Guyana chronicle e paper 09 30 2017

U.S. contribution to storm-hit islands pegged at US$9.7M Page 2

No. 105051

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30, 2017

Price: $80 (VAT Inclusive)

Shake-up at ‘narco branch’ Page 3

… head of dep't transferred following disappearance of cocaine

PROTECTING OUR CHILDREN! Police recruits on Friday evening joined other stakeholders in the fight against child abuse at the Child Protection Agency's evening of reflection and candlelight vigil held at the Guyana Police Force Annex, Eve Leary (Adrian Narine photo)

Self-employed still cheating tax system … Statia urges compliance

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Boozy GRA Bandit nabbed School cleaners officer arrested for following Better to work 8-hour shift discharging firearm Hope robbery … to be paid during holidays Page 2

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

U.S. contribution to storm-hit islands pegged at US$9.7M

THE United States government has thus far provided nearly US$9.7M to hurricane-ravaged territories of Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Dominica, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Martin and St. Maarten, a statement from the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown said Friday. Hurricane Irma, a Category Five storm ripped through several Caribbean territories creating total devastation on each territory in its path on September 6. Less than two weeks after Irma struck, Hurricane Maria, another Category Five storm, struck the Region. Given the massive devastation, the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) deployed a Disaster Assistance Response Team (DART) on September 7. DART com-

prised some 54 persons, who were deployed to 11 locations in the Caribbean to lead the U.S. government’s humanitarian response in association with affected governments. It is estimated that some 62, 500 persons have been helped through the assistance of the U.S. Government. Those persons were provided with 5, 500 hygiene kits, 4, 260 kitchen sets, 12,000 water containers, 1.2 metric tons of chlorine, 20 chainsaws, 3 chainsaw safety kits, 10,100 blankets and 1,250 rolls of plastic sheeting, all of which have totalled 151 metric tons. Additionally, the U.S. military provided assistance through eight desalination units, which has thus far produced 83, 020 gallons of potable water. Forty-seven missions are to deliver aid and response personnel and

forklifts have been provided to offload cargo. Meanwhile, in response to questions, the U.S. Embassy here said that USAID “remains flexible and nimble in order to mobilise to other areas based on needs assessed on the ground.” “USAID’s Office of U.S. Foreign Disaster Assistance has provided more than $1.3 million in humanitarian assistance for the Hurricane Irma and Maria responses. This includes support for a recent USAID airlift of more than 30 metric tons of relief supplies to The Bahamas,” Public Affairs Officer, U.S. Embassy Georgetown, Amanda Cauldwell said via email. She told the Guyana Chronicle that members of DART are in Dominica to continue damage assessments after Hurricane Maria which claimed the lives of several. That island has been completely devastated and Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit has called for help as most roads are impassable as a result of landslides, many bridges have been washed away and most of the island’s communication is down. The DART also observed construction equipment clearing debris, and they say

some roads are beginning to open up. Additionally, DART is working to airlift critical relief items to Dominica. “The DART is coordinating with local officials and airport authorities to determine the ability of local airports to receive relief flights. The DART has identified

food, water, and shelter as priority needs,” the embassy said. In the case of St. Martin, USAID continues response activities in coordination with the U.S. military as Hurricane Irma destroyed nearly all of the island’s infrastructure. “USAID requested the

unique capabilities of the U.S. Department of Defense’s U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) to provide airlift support, as well as water-treatment services with eight water desalination units producing more than 30,500 gallons of potable water to date.”

Boozy GRA officer arrested for discharging firearm

A LICENSED firearm holder employed by the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) as an enforcement officer who allegedly discharged his 9MM pistol multiple times in public view, at a popular night spot in Sandy Babb Street, Kitty early Friday morning, has been arrested and his weapon lodged. Police said about 01:45hrs, a po-

Correction THE Guyana Chronicle wishes to correct a statement attributed to Finance Minister Winston Jordan in an article carried in this newspaper on Wednesday, September 27, 2017. Under the caption, “Abuse of LEN funds,” the article erroneously quoted Minister Jordan as saying: “A RECENT audit of the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN) has found massive discrepancies and the chairman and chief executive officer have since been relieved of their duties.” Minister Jordan did in fact speak about the abuse of funds, but did not

liceman on a motorcycle patrol caught the 35-year-old resident of Mon Repos, East Coast Demerara, who was in the company of others imbibing, discharging rounds into the air and promptly detained him and took possession of the weapon which had 13 live rounds remaining in its magazine. An investigation is in progress. mention anything about persons being relieved of their duties, nor did he describe the abuse as “massive discrepancies.” However, this information was obtained subsequently from other sources. Additionally, in a subsequent follow-up article captioned: “Pour more into LEN,” we mentioned that the agency was given $150M by the government. The Ministry of Finance has since clarified that Government has in fact allocated to LEN, $155M in 2015, $100M in 2016 and $90M in 2017. The Guyana Chronicle regrets these errors and offers its sincere apologies to the minister for the inconvenience this may have caused.

Shake-up in police narcotics branch

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

… head of dep't transferred following disappearance of cocaine

HEAD of the Police Narcotics Department, Superintendent of Police, Wayne Dehearte, has been transferred to Berbice to serve in the General Duties section, following the disappearance of a quantity of cocaine from a storage facility within the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) which he had control. Police Public Relations Officer, Superintendent of Police, Jairam Ramlakhan told the Guyana Chronicle on Friday, that Dehearte received his letter outlining his reassignment and that same will be effective from Monday. It is unclear who will take over the Police Narcotics Department given Dehearte’s reassignment, pending the outcome

of an investigation into the missing cocaine. As head of the Narcotics Department, Dehearte was not required to be attired in police uniform, however, Ramlakhan explained that as a result of his transferal, he is now required to be uniformed. On Tuesday, it was reported that close to two kilograms of cocaine went missing from the CID Headquarters at Eve Leary, Georgetown. According to the reports, the cocaine was tendered as evidence against 31-year-old Travis Mendonca, who was sentenced to three years in prison after he pleaded guilty to a trafficking in narcotics charge. A wanted bulletin was then issued for Delvor Bunbury,

whom it is said, allegedly supplied the cocaine to Mendonca, an ex-policeman. Bunbury surrendered to the police earlier in the week and was charged for cocaine trafficking in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday. Bunbury surrendered to the police on the same day the cocaine went missing. He appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly and was remanded to prison until October 20. The 28-year-old of Victoria Road, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara (ECD) resident, was last March among three others who were remanded to prison for trafficking in 588 grams of cocaine. He and Gavin Harris were accused of giving a bag containing nar-

cotics to former police rank, Louie Dublin. That charge read that Bunbury and Gavin Harris on March 17, at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), both had in their possession 588 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. Bunbury and Harris, 25, had pleaded not guilty to the charge. The former police rank, Dublin, 21, also pleaded not guilty to cocaine possession. Meanwhile, on Thursday, Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan blamed “reckless” and “negligent” elements of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for the disappearance of cocaine from the Criminal Investigations Unit (CID).

CPA, police team up to tackle child abuse THE North Georgetown Team arm of the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) on Friday engaged the Guyana Police Force with the aim of strengthening collaboration for the protection of children. The partnership between the police and the CPA has its genesis in a conversation between Director of the agency Ann Green and Assistant Commissioner of Police, Paul Williams. “It is very important that we continue to sustain this type of relationship. Why? … looking at it on the basis in terms of diversity, no agency has it all to deal with the problems, even if there is any agency stipulated to do a certain task within the whole arrangement. If there is anything where the law is to be enforced, the police must be a part of it”, Williams emphasised The assistant commissioner expressed his appreciation to the agency for its continued engagement with the force. He observed that these discussions are critical, since aspects of regulations, laws and interpretations

Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Williams delivering his remarks at the seminar keep changing. The seminar also included presentations from the Senior Probation and

Social Services Officer Ascena Jacobs and legal representative of the, CPA Telisha Williams. Several questions were raised by the attendees, which included the issue of single mothers working to provide for their children, thereby leaving them unattended and as such, clarity was sought on how the law deals with such matters. The CPA representative explained that while prosecution is not the only resort for such offences and while assistance may be offered, the law must take its course. “It’s about finding some balance that allows you to offer some assistance or training or help to that mother, as well as some counselling that helps her to understand the importance of having the children supervised and being able to offer some service that will allow her to ensure this…so it’s not a hard and fast rule.” Child Protection week is being observed under the theme: “Partnering with families and communities for positive outcomes for children.”

Superintendent of Police Wayne Dehearte (taken from Dehearte’s Facebook page)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

Last flight departs as Iraq imposes ban for Kurdish independence vote The last international flight left Erbil airport on Friday as the Baghdad government imposed an air ban in retaliation for an independence vote by Iraqi Kurds that has drawn widespread opposition from foreign powers. Iraq’s Kurds overwhelmingly backed independence in a referendum on Monday, defying neighboring countries which fear the vote could lead to renewed conflict in the region. Foreign airlines suspended flights to Erbil and Sulaimaniya in the Kurdish region, obeying a notice from the government in Baghdad, which controls Iraqi air space. Erbil airport was busier than usual as passengers scrambled to catch the last flights out before the ban went into force at 6.00 p.m. (1500 GMT) on Friday. Domestic flights are still allowed, so travelers are expected to travel to Kurdistan mostly via Baghdad’s airport, which will come under strain from the extra traffic. (Graphics on ‘Iraqi Kurds’ independence push’ - here) Maintaining the travel curbs is likely to discourage visits by businessmen and Kurdish expatriates, and affect industries including hotels, financial services, transport and real estate. More than 400 Kurdish travel

and tourism companies are directly affected by the flight ban and 7,000 jobs are at risk in the sector, Erbil-based Rudaw TV said. The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), meanwhile, refused to hand over control of its border crossings to the Iraqi government, as demanded by Iraq, Iran and Turkey in retaliation for the independence referendum. As the crisis unfolded, Iraq’s top Shi‘ite cleric intervened to oppose the secession of the Kurdistan region, adding to pressure on the Kurds in his first directly political sermon since early last year. Grand Ayatollah Ali al-Sistani asked the KRG “to return to the constitutional path” in pursuing self-determination for the Kurdish people, a representative said in a sermon on his behalf. “Any attempt to make secession an accomplished fact will lead to undesired consequences affecting Kurdish citizens,” the sermon said. Turkey, which has already threatened economic sanctions and a military response to any security challenges posed by the referendum result in neighboring northern Iraq, has maintained a drumbeat of opposition to the Kurdish vote. After talks in Ankara with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday, Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said the referendum was illegitimate and Russia and Turkey agreed that the territorial integrity of Iraq must be preserved. Turkey and Russia have strong commercial ties with the semi-autonomous Kurdish region in Iraq. But the vote has alarmed Ankara as it battles a

separatist insurgency from its own large Kurdish minority. OIL LIFELINE While Turkey has threatened to cut off the Kurds’ oil export lifeline - a pipeline that runs through Turkish territory - Ankara has so far mostly held back from specific action against Iraqi Kurdistan. Prime Minister Binali Yildirim said Turkey would target only those who decided to hold the referendum since Ankara would not make civilians living in northern Iraq pay the price for the vote. Iran banned the transportation of refined crude oil products by Iranian companies to and from Iraqi Kurdistan. Kurdistan would, however, be able to resist an economic blockade, a World Bank official told Reuters. “It is self-sufficient in electricity and fuel supply as it has the oil and gas fields, the refineries and the power stations,” the official said. “It has also the land and the water resources to sustain a basic subsistence even if borders are shut completely.” The United Nations offered on Thursday to help resolve the problem between the KRG and Baghdad, the Iraqi foreign ministry said following a meeting between Foreign Minister Ibrahim al-Jafari and Jan Kubis, the senior U.N. envoy in Iraq. The United States was willing, if asked, to help facilitate talks to try to ease tensions between the two sides, U.S. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said. Their autonomous region in Iraq is the closest the Kurds have come in modern times to a state. It has flourished amid Iraq’s civil war but may

struggle to maintain investment if it is blockaded economically. The United States, major European countries and nearby Turkey and Iran opposed the referendum as destabilizing at a time when all sides are still fighting Islamic State. LOSS OF FOCUS A spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition said there had been a loss of focus in the fight against Islamic State since the referendum. Baghdad has heaped pressure on the Kurds, demanding they cancel their referendum, while parliament urged the Iraqi government to send troops to take control of oilfields held by Kurdish forces. Baghdad also told foreign governments to close their diplomatic missions in the Kurdish capital Erbil. The Kurds consider Monday’s referendum to be an historic step in the generations-old quest for a state of their own, while Iraq considers the vote unconstitutional. Iraqi Kurdish leader Masoud Barzani has said the vote is not binding, but meant to provide a mandate for negotiations with Baghdad and neighboring countries over the peaceful secession of the region from Iraq. Baghdad has rejected talks. The Kurds were left without a state of their own when the Ottoman Empire collapsed a century ago. Around 30 million live in Iraq, Turkey, Syria and Iran. The Kurds say the referendum acknowledges their contribution in confronting Islamic State after it overwhelmed the Iraqi army. (Reuters)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

