Guyanese to be evacuated from BVI this week Page 9
THURSDAY OCTOBER 5, 2017
Price: $80
DDL pours $10B No. 105056
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…into new warehouses, blending facility
Centre Pages
Gov’t puts focus on strengthening police force Page 2
…President says CoI points out flaws
SWAT boss relieved of post Rape accused bolts from Lusignan prison Page 3
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Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo (right) and Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin being briefed by Chairman of the Demerara Distillers Limited, Komal Samaroo during a tour of the company’s Diamond, East Bank Demerara facility on Wednesday (Samuel Maughn photo)
‘Still my call’ …President says CJ ruling maintains his right to choose a fit and proper person
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
Gov’t puts focus on strengthening …President says CoI points out flaws police force PRESIDENT David Granger said that his administration’s focus is on strengthening the Guyana Police Force and that the findings and recommendations from the recent Commission of Inquiry will aid in this process. Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, the Guyanese leader said that the CoI report will come up for discussion when Cabinet meets next week. On Wednesday, President Granger told reporters at State House, that the report compiled by retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Slowe, was not discussed when Cabinet met last Tuesday. The report, snippets of which were seen by the Guyana Chronicle, calls for stern action to be taken against some members of the Guyana Police Force, including those sitting at the helm. Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud;
Senior Superintendent, Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum; and Deputy Crime Chief, Senior Superintendent of Police Rishi Das, were among those singled out and according to the report, should be removed or sanctioned. Asked whether he was concerned that such a sensitive document was leaked to the press, President Granger responded in the affirmative, but said the efficiency of the Guyana Police Force is of paramount importance to the Government. “I had hoped that members of the Cabinet would have had an opportunity to look at it critically before it came up for public discussion. So I am concerned. I don’t know who is responsible for that leak, but the important thing is that we have been able to discern or detect some flaws in the police administration,” President Granger told reporters. He noted that the Ministry of
the Presidency and the Public Security Ministry have been working to ensure that the police force is more efficient. “We are all concerned about crime, and we cannot solve the problems of crime, whether it is narco-trafficking, whether it is interpersonal violence, whether it is traffic accidents, without having an efficient police force. So the efficiency of the police force is of paramount concern,” President Granger said. According to the CoI report, Persaud, who is currently on leave, should be made to resign or proceedings should be initiated in accordance with Article 225 of the Constitution to have him removed from office for misbehaviour. The commissioner, based on the inquiry, said in his report that Persaud had improperly inserted himself into the investigation of the alleged plot, although he was on leave. According to the
Assistant Commissioner of Police (ret'd) Paul Slowe
commission, the commissioner’s insertion of himself into the matter “adversely” influenced the conduct of the investigation. At the time, Assistant Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine was acting in the capacity of police commissioner. He is the
second most senior rank in the force. The commission also called for Blanhum to be removed as head of the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) for his failure to properly supervise the investigation, though so instructed by acting Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine, for lying to Ramnarine, not conducting due diligence on a report containing factual errors sent to the National Security Council (NSC), neglect of duty, and insubordination. The deputy crime chief was not spared either. According to the commission, Das should be disciplined for neglect of duty for failing to ensure that the correct date of the allegation made by Andriff Gillard, a Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD) resident, was stated in the report he submitted to the commissioner of police. Assistant Commissioner
of Police David Ramnarine and Assistant Police Commissioner and Head of Operations, Clifton Hicken, were also singled out in the report. The inquiry was launched after concerns were raised over the police handling of an alleged plot to assassinate the President. In March, Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD) businessman, Andriff Gillard, alleged that he was offered $7M by Nazim Khan to assassinate President Granger in 2015, shortly after he took office. Gillard, who was among a long list of persons who testified before the commission, accused officers of the Criminal Investigation Department’s Major Crimes Unit, headed by the crime chief, of not taking his report seriously. He based his allegation on the fact that accused brother Imran Khan has close ties to the police commissioner.
President awaits response from nominee for Chancellor post PRESIDENT David Granger is awaiting a response from the nominee identified for the substantive post of Chancellor of the Judiciary. Described as a person of Guyanese descent, the nominee, who hails from the Anglophone Caribbean, was written to by President Granger. While in opposition, President Granger had suggested to the then President Donald Ramotar that upon failing to reach an agreement, a search be conducted in the
Anglophone Caribbean for a candidate. “That search has been done, it has been completed, and some recommendations have been made, and I have written to the person who was recommended,” President Granger told reporters on Wednesday. “He has been written to and I am awaiting a response,” he added. The nominee was selected and recommended to the President by a panel comprising former Justice of Appeal, Claudette
Singh, Justice James Patterson, and Professor Harold Lutchman. Once the nominee responds, President Granger said he will consult with the Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo in accordance with the Constitution. “Once I receive a response from the person who has been nominated by the panel, I will have a meeting with Mr. Jagdeo,” the President said. According to the President, the situation is the
same for the nominee for the substantive post of Chief Justice. Currently, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards serves as acting Chancellor of the Judiciary, while Justice Roxanne George-Wiltshire is the acting Chief Justice. Cummings-Edwards also served as acting Chief Justice, following the retirement of Justice Ian Chang and was appointed acting Chancellor in March after Justice Carl Singh demitted office on February 23, 2017. She
was then replaced by Justice George-Wiltshire as acting Chief Justice. Earlier in the year, President Granger had told the Guyana Chronicle that: “I am confident that he [Opposition Leader] will recognise that this impasse has to be brought to an end and the acting Chancellor and Chief Justice are aware that their positions are temporary and I would like to see Guyana have a permanent appointee as Chancellor and a per-
manent appointee as Chief Justice.” According to Article 127 of the Constitution of Guyana, “the Chancellor and the Chief Justice shall each be appointed by the President, acting after obtaining the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition.” In January, the government had advertised for suitably qualified persons to fill the vacancies of Chancellor of the Judiciary and Chief Justice.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
PRESIDENT David Granger is likely to meet with the Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo within days to discuss the third list of nominees for the Chairmanship of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). The third list, submitted by Jagdeo more than five weeks ago, comprises former GECOM Chairman Major-General (retired) Joseph Singh, Attorneys Teni Housty and Sanjeev Datadin, businesswoman Annette Arjoon-Martins, Pastor Onesi La Fleur and former Magistrate, Krishendatt Persaud. Speaking to reporters on the sideline of an event at State House on Wednesday, President Granger said he looks forward to having a meeting with the leader of the opposition, but said no date has been set. “I haven’t set a timeline, I don’t know about Mr. Jagdeo’s availabil-
…President says CJ ruling maintains his right to choose a fit and proper person …to meet Jagdeo on third GECOM list
ity, but it is a busy week… [But] I look forward to meeting him very soon. I hope next week, if he is available, once he is available.” In addition to reviewing the Curricula Vitae of the list of nominees, President Granger said he has been studying the “opinion” by the Chief Justice (ag), Roxanne George-Wiltshire and its implications for the decisions he will soon make. “It was quite clear that among everything she has written, she has not interfered with the President’s right guaranteed by the Constitution to select a person who is fit and proper. And I think in that regard, I will continue
to do what the Constitution calls upon me to do, select a person who is fit and proper,” President Granger told reporters. He added: “Nothing the chief justice wrote has prevented me or inhibited my exercise of that authority or that power.” Article 161 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana states that “Subject to the provisions of paragraph (4), the Chairman of the Elections Commission shall be a person who holds or who has held (an) office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth or a
SWAT boss relieved of post THE Head of the police Special Weapons and Tactics Unit (SWAT), Deputy Superintendent of Police, Lonsdale Withrite has been relieved of his duty days after he said he was allegedly robbed of his car and firearm while being on the seawall with a woman. In a statement the police said an investigation has been launched into the circumstances which led to Withrite, the Officer-in-Command of SWAT Unit, who was allegedly robbed at gunpoint of a service pistol, and a magazine containing sixteen live rounds. In a subsequent statement po-
lice said the officer was relieved of his post. The incident reportedly took place at about 21:00hrs on Monday October 02, 2017 while on the Industry Seawall, East Coast Demerara in company of a female. The officer alleged that he was pounced on by three suspects, one of whom discharged two rounds and relieved him of his motorcar in which the firearm and ammunition were. Swift responses from several units of the Guyana Police Force led to the recovery of his motorcar on the Ogle Airstrip Road, East Coast Demerara a few hours after.
