Guyana chronicle e paper 03 28 2018

Guyana to ship 15,000 tonnes of 05 rice to Cuba PAGE

AA for Guyana route No. 105228

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28, 2018

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14,551 to sit NGSA today 09 PAGE

Inquest for seawall killings 08 PAGE

City Constable to stand trial 13 for rape of boy PAGE

Jubilant Pathfinders attending the Seventh-day Adventist Caribbean Union Conference Camporee wave the Golden Arrowhead at the opening of the “I Dream of Greatness” Camporee being held at the Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventist CampSite at Loo Creek, Soesdyke-Linden Highway (Delano Williams photo) See story on page 5

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

President plugs agro-processing at North Pakaraima Expo

PRESIDENT David Granger has called on the Indigenous leaders of the Potaro/ Siparuni region to work along with regional administration to improve economic development through agro-processing.

The Head of State made the call during a visit to the village of Tuseneng where he addressed the fifth North Pakaraima Exposition on Monday. According to the Department of Public Information (DPI), the President during his address to the residents underscored that the region has a fertile valley and is capable of producing some of the finest agriculture products in the country.

The Head of State said, “this is one of the potentially richest regions in Guyana…people cannot eat gold, they cannot eat diamonds, they have to eat food and the people who produce the food are the ones who will make the profit.

And so, I am asking the Toshaos to work with the regional administration to see how we can get more food to the miners, more food to the market and this can be done through agro-processing; meaning, that everything you grow can be processed and taken to the market.”

Region Eight spans 20,000 square kilometres and it is five times the size of Trinidad and Tobago and according to President Granger, “this region, is the roof of Guyana, it is the highest part of the entire country. This should be a powerful region in terms of its prosperity

and its economy.”

As regards the development of the Tuseneng Village, the Head-of-State said that he was honoured to be the first president to visit this small developing village with a population of just about 100 people. “I have come here to examine the potential of the community and to see in what ways we can increase the profit, and ensure there is greater participation and provide that opportunity for you to do better. There is hope that this community could be resurrected economically and spiritually.”

The President also spoke of the importance of the exposition, which forms part of the Regional Agriculture Commercial Exhibition (RACE), an initiative which the government has been promoting throughout the country.

Such events, he said, are aimed at creating platforms to encourage entrepreneurs to invest in the regions, particularly the hinterland. “… But we know the big problem is one of infrastructure, getting the products to the markets… It hurts me to know that the only way I [can travel] to the east…of the Potaro-Siparuni [and]… to the west is by something called a ‘Safari’. I don’t want a `Safari’, I want the people to be able to drive from east to west and north to south, just like any other region. However, we cannot do it this week or next month, but we are working to develop the infrastructure in this region,” President Granger said.

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs,Sydney Allicock, who accompanied the

President, told the residents that the government is aware of the many issues affecting the citizens. He, however, pointed out that hinterland development is a process and that process has already begun.

“We are a government that is providing a service to all our people in Guyana and not a section, but each and every one. And, in order to achieve this, we need communication because through communication we can get

President David Granger during his address to residents

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock during his address at the exposition information, and the information is knowledge and knowledge is power. This is not a govern-

A section of the gathering at the event

ment thing, it’s not a village thing or a regional thing, it is an approach by the government for all to be included in the process of development,” he said.

Minister Allicock also spoke of the need for Tuseneng to develop its Village Improvement Plan (VIP), which will allow the people to manage their territory. Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe spoke of the efforts by the government to bridge the gap between the hinterland and the coastland. She also took the opportunity to highlight some of the developments taking shape in the region such as the ‘Pakaraima Flavour’ tomato project in Paramakatoi and the Lapidary Workshop being implemented at Monkey Mountain.

The annual expo provides a platform for local producers to showcase their products, and brings together the residents of the North Pakaraima, tourists, investors, and businesses. It also provides the rest of Guyana an opportunity to experience the rich indigenous traditions through cultural presentations, art, craft, foods, beverages, and games.

Among the villages that participated are Kanapang, Penak, Itabac, Kurukubaru, Kato, and Chuing Mouth.

AA for Guyana route

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

… to coincide with launch of expanded CJIA AMERICAN Airlines, a major United States carrier, will from December this year fly the Miami-Guyana route, the airline announced on Tuesday.

The timing of the take-off will seem to coincide with the completion of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) which is scheduled to be completed by December 2018. When completed, the US$150M expansion project is expected to yield two passenger boarding bridges for arrival and departures; a 450-seat departure area, escalators and elevators, in addition to its extended runway catering for larger categories of aircraft.

Meanwhile, the airline in a release said that it has a rich and robust history serving Mexico, the Caribbean and Latin America (MCLA).

“And American is continuing to grow its presence in the region with the addition of four new destinations. Next winter, customers looking for history, culture and warm climate will have access to three new cities in South America: Georgetown, Guyana (GEO);

Pereira, Colombia (PEI) and Cordoba, Argentina (COR); and one new city in Mexico: Oaxaca (OAX).”

According to the release, American Airlines is also introducing a service to Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE), from its West Coast hub at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), making American the first and only airline to offer nonstop service between these two major cities. “We’re creating a world-class customer experience and as the largest U.S. carrier in Mexico and South America, we are committed to offering more choices with the best schedules for our customers in the region,” said Vasu Raja, vice president, Network and Schedule Planning. “As we look to strengthen our network, we’re excited to add more nonstop flights to places like Buenos Aires, maximizing connections across our network.”

Reacting to the news, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson said, “I am delighted that American Airlines will commence flying to Guyana in December.

This will coincide with the

launch of the newly expanded Cheddi Jagan International Airport and demonstrates a confidence in destination Guyana. not only as a desirable tourist destination but as an emerging oil economy as well. The government has been working at various levels to provide more options to travellers to and from Guyana, to North America, with increased airlift, and American Airlines’ commitment to destination Guyana is recognition of government’s work since coming into office in 2015.”

Minister Patterson back in January had said that the new arrivals terminal building, generator building, pipe installation, pump station and water tank, boarding corridor and passenger boarding bridges would be completed by the first quarter of this year. Works on the check-in and departure lounges and the first phase of the departure terminal, Screening and VIP areas and the south-west runway will be completed by the end of June. All other works will be completed by December 2018.

By Svetlana Marshall

Hicken on whether he could have identified members of the gang, including ‘Fine Man’, at the time. The assistant police commissioner responded in the positive, explaining that prior to the Christmas Falls incident, he had come face to face with the criminal elements on the East Coast of Demerara during similar confrontations.

Additionally, photos of the wanted men were featured in wanted bulletins plastered on the walls of police stations across the country.

However, Hicken would later agree with the commission that the gang, which had caused havoc in the country at the time, was a steadily expanding one. As such, there were new faces.

On the basis that the assistant commissioner of police may have also seen photos of the eight dead miners, Commissioner Trotman further grilled Hicken on whether he had seen any resemblance between them and the “Fine Man” gang.

“I am sorry, but I didn’t make a comparison…Our focus was recapturing “Fine Man” (and his gang), I didn’t make a comparison,” Hicken said in response.

Clearly not satisfied with that response, the commissioner, through the orderly,

handed the assistant police commissioner a document with photos of the miners for him to have a look. “Do they resemble members of ‘Fine Man’ gang?” Justice Trotman further asked and in response Hicken said, “Not those who I have encountered.”

Following up on the commissioner’s line of questioning, Legal Counsel Henry asked Hicken whether it was possible for one of the miners to be mistakenly killed as a member of the “Fine Man” gang on the basis that, the gang was steadily expanding.

“So the question that the commissioner had posed earlier, is whether maybe one of those miners who were killed might very well have been mistaken or maybe bear a similar resemblance of one of the ‘Fine Man’ gang members… you wouldn’t deny that there is a possibility?” Henry asked.

“I wouldn’t know that,” Hicken responded, while adding that the police are guided by the wanted bulletin. Owner of the mining camp at Lindo Creek, Leonard Arokium, had accused members of the Joint Services of mistakenly killing the eight miners; but the Guyana Police Force and the Guyana Defence Force had laid the blame at the feet of the notorious gang.

The terminal building area will increase from 13,431 to 13,737 square metres; checking counters will be increased from 20 to 32, and the runway length increased from 10,066 metres to 10,090 metres.

Meanwhile, for his part, Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin noted that “this is good for tourism, good for business and good for Guyana. Only last week LIAT announced direct flights to POS from ECIA (Ogle) so this will give Guyanese and visitors to Guyana two additional travel options in this year alone.”

American Airlines and American Eagle offer an average of nearly 6,700 flights

per day to nearly 350 destinations in more than 50 countries. American has hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/ Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C. American is a founding member of the oneworld alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries.

American also recently announced a new service between its hub at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Mexico City (MEX) beginning July 5, which will enhance trans-Atlantic connectivity from Mexico.

By expanding its foot-

print in MCLA with these new routes, American will offer up to 270 flights per day to the region. American Airlines and American Eagle offer an average of nearly 6,700 flights per day to nearly 350 destinations in more than 50 countries. American has hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix, and Washington, D.C. American is a founding member of the one world alliance, whose members and members-elect serve nearly 1,000 destinations with 14,250 daily flights to 150 countries.

Hicken grilled on Lindo Creek massacre

ASSISTANT Commissioner of Police Clifton Hicken was repeatedly grilled on whether ranks from the Joint Services could have mistakenly killed the eight miners at Lindo Creek in pursuit of the notorious ‘Fine Man Gang’ back in 2008, when he took the stand on Tuesday.

“I wouldn’t know,” a visibly frustrated Hicken told the commission while being cross-examined by Chairman of the Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (CoI), Justice (Ret'd) Donald Trotman and the commission’s Legal Counsel Patrice Henry. Hicken, who was second in command of the Tactical Services Unit (TSU) at the time, was part of a high-level police team that had engaged in a fierce gun battle with a criminal gang at Christmas Falls in the Upper Berbice River, days prior to the discovery of the charred remains of the Lindo Creek miners.

Based on his testimony that he along with other ranks of the Guyana Police Force had an exchange of gunfire with men bearing close resemblance to that of Rondell ‘Fine Man’ Rawlins and his gang at a place called Christmas Falls, Commissioner Trotman questioned

Meanwhile, prior to being cross-examined, the assistant commissioner of police had made it clear that he had never visited Lindo Creek, and had visited Christmas Falls in June 5, 2008 for the first time based on intelligence and instructions received.

According to him, he was temporarily based at Kwakwani in the Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice district, when he received instructions from the then Crime Chief Senior Superintendent Seelall Persaud to be at the Ituni Police Station for 12:00hrs on June 5, 2008. From there, Hicken recalled, a three-vehicle envoy proceeded to the UNAMCO Trail en route to Christmas Falls, also located in the Upper Berbice River. The team comprised five uniformed Guyana Police Force Officers along with Hicken and three men in civilian clothing.

The team reportedly arrived at Christmas Falls around 17:00hrs on June 5, 2008 and was briefed by the then crime chief that “Fine Man” and four other criminals were on the opposite side of the river. Hicken said that the team camped there for the night, during which they heard “continuous gunshots” coming from the other side of the river. The following day,

June 6, 2008, Hicken testified that as the tactical officer on site, he led a smaller team to the other bank of the river where the gang was supposedly hiding.

Upon reaching the end of the vegetation on the other side, Hicken said they took up “tactical positions,” and observed four buildings on an open land. The buildings included an unfinished concrete structure, a latrine, a store room and a kitchen.

“I observed first on the top storey, there was a mattress on the ground and a thin bone Rastafarian projected forehead, short, rasta hair with a bulge eye resembling that of the bulletin that was put out for “Fine Man” – Rondell Rawlins. On the second flat, again, we had a thin Rastafarian male with a white brief. There was another one in a hammock with a green pants and a green jersey and to the edge of the vegetation…there was another man in brown pants and camouflage jersey,” the assistant police commissioner recalled.

