Guyana chronicle e paper 06 13 2018

WEDNESDAY 13th JUNE, 2018

No.105304

$24M cocaine bust

… five men charged, remanded, one pleads guilty Woman allegedly ejected from 10 moving car dies

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Road to first oil closer 13

Cuban Vice Foreign Minister arrives 15 in Guyana PAGE

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–– as development drilling commences, facility construction under way

Dead: Sasia Adams

Pomeroon schoolboy 03 feared drowned PAGE

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman receives a token from ExxonMobil Development Company Vice President Lisa Waters during the Liza Phase 1 Development reception hosted at the Cara Lodge on Tuesday. They were joined by ministers and former ministers of government; executives of ExxonMobil and Esso Exploration; members of the diplomatic corps; heads of foreign financial missions; heads of United Nations (UN) agencies; members of the private sector and other specially invited guests. The event celebrated the commencement of development drilling offshore Guyana. (Delano Williams photo)

Higher yields for rice in first crop

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13 , 2018

Five charged in $24M cocaine bust AFTER almost a week of investigations by the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), five men were charged on Tuesday in connection with the over $24M worth of drugs found during a sting operation at Parika, East Bank Essequibo.

The men, Khemraj Lall, 39, of Zeelugt EBE; Marlon Lawrence, 36 of Felicity, East Coast Demerara(ECD) ; Rajendra Persaud, 47 of Liliendaal, ECD; Doodnauth Chattgroon, 36 of Zeelugt and Cleve Thornhill, all appeared before Magistrate Rushell Liverpool at the Leonora Magistrates’ court jointly charged with drug trafficking.

The men were charged with trafficking 35 kilogrammes of cannabis and 13.8 kilograms of cocaine on June 6, 2018 at Parika. All of the men, except Thornhill, denied the charge. Thornhill pleaded guilty and told the court that he was hired to transport the gas bottles from Charity to Parika in his boat, where he would later pass in another vehicle at the Parika wharf.

The men hiding their faces from the media while making their way into the Leonora police lock-ups after their court appearance.

He admitted to transporting the two plastic gas bottles, but he said he did not have knowledge of what was inside the drums.

Lall’s and Chattgroon’s attorney, Bernard Da Silva, told the court that his client was found seated in a motor car a short distance away from where the drugs were found.

CANU Prosecutor Konyo Sandiford told the court that CANU ranks on June 6, 2018 at Parika, East Bank Essequibo, intercepted the five men with the cocaine

and cannabis stashed in false bottoms of two 15-gallon gas bottles.

According to reports, CANU was able to make the bust after receiving information regarding a shipment of drugs arriving at Parika from Charity in a speed boat.

Acting on the information received, CANU officers then went to the Parika location where they intercepted motor vehicles PSS 8019 and PVV 7934.

In one motor car Lawrence and Persaud were inside, while Thornhill and the other co-accused were in the other vehicle.

The vehicle was searched and two blue 15-gallon gas bottles with bottoms cut and covered with brown paste. A further examination of the

The cocaine packages that were retrieved from the bottles (CANU photo)

containers revealed several packages with some containing cannabis and others had the suspected cocaine.

CANU prospector Kunyo Sandiford objected to the five defendants being released on bail citing the seriousness of the charge. Magistrate Liverpool remanded all five of the men to prison until July 3. Thornhill was guided by the magistrate to seek legal advice and report back on his next court appearance.

The plastic containers in which the drugs were found (CANU photo)

Pomeroon schoolboy feared drowned

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

A SIX-YEAR-OLD boy is feared drowned after he reportedly fell into a creek near his school- Abram Creek Primary School in the Upper Pomeroon, Region Two, on Tuesday.

Missing and feared drowned is, Ramesh Khan, who was reportedly last seen playing with his friend around lunch time. The inci-

dent occurred around 11:40 hours.

According to the friend, she and the boy were playing when he told her that his feet had mud and he was going to wash them at the edge of the creek. The friend related that shortly after she turned around to see about him and only to see his two hands up in the air in the creek. He then went under the water.

The Abrams Creek Primary School

Villagers gather at the scene of the incident

The pupil said she began to scream aloud and the teachers responded but could not locate the child. Parents of the child, Revveka and Doodnauth Khan of Abrams Creek, were too distraught to speak when this newspaper contacted them.

They said that they were at home when

they received a call from a teacher stating that their son is feared drowned. A diver, Christ Rodriguez, was up to late Tuesday afternoon searching for the child.

Nevel Jagmohan also spent hours searching for the child but up to press time the child was still missing.

PPP frets after candidate loses out on GECOM post

THE People’s Progressive all the circumstances and I Party is protesting the de- fear that we cannot rely on cision of the Guyana Elec- informed, rational, fair judgtions Commission to re- ments of the GECOM Chairject the rehiring of Vishnu man in the position which he Persaud as its deputy chief now occupies,” said Benn, elections officer(DCEO). who stressed that on the The matter was decided principle of meritocracy, the on Tuesday when the full chairman’s decision cannot commission met for its statutory meeting. Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Justice (ret’d) James Patterson, on Tuesday used his casting vote to reject the rehiring of Persaud, who had been accused in the past of alleged corrupt practices. The rejection of Persaud, whom the PPP said emerged at the top of the list of other applicants for the post, will see a complaint being lodged at the Ethnic Relations Commission (ERC).

Speaking at a press con- GECOM Commissioner ference held immediately Robeson Benn after Tuesday’s statutory meeting, PPP-nominated Commissioners Robeson stand. Attempts to contact Benn, Bibi Shadick and Sase Justice Patterson on the matGunraj, all condemned the ter Tuesday proved futile. move by Justice Patterson. The PPP has objected to JusThe commissioners told re- tice Patterson’s appointment porters that Persaud scored as GECOM chair, stating some 76 points in his assess- that he is not best suited for ment while Roxanne Myers; the job. Only recently, the the second-ranked applicant High Court ruled that the scored 72 points. However, President’s appointment of Justice Patterson opted to Patterson was constitutional. vote for Myers to be appoint- The opposition has since ed DCEO. filed a Notice of Appeal in “It could not be fair, the said matter, while calling could not be perceived to be on the president to appoint a rational that a position of this nominee from the 18 names sort should emerge given submitted by Opposition

Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

Meanwhile, Benn said his party is disappointed and regrets the decision made by the commission which hinged on the casting vote of Justice Patterson. “For us this is not a matter simply of race and ethnicity,

reminded that Persaud who served for a number of years as DCEO came off the job when the work of the commission halted following the retirement of former GECOM Chair Dr. Steve Surujbally. He explained that commissioners representing

GECOM Commissioner Bibi Shadick

GECOM Chairman, Justice (Ret’d) James Patterson

it is [a] matter in respect of fairness. It is a matter which we believe we have to take positions in respect of writing letters and making approaches to the ERC and also we have to internationalise this issue and discussion,” said Benn, who was recently vocal on the ethnic composition of staff of the commission.

According to Benn, the entire selection process was done according to evaluations by each commissioner on the sub-committee. He

the government, Charles Corbin, Vincent Alexander and Desmond Trotman, despite knowing that Persaud secured the highest scores, raised objections to his appointment.

“On our side we thought that these objections were spurious, have no basis in fact and perhaps could only be motivated by judgments on what could only be described as this point in time as not being fair to the person who emerged,” Benn

told reporters at the Office of the Leader of the Opposition.

A subsequent evaluation was done, which resulted in Persaud maintaining the top spot, but in spite of this Benn said the matter was put for the chairman to use his

Former DCEO, Vishnu Persaud casting vote. “We have grave concerns where a Guyanese who is eminently qualified for the position, a person who performed in that job for several years, a person whose record and evaluation didn’t involve any sanctions, has been rejected.”

Similarly, Commissioner Shadick, the lone female commissioner, told reporters that despite Persaud’s success in what can be deemed a fair process, Justice Patterson opted to vote against him returning as DCEO and

voted for Myers, who is Afro-Guyanese to be appointed DCEO. The PPP commissioner made it clear that Persaud “was no friend of the PPP,” nor was he “giving secrets or cooperating with the PPP commissioners.”

“We have no personal reason for wanting him there,” Shadick told reporters.

Accusations against Persaud However, back in 2016, Persaud was accused of being corrupt. It was alleged that despite having a public relations officer (PRO) at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) at the time, Persaud carried out some of that officer’s duties during the last elections. Sources within the commission had told the Guyana Chronicle that Persaud took charge of all Civic and Voter Education responsibilities despite their falling within the ambit of the PRO. However, Persaud had denied those allegations. In 2014, Persaud while appointed as DCEO, wrote and signed documents as the entity’s public relations officer.

In documents seen by this publication, Persaud had signed as PRO and DCEO, but had denied this while asserting that there was a vendetta against him by persons within GECOM and the public outburst about his involvement in corruption is geared at besmirching his character.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13 , 2018

AT&T wins court approval to buy Time Warner over Trump opposition AT&T Inc won approval from a U.S. court on Tuesday to buy Time Warner Inc for $85 billion, dealing a blow to U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration which tried to block the deal and likely setting off a wave of corporate mergers.

The planned deal, approved without conditions, is seen as a turning point for a media industry that has been upended by companies like Netflix Inc and Google which produce content and sell it online directly to consumers, without requiring a pricey cable subscription. Distributors including cable, satellite and wireless carriers all see buying content companies as a way to add revenue.

The decision comes despite criticism from Trump, a frequent detractor of Time Warner’s CNN and its coverage. The deal was announced in October 2016 and quickly denounced by Trump.

The ruling could also prompt a cascade of pay TV companies buying television and movie makers, with Comcast Corp’s bid for some Twenty-First Century Fox Inc assets potentially the first out of the gate. The merger, including debt, would be the fourth largest deal ever attempted in the global telecom, media and entertainment space, according to Thomson Reuters data. It would also be the 12th largest deal in any sector, the data showed.

“I conclude that the government has failed to meet its burden of proof,” District Court Judge Richard Leon told the court. He called one of the government’s arguments against the deal “gossamer thin.” The judge in a scathing opinion urged the U.S. government not to seek a stay of his ruling, saying it would be “manifestly unjust” to do so and not likely to succeed. Shares of AT&T fell about 1.3 percent in after-hours trade following the decision, while Time Warner rose more than 5 percent. Comcast was down 3 percent.

“The court is the last place you want to accomplish your M&A goal but in this case it was a sweet victory,” said Jeffrey Logsdon, managing director of JBL Advisors in California. “This will be a blockbuster summer for media mergers!”

said Mary Ann Halford, senior adviser to OC&C Strategy Consultants. The Justice Department filed a lawsuit to stop the deal in November 2017, saying that AT&T’s ownership of both DirecTV and Time Warner would give AT&T unfair leverage against rival cable providers that relied on Time Warner’s content, such as CNN and HBO’s “Game of Thrones.”

Leaving the courtroom, Makan Delrahim, head of the Justice department’s antitrust division, said that he would read the judge’s opinion before making a decision on an appeal. Asked about the decision, he said, “Obviously we don’t agree.”

AT&T in a six-week trial argued that the purchase of Time Warner would allow it to gain information about viewers needed to target digital advertising, much like Facebook Inc and Alphabet Inc’s Google already do.

AT&T and other wireless carriers need to find new sources of revenue as the mobile phone market stagnates and more customers abandon pricey cable and satellite packages for streaming services they can watch on their phones or televisions. The government estimated costs to industry rivals, such as Charter Communications Inc, would increase by $580 million a year if AT&T owned Time Warner.

To assuage the Trump administration’s criticisms, AT&T offered to submit pricing disagreements with other pay TV companies over Turner’s channels to third-party arbitration.

The companies further offered not to black out programing during arbitration for seven years.

Before the trial started, AT&T lawyers said the Time Warner deal may have been singled out for government enforcement but Judge Leon of the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia rejected their bid to force the disclosure of White House communications that might have shed light on the matter. The deal cost AT&T’s top lobbyist, Bob Quinn, his job in May after it became public that AT&T had paid Trump’s personal lawyer Michael Cohen US$600,000 for advice on winning approval.

The ruling could also have implications for CBS Corp’s potential tie-up with Viacom Inc, which is already uncertain because of a lawsuit between CBS’s controlling shareholder, Shari Redstone, and its board. (Reuters)

Macron scolds Italy over Aquarius ship Stranded migrants…

The Aquarius is operated by SOS Méditerranée and Doctors without Borders (MSF)

French President Emmanuel Macron has accused the Italian government of “cynicism and irresponsibility” for refusing to let a stranded rescue ship packed with migrants dock in Italy.

A charity looking after the 629 migrants on the Aquarius, stranded off Malta, says two Italian ships will help take them to Spain’s port of Valencia. Spain is some three days’ sailing away. Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte hit back angrily at France, calling its stance on migrants “hypocritical”. He criticised “countries that have always preferred to turn their backs when it comes to immigration”.

In the past five years Italy has taken in more than 640,000 mainly African migrants and says its EU partners must ease the burden. Most migrants who survive the perilous voyages from North Africa end up in overcrowded Italian camps. Among them are refugees fleeing war and persecution, who have a right to asylum.

The Aquarius migrants, mainly sub-Saharan Africans, were picked up off Libya’s coast at the weekend. They were found in inflatable boats and are now being looked after by Doctors without Borders (MSF) and the Franco-German charity SOS Méditerranée aboard the Aquarius. Mr Macron’s spokesman Benjamin Griveaux said the French president recalled that “in cases of distress, those with the nearest coastline have a responsibility to respond”.