President David Granger greeting Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo during one of the few meetings they have had. (File Photo)
court having jurisdiction in appeals from any such court or who is qualified to be appointed as any such judge, or any other fit and proper person….” Deliberating on Article 161 (2) of the Constitution, after the High Court was approached by businessman Marcel Gaskin for an interpretation, the chief justice stated that the Head-of-State has sole discretion on the determination of what is ‘fit and proper’ and as such, he is not obligated to select a person from the six names
on a list of which he has determined positively that the persons thereon are unacceptable as fit and proper persons for appointment. Justice George-Wiltshire, in her ruling, also advised that there is no legal requirement for the President to state reasons for rejecting a list, though it is her belief that in the furtherance of democracy and good governance, he should, since Article 161 (2) speaks to the need for dialogue and compromise. In June, 2017, President
Granger had rejected the second list of nominees for GECOM’s chairmanship on the basis that it was “unacceptable.” The first list was also rejected in January. In March, the President had laid out the qualities that nominees for the position must possess. Among the requirements were, inter alia, that the individual must not be an activist of any form (gender, racial, religious, etc); that the person must have no political affiliation; and that the person should have the general characteristics of honesty, integrity, faithfulness, and diligence. Jagdeo’s second list of nominees included: Justice of Appeal BS Roy (ret’d); Justice William Ramlal (ret’d); Oneidge Walrond-Allicock, attorney-at-law and a former magistrate; Kashir Khan, attorney-at-law; Nadia Sagar, attorney-at-law and Mr Gerald Gouveia. The first rejected list of nominees included: Governance and Conflict Resolution Specialist, Lawrence Lachmansingh; Attorney-at-Law and Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram; Retired Major-General, Norman Mc Lean; Business Executive, Ramesh Dookhoo; Indian Rights Activist, Rhyaan Shah and History Professor, James Rose. GECOM has been operating without a chairman since February, 2017, following the retirement of Dr. Steve Surujbally, who had been at the helm of the commission for the past 15 years.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
After ‘moron’ report, Tillerson Las Vegas shooting: Trump to emergency ‘heroes’ reaffirms commitment to Trump tribute President Donald Trump geles from the Philippines on
Secretary of State Rex Tillerson said he has no plans to resign and will not do so, denying reports that Vice President Mike Pence had to urge him to stay in the job and sidestepping questions about whether he called President Donald Trump a “moron.” “The vice president has never had to persuade me to remain as secretary of state because I have never considered leaving this post,” Tillerson said in a hastily called press conference at the State Department. Tillerson’s remarks were part of an administration wide effort to dismiss an NBC article in which aides described Tillerson calling Trump a moron and his “fury” about the ways Trump has undermined him publicly on several foreign policy initiatives. Calling the report “erroneous,” Tillerson pointed the finger at “some who try to sow dissension” to undermine the President’s agenda. And he said he wouldn’t deal with “petty nonsense” of name-calling. Asked whether he’d ever called Trump a “moron,” Tillerson did not respond directly. “The places I come from,
we don’t deal with that kind of petty nonsense,” Tillerson said. “I’m just not going to be part of this effort to divide this administration.” He spoke as the President was flying cross country to visit survivors of Sunday’s mass shooting in Las Vegas. It was a remarkable public defense that only served to highlight administration infighting and the President’s precarious track record with his most senior officials and advisers, some of whom have resigned or been dismissed, and others, such as Attorney General Jeff Sessions, who have had to endure public excoriation from Trump. Trump was aware before Wednesday’s report that Tillerson had referred to him as a “moron” at the Pentagon this summer, a source familiar with the conversation told CNN, but it’s unclear whether Trump discussed the remark with Tillerson. Trump was not present at the Pentagon meeting. A White House source also confirmed to CNN that Trump knew about the insult prior to Wednesday. Trump is not pleased that it
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is now public knowledge that Tillerson called him a “moron,” but he isn’t on the verge of asking for his top diplomat’s resignation, a person familiar with his thinking said. Instead, the President publicly dismissed the report as “fake news” and “totally made up” while on a trip to Las Vegas. The President said he had “total confidence” in Tillerson. “An uneasy relationship” Privately, however, Trump and Tillerson have an uneasy relationship, the source said, but Trump is wary of another high-profile departure from his administration after a tumultuous eight months in office. He’s aware that his administration and inner West Wing operation are shedding staff at an alarming clip, the person familiar with his thinking said. Trump has either dismissed or seen the departure of a national security adviser, press secretary, communications director, chief strategist, acting attorney general, FBI director and -- as of Friday -- a health and human services secretary. Trump, above all, wants tso project a sense of competence and believes the rapid turnover of staff helps fuel the notion his administration is in chaos, according to the source. The President’s rocky track record on senior staff and the ongoing rumors that Tillerson
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may leave or be ousted has raised concerns that the top diplomat’s departure could disrupt national security interests at a time when Washington faces multiple international challenges. “I think Secretary Tillerson, Secretary Mattis and Chief of Staff Kelly are those people that help separate our country from chaos,” Sen. Bob Corker, the Tennessee Republican who chairs the Foreign Relations Committee, told reporters Wednesday. State Department spokeswoman Heather Nauert said Tillerson spoke with Trump after his remarks to the press and told her that “it was a good conversation and they’re all good.” Nauert flatly denied that Tillerson called Trump a moron. “He did not use that language to speak about the President of the United States,” she told reporters. She added that Tillerson made the decision to come before the cameras to address the story. “He was not asked to do this, he knew it was the right thing to do,” Nauert said. White House press secretary Sarah Sanders told reporters on Air Force One that Trump continues to have confidence in Tillerson. If he didn’t, she said, Tillerson wouldn’t still be in his position. (CNN)
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visited first responders who attended the Las Vegas shooting on Sunday, saying he was “in the company of heroes”. “America is truly a nation in mourning” following the worst shooting in modern US history, he said. The attack left 58 people dead and more than 500 injured. “In the depths of horror, we will always find hope in the men and women who risk their lives for ours,” Mr Trump said. Applauding the wounded officers he had visited earlier in hospital, he said: “When the worst of humanity strikes - and strike it did - the best of humanity responds.” “Words cannot describe the bravery that the whole world witnessed on Sunday night. Americans defied death and hatred with love and with courage,” he said. First Lady Melania Trump joined the president to meet some of the victims and emergency responders on Wednesday. Mr Trump told reporters at the University Medical Center in Las Vegas: “I have to tell you it makes you very proud to be an American when you see the job that they’ve done.” The gunman, Stephen Paddock, shot himself dead as police approached. His girlfriend was being questioned on Wednesday by the FBI after arriving in Los An-