US pulls staff from Cuba over ‘specific attacks’ The US is withdrawing more than half of its staff at its embassy in Cuba in response to mysterious attacks which left its diplomats unwell. Washington is also warning Americans not to visit the country because some attacks occurred in hotels. At least 21 staff reported health problems ranging from mild brain trauma and deafness to dizziness and nausea. Earlier reports suggested that sonic attacks were to blame. Cuba denies any involvement in them. At least two Canadians were also affected. US Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said America would maintain diplomatic ties with Cuba and the two countries would continue to co-operate in investigating

At least 21 employees at the US embassy in Havana fell ill

the attacks. Who is leaving? The US is ordering all non-essential staff in the embassy in Havana to leave, along with all family members. Only “emergency personnel” will remain. The US has suspended visa processing in Cuba indefinite-

ly. “Until the government of Cuba can ensure safety of our people, we will be reduced to emergency personnel,” a US state department official said. What do we know about the attacks? “At least 21 employees have been targeted in spe-

tional infrastructures which will withstand such extreme weather and give them the chance to implement the ambitious climate action plans they have put forward under the Paris Climate Change Agreement,” according to a statement issued here Friday by the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States (OECS). It said that the September Investment Forum, hosted by St. Lucia in partnership with the OECS, NDC Partnership, Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), and the UN Climate Change Secretariat, was a timely reminder that for many developing countries investment must be carefully balanced between

adapting successfully to climate change and building clean energy solutions. Nyasha K.K. Hamilton from the Ministry of Economic Planning, Sustainable Development, Industry, Information and Labour in St. Vincent and the Grenadines, said that climate change should be seen as not just an environmental issue, but a developmental one as well. “Countries were already in the process of rehabilitating their critical infrastructure to withstand 1 in 100-year and 1 in 200-year events. These efforts have proven to be quite costly but are also appearing to be insufficient as the probability of rarer events occurring has increased which has had

cific attacks,” the official said. Despite an investigation involving the FBI, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Cuban authorities, there is still no full explanation as to the cause of the incidents since late 2016. “We don’t know the means, the methods or how the attacks are being carried out,” the official said on Friday. But earlier reports suggested they were sonic attacks in which staff in Havana were targeted by audio waves, leaving several with chronic hearing issues. Using an inaudible sound device for a stealth attack “is quite plausible from a technical point of view”, Denis Bedat, a specialist in bio-electromagnetics, told AFP news agency this

week. “Ultrasonic waves, beyond the acoustic capacity of humans, can be broadcast with an amplifier, and the device does not need to be large, or used inside or outside a house.” He gave as an example the Active Denial System (ADS), an anti-riot gun used by US police forces that emits electromagnetic waves which produce a sudden unbearable burning sensation. Who is behind the attacks? The US has not blamed Cuba for the suspected attacks. Both the US and Cuban governments “have not yet identified the guilty party”, the state department official said. “We have not ruled out the possibility of a third country as a part of

the investigation but that investigation continues,” the official added. How have US relations with Cuba been? President Raul Castro had reportedly given his personal assurance to the then-US charge d’affaires in Havana that Cuba was not behind the attacks. The US reopened its embassy in Havana in 2015 following decades of frozen relations. In 2016 President Barack Obama became the first sitting US president to visit Cuba since Calvin Coolidge in 1928. In June President Donald Trump announced a partial roll-back of Mr Obama’s Cuba policies but said he would not close the US embassy in Havana. (BBC)

Caribbean Investment Forum puts resilience into focus

A Caribbean investment forum has ended here with recommendations for urgent investment into infrastructure more resilient to climate change so as to allow regional countries to achieve their clean energy, sustainable development plans. The high-level meeting of representatives from Caribbean governments, development partners and regional organizations focused on rebuilding national infrastructures in the wake of the destruction caused by Hurricanes Irma and Maria earlier this month. “In the wake of this year’s shocking damage inflicted by Hurricanes Irma and Maria, delegates focused on rebuilding na-

the effects of negating these efforts.” St. Lucia’s Junior Finance Minister, Dr. Ubaldus Raymond said “it is technically feasible to construct buildings, roads and other infrastructure that can withstand Category 3 and higher hurricanes. “But the cost of new construction, especially for Category 5 hurricanes would be significantly higher, and in some cases, unaffordable. Many countries are experiencing Category 4 hurricanes so there is need for further research and analysis,” he added. The statement noted that inspired by the Pacific Energy Conference in 2016, which raised more than one billion US dollars Pacific

Island energy projects, the meeting here was aimed at galvanizing key development stakeholders to lay the groundwork for a wide range of projects across many sectors to provide clean energy, safe drinking water, eco-friendly transport solutions among others. The six member states of OECS have set ambitious targets in their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) for environmental sustainability and protection from climate change. NDCs are national climate action plans submitted by signatories of the Paris Agreement setting out their plans for reducing carbon emissions and for adapting to climate change. “Developing countries

need much more international support to increase their capacity to implement their plans,” said Don Cooper, Director of UN Climate Change’s Mitigation, Data and Analysis unit, “but they also need at the same time to build up a pipeline of agreed and funded projects ready to go, as soon as that capacity has been achieved.” Delegates stressed the importance of building partnerships for technical and financial support, including with private investors, to fund these development projects since governments’ budgets would not be sufficient due to the level of investment required. (CMC)

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Editorial Developing our towns

WITH new towns added in recently, Guyana is moving into the zone where the importance of urban planning has to be recognised and treated for what it is, i.e. it is both technical and political. The identification of towns, which carries with it, demarcation of boundaries and local government points to the fact that those who are given the people’s privilege to manage their affairs are expected to do so. Recent laws added to the Local Government system provide the parameters of the scope and authority for what the councils (political and administrative arms) can do. Making the laws work requires visionary leadership, institutional support and strengthening. It is within this context that urban planning is one of necessity if the towns are to function. For some time this country has seen its towns in dire straits. Infrastructure such as the town halls (a basic feature of a town) has been in a state of disrepair, revenue collection sporadic and unreliable, roads and drainage not properly maintained, zoning laws disregarded to name some. Based on the country’s economic circumstances, internal revenue collection alone cannot sustain a town’s operation. The impression, rightly or wrongly given, is that there is an absence of planning in urban development and management. Planning would entail among other things population (size and growth), infrastructure (e.g. roads, traffic light), utilities (e.g. energy and water), transportation (e.g. public, private), social services (health, education, waste management,

post office), zoning, land use, and management of resources. The above is no easy task and requires urban planners, political will and vision working in conjunction. Urban planners will bring the technical expertise and at the political end the vision to map out objectives (short, medium and long-term), including priorities and revenue-sourcing. In mapping out objectives such have to be realistic, equally as doable. Residents will have to be involved not only in having their inputs at the planning and feedback stage, but also an understanding and appreciation for the vision in order for it to work. Where the government has embraced the ‘Green’ economy, this also has to factor in green collar jobs. Green collar jobs are new jobs that deal with environmental protection and sustainable development consistent with respecting Labour Policies. Township also carries with it property value assessment as a determinant in revenue collection. In evaluating properties, the ability of home and business owners to pay will have to be factored in. These are issues that have to addressed and determined based on the socio-economic realities of the urban residents. Another matter of import in township is that of understanding of the roles, functions and responsibilities of policy-makers (i.e. elected representatives/councils) and the administrative personnel. The council is responsible for shaping policies and making the by-laws. The administrative team enforces these and is responsible for the day-to-day management of the town. At council’s meeting

Too many vacant, unattended house lots in Georgetown Dear Editor THE Mayor and Councillors of the City of Georgetown have expressed serious concern over the number of vacant and unattended house lots in the City. Some of these areas include Agricola, South Ruimveldt, Lacytown and Stabroek. These lots have become an eye sore, since many of them are covered with overgrowths of bushes and weeds. This environment has provided a haven for criminal-minded persons who pounce on unsuspecting citizens, particularly women and children. Also, overgrowths-covered lands provide an ideal setting for reptiles and adult mosquitoes to live. In addition, some residents have converted these lots into communal dump sites, which facilitates the breeding of rodents. Vacant lots that are covered with over-

growths do not only cause the environment to look unsightly, but are a contravention of the Public Heath Ordinance. According to the Public Health Ordinance Chapter 145, the owners of all lots shall keep them free from overgrowth of bush weeds and long grasses. Residents who live nearby are forced to clear these lots themselves to protect and preserve their own health and safety. Also, some of the landlords for theses lots cannot be found, therefore, it is imperative that the Council take the necessary action to safeguard the integrity of the environment. The Public Health Ordinance chapter 145 section 66 (-1). posits that, “The owner and occupier of any premises shall at all times keep his premises free from refuse tins, bottles coconut shells, calabashes, bush, weeds and long grass. Keep trimmed, within reasonable number to the satis-

faction of the local sanitary authority and free from the breeding or harbouring of mosquitoes, all fruit or other trees, shrubs, hedges and plants of the like nature.” The Council has commenced cleaning of several vacant lots in the city and the cost incurred would be added to the general rates of such property owners. Town Clerk Royston King said it is imperative that the Council help to safeguard the integrity of the environment, since the Council has a public health responsibility for all citizens of Georgetown. The Council is calling on property owners to help secure the integrity of the local environment by keeping their premises fee of overgrowths and refuse. Regards Debra Lewis Public Relations Officer M&CC

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

the town clerk, who is the administrative head, reports to the council on matters pertaining to management, and also any other departmental head the council summons to report. Within recent times, there exists the perception on the council’s part that it is responsible for day-to-day management. The conflating or misunderstanding of duties has to be addressed by the Ministry of Communities, lest it creates unnecessary friction between policy-makers and the administrative arm, which can stymie development. The Ministry of Communities, which has responsibility for local government, may have to examine its role and to what extent it will help the towns develop the necessary political finesse and acquiring the technical expertise to do its job efficiently and effectively. Outside of the older towns, which are also in need of institutional strengthening, the new towns need foundational support.