“There is a degree of cynicism and irresponsibility in the Italian government’s behaviour,” he quoted President Macron as saying. The plan is for the Aquarius to be joined by an Italian coastguard ship and a warship, then for all three to head for Valencia. The coastguard ship Datti-

lo and the warship are expected to take migrants on board from the Aquarius in the coming hours. There are medics and UN Children’s Fund (Unicef) workers on the Dattilo. SOS Méditerranée tweeted photos of fresh supplies arriving on board on Tuesday.

Earlier the crew said the ship could not sail to Spain while it was overcrowded, and conditions at sea were deteriorating.

Among the migrants are seven pregnant women, 11 young children and 123 unaccompanied minors. The minors are aged between 13 and 17 and come from Eritrea, Ghana, Nigeria and Sudan, according to a journalist on the ship, Anelise Borges.

Fifteen migrants have serious chemical burns and several suffered hypothermia, according to MSF. ITALY DEFIANT Italian Deputy Prime Minister Luigi Di Maio shrugged off the French criticism. “I’m glad the French have discovered responsibility: if they want, we will help them,” he said. “Let them open their ports and we will transfer a few of the people to France.” Earlier, Italian Interior Minister Matteo Salvini defended his refusal to let the ship dock, saying: “Saving lives is a duty, turning Italy into a huge refugee camp is not.”

Instead he urged Malta to receive the migrants. His right-wing League party is in a new populist government which has pledged to stop the migrant influx to Italy and deport failed asylum seekers.

However, the Italian coastguard ship Diciotti is currently taking 937 migrants to the Sicilian port of Catania. They were picked up not by charities but by the EU naval rescue mission off Libya. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Skull City murder trial ...

Star witness recalls how events unfolded

By Michel Outridge

THE prosecution’s star witness took to the stand on Monday as the Boxing Day Skull City murder trial continues in the Georgetown High Court before Justice Sandil Kissoon.

Zalena Ramsundar, daughter of the deceased, testified that on December 26, 2014, she was selling at the roadside stand belonging to her mother when she witnessed her dad, Sunil Ramsundar, being attacked by both accuseds.

Now 17-plus, Zalena, who was 14 when the incident occurred, told the court in her teary-eyed evidence-in-chief that the number one accused, Vaswantie Ragnauth, called “Shelly”, is her father’s sister, while the number two accused, Nyron Thakurdyal, is the woman’s husband.

She identified both parties as being seated in the courtroom, and stated that prior to the Boxing Day incident, she had known the number two, as he lived with his wife in a yard behind their house.

The teenager recalled that on the night of the murder, she and her father were sitting at the stand talking when they observed her sister, Naldo (only name given), crying in the passageway.

Zalena Ramsundar told the court that her father went to Naldo to enquire why she was crying, and that whatever it was she told him caused him to quarrel and say, “Why Nyron had to beat my daughter!”

The witness stated that no sooner had her father said so, than “Shelly” came out, and the two of them got into an argument.

Zalena Ramsundar said she took her father back to the stand, while a sister

of his named Chano (only name given), came out and took Naldo away.

She said they all eventually went home, but her dad was so incensed over the matter that he came back out and started to quarrel all over again.

It was at this point, she said, that the number one accused, “Shelly”, came back out and she and the deceased had a “scramble”.

She said her father, the deceased Sunil Ramsundar, somehow managed to hold on to both of the number one accused’s hands, and in the ensuing scuffle the woman’s husband, The number two accused Nyron Thakurdyal, came out and held the deceased from behind.

Zalena Ramsundar told the court that while her father was sandwiched between the two accuseds, she saw the number one, “Shelly”, appear to be cuffing him, and distinctly heard him say, “Shelly!

Watch wah yuh doing meh, gyal!”

At this point the number two, Nyron Thakurdyal, replied, “Is not Shelly alone!” and began striking the deceased in a similar cuffing motion.

The witness stated that after a few minutes had elapsed, a little boy came running past her saying, “Dem bore up yuh father!” And as she went to his aid, she saw him bracing on a fence, his jersey soaked in blood, and immediately began to scream.

POLICE WITNESS Constable Alex Solomon also took the stand on Monday morning, when he testified that on December 26, 2014, he was stationed at the Wales Police Station and was standing in the said compound when he saw a car drive in.

He stated that he recognised the man at the wheel as Lance Corporal Benjamin Dufu, and based on what he told him as he exited the vehicle, he, Solomon, went to it and on opening the rear door saw two persons of East Indian descent seated inside.

Having been told their names, Solomon said he asked the two persons to exit the vehicle, and as he was directing them into the station, the number one accused reached under her clothes and pulled out what appeared to be a knife.

Solomon said he immediately took possession of the brown-handled stainless-steel knife, and escorted the couple into the station where he handed them over to one Constable Bennett.

The cop testified that he went to Skull City, which is located in Patentia on the West Bank of Demerara, to verify the story that Lance Corporal Dufu had told him, and upon arrival there, began questioning several persons. He next went to the West Demerara Regional Hospital at Best, on the West Coast of Demerara, and was told that a man had been admitted but had died.

Solomon said he would later learn that the man who had died was Sunil Ramsundar, which information he later passed on to the court superintendent.

That done, he next escorted Ramsundar’s body to the Ezekiel Funeral Parlour nearby for storage, and returned to the Wales Police Station, where he contacted Constable Bennett and gave him an update on the matter.

The police witness told the court he then, in the presence of both the accuseds, placed his initials and date on the knife he had taken from the number

–– on day father was murdered

one and lodged it for safekeeping.

An application was made by the state for the witness to be shown the knife in question, and he positively identified it as the one he had tendered at the Magistrates’ Court.

Next on the stand was Sergeant Krishendat Singh, who testified that as the leading investigator in the alleged murder, he had visited the crime scene and spoken to the daughter of the deceased, Zalena Ramsundar.

The police witness related that he also contacted both accused and put the allegation of murder to them after which they were cautioned.

Singh said the number one accused told him, “Sir, me and Sunil pull one another; meh nah know how he get bore. Nyron part we.”

Sergeant Singh noted that she refused to give a written statement.

The police witness then put the allegation to the number two accused, and he told him, “Offisah! Me nor Vaswantie nah murder he; me push dem way!”

He, too, declined to make a written statement.

Sergeant Singh related that he witnessed the post-mortem performed

by Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan and lodged the PM report which was tendered as evidence in the trial.

This police witness told the court that he had told both accused of his intention to hold a confrontation on December 27, 2014, with the daughter of the deceased, but they both refused to cooperate.

The two accused appeared before Justice Sandil Kissoon in the Georgetown High Court

following the opening of the June Criminal Assizes, and pleaded “Not Guilty” to the December 26, 2014 murder at Patentia, West Bank Demerara.

The state is being led by prosecutor Lisa Cave in association with Orinthia Schmidt, while the defence attorney is Nigel Hughes.

Wednesday June 13th, - 14:30 – 04:00hrs Thursday June 14th, - 14:30 – 04:30hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13 , 2018

The PPP GECOM chair challenge IT was evident that the People’s Progressive Party/Civic’s (PPP/C) motion against the appointment of Justice James Patterson as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission(GECOM), arose out of its belief that he had not been a ‘‘fit and proper” person to be appointed to such office; and that President David Granger was bound to make a choice for such a critical constitutional body, from any of the list of nominees, submitted by the leader of the opposition.

Concomitantly, there was also an expectation -too optimistic perhaps -- but one void of any legal reasoning that the court would have ruled favourably in respect of the motion’s contentions.

The learned Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire’s (ag) ruling can only be described as erudite, clearly unambiguous in its reading, understanding, intent, and conclusion, as it was judicially incisive. The beauty about this decision

was that it was written and pronounced in very simple, legal language for citizens to read and comprehend.

This is appreciated, since it is about a very important constitutional body that has to do with the exercise of national elections in a transparent manner, and with the Executive having to address a most central aspect–that of selecting its chairperson, with the agreement of leader of the parliamentary opposition.

The motion, clearly “misconceived”, as described by the chief justice, conveyed the unmistakable “scraping of the barrel”, with an air of desperation as the PPP/C frantically went on a foray in every sphere to build a political motion with the view to discrediting both the integrity, honour and dignity of the appointed judge.

As an example, to describe as a “political segment”, for whatever such may mean, Justice Patterson being a pall-bearer at the funeral of the late President

Desmond Hoyte, as reason for making him unfit for the chairmanship, underlines a wild, thoughtless, and senseless urgency to solicit judicial sanction. No doubt that it attracted a brand of “ludicrous’’ by the Madame Chief Justice.

For the clarity and understanding of those who genuinely did not understand the individual roles of the President, and leader of the opposition in the critical process of the choice of a chairperson of GECOM and even those who allowed themselves to be misled.

First of all, it is the opposition leader’s remit to submit a proper list of nominees which gives the President sufficient scope for consideration for appointment, and not one that comprises persons who were publicly known for their political views and affiliation, as well as being financiers of the former PPP/C administration. Since the ideal candidate must be one of honesty and integrity, in whom confidence must unhesitatingly

be reposed to effect a transparent management of local government and national elections, then such lists as submitted, could have only been described as provocative, designed to insult the President with the egregious intent of creating a national quarrel.

Secondly, Article 182 (1) gives the President the clear mandate to act in his own deliberate judgment. This had been clearly underlined in the chief justice’s ruling in the Dominic Gaskin motion against the appointment when she stated, “The submission of the list does not mean that the President is obliged to accept the lists or the persons named in it.

Specifically, she stated that if the list is deficient, “either in totality or in the names that have been included,” that the President has the right to deem the entire list as “unacceptable”. It was a fact again re-emphasised in the dismissal of this latest challenge when she said “…the decision to accept or reject a list by extension

No more distractions Dear Editor THE intention of creating an environment which the PPP/C thought would have placed the President in a totally defensive mode, and without choice, but to accede to selecting the Guyana Elections Commission Chairman (GEOCOM) from such lists–Bharat Jagdeo’s gamble backfired.

In fact, the latter was outfoxed, as the President went beyond that which had been constitutionally required, by asking for another list of nominees.

It was obvious that the lists submitted by the leader of the political opposition to the President, were clearly loaded and designed to create political upheaval, with unmistakable racial connotations. At best, they were lists with nominees that would have evoked questioning in any jurisdiction, given the criterion for selection to such an important constitutional office.

In doing so, there was every

indication that the President wanted to arrive at a solution for “a fit and proper” person to be appointed to such an office.

Jagdeo interpreted this to mean that he was dictating the pace, given his oversized ego, and including that of his principal legal advisor Anil Nandlall.

Instead, the President stuck to his initial position and applied the dictates of the constitution which empowered his decision.

There was never any dispute as to legal correctness of his action, except from those many dishonest statements from the political opposition, their cohorts, and the many opportunists, inclusive of the hypocrites.

The subsequent motion filed, and which was dismissed as totally “misconceived” by the learned chief justice, reveals not only the moral dishonesty of a party that would go to any lengths to impugn a citizen’s character, but also its blatant disregard for constitutional requirements. Again, how could such lists have been submitted

for consideration? It is only left to the devious imagination, with its wilful intent of Jagdeo and the PPP/C. The courts have spoken. The issue of discretion, cited Article 111 (1) of the Constitution of Guyana states that, “In the exercise of his functions under this Constitution or any other law, the President shall act in accordance with his own deliberate judgement except in cases where, by this Constitution or by any other law, he is required to act in accordance with the advice or on the recommendation of any person or authority.”

‘His own deliberate judgment’ says it all. That discretion has been exercised by the President. There must be no more distractions; it is time for GECOM to continue with its important business of preparing the nation for the upcoming local government elections.

Regards Earl Hamilton

the discretion to appoint one of the nominees on the list submitted pursuant to article 162 (10) lies with the President.” We interpret this to mean that the President enjoys the constitutional right to reject the entire list and appoint someone from the judiciary, as was his consistent contention, and which he finally did.

The PPP/C’s intention to import political bias within the functioning mechanism of the nation’s electoral administrative body has failed miserably.

In seeking to undermine the office of the chairman through such a dubious motion, points also to an appeal to other interests. It is a clear orchestration to create doubts and fears in the minds of constituents, and citizens in general.

Such a dangerous scenario, is a retrograde step in the building of constitutional bodies designed for overseeing the important functions of the state. The nation cannot benefit from such grave political mischief.

The media did not report Jermain Hermanstyne threatening language charge Dear Editor, ON Friday June 8th Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) employee Jermain Hermanstyne, appeared in Georgetown Magistrates’ Court #2, charged with using threatening language to Patrick Yarde, President of the Guyana Public Service Union. His appearance was witnessed by several persons. No mention of this matter was carried in the media.

One might have thought, Sir, that a case of that nature in the Magistrates’ Court, involving the president of a prominent trade union, would have attracted the particular attention of your court reporters.

This, particularly, since over time, much coverage has been afforded Mr. Hermanstyne’s versions of events pertaining to his efforts to vilify Mr. Yarde.

Sections of the print media had previously reported on versions of events provided by Mr. Hermanstyne pertaining to his attempts to smear Mr. Yarde in his capacity as President of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), and as a member of the management committee of the GPSCCU and to seek, deliberately, to create divisions within the branches of the union and members of the credit union. To falsely claim occurrences, to say the least, to which there is docu-

mentation which contains information to the contrary.