After observing for about 25 minutes, he said the gang opened fire on them after being signalled by one of the men, and they responded. It was noted that the man who bore a close resemblance to “Fine Man” rolled from the

building and appeared to have disappeared.

He said the “shootout between the law-enforcement officers and the criminals lasted for approximately 25 minutes before the men escaped through the vegetation.

According to him, it was upon inspecting the scene that they discovered that one of the gang members had been fatally shot, in addition to several guns and ammunition.

A total of nine firearms consisting of rifles, shotguns and handguns and a quantity of ammunition were seized. Upon securing the area, Hicken said he then called the crime chief to the scene.

The full team, after conducting a thorough search and examination of the scene, proceeded out of the area and it was while on their way to the city that the then Commissioner of Police Henry Greene was informed. Green then informed them that the Joint Services would take over pursuit of the criminal elements. He had noted that they were not equipped with the necessary knowledge and resources to pursue the criminals after they had vanished into the bushes, stating that an attempt to follow them could have resulted in an ambush.

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Cloud services for business community

By Ariana Gordon

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) on Tuesday announced that it will be offering cloud services to the business community.

Speaking at the opening of GTT’s Innov8 Business Forum at the Marriott Hotel, the company’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Justin Nedd said, “I’d like to announce that we are offering cloud services to businesses and you’ll hear more about that- -this means that this would now take the burden of buying, updating software and doing backups and securely storing your information.”

Nedd told the gathering of business professionals and young people that as his company continues to roll out its fibre service to the business community, the use of the cloud service would “free you and allow you to focus on your core business”.

The CEO, who has been at the helm of the company for two years, stressed that the acceleration of technological change must be done in tandem with massive changes in policy and institutions.

It is as a result of this, his company works closely with the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Public Telecommunications.

Additionally, Nedd noted that GTT looks forward to the liberalisation of the telecommunications sector, which he said will ensure there is a level playing field “in a space where everyone pays the same taxes, has the same regulatory oversight and abides by the same laws”.

formation through the Internet ,so that they can become critical and independent thinkers. In that light, he said his company has committed to connecting primary schools across the country to the Internet at no charge.

Additionally, GTT has created an Innovate Fund which

A section of the gathering at the opening of GTT’s Innov8 Business forum Tuesday (Delano Williams)

“This is going to be great for our customers and nation and GTT is really, really ready and eager to have liberalisation,” said Nedd, while calling on citizens to stop being dependent on government to effect the change they wish to see.

The CEO said his company believes strongly in providing young people with access to in-

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stands at $18M. That Fund, Nedd explained is geared at providing STEM education and support STEM initiatives here.

It will provide opportunities to those interested in STEM with the intent to destroy barriers that prevent the less privileged from accessing great education. To this end, teachers will also be adequately trained.

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Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes

“I will be reaching out to corporate Guyana to ensure that in the Innovative Fund we raise $200M per year for STEM education and entrepreneurship,” the GTT CEO stated, while reminding that technology is a time accelerator.

It should be noted that government has made available $2M for persons between the ages of 16 and 35 once involved in any element of innovation.

Nedd told the gathering of mostly business professionals that the constant thrust to improve technology and become a knowledge-based economy would be the fastest way to create a better life for the people of Guyana.

He said “Technology transcends our lives and turns nouns to verbs,” while informing that access to ICT has grown tremendously over the years. He spoke of GTT’s performance in this regard.

“We moved from 19901991, from 19,000 landline services to more than 140,000 at the end of 2017. We moved from zero connections to the Internet to more than 55,000 at the end of 2017,” said Nedd, who said the company’s

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018 gain a deeper understanding of any matter; may we absorb and analyse rather than plagiarise and propagate,” Nedd declared.

He gave the assurance that GTT will continue to invest in Guyana. The company has been in existence for about 27 years.

Similarly, Minister of Public Telecommunications Catherine Hughes said it is important that Guyanese capitalise on the opportunities which exist in the GTT’s CEO Justin Nedd ICT sector. She said Guyana has achievements have not been begun to catch up with the dewithout challenges. veloped and developing world and Guyana with its partners HUGE GROWTH will stop at nothing to ensure it There has been more than becomes a fully digitised nation 5000 per cent growth in Internet in the shortest possible time. capacity since 2010, and accord“The constant restraint we ing to Nedd, with multiple re- hear is that there is so little dundant, undersea and terrestrial time to get prepared,” she said, routes in Suriname and French noting that while there is apGuiana, GTT has been able to proximately two years before oil provide its customers with a production starts here, the time resilient network that is capable is now to push full steam ahead. of handling the country’s Inter“Everyone is counting down net traffic. the time when we set into mo“My vision is to create a tion the required legislation, the country that is not only con- protection for data and infranected using our network, but structure and an easy investment we want to create a national platform,” she said, while assurrenaissance and in some cases ing that things are being done an awakening, so that our citi- simultaneously to get Guyana zens will learn to think critically where it needs to be. In fact, she and creatively as opposed to said the drafting of legislation is being fed disinformation by the an ongoing process. loudest voices in the room,” he Hughes said Guyana’s instated. vestment portfolio has expanded According to the CEO, it tremendously over the past few is his company’s vision to give years since the announcement of children confidence through oil here. She said opportunities science, technology, engineering abound and any limitation to and math. taking advantage of same lies “We want to give them the in the individual. confidence to stand as equals “There is an amazingly to any man, woman and child broad spectrum of opportunities, across the world. Our vision is upstream, downstream of the to ensure our people are always new oil and gas industry and of confident in asking why, five course in our new ICT sector,” times over so that we may get she said. to the truth of any matter and She reminded that before Guyana got on board this new ICT train, Guyana did have a number of start-up groups of young people who were quietly creating applications and winning hackathons and code sprints around the world.

Prior to 2015, when her administration took office, the minister said there was no national platform or enough governmental support or functioning ICT infrastructure. “I am happy that we are building and providing that now,” she said.

She applauded several young and budding innovators and business owners who were known in other countries of the world, but not well enough here. The minister singled out a few including Intellect Storm which created the online directory, Vision 75 who won the hackathon, and Innovative Systems which created the agricultural exchange application that would be able to link farmers with potential markets.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Adventist youths in ‘wilderness’ camp …President urges protection of environment

By Lisa Hamilton PRESIDENT David Granger has urged scores of overseas and local youth campers participating in a five-day Survival and Wilderness Training Camp to reach for greatness and to protect their future by preserving the environment.

President Granger was invited to deliver the feature address and to receive the presidential salute at the programme, which was packed with presentations of Guyana’s cultural diversity.

Present too, were: Minister within the Ministry of Public Health, Karen Cummings; Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams; Di-

the environment and climate change.

He acknowledged that most of the campers present are at the stage in their lives where the lessons they learn and the decisions they make will impact who they become and therefore congratulated the organisation for its emphasis on youth. “This organisation,

ed Guyana as home to many of the world’s largest animals and protected forests, while expounding on the country’s

In keeping with the theme, he admonished the youths to not only dream of greatness but to achieve it, by becoming

Pathfinders and Master Guides wowed the crowd with a uniform parade marking the first day of the survival camp (Photos by Delano Williams)

President David Granger addresses the gathering at the Loo Creek campsite

The President made this call at the Guyana Conference of Seventh-day Adventists’ campsite, located at LooCreek on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway, where close to 3000 campers are participating in a Caribbean-wide Camporee being held under the theme, “I Dream of Greatness.”

The camp comes under the Caribbean Union Conference which includes countries of the Leeward Islands, Virgin Islands, Windward Islands as well as Guyana and Suriname. At the opening ceremony,

Cultural presentations performed by the National School of Dance

rector of Youth, Melissa Carmichael; outgoing Mayor of Linden, Carwyn Holland and his deputy Aneka Arrindell, as well as Region 10 Chairman, Renis Morian, among others.

There were also cultural performances from the National School of Dance, the National Steel Orchestra, the Acapella group ‘The Circle of Love’, as well as the various countries represented. President Granger, in his delivery of the feature address, matched the energy of the youthful crowd as he spoke on the topics of leadership,

this pathfinder club, plays a vital role in your intellectual, your physical, your social and your religious development,” the Guyanese leader stated, adding: “This organisation will help you and is helping you to develop an appreciation for the love of God and for its church.

It will help you to develop your own talents, your own potential…it will help you to develop skills, so that when you become adults you can handle the challenges of life.”

President Granger welcomed the visitors and present-

‘green’ initiative to serve as the “lungs of the earth”.

The campsite was highlighted as one such example of how Guyana must protect its natural assets as it joins with the rest of the world in the fight against climate change, which the President pointed out was “very real”.

He stated that the negative effects of climate change are present in the formations of hurricanes which have damaged and continue to threaten many of the countries represented at the camp. As such, he implored both the local and international youths to be protectors of their environment, while quoting passages from the book of Genesis which speak to God’s creation of nature.

Guyana to ship 15,000 tonnes of rice to Cuba A CUBAN-OWNED company, ALIMPORT, will be shipping from Guyana 15,000 metric tonnes of rice this month.

The rice is being supplied

by Hack and Sons Rice Milling Complex. Three Cuban representatives of the company arrived in Guyana on Monday to ensure and oversee the entire process. The company also plans on taking 15,000 metric tonnes more in the new month, while another batch of 30,000 tonnes will be loaded onto another ship later in the year to head to Cuba.

The Cubans noted that Caribbean countries should support each other in a path of development. Representative of ALIMPORT, Reynaldo Labora, said the agreement between the two companies has been in the making for a long time, so he is confident that it is the beginning of a long-lasting business relationship.

After a downward spiral, rice seems to be climbing its way back up the ladder. The

Ministry of Agriculture had reported that harvesting of the first crop of 2017 ended with a total of 89,290 hectares, 23 per cent over the first crop in 2016.

For the first crop of 2017, exports amounted to 239,442 metric tonnes, some 60,000 tonnes less than that for the

same period last year. Foreign exchange earnings from rice and paddy amounted to US$92,026. The GRDB has projected a second-crop target of 85,021 hectares. The board is also assisting farmers and has commenced issuing fertiliser to farmers on credit;

the provision of quality seed paddy is also being assured.

many of the great leaders that the future needs. “I urge Pathfinders to become path breakers in helping to protect God’s creation which is Mother Earth; I encourage you to spread the gospel of care, of protection, of respect for the environment,” the President said.

Following his address, Caribbean Youth Director, Pastor Anthony Hall on behalf of the Caribbean Union of Seventh-Day Adventists, presented the Head of State with a token of appreciation for taking the time out the speak at the camp’s launching.

The camp will see Pathfinders participating in competition and training events such as first aid, semaphore, fire building, obstacle course, athletics and more.

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Editorial The Rum Industry

A KEY element of f re e - m a r k e t d r i v e n national development is promoting business growth, both in smaller enterprises and large corporations. This is because businesses act as a driver of economic growth, and while this is not the only important development measure, a robust growth rate generally indicates that economic conditions are improving in the local economy.

Progress in Guyana’s rum industry as recently demonstrated by DDL’s new rum-ageing facility, is thus an indicator of national development that Guyanese can certainly be optimistic about. This

$340 Million facility represents a sizeable investment which points to that company’s firm belief in the lasting profitability of the rum industry.

It is no wonder, given such positive sentiments, that DDL’s proposed acquisition of a sugar estate at Enmore continues to progress. Such an acquisition would at base ensure not only that Guyanese continue to enjoy rum, but also potentially allow DDL to both expand operations and cut costs. Such business growth, which can hopefully extend to other firms in the industry as well, will also generate both tax revenue and new jobs, spreading

these gains throughout the economy.

What is interesting to note about this particular situation, however, is that it is likely to lead to an unprofitable industry being converted into a profitable one without government subsidisation or significant intervention. DDL’s privatised estate is likely to be run very efficiently, due to the private enterprise’s focus on profitability and this same focus will guide the estate’s output to their most productive use, rum.