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Tuesday night. The president was joined by House Majority Leader Kevin McCarthy, Nevada congressman Mark Amodei and Nevada Senator Dean Heller, who had constituents killed in the attack. On Sunday, Paddock, a 64-year-old retired accountant with no criminal record, unloaded his gun into a crowd at a country music festival from the 32nd floor of his suite at the Mandalay Bay Hotel. He had some 23 weapons with him and had set up cameras both inside and outside the suite to see anyone approaching the room, police said. Witnesses described hundreds of shots being fired. What sounded like automatic gunfire can be heard on videos from the scene. Police have yet to establish a motive for the attack but took Paddock’s girlfriend, Marilou Danley, for questioning after she arrived in Los Angeles from the Philippines on Tuesday night. US authorities have named Ms Danley a “person of interest” in their investigation and said they made contact with her shortly after the shooting. Paddock reportedly wired $100,000 (£75,400) to her in the Philippines, where she had been since late September, before the rampage, local media have reported. (BBC)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
UN Secretary-General to visit St Kitts Opposition Leader dismisses hurricane-battered Caribbean countries allegations that he holds dual citizenship
United Nations Secretary General, António Guterres, Wednesday announced that he would be visiting Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica, two Caribbean Community (CARICOM) countries battered by Hurricanes Irma and Maria when they made their way through the Lesser Antilles last month. The Category 5 storms left trails of death and destruction, estimated at billions of dollars and the CARICOM countries have been seeking regional and international assistance in their efforts to rebuild.
Category 5 hurricane for three consecutive days, the longest on satellite record. He said Irma’s winds which reached 300 kilometres per hour for 37 hours, were also the longest on record at that intensity. “Hurricanes Harvey and Irma marked the first time that two Category 4 storms made landfall in the United States in the same year. And, of course, they were followed by Hurricane Maria, which decimated Dominica and had severe impacts across Puerto Rico. It is rare to see so many storms of
UN Secretary-General, António Guterres
Speaking at a news conference here, Guterres said some of the most important speeches at the just concluded United Nations General assembly (UNGA) came from the leaders of those Caribbean countries nations reeling from back-toback hurricanes. “The Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda reported that the entire population of Barbuda had been left homeless. The Prime Minister of Dominica declared that he had come to the United Nations “straight from the front line of the war on climate change”. “Today I am announcing that I will travel on Saturday to Antigua, Barbuda and Dominica to survey the damage and to assess what more the United Nations can do to help people recover, visiting of course also the operations that are taking place there,’ the UN Secretary General added. He said when he met with the regional leaders last month “I was struck most of all by a prevailing message from all the Caribbean leaders – including from the hardest hit countries. “Yes, they said, we urgently need support today. But even in the wake of utter devastation, they urged the world to act for tomorrow. As I said in my address to the General Assembly, we should not link any single weather event with climate change. “But scientists are clear that such extreme weather is precisely what their models predict, and they predict it will be the new normal of a warming world,” Guterres said noting that Hurricane Irma, which devastated Barbuda, was a
such strength so early in the season.” He said another factor surrounding this year’s Atlantic hurricane season is that sea levels have risen more than 10 inches since 1870 and that over the past 30 years, the number of annual weather-related disasters has nearly tripled, and economic losses have quintupled. “Scientists are learning more and more about the links between climate change and extreme weather. Climate change is warming the seas. This, in turn, means more water vapour in the atmosphere. When storms come, they bring more rain.” Guterres said a warmer climate turbocharges the intensity of hurricanes. “Instead of dissipating, they pick up fuel as they move across the ocean. The melting of glaciers, and the thermal expansion of the seas, means bigger storm surges. With more and more people living on coastlines, the damage is, and will be that much greater. “Scientific models have long predicted an increase in the number of Category 4 and 5 hurricanes. This is precisely what is happening – and even sooner than expected.” He said that so far, the United Nations and its partners have provided a variety of humanitarian assistance to the Caribbean region by air and by sea: 18 tons of food; 3 million water purification tablets; 3,000 water tanks; 2,500 tents; 2,000 mosquito nets and school kits; 500 debit cards for cash assistance; and much else. “We have launched appeals
for US$113.9 million to cover humanitarian needs for the immediate period ahead,” he said, commending those countries that are showing solidarity with the Caribbean t this time of dire need, including those doing so through South-South cooperation. “But on the whole, I regret to report, the response has been poor. I urge donors to respond more generously in the weeks to come,” he said, adding that the United Nations will continue to help countries in the Caribbean to strengthen disaster preparedness, working closely with the Barbados-based Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA). “We are strongly committed to helping small island states and, indeed, all countries to adapt to inevitable climate impacts, to increase the pace of recovery and to strengthen resilience overall. Innovative financing mechanisms will be crucial in enabling countries, like the Caribbean ones, to cope with external shocks of such significant magnitude. “We know that the world has the tools, the technologies and the wealth to address climate change, but we must show more determination in moving towards a green, clean, sustainable energy future,” Guterres said urging countries to implement the Paris Agreement. (CMC)
Opposition leader Dr. Denzil Douglas Wednesday described as “hogwash” allegations made by Prime Minister Dr. Timothy Harris that he hold dual citizenship including holding “the diplomatic passport of another country”. In a statement, the Opposition Leader said that as a legislator since 1989, he “does not hold dual citizenship, has never held dual citizenship, does not hold and never held citizenship of Dominica or any other country, except that of St Kitts & Nevis(SKN). “Instead of wasting people’s time with fake news about Dr Douglas holding citizenship for Dominica, Harris should have come clean in his press conference and escape the widespread and hostile criticism from citizens of SKN and the region, his own CARICOM colleagues, Ambassadors and the international community for undermining Dominica and Antigua & Barbuda in their attempts at recovery after severe devastation from recent hurricanes.” Harris told reporters Tuesday that he was exposing the hypocrisy of the former prime minister, who has in the past been a staunch advocate against holders of dual citizenship. He said also that Douglas was also promoting the
