Guyana Chronicle E-paper 07-18-2018

WEDNESDAY 18th July, 2018

No.105339

Everything above board ‌ Lawrence insists procedures followed in $366M drug contract

‌ties media reports to PNCR chairmanship race

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Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence

Man charged Maternity for Campbellville unit for ECD double-murder hospital page 04

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Nominations in for top PNCR posts page 03

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Everything above board

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

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…Lawrence insists procedures followed in $366M drug contract

…ties media reports to PNCR chairmanship race PUBLIC Health Minister Volda Lawrence has insisted that all the relevant procedures were properly followed regarding the award of a contract for the supply of emergency pharmaceutical supplies for regional and clinical services to New York-headquartered company HDM Labs Inc. Lawrence also speculated that the timing of the exposé of the contract which was awarded since last year, might be tied to her decision to run for the chairmanship of the People’s National Congress

Reform (PNCR).

Over recent days, there have been numerous reports on the $366M contract by sections of the media. In a statement issued by the Department of Public Information (DPI), Lawrence outlined that in April 2017, six companies responded to the request for the supply of Emergency Pharmaceutical Supplies for Regional and Clinical Services.

The six companies were: Ansa McAl Limited; Caribbean Medical Supplies; Global Healthcare Supplies; International Pharmaceutical Agency;

HDM Labs Inc and Meditron Inc. She told the DPI that the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) had recommended that no award be made as all bidders failed to meet the evaluation criteria at the preliminary stage. Lawrence said her ministry then sought permission from NPTAB for Restrictive Tendering, which was granted.

She told the DPI that all six companies were then asked, by letter, to resubmit bids and only HDM Labs Inc) responded. The NPTAB then rec-

ommended that the contract be awarded, having completed its evaluation report. According to Lawrence, a memo was subsequently submitted to Cabinet to this effect on August 29, 2017. She said Cabinet noted the recommendation of NPTAB and the contract was awarded on August 31, 2017, with all the relevant and applicable procedures having been duly and properly followed.

According to the DPI, Lawrence will provide further and complete details in the National Assembly on this matter on Thurs-

day, but noted what she described as “the curious timing of this non-story, almost an entire year after the contract was awarded and, importantly, when a certain critical political decision is imminent.” The DPI said Minister Lawrence trusts that this issue is not part of what would be a sinister campaign to influence this decision.

Lawrence is locked in a race for the chairmanship with incumbent Basil Williams and Joseph Harmon. Williams has already challenged both candidates to a debate to show their track records of

THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) on Tuesday officially accepted nominations for key posts within the party as it heads into its biennial congress next month.

However, there is no challenge to the incumbent Leader, President David Granger.

Since being elected as leader of the party in 2012, Granger has not been challenged for the position.

“He will most likely be unopposed at the elections; at the moment so far, from nominations we received, the leader is unopposed”, said General-Secretary of the PNCR, Amna Ally, during a press conference at Congress Place on Tuesday.

Members of the party were able to officially nominate persons for key positions in the party’s executive arm on “Nominations Day”.

Persons were given the opportunity to submit their nominations from Tuesday morning to 2:00pm on the same day. The process was overseen by Returning Officer Michael Somersaul and Assistant General-Secretary, John Gates.

While the leader will go unopposed, there will be competition for the post of chairman of the party. Senior members of the PNCR Volda Lawrence and Joseph Harmon will challenge incumbent Chairman Basil Williams for his post.

“The chairman of the party is an important post, because that person must take up responsibilities of the leader for 90 days, if the current leader is no longer able to serve”, said Ally.

While known faces were nominated for chairman of the party, new persons were included in the run for vice-chairman. Among the new faces were Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson and James Bond.

They will be challenged by US-based PNCR member, Cosbert Roberts, Winston Felix, Volda Lawrence, Joseph Harmon and Dr. George Norton for the position.

When asked why most of the nominations were familiar faces, Ally said it could have been because of their experience, commitment and dedication to the party. She also

noted that the party is open to young and new people as well. “We don’t have barriers as to whether we want old and experienced people or young and new,” said the general-secretary.

Earlier this month, Williams had told reporters that anyone contending for his post should lay bare their body of work on behalf of the party and also called for an internal debate by candidates before members. “What I would want is, the members of [the] PNC to be afforded an opportunity to hear a debate from all of the candidates. People must come and tell the membership why they want people to vote for them,” said Williams, who is also the country’s attorney general and minister of legal affairs. He told reporters that his track record is well known and as such, anybody “who wants to challenge me must show their track record.”

“That is all I am saying,” he stated emphatically. Williams noted that the members of his party are intelligent people and as such, would judge on the basis of track records.

The PNC chairman made

it clear that his legal victories are well known and as such, there is no surprise when it comes to his service to Guyana. He pointed out his many pro bono undertakings as an attorney for the party. “I have always had victories; y’all know me. “This current executive took us into office and if we were good to take us into government, why after three years when we are ready to look at the last two years, would you want to change the team. You don’t want to change your winning team.

You learn that in cricket and as the Americans would say, ‘if it isn’t broken why fix it’.”

Harmon, who has been a member of the PNC since 1973, had announced mere days after the PNC held its second General Council meeting that the party is democratic. He reminded that at the party’s upcoming Biennial Delegates’ Congress, all positions of leadership will be contested and so his announcement should not be seen in isolation from the party’s democracy. “That is the democracy which we prac-

tise. So every member of the party can aspire to the highest office in our party and like many others, I am a member of the party of longstanding and therefore have indicated that it is my desire and my interest in putting myself up as a candidate for the chairmanship of the party,” he said in the brief statement.

Harmon, a lawyer by profession, became a member of Pouderoyen Young Socialist Movement (YSM).

He was later elected chairman of the Pouderoyen YSM, after which he was elected assistant secretary of the West Demerara Region of the YSM in the 1970s.

Meanwhile, Lawrence announced her candidacy for the party’s chairmanship in Linden a few weeks ago. Lawrence, who serves as Minister of Public Health, will be competing against Williams, SC and Harmon when the PNCR Biennial Delegates’ Congress is held in August. An accountant by profession, Lawrence acquired her Degree in Accounting from the University of Guyana and a Master’s Degree from Gloucester University, England.

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence working for the 61-yearold party. Since taking over the health portfolio, this is the second time that Lawrence has been enmeshed in a controversy over drug purchasing.

The previous case was the purchase of drugs and medical supplies for the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation from ANSA McAL Trading Limited, amounting to in excess of $605,962,200”.

However, the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) had cleared the Public Health Minister of any wrongdoing in the case.

Nominations in for top PNCR posts

General-Secretary of the PNCR, Amna Ally (Samuel Maughn photo) She is also a Certi fied Chartered Accountant (ACCA Level II). In the party, she is a member of the Central Executive Committee (CEC), and heads the Human Services and Welfare Department of the PNCR. Prior to her post as Minister of Public Health, she was the Minister of Social Protection under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) government.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Man charged for Campbellville double-murder A WEEK after 61-yearold Deonarine Liliah and 28-year-old Okmar Liliah were killed at their Craig Street, Campbellville home, a 30-year-old man was charged for their death.

Orland Douglas of Campbellville appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and was not required to plead to the two charges, which alleged that between July 7, 2018 and July 10, 2018 at Craig Street, Campbellville,

he murdered the two men during the course of a robbery.

Douglas was represented by attorney Melville Duke, who told the court that his client was unlawfully detained by the police for the last week.

Duke further stressed that his client was picked up by the crime scene and was simply an onlooker trying to get a glimpse of what was ongoing.

“You (Douglas) look like a suspect,” the attorney told

Orland Douglas

the court must have been the

thoughts and actions of the police when they wrongfully profiled his client.

But, Police Prosecutor Inspector Gordon Mansfield quickly got to his feet and debunked the lawyer’s claims, as he told the court that the police managed to trace one of the victim’s cellphone which was stolen from the home back to Douglas.

Also, that Douglas was positively pointed out to the police during an identification

parade as one of the alleged killers.

Douglas while standing calmly in the prisoners docks was remanded to prison until July 31.

According to reports, the father and son were last seen alive on July 7 at their Craig Street, Campbellville home, however, three days later after a fowl stench was emitting from upstairs the decomposing bodies were discovered.

The tenant had observed

that her landlord was missing and had summoned the police.

Upon their arrival they found the upstairs back door was open and found the bodies of the men.

Police managed to recover CCTV footage which showed an unidentified male jumping the western fence and entering the home.

A post mortem report revealed that the victims had been stabbed a total of 66 times.

Cuba plane crash: Leasing company blames Mexican crew A plane crash in Cuba which killed 112 people was caused by “human error”, the Mexican charter company which owns the plane says.

Damojh Airlines said a study of the data recorders showed the Boeing 737 had taken off too steeply.

Mexican pilots’ union ASPA said Damojh’s statement, which was released before the official investigation has concluded, was “irresponsible”.

The crash was one of the worst to happen in the Caribbean for decades. The Boeing 737 and its Mexican

crew had been leased from Damojh by Cuban state airline Cubana when it came down 20km (12 miles) south of the Cuban capital, Havana.

Eyewitnesses described seeing the jet burst into flames before crashing into a field close to a wooded area

near Havana’s main airport.

Damojh said in a statement that “the crew took off at a very steep angle creating a lack of lift which caused the aircraft to plunge”.

The company said it was basing its assessment on data from the plane’s data recorders which had been extracted by a team made up of investigators from Cuba, Mexico and the US, and representatives from Boeing and engine manufacturers Pratt & Whitney.

‘Defending their interests’ However, the results of the investigation have yet to be released, Mexico’s civil aviation authority said. A spokesman for the Mexican pilots’ union said Damojh was “just looking to defend their interests” by blaming the crew before the investigation had been concluded.

Following the accident on 18 May, two former pilots for the company came forward to allege that Damojh had

a poor maintenance record.

Mexico’s civil aviation authority suspended the company’s operations in the wake of the accident. It said the suspension would remain in place pending the outcome of the investigation. Most of the victims were Cuban, including 10 evangelical pastors and their spouses. Of the 113 people on board, 110 died on impact. Of the three initial survivors, two later died in hospital. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Maternity unit for ECD hospital

THE Dr. CC Nicholson Hospital in Nabaclis is slated for a major upgrade in order to facilitate Maternal and Child Health (MCH) services along the East Coast of Demerara corridor.

Importantly, this will reduce the current number of women seeking MCH services at the Georgetown Public Hospital, the Department of Public Information (DPI) has reported.

According to the DPI, it is expected that this highly anticipated upgrade will take shape after an evaluation and designing stage has been completed. The evaluation process will, amongst other things determine the size of the extended facility and its capacity.

Regional Health Officer (RHO), Demerara-Mahaica, Dr. Quincy Jones hinted that the hospital will have a wellequipped maternity unit for low-risk, normal delivery of babies. This will include an operating theatre and a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Dr. Jones noted this is an essential complement to maternity services offered at a particular health facility. “Dr. CC Nicholson Hospital will be a full-fledged birthing centre on the East Coast so patients with relatively low-risk pregnancies could safely deliver there.

So, it provides for this kind of care to be more accessible and it also decreases

the burden at GPHC which is a tertiary centre catered to offering more specialised health care,� the RHO explained.

Millennium Development Goal Number 5 mandates United Nations Member States to improve Maternal

Regional Health Officer, Demerara-Mahaica, Dr. Quincy Jones Health. This came to an end in 2015, giving way to Sustainable Development Goals, which generally speak to the achievement of good health and well-being for all. These two goals look specifically at safeguarding the health and lives of the under-five population.

It is, in this regard, that the Inter-American Development Bank has signed a GYD $1.7 Billion (US $8Mllion) loan to reduce maternal, perinatal and neonatal deaths in Guyana.

Body fished out of Herstelling trench

THE decomposed body of a Herstelling, East Bank Demerara (EBD) resident was on Tuesday fished out of a trench in the same village after construction workers noticed the bloated body and contacted police.

Dead is 39-year-old Jaigobin Seecharran of Herstelling, EBD. Reports indicate Dead: Jaigobin that Seecharran was on Seecharran a drinking spree since Sunday last and would usually disappear for days before he returns. As such, his brother and sister-in-law were not alarmed when he did not return.

However, they were shocked when they learnt that he had died. Other relatives say Seecharran had no fixed place of abode and had visited his brother to spend the day.

Eyewitnesses said the body was found submerged face down and was clad in a black T-Shirt and blue jeans.

The body was taken to the Lyken Funeral Parlour and is awaiting a post-mortem examination.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

West Indies victory over Bangladesh IT is one of cricket’s great mysteries that the Caribbean has produced so many great players, despite its small size relative to virtually all other cricketing nations. The just concluded test series between the West Indies and Bangladesh is clear evidence of this, with the Caribbean’s mere few millions overcoming the 162 million who live in Bangladesh. That 2-0 series victory returned West Indies to a rank above Bangladesh, even if we continue to languish at the bottom end of the test rankings.

Of course, the West Indies T20 team is generally renowned the world over as the best, despite the ICC’s rankings, while our oneday and test teams have

largely lagged far behind.

The test team seems to be progressing slowly, to the relief of supporters, as this recent series win caps a two-year period in which the Windies have won multiple tests against higher-ranked opposition both at home and abroad, even if that has not amounted to series wins or sustained dominance.