M&CC must not turn a blind eye to sexual assault Dear Editor, IT is utterly appalling, that in spite of all of the evils with which our society is confronted, as a consequence of the aberrant acts being committed frequently by sexual deviants in Guyana, with the more recent one being the molestation and murder in Berbice, that the Georgetown municipality would continue to keep a constable who was accused of sexually molesting a minor, on the job, in uniform and seized with the power of a law enforcement officer. Granted it is an allegation that has been made against this constable by one of his colleagues and the alleged victim at this time, and one has to be presumed innocent until proven guilty, but it must be noted that this constable was charged before with similar immoral acts and was dismissed, only to be brought back to the Constabulary by a senior political official, with whom this constable is well known to be a friend, running

errands for them including paying their utility bills and purchasing their lunch. This is cronyism at its best. Why were the national police not called in to investigate this matter as they were the last time around? It is unprincipled and lacking in transparency for the Council to investigate this matter about one of their own, particularly with frequent accusations of favouritism being levelled against them by members of the public. Has the Council’s human resources manager not heard of interdictions, which refers to a temporary removal of an officer from performing his or her normal duties when disciplinary proceedings for his/her dismissal are being undertaken, or are about to be undertaken? Does the HR Manager not know that interdictions can also take place on the grounds that criminal charges are pending? Or is this individual who has been on the job more than a month now since the alleged incident occurred, protected and above

the law. Is the Council waiting until something fatal occurs before becoming serious about the lawless actions of some of its officials? How long will the investigation into this particular incident take to be completed? Until the next Local Government elections in 2018? All of the persons at the Council responsible for having this constable remain on the job should be sent home as well. The silence by religious leaders and their many church pals who are employed at the Council is nauseating. The municipality should know that if they they turn a blind eye to sexual predators, if they have accustomed their staff to getting away with criminal acts against our citizens, they are making it more likely that they will go on to commit more serious crimes. That is why we have so much disorder in Georgetown. It is such a disgrace Regards Debra Gibson

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

Child Rights Alliance deeply concerned about safety of children Dear Editor, THE Child Rights Alliance (CRA) is deeply concerned about the safety and wellbeing of children in communities across Guyana. The alleged abduction, sexual assault and murder of 13-year-old Leonard Archibald of Brothers Village, East Bank Berbice has brought to light so much that is wrong in society. This tragedy could have been avoided if individuals in the community or law enforcement officials familiar with the atrocious crimes of the confessed offender had acted with urgency. Instead, a community was plunged into mourning; a nation is left dumbfounded as Guyanese continue to sing a familiar, but melancholy tune: “if only.” How can a man who allegedly tied a then12-yearold boy to a tree and sexually assaulted him; broke into the home of a 15-year-old boy in a failed attempt to rape him; failed in an attempt to abduct an 18-year-old boy in a boat; attacked a 19-year-old man in a failed attempt to rape him; failed in an attempt to rape a then 35-year-old man; and sexually molested a seven year-old boy, all from the same village, be allowed to roam the streets as a free man? If only… Guyana has a culture of silence and secrecy to crimes of child abuse, particularly sexual violence against children. Offenders know this and are emboldened by this fact. In 2016, there were 4,015 reported cases of child abuse, 18% or 734 were cases of child sexual abuse. The truth is, for every reported case of abuse there are two or more cases that go unreported. This means those offenders go unreported as well. Several members of the CRA have been conducting sensitisation sessions with children in Regions Three, Four and Five between January and July 2017. The CRA members have sensitised almost 2,000 children on child abuse and the importance of reporting cases of abuse. Several children approached a CRA counselor and reported that they were sexually abused. In some of these cases, the matters were never reported to the Childcare and Protection Agency (CPA) prior to coming to the attention of the CRA. In a few cases the abuse was

known by family members in the home. In one case, the child was being sexually abused by the stepfather. The biological mother and maternal grandmother knew about the abuse. The mother and grandmother threatened to poison the child if she ever told anyone. Covering up child sexual abuse cases is far more common than most people realise. ChildLinK’s 2016 report on children living in institutional care revealed that there is a “…a general culture of silence with respect to child abuse...” (Bess-Bascom, 2016). Additionally, the report revealed that there were “…partners…who hide and ‘cover’ for perpetrators… and felt a responsibility to protect the perpetrator…” (Bess-Bascom, 2016). While no one on the East Bank Berbice was trying to protect the confessed offender, those who suffered at his hands, for the most part, chose to remain silent. The slain child’s father was reported as saying ‘No one thought it would get this serious and now I’m seeing the community come out and put their foot down on it.’ The father reportedly believed that if someone had reported what was known by the community in the past then his son would still be alive. And that is the problem

we face today: If only someone had done something. Unfortunately, no one thinks about doing anything until after the fact. Fear of the stigma attached to being a victim of sexual assault is the reason several young men gave for not speaking out. This is true for both males and females. Many cases of child sexual abuse go unreported because of this fear. Whenever children are sexually abused, one of the most common feelings that the child may experience is shame. They fear that they will be judged and seen in a negative light by others. While this should not be a reason to keep a matter of child sexual abuse a secret there is no denying that some of the fears survivors of sexual abuse have are valid. This is where the average citizen desperately needs a paradigm shift. As a society we need to learn empathy and to respect the privacy of others. We are too quick to judge. The young men of Brother’s Village know this all too well and chose to keep the abuse a secret that should have been reported to the authorities. If only… Several persons mentioned to the media that reports were made to the police in the past but not much was done about the matter. One

publication stated that the confessed offender was arrested in the past but the case against him was dropped because he promised to replace his intended victim’s cell phone. If only… The young man who was reportedly hit with a piece of wood, tied to a tree and sexually assaulted when he was 12- years-old stated that the matter was taken to the police but his parents chose to settle and “take the money and drink it out”. If only… It is not uncommon for parents of children who were abused to accept money. This however, emboldens offenders because they know that they can elude justice by giving some monies. While there has been some progress in the conviction of cases of sexual violence there is still a long way to go. There are too many cases that never make it to court for a number of reasons and there are families of abused children that are still taking money. At the end of the day, it is the child that suffers in the abuse, in the lack of justice and support from families. They are the

ones who suffer in silence. If only… One publication reported a resident of the village saying that the confessed perpetrator would usually go into hiding after sexually abusing a child but would return a few weeks by which time, the police would “forget about the incident”. This is a very troubling development if it is indeed the case. In how many communities across our ten Administrative Regions are offenders of child sexual abuse allowed to get away for a few weeks and return with no fear of prosecution? How many children are still battling with the trauma of sexual abuse as our justice system treats their case with apathy? How many cases in Brother’s village have the police forgotten about over the years? Guyana is a signatory of the United Nations Convention of the Rights of the Child (UNCRC) and the UNCRC was incorporated into our Constitution. According to Article 34 of the UNCRC, “States Par-

ties (should) undertake to protect the child from all forms of sexual exploitation and sexual abuse.” The systems put in place to prevent this tragedy and protect young boys such as Leonard Archibald miserably failed him. Article 6 states: “States Parties recognise that every child has the inherent right to life. States Parties shall ensure to the maximum extent possible the survival and development of the child.” Young Leonard had the right to life. He should have been protected: by the adults in his family, by the State and its agencies, by the community and by society as a whole. ‘If only’ is not good enough for our children. It is your duty as a citizen to report any known case of child abuse. The abuse of children is a scourge in our society that will continue to prevail as long as citizens fail to act. Regards Hasani Tinnie Communications Officer Child Rights Alliance

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

Self-employed still cheating tax system … Statia urges compliance

THE contribution of taxes from the self-employed to the tax revenues does not seem to represent what can be considered a fair contribution to total taxes collected, Commissioner-General Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Godfrey Statia said on Thursday. At a luncheon hosted by the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA), Statia said taxpayers who conduct trade and commerce, agriculture and fishing, and professions and vocations usually operate in the cash and “are reluctant to maintain records, making them the most hard-to-tax group in the country.” He said too that though taxpayers’ resistance to the payment of taxes in many instances may be motivated by the principle that every economic sacrifice must give an economic benefit in return, “these persons reap the benefits in the form of public service, facilities and infrastructure built by government such as highways, schools, bridges, hospitals, health centres, subsidised food, clothing and shelter, and make little or no contributions to the tax pool.” The commissioner-general reminded attendees that the Authority’s role is to ensure that each taxpayer pays his rightful tax, the tax laws are administered fairly and consistently, and at the same time strive for efficiency in tax collection. The country’s tax system allows for self-assessment

and voluntary compliance and it is estimated that 98 per cent of all taxes collected by the Authority is through voluntary compliance. Though not its only role, Statia said too that it is important for the taxpaying public to view taxation as an investment in one’s country and its development and progress. Taxes he said must be seen as a social contract between the taxpayer, the government and the Authority. “The Authority only administers the laws. Its mission is to promote compliance with Guyana’s tax, trade and border laws and regulations through education, quality of service and responsible enforcement, thereby contributing to the economic and social well-being of the people of Guyana,” said Statia, who noted that GRA’s goal is to provide the best possible service at an affordable cost, be fair and respectful to the tax-paying public, manage its resources effectively and economically and be responsive and committed to improvement of its service. Meanwhile, as part of its mandate, the GRA ensures that taxpayers pay their rightful tax, the tax laws are administered fairly and consistently, and at the same time strive for efficiency in tax collection, said Statia. He noted that without a proper functioning Information Technology (IT) system, the aforementioned cannot be achieved. “An examina-

tion of the Total Revenue Integrated Processing System (TRIPS) revealed that despite the outlay of millions of U.S. dollars from 2013 to 2016 to bring the archaic TRIPS1 System up to date by the introduction of an overlay of TRIPS2, not one single module was delivered. Furthermore, many of the modules paid for in TRIPS1 in 2007 were never even delivered,” he disclosed. Additionally, discussions on the matter were held with the Crown Agents and it was decided that all work on the Customs modules must cease, all focus must be placed on the completion of the Internal Revenue Modules inclusive of e-filing services with clear delivery dates and that all additional payments be put on hold until the modules have been delivered. The commissioner-general said simultaneously, the GRA began discussions with the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCT AD) on the introduction of the Automated System for Customs Data (ASYCUDA) single-window system. The ASYCUDA is an integrated customs management system for international trade and transport operations in a modern automated environment which allows for customs administrations and the trade community to comply with international standards when fulfilling import, export and transit-related procedures.

Commissioner-General, Guyana Revenue Authority, Godfrey Statia. Through its ASYCUDA Programme, GRA hopes to modernise customs operations and improve revenue collection, facilitate trade efficiency and competitiveness by substantially reducing transaction time and costs, improve security by streamlining procedures of cargo control, transit of goods and clearance of goods, reduce corruption by enhancing the transparency of transactions, and promote sustainable development by cutting down on the use of paper, through the use of electronic transactions and documents. “I am happy to report that the agreement with UNCTAD has been signed, payment has been effected, the team chosen, training will shortly commence, and a pilot project will commence shortly thereafter at the John Fernandes wharf,” announced Statia, who said testing has begun for the

remaining TRIPS modules. He has been advised and assured by his IT staff that GRA should be in a position to offer e-services, including e-filing in time for the 2018 filing season. Excise stamp on cigarette Additionally, discussions have re-commenced with the Canadian Bank Note company with the aim of introducing the Stamp System, thereby minimising revenue leakages through the smuggling of alcohol and tobacco. “I am happy to report that this programme will be introduced by the end of October 2017 with a reduction of project costs of nearly US$1M and the programme extended to 2024 instead of 2022,” said Statia. The GRA boss said too that in recognising the need to improve efficiency and reduce downtime, the GRA has re-introduced the Post Clearance Audit, which allows for containers of reputable importers to be done on site, and introduced the Trusted Trader programme, whereby after meeting certain criteria, containers are expeditiously cleared, thereby reducing demurrage fees and downtime. “After deliberations with wharf owners, and looking at alternative sites, a MoU was signed with the Guyana National Industrial Company Inc. (GNIC) for the location of both a fixed and a movable scanner on its premises.” That site is expected to be completed by the end of this year and will house GRA’s movable scanner, while the fixed scanner will arrive in Guyana early next year through a grant from the People’s Republic of China.

“As a prelude to ASYCUDA, requests are now being made for advance electronic manifests, thereby allowing profiling prior to ports and allowing for easier and faster clearing of containers,” said Statia. He said it is known that 20 per cent of taxpayers contribute 80 per cent of revenue collected and in an effort to prioritise revenue collection, a conscious decision was made to establish a Large Taxpayers Unit. After the completion of the appropriate training programme by the Caribbean Regional Technical Assistance (CARTAC), this unit will be a reality in November 2017 and will allow for the elite group of taxpayers a one-stop shop for their taxation needs, while at the same time maximising revenue collection through improved audit, review and compliance methods. “In the area of oil and gas, based on a study conducted by the OTA, the organisational chart has been completed; staff requirements and job specifications identified and budgeted for, with training set to commence by December 31 of this year,” stated Statia. Additionally, he noted that funds were procured through the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) earlier this year and expressions of interest drafted to facilitate the implementation of an initial five-year strategic plan, which will guide its future. The consulting firm for the project should be chosen by December 31, 2017, thereby allowing for its early completion in 2018, he said.

Bartica Hospital for major upgrade next year OVER the past two years, the Bartica Regional Hospital has undergone a series of upgrades which contributed to a better level of service being offered to residents in and around the town. Regional Health Officer, Region Seven, Dr. Edward Sagala, has disclosed that the 2018 target is to renew primary health care service in Region Seven, while improving support services at the regional hospital itself. Minister within the Ministry

of Public Health, Dr. Karen Cummings, recently visited the facility and was briefed on plans to upgrade and improve services. “Right now we have a two-bed Accident and Emergency [Unit]. This is a mining community, this is a region which has a lot of activities, not only mining but tourism. Accidents do take place… the Accident and Emergency [Unit] is one area that will benefit in moving forward, making it at least a 10 bed, according to the proposal”,

Dr. Sagala explained. He also revealed plans to expand the bed capacity of the regional hospital. “Money will also go to improve accommodation not only for doctors but for all categories of health workers. The hospital will have additional new wards to cater for approximately another 50 beds, which will make this hospital when it completed close to 100 beds”. Additionally, the hospital has one operating theatre that is functional and

there are plans to construct another theatre to complement the one already in existence. These upgrades will call for the strengthening of support services, including dental services, laboratory and pharmacy services. The RHO added, “Information technology also has been included because as we are working now, the world is changing and information technology forms part of health care delivery, it is faster, it is quicker and it is good for all of us”.