Citizenship of Investment Programme (CIP) of another un-named country and undermining the programme in the twin island Federation. “When a man holds the diplomatic passport of another country…whose interest is being put forward? Is it the one who gives him the diplomatic passport or is it his native land? It is a serious practical and constitutional difficulty that we have to deal with,” Prime Minister Harris said. The National Assembly Elections (Amendment) Act of 2009 states, in part, that a person shall not be qualified to be elected or appointed as a member [of the National Assembly] if he or she (a) is, by virtue of his or her own act, under any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience or adherence to a foreign power or state. “The same Dr. Douglas has in the past showed disdain for holders of dual citizenship. His vendetta against Lindsay Grant, against Shawn Richards and Eugene Hamilton, are all well-known. So serious was this matter of dual citizenship for persons participating in the Parliamentary life of the country that Dr. Douglas passed the National Assembly Elections (Amendment) Act No. 16 of 2009. “It wasn’t just simply a matter of policy; it was some-
thing that he felt so deeply moved about that he was moved to bring a piece of legislation – and I supported the legislation for what it was worth – as a matter of principle that those who are coming before the people of the country for service, must come unencumbered to the extent that that principle was eliminated in the Parliament,” Harris told reporters, while challenging the Opposition Leader to confirm or deny the accusation. But in his statement, Douglas said that the prime minister ‘should have explained with all honesty to the citizens and residents of SKN why he slashed by 50 per cent the investment contribution to the Financial Option of the CIP” and establishing a slush fund using CIP funds without the support and approval from the Parliament of St Kitts and Nevis. Douglas said that Prime Minister Harris should “have asked forgiveness for lying and misleading the people” of the twin island Federation as well as the regional and international community when he said that the fund was being created to help the country recover from “serious hurricane damage” when in a previous press statement he praised the “Almighty for sparing us”. (CMC)
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Editorial
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
Taking responsibility for our actions EVERY Guyanese wants to live in a perfect society and this is all well and good because as human beings we deserve to, and are capable of making it possible. Oftentimes Guyanese compare, and seek after, societies considered having a better standard of living, where their people are courteous and orderly. Even as comparisons are made, understandably, along with reasonable critiques, we need to recognise our responsibility to put the requisite systems in place. Recognition and acknowledgement of failings ought not to be seen as belittling but necessary engagements in self-critique to address human frailties as a pre-requisite for growth and development. There are two sore issues where citizens, irrespective of politics, are united in their
daily concern. These are the constant road accidents and our physical environment. There is unanimity that the number of road accidents and the causalities from them make road usage a stressful encounter for the law-abiding within our midst. Yet there will continue to be persons who use the roadways without regard for the traffic laws and fellow road users. Such an attitude may speak to the daredevil nature in some of us, disregard for law (i.e. traffic regulations), and absence of courtesy towards others. Road casualties will not be reduced unless strong penalties are put in place, inclusive of swift justice to serve as a deterrent. Every life is precious and if others do not want to treat theirs as such, they have no right to deny others the right to life and limb. The continuous
attention to the callous use of our roads is being done in the hope that courtesy will be manifest among road users and the traffic laws will be obeyed or stringent measures will have to be put in place to halt what is evidently becoming cause for grave concern. As we bemoan the state of our physical environment, there continues to be trash strewn around; drainage clogged with food boxes, bottles and so forth; yards and parapets overgrown with weeds; and the risk of mosquito infestations and communicable diseases. Poor environmental practices aid in creating the unsightly environment we rightly bemoan and condemn, yet these bad practices continue. In other societies such acts carry heavy penalties with the aim of serving as a deterrent. Guyanese will leave these
shores and visit other countries and instantly comply with maintaining the environment and observing the laws. This in part is due to their loved ones nudging them to do likewise, aware that they will face the consequence of the law should they deviate; or they are impressed by the orderliness, courtesy and aesthetics and feel incumbent to act accordingly. Conversely, as soon as they return to these shores they fall back into disreputable practices. What ought not to be lost sight of in such societies is the sense of responsibility borne by citizens and visitors to conform to the rules/ laws, lest they suffer the consequences. In short, these societies don’t leave it up to the people to act in a certain manner; laws are put in place to ensure conformity. No society, whether the
systems or the people, functions in an orderly way and engage in productive activities without the input of its people shouldering their civic responsibility. It is also true that human beings can be self-serving, cruel to each other, and disregard conditions that are necessary for the collective good, so laws are put in place to curb such tendencies. And even as governments and corporate entities exercise such responsibilities making laws and providing social services and community supports, citizens too have their responsibilities. These responsibilities, outside the paying of taxes,
require obeying the laws, treating each other with courtesy, and taking pride in one’s surroundings for the public good. At the same time it should be said there exists a tendency in our culture to focus more on building with little attention being given to enforcement and maintenance. Where such attention is not given equal priority, things fall apart and create dire consequences. The responsibility for attaining the perfect society we rightly yearn for, rests with us as citizens through our actions, whether as individuals, government, or corporate entities.
Ministry of the Presidency condemns misleading Christopher Ram letter Dear Editor
THE Ministry of the Presidency (MotP) firmly rejects and condemns as iniquitous and misleading, the contents of a letter written by Mr. Christopher Ram, headlined “What are the real curses” and published in the Stabroek News on Sunday, October 1, 2017. The contents of that letter were then carried in an article by the Stabroek News in its Monday, October 2, 2017 edition with the headline, “Ram pillories President over ‘six sisters’ remark, diaspora ‘brains.’ President David Granger’s remarks at the Diaspora Meet and Greet on September 23, which was organised by Guyana’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, Ambassador Rudolph Ten-Pow and Consul-General to New York, Ms. Barbara Atherly, have been skewed in Mr. Ram’s letter and do not, in any way, represent the points the President highlighted at the event in New York. During his presentation to the attendees, President
Granger said that Guyana has relied on the production of primary products in six sectors, which he referred to as the ‘six sisters.’ The Head of State pointed out that since Guyana’s independence sugar, rice, bauxite, gold, diamonds and timber have sustained the country’s economy. While he acknowledged the value of those sectors, the President noted that reliance on the production of primary products has limited the expansion and growth of the economy. The Head of State believes that Guyana must move further towards diversification, value- added production and manufacturing. “We live under the curse of the six sisters. As long as you can remember, Guyana has depended on sugar, rice, bauxite, gold, diamonds, timber and they have been faithful to us over the years, but some of them tired now. We need to diversify, we need to get away from the spell of these six sisters and ensure that our children have a future other than being cane-cutters, our children have a future other than felling timber...