From a Guyanese perspective, what was most encouraging was the performance of our own local players, in a team of late dominated by Barbadians. No fewer than six Barbadians featured in last week’s playing XI, and this is without team regulars like Kemar Roach. On the other hand, only two Guyanese played, but their performances were critical.

Debutant Kemo Paul took critical top-order wickets, while Shimron Hetmyer was the driving force behind much of the Windies batting dominance in the decisive second test.

Absent was another Guyanese, Devendra Bishoo, but so impactful has he been on spin-friendly pitches of late that he seemed nevertheless to loom large over the second test match. In Paul, Bishoo and Hetmyer, the West Indies seems to have unearthed real talents. Hetmyer and Paul remain relatively raw, but their prospects are excellent because they display unique skills.

Hetmyer is reminiscent of Sir Viv Richards in his free and confident strokeplay, while Paul’s action is very similar to that of famed New

Zealand fast bowler Shane Bond.

These two players have much development to undergo, but the Guyanese attitude of fastidious dedication implies that genuine talents stand a good chance of succeeding in this journey. Arguably, this has been a key reason for Guyana’s great success in the regional four-day first class competition. Often with fewer players of the very highest cricketing class, Guyana has nonetheless prevailed and we stand as current four-day champions, having won in several recent years.

A Guyanese playing cricket in this environment, both a winning one and one where players through discipline punch above their weight, is thus in a good

Working together for racial unity Dear Editor CHAIRMAN of the Ethnic Relations Commission(ERC), Dr John Smith’s statement “That the ERC is not a firefighting machine,” delivered as part of a recent engagement with members of the local media, underlines the fact that he understands the peculiarities of the Guyanese milieu as far as the challenge of race is concerned.

What was even more heartening was when he underlined, ‘’Firefighters have to respond to every alarm, false or otherwise.

The trouble is when they are attending to a false alarm, the real thing might be going in another direction”.

Editor, ever since Dr. Smith’s selection to be part of this important constitutional body, more so, his being named Chairman, I felt comforted that here is a Guyanese, not only a man of God, but a committed patriot who will work assiduously, along with his fellow commissioners to make a genuine contribution towards bringing about a better Guyana as far as promoting the

elimination of discrimination on the basis of ethnicity, while prohibiting persons, political parties and institutions from discriminatory practices on the basis of race.

The fact is that there are going to be deliberate attempts at distractions from the real issue at hand – promoting unity; but this must not be allowed to happen, as I had emphasised in a prior letter, “ERC has its work cut out”, Guy. Chr. Jul. 7. These attempts at diversion are going to come from, inclusive of those who are interested only in furthering the agenda of race for their own selfish ends. And this grouping will include the supremacists who also are not interested in equality, but on unity on their terms of domination.

I am happy that Dr. Smith has had this initial encounter with the media, and has recognised its “yellow journalism’’, giving way to ‘’fake news”, but pointing out that both sides should work together.

Indeed, sections of the media with their individual agendas, have been more than disappointing in leading the conversation of race and its

challenges in Guyana. Rather than being part of the solution, they have become party to what can only be described as dangerous partisan positions, which cannot/will not begin to move this country from the backlands of an ideology which can only destroy our future hopes and prospects of being a viable nation.

But, as has been enphasised in the referred written letter on the stated date, the message has to be carried to the people; the conversation must begin with them, since they are the core fillings of the many religio-cultural organisations in which the ideologies are the guides for intellectual thought.

I can only continue to wish Dr. Smith and his fellow commission members well in their challenging endeavours; and appeal to my fellow countrymen/women to be part of this new endeavour, of building a non-discriminatory society. Such an environment has never been more needed, as it is now.

Regards Earl Hamilton

position to succeed. Stalwarts like Leon Johnson embody this attitude with his batting consistency and young, true talents like Paul and Hetmyer are all the more exciting because they benefit from being around such a fastidious example.

Even further, I would argue Devindra Bishoo’s determination to reinvent himself after being dropped soon after the bright start to his career is further evidence of an attitude we can take pride in locally. This should also encourage other potential West Indies players, of which there are certainly a few bright prospects just beginning to make a name for themselves.

Now that the tests have come to an end, the OneDay Internationals are

due to begin, Guyana being a prominent host. We should, so far as we are able, certainly support our local cricketers and the team broadly in these matches. Hopefully, a successful series against Bangladesh, in the shadow of thoroughly dominating them in the test series, will put the team in a winning mindset ahead of the Cricket World Cup. While few perhaps expect the West Indies to win that particular trophy, the Caribbean’s team can hardly afford to ignore this format of the game, always instead looking to improve.

To that end, we commend Paul, Bishoo and Hetmyer, looking forward to seeing them grow and continuing to make us proud.

Reclamation of land allocated to private investors

Dear Editor

I READ a piece in the newspapers this week. It had to do with the Department of Housing.

Minister Valerie Patterson said that her ministry will reclaim large portions of land given away to alleged investors by the PPP, but left idle for years or used for speculative purposes.

Now this is good news, as there are literally thousands of applicants awaiting allocation for house lots. Many of them possess the ability to build their own homes, notwithstanding the many dishonest and sometimes incompetent people who pose as contractors.

The ball is now therefore in government’s court to not only retake these lands, but to also begin an earnest programme to reallocate these to address the large backlog of people waiting to build their own homes. The proof of the taste of the pudding is in the eating, so the saying goes.

The trouble here is that the coalition does not seem to remember that happy people are usually

eager to turn out and vote, so it might well be in the government’s interest to get this out of the way as soon as possible, rather than allow another bureaucratic hurdle to prevent lots from being allocated.

I know of at least a dozen young people in my working environment, some planning to marry and begin families in the coming months, who are waiting for allocations but are becoming frustrated through the slow pace by the ministry.

It might, therefore, do the coalition a whole lot of good if this exercise can begin shortly and proceed with speed and alacrity.

Those in power must remember that general elections are less than two years away and that the cabinet must be able to boast about its actual achievements rather than promises.

Low-cost housing construction and house lot allocation can easily be counted as achievements by any government.

Regards Dillon Goring

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Those entrusted with public power must manage it better Dear Editor:

REPORTERS have asked for my comments on the Simona Broomes saga, but up until now I remained quiet on it, largely because I did not want to become part of the personal attacks on the minister. Too often, these matters descend into personal attacks by detractors or uncritical defence by supporters.

In the process, the real seriousness of the matter gets lost and the political culture remains intact. I think that is the case here. I am also mindful of the fact

that the minister is human and is entitled to make errors of judgement. This may well have been the case here. But at the end of the day, she is a minister in high office and ought to be very careful in the exercise of power.

The minister’s behaviour to my mind is part of our larger elite political culture, whereby those entrusted with governmental power treat it as their personal property rather than as a responsibility to be carefully executed.

Minister Broomes, like so many political leaders on both sides of the political

PTG looks to improve workers’ safety PRITCHARD-Gordon Tankers Limited (PGT) has collaborated with oil and gas company Shell to improve safety onboard its ships.

At a seminar at the Pegasus Hotel on Tuesday, workers were trained to understand the three-pillars of incident reduction which include reflective learning, leadership visits and learning engagement tools.

These elements are not unique to the company since it has implemented a programme that places emphasis on them.

“We have only started this since March this year… the company is monitoring the statistics and as word spreads we expect a decrease in minor incidents,” PTG representative and programme facilitator Nick Whalen-Griffiths said.

Reducing incidents was the mantra throughout the programme. The forum heard that in 2011, the company recorded an incident once every week but through implementation of the safety programme, accidents went down to one every 20 days.

Workers counted themselves lucky because Guyana was the third country to benefit from the programme. In the past, the programme was conducted

in the United Kingdom and Poland.

“Safety of our crew is priority for the company; and there will always be ways to improve safety onboard,” he said.

PGT is one of a very few specialists, fully integrated British Tanker owning companies trading under the UK Tonnage Tax regime.

The company has two offices in the UK. Its head office in Sussex manages all commercial, insurance and accounting activities.

The technical management office in Tyne and Wear handles all day to day technical management, personnel and staff training, dry dockings, design and new building supervision.

Liaison with Oil Major vetting teams, industry bodies, regulators, classification societies and port state control offices are also handled from this office.

The team in Tyne and Wear is made up of five superintendent engineers, two deck superintendents, a head of personnel and various support staff.

The company is managed and run by a team of experienced specialists in the fields of sale and purchase, tanker chartering, vessel operations, marine engineering and vessel design.

divide, seems to have allowed the power of her office to impair her judgement. I am very certain that had she been a private citizen, she would have handled that matter differently. Clearly, her attitude on that night betrayed a sense of personal superiority and inherent entitlement to privilege. That she could throw her official weight around, as the video revealed, and then relate a narrative that appears to be contrary to what occurred, betrays a sense of her sense of invincibility. Twist it and turn it, at the end of the day this is a clear case of

official bullying of powerless citizens.

It is one of the worrying characteristics of the top echelon of this government and previous ones—they seem intoxicated by the power they have and use it simply because they have it and could use it. Part of it I think has to do with their unfamiliarity with political power that is born of a lack of proper preparation for high office. Minister Broomes, for example, is part of a group of ministers who were never serious political activists; they did not come through the ranks of parties

and movements. They were parachuted into high office when the coalition won in 2015. They did not personally struggle and sacrifice politically for the power to which they now have access. Hence, they are not as careful with it as they ought to be. Minister Broomes got caught, but I am sure there are others who behave in a similar manner.

It is quite disappointing that apart from Minister Volda Lawrence, not one other official has had the courage to condemn what is clearly official bullying on the part of the minister. I have read where some defenders cite the minister’s hard work and forthrightness as her assets. But effectiveness

as a minister is not licence for bullyism. At the very least the government, the president and the party to which the minister is affiliated should publicly disassociate themselves from such behaviour.

In the final analysis, this episode reinforces the need for a serious Code of Conduct for ministers. It also signals that those entrusted with public power must manage it better. Our country is mired in lawlessness and uncivility at all levels and if we are to pull ourselves out of it, those who are in leadership positions must lead by example.

Regards David Hinds

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Dennison urges toshaos to step up –– help deter use of mercury in mining

By Lisa Hamilton

LAND disputes, illegal mining and mercury pollution were among key issues brought to the fore by Indigenous leaders when they engaged the Minister of Natural Resources on Tuesday at the Annual National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference.

Minister Raphael Trotman was accompanied by top officials from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) at the five-day event being hosted at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre at Liliendaal, on the lower East Coast.

On matters of mercury pollution, Minister Trotman

said that the government has heard the recently increasing complaints and that moving forward, it will be “treating the matter very seriously”.

“We’ve always seen mercury as something that is used by miners in the interior, but it has come home and it is a wake-up call to us; we cannot afford to be complacent when it comes to the poisoning of our rivers, our food and our waters,” he stressed.

He said that with the government’s signing of the Minamata Convention, Guyana is working towards the eradication of mercury in the mining sector by 2024.

Addressing the same topic, GGMC Commissioner Newell Dennison said that while he does not support the

use of mercury, village leaders ought to take a responsible approach in encouraging miners to practise safe mining.

“We need to also take responsibility as individuals and communities because it is our own relatives, friends, cousins and whomever who are actually mining. I’m sure not all of you mine, but I’m sure everybody is connected to a miner in some way, and it is these people that we have to try to influence,” he urged.

Minister Trotman also responded to questions on the availability of money in the Amerindian Purposes Fund (APF), derived from royalties coming out of the GGMC for the development of Indigenous communities.

At Tuesday’s meeting between key government officials and toshaos at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre. Seated from left are: GFC’s Commissioner James Singh; GGMC’s Commissioner Newell Dennison; and Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman He told the gathering that blocks to titled lands. with respect to mining in the ADF amounts to a total “We have not had a polthat community,” he related. of $1B which was paid over icy, and certainly have not Reports came, too, from just before the government been practicing giving out the Toshao of Campbell changed in 2015 which is blocks, permissions, permits Town in the Potaro-Siparuni verified by GGMC’s re- for mining on titled lands. So Region of Guyana on indicords. where you have issues with viduals who had attempted “It was one of the first existing permits on titled to alter the boundaries of the things I inquired into when I lands, the research has to be village by diverting creeks. took office, and I am advised done to determine whether In response to this, Denand I have been able to ver- those titled lands were titled, nison said: “Anybody who ify that approximately $1B and when the blocks were wishes to divert creeks or was paid over to the then distributed,” he clarified. rivers needs to request perMinistry of Indigenous PeoThere were also similar mission from the GGMC; ples’ Affairs, and that money questions but in relation to and in getting that expressed was paid by GGMC to the Chinese Landing-Tassawini permission, they’re required ministry of royalties into the and whether Wayne Vieira, to give very sound technical future,” he responded. a miner, is legally permitted reasons on why they wish When the issue of the to mine the aforementioned to do it. deplorable state of mining area.

“I have not seen any and forestry roads emerged, Dennison confirmed that requests across my desk Trotman vowed: “As far Vieira was granted permisfor such activities; if this is as roads are concerned, we sion to conduct mining acsomething that has happened will next year be paying tivities in the area, following recently, I would suspect more attention to seeing the ruling of the Caribbean that it is not something that what we can do to maintain Court of Justice (CCJ) that was properly permitted.” some roads that have been he had received permits to In light of the burning damaged.” do so prior to the land titling. issues that were raised, MinIn addition to the fore“When it was found that ister Trotman announced going queries, several re- he was conducting activities that he would be doubling ports came from the In- in those areas, the GGMC his efforts to ensure that digenous leaders of miners attempted to put a Cease detailed reports of concerns currently disregarding the Work Order (CWO) on this coming out of the villages boundaries of titled lands, operation, but that was found are collected, and additional which resulted in the query to be unlawful. As a result of questions answered. of whether blocks had been that, we had no alternative As such, he announced awarded by the GGMC to but to withdraw that, and that for the remainder of the the party in question. renew the permits that exist week-long conference, he in those areas. would be assigning represenNOT GGMC’S DOING “[However] it is my untatives from the GGMC and GGMC’s Commission- derstanding that with that GFC to the Conference Cener Dennison made it clear situation, Mr. Vieira or his tre to facilitate this process. to the some 212 Indige- assignees are obligated to Some of the matters the nous leaders present that deal with the village on leaders are expected to exthe Commission is not in whatever arrangement they pound upon to these repthe business of awarding might be able to negotiate resentatives are: The need for improved infrastructure; access to clean water; drones overflying villages; the negative effects of large-scale mining and land concessions.

At the same time, Trotman invited the Indigenous leaders to return today, as he would be open to answering their questions about Guyana’s oiland-gas sector during his morning presentation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

MoE launches leadership retreat –– to help create tech-savvy future leaders

By Vishani Ragobeer THE Ministry of Education (MoE) is seeking to develop competency in Technical, Vocational Education and Training (TVET) to boost national competitiveness, especially in the wake of oil discovery in Guyana.

On Monday, the MoE launched and began its Leadership Retreat for 50 selected leaders from TVET institutions countrywide at the Lake Mainstay Resort, under the theme: “Promoting operational excellence through the development of next-generation leaders in TVET to boost national competitiveness.”

Here, the leaders have been tasked with the responsibility of transforming the sector so that it

out. Here, he advanced that there are key things that are needed in the sector: proper planning, organisation and goal-setting; synergy within and among the institutions; a succession plan and generally, commitment to developing Guyanese youth for the betterment of Guyana.

Importantly, he bemoaned that particularly with the development of the oil industry, Guyana needs a skilled workforce.

And he noted that this is not limited to those with an academic prowess but skilled manpower at all levels of society. “We don’t want to have people to be importing brains,” Hutson stressed and advanced, “We have brains here, we have the required people here but what is missing is the com-

Onwuzirike also highlighted that it is the development of technical skills needed to drive industry and commerce that led to China’s economic development. This, according to him, has proved true for all developed nations. As such, he shared the CEO’s sentiments that TVET should not be looked down upon because it is critical to Guyana’s development.

And while there is focus on reshaping the quality and content of TVET education, the sessions will be focussed on honing internal leadership for the technical institutions.

As the ACEO said, “This one-week retreat will therefore begin the process of a succession plan for the next 15 years to ensure that for every TVET post-sec-

Chief Education Officer Marcel Hutson and Assistant Chief Education Officer (ACEO)- Technical, Patrick Chinedu Onwuzirike (front row, centre) pose with all the participants of the retreat may benefit the younger population, poised to take over leadership and management. Speaking at the launch, Chief Education Officer (CEO) Marcel Hutson posited, “Guyana needs you at this point in time. We are at the brink of greatness, but we cannot breakthrough unless we have people who are committed and dedicated to a particular plan and purpose.”

TVET is critical to any society, Hutson said and added that TVET offers some distinct advantages to society. For him, “It allows the nation to adapt to the necessary changes needed in a knowledge-based society.”

Resultantly, this event was conceptualised because there are a myriad of issues plaguing the TVET sector, ranging from the lack of communication and collaboration, poor leadership and stigma towards persons pursuing studies in the sector, which need to be ironed

mitment and the dedication to a very good cause.”

The CEO also addressed that there seems to be disparities that exist between the TVET institutions across Guyana, but highlighted that all the institutions are receiving the same training and share the same status and as such, there must be no disparity and gap because of leadership.

Providing an overview of the retreat was Assistant Chief Education Officer (ACEO)- Technical, Patrick Chinedu Onwuzirike, who noted that the TVET sector has shown development but the work is far from over.

The training is specifically geared at developing Guyana’s human capital in the context of the envisaged ‘Green Economy’ and according to Onwuzuruke, “Guyana is poised for a transformed economy and the development of the requisite local capacity [rests] squarely on TVET.”

ondary institution, there is a pool of leaders we can at any material time, tap into to fill a vacancy.” This is due to cognisance that persons who have for many years been at the helm of the institutions may depart from their positions at any time.

To this end, the officer affirmed it is envisaged that there will be a cadre of promising young leaders and stressed, “It is therefore necessary to ensure that you are strategically positioned to take on the mantle of leadership at any time.”

Chief Instructor (ag.) from the Leonora Technical and Vocational Training centre, Delphine Bakker told the Guyana Chronicle that she hopes this workshop will make her a better leader so that she will be able to deliver better quality education.

At her centre, the challenges aforementioned have manifested themselves and according to her, persons frown upon learning a skill

because it is seen as a pursuit for “dropouts”. And though it is a post-secondary institution, she said that some students have issues with literacy and numeracy. Bakker, however, recognised that helping the adolescents requires a concerted but collective effort and said, “I am making a pledge to apply what I’ve learnt to myself and to share it with others [because] it is about all of us.”

Similarly, Principal (ag.) of the Carnegie School of Home Economics, Myrna Lee shared that synergy across the TVET stakeholders is critical and out of the workshop, she hopes to create those relationships so that the institutes may support each other.

The retreat will address various topics, all geared at improving TVET and will conclude on Friday, July 20.

Chief Education Officer Marcel Hutson

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Lethem trail to become operable soon –– Minister Patterson MINISTER of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, has indicated that the flood-damaged Linden-Lethem trail will be reopened soon.

Speaking to media operatives on Monday at the National Toshaos Council conference, Minister Patterson explained that the contracts are already out for works on the road.

“The contract is for a year, so it will be from this year Jun 1st to June 1st next year. So, we’ll try to ensure there is continued use of the road, so the aim is to ensure that there is a contractor on the road.” Intense rainfall

Part of the Linden-Lethem trail being repaired in the last few months has to allow persons to reach the damaged the road, making it Upper Takutu-Upper Essequimpassable. This has resulted ibo district. in a temporary bypass being The construction of a carved out along the Linden highway from Linden to Leto Lethem trail, to allow for them is much closer to realthe crucial supply of fuel ity. The Terms of Reference and other commodities, and (ToR) for construction by

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Soldier, others charged with narco trafficking

the Guyana and Brazil governments will be ready in August. Minister Patterson said that the project is much anticipated and this agreement will focus on fulfilling that promise to Guyanese. Phase one of the project covers approximately 125 kilometres of the road (Linden to Mabura Hill) and also includes a bridge across the Kurupukari River. Guyana secured funding from the British Government through its UK Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF) programme to complete the design.

The contract for this consultancy will be awarded shortly. (DPI)

The ziploc bags that were found filled with cannabis A GUYANA Defence Force (GDF) rank was among four persons charged with possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking and appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Vreed-en-Hoop Magistrate‘s Court on Monday.

The quartet, GDF rank Kunene Rodney of Kaneville, East Bank Demerara (EBD); Shomar Thomas of Samatta Point,

Grove EBD; Clarence Boston of Kaneville; and Michael Dennis of Diamond, EBD were all placed on $100,000 each after pleading not guilty when the charge was read to them.

On July 14, police acting on information, stopped and searched a car at the western end of the Demerara Harbour Bridge.

They found 927 grammes of marijuana packed into several ziploc bags.

Four charged with murder of phone card vendor THREE males and a female were remanded to prison on Tuesday in connection with the death of phone card vendor, Roy Mansfield, on June 19 at Westminster, West Bank Demerara (WBD) when they appeared before Magistrate Crystal Lambert at the Vreed-en-Hoop Magistrate’s Court The accused are Shomar ‘Pope Pi’ Singh, 21, of 61 D’Urban St., Wortmanville; Alexander La Cruiz, 25, of 179 Meten-Meer-Zorg, WCD; Mark ‘Biggs’ Welch, 25, of 2743 Recht-door-zee, Dead: Roy Mansfield WBD and Naiomi Bentick, 25, of 893 Westminster, WBD. They were remanded to prison until August 23, 2018.

Mansfield, a father of two known as ‘phone card man’, had just arrived in front of his Westminster home after work when he was confronted by armed bandits who shot and robbed him of his day sales.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

28 years jail for killing young mechanic Accused: 'Meh whole life I running and I am not sure why'

A REPENTANT Ryan Jones was on Tuesday sentenced to 28 years’ imprisonment for the 2016 killing, in the course or furtherance of a robbery, after he pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

The sentence was handed down by Justice Sandil Kissoon in the Demerara High Court after the plea was accepted by the court.

According to the State, Ryan Jones called “Rayan Jones” in the course or furtherance of a robbery, murdered Puranand Baljit, a young mechanic on June 9, 2016.

The accused pleaded not guilty to murder but guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

The deceased, Puranand Baljit, 20, of Madewini, Timehri was stabbed 10 times and succumbed to his injuries.

In handing down his sentence, Justice Kissoon told the court that based on the facts, it was noted that Jones entered the dwelling house of the deceased who was sleeping and killed him, in the commission of another crime and took away a bag containing his laptop and cell phone.

The cell phone worth thousands of dollars was

sold for $5,000 by the accused who was arrested on the seawalls on June 11, 2016.

The judge stated and it was also noted, that the accused took a weapon (knife) with him to the home of the deceased, which he used to inflict the stab wounds on the young victim, who had woken up and was screaming for his parents.

Justice Kissoon urged the accused to utilise the skill training available while he is in jail so that he could rehabilitate himself.

The judge started his sentence at a base of 25 years of which he deducted one third for his early plea and two years and one month for time served.

Justice Kissoon, however, added 10 years for the unlawful killing in the commission of another felony and three years, seven months were also added for the brutality of the crime (the victim was stabbed 10 times).

Jones, 22, was then sentenced to a total of 28 years’ imprisonment without the possibility of parole, until he has fully served his sentence.

In presenting the facts, State prosecutor Mandel Moore told the court that on June 9, 2016 the accused entered the bed-

–– GRDB GM

well as for export. “It has really been an aggressive position by the rice producers and millers, to export the production here. We have always had adequate production for our local consumption,” he told DPI. According to Hassan, production for the first half of this year stands at 290,000 tonnes valued at GYD $23.2Billion (US$111 Million) for January to June, 2018, compared to 203,000 tonnes valued at GYD

He added that his client was a member of the church in jail and apart from escaping from lawful custody while being a prisoner at Lusignan Prison he had no other priors.

In response, State prosecutor Moore told the court that the victim

Murdered: Puranand Baljit room of the deceased through an open window and stole some items, but the latter woke up and confronted the intruder (the accused).

The accused fled the scene with a bag containing the victim’s laptop but was arrested two weeks later and gave the police a detailed caution statement. He even led the cops to the abandoned house where had stored the stolen items. There, the suspected murder weapon which was caked with what appeared to be dried blood was found and was lodged with the police.

In his plea of mitigation, defence attorney Maxwell McKay told the court that Jones upon his arrest cooperated fully with the police. He entered an early plea and did not waste the court’s time.

No need for rice importation

THE Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) said there is no need for Guyana to import rice as local production is adequate to meet local demand.

GRDB General Manager Nizam Hassan, told the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Monday that there is an adequate production of rice for local consumption as

$16.1 Billion (US$77 Million) for the corresponding period last year.

For the second crop, the GRDB had also targeted 88,660 hectares of land for cultivation. So far, 86 percent or 76,500 hectares has been cultivated, Hassan said. He added, “we have 43 percent increase in export volume and 44 percent in export value.

There is no need for rice importation. We have adequate supplies for production.”

who was only 20 years old was stabbed 10 times and he asked for the maximum sentence to be imposed.

Before Jones was sentenced, he told the court “meh whole life I running and I am not sure why but now I know from my

feelings – like now I have no life.”

He related that he was sorry how things happened and asked the court to be lenient in the sentencing.

Jones admitted knowing the deceased before the incident.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Suddie Hospital clean-up

The team of police recruits who were involved in the cleaning POLICE recruits at the Richard Faikal Police Training College in Region Two on Tuesday carried out major cleaning on the Suddie Public Hospital compound.

Officials commented that the environs of the hospital are now looking much cleaner due to the enhancement work done by the recruits.

The recruits cleaning around the Suddie Hospital environment

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Collective action needed to –– Greenidge tells protect the planet CELAC-EU forum MINISTER of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, told a forum in Brussels Tuesday that states have a collective responsibility to protect the planet.

He was addressing the just-concluded Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) – European Union (EU)

affairs minister noted that Guyana was playing its part. “Countries like my own, enjoying sovereignty over territory with heavy forest cover, an extensive sea coast and an abundance of natural life and biodiversity in both locations, ought to ensure that these resources are properly pro-

poverty, fight inequality and injustice, and tackle climate change by 2030.

Guyana’s own Green State Development Strategy is an expression of its commitment to implement the 2030 Agenda.

Minister Greenidge also spoke of finance mechanisms that failed to achieve

Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge (front row) and other ministers at the meeting in Brussels Foreign Ministers Meeting.

“The shared benefits from the actions of individual countries are often not matched by shared responsibility. In fact, too often [it is] the owners of the resources who largely or solely bear the opportunity cost of protecting the environment,” Greenidge was quoted in a release issued by his ministry.

The Guyanese foreign

tected and are used responsibly,” Minister Greenidge said.

This, he explained, could limit the benefits some countries could otherwise enjoy from utilising their natural resources. The meeting examined the implementation of the 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, which includes 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end

intended targets such as the Monterrey Consensus, noting that “progress that we have made so far on the Addis Ababa Action Agenda on financing for development does not leave us with much reason to hope that the promises made therein will be fulfilled, either.”

The Monterrey Consensus is a global agreement between developed

Unidentified man killed in Carifesta Avenue accident A MINIBUS driver is in police custody after he allegedly drove over an unidentified man around 04:00hrs Tuesday morning on Carifesta Avenue, Georgetown.

The body is currently at the Lyken’s Funeral Home.

Enquiries disclosed that the driver of vehicle BWW4632 was proceeding west along the southern carriageway

on the avenue when he suddenly felt an impact and he stopped. Upon investigating, he discovered the victim lying on the roadway with his head smashed.

The 48-year-old driver of Cove and John, East Coast Demerara, was administered a breathalyser test, but the results were negative.

The vehicle is in police custody pending an investigation.

and developing countries, in which both recognised their responsibilities in key areas such as trade, aid, debt relief and institution-building. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda is a follow-up development financing arrangement.

While the aforementioned mechanisms failed, the minister shared that Guyana was pleased to see that

several European countries met or surpassed the 0.7 percent Gross National Income (GNI) target for financing development.

“We hope that other OECD countries can add to this laudable achievement, especially since many of our countries still need to build capacity if they are to implement sustainable activities,” he urged. Estab-

lished in 2011, the regional forum CELAC provides a platform for 33 countries within Latin America and the Caribbean to exchange dialogue and collaborate on political agreements.

The CELAC-EU ministerial meeting was held under the theme, “Building Bridges and Strengthening our Partnership to face Global Challenges.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Elections have FOR YOUR consequences

‘DUH (that) is nah (not) me business’ is a famous phrase used in our everyday conversations. When we make this remark, it means we have zero interest in an issue.

It is sad when this phrase is applied while describing our attitude to public advocacy. The posture of ‘Duh is nah me business’ is what led to what is arguably the worst time for governance in Guyana’s modern history, experienced between 19992015. Governance reached its nadir during this period when the holders of power declared with unrivalled pomposity, ‘we have the ethnic numbers’. On May 11th, 2015, Guyanese demonstrated that elections have serious implications.

In this case, there was a

positive outcome; in other cases, it could be negative.

Numerous issues associated with the arrogance of government in Guyana in the past have disappeared, because of the decision of the masses at the last elections to demonstrate their power at the ballot box.

Further, some ominous things with life-and-death implications are no longer around due to the results of the last polls. The simple pleasure of government critics and reporters driving with their windows down or citizens subjecting their leaders to complete ridicule on social media, no longer come with fatal repercussions, because of our last monumental exercise of our collective franchise. It is only those who were in the trenches during

this period of destructive and vindictive government would appreciate the dangers of going to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport to fulfil an overseas obligation as an anti-government activist and having to face the dreaded possibility of having drugs planted in your luggage. These simple fears are no more due to the wise choice made by Guyanese. These consequences cannot be underestimated, especially in light of the fact that most of the persons who were custodians of the bad state between 1999-2015, have gone nowhere, they are the ones waiting in the electoral wings to once again reign down terror on the population.

Added to this, an election, besides its conspicu-

ous mechanisms, is a formal process by which you make a decision. When you cut through the razzle and dazzle of campaigning and all the shining fanfares, it is a wise choice to make which can affect from what your children will carry in their lunch kits to whether your country gets a bad reputation in the international arena.

This practice of democracy has been in place since the 17th century. It is the results of the May 11th 2015 elections that have erased the shame of Guyana having a reputation of being a drug-filled banana republic with little law and order. It is due to our last vote-casting that we have seen an unprecedented crackdown on the drug empire in Guyana and the concomitant positive effects that come along with dealing condignly with this scourge. The average Guyanese party-goer can now remark: ‘Is a long

ATTENTION !

time me ain’t see people shooting up in parties’.

This is due to the fact that Guyanese made a decision to elect an incorruptible President who stands for law and order and cannot be enticed by the overtures of the drug empire. Again, your safety when you go out to have a good time can be traced right back to electoral decision-making.

Be that as it may, global voter apathy is at its highest percentage. The youth remain the most passive global voter block; this is a universal trend. In July 2010, 75% of eligible voters between ages 18-30 chose not to participate in the US midterm elections.

The question is: who is to be blamed for low voter turnout by youths globally? Politicians or young people? On one hand, there

By Ronald Austin Jr.

is the argument that politicians are out of touch with issues that impact the lives of young people. On the other hand, there is the valid contestation that if politicians refuse to address your issues, it is you who must delve into advocacy and address those issues.

It is a crime against your fellow citizens to allow the rise of the destructive state by not having an I.D Card or refusing to get up on national elections day to vote. Not getting involved is too detrimental.

It is a good time to remind ourselves of the wise words of William Lyon Mckenzie King, ‘Where [there] is little or no public opinion, there is likely to be bad government, which sooner or later becomes autocratic government.’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Vacation time: What to do?

SCHOOLS are closed, the summer air is fresh. For some young people, you have just finished writing CSEC examinations, pondering on what to do.

For others, you may be still in school and for persons like me, you’re on a long-awaited three months break from University. If you’re reading this then you probably had the question, ‘How should I spend my time this summer?’

Going to the beach or travelling to a new country is perhaps two of the many clichés we do during the summertime. When the University closed in the beginning of June, I did some thinking and realised there’s so much more to do than just the same old routines.

As such, I’ve been volunteering for the past week at a literacy programme that is hosted by the University of Guyana’s (Berbice Campus) Library. I help children at the primary school level to better understand how to read and write. Volunteering is a great way to give back to your community in

an unselfish, compassionate manner. Your service is free of charge but the feeling you receive; knowing you’re helping others is amazing and irreplaceable.

If volunteering is not your strong area then you can put together your own project. Gather a few friends or you can work individually and plan out what project you’d like to work on.

Given with your likes and dominated subject areas in school, you can choose something that you’d like to do. If by chance you love sustaining the environment; start a tree-planting project; if you’re into Science, come with your very own hypothesis and find out the answer; if you’re an English geek like I am, you can perhaps write your very own book during the summer. The possibilities are endless.

Another great way to spend your summer time is to attend summer classes. Despite the fact that you’ve already finished your schooling, still in school or on a summer break, you should consider attending

summer classes; skills training classes or subjects that are being/ will be taught in your school. There is no such thing as too much education. For those who are still in school, this will help give you a push-start in your new semester.

Summer Camps have always been my favourite. As a girl who grew up in a town, camping really opened up a love I never thought I would have for nature. Church camps, family camps or even camping with friends; I promise, all of them are just as fun. Being one with nature allowed me to master the art of peacefulness. Linden has many camp adventures for you to experience, start googling.

While all of these are fun and new ways for us to spend our free summertime, we can also spend time with the people whom we love and care for. We can rekindle shaken relationships, bond with your friends and family or even make new friends. Life becomes easier if the pillars around us are strong. Our social relation-

ships are one of those pillars in life.

Do you have a bucket-list? I have mental interpretations of some of the things I’d like to accomplish during my lifetime, so I guess it’s safe to say I have one as well. Maybe some of the previous topics I have mentioned are already on your bucket-list or maybe you have your own unique list. Whatever the case may be, I’m sure many of us have things we want to do before we die. Given the free time

you have during the summer, you can now use it to do the things you’ve always had hopes of doing. Whether it be completing a martial arts class, writing poetry, creating your own YouTube channel, making craft from online DIY videos, do it!

No matter how big or small

your list is, try using your free time to complete some of those activities. Time has a wonderful way of showing us what really matters.

The summer tans will fade but the memories you make will last forever, make your memories worth remembering.

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Ministry of the Presidency clarifies St. Cuthbert’s name change matter

THE Ministry of the Presidency has clarified that the Government of Guyana is not responsible for the delay in the name change

that was proposed for St. Cuthbert’s Mission, but rather there appears to be some disagreement among residents of the commu-

nity.

On Monday at the opening of the National Toshaos Council meeting, Chairman of the body, Joel Fredericks,

sought to blame the administration for the delay in the name-change. However, in a release the ministry said at a meeting held at St. Cuthbert’s on June 3, 2018, to confirm the Resolution, a group of residents indicated that they were not in favour of a name-change, while others claimed that the process for the name-change had been completed a while ago.

The meeting was attended by Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Mr. Sydney Allicock; Attorney-at-law,

Mr. David James; Adviser on Land and Development, Mr. Doerga Persaud and the newly elected Toshao, Ms. Beverly Clenkian.

During the deliberations, the decision was made for a vote to be taken; however, at that moment, it was brought to the attention of the gathering that a number of residents were not present at the meeting and the request was made for another meeting to be scheduled to discuss the issue of the change.

It was then decided that

Sunday, July 15, 2018, would be the date of the next meeting to which residents would be properly invited. It was also decided that it would not be necessary for the minister and his party to attend said meeting. It was further decided that the results of that July 15, 2018 meeting will be communicated by the Village Council of St. Cuthbert’s Mission to the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs for its attention.

Fake presidential crowns land man in court A BUSHY Park, East Bank Essequibo businessman who decided to

affix two fake presidential crowns to his unregistered motor vehicle and

The vehicle with the fake crowns outside the Vreeden-Hoop Magistrate’s Court

reportedly used same to transport celebrants of a wedding was on Tuesday charged and released on bail at the Vreeden-Hoop Magistrate’s Court.

His case has been adjourned to August 13 at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court. In a release police said the defendant Peter Katahan, 43, a Rural Sergeant and President of the West Demerara Road Safety Association was charged with the offences of: fraudulent imitation of identification mark and unregistered, unlicensed, uncertified and uninsured motor vehicle. He pleaded guilty on all the charges and was released on $20,000 bail.

The offences were allegedly committed last Sunday at Hubu ,EBE.

Rapist will know fate after probation report …child was only six at time of incident ON Monday, 20-year-old Delon Clementson pleaded guilty to raping a child under age 16 before Justice Priya Sewnarine-Beharry in the Sexual Offences Court of the Demerara High Court.

According to the state, between August 1 and August 31, 2013 in the county of Demerara, Clementson engaged in sexual penetra-

tion of a female child under 16 years of age.

The child was only six years of age at the time of the incident.

Clementson was represented by Adrian Thompson, while the state prosecutors were Orinthia Schmidt and Lisa Cave.

Sentencing for the accused was deferred to August 13, 2018, to facilitate a

Delon Clementson probation report after which Clementson will be sentenced.

However, the accused who was on bail was taken into custody until his sentencing.

Joseph Allen photo saved in a file in Graphics as Delon Clementson.

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Mon Repos drug-bust accused remanded wife held then released; boat captain on the run

DAYS after ranks from the Custom Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) intercepted a wooden boat with $110M worth of cocaine and cannabis inside, at the Mon Repos channel on the East Coast of Demerara, a

Azim Baksh called ‘Bato’ 50-year-old man was on Tuesday placed before the court and charged with drug trafficking.

Azim Baksh called ‘Bato’ of Phase 1, Good Hope, East Coast Demerara appeared before Magistrate Alisha George at the Sparendaam Magistrate’s Court and denied the drug trafficking charge.

The charge read that on July 14 at the Mon Repos Channel, ECD Baksh trafficked 91.132 kilogrammes of cocaine and 56.008 kilogrammes of cannabis.

Baksh’s attorney, Bernard DaSliva made an application for bail and told the court that his cli-

ent was intercepted in his motor car at Mon Repos access road by CANU ranks. DaSliva stressed that Baksh was told by the ranks that he had just left from a boat which was docked at Mon Repos and was taken back to the site.

The attorney noted that his client was forced to admit to the charge.

Also he further questioned why his client was being charged since other men were on board the vessel but managed to escape when CANU officers arrived.

He also noted that his client was not found on the boat and also no drugs were found in his possession.

However, CANU prosecutor Konyo Sandiford explained that the accused was under surveillance from CANU from the time he was at the boat with Farok Baksh called ‘Dive” and “Shoot’ to when he was arrested in his motor car at Mon Repos.

Farok Baksh however managed to escape from the CANU officers and a wanted bulletin has been issued for his arrest.

Magistrate George after listening to both sides rejected the attorney’s application for bail. The 50-year-old man was refused bail and was remanded to prison until August 10.

According to a release from CANU, ranks of the unit conducted an opera-

tion on East Coast Demerara where several locations used for docking of fishing vessels along the sea wall were reconnoitered.

CANU said sometime after 04:00hours Saturday, July 14, a suspected fishing vessel approached a docking location at the Mon Repos Channel and was held.

The agency said ranks found 82 parcels of cocaine which weighed 91.132 kg (201.32lbs)

WANTED Farok Baksh called ‘Dive’ and ‘Shoot’ as well as 98 parcels of cannabis which weighed 56.008 Kg (123.47lbs) on the vessel.

The boat’s captain, known by the alias ‘Dive’ and ‘Shoot’ escaped and is at large while another man, one Azim Baksh was arrested.

Baksh’s wife was arrested by anti-narcotics authorities while several persons of interest, including several Venezuelans, are wanted in connection with the bust. Baksh’s wife was later released.

No bail for mother of four on drugs charge A MOTHER of four was on Tuesday remanded to prison after she appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan, charged for possession of marijuana.

The charge alleged that on the June 13, 2018 at the Bartica Stelling, Alia Campbell had in her possession 1,169 grammes of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

The 31-year-old woman who resides at 161 Patentia, West Bank Demerara denied the charge that was read out to her in court.

Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield ob-

jected to bail based on the seriousness of the offence and the penalty it attracts.

He said on the day in question the defendant was a passenger on a speed boat at the Bartica Stelling. The police, acting on information contacted the defendant who was at the time in possession of a bucket which was searched and the marijuana discovered.

Bail was refused and Campbell was remanded to prison. The matter was adjourned to August 2, 2018 and transferred to the Bartica Magistrates’ Court.

Drugs found on the boat

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Guyana’s Tobacco Control Act: One year on

ENSURING the protection of a country’s population from the adverse effects of tobacco is a marathon process, requiring stamina, coordination, perseverance, dedication and support; but the payoff is huge – the improved health and well-being of citizens.

Guyana is one of the latest countries in the Region to run this marathon. On July 27, 2017 and after a five-year process, these efforts culminated in the passage of the National Tobacco Act, one of the most complete tobacco

control laws in the Americas.

This outstanding success however, brings a new set of challenges and the race continues to ensure the Right to Health of citizens of Guyana with the enforcement of these measures to protect the population from the dangers of tobacco smoke.

It is critical to ensure that the measures outlined in the Act are implemented immediately, while at the same time countering the threats posed by interference from the local tobacco industry, aimed at reversing these pub-

lic health gains. Tobacco is responsible for seven million deaths per year worldwide.

This includes 900,000 persons who die from diseases related to exposure to tobacco smoke. If current trends continue, tobacco use will kill 10 million people per year by 2020. Seventy percent of these fatalities will occur in less-developed and emerging nations.

Guyana is a developing nation where 78% of all deaths are caused by noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), strongly related to

tobacco use. Over 15% of the adult population currently smokes and more worryingly, the results of a Global Youth Tobacco Survey conducted in 2015 revealed that 14.8% of adolescents aged between 13 and 15 years also use tobacco.

“We want our children to inherit Guyana,” said the Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence. “And in order for us to do that, we must ensure that as parents of this nation, we protect them at all times.”

The Tobacco Control Act 2017 The World Health Organization’s Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC) is an international public health treaty and a guiding framework for the global fight against the tobacco epidemic. Guyana has been a party to the FCTC since 2005. The FCTC requires countries to apply a series of policies and measures aimed at reducing the global tobacco epidemic.

The National Tobacco Act enacted in Guyana follows several of the articles of this Convention and mandates the adoption and implementation of a series of tobacco-control policies that make it one of the most complete tobacco control laws. These include: 100% smoke- free environments in all indoor public spaces, indoor work spaces, public transportation and specified outdoor spaces to protect people from exposure to tobacco smoke; a ban on all forms of advertising, promotion and sponsorship of tobacco products; health warnings featured on 60% of tobacco product packaging,

including images.

A ban on the sale of tobacco products to and by minors, prohibition on vending machines sales; and a ban on the manufacture and sales of toys and candies, and any other good in the form of tobacco products.

Dr. Anselm Hennis, Director of the Department of Noncommunicable Diseases and Mental Health, PAHO, stated, “The adoption of this bill is not only a milestone for public health in Guyana, it is a tremendous advance for CARICOM and the entire Region of the Americas.

This achievement is a powerful demonstration of the critical importance of political leadership to protect the health of every citizen.”

IMPLEMENTING THE ACT Prior to the enactment of the Bill, consultations were held with key stakeholders from the business community, transportation services, workers’ unions, consumer associations and the general public.

As the Act moves forward into the implementation stage, the Guyanese Government is taking increased measures to ensure that all stakeholders are aware of exactly what the law means for them. These measures include specific regulations on various aspects of the National Tobacco Act; preparation for labelling and packaging regulations and the production of no-smoking signs. The country is also implementing an information, education and awareness campaign to address some of the myths and misconcep-

tions being promulgated by the tobacco industry. “People think that we’re banning smoking. We are not banning smoking. We are regulating where people can smoke in the interest of public health,” affirmed Kesaundra Alves, Board Chairperson of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

“Many persons would say that smoking is a matter of choice,” affirmed Minister Lawrence. “And yes, that choice goes both ways. It is a matter of choice that our citizens have to smoke or not to smoke. But it is also a responsibility and choice to make sure that as a government we provide the best care, that we educate our people and that we take the necessary precautions to ensure that our people do not end up on the opposite side of being healthy.”

World No Tobacco Day 2018 Award Every year, as part of the World No Tobacco Day commemorations, WHO recognises individuals or organisations for their accomplishments in tobacco control. This year, six awards were presented in the Region of the Americas, including an award to the Ministry of Public Health of Guyana.

This recognition was for the outstanding leadership of the ministry, which led to the approval of the country’s comprehensive Tobacco Control Act. This law positions Guyana as one of the most advanced CARICOM countries in the implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control. (PAHO/WHO feature)

Businessman jailed for road death FIFTY-year-old businessman, Cleveland Softleigh of Burnham Boulevard, Mocha, East Bank Demerara was on Tuesday sentenced to four years and six months imprisonment after he was found guilty

by Principal Judy Latchman for causing death by dangerous driving.

The charge against Softleigh alleged that on July 29, 2017 at the eastern carriageway of the Herstelling Public Road he drove motor car PKK 3251 in a dangerous manner to the public which caused the death of an elderly

woman. He was currently out on $1M bail.

According to reports, on the day in question James was attempting to cross the Herstelling Public Road when she was struck by the motor vehicle.

It is alleged that Softleigh’s motor car was going at a fast rate and collided with the woman causing her to become airborne before landing onto the road. She was taken to the East Bank Demerara Public Hospital in an unconscious state and pronounced dead on arrival.

Before sentencing, the

Cleveland Softleigh magistrate told the court that she took into consideration that he was a father of six and it was his first offence. But she also stated that life was priceless.

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More emphasis on livelihood projects –– as CDB starts ninth phase of BNTF

ERADICATING poverty has been a crucial part of the Government’s agenda and as the country moves closer to achieving that goal, the Ministry of Finance will be placing more emphasis on livelihood projects.

As part of those projects, the ministry will be targeting areas of agriculture and local manufacturing, said Finance Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Hector Butts during his remarks at the opening ceremony of a Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) and Social Development Commission (SDC) of Jamaica workshop at the Marriott Hotel on Monday.

The programme, which is part of the Basic Need Trust Fund (BNTF)’s ninth project, was geared at training local stakeholders about effective community engagement and sustainable development throughout the project’s life cycle.

Like the purpose of the programme, Butts said by bolstering local farmers, agro-processors, and entrepreneurs, Guyana could expect a positive shift in the local economy.

“There is much potential for sustained economic growth and prosperity, given Guyana’s resources; Government is committed to the robust and transforma-

Participants gathered at the Marriott Hotel for the workshop (Samuel Maughn photo)

Finance Secretary Hector Butts addresses the gathering as members of the head table look on (Samuel Maughn photo) tive development of the nation and looks forward to continued engagement and synergy with the CDB to achieve this vision,” he said.

BNTF, since its establishment in 1993, has been a pillar in Guyana, working through community-based projects to reduce poverty and support the resilience of citizens.

During the eighth phase of the BNFT project, Guyana was able to complete almost 600 projects in areas such as health, water and sanitation, commerce, human resource development, among others.

BNTF’s acting portfolio manager, George Yearwood said the fund from its inception has been shaping its resources to address the needs of poor communities.

“The goal of the ninth phase of the BNTF programme is to reduce the incidence of poverty in low-income, vulnerable communities, by improving access to quality education and training, water and sanitation, basic community access in drainage and human resources development services,” he said.

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Nightclub owner in custody over narco bust

The compressed cannabis SEVERAL persons have been arrested for possession of narcotics, one of whom was identified as a popular nightclub owner, during a police raid on Tuesday morning Acting on intelligence, ranks of the Force’s Narcotics Branch swooped down

at the night club which is located at Hogg Street, Albouystown at about 23:30hrs, and during a search, found the illegal substance.

The substance when weighed amounted to 19 kilograms.

Investigations are ongoing.

Body of jet-skier found THE body of an overseas-based Guyanese man, who met a tragic end on Sunday while jet-skiing in the Demerara River, near Coverden, East Bank Demerara (EBD) was found on Tuesday floating on the Timehri shoreline in the vicinity of a poultry facility.

The body was positively identified by relatives as that of Ravindra Bufhraj called ‘Rick’, who was staying at Lot’ X’ 7 Alma Avenue, Prashad Nagar.

According to the police, Bufhraj and several others, including his wife and daughter, planned a family outing to Santa Mission along the Demerara River after arriving in Guyana re-

cently.

The man and several others travelled to the location from Jettoo’s Sawmill wharf at Coverden, EBD and returned to the said wharf about 17:00hrs on Sunday.

Soon after they returned, Bufhraj along with one Stefan Gagaie, 29, a computer technician mounted a jet ski and proceeded along the river.

Gagaie told investigators that the man lost control of the vehicle and they both fell into the river. Persons rushed to their rescue and while Gagaie was saved, Bufhraj was nowhere to be seen.

Gagaie was treated at the Diamond Hospital and was sent away.

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Region Nine making progress in aligning action plan with SDGs –– Toshaos council hears

By Svetlana Marshall REGION Nine Regional Democratic Council with support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has aligned its 2019 budget proposal with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

That budget proposal is being finalised even as the UNDP provides technical support to the RDC in completing the development of its Plan of Action for Regional Development (PARD), which is also being aligned with the SDGs. The PARD is for a period of 10 years.

In addressing the indigenous leaders on Tuesday at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre, United Nations Volunteer (UNV) Khusiyali Subba explained that the move to align Region Nine’s PARD with the SDGs wherever it is relevant, forms part of the support for the localisation of the SDGs project.

In Guyana, the localisation of the SDGs is occurring at three levels – at the national level under the Green State Development Strategy (GSDS); the regional level under PARD and at the village level under the Village Improvement Plan (VIP).

It was explained that the SDGs are being localised by aligning its relevant targets with prioritised development issues in the various strategies and plan.

In Region Nine, Conservation International (CI) between 2016 and 2017 assisting the RDC in setting the foundation for its PARD. Since the start of 2018, UNDP has been offering technical support with the aim of having the document completed

by December.

While expressing gratitude to the Government of Guyana (GoG) and UNDP for the support being offered in compiling the Plan of Action for Regional Development, Region Nine Regional Chairman Brian Allicock said his region looks forward to the completion of the 10-year strategic plan which would be used as a model document for the other administrative regions.

Allicock said that even without the completion of PARD and its alignment with the SDGs, the people of Region Nine have been unconsciously addressing many of the issues outlined in the SDGs. “Most of the Region Nine Toshaos are au fait with it.

When we look at their plans, the plans they submit every year for budgetary allocations by the central ministry, when we look at it, they are actually addressing some of these goals that are there,” Allicock told the Guyana Chronicle.

He said there is a great push in the region to reduce poverty within the district and as such greater emphasis is being placed on agriculture

production and value-added products.

“So they are focusing on agriculture production and the production of value-added products. So they are establishing these cottage industries, they are looking to better package their products for export,” he further explained.

Attention is also being placed on health, education and infrastructure development by a regional consultative committee, comprising a wide cross-section of stakeholders from the 57 villages within the district. “In the health aspect even though we are experiencing some difficulties with the shortages of drugs, the people are actually going back to the herbal part of it, and are supplementing what is being given by the Health Ministry,” the Regional Chairman pointed out.

The support for the localisation of the Sustainable Development Goals Project is one the many initiatives being supported by the UNDP and UN organisations.

In fact, UN agencies present in Guyana are providing support to achieve SDGs through different intervention, however, UNDP within the area of its mandate is assisting with the implementation of 21 projects through several government ministries.

UNDP Deputy Resident Representative Shabnam Mallick, in addressing the Toshaos and Senior Councillors present, said that UNDP is also supporting the Guyanese Government’s ICT Access and E-Services for Hinterland Poor and Remote Communities.

“Through ICT, not only can public services reach hinterland communities, we can also connect hinterland communities to international markets which would be a boost to eco-tourism,” she posited. Support is also being given to the Amerindian Land Titling Project in keeping with SGDs One, 10 and 13; the Amerindian Development Fund II; Mainstreaming Disaster Management in the Agriculture Sector and Strengthening Disaster Management Capacity of Women.

The Sustainable Development Goals are a set of ideas, initiated by the UN and agreed and adopted by the 193 Member States in September 2015.

They have 169 individual targets to be achieved by 2030. While all 17 goals are key for all populations, targets under Goal 2 on Zero Hunger and Goal 4 on education focus on the Indigenous Communities.

The UNDP was among organisations, institutions and ministries that presented on various topics before the Toshaos on Day Two of the Annual Conference of the National Toshaos Council (NTC).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Charity man sets house ablaze

FIFTY-SIX-YEAR-OLD Rickford Williams of Charity Squatting Area in Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) is presently on the run after he allegedly set his house on fire on Tuesday, According to information reaching the Guyana Chronicle, Williams and his reputed wife Ernestine Fredrick, 60, had an argument, during which the suspect accused her of having an extra-marital affair. She denied the allegation and out of fear, she went to sleep at her niece.

The argument between the husband and wife started around 23:00hrs Monday night after the couple returned from Xenon Hotel, Restaurant and Bar, where they were drinking alcohol earlier. They were said to be enjoying themselves at the popular Charity bar when the wife told the husband she wanted to go home. The wife slept the night at her niece after the argument and just after midnight, the niece woke up Fredricks telling her that her house was on fire. Williams was allegedly seen running from the yard.

The flames were put out by neighbours and a report was made to the Charity Police Station. Investigations are currently ongoing.

Taxi driver gets bail on charge for allegedly raping school girl TWENTY-SEVEN-YEAR-OLD Sadick Ally, a driver of Anna Regina Housing Scheme in Region Two, was on Friday last granted bail for allegedly raping a 13-year-old school girl.

He made his first appearance in the matter before Magistrate Esther Sam at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court. He pleaded not guilty to the offence of rape of a child under the age of 16 years old.

The facts of the matter stated that on March 3, 2017 at a hotel in Perseverance, a village on the Essequibo Coast, Ally took the 13-year-old and had sexual intercourse.

Information revealed that the girl was caught and she admitted that it was a forceful act and gave her parents the driver’s name. The matter was reported to the police who then launched an investigation Ally was granted in the sum of $150,000 and the matter was adjourned until July 30.

Case deferred – man cannot afford attorney

A 12-MEMBER jury was on Tuesday empanelled before Justice Brassington Reynolds in the Demerara High Court for the trial of Sudesh Rambhajue.

According to the state, the alternative count for the 1st count is attempt to commit murder and on the 2nd count – felonious wounding.

It is alleged that on September 18, 2015 in the county of Demerara, the accused attempted to murder Latchman Narine Persaud.

Rambhajue pleaded not guilty to both counts.

As the case was presented it had to be deferred to July 23, 2018 since the accused told the court that he could not afford an attorney.

The State was represented by Seeta Bishundial in association with Tiffini Lyken and Narissa Leander.

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Croatians take to streets to toast Campbell is Mr Physique... soccer team’s historic run FROM BACK PAGE

By Igor Ilic

ZAGREB, Croatia (Reuters) - Hundreds of thousands of Croats in red and white chequered soccer shirts and scarves poured onto the streets of the capital Zagreb on Monday to welcome home the national team and celebrate their run to the World Cup final in Russia.

Croatia achieved their best-ever result in the tournament in losing Sunday’s match to France, surpassing the third-place finish of 1998. “They lost the final, but won the world,” was how daily newspaper Jutarnji List summed up the mood.

The celebration was broadcast live from the moment the team’s plane - escorted by two fighter jets once inside Croatian

The Croatia team return from the World Cup in Russia Zagreb, Croatia - (REUTERS/Marko Djurica)

air space - neared Zagreb airport.

Water cannons created a glistening arch that the plane taxied through, and a red carpet was rolled out for the players.

The team rode an opentopped bus towards the city centre through streets swamped with cheering

crowds.

After an almost six-hour ride, the bus reached Zagreb’s central square, where more than 100 000 people had gathered under a sea of welcome banners and national flags.

“Marry me, Rebic”, read one, a supersized proposal to striker Ante Rebic.

Cheering erupted as he and his team-mates went up the makeshift stage one by one and addressed the crowd.

“Thanks for recognising that we played our hearts in Russia,” Croatia full-back Sime Vrsaljko said.

“The guys wore the Croatian jerseys with pride and you were the best supporters in the world,” added coach Zlatko Dalic.

In all, around half a million people took to the streets to welcome the team, state news agency Hina said better that one in ten of the small Balkan nation’s 4 million population.

“We must use this opportunity to build, improve our soccer infrastructure and try to be even better,” said Robert Prosinecki, the midfield star of the 1998 team.

Alaphilippe restores French pride as top guns hold fire

By Julien Pretot LE GRAND BORNAND, France (Reuters) - Julian Alaphilippe claimed France’s first victory on this year’s Tour de France when he climbed impressively to win the 10th stage yesterday, a 158.5-kilometre ride from Annecy to Le Grand Bornand.

Quick-Step Floors rider Alaphilippe crossed the line to an exuberant reception from the French fans at the end of a stage where the main race contenders held fire.

Yet last year’s runner-up Rigoberto Uran lost time as he struggled on the last climb.

Scottsville 08:15 hrs La Ferrari 08:50 hrs Kinsky’s Crusade 09:25 hrs Laat Lammetjie 10:05 hrs Ashfahan 10:35 hrs Two Stroke

Quick-Step Floors rider Julian Alaphilippe of France wins the stage.

(REUTERS/Benoit Tessier)

Belgium’s Greg van Avermaet was part of the breakaway group with Alaphilippe and finished fourth to maintain his grip on the yellow jersey.

Spain’s Ion Izagirre and Estonian Rein Taaramae fin-

Uttoxeter 08:50 hrs Tidal Watch 09:20 hrs Lion Rouge 09:50 hrs Ange Des Malberaux 10:20 hrs Big Time Dancer 10:50 hrs I’m Always Trying 11:20 hrs Ever So Much 11:50 hrs Longhouse Sale

Catterick 09:00 hrs Little Legs 09:30 hrs Mishaal 10:00 hrs India 10:30 hrs Requinto Dawn 11:00 hrs Bidding War 11:30 hrs Alsvinder 12:00 hrs Wotabreeze

Wolverhampton 12:20 hrs De Little Engine 12:50 hrs Jungle Juice 13:25 hrs Arabian Coast 13:55 hrs Indian Tygress 14:30 hrs Super Florence 15:00 hrs Penny Poet 15:35 hrs Manor Park 16:05 hrs Percy Prosecco

ished second and third, respectively.

“I did not expect this, it’s incredible,” said the 26-yearold Alaphilippe after his first win on the Tour.

“I think I timed my effort perfectly I’m improving. I managed to keep control of my emotions. Maybe two years ago I would have attacked too early.”

Colombian Uran, who suffered a crash on the cobbles in Sunday’s ninth stage, finished two minutes 29 seconds behind the group of main contenders as his podium hopes virtually vanished in the first Alpine stage.

Alaphilippe, one of France’s hottest prospects, Fairyhouse 12:05 hrs Elysian Plains 12:40 hrs Darkash 13:15 hrs Fulminate 13:45 hrs Admirality 14:20 hrs Focus Of Attention 14:50 hrs Plough Boy 15:25 hrs Sharjah Delware Park Race 1 Codylicious Race 2 Halfback Race 3 Lear Avia Race 4 Da Winner Is Race 5 Just A Whim Race 6 Dog Soldier Race 7 Jose Sea View Race 8 Professor Snape Race 9 Burn Em Joey

went solo in the col de la Colombiere, the last of five categorised climbs, and never looked back. He increased his lead in the final descent to snatch the polka dot jersey for the mountains classification.

A one-day classic specialist who won the prestigious Fleche Wallonne last Spring, Alaphilippe brought his team their 50th win of the season.

World champion Peter Sagan was also part of the day’s breakaway group and increased his lead in the points classification as he seeks a record-equalling sixth green jersey.

A day after the first rest day, the big guns were in no mood to take risks ahead of two more stages in the Alps.

Defending champion Chris Froome’s Team Sky controlled the pace and prevented attacks as headwinds blew in the ascent of the col de la Colombiere. Only Ireland’s Dan Martin tried his luck inside the last kilometre of the climb, but he was quickly reined in on a disappointing day for fans, who were expecting fireworks.

They might come on today’s 11th stage, a brutal 108.5-km mountain trek from Albertville to La Rosiere that features four categorised climbs, including a summit finish.

Campbell, who exuded confidence of reclaiming his crown prior to the competition, flexed and posed his way to top points from the judges, finishing ahead of Space Gym’s Grimes and Caerus Cipriani of Life Gym. Chetram Nagessar finished fourth.

Speaking to Chronicle Sport after his win, Campbell pointed out; “It’s very rewarding and fulfilling knowing that the weeks of dieting, doing cardio and lifting weight paid dividends. It’s gratifying to win and shows that hard work pays off”.

He also noted, “The competition is of friendly rivalry. You can’t be a champion without an opponent and iron sharpens iron so it was welcomed. With that being said, however, I thought I had it in the bag about two weeks ago when I woke up and looked in the mirror.

“I knew I had the winning package in June.

Now it’s on to Mexico for CAC. The last time I got a silver. This year I’m gunning for gold.”

Kerwin Clarke returned as the overall winner to claim ‘Mr Guyana’ after losing to Bruce Whatley

last year. In addition he also beat Lindy Sharpe in the light middleweight category.

Meanwhile Chandini Khan who trains at Fitness Paradise copped the Ms Bikini title ahead of Space Gym’s Angelica Barroncas and Diciula DeSouza who finished second and third respectively.

In the Masters category, Marlon Bennett came out on top while Lindy Sharpe finished second with Andel Cameron rounding out the top three.

Meanwhile Chetram Nagessar won the bantamweight category beating out second-placed Jamoal Tinnie and third-placed Donald Lindley.

Renowned for his amazing feats in powerlifting, the versatile Carlos Petersen turned his attention to bodybuilding and subsequently copped the heavyweight title, ahead of Andel Cameron and Clint Duke, who settled for third.

G A B B F F p re s i d e n t Coel Marks hailed the event a success and thanked his sponsors for helping the federation pull off the championships.

PMTC 1, Corriverton Jets share honours in BVA one-day tournament

THE Port Mourant Training Centre 1 (PMTC 1) male and the Corriverton Jets ladies teams shared the honours over the past weekend when the Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) staged a one-day tournament at the Skeldon Community Centre.

According to reports,

the PMTC 1 male team defeated Rollers of New Amsterdam 30-21 to win the $20 000 first prize that was on offer.

Rollers had to settle for $10 000 for placing second The thirdplace playoff saw Corriverton Jets defeat Port Mourant Jaguars 30-26 to win $5 000 for their efforts.

In the ladies’ category, Corriverton Jets defeated Port Mourant two sets to one with scores of 2521, 19-25 and 25-23. The Corriverton Jets’ received $5 000.

The tournament coordinator was national volleyball coach Levi Nedd.

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Root, Morgan star as England win ODI series

By Saikat Chatterjee LEEDS, England (Reuters) - A gigantic 186-run partnership between Joe Root and captain Eoin Morgan helped England cruise comfortably to an eight-wicket victory over India yesterday that sealed a 2-1 one-day inter-

national series win.

After restricting India to 256 for eight, both Morgan and Root made light work of the run chase on a wicket that was assisting the spinners, with Kuldeep Yadav, the chief wicket-taker for the visitors in the first game, unable to bag a single scalp.

England looked rarely troubled, bringing up 100 runs within the 15-over mark at Headingley, while making the most of some sloppy fielding by India.

Root was yet again the tormentor-in-chief, scoring a second century in as many games and becoming the top run-scorer in the series

as a result.

He got ample support from skipper Morgan who struck an unbeaten 88 off 108 balls, peppered with nine fours and a six.

Root finished on 100 not out as the hosts reached the victory target with more than five overs to spare having lost both their openers by the 10th over.

England bowlers Adil Rashid and David Willey grabbed three wickets each and India captain Virat Kohli made 71 for the touring side.

India got off to a cautious start, reaching 32-1 from 10 overs, after England won the toss. But Kohli and opener Shikhar Dhawan then increased the scoring rate as India took 68 from the next 10 overs.

Dhawan was run-out for 44 by a brilliant piece of fielding from Ben Stokes and India lost wickets at regular intervals.

Leg-spinner Rashid grabbed the prize scalp of Kohli who fell to a beauty that pitched on leg and clipped the top of off stump, leaving the prolific right-hander wide-eyed in disbelief.

The series had been poised on a knife edge after England won the second game by 86 runs at Lord’s on Saturday and India won the first game by eight wickets.

The teams start a fiveTest series on August 1 in Birmingham.

Joe Root (100 not out), and Eoin Morgan (88 not out) guide England to ODI series win.

SCOREBOARD INDIA 1st innings Rohit Sharma c Mark Wood b David Willey 2 Shikhar Dhawan run-out Ben Stokes 44 Virat Kohli b Adil Rashid 71 Dinesh Karthik b Adil Rashid 21 MS Dhoni c Jos Buttler b David Willey 42 Suresh Raina c Joe Root b Adil Rashid 1 Hardik Pandya c Jos Buttler b Mark Wood 21 Bhuvneshwar Kumar c Jonny Bairstow b David Willey 21 Shardul Thakur not out 22 Extras: (lb-6, w-5) 11 Total: (eight wkts, 50.0 overs) 256 Fall of wickets: 1-13, 2-84, 3-125, 4-156, 5-158, 6-194, 7-221, 8-256.

Bowling: Mark Wood 10-2-30-1, David Willey 9- 0-40-3, Liam Plunkett 5-0-41-0 (w-2), Moeen Ali 10-0-47-0, Ben Stokes 6-0-43-0 (w-2), Adil Rashid 10-0-49-3 (w-1)..

ENGLAND 1st innings James Vince run-out Hardik Pandya 27 Jonny Bairstow c Suresh Raina b Shardul Thakur 30 Joe Root not out 100 Eoin Morgan not out 88 Extras: (b-3, lb-6, nb-1, w-5) 15 Total: (two wkts 44.3 overs) 260 Fall of wickets: 1-43, 2-74.

Bowling: Bhuvneshwar Kumar 7-0-49-0, Hardik Pandya 5.3-0-390 (w-3), Shardul Thakur 10-0-51-1 (w-2), Yuzvendra Chahal 10-041-0 (nb-1). Kuldeep Yadav 10-0-55-0, Suresh Raina 2-0-16-0.

BVA set to host day/night volleyball competition on Saturday THE Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) will host a day/night volleyball competition on Saturday, July 21 at the Albion Sports Complex.

The venture is in collaboration with the Blairmont Centre Cricket Club floodlight extravganza.

President of the BVA, Levi Nedd, said that games are expected to start at 15:30hrs and conclude 20:30hrs.

There will be male and female categories in this tournament.

The Male teams are Port Mourant Training Centre 1, TC, Rollers, Corriverton Jets, Port Mourant Jaguars, Black Bush and Number 48. The female segment will see Corriverton Jets and Port Mourant Females do battle.

At stake will be attractive cash prizes and trophies for the winners, runners-up and third-place teams. In addition, the most valuable player (MVP) in both male and female segments will take home incentives.

Other attractions will

be the Roy Fredericks 20/20 Floodlight cricket Cup dubbed “REVOLUTION” which will bowl off at 09:00hrs and conclude 22:30hrs.

The competition has received support compliments of Rafeek Kassim ‘Buski’ construction services, Baksh Travel Service, Port Mourant Training School and Berbice Volleyball Association.

Interested clubs can contact Levi Nedd on 6419592 or Errol Chase 6882998.

37

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club set to Windies A collapse host Emancipation Meeting on July 29 leaves Surrey with … Entries close this Sunday

THE Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club at Bush Lot, Corentyne which has played host to many a memorable horse racing meet over the past years will once again be the battleground when the Emancipation Meet gallops off on Sunday (July 29).

The meet will see seven exciting races run off with the first one a L Non-Winner Class race over five (5) furlongs with the first-place winner awarded $120 000, second-placer $60 000, third-placer $30 000 and fourth-placer $5 000. Entry fee is $13 000.

The second match-up will see H1 and Lower class horses and jockeys compete over five furlongs for the first prize of $300 000 while second place will receive $150 000, third place $75,000, fourth $38,000. The entrance fee is $36 000.

Meanwhile, in an-

The Emancipation Horse Racing Meet is set for the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club on Sunday, July 29.

other Two Years (Guyana-bred) race over a distance of five furlongs, jockeys will ride for the first-place prize of $200 000, second place $100,000, third place $50 000, fourth place $25 000 and the entrance fee is $23,000.

In the L Class race (Open) over five furlongs, the first place prize is $140 000, second place $70

000, third place $35 000, fourth place $17 500 with entrance fee of $15 000.

Guyana-bred Three Years (Open) Horses will run over seven furlongs for a first place purse of $250 000, second place $125 000, third place $63 000, fourth place $31 000 and entrance fee is $29 000.

The main event on the day will be the E1

and Lower Class race over seven furlongs which fetches a firstplace purse of $600 000, second place $300 000, third place $150 000, fourth place $75 000 and entry fee $73 000.

The J3 and Lower class race will pit horses over a distance of five furlongs for a winner’s purse of $160,000, second place $80,000, third place $40,000, fourth place $20,000 and the entry stands at $18,000.

The races are being run under the Rules of the Guyana Horse Racing Authority and entries close on July 22 with no late entries accepted.

Persons desirous of entering their horses for the meet can contact Ivan Dipnarine (3310316), Justice Kennard (623-7609, 225-4818), Fazal Habibulla (6577010), Dennis Deroop (640-6396) or Campton Sancho (602-1567).

Rutherford, a raw talent, says Nedd … can only get better

Gavin Nedd

By Rajiv Bisnauth DASHING all-rounder Sherfane Rutherford’s presence in the West Indies B squad, which participated in the just concluded Global T20 Canada, was significant in more ways than one.

He was there on merit, of course, after performing splendidly in the regional domestic seasons earlier in the year, when he made 383 runs in the CWI regional four-day tournament, averaging just over 38, and collected 22 wickets with a best of 6-32. In the CWI

the last ball of the Qualifier game.

The 19-year-old also took seven wickets.

His performance did not go unnoticed by Rutherford’s club coach Gavin Nedd who believes that there is an abundance of raw cricketing talent that could flourish once nurtured in a competitive environment.

Sherfane Rutherford scored the only hundred in the Rutherford plays for just concluded Global T20 Canada. (Global T20 Canada the Demerara Cricket Club photo) (DCC), also referred to as Super50, he tallied 163 runs Unfortunately his side lost to the Home of Legends. and bagged four wickets.

Vancouver Knights by seven “Rutherford has shown However, his wickets in the grand finale. maturity. His game awareness performance in Canada The left-hander and skill set were spot on,” could only solidify his raw accumulated 230 runs from Nedd the former Guyana talent, which makes him a eight innings, and was the youth player said. potential star in the making. third highest run-scorer, Nedd feels, while His capacity to score behind Lendl Simmons Rutherford has natural quickly was the most eye- (321) and H.E. Vander abilities and raw talent, catching of a range of talents Dussen (255). consistency will be the key in throughout the tournament.

However, his most his moving forward.

His attacking instinct telling contribution of the “There is no doubt was so evident in Qualifier tournament was the unbeaten about the youngster One at King City, where he 134, where he struck 10 sixes natural abilities but what single-handedly took West and 11 fours in 66 balls, he (Rutherford) needs to Indies B to a memorable which eventually took West do is be steady, something win over Vancouver Knights Indies B from a position of we emphasised a lot here at and a place in the final. 11-3 to 221-4, winning off DCC,” Nedd concluded.

188-run lead

LONDON, (CMC) – A disappointing batting effort from West Indies A left them with an uphill task of saving their fourday match against County side Surrey.

Replying to the hosts’ first innings of 366 all out, West Indies collapsed to 178 in reply, to concede a lead of 188 runs, on the second day of the encounter at the Oval.

Batting a second time, Surrey were 62 for one – a lead of 250 runs heading into Wednesday’s penultimate day.Left-hander Vishaul Singh top-scored with 47, Odean Smith got 30 while wicketkeeper Devon Thomas chipped in with 28, but the Caribbean side found life difficult against the South African pace duo of Morne Morkel and Mathew Pillans.

Morkel, 33, who recently retired from international cricket after playing 86 Tests, claimed three for 12 while Pillans ended with three for 29.

John Campbell fell for five with the score on 28, losing his off-stump to a full length delivery from Morkel, and opening partner Chandrapaul Hemraj followed for 19 four balls later in the same over, caught at second slip by Scott Borthwick.

When Pillans removed Sunil Ambris for 12 to a catch by Mark Stoneman at square leg,

Windies A were struggling on 53 for five.

However, Vishaul and Thomas then put their heads down in a 49-run, fourth wicket stand which propped up the innings.

While Vishaul faced 112 balls in a shade over three hours at the crease and struck five fours, Thomas notched four boundaries in a 65-ball knock.

Windies A suffered a major setback just before tea, losing Thomas and Raymon Reifer (0) in the space of three deliveries with no runs added at 102.

Thomas chased a wide one from Pillans and was caught at the wicket while Reifer drove at the second ball he faced and edged to Stuart Meaker at third slip.

With captain Shamarh Brooks unable to bat due to injury, the end came swiftly for Windies at as Borthwick chipped in with two for 35 with his leg-spin.

Earlier, Borthwick ended on 175 not out as Surrey frustrated the tourists, after resuming the morning on 309 for eight.

On 153 at the start, the lefthander batted 279 balls in just over 7-1/2 hours and struck 22 fours and a six, all told.

Left-arm seamer Reifer picked one of the wickets to fall to end with the best figures of three for 65.

Fourth segment of GBA’s Junior and Schoolboys tourney fixed for Saturday

THE Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will on Saturday stage its fourth segment of the Michael Parris Juniors and Schoolboys tournament at the Andrew `Six Head’ Lewis Gym, Callender Street and Independence Boulevard, beginning at 14:00hrs.

Ten contests are carded for the day along with two exhibition bouts. Fight fans and supporters can expect an enthralling day of fistic fury, as the boxers vie for a chance to represent Guyana at the upcoming third Caribbean Juniors and Schoolboys tournament at the National Gymnasium from August 17 to 19.

Results from the three previous segments have shown that the Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF) Gym dominated the tourney to date as they secured four victories on the first day of the five-segment competition, while the second segment last month saw the

Albouystown-based gym winning all eight of their contests.

Earlier this month, the FYF gym continued their dominance by winning another eight bouts, but come Saturday, it might not be smooth sailing, as boxers from other Regions would want to make their presence felt in order to gain a place to represent the Golden Arrowhead at the Caribbean Championships.

According to information received by this publication, boxers from Regions One, Three, Six, Seven, Eight, Nine and Ten are expected to be on show, so much excitement is anticipated.

Tournament coordinator and AIBA Three-Star coach, Sebert Blake, told Chronicle Sport, much interest has been placed on the upcoming Caribbean Championships and already, corporate sponsors have started to lend financial support for the tournament.

38

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

Vickery gets US Open main draw … US Open prize money to reach record $53 million

By Rawle Toney SACHIA Vickery’s 2018 season keeps getting better, with the world No.75ranked player set to feature in the main draw of the US Open for the first time in her career.

The August 27–September 9 tournament, played at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Centre in New York, will see Vickery make her fourth appearance but it will be the first time the player will not play in the qualification tournament.

T h i s y e a r, Vi c k e r y notched wins against some of tennis’ biggest names, including Eugenie Bouchard,

current world #3-ranked and former French Open (2016) and Wimbledon champion (2017) Garbiñe Muguruza and 2017 ASB Classic champion Lauren Davis just to name a few.

At the just-concluded Wimbledon, Vickery’s run was halted in the second round, following her straight-sets defeat, suffered at the hands of Elise Mertens, who won 6-1, 6-3.

Markéta Vondroušová was Vickery’s first round victim with the Czech Republic player losing 6-1, 6-2.

Vickery, who flies the ‘Golden Arrowhead’ in the world, having been born to ‘GT’ parents Paula Liverpool

and Rawle Vickery, will play as an automatic main draw for the first time at the Tennis Grand Slam tournament.

Meanwhile, it was announced that the richest prize purse in the history of tennis is set to get even bigger with the announcement that prize money at the 2018 US Open will reach a record $53M. Each singles champion will receive $3.8M - the largest pay-out in US Open history and a $100 000 increase from last year.

Prize money at the US Open has increased by 57 percent since 2013. The US Open was the first tournament to offer equal prize

money to men and women competitors in 1973.

The total $53M purse for the 2018 US Open is more than a 5 percent increase on the $50.4M offered in 2017.

In the men’s and women’s singles tournaments this year, players will earn $54 000 for playing in the main draw, $93 000 for reaching the second round and $156 000 for advancing to the Round of 32. They will take home $266 000 for reaching the fourth round, $475 000 for contesting the quarter-finals and $925 000 for making the semi-finals.

Reaching the final is worth $1 850 000, an increase of $25 000 over last year. Both the men’s and women’s doubles champion teams will earn $700 000, the highest in US Open history.

First- and second-round losing teams will earn $16

Sachia Vickery

500 and $27 875, respectively. Teams reaching the Round of 16 will receive $46 500, quarterfinalists

will win $85 275 and semifinal teams will take home $166 400. Finalists will collect $350 000.

Froome welcomes rivals’ lack of aggression on first mountain stage

By Julien Pretot LE GRAND BORNAND, France (Reuters) - Defending champion Chris Froome welcomed his rivals’ lack of aggression as he stayed firmly on course for a record-equalling fifth Tour de France title after the first mountain stage yesterday.

The 10th stage followed Sunday’s punishing cobbled ride to Roubaix and Monday’s rest day and, with a long descent to the finish, none of the top guns were in the mood to risk a long-range attack. Belgian Greg van Avermaet retained the overall leader’s yellow jersey after

featuring in the day’s breakaway and he leads Briton Geraint Thomas, Froome’s lieutenant at Team Sky, by two minutes and 22 seconds.

S p a i n ’s A l e j a n d ro Valverde is third, 3:10 off the pace, with Froome in sixth place, 3:21 behind Van Avermaet, who said he had “zero chance” of keeping the yellow jersey after Wednesday’s brutal mountain stage to La Rosiere.

For Froome, the 158.5km trek from Annecy was one day ticked off his to-do list as the Briton remained in a perfect position to become the first rider in 20 years to achieve a Giro d’Italia-Tour de France double.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Wednesday July 18, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & Cummings Electrical Company Ltd. 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) WI vs ENG, 1930 (2) WI vs SA, 2005 Today’s Quiz: (1) When did Albion host an ODI for the first time?

(2) When did Albion host an ODI for the last time?

Answer in tomorrow's issue

good.”

Chris Froome

“We couldn’t have asked for much more, really. It was pretty steady,” said Froome, whose climbing abilities should do the talking in the coming days.

A final time trial on the eve of the Champs Elysees parade should also help him gain time on his rivals, with the exception of

Dutchman Tom Dumoulin, who is 3:42 off the pace in 11th.

“We were pretty happy to have the numbers up front.

For the first big mountain day I think the guys really showed exactly what we’ve been training for,” Froome added.

“I’m feeling pretty

FROOME’S RIVALS Among Froome’s rivals, the Movistar team - with three potential winners in Valverde, Nairo Quintana and Mikel Landa - did not even try to unsettle the fourtime champion in yet another demonstration of their conservative tactics.

“Everyone’s got their own gameplan. Other people are probably also thinking about these next hard days coming up,” said Froome.

“No one really showed all their cards today. Everyone I think played it a little conservatively maybe thinking about the next two days to come, which are going to

be hard as well.”

Dumoulin, the 2017 Giro champion, refused to see the day as a lost opportunity to shake Team Sky, the dominant force in the peloton.

“It’s only the first mountain stage,” he told Reuters.

That stage, however, was fatal to last year’s runner-up Colombian Rigoberto Uran, who lost over two minutes just two days after losing ground following a crash on the cobbles.

“He’s pretty sore after crashing two times on the cobbles,” his EF Education First-Drapac sports director Charly Wegelius said.

“He did what he could to limit the damage but unfortunately it’s the way sport goes. It’s a brutal sport.”

Narine wins Franco Crawford 50th birth anniversary 45-miler

BALRAM Narine continued his dominance of Flying Ace Cycle Club’s (FACC) members-only cycle road races last Sunday, winning the Franco Crawford’s 50th birth anniversary 45-mile cycle road race.

Narine, who has been enjoying winning ways in his club’s members-only races over the past three months,

registered one hour 50 minutes for the 45-mile event that started at the junction of Main and Alexander Streets, New Amsterdam, proceeded to Bush Lot, Corentyne, Berbice and finished at the place of origin. He also won six of the eight prime prizes that were on offer.

Ralph Seenarine and David Hicks won the other two prime prizes.

After being sent on their way, Narine and three others broke from the 18-man pack and held the lead almost throughout the entire distance, but with approximately two miles remaining, Narine jumped the others and none of the other three responded. So Narine crossed the finish line all by himself.

Donovan Fraser, Seenarine, Sybourne Fernandes

and Daniel Mootoo occupied the other four positions in that order.

The 12-14 years category was won by Jeremiah Joseph. Second was Marion Washington.

Calvin Persaud won the Over-60 age group ahead of Daniel Rigby.

They both rode from New Amsterdam to Port Mourant and back.

39

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 18, 2018

GFF to ask Elite League clubs to report players participating in Futsal tournament

By Rawle Toney PLAYERS, who are attached to clubs that participate in the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Elite League, are defying all directives by football’s local governing body that prohibit them from competing in tournaments outside of the country’s premier senior men’s football tournament.

Almost one week after the GFF had written to the 10 Elite League clubs, pointing to Article 2.26 of the league’s rules and regulations, which state “players are not permitted to compete in any competitions outside of those sanctioned under the auspices of the Elite League,” the on-going ‘Keep Your Five Alive’ Futsal tournament is still being graced by players affiliated to the clubs.

Speaking exclusively

to Chronicle Sport yesterday, Forde said the clubs will be contacted formally by the GFF, asking them to recognise the previous communiqué and to act in accordance with the rules they signed on to, upon accepting to be part of the Elite League.

According to Forde, nine of the 10 clubs were vociferous in their cries about the players’ lack of interest in the league, turning out to practice sessions and favouring the shorter format of the game because of the lucrative gains attached.

Forde also mentioned that with the GFF preparing for a run at qualifying for the CONCACAF Gold Cup through the CONCACAF Nations League, the Executive Committee is hoping to have the ‘bulk’ of those players to come from the local pool. How-

Part of the action in the Keep Your Five Alive Futsal tournament

ever, a lack of interest in the Elite League could be interpreted as a lack of interest in the national team.

The GFF emphatically stated that any elite league

registered player found participating in any other tournament other than the League without prior and expressed approval of the Federation, will be promptly sanctioned as deemed

necessary.

It is now left to be seen how serious the GFF is in enforcing the rules and regulations of the Elite League, which is largely being funded by the Federation.

I n i t i a l l y, t h e G F F ’s move received mixed reactions from football fans, with many, especially on the social media platform Facebook, sounding their voices and sharing their opinions. Some called the Executive Committee too authoritative, while others believed that the GFF is not taking into consideration that players look forward to participating in the other tournaments as a means of income.

Forde said the GFF’s position is an effort to protect its interest, which is first and foremost the players and its investment.

“We may not be offer-

Minister Norton to Guyana dispose of Jamaica by 31 runs to remain out front give feature address at Malteenoes Academy Regional Under-17 cricket

Guyana opener Sachin Singh top-scored with 48.

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Guyana comfortably disposed of Jamaica by 31 runs to remain out front in the Regional Under-17 Cricket Championship, with one round remaining.

Playing at Gilbert Park on Monday, Guyana rallied to 174 for seven off their 50 overs after being sent in, with opener Sachin Singh top-scoring with 48 and Andre Seepersaud getting 38 and Leon Swamy, 25.

Singh faced 99 deliveries and struck two fours and three sixes but perished in the 33rd over with a half-century in sight.

In reply, Jamaica lost Oneil Roberts without a run on the board in the opening over but recovered through the efforts

of Daniel Beckford who stroked an unbeaten 73.

He faced 149 balls and counted two fours but received little support and Jamaica collapsed to 143 all out in the penultimate over of the innings.

Left-arm spinner Niran Bissu picked up three for 15 while Leon Swamy (2-13) and Seepersaud (2-17) were the other wicket-takers.

At the National Cricket Centre, Barbados remained in striking distance of the leaders when they crushed Leeward Islands by 130 runs.

Sent in, Barbados benefited from half-centuries from Matthew Forde (68) and Antonio Morris (50), while Jaden Leacock struck an unbeaten 42, to

get up to 245 for seven off their 50 overs.

Batting at number six, Forde added 65 for the fifth wicket with Morris before adding a further 71 for the sixth with Leacock.

Forde struck three fours and a six off 87 deliveries while Morris faced 72 balls and counted three boundaries.

The Leewards were then restricted to 115 all out in the 34th over with new-ball bowler Jayden Hoyte claiming three for 29.

Hosts Trinidad and Tobago were also in winning form as they trounced Windward Islands by 151 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern Method.

They piled up an imposing 259 for seven off their 50 overs, behind Isaiah Gomez’s top score of 66, with Antonio Gomez hitting 49 and Tariq Mohammed, 43.

Set a revised target of 224 off 28 overs, the Windwards were dismissed for 72 in the 26th, with left-arm spinner Nicholas Ali wrecking the innings with four for 25 and speedster Jaden Seales supporting with three for five.

MINISTER of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton, will deliver the feature address at the opening of the 2018 Malteenoes Cricket Academy on July 23 at the Club’s venue on Thomas Road, Thomas Lands.

Director of Christopher Jones has provided two National Sports Commission (NSC) coaches to work along with the Academy’s head coach.

They are National U-17 coach Orin Bailey and his assistant Darien Best who was coach of School of the Nations in the Sir Garfield Sobers Schools cricket tournament in Barbados.

The two-week academy runs from 09:00hrs to 15:00hrs with a onehour break for lunch which will be provided.

Classroom work will be done during the mornings while outdoor sessions will be conducted in the afternoons.

Qualified facilitators, including Guyana’s Cricket Commentator `Reds’ Perreira, will conduct sessions on several topics which include the laws and history, what cricket means to the Caribbean people, scoring, doing interviews, table manners and etiquette along with other topics.

The academy caters for participants between 6 and 18 years divided into two groups - U-13s and 13-18. Registration fee is $3 000 and can be picked up at Malteenoes.

Girls are being encouraged to join and three overseas friends of club have combined to fund 18 under privileged children, who cannot afford to pay to join. Parents and guardians are urged to grasp this opportunity.

The Academy has produced Test players Ramnaresh Sarwan, Ryan Ramdass and female Windies player Indomattie Goordial and has been supported by the business

ing a professional salary, but each player enjoys $3 500 as a match fee which is more than doubled what they have been paid in the beginning of the Elite league and they are given a meal at the end of the game.

“On the one hand, you’re going to have some people saying it’s a form of dictatorship, but on the other hand, you’re going to have those same people criticising the quality of the league and if we’re making an effort to improve the quality of the league, then the players have to show up and practise,” said Forde.

“This is not a ‘scrubby’, this is a league and while Guyana has ventured into professional football without putting certain fundamental in place, I think we are doing everything to make this work,” the GFF president pointed out.

… Girls are encouraged to register

Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton

community and friends of the club through contributions.

Malteenoes thanks all for their support reiterated the club’s aim is to instil discipline, cricket and life skills to the young participants.

Registration forms are still available at the club but only the first 120 students will be accepted.

Chase men thump Buxton; South Ruimveldt ladies maul East Ruimveldt 9-1

ExxonMobil U-14 schools football

Tyrice Dennis’ chip leaves the Chase goalkeeper scrambling back to the goal. South were able to score from all parts of the pitch, including set pieces. (Stephan (Stephan Sookram photo) Sookram photo)

CHASE Academic Foundation will play North Ruimveldt (Multi) in Saturday’s inaugural final of the ExxonMobil U-14 schools football tournament.

Mutli were awaiting the winners of yesterday’s semi-final between Chase and Buxton which ended 3-1 under lights at the Ministry of Education ground.

Pitted with the potency of a potential final due to the calibre of the teams, the Chase side went to the lead through Jaleel Alendar in the 5th minute after he capitalised on a mistake by the keeper and volleyed a perfect first time finish.

Buxton responded one minute after, with Chase’s goalkeeper mistiming a jump and allowing Tyrice

Dennis’ chip to float into the back of the nets. This brought the game level once more. However, the Chase side clearly had possession and attacks on goal.

They eventually took the lead through Leivin Mullin in the 12th minute.

Mullin produced a play of excellence down the left flank, ‘chopping’ two de-

fenders before letting fly a ripper in the top right corner. He wheeled off wildly in celebration.

Brandon Solomon in the 34th made it 3-1 when he capitalised from the spot. The first attempt, while managing to evade the keeper had to be retaken on account of the defenders breaching the box before the shot had

GABBFF’s Senior Championships

Campbell is Mr Physique 2018, Clarke returns as Mr Guyana

been taken.

Meanwhile South Ruimveldt thrashed their eastern counterparts East Ruimveldt 9-1 in a one-sided contest.

A pair of hat-tricks from Amanda McKenzie (22nd, 30th & 35th) and Analisa Redman (28th, 32nd & 40th) along with Latesha Sunderland’s brace (16th & 33rd) and Angel Denny’s 19th minute strike complet-

ed the party.

While it was East’s Tamara Mendonca who opened the game’s scoring in the 12th minute the South side were ruthless in their response.

Saturday’s final will put Charlestown Girls against South while Chase face North Ruimveldt. (ssookram@guyanachronicle.com)

U.S. Open tennis to offer record prize money in 2018

Winner of the Mr Physique title, Emmerson Campbell, (second from left) flexes alongside his rivals Yannick Grimes (left), Caerus Cipriani (right) and Chetram Nagessar (second from right).

FITNESS 53 Athlete Emmerson Campbell reclaimed his throne from longtime rival Yannick Grimes in the Mr Physique category while Kerwin Clarke returned to claim Mr Guyana 2018, as the crowd left well entertained at the Guyana Amateur Body Building and Fitness Federation’s (GABBFF) National Senior Championships, hosted at Parc Rayne, Rahaman’s Park, East Bank Demerara.

CONTINUE ON PAGE 35

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(REUTERS) - Singles champions at the U.S. Open tennis tournament will leave New York in September with a fatter wallet than last year’s victors.

Winners of the men’s and women’s brackets will each earn $3.8M, an increase of $100 000 from 2017, according to the United States Tennis Association (USTA).

Total prize money across all the divisions will total a record $53M. The runners-up in the singles divisions will each receive $1.85M. The winning teams in both men’s and women’s doubles will share $700 000, according

to the USTA. In 1973, this tournament became the first to offer equal prize money to male and female competitors, the organisation said.

The total $53M purse for the 2018 US Open is more than a 5 percent increase on the $50.4M offered in 2017. Prize money at the U.S. Open has increased by 57 percent since 2013, the USTA said.

The tournament is scheduled to run August 27-September 9 at the Billie Jean King National Tennis Center in Flushing, N.Y. This year marks the tournament’s 50th anniversary.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2018