Against that background, I feel compelled to enquire as to whether the omission of Mr. Hermanstyne’s appearance before the Magistrates’ Court is a matter of objective editorial decision-making or whether its exclusion is a matter of calculated prejudice, in which case I feel compelled to protest the bias that appears to inhere in this omission. It would be appreciated if you favour this note with publication at the earliest possible time along with your response.

Regards Morty Livan

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Ogunseye urges objective discussion on role of Dr Rodney Dear Editor, JUNE 13, 2018, represents the 38th year since the assassination of Walter Rodney, which occurred on June 13th, 1980. Thirty-eight years should be sufficient time for Guyana and its leadership at its highest level, to be able to have a dispassionate and objective discussion on the role of this great son of the soil and the contribution he made to the political life of the country.

However, 38 years later in Guyana we are still not yet positioned to do so, and this in spite of the fact, that the party of Rodney, the WPA, is a partner in the APNU and a party in the coalition government, which has been in office over the last three years. I believe that the failure to have this profound discussion in Guyana underscores the extent to which the political process and political leaders have failed the people and represents a serious indictment of those who claim the right to lead and to make decisions on our behalf.

It should be recalled that Guyana made a major step forward as a nation when the Corbin-led PNCR and the WPA supported an amended motion in parlia-

ment, to establish a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the death of Walter Rodney. It is important to note that the PPP/C, which sponsored the motion, abstained when the vote was taken because of the amendment, which saw the word “death” substituted for “assassination”. The PNCR had objected to the use of the word assassination, on the grounds that its retention in the motion was prejudging the issue. The WPA agreed and the motion in its amended form was passed, thereby demonstrating tremendous political maturity on the part of the two historical antagonists. Importantly, their actions created the genesis of a public political detente between the two parties that led to the subsequent birth of the APNU and a decisive shift in the politics of the nation.

Rodney returned to Guyana in 1975, and the role he played in the Civil Rebellion resulted in profound changes in the politics of the country at that time.

The WPA and Rodney were able to exploit the existing political contradictions and the legitimacy of the rulers’ right to govern given, rigged elections. Unfolding events shattered the myth that effective unity and

Are the oil critics anti-small business?

Dear Editor, IT is with great amazement that I read the criticism in the media about small companies and contractors being able to benefit as a result of ExxonMobil’s operations in Guyana.

At the early stages of exploration and production of oil, the big money usually goes to companies involved in drilling and transporting supplies for the offshore operations. In a country like Guyana – new to the industry – it was always known that local businesses would need to undergo training and capacity building in order to benefit significantly from the opportunities in the industry.

The list that was released last week shows that as companies build capacity to benefit from big opportunities, a number of small businesses and contractors

are beginning to benefit from the spin-off effects of ExxonMobil’s operations in the country. All these small enterprises provide employment, pay taxes and contribute to the national economy.

The old saying in Guyana of ‘one one dutty build dam’ cannot be forgotten.

Very often, it is small and medium- scale business operations that contribute the most, collectively, to the economy, as is the case with the gold mining industry. To attack and attempt to downplay the significance of these small businesses benefiting from opportunities in the oil and gas sector is unfortunate and points to what appears to be a trend; and that is to denigrate all those involved in trying to help propel this new industry in Guyana.

Regards Clement Smith

collective political actions by the African and Indian working people was unlikely, given the historical political and racial polarisation in the country.

The effectiveness of Rodney/WPA’s activism scared the rulers who, when faced with massive multiracial street protests and demonstrations by the masses, resorted to grave acts of oppression, violence, and political murders in an effort to stem the tide of change. While they were able to hold on to political power, they were unable to reverse the new political reality created by the WPA and Rodney, which subsequently led to the PNC being voted out of office in the 1992 general and regional elections. The rejection of the PNCR at those elections was made possible in no small way by the legacy of Rodney that ushered in a new chapter in the country’s politics.

Ironically, the return to free and fair elections brought with it a rebirth of the old race-based politics, which profoundly reversed the gains made by Rodney and the WPA. The rebirth of the race/political contradictions resulted in new challenges, which the nation failed to address effectively, in its best interest. Dr. Jagan and the PPP after having

come to power quickly lost their way and returned to the old politics of domination. In doing so, they squandered the democratic dividends produced by the anti-dictatorial struggles.

Things got significantly worst after the demise of President Cheddi Jagan.

The rise to power of Jagdeo led to the criminalisation of the state, the rise of the phantom killers; the extra-judicial killings of hundreds of young men, mostly Africans; and witnessed the worst degeneration in the political culture and governance in the country.

Politically, the coming to power of the PNC was a result of support received from internal and external forces, which worked to the advantage of that party, allowing it to rule for 28 years (1964 to 1992). Similarly, the PPPC’s return to office was the result of the shift in the balance of the social/political forces -- internal and external -- which facilitated that regime’s rule for 23 years ( 1992 t0 2015).

The big challenge facing the nation as we remember Rodney is, to understand the likely direction in which the country is heading. This is of paramount importance if we are to avoid the negative effects of internal/external influences and to take control of our destiny. In light

of our known history this is no small matter, since history has demonstrated that external forces and their interests have been the dominant factor in determining the political, social and economic direction of the country. Additionally, the domestic/internal contradictions in the country and the struggle to resolve them have militated against our ability to resist the viciousness of the external forces and influences. In short, “people’s power,” which Rodney and the WPA invoked never matured to the point to facilitate liberation of the people and the country.

Given this reality, the obvious question is where do we go from here? Not surprisingly, the masses are, in their own way, daily asking the same question in search of an answer. I cannot and will not pretend to have the answer to this question. However, I am convinced that this country, 38 years after the passing of Rodney, is once again at the crossroads. But no two historical junctures are the same. They may be similarities but also differences. Our present economic, social and political situation in significant ways is more challenging in this post-independence period.

Like any historical moment,

there is the possibility of success or failure.

My candid judgment is that our national political leadership, both in government and opposition, civil society forces and the masses, are not up to the challenges with which we are faced. Therefore, it is questionable whether the nation can achieve the necessary political and social cohesion needed to defeat the historical odds and avoid repeating past mistakes, for which we pay a high price of grave under development. The jury is out on this matter and we will have the answer sooner rather than later.

Political observers will not fail to comprehend the importance of the Year 2020, to the future of the nation since it is an election year and, equally important, the year designated for the commencement of oil production. Added to those developments, the Year 2020 will be the 40th Anniversary of the assassination of Walter Rodney.

In closing, it seems that at every significant juncture post-1980, Rodney stands before us reminding the nation of the need for self-examination and reflection.

Regards Tacuma Ogunseye

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Mahaicony woman celebrates 105 years

AT 105 years-old Mrs. Doris Clastine Fordyce joked about how she hopes to live to a million years.

If she achieves that, she will outlive Methuselah, the man from the biblical times who lived 900 years.

On Tuesday Aunty Doris, as she is fondly called could still sing along to some hymns she grew up hearing and also sang frequently while she was still active in church. She was surrounded by a small num-

ber of her relatives as they wished her well and prayed with her on the occasion of her birth anniversary.

The simple ceremony was held at her youngest daughter’s home at Mahaicony, East Coast Demer-

SDA Pastor Andre Williams prays with Mrs. Doris Fordyce

ara. Mrs. Doris raised five children, four girls and one boy. The boy died some 35 years ago while all the girls remain alive. In her early days, she was a house wife and also did some level of domestic planting while her now deceased husband, who was a labourer, also did farming.

To date, the elderly woman who has some difficulty sitting for long periods, does not require any schedule medical checkups but whenever she is carried for a routine check, relatives said that the doctors would usually relate to them that her health is good and that her heartbeat is like that of a child, very normal.

The woman has approximately 42 grand-children, 109 great-grandchildren and 42 great-great-grandchildren. Family members said that she is also known to be among the founder members of two Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) churches, one a stone’s

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

At 105 years-old Mrs. Doris Clastine Fordyce joked about living for a million years throw away from where she lives with her daughter and the other at No.42 Village, Berbice.

Asked what advice she wishes to send to those hoping to live to her age, Aunty Doris encourages young people and adults to stay close to God and in all their ways acknowledge him. On Tuesday, after she received

prayers from the SDA Pastor Andre Williams, in observance of her birthday, the pastor also asked her to lay her hands on him as he wanted her to release some blessings from above.

Aunty Doris said that she believes that she is now preparing to head to heaven as she is now on the pilgrim of her life.

Gov’t embraces local manufacturers –– Minister Harmon says during visit to KSM Investments Limited MINISTER of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon on Monday visited KSM Investments Limited, a company that produces concrete products at Good Hope, East Coast Demerara, where he reiterated the Government of Guyana’s commitment to supporting local manufacturing companies.

“The Government embraces companies that manufacture things in Guyana; companies that employ Guyanese, companies that promote the Guyana brand, companies that establish and insist on value for money… This is where revenue is generated for our country,” he said.

The minister said that be believes in the utilisation of high-quality products, particularly when it

Minister of State Joseph Harmon during a tour of KSM Investments Limited comes to infrastructural development, and other public sector projects are critically important. “While at the level of Government we are spending monies on public infrastructure, if

it is not done properly the people of the country are short-changed… I want to encourage you to continue the work the country is doing,” Minister Harmon said.

Meanwhile, KSM’s Chief Executive Officer Mr. Mahadeo Panchu said that his company is willing to assist the government by organising a seminar for engineers and officials

from government agencies and even Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), to share with them their technical expertise and the benefits of advanced technology in the construction sector. KSM officially commenced operations in November 2015. Mr. Panchu explained, “We could have taken our money and go live somewhere but this is our home, this is where we belong and this is where we are going to stay to assist in the building of our country…

“We are here to help our government; we can manufacture, we can supply, we can install… we want to see modernisation come to our country,” he said.

KSM’s Business Con-

sultant Mr. Roger Duff said that the construction industry is known to kick start modernisation and investment in any country. “When a construction industry embraces technology the way KSM embraces technology, it invariably pushes the rest of the country upwards from the technologically advanced standpoint,” he said.

KSM has become famous for its rock solid hollow blocks, duraLast vent blocks and everlast pavers, which are available in a variety of designs and colours. As of December last year, the company’s total investment was estimated at some $800M. (Ministry of the Presidency)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Tackling suicide: looking out for the signs

By Marissa Foster GUYANA is still a developing country. It lies on the South American coast, along the tropics with a population of 746,955 (according to the 2012 census).

The act of killing oneself or better known as suicide has been a prevailing and worrisome topic among Guyanese. Out of the total given population, East Indians are more prone to commit such an act, whereas, on the gender perspective, males dominate the statistics.

Guyana currently ranks third on the list of the world’s top suicidal countries with a statistic of 29 suicides per 100,000 persons. This is a decline in numbers compared to the 2015 statistics, where Guyana was ranked number one with a figure of 44 suicides per 100,000 persons.

The Government of Guyana and NGOs (Prevention of Teen Suicide, Youth Ambassadors Guyana and many others) have been working in many ways possible to help eradicate this scourge. Some of the work being done includes outreaches, workshops and prevention walks.

Moves are also afoot to decriminalise the act of suicide. While many attempts have failed, some have slowly, but certainly made a difference. It is visible though that the suicide rate is declining. A question I quite often hear is: ‘How can we as a society help to battle off this social issue?’ Our social interactions on a whole are a long chain that links us to individuals who we may not even know of. One person falls and the entire chain gets affected.

This is evident in Émile Durkheim’s theory of suicide. He was a French theorist, who believed that suicide is not only a personal subject but it is also influenced by social factors. I also take side with his propositions on this matter. Our society; social pillars (the school, church and family), our culture (beliefs and mindset held about this topic) and our environment play an integral role in eliminating this issue.

I’ve always heard many old Guyanese folks say: ‘Prevention is always better than a cure’. As such, it starts with oneself, for we are members

of society and it is us, who make up the social chain of life. All in all, our roles in society should be used as ingredients toward making an antidote to help diminish this social ill that has been affecting our country for the past few years. The way we choose to acknowledge and act upon this topic is also of importance. I’m saddened at the fact that we may look at these statistics as just numbers and not even realise that they are the deaths of our very own. How many more numbers must be added before we realise that this phenomenon is detrimental to our growth as a nation?

I was born and raised in the County of Berbice. As cliché as it may sound, I know so many who have fallen by the hands of suicide. I attended the New Amsterdam Multilateral School and it was during my fourth year in high school where I was confronted with a hands-on experience of someone committing suicide. Marissa Singh attended my high school and although she was not an acquaintance of mine, her death surely left an impact on me.

Mahendra Phagwah was one of Marissa’s best friend.

A FRIEND’S TEAR Here is how he summed up her life, the events leading up to her death and how he managed to cope with the aftermath. “I met Marissa Singh in 2009, we attended the same mandir. Subsequently after, our friendship grew stronger as we would partake in mandir-related activities. After school, she would come over by my house, vice versa.

Being her friend was one in a million. She had asked to become my sister and on Raksha Bandhan, she indeed became a gem. We would go most places together, sing and I would support her in her dancing events. I firmly believe no one could ever take that place of her on a stage.

“Marissa displayed many signs of suicide but sadly, back then I was not fully trained or equipped to notice these signs. The first sign was her first attempt of suicide.