We have to go into new industries. We have to go into manufacturing and these new industries. We are going to ensure that new industries fit into our landscape and fit into the economic plans of our country and that is where I turn to you, the members of the Diaspora,” the President said. Mr. Ram deliberately used aspects of the President’s comments, without context to create the impression that the President is critical of the contribution of those sectors to Guyana’s development and economy. In fact, the Head of State is of the view that Guyana must use those abundant resources to revolutionise those sectors, thereby increasing employment and income-generation activities, rather than simply relying on the production of raw materials. The Head of State said that the Guyanese Diaspora has the technical knowledge, financial resources and skills to help change the reliance on raw resources, which has defined economic activity. “We have the raw materials and we have the resources, but we must be in-
novative. We welcome your investments. Guyana has the resources and the doors are opened to investment. We cannot do it alone. We need factories. We need manufacturers. We don’t want to export raw lumber; we want to export the best furniture in South America. We don’t want to export raw gold, we want to export the finest jewellery in the Region. We need investment to move our raw materials into the realm of well-manufactured products. We can do it. Other countries have done it. Other countries use our gold, timber, fish so we need your investment to help to develop these industries, so that we can become an important manufacturing country and not just an exporter of raw materials,” he said. At no time did the President seek to discredit what has been achieved in those sectors. The thrust of this presentation highlighted how much more can be achieved if Guyana were to convert its raw materials into high-quality by-products for international markets. One can only
wonder how it is possible for Mr. Ram to misinterpret the President’s comments, unless it was a deliberate attempt to misrepresent his remarks, evidenced by that fact that specific partial quotes were carried without context. Additionally, in the same letter in the seventh paragraph, Mr. Ram, referencing the President’s statement that “We don’t need barrels, we need brains,” writes that “… we will find that many persons with brains, who have stayed in Guyana will have to rely on barrels from abroad for their very survival.” However, what the President actually said at the function is that Government, the private sector and members of the Diaspora must work together to build capacity in the areas of education and technical expertise and technology. He indicated that what Guyana needs, more than just ‘barrels’ is knowledge transfer and investments. A verbatim report of his utterances is as follows, “We are going to ensure that new industries fit into our landscape and fit into
our plans for the economic development of the country and that is where I turn to you, the members of the Diaspora. We don’t need more barrels, we need brains. We all know about the age of the barrels where you pack stuff to send for your families, your relatives, but now Guyana is ready to take off. We need your intellectual capital. We need to tap into your expertise and experience, which you have gained here in the Diaspora. You have that intellectual capital and with your intellect and our resources, we can bring the two sides together.” The Ministry of the Presidency reminds Mr. Ram that an absence of context and the selective use of quotes can only be seen as a deliberate attempt to paint a picture that is not based on fact. Instead, what is presented are at best halftruths and, at worst, abject dishonesty to feed a specific agenda. Regards Press and Publicity Unit Ministry of the Presidency
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
PPP tactic is to We must protect the national patrimony frustrate efforts at the local government level Dear Editor
Dear Editor,
AS Guyanese, we all knew what the absence of local government elections did to the rights of communities and their citizens to determine independently what they wanted as socio – economic development. It was a right that we all knew, irrespective of political affiliations, which had been deliberately suppressed by the PPP/C during their sojourn in government. Not only was it flagrantly anti-democratic in nature, but also a gross violation of the cardinal principle of self -determination, as part of a collective whole. In plain words – we were denied the right to have local government elections for a little over two decades. This has to be a record anywhere within the CARICOM constellation of states. Editor, this allowed for wholesale political interference in the daily matters of communities, with the primary objective of exerting political control. Whatever development at the local level was done was primarily in areas that favoured the PPP/C. It is a fact that is undeniable. Two examples will suffice: within a short while of the PPP/C assuming office, not only did it remove road construction, traditionally a municipal function, from the M&CC, but it ensured that the streets within the Kitty ward, of significant PPP/C support, were repaired. Concomitantly, it took several protests from the residents of Norton Street, Lodge, and a decisive burning of tires to have that stretch of craterstrewn roadway done. Examples such as the above were replicated in many, many locales throughout the coastland – ensuring construction of roads, and other social amenities especially, done in politically friendly areas. With the staging of local government elections, since March, 2016, a major plank in the national democratic framework has been restored – the empow-
erment of people to decide on matters that will influence their lives. For the first time in this country’s modern local government history, local authorities are encouraged to work together with their communities for the common good of their residents. I perceive this to mean that the era of political interference was over. However, there is a new situation, not altogether unexpected, that has arisen in many of these local authorities. And it is cause for serious concern, as expressly articulated in a media report a while ago by the Regional Executive Officer, Region Two, Rupert Hopkinson. In a nutshell, I conclude, from the REO’S complaint – that there is a concerted effort to frustrate economic development in that region. He gave the example, in the case of successful contract awardees not being informed immediately, so that they can begin work in a timely manner. According to Hopkinson, sometimes as long as a month elapses, before contractors are notified. Other aspects of his daily official activities were laid bare, such as intercepting inflated vouchers, and bringing to an end other illegalities that had become cultural. It is not business as usual, anymore, in Region Two. Editor, this is primarily a case of stymying development of communities, thereby with the aim of creating the impression in the minds of residents that nothing is being done to improve their lives. It is a deliberate and desperate act of creating discord between the coalition government and the people; more so, a blatant case of economic sabotage. What other description is there to highlight such a planned strategy that is now a feature of the PPP/C’s daily orchestration against the government in the municipalities controlled by the PPP/C? In Region Five, this has taken the form of outright refusal of PPP/C councillors working work with the
government for the betterment of the many communities. Even President Granger has had cause to highlight this anti-national behaviour in that particular region, “as resisting the government.” To those councillors, no doubt, aided and abetted by their political party, the PPP/C, I ask the following question – is this how the newly found right bestowed by local government elections is being used? Is this what residents, albeit taxpayers, expect from such a collective that they elect to represent their communities’ hopes and aspirations? Why continue to sacrifice the rights of residents on behalf of a political party, whose record of national leadership was entirely geared towards friends and relatives? What did they really do for the poor and oppressed? How could these people, both male and female, continue to offer themselves as representatives of the people? Regards EARL HAMILTON
MANY of our columnists and critics have voiced their views on a number of issues that are of general interest to citizens. I have heard and read strong criticisms about the handling of our national affairs by the ministers and the President. People have criticised the President on statements about sugar and rice, but none of them referred criticisms about how the Government is dealing with Exxon and oil. In the case of sugar and rice, I am yet to read from these Prophets of Doom what to do e.g. with sugar. With oil and gas, they forget that since the middle of the last century they have heard of the extraction of oil onshore and offshore, but only now it appears that something would be realised. But Editor, my great worry is that certain folk are vocal on a number of issues. I live in Georgetown and know that from the days of the IMC, City Council, through the newly elected Mayor and Council of 1994, that it was generally known and accepted that rates and taxes by the Georgetown municipality were insufficient to provide basic and a satisfactory service to citizens who reside in our capital city. The previous administration frustrated Mayor Green’s lottery project and every other proposal to expand the Council’s revenue base. The new mayor, another Green, proposed the ‘Parking Meter Project’ to bring in urgently needed funds to provide a better service to citizens. But alas, the coalition government seemed to have bent backwards
