual reports will be presented to Parliamentary Sub-Committee

THE Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) board will be responsible for oversight of the implementation of the National Forest Policy Statement (NFPS) and Plan, while annual progress reports will also be presented to the Parliamentary Sub-Committee on Natural Resources for its review and consideration. This is according to Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, during his remarks at the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) after receiving the official review of the National Forest Policy Statement (NFPS) and Plan. The stakeholder meeting was held on Friday at the GFC, Water Street, Kingston, Georgetown. The review began last February with nationwide consultations led by The Consultancy Group (TCG)

through funding from Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (FLEGT) facilitation support. Following Friday’s consultation, the documents will be presented to the Cabinet by Minister Trotman for approval and will be subsequently laid in the National Assembly. He said the completion of this review is another step towards ensuring a well-managed and orderly forestry sector. The NFPS and the draft

NFP were last reviewed in 2011, Trotman said that the Guyana Forestry Commission Act, 2007, the Forests Act 2009, and a National Forest Policy Statement (NFPS) and draft National Forest Plan (NFP) guide the agency. Since that review, he said plans for advancing the sector have progressed. “Some plans include advancements in forest legality, including the engagement with the European Union Forest Law Enforcement Gover-

nance and Trade (EU FLEGT) Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA), progress in the Monitoring, Reporting and Verification System (MRVS), considerations for payment for ecosystem services and the Forest Carbon Partnership Facility Project (FCPF)…” he said. He added that it is critical that Guyana has an updated Forest Policy and Forest Plan, Trotman said Guyana

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman

Stakeholders who attended the event

See page 3

‘Shun evil companions’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

… Brigadier West urges Joint Services ranks to avoid bad company

… says no proof of increase in illegal activities by members By Leroy Smith HEAD of the Joint Services and Chief-of-staff of the Guyana Defence Force Brigadier Patrick West is calling on lawmen to shun 'evil' companions, even as he challenges the view that there has been an increase in illegal activities by these individuals. He however did not seek to defend the perceived unconventional behaviour of some members of the joint services and urged that they choose their friends and associates wisely, as that too can see them being labelled in a certain manner. During an interview with this newspaper, West said that members of the Joint Services must always remember their roles and their functions and the need to ensure that everything they do adds value to their own lives and the organisation they serve. “We have to be able to guard our gates constantly by interacting and reminding our members as to what should be their roles in this society

and how they should conduct themselves and treat with each other. They should also understand the need to keep proper friends and relationships to be able to uplift the standards of the joint services and themselves.” In recent times policemen, soldiers and even prison officers have been caught up in illegal activities. Some of them have already been placed before the courts. West said each service is mandated by virtue of their responsibilities to issue stern warnings to their members and if those members are guilty of certain actions, they must face the consequences for their “sins”. President David Granger, speaking at the Police Officers’ conference on Thursday, alluded to corruption in the force, saying that the surge of corruption in the security forces, criminal violence, execution-style killings and the failure to eradicate narco-trafficking are interrelated; and during the Jagdeo-era killings or “Troubles” (2002-2009), instead of

trying to cure the causes, the then government was more concerned with concealing the symptoms of crime. President Granger said the Force cannot change if the old attitudes persist, noting that the causes of the eruption and the continuation of the criminal violence in this period of Guyana’s history must be ascertained if society is to understand the factors, features and forces which led to such unprecedented levels of violence in this small state and to prevent a recurrence. He said that communities should be free from criminal activities and children must be nurtured in a safe environment. “Our young people must be protected from the dangers of drug use. Citizens must be able to move around their communities free from the fear of crime. Citizens must be safeguarded from attacks on their persons and property. They must be safe at home, at work, on the street and at play.” He said too that a Force which is contaminated by

National Forestry Policy ...

From page 2

has publicly committed to a Green State Economy as described in the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS). He explained that the revised Plan and Policy effectively embrace the GSDS and the framework laid out for the advancement of a green economy in Guyana. Trotman said the aim is to have “a green, inclusive and prosperous Guyana that provides a good life for all its citizens, based on a sound education and social protection, low-carbon resilient development, green and decent jobs, economic opportunities, individual equality and political empowerment.” Further, he said Guyana serves as a model of sustainable development and environmental security worldwide, demonstrating the transition to a decarbonised and resource-efficient economy that integrates the multi-ethnicity of the country and enhances the quality of life for all Guyanese. Importantly also, he said that the revised National Forest Policy and Plan have been developed within the framework of the Constitution of Guyana and with regard to relevant international commitments on the environment, particularly as they relate to forests and biodiversity. He explained that implementation of this Policy and Plan will be undertaken by the GFC and takes into account methodologies that would promote predictable,

efficient, and timely outcomes. He said the implementation process will, as a priority, identify and collaborate with indigenous and local communities. He thanked the staff and GFC for their stewardship in the revision. Meanwhile, Chairperson of the GFC’s board, Jocelyn Dow, said the roles of the forest have evolved over the decades and it is a major part of the ecosystem. She noted that the responsibility of protection does not only lie with the GFC and that proper use of the forest is an important part of the nation’s patrimony. She said the national consultation which recently ended after a number of years is a valid attempt to include everyone’s view in the important process. Dow advised the gathering to take an active part in the Plan’s implementation. “The meeting here today is because there has been a gap in between the consultations that many of you would have been involved in and the next step which is the board has review the Plan and our tenure comes to the end of this month,” she said. Dow said those with specific and general roles are represented and all suggestions are important. She said international targets of carbon offset must be reached and the board, the Ministry and by extension the government will ensure that forestry materials are properly used.

corruption cannot safeguard the security of citizens. “Service in the Force must be based on the values of commitment, competence and incorruptibility.” GENERAL POPULATION Meanwhile, Brigadier West stated that in looking at the conduct of lawmen, one needs to take into consideration that the members of the security agencies are taken from the general population which makes them no different from the ordinary citizens. He however was quick to point out that by virtue of them joining the disciplined forces, a certain level of conduct and professional behaviour pattern is expected of them. “We are taken from the general population and persons would be enticed and in some instances compromise themselves and based on those realities, some of those persons fall prey to those seductions and whenever those things are discovered, they have to

be dealt with in the manner that they should be,” West pointed out. Speaking specifically to what goes on in the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier West said that they have values and standards which they intend to continue enforcing on their ranks at every level. According to the Joint Services head, he is aware that similar codes are taught to members of the other agencies, but reiterated that being seduced and enticed by those bent on committing criminal activities will continue to take place every now and again. The notion of social media was also referred to as the chief-of-staff sought to explain what may be responsible for the general perception that there is an increase in illegal activities among members of the Joint Services. “I would not say there is an increase, I know that because of social media we have these things being promoted and shared by numerous persons at the same time or different persons at one time, so I cannot say there is an increase without

Brigadier Patrick West the proper data; but it looks alarming with the sharing by multiple persons,” the Joint Services head stated. President Granger is hopeful that the British-funded security sector reform will strengthen partnerships between the Force and communities and also reform some of the ranks within the various services.

Mother, daughter remanded on cocaine charge FOLLOWING the Valentine’s Day cocaine bust at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, a mother and daughter appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to answer to the drug trafficking charge. Rachel Narine, 19 and her mother,

(L-R) Kavita Persaud and her daughter Rachel Narine

Kavita Persaud, 40 both of Ramsingh Street, Annandale were jointly charged with having 2.660 kilograms of cocaine in their possession for the purpose of trafficking at CJIA on February 14. The women both denied the charge while their attorney, Everton Lammy-Singh made an application for bail. Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) prosecutor, Konyo Sandiford told the court that the teen was arrested with the cocaine in false walls of her handbag by officers as she went through the CJIA scanner. A further investigation was done and Narine’s mother along with a taxi driver who drove them to the airport were also arrested and taken to CANU headquarters. Sandiford noted that Narine and Persaud gave a detailed confession statement to the police and showed how the drug got into the bag. The magistrate ruled in the prosecution’s favor and remanded the women to prison until February 22.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 17, 2018

‘UK to reopen dialogue with Guyana on Greenheart ban’ – GFC Commissioner THE Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) will continue its engagement with the United Kingdom (UK) as part of continued efforts to lift the ban on

greenheart exports from Guyana. Addressing stakeholders’ concerns during presentation of the completed National Forestry Policy State-

ment and Plan on Friday, GFC Commissioner James Singh expressed optimism that Guyana “would be able to make some headway this year”.

“What we do have is a commitment by the UK Agency for Environment that they will be reopening the dialogue with us,” he said. Following the discus-

sions, James said an invitation will be issued to the UK authorities to visit Guyana to observe operations in the industry. James said the GFC has completed a

Saturday, February 17, 2018 - 5:00 hrs

detailed plan on Guyana’s greenheart production. “We did a very comprehensive paper on the stocking of greenheart in Guyana: the amount that was harvested, the amount remaining and we found that there is absolutely no threat to the sustainability of greenheart,” James said. The UK Environment Agency handed down the ban in May 2015, citing the lack of sufficient evidence that Guyana’s “forests of origin are sustainably managed”. The government had mounted a national response with a committee consisting of the Ministries of Natural Resources, Foreign Affairs, and Business to lobby the UK to lift the ban. Guyana has been working with the European Union on finalising its European Union Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (EU FLEGT) Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA). Conclusion of the negotiation is very critical for the holistic development of Guyana’s forestry sector.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 17, 2018

Students take on big issues at Mashramani contest

…wins for Regions One, Two, Three, Four By Tamica Garnette TACKLING issues such as the Guyana-Venezuela controversy, suicide, domestic violence, social media and other trending subject matters, the National Children’s Mashramani Calypso and Dramatic Poetry Finals came to a close on Friday at the National Cultural Centre, with wins for Regions One, Two, Three, Four, as well as for the Georgetown District. After the show had got off to a late start, Region Two managed to pick up the first win of the day as little Jamie Williams of Mainstay Lake Primary, championed the 5 – 7 years Calypso Category with his piece “Education Fuh We”. He was decked out in an eye-catching outfit that had even emcee Travis Chase enquiring where he had got the ensemble. Region One picked up second place in this category for Santa Rosa Primary’s Kendra Sealy’s performance of “Indecent Language”. Performing “Ah Love My Calypso Music”, Region 10’s Saffona Hannays from Regma Primary was third. In the 5 – 7 years dramatic poetry, the win went to Region Four’s Emily Gomes with “Oil In Guyana Is We Own”. Despite not “spacing” in this category, Region Two’s Maryann King gave one of the most passionate displays of the day with “A New Ethnicity”. However, with just a few lines to go to wrap up her performance, the Taymouth Manor Primary student forgot her lines and damaged her chances at the win. Region Five’s Nathalia David was second with her performance of “A Child’s Plea” and Region Three bagged third through Aarav Sukhram’s performance of “Lang Time Guyanese”. The morning session of the competition wrapped up with the 8 – 10 years calypso and dramatic poetry, and it was Region One’s Ariel Williams singing “Let’s Cooperate and Celebrate”, who took the calypso

Betsy Ground Primary’s De Andre Fullerton performing “De Thief Man Seh”, finished third in the 8 – 10 Dramatic Poetry (Adrian Narine photo)

win. Georgetown took their first win in the 8 – 10 dramatic poetry, with Justine Hamer pleading the case of a special case student in “Dyslexia & Me”. For her performance in “Black Gold” that spoke of Guyana’s new oil resources, Parfaite Harmonie Primary Keianna Hazel won second place for Region Three. When the afternoon session got underway, Region Two was back in winners’ row once again, picking up the win in the Calypso 11 – 13 category, after the judges were most impressed by the performance of Cotton Field Secondary’s Sarah Fredericks in her rendition of “Guyanese Unite”. Belle West Primary’s Samuel Williams had the thinning crowd fired up with his well-executed piece “Torrential Time”, articulating his disdain for all the ills of society that continue. Set to the backdrop of a television newsroom, Williams had the audience on his every word as he expressed his way to the win in the 11 – 13 years dramatic poetry category. The second place was awarded to Region Four’s Faith Ferrell performing a prodigal son’s tale of a young woman who decided to run away from home, but eventually returned to her mother’s love in “Into Her Arms”. Region Five’s Esther Dbandhan was third for her performance “What’s the Difference”, narrated from the point of view of a rape victim. In the final two categories of the day, the 14 –17 calypso and dramatic poetry, Georgetown and Region 10, respectively, collected the wins. The Calypso win went to South Ruimveldt’s Kishon Noel for his piece “Own This Mash”, while Linden Foundation Secondary’s Trevor Armstrong ruled the dramatic poetry category with “I Will Not Rest”. This was read as a warning to Venezuela as he the soldier character spoke of his determination to defend his country’s border and sovereignty.

Two Miles Primary’s Faithe Peters performed a piece called “Facebook” in the 8 – 10 Calypso (Adrian Narine photo)

Kumu Primary’s Kimberley Rodrigues performing “Dangerous Conversation” in the 8 – 10 Dramatic Poetry (Adrian Narine photo)

Amelia’s Ward Primary Isaiah Cameron performing “Ole Time Mash” in the 8 – 10 Dramatic Poetry (Adrian Narine photo)

Representing Georgetown Comenius Primary’s Sayana Cato performed “Stop Suicide” (Adrian Narine photo)

No. 5 Primary student Benneka George performed “Voice of A Street Child” in the 8 – 10 Dramatic Poetry (Adrian Narine photo)

Region Nine’s Glen Fredericks did a piece called “Cooperate Republic 48” in the 8 – 10 Calypso (Adrian Narine photo)

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 17, 2018

No let up in keeping the environment clean SHORTLY after the APNU+AFC administration took office, there was what can be likened to widespread civic action by government, business and individuals, to improve our physical environs. This saw the de-bushing of Le Repentir Cemetery, cleaning of alleyways, gutters, canals, and de-bushing of embankments. There has also been the refurbishing of structures and landmarks, such as the 1966 Independence Arch at Brickdam and the construction of a new arch on entering Georgetown from the southern point at Agricola. Visitors over this period had nothing but praises for the change in physical appearance and offered encouraging words for those involved and the country at large. Having embarked on such a massive rehabilitation programme, which was supported in spirit and physical participation by citizens in their respective areas, it was reasonable to expect continuation of such activities. Presently, as persons look around it can be seen that areas once cleaned are again falling into disrepair. In Georgetown, where Le Repentir Cemetery falls under the management of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, it was not so long ago overtaken by overgrown bushes, until recently work was done to clean it up and a decision by City Hall to spend some $100M annually to maintain the burial ground. However, on some of the streets and roadsides, shrubs are growing on the waste left there, having been removed from the gutters and drains during the clean-up exercise. These are hazards as they impede vision and free flow of movement for users of the road. Despite the national

attention given regarding the clean-up, still we see the practice of dumping garbage outside of designated areas and receptacles. For instance, during the Jubilee celebrations back in May 2016, waste receptacles were placed along Regent Street from Vlissingen Road to Avenue of the Republic. A visit to this area presently would see that those receptacles have been removed and the practice of throwing waste along the street and in the drains has re-commenced. Where people are concerned about theirs and the society’s image, efforts have to be made to demonstrate that the clean-up exercise was not merely a spurt or for an occasion, but that of a preferred way of life. In the absence of a programme to maintain the work done, it lends to the impression that the society can only build and construct, but lacks capacity or interest to maintain. Avoiding such perception requires continued collaboration among stakeholders. Activities such as the cleaning and mowing of lawns, disposal of garbage and maintenance of the shoulders of parapets and gutters can be addressed through the establishment of Community/Neighbourhood Associations, with the authority of putting systems in place to hold members accountable to maintain their surroundings and the community. The activities of such associations can be integrated within the local government authorities. Improvement and maintenance may require developing incentive regimes such as tax reduction for communities, based on performance and laws that can be used as penalty for those who

keep their propertied/rented environs unkempt. Governments -- national, regional and local – have to play a more active role in helping with maintenance which can be done in many ways, equally as improving aesthetics, employment and economic opportunities. Government can look into the area of having roads and bridges adopted by the business community, civic-minded organisations or individuals. Landscaping is another aspect of maintenance and also a boost to aesthetics. Flowers and shrubbery can be planted along the roadways, and in the medians of the East Bank and East Coast roads. Growing more trees positively impact the air we breathe, environment and climate change. At a community level, there can be competitions and prizes awarded for the best garden, or best-kept yard. This is an incentive that will motivate the people to think and act in a particular manner. Very often, where a solution–driven approach is taken to matters within our scope or responsibility, it will be realised that in some instances it requires small actions to make significant impact on our lives. This is one such instance and it is hoped that the relevant authorities can appreciate the wisdom and necessity of tackling this issue soonest.

Royston King responds to Sherod Duncan

Dear Sir,

PLEASE refer to a letter which appeared in your newspaper issue, Wednesday, February 14, 2018, headlined: “Duncan signals no-confidence vote against King” by Councillor, Sherod Duncan. Had it not been for the huge potential of this letter to mislead the public, I would have ignored this grossly inaccurate piece. However, my obligation to ensure that citizens are kept accurately and truthfully informed on all matters and issues at City Hall has influenced my response to his letter. Although I have the highest respect for the honourable Councillor, Sherod Duncan, I have to say that he has once again demonstrated a woeful lack of knowledge on the laws, by-laws, regulations, policies and rules that govern the specific and general

operations of the Mayor and City Council. He has demonstrated this lack in his arguments on two matters--rights and privileges--to Councillor Akeem Peter, who was elected to chair the last statutory meeting, and the extant circumstance surrounding a portion of land belonging to the council situate in the Bel Air Park. I shall now examine both matters. At the last statutory meeting of the Council, held Monday, February 12, 2018, I announced to the Council that Her Worship the Mayor of Georgetown, Mrs Patricia Chase-Green and the Deputy Mayor, Mr Lionel Jaikaran were out of the jurisdiction. I informed Councillors present that according to the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01: 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. (2) If the Deputy Mayor is, for any reason, unable to perform the functions of the office of Mayor in accordance with subsection (1), The Town Clerk shall call a meeting of the councillors to elect a councillor to perform those functions; and the councillor so elected shall assume and perform those functions until such time as the Mayor or Deputy Mayor, as the case may be, is able to act. (5) In the event of the Deputy Mayor or a councillor performing the functions of the office of Mayor for seven consecutive days or more, the Deputy Mayor or councillor, 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.”

I then asked councillors present at that meeting to nominate and elect a councillor to chair the proceedings of that Statutory Meeting. Honourable Councillor Akeem Peter was elected to chair that Statutory Meeting. Distilling the elements of what the councillor is attempting to make an issue, I wish to make the following points: (a) Councillor Akeem Peter was not elected Acting Mayor or to perform the functions of Mayor; he was elected to chair the proceedings of that statutory meeting of Monday, February 12, 2018. (b) There is no provision in the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01, for an acting mayor; in the event the Mayor is unable to carry out her functions, the Deputy Mayor or the councillor so elected must carry out the duties of Mayor.

(c) The Deputy Mayor or the councillor elected to carry out the duties of the Mayor must perform those functions for seven consecutive days or more, before he or she is accorded the facilities assigned to the Office of the Mayor. This is in keeping with Section 17, subsection (5) of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01. The Mayor travelled on Wednesday, February 7, 2018. Councillor Akeem Peter was elected on Monday, February 12, 2018 to chair that Statutory Meeting. The Mayor was expected to return to the jurisdiction on Thursday, February 15, 2018. By the time this letter is published, Her Worship the Mayor of Georgetown would be back in the jurisdiction of the City of Georgetown. Therefore, the arguments of Councillor Sherod Duncan are not only unreasonable and inaccurate, but also it seeks

to encourage the Town Clerk to act above and beyond the guidance provided by the Act on the course of action to be taken when the Mayor and Deputy Mayor are out of the jurisdiction. As Town Clerk I must act only on the basis of legal authority; to do otherwise would amount to an error. In doing so, I must focus only on the considerations spelt out in the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01 and other relevant and related laws and not on extraneous considerations. I cannot exercise discretions that are not accorded to my office by the law, even if an individual or councillor feels otherwise. The second issue is the matter that is engaging the attention of the court that involves a portion of land owned by the City Council situate in Bel Air Park. It Turn to page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 17, 2018

Nothing worse than what Jagdeo wanted to do Dear Editor, IT was drawn to my attention yesterday, a letter written by former president Donald Ramotar which suggested that no one in the coalition government could call anyone in the opposition unpatriotic. He was commenting on an advertisement that was placed in local newspapers during last

week, calling on investors to take their money and resources elsewhere. This happened during the oil conference at the Marriott Hotel. Mr. Ramotar cited a few instances where he accused the then opposition, which is now in government, of being unpatriotic itself when it cut budgets for some ministries during his presidency from 2011-15. Maybe in the world in

which he exists, he could so deem such open and transparent action in Parliament, the highest forum in the land, as unpatriotic, despite the fact that it was a legitimate exercise done by parliamentarians against a government which was widely seen as corrupt and law- breaking. But please, Mr. Ramotar, take cognisance of one simple confession at the highest

levels of government and the state. This has to do with your boss and father-giver, Mr Bharrat Jagdeo. He recently confessed of plans to give away a portion of our sea space to Venezuela just to get the Venezuelans off our backs and to settle the claim to Guyana. For me as a highly patriotic Guyanese, that amounts to the worst case of betrayal of the Cooperative

Republic. And just think about who it came from? None other than the man who was the head of state of this nation for more than a decade. He almost gave away a piece of our sea space just to appease and make nice with Venezuela. He said so in his own words. And not once did he consult with Guyanese. We could have woken up one morning and learned that our cartographers

were working to redraw the map to include the space given to Venezuela. Luckily things changed at the last elections. So respectfully Mr Ramotar, nothing could be worse than that astonishing confession by Mr Jagdeo on the Venezuela issue. Absolutely nothing. Regards Earl Hamilton

Will someone stand up and say enough is enough at City Hall?

Dear Editor,

WELL, well, well! Is it not yet ground zero at the Georgetown City Council? Is it not yet time to call in the Audit Office of Guyana and have a thorough forensic audit of its financial systems? Is it not yet time to call in the national police? And is it not yet time to have a Commission of Inquiry at City Hall? Where there is no vision, the people perish. With the municipality owing credit unions over $26 million; the National Insurance Scheme $127.4 million; and the Guyana Revenue Authority, $132 million, what worse can happen at the Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown that would prompt the central government to intervene and restore

some semblance of sanity there. And we have not begun to talk about their debts to agencies such as the Guyana Power and Light, the Guyana Water Inc and the other creditors Why is it left to the poor workers to have to go on strike to ensure that the deductions from their hardearned wages and salaries are remitted to the relevant agencies. Listening to the Council’s administration, one would never get the impression the Laws of Guyana are being broken, it more seems as though they are entitled to withhold these deductions because they are cash-strapped, and that they will get around to paying it sometime when they get the money. Can you believe that? Why does the Commissioner-

General of the GRA, the General Manager of the NIS and the Head of the Credit Union not take the Council to court for so palpably breaking the law? Does this have anything to do with politics? Would they allow a private entity such laxity? Why doesn’t the Ministry of Social Protection come to the rescue of the municipal workers who have no benefits to obtain from the National Insurance Scheme when they become ill, no tax refunds or clearance from the GRA and no loans from the credit unions when needed? How could a public institution so publicly and casually be allowed to break the laws of the land? Why are these errant administrators still at their desks? Is there no recourse for municipal workers other

Royston King responds ... would be wrong for me to pursue this matter in this reply, because it is before the court. However, commenting on my action in relation to it, I would only note that, according to the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01, Section 6, “The City Council may sue and be sued by and in the name of Town Clerk of Georgetown.” Again, the Sixth Schedule- Powers, Duties and Responsibilities of Certain Officers, Part I The Town Clerk: “(5) Subject to any general directions which the council may give, he shall have the charge and custody of, and be responsible for, all charters, deeds, records and other documents belonging to the council which shall be kept as the council may direct . (6) He shall have the duty of ensuring that the business of the council is carried out with order, regularity and expedition in accordance with the by-laws, resolutions and standing orders of the council. (7) He shall have the responsibility for the general correspondence of the council.

(8) Where any document is required as a necessary step in legal proceedings on behalf of the council, he shall sign such document unless any written law otherwise requires or authorises, or the council shall have given the necessary authority to some other person for the purpose of such proceedings.” Again, under the Act at Section 77: “(1) The Clerk shall be the chief administrative officer of the council of which he is the clerk and shall have the general responsibility of coordinating the whole of the work of the council. (2) In the discharge of the functions of his office, the clerk shall have all the powers and duties conferred and imposed upon the clerk by or under this Act or any other law, and, in particular, but without prejudice to the generality of the foregoing, he shall have the powers and duties assigned to him by and be responsible for the matters specified in Part I of the Sixth Schedule, and such other duties as may be assigned to him by the council of which he is the clerk

(3) The clerk or other officer authorised in writing by the clerk may, subject to the general or specific directions of the council, exercise the powers of the council, and all acts done by the clerk or such officer in the exercise of those powers shall be deemed to have been done by the council.” I would also note that similar legal matters were never taken to the Council for decision. Successive Councils understood that it is the responsibility of the Town Clerk to manage the legal arrangements of the Council. Again, there is no precedence in this area of administrative responsibility, at the Mayor and City Council. Therefore, my action is based on practice and custom, my understanding of my responsibility and the Act, Chapter 28:01. I have presented the facts and a few of the relevant sections of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01, and the truth about the matters raised in the letter signed by Councillor Duncan. I ask readers to judge for themselves. In conclusion, I wish to com-

than to take strike action? Is there no recourse for the ratepayers of Georgetown? The senior administrators at City Hall are just square pegs in round holes and everyone knows it, but seems unwilling to rock the boat. The perennial excuse that the Council is cash-strapped is a feeble and wornout one. Why not slash its ginormous wages bill in half? Instead, they are hiring more staff. Why not get rid of all of those contractors? Incidentally, they are hiring more contractors. Why don’t they stop flying around the world first class with large delegations to achieve nothing? No, they continue to fly even now, wanting to send a city soccer team to play some “scrubby” matches in China. How preposter-

ous? Instead of trying to seize state lands for personal fortification, instead of forging ahead with a parking meter scam that will never work, should they not have taken the windfall they got from the container tax and paid the GRA, the NIS and the credit unions? Will someone stand up and say enough is enough at City Hall? Will the incompetent “fat cats “ at City Hall who are living luxuriously off the backs of the citizens be removed and replaced with honest, capable and knowledgeable persons? How long, oh Lord? Will you forget the citizens of Georgetown forever? Best regards Sambu Jacobus

From page 6 ment on two other matters raised in Councillor Duncan’s letter--the issue of change, and implied assertions of disregard for the views and instructions of the Honourable Minister of Communities. We, at the City Council, have always honoured and respected the views and wishes of the Honourable Minister; we value his advice and wisdom. Beyond that, we continue to look to him for support and guidance as we lean forward together to advance the interest of the city. On the question of change, I have to refer to the numerous achievements of the Council under this new national and local leadership. We would be the first to admit that there is much room for improvement, in all areas of our work as is the case with all public and even private corporations and organisations. That notwithstanding, there is no gainsaying that there has been a noticeable improvement in the physical condition of the Council. The Council continues to push ahead with its restoration plan, which includes, inter alia, repairs to

bridges, roads, dredging of canals and other waterways, upgrading existing open green spaces and creating new ones, designing and creating recreational facilities for our children and seniors, repairs and restoration to our municipal markets facilities, restoration of our cemeteries, improved solid waste management, improved environmental and public health services, regulation of vehicular traffic on the city’s roads and a host of others. Also, there has been change in substance and process in the way we manage the city. Local communities are benefiting from improved municipal service and facilities and more citizens are involved in the governance and management of their neighbourhoods. It is clear that with the support of all of our citizens, we can lift Georgetown to a new plateau of beauty and excellence. Regards Royston King Town Clerk

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

Secondary school students flock UG career fair

STUDENTS from across the country showed up in their numbers with teachers in tow to participate in the University of Guyana (UG) 2018 Open/Career Day at the Turkeyen Campus on Friday morning. The event which was packed to capacity, saw students filling the many booths that were in place to share information on career choices and programmes that the tertiary institution offered. In his keynote address, Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, Vice-Chancellor, UG, charged the large gathering of students in the George Walcott Lecture Theatre that education is the enabler to make change and for them to become agents of change. He added that UG is a place for students to change their circumstances -- and make use of the 113 programmes offered by the tertiary institution -- to become

professionals. Professor Griffith disclosed that when UG started in 1963, there were only 164 students and only five degree programmes offered. He added that today, UG has 8,255 students with 113 programmes and they are seeking to establish a Department of Petroleum Engineering to gear young people for the oil and gas sector. He said next semester, UG will launch a psychology degree programme. The UG Vice-Chancellor admitted that even though UG is not perfect, they are working towards making improvements and advised students to be prepared to embrace certain values to be the change they want. He encouraged the gathering of students to follow three tips to becoming successful: to desist from being comfortable with mediocrity, to focus on excellence and to

practise the value of respect. He had a lively interactive session with the students in which one, a pupil of Queen’s College who provided the correct answers to his three questions, won herself $50,000 as part of a scholarship to apply to UG to pursue further studies upon completion of her secondary education. Meanwhile, in opening remarks, Dr Nigel Gravesande, UG Registrar, told the students the event is geared towards the premier tertiary national institution to showcase and make a direct appeal for them to expand their academic scope. He pointed out that they should consider UG as the institution of their first choice upon completion of their secondary education, since they have more than 100 programmes in various disciplines. Dr Gravesande added that

Professor Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, in his address to the large gathering of secondary school students on Friday morning UG’s mission is to respond to the developmental needs of Guyana, regionally and globally, since many graduates of UG are assisting in many continents, which is a testimony to the quality of education they provide. He said it is no secret that UG continues to provide quality graduates and the

open/career day is to whet the appetites of students to get registered for available programmes. Dr. Gravesande however, encouraged the students to visit the various booths and ask questions in an effort to be informed of their choice of careers. Also making remarks

was Assistant Registrar, Students’ Welfare, Daniella King, who said that the event is specially designed to enlighten students of the programmes offered by UG, to provide insights into their career choices and for them to be aware of the steps they can take to pursue further studies at UG.

Pan-o-Rama 2018 gets underway! Students seeking information from the various booths at UG’s Turkeyen Campus Open/Career Day on Friday morning

THE Mashramani Pan-o-Rama competition got underway on Thursday at the Theatre Guild Playhouse with the solo, duet and jazz segments of the competition getting patrons into the groove. The evening’s entertainment began with renditions from the six competing junior soloists. Though they all played immaculate pieces, 15-year-old Vijai Sharma took the top prize. The young Queen’s College student played a piece from musical prodigy, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart and before announcement of the results, he shared that he was confident that he was the best junior soloist for the night. Darius Austin and Tirese Thomas followed Sharma in second and third places, respectively. In the senior leg of the solo competition, crowd favourite Hanani Ben Lewi took the top spot, but was closely fol-

lowed by Michael Smith Jr and Detroy Dey. Notably, Ben Lewi was the top junior soloist in 2017 and he rose to the senior rank still claiming the glory. Sole female competitor, Jovanka Williams, came in fourth out of the seven senior pan players. Williams however rose to the top position in the pan duet segment, alongside Don Johnson. Darius Austin, who played in two duets, scored the second spot with Detroy Dey, while Adrian Benjamin and Andrew Charles came in third. In the pan-jazz competition, the defending champions the Kunjazz ensemble beat out the Pan Groove and Parkside steel orchestras, who settled for second and third. The Pan-o-rama competition continues on Sunday, February 18, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, where bands will clash on the evening of sweet steelpan music.

The senior steelpan soloists pose for a quick photo on stage before their clash on Thursday night.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 17, 2018

Ex-policeman remanded over carjacking

A FORMER member of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) was on Friday charged and remanded to prison on a carjacking charge. Twenty-six- year old, Jason Harry, of Kuru Kuru, Linden Highway, appeared before Senior Magistrate Le-

ron Daly in the Georgetown Magistrates’Court. It is alleged that on May 26, 2015 at Durban Backlands, armed with a gun in the company of others, Harry robbed Phillip King of one Toyota Primo motor car worth $3.2M, one Samsung Galaxy

phone worth $67,000, a pair of American Eagle slippers worth $4,000 and a bottle of cologne worth $8,000. Harry’s attorney Melvin Duke, in seeking bail stated that based on facts, no weapons or items were found on his client and as a

result the “Police can’t prove anything”. Prosecutor Richard Harris, however, objected to bail being granted to the defendant, citing the serious nature of the offence and the penalty the charge attracts. He further noted that the defendant was

positively identified and parts of the stolen car were recovered at his home. The prosecutor said that the defendant is also being investigated for simple larceny and fraud, which he did not commit alone but in the company of others.

The prosecutor also stated that if Harry were granted bail he would make contact with other persons and this would interfere with the investigations. Bail was refused and Harry was remanded to prison until the March 23.

‘Broadsided’ sister with cutlass – six months A WEST Ruimveldt man was on Friday brought before the court on a charge of assault causing bodily harm. It was alleged that 21-year-old Leroy Roberts assaulted his sister Roxanne

Thompson causing her bodily harm. Roberts pleaded guilty to the charge when he was arraigned at the Georgetown Magistrates’ court. According to the facts

provided by prosecutor Sanj Singh, the victim complained to her mother about the dogs barking. Upon hearing that, the defendant locked up the animals and a heated argument ensued.

The defendant went into his house and armed himself with a knife, cutlass and a piece of wood, he chopped Thompson on her left hand and also broadsided her on her body with the cutlass,

causing her to receive injuries. The defendant told the court that Thompson came up to him, pointed her finger in his face and pelted him with a piece of wood.

This drove him to anger and caused him to commit the unlawful act. Roberts was sentenced by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly to six months in prison.

Stole cop’s phone; claims he was drunk

A STRAY-CATCHER attached to the Ministry of Public Security, uses a lasso to capture a number of cows aback the Botanical Gardens in the vicinity of Mandela Avenue, Georgetown. (Photo by Adrian Narine)

A STABROEK Market businessman on Friday appeared before a city magistrate charged with simple larceny. It is alleged that on January 25, 2018 while at the Brickdam Police Station, Gary Kanile stole Police Constable Patrick Morris’ cellphone worth $45,000. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge and explained to the court that at the time he was under the influence of alcohol and that caused him to commit the act. He was fined $40,000 by Magistrate Leron Daly but if he fails to pay the fine, he will have to serve six weeks in prison.

Bartica remembers massacre victims

AT a time when President David Granger has promised to launch inquiries into the spate of murders that had devastated the nation between 2002 and 2009, hundreds of Barticans will gather around the Monument of Hope to commemmorate the lives of 12 Guyanese who were mercilessly killed at the hands of a criminal gang on February 17, 2008. Under the theme, “More than a memory, preserving the past, preparing the future,” Barticans today will march through the streets of Bartica before they assemble at the Monument of Hope. This year marks 10 years since the Bartica Massacre plunged the country into a state of despair.

Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall, said the memorial service which is being organised by the Bartica Mayor and Town Council, is expected to see participation from the schools, non-governmental organisatons, the security forces, religious community and other agencies within the township. Last Thursday, Manager of Scotia Bank Bartica, Carlos Prowell, presented the mayor with a musical rendition composed and produced in Bartica, in honour of those who lost their lives. The 100 CDs will be distributed free of cost today. The “Walk for Peace” will commence at 6am, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Mon-

ument of Hope. In 2016, two of the gang members responsible for the mass killing – Clebert Reece and Michael Caesar -- were sentenced to 420 and 1080 years in jail respectively. In February 2017 two more gang members, Mark Royden Williams and Dennis Williams were sentenced to death by hanging. Those who lost their lives were Bartica residents Edwin Gilkes, Dexter Adrian and Irving Ferreira; policemen stationed at the Bartica Police Station, Lance Corporal Zaheer Zakir, Constables Shane Fredericks and Ron Osborne; Deonarine Singh of Wakenaam; Ronald Gomes of Kuru Kururu; Ashraf Khan of Middlesex, Essequibo; Abdool Yasseen,

Errol Thomas of Tuschen, East Bank Essequibo and Baldeo Singh of Montrose, East Coast Demerara. In keeping with his promise, President Granger has already launched a Commission of Inquiry into the Lindo Creek Massacre, which occurred on June 21, 2008. The commission has already commenced its work. President Granger said while there were approximately eight massacres during the period of the “Troubles,” the investigation into the Lindo Creek Massacre is critical in exposing the intellectual authors behind the criminal network that had wreaked havoc under the Bharrat Jagdeo administration.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

M&CC to spend $100M annually to keep Le Repentir Cemetery clean THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) wants to spend $100M each year to keep Le Repentir in good order and has included a ‘maintenance clause’ in its contract with Chung’s Global Enterprise. Works have already started in the cemetery to upgrade roads, clean drains and remove overgrowth, and on a site visit Friday, Public Relations Officer Debra Lewis told the Chronicle that the intention going forward is to have the cemetery cleaned

pality is covering the cemetery project with its own finances. As in this past, when there were guards at the cemetery and armed rangers patrolling , Lewis said the City Council wants to re-implement these initiatives. These, she noted, will serve as deterrents to residents using the cemetery to dump and burn refuse. Assistant City Engineer Rasheed Kellman, who was also on site, spoke about plans that the City Council has to replace the current

The cemetery is to be cleaned over a three-month period, and maintained over a six-month period. during a three-month period and then maintained over a six-month period. “We spent about $240M in the past and still had to go back shortly after to do maintenance work. So now we have included a maintenance clause, so that works can be ongoing all the time; like an ongoing cleaning regime,” Lewis said. Roads that were opened to the public in times past had to be closed because of the state of disrepair and overgrowth that had developed in the cemetery, but Lewis informed this newspaper that the municipality is working to have such roads opened to the public once again. In view of this, she said the bridges will have to be repaired and lighting will have to be installed. While there is a definitive plan in place to bring these facilities on board, she said everything hinges on finances, because the munici-

fence with one that caters more to the needs of the cemetery. Plans are also afoot to have the cemetery extended, Kellman noted, to deal with the current overcrowding situation. The proposal entails that the cemetery will be extended to the unused and densely vegetated land between Cemetery Road and Mandela Avenue. The extension is proposed to begin from the area closer to Mandela Avenue and the total dimensions of the extension will be 3000 feet to 600 feet, which will be divided into six plots. A number of works must be done to the land, including clearing away the dense vegetation. Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen had said that the estimated cost for this extension is around $45-$47M, but that there will be an official tendering process due to the size of the project.

Since residents continue to dump refuse in the cemetery, the City Council wants to re-implement guards and armed rangers.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

NDMA conducting needs assessment for internet connectivity in Region Nine

MINISTER of Public Telecommunications Catherine Hughes and a team comprising officials from her ministry and the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) are in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) meeting with residents and regional executives to address concerns relating to internet connectivity. Minister Hughes, during her first engagement on Thursday, February 15, with officials from the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) and the Guyana Police Force (GPF), the Regional Executive Officer Kerwin Warde

and other sector representatives at Lethem, informed residents that the team will be conducting a needs assessment there, in an effort to determine what is required to strengthen the e-Government service. She explained that the administration's overall thrust is to create access to more online government services in the hinterland and to ensure that educational facilities and other agencies are equipped with Wi-Fi. The meeting, the minister said, offers an opportunity for the representatives to interface and discuss ways in which the residents of the

Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes hands over five laptop computers to students of St Ignatius Secondary School

Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes, interacting with two students of St Ignatius Secondary School region can capitalise on internet connectivity for enhancing their lives. Chairman of the NDMA, Floyd Levi, echoed those sentiments and said this visit is the first for 2018 in the region and marks the beginning of the initiative to extend e-Government services to remote communities. He disclosed that the NDMA will soon be establishing an office in the town with at least one administrative staff to assist the region with technical issues that may arise. Levi said the vision is to foster a close relationship with the regional administration to ensure efficient execution of the Authorityâ€™s mandate. Later in the day, Minister Hughes

and team along with Region Nine Mayor Carlton Beckles held a town-hall-style meeting where residents, teachers, and students of St Ignatius Secondary School and other representatives were able to raise concerns and offer suggestions for the improvement of Internet access. The minister handed over five computers to the students of St Ignatius and committed to having an assessment of the other computers in the science laboratory that have software and other technical issues. A smart classroom equipped with teleconferencing facilities is soon to be launched as well. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

NA Town Council shuts down illegal morgue

THE New Amsterdam municipality was forced to close an unauthorised morgue, which housed the Inshallah Funeral home that offered services primarily for Muslims. The Town Council said the business place did not have approval to offer such a service. In a notice which was posted on the door of the entity and seen by this newspaper, members were informed that effective November 1, 2017, the Inshallah Funeral Parlour would commence operations at New Amsterdam, Berbice. The service is intended to ensure that the rights of the Muslim deceased are honoured and respected and that Muslim females are handled by females only. According to

the notice, facilities include transportation, preparation of the Muslim body for burial by competent and reliable Muslim males and females, and storage of bodies when necessary. Further, the document listed several representatives within the West Coast, New Amsterdam, East Canje, East Bank and Corentyne all areas in Berbice. While the document was not signed, the letterhead indicates it was from the Central Islamic Organisation of Guyana, at Woolford Avenue, Thomas Lands, Georgetown. However, Acting Town Clerk Ms Merlyn Henry told this newspaper that the municipality did not receive any plan from the organisation to conduct such a business. “No approval was given. Council

cannot give permission without a plan and the necessary documentation. So with no approval given, the building was ordered closed,” Henry emphasised. Henry recalled that during November, she was informed that a mortuary was being operated at the now abandoned RVC Private School. However, efforts to confirm it proved futile as the building was always padlocked when visits were made. According to her, it was during that period when the remains of a human skeleton were discovered in a clump of bushes in the compound. Again, checks were made to determine whether the mortuary was operable, but again the checks proved futile. The health inspector was instructed to investigate,

GDF credit union to evaluate business plan THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Co-operative Credit Union has embarked on an evaluation of its administrative and operational systems and processes, with a view to implementing changes as deemed necessary. In this regard, the credit union is collaborating with the University of Guyana Government and International Relations Department Head, Ms Donna McKinnon, to produce a long-term business development plan.

According to the credit union’s Vice-Chairman of the Committee of Management, Lt Col Lloyd Souvenir, this initiative is being undertaken in order to provide the Committee of Management with a stronger perspective regarding the current systems and operational procedures, particularly where these may be in need of adjustment in order to maximise the effective and efficient delivery of services to the organisation’s membership.

The session was held at the GDF headquarters conference room with Ms. Donna McKinnon, soldiers and credit unions to evaluate a development plan.

CG bandits rob U.S.-based Guyanese $7.4M HONDA CG motorcycle bandits robbed a U.S.-based Guyanese $7.4M shortly after he had cashed a cheque at a city bank on Thursday. Deodat Ramdeo and his employee, Deomattie Seeram, visited a city bank around 11:45hrs to cash the cheques and were reportedly trailed

and attacked at Vryheid’s Lust, East Coast Demerara, when the suspects rode up on a black Honda CG. The suspects ordered Ramdeo to lie on the ground and he complied, while his accomplice went to Seeram, pointed the firearm at her and took away the bag con-

taining cash and other documents. The suspects then made good their escape. Contacted on the matter, the police said that no arrests have been made as yet, but they were investigating the alleged robbery under arms.

but information was not forthcoming. During a visit to Savannah Park Housing Scheme, earlier this month, residents of that community had complained of an odour emanating from the interlock drain which was behind the mortuary. Again, checks were made, but the building

was always padlocked. However, on Thursday, acting on information, the police were contacted and along with a team from the municipality, they swooped down on the illegal morgue where persons along with two bodies were seen. The remains were dispatched to the nearby

Arokium Funeral Home, but relatives of the deceased opted to have their dead go to other locations. This newspaper was reliably informed that relatives of 15 deceased persons have utilised the services of the morgue since its unauthorised opening.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 17, 2018

Charged with selling Charity woman remanded on ecstasy to QC boy cocaine-trafficking charge

FOLLOWING a Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) investigation into a Queen’s College student being found with ecstasy, a 25-year-old Alberttown businessman was on Friday charged for selling ecstasy to an under-aged boy and also possession of drugs. Dorel John appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was released on $170,000 bail after deny-

Dorel John

ing the two charges. Particulars of the first charge stated that John between December 1, 2017 and January 31, 2018 at Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, sold ecstasy to

an under-aged child. It is also alleged that on February 12, 2018, at Lot 141 Alberttown, John had two grams of ecstasy in his possession. According to reports, the child was held with the drug and when the matter was reported, a raid was conducted at John’s home and ecstasy was found in his bedroom. The matter was adjourned until February 22.

CLARINDIA Evans, a businesswoman of Charity Housing Scheme on the Essequibo Coast was on Friday remanded to prison after four grams of cocaine was allegedly found in her salt. She made her first appearance before Magistrate Ester Sam at the Suddie

Magistrate’s Court. It is alleged that on February 15 she had in her possession four grams of narcotics at Charity. On February 15 the police duting a search at the woman’s stall at Charity, found the suspected cocaine in a plastic bag of salt on a shelf. The mother of four

however pleaded not guilty to the charge. Evans is a stallholder at the Charity Market and usually sells groceries and clothing. Evans will have to return to court on March 22, 2018. The court also heard that she had previous drugs-related charges.

Vendor remanded for attempted murder of cousin

A 26-year-old market vendor was on Friday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on a charge of attempted murder. Lisa Bobb was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on February 14 at Royal Drive, Campbellville, she wounded Crystal Bobb with intent to commit murder. Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the court that the victim is the cousin of the defendant and that she is still hospitalised. The magistrate remanded the unrepresented woman to prison until March 3.

Lisa Bobb

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 17, 2018

Adventists embark on massive community service campaign SEVENTH-DAY Adventists across the country will from Sunday embark on its annual ‘Ingathering Campaign-- a community service outreach during which the church solicits funds from the community to help with its humanitarian programme. Last year, the church spent well over $55.3M in humanitarian assistance, which includes construction of homes; school-feeding programmes and other assistance. Speaking with the Guyana Chronicle, Director of Community Service of the Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Pastor Jumoul Sancho, quoted John Holmes, who said, “There is no exercise better for the heart than reaching down and lifting people up.” He said this is exactly what the annual harvest ingathering of the Seventh-day Adventist Church is all about. “Your generous contributions in the past have enabled us to reach down and lift thousands of persons throughout Guyana in the past.” According to Pastor San-

cho during 2017, the church was able to build and renovate 10 houses for homeless persons and a few bus sheds in several communities. “Our 223 congregations in Guyana have given out more than 6,000 food hampers to the needy; 30 churches conducted weekly feeding programmes for schoolchildren and the elderly; moreover, we have had free health fairs conducted in several communities,” Pastor Sancho said. He added that “many of our churches have also offered relief for fire victims as well as medical, education, transportation and welfare assistance.” This year, he said the church’s desire is to lift more persons higher and as such, is inviting to once again give generously and “help us bring hope to [the] hopeless.” Meanwhile, Pastor Sancho gave a breakdown of how the funds solicited last year were used: 30 weekly Feeding Programmes $ 28,800,000 Over 10,000 Food Hampers Distributed $15,300,000

Director of Community Services, Pastor Jumoul Sancho

10 houses built and renovated $ 6,000,000 Fire Victims Relief $ 1,800,000 Education Assistance $ 1, 225,000 Three Bus Sheds $ 250, 000 Medical Assistance $ 1,000,000 Transportation Assistance $ 960,000

This house in Amelia’s Ward, Linden, was one of the many houses that were built last year by the Seventh-day Adventist Church

Church members renovating the home of a community member of Haslington, East Coast Demerara

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

AFC says Cummingsburg Accord achieved initial objectives THE Alliance For Change (AFC) said the Cum mingsburg Accord, which brought together the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) and the AFC as a coalition to contest the May 2015 General and Regional Elections, has achieved its initial objectives. February 14 marked three years since the Cummingsburg Accord was signed by the political parties at the Georgetown Club in the capital city. “The sign-

ing of the historic agreement created the broad coalition between the APNU and AFC, a total of six political parties to contest the May 11, 2015 General and Regional Elections and which led to the removal of the PPP/C from government and the installation of the APNU+AFC coalition. “The Accord laid the foundation for the restoration of honour, dignity, credibility and unprecedented levels of accountability and transparency in exec-

utive governance in Guyana. The Cummingsburg Accord is, without question or debate, one of the most significant partnership and collaborative agreements in the Caribbean’s political history,” the AFC said in a statement on Friday. It noted too that the accord dealt a significant blow to “divisive ethnic politics” which had ensnared Guyana for decades. It is the view of the AFC that the agreement has paved a way for the country’s political engage-

ment to be elevated to a higher level. “The party recognises that much work remains to be done to further raise the level of political discourse and engagement, but the path which the country has chosen is irreversible. The gains Guyana has made as a result of the Accord are irrevocable,” the party said, while adding that the agreement was both inevitable and imperative for the greater national good. However, the alliance,

Leader of the Alliance For Change, Raphael Trotman in its statement, did not clearly state whether it will meet with the President and Leader of the APNU, David Granger to have the accord reviewed and amended. On the anniversary of the Cummingsburg Accord, President Granger said that the AFC had several options – proceed with the accord as it is, allow it to expire at 2020 or make request for a meeting. But he noted that a review was not compulsory. AFC Leader Raphael Trotman, on the same day, had underscored the importance of having the accord reviewed in its third year of existence. Trotman said while he would like to see the Accord continued, it should also be strengthened following a review process among the parties involved. “As we

begin to go into the second historic Local Government Elections in this country in a few months, historic because this government was able to restore Local Government Elections after two decades of the absence of them, one of the glaring absences in the accord is the fact that the specifics for Local Government Elections are not taken care of,” he explained. It was explained that at the time of signing the accord, the focus was on General and Regional Elections and not Local Government Elections. Trotman made it clear that the AFC has no regrets entering into the Accord, and maintains the view that President Granger was the best person to lead the coalition.

Cop charged with raping colleague A 20-year-old serving member of the Guyana Police Force was on Friday charged and released on $150,000 bail for allegedly raping his 19-year-old colleague. Constable Dillon Crandon was not required to plead to the charge when it was read to him by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. Particulars of the charge stated that on February 10, 2018, at John’s Hotel, Werken-Rust, he engaged in sexual penetration of the female without her consent. The matter was transferred to city Magistrate Leron Daly for report. Dillon Crandon

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday February 17, 2018

300 apply for stalls at refurbished Kitty Market …fruit vendors to return in three weeks

The upper flat of the market now boasts an auditorium for community events

The last phase of the project along Shell Road is expected to start in three weeks’ time

Work is currently ongoing on the eastern side of the market

By Telesha Ramnarine WITH the Kitty Market shaping up and drawing increased attention due to repair works, the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has received in excess of 300 applications although the market can accommodate a mere 90 vendors. This is according to Assistant City Engineer Rasheed Kellman who took media operatives on a tour of the market on Friday, along with Public Relations Officer Debra Lewis. The current phase of the project, costing some $25M, is expected to be completed in three weeks’ time and will see the return of the vendors selling fruits and vegetables who have been vending along Alexander Street for some time now. The current phase sees work being done on the eastern side of the market, completing some 15 stalls that will accommodate the fruit vendors. The Ministry of Communities has partnered with the City Council to provide the funds needed for completion of the market. Hence, Kellman said phase two of the project

will get underway immediately after phase one is completed. This other phase should cost somewhere in the vicinity of $60M. At the end of phase one, he informed that approximately 70 per cent of the work on the entire market would have been completed. The upper flat of the market will house a health center, a rates and taxes office, and office space that will be up for rental. According to Kellman, the intention is to create a supermarket-like arrangement with new designs and modern facilities, and to make it ‘drivethrough’ friendly. The stallholders rent, though, will have to be increased and a final figure will have to be worked out between them and the City Council. The plan is for some services at the market to be offered on a 24-hour basis. By the time the market is completed, Kellman said about 80 percent of its originality will still be intact. While the ground floor was previously made of wood, the contractor has now made it into concrete. The upper flat of the mar-

ket, located on Alexander and Barr Streets and Shell Road, also now boasts an auditorium for community events. Meanwhile, the Kitty Market has missed countless deadlines for its re-opening with City Hall citing a lack of funds as the reason for such. A decentralisation of Council’s work is expected when the market comes back on board as it will take into account the needs of communities between Cummings Lodge and Kitty. “People from Cummings Lodge to Kitty don’t have to come all the way to City Hall to pay their rates and taxes. We are aiming to re-introduce the system that was in place many years ago,” Mayor Patricia Chase-Green had told the Chronicle. The Kitty Market was established in 1882, two years after the Bourda Market had come into being. Like the Bourda Market, Kitty Market is timber-framed. The 19th century structure had suffered massive deterioration over the years prior to its renovation, causing vendors operating in its environs to lodge numerous complaints with the City Council.

Assistant City Engineer Rasheed Kellman speaking during the media tour Friday

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

World Record chase as Australia trump New Zealand (BBC) - AUSTRALIA scored the highest run chase in Twenty20 international history as they reached 245-5 to beat New Zealand by five wickets with seven balls left. Aaron Finch sealed the remarkable feat with a six after D’Arcy Short had top scored with 76 in reply to the Kiwis’ 243-6, a score dominated by Martin Guptill’s 49-ball century. The total betters the West Indies’ 236-6 in a 2015 win over South Africa. Australia’s win keeps alive England’s hopes of reaching Wednesday’s final. The Kiwis would have set up another meeting with Australia in the final with victory, but despite scoring the seventh highest T20

total - and 29 more than Australia had ever conceded - the Aussies sealed their fourth consecutive win of the series. England could join Australia if they beat New Zealand in Hamilton on Sunday. They can only qualify with a margin of victory that carries them above the Kiwis’ superior net run-rate. Eoin Morgan’s men have so far suffered three defeats from their three games, including Tuesday’s 12-run defeat by New Zealand. Also on Friday, bowler Liam Plunkett was ruled out of the remainder of England’s campaign - and the one-day international against New Zealand on 25 February with a hamstring injury.

Aaron Finch and Alex Carey celebrate Australia’s record-breaking win AFP

Kohli sets record as India thrashes South Africa (REUTERS) - INDIA’S Virat Kohli set a new batting record as he put on another master class with an unbeaten century against hosts South Africa on Friday to secure an easy eight-wicket victory and win the one-day international series 5-1. India strode to a comfortable win at Centurion as they reached their victory target with 107 balls to spare after putting South Africa into bat and bowling them out for 204. India, who have taken over from South Africa as the world’s top-

ranked ODI team, were 206 for two wickets in reply in another dominant performance with captain Kohli again leading from the front. He scored 129 not out to set a new record for the

most runs in a six-match ODI series. Kohli reached his 35th ODI ton in just 82 balls, was dropped on 103 and finished the six-matches with a total of 558 runs at an aver-

age of 198, easily eclipsing the previous mark of 491 runs achieved by team mate Rohit Sharma against Australia in the 2013-14 season. South Africa had been hoping for a consolation win at the end of the series, but were again in trouble early in their innings as talisman AB de Villiers (30 runs) struggled once more with the bat and wickets kept tumbling at regular intervals.

Khaya Zondo, in only his third ODI, top scored with 54 as Shardul Thakur took 4-52. South Africa were all out with 19 balls still to face, setting India a modest target that Kohli comfortably reeled in with a flourish of stroke play. India, who lost the three-match test series 2-1, now plays South Africa in three Twenty20 internationals at end of their two-month tour.

SCORECARD

Virat Kohli celebrates his 35th ODI hundred, South Africa v India, 6th ODI, Centurion, February 16, 2018 © BCCI

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday February 17, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & the City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 965mm (38 inches) (2) 108mm (4.25 inches) Today’s Quiz: (1) What is the weight of a cricket ball? (2) What is the circumference of a cricket ball? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

South Africa 1st innings Aiden Markram c Shreyas Iyer b Shardul Thakur 24 Hashim Amla c MS Dhoni b Shardul Thakur 10 AB de Villiers b Yuzvendra Chahal 30 Khaya Zondo c Hardik Pandya b Yuzvendra Chahal 54 Heinrich Klaasen c Virat Kohli b Jasprit Bumrah 22 Farhaan Behardien c Jasprit Bumrah b Shardul Thakur 1 Chris Morris c Shikhar Dhawan b Kuldeep Yadav 4 Andile Phehlukwayo c&b Shardul Thakur 34 Morne Morke c Shreyas Iyer b Hardik Pandya 20 Imran Tahir c Virat Kohli b Jasprit Bumrah 2 Lungi Ngidi Not Out 0 Extras: 0b 0lb 0nb 0pen 3w 3 Total: (46.5 overs) 204 all out Fall of Wickets : 1-23 Amla, 2-43 Markram, 3-105 de Villiers, 4-135 Klaasen, 5-136 Behardien, 6-142 Morris, 7-151 Zondo, 8-187 Morkel, 9-192 Tahir, 10-204 Phehlukwayo Bowling: Shardul Thakur 8.5-0-52-4-5.89-3w, Jasprit Bumrah 8-1-24-2-3.00, Hardik Pandya 10-0-39-1-3.90, Kuldeep Yadav 10-0-51-1-5.10, Yuzvendra Chahal 10-0-38-2-3.80 ....................................................... India 1st innings Shikhar Dhawan c Khaya Zondo b Lungi Ngidi 18 Rohit Sharma c Heinrich Klaasen b Lungi Ngidi 15 Virat Kohli Not Out 129 Ajinkya Rahane Not Out 34 Extras: 4b 1lb 0nb 0pen 5w 10 Total: (32.1 overs) 206-2 Fall of Wickets : 1-19 Sharma, 2-80 Dhawan Did Not Bat : Iyer, Pandya, Dhoni, Thakur, Yadav, Bumrah, Chahal Bowling: Morne Morkel 7-0-42-0-6.00-2w, Lungi Ngidi 8-1-542-6.75-3w, Chris Morris 6-0-36-0-6.00, Andile Phehlukwayo 4-0-27-0-6.75, Imran Tahir 7.1-0-42-0-5.86

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

Sweden’s Hansdotter shreds Slalom (BBC) - SWEDEN’S Frida Hansdotter won the women’s slalom as favourite Mikaela Shiffrin missed out on a second gold of the 2018 Winter Olympics. Defending slalom champion Shiffrin, who won the giant slalom on Thursday and was aiming for four golds in Pyeongchang, finished fourth.

Frida Hansdotter finished sixth in the giant slalom on Thursday

Hansdotter, 32, took gold by 0.05secs from Switzerland’s Wendy Holdener, while Katharina Gallhuber won bronze.

American Shiffrin, 22, said she was unwell after her first run. Other day seven golds included, Austria’s Matthias Mayer producing a brilliant run to take his second Winter Olympic gold in the men’s super G. Italian Michela Moioli won a thrilling women’s snowboard cross final. South Korea’s Yun Sungbin created history as the first athlete from outside Europe and North America to claim an Olympic sliding medal when he took gold in the men’s skeleton. Switzerland’s Dario Cologna won the men’s 15km freestyle to become the first cross-country skier to win the same individual event at a Winter Olympics three times in a row. Hanna Huskova won Belarus’ second consecutive gold in the women’s aerials. Esmee Visser won the Netherlands’ sixth speed skating gold, denying Martina Sablikova a third straight title in the women’s 5,000m.

Wozniacki through to semis, but Simona Halep pulls out (BBC) - WORLD number one Caroline Wozniacki reached the Qatar Open semi-finals, but Simona Halep withdrew because of injury after winning her quarter-final. Dane Wozniacki, the Australian Open champion, beat Germany’s Angelique Kerber 7-6 (7-4) 1-6 6-3. World number two Halep beat American CiCi Bellis 6-0 6-4, but then revealed she had a right foot injury. “It’s going to be dangerous if I force it,” said the Romanian, who is out until at least Indian Wells in March. “I am surprised that I could play three matches and to win them. I felt pain

South Africa Racing Tips Kenilworth 08:45 hrs Sea Fury 09:25 hrs Tally-Ho 10:00 hrs Philae 10:40 hrs Cape Charlotte 11:20 hrs Pacific Trader 11:50 hrs Hotel Cipriani Arab Emirates Racing Tips Meydan 10:30 hrs Steady Pace 11:05 hrs Baroot 11:40 hrs Heavy Metal 12:15 hrs Yalta 12:50 hrs Promising Run 13:25 hrs Mountain Hunter 14:00 hrs Oh This Is Us American Racing Tips Gulfstream Park Race 1 Fire Mission Race 2 Toni Ann’s Miracle Race 3 Chella Race 4 Delta Bluesman Race 5 Beach Waltz Race 6 Whereshetoldmetogo Race 7 Slim Shadey Race 8 Aztec Sense Race 9 Forever Taken Irish Racing Tips

every day.” Halep said it is the same injury that affected her run to the Australian Open final in January. “The MRI shows that I have fluid and also tendinitis at the fourth toe, so I have just to take care of it and think about my health first,” added the 26-yearold. Halep’s withdrawal means fourth seed Garbine Muguruza, who beat Caroline Garcia 3-6 6-1 6-4, will go straight through to Sunday’s final. Czech Petra Kvitova reached the semi-finals after Germany’s Julia Gorges retired from their quarter-final while trailing 6-4 2-1. Gowan Park 09:25 hrs Mall Dini 10:00 hrs Our Duke 10:35 hrs Positive Approach 11:10 hrs Mick Jazz 11:45 hrs Les Arceaux 12:20 hrs Grainey Hill 12:55 hrs Court Maid English Racing Tips Wincanton 09:40 hrs Timeforben 10:15 hrs War Sound 10:45 hrs Call Me Lord 11:20 hrs General Girling 11:55 hrs Savoy Court 12:30 hrs Native Robin 13:05 hrs Sao Ascot 09:15 hrs Dame De Compagnie 10:25 hrs Gold Present 11:00 hrs Kildisart 11:35 hrs Waiting Patiently 12:10 hrs Pop Rockstar 12:45 hrs Buildmeupbuttercup Haydock 09:30 hrs Lisp 10:05 hrs Agrapart 11:15 hrs Wild West Wind 11:50 hrs Noble Robin 12:25 hrs Chef Des Obeaux 13:00 hrs Virak

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF) World Cup 2018

Extra Time

GFF Elite League III Continues Tomorrow

WAYNE DOVER, INTERIM

ADMISSION: $500

HEAD COACH PRODUCED BY THE GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF) AND DESIGNED BY THE GUYANA CHRONICLE

For further Information or should you have questions/comments , please contact: General Secretary Guyana Football Federation (GFF) 17 Dadanawa Street, Section “K” Campbelville, Georgetown TEL: +1 592 227 8758 ext. 102 FAX: +1 592 225 2096

e-mail: gff@networksgy.com WEBSITE: www.gffonline.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/GuyanaFootballFederationInc INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/guyana_football_federation_inc/ SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/guyana-football-federation-inc LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guyana-football-federation-inc TWITTER: @GFF_Inc_

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

Sports Personality

OF THE WEEK

‘Mr Dynamic’, Guyana’s World U-18 Silver Medalist - Daniel Williams By Michelangelo Jacobus IN 2017, 17-year-old Daniel Williams announced himself as a future star on the international scene in a manner that was nothing short of phenomenal. Against all odds he did so at the World Under-18 Championships in July, 2017 in Nairobi, Kenya. Williams ran a personal best time of 46.72s to win a silver medal and stun the world. Born in the mining town of Linden, Daniel started taking part in athletics at the Primary school level where he excelled. His success was transferred into the secondary level and he became a constant figure at the National Schools Athletic Championships.

In 2017, he became the most decorated athlete at the National Schools Championships, owning records in the High Jump, 100M, 200M and 400M, competing in the U12, U14, U16 and U18 categories. The tenacious track star revealed his potential in April 2017 when he placed second in the 400m at the CARIFTA Games in Curacao. However, his elation was short lived as he was soon after disqualified for lane infringement. After that setback, he buckled down and would later make amends in front of his home crowd. Showing a mental fortitude that belied his age, Williams came up against the best from this continent and won a silver medal in the same event at

the South America Youth Championships. Daniel’s talent however is not limited to the track. He attended the Mackenzie High School (MHS) in Linden, and in 2015, he found success at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) Examinations, gaining a Grade One pass, four Grade Twos and three Grade Threes in his eight subjects. Williams would later move to Sixth Form at the same institution, where he completed Unit One at the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). Daniel also harbours aspirations of studying Mechanical Engineering. However he is currently a University of Guyana student pursuing a degree in Computer Science.

In 2018 the young athlete has firmly set his eyes on CARIFTA Games glory in the Bahamas and the World Junior Championships with the aim of bringing home gold for Guyana at both events.

Mr Dynamic! Daniel Williams in action on the track in 2017

Triple Crown first leg re-scheduled By Rajiv Bisnauth THE unseasonal inclement weather has left organisers of the first-ever Triple Crown with no alternative, but to reschedule the opening leg. Originally set for Sunday at the Rising Sun Turf Club, the race meet is now shifted to March 4, according to a member of the organising committee. The second leg will now take place on Easter Sunday, April 1 at the Port Mourant Turf Club, while the third and final stage will see the action returning to Rising Sun on April 29. According to the committee member, the original program remains the same with over $20M in cash prizes along with trophies.

First leg of the first-ever triple crown rescheduled

Both days at the Rising Sun facility, there will be the following first place cash prizes in the respective classes: `C’ Class and Lower $1M; `F’ Class and Lower/’E’ Class non-earners/last start $400 000; threeyear-old Guyana-bred $350 000; `H1’ and Lower $300 000; `J/K’ and Lower $240,000; `K’ Class non-earner/last start $230 000; `L’ and Lower $200 000. Cash prizes will be awarded from first- to fifthplace. For the Corentyne (Port Mourant) leg, the stakes will be higher and are as follows;: `C’ and Lower $1.2M; `F’ and Lower/`E’ Class non-earners/last start $500 000; Three-year-old Guyana

bred $400 000; `H1’ and Lower $350 000; `J’/`K’ and Lower $240 000; `K’ Class non-earners/last start $200 000; and `L’ and Lower $150 000. There will be bonuses for any horse that wins all three of their races in the `Triple Crown’ event with a maximum bonus payout of $500,000. Meanwhile, the grand drawing of the mega raffle is also pushed back to the final leg on April 29, where the winners of the Nissan Tida motor car and other top prizes will be known. For further information, race horse owners/trainers can contact Chandra Ramkissoon (624-9063, 608-9063, 2320633); Alan Padmore (232-9115, 619-1909) or Nikita Ross on 662-4668.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

Shameful! Kent eye semis with - ECB fails to assemble team for female Inter-County U-19 tourney

By Rajiv Bisnauth THE Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) has found itself in a colossal mess, where they have failed to assemble a female squad to participate in this year’s Guyana Cricket Board’s Under-19 T20 Inter-County tournament. It is totally embarrassing, with the administration of the game in that County becoming questionable. President of the ECB, Fizul Bacchus, who was re-elected last January, indicated to Chronicle Sport yesterday, that the failure to assemble a team lies solely on the parents or guardians, whom he said are very skeptical about sending their female child/children out of the Region. Bacchus, who is also the acting President of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), further mentioned that based on the parents or guardian’s decision, the ECB is reluctant to take up that added responsibility. However, secretary of the ECB, Otto Christiani, said the issue is a straight for-

ward one, adding that there is no female cricket playing in Essequibo, and as such the board could not have fielded a team.

Otto Christiani

“Essequibo does not have Under-19 girls. We never had female cricket here (Essequibo), so we could not have assemble a team, but what I can assure is that we at the board are currently working on

a programme to have female cricket up and running in. Essequibo,” Christiani disclosed yesterday when asked for a reason. Meanwhile, at least members of two area committee affiliated with the ECB, whom have spoken on condition of anonymity, believes the administrators at the ECB should have resigned immediately and allowed others to become involved to bring about change and improvement of the game. Further, a release from the GCB indicated that the tournament bowls off today with two matches at the Everest Cricket Club ground. Three teams: defending champions, Berbice, Demerara and a GCB’s President’s XI will compete against each other. GCB’s President’s XI will face Demerara from 09:00hrs while Berbice will battle the President’s XI from 13:30hrs. The tournament concludes tomorrow with Demerara and Berbice clashing in the final round from

13:30hrs at Everest. The teams are as follow: GCB’s President’s XI: Varshanie Ramlal, Latisha Ramsammy, Melissa Torres, Sarai Mangalee, Varshanie Jagdeo, Bernice James, Raveena Kumar, Ashmini Munesar, Tavita Deonarine, Naiomi Paddy, Keba Henry, Kamini Ramsammy, Vinita Ballkishun, (Manager) Kenalyn Baker, (Coach) Clive Grimmond. Berbice: Sheneta Grimmond, Rushana Lynch, Aliyah Baksh, Shabeka Gajnabi, Aliyah Samaroo, Shaiana Barth, Omadevi Matadin, Lafona Gilgeous, Amesha Samaroo, Ameena Adram, Niveena Ramnauth, Priya Singh, Roseanna Sheopaul, (Manager) Stembiso Williams, (Coach) Natasha Gangoo. Demerara: Jinnell Persaud, Shazana Majeed, Roshine Budhu, Yogeeta Ballkishun, Jessica Orford, Mandy Mangru, Ashley Ramkisson, Casey Charles, Chrita Mohabir, Ashtie Motilall, Sarah Amin, Cherry Ann Fraser, Keshamea Frank, (Manager) Heema Singh, (Coach) Latchman Yadram.

UAE book spot alongside WI

easy win over USA

(CMC) – ENGLISH county Kent kept themselves in the hunt for a semi-final spot when they beat USA Cricket by 30 runs in their Group B clash of the Regional Super50 here Friday. Needing a win to remain in contention for the playoffs, Kent looked in danger when they collapsed to 51 for six in the 20th over, after choosing to bat first at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground. But Grant Stewart struck 44 and Calum Haggett, 42, to get their side up to 172 for nine off their allotted 50 overs.

Leg-spinner Imran Qayyum.

Seamers Roy Silva (2-31), Elmore Hutchinson (2-33) and Saurabh Netravalkar (2-43), along with left-arm spinner Nosthush Kenjige (2-20), all finished with two wickets each. In reply, USA Cricket lost early wickets but recovered to reach 93 for three in the 27th over, to leave the game an open affair. Silva top-scored with 50

and Sunny Sohal got 29 but left-arm spinner Imran Qayyum grabbed four for 33 while seamers Grant Stewart (2-20) and Calum Haggett (2-25) supported with two wickets apiece to undermine the innings. With the victory, Kent moved into second spot in the standings with another game remaining on Sunday against Leeward Islands Hurricanes. Their start here Friday left a lot to be desired, though, as wickets tumbled steadily before Stewart and Haggett put on a crucial 87 for the seventh wicket. Stewart faced 86 deliveries and counted three fours and a six while struck three fours in a 73-ball innings. When they fell in successive overs, Kent failed to find any late acceleration and stuttered to their final score. Faced with a modest target, USA Cricket coasted to 26 without loss before losing three wickets for eight runs to be in danger of collapse. However, Silva and Sohal combined in a 59-run, fourth wicket stand which propped up the innings and put Kent under pressure. Silva was forthright in his approach, belting three fours and three sixes in a 57ball knock while Sohal was boundary-less in a patient 75-ball stay at the crease. Once Sohal was lbw to Imran Qayyum in the 27th over, Silva found no more support and the innings faltered.

SCORECARD

West Indies will face UAE in Group A of the ICC qualifiers

CMC – UNITED Arab Emirates booked their spot alongside West Indies at the ICC Cricket World Cup Qualifiers in Zimbabwe, which would start`next month, after beating Nepal by seven runs to win the ICC World Cricket League Division 2 title here Wednesday. With the trimph, UAE have been installed in Group A of the March 4-25 tournament, along with the likes of Ireland, the Netherlands and Papua New Guinea. Nepal, meanwhile, will do battle in Group B along-

side Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Scotland and hosts Zimbabwe. UAE skipper Rohan Mustafa warned that based on the tenacity displayed over the last week, his side would be a force to reckoned with throughout the upcoming qualifiers. “This performance has been such a morale booster that I am sure we will do much better in the World Cup qualifiers,” he said. “The way we have fought back [from defeats during the tournament shows that we will

be a hard team to beat in the World Cup qualifiers.” West Indies, the highest ranked side in the tournament, open their campaign on March 6 against UAE at the Old Hararians Sports Club in Harare. The Caribbean side will then take on PNG two days later, Ireland on March 10 before wrapping up their preliminary round with a clash against the Netherlands. Following the preliminaries, the top three from each group will advance to the Super Sixes where they will each

play three matches against teams they did not meet in the preliminaries. The finalists will secure the final two berths at the ICC World Cup scheduled for England next year from May 30 to July 15. West Indies failed in their bid for an automatic qualification spot after falling outside the top eight in the one-day rankings at the September 30 cut-off date last year. Hosts England, along with the remaining top seven teams, all earned direct qualification.

KENT Innings D Bell-Drummond c wkp Khaleel b Netravalkar 23 Z Crawley c wkp Khaleel b Hutchinson 4 S Dickman lbw b Kenjige 7 +A Rouse c Khaleel b Silva 12 A Blake st Khaleel b Kenjige 1 *W Gidman c Sohal b Silva 0 C Haggett c wkp Khaleel b Netravalkar 42 G Stewart b Hutchinson 44 J Tredwell run out 18 A Riley not out 14 Imran Qayyum not out 0 Extras: (w7) 7 TOTAL: (9 wkts, 50 overs) 172 Fall of wickets: 1-10, 2-33, 3-38, 4-50, 5-50, 6-51, 7-138, 8-146, 9-171. Bowling: Hutchinson 10-3-33-2, Netravalkar 10-2-43-2, Kenjige 10-4-20-2, Silva 8-0-31-2, N Patel 7-0-27-0, T Patel 5-0-18-0. USA Innings S Sohal lbw b Imran Qayyum 29 J Malhotra c Bell-Drummond b Stewart 12 X Marshall c Crawley b Imran Qayyum 0 *+I Khaleel run out 4 R Silva b Haggett 50 N Patel lbw b Imran Qayyum 4 T Patel c Haggett b Riley 0 M Patel c Stewart b Riley 0 E Hutchinson b Haggett 4 S Netravalkar not out 4 N Kenjige b Stewart 0 Extras: (lb1, w13) 14 TOTAL: (all out, 42 overs) 142 Fall of wickets: 1-26, 2-28, 3-34, 4-93, 5-102, 6-125, 7-126, 8-138, 9-139, 10-142. Bowling: Haggett 8-2-25-2, Stewart 8-2-20-2, Imran Qayyum 10-233-4, Tredwell 4-1-12-0, Gidman 3-0-15-0, Riley 9-0-36-1.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

‘I will never jeopardise CARIFTA games’ By Joe Chapman O N E o f G u y a n a ’s t o p flight athletics coaches Moses Pantlitz says that he would never jeopardise the CARIFTA Games for many reasons. Pantlitz, coaching students of Christianburg Wismar Secondary School Track Club, who attended the Barbados Relay Fair, made the statement after his side missed the Amateur Athletics Association of Guyana (AAAG) first CARIFTA Games trials last Saturday. The team to the Barbados relay festival picked up two gold and one bronze medals. The Coach told Chronicle Sport ahead of his ath-

letes participating in tomorrow’s (Sunday) trials at national Track and Field facility, “I will never jeopardise the CARIFTA Games for many reasons.” At the same time coach Pantlitz took time to address his absence also from the Linden Games in the Mining Town which were held over the weekend. When questioned, Pantlitz informed: “Basically concerning the Linden games: I heard of the Linden games by the way. Nobody had really called me to a meeting and to discuss it, I know of an early morning when Ms. Wanda Richmond called me and then said you will be responsible for coaching the Wismar team and Johnny Gravesande will

be coaching the Mackenzie team. And you know when she told me the date, I said to her that that weekend I will not be here, I will be leaving for Barbados. So she said okay.” However, the Lindener added: “But the magnitude of an event like the Linden games, for these things you must get the persons like the coaches involved, because we are the persons on the ground that have to do the work. To make the games a success you must have coaches involved. People can organise it, but as long as the athletes do not turn up there, you really do not have anything.” As he zeroed in on the Amateur Athletics Association of Guyana’s (AAG) CARIFTA

- Coach Pantlitz Games trials Pantlitz remarked: “On the AAG holding CARIFTA trials. As I said to persons I think in Guyana, I am one of the coaches that believe in the CARIFTA Games and why I say that I can go down the road to say that since 2013 I have been producing CARIFTA athletes 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017 I have been producing persons to CARIFTA Games. I will never jeopardise CARIFTA Games for many reasons.” He continued, “The AAG will be hosting three trialsL one on the 11th, 18th and 24th and 25th February. I will miss the first trials which are, as I see it is no

problem to me as a coach. Because at least, two out of three you can catch, I see that as a plus.” Further Pantlitz added: “So we will be preparing ourselves in Barbados, we will not go there to lie down and just be relaxing ourselves. We are going there for a competition and we can even use that competition on Saturday for a trial run. So to me, as a coach, I don’t see any problems.” Pantlitz recalled: “Basically my school had plans going to Barbados since we received the invitation in April last year and put things in place in June. The AAG have only dealt with

their calendar of 2018 in December 2017 into January 2018 and it is then I really see that AAG have a meet on the 11th February for CARIFTA trials. So we could not have turned back by then in any case, since we would have gone through everything including pursuing the purchasing of tickets and acquiring monies and, as I said before, I really do not see it as an issue or problem.” From the Upper Demerara Club coached by Johnny Gravesande, two of their athletes in Chantobra Bright and Ron Green have already qualified.

Magnum “Mash Cup” trophies handed GDF Drawn in Group ‘B’ in Tier 2 over to Legacy Promotions of Caribbean Club Shield 2018

LEGACY Promotions, the organisers of the Magnum Mash Futsal Cup on Friday received the winning trophies from popular suppliers Trophy Stall. At the brief handing over ceremony at the company’s Bourda outlet, Trophy Stall’s Eshwar Bharrat revealed that they are proud to be associated with the event. He said “just keep coming back to us every year and we will be there for you guys, we

are proud to give youths the chance to express themselves and we are proud to be a part of this event so keep coming to us every year.” Meanwhile Coordinator of Legacy Promotions, Dennis Reece underscored that the matchups set for the semi-finals tonight should be “exciting” and urged the fans to come and support their clubs. Lomel Johnson also thanked Trophy Stall for the support and not-

ed that because of the Elite League Football, the semi-final had to be pushed to tonight. The tournament will conclude this weekend with semi-finals being played tonight and the grand finale on Sunday. Tonight’s semis will see Sparta Boss facing Leopold Street while Bent Street clash with Linden based side Silver Bullets. All matches will be played at the National Gymnasium from 21:00hrs.

Legacy Promotions, Lomel Johnson receives the championship trophy at the simple handing over ceremony

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) was drawn in Group B in the second Tier of the 2018 FLOW CONCACAF Caribbean Club Championship, where they played alongside Grenada’s Hard Rock FC, Avenues United FC From St Vincent and the Grenadines and Real Rincon of the Netherlands Antilles. The FLOW CONCACAF Caribbean Club Championship is being held amongst clubs whose football associations are affiliated with the Caribbean Football Union (CFU), a sub-confederation of CONCACAF. The CONCACAF Council, at its meeting on July 25, 2017 in San Francisco, California, approved the implementation of the following competitions for affiliated clubs of Caribbean Member Associations

starting in 2018. Countries were broken down into two Tiers, with Tier One being known as the Caribbean Professional Club Championship (CPCC), which will be contested by the champions and runners-up of the top professional and semi-professional leagues in year 1 (2018). In year two (2019) and onwards, only clubs from leagues that are fully professionalised will be eligible to participate in this competition. The second Tier is will be known as the Caribbean Amateur Club Championship (CACC) and will be open to the champions of the top leagues in Member Associations that have no professional or semi-professional leagues in year 1 (2018) and to amateur and semi-professional leagues in year 2

(2019) and onwards. The winners of Tier 1 will qualify automatically for the 2019 CONCACAF Champions League. The second and third place teams will qualify to the 2018 CONCACAF League. The fourth place team will play one match against the winners of Tier 2 to determine the final Caribbean spot to the 2018 CONCACAF League. Winners of Tier 2 will enter the play-off against the fourth-placed team of Tier 1 for a place in the 2018 CONCACAF League, as long as they comply with the minimum CONCACAF Club Licensing requirements for the CONCACAF League. Meanwhile, it was stated by CONCACAF, that the host venues and playing dates for the second Tier will be announced shortly.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 17, 2018

Guyana officially declared host of ICC Women’s T20 ... Trophy makes official visit to Guyana

Minister of Social Cohesion with the responsibility of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton receives the symbolic cricket bat from Jennifer Nero.

By Rajiv Bisnauth The symbolic presentation of the ICC Women’s World T20 trophy was unveiled yesterday at the Umana Yana, confirming Guyana’s commitment to host its leg of the event. The 2018 edition of the Women’s World T20 will be hosted by Guyana, Antigua and Barbuda and St Lucia from November 9-24. The preliminary round and warm up matches will be held at the Guyana National Stadium and Darren Sammy Stadium in St Lucia, while Sir Vivian Richards Stadium in Antigua and Barbuda will stage the two semi-finals and the final. Yesterday marked another momentous day in Guyana’s sporting history, and in his

brief remarks Minister of Social Cohesion with the responsibility of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton, said all Guyanese should be proud to be part of this “history making” event, as he reflected the history of female cricket. Dr. Norton noted that the Ministry will be working closely alongside the Guyana Cricket Board, Cricket West Indies and ICC to promote an exciting brand of female cricket during Guyana leg of the tournament. Meanwhile, Tournament Director, Jennifer Nero in thanking the Guyana Government, especially Dr. Norton and the GCB, pointed out that the November event in the Caribbean will be the first standalone ICC Women’s World Twenty20 after the past five events were played alongside

the men’s event. The Caribbean hosted the World Cup in 2007 and then staged the World T20 in 2010 when the league matches of the women’s tournament were played in St Kitts, while St Lucia hosted the two semi-finals. The final in Barbados was played after the men’s final and was won by Australia when they beat New Zealand by three runs. “This tournament is significant because it signaled to the world that gender equality initiatives are an integral part of ICC cricket agenda. Cricket West Indies takes it remit to host this tournament with pride and purpose, as set out in the following stated vision and objective. Our vision is to bring the unique Caribbean color, entertainment and flambounce to women’s cricket by hosting the World T20, as the defending champions we aim to use the tournament to attract more children and women to the game,” Nero stated. She added “Cricket West Indies will used this tournament to achieve a number of objectives in its 2018-2020 strategic plans and there are: to promote gender equality; to grow partnership in women’s and girls’ cricket in the West Indies; to discover new champions for women’s cricket; to established cricket as a genuine career path for young girls’; to promote a legacy for

women’s and girls’ throughout the region and to encourage fans”. Nero further stated that each host country stands to benefit tremendously form the tournament.

Also making a special address was deputy director of Sports, Melissa Dow Richardson after which the Lloyda Nicholas Dance Group performed a cultural presentation.

Australia in Kolkata in 2016. The hosts will be joined by Australia, world champions England, New Zealand, India, Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka who have all achieved qualification.

Dr. George Norton demonstrates a classic cover drive.

These includes the: the socio-economic impact, the media coverage around the world which will provide the platform to showcase the host country and the opportunity for the host country to position itself to host world class international and regional events.

Tournament Operational Manager moved the vote of thanks. The next stop will be St Lucia on Tuesday while the tour ends in Antigua and Barbuda on Friday. Hosts Windies will defend the title they won with an eight-wicket victory over

The remaining two spots will be taken by Bangladesh, Holland, Ireland, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Thailand, Uganda or United Arab Emirates, all of whom will compete in the ICC Women’s World Twenty20 Qualifier in the Netherlands from 3-14 July.

Three more matches on this weekend in Milo U18

Part of the action in the Milo Schools U-18 football tournament which is sponsored by the Ministry of Public Health

THREE more matches will grace the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue when the Milo Schools U-18 Football tournament gets going today. In the first of the three scheduled games starting at noon, Sir Leon Lessons will play Cummings Lodge, while game two will feature Masters Academy, taking on St. George’s

Game three at 15:00hrs to see who will put pure masters against School of the Nations secondary. Meanwhile, tomorrow will see Anns Grove Secondary going up against Vergenogen Secondary; Christianburg Secondary playing Dolphin Secondary and Morgan’s Learning Center playing Bishops High school in the last game.

Three more matches on this weekend in Milo U18

See page 35

Guyana officially declared host of ICC Women’s T20 See Page 35

... Trophy makes official visit to Guyana

The real deal! The ICC Women’s World T20 trophy sits proudly on its pedestal, after being unveiled yesterday Umana Yana. Sharing the moment are Dr. George Norton, GCB’s secretary Anand Sanasie, Director of Sports Christopher Jones, deputy director of Sports, Melissa Dow Richardson, acting President of the GCB Fizul Bacchus and members of the ICC Women’s World T20 organising committee.

Mohamed returns to GMR&SC Helm

The tournament trophy. (Adrian Narine photos)

Guyana Jaguars roar to win over Jamaica Scorpions Chadwick Walton celebrates yet another hundred

The Executive of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club. Standing (L-R) Azad Hassan, Kamal Seebarran, Haniff Mohamed, John Bennett, Motilall Deodass, Paul Jiwanram, Sunil Persaud and Azim Jaffar. Sitting: Nirmal Sukhram, Rameez Mohamed, Joel Evans and Hansraj Singh (GTRidez Photo) RAMEEZ Mohamed will start his second term in office following his reelection last evening as president of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC). The club hosted its Annual General Meeting and

election of office bearers at its Thomas Lands facility. Several members of the last executive were returned. Details in tomorrow’s edition.

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CMC - GUYANA Jaguars defeated Jamaica Scorpions by four wickets, in the day/night 36th match of the Regional Super50 at Coolidge Cricket Ground here Friday. The target was revised to 212 off 40 overs following four breaks for rain. SCORES: SCORPIONS 264 for eight (Chadwick Walton 104, Odean Smith 32 not out, Steven Taylor 32; Chandrapaul Hemraj 2-22, Ramaal Lewis 2-36) JAGUARS 213 for six off 38.4 overs (Chandrapaul Hemraj 80, Chris Barnwell 56; Peat Salmon 4-28, Steven Taylor 2-19). Details in tomorrow’s edition. SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 17, 2018