Our bond grew much stronger after this. It was an eyeopener for me and I made it my oath to be there for her in

every possible way. During her first attempt, she was attending the New Amsterdam Multilateral. Returning to school was very hard for her because she was now a target for many schoolmates.

“I vividly remember going to her home many times and I would beg her to go back to school but she would always break down in tears and tell me that a lot of people are laughing at her. They called her names such as ‘pills’, ‘pharmacy’, etc. I couldn’t stand to see her in such a state. I convinced her grandmother to have her transferred to my school (JCCSS), to have a fresh start at life. All was well at first, she even became a school’s prefect and had dreams of either becoming a teacher or nurse. Marissa’s love for children was beyond words.

Her laughter was one in a million, like no other. Unfortunately, Marissa’s laughter was just a mask for her pain.

News of her first attempt of suicide started to spread around her new school and gossip began circulating that she did it for a boyfriend.

Adding to that, the loss of her mother to a housefire and other issues contributed to her suicidal thoughts. At this time, I was not as concerned as I should’ve been, about her attempting suicide again because I felt she had learned her lesson from the first attempt. Sadly, as I attended many trainings and psychology courses after her death, I learned that it was the opposite.

“Devastatingly, I lost Marissa to suicide on July 09, 2016. This is a day that I will always remember. Around midday hours, I received a text message from Marissa which implied that she may be trying to take her own life. I called her landline but she had pulled the cord out.

I ran as fast as I could to her home (a street away). Upon arrival, she had locked her bedroom door and was crying hysterically. It all felt like a movie scene. After many attempts, I managed to get into her bedroom and I then rushed her to the hospital in her brother’s car.

“That journey to the hospital is one that I will never forget. I still remember the words she mentioned to me.

I remembered my inside

feeling weak a n d filled with r e grets.

Upon arrival at the hospital, Marissa was not given immediate attention until after about 15 minutes that the doctors tended to her care.

She was taken to a bed and I saw doctors putting a tube in her mouth, pumping the pills out. I went outside along with her grandmother, a close friend and her sister, we all came to console each other while hoping for the best.

“I would go in to checkup on her from time-to-time.

I saw a dark purple substance coming through the tube and I still can perfectly remember how she was struggling to breathe for air (this gives me nightmares sometimes).

My heart was shattered to pieces as the doctor called me inside, asking if I was a family member and he told me of the sad news. My dear Marissa Singh passed away at 8:30hrs due to cardiac shock; it was my task to deliver the news to her grandmother and

family; it took all the strength and gut I had to do so.

“Fast forwarding to almost two years now, life can never be the same again.

Many days I still feel sad about her loss. When I finished writing CSEC, I thought of her and I cried.

Whenever I go to places and I see people dance, I always think of her. It leaves an empty space that cannot be filled.

It is the same for her loved ones as well, especially for her family members.”

THE PAIN “I wish to say that suicide does not end the pain.

It simply adds your pain to your loved ones, thereby adding an extra burden. It creates emptiness, sadness and thoughts of many regrets and doubts. ‘I should have done this, or maybe this, why didn’t I see this?’ Nevertheless, I chose to make better of the pain by educating myself more. Marissa was

not perfect, she had many flaws and as a teenager, she got sidetracked. In the end, she was a vibrant angel that society managed to stain by gossiping, accusing and taunting her vulnerable soul.

This is quite evident today in society still.”

Many signs of suicide are often times dismissed in our society and we take them for granted. Some of which include talks about wanting to die or to kill oneself, talks about being a burden to others and feelings of hopelessness, drastic change in sleeping patterns, drug/alcohol abuse, extreme mood swings, withdrawing from relationships and social activities. If you, by chance have suicidal thoughts or you witnessed someone display these signs, then the National Suicide Helpline numbers are: (592) 2230001, 223-0009, 600-7896, 623-4444.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Woman allegedly ejected from moving car dies

A 19-year-old woman who was allegedly pushed from a moving car by her boyfriend on Sunday

night succumbed to her injuries at a private city hospital on Tuesday.

Dead is Sasia Adams,

a former student of the Anna Regina Multilateral School, who is originally from the Pomeroon, but

later moved to live on East Street, Georgetown.

Reports indicate that Adams, who worked as a

clerk at the Ramada Hotel, Providence, East Bank Demerara and lives in East Street, Georgetown, was

Dead: Sasia Adams in a white 212 motor car which was being driven by her 21-year-old boyfriend, identified as Rick Sewcharran.

Sewcharran, an operations officer at Freight Shopping Express, resides in Diamond Housing Scheme.

The boyfriend initially told police that while driving his vehicle on Lamaha Street, Georgetown, Sasia who was in the front passenger seat, jumped out of the vehicle onto the roadway.

He then picked her up and rushed her to the Balwant Singh Hospital, where she was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

Reports further indicate that the young woman who was conscious when she was admitted to the hospital, had initially told staff that she fell down at home.

The police, when contacted, said that they will review CCTV cameras as investigations continue.

However, the woman’s boyfriend alleged that she fell out of the car on Sunday night around 20:00hrs. But his stories to police were conflicting after it was alleged he had hit her to the head, after which she fell out of the moving vehicle while trying to escape the beating.

The man is in police custody as investigations continue.

“My niece was so young and beautiful, only God knows the truth. So sad, it’s like you take a part of us with you. We would miss you so much, especially that beautiful smile you always have, I hope justice prevails,” one relative said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Gov’t gives $6M to North Rupununi villages for community projects SEVEN communities in the North Rupununi, Region Nine, have received cheques valued at approximately $6Million to execute community projects under the Presidential Grant Fund.

The cheques were handed over by Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock last week Friday during a ministerial outreach to the Rupununi .

Among the villages that received funds are: Rewa $1M for extension of the women’s group centre; Massara $1M for the upgrading of a sports pavilion; Quimata $800,000 for the construction of a village bond; Wowetta $800,000 for the completion of a village benab; Rupertee $800,000 for a water- distribution system; Kwatamang $800,000 also for a water-distribution system and Surama $799,106 for the construction of a benab at the village airstrip In a release from the Department of Public In-

formation, other cheques presented include: $216, 000 to the Wowetta Women’s Agro-processing for 600 pounds of farine for the school’s dormitory and Indigenous Residence in Georgetown and $100,000 to the Bina Hill Institute for winning the first prize in a football competition.

Minister Allicock encouraged the communities to properly manage their funds and ensure proper maintenance of the respective projects. “Ensure proper work is done on these buildings, ensure that the contractor sticks with the design and monitors these projects. It is yours and you have a right to ensure quality work is done,” Minister Allicock advised. The Presidential Grant programme provides communities with the financial resources necessary to fund green, sustainable projects that are aimed at providing required services within their communities.

Rape accused on $200,000 bail

Etzer Hope

An 18-year-old was on Tuesday released on $200,000 bail by City Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for an alleged rape offence.

Etzer Hope was not required to plea to the charge

which states that between June 7 and June 8 at Kamarang Airstrip, he allegedly raped a 17-year-old girl.

The matter which was held in-camera was transferred to the Kamarang Magistrate’s Court for hearing on June 18, next

Jackie Allicock, Senior Councillor, Surama village, receiving a cheque from Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, in the presence of Permanent Secretary Alfred King

The Wowetta Women’s Agro-processing group receiving their cheque from Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock

Arnold Moses, Senior Councillor, Wowetta Village receiving a cheque from Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock in the presence of Permanent Secretary Alfred King and other councillors

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Upgrade for Bourda Market

–– street lighting, other projects for city THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is now in possession of the $57M promised by the Ministry of Communities to fund various projects across the different constituencies.

Town Clerk Royston King made the announcement at Monday’s statutory meeting, noting that 12 constituencies have so far submitted their proposals which have since been considered and approved by the ministry.

Constituencies one, six and 15 are yet to submit their proposals of work to be done in their constituencies.

About $5M is expected to be given to each constituency for a single project, or for smaller ones across the communities.

Public Relations Officer Debra Lewis told the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday that the projects were selected by the councillors based on the needs of the communities.

She said the money from the ministry has been placed in a special bank account and that there will be strict dispensation of it.

According to Lewis, one of the projects will see the upgrading of the pavement directly in front of Bourda Market on Regent Street, which will provide easy access to persons with disabilities.

The East Ruimveldt street lighting project is also expected to come on stream with money from the grant.

The town clerk had informed previously that the ministry has a spreadsheet with all of the projects to be executed and these are being funded under the ‘Restoration Grant’.

He said $24M has been set aside for the fiscal transfer plan and that the ministry has since asked that all procurement procedures be followed.

Road to first-oil closer

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

–– as development drilling commences, facility construction under way

UNITED States oil giant ExxonMobil on Tuesday said its Liza Phase 1 development continues to rapidly progress, with the commencement of development drilling offshore Guyana.

According to the company’s business wire, it was said that development drilling began in May for the first of 17 wells planned for Phase 1, laying the foundation for production start-up in 2020.

The company and its co-venturers have so far discovered estimated recoverable resources of more than 3.2 billion oil-equivalent barrels on the Stabroek Block.

“The work our teams have done in Guyana is remarkable,” said Liam Mallon, president of ExxonMobil Development Company. “We are well on our way to producing oil less than five years after our first discovery, which is well ahead of the industry average for similar projects. The Liza development and future projects will provide significant economic benefits to Guyana.”

Liza Phase 1 is expected to generate over $7B in royalty and profit-oil revenues for Guyana over the life of the project. Additional benefits will accrue from other development projects now being planned.

Liza Phase 1 involves the conversion of an oil tanker into a floating, production, storage and offloading (FPSO) vessel named Liza Destiny, along with four undersea drill centres with 17 production wells. Construction of the FPSO and subsea equipment is under way in more than a dozen countries.

Liza Destiny will have

a production capacity of 120,000 barrels of oil per day. A second FPSO with a capacity of 220,000 barrels per day is being planned as part of the Liza Phase 2 development, and a third is under consideration for the Payara development.

Together, these three developments will produce more than 500,000 barrels of oil per day.

“Guyanese businesses, contractors and employees have been an essential element of our exploration, drilling and development progress,” Mallon said.

“Our focus is on enabling local workforce and supplier development, and collaborating with the government to support the growth and success of Guyana’s new energy industry.”

About 50 per cent of ExxonMobil’s employees, contractors and subcontractors are Guyanese, a number that will continue to grow as operations progress.

ExxonMobil spent about $24M with more than 300 local suppliers in 2017, and opened the Centre for Local Business Development in Georgetown, Guyana, to promote the establishment and growth of small and medium-sized local businesses.

The centre has enabled access to training and capacity-building support for more than 275 local businesses.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 per cent interest.

Hess Guyana Exploration Limited holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 per cent interest.

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Movie Towne urges swifter processing of documents as project lags

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Movie Towne owner Derick Chin (first from right) and other executives of the Private Sector Commission (PSC) during Tuesday’s news conference

By Leroy Smith THE PRIVATE Sector Commission (PSC) and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has called for a speedup in the processing of certain documents which would allow the completion of the Movie Towne multi-million investment, which is almost one year behind schedule.

At a press conference at the Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara (ECD) location on Tuesday morning, the call was made for the government to roll out the red carpet for investors. Chairman of Movie Towne Derick Chin, who shared the head table with the private sector executives, spoke of millions of dollars in interests which the project has racked up due to cost overrun, as they sat waiting on several aspects of collaboration and the fulfillment of agreements which were made to his company as part of him coming to set up his establishment here.

Chin said that the TT$400 million that was used to invest in Guyana was actually earmarked for an expansion project in Trinidad where Movie Towne is most famous. The head of the company spoke of issues with getting the required power supply to his facility to effectively test machinery and equipment, the commitment by government to do works on a bridge located to the west of the complex, and the construction of a roundabout to avoid traffic congestion on the main public road once the facility opens its doors.

With the exception of the electricity which is still to be supplied, Movie Towne has gone ahead and invested another large sum to fix the road and bridge to the west of the complex, and to also install the round-about on its own.

Chin when asked if due to his difficulty in having certain things done in a certain manner he regrets returning home to invest, he said he has had thoughts in his quiet moments and also asked

himself on a few occasions if as an investor he made the right decision.

According to the company boss, he wants to go on record as saying that all of his operations in the past, both locally and in Trinidad, have been above board and there is no one who can point fingers and accuse him of being corrupt. He stressed that while Movie Towne is his first venture in this country, he has several other investment initiatives on the cards which will come after the facility opens its doors. He also spoke of the company’s intentions to get involved in sports and its supporting of the local arts industry as part of its corporate responsibilities.

Chairman of the Private Sector Commission Edward Boyer said at the media briefing that the body decided to come out in support of the investor in good faith, as they believe that there ought to be a link between government and investors moving forward, so as to hasten the process and avoid overruns and delays. “He needs the electricity to allow the project to move forward. The power can build, damage or create an investment,” Boyer posited. He went on to state that efforts should be carried out to ensure the investment works.

Chin told the media that at the beginning of the investment he received constant checks and calls from persons within government, but at this point no one calls to see if he is experiencing challenges or needs assistance with anything to ensure the realisation of the project.

On Tuesday the media was given a very short tour of the facility where two of the movie theatres were examined.

The Movie Towne was slated to be completed since last year but there were a number of setbacks and while the company admits that weather had some level of impact on the setbacks, so too were the ‘red tapes’ and bureaucracies.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Cuban Vice Foreign Minister arrives in Guyana

CUBA’S Vice Foreign Minister The Honourable Rogelio Sierra Diaz arrived in the country on Tuesday and is expected to engage in several bilateral meetings with President David Granger and Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo.