to the demonstration and noises our particular group who took to the streets and ramped up a propaganda frenzy, which put a halt to this necessary project. I say ‘necessary’ because during the brief period of the Parking Meter Project, the business areas of Georgetown took on some semblance of orderliness. Today, these business areas are chaotic and unworthy of being the nation’s capital city. But I suppose demonstrations and threats by certain groups are necessary to bring attention to what they may consider to be able and to highlight things that are wrong and not beneficial to citizens as a whole. But herein lie my worry and amazement. We read recently of a foreigner who turned out to be no more than a criminal come to Guyana, obtain firearms licence, gold-mining concessions, employs Brazilians, maybe five percent Guyanese, removing our gold and precious metals and becomes a millionaire until he was caught. My question is, why are these same concerned Guyanese not out in the streets on radio and television demanding that you shut down all of these gold concessions given out to non-Guyanese and that a careful audit and examination be made throughout these mining areas. And why our Government has not taken drastic-- and I repeat -- drastic action to ensure that they are not similar alien criminals exploiting our resources that our earlier ancestors found and extracted in an orderly and environmentally friendly manner. These gold-miners are destroying our environment without
Thursday, October 5, 2017
a care or concern for tomorrow. They are contributing very little to the national coffers and not doing anything to provide a good life to our people. Why are our new traditional protestors and those who talk about all the wrong things silent on this crucial matter? When we got independence in 1966, it was stated by our two national leaders, Forbes Burnham and Cheddi Jagan of the exploitation of national resources, our gifts from God should be primarily for the benefit of the children of those indentured labourers and slaves who through sweat, blood and tears nourished our lands from Region One to Region 10. I recall some years ago when the question of the responsible exploitation of the nation’s natural resources was discussed. Prime Minister Eric Williams of Trinidad and Tobago said ‘oil don’t spoil.’ For Guyana, I hope our government and all our people will chant noisily as the anti-Parking Meter, anti-Sugar, etc, groups that ‘gold don’t rust’ and urge the government to take steps to ensure an end be put to this ‘rape’ of our resources. Our ancestors, both on the plantation and the pork-knockers, must be angrily turning in their graves when they see gold being harvested by alien criminals and others and their descendants getting the crumbs that fall from the tables of these new, rich masters. Let us focus on what is important to ensure the integrity and the well-being of our people and their children. Regards ERIC MOSELEY, A.A.
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‘Case closed’
…President says probe clears Lloyda Garrett of malice THE Ministry of the Presidency’s Chief Press Officer Lloyda Garrett, who came under fire for using what many considered as a racially derogatory remark, has been cleared of the allegation with President David Granger stating that there was no intended malice. “The matter is closed now. Miss Garrett has spoken, and an investigation was done, and we are satisfied that there was no malice, and we have moved on from that,” President Granger told reporters on Wednesday when questioned about the investigation while at State House. Leaked screenshots of a private conversation Garrett had with her friends in a private chat room on the popular social media network, Facebook, showed her using a racial slur to describe her colleagues in the Press and Publicity Unit of the Ministry of the Presidency. The screenshots first appeared on the Facebook page of People’s Progressive Party
MotP Chief Press Officer Lloyda Garrett
(PPP) Member of Parliament (MP) Nigel Dharamlall. But President Granger said Garrett’s remark must be viewed in the context in which it was made. “I think we have to put things in context…. and I am convinced, I am satisfied that the word that was actually used was not done with any malice and as I said, we have moved on from that.” While expressing his confidence in her, President Granger praised Garrett for
displaying good work ethic and professionalism in the execution of her mandate. According to him, he is satisfied with the work done by the chief press officer. “I believe that many people are aware of the language that we speak here in Guyana, and you mustn’t try to separate it from the context within which it was used,” he emphasised. On the basis that certain slurs are commonly used in Guyana, President Granger opined that there is need for a campaign to eliminate such from Guyanese vocabulary. “I think we have to have a campaign to purge our vocabulary of those slurs… We have to look at it in context, and as I said there was no malice intended, but we perhaps need collectively to purge the language completely of those slurs.” When the President initially spoke on the matter, he said the remark by Garrett does not represent her personal philosophy or that of the government.
Prosecution ordered to close case
Former New GMC General Manager, Nizam Hassan, and co-accused Felicia DeSouza-Madramootoo
– in fraud at New GMC CHIEF Magistrate, Ann McLennan on Wednesday ordered that the prosecution close its case against former General Manager of the New Guyana Marketing Corporation (New GMC), Nizam Hassan and Felecia DeSouza-Madramootoo. The pair, who are charged with conspiracy to procure money, are on trial for paying themselves under false pretence in relation to the approval of payments for low-grade rehabilitation works done on the New GMC building at Robb Street, Georgetown. Police Prosecutor, Inspector Neville Jeffers was forced to close his case due to the final witness failing to show up in court on several occasions. DeSouza-Madramootoo was represented by Attorney, Glenn Hanoman, while Attorney Marcel Bobb entered an appearance on behalf
of Hassan. During Wednesday’s hearing, the lawyers made no-case submissions on the grounds that the prosecution failed to prove its case. The matter was adjourned until Monday, October 9 for the prosecutor to reply to the lawyers claim. Hassan, 50, of Good Hope, East Coast Demerara (ECD) and DeSouza-Madramootoo, 34, of Lusignan, another ECD village, are currently out on $250,000 bail each. It is alleged that between October 28, 2010 and April 25, 2012, they conspired with each other to commit the offence by continuously approving payments which were made to the contractor of the engineering firm for works that were incompetently and incorrectly done with inferior materials, to rehabilitate the NGMC building at Robb and Alexander Streets, Bourda, Georgetown, knowing that such works should not have been approved.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
Industry men died from brain haemorrhage POST-mortems performed on the bodies of the two men who were killed in separate drunken brawls at Industry, East Coast Demerara revealed that they both died as a result of brain haemorrhage due to blunt trauma. The post mortems on the bodies of Hitram Ramchar and Bhagwan Ramahdar were done by government pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh on Wednesday at about 09:00hrs. In the first incident, the police said Hetram Ramchar was killed around 07:00hrs at a ‘wake house’ in the village. This incident occurred at Crown Dam, Industry. Initial investigations revealed that the deceased, 39, a labourer of Lot 31 Crown Dam, Industry, ECD and a group of men were at the ‘wake house’
playing a game of cards, during which an argument ensued resulting in a violent altercation during which Ramchar suffered injuries. The police said a report was made at the Sparendaam Police Station by Ramchar himself and he was advised by ranks to seek medical attention at the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was admitted and subsequently succumbed to his injuries. Four persons have been arrested and are in police custody assisting with the investigation. In the second murder Allan Bhagwandin, an auto repair worker of “Rat Hole,” also of Industry, was allegedly beaten to death by his neighbour in his yard. Residents of the area told this newspaper that Bhagwandin and his neighbour, 55-year-
old Mahase Dhanraj, called “Crusher,” were drinking rum when an argument ensued between them around 10:00hrs Monday. When persons rushed to the scene, Dhanraj was reportedly beating Bhagwandin in his head with a piece of wood, but before they could stop him, the auto repair worker was already unconscious and was bleeding profusely from his head. Villagers said the men would usually drink and argue between themselves. Bhagwandin, who is reportedly in his 40s, was a father of five, occupied his house alone, while his relatives live in Canada. Persons said he was deported five years ago. The GPF managed to apprehend Dhanraj who was reportedly intoxicated.