Dr. Sagala also revealed that the construction of the building to house the Computed Tomography machine (CT scan) at the hospital has been approved via the tendering system and is scheduled to start before the end of 2017. Meanwhile, the RHO said that the regional administration is considering upgrading the district hospital at Kamarang. The upgrade will include equipment, infrastructure and the supply of drugs and other medical supplies.

This will ensure that patients are catered for, and would not have to be referred to GPHC. “We need it to be wellequipped to cater to the patients in Upper Mazaruni, so instead of those doctors referring cases directly to the Georgetown Hospital, if we upgrade Kamarang and we put medical specialists [there] in the near future, they will able to work along with other doctors in the area so that is another vision”, Dr. Sagala noted. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

RCC urges proactive approach to child protection

THE Rights of the Child Commission has called on all Guyanese to take a proactive approach to child protection. The call was made when the body hosted a press conference on Friday to highlight issues relating to child protection in Guyana. Speaking at the news conference, Investigating Officer of RCC, Andre Gonsalves said, “I think we have to go back a little further to take a look at our community, and our community relationship with the family. Somewhere along the line, we are failing, our community is failing to support the institution of the family. We need some kind of intervention from that part.” Sharing the same view, Programme Manager of NGO ChildLink Guyana, Kean Chase, disclosed that the community has a pivotal role in child protection. She emphasised that persons must recognise that the institution cannot address the issue of child protection alone, and appealed to residents of communities to be vigilant. She highlighted that in recent visits to Region Two ( Pomeroon-Supenaam), it was noted that

the area has the highest case of child sexual abuse; however, many persons were unaware of the commission or where to lodge reports. The commission is encouraging persons to lodge reports of child abuse at its office, at 66 Peter Rose and Anira Streets, Queenstown, Georgetown, or through whatever means necessary. Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Commission, Amar Panday, revealed that the agency has been involved in several activities with various organisations, to enhance the livelihood of children throughout Guyana. Some of the organisations which the commission has been engaging include, the Sophia Holding Centre, New Opportunity Corps (NOC), Timehri and New Amsterdam prisons, several Regional Democratic Councils, and Regional and District hospitals. He explained that the recent Youth Ambassador’s Programme – an important development of the commission, along with its partners – was as a result of a critical recommendation made through the United Nations (UN) Committee Report to Guyana.

“The Youth Ambassador’s Programme is an initiative where children and young people, initially Regions Three, Four and Five are trained to serve in their schools, communities, and region as youth ambassadors for child protection and education”, Panday explained. Work was also conducted in all the regions including the Indigenous and hinterland communities to educate residents on the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The CEO disclosed that the commission is also engaging the Guyana Police Force (GPF) with regard to the handling of cases involving children. “We have been doing a lot of work with the Guyana Police Force. In many of its divisions…engaging with officers and ranks; providing capacity building, trainings and orientation as to what are the psychosocial and professional responsibilities of police officers when handling cases involving children”, he posited. In light of the recent case of the late Leonard Archibald, Panday said the Commission is actively liaising with the GPF to ensure his family receives justice.

Dynamic passengers should contact travel agents for refund

PASSENGERS who will be affected by the imminent closure of Dynamic International Airways should contact their travel agents for refunds. Captain Gerry Gouveia of Roraima Airways, handling agent for the North Carolina –based air carrier noted on social media on Friday that the international airline is required by law to refund affected passengers. While Roraima has not officially released any information on the closure of the airline’s operations here, Gouveia said that the latest development is outside the local airline’s control. He expressed appreciation to persons who have supported

his company in the past. Earlier this week, reports surfaced that Dynamic was closing its Guyana operations, which is expected to cease within the next few days. According to a report on the online aviation news site ch-aviation.com, since filing its bankruptcy petition in July this year, Dynamic has cut its workforce from 192 to 132. The report stated that the air carrier is expected to trim back on its Guyana operations and focus on leasing its services through an arrangement known as ACMI (aircraft, complete crew, maintenance, and insurance). The wet-lease arrangement is one in which one

airline (the lessor) provides services to another airline or other type of business acting as a broker of air travel (the lessee). The latter pays by hours operated. The report stated that the carrier has already established contracts with two airline operators at other destinations. Dynamic suspended its Asian operations in August, after an engine problem precipitated an early end to the season. Following flight permit problems in Ecuador, Dynamic recently cut flights to Guayaquil with its last remaining scheduled service being the lucrative New York (JFK) – Georgetown (CJIA) route.

(From left) Nicole Cole, Commissioner of Women & Gender Equality; Colleen Anthony, Commissioner; Suelle Williams, Commissioner-RCC; Amar Panday, CEO, RCC; Andre Gonsalves, Investigation Officer, RCC; Kean Chase, Programme Manager, NGO ChildLink Guyana at the RCC press conference.

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Guyana commits to upholding Rio Conventions

MINISTER of State, Joseph Harmon on Thursday said that the Government of Guyana is fully committed to upholding all tenets of the Rio Conventions and will continue to play its role in the fight against climate change and global warming, which are wreaking havoc on all countries around the globe, particularly Small Island Developing States (SIDs). The minister was at the time delivering the feature address at the opening of the Strengthening Technical Capacities to Mainstream and Monitor Rio Convention Implementation through Policy Coordination Workshop,” which was held at the Guyana Marriott Hotel. This project, funded by the Government of Guyana, the United Nations Development Programme

(UNDP), the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and implemented by the Ministry of the Presidency’s Department of Environment, aims to strengthen technical capacities for mainstreaming and monitoring the achievement of Rio Conventions objectives through policy coordination. The Rio Conventions, which are popularly referred to as the Rio Convention Three, include the Convention on Biological Diversity, the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). These Conventions collectively address the need for adaptation to climate change through their activities. According to its website, the Rio Conventions collectively offer a

range of tools, services and expertise that assist vulnerable countries and communities in enabling effective adaptation and achieving sustainable development. Through facilitating knowledge-sharing and learning, strengthening technical and institutional capacities, and facilitating access to financial and technological support, the Rio Conventions support parties in undertaking the full adaptation cycle: from assessing impacts, risks and vulnerability, to planning and implementing adaptation actions, to monitoring and evaluation. In his address, Minister Harmon said that the tenets of the Conventions fit firmly into the Government’s goal of a ‘green’ economy and the administration will, therefore,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

ensure that it receives full support. “I wish to give you the assurance that the Government remains committed to this process. The Government will continue to provide its resources for it. The Government will continue to provide the political will to ensure that these conventions are implemented. I myself had some exposure to the Conventions and would have been exposed to the work done under this Convention. I am very heartened by it and I am happy to see that we are now moving towards implementation and not just consultation,” he said. The Minister of State said that the project is being implemented at a defining moment in time as the country is not only pursuing its ‘Green’ State Development Strategy, but other countries are grappling with issues such as biodiversity loss and rapidly changing climates as a result of unprecedented levels of greenhouse gas emissions. “Global empirical data for the period 2010 to 2016 has shown that this period recorded greater frequency and severity of droughts, famines, floods increasing intensity of hurricanes, the rapid extinction in flora and fauna and the fastest decadal rate of sea rise for the century thus far. We all witnessed the devastation and deadly impact of hurricanes Irma, Jose and Maria on our Caribbean neighbours and further [sic] afield. These disastrous events, which left billions of dollars in social, economic and environmental damage, were unquestionably reminders [of] the need of environmental action to protect the environment. Already there is a grim prognosis that events like these will become the new norm,” Minister Harmon said. In this regard, the minister said that it is therefore important for a recommitment by all countries to embrace the tenets and guidelines of the Rio Conventions. The Minister of State said that the issues

which will be addressed by this project have implications for Guyana and its people’s existence and viability as a nation. It is up to Guyana therefore, he said, to take its environmental responsibilities very seriously and as a matter of great national interest. “Guyana also continues to stand as a proud and reliable partner in tackling global environmental issues and we are in unwavering in our commitment to sustainable development through environmental management best practices. This is demonstrated by our pioneering international environmental partnership and our status as a signatory to [the] Paris Agreement on Climate Change. Our ratification on this accord as the 17th signatory as well as our resolve to meaningfully contribute to global environmental protection complements the development of our strategy to establish a ‘green’ economy and a ‘green’ state,” he said. However, while significant strides have been made to honour Guyana’s obligations under these Conventions, there are still barriers the minister said, which must be overcome. It is in this vein, he said, that this workshop is timely and will help Guyana to overcome these challenges. “I am therefore pleased that this project will help us identify linkages and to develop capacities to enable us to implement and monitor the conventions as well as to assist us to actualise our Government’s programme for environmental protection and management and our vision for the ‘green’ sustainable development of our country,” he said. Meanwhile, Director of the Department of Environment, Ms. Ndibi Schwiers, in her remarks said that when Guyana became a signatory to the Rio Convention in 1992 and ratified the instruments on climate change, biological diversity and land degradation a few years later, it was a firm demonstration of the coun-

Minister of State Joseph Harmon try’s interest in developing sustainably and its willingness to put measures in place that would meet the Convention’s principles. Since then, however, she noted that various policy documents were developed, on biodiversity, on climate change, on land degradation, with various degrees of uptake, but there were numerous barriers to the implementation of the Rio Conventions. These ranged from a weak set of policies to a weak legal and regulatory framework, lack of synergy and implementation of convention, fragmented data and information. In addition, Dr. Patrick Chesney, Programme Specialist at the UNDP, in his remarks, said that he is encouraged by the number of stakeholders who have been involved in the project as it is a national one, which should be owned and for which collective responsibility should be taken. “I challenge you, our national experts and stakeholders, to full [y] participate in this project; it provides a unique opportunity for us to better understand what it is that we need to do to ensure we derive synergies from the three Rio Conventions. The failure of this project will be all of ours, but let us celebrate its success and ensure that this kick-off meeting reminds us that we must work together in order to succeed,” he said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

2016 Audit Report presented to House Speaker

AUDITOR General Deodat Sharma on Friday handed over the 2016 Auditor General’s Report to Speaker of the National Assembly Dr Barton Scotland, a day before the constitutional deadline. The auditor general also presented the House Speaker with a copy of the fourth performance report on construction of the new access road to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. Details of the reports will only be made public after they are laid in the National Assembly, which Dr. Scotland said will be as soon as Parliament resumes early next month. Before the official handing-over in the presence of members of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC), the auditor general said the Speaker of the National Assembly will have to present the reports. Thereafter, they become public documents as prescribed by Guyana’s Constitution. “This achievement reflects the realisation of the office’s objective of ‘timely reporting of the results of its audits to the legislature and ultimately the public.” Sharma also shared some of the stringencies his office has been facing over the years, and particularly prior to him taking over as auditor general. He said before taking over, the technological infrastructure of the office consisted of “a few computers, whilst the majority of its staff was [sic] not proficient in the use of modern technology. Communication mechanisms were also poor, and the office’s visibility to certain stakeholders were non-existent.” Among other unsatisfactory situations, he said that situation led to untimely reporting and huge backlogs of audits, especially those for the statutory bodies. He said the office’s transformation was due in large part to the benefits derived from four Technical Cooperation Agreements signed between the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB) and the Government of Guyana, which spanned the period 2003 to 2017. Moreover, the office was able to modernise its organisational and human resource management function, which included the provision of capacity-building initiatives to increase managerial capabilities.” In addition, three new

units were established with specific responsibilities for Performance Auditing, Fraud Investigations and Quality Assurance, the AG reported. He said the office also incorporated new technology that strengthened its infrastructure, capacity and capabilities. “Procedures, professional practices and technical standards were improved in keeping with international standards, including those of the International Organization of Supreme Audit Institutions (INTOSAI). More specifically, the risk-based approach to auditing was implemented; whilst, the Interactive Data Extraction and Analysis (IDEA) software, which is a computer-assisted auditing tool (CAAT) was acquired to support the audit process,”he said. Meanwhile, in keeping with the universal theme of ensuring a ‘greener environment’, Sharma said the audit office acquired and implemented an audit management software (TeamMate AMS), which is also an enhancement of its auditing processes. Use of the software ensures that work will be executed in a consistent manner using procedures and practices that are in compliance with international standards. The mechanisms of the software are such, that reviews and sharing of information can be done in real time, regardless of the locations of the users. Proceeds from the four IDB/GOG Technical Cooperation Agreements were also used to build capacity and capabilities in areas such as report writing, forensic accounting and fraud investigations, and performance, information technology and procurement auditing, which are aimed at producing work of a high quality on a sustained basis, Sharma noted. The office, he said currently has in its employ two Civil Engineers, three Certified Accountants, four MBA Graduates as well as a Certified Fraud examiner. He said these initiatives are in keeping with the office’s objectives to recruit and retain the best qualified staff, which filters to the production of high-quality work. The Audit Office was able to increase its visibility and improve collaboration with some of its key stakeholders, including those in the hinterland where communication mediums are limited or even

non-existent, Sharma related. Looking forward, he said the Audit Office of Guyana will pursue the full implementation of the TeamMate Audit Management Software, thereby executing its core functions holistically in an electronic environment. The office, he said, will also seek to increase its performance audit practice, which is in keeping with global trends and requirements. He said the Audit Office, as it examine means of preserving the environment especially protecting the endangered sea turtle, birds and animals, several environmental audits will be carried out.

House Speaker Dr. Barton Scotland receives the 2016 Auditor General’s Report and the report pertaining to construction of the new access road to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

Balwant Singh Hospital says it’s the ‘only one’ … first lab in entire South America to have A2LA accreditation

DR. BALWANT Singh Hospital Inc. on Friday announced at a press conference that it is the only health facility to have a laboratory that has been accredited with ISO 15189 through the American Association of Laboratory Accreditation (A2LA). Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Madhu Pandey-Singh, told reporters that the laboratory at Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital has achieved a milestone

that many others were still trying to attain. She explained that A2LA was a non-profit public service internationally recognised accreditation body in the United States that offers laboratory-related accreditation services. Dr. Singh stated that there were a couple of other stand-alone or industrial labs that were accredited to ISO, through a Caribbean regional body. She added that their

institution was the first to achieve this through an international, U.S.-based organisation, the A2LA. Dr. Singh told the press briefing that they were the first lab in the entire South American continent to have achieved A2LA accreditation and they also have the widest scope of accredited tests. They had a total of 25 tests that were accredited as well. She highlighted that without the local certifying body, the Guyana NationAt the head table are Laboratory Quality Manager Gajendran, CEO Dr. Madhu Pandey-Singh, GNBS Director Candelle Walcott-Bostwick and Rodlyn Semple, during the press conference on Friday at the health facility. al Bureau of Standards (GNBS), it was impossible to attain such status, since they would have had to be accredited locally before gaining internal accreditation. Director of the GNBS, Candelle Walcott-Bostwick, said she was pleased that the health facility had maintained its certification and their clinical lab was accredited for validity and was up to par with international standards. She explained that visitors could be tested at Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital and take the results back to their country, where it will be accepted by doctors there. With this achievement for the institution, Walcott-Bostwick said it has indicated the development of health care in Guyana and encouraged others to emulate the hospital to provide quality services. Administrator, Ivorine De Franca, said they strive to provide the highest quality services at the lowest cost and would continue to improve their services.

The accreditation certificate at Dr. Balwant Singh Hospital Inc.(Adrian Narine photos)

Nine months for stealing sister’s band A NINE-MONTH jail sentence was imposed by City Magistrate Leron Daly on a Laing Avenue resident for stealing his sister’s silver band. Damon Smith appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates Court on Friday and confessed that on September 26 at Laing Avenue, Georgetown, he stole a sliver band valued $10,000, property of Felicia Smith. “I thief the thing and sell it in the

market then I buy fronto and smoke out the rest of the money,” the unrepresented man told the court. According to reports, the defendant is the victim’s older brother and they both live in the same house at Laing Avenue. The accused, who is in the habit of stealing from the family, took his sister’s band and sold it Magistrate Daly, after considering Smith’s guilty plea, sentenced him to nine months’ imprisonment.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

School cleaners to work eight-hour shift … to be paid during holidays

MINISTER of Education Nicolette Henry on Friday met with sweeper/cleaners at the St Stanislaus College to address and listen to their concerns. In her remarks to the gathering, Henry said that it is important that everyone is treated with dignity and respect at their places of work and the same will apply to them. Minister Henry told the cleaners that

she convened the meeting to hear from them first-hand what are some of the issues affecting them. She also announced that a decision has been made for all sweepers/cleaners to be allowed to work a daily eight-hour shift and that the previous six hours cap has been scrapped. Additionally, Minister Henry also announced that sweepers/ cleaners will now be paid

for service provided during the school holidays, since their services will be required. Further, Ms. Henry assured that she will meet quarterly with them to get their feedback and to gauge if improvements are being made with regard to their working conditions and other issues that might be affecting them. In a release, the ministry said many of those who

Man charged for cocaine trafficking involving ex-cop As the investigation continues into the missing cocaine from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters at Eve Leary, 28-year-old Delvor Bunbury has been charged in relation to the drug bust. Bunbury turned himself in almost two weeks after a wanted bulletin was issued for his arrest. On Friday, he appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates Court and was remanded to prison until October 20. He denied that on September 11 at Bel Air, Georgetown, he had 1.858 kilograms of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. The illegal substance is related to the case involving ex-policeman Travis Mendonca, who was recently sentenced to three years in prison after almost four pounds of cocaine was discovered stashed in a false bottom of his suitcase. The ex-cop was preparing to board a New York-bound flight when the discovery was made. The cocaine was extracted and kept as exhibits at CID HQ. However, earlier this week, the evidence was discovered missing and an investigation is currently ongoing. Mendonca was recently

sentenced to three years in prison after he pleaded guilty to a trafficking- -in-narcotics charge. Attorney-at-law Latchmie Rahmat told the court that Bunbury had no knowl-

Delvor Bunbury edge of the drug, nor did he have care or control of the substance. Rahmat also told the court that the police could not locate the cocaine to have it weighed in front of him (Bunbury). However, Police Prosecutor Simone Payne told the court that Bunbury had supplied the suitcase with the drugs inside to Mendonca. Payne pointed out that the defendant hired a taxi to

transport the suitcase to be dropped off at Mendonca. Last March, Bunbury was among a trio who was remanded to prison for trafficking 588 grams of cocaine. He and Gavin Harris were accused of giving a bag containing narcotics to former police rank Louie Dublin. The charge read that Bunbury and Gavin Harris on March 17 at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, both had in their possession 588 grams of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. The former police rank, Dublin, 21, also pleaded not guilty to cocaine possession. Facts presented by Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh stated that on the day in question, members of the police force carried out a sting operation at the Lotus Restaurant and Bar which is located at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. Dublin was searched and the cocaine was found in his possession. Singh further stated that when Dublin was arrested, he gave the police a caution statement, saying he was given the bag by two individuals whom he named as Devon Bunbury and Gavin Harris and apologised for having the substance in his possession.

Phone thief jailed for three months CITY Magistrate Leron Daly on Friday sentenced a man to nine months’ imprisonment for snatching a woman’s phone. Junior Leitch confessed that on September 26 at Mandela Avenue, he robbed Anura Sankar of an HTC cellphone valued $60,000 while using

personal violence on her. According to reports, Leitch took away the phone and when she resisted he cuffed and kicked her about the body. Leitch admitted to the court that he had snatched Sankar’s phone, but denied beating the woman.

Minister of Education Nicolette Henry (seated) listening to the views of the sweepers/cleaners attended the meeting raised a number of issues and the minister gave the assurance that she will work to address them at the earliest possible time. She told the gathering that while she will be able to address many of their issues shortly, she will not be able to address some of those expeditiously, since they involve other government agencies and this will take some time. Recently, State Minister

Joseph Harmon announced that a recommendation from the Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, for regularisation of the employment of sweepers/ cleaners within the public sector, particularly within the public school system, was approved by Cabinet. Minister Harmon told reporters that Cabinet has agreed to a proposal made by the Ministry of Education to the Ministry of Finance to

be placed in the 2018 budget presentation. He said the proposal will be used as the base upon which the other agencies, such as the Ministries of the Presidency, Social Protection and Finance will examine carefully the issue related to sweepers/ cleaners. “We trust that these interventions will bring an end to this situation,” Harmon added.

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Fewer referrals from Bartica Hospital to GPHC

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…some 7000 patients seen thus far for 2017 REGIONAL Health Officer (RHO) Region Seven, Dr. Edward Sagala, has given updates on the region’s health service delivery thus far for 2017. One of the highlights for 2017 is the fact that just about 7000 patients were seen by specialist doctors at the Bartica Regional Hospital for the first six months of the year. The RHO said the hospital has received its full complement of medical specialists. Dr. Sagala outlined that eight med-

ical specialists are now at the hospital. These include a General Surgeon, Anaesthesiologist, Cardiologist, Obstetrician/Gynaegologist, Paediatrician, Haematologist and specialists in internal medicine and trauma and orthopaedics. “I think we have been able to reduce significantly, the number of cases that would have to go to Georgetown and get medical attention. Figures for the first six months of this year [indicate that] approximately close to

7000 patients were seen by medical specialists. You can imagine if all of those would have to go to Georgetown to be seen,” Dr. Sagala explained. Head of the Accidents and Emergency (A&E) Unit at the Georgetown Hospital, Dr. Zulfikar Bux, confirmed that there has been a reduction in referrals from Bartica to the GPHC since specialists have been operating in the region. Since 2015, the Ministry of Public Health has been working to decentralise health

Audit Office to conduct ‘several environmental audits’ Starting next year, the Audit Office of Guyana will be conducting several environmental audits to ensure that the country’s endangered animals are protected. The audits seek to preserve and protect these animals as the country prepares to enter oil production in 2020. Auditor General De-

odat Sharma told the media on Friday, that the audits will be in compliance with the fourth E of auditing, that is Environment; the other three are Economy, Efficiency, and Effectiveness. Sharma said the audit will first be conducted in the North West. The audits are to ensure that adequate measures are

in place in the event of an oil spill. Currently, the Civil Defence Commission (CDC) of Guyana is formulating oil spill emergency plans and procedures in time for 2020. The CDC is receiving assistance from international countries and agency partners.

services in all regions and has advocated for a bridged gap in the delivery of healthcare between the hinterland and coastal regions. The goal was to have regional hospitals in Regions One, Seven, Eight and Nine equipped with the requisite specialists which will ultimately decrease the number of referrals to the Georgetown Public Hospital. The GPHC as determined by senior health practitioners is overburdened with referrals of emergency cases from all 10 administrative regions. Additionally, hinterland regions would often refer maternity and snake-bite cases on a large scale. By extension, the RHO noted that there are 24 medical specialist doctors throughout the region. More specifically, specialists are strategically spread throughout the region. “For the first time we have two doctors at Middle Mazaruni, that is Issano, so they cover a big area also in

Dr. Edward Sagala, Regional Health Officer, Region Seven

Upper Mazaruni we have doctors covering from Imbaimadai we have two, Jawalla we have one, Kako soon one doctor to go there, Kamarang two, Waramadong one, Puirima one”, the RHO noted. Dr. Sagala added that having medical specialists in the region now means that the region would have reduced medivacs. “That same money that we are spending on evacuating those patients

it will help to improve and better health services in the region.” Meanwhile, the RHO underscored that the shortage of nurses in the region remains an issue which needs to be urgently addressed. He believes that with a full complement of nurses employed, especially at regional and district hospitals, will balance the work already being done in the region by medical specialists.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

African Business Roundtable consulted on Budget 2018

THE Ministry of Finance on Friday hosted the African Business Roundtable (ABR) in discussions for Budget 2018, at the Ministry of Finance’s boardroom, Main Street. “We spoke of our community, African entrepreneurs, and African business community… The discussion was intense and educational”, the President of ABR, Eric Phillips told the Department of Public Information (DPI). Phillips said he is hopeful that the 2018 Budget will include ways that the African communities can be more involved in the development of Guyana’s economy. He said that requests were made to have a review of the procurement process so that small companies have a chance to bid, and acquire contracts. The ABR president in recalling that President David Granger had spoken about village diversification earlier this year, said the body is of the view that “local procurement in the village begins with village diversification”. Phillips pointed out that for the majority of the procurement requirements, “one is required to own your own equipment, and possess five to 10 years of experience…

Most of our companies don’t have that so we spoke about pooling in terms of getting equipment, and joint ventures with other communities.” The body will also be seeking to have training sessions countrywide to expose persons to business practices, markets, and new business and product development. The ABR which is also known as the African Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC), and established partly out of a need to strengthen the economy of Guyana and through the influence of the United Nations General Assembly Resolutions A/Res/68/237 and A/Res/69/16, which deal with the International Decade for People of African Descent and the Programme of Action associated with it. In an earlier interview with the DPI, Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma said the consultations are all part of the process of formulating Budget 2018, to ensure that every agency has a voice in Budget 2018. The Ministry of Finance officially began Budget 2018 consultations on September 4, 2017, and it will conclude on October 11, 2017.

President of the African Business Roundtable (ABR) Eric Phillips and Allison Butters-Grant at the budget discussion

THE 29th Pan American Sanitary Conference of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) ended on Friday with the approval of a new health agenda for the Americas, and a series of strategies and plans of action to face health challenges in coming years. The Sustainable Health Agenda for the Americas 2018-2030 includes goals ranging from achieving universal health coverage to ending the HIV /AIDS epidemic. They cover areas deemed essential for strengthening countries’ health systems, with the ultimate goal of guaranteeing that all people have access to the health care they need when they need

it, without fear of financial difficulty. PAHO Director Carissa F. Etienne welcomed regional agreements to strengthen health statistics, improve tobacco control, and maintain the elimination of measles, rubella and congenital rubella, highlighting the “critical need to reduce inequalities in region. She said she heeded the call of the countries on the urgent need to address the issue of climate change and its effects on health. Ministers and delegates from the 35 member states of PAHO adopted the following strategies and action plans: •A strategy that seeks to guide national human

resources policies to achieve universal health and the Sustainable Development Goals •An action plan to strengthen vital statistics on the population of each country •A plan of action to sustain the elimination of measles, rubella and congenital rubella syndrome •A strategy and action plan to strengthen tobacco control and completely free the Region from exposure to tobacco smoke in the next five years •A policy on ethnicity and health to improve the health of indigenous, Afro-descendant and Roma people A new PAHO report on ‘Health in the Americas+ 2017’ launched at

PAHO confab approves new agenda for Americas the Conference shows improvements in health, but highlights new challenges related to emerging and non-communicable diseases. PAHO’s Director presented a 5-year accountability report highlighting major health progress and challenges in the Americas during 2013-2017 and the role of PAHO’s technical cooperation in those developments. During the meeting, Dr. Etienne, a native of Dominica, was re-elected for a second five-year term as PAHO Director, starting in February 2018. She told health ministers news of her election brought a welcome lift to residents of Dominica, which was devastated by Hurricane Irma. A series of exhibits and

side events were dedicated to sharing experiences on topics including equity in health, climate change, migrant health, better chronic disease management by health services, and the use of regulatory policies to promote healthy eating. Costa Rican doctor Stella Bolaños Varela received the PAHO Award for Management and Leadership in Health Services 2017. Paraguay’s Minister of Health, Dr Antonio Barrios, chaired the Conference and the new Director General of the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, participated for the first time in this regional meeting of health ministers. Dr Tedros

stressed the importance of global health security, the need to achieve universal health for all, and the challenges that must be overcome in the fight against non-communicable diseases. The hurricanes that devastated parts of the Caribbean and the United States, and the earthquakes that caused deaths in Mexico, also occupied a central place in the debates. PAHO “stands in solidarity with you as you rebuild your lives, homes, livelihoods, physical infrastructure and the mental health of your people,” Etienne said, addressing the delegations of affected countries at the close of the Conference.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

IAC remembers Devonshire Castle Martyrs

THE Indian Action Committee (IAC) in collaboration with the Regional Democratic Council of Administrative Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) organised and successfully held a programme of activities on Friday at the Hampton Court Primary School, to commemorate the 145th Anniversary of the Devonshire Castle uprising in which five Indentured labourers were shot and killed by colonial police. The IAC in a release said,

it recognises that this was the very first instance of sugar workers being killed by the authorities and those five are collectively known as the Devonshire Castle Martyrs. The IAC invited Mr. Tota. C. Mangar, historian and former Deputy Vice- Chancellor of the University of Guyana, who gave a detailed account of the events that led up to the martyrdom of Maxidally, Kaulika, Beccaroo, Baldeo and Auckloo. The IAC having presented its recent findings of a

research conducted on the Devonshire Castle uprising, will be submitting these findings to the National Trust of Guyana, the Ministry of Education, the Ministry of Social Cohesion and the Department of Culture, Youth and Sport; and the National Archives of Guyana in Georgetown. Additionally, the IAC said it was pleased to have at the event prominent Essequibians such as former Regional Chairman, Isahack Basir CCH; Mr. Karan Chand Ghasi, a representative for

the Prime Minister; Regional Vice Chairman, Mrs. Juliet Coonjah; Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Roop Kumar Persaud; and Mayor and Town Council representative, Ms. Shakeela Briglall. The IAC-organised event was successfully concluded with an impressive march led by Grade Five and Six students, teachers and the Head Master of the Hampton Court Primary School, to the martyrs’ monument site at Cabbage Dam, Devonshire Castle, the release added.

(From left) Historian and former Deputy Vice- Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Mr Tota. C. Mangar M.A; Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Mr. Roop Kumar Persaud; Regional Vice-Chairman, Mrs. Juliet Coonjah; and Mayor and Town Council representative, Ms. Shakeela Briglall, look on while IAC Founding Executive Member, Evan Radhay Persaud, makes a presentation

Second from left, Head Master of the Hampton Court Primary School flanked by teachers and students at the Devonshire Castle Martyrs Monument

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PAHO unveils new strategy to tackle health workers shortage A new strategy approved today by the 29th Pan American Sanitary Conference of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) aims to guide national policies on human resources for health in the countries of the Region of the Americas in order to cover the shortage of health workers, improve their geographical distribution, and enhance their skills in order to achieve universal health and the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). According to the most recent estimates by the World Health Organization (WHO), the Region requires almost 800,000 additional health workers to meet people’s essential health needs, while offering a broader range of services and people-centered integrated health care. “In recent decades, the countries of the Region have reduced profound imbalances in the health workforce and have improved the provision and availability of personnel at the first level of care”, emphasized PAHO Director, Carissa F. Etienne. However, she added, “inequities remain in the availability, distribution, and quality of personnel.” Causes of the shortage include limited retention of health workers in rural and underserved areas, high rates of mobility and migration, precarious working conditions, and a lack of culturally sensitive workers with training appropriate to the health needs of the population. “If we want to reach the SDGs, particularly universal health coverage, we must have adequate health personnel, and we

must have them in the places that need them,” said Etienne. The new Strategy on Human Resources for Universal Access to Health and Universal Health Coverage sets out three lines of action: strengthen and consolidate governance and leadership in human resources for health; develop conditions and capacities in human resources for health to expand access to health and health coverage, with equity and quality and partner with the education sector to respond to the needs of health systems in transformation toward universal access to health and universal health coverage. The document urges countries to increase public spending and financial efficiency to increase the availability and retention of health personnel, develop information systems on human resources for health to strengthen strategic planning and forecasting of current and future needs, and promote the development of inter-professional teams within health services networks. Furthermore, the strategy advocates for the transformation of professional health education to include the principles of social mission, the incorporation of a public health perspective, and a social determinants approach; to align human resources training with current and future health system needs; and to increase positions in family and community health and in basic specialties, among other actions.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, September 30, 2017

Bandit nabbed following Better Hope robbery

A SUSPECTED bandit was apprehended on Friday afternoon following a robbery at Better Hope on the East Coast of Demerara . According to an eyewitness, around 13:00 hrs on Friday, a woman was standing outside the Wisdom Supermarket along the Railway Line Embankment at Better Hope, when three men rode up to her on bicycles. She said one of the men approached the woman and started to argue with her. “He went up to she and start slap she up and punch her and pull away her things,” she noted. She said that the woman raised an alarm and persons in the vicinity soon

The incident occurred outside the Wisdom Supermarket at Better Hope.

realised that the woman was being robbed. “He behave like If he and the girl deh,” the eyewitness recounted. As the bandits rode away from the scene, a plain clothes police officer was passing and with the assis-

tance of residents, the rank pursued the bandits. One of the men was apprehended while the others escaped aback of Better Hope. Residents reported that the men were seen earlier scouring the area in front the

Chinese-owned supermarket. They said that the men may have been targeting the supermarket which was robbed on multiple occasions in the past. Police are investigating the incident.

The bandit (in vehicle) who was apprehended following the robbery.

Over 200 benefit U.S. Ambassador from music workshop visits Lethem

A CLOSING ceremony was held on Thursday in honour of the completion of Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) instructor Yuko Aoki’s six-month volunteering tenure at the National School of Music, Brickdam. In brief remarks, National School of Music Administrator Andrew Tyndall expressed his gratitude to the JICA for implementing the initiative, which focused on music development at the primary-level students and teachers. Some 120 primary school teachers, 87 CPCE training teachers, four senior pianists and students from three primary schools all benefited from the initiative. Tyndall noted that those who participated in the initiative have largely benefited from the teachings of instructor Aoki and will, in turn, impart their knowledge to others. “We [government] are very certain that the knowledge she [Yuko Aoki] has shared especially with our teachers and children will be passed on and it will help in the allround development of the children as well [as] provide for that round and holistic experience in schools”, he said. The administrator stressed that he did his part to ensure that every child

U.S. AMBASSADOR Perry Holloway and his wife on Friday visited the Lethem Town Council. The Ambassador met with Mayor of Lethem, Carlton Beckles, Town Clerk Keisha Vincent and councillors. In a

release, the U.S. Embassy in Georgetown said Mayor Beckles took the opportunity to update the ambassador on a number of plans and projects being undertaken by the council and also extended an invitation to the am-

bassador and his wife to the Lethem Town Week. The Ambassador’s visit to Lethem comes on the heels of the discovery of illegal airstrips and aircraft in the Rupununi in recent times.

Japan International Co-operation Agency (JICA) instructor, Yuko Aoki singing along with the St. Sidwell Primary School students

had the opportunity to be involved in music in their developmental years. This is in keeping with the agenda of the Ministry of Education to provide a comprehensive experience for the nation’s youth. He disclosed that the music school will continue to partner with the Government of Japan for further initiatives similar to this. Some of the students performed various pianica and piano pieces taught them, while the teachers thanked the instructor for giving them the opportunity to learn new techniques and perfect their skills in the craft. Earlier this year, there was a donation from

the JICA of 54 music tune bells, 35 flutes and 25 Yamaha Pianicas, including an electrical piano to the National School of Music that cost approximately $1.5 million and an additional donation of 35 Pianicas to the Cyril Potter College of Education to the value of $2M. In 2016, the Japanese Government facilitated a music instructor conducting a training course with the National School of Music, through the provision of musical and vocal training to piano teachers, primary school teachers, students from Regions Three, Four, 10 and Georgetown. (DPI)

Councillor George Henry; Councillor Ahren Laundry; the ambassador’s wife, Rosaura Holloway; Town Clerk, Keisha Vincent; U.S. Ambassador, Perry Holloway and Mayor of Lethem, Carlton Beckles after the meeting on Friday

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2017

English Racing Tips Haydock 08:35 hrs Pioneer Spirit 09:05 hrs Century Dream 09:40 hrs Mayleaf Shine 10:15 hrs Mr Lupton 10:50 hrs Hyperfocus 11:25 hrs Narcos 12:00 hrs Sepal 12:35 hrs Oasis Fantasy Newmarket 08:50 hrs Mildenberger 09:20 hrs Different League 09:55 hrs Cardsharp 10:35 hrs Brorocco 11:10 hrs Altyn Orda 11:45 hrs Exhort 12:20 hrs Firmdecisions Ripon 09:00 hrs Rastacap 09:35 hrs Trumps Up 10:10 hrs Move In Time 10:45 hrs Naggers 11:20 hrs Dream Machine 11:55 hrs Royal Connoisseur 12:30 hrs Lazarus South Africa Racing Tips Durbanville 08:55 hrs Raise Your Hand 09:30 hrs Alaadel 10:10 hrs Regal Ruby 10:45 hrs True Words 11:20 hrs League Game Irish Racing Tips Gowan Park 08:45 hrs Apparition 09:15 hrs Alterno 09:50 hrs Midnight Stroll 10:25 hrs Ben Button 11:00 hrs Balko Des Flos 11:35 hrs Riviera Sun 12:10 hrs Brelade American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Valdocco Road Race 2 Abbot Race 3 Road to Meath Race 4 Funtastic Race 5 Favourable Outcome Race 6 Consumerconfidence Race 7 El Deal Race 8 Voting Control Race 9 Elate Race 10 Sadler’s Joy

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2017

GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF)

Extra Time

Guyana Football Federation and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs present

T

….Charity football event to support persons affected by Hurricane Irma and Maria

he Guyana Football Federation (GFF) and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs will host a charity football game on Sunday, 1st October, 2017 at the Everest Cricket Club Ground, Eve Leary to assist persons who have been affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. As a leadup to the match, the Minister of Social Cohesion Honourable Dr. George

Norton and Guyana Football Federation (GFF) President Wayne Forde visited the training of the Indigenous male team on Thursday, 28th September where they both expressed best wishes to the team. Additionally, the GFF hosted a press conference featuring representatives from the two teams together with President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, Hon. Minister Within

The Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe and Troy Peters, Communications Manager, Banks DIH Ltd, sponsor representative. The presser was held on Friday, 29th September at the Boardroom, GFF Secretariat and was hosted by Debra Francis, Communications and Public Relations Officer, GFF Come out and support this worthy cause

on Sunday... 1st game: National U17 vs All-Star team (female game) @ 18:00hrs 2nd game: GFF's President's 11 vs Indigenous All-Stars (male game) @ 20:00hrs The feature match was selected from the just-concluded Indigenous Heritage Games EVENT ADMISSION: G$500 Event supported by Banks DIH Ltd

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

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

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

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Elgar misses double century

SOUTH Africa claimed three early wickets after hundreds from Dean Elgar and Hashim Amla put them in control against Bangladesh. Dean Elgar agonisingly missed out on a double century but hundreds from the opener and Hashim Amla placed South Africa in a commanding position on day two of the first Test against Bangladesh in Potchefstroom. The Proteas maintained the dominance that saw them end the opening day at 298-1, with Amla scoring his 27th Test hundred to move level with Graeme Smith – Jacques Kallis is the only South African to have notched more at 45. Amla became the victim of the 70 000th wicket in

Test history when he holed out off Shaiful Islam (1-74) in the first over after lunch, his formidable partnership with Elgar ending after 215 runs. The run rate slowed with the entrance of Temba Bavuma (31) and Elgar’s concentration appeared to dip before he ballooned Mustafizur Rahman (1-98) to midwicket on 199, clearly dejected as he made way back. Faf du Plessis (26) provided a shot of energy before South Africa declared on 496-3, with Bangladesh losing opening duo Liton Das (25) and Imrul Kayes (7). They reached stumps at 127-3 with plenty of work to do. The runs flowed freely in the first session, with

Elgar passing his previous best of 140 when he clipped Shaiful through midwicket to move onto 144 with a boundary, and he launched Mehedi Hasan for six over mid-on to continue his progress. Amla stole two runs to bring up his ton and his

Dean Elgar acknowledges the applause as he walks back for 199. (AFP)

Openers sizzle as England win 4-0 WEST Indies tour of England ended on a low note as they were thrashed by nine wickets at the Ageas Bowl. Jonny Bairstow and Jason Roy starred again as England rounded off their home international season with a thumping nine-wicket victory over a lack-lustre West Indies side at the Ageas Bowl. The fifth and final oneday international proved a somewhat low-key affair, with England already holding an unassailable series lead and headlines being dominated by offfield matters following Ben Stokes’ arrest in the early hours of Monday morning. Stokes, who was initially taken into custody on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm following an incident in Bristol before being released under investigation without charge, and opener Alex Hales, with his team-mate at the time of the altercation, each missed the fourth ODI at The Oval and remained unavailable yesterday. Both players have been suspended on full pay by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) pending further investigations. In the context of that ongoing saga, England’s latest victory is unlikely to command too much attention, but Eoin Morgan’s side can nevertheless take satisfaction from a hugely convincing win and a 4-0 series triumph. The rejuvenated Roy, once more opening in place of Hales, followed up his 84 last time out with 96 from just 70 balls, while Bairstow cruised to his second century of the series to cement his position at the top of the order, finishing unbeaten on 141 from 114 deliveries

alongside Joe Root (46 not out). Having come so close to keeping the series alive, in the rain-affected Oval ODI, West Indies were guilty of a dismal performance in the final match of their tour. Chris Gayle (40) provided some early fireworks after his side had been put in to bat - the opener swiftly making up for a cautious start by clubbing a remarkable 34 runs from six Jake Ball deliveries. However, the Windies struggled to regain any momentum after Gayle and Kyle Hope had fallen to superb catches from Liam Plunkett. A diving take running back from midoff ended Gayle’s fun and gave debutant Tom Curran a notable maiden ODI wicket, while Plunkett also pulled off a one-handed take off his own bowling to remove Hope for 33. Marlon Samuels used up 60 balls in a sluggish innings of 32 that ended when he

union with Elgar was worth 215 when the teams went in for lunch, but Bangladesh soon made the breakthrough. With just the third ball of the second session Shaiful tempted Amla with a wide delivery that ended up in the arms of Mehedi, and

was stumped off Moeen Ali, while Shai Hope, who was dropped twice, went 77 balls without a boundary before eventually accelerating to 72 from 95 deliveries. Spinners Moeen (1-36) and Adil Rashid (1-42) were chiefly responsible for restricting the Windies, who appeared short of a par score despite a late cameo from Ashley Nurse (31 not out from 12 balls) and some painful figures for Ball (194). The inadequacy of West Indies’ total was soon clear as Roy and Bairstow scored freely in an opening stand that yielded 30 runs more than the 126 they shared at The Oval. Roy was agonisingly denied a ton when he fell lbw to Miguel Cummins, but Bairstow - who compiled his maiden ODI century at the start of this series and Root added a further 138 in a hurry as England eased home with 12 overs to spare. (Sportsmax)

SCOREBOARD

WEST INDIES innings

ENGLAND innings

C. Gayle c Plunkett b Curran 40 K. Hope c & b Plunkett 33 S. Hope c Billings b Ball 72 M. Samuels p. Buttler b Ali 32 J. Mohammed c Root b Rashid 25 S. Ambris not out 38 R. Powell b Plunkett 11 A. Nurse not out 31 Extras: (w6-) 6 Total: (6 wkts, 50 overs) 288 Fall of wickets: 1-52, 2-86, 3-143, 4-195, 5-221, 6-253. Bowling: Ball 10-1-94-1, Curran 10-1-62-1, Plunkett 10-0-54-2, Rashid 10-1-42-1, Moeen Ali 10-0-36-1.

J. Roy lbw b Cummins 96 J. Bairstow not out 141 J. Root not out 46 Extras: (lb-2, w-9) 11 Total: (1 wkt, 38 overs) 294 Fall of wickets: 1-156. Bowling: Taylor 8-0-52-0, Joseph 7-0-54-0, Cummins 8-0-70-1, Nurse 8-0-56-0, Samuels 4-0-41-0, Powell 3-019-0. Result: England won by nine wickets. Series: England won fivematch series 4-0. Man-of-the-Match: Jonny Bairstow. Man-of-the-Series: Moeen Ali.

Bavuma was unable to keep up the impressive pace. He focused on rotating the strike to assist Elgar, who suffered a scare when an attempt to crunch a shot over the leg side turned into an edge into space behind for three runs. There was no let-off on the 30-year-old’s next mistake, though. He lobbed an attempted pull shot up for a routine Mominul Haque catch and received a series of consolation pats on the back from Bangladesh players as he walked back to the pavilion. du Plessis found the boundary from the first two deliveries he faced and he repeated the trick before the Proteas declared at tea. A short delivery from Kagiso Rabada (1-23) accounted for Imrul as Ban-

gladesh suffered a setback in just the sixth over, while an outside edge off Morne Morkel (1-34) from Liton was taken at slip by Amla to leave the tourists at 36-2. Elgar was unable to match his quality with the bat in the field as he put down Mushfiqur on six and 15, the second going for a boundary after glancing off wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock’s glove. Both those drops were off Keshav Maharaj (138) but he soon accounted for Mushfiqur, and Tamim Iqbal (22) closed the day’s play with a thunderous six over the long-on boundary. He will resume alongside Mominul (28) when the Tigers seek to make inroads into South Africa’s imposing total. (Sportsmax)

Golden Jaguars, Indigenous XI excited to play Charity match on Sunday THE Indigenous XI and the Golden Jaguars, Guyana’s National football team, are anxious to face each other in a Charity game, organised by the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs and the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) to aid in the support their Caribbean counterparts, who are victims of hurricanes Irma and Maria, which emaciated parts of the Region earlier this month. The Everest ground will host the first-of-its-kind match, which will kick off at 20:00hrs. The opening game, a female encounter starting at 18:00hrs will bring together the National Under-17 squad against an

All-Star team. “It’s a great idea to have the game,” said Jeremey Garrett, who will be turning out for the President’s XI. He also noted, “The whole idea of the game is to give charity to the countries that were affected by the hurricanes. I know we’re one of the luckiest countries in the world because we don’t experience these things; if we did I know for a fact that we would have wanted help from other countries. So for the country to come up with an idea like this I must commend those who really thought of the idea to have a game to lend help to the other countries that were affected.” National player Delano

Mentore, who will be featuring for the Indigenous All-Star XI, said it is a great opportunity for the players from the hinterland to play against the national set-up. “We’re looking forward for the support from the fans. We hope you come out in numbers and we’re here to give the Golden Jaguars it’s not a walkover like they said, but we’re here to put our best foot forward and enjoy the match,” Mentore stated. Funds garnered from the two games will go to victims of hurricane-ravaged Caribbean islands. Admission to the venue is $500, and persons can make donations at a desk that will be set up at the venue.

Pakistan make strong start after Chandimal heroics A MARATHON innings from Dinesh Chandimal held up Pakistan, but they were 64-0 in reply to 419 at stumps on day two. Dinesh Chandimal led by example with his first century as Sri Lanka Test captain but Pakistan made a positive start to their reply on day two in Abu Dhabi. The imperturbable Chandimal was unbeaten on 155 - his second-highest Test score – and Niroshan Dickwella made a more entertaining Test-best 83 to get the tourists up to 419 all out. A patient Chandimal, who faced 372 balls in what was his ninth Test hundred, and the aggressive Dickwella put on 134 for the fifth wicket as

Sri Lanka set about trying to silence their critics. Mohammad Abbas (375) and Yasir Shah (3-120) took three wickets apiece before Shan Masood and Sami Aslam saw Pakistan through to 64-0 at stumps. The pair continued to frustrate Pakistan as the partnership passed 100, Dickwella comfortably outscoring his captain and overtaking him following a reverse-sweep to the boundary off Yasir. Dickwella missed out on a maiden Test ton when the lefthander played on to a delivery from Hasan Ali, but Chandimal was rewarded for his defiance by bringing up a 273-ball hundred with a glorious cover drive off Mohammad Amir.

Dilruwan Perera successfully reviewed after being given out leg-before when he got an inside edge on an arm ball from Yasir and it took Dilruwan 33 deliveries to finally get off the mark after also overturning an lbw decision. After Sri Lanka took lunch on 322-5, Dilruwan got his eye in, using his feet superbly to get to the pitch of the ball and loft Hasan for six over long-on, but a 92-run partnership was ended when debutant Haris Sohail snared him lbw for 33. Masood and Aslam saw Pakistan through to the close unscathed, reducing the deficit to 355 runs on what was very much Chandimal’s day. (Sportsmax)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2017

Franchise League 3-day tournament

East Bank, Upper Corentyne take first day honours … Reifer hits even 100 against Georgetown BOTH East Bank and Upper Corentyne took first day honours in round five of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Franchise League three-day tournament, which commenced yesterday, with three matches. At the Bush Lot ground, East Bank franchise closed on 161-7, leading West Berbice’s first-innings total of 140 by 21 runs. The visitors’ bowlers dominated proceedings and took wickets at regular intervals, with medium pacers Sherefane Rutherford (329), Ronaldo Ali-Mohamed (3-49), and off-spinner Steven Jacobs (3-30), being the most successful bowlers. Darshan Persaud took the

Raymon Reifer

other wicket. East Bank won the toss and elected to bowl, a decision which proved to go their way. West Berbice openers Raffle Estriado (15) and Arthley Bailey (16), added 31 for

the first wicket, but after Estriado’s dismissal, the home team plunged to new depths of misery with an inept batting display as the wickets tumbled quickly thereafter. Javid Karim made 19 before Gudakesh Motie (21) and Andrew Dutchin (28) provided a brief late-order resistance, and were the three other batsmen to have reached double figures. In reply, Jacobs made 61, with eleven fours. Sachin Singh contributed 29 while Rutherford chipped in with 23. At Port Mourant; Upper Corentyne replying to Essequibo’s first inning of 153, were 190-3 with a first-inning lead of 37 runs. For

Courts Pee Wee football kicks off today

Eon Hooper

Essequibo, opener Kevon Boodie top-scored with 50. Off-spinner Eon Hooper claimed 5-63 while Shawn Pereira had 3-34. For Upper Corentyne, David Latchya was unbeaten on 66, with Anthony

Bramble on 43. Kandasammy Surujnarine (34), Balchand Baldeo (28) and Joshua Ramsammy (5) were the batsmen dismissed so far. Anthony Adams has two wickets while Keemo Paul took the other wicket. At Tuschen; Georgetown closed on one without loss replying to West Demerara’s 333 all out. Raymon Reifer made a composed 100 for West Demerara. He received support from Romario Shepherd (52), Mahendra Dhanpaul (31), Tevin Imlach (28), and 28 runs each from Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Travis Persaud. Bowling for Georgetown, Leon Johnson took 3-67, Robin Bacchus 3-40, Ashmead Nedd 2-40, while

Sherefane Rutherford

Christopher Barnwell and Steven Sankar took a wicket apiece. Meanwhile, the other fifth round game between Lower Corentyne and East Coast will start today at the Lusignan ground.

Banks DIH onboard for tomorrow’s athletic road races

Keenly contested action is anticipated in the sixth edition of the COURTS/Malta Pee Wee Under-11 Schools Football Tournament.

THE sixth edition of the Courts/Malta Pee Wee Under-11 Schools Football Tournament is set for an electrifying kick-off today

at the Thirst Park ground. The Pee Wee tournament, which is the brainchild of the Petra Organisation, will see 16 games.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday September 30, 2017) 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) Jason Holder-41* (2) No Result Today’s Quiz: (1) How many players have now captained the WI in ODIs to date? (2)

Who was the first to do so?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

The group allocation for this year is as follows - Group A: JE Burnham Primary, Supply Primary, Sophia Primary and Goed Fortuin Primary; Group B: Tucville Primary, St Pius Primary, FE Pollard Primary, and Soesdyke Primary; Group C: Stella Maris Primary, St Stephen’s Primary; Timehri Primary, and Mae’s Primary; Group D: West Ruimveldt Primary, St Margaret’s Primary, Clonbrook Primary, and Enterprise Primary; Group E: Winfer Gardens Primary, St Angela’s Primary, Marian Academy, and Golden Grove Primary; Group F: St Agnes Primary; North G/T Primary, Redeemer Primary, and Grove Primary; Group G: South Ruimveldt Primary, School of the Nations, Victoria Primary, and Mocha Primary and Group H: St Ambrose Primary, Smith Memorial, Den Amstel Primary, and Colaaco Academy. St Angela’s boys are the defending champions.

Pernell Cummings collects the sponsorship cheque from Clive Pellew (second left), while Aubrey Hutson, Mortimer Stewart and James Cole share the moment.

WITH the seventh annual COURTS 10K and 3K athletic road races set for tomorrow around Georgetown, local beverage giant Banks DIH Limited has renewed its partnership with COURTS Guyana Inc. for the one-day event. The partnership was sealed yesterday when the business entity handed over the sponsorship cheque for the event at a simple presentation ceremony, held at Banks DIH Limited headquarters at Thirst Park. The event will be sponsored under the Rainforest

Waters brand. The presentation was made by Clive Pellew, Water Beverage Brand Manager, to Pernell Cummings, COURTS Marketing Manager in the presence of Aubrey Hutson, Amateur Athletics of Guyana (AAG) president; Race Coordinator James Cole and Banks DIH Outdoor Events Manager Mortimer Stewart. During brief remarks, Cummings thanked Banks DIH Limited for supporting the programme once again, as the two companies continue their partnership to foster

the development of sport in Guyana. The 10K race is expected to attract the country’s leading male and female distance runners. Employees of the Company will compete in the 3K race while there will also be a Golden mile (1500 metres) for children between 10 and 16 years old. Over $2M in cash and other incentives will be up for grabs. The races, which get underway at 06:00hrs, will start and end at COURTS on Main Street, Georgetown.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2017

I am running for BCB president – Somwaru … Stresses honesty, transparency once elected

By Rajiv Bisnauth PRESIDENT of the Guyana Cricket Umpires Council, Dhierandranauth Somwaru, has confirmed that he will run for president of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) in next month’s elections. The 64-year-old made the disclosure yesterday, saying his decision to run is because of the interest he has in the game. “Well I have been in cricket all the time, and I have been an administrator. I was the first vice-president of the BCB, and when Mr. Beharry resigned somebody had to take up the mantle, and I have decided to, because of my interest in cricket. Playing cricket for over 50 years, being an administrator in schools and so on, I decided to take it up. I was prompted by some of my friends to run for it, so that’s why I have made the decision,” the former first-

class umpire said. The elections of the BCB followed a ruling delivered by Justice Navindra Singh last September 8, with the purpose of electing officer-bearers of the board. Somwaru is the lone confirmed candidate so far, with Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club Hilbert Foster, expected to be his rival. But, Foster is yet to confirm his position whether to run for the top post since he had told the Chronicle Sport in an interview earlier this week that it will take a superhuman effort to lift Berbice cricket. However, Somwaru pointed out that the only interest he has is for the good of cricket, adding that honesty and transparency will be his fundamental mantras once elected. “I will want to see cricket going back to the grassroots

level … the youngsters, and then moving on for Berbice

Dhierandranauth Somwaru

to once again be the champion team in this country. One of the things I would like to see once I am elected if for my people to be honest, straightforward, transparent … I don’t want anything to be hidden from anybody. “Let us be open …include some of those clubs

who have not played cricket for a long time, for exam-

Hilbert Foster

ple Kildonan has not been playing first division cricket, Upper Corentyne has not taken part in any competitive cricket, so they are the things I would like to see happening once again, so that cricket can be played right across Berbice,” Somwaru pointed out.

National Ladies continue dominant streak in GTT Indoor hockey THE National Ladies, with 14 goals, chalked up their fourth straight win Thursday evening against the Bingo Spartans in the GTT National indoor championships. Pizza Hut GCC sailed into the Ladies final with an easy win over iNet Lynx. The Pepsi Hikers pulled ahead of Saints in the men’s first division to set up a challenge with Old Fort Titans for a spot in the final while Old Fort Warriors seem destined for a final spot in the men’s second division, with an easy victory over Saints. Despite some high quality men’s and women’s open division hockey, it was the veterans, who produced the most entertaining match of the evening, as GCC Vintage took on Antonio’s Grill Hickers. Despite GCC being the favourites in the match based on earlier performances, Hickers midfielder Devin Munroe seemed determined to create another Bourda

washout. With the Hickers earning a penalty stroke in the 12th minute of a scoreless game thus far, Munroe converted the first of his three goals for the Hickers. Vintage striker Philip Fernandes drew the scores level at 1-1 just one minute later with a rebound after a fine save by Azad DeAbreu in the Hickers goal. The match continued this trend as Munroe put his team up twice, with GCC levelling the score right after, through Patrick Edghill and a Dwayne Scott penalty corner. The game ended at a 3-3 stalemate robbing both teams of bragging rights. The National Ladies continued their predictable dominance of the women’s division, with a fine display of scoring. Taking the court against newcomers Bingo Spartans, the National Ladies amassed a team record 14 goals for the easy victory. The brave Spartans can

boast, however, of being the first Ladies team to breach the National defences, with two goals to their name from Abosaide Cadogan and Kirsten Gomes. The end of the game met a score line of 14-2 in favour of the National Ladies. Pizza Hut GCC brushed aside iNet Lynx in the other Ladies clash with Sonia Jardine being the player on fire for GCC. Jardine was the lone player to score in the first half of the match, with a hat-trick through two penalty corners, and a field goal. Sandy Roopnarine and Dominique DeGroot continued the trend for the Pizza lovers to end, with a 5-0 victory. The Pepsi Hikers finally got in the winners’ column when they faced Saints in their men’s first division fixture. Shane Samuels was the hero for the Hikers, scoring all five goals in their 5-3 victory. Young Parmanad Dindi-

al almost matched Samuels’ feat, but fell short by two in his hat-trick for Saints. The National Greens had a bit of a scare against Bounty GCC in their men’s first division clash as the Bourda boys finished within one in the final score of 5-4 for the Greens. The GCC Pitbulls drew with Saint Stanislaus College 2-2 in their men’s second division clash while the Old Fort Warriors climbed to the top of the men’s second division table, with a 4-0 beating of Saints. With the National teams being ineligible for the final, the Old Fort Titans and Bounty GCC topped the men’s first division pool with four points each. Pizza Hut GCC stand way ahead of the rest, with nine points in the women’s pool. Old Fort Warriors top the men’s pool so far, with the GCC Pitbulls and Saint Stanislaus College tied for second and GCC Vintage lead the veterans’ pool.

He added “One of the things I was fighting for since I was an executive of the BCB is for us to move into Orealla and Siparuta, because I played cricket against those boys, so I would like to see those people also taking part in competitive cricket. Those are some of my ideas I have in mind.”. Somwaru is currently the acting president of the BCB, following the resignation of then-president Anil Beharry who resigned from the post in January of this year. Beharry’s one-year term expired in December 2015, according to what is stipulated in the Cricket Administration Bill, but his tenure was significantly hindered a few months after the December 2014 elections, after applicants Godwyn Allicock of the Port Mourant Cricket Club and David Black of the West Berbice Cricket Association sought and were granted a court injunction

against the BCB. That injunction was subsequently withdrawn allowing Somwaru to assume the responsibility of acting president. The October 8 elections will be the first since 2014, and perhaps will be the most important one for the county. According to what is stipulated in the Cricket Administration Bill, three sub-associations, along with eleven first division clubs, have secured voting rights during the elections process. The sub-associations are: West Berbice, Berbice River and Upper Corentyne while the first division clubs are Blairmont, Police, Mt Sinai, Fort Canje, Guymine, Rose Hall Estate, Chesney, Albion, Port Mourant, Whim and Kildonan. East sub-association is entitled to four voting delegates while the clubs have two voting delegates each.

Ramchand ready for Caribbean Invasion

Anand Ramchand and his Toyota Levin.

Team Ramchand’s Wreckers are ready for tomorrow’s Caribbean Invasion drag race meet at the South Dakota Circuit, Timehri. The wreckers, with several local titles under their belts, will be returning to the racing track with the Gillette-sponsored Toyota Levin, a Nissan Pulsar, a Toyota Celica, and a Toyota Starlet. Speaking to the media from his Good Hope East Coast Demerara workshop, Ramchand conveyed that he is ready for the battle, come Sunday (tomorrow). “We’ve been working

through the nights recently as we prepare for this drag race meet. However, the main car is not finished as yet, the parts came in late, but we are taking up four cars.” He added, “We are working together as one with all the Guyanese, to get the best result tomorrow against the Surinamese cars.” The team is sponsored by Ansa McAl through the Gillette brand and Ramchand’s Wreckers. Official free practice for the event is set for noon today while tomorrow’s races begin at 09:00hrs, with free runs.

I am running for BCB president – Somwaru Page 35

Golden Jaguars, Indigenous XI excited to play Charity match on Sunday Page 33

READY! Team representatives and officials from the GFF and Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs at yesterday’s press conference

Openers sizzle as England win 4-0

National Ladies continue dominant streak in GTT Indoor hockey Page 35

Page 33

Jonny Bairstow raises his second century of the series as England wraps up a ninewicket win. (Getty Images)

Jason Roy helps get the chase off to a good start. (Getty Images)

Michael Hing of Bounty GCC blocks a scoring chance attempted by Jason DeSantos of the National Greens.

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER, 30, 2017