Who knows, maybe as DDL grows, it may look to take ownership of more than one estate and if Banks DIH performs

similarly with its rum products, it could follow suit. This may even lead to expanded cane production and the reopening of some estates in the distant future, but in a way much different to GUYSUCO’s long-standing, loss-bearing approach.

A d m i t t e d l y, t h e r e will continue to be much more needed to help sugar communities through this transition period, but at the very least we can see some of the positive elements that privatisation sometimes brings to industries. Will this be the case with other firms that attempt to purchase and restructure estates?

DDL and the rum industry may be a unique case,

Lewis cannot see the positives taking place in Guyana Dear Sir,

MR Editor, please allow me some space to reply to Lincoln Lewis’s rant, Stabroek News, March 21st, 2018. What Lewis said, we have heard ad nauseam. There was nothing new, it was the same old rant about defending and helping the downtrodden.

The crux of this matter is, who hired these two gentlemen in the first place.

Their strident calls that it is the government who pulled the strings that is responsible for their dismissal, puts one in the position to assume: (fully recognising the dictum to assume) that they were either solicited, invited, requested, begged or even coerced to lend their expertise to the slumbering Chronicle.

Now if a government person – man or woman

-- did entreat them to come aboard, then in the name of transparency, it is incumbent for the two to make the situation crystal. If not, they owe the Editor of the Chronicle an apology. Anyone who read the Chronicle during Lewis’ and Hinds’ sojourn could have easily recognised it was a bed made for their personal agenda. Lewis with all of the union undertaking (not forgetting Rusal) along with his profound knowledge of the government’s inadequacy; and Hinds’s foresight into politics that is unparalleled.

Two things in Lewis’s rant struck me. According to him, “when I stood at the rostrum at the Labour Day rally and called on the workers/citizens to fire the PPP/C and hire the APNU+AFC come 15th May!” and the second

thing was his boast: “when the current government was in opposition it benefited from my criticisms of the PPP/C government.”

If Lewis did not allow his great activist ego to get in the way and was astute as he should have been, he would have placed his ears to the ground and listened to the “Tom-Toms” that were constantly beating out two words to the PPP/C “Get Out…” Patting himself on the back, thinking that his speeches made an impact is naive at best and self-aggrandisement at worst.

Lewis failed to recognise that the voting people in Guyana had had enough of the type of governance that the PPP/C espoused and were prepared to remove them by any means necessary.

He missed how euphoric

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

but principles which emphasise profitability are a good start as the sugar industry attempts to get back on its feet.

To k e e p G u y a n a growing, we must thus look to support our businesses -- both large and small -- but this does not always mean government intervention. Finding ways to let the free market solve national development

challenges is not always the answer, but that does not mean it cannot sometimes be the right solution. Perhaps DDL’s takeover of the sugar estate at Enmore will yield a guide that serves us well locally. One way or another, however, it at least seems Guyanese can look forward to the rum industry continuing to prosper for the foreseeable future.

We can move beyond an old way of producing sugar Dear Editor,

the population was after the results came out. The weight had been lifted from their shoulders. It compelled residents to dance in the streets. Lewis, like some other people in Guyana speaking from their lofty positions, cannot see any positives taking place in this country. Their mantra is to put down and criticise.

They can only see the dirty underwear -- real or imagined.

On the matter of the subvention, its reinstatement was a favour granted by the coalition.

For sure, if the PPP/C had won the elections, there would have been no subvention, regardless of what Burnham did in the past.

THE Guyana Times published an interesting article about the upstream effect closing sugar estates has had, as private farmers supplying canefields have obviously been affected by the closure of sugar estates, both recently and in previous years. It’s good that this has been brought to light and understandably, these farmers will face a similar transitional period to GUYSUCO workers.

But this is not the full story, as the sunset of a major firm in an industry does not always mean the decline of that entire sector. In fact, the opposite can often be true.

“Mango pelters,” or the sturdy old Nokias that Guyanese were fond of yesteryear, are an example of Nokia at its prime. Clearly, people don’t use Nokias as much as they used to, but that has not in any way been the end of the company and its workers. Many who were laid off started their own companies making use of what they had learnt while working for such a large and well-known firm. They had built up skills, and this is very much what private sugar workers have certainly done over the years. Even further, as private companies they won’t be burdened by many of GUYSUCO’s ills.

Perhaps they should consider expanding their own operations as they both have skills required and can develop more efficient production. It is important to remain open-minded when difficulties arise, as they can just as easily become opportunities. Guyanese sugar has a long track record of success, because sugar grows well in this environment, and perhaps the industry will best be moved forward by allowing these private farmers to flourish. Just as the Finnish have moved beyond the “Mango pelters” of yesteryear, we can move beyond an old way of producing sugar.

Regards Milton Bruce

Regards Troy Douglas

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Foster’s leadership has inspired hope for cricket in Guyana Dear Editor,

I HAVE studiously observed and assessed the positive impact which newly elected President of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) Mr Hilbert Foster has already delivered on the cricketing scene in Guyana. Noteworthy too is the overwhelming public support he has received, including from former test cricketers Ramnaresh Sarwan and Mahendra Nagamootoo. Despite our cricketers excelling personally, which has led to the team winning tournaments regionally, the institutional establishment for continuity is fundamentally weak and lacking conceptual growth. Just how can the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) advance our local standard without a level playing field? The deliberate exclusion of the BCB as well as the Georgetown Cricket Association and the East Coast Cricket Board in the past must be viewed as a grave concern to all stakeholders, including the government. It is incomprehensible therefore that the governing body, whilst determined to forge ahead, remained

headless.

It was the Essequibo Cricket Board (ECB) who was swift to acknowledge that Essequibo’s cricket was on the rise after the franchise team won the three-day title last year. Regrettably though, it was an overstatement and publicity stunt since embarrassingly, the county’s cricketing standard never soared or got off its feet under the leadership of Fizul Bacchus.

Most of the players who represented the county in that tournament ply their trade in Georgetown, since it is impossible for them to even have a proper net session in Essequibo. Incidentally, Bacchus is the acting President of the GCB and whose function is ignominiously ceremonious. It is within this context therefore that I view Mr Foster’s intervention, being an industrious cricket administrator, as providing that glimmer of hope for the national sport. He has consistently proven to be a leader with enormous inspiration and who can transcend the barriers of politicking, pettiness, race and favouritism.

As was consistently mentioned by cricket pundits, the strength of Berbice’s cricket will determine the future of Guyana’s

cricket. Already, Mr Foster has padded up and began his innings quite impressively. Will the GCB continue to deliver no balls and wides through the courts to prevent him and the BCB from achieving greatness?

It is time therefore that the Honourable Minister with responsibility for Sports, Dr George Norton, addresses as a matter of national importance the holding of elections by the GCB. The nation of Afghanistan who humbled the West Indies thrice in the recent ICC tournament is no coincidence.

The opposite scenario is unfolding here, whereby the national team is winning, but without the inherent, cohesive, inclusive structures that will pivot the players to the next level. The continuing isolation of personnel and institutions by the existing GCB will only further undermine players’ talent.

With Mr Foster at the fore in Berbice though, I’m hopeful again that there will be stimulating results on the ground and from all three counties.

Regards Elroy Stephney

It is time we abandon the half-measures of the past Dear Editor,

THE Guyana Times column Straight Talk recently commented that President Granger’s leadership on the sugar industry has been ineffective. What a short-sighted perspective. The author mentions that leadership is about the “We,” not the “I” and this is exactly what the sugar industry reforms have been all about.

For too long we have thought of GUYSUCO as a necessary burden, rather than a national treasure. We grew accustomed to constant bailouts and failed half-measures like Skeldon without any real, transformational reform. A treasure is treated as if it is valuable, and if we really valued the sugar industry we would have sought to

safeguard it the moment we recognised it was in long-term danger.

The President’s leadership comes at a time much too late to reform the industry. It is his task now to wind it down in the most sustainable way, freeing the broader economy of the shackles that constant bailouts have imposed. He is doing this because he is thinking about the system as a whole, the “We.” The columnist in question, while claiming to represent such a collective approach, is obviously just saying something which benefits himself and the PPP/C. In the short term, it is clear to all that there will be some tension in the sugar industry, but we must keep the big picture in mind. Reforming now, moving away from

bailouts, will free our entire economy so that when we do receive oil revenue, it can be put directly towards growing the economy. Otherwise, it will be squandered like the many, many billions already lost to sugar.

Thus, perhaps we would have ended up with even larger bailouts from oil money in the future if this reform process weren’t taking place now. Instead, due to the President’s leadership, those revenues will go towards profitable industries that will bring longterm jobs. It is time we abandon the half-measures of the past. Nothing could be clearer to the Guyanese public.

Regards Malcolm Marshall

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

GOVERNMENT is likely to order a coroner’s inquest into the shooting to death of three suspected bandits on the Georgetown seawall two weeks ago, well-placed sources have confirmed.

A top official of government told the Guyana Chronicle that some members of the administration feel “very strongly” about the manner in which the men were killed as it is something they had fought against vehemently while in opposition. “That doesn’t look good and we will need an inquest. This is something when in opposition we fought against,” the source told the Guyana Chronicle.

Back in December 2015, President David Granger had given the assurance that his administration would reform the rules for Coroners’ Inquests, noting then that the coroners appointed will not necessarily be district magistrates. This, he said, will enable the State to ensure that all unnatural deaths are investigated. “So even in a case where persons assumed to be criminals are shot, we will have inquests and there will be greater care exercised by the police authority to ensure that the policemen do not

he said sounds of gunshots rang out and upon looking across to the seawall, he saw two cars being driven along the seawall road. “A black car was in front and it was being followed by a silver car. The shots were coming from the silver car.

The black vehicle which was in front, stopped, then I saw one person come out of the black car and stood up at the front driver side door (Kwame Assanah). I then saw one person come out of the silver car; he walked towards the black car. I then saw the person from the silver car start to beat the person who had come out from the driver’s side and was lying on the ground. He beat the one person while he was on the ground. Then after 20 minutes I heard rapid gunfire,” Lyte related.

He continued: “About 10 to 15 minutes after the shooting, policemen from Camp Street started to run up the road. There was a photographer with them. They went to the scene and I also saw the ambulance arrive.” The eyewitness also said that at the time when he heard the rapid gunfire, there was one person standing over the same

Gov’t to order inquest into seawall killings act unlawfully,” the President said back then on his weekly television programme, The Public Interest.

On the said programme, President Granger was asked whether he was concerned about the police’s inability to disarm, apprehend and bring criminals to trial and he had responded in the affirmative, noting that his instruction would be to save lives. Mr Granger noted that it is not only important to suppress crime, but also to identify and remove the causes of this social ill. However, he reasoned that if criminals are killed, then it is impossible to find out what were their motives, or who were the persons behind the scenes supporting them, perhaps financially.

“I would like to see due process; I would like to see persons arrested and brought before the courts so we can find out who is the mastermind. Is there a gang leader?

Are there guns, and whom are they coming from? If you kill them, you don’t know these things,” the President had said during the interview.

Police Commissioner(actg) David Ramnarine last week said that the policemen were justified in

Dead: Kwame Assanah “taking out” the suspected bandits, saying that they were fired upon first. However, on Monday an eyewitness surfaced and contradicted the police’s version. On Tuesday the eyewitness, Devon Lyte, accompanied by lawyer Nigel Hughes told a news conference that he was a labourer working on the roof of the Guyana Softball Association building on March 15 at the time of the killings. Police on March 15, shot and killed 46-year-old Dextroy Cordis, called “Dutty” of Grove, East Bank Demerara; Kwame Assanah of Buxton, East Coast Demerara; and 57-year-old Errol Adams, also known as “Dynamite,” of Buxton, ECD.

Dead: Dextroy Cordis The police said in a statement that the men had trailed a customer from a commercial bank and were about to commit a crime when they were confronted. Police said the men shot at them first and they returned fire, killing them. Autopsies last week confirmed that the men were shot at close range with at least two of them sustaining some six bullets.

Lyte told the news conference that he was working with two other men on the roof when, just before midday on March 15, he noticed that the police had blocked off the road at the top of Camp Street. Moments later,

person who was lying on the ground. Further, he said that he did not see any motorcyclist fleeing the scene during the shooting as claimed by the police.

The police had claimed that its ranks who were trailing the black car had come under fire from the occupants and during the confrontation, the men were killed, while two other men who appeared on a motorcycle, opened fire on the police. The police further said that ranks managed to shoot one of the men on the motorcycle, but the rider was able to escape, while only one handgun was recovered at the scene.

When asked if he had noticed any exchange of gunfire between the police and the suspected bandits, Lyte said “I won’t be able to say whether the guy shot at the police or the police shoot at their own vehicle.”

Lyte further noted that before the shooting there was no other vehicle at the scene, other than the police vehicle and the black car.

The families of Assanah and Cordis have also challenged the police’s version of the incident and have called for a thorough investigation.

'Pepsi' wanted for questioning in murder of elderly couple GAVIN Shepherd called “Pepsi” is wanted by the police for questioning in relation to murder committed on Mohamed and Jamila Munir, which occurred on April 17, 2016 at Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo.

The police in a wanted bulletin said Shepherd is of mixed ethnicity and his last known address was Khrishna Street , Tuschen Housing Scheme , East Bank Essequibo .

Anyone with information leading to the arrest of Gavin Shepherd aka “Pepsi” is asked to contact

Gavin Shepherd called 'Pepsi'

Mohamed Munir and his wife, Bibi Jamilla Munir the Guyana Police Force on telephone numbers 226-4585, 225-2700, 2250593, 225-6411, 229-2750, 229-2019, 268-2222, 2682328, 268-2329, 911 or the nearest police station.

Mohamed Munir, 75, and his wife, Bibi Jamilla Munir, 70, were popular rice farmers, but their lives were snuffed out when bandits gained entry into their home and set fire to the building following a failed bid to rob the couple.

In December 2016 , four men were charged with murdering the elderly couple: Jason Howard, called ‘Smelly’; Sanjai George, called ‘Coolie boy’; Shamadeen Mohammed, called ‘Milo’ and Joel Blair were not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on April 17,2016 at Good Hope, East Bank Essequibo, they murdered the elderly couple in the course or furtherance of arson.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

14,551 to sit NGSA today … CEO confident of improved performances

CHIEF Education Officer Marcel Hutson is confident of improvement in this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) results.

With 14,551 students registered to sit the examination today and tomorrow (March 28-29), Hutson has assured that the Ministry of Education has been engaged in a multiplicity of programmes and activities “to ensure that the performance of our children is much better.”

“We have been working assiduously to improve the performance. Last year we enjoyed an improvement in Mathematics and all the other subject areas showed a marked improvement with the exception of Social Studies which was consistent, but the other subject areas: Science, Mathematics and (English) Language we saw an improvement, so we’re hoping to not only sustain the performance this year but we are looking to excel.”

Hutson noted that there has been a marked improvement in the ministry’s use of technology that will also play a part in the children’s performance. Chief Education Officer, “We have embarked on Marcel Hutson the use of technology in the Ministry of Education, and I can say without a doubt, that we have seen a marked improvement in the use of technology, and we are a far way ahead compared to two or three years ago. We have been working with STEM Guyana, and they’ve built an app that we have been using, allowing our children to access educational material on their devices. The Ministry of Education itself would have procured a smart classroom at NCERD and we have been interacting with children from Regions 1, 2, & 3, with the assistance of E-Governance.”

The CEO also mentioned one such tech-programme, the ‘Success Maker’, which allows students to do classwork on the computer. The programme only permits children to advance after they are successful at particular stages, therefore regulating and helping them to perform better.

The CEO offered encouragement to those students sitting the exams. “I really want to encourage our children to be focused… I believe that last minute preparation can take you a far way because you can actually see and access information that will help you well, take this time to do revision and get rest, wake early, get yourselves to the centre and be well positioned to do well because you will do well.”

Last year, the ministry saw improvements being recorded in all the subject areas for 2017 as compared to 2016. The most improved subject was Mathematics, which recorded an increase of over 30 percent in the number of candidates gaining 50 per cent and more.

As such, the Ministry of Education has embarked on increased monitoring and evaluation of schools and teachers, to ensure that the methodologies used for the teaching of Mathematics and other subjects are in conformity with the best practices as set out by the ministry.

The results of the examinations are expected to be made public at the end of June. (DPI)

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Murder accused changes plea – for second time in three weeks

MURDER accused, Phillip Sutherland on Tuesday, the date scheduled for his probation report and sentencing, changed his plea through his attorney, Siand Dhurjon before Justice James BovellDrakes in the Georgetown High Court.

Sutherland, who is on

trial for the January 9, 2014 murder of Martin Roberts in the interior, had three weeks ago pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter, whereupon a probation report was requested and granted by the trial judge.

However, when he showed up before the said judge on Tuesday, his at-

torney made an application to change his plea to “not guilty”.

In his submission, Dhurjon said that at the time the accused pleaded guilty to manslaughter, he didn’t understand his plea and to what he was pleading.

Dhurjon impressed upon the court that in his

country-boy simplicity, his client felt pressured into doing what was necessary to get a release date.

On the last occasion when Sutherland appeared before Justice BovellDrakes, his attorney was not in possession of the deposition, and as such was unable to study it. But upon getting his hands on a copy later, he came to realise that there was no shred of evidence against his client.

It was at that point that Dhurjon told the court that it was after reading the deposition that he realised that there was another person involved in the matter, as such he felt that that person should also be charged.

The judge, however, granted the application for the change of plea, and told the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Chambers will advise as to the trial date, at which time the matter will be re-called.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

The accused, right, and his attorney at the Georgetown High Court (Photo by Joseph Allen)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Teachers want payment for their social science degrees

By Vanessa Braithwaite TEACHERS across Guyana who would have completed their degrees in Social Work, Sociology, Communication Studies, Public Management or other Social Science courses, are calling on the Ministry of Education to honour their word of granting payment for those degrees as is the case for those who would have read for their Degree in Education.

Reaching out to this

publication, teachers employed at both primary and secondary schools said that they were told by officials within the Ministry of Education to submit their documents so as to commence the payment process, but it has been a year since that had been done and nothing else was told to them.

Sherene Anthony, a teacher at a city primary school, expressed her disappointment over the stalled process since, as for all workers, incentives are needed as a form of motivation.

Anthony read for a degree in Social Work and graduated in 2013. She said that over 100 of her colleagues would have taken in documents as was required, but to date, they have received no payment for their degrees.

Teachers, she said, would have engaged several government officials and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) representatives, but the situation still remains the same.

“I believe that no one wants to take responsibility for the amount of monies

owed to us teachers,” Anthony said, adding: “This will also affect any upward mobility for us, because, though we attended University, we won’t get any promotion or anything.”

One of the previous arguments was that those degrees are not relevant to the school’s curriculum, but teachers beg to differ.

Anthony said that her degree was not done in vain.

“My degree has helped me to be a better social studies teacher, and to deal with children who are experiencing several problems.”

Another colleague who preferred to stay anonymous said that she believes it is a discriminatory act, as persons in high positions have the same degrees.

Another teacher who’s been teaching English for 10 years now, said that she believes that her degree in Communication Studies has helped her tremendously in the classroom.

“I have been a teacher for 10 years, and since I have started UG, the knowledge imparted in me has made me a better teacher,” she said. “My

knowledge vault has been widened, and I am better able to propose the curriculum to my students,” she posited. “I have even received noticeable increases in pass rates at the CSEC.” The previous administration had stopped payments to these teachers in 2009, but promises were made by this administration to recommence payment.

Letters were also written to President Granger on the issue. The teachers are hoping that the issue is resolved earliest.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

The monster of extra-judicial killings

… we must never allow it to raise its head again THE fatal confrontation that occurred between the security forces and three men on the seawall on

Thursday, March 15th, brought the discussion and debate on extra-judicial killings back into focus after

a long hiatus.

This incident harked back to a time of trepidation that made extra-legal executions

as common as the seawall breeze. This issue is always emotive, regardless of the circumstance. This column will seek to highlight the key mundane arguments that undergird this phenomenon in the Guyana context and will provide the writer’s take on this issue, which is already reflected in the title of this column.

The police would argue that this occurrence came on the heels of a spate of robberies perpetrated on unsuspecting bank customers.

They would advance that law enforcement agents reserve the right to defend themselves while doing their very dangerous and often thankless jobs. They would also argue that ‘Ya damned if ya do, ya damned if ya don’t’. Indeed, it is not easy when the entire society lambastes the Guyana Police Force for not doing their jobs and when they do, they sometimes come in for wanton condemnation. They indeed come under undue pressure to produce results.

Their position needs to be appreciated.

The general sentiment of some segments of the populace would be one of jubilation, when perceived ‘thief men’ are shot dead. Some would quip, ‘If they aint went deh, they woulda neva end up dead’. In most cases, the

only ones who are often perturbed and stirred to passion are the family members of the victims. I must add, there is always a section of the population who view these occurrences with consistent suspicion. Generally, there are those who feel a sense of revenge and are always triumphant at these times, especially if they have been victims of robberies. Only they know how it feels when a gun is placed at your head to deny you of your hard-earned possessions. So when executions occur, they thunder from deep within their souls, ‘Is good fuh dem, they aint wan wuk, they gon dead’. Their position, fraught with passion, comes from a place of pain.

The family members and civil society members are often the lone voices in the wilderness calling for inquests and due process. Filled with a deep sense of care for their loved ones, family members often staunchly mount a defence of their blood relatives.

Familial instincts always come to the fore and there is never any hesitation to fervently reject any acceptance of guilt. Progressives who are involved in activism, know the importance of keeping the police force in check in a post-Jermaine Wilkinson and post-Yohance Douglas Guyana. This is understandable.

All of the aforementioned are deserving of consideration and cannot be dismissed in the grand scheme of things. However, due process has to be the common denominator for all the positions mentioned. Regardless of the circumstances, every incident that results in death, must be subjected to judicial review. This is how you construct an orderly society. Nobody should be too concerned about judicial reviews, once they have acted on the side of the law. This is even more pressing and applicable in a nation with a sordid history of extra-judicial killings. Further, it does not induce much confidence when false statements are released about the victims.

To those who rejoice at every execution without an investigation, remember the saying of the old man with his stick in hand, ‘today fuh me, tomorrow fuh you’. Only he who feels it, knows it. The same citizen who jumps for joy when there are executions with no judicial review, will become a voice demanding justice and due process, when their family members are caught up in this situation.

Let there be due process; even if the worst ‘bandit’ is killed in a shootout, we should never allow the monster of extra-judicial killings to raise its head again.

Remanded to prison over labourer’s death EON CHARLES was on Tuesday remanded to prison by Acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus for the murder of 18year- old Lawrence Leon, a labourer of Barima River.

It is alleged that on March 20, 2018 Charles unlawfully killed Lawrence Leon. He was not required to plead to the charge.

According to the facts as presented to the court, the 22-year-old accused was living with Irish Leon, 48, the mother of the deceased at their home. On the day in question, Charles along

with his reputed wife and the deceased were drinking local wine when an argument ensued, resulting in the deceased stabbing the accused to his left hand with a knife.

In retaliation, the suspect armed himself with a lance and stabbed the deceased to his left upper back.

Both men were rushed to the Barima Health Centre where they were attended to by a health worker and subsequently escorted to the Mabaruma Hospital where the Charles was examined by a doctor and later discharged.

Leon was, however, admitted

Eon Charles and while undergoing treatment he passed away.

The body, the court was told, is at the Mabaruma Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Please help rehabilitate Mainstay airstrip –– Essequibo business community urges Exxon

ESSEQUIBO Chamber of Commerce President Deleep Singh is calling on ExxonMobil to assist in the rehabilitation of the

Mainstay airstrip to improve air transportation to and from the Essequibo Coast.

Singh made the request

City Constable to stand trial for rape CITY Constable Lance Corporal Clifton Pellew was on Tuesday committed to stand trial for the rape of a 16-year-old boy following a hearing at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly.

The allegation against Pellew states that on August 15, 2017, he engaged in sexual activity with a minor. The magistrate on Tuesday ruled that there was sufficient evidence for the matter to be heard before a judge and jury.

Pellew was released on $500,000 bail, pending his hearing at the High Court.

According to reports, the City Constabulary officer was allegedly caught having sex with the boy Lance Corporal who had been detained Clifton Pellew earlier for loitering.

Another corporal, Quacy Baveghens, who allegedly saw the act later reported the incident to his supervisor, Mayor Patricia Chase-Green and Town Clerk Royston King.

Corporal Baveghens was dismissed along with the suspect, but they were both subsequently reinstated following the intervention of the Ministry of Communities.

Activists had picketed City Hall on several occasions demanding that Pellew be charged.

to Exxon representatives at an Oil Spill Response Presentation held by Exxon subsidiary Esso Exploration Production Guyana Limited in Region Two on Monday.

During the question segment of the presentation, Singh made the request to the company to assist in making the airstrip operational.

“Exxon has helicopter, as such, if there is an emergency or any other event in Region Two, then you can

fly safe and direct within Anna Regina right from the Mainstay airstrip,” he said.

Singh, who spoke on behalf of the business community, said the airstrip has been out of operation for years and it is his desire as chairman of the Essequibo Chamber to see it become operational again.

He said operationalisation of the airstrip will boost tourism and business in Region Two. Supporting this request was another businessman

and rice miller Roopan Ramotar, who said the airstrip will improve commerce in the region.

The request also drew support from Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt.

The airstrip has been out of operation for years, and currently, residents on the Essequibo Coast utilise the airstrip at Hampton Court.

The Mainstay airstrip is a 20-minute drive from the town of Anna Regina.

Essequibo Chamber of Commerce President Deleep Singh

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

MARAD tug services to be revived shortly THE MARITIME Administration (MARAD) is working to reinstitute tug services for vessels coming into port Georgetown, the Department of Public Information has reported.

The service, which is expected to be re-implemented this year, would see barges, disabled ships, log rafts or vessels that cannot move by

themselves such as ships in a crowded harbour or a narrow canal, being manoeuvred into the port. It is aimed at promoting greater safety along the waterways.

MARAD’s Director Claudette Rogers told the DPI that the service has been inactive for some time. “It’s because we have all these activities and functions, we

have not had an opportunity to restart it. It seems new because we have not done it in a long time, but it is something we must do, especially since safety is our watchword.”

The director explained that it is critical that the administration ensures the revived service meets international standard. “Any

vessel that is coming to port or any vessel that we would be bringing in, must be aided by a tug for safe mooring.

So, should something malfunction for the vessel at least you have the tug that will take it safely into any facility.”

As the administration works to revive this service, its dredging programme con-

tinues. In 2017, the Demerara River’s main shipping channel was dredged to an unprecedented 5.9 metres chart datum. Rogers attributed this significant accomplishment to the hard work executed by diligent staff.

“Dredging is ongoing and has to be continuous because we’ve had siltation problems. The 5.9 metres chart

datum was commendable, but we have to applaud those who have been continuously dredging the channel for us to accomplish such a chart datum in a short time,” she underscored.

The director said dredging stimulates economic development and promotes efficiency within the maritime industry.

Pigs being reared, slaughtered in Le Repentir Cemetery THE statutory meeting of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has heard that farmers have been rearing pigs in the cemetery for as many as 15

years now, and have also begun slaughtering them there for sale at the Bourda Market.

Town Clerk Royston King painted a rather graph-

ic picture of what is happening in Le Repentir Cemetery at the moment, calling to mind the many reports that circulate about broken tombs.

“Can you imagine a pig pulling at a human bone?” he asked, as he called for immediate attention to be paid to this issue.

Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen said the owner of the pigs, after being told some two months ago that he has to desist from rearing his pigs there, visited her office and requested some time to move.

However, she noted that it was only recently that she heard of reports of slaughtering being done in the cemetery.

“There is no way this Council can agree that we can rear pigs in the cemetery,” Chase-Green maintained.

Councillor Heston Bostwick suggested that the farmers be removed immediately, as opposed to Councillor Oscar Clarke’s plea for leniency to be extended.

Clarke argued that it is the farmers’ livelihood and that they should first be spoken to, but the mayor reminded him that they were already asked to remove.

He said it would be heartless to simply throw them out and referred to the fact that they had been allowed for a long time without anyone objecting. He also suggested that the City Council help the farmers find an alternative location.

The mayor directed the town clerk to send a written notice to the farmers to remove within the next seven or 14 days, after which the administration will take any action permitted by the law.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

New Region 10 REO takes aim at graft

By Vanessa Braithwaite

NEWLY appointed Regional Executive Officer (REO) of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region 10, Orrin Gordon, is on a mission to leave all the negative labelling of the institution in the past and to start his tenure with a clean slate.

Gordon, in an exclusive interview with the Guyana Chronicle acknowledged that one of the public concerns about the RDC was misappropriation of budgetary funds, several of which were reported in the media and were investigated.

The new REO said that for the two weeks he has been in office he has been privy to information concerning misuse of funds and has already put measures in place to start things anew. “Whatever was said that was then, we are hopefully starting a new page in that regard, we have to deliver service to the people of the community and region and in so doing, I would like to see a lot of the resources which would have been put at the disposal of the region, really and truly benefitting the people of the community,” Gordon posited.

BUILDING CONTRACTOR CAPACITY One of his main plans is to aid the local contractors

REO of Region 10, Orrin Gordon in building their capacities so that they can benefit from the contracts, rather than to award same to outsiders.

In that way, Gordon attested that the resources will stay in the region. He also believes that the more contracts awarded to local contractors, the less they will tend to misappropriate funds and the region will get the desired quality and quantity of work.

“We are trying to encourage them and empower them so that they can lift themselves up to the next level. It will not be a good thing for us to continue to say that they lack capacity, so we have our work cut out to embrace them.”

Since Region 10 spans all three main rivers and has several riverine communities,

focus will be given to skilled persons residing there who will be given the opportunity to hone in on their skills so that they too can be awarded contracts. “Those small projects like repair [to] health centres and repair [to] schools and so on, we believe that you can do and they have decided that yes they are going to have that done, and we intend to work with them and empower them so that they too can benefit and get a piece of the regional pie,” Gordon articulated.

COMMUNITY MUST BE THE MAIN BENEFICIARY Over the years, residents of Region 10 have been complaining that despite billions being allocated to the region yearly, there is hardly tangible evidence of development and economic improvements.

It has also been the concern that a lot of the money return to the Consolidated Fund, since the RDC would have failed to complete the yearly programme. Though this has been vehemently denied by regional officials, Gordon said that during his tenure, the community will feel the impact of the billions allocated and works will be completed in a timely manner. “It makes no sense that amount of money comes into the community and the

community is not feeling the effect on that level, I see my role to ensure that happens… people must feel that and that is my responsibility, my role is to ensure that we do all that we possibly can to make sure that people feel that.”

Region 10 received a

budgetary allocation of $3.4 billion for this year. Gordon said that he has already met with his officers and cautioned them against being behind schedule. Thus far, the region has embarked on several capital projects including the construction

of a new RDC building in Speightland, the clearing of the site for the construction of the Bamia Nursery and Secondary Schools, as well repairs to the Christianburg Wismar Secondary School.

Some $291 M has been allocated for capital works.

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Linden gets three new JPs

THREE new Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths to Affidavits were sworn in at the Linden Magistrate’s Court by Magistrate Clive Nurse on Monday.

Member of Parliament (MP) Jermaine Figueira, Attorney-at-Law Leslyn Charles and entrepreneur Ewart Forrester took the

oath for the legal office in which they will serve their communities.

MP Figueira said it is a privilege to be sworn in. “I am humbled and very thankful for the vote of confidence His Excellency has bestowed on me to serve my region at another level. I am more pleased because I cannot recall a young person ever

being offered such a position in our region. My life has always been of service to our people and I’m committed to continue providing such with this new post,” Figueira said.

Ewart Forrester also expressed gratitude for being sworn in. “I am happy to be sworn in as a JP for Region 10, I will continue to give of my best in this community

in terms of dealing with problems; my office is open to them [residents of the community]. Forrester, who owns Amazon Security, said that many of his workers would experience several issues and he is happy to now be able to help them in this regard. Charles was unavailable for a comment A Commissioner of Oaths to Affidavits is a person who is authorised to verify affidavits, which are statements in writing and on oath, and other legal documents, while a Justice of the Peace duties include witnessing a person making a statutory declaration, witnessing a person making an affidavit or certifying that a copy of an original document is a true and accurate copy.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

MP Jermaine Figueira and entrepreneur Ewart Forrester after they were sworn in on Monday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Essequibians call for oil spill training in Region Two –– as Exxonmobil hosts response presentation

By Indrawattie Natram

SEVERAL persons who attended the presentation hosted by Exxonmobil subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Limited (EEPL) on Oil Spill response on Monday in Region Two, have called on the oil company to train persons within the region on how to respond to an oil spill if the need arises.

This request was made by fisherfolks, businessmen and also the regional democratic councillors who believe that Region Two personnel should be equipped with the necessary knowledge in an event of an oil spill.

Chairman of the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce, Deleep Singh, said that fishermen as well as environmental officers should be trained in the field. Singh therefore called on Exxonmobil to provide local training within the region to young people who will in turn act as “oil spill” trainers disseminating information to residents.

Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt agreed since in his opinion Regions One and Two would be seriously affected if anything unfortunate should happen.

The fishermen who attended the presentation were particularly interested on how their livelihood would be affected in an event of an oil spill. Also, they wanted to know if compensation would be provided to them should there be a spill.

In response, Safety and Regulatory Manager for Exxonmobil, Michael Persaud, told the gathering comprising of major stakeholders from the agricultural region that the company had recently facilitated training for persons throughout Guyana. He said it was unfortunate that even though invitations were sent to all the Regions to submit the names of persons the regional administration would have wished to be

trained, Region Two did not submit any.

Persaud however said that he would be making the request to the company for training for personnel from there.

‘DEALING WITH OIL SPILLS’ Meanwhile at the Oil Spill response presentation held in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council, Oil Spill advisor for Exxonmobil Thomas Thomblin, said prevention was the greatest tool to deal with any such eventuality and gave the assurance that the company was fully equipped to deal with same.

He also told the gathering that Tiered Response resources and containers recently arrived in Guyana to respond to same if the need arises.

Thomblin said the main objective of Exxon was to safeguard the people, protect the environment and protect the company’s assets and its reputation.

Giving an overview on oil spill response, he also said that in an event there is an oil spill in Guyana then ExxonMobil would be prepared to act effectively by offering assistance to the authorities, give technical advice with the appropriate legal safeguards, as well as respond rapidly to life-threatening situations.

Thomblin further explained that the general roles and responsibilities of the company is to support the field response, mobilise resources, people and equipment, formulate strategies to manage the key issues, establish communications with the host Government, the field- impacted businesses, senior management, assess the worst-case scenario and the incident’s potential global impact as well as to assist to coordinate business-continuity activities.

There is an establishment of a Regional Response Teams Global Coverage that is in the America’s, Europe, Africa, Asia/Pa-

cific and Middle East.

Thomblin said that while presentations are important, training and exercises also play an integral role. He said that training was crucial to ensuring adequate preparedness.

Touching on the Tier 1 response, the oil advisor said that the EEPGL

(Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited) on site is responsible for mobilising the Tier 1 resources. The Tier 1 equipment held in Guyana’s onshore and offshore operations include shore bases, fueling terminal, support vessels, drilling rig, tankers. Also, that the FPSO (Floating Production Storage and Offloading ) systems will be available for rapid de-

ployment in an event of an incident. There is also Tier 2 resources which will see equipment and trained personnel available through the terminals and shore bases to initiate an on shore offshore response.

The Oil Spill Response presentation was held by Exxonmobil in partnership with the Region Two Regional Democratic Council (RDC) at the request of

persons who had attended the company’s last public scoping meeting held in the region.

Attending the presentation were persons from the business community, representatives from the health sector, environmental officers, Neighbourhood Democratic Councillors, Regional Democratic Councillors as well as representatives from Exxonmobil.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Police file on Branche murder case complete

THE police file on the murder of schoolteacher Kescia Branche has been completed and the preliminary inquiry against her alleged killer, a 47-year-old taxi driver, is expected to commence shortly.

This was disclosed by police prosecutor Corporal Shawn Gonsalves, when the matter was called on Tuesday before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman. He told the court that the police investigation into the matter has been completed and requested a date for the disclosure of statements to the court.

The matter has been adjourned until April 17.

Matthew Munroe is currently on remand for allegedly killing Branche on November 7, 2017 in Georgetown.

Branche, a mother of one, who resided in Cummings Lodge, Greater Georgetown, was last seen on November 4, 2017,

when she left for a night out with friends.

However, she was found in an unconscious state in the vicinity of Princes Street and Louisa Row the following day.

Her left leg was broken and there was evidence that she had sustained multiple head injuries.

The Richard Ishmael Secondary School teacher

died at the Georgetown Public Hospital two days after being found battered.

A post-mortem indicated that she died as a result of brain haemorrhage.

During the investigation, three suspects who were being questioned in connection with the death of Branche were released.

The father of Branche’s three-year-old son was

Alleged killer Matthew Munroe

Murdered: Kescia Branche

released on November 14 and placed on station bail, along with two police constables. The two ranks were later charged departmentally for neglect of duty, consuming intoxicating liquor while on duty, improperly entering licensed premises and acting in a manner likely to bring discredit to the reputation of the force.

At the time of the trio’s

release, the police were seeking to contact a taxi driver whose cellphone number appeared repeatedly on Branche’s mobile device.

The taxi driver’s car was impounded at the Brickdam Police Station subsequent to his reported departure from the country, after Branche was found in an unconscious state. Investigators are of

the opinion that the driver may have been the last person to see the teacher alive.

When arrested, the taxi driver claimed that his car was involved in an accident after he drove into a pothole, but according to a police report, the damage to the car was consistent with the injuries Branche had received.

22

Indian trade and culture put on display at exhibition

INDIA’s trade and culture were on Sunday showcased at the Pegasus Hotel during an exhibition put on by the Indian High Commission.

The exhibition titled, ‘Namaste India’ was aimed at displaying herbs, spices, tea, jewellery, cosmetics, mehndi and saris, among other traditional items derived from the Indian culture. Additionally, attendees participated in

Indian tea tasting and wine tasting even as Indian spices and cook books were on show.

According to a statement from the Indian High Commission, the exhibition showcased the finest varieties of Indian tea from the Tea Board of India such as Darjeeling, Nilgri, Assa, and Kangra as well as a variety See page 23

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, V. Mahalingam, along with other officials of the Indian High Commission in Guyana, watches on as this young girl cuts the ribbon declaring ‘Namaste India’ open Sunday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Indian trade and culture put on display ...

From page 22

Participants at ‘Namaste India’ savouring the taste of India’s finest wines. of the most popular and globally acclaimed wines produced by Grover Zampa Wines of India.

The event which began at 11:00hrs, saw the attendance of several prominent businessmen, and importers as well as representatives of the Georgetown Chambers of Commerce (GCCI). “The exhibition helped in further promoting business between India and Guyana and adding more opportunities for Indo-Guyanese trade,” the statement added.

However, the highlight of the ‘Namaste India’ was the ‘Sari draping demonstration’ which began at 18:00hrs and concluded at 20:00hrs. During this session, the art of wearing saris in different styles, including South Indian, Gujarati, Bengali and Marathi was demonstrated by 21

Guyanese models, including Miss Guyana World 2017 and Miss Global International 2017.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, V. Mahalingam, in his address spoke of the bilateral relationship between Guyana and India. He explained that there are ongoing economic activities geared at enhancing collaboration between both countries.

Similarly, First Lady Sandra Granger spoke of the excellent bilateral relations Guyana shares with India. Also present at the exhibition were wives of the Ministers of Public Security and Business, Khemraj Ramjattan and Dominic Gaskin.

The women, Mrs. Rajmatti Ramjattan and Mrs. Hans Gaskin, joined the First Lady as special guests.

Sari draping being done at the Pegasus Hotel, Sunday.

Indian jewellery on display at ‘Namaste India’ Sunday

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Wednesday March 28th, - 03:00 - 14:30hrs Thursday March 29th, - 03:30 - 14:30hrs Friday March 30th, - 04:00 - 14:30hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Lady Jags in ...

Continued from back page

World Cup 2018

Antigua and Barbuda (hosts), St Vincent and the Grenadines, St Lucia and Curacao.

Guyana will have a ‘dress rehearsal’ for their showing in May, when they head to Trinidad and Tobago to play in the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Women’s Challenge Series Tournament, scheduled for April 18-29, at the Ato Boldon Stadium.

The Guyanese women will open up their campaign against Grenada on April 25, followed by a clash with rivals Suriname two days later. The Lady Jags will then close things off with a match against one of Caribbean’s leading female side and hosts Trinidad on April 29.

Guyana’s female national team happens to be the GFF’s most successful senior programme, having qualified for two major CONCACAF events while the men’s team are yet to achieve even a Gold Cup berth.

In 2010, the Lady Jags competed at the CONCACAF Gold Cup and World Cup qualifier where they went down 7-2 to eventual runners-up and hosts Mexico 8-0 to tournament winners Canada and 4-1 to Trinidad and Tobago.

It was their first taste

of competition from some of CONCACAF’s biggest names. Kayla De Souza and Mariam El-Masri (two goals) were the only two players to find the back of the net at the tournament.

The women’s programme went dormant after their showing in Cancun, Mexico, but were given a revival under the GFF’s Normalisation Committee in 2015 where they qualified for the CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifier tournament.

At the tournament, hosted in Texas, USA at the BBVA Compass Stadium, Guyana won their first and only game at the CONCACAF level, a 2-1 victory over Guatemala, thanks to a beautiful strike from Alison Heydorn in the 76th minute. El-Masri had scored the equaliser in the 71st minute.

However, Guyana did not advance since they went down 5-0 to tournament runners-up Canada in their first game, and 5-1 to Trinidad and Tobago in their final showing.

The composition of Guyana’s team is not yet known, and according to the GFF, a head coach will be announced shortly, despite not advertising for the vacancy.

ICC will meet ... har. He has requested me to reply on his behalf. Mr Manohar is amenable to a meeting with the PMSC at a convenient date but since Cricket West Indies is our Member he is firmly of the view that the meeting should not take place without the attendance of the Chairman of the Cricket West Indies Board, Mr Cameron.

“The ICC offices are located in Dubai and Mr Manohar is based in Nagpur, India.

Your proposal to meet in London during the course of your CHOGM from April 18-20, 2018 will unfortunately not be possible, especially since we are holding our quarterly Board and Committee meet-

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Continued from back page

ings in Kolkata from April 21-26. As you may be aware, the ICC is staging an ICC Women’s World T20 in the Caribbean in November this year. In the absence of an alternative, this may provide a more convenient opportunity to meet.”

Cameron is a highly respected member of the ICC and coming through Cricket West Indies (CWI) and sources close to the situation told Guardian Media that the ICC will no way snub him to meet with the Sub-committee since they want to discuss West Indies cricket and it is only fair that Cameron sits in.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

77 days to go …

W

INNING the F I FA Wo r l d Cup once is hard enough, but to lift it three times in a row seems a virtually impossible task. For proof of that, one need only tell the story of the team that came closer than any other to achieving that unlikely hat-trick.

The second world war denied Vittorio Pozzo’s great Italy side the chance to defend the back-to-back world titles they won in 1934 and 1938, while their attempt to win a third consecutive crown at Brazil 1950 ended with a first-round exit.

Italy’s misfortune leaves Brazil as the only other nation who have ever had an opportunity to win three World Cups in a row. It came 50 years ago, at England 1966, a competition the Brazilians went into as very firm favourites – perhaps too firm – having emerged victorious at Sweden 1958 and Chile 1962.

“There were two things that happened, if you ask me,” said former Brazil rightback Djalma Santos, in an interview with FIFA.com a few years ago. “The first was

Brazil vs Portugal World Cup 1966: Back (L-R), Orlando, Manga, Brito, Denilson, And Rildo, Fidelis Front (L-R): Massuer Americo, Jairzinho, Lima, Silva, Pele, And Parana trying to bring two generations together in one, which is very difficult; and the second – and more importantly – was treating A Seleção as if it were an exhibition team, one that would just go and win the World Cup as if it were the most natural thing in the world.”

Discussing his place in the squad in 66, he added: “I should never have gone to England. I was 37 and I’d already played in three World Cups. But we didn’t know what we wanted.”

TOO MANY COOKS

Looking back, and bearing in mind that Brazil would go on to win the World Cup again at Mexico 1970, there are more than enough reasons to believe that a third straight world crown should have come their way in England.

Aged 25, Pele was, in theory at least, at the peak of his powers, while talented youngsters such as Tostao and Jairzinho, aged 19 and 21 respectively, had no shortage of experienced two-time world champions around them. There was also the fact that, in winning in Sweden and Chile, Brazil had buried the inferiority

complex brought on by letting the 1950 World Cup tragically escape from their clutches on home soil - a state of mind memorably described by the writer Nelson Rodrigues as the complexo de vira-latas (‘the street dog complex’, to give it its literal translation).

Yet though the ingredients were all there, that blend of experience, youth and confidence proved to be anything but a winning formula.

The reasons for Brazil’s flawed campaign begin with their preparations in Brazil, where the national team had become a phenomenon that had grown out of control, an asset to be exploited to the maximum.

Evidence of that came with the extensive national tour the team undertook before flying to Europe. Selecting a squad of more than 40 players, Vicente Feola – the man who had coached Brazil to their first world title in Sweden – split them up into different training groups and took them from one side of the country to the other, visiting five cities along the way, a venture that was almost a tournament in itself.

It was only when the Brazilians arrived in Sweden that the final 22-man squad for England was announced, just

two weeks before the tournament started. The shortlist included the likes of Djalma Santos, Gilmar, Zito, Bellini and Garrincha, all of them the wrong side of 30.

“Aside from the fact that we didn’t have a settled team, the players who won the two world titles were all on the decline, except for Pele,” wrote Tostao in his book Memories, Opinions and Thoughts on Football.

SHORT OF INSPIRA TION

Brazil’s opening match at England 1966, against Bulgaria at Goodison Park on July 12, turned out to be the high point of their tournament. It was also an occasion for the history books, as it was the last time that Pele and Garrincha played together.

They got on the scoresheet too; both with freekicks, bringing a stylish end to a footballing dynasty, though neither of them knew it at the time. Of the 40 games in which the two wizards shared the pitch over a period of eight years, Brazil did not lose once, winning 36 of those matches, including that 2-0 defeat

of the Bulgarians.

Yet that winning debut came at a price. O Rei received some harsh treatment at the hands of the eastern Europeans and picked up an injury to his right knee that forced him to miss the second group match against Hungary, with Tostao coming in to replace him.

Led by Florian Albert and Ferenc Bene, the skilful and well-drilled Hungarians outclassed a Brazil side lacking identity, the 3-1 scoreline barely reflecting the Magyars’ domination.

Brazil’s task in their final match in Group 3 looked no easier, with a tough Portugal side providing the opposition.

Ahead of what was a make-or-break match, Feola chose to make nine changes to the starting line-up, dropping Garrincha and bringing Pele back into the side. Still struggling with his injury, the No.10 was the target once again for some heavy tackling.

Even at a time when substitutions were not permitted, Brazil managed to

use 20 of their 22 players.

Looking very much less than the sum of their parts, Feola’s side were no match for a Portugal side featuring the likes of Eusebio and Coluna, who would go on to finish third. The 3-1 defeat to the Portuguese spelled the end of Brazil’s tournament.

A golden opportunity to complete a unique hat-trick of world titles had slipped out of their hands.

“The 1966 World Cup was the toughest experience I have ever had in football,” recalled Pele in an interview with FIFA. com years later. “I missed part of the 1962 World Cup with injury, and in England, once again, I wasn’t able to play as I would have liked.

“It was one of the saddest things, and it was made even worse by the fact we got knocked out. I went away from that World Cup determined never to play for A Seleção again.

The only reason I decided to play in 1970 was because I was in great form with Santos. The scars of 66 were still there though.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Warner, Smith and Bancroft suspended by Cricket Australia

Lewis looking forward to play in his first World Cup

… to fly home from South Africa; Renshaw, Burns and Maxwell called up as replacements

By Sam Ferris, in Johannesburg STEVE Smith, David Warner and Cameron Bancroft have been suspended by Cricket Australia (CA) for the fourth Test in Johannesburg for their involvement in the ball-tampering scandal.

After a CA investigation, all three players were found guilty of breaching article 2. 3.

5 of Cricket Australia’s Code of Conduct and will fly home from South Africa today (South Africa time).

Smith has also been stripped of the captaincy for at least the final Test in South Africa, with Tim Paine endorsed by the board as his successor and Australia’s 46th Test captain after he acted in the role on day four in Cape Town.

Queensland pair Matthew Renshaw and Joe Burns, and Victoria’s Glenn Maxwell have been called up as replacements for the banned trio.

“Earlier yesterday, I received an update about the investigation being conducted by our Head of Integrity, Iain Roy, and in conducting his interviews he was accompanied by two ICC integrity officers,” Sutherland told TIM Paine will become Australia’s 46th Test captain on Friday following Cricket Australia’s decision to strip Steve Smith of the captaincy for his involvement in the Cape Town ball-tampering scandal.

Paine acted as interim captain on the fourth and final day of the third Test at Newlands after Smith stood down from the leadership before the start of play.

Smith was suspended for one match by the International Cricket Council for “conduct contrary to the spirit of the game” and has been sent home by Cricket Australia, alongside David Warner and Cameron Bancroft, leaving Paine to pick up the pieces as Australia attempt to maintain their unbeaten post-Apartheid record in South Africa when the fourth Test begins in Johannesburg on Friday.

Paine is Tasmania’s second Test captain after Ricky Ponting, the first from Hobart, and the first wicketkeeper to take on the role since Adam Gilchrist filled in for Steve Waugh and Ponting on six occasions between 2000 and 2004.

reporters in Johannesburg.

“While that investigation is not complete, preliminary findings have been considered and discussed by the CA board earlier today.

under his current contract.”

Sutherland said that Smith, Warner and Bancroft have been charged with CA Code of Conduct breaches and added their respective, “significant”

Aussie players David Warner (left) and Steve Smith

“The key finding is that prior knowledge of the ball-tampering incident was limited to three players - captain Steve Smith, vice-captain David Warner and Cameron Bancroft.

“No other players or support staff had prior knowledge and this includes Darren Lehmann, who despite inaccurate media reports, has not resigned from his position.

“He will continue to coach the Australian men’s team

sanctions will be revealed in the next 24 hours.

“The players involved have officially been reported for breaching Cricket Australia’s code of conduct under article 2. 3. 5.,” Sutherland said.

“The substance of the offence can be covered by terms and I paraphrase somewhat from the article: Conduct at any time that is contrary to the spirit of the game, unbecoming of a representative, harmful to the

interests of the game, or brings the game into disrepute.

“Once the investigation has concluded in the next 24 hours, sanctions will be announced and will go through the Cricket Australia code of conduct process.”

Smith had already been suspended for the final Test at The Wanderers by International Cricket Council CEO David Richardson on Sunday, while Bancroft was fined and handed three demerit points to his disciplinary record.

All three players now face lengthy bans from international cricket.

The incident that led to the suspensions took place during South Africa’s innings on Saturday afternoon when Bancroft was seen on television holding a foreign object while rubbing the ball, before hiding the object in his pocket, then inside his trousers.

As soon as the incident was shown on the big screen, the player was questioned in the presence of his captain by the two on-field umpires, Richard Illingworth and Nigel Llong, who along with third umpire Ian Gould and fourth umpire Allahudien Palekar, later charged Bancroft.(Cricket com.au)

Paine named Australia’s 46th Test captain final day at Newlands, the fact he was doing it all was an acknowledgment of his understated role since his sensational recall.

Tigers coach Adam Griffith, who incredibly had to help convince Paine to remain in Tasmania at the start of the summer rather than take up a job offer in Melbourne, endorsed the wicketkeeper as

HARARE, Zimbabwe (CMC) – Rookie opener Evin Lewis says he is anxiously looking forward to the experience of his first World Cup, after helping West Indies qualify for the 2019 edition in England and Wales.

The 26-year-old lefthander scored 231 runs including three half-centuries as the Caribbean side secured one of the two World Cup spots up for grabs at the just concluded qualifying tournament. “(I am) looking forward to the Cricket World Cup, I have never been to one, and we will do our best and hopefully we can reach the final,” the Trinidadian said.

“It is a dream for all cricketers to be in a Cricket World Cup and it means a lot to me, as it is something special.”

Two of Lewis’s half-centuries came in the crucial Super Six second stage, with his 66 in their must-win contest against Scotland proving invaluable after the Windies suffered a bad collapse to be dismissed for 198.

We s t I n d i e s t h e n snatched victory under Duckworth-Lewis-Stern after thunderstorms ended the game prematurely, but Lewis said it was a good feeling to have delivered on expectations.

“It is a great feeling to qualify for the Cricket World Cup. We had a lot of pressure on us and we need to enjoy the moment,” he said.

“It is unfortunate to win

by Duckworth-Lewis-Stern, but it is cricket and that happens.”

Teammate Kemar Roach also played a key role in the Windies qualification bid, finishing with 11 wickets in his return to the one-day side following a three-year break.

The 29-year-old seamer, who played in the last two World Cups, said the Windies now faced a challenging task in winning the upcoming showpiece.

“Definitely looking forward to the ICC Cricket World Cup – it will be my third World Cup,” Roach said.

“If I am selected, it will be a great honour for me to play in that, and we will have to work hard to bring it home.”

The Windies made their qualification difficult for themselves when they were stunned by eventual champions Afghanistan in their opening Super Six fixture.

However, they recovered to beat Zimbabwe in a thrilling run chase before edging Scotland, to seal their World Cup spot.

Roach said he was well aware of the anxious moments they had caused avid supporters.

“The pressure we put the people under back home is tough. I want to say sorry, but that is the West Indies, that’s how we play. We keep people on the edge of their seats.”

Stephens dominates Kerber to reach Miami semis

Tim Paine to become Australia’s 46th Test captain

Pride has not been a word remotely associated with Australian Test cricket in recent days but the Tasmanian’s remarkable elevation to the Test captaincy has drawn a quiet sense of fulfilment for many in Tasmanian cricket.

While none hoped for or foresaw the set of circumstances that saw Paine lead a shell-shocked team on the

Evin Lewis

a worthy skipper.

“He’d be a good captain,” said Griffith, who oversaw a dramatic Tigers turnaround for Tasmania – from sixth to runners-up – in this year’s JLT Sheffield Shield.

“He’s very forthright; he’s very good tactically, which for me is one of the most important things to win games of cricket.

(REUTERS) - American Sloane Stephens needed just over an hour to cruise past Germany’s former world number one Angelique Kerber 6-1, 6-2 and reach the Miami Open semi-finals for her first time yesterday.

The U.S. Open champion fired her 22nd winner on match point to dispatch the 10th-seeded Kerber and set up a showdown with either Karolina Pliskova or Victoria Azarenka, who would have played their quarter-final later yesterday.

The win guarantees that 25-year-old Florida native Stephens will make her debut in the top 10 when the WTA rankings are released after the tournament.

Yesterday’s win was Stephens’ second straight triumph over a former world number one after she defeated third-seeded Garbine Muguruza to reach the quarter-finals on Monday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

GCA/GDA U-17 T20 tournament

All-round Mohamed seals 10-wicket win for Everest … Wins also for MSC, TSC and DCC

By Rajiv Bisnauth AN all-round performance from Raynaldo Mohamed helped Everest Cricket Club seal a comfortable 10-wicket win over GNIC in round two of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA)/Guyana Diabetic Association (GDA) T20 tournament, which continued yesterday with four games around the city.

Mohamed, who had bagged 3-7 earlier in the day, played a responsible knock, an unbeaten 23 to set up the win as the Camp road team reached 69 without loss in 14.1 overs in reply to GNIC’s 68 all out in 18.4 overs.

After deciding to bowl first in perfect conditions for cricket, Mohamed was well backed up by off-spinner Aaron Beharry, who played an important part in restricting the scoring from the outset.

Beharry finished with figures of 2-12, while Bryion Bowen, Niron Bissu and Ariel Tilku picked up a wicket apiece.

Sachin Singh

Opener Brently Singh (25) and lower order batsman Trevon Jones (16) found themselves facing a huge task in rebuilding the

innings, and it proved beyond them as Everest tasted success at regular intervals throughout the substandard batting display.

Despite what appeared to be a bowler-friendly pitch, Everest openers Mohamed and Mohamed Jameer rarely looked troubled and built a firm foundation. Jameer also was unbeaten on 23 when victory was achieved.

In the other Zone A game, Demerara Cricket Club trounced St Stanislaus College by 103 runs.

Batting first, DCC piled up a huge total of 212-2.

Sachin Singh fell four runs short of a hundred while Derrick Persaud made a composed 81.

In reply, St Stanislaus College were bowled out for 109 in 13 overs. Daniel Mootoo claimed 5-26 and Inderjeet Nanan 3-17.

Meanwhile, Malteenoes Sport Club (MSC) and Transport Sports Club (TSC) were victorious in the two Zone B fixtures.

Malteenoes beat GYO by 29 runs while TSC defeated Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) by 36 runs.

Batting first, MSC were restricted to 110-8 with Kester McAllister 18 and Wayne Bollers 16. Dhanesh Persaud (2-26) was the best bowler for GYO. I n r e p l y, G Y O w e r e bowled out for 81 in 19 overs.

Yuedister Persaud scored 28; Mervin Permaul and Bollers claimed 2-23 and 2-5 respectively.

In the other game, TSC made 130-4 batting first. In reply, GCC were restricted to 94-8.

The tournament continues today with four more matches.

Edghill wins St Joseph Garden Open Table Tennis Championships Chelsea Edghill

‘Breaking Barriers’ walk race set for the National Park THE country’s top race walkers and an influx of newcomers are expected to match steps on Sunday, April 8 when the Cavaliers Sports and Tour Club, in association with the Guyana Hemp Association (GHA), stages its ‘Breaking the Barriers’ 10K race at the National Park.

The event is part of the GHA’s ‘GuyHemp’ Festival which is aimed at sensitising Guyanese on the importance of the establishment of an industrial hemp industry in Guyana which will create opportunities, large-scale employment and eradicate poverty.

Trophies, medals and other prizes will be at stake for the top three finishers in the male and female (seniors) categories, juniors, veterans and differently-abled categories.

Coordinator of the Cavaliers Sports and Tour Club, Jennifer Major, in addressing the club’s monthly meeting said that the sport has power to inspire, educate and unite youth of all ages, backgrounds and other abilities.

Interested participants must be at the starting line by 07:00hrs in the National Park on the day of the event. Race-time is scheduled for 08:00hrs.

Antiguan football officials detained by police over drugs find – report KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Three officials from the Antigua and Barbuda football squad were detained by police at the Norman Manley International Airport for alleged possession of narcotics, the Gleaner newspaper has reported.

While the officials were not identified, they are believed to be two equipment managers and a member of the coaching staff.

The report said marijuana was allegedly found in their bags as they attempted to board a flight back to Antigua on Monday.

While police are investigating the incident, Jamaica Football Federation president Michael Ricketts said the local governing body would provide whatever help they could to the Antigua and Barbuda Football Association.

“I just spoke with a police officer and we’re waiting for a formal report on the matter. We will take it from there and offer whatever support we can,” Ricketts was quoted as saying.

Antigua held powerhouse Jamaica to a 1-1 draw in their international friendly at Sabina Park on Sunday night after veteran Peter Byers netted a stoppage-time equaliser.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday March 28, 2018)

NATIONAL Women’s table tennis champion Chelsea Edghill, who will miss Commonwealth Games duties due to scholastic commitments, was in great form when she played and won the Women’s singles and the 2200 Open rated event at the St Joseph Garden Open Table Tennis Championships The 54th edition of the championships was played

over the March 17-18 weekend at the Student Activities Center at Indiana University South Bend.

Edghill, seeded in Group 5 of the round-robin phase defeated Pawel Gluchowski by a 3-0 margin. She then suffered a setback in losing to Falchuck Igor by a 1-3 margin but came roaring back to take top in the group and maintain her number one seed in the group with a 3-0

win over Harrison Ngo. In the quarterfinals she played and defeated Naresh Arcot by a 3-0 margin in the semifinals and Donald Hinshaw by a 3-2 margin in a thrilling five-game encounter.

In the final encounter with the title in sight she stepped it up another level to defeat Marty Stoner by a 3-1 margin to emerge the 2018 54th St Joseph Garden Open

Table Tennis 2200 Rated champion.

She followed up her sterling performance in the Women’s event when she secured her second title of the championships winning the Women’s singles when she blanked Martina Kohatsu by a 3-0 margin St Joseph Valley Open 2018 is one of the oldest running table tennis tournaments in the U.S.

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Evin Lewis & Marlon Samuels (2) Carlos Braithwaite Today’s Quiz: (1) Which two teams have qualified to play in the ICC

2019 World Cup based on the recent Qualifiers?

(2) Which was the top team in the Qualifiers?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, March 28, 2018

Britton secures Westchester table tennis USA title SHEMAR Britton was in fine form this weekend, as he captured the Open 2350 category when he defeated Stephen Chui in the final of the Westchester Table Tennis Championships held at the Westchester TTCenter.

The tournament is a United States of American Table Tennis Association USATT-rated 4-star tournament, with $5 000+ in prizes.

It draws players from across North America and around the world. The tournament is recognised as one of the largest monthly table tennis tournaments held in the USA. Nigel Bryan also participated in the under 2350 category and secured a bronze medal after losing out to eventual finalist Stephen Chui.

Britton, coached by Sydney Christophe and supported by his Guyanese fans, followed up his win in the 2350 category with a quarterfinal finish in the 2500 Open category Other successful Guyanese were women’s senior Natalie Cummings who finished in the semifinals of the 2050 category, having lost in a close encounter to eventual tournament winner, and 2017 Caribbean Girls’ singles bronze medallist Priscilla Greaves who lost in the 1900 division in the group

Legendary West Indies captain Sir Vivian Richards Guyana National table tennis teammates Shemar Britton (Westchester 2350 Open champion) and Nigel Bryan (bronze medallist) pose after receiving their spoils.

stages.

National men’s table tennis champion Christopher Franklin, who was seeking to recapture his form, reached the round of 16 in the 2500 Open category.

Joel Alleyne lost in the semi-final of the 2250 category while Priscilla Greaves lost in the 1900 category

The team is being supported by 11-time national Men’s champion and 1992 Caribbean Men’s champion Sydney Christophe, who will conduct a four-day training camp with the team before they depart for Australia on March 30, 2018.

Caribbean Women’s veteran champion Guyanese Mrs Diane Chance provided coach-

ing duties while videoing for analysis was supported by Guyanese Shawn Abrams The tournament is being used as preparation for Guyana’s national table tennis team which will be selected for the 2018 Commonwealth Games scheduled for Gold Coast, Australia, April 4-16, 2018.

National Under-19 female cricketers depart for Trinidad and Tobago

The National Female Under-19 team with manager Heema Singh (far left) and coach Bharat Mangru (right, back)

AS the National cricket teams make their way across the Caribbean to represent Guyana, the female Under-19 team departed for Trinidad and Tobago for the Invitational Regional tournament.

The reigning champions,

Batting improvement crucial for Windies to compete at 2019 World Cup - Sir Viv

who defeated Trinidad and Tobago in the final round of the 2017 tournament, boast a number of players with experience at this level.

The team will be managed by Heema Singh and coached by Cricket West Indies Level 3 coach Bharat

Mangru.

The team is as follows: Shabika Gajnabi (captain), Mandy Mangru (vice-captain), Shenita Grimmond, Kushana Lynch, Omedevi Matadin, Lafona Gilgeows, Yogeeta Ballkishun, Casey Charles, Cherryanna Fraiser,

Ashley Ramkisoon, Chrita Mahabir, Roshine Budhu, Sarah Amin and Varshmie Ramlall.

The GCB wishes the team all the best in the prestigious tournament and anticipates the team retaining their championship title.

KARACHI, Pakistan (CMC) – Legendary former West Indies captain Sir Vivian Richards says the Caribbean side will need to improve their batting if they are to compete at next year’s World Cup in England and Wales.

The 66-year-old considered the most feared batsman of his generation, said West Indies had gotten away with totals during the recently staged ICC World Cup qualifiers which would definitely be punished by the bigger teams.

“There were a few matches I believe that they came up short in terms of runs,” Sir Viv was quoted as saying.

“But at the end of the day they had the bowlers to defend whatever they scored, but in the big league they will need to score more runs.”

West Indies coasted into the all-important Super Six second stage of the qualifiers in Zimbabwe without a loss but then suffered two batting lapses to almost squander their World Cup chances.

In the opening game, they suffered a three-wicket defeat to Afghanistan after being restricted to 197 off their 50 overs, and in a must-win contest against Scotland, laboured to 198 all out before eking out a five-run victory under DLS following rain.

The fortuitous result earned the Windies their place in the World Cup, an achievement Sir Viv said was important based on the Caribbean’s history.

“I won’t say I am relieved because I felt that they had a strong enough team in order for them to win and qualify,” he said.

“West Indies have a World Cup pedigree and that makes all of us proud in the Caribbean.”

He added: “It would have been a huge loss had we not qualified. It would have been like Manchester United or Liverpool not being in football’s Champions League.”

Sir Viv was a member of the Clive Lloyd-led Windies team which won the inaugural 50-overs World Cup in England in 1975 but is best remembered for his sparkling 138 in the second tournament four years later as the Caribbean side successfully defended their title.

Britton secures Westchester table tennis USA title

See page 35

Lady Jags in Group E of CONCACAF Caribbean Qualifying tournament

By Rawle Toney GUYANA’S Women’s National football team, more popularly known as ‘Lady Jags’, will host Group E of the Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) Caribbean Qualifying tournament, at a venue to be announced by the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) in May. The Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago, Antigua and Barbuda and Haiti will join Guyana as hosts for their respective groups for the tournament that will see the top three teams from the Caribbean participate in the 2018 CONCACAF Women’s Championship, also known as the CONCACAF Gold Cup, which acts as qualification for the 2019 Women’s World Cup. Lady Jags will play Bermuda, Suriname and Barbados in the fourteam group, where the winner will advance to the round-robin stage with all group winners to be one of three teams from the Caribbean region to play alongside Mexico, Canada and hosts USA at the CONCACAF showpiece, set for October 4-17.

In Group A, the Dominican Republic will host Puerto Rico, Cuba, Anguilla and Aruba while in Group B, Haiti will be hosts to Martinique, Jamaica, Turks and Caicos and Guadeloupe.

Trinidad and Tobago will host Group C featuring Dominica, U.S. Virgin Islands, St Kitts and Nevis and Grenada. Group D will bring together

FLASHBACK: Guyana’s Chantel Sandiford is congratulated by sisters Kayla and Briana De Souza after pulling off a great save in their 2-1 win over Guatemala at the 2016 CONCACAF Women’s Olympic Qualifier tournament at the BBVA Compass Stadium in Houston, Texas.

Turn to page 31

GMR&SC rewards competitors, marshals

By Stephan Sookram

THE various winners of Sunday’s first National Race of Champions along with the winners of the King of the Strip Drag race meet were rewarded on Monday evening.

and Sports Club’s (GMR&SC) Thomas Lands office.

Marshals were given plaques of appreciation for their commitment to the sport throughout the years.

The winners of the recently concluded king of the strip drag race meet were also

Street Tuner - Race 2 Raymond Seebarran Street Tuner - Race 3 - Narine Dasrat Sports Tuner - Race 1 Mohamed Ahmad Sports Tuner - Race 2 Mohamed Ahmad Sports Tuner - Race 3 -

Some of the winners of the first National Race of Champions The event, which also doubled as an appreciation and awards ceremony for the officials and marshals of the club, took place in the parking lot of the Guyana Motor Racing

awarded.

The official results of the National Race of champions are listed below.

Street Tuner - Race 1 Raymond Seebarran

Mohamed Ahmad Choke Starlet Cup - Race 1 - Rameez Mohamed Choke Starlet Cup - Race 2 - Anand Ramchand Choke Starlet Cup - Race

3 - Anand Ramchand Group 2 - Race 1 - Chet Singh Group 2 - Race 2 - Ryan Rahaman Group 2 - Race 3 - Chet Singh Group 3 - Race 1 - Rameez Mohamed Group 3 - Race 2 - Danny Persaud Group 3 - Race 3 - Danny Persaud Group 4 - Race 1 - Andrew King Group 4 - Race 2 - Andrew King Group 4 - Race 3 - Mark Vieira Superbikes - Superstock Race 1 - Matthew Vieira Superbikes - Superstock Race 2 - Matthew Vieira Superbikes - Superstock Race 3 - Matthew Vieira Superbikes – Street Bike Race 1 - Rene Tucker Superbikes – Street Bike Race 2 - Zalim Mohamed and Rene Tucker (Tie) Superbikes – Street Bike - Race 3 - Zalim Mohamed.

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ICC will meet with PMs only if Cameron is present

By Vinode Mamchan PORT-OF-SPAIN, T&T The International Cricket Council (ICC) has told the chairman of the Prime Ministerial Sub-committee on cricket Dr Ralph Gonsalves that they will not entertain any meeting with his group unless the president of Cricket West Indies (CWI) Dave Cameron is present.

Dr Gonsalves the Prime Minister of St Vincent and the Grenadines has written to the ICC asking for a meeting with the world cricket body during the upcoming CHOGM in England, April 18-20.

Guardian Media was able to secure a letter sent by the ICC to Dr Gonsalves and copied to the Prime Minister of Barbados Freundel Stuart, Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness and Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago Dr. Keith Rowley and in it they

clearly state that they will not meet with the Sub-committee unless Cameron is present.

CWI president Dave Cameron

Chief Executive of ICC, Dave Richardson, responding on behalf of the chairman of the ICC Shashank Manohar stated in the letter: “I refer to your letter dated March 14, 2018 addressed to the ICC Chairman Mr Mano-

Turn to page 31 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 28, 2018