During his two-day visit, the Cuban Foreign Minister will also meet with Director-General, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ambassador Audrey Waddell; Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development, CARICOM, Dr. Douglas

Slater; Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Public Health, Collette Adams, and other government officials.

The minister will pay homage to the victims of the Cubana air disaster with the laying of a wreath at the Monument of the Victims of Terrorism at the University of Guyana compound on Wednesday, June 13. He is also expected to pay a visit to the Centre for the Stimulation of Children, Adolescents and Youth with Special Educational Needs Associated with Disabilities in the Cyril

Cuba’s Vice Foreign Minister, The Hon. Rogelio Sierra Diaz arrives at the Eugene F. Correia International Airport for a two-day visit

Potter College of Education (CPCE) compound.

Guyana and Cuba have enjoyed over 45 years of bilateral cooperation in the areas of trade and health, among others.

Cuba is widely known for its medical training programmes and Guyana has benefited tremendously from those since 1976.

(DPI)

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Cuba’s Vice Foreign Minister, The Hon. Rogelio Sierra Diaz in conversation with recently accredited Cuban Ambassador to Guyana, H.E. Narciso Socorro

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The bottle of ashes on my desk

I ONCE witnessed a fire that originated in a small house, a few yards away from my home.

When the fire cooled, there were ashes everywhere. It looked pure and organic, the smell was imposing. As I stood there after the scene ended, I took a bottle and filled it with some of those ashes. I

was enticed to take it with me because of thoughts it sparked.

I thought of life and its purpose and pondered the fact that one day we will all return to ashes. I placed this bottle of ashes on my desk and every time life gets difficult, it reminds me from whence we came and where we will inevitably

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

return. This, I will discuss in the context of money and power.

It is a good time to remind ourselves of the sage words of Abraham Lincoln, who remarked, ‘Nearly all men can stand adversity, but you want to test a man’s character, give him power’. When the sirens wail, the red carpets are bestrode and the supplicants fawn at your every move, how many humans can withstand this circumstance without losing their humbleness? Not many, and it is for this reason, I suggest the bottle of ashes on the desks of powerful humans. By no means am I suggesting that this is the panacea for the age-old disease of falling victim to the trappings of power; I am simply saying it can be a solution for some. This ought to remind the powerful that no one is larger than life and it

is a universal fact that we must one day return to ashes.

The thought or idea that you can do what you want or take what you want without being subject to punishment is too strong to resist by the average person.

It takes extraordinary character and Buddhist discipline to withstand the allure of those temptations. In the reverse, those who lack power, lecture and vilify the ones who mismanage power, should be asked: what would you do if you experience power?

But certainly Mr. Austin, what do you know about money and power?

Great question, I have never fully experienced either of the aforementioned in its entirety, but I trust that if I do, the bottle of ashes on my desk will be my guide.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13 , 2018

National child labour policy soon ready ‒‘to remove this affliction from our society’

By Vishani Ragobeer IN observance of World Day against Child Labour, the Ministry of Social Protection on Tuesday organised a Validation Workshop at the Herdmanston Lodge, to ready the Draft National Child Labour Policy for implementation shortly.

According to the International Labour Organisation(ILO), child labour is “... work that deprives children of their childhood, their potential and their dignity, and that is harmful to mental and physical development.”

For Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle, “It is beyond debate that child labour is one of the most deep-seated scourges which can impact the health and wellbeing of any nation.

“It is not always manifested, but can be so latent, pervasive and dynamic that it can easily evade the attention of the conscious and astute mind, let alone the casual observer.”

Speaking on behalf of Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott, Mr. Ogle said, “Today, the Ministry of Social Protection wishes to make it abundantly clear that it is determined to absolutely obliterate child labour from our society, whenever and wherever it may exist.”

And, while those engaged in the “sub-human practice” will be dealt with in accordance with the law, focus will be directed to education, re-education and sensitisa-

Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle

tion, according to Ogle.

According to the International Journal on Health Services, “The root cause of child labour is extreme poverty.”

The said document has also proven, through evidence gathered here recently by way of a rapid assessment, that reports of child labour are far more widespread in the “informal economy”, particularly in the agriculture and small-scale mining sectors than in any of the other sectors.

As such, the Department of Labour is working assiduously to regularise, or formalise, the informal economy.

Ogle said too, that every act that is directed at the elimination of poverty, a mandate of the APNU+AFC coalition government, can also be considered an attack on child labour.

“No effort is being spared at removing this affliction from our society. It is not a natural disaster, but it has all the characteristics of one and it must be absolutely obliterated,” the chief labour officer affirmed.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle was Assistant Chief Labour Officer, Karen VanSluytman-Corbin, who enlightened that the policy being validated was developed after consultations were held from March across several regions of Guyana.

The consultations were held in seven of the 10 administrative regions, i.e., Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara); Four (Demerara-Mahaica); Five (Mahaica-Berbice); Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni); Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) and 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice).

Ogle said the ministry

Members of the Ministry of Social Protection and a Richard Ishmael Secondary School child engaged in a skit to illustrate the occurrence of child labour

would have liked to conduct consultations in all 10 regions, but the data that was gathered is satisfactory enough to suffice. He also said that satisfactory conclusions were drawn, and a “working document” was developed which would receive inputs from Tuesday’s validation exercise to create an “acceptable” Child Labour Policy.

Said VanSluytman, “We wanted to hear from [stakeholders], to have their input on crafting the policy,” and she further explained that the validation workshop aimed to present the policy to more stakeholders so that they

could make any additional comments, before the policy is taken to cabinet for approval by the Social Protection ministers.

According to her, the policy is expected to be enacted

by September of this year, to coincide with the start of the new school year.

Also rallying around the need for a comprehensive policy to end the scourge of child labour, and to promote child education were various workers’ organisations.

General Secretary of the Guyana Trade Union Congress (GTUC) Lincoln Lewis led the charge, in urging that the policy must introduce

a programme and must be accompanied by a strategy, which will work to ensure that the policy is effective.

Lewis opined that a national development strategy must be conceptualised also, which would etch poverty reduction as one of its principal tasks.

He argued, too, that the child labour policy must not become something that is left to gather dust, but one that takes aims at improving the livelihood of each child.

Lewis’s sentiments were echoed by UNICEF’s Paolo Marchi, who also called for a policy that will guide efforts to completely eradicate child labour.

Not enough tears to sway magistrate PPP Pearson beaten in toshao elections at Mainstay/Whyaka

Shareesa Tappin

A WEEPING 22-year-old cosmetologist, Shareesa Tappin, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan to answer to a charge of nar-

cotics trafficking.

Tappin, a West Ruimveldt resident, broke down in tears after the charge was read. It is alleged that on June 6, 2018 at the Eugene F. Correira International Airport, Ogle, East Coast Demerara (ECD), she had in her possession 9.660 grammes of cannabis for the purpose of trafficking.

The unrepresented woman denied the charge as she told the court that she did not pack the suitcase in which the drugs were found.

According to the police facts read by Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield, on June 6, Tappin was an outgoing passenger on a LIAT flight destined to Grenada.

However, when she checked in at the airport and her suitcase was searched, the cannabis was found wrapped in parcels among her clothing.

The prosecutor objected to Tappin being released on bail citing that she failed to raise sufficient reasons for her release.

The magistrate ruled in the prosecution’s favour and remanded Tappin to prison.

The matter will be recalled at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court on July 1.

Upon hearing that the woman was being remanded to prison, Tappin’s relatives who were present in court began to cry aloud.

MILTON Fredricks has been elected new Toshao of Mainstay/Whyaka, on the Essequibo Coast, Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam).

Fredricks, who will be serving as chairman of the village for the first time, takes over from Toshao Joel Fredricks, Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) who was not eligible for re-election.

Milton Fredericks was one of three persons, including PPP/C parliamentarian and a former Milton Fredricks has been elected new Toshao of Toshao Yvonne Pearson, Mainstay/Whyaka

vying for the post at the village election on Tuesday. He won with 158 votes, while Pearson obtained 139. Additionally, Wakapoa and Akawini in the Pomeroon River elected Howard Cornelius and David Wilson respectively.

Both Toshaos are serving for the first time. Elections for Toshaos and Councillors are ongoing in some 178 indigenous villages across the country. Over 93 new village councils have been installed thus far, 16 of which are being led by women.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Minibus union makes proposal for fare hike

THE United Minibus Union (UMU) has delivered a proposal to the Ministry of Business for a number of considerations, including a 25 per cent fare increase for short drops and a $40 increase for longer routes.

Among the other requests on the proposal, handed in on Monday are: the removal of the ban on used tyres, excise tax reductions and proper management of the importation of minibuses.

President of the UMU, Eon Andrews told this newspaper that the proposed increase is not influenced solely on the recent rise in fuel prices, but on the overall expenses of conducting business as a minibus operator.

These expenses also include costs for vehicle parts, maintenance and documents. “We don’t’

United Minibus Union (UMU) President Eon Andrews (Adrian Narine photo) feel that we must base our arguments on fuel because we recognise that fuel increase or decrease is really controlled by the international market… there has been astronom-

ical increases in spare parts and other operational costs…and we can look at those things,” he said.

However, Andrews stated that the union is also open to the provision of subsides from the government should the increase be non-negotiable.

In addition, the proposal calls for the quashing of the present ban on used tyres by the Government which took effect on April 1, 2017.

Andrews said that in all parts of the world there are very large used-tyres industries which adhere to a grading system, a practice Guyana can similarly implement. “They can grade the tyres instead of banning the tyres.

We’ve had complaints where the [new] tyres don’t last six months on the roads that we have, they just get damaged,” he said.

When it was pointed out that the Government had implemented this ban for safety precaution, among other reasons, Andrews responded: “Tyres don’t drive vehicles. Accidents are caused by irresponsible driving; drunken driving; persons who are licensed that ought not to be licensed. I think that it’s indiscipline. That is where the police come in, they have to enforce the law,” he said.

On matters relating to vehicle parts and maintenance expenses, Andrews says that this issue is not entirely up to the government but to the private sector. “The private sector seems to have a hold on these spare parts among other things, but I don’t know if the government could probably talk to them…If there is an import tax on certain things that could be de-

creased, I guess that the private sector may be able to, and I think as good corporate citizens they will, comply and try to help the minibus operators,” he said.

The union’s proposal also calls for the government to look into the number of buses in the country.

“We think that there are too many buses in the country…I think that is where some of the problems may well have been derived because the competition is so fierce that people are breaking the laws to make money,” he said.

Altogether, the union believes that the government must act swiftly to address these situations, even as it looks forward to an end result that can benefit all parties. “What is going on as it relates to this tension for minibus service providers and taxi service providers to in-

crease fares, is a more or less dangerous situation that could lead to violent exchanges between commuters and the operators of these vehicles.

“I think the government, if they’re a responsible government which I think they are, ought to at least fast track this, so that we can get to meet and see how quickly we can resolve this,” he said.

Apart from these matters, the UMU awaits word on the move by the City Council last week which saw Industry minibus operators receiving first preference to passengers on the University of Guyana (UG)-Industry bus park.

In the meanwhile, the union has advised the UG-Industry bus operators to avoid confrontation and to remain civil until the matter is resolved.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Community spirit alive in Tucville!

AIMING to transform the community of Tucville into a model ‘green community’, in keeping with President David Granger’s vision, residents have banded together to get the job done.

Tucville, or Trade Union Congress Ville, is celebrating its 50th Anniversary and is set to be transformed for the occasion. The enhancement of the community began on May 10 and when completed

by this month-end, there will be a huge transformation in the community’s infrastructure.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle was Director of Sport and community mem-

Residents pitching in to help enhance Tucville ber, Christopher Jones, who said that while he issued the call for the community enhancement, the residents responded with “tremendous support.”

This support was reflected in the first project engaged in, the creation of the community’s Welcome sign, which was erected on GoSlow avenue and is close to completion.

Jones explained that the sign cost $187,000; of which $87,000 was for labour and the remaining amount was for the materials. The residents, with the requisite experience in the construction field, lent their labour and completely eradicated that

cost while others shared their materials, reducing material costs.

Jones spoke highly of the communal spirit present and related that this remains pervasive in the other projects.

Recently, the second project had been initiated with the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) lending a heavy-duty excavator to fix up the drains.

Jones also mentioned that he requested assistance from the Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, for help with lights for the community. He has received a call from the minister’s office, but the number of lights

Tucville will receive are still to be determined.

Another portion of the overarching enhancement is to furnish the community with benches and a fountain, all in an attempt to enhance its aesthetics.

The major opening of the community, once its infrastructure has been boosted by the end of June, will see the likes of Georgetown Mayor, Patricia Chase- Green; Former Georgetown Mayor, Hamilton Green; Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan; representative of the Trade Union Congress, Lincoln Lewis and possibly, President Granger.

The nearly completed Welcome sign at Go Slow Avenue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Higher yields for rice in first crop

AS GOVERNMENT continues to push for research and development in the rice sector, local rice farmers continue to do their part by pushing the national production average closer to 40 bags of paddy per acre, for the first crop of 2018.

According to a Ministry of Agriculture press statement, the national average has increased by 10 bags per acre for the corresponding period over the past few years.

Rice farmers across the country have expressed delight and satisfaction with the work and dedication of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), through its research and extension services.

The board’s most recent report which was completed at the end of May 2018 has indicated, that rice farmers produced 495,000 tonnes of paddy so far for the first crop of 2018.

This quantity is expected to exceed 500,000 tonnes by the completion of the remaining two per cent to be harvested.

GRDB General Manager Nizam

Hassan, has said that Region Four continues to stand out, with farmers there producing almost seven tonnes of paddy per hectare.

“A comparison of lands cultivated during the first crop last year revealed that for the first crop this year, farmers cultivated in excess of 2000 acres less, and still realised a yield that almost matches that of the 2017 first crop figures. So far, these increased yields have been rewarded at the mills with farmers supplying G $17.2B worth in paddy.

This is one billion dollars more in earnings than what farmers received for the first crop in 2017 when 2000 more acres were harvested,” Hassan pointed out.

The GRDB’s report also noted that in Region Two, of the 13,484 hectares harvested farmers there got a yield of 5.9 tonnes per hectare, while in Region Three, the yield was 5.49 tonnes per hectare and in Region Five it was 5.9 tonnes per hectare with five per cent of the lands still to be harvested.

Region Six recorded yields of 5.7 tonnes per hectare with just two per cent

of lands still to be harvested.

Notwithstanding the increasing costs of production farmers have expressed confidence that the industry is progressing.

While a small percentage of the farmers are still to harvest 43 per cent of the country’s paddy, many farmers have already started to sow for the second crop.

According to Hassan, the predictions

are that approximately 89,000 hectares will be cultivated overall. So far, nearly 53,000 acres have already been sown.

“With farmers across the country planting the newest high-yielding variety, GRDB 15, the board anticipates that the farmers will again be moving the national average in the right direction come the second harvest of 2018,” Hassan added.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Hunter shot dead in Rockstone Village A 19-YEAR-OLD miner of Anarika, Essequibo River, was shot dead on Monday evening at 17 Miles, Rockstone Village, Essequibo River.

Dead is Joel Amad. Reports indicate that Ahmad left home in the morning to visit the mother of his child who resides at 17 Miles, Rockstone Village, Essequibo River, and spent the entire day there.

At about 19:00 hrs, the miner reportedly informed the 28-year-old woman that he was going to hunt and would be

back later for dinner.

However, shortly after he left the house, the woman heard a loud explosion which she suspected to be the sound of a gunshot. She said she overheard Ahmad shouting for her in pain and immediately grabbed a torch light and rushed down the trail where she had seen Ahmad heading.

It was there that she found him lying motionless with blood on his chest and froth oozing from his mouth.

The woman added that she ran quickly

The 12-gauge shotgun that was found in the bushes not too far from the body to the village ambulance attendant, who resides about half-a-mile from her home.

Ahmad was then taken to the Linden Hospital Complex where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The matter was reported to the police, who along with the village captain searched the area and found an impro-

vised 12-gauge shotgun with an empty cartridge casing stuck inside, in the bushes a short distance from where the man’s body was earlier discovered.

According to police, the miner’s body when examined had a single gaping gunshot wound on the right side of his chest.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Don’t know how ammo got into his hand

A TEENAGER on Tuesday appeared before a city magistrate allegedly for being in possession of ammunition.

Nineteen-year-old Renaldo Morgan who resides in Charlestown appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan.

It was alleged that on June 9, 2018 at Lombard Street, Georgetown, Morgan had in his possession three live .32 rounds of ammunition without being a licensed holder.

The teen who attends the Government Technical Institute (GTI) denied

the charge. His attorney Nekeisha Persaud, told the court that her client was innocent and that on the day of question Morgan saw a $100 note and picked it up.

At the same time he was approached by the Police but that he had no idea that there was something

Teen seriously wounded in cell phone brawl AN 18-YEAR-OLD labourer who it is alleged stabbed another teenager several times about the body on Lombard Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, over the weekend after an argument over a cell phone, is in police custody.

The youth surrendered to police at the Ruimveldt Police Station after committing the act.

The 19-year-old victim of Charlestown was admitted to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) in serious con-

dition.

Reports indicate that the victim was standing on Lombard Street in the vicinity of the Charlestown Post Office, when he was confronted by the other youth and an argument ensued over a cellular phone.

This resulted in a fight during which the 18-year-old stabbed the victim several times about his body.

He reportedly, then walked calmly to the police station and informed the ranks what he did.

wrapped inside the $100 note.

According to the police facts given in court, on the day in question police ranks were on a patrol duty when the defendant was seen standing on the roadway acting in a suspicious manner. The cops in conducting

a search on him discovered he was clutching a $100 note in his left hand.

The money was wrapped around the ammunition.

Morgan was told of the offence and taken to the police station.

The prosecutor objected to bail but the magistrate

ordered that he post $10, 000 for his pre-trial liberty and that he reports to the police station every morning before he goes to school. Morgan is also to himself available for counseling.

The matter was adjourned to June 29, 2018.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, May 13, 2018

Hand-in-Hand records $62M surplus revenue for 2017

THE Hand-in-Hand Mutual Fire Insurance Company Limited and subsidiaries recorded $62M

surplus of revenue over expenditure for the year ended December 2017, compared to the $39M

registered for 2016.

According to the company’s audited financial statements printed in the

June 9 edition of the Guyana Chronicle, the total revenue amassed for the year was $1.2B (or $1,202,288,775 in exact figures) while the expenditure recorded was $1.14B (or $1,140,287,095). With these figures, the surplus of revenue garnered for the period was pegged at $62M ($62,001,680).

The Income Statement, otherwise known as the Profit (or Loss) statement, showed that while less revenues were earned in 2017 compared to the $1.25B earned in 2016, the company’s expenditure had also declined from the $1.21B

used up in the previous year.

The Fire Insurance Company is the oldest property insurer in Guyana. It is a mutual company (i.e., is owned by its policyholders) established in 1865, and is the founding member of the Hand in Hand Group, which comprises The Fire Insurance Company; Hand in Hand Mutual Life Assurance Company Limited; GCIS Inc.; Hand-in-Hand Trust Corporation Inc. and Handin-Hand Investments Inc. In addition to the statements published for the company, the income statement for the group of

companies was also detailed. The Group registered $2.1B (or $2,159,424,233) in revenues and $1.8B ($1,849,376,857) in expenditure for 2017. The surplus recorded was $310M ($310,047,376) as against the $92M ($92,995,789) registered in 2016.

The statements presented were independently audited by Chartered Accountants, TSD Lal and Co, in accordance with International Standards on Auditing (ISAs).

The statements were approved by the Board of Directors on May 23, 2018.

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Harris appointed VP CONCACAF, president CFU BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Veteran Barbadian administrator Randy Harris has been elected president of the Caribbean Football Union (CFU).

Harris, who heads the Barbados Football Association (BFA), defeated challenger Hillaren Frederick of the US Virgin Islands 27-3 at the elections in Moscow on Monday, to take control of the regional governing body for the sport.

Last September, Harris was installed as acting CFU president after then-president Gordon Derrick was slapped with a six-year ban by football’s world governing body over ethics breaches.

“I have the responsibility of looking after the region and I have good support from the executive council and members of

the CFU and hopefully I could give them the kind of service that they expect from me,” Harris told Barbados Today online.

The CFU has come under close scrutiny ever since the infamous cash-for-votes scandal seven years ago when associations were offered cash bribes in exchange for their votes, at the 2011 FIFA election.

There was massive fallout from the scandal with CFU president Jack Warner forced to resign and several other officials sanctioned by FIFA, following an high-profile investigation.

Harris, who was re-elected two years ago for a second four-year term as BFA president, said CFU would be pressing ahead with his strategic plan in order to ensure “proper governance”.

“CFU has a strategic plan that was done collectively by the board and with some help from CONCACAF,” the 59-year-old said.

“We will be keeping to that strategic plan, trying to develop proper governance and integrity for the organisation. We are looking to assist our member associations with development in all areas including finance, general administration and of course the game.”

Harris had earlier on Monday been elected CONCACAF’s newest vice-president by acclamation, when the continental governing body for football in North, Central America and the Caribbean staged its 33rd Ordinary Congress, also in Moscow.

He will serve in the position for the next two years.

GCF takes chess to Bartica THE National Sports Commission (NSC), in conjunction with National chess coach Wendell Meusa, visited Bartica from June 4 to 8 in an attempt to continue the promotion of chess across Guyana.

Meusa, along with Region Seven Regional sports organiser Mark Ambrose, conducted the Bartica Chess in School - Introduction to Chess workshop, The duo visited St John the Baptist Primary School, Three Miles Secondary, Two Miles Primary, St Anthony’s Primary (main building and annex) and Bartica Government Secondary School.

During the visit, Meusa coached 276 children from the above schools in the basics of chess such as the history of the sport, benefits of chess in schools, FIDE (World Chess Federation) rules and regulations, the chess board and how to play with every piece.

These are the basics of chess at the developmental level or introductory level for competitive chess at an international level.

Also, famous immortal games from the Paul Morphy (former USA Champ) and Adolf Anderssen (former German & World Champion) from 1852 and 1842 were studied to illustrate the basic tactical and strategic ideas in chess.

This was phase one of the promotion and development of chess in that region. This programme will be conducted for schools on the riverside in the region and there will be a teachers’ training programme as well as an inter-school novice competition in the region.

The ultimate aim is to promote the development chess clubs within the schools where these clubs will be managed by the teachers.

Also, it is with great hope

GCF takes chess ...

to have schools from this region participate in this year’s National Inter-School Chess Championships which is normally held yearly by the Guyana Chess Federation but which has not come off lately due to lack of sponsorship.

Regional Education Officer (REDO) for Region Seven Mr Akbar Chindu, openly welcomed Mr Meusa to the region and supported the development of chess not only for schools in Bartica but also for the community as well.

Mr Chindu stated that he knows the mental benefits of chess and would love to have it as part of his school system in the region.

He hopes that is not the beginning and the end of the development of the sport in the region and that the sport can be spread to ïnterior schools in the region so they can have equal chances for their social and mental development.

Continued from back page

assistant referee raises the flag, then everything is finished.”

There will then be 13 referees who officiate, exclusively watching the control screens in the video operations room. Collina confirmed the VARs would wear the full kit, identical to their colleagues out on the pitch.

“It’s because they sweat like they do on the pitch,” he said last week. “It’s not like watching a game on the couch while drinking coffee. It’s very stressful so they can’t be dressed like a clerk.”

Néstor Pitana of Argentina will officiate the opening game between Russia and Saudi Arabia at Moscow’s Luzhniki Stadium on Thursday.

Officials have not yet been announced for the group‑stage matches during the tournament but Gareth Southgate insisted on a referee from the Asian Football Confederation for his team’s final warm-up game against Costa Rica in Leeds.( The Guardian)

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1 day to go ...

1 - Brazil: They started slowly in qualifying but, since Tite took over, Brazil have impressed. Neymar scored in both Selecao warm-up friendlies and, despite Dani Alves’ absence through injury, they look strong.

Brazil top pre-World Cup Power Rankings ahead of Germany, Spain

2 – Germany: The defending champions are

the team to beat; after all, how many sides can afford to leave out a player like Leroy Sane? Germany have underwhelmed in warm-up games but will be there or thereabouts.

3 – Spain: After three straight tournament wins, Spain

flopped in the past two. Can a combination of old guard and new faces get them back to the top in Russia? An early test vs Portugal will give a good idea.

4 – France: Didier Deschamps has so much talent at his disposal that his biggest test is finding the right combination!

France went close to winning the Euros two years ago; can they emulate the class of ’98?

5 – Argentina: Argentina are also full of ability, but pick-

ing the correct XI is a challenge for Jorge Sampaoli. Essentially, can he put the right men with Lionel Messi? If so, the two-time champions have a chance.

6 – Belgium: Is this the tournament at which Belgium’s

“golden generation” stamps their authority upon the biggest stage? Kevin De Bruyne and Eden Hazard are among the world’s best, but is the defence strong enough?

7 – England: Having promised much but

delivered little for so long, England go to the World Cup with measured expectations. Gareth Southgate has a squad full of talent; can they make a name for themselves?

8 - Portugal: They are European

champions and they have Cristiano Ronaldo, but Portugal are not even favourites to win their group. Still, nobody fancied them in France two years ago and look how that turned out!

10 – Colombia: One of the stories

of the 2014 World Cup, Colombia will have hopes of an encore. The presence of Radamel Falcao, absent four years ago, is a boost, while James Rodriguez will be creator-in-chief.

9 – Uruguay: With Luis Suarez and Edinson Cavani up front, as well as the veteran presence of Diego Godin at the back, Uruguay can make an impact. A favourable draw gives them an even greater chance of going far.

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Travis Bowen mentoring young footballers in Essequibo

By Elroy Stephney A FIRE-fighter by profession; Travis Bowen is fighting tirelessly towards transforming the landscape of football in Essequibo.

His quiet demeanour, sense of purpose and admirable work ethics has created quite a favourable impression on the local scene. The reconstitution of the Essequibo Coast/Pomeroon Football Association has led to the sport regaining momentum in the county.

In this regard the association has been placing strong emphasis on coaching as well as identifying talent across the region. This process has led the 37-year-old Travis Bowen to become integrally involved as a member.

He then pursued coaching and attended courses that were conducted by the Guyana Football Association (GFA).

After successfully completing various assignments he was duly appointed as Essequibo’s first Technical Director in 2016.

Thereafter he began his formal coaching duties with regular sessions across the region. The establishment of the

Coach Travis Bowen (left) is with his charges during one of his sessions.

Essequibo Academy has also enabled Bowen to conduct week-end sessions for both male and females.

He is also intimately involved in the grassroots programme which is a continuous developmental process that caters for Under- 13, U-15 and

U-17 footballers. The highly regarded coach is very active within his village of Henrietta where he coaches on a regular basis at the Anna Regina Community Centre ground, either early in the morning or in the afternoons.

His visible and demanding

role also connects administratively since he was recently elected president of the Henrietta United Football Club and has already tasted success.

The Club is the winner of the Essequibo Senior League competition which culminated with the presentation being

witnessed by the president of the GFF Wayne Forde who was on a recent visit to Essequibo.

Bowen is quite passionate about creating an environment whereby young footballers can unleash their true potential. For this to materialise he

acknowledges that “they must be prepared to make sacrifices, be disciplined and be prepared to grasp every opportunity whether in the classroom, at home or on the field”.

Bowen, who is married and has a daughter, enjoys being pressured into getting positive results. “Work hard and success will be attained” are his powerful words of advice.

He can be seen mentoring his young charges frequently and it is a noble task which he enjoys wholeheartedly. While it may be an uphill battle to rebuild Essequibo’s football, Bowen is not daunted by such challenges. Instead he has committed to harness every talent, establish firm structural bases, and provide the requisite resources and incentives.

He is proud that three Under-15 footballers from the region have been selected to attend National trials; “I am prepared to create more opportunities for our players,” he stated.

Bowen’s ambitious plans are beginning to reap the rewards of being dedicated, passionate and providing mentorship.

Despite tensions with Russia, World Cup countries pitch in for tournament safety

By Gabrielle Tétrault-Farber DOMODEDOVO, Russia (Reuters) - As World Cup squads and their fans fly into Russia for the start of the tournament tomorrow, so do police officers from all the competing nations, to help deter hooliganism and the threat of any militant attack.

The country has deployed thousands of police to the 11 host cities to deal with an influx of potentially rowdy soccer fans and other security threats.

But they will not be alone. Regardless of any political differences with Moscow, the 32 participating countries have sent officers to help Russian police spot troublemakers and prevent fans from having run-ins with the local authorities.

Housed in an Interior Ministry training facility outside Moscow, the police cooperation centre bringing them all together, was inaugurated on Tuesday and hailed by its head Colonel Roman Azyavin as “a single family of interna-

tional police forces”.

Some of the countries competing in the World Cup have poor relations with Russia, strained by sanctions and issues ranging from the poisoning of a Russian exspy in Britain to the conflict in Syria.

But there is no place for grievances in the mission.

“We take politics out of policing,” Chief Inspector Joseph Stokoe of London’s Metropolitan Police. “We are here to ensure a safe and secure World Cup.” Russian authorities, hoping to expunge memories of the brawls involving the country’s fans in Marseille at the 2016 European championship, have pledged to curb violence.

England fans were also involved in those clashes and Stokoe said British police officers were patrolling airports and ensuring that people banned from attending matches were surrendering their passports.

He said other British police officers on the streets would intervene to help stamp out any trouble.

COMMUNICATION HUB In cities such as Volgograd, where England face Tunisia next week, exuberant behaviour in some places can be deemed insulting by the locals. Formerly known as Stalingrad, Volgograd was the site of the largest and bloodiest battle of World War

Two, with monuments and former battlefields dotting the cityscape.

“English fans aren’t stupid,” Stokoe said. “They will be aware of the central places and not central places where they can perhaps enjoy themselves in the bars, and not in the streets and the other iconic

sites.”

But Stokoe said British officers would be ready to step in, if needed.

If there is a misinterpretation or a misunderstanding, they can quickly get there and explain to them (England fans) that the Russian authorities do not like this,” Stokoe

Law enforcement officers take part in the opening of the International Police Cooperation Centre ahead of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, with a portrait of Russia’s President Vladimir Putin seen in the background, in Domodedovo, near Moscow, Russia yesterday, 2018. (REUTERS/Sergei Karpukhin)

said. “Change your behaviour, change your location.”

As well as measures being taken at home and in Russia by the competing nations, Moscow is also screening incoming fans with the help of fan IDs, a mandatory document to attend matches and proving its holder has been approved

by Russian authorities.

With flags of all World Cup countries hanging on the walls, the cooperation centre serves as a communication hub for the foreign police forces.

Two officers from the competing countries will be based there to interact with those in the field while coordinating security efforts with Russian authorities in the same room.

“It’s a question for Russian police to do the things to defend Polish supporters from Russian hooligans,” Poland’s captain Wojciech Dobrowolski said.

“But if we see Polish hooligans between other supporters, we will tell Russian police and I think they will do their best to stop any fights.”

33

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Australia and England to shake Milestones for Sarfraz as Pakistan ease to T20 win over Scotland hands before ODI opener today EOIN Morgan, the England one-day captain, has accepted a request from his Australian counterpart, Tim Paine, for players on both sides to line up for handshakes before their much-anticipated ODI series opener at the Oval today.

This goodwill gesture – or PR stunt, depending on one’s perspective – was first introduced by Paine in March for the fourth Test at the Wanderers in response to the ball-tampering scandal during Australia’s already fractious tour of South Africa.

Paine was a stand-in captain that day but, having since taken over the captaincy fulltime following Steve Smith’s year-long suspension (to go with similarly lengthy bans for David Warner and Cameron Bancroft), the 33-yearold wicketkeeper is looking to shake hands at the start of every series he leads – provided his opposite number agrees.

Sure enough the question was asked after the two captains posed with the trophy before a five-match series in which the world’s No 1 team will host a touring side that have also lost fast bowlers Mitchell Starc, Pat Cummins and Josh Hazlewood to injury.

“I’m absolutely happy with that. It doesn’t bother me,” Morgan said. “They are trying to turn around the image of the game in their country and we are all for that. We

want cricket to be as popular as ever.” Asked if cricket really needed such a pre-game ritual or if it will just be for show, Morgan shrugged. “I don’t know,” he said.

Paine, meanwhile, fielded the latest round of questions about ball-tampering and the behaviour of his players with the air of a man growing slightly tired of the topic.

and how we want to be perceived by the Australian public and the cricket public in general.”

Though Paine is lacking five first-team players and Australia have lost 11 of their last 12 completed one-day internationals away from home, he and the new head coach, Justin Langer, are hoping the hunger of fringe players, desperate to

Eoin Morgan (left) and Tim Paine at the Oval on the eve of the ODI series between England and Australia.

(Photograph: Philip Brown/Getty Images)

It is clear the Australian captain is desperate to move on from events in Cape Town, where Bancroft was caught sandpapering the ball after a tutorial from Warner and with Smith’s passive consent.

“We’ve spoken about this a lot but we are aware that words are just that,” said Paine. “We’ll be judged solely on our actions going forward. We’ve spoken about our values as a team

force their way into the plans for next year’s World Cup, comes to the fore here.

Aaron Finch and the inventive Glenn Maxwell should provide power – provided the latter can rediscover form – and Travis Head some well-acclimatised nous after a spell with Worcestershire this summer, while the slippery Jhye Richardson and 6ft 8in Billy Stanlake are two exciting, if inexperienced, threats with

the ball.

But as well as trying to mould a new-look side, Paine must also cement his own place. While arguably the best gloveman of his generation, a strike-rate of 70.52 with the bat is low by modern standards and, had Cape Town not occurred, there is every chance his return to the one-day side for the 4-1 post-Ashes defeat

by England may have been brief, given Alex Carey, the power-hitting South Australian wicketkeeper, is pushing hard in reserve.

Asked if he felt any pressure, Paine replied: “None at all. I’m in a really good space with my cricket. I’m captaining Australia where 12 months ago I was nearly working for Kookaburra sports. Every game I play for Australia is an absolute bonus. I spoke to (Langer) this morning about trying to play every game for Australia as if it’s my last, and it’s easy for me to do that.”

England (probable): Jason Roy, Jonny Bairstow, Alex Hales, Joe Root, Eoin Morgan (c), Jos Buttler, Moeen Ali, David Willey, Liam Plunkett, Adil Rashid, Mark Wood Australia (possible): D’Arcy Short, Travis Head, Marcus Stoinis, Glenn Maxwell, Aaron Finch, Tim Paine (capt., wkp.), Ashton Agar, Michael Neser, Jhye Richardson, Billy Stanlake, Kane Richardson. (Yahoo Sport)

England Women claim 69-run win to level series with South Africa (Scores: England 331-6 (50 overs): Taylor 118, Beaumont 101, Kapp 2-48 South Africa 262-9 (50 overs): Lee 117, Tryon 44, Ecclestone 3-54

CENTURIES from Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Taylor helped England Women beat South Africa by 69 runs and level the threematch series at 1-1.

Opener Beaumont made 101 and wicketkeeper Taylor struck 118 as the hosts posted 331-6 at Hove.

Only Lizelle Lee, who made 117 from 107 deliveries, was able to put England’s bowlers under sustained pressure.

Despite a quick-fire 44 from Chloe Tryon, South Africa could not build partnerships and slipped to defeat.

It was a much improved batting performance by the hosts, who lost the opening game of the three-match series by

Tammy Beaumont and Sarah Taylor both made centuries for England (Getty Images)

seven wickets.

Taylor’s 156-run stand with Beaumont, who brought up her fourth one-day century with three successive fours, helped England to a decent total.

However, Lee showed some superb power-hitting, striking 13 fours and five sixes to become the first South African woman to make a century against England.

The rest of the visitors batting faltered, with players struggling to find the boundary, and wickets fell regularly following Lee’s dismissal.

The final match of the series takes place on Friday at Canterbury from 14:00 BST.

Pakistan captain Sarfraz Ahmed

SARFRAZ Ahmed became Pakistan’s most successful Twenty20 international captain and posted his highest score in the format as Scotland succumbed to a 48-run defeat in Edinburgh yesterday.

Having won the toss and elected to bat at Grange Cricket Club, Sarfraz led by example for Pakistan, charging to 89 not out from 49 deliveries to help his team post 204-4 from their 20 overs.

Openers Fakhar Zaman (21) and Ahmed Shehzad (14) failed to build on starts as they were removed by Alasdair Evans, who led Scotland’s attack with impressive figures of 3-23.

Hussain Talat (18) also struggled, but Shoaib Malik (53) provided able support to his skipper, who reached the boundary 10 times and went over the ropes thrice, the pair compiling what proved to be a match-winning partnership of 96 for the fourth wicket.

Sarfraz not only surpassed his previous best of 76 not out against New Zealand in Dubai in December 2014, but also became Pakistan’s most successful T20I captain, having now notched 18 wins from his 21 matches at the helm.

Michael Leask (38 not out) top-scored in the hosts’ run chase and captain Kyle Coetzer made 31 opening alongside George Munsey (25).

Dylan Budge contributed 24, while Calum MacLeod (12) and Matthew Cross (13) reached double figures, but a lack of partnerships and the collective failure of Scotland’s specialists to kick on proved fatal to their hopes of staging another upset - the relative minnows having stunned England in an ODI at the same venue on Sunday.

Hasan Ali (2-33) and Shadab Khan (2-25) did the damage with the ball in hand for Pakistan, who will look to seal a series win in the second and final T20I today. (Yahoo Sport) 15:50 hrs Chavi Artist

South Africa Racing Tips Greyville 08:35 hrs Queen Of Alamo 09:10 hrs Kahula 09:50 hrs Gunner 10:25 hrs Collabro American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Doyouknowsomething Race 2 South Of France Race 3 Frostie Anne Race 4 Youth Gone Wild Race 5 Surface Strike Race 6 American Power Race 7 Frosty Gal Race 8 Seeking The Blue Irish Racing Tips Punchestown 12:50 hrs Wonderoftheworld 13:20 hrs Ballyoisin 13:50 hrs Mullinavat 14:20 hrs Bakmaj 14:50 hrs Ayr Of Elegance 15:20 hrs Pateen

English Racing Tips Yarmouth 09:00 hrs Monarch Maid 09:30 hrs Tallulah’s Quest 10:00 hrs Artair 10:30 hrs Competetion 11:00 hrs Black Lotus 11:30 hrs Effervescence 12:00 hrs Breanski 12:30 hrs Lunar Deity Haydock 09:10 hrs Ready To Impress 09:40 hrs New Winds 10:10 hrs Swiss Knight 10:40 hrs Maypole 11:10 hrs Magellan 11:40 hrs African Jazz 12:10 hrs Viscount Loftus Chelmsford City 09:20 hrs I’ll Have Anothjer 09:50 hrs Red Island 10:20 hrs Seniority 11:20 hrs Udontdou 11:50 hrs Hermosita 12:20 hrs Drill

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13, 2018

DeNobrega wins third annual Albert Rose Memorial cycle road race PAUL DeNobrega rode away with the main event when the curtain came down on the third annual Albert Rose Memorial Cycle road race last Sunday.

The cyclist rode 3 laps f r o m G r e g o r y Va r i e t y Store Republic Avenue to Moblissa Hill on the Soesdyke/Linden Highway, then returned to finish at the place of origin Although DeNobrega was competing against top cyclists Junior Niles, Jamal John, Briton John and last year’s champion Walter Grant-Stuart, he still managed to come in first with three primes. Deeriraj Garbaran also ran away with three primes while Rastaf O’Selmo gained two primes.