Ministry condemns killing of elderly women THE Ministry of Social Protection has condemned the killing of two elderly women, whose bound bodies were found in their Albert Street and South Road, Bourda home on Tuesday. Saying that it is deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of 87-year-old Constance Fraser and 75-yearold Phyllis Caesar, the ministry has called for the swift apprehension of the perpetrators of the crime. “Our senior citizens should be treated with reverence and the utmost respect; we at the Ministry of Social Protection call on all Guyanese to honour the elderly, respect and protect them, and hold them in the highest regard as we continue to recognise the elderly in the month of October under the theme, “Stepping into the future: Tapping the talents, contributions and participation of older persons in society.” The ministry said it hoped that the perpetrators of this crime are apprehended and the full extent of the law is handed down. “To the aggrieved families, the Ministry of Social Protection extends sincere condolences. May Constance Fraser and Phyllis Caesar rest in eternal peace,” the release added. Members of the South Road Full Gospel Assem-
Fraser’s niece, 77-year-old Phyllis Caesar
87-year-old, Constance Fraser
bly and friends and family of the elderly women were in tears Tuesday after hearing what had occurred. The women were found lying face down in separate bedrooms with their hands and feet bound and mouths gagged. According to a relative, the house was ransacked, and items appeared to be missing. Persons who were close to the women said after several efforts to contact them failed, they decided to contact the police, who made the gruesome discovery around 07:00hrs. The police believe that the incident occurred between 19:20hrs on Monday and the wee hours of the morning on Tuesday. Reports from the police have revealed that a door of the upper flat of the
two-storey building was opened. Relatives said this was the third time the women had been robbed. One recalled that during the last robbery, the intruders had made off with cellular phones and money. It is also the second time they have been robbed after receiving their monthly pensions. “This is a real tragedy because those women were basically helpless because of their age,” said a pastor of the South Road Full Gospel Assembly, who pointed out that Constance had seven children but all lived apart. Caesar, who had no children, had been living with Constance for over 50 years. The police have launched an investigation into the double murder.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
Guyanese to be evacuated Rape accused bolts from Lusignan prison from BVI this week GUYANESE, whose homes and livelihoods were destroyed when hurricanes slammed into several Caribbean islands, will be brought home before the end of the week, Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge has said. While the majority of the Guyanese residing in the hurricane-ravaged countries have opted to remain and assist in the reconstruction of those islands, others have signaled their willingness to return. While at State House on Wednesday, Minister Greenidge told reporters that Cabinet was given the assurance on Tuesday that Guyanese, particularly those in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), who are desirous of being evacuated, would be moved by the end of the week. However, he noted that the number of persons have not been finalised because they continue to vary. “I think when the Foreign Affairs (Ministry) first received information from those who are affected, it was essentially from the British Virgin Islands, and at that stage the numbers were somewhere in excess of 50 and less than 100. More recently, after the visit by Minister Winston Felix, he has indicated to us that the numbers are far
less,” Minister Greenidge explained. He said as of Tuesday, the Ministerial Task Force spearheading the relief effort was still trying to finalise the numbers. Given the urgency of the matter, he said the evacuation of persons can no longer be delayed. Government representatives, he posited, are currently in conversation with a number of airlines to facilitate the relief efforts. “I believe that Foreign Affairs had actually spoken to Caribbean Airlines and as far as I am aware, for example, the Trinidad nationals who were moved somewhere in the region of over 300, were moved with assistance from Caribbean Airlines for example. So these are the avenues that we have to pursue,” he explained. Asked whether systems have been put in place for the Guyanese returning in the event that they do not have accommodation or funds to keep themselves afloat, Minister Greenidge, in response, said the team is “well organized,” and has placed tremendous attention on that area. That aside, six containers with $20M worth of food and other much-needed supplies are being shipped to Antigua to be proportion-
Remanded until Oct. 25
– for possession with intent A BOURDA Market vendor was on Wednesday remanded to prison by City Magistrate Fabayo Azore for trafficking cannabis. Ras Paris, 30, denied that on October 3 at North Ruimveldt, he had 448 grams of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking. According to reports, on the day in question, police raided the accused’s home and found him with a black plastic bag in his hand. On searching the bag, they found a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems of what they suspected to be cannabis. Police prosecutor Simone Payne objected to the accused being granted bail, on condition of the seriousness and penalty attached to the charge. The unrepresented man told the court that he is innocent of the charge, since the drugs were not found on him. He further said that he currently has a similar matter before the court. Magistrate Azore ruled in the prosecution’s favour and remanded Paris until October 25.
Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge
ately distributed among the residents of those islands hardest hit by the storms. The vessel with the containers left on Tuesday afternoon and will take 10 to 12 days before arriving at its destination. According to Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, the goods will be sent to Antigua and Dominica, and those countries will be used as the central distribution points for the supplies. The containers, according to the minister, are being shipped free of cost by local freighters, Tropical Shipping. Most of the close to 80 tons of foodstuff, he said, was donated by members of the private sector and members of the public. Along with the government’s US$100,000 donation, members of the public have also been making financial contributions.
A PRISONER on remand on a rape charge escaped from the Lusignan jail, Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels has confirmed. Samuels said that it was reported to him Wednesday morning that the prisoner Dellon Blake escaped from Holding Bay 2 at the Lusignan Prison. According to Samuels, after a verification exercise was conducted, it was revealed that Blake was missing. His address at time of admission was given as Kumuni Creek, Demerara River, West Bank Demer-
ara. Blake was admitted to prison on July 24, 2017. He has a teardrop tattoo on the left side of his face and cuts cabbage for a living. In a subsequent release, the police said an investigation has been launched into Blake's escape. Police said from all indications, at the prison Blake used his bedsheet and wooden pallets to help himself over the fence on the north-western side in full view of police ranks performing duties in the guard hut tower, overlook-
Rape accused, Dellon Blake
ing the new holding facility at the prison, which area is well illuminated. A Detective Superintendent of Police has been appointed to conduct the investigation.
Compensation for woman injured in Agricola shootout IN response to an article published in Wednesday’s edition of the Stabroek News titled “Agricola woman still awaiting word on probe of police crossfire shooting” police said compensation was recommended, since the shooting was deemed ‘accidental’. Assistant Commissioner David Ramnarine said the police investigation was completed and legal advice was obtained. The police added that it was recommended that the incident which resulted in the gunshot injuries sustained by the
victim was purely accidental in the circumstances, hence most unfortunate and that the victim should be compensated. The appropriate communication has been transmitted to the relevant authority for consideration to be given in order that the legal advice may be effectuated, the police release stated. In the circumstances, police said the victim is respectfully advised to be patient as the possibility of compensation remains active, the release said. The victim, Parmadai (only name given) was rest-
ing in her hammock at her house on July 11, 2017 at Lot 124 Caesar Street, Agricola when she was caught in a crossfire between police and gunmen. It was reported that a party of police went to Fourth Street, Agricola and gunfire ensued between them and two men who were armed with a sawn-off shotgun and a handgun. During the exchange, Parmadai was struck by bullets to the buttocks and the left hand when the bandits reportedly used her yard as an escape route.
Coming of oil could strengthen Guyana’s population By Alexis Rodney WITH less than three years before oil production commences here by oil and gas exploration company Exxon Mobil, former Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rashleigh Jackson, says there could be an influx of both foreign nationals and Guyanese within the Diaspora, but either way that inflow could do some good for the country. In fact, Guyana is currently underpopulated and has seen a massive weakening of both its academic and technical expertise. As such if the revenues coming out of the new oil and gas sector could help to boost the population rate, then that could be a plus. The former diplomat was speaking to the Guyana Chronicle on Wednesday. He said the coming of oil and its transformative impact on Guyana’s economy remains part of the national conversation, however, not much is being said about the impact the oil sector will have on immigration. According to Jackson, Guyana’s population rate has stuck at the point it has been since 1972. Apart from the “brain drain”, there has also been depletion in the much needed
Former Foreign Affairs Minister, Rashleigh Jackson
technical skills. Most Guyanese fully armored with these have left the country to seek a better quality of life. “If as a result of the oil revenue, we get to develop other industries then we will see the gain,” Jackson told the Guyana Chronicle. He was adamant that while everyone will not be able to work in the oil industry, the economic spill-off from the sector could create new opportunities and even help to improve the ones that currently exist. “It is something about how you organise it; government just has to have a controlling role. The development of the oil and gas sector could be a pull factor, not only internally
but externally because the opportunities are there,” he said in the exclusive interview. According to him, persons should come to Guyana based on the opportunities that are available. “You have to show what areas needs external capacity. It is a question of how you organise it… It will become part of the economic spill-offs – the other activities that will result from the revenues from oil and therefore there is a way government can have a control of the immigration.” Jackson said Guyana can learn much from countries such as Kuwait, whose economy has been the bolstered by the oil industry. Kuwait, like Qatar has small populations, but has been importing people to work. The Consul-General in New York has already reported that many Guyanese have been flooding the office enquiring about opportunities existing in the upcoming petroleum industry, and how they could “tap into the resources in Guyana.” According to Jackson, oil and gas will be the new economic frontier; however he is sometimes perturbed by the negativity that oftentimes dominates the public conversation on oil. He said he does not think that enough attention is being
placed on what Guyana should do to extract maximum benefits from the proceeds that will come from oil. According to the former foreign affairs minister, enough attention is also not being given to the positive things that are being done. This included the Muneshwar Port, an investment that has already been put in place for the coming industry. He said also that there seems to be no attempt by the companies to become involved in capacity-building. According to him, positive things that are being done should be highlighted. “What we are being told is how incapable we are, how we are going to be ripped off. And the positives that exist, I don’t see that coming out. I am looking to the future. To what extent the development plan that arises will have input from civil society and other political units.” He said he was impressed by government’s indication that revenues from the oil industry could be used to further modernise and develop other sectors. While there has not been a deep analysis of this plan, Jackson said it signals hope. He too expanded on the need for training of persons for the oil sector.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
New ambassadors of Austria, Azerbaijan accredited PRESIDENT David Granger has expressed his government’s willingness to explore deeper cooperation with its bilateral partners, particularly in the areas of e-governance, oil, gas and renewable energy generation, agriculture, culture, education, and environmental protection when he accredited two new Ambassadors to Guyana. Ambassador Elkhan Polukhov from the Republic of Azerbaijan and Ambassador Marianne Feldmann of the Republic of Austria presented the President with their Letters of Credence at State House on Wednesday. While accepting Ambassador Feldmann’s Letters of Credence, President Granger said that the relationship between Guyana and Austria has been cemented by their active engagement in the Caribbean Forum and the European Union (CARIFORUM-EU) and the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States-European Union (CELAC-EU) mechanisms. Guyana and Austria established diplomatic relations in April 1973. “These engagements have facilitated our collective pursuit of programmes of cooperation and the advancement of our mutual interests. A solid foundation has been established for the intensification of coopera-
tion between Guyana and Austria,” the President stated. He also used the opportunity to commend Austria for the importance it attaches to collaboration with the Caribbean sub-region through the Memorandum of Understanding between the Austrian Federal Government and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Austria was also applauded for the support it has rendered to the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) in the aftermath of recent hurricanes through the Austrian Development Agency. He
said the assistance provided is invaluable in responding to the increasing incidence and intensity of natural hazards. Ambassador Feldmann said that while bilateral trade between the two countries is of a very small scale, there is massive potential for growth, particularly in the area of clean energy. “Austria has been the catalyst for the Caribbean Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency, which is being created together with UNIDO [United Nations Industrial Development Organisation] and which will be headquartered in Barbados,”
Azerbaijan’s Ambassador to Guyana, Elkhan Polukhov presenting his Letter of Credence to President David Granger
she said. She also informed that Austria will be signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), which will pave the way for Austria to send an expert on clean energy to the Caribbean, who will be of service to all countries in the Region. Guyana and Azerbaijan have enjoyed cordial bilateral relations since September 1995 and President Granger told Ambassador Polukhov that the commonality of interests between the two countries is manifest in their shared membership of the Non-Aligned Movement and Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. He also informed the Ambassador of Guyana’s
‘green’ development trajectory, which places emphasis on the protection of the environment, the preservation of biodiversity, the provision of eco-tourism and eco-educational services and the promotion of practical measures to ensure climate adaptation. “Guyana will place an additional two million hectares of its territory under conservation. We are committed to a low-carbon, low-emission trajectory of development. Guyana looks forward to your appointment becoming a catalyst to strengthen relations between our two countries,” he said. Ambassador Polukhov assured the President that he will, during his tour of duty, explore fully, the op-
portunities for bilateral and multilateral cooperation between the two states. “I will use all my energies to expand the relