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A well-thought-out strategy No. 105209

(VAT Inclusive)

–– Min Trotman says push for 2020 03 production start was in Guyana’s best interest PAGE

Harmon: 03 Competent police officers available for Top Cop job PAGE

Jagdeo, 05 Rohee to be summoned PAGE

–– to testify at Lindo Creek CoI

THE SHAPE OF THINGS TO COME: Acting Prime Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, and Minister of State Joseph Harmon having a look yesterday at what Guyana’s crude oil will look like. The occasion was the first ever joint bench and bar oil-and-gas seminar at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel at Providence (Photo by Adrian Narine)

‘Dep’t of Energy will have direct guidance from President’ – Harmon 02 PAGE

Broomes moves women prisoners to tears 13 PAGE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

‘Dep’t of Energy will have direct guidance from President’ – Harmon

THE soon-to-be established Department of Energy will focus primarily on Guyana’s up-andcoming oil and gas sector. Minister of State Joseph Harmon told reporters Friday that the department will fall under the Ministry of the Presidency and will receive direct guidance from President David Granger.

Additionally, Harmon noted that the Quintet of Ministers -- Ministers of Finance, State, Public Infrastructure, Business and Natural Resources -- with responsibility for oil and gas has been tasked with paying attention to the organisational structure of the department, legislation to be introduced for the sector, negotiations with

Gov’t approves new Guyana Prison Service Management Board CABINET has approved new members for the Guyana Prison Service Management Board for the period February 1, 2018 to January 31, 2019. Minister of State Joseph Harmon told reporters on Friday that the new board is headed by Dr Melissa Ifill. Other members are Gladwin Samuels, Kim Kyte-Thomas, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, Diana Khan, Daniella Mc Calmon, Sylvia Conway, Captain Gerald Gouveia, Rabindra K Chand, Mahendra Takoordat, Deodatt Tillack, Shireen Andrews. This is not the first year that Dr Ifill has served as head of the Prison Service Management Board.

potential investors, exploration and production licences, public communication responsibilities, the engagement of technical experts, the establishment of a Sovereign Wealth Fund, capacity-building measures, the review of fiscal contractual terms and the transfer of responsibility from the Ministry of Natural Resources to the department. “…It is basically giving more space, authority, resources under the direct eye of the President in dealing with these issues,” Harmon explained. No one has been identified to head the department, but the Minister of State made it clear that whoever is selected will report directly to the President. The move by the administration to establish a Department of Energy follows a proposal Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman submitted to have specialised attention placed on the petroleum sector, given the complexity of tasks that come with the administering of such resources. Meanwhile, Harmon

announced that by virtue of the Department of Energy falling under the Ministry of the Presidency, he will be answerable to the National Assembly on matters related to the department. Additionally, the Quintet of Ministers is to decide on who will head the new department, Harmon stated. On those areas related to energy, which fall under the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Harmon said those areas will not be removed. “Those responsibilities with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure will remain there for the time being. The Department of Energy will be dealing with oil and gas. That is the intention. “Ultimately, a Department of Energy as it says will basically deal with all matters in relation to energy, but as it stands right now, those matters which relate to the Ministry of Public Infrastructure will remain there and this Department of Energy or whatever name we give to it will deal with oil and gas; this is the specific responsibility right now,” he explained.

The Minister of State made it clear that government is constrained by the number of ministers it already has and is not mindful of creating more bureaucracy within the system. He said too that like the Department of Environment, the Department of Energy “will fall neatly” under the Ministry of the Presidency. Last month, government announced that Minister Trotman will soon hand over the oil-and-gas sector to the new Department within the Ministry of the Presidency. The Ministry of the Presidency made it clear that the Natural Resources Minister was not stripped of his responsibilities in the oil-and-gas sector and noted that he has performed well since taking over the natural resources sector. “ T h e N a t u r a l R esources Minister has provided sterling leadership in the development of the sector and it is under his stewardship that significant progress has been made in capacity building and preparations for ‘first oil’,” the

MotP said in a release late last month. According to the ministry, Trotman through his ministry has made significant achievements, some of which include the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Petroleum Institute of Mexico for training and capacity building, the drafting of the Petroleum Commission Bill, Sovereign Wealth Fund Bill and Health, Safety and Environment Regulations and the revision of the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act with the help of the Commonwealth Secretariat. The MotP also noted Guyana’s acceptance as the 53rd candidate country of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) in September 2017, one of the fastest acceptance periods for any candidate country, while the Natural Resources Fund Bill is with the Ministry of Finance and a settled draft is expected to be presented in the first quarter of 2018.

A well-thought-out strategy

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

–– Min Trotman says push for 2020 production start was in Guyana’s best interest

THE push for oil production to begin in 2020 was part of a deliberate strategy by the Government of Guyana to ensure that its neighbour to the west, Venezuela, does not continue to lay claim to the area where Exxon Mobil’s Liza well is located. Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, made this very interesting disclosure on Friday during the opening of a two-day Guyana Oil and Gas Law Training Development Conference at the Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel at Providence, on the lower East Bank. Trotman,in his address to the gathering of legal professionals provided a timeline of Guyana’s progress relative to its growing oil-and-gas sector. He told participants that it was on May 26, 2015, the very day of President David Granger’s inauguration ceremony, that Venezuela, through its president, Nicolás Maduro, issued a decree declaring all of the territorial waters known to be Guyana’s as theirs.

Said he: “It was important to us that we secure and anchor the company in Guyana, and it was important to us that we moved to production at the fastest possible time. “Why? Yes, we wanted economic benefits! But more importantly, because of the re-drawing of the lines by Venezuela!” As the minister explained, though the Liza Well is located some 123 miles off the coast of Clonbrook-Mahaica, yet Venezuela unilaterally incorporated that area onto its map. “The line that was drawn took the Liza Well in,” he said, adding: “Venezuela claimed the Liza Well as theirs on May 26, 2015. Through diplomatic efforts, via the President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, we managed to have that line withdrawn, but the intention was made very clear.” He went on to say, “It is important for Guyana to move to production as quickly as possible, so we could assert when we got to court that production

was taking place within the territorial waters of Guyana.” He said, too, that by so doing, Guyana would have an indisputable fact to present before the International Court of Justice (ICJ). “If it was that there was no production, it would be a matter for dispute as to where the realm stood. So, getting to production was strategic, because it had to do with sovereignty,” Trotman stated, while noting that the terms of Guyana’s agreement with U.S. oil giant ExxonMobil remains the same, but with a few additions. Noting that it is important to understand Guyana’s position, given that Venezuela had claimed full ownership over an area where a significant oil find was made, Minister Trotman said: “It is instructive that this be linked to the picture of Venezuela claiming our oil; it is instructive that the two things are not separate and apart… There has been a timeline leading to certain happenings; it is

Harmon: Competent police officers available for Top Cop job GOVERNMENT on Friday said there are sufficient competent senior ranks within the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to be considered for the post of police commissioner. Seelall Persaud demitted office as commissioner last week after attaining the age of retirement. Assistant Police Commissioner David Ramnarine is now acting as commissioner, until President David Granger appoints a substantive top cop. Speaking Friday at a post-cabinet press briefing, Minister of State Joseph Harmon told reporters that the Force is not headless and in due course, a decision will be made about a new police commissioner. “In the fullness of time, having looked at all of the cir-

cumstances, His Excellency will make a determination for a substantive police commissioner,” Harmon said. “But I can say to you that there are, in the police force, some excellent officers who all can fit the role of commissioner of police,” the Minister of State continued. Meanwhile, as it relates to the reconstitution of the Police Service Commission, Harmon told reporters that the matter is engaging the attention of the National Assembly’s Committee on Appointments. Thereafter, he said recommendations will be made to the President after submissions are made to the National See page 9

not a coincidence or happenstance that Venezuela claimed ownership over Guyana when significant quantities of oil were discovered.” Earlier this year, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres forwarded the age-old controversy to the ICJ. Guyana and Venezuela have been at loggerheads over the territorial matter for decades, with the latter’s army entering Guyana’s shores repeatedly. Thus far, ExxonMobil has found seven commercially viable wells that will result in Guyana producing some 500,000 barrels of oil daily. Meanwhile, addressing the discourse surrounding Guyana’s contract with ExxonMobil, Trotman said that the agreement is no different from others entered into by the past administration. Cases in point, he said, were those contracts agreed between the government and REPSOL, CGX Energy, Ratio, SA Nabi, and JHI Associates. “Exxon did not bring a contract to Guyana and say

to us, ‘Take this.’ We used the updated model that the GGMC (Guyana Geology and Mines Commission) and the government had in place, as was already advertised, to do the updating. So it was the Guyana model that was used,” Minister Trotman said. He also made the point that under the 1999 contract, there was a one-percent royalty to be paid by the government from its share of the profit. He said that in a sense, it was a nominal royalty that amounted to zero, because the government was being asked to pay itself a royalty. On the other hand, under the 2016 contract, there was a raise to 2 per cent of the gross earnings. “So we moved from a situation of zero to two per cent,” he said, adding: “We had certain factors influencing our decisions.” He made it clear that there was no breach of the 1999 agreement with ExxonMobil; that there was nothing that said it had to be changed; that it had not expired.

“Both parties voluntarily agreed to engage in a process of updating, or tweaking it to some extent. So it was not some new sinister agreement pulled out in a dark room some place,” the minister assured his audience. In January of this year, ExxonMobil announced its sixth oil discovery offshore Guyana, adding to its previous world-class discoveries since 2015. According to a release from the company, its Ranger-1 Well encountered approximately 230 feet of high-quality, oil-bearing reservoir, located some 60 miles northwest of its Liza Phase One project within the Stabroek Block. Exxon said that the new discovery provides a new play concept for the 6.6M-acre Stabroek Block. The Ranger-1 Well discovery adds to previous world-class discoveries at Liza, Payara, Snoek, Liza Deep and Turbot, which are estimated to total more than 3.2 billion of recoverable oil-equivalent barrels.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Lindo Creek CoI: Dax Arokium’s wife speaks

By Svetlana Marshall LINDO Creek Massacre victim Dax Arokium had promised his reputed wife that he would have returned to the city before her birthday, and when he did not, she knew something was amiss. Today, close to 10 years after, his death continues to take a psychological effect on his loved ones with his son still searching for answers, the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) heard on Friday. Dax Arokium and seven

other miners were reportedly shot and burnt to death at a mining camp at Lindo Creek in the Upper Demerara/Upper Berbice district in June, 2008. Their charred remains were discovered by his father Leonard Arokium on June 21, 2008. To date, their killers have not been brought to justice. On Friday at the Department of the Public Service, Dax Arokium’s reputed wife, Onica Butts, took the stand before Chairman of the Commission, Justice (Ret’d) Donald Trotman, detailing not only her final words to him,

but her constant search for answers and the harsh reality of being met with silence. Dax Arokium and Butts had lived together for eight years before his demise. According to Butts, the 29-yearold was a third-year engineering student at the University of Guyana and the owner of the diamond-mining dredge operation at Lindo Creek at the time of his death. Pregnant with their second child, Butts said she last saw her reputed husband on June 5 or 6, 2008 at William Street, Campbellville, shortly before he left for Lindo Creek. Responding to a series of questions put before her by the commission’s Attorney Patrice Henry, Butts explained that upon arriving in Kwakwani, Dax Arokium called her and indicated that he was awaiting transportation to go to Lindo Creek. Before ending the call, the 29-yearold aspiring engineer had requested to speak with

Onica Butts

his three-year-old daughter Ciara Arokium, and had promised his reputed wife that he would have returned before her birthday, which was just days away on June 17. “I was four months pregnant with my son,” Butts revealed. According to Butts, Dax Arokium would journey from Georgetown to Lindo Creek two to three times a month for a period of three days to a week. When her birthday passed with a word from Dax Arok-

ium, Butts said she knew that was unlike him. “I made calls to his relatives. I called his brother Dale Arokium to find out if he heard anything from Dax, he said ‘no, his father didn’t hear anything either,’” she recalled. The mother of two said it was on June 21, 2008, that she received a call from Dax Arokium’s brother Dean Arokium informing her that he had been shot dead along with several other miners. Butts said she was in disbelief. “The next morning, June 22nd, I went to the home in South Ruimveldt; soon as I got in the street, the street was ram packed with people, the house was full and everybody was saying they were sorry, and I was like, why are you sorry, why you keep saying you are sorry because Dax is going to come out, Dax is in the hospital, that was my

belief,” she related. Because of her pregnancy, information was withheld from her. But in a quest to get answers, Butts sought an audience with the then Home Affairs Minister Clement Rohee in August 2008 – some two months after. “I went into him. I spent 30 minutes. That man just looked at me silently, had nothing to say to me while I was asking questions, I needed answers…his mouth was sealed, nothing. I was forced to leave because I couldn’t deal with it,” she told the commission. According to her, she was never contacted by the government or any other agency concerning the matter. She made it clear that she was never present when DNA samples were taken by the police in connection with her husband. She gave birth to her son on October 2, 2008. Approximately two years after she received professional counselling, and though her son accompanied her to many of those sessions, it continues to take a psychological effect on him. According to Butts, with the case being opened, her son Dax Arokium Jr has dropped back in school, and continues to Turn to page 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Jagdeo, Rohee to be summoned

--to testify at Lindo Creek CoI OPPOSITION Leader Bharrat Jagdeo, who served as President when the Lindo Creek Massacre occurred in June 2008, is being written to with a view to having him appear before the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the murders. So, too, is former Minister of Home Affairs, Clement Rohee, the Commission’s attorney, Patrice Henry told reporters on Friday. Former Commissioner of Police Seelall Persuad, who was then Crime Chief,

is expected to appear before the Commission on Tuesday. President David Granger had said that the CoI into the Lindo Creek Massacre is pivotal to the unravelling of the tapestry of criminality that engulfed the country between 2000 and 2008. He said that while there were approximately eight massacres during the period of what he calls “The Troubles”, the investigation into the Lindo Creek Massacre is critical in exposing the intellectual authors behind the criminal network that

Clement Rohee

wreaked havoc under the Bharrat Jagdeo Administration. “We feel that the way in which the investigation was

Lindo Creek CoI: Dax Arokium’s ...

From page 4

press for answers. “He is saying that he needs answers for his father, and everybody is with their father and he doesn’t have a father to take him out and to go on tours with him, and it is so hard explaining to him what happened to his father because, I don’t even know because I was never told anything what happened to him. So it is,” Butts said as she broke down into tears. Dax Arokium was the breadwinner of the family, providing approximately $340,000 to $400,000

a month. Today with him being gone, Butts said she is supported by the Arokium family and from time to time receives handouts and additional help from family and friends. Commissioner Trotman, for his part, questioned at what point was she informed that the remains of Dax Arokium and the other miners had been buried. According to co-owner of Lyken Funeral Home, Dr Dawn Stewart, who had appeared before the commissioner earlier this month, the remains were burned at

Le Repentir Cemetery on September 11, 2012, some four years after they were discovered. Butts, like other relatives who had appeared before the commission, said she was informed of the burial more than two years after. But on June 28, 2008, a memorial service was held in honour of him and his uncle, Cecil Arokium, who was also murdered. The other victims include Horace Drakes, Bonny Harry, Lancelot Lee, Compton Speirs, Nigel Torres and Clifton Berry Wong.

Bharrat Jagdeo

handled indicated that there was a high level of collusion by the government of the day,” President Granger had said. “We feel that this will be a pivotal investigation, which will unravel the criminal network which was behind the killings in what is now called the Jagdeo era during

the troubles,” he’d added. He said the report of the Donald Trotman- led CoI will lead to other inquiries, including into the murder of former Minister of Agriculture, Satyadeow Sawh. Back in 2003-2006, convicted drug trafficker, Shaheed Roger Khan had set up a criminal network here, which included active policemen and a number of former ranks, ostensibly to go after criminals, but at the same time to protect his narco-trafficking interests. He was nabbed in neighbouring Suriname in 2006 while fleeing local police, and was later handed over to U.S. authorities. Although the PPP government had sought to distance itself from Khan, the drug trafficker had stated publicly in an advertisement

in local newspapers that he was fighting crime on behalf of the Jagdeo-led government. Khan had also implicated former Minister of Health Dr. Leslie Ramsammy in his escapades, and documents bearing the then minister’s signature authorising the purchase of a sophisticated wire-tapping device were produced in U.S. courts during Khan’s trial. Owner of the mining camp at Lindo Creek, Leonard Arokium, had accused the Joint Services of killing the eight miners. He had said that at the time, the servicemen might have mistaken the men for members of the notorious Rondell ‘Fine-Man’ Rawlins gang that was ‘raising Cain’ in the country back then.

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Finding common cause ANOTHER International Women’s Day has been observed and celebrated in the world’s various capitals. There would have been symposia and rallies, where the more outspoken and radical voices, apart from continuing to draw attention to the still unfair and hazardous state of tens of millions of the world’s women in a male-dominated world, would have continued their demands for greater attention in alleviating same. National leaders, and other groups, both government and non-governmental, would have pledged their continuous support in this seminal battle against gender discrimination, that has become a global cause. In Guyana, there were no national rallies as in those other countries; but Guyanese women were honoured through a series of events as the country observed International Women’s Day 2018. There would have been the usual statements, lauding and celebrating the achievements and status of Guyanese women over the decades, as very illustratively done in this print medium last Wednesday, via a piece, “International Women’s Day: The Guyanese experience”. These very well-known personalities, some deceased, many retired after yeoman service to a variety of socio-economic-political causes; and others, particularly of the present succeeding generation, do deserve their effusive compliments for their more than outstanding service to society. They have done their forbears proud Of course, there would have also been the usual social side of the special occasion: dinners, and cocktails. From all these various instances of celebratory acknowledgement, in whatever form, and wherever held, there is undoubted recognition that so much more needs to be done for the women of this world. Efforts to promote gender equality have come a long way in gaining attention and catalysing change, but there is still a long way to go. Women are now a part of the workforce, but the #MeToo campaign showed that the workplace can be a breeding ground of inequality and violence against women. The movement for gender equality, the state in which access to rights or opportunities is unaffected by gender, has indeed come a long way with its global message being heard in every corner in every region of the world. There cannot be claim to ignorance, for social media has become its most efficient and powerful conveyor. Also, much has been achieved, in many of the world’s nations with women continuing to rise

to very prominent positions of state, and corporate bodies. The answer for change exists in the societal structures, of traditional prejudices, that are of human construct and influenced and are resistant to change, despite the realisation that women are just as competent and capable as their menfolk and should be recognised as such. This untenable situation is not helped, when in former colonial societies, especially there exists in many quarters, a shocking attitude of unconcern, non-empathy. Since we reside in a close society, where social attitudes are easily discerned, It is not difficult to observe at times, the look of disdain from those women who are better placed, towards the less fortunate; or opinions/views on the latter category of women, regarding, for example, the issue of pregnancy and being abandoned by the male concerned, whether husband/companion; or the instance of domestic violence that has become a national scourge in the lives of many of the nation’s women. We should hasten to add, that even reports of rape, sometimes elicit rather surprising comments from some women. Why the indifference, one may ask? Is it because of a different social upbringing that ensured success, and therefore a better quality of circumstance which would have greatly militated against such brutal experiences? There would always be differences in birth stations. It is a reality of life, which determines individual outcomes for all of us, especially women. And we should know that society often places the woman in an unfair category, where she is mostly criticised when she suffers misfortune/travail. Since domestic violence, sexual abuse, and sexual harassment; and gender inequality in terms of employment opportunities and equal pay are common denominators among the general women population, wherever they may reside; and further, since these dark human attributes are in existence, irrespective of ethnicity or class, then there ought to be a realisation that all are involved. No woman regardless of social standing can claim indifference or immunity from such injustices. There is need for common cause, between both categories of women in all societies where the aforementioned, continue to be the greatest threat to gender equality and parity. There cannot be the well-known position of indifference because of “It’s not happening to me”. For even the men, who have been the biggest perpetrators of the traditional male chau-

vinist behaviour, are beginning to finally wake up to the folly of their Stone Age view of women, with too few becoming vocal anti-domestic violence advocates, and representative voices for gender equality. UN Women’s work on engaging men and boys for gender equality is anchored in the belief that achieving gender equality is about transforming unequal power relations between men and women. This involves challenging notions of masculinity and traditional perceptions of manhood. It requires men to question power dynamics in their actions or their words at the personal, interpersonal and societal level and to take responsibility for change. Men need to be engaged as gender advocates – speaking out as active agents and stakeholders who can transform social norms, behaviours and gender stereotypes that perpetuate discrimination and inequality. From a set of four studies, Subra Tangirala, associate professor of management and organisation at the University of Maryland’s Robert H. Smith School of Business revealed that men often refrain from participating in or speaking up about gender parity initiatives because they experience lowered levels of psychological standing than women — that is, they feel that it is not their place to engage with those initiatives. This explanation held even when other possible explanations, such as possible prejudicial attitude or sexism on the part of men, were taken into account. In many parts of the world, there is still much room for progress in realising women’s access to basic human rights such as education, safe and secure employment, and to own property, among others. These aspects require supportive policies by governments, but work is needed to ensure that gender-sensitive policies are implemented and effective at enabling positive change in women’s lived realities. The battle against all forms of discrimination against women can be given greater impetus, achieving greater results with all concerned joining hands and raising voices together. This is a movement for justice that must have the unqualified concern and support of every woman, every man - all citizens, every society, in Guyana and the world over.

Pleased with clean-up exercise at Princes and Russell streets

Dear Editor

THIS letter serves to express my heartfelt thanks to those responsible for the ‘cleanup’ action taken at the corner of Princes and Russell streets on February 14. I am grateful that someone in authority listened to my appeal for help. I am assuming that the Government of Guyana in conjunction with the City Council was responsible for the ‘clean-up’ effort. We are truly appreciative of your intervention in this matter. I was pleasantly surprised two weeks ago, when I saw a group of individuals whom I assumed were City Council workers, turn up

with an excavator and chainsaws and commenced clearing up all the debris, which was so much that they had to work almost the entire day to complete the task. The restoration of the ‘Garden City’ could indeed become a reality sooner than later, if cleaning the city is consistently done with the diligence that group of individuals exhibited. However, as I pointed out in my previous letter, the cooperation of all citizens is necessary if the capital city is to be restored to its former glory. The only challenge that remains for us, residents of the Princes and Russell streets environs, is the unoccupied lot that is not being cleaned by its owner. If the owner continues to be negligent regarding the cleaning of her

property, it will once again attract delinquent persons who dispose of their garbage. Now that the place is clean, the individual I spoke of in my previous letter, who collects garbage from business places and burns it there, is not doing it anymore, but can we say that he has stopped? As long as the vacant property remains with the bushes on it, it gives him the chance to burn garbage in between the bushes at the back of the unoccupied lot. So we still could be bothered by the smoke. Several reports were made, but to date, no action has been taken. This individual is being inadvertently facilitated by the owner of the unoccupied lot. This is not happening anywhere else in the street, because

residents are residing on their properties and is keeping them clean. As previously mentioned, when Mr Royston King implements the Council’s plan to treat with negligent property owners, that property would indeed be the ideal place to start. Heartfelt thanks once again to Mr Royston King and the City Council for your involvement in the clean-up effort (providing my assumption is correct). I know that the council is strapped for cash and cannot do as many things as it would like to do, but you made this situation one of priority. Regards Arthur Taylor

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

WPO remembers Kowsilla on Int’l Women’s Day

Dear Editor

KOWSILLA was murdered by a British stooge when she and other women were squatting peacefully on a bridge when a tractor driven by a scab drove straight into the women, killing her on the spot and injuring 14 others and maiming two permanently. The reason for the strike was because cane-cutters at Leonora estate went to the backdam for work and were told that the estate had work only for half of them. The workers pleaded that they had travelled a long distance and they should be able to get work. This fell on deaf ears. When they returned home, they formed themselves into a delegation and went to the estate, but management refused to negotiate with them. This prompted GAWU to call a strike, which affected all the plantations. The workers were fed up with the MPCA who was not interested in their welfare. They wanted to change their unions and had submitted more than 14,000 notices signed by workers who no longer wanted the MPCA. This action did not find favour with the colonial masters who collaborated with the opposition forces to

break the will of the workers and eventually destabilised the legitimate government led by Dr Cheddi Jagan. Kowsilla and others lived under British rule and were able to witness the different periods of struggle waged by the PPP. Firstly, the formation of the first political party, the winning of adult suffrage, the successive PPP governments of 1957 and 1961, which brought improvements for the masses of people. Unfortunately, our colonial masters and local reactionaries were not happy with these developments. Overt and covert actions were taken to remove the democratically elected government through violence, destruction and killings. Kowsilla did not have the opportunity to see her children growing up, neither did she witness the successive rigged elections and the massive banning of essential food and commodities necessary for life and limb. She did not live to see GAWU gaining recognition, nor the return to democratic rule in 1992. As we remember Kowsilla, we need to reflect on how the dynamics have changed with the restoration of democracy. While she was not an educated woman, she had the political consciousness to be a part of the struggle for

improved conditions for the workers. However, under the PPP/C government, adequate sums were provided in the national budget yearly for the social sectors, especially education, health, housing and agriculture. Women broke all barriers because of the opportunities which were available to them. Fifty-four years later, Guyana is once again undergoing a similar situation. The PNC came to power with a UF coalition in 1964, which they ditched and embarked on a journey of successive rigged elections coupled with mismanagement, corruption, abuse of human and civil rights and an oppressive authoritarian dictatorship. In 2015, they came to power again through another coalition which has become their jockey. The signs of a creeping dictatorship are everywhere. On the campaign trail in 2015, the APNU+AFC campaigned on the sugar estates and told the workers that sugar was too large to fail. The promised 20 per cent never materialised. Instead, they closed the estates and have more than 20,000 workers and their families on the breadline. Even the severance pay to which workers are entitled were denied. As we celebrate International Women’s

Day (IWD) 2018, we do so against a situation where thousands of families are faced with hardships. The government has ensured that qualified persons who were hired by the previous governments were given marching orders, sent on administrative leave or down-graded. The people were faced with massive taxation in two years, which they never had for 23 years. It is opportune to remind ourselves that IWD came about as a result of the poor garment workers who were living on starvation wages and conditions that kept them in servitude. When they took strike action against their employers, it was because they were slaving without improvements in their lives. We use this occasion to remind women that they must stand up together against all forms of injustice. They have the right to work and provide for their families. They must expose all acts of discrimination and victimisation, using the social media and other mediums available to them. They must not allow themselves to be pushed against the wall. Women, stand up and let your voices be heard! Regards Women’s Progressive Organisation

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

City councillor disagrees with foreign travel –– cites M&CC’s financial constraints By Telesha Ramnarine

COUNCILLOR Bishram Kuppen has said he is not in agreement with any foreign travel at the moment due to the financial constraints plaguing the Mayor and City Council (M&CC). At the most recent statutory meeting at City Hall, the councillor further noted that the Council does not receive any tangible benefits from these overseas trips. But Mayor Patricia Chase-Green responded that airfare and other expenses are usually not paid for by the M&CC, and that the trips often provide training to officers. She deemed it “unfair” for Kuppen to say that the trips bring no benefit. Last November, when the mayor and other officers went to China for a little over a week, Councillor Sherod Duncan’s placard, at a protest, bore the words: “Mayor and Town Clerk touring, workers starving.” The councillor, and oth-

ers, took umbrage at the fact that at a time when the M&CC was struggling to pay its workers and garbage contractors, US$25 of Council’s money was being paid per day to each of the five members who travelled overseas. The mayor had said that she received an invitation to go to China and that it was her decision to choose who she wanted to accompany her on the trip. Those accompanying her were Town Clerk Royston King; Chairman of the Finance Committee Oscar Clarke; City Engineer Colvern Venture; and Councillor Carolyn Caesar-Murray. “There’s nothing that I do that is not brought to this Council,” Chase-Green expressed, while noting that a per diem was not paid to the team. She clarified that an “out-of-pocket” was given to those travelling in the sum of US$25 per day. Councillor Welton Clarke had said that more publicity ought to be given to these

trips as they are approaching, as opposed to a mere announcement by the mayor that she received an invitation and intends to go. Although Chase-Green had asked Deputy Mayor Lionel Jaikarran to conduct the most recent statutory meeting, she did not inform him of the specifics of the team’s trip. All she would say is that she would be out of the jurisdiction. Councillor Duncan had told Guyana Chronicle that specific details should be given by the mayor for the sake of professionalism. “It reflects badly on us because even though it was a free trip, our officers still received out-of-pocket which is paid by Council and at a time we are cash- strapped. You are at a critical time in the City. We are trying to sort out our garbage issues with the two major contractors. They have workers who haven’t been paid since October. And then for the leadership to just have gone overseas. I’m

Councillors Bishram Kuppen and Sherod Duncan certain it was not necessarily to bring in any funds to pay those workers,” Duncan expressed. He noted that while twinning of cities is a good initiative, the municipality has not benefitted in any substantial way. “Why couldn’t we

defer this trip to another month where we are on better footing with our councillors and staff? It was bad to be seen spending any money that was unnecessary at this time where we are broke in paying our contractors and our staff,”

he said in relation to the ‘out-of-pocket’ money that was paid to the team. Kuppen also said that he found it totally unacceptable for the team to be travelling abroad at a time when the City was experiencing financial difficulties.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Upgrade for Gordon Table Primary,Nursery Schools

THE nursery and primary schools of the riverine community of Gordon Table located along the left bank of the Mahaicony River, Region Five, will benefit from additional upgrading work this year.

The Region Five administration last year spent $2.6M on a facelift to the school and this year will spend another $3.1M for further enhancement works for the comfort of pupils and staff. Superintendent of

Works, Delton Benjamin, said the Region Five administration will replace the roof of the school, repaint the building, upgrade the sanitary facilities and provide improved security features for the buildings occupied by the

Superintendent of Works Delton Benjamin (centre), Regional Executive Officer Ovid Morrison (left) and Mr Panday, chairman of the Gordon Table Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) discuss repairs and upgrades to the school during a recent visit there

Harmon: Competent police officers ... From page 3

Assembly. “We have urged that the National Assembly give this more attention, so we can have the Police Service Commission constituted in the shortest possible time,” Harmon said, while stressing the importance of the commission. The Committee on Appointments chaired by Dr George Norton has since dispatched letters requesting nominees from four key groups. The Guyana Chronicle understands that since those letters were delivered, the Committee on Appointments has received three responses. In the case of the fourth group, it was discovered that it is no longer functioning and as such, the Committee was then mandated to select another group. This has since been done and the group was written to and a response is yet to be received. By virtue of Article 210 of the Constitution of Guyana, the Police Service Commission ought to consist of a chairman appointed by the President, after “meaningful consultation with the leader of the opposition” from among members appointed by the President. Additionally, the Chairman of the Public Service Commission, and four members appointed

by the President upon nomination by the National Assembly after it has consulted with bodies which appear to represent the majority of members of the Police Force and any such body it deems fit. In the case of the appointment of a police commissioner, Article 211 of the Constitution of Guyana states that the commissioner of police and every deputy commissioner of police shall be appointed by the President after meaningful consultation with the leader of the opposition and the chairperson of the Police Service Commission, after that person would have consulted with the other members of the Commission. It should be noted that there are no deputy police commissioners, but the Force has a number of assistant police commissioners. Subsection Two of the said article speaks to the vacancy of the post of police commissioner, and notes that in the absence of a police commissioner, someone may be appointed to act in that office and that person shall continue to act until a person has been appointed to that office and has assumed the functions thereof.

headteacher and deputy headteacher, among other remedial works. He said the sanitary facilities in particular will be given special attention, since some deterioration had occurred in them. “The Parent/Teacher Association had raised concerns about these fa-

cilities and the intention is to address these concerns once the contract has been awarded,” he said. The disclosure of the works for the Mahaicony River school follows a visit by the Regional Executive Officer Ovid Morrison and a team February last to get a first-

hand look at the repairs and upgrades needed for the school. Under the work programme of the regional administration for 2018, the school is one of several in Region Five targeted for upgrades and refurbishments this year.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Harmon talks up jaguar conservation

MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon has talked up conservation of the jaguar for sustainable development in a recent address at the 2030 High-Level Jaguar Forum, held at the United Nations headquarters in New York. Minister Harmon told the forum that it is critical to demonstrate how jaguar conservation policies and actions are aligned with national goals and objec-

tives for climate mitigation/ adaption and biodiversity conservation, and the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda. “It is clear that new, innovative tools and approaches are urgently required for strongholds and connectivity be secured and existing gaps to be filled, given the intensification of current and emerging threats. “To address these challenges, a regional approach

is required with a common vision for the future of the jaguar and its habitats, and the well-being and sustainable development of communities residing in jaguar landscapes,” the minister said. He also noted the need for deepening regional collaboration that helps scale up local efforts around jaguar conservation and replicate best practices within and across range country bor-

ders. Innovative approaches, including those in jaguar-livestock conflict, need to be identified, tested and rolled out to promote government and private sector partnerships. Such collaboration, Minister Harmon said can serve as the foundation for solid and sustained regional effort to secure the ecological health of jaguar landscapes across the species’ range.

Cross-border and regional plans focused on jaguar connectivity have been absent until the Jaguar Corridor Initiative, which is currently the focus of Panthera and its co-operators throughout jaguar range. The jaguar is the largest apex mammalian carnivore in Latin America, ranging over areas in 18 countries and is a critical component of healthy, functioning vertebrae communities, as well as of healthy ecosystems which are a foundation not only for wildlife conservation but for peoples’ well-being.

Minister of State Joseph Harmon

Women lawyers’ body says women still disadvantaged TURNING its focus towards the plight of women in Guyana, the Guyana Association of Women Lawyers (GAWL) addressed the local situation in observance of the celebration of International Women’s Day on Thursday. Reading the release written by President of GAWL, Ramona Rookhum, was Secretary of the GAWL, Chandrawattie Persaud at the Guyana Bar Association yesterday. The statement read that in 2018, women continue to face inter-personal violence, rape and sexual assault, unequal pay and are vulnerable to sexual harassment by some men who take advantage of women who perceive themselves as powerless. The Association believes that while the recent establishment of the Sexual Offences Court in Guyana is effective, it has not proven to be sufficient in curbing a number of age-old issues. “We are in somewhat a unique position in Guyana in having advanced laws related to protection of women and children, but enforcement still remains a battle for our authorities such as the Guyana Police Force (GPF). “While we acknowledge that training is undertaken and there is continued commitment to provide safe spaces for women to make reports of abuse at stations, there is still insufficiently serious action taken by the GPF to provide victim support,” the press statement said. The organization said, too, that many single parent women in Guyana continue to experience limited support and many mothers are forced to seek the intervention of the court in order to ensure that maintenance is paid for the upkeep of a child. Despite these challenges, the GAWL recommends a heightened level of assertiveness and commended the agencies that have worked tirelessly over the years to assist women to transform their lives. “The Guyana Association of Women Lawyers wishes to salute the non-governmental organizations and agencies who, throughout the years, have worked along with it in projects and activities in urban and rural areas which provided support to women in Guyana,” the release stated. “Your efforts go a far way in supporting Guyana’s women and helping to transform their lives,” it added.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

‘I can write the cheque tomorrow’ –– Sobers says Floyd Doris refuses to collect his money

LESLIE Sobers, the attorney representing Minister of State Joseph Harmon in the case brought against him at the Legal Practitioners Committee, said UK-based Guyanese Floyd Doris has shown no interest in collecting the $600,000 owed to him although the money has been sitting in an account for more than a year.

Doris has filed a complaint to the Legal Practitioners Committee against Minister Harmon over an alleged failure to reimburse more than $500,000 owed to him but Sobers, in a recent interview with Guyana Chronicle, said the allegation is exactly what it is – an allegation and is without merit. In putting the issue into perspective, Sobers explained that Harmon, in his

capacity as an attorney was retained by Doris sometime in 2008 to facilitate the purchasing of a Hadfield Street property. At the time, Collette Britton-Harry was reportedly identified by Doris as his power of attorney. During the initial stage of the sale, financial transactions were conducted among the trio to facilitate the sale of the property. However, the decision to purchase the property was

called off by Doris following issues that had arisen. According to Sobers, the money that Minister Harmon collected from the power of attorney was returned to her with the intention of it being reimbursed to Doris. However, only a portion of the funds was returned and Doris, in turn filed a complaint against Minister Harmon to the Legal Practitioners Committee, alleging that he failed

to reimburse the more than $500,000. Sobers said subsequently he was approached by Britton-Harry for assistance and has been offering same. According to him, during the initial stage of the issue, he wrote a cheque of $100,000 to Doris’ new attorney Ronald Burch-Smith but that was rejected on the basis that Doris said he will not accept the money in parts. He said for more than a year ago he wrote another cheque, on behalf of Britton-Harry, this time to the

THE Guyana Rice Development Board, (GRDB), has dispatched a team of extension officers headed by Entomologist Dr Vivien Baharally of the research station at Burma, Mahaicony to investigate reports of “worms” that have infected the roots of rice plants in some villages on the Corentyne Coast. In a release, the GRDB

said farmers of the No 6368 villages, Corentyne, had reported an invasion of the plant-hopper, a known pest of rice last month, and were advised on methods of control, but now farmers in other areas are reporting an invasion of worms that have not yet been verified. The farmers are claiming that the worms have affected the yields of rice ready for harvest.

The GRDB’s extension officers have verified the presence of the plant-hoppers in the Nos. 63-68 areas, and in this regard recommended measures of control, using systemic insecticides. Farmers are advised to rotate the use of insecticides if more than one application is required. Farmers may also contact the respective extension officers for advice

on issues of control of the plant-hopper. Over the next few days the GRDB’s entomologist and extension team will be investigating reported sightings of the worms in farmers’

fields with a view to identifying and recommending methods of control. Farmers in all rice-growing regions of the country are asked to report any issues affecting rice production in their areas

By Svetlana Marshall

tune of G$600,000 but the cheque was also returned although it was the full and final amount. According to Sobers, he was informed by BurchSmith that he did not receive any instruction from Doris to collect the money. Sobers said since then he has not heard from Doris or his attorney on the matter. The money, Sobers said, is sitting in a bank account. “I can write the cheque tomorrow,” the attorney said while noting that he is awaiting word from Doris or his attorney.

GRDB probing worm infestation on Corentyne rice farms

to the respective extension officers of the GRDB. Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne), is expecting a bumper harvest for the first crop of 2018 with some 56,000 acres sown.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Linden hire cars pulled in

– as police check for stolen car parts SCORES of Amelia’s Ward and Wismar passengers were left stranded on Thursday afternoon, after several police ranks, including detectives, stormed the Mackenzie car park and demanded that the drivers drive to the station for checks. About 20 cars were rounded up to facilitate thorough checks of documents and parts of the cars. According to ‘E’ Division Commander, Anthony Vanderhyden, the operation was an intellegence-led

one after several stolen cars were retrieved during raids at Kuru Kururu, on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, last month. Information was received that Linden may have been a beneficary of the illegal activity. When asked whether checks were being made in other divisions, Vanderhyden replied in the negative. Unconfirmed reports reaching the Guyana Chronicle however, say that two stolen, stripped cars were found in the vicinity of ‘The Dyke’ in Mackenzie.

While many of the drivers were hesitant to speak with the media, one said that they were ‘bullied’ out of the park by ranks, and told to drive to the Mackenzie Police Station for checks. He said that it was over half-an-hour since he was in the line waiting for checks to be done. While this publication was present at the station, two of the cars that were checked, were seen being driven into the station and the drivers were given further instructions.

During Thursday’s roundup at the Mackenzie Car Park During February,ranks of ‘A’ Division conducted raids which led to the discovery of several stolen cars. Several persons,including an ex-po-

liceman, were charged for having ties with a carjacking ring. These cars and vehicle parts were discovered

during raids at North Vryheid’s Lust on the East Coast of Demerara, and at Monument Hill, in Kuru Kururu.

10 NOC children escape during church service POLICE from ‘G’ Division (Essequibo Coast) and New Opportunity Corps (NOC) officials are looking for 10 inmates who escaped Thursday evening during a church service. Reports are that a social worker attached to the NOC, Camilla Gonsalves, told the police that the escapees made a run for it around 14:30hrs, and made their exit through the back gate of the institution. Those missing are Findell Good-

ings,16; Tabbeyana Taylor,14; Kenya Fordyce,16; Avella Gordon,15; Devyani Pachai,13; and Venus Edinboro,16, all of whom were serving time for wandering; and Emmanuel Surrey,16; Joel Edwards,15; Sinnaydie James,15; and Akeema Conway Budhram,15, who were serving time for damage to property, simple larceny and using abusive language, respectively. Up to press time, none of the children had been caught.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Min Broomes moves women prisoners to tears –– with insightful talk about the power of transformation

By Jeune Vankeric THE tears flowed freely. Some wailed, while others sobbed openly. It all happened on Thursday, designated Women’s International Day, when Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ms Simona Broomes paid a visit to the New Amsterdam Prison, where she had a heart-toheart talk with the women imprisoned there about the power of transformation. “All of you join with me and start a transformation right here, right now! “You see, when you go back over there,” she said, pointing in the general direction of the prison proper, “there is something behind that wall that you can touch and talk to that I cannot see. “But I have the faith that you will stand with authority. As women, you do not belong in jail. Start it now! Transformation in Berbice!” Minister Broomes, who is also an activist for the rights of women and girls, shared with her audience stories of her personal fights, one of which almost got her incarcerated. “I missed this prison for fighting for women,”she said. “I was arrested. I fought for some girls; I was assaulted, and they said they will lock me up; put me before the court and remand me. “But you see, I had to be out there to come back here in this capacity to fight for transformation, for no government then could have imprisoned me.” But to get back to the subject at hand, this being that jail is no place for a woman, she said: “You don’t belong in jail. I do not care what are your circumstances; I do not care what you have done. I am not here to point out any crime you have done; you don’t be-

Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ms Simona Broomes as she addressed women at a function at the New Amsterdam Prison in Berbice on Thursday. Seated at left is Director of Prisons, Mr Gladwin Samuels long here. “You cannot take care of your children. Your daughter is punishing; you won’t be able to see her going under the table. You do not belong here; you have to start a transformation in this country.” In closing, the minister urged the group of just under 100 women not to give up hope, for the battle in which they must engage is for those that they would have left behind. “Don’t give up hope,” she said. “You can do it! None of you are failures!” Taking up the charge from Minister Broomes was Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels, who reminded the women of their value and purpose on earth through biblical references. “You must have a sense of worth. You need to understand your value, so that you can contribute meaningfully to yourself, family and country,” he said. He, however, made a very interesting observation, in that while the female prison population at New Amsterdam exceeds that of the males, yet still women prisoners over the last ten years have amounted to less than 100. This caused him to joculularly opine that it

was either women are not committing crime or that they are, but smarter than the men. Noting that President Granger understands the value and importance of women in the home, Samuels said: “If you fail to take advantage of opportunities, you are going to set a bad example to those who look up to you. So, purpose to be better! You must be a change agent when you leave prison! “Some persons left prison and made it to the Office of the President. There is no limit to what you can achieve!” Meanwhile, the programme was punctuated by cultural presentations, the distribution of gift bags, and oneand-one discussions with the Minister, along with photo opportunities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Region 2 rice farmers getting better prices for paddy … many say yield better this year

SCORES of rice farmers in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are breathing a sigh of relief now that they have harvested their crop and are getting better prices for their harvest as compared to last year. Farmers who have finished harvesting, especially in the extreme south of the coast, are satisfied that this crop they are being offered better prices from millers. Last crop, rice farmers were offered $2600-$2300 for grades A, B and C and most of them didn’t obtain grade A, which made them receive lower prices. Many farmers journeyed as far as Vilvordeen to take their paddy, since they were being offered better prices at the reputable mill at that location. So far, approximately seven millers are on board purchasing paddy as soon as farmers take it to their mills. Prices range from $2800- 2600 for grades A, B and C and from all indications, according to interviews conducted with farmers throughout the region, they have managed to harvest better yields. ‘BETTER YIELD’ Farmers especially in the Golden Fleece/ Perseverance/ Annandale/Aberdeen areas have harvested close to 40-45 bags per acre, which they say are ‘some good yields.’ ‘We are particularly happy that millers decided to pay some good prices for paddy compared to last crop. Though it’s not much more, we farmers are very satisfied and also we get a better yield,’ a farmer from Golden Fleece related. Another rice farmer, Haimraj Singh of Perseverance, related that he sold his paddy to the miller in Vilvordeen and he was content, since he was given Grade A. Previously, he was offered grades B and C at low prices. “This year we have seen improvements in the grading system; we have seen that millers are paying more and the weight system has improved. Previously, we were ripped off by millers who would take off a lot of weight, claiming that the moisture content was high. But this crop things are better and millers are competing among themselves with prices.” Millers who are currently purchasing paddy on the Essequibo Coast include Golden Fleece Rice Investment owned by Nazemul Hakh, Sea Rice, Wazir Hussain, Caricom Rice Mill, Arnold Sankar, Old Mac and Imam Bacchus and Sons Limited. Most of these millers’ prices remain competitive, which is sustaining the industry. At the various mills, grading officers of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) are present, ensuring that rice farmers receive correct grades and that the procedure is transparent. Approximately 40 percent of rice fields are left to be harvested along the coast.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Road safety council launches ‘Major Stops’ campaign THE Guyana National Road Safety Council (GNRSC) on Friday launched a ‘Major Stops’ campaign to sensitise the travelling public to the need to observe stop signs and traffic rules in general. The initiative is not intended for the city alone, as it will be launched in other parts of the country. Several disc jockeys (DJs) were on hand on Friday morning to kick start the GNRSC programme, which is geared towards road safety awareness for all road users and not just drivers. Owner and managing director of Hard Knock Life Promotions, Jermaine DeFreitas told the Guyana Chronicle that the ‘Major Stops’ campaign will be an annual event. He said that in order to make the initiative a success, Hard Knock decided to join forces with the

GNRSC, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure and the Guyana Police Force. He said that come April 28, during Road Safety Month, the group will be hosting their first event at the National Park. The cost to enter the event, which will feature some of Guyana’s finest DJs, will be $1000. And to add to the excitement, there will also be DJs on hand from Barbados to entertain the public. DeFreitas said the reason they chose the entertainment industry to get their message across is because it is one of the most popular mediums of doing it. He said the gameplan is to start with Region Four, and as the campaign gathers momentum, move to Berbice, Essequibo and Linden. Ms Romona Doorgen of the GNRSC told the Guyana Chronicle that she is excited to be a part

of the event, primarily because of the novelty of using DJs to spread the word. She made the point that once the DJs are educated about road safety, the public will become more aware of the importance of adhering to the rules. Traffic Education Officer Alfred Park shared with the Guyana Chronicle that he came to endorse the initiative, because he thinks it is a wonderful idea that will help enhance road safety, especially among young people. Popular DJ, Delon who is also a part of the GNRSC launch of ‘Major Stop’, shared with the Guyana Chronicle that as a driver, “we all know it is very relevant presently where accidents are concerned.” He said that as entertainers, he and the other DJs on board

Cutlass-wielding man threatens Brothers villagers – court hears TRAVIS Durette of Brothers Village, East Bank Berbice, denied that he had fellow villagers fleeing for their lives after he had threatened them with a cutlass. The incident occurred in his home village on March 6 last, after Alana Skinner and Aklia Saroop, both herdswomen, were in search of their missing goats. The women ventured onto the government reserve, in the vicinity of the Berbice River, where they saw their animals, but were prevented from getting closer as the area

was fenced by the defendant. However, as they attempted to free the animals, the defendant allegedly picked up his cutlass and threatened to chop off their heads. The fleeing women reported the incident to ranks at the nearby Sisters Police Station, who subsequently arrested Durette. During his appearance at the New Amsterdam Court before Senior Magistrate Mr Alex Moore, the defendant pleaded not guilty to two charges of threatening behaviour.

Travis Durette However, due to his apparent mental challenges, an evaluation was ordered, prior to him being remanded to prison until March 29 for report.

the campaign have been given the task to educate youths, based on the fact that they are well-known to people. He also advised per-

sons to have a designated driver if they will be partying and drinking. He concurred that the ‘Major Stops’ campaign is a good initia-

tive, and as an entertainer involved in it, he fully supports it and is going to do his best to make sure that it’s a success.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Region Two REO defends himself against PAC’s audit queries … says capital projects funded by current savings contributed to the overall development of Region Two

By Indrawattie Natram REGION Two Regional Executive Officer, Rupert Hopkinson, is maintaining that he can justify every dollar that was spent recently by the Region Two administration to execute emergency projects. Hopkinson came in for much criticism ever since the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) unearthed that he used savings from the Region’s Current Budget to execute projects. Hopkinson is, however, contending that he can justify same at any forum that the money that was spent was done in the best interest of the people of Region Two. During an interview, conducted with the REO, he said that currently the PAC has launched an investigation into the six projects that were executed. The projects included the construction of a bus shed at Dartmouth, construction of the Anna Regina health centre, construction of a fence at Unity Park - Phase 1, construction of a fence at Unity Park - Phase 2, construction of sitting area at Cotton Field and landing at Liberty, Pomeroon. The auditors from the PAC had visited the region recently to take a closer look at the projects in question. The REO is maintaining that all six projects that were completed were executed through ‘savings’ and that they were emergency works that were requested by various heads of programmes within the Regional Administration. “While we are not disputing that the use of current allocations to fund capital projects would normally be in contravention of standard policy, we would like to state that all six projects under review were (executed) to deal with emergency situations. This decision was made after direct involvement and agreement of the respective heads of programmes, following their own justifications,” Hopkinson said. In addition, he said all funds were taken from the Region’s 2017 savings of $250,000,000 after all budgeted projects - capital and current - would have been

The Cotton Field sitting area project is open to the general public and will include a covered area, WIFI hotspot, power outlets and lights for the benefit of the Cotton Field community.

Bridge at Liberty Pomeroon - This project is situated in the Lower Pomeroon River and is accessed by a landing. The condition of the substructure had deteriorated to such an extent that closure of the school was requested by the Headteacher. The bridge was considered a dire emergency.

completed. Hopkinson said he was pleased to advise the Public Accounts Committee that the Region’s 2017 savings which facilitated the emergency projects in question were made possible through responsible spending and prudent management controls by the Regional Administration. “Our research found that in the past, such savings were never realised because of unrealistic but deliberate estimates for requirements, such as fuel, maintenance, dietary, purchasing of ma-

terials/supplies etc.,” he further stated. The REO said that any contravention of government policy was not intentional and that the projects aimed at improving the lives of thousands of Essequibians. “While we are apologetic about the perceived infraction we are happy that the Region’s actions benefited thousands of residents, and the accomplishment of the implementation of some 70 additional projects that were budgeted was in fact history-making,” Hopkinson said. The REO is maintain-

Fence at Unity Park Phase 1 - This project was initiated by the Region with additional work by the Ministry of Communities but an entire fence was not constructed upon its completion. The region took the initiative to close the open area by constructing the fence.

ing that the funds spent immensely benefited the residents of the Region

and at the same time contributed to the Region’s overall development. He

pledged to work with all stakeholders despite the many challenges.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Neem, garlic, and pepper steal the show --as annual STEM fair goes to Region 2

By Indrawattie Natram INNOVATION was the order of the day on Thursday as Secondary School students across Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) proved their prowess at Science, Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics. The occasion was the annual STEM fair, which this year is being held under the sub- theme, “Paving the way for a green and sustainable society”. The event was declared open on Wednesday by Region Two Chairman, Devanand Ramdatt at the Cotton Field Secondary School, and saw participation from 29 schools. But what generated much interest was the way teachers and students did their research to assist in paving the way for a green and sustainable society. Scores of students flocked the various projects, and were visibly blown away by the innovation they saw on display. Grabbing a lot of attention was the Abram Zuil Secondary’s Neem, Garlic and Pepper (NGP) project, the main objectives of which was to minimise pest infestation; reduce air, land and water pollution; reduce mutation of the genes which lead to the production of cancer cells; and create employment and reduce poverty. According to the students, even though chemicals can do the same job where eradicating the problem of infestation is concerned, they can cause serious health hazards. As such, the students and teachers came up with the novel idea of utilising organic materials to manufacture an inorganic pesticide that is environmentally-friendly, by using neem, garlic and pepper. Another plus on the concoction’s side is that it will not only help the farmer obtain an inexpensive pesticide, but also have a better yield. Over at the Charity Secondary School’s booth, Ashana Gonsalves explained that the objective of their project was to demonstrate the advantages of aquaponics, one of which is to produce organic food in a healthy and sustainable environment. The objective of the students’ research was to investigate whether the use of

solar energy and aquaponics farming in schools can pave way for a “green” and sustainable agricultural sector. Their project was to promote the symbiosis between plants and animals to produce organic food through the use of solar energy. The Aurora Secondary, under the Information Technology category, displayed an immersive playground, while students and teachers from the Anna Regina Multilateral Secondary School (ARMS) came up with a novel idea of helping the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) improve the mining sector. Their project demonstrated ways of saving the environment by employing what is called “safe mining” practices. The idea behind it is that extracting gold from the earth inevitably means the destruction of the natural environment, something that often runs counter to economic growth and sustainable use of the country’s natural resources. During mining activities in Madhia, residents are often affected by a high level of pollution in their waterways and their water system. The students reportedly conducted a survey in the Mahdia area, where it was revealed that residents there are severely affected by pollution. Online researches were also done to determine a suitable way of handling the pollution. The proposal was then made to have two pits instead of one so that the waste water (tailings) can be recycled. Mining can also be done in the extra pit, which would also be an advantage to small-scale miners. Meanwhile, Wakapoa Secondary in the Lower Pomeroon came up with the idea of making a Marine Cleaner in an effort to deal with pollution. The students said that the Pomeroon and other riverine areas have been polluted due to improper garbage disposal, which affects the environment. The objective of their project was to ensure that floating debris in the waterways are cleared. The cleaner is powered by a clean and renewable source of energy, thereby contributing to a greener society.

Abram Zuil Secondary School and the popular NGP pesticide

Anna Regina Multilateral students explaining how their project is intended to work

Wakapoa Secondary School students gave a demonstration of how to effectively operate the Marine Cleaner

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Blairmont child in dire need of help

--to seek medical attention overseas

AN eight-year-old girl from Blairmont, West Coast Berbice is in dire need of financial assistance to seek medical attention overseas, and relatives are appealing to the public for help. Allisha Rahim was an energetic “little tomboy” who loved playing outdoors, climbing trees, riding her bicycle and being the neighbourhood sweetheart. But in 2015, she suddenly took ill and everything changed. According to her mother, Sudarshanie Ramdin, in June 2015 Allisha started complaining of pain in her joints, and was unable to walk. She was taken to the regional hospital and was treated for juvenile arthritis and sent home. After that, she

was relatively okay for a few months, except for the occasional pain, which the medication took care of. But the other symptoms would soon return, necessitating her having to seek medical attention once again. When, by 2016, she saw that the child’s health had gotten no better, Sudarshanie said she decided to seek a second opinion and was told that it might very well be Chikungunya. She had her reservations, however, as the swelling and redness in the joints were not consistent with that particular ailment. She would subsequently take the child to just about every medical institution she could think of, but no one seemed to know what was ailing her. The one thing she could rely on was the pain medication. Then last April, she found that the child was having difficulty walking, so she took her to see a paediatrician at the Georgetown Hospital, where she was immediately admitted for observation. She would spend a total of 22 days there, undergoing various tests and receiving treatment for her symptoms, among them fever, vomiting and excruciating pain. After being discharged, life seemingly took a turn for the better, until around October when the pain in the joints flared up again. Said Sudarshanie, “In October, she told me her joints had started to hurt again, and I noticed it was red and swollen. “So we brought her to the hospital, and she was treated and sent home. But since then, her condition has worsened, and she Had to be taken to the hospital almost every week, because of the pain, fever, and being unable to stand or walk. “Eventually, on January 28, she was admitted after the doctors recognised that her blood count was low, and she had what they suspected to be leukemia.” She said that due to the low platelets and the child’s weakened condition, the doctors are

unable to do the tests to determine her illness. And to make matters worse, her condition has gotten so bad, she has had to receive platelets and plasma several times daily. When this publication visited Allisha at the Georgetown Public Hospital recently, what we saw was that the once chubby, energetic child is now a remnant of her former self, hooked up as she was to an oxygen tank and other machines, and grimacing in pain whenever she tries to speak. We also found out that she has a lot on her little mind, as she wants to know what she could have done so wrong as to warrant such a punishment. “I am a good girl, aunty; I don’t do nothing wrong. Why is this happening to me? Please let them help me; I want to get better,” she pleaded. Allisha’s relatives have since sought the assistance of Saving Hand Emergency Aid (SHEA), an overseas-based NGO which is currently trying to raise the US$30,000 needed so that the child can be flown abroad to receive advance medical care that would allow doctors to diagnose and treat her. As it is, she can only be treated for the symptoms she is experiencing, but the underlying cause is yet to be determined. And as her condition worsens, doctors here are trying desperately to do everything in their power to prepare her for the trip and make her as comfortable as possible but she needs the help from everyone to make this possible. Persons desirous of assisting are asked to make contact with Allisha’s aunt, Seelochnie Ramdin on telephone number 689-3520 and make a deposit in Republic Bank Limited Account number 7306202 or online at a Go-fund-me page set up by SHEA: http://savinghandsemergencyaid.org/ allisha-rahim or h t t p s : / / w w w . facebook.com/donate/817025588498075/

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Rabada hands South Africa control on day one (REUTERS) - SOUTH Africa paceman, Kagiso Rabada, produced a sublime spell of bowling to take five wickets

as Australia were dismissed for 243 in their first innings on the opening day of the second test on Friday.

who was a surprise pick ahead of Morne Morkel, took 3-51. His victims included the prize wicket of David

Five went down for just for 21 runs as Rabada also dismissed the Marsh brothers, Shaun and Mitchell, and then Pat Cummins for a golden duck after tea. Mitchell Starc (8) was Rabada’s fifth victim, clean bowled to leave Australia reeling on 182-8. “It was important to stay in the fight and it was just my day. I was just on a roll, things were all going my way,” Rabada told reporters.

Tim Paine, however, frustrated the home side by scoring 36 runs as Australia added 61 runs for the last two wickets. Paine was the last wicket to fall when Ngidi bowled him. “Coming from 98 without loss at lunch to 243 all out was quite disappointing,” said Warner. “But if we get the ball in the right areas tomorrow, it is going to be hard to score on because the wicket is doing just a bit for the bowlers.”

SCORECARD

South Africa trail Australia by 204 runs with 9 wickets remaining

Kagiso Rabada celebrates a wicket with his team-mates (Associated Press)

Rabada began expensively before lunch, conceding 47 runs, but then returned to claim five wickets for the loss of just 13 runs on either side of tea and effectively turned the game around. South Africa were 39 for one wicket in reply at the close, losing Aiden Markram for 11 runs. Rabada completed a fine day’s performance coming in as the nightwatchman and scoring an unbeaten 17 runs off 14 balls. He will resume with Dean Elgar, who is 11 not out, on Saturday, (today). Rabada finished with bowling figures of 5-96 while the 21-year-old Lungi Ngidi,

Warner for 63. Warner, who was also slow to get going, found some flow late in the morning and reached 50 at lunch. The Australian opener had been the focus of much of the build-up to the second test, after an ugly spat last Sunday with South Africa wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock in the first test in Durban, which the tourists won by 118 runs. Warner was eventually bowled for 63 on Friday as Australia reached 117-3 but it was only when Rabada trapped captain, Steve Smith, lbw for 25 that the wickets began to tumble.

Australia 1st innings Cameron Bancroft c Quinton de Kock b Vernon Philander 38 David Warner b Lungi Ngidi 63 Usman Khawaja c Quinton de Kock b Vernon Philander 4 Steven Smith lbw Kagiso Rabada 25 Shaun Marsh lbw Kagiso Rabada 24 Tim Paine b Lungi Ngidi 36 Mitchell Marsh c Quinton de Kock b Kagiso Rabada 4 Pat Cummins c Quinton de Kock b Kagiso Rabada 0 Mitchell Starc b Kagiso Rabada 8 Nathan Lyon b Lungi Ngidi 17 Josh Hazlewood Not Out 10 Extras: 0b 14lb 0nb 0pen 0w 14 Total: (71.3 overs) 243 all out Fall of Wickets: 1-98 Bancroft, 2-104 Khawaja, 3-117 Warner, 4-161 Smith, 5-166 Marsh, 6-170 Marsh, 7-170 Cummins, 8-182 Starc, 9-212 Lyon, 10-243 Paine Bowling: Vernon Philander 18-7-25-2-1.39, Kagiso Rabada 21-2-96-5-4.57, Lungi Ngidi, 13.3-3-51-3-3.78, Keshav Maharaj 18-1-51-0-2.83, Dean Elgar 1-0-6-0-6.00 ....................................... South Africa 1st innings Dean Elgar Not Out 11 Aiden Markram lbw Pat Cummins 11 Kagiso Rabada Not Out 17 Extras: 0b 0lb 0nb 0pen 0w 0 Total: (12.0 overs) 39-1 Fall of Wickets : 1-22 Markram To Bat : Amla, de Villiers, du Plessis, de Bruyn, de Kock, Philander, Maharaj, Ngidi Bowling: Mitchell Starc 4-0-14-0-3.50, Josh Hazlewood 5-1116-0-3.20, Pat Cummins 2-0-9-1-4.50, Nathan Lyon 1-1-0-0-0.00

Maiden Senior West Indies call up for Paul (ESPNCricinfo) - A hamstring injury has ruled West Indies fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell out of the remainder of the ongoing ICC World Cup Qualifier in Zimbabwe. Cottrell suffered the injury during West Indies’ first group game, against UAE, in which he bowled only 4.4

Arab Emirates Racing Tips Meydan 08:35 hrs Comicas 09:10 hrs Jungle Cat 09:45 hrs Kimbear 10:20 hrs Folkswood 10:55 hrs Thunder Snow 11:30 hrs Frontiersman American Racing Tips Tampa Bay Downs Race 1 Salsamatic Race 2 Ironwood Race 3 Mighty Scarlet Race 4 Padrinoneverquits

overs; he has been replaced by uncapped Guyana rightarm quick, Keemo Paul. Paul, 20, shot into the limelight during West Indies’ Under-19 World Cup victory in 2016, but their run to the title was controversial because of the fast bowler’s actions. In their final group match

against Zimbabwe - a game West Indies had to win to make the quarter-finals Paul effected a `Mankad` to dismiss the last wicket. In the final, against India, Paul hit the winning runs. Paul has 82 wickets across first-class and List `A’ cricket, with a bowling average of 17.35 and 21.32 in

the two formats, respectively. With two wins in two games - the second against Papua New Guinea - West Indies are currently in second position in Group A, trailing Ireland by virtue of an inferior net run rate. The two sides will face each other on March 10, today, in Harare.

Race 5 Trismen Race 6 Grand Prix Race 7 Gidu Race 8 War Story Race 9 Off Limits

09:20 hrs Eragon De Chanay 09:50 hrs Melrose Boy 10:25 hrs Whatswrongwithyou 11:00 hrs Posh Trish 11:35 hrs Shanroe Santos 12:45 hrs Stoical Patient

Ayr 10:45 hrs What A Dream 11:20 hrs Chidswell 11:55 hrs Crawfords Mill 12:30 hrs Blottos 13:05 hrs Indy Five

South Africa Racing Tips Turffontein 08:15 hrs Patchitup Baby 08:50 hrs Alshibaa 09:25 hrs William The Silent 10:00 hrs Miss Khalifa 10:35 hrs Winter Watch 11:10 hrs Down To Zero 11:45 hrs Imperial Ounce English Racing Tips Sandown

Hereford 09:40 hrs Tara Well 10:15 hrs Marienstar 10:50 hrs Flashjack 11 : 2 5 h r s B r a m b l e Brook 12:00 hrs Applesolutely 12:35 hrs Kauto Riko 13:10 hrs Burrows Edge

Irish Racing Tips Gowan Park 09:25 hrs Saglawy 09:55 hrs Three Swallowsnick 10:30 hrs Wood Emery 11:05 hrs Tongie 11:40 hrs Space Cadet 12:15 hrs Up For Review 12:50 hrs My Murphy 13:25 hrs Derby

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Baird aiming to reset javelin record in Jamaica today By Michelangelo Jacobus

GUYANA’S National Javelin record holder, Leslain Baird, a Guyana Defence Force (GDF) athlete is currently in Jamaica competing today in the GC Foster Classic/ Digicel Grand Prix. The GDF rank has set himself a goal of bettering Guyana’s national record and reset his Personal Best (PB) throw. For 2018 thus far, Baird has thrown at four official competitions and each time he has improved and broken Guyana’s national record twice. In January, he competed twice at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC), on the 14th he threw 70.74m; the 70m mark has become a norm for Baird, however just seven days later on the 21st, Baird leapt up to 73.30m at the same venue. On February 10, Baird eclipsed his PB and in so doing set a National Record of 74.71m.This was just a pre-

lude of greater things to come in the following week when he travelled to Port of Spain, Trinidad to compete at that country’s pre-Commonwealth Games meet. He promptly qualified for the said Commonwealth Games and went one better in terms of his PB and Guyana’s national record, as he threw 74.76m. For his effort he was second overall. In an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport, Baird revealed; “since I came back

Leslain Baird will be aiming for a new PB and National Record in the javelin throw in Jamaica

Fifty-Four goals scored as Corona Futsal continues Fustal action continued at the National Gymnasium with 54 goals on Thursday evening in the Round Robin phase of the Corona tournament. In the first game, Tiger Bay drew Mocha 5-5, with Deon Alfred scoring all of the former’s goals in the 2nd, 6th, 7th and two in the 17th. Amos Ramsay’s Hat trick led Mocha’s charge (3rd, 12th and 14th) with Steffon Ramsay (2nd) Dellon John (12th). Old School Ballers overcame Xtreme Campbellville 6-3 in the second game with Roy Ceaser striking in the 8th, 12th, 13th, 14 and 17th while Rashawn Ritch had one in the 15. Campbellville had a Leon Richardson Hattrick (8th, 10th and 16th). In the other matches,

Future Stars beat New Market 7-3 thanks to Kareem Knights (11th, 13th and 19th), William Europe (8th and 12th), Curtez Kellman (6th) and Alex Gills (7th). Ryan October scored all of New Market Streets goals (15th, 17th, and 19th). Back Circle were also winners on the night with a 5-3 win over Alexander Village. Alexander Village had Shem Porter (12th and 16th) and Dwayne Layne (8th) on target while Back Circle had Jermaine Beckles (11th and 12th), Josiah Charles (6th), Cecil Jackman (11th) and Selwin Williams (4th). Sparta Boss trounced Plaisance 7-1 with a hat trick from Jermaine Junior (1st, 5th and 6th), a brace from Quincy Adams (18th

and 20th) and single strikes from Cleyon Forrester (14th) and Dennis Edwards (12th). Keon Kyte scored for Plaisance (18th) Alpha Warriors were also winners after beating Tucville 7-2 thanks to Delroy Fraser’s hat trick (3rd, 17th and 20th) with Delwin Fraser’s brace (13th and 16th) and Opera Benjamin’s (7th) and Lennox Cort’s 2nd minute goals proving useful. Simeon Moore (18th) and Raphael Edwards (19th) were on target for the losers Matches continue this evening with Show Stoppers playing Kingstown, Channel 9 playing California Square, Leopold Street battling Broad Street, Sophia against Albouystown, Bent Street against North East and West Front Road against YMCA.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday March 10, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 2259230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) NZ won by 1 run (2) Scotland, Zimbabwe, Afghanistan, Hong Kong, Nepal Today’s Quiz: (1) Who were WI first opponents in the ICC World Cup Qualifiers? (2) `Who top-scored for WI women in the first ODI against NZ? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

from Trinidad and Tobago I have been putting in some technique work and at the same time staying in the gym to keep strong.” “I am very confident ahead of my competition on Saturday (today) and I know I will win, but my whole aim is to get up pass the 76m barrier. It is my last competition before heading off to the Commonwealth Games and I aim to make it count.” He also pointed out that the competition at the meet

will be of a high level and he is counting on his rivals to bring their very best as he will feed off of the competition to up his game. “I know two of the guys and they are 70+m thrower so I hope they bring their ‘A’ games.” The GC Foster Classic/ Digicel Grand Prix is a yearly meet organised by the Jamaican Athletics Administrative Association (JAAA) and is being hosted at the National Stadium.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF)

Extra Time

GFF HONOURS WOMEN IN FOOTBALL AS THE WORLD OBSERVES INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY ON MARCH 8 MESSAGE BY PRESIDENT OF THE GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION IN OBSERVANCE OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY Today Guyana joins the rest of the world in celebrating the invaluable contribution of women as we observe another International Women’s Day under the theme #PressForProgress. This focus builds on last year’s #BeBoldForChange and calls attention to collective and greater efforts towards gender parity. The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) continues to make significant strides to facilitate the involvement of more women and girls in the beautiful game of football. Through our technical development strategy, we have in our employ, a full-time Women’s Development Officer whose mandate it is to implement the national women’s development football programme. Through this programme, we have raised the profile of women’s football in Guyana: on a weekly basis, more girls are introduced to the game via the Grassroots and formal programme of the

nationwide GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centres (ATCs) and there is increased national encampment for girls to continuously harness their football / life skills and match readiness. Additionally, in 2017, Guyana hosted the CONCACAF U17 Women’s Qualifiers, which was a major boost to the young female footballers, and the GFF executed the Women’s Development League. The latter initiatives saw the talent and potential of female footballers from across Guyana on display. In a sport that is historically male-dominated, the Executive Committee has committed to gender parity and is continuously building an enabling and supportive environment for women and girls to participate, function effectively and realize their potential. The fraternity has an expanding base of women involved in various capacities at leadership, technical and

administrative levels – coach, referee, physiotherapist, team manager, equipment manager, professional staff etc. The current Executive Committee has three women who serve t o inform policies and execute the mandate o f the GFF, a r e -

markable accomplishment regionally and, arguably, globally. Additionally, December 2017 saw the election of a new president of the National Association of Women’s Football (NAWF) who has committed to the development of women’s football especially in the hard-to-reach areas of Guyana. Last year, we had a monthlong observance through weekly newspaper features of some of the women who contributed to football development in Guyana. This year it is no different; we will honour our girls and women by showcasing them, via social media, in the daily #TheAssist, a social media series, which seeks to inspire, encourage, inform and motivate. This is an exciting time for women’s football in Guyana; the pitch has been set. It’s now up to all of us (football administrators, technical staff, players, corporate

partners and fans) to unite, put our heads and hands together, #PressForProgress and realize the dream of every girl and woman: to live in a world where equal opportunities are afforded to realize their best self. Happy International Women’s Day!

GFF ELITE LEAGUE ON TOMORROW AT GFC GROUND, BOURDA

WAYNE DOVER, INTERIM

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, March 10, 2018

96 days to go … Predicting England’s World Cup squad 96 days from their Tunisia opener GOALKEEPERS Jordan Pickford (Everton) -- Everton’s season might not be going according to plan, but one of their few consistent performers has been Pickford. He has done more than enough to usurp Joe Hart in the No.1 shirt. Jack Butland (Stoke City) -- And at the moment it’s impossible to justify picking Hart anyway. He hasn’t played a Premier League game since November, making Butland, despite the odd error, the clear second choice. Nick Pope (Burnley) -So who to take as the third keeper? Oddly, it should probably be whoever is playing for Burnley. Tom Heaton remains out injured, but his deputy Pope has done a fine job in his absence. DEFENDERS Kyle Walker (Manchester City) -- Sure, he can’t re-

ally cross and he will be in a much lower quality side than Manchester City, but Walke r remains the best rightback

available to Southgate. His comfort at wingback might be especially important. Kieran Trippier (Tottenham Hotspur) -And right behind Walker, as they were at Tottenham, is Trippier. That crossing ability from the right could be vital in a squad without many natural wide men. Danny Rose (Tottenham Hotspur) -- Probably lucky to get in, considering

he’s behind Ben Davies in the Tottenham pecking order, but there are few alternatives: Ryan B e r t r a n d ’s s e a s o n hasn’t been great, but neither h a s Luke

Shaw’s, and probably the most consistent English left-back is technically a midfielder. Gary Cahill (Chelsea) --

FIFA WORLD CUP 1938

... Italy first country to win back-to-back World Cup THE 1938 FIFA World Cup was the third staging of the World Cup, and was held in France from June 4 -19, 1938. Italy retained the championship by beating Hungary 4–2 in the final. Italy’s 1934 and 1938 teams became the only ones to have won two World Cups under the same coach, Vittorio Pozzo. France was chosen as host nation by FIFA in Berlin on August 13, 1936. France was chosen over Argentina and Germany in the first round of voting. The decision to hold a second consecutive tournament in Europe (after Italy in 1934) caused outrage in South America, where it was believed that the venue should alternate between the two continents. This was the last World Cup to be staged before the outbreak of the Second World War. Because of anger over the decision to hold a second successive World Cup in Europe, neither Uruguay nor Argentina entered the competition, while Spain became the first country to be prevented from competing because of it being at war. It was the first time that the hosts, France, and the title holders, Italy, qualified automatically. Title holders were given an automatic entry into the World Cup from 1938 until 2006, when this was abolished. Of the 14 remaining places, eleven were allocated to Europe, two to the Americas, and one to Asia. As a result, only three non-European nations took part: Brazil, Cuba and the Dutch East Indies. This is the smallest ever number of teams from outside the host continent to compete at a FIFA World Cup. Austria qualified for the World Cup, but after qualification was complete, the Anschluss united Austria with Germany. Austria subsequently withdrew from the tournament, with some Austrian players joining the German squad, although not including Austrian star player, Matthias Sindelar, who refused to play for the unified team. Latvia was the runner-up in Austria’s qualification group, but was not invited to participate; instead Austria’s place remained empty, and Sweden,.which would have been Austria’s initial opponent, progressed directly to the second-round by default. This tournament saw the first, and as of 2018 the only, participation in a World Cup tournament from Cuba and the Dutch East Indies (now Indonesia). It also saw the World Cup debuts of Poland and Norway. Poland and the Netherlands would not reappear at a finals tournament until 1974, while Norway would not qualify for another World Cup finals until 1994. A unified Germany team would not appear again until 1994.

Another who isn’t a club regular these days, but he has 58 caps and this is a squad that lacks some experience. If nothing else, Cahill has plenty of that. John Stones (Manchester City) -- Chris Smalling missed the last squad after Southgate noted he wasn’t much good on the ball, so for all his other weaknesses, Stones is the best England have in that department. Harry Maguire (Leicester City) -- The alternatives at centre-back aren’t especially appealing. It’s hard to see Smalling getting in, and Phil Jones is unreliable. Maguire is nobody’s idea of a world-beater, but he’s had a good season for Leicester and deserves a spot. James Tarkowski (Burnley) -- Probably the breakout defensive star of the season, and it will give Michael Keane pause for thought that the man who stepped in for him at Burnley could gazump him for England. Ben Mee could be considered too, but Tarkowski could just edge his colleague out. MIDFIELD Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain (Liverpool) -- Left out of the last squad, Oxlade-Chamberlain has been terrific ever since, proving a few people wrong. Has excelled in central midfield for Liverpool, and his versatility will be a key factor for Southgate. Eric Dier (Tottenham Hotspur) -- Another whose ability to play in a couple of positions will benefit him. Southgate wants some tactical fluidity to his side, and Dier can provide that. He’ll just have to be a bit more consistent than he has been at points this term. Dele Alli (Tottenham Hotspur) -- Hasn’t hit the heights, or the same number of goals as seasons past, but he’s still one of England’s best talents. Southgate will hope his form returns in the closing weeks of the season. Adam Lallana (Liver-

pool) -- In some games England will need a player to pick through a defence, and Lallana is the best England have in t h a t department. Helps that he can play wide and in a forward line too. Fabian Delph (Manchester City) -Who would’ve thought that he could make this squad? Who would’ve predicted his emergence as a passable David Alaba impersonator? He’s excelled at left-back this season, but as he’s theoretically still a midfielder he gets the nod here. Jesse Lingard (Manchester United) -- You suspect that there will always be people who aren’t convinced by Lingard, but they should be. He has a knack of finding a goal from somewhere, and nobody should turn their nose up at that skill. Jordan Henderson (Liverpool) -- Much maligned, occasionally fairly so, Henderson still brings some nous and experience to a relatively callow midfield. He isn’t the most spectacular player, but he is at least dependable. Jack Wilshere (Arsenal) -- The English have a continuing love affair with Wilshere, like they somehow need him to succeed. If Harry Winks was playing more regularly, then he might get this spot, but Wilshere has at least been a fixture in the Arsenal team and had some good showings of late. FORWARDS Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur) -- Not picking the best centre-forward in the

world would be ... a statement. Raheem Sterling (Manchester City) -His early-season f o r m h a s

dropped off a little, but Sterling’s excellence for most of the campaign means he will not only make the squad but should be one of the first names on Southg a t e ’s t e a m sheet.

Jam i e Vardy (Leicester City) -He has nearly eclipsed last season’s goals total, and there’s still a quarter of the campaign to go. The first option off the bench. M a rc u s R a s h f o r d (Manchester United) -It’s frustrating that Jose Mourinho doesn’t seem quite as convinced by Rashford as are many Manchester United fans. But he’s playing enough to justify his place, and his talent more than does. Ryan Sessegnon (Fulham) -- The wild card. Of course, it would be a remarkable gamble to select a player who won’t have played in the Premier League, but anyone who has watched Sessegnon will tell you what a talent he is. A full-back turned winger with a striker’s instincts, he’ll be in the team sooner or later. Let’s make it sooner.

Sports Personality

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

OF THE WEEK

Parsotam, Dasrath bowl Essequibo to 18-run victory - Demerara beat Berbice by 76 runs

By Rajiv Bisnauth Essequibo relied on their bowlers to script a comfortable 18-run win over the National Select Under-15 team yesterday in round two of the GCB’s Inter-County Under-17 one day tournament at the Lusignan Community Centre ground. Chasing a 139-run target, the Under-15’s were cruising at one stage before the innings fell apart. They were eventually bowled out for 120 in 49.4 overs. Off-spinners Badesh Parsotam and Manoj Dasrath shared seven wickets between them to stifled the run chase. Parsotam claimed 4-11 to earn the Man-of-the-Match award, while Dasrath had 3-15. Earlier, Essequibo recovered from 34-4, to post a challenging total 138-8. Ameer Singh and Saeed Hack were the joint topscorers with 41-apiece. Left-arm spinner Jeremey Sandia claimed 4-16, but it was a total bowling effort by the National Select Under-15 bowling unit. Essequibo openers

Wasim Mohamed and Singh had negotiated a nervous 7.2 overs but their hard work was undone by medium pacer Thaddeus Lovell (1-14), when he trapped Mohamed leg before wicket for five. That dismissal set Essequibo slide into motion with Sandia been the chief destroyer. Sandia brought on as the first-change bowler, responded to the challenge by trapping Sheldon Charles leg-before wicket before he bowled Azim Mohamed and Lance Roberts. All three batsmen perished to a series of poor strokes without scoring. However, Singh, who had looked quite at ease right from the start, found a resolute partner in Hack, as the duo put together 47 runs for the fifth-wicket. At that point, it looked like a launchpad for the Essequibians, but the dismissal of Singh in the 33rd over, sucked the momentum out of innings. The right-hander found the ropes on two occasions, and

after occupying the crease for 87 balls, he was trapped leg before wicket to Romel Datterdeen (1-10). Sylvian Williams (6) failed to delivered and was removed by Jonathan Rampersaud (2-25), but Hack and Badesh Parsotam (13), then carried on fluently in a partnership which worth 39 runs. Parsotam was stumped off Rampersaud while Romario Stephen was bowled by Sandia just before the overs came to an end. The National Select Under-15’s started strongly in their run chase with openers Mahendra Gopilall (14) and Nicholas Rajpat (16), settled nicely after getting a measure of the pitch and the bowlers to produce a first-wicket stand worth 42 in 14.2 overs. However, they lost both openers along with Ajay Gainda (2) to spinners Manoj Dasrath (3-15) and Roberts, at 46-3. Datterdeen (12) and Rampersaud (26), then added 31 for the fourth-wicket,

but the wicket of Datterdeen saw the Under-15’s remaining batsmen crumbled. Meanwhile, in the other second round game, Demerara beat Berbice 76 runs. Demerara 160 all out. Andre Seepersaud (32), Sachin Singh (23), Navindra Persaud (22) and Yeudisteer Persaud (18), were the principle scorers. Bowling for Berbice, Nigel Deodat claimed 4-33, while Marvin Prashad (2-26), Gourav Ramesh (2-35) and Doorasammy Mahdeo (1-16), the other successful bowlers. In reply, Berbice failed to reach their target as they fell cheaply for 84 runs off 33.5 overs. The only batsman to offer resistance was Seon Glasgow, who top scored with 21. Nyron Bissu bowled exceptionally well for Demerara, claiming 4-11 to win the Manof-the-Match award. Fellow spinner Hrititik Singh picked up 3-27 while Dwayne Dick, Sachin Singh and Wayne Bollers collected a wicket a piece. The final round is scheduled for tomorrow.

Tranzac Cricket Academy Under-17s open Guyana tour today By Frederick Halley

T H E t o u r i n g Tr a n z a c Cricket Academy Under-17 team will open their hectic one-week tour of Guyana at the Everest Cricket Club ground today against the hosts. The 13-member squad, under Guyana-born coach Sheriff Bodhoo left Toronto, Canada on Thursday morning and according to Bodhoo his charges are extremely confident of success in the scheduled nine matches. Among the squad are Ashtan Deosammy, who recently represented Canada at the Under-19 ICC World Cup, staged in New Zealand and Raqib Shamsudeen, one of three standby players. According Bodhoo, Deosammy has been one of the brightest prospects in his academy which has a reputation for producing quality players over the years. Apart from representing the academy, Deosam-

my also plays for Tranzac Sports Club in the Toronto & District Cricket Association in both the senior and junior competitions – the Under-16, Under-18, second and Elite divisions.

Raqib Shamsudeen

An all-rounder, Deosammy is credited with almost single-handedly winning the Under-13 title for his team, blasting an undefeated 142 not out against Malton Sports Club in the 2013 final. He was also the top scorer (81)

against Australasia Cricket Academy in last year’s Under-18 semi-finals Deosammy, who is of Guyanese parentage, was also part of the Canadian Under-19 side which captured the ICC Americas Under-19 title in matches against the United States and Bermuda last year. He also participated in the one-day version of Cricket West Indies Under-19 tournament in the Caribbean. Meanwhile, many felt that 16-year-old Shamsudeen, whose parents are also Guyanese, should have been part of the squad that travelled to New Zealand based on his statistics over the past few years, Tr a n z a c h a s s e v e n teams in the Toronto District Cricket Association (TDCA) Cricket League which is the official cricket league in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) recognized by Cricket Canada. The teams include: three junior teams: Un-

der-13, Under-15 and Under-19; four senior teams: second division men’s, fourth division men’s, fifth division coed and the women’s team. The 13-man squad comprises: Manav Patel, Aman Patel, Naman Bhavsar, Raqib Shamsudeen, Anthony Player, Nicholas Manbohar, Ramanvir Dhaliwal, Ashtan D e o s a m m y, J a s h S h a h , Rushil Patel, Junit Kansara, Marcus Nandu and Mathew Nandu. Details of itinerary: today, March 10 vs Everest at Everest; tomorrow, March 11 vs Gandhi Cricket Club at Gandhi; Monday, March 12 vs GCC at Bourda; Tuesday, March 13 vs Lusignan at Lusignan; Wednesday, March 14 vs Albion at Albion; Thursday, March 15 vs Blairmont at Blairmont; Friday, March 16 vs D’Edward and Rose Hall Town (T20s); Saturday, March 17 vs Ogle at Ogle; Sunday, March 18 – game to be decided.

Windies A beat Lions by 25 runs CMC – West Indies A defeated England Lions by 25 runs in the second day/night one-dayer of the threematch series at Coolidge Cricket Ground here Friday SCORES: WINDIES A 256 for nine off 50 overs (Keemo Paul 55, Jermaine Blackwood 53, Raymon Reifer 45 not out, Jahmar Hamilton 35; Sam Curran 3-31, Richard Gleeson 3-52) LIONS 231 off 48.3 overs (Alex Davies 38, Sam Northeast 34, Keaton Jennings 33, Sam Curran 26; Jomel Warrican 3-41, Keemo Paul 3-55)

BCB to host countywide U-15 and U-21 Tournaments The Berbice Cricket Board has now successfully completed negotiation concerning sponsorship for all its junior cricket tournaments for 2018. The Berbice Cricket Board has already launched Under-17 and Under-19 tournaments with sponsorship from former West Indies Captain Ramnaresh Sarwan and the New York Business Group, respectively. The Board during the course of this coming week completed discussions with two official sponsors and is pleased to announce that they would also be hosting Under-15 and Under-21 Cricket tournaments for Clubs across the Ancient County. President of the Berbice Cricket Board, Hilbert Foster who is spearheading a massive marketing campaign, together with Vice- President Jevaughn Stephen, stated that the two tournaments would be launched in about two weeks. The Under-15 tournament would cater for players born on or after the 1st September, 2003 and would be played on a One-Day, two-innings basis while the semifinals and finals would be played over two-days. The first innings in the One-day matches shall be restricted to 40-Overs per side. Players like Jonathan Rampersaud, Mahendra Gopilall, Isia Thorne, Jeremy Sandia, Tomanni Caesar, Zeynul Ramsammy and Antwone Alexander, are expected to be part of the Inter-Club tournament which would be making a welcome return to Berbice Cricket. The Under-21 tournament, Foster said is to assist players to successfully move from the junior rank to the senior level. Most players, he stated, leave the game after the Under-19 level as they feel that is the end of their careers.

The Under-21 tournament would serve as an encouragement to continue playing the game and eventually go on to play for Berbice, Guyana and the West Indies. The tournament would be played 50 Overs per side and among the teams expected to play are: Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets, Albion Cricket Club, Port Mourant Cricket Club, Tucber Park Cricket Club, Blairmont Cricket Club, Young Achievers, Young Warriors, No.19 Village, Rose Hall Canje and Upper Corentyne. Among the players who would be on show are Kevlon Anderson, Kevin Sinclair, Junior Sinclair, Sylus Tyndall, Keith Simpson, Adrian Sukwah, Kelvin Unrow, Karran Arjpaul, Omar Weatherspoon, Raymond Rayman and Joel Seitaram. The BCB at the end of the tournament would be selecting a Berbice Under-21 team to play a series of matches across Guyana as part of its players’ developmental programme. Teams interested in playing both tournaments are asked to register as early as possible. Clubs are also advised that tournaments would be held at the Under-17, Under-19, Second Division, Female, Intermediate and First Division levels. Additionally, tournaments would be played within each of the five zones in Berbice “Berbice River, West Berbice, New Amsterdam/Canje, Lower Corentyne, Central/Upper Corentyne”. The Inter-zone matches would be played at the 20/20 and 40-Overs levels as part of an effort to renew interest at the grass root level. Foster also announced that all of the tournaments have been sponsored apart from the Intermediate and a few at the Inter-zone levels.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, March 10, 2018

Romello Crawford betters Geron Williams by a bike length to take the spoils in the 2017 edition

All eyes on Crawford in today’s Diamond Mineral Water meet THE country’s eyes are on Romello Crawford as he seeks to defend his title in the Diamond Mineral Water cycle title at the 13th edition today, around the inner circuit of the National Park. The PSL Trojan rider will hope to continue his rich vein of form but will know the

likes of, Team Evolution’s Paul DeNobrega, Team Cocos’ Jamal John and Crawford’s very own teammate Curtis “Chappy” Dey, who will all be gunning for a return to the top of the podium after narrowly missing out at various meets over the past two months.

Last year Crawford won the Schoolboys Invitational Feature 35-lap in a blistering time of one hour 16 minutes 24 seconds ahead of Geron Williams and Stephano Husbands. Taking the Juvenile 10lap race in 2017 was Dey, but this year will see a new win-

ner. Defending the Mountain Bike race will be Colwyne Archer while Junior Niles will be eager to retain his Veterans U-50 title. Kennard Lovell will also be back in action looking to defend his Veterans Over50 trophy. Start time is 09:00h.

Seven golds, one silver for Guyanese student-athletes - Hooper records PB in long jump

By Ravin Singh in Jamaica Three Guyanese athletes currently pursuing studies at the University of the West Indies (UWI), Mona, Jamaica, claimed seven gold medals and one silver at the institution’s 60th annual Intramural sports on Thursday. It was national high-jumper, Natreena Hooper, who was first to demand the spotlight early in the day by copping gold in the women’s long jump with a leap of 5.59m – a new personal best for her. She then shifted her attention to high jump, clearing a height of

1.83m and securing yet another gold medal in that event. Later in the afternoon, the track and field star headed for the pit again to compete in the women’s triple jump. Her jump of 12.02m went unmatched for the day and she recorded a triple win overall. Hooper was also named champion girl on Thursday, along with Jamaica’s Isheka Binns who also grabbed three gold medals. Sprinting sensation Emanuel Archibald, who recently bested Yohan Blake at a track meet, proved once

National high-jumper, Natreena Hooper, was named champion girl on Thursday at UWI, Mona, 60th annual intramural sports

again that he is the fastest 100m sprinter at UWI, Mona. Archibald utilised the power of his strides to propel him to victory in a time of 10.51 seconds, copping another gold medal. Earlier in the day the long jumper cleared a distance of 7.65m which was enough for him to secure gold in that event. Archibald also ran a blistering 200m leg in the men’s 1600m medley relays to give his team a fighting chance. They claimed silver, bringing his total medal count to three. Archibald explained that the race was a relatively “easy one” for him and that the goal was to correct his drive phase and transitioning. Owen Adonis claimed gold in the men’s 200m with a time of 21.68 seconds, the fastest of any UWI athlete this season. That time also makes him the fourth fastest outdoor 200m sprinter this season in South America. Before the curtain was drawn on the day’s event, Adonis bagged gold in the men’s 4x100m relays, bringing the total medal count for Guyana to eight, which included seven gold. The three athletes, including national javelin record holder, Leslain Baird are expected to participate in the Digicel Grand Prix in Jamaica today.

GFSCA names teams for Orlando Cup 2

FOR the first time, three teams will be representing the GFSCA in a major international softball cricket tournament. The traditional Floodlights will be joined by Floodlights Legends (Over 50) and for the first time, Ariel/ Speedboat will be representing the Association in the Open Category of the Orlando Cup 2. The tournament is set for March 16, 17 and 18. The Ariel/Speedboat is in fine form, winning six consecutive tournaments recently in Guyana including the “Guyana Softball Cup 6” and “Guyana Softball Cup 7”. The selectors of the GFSCA met recently and named the three teams as follows: Ariel/Speedboat - Open: Ricky Sergeant, Vaickesh Dhaniram, Avinash Dhaniram, Anand Bharat, Kishore Kevin Smith, Lennox Walter Mark, Mark Harold, Greg Singh, Shazim Hussain (Vice-Captain), Bepaul Bandoo, Ganesh Narine, Ian Marvin Ivan, Imran Hamid, Devendra Kooblall, Navindra Kooblall and Chien Gittens and Travis Drakes. Floodlights: Lloyd Rooplall, Ramo Malone, Jagdish Persaud, Ramesh Narine Deonarine, Uniss Yusuf, Khemraj Sumair, Clive Canterbury, Robert Mohan, Vishwanauth Lutchman, Mahesh Lutchman, Tulsi Lutchman, Imtiaz Mohamed Saffie, Anil Beharry, Pooran Singh. FLOODLIGHTS LEGENDS Dharamraj Persaud, Lakhram Singh, Ramesh Sunich, Ricky Deonarain, Wayne Jones, Dennis Mangru, Seeraj Bhimsain, Vivakanand Ramsaywack, Petamber Maharaj, Rabindra Singh, Seemangal Yadram, Jailall Deodas, Goordial Matai, Rohan Bhoodraj, Arjune Badal. The association has also announced that the Guyana Softball Cup 8” will be played at grounds in and around Georgetown on October 26, 27 and 28, 2018, the traditional dates. Teams from Orlando, Fort Lauderdale, New York and Canada will join their counterparts in this prestigious tournament. Competition will be held in the Over 45, Over 50 and Open categories.

GFF Elite League Season III…

Pedro Hatrick helps Western Tigers maul Cougars

As the Guyana Football Federation’s (GFF) Elite league continued last night at the Georgetown Football Club (GFC) ground, Hubert Pedro netted a hatrick to help the Western Tigers overcome Berbice based side Cougars FC with a 5-1 thrashing. Attacking football was the order of the night for Calvin Allen’s Tigers and it was no surprise that their most prolific player in Hubert Pedro stole the spot light. He began his assault on the Cougars in the 13th minute with his first strike before doubling his side’s lead just six minutes later. Colin Nelson was the next player to get in on the action netting the Tigers’ third goal in the 39th minute. The Cougars who are yet to win, hauled one back in the second half through Mark Wronge who found the back of the net in the 83rd minute, the Cougars relief was short lived as they conceded an own goal in the 87th minute to hand the Tigers a 4-1 lead. Pedro rounded off proceedings with his third strike in injury time to make the scoreline 5-1. Up to press time Fruta Conquerors were facing Den Amstel, the result of that game will be published in a subsequent article. Action will continue on

Sunday March 11, Milerock United will play New Amsterdam United in the first game at 17:30hrs and the evening’s second match will bring together defending champions Guyana Defence Force and Victoria Kings. In the first match on Sunday, New Amsterdam United, yet to pick up a win, will be looking to score points in order to break

their drought so far. The GDF will also be looking forward to tough matches, prior their departure for the Caribbean Shield. In one match they should be challenging point-leaders Victoria Kings. Admission to all matches is $500 but all women and children under 12 years of age will be admitted without charge, according to the GFF.

Action between the Western Tigers (Yellow) and Cougars FC (Maroon). (Adrian Narine Photo)

Maiden Senior Knock out stage for Milo West U-18 commences today Indies call up for Paul

See Page 26

Action commences today in the Knock Out round of the Milo Schools football competition

THE knock out stage of the Milo U-18 Schools football tournament will begin today at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue. In the first of the triple headers, Annandale will play Uitvlugt

Kemo Paul will replace Sheldon Cottrell

from 13:00hrs, with Friendship playing Sir Leon’s at 14:50hrs, and Masters playing Bishops from 16:30hrs. The tournament is also sponsored by the Ministry of Public Health under its gender-based violence awareness banner.

Parsotam, Dasrath bowl Essequibo to 18-run victory - Demerara beat Berbice by 76 runs

See Page 31 See Page 30

All eyes on Crawford in today’s Diamond Mineral Water meet Turn to page 31

Badesh Parsotam receives the Man-of-the-Match award from match referee Arleigh Rutherford.

Fifty-Four goals scored as Corona Futsal continues See page 27

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SATURDAY, MARCH 10, 2018