Other cyclists from the senior category that gained a victorious position are Jamal John who came in second, Curtis Dey in third position, Briton John in fourth, Junior Niles in fifth, while Silvo Innis finished sixth.

Junior Niles was the winner of the U-45 veteran category, with Warren McKay and Jaikaran Sookhoo placing second and third in that order.

The Over-45 veteran category was won by Andy

Spencer followed by Ian Jackson and Garfield Lorrimer.

Shinetta Teixeira was the first female finisher with Abigail Jeffrey second and Clivecia Spencer in third.

The Juveniles category was won by Johnathan Ramsuchil, followed

by Steve Bimshem and Chimeshwar Dhanic in that order.

The BMX 9 to 12 race was won by Jaheme Henery with Shaquille Dow closely behind him.

The two were followed

by Mark Lewis. Gaining

THE Grenada Boxing Association has confirmed its participation in this year’s Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships set for August 17 to 19, here in Guyana at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

The Spice Isle will be fielding a six-member team made up of three male boxers, one female, a coach and a referee/judge.

According to Guyana Boxing Association president Steve Ninvalle, 10 countries are expected to be a part of the championships and already the GBA has stepped up its preparation for the mega event which is expected to see punches galore.

Only last Saturday, the association staged its first of five schoolboys and novices tournaments in preparation for the Caribbean championships. The final one will be held on August 8.

All five days of competition will be held at the Andrew `Six Head’ Lewis Gym situated at Callender Street and Independence Boulevard.

At last Saturday’s activity, Harpy Eagles dominated the Schoolboys category, chalking up three victories from four fights, while in the Juniors category, Forgotten Youth Foundation won three of four fight also.

AIBA Three-Star coach Sebert Blake has been put in charge of organising the local tournaments leading up to the Caribbean championships.

Panthers beat Topp XX 3-0 in Cummings memorial Under-20 football

Paul DeNobrega receiving his trophy from Joan Rose, wife of the late Albert Rose.

Kiwi legend Sir Richard Hadlee diagnosed with bowel cancer

FORMER New Zealand fast bowler Sir Richard Hadlee has been diagnosed with bowel cancer.

A statement released by New Zealand Cricket on behalf of Hadlee’s wife Lady Dianne said the 66-year-old has had surgery to remove a tumour.

“As a safeguard, further treatment in the form of chemotherapy will commence shortly and last for a few months,” the statement added.

“It is expected that, in time, he will have a full recovery.”

Hadlee, 66, is regarded as one of New Zealand’s finest cricketers having taken 431 wickets in 86 Tests. (BBC Sport)

second place encouraged Shaquille Dow to come with a vengeance in his second race and stunned everyone as he took the lead for the 12 to 14 BMX race. This time he was followed by Jaheme Henry and Mark Lewis.

Grenada confirms participation for 3rd Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing

Sir Richard Hadlee is New Zealand’s leading Test wicket-taker

Jahni Lewis was the winner of the BMX 6-9 race.

Little Lewis came riding to the finish line with one arm on his cycle, while he was smiling with what he had achieved. Lewis was followed by Javin Henry who finished closely behind him.

Sunday’s competition was the third promoted by the Rose family. It is kept in remembrance of Mr Albert Rose, a veteran cyclist who rode in the 70s and 80s for the Linden community.

Mr Rose died in 2015 from a heart attack. Sponsors that came on board for the third annual Albert Rose competition were: Clear Waters, Bernard’s Variety Store, McRae’s Supermarket, Cody Taxi Service, Foreign Links, Semp and Sons and the Anthony family.

AMELIA’S Ward Panthers whipped Topp XX 3-0 when the Upper Demerara Football Association-organised Osmond Cummings memorial Under-20 football championship continued last Saturday at the Bayrock Community Centre ground.

Playing in the first game of a scheduled double-header Kevin Gittens scored in the second half (48th) to give his team a 1-0 lead. Another goal came off the boot of Nathan Kennard (78th) which ensured full points for the Panthers.

The 2-0 advantage was then increased through Gittens who netted two minutes later for an 80th minute strike which effectively closed out the result of this game in favour of the Panthers, giving them a 3-0 victory.

The other scheduled game did not come off as Blueberry Hill United again failed to show up, this time against Silver Shattas.

The double-header, which was set for the following day between Milerock and Botofago in one game and Eagles United and Hi Stars, did not come off due to the inclement weather.

The competition continues this Saturday and Sunday weather permitting. This championship is sponsored by United States-based former national player Nigel ‘Mice’ Cummings, brother of the late Osmond Cummings in whose honour this tournament is being played.

Sepp Blatter to attend World Cup in Russia - spokesman

MOSCOW (Reuters) Banned former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has received an open invitation from President Vladimir Putin to attend the World Cup in Russia and intends to take it up, Blatter’s spokesman Thomas Renggli said on Tuesday.

Blatter, who led world football’s governing body for 17 years, was suspended from the sport for six years for ethics violations in 2015 amid the biggest corruption scandal to shake FIFA. Several officials from the body were indicted by U.S. and Swiss authorities, although Blatter himself was

not and he denies any misconduct.

The 82-year-old’s attendance at the World Cup could put him in close proximity to his successor, Gianni Infantino, who has sought to draw a line under past scandals.

Sepp Blatter

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, June 13, 2018

Baird still looking to improve after Cochabamba exploits

By Michelangelo Jacobus

Leslain Baird is always striving to improve his PB record in the javelin throw.

DESPITE resetting Guyana’s National record in the javelin throw for an astounding fifth time so far in 2018, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) athlete Leslain Baird will not let himself be merely satisfied with the South American Championships silver medal and his 78.65m Personal Best (PB) record.

In an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport, Baird revealed that while he is still basking in the aftermath of his success, he is always looking to improve his PB. Having won his first International medal just under a week ago at the South American Games in Cochabamba, Bolivia, Baird will now set his sights on the Central American and Caribbean (CAC) Games

once he is selected.

“I’m always looking to improve on my PB, always, once selected for the CAC Games (in July), I will work even harder, having won a silver medal I want to go one better,” he confidently stated.

When quizzed about his record-breaking throw, Baird revealed that he still can’t believe that he won a silver medal with a distance that he initially thought was hard to reach.

He noted that while he was in pain after his fifth attempt, it was either, “I give it my all and improve on my throw or fail.”

Failure was not an option that Baird considered as he went for glory in his sixth throw which was the one that landed him his medal

MAK Pataudi Lecture

Pietersen backs day-night format to save Test cricket INDIA is still not comfortable with the idea of playing day-night Tests, but former England captain Kevin Pietersen yesterday made a strong statement when he said that pink ball matches are the only way forward to save the game’s traditional format.

The first-ever foreign cricketer to address the prestigious MAK Pataudi Lecture, Pietersen could not have possibly chosen a more appropriate platform to make a case for day-night cricket, especially at a time when T20 is threatening to usurp all other formats.

“If we wish cricketers to commit to five-day cricket we have to pay them. So how do we pay them? Simply by throwing the same commercial nous and innovation at the Test game. Five days of action. They provide so many opportunities.

“Day/night games have demonstrated the enormous leaps that are possible. The IPL doesn’t play its biggest fixtures when many of its staunchest, wealthiest fans are at work. Neither should Test cricket,” Pietersen said in his address.

Pietersen stated that marketing Test cricket is the need of the hour for the custodians of the game. “It will only be by pushing the marketing dial to a maximum that we will

see if the Test game has true potential. Let’s make every game count. Push the profile of the world Test championship. Develop marketing opportunities. Offer cheaper seats in the ground to provide a better spectacle for TV viewers,” he said.

“We need to get them back through the turnstiles.

It’s better for the players, the sponsors and television.

Let’s get the fans back!

Let’s throw equal marketing clout behind the Test game before we succumb to the lazy assumption that 20-20 rules.”

it with colour and fireworks.

Fill the grounds. Play in the evenings. Give the umpires microphones to broadcast to the spectators. Allow sledging -- as long as it remains the right side of the line. Communicate better with the fans,” he said.

Pietersen himself has plied his trade across the globe in various T20 leagues but the Englishman remains a staunch supporter of the fiveday format. “In my humble opinion a hard-fought fiveday Test match remains the greatest all-round challenge in modern day sport - a chal-

Kevin Pietersen delivering his speech yesterday, on Twitter (@BCCI)

Pietersen said entertainment value of Test cricket needs to be increased. “I say, let’s create a fair comparison.

Let’s not compromise entertainment. Let’s put the Test fans first. Let’s make Test cricket a spectacle. Garnish

lenge as mentally demanding as it is physical.

A challenge demanding the very highest levels of concentration of technique, of determination, of stamina, all, for the batsman at least, with no second chances,” he

said. “Because, having played every form of cricket in every corner of the cricketing globe, I remain 100% convinced that the five-day Test remains the supreme form of the game,” Pietersen stressed.

Further emphasising on his point, Pietersen said T20 may be ruling the roost but it is Test cricket which eventually showcases the character of a player. “This may surprise some of you.

After all, I am not known as a traditionalist.

But in 2005 I maintained that you shouldn’t judge a man by his haircut. And now, thirteen years later, I suggest you should not believe everything you read on Twitter! “Nor, I should add, am I anything but unstinting in my praise of 20-20 cricket -- particularly the wonderful IPL. 20-20 provides the thrill, the noise, the speed and no little genius. It has taken fielding to a new level and has redefined batting,” he said.

“But it offers the cricketing buzz without the full sting. Wickets are less precious. Risks are taken without the same downside.

There is less character and technique required. Few players have ever been met with the wrath of an entire population simply for getting out to an injudicious shot early in a 20-20 innings!” (dnaindia.com)

and Guyana a new National record.

According to Baird, his inspiration comes from fellow athlete Natrena Hooper after she won her first international medal last year at the Islamic Solidarity Games in Baku, Azerbaijan. “I told myself I have to get one too, especially for my parents who keep telling me that everything will fall into place.”

Baird’s journey as an athlete has been far from a ‘cake walk’ as he revealed that “the inspiration also comes from my friends and family who keep supporting me through the ups and downs. Sometimes I don’t have money to go to training and they would go in their pockets, give me and tell me ‘you have to keep training; you cannot have any rest days’.”

EARLY 2018 In January, he competed twice at the National Track and Field Centre (NTFC). On the 14th he threw 70.74m.

However, just seven days later on the 21st, Baird leapt up to 73.30m at the same venue.

On February 10, Baird eclipsed his PB and in so doing set a National record of 74.71m.

This was just a prelude of greater things to come in the following week when he travelled to Port of Spain, Trinidad to compete at that country’s pre-Commonwealth Games meet.

H e p ro m p t l y q u a lified for the said Commonwealth Games and went one better in terms of his PB and Guyana’s National record, as he threw 74.76m.

Russell Latapy, TTFA boss on collision course

Russell Latapy TRINIDAD and Tobago Football Association (TTFA) boss, David John Williams cannot catch a break, this time, his Under- 20 coach and former T&T international, Russell Latapy.

Latapy wrote a letter to John-Williams, copying T&T’s technical director, general secretary and board members regarding missed payments to staff and what could be tantamount to the neglect of dealing with team matters.

The letter, published by T&T online publication, Wired868, comes on the back of a construction site accident that has hampered John-Williams’ ability to perform his functions and to increasing calls for a no-confidence vote against him over the failure to have a general meeting after three attempts.

“I write again in regard to the outstanding salary and car allowance payments. I’ve been emailing and calling you daily, with little or no response,” read the letter.

The letter goes on to deem John-Williams’ attitude to consistent entreaties to have dialogue, ‘unprofessional and unacceptable at best’.

According to Latapy, incidents of calls going unanswered, or promises to return phone calls going unfulfilled, have forced him to communicate in the fashion he has.

To date, it is not known if John-Williams has responded but the TTFA has had a poor history of paying its coaches, with a number of lawsuits the result.(Sportsmax)

Leave it to VAR: World Cup linesmen told not to flag for tight offsides ... Pierluigi Collina tells officials to let video rule out goals ... VAR rulings will be replayed on big screens inside stadiums FANS inside the World Cup stadiums will be shown replays of incidents requiring video assistant refereeing decisions to reduce the confusion that has reigned during trials of the technology in England and other domestic leagues.

Supporters at the tournament in Russia will be shown clips of the passage of play that was under revision but only once the referee has

made his decision and play has restarted.

Pierluigi Collina, the chairman of FIFA’s referees committee, said the problems with lengthy delays during trials had been ironed out. The Italian also said assistant referees had been advised to keep their flag down for tight offside calls and to leave it to VAR to decide.

“If you see some assistant

See Page 30

referee not raising the flag, it’s not because he’s making mistakes,” Collina said. “It’s because he’s respected the instruction to keep the flag down.

They were told to keep the flag down when there is a tight offside incident and there could be a very promising attack or a goal-scoring opportunity because, if the

Turn to page 30

Pierluigi Collina, the chairman of FIFA’s referees committee, said if an official denies a goalscoring opportunity by incorrectly raising the flag ‘everything is finished’. Photograph: Tatyana Makeyeva/Reuters

GCF takes chess to Bartica

See Page 30

New Caribbean Football Union president, Randy Harris

Harris appointed VP CONCACAF, president CFU

Region Seven Regional sports organiser Mark Ambrose and National chess coach Wendell Meusa during a visit for their chess workshop

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 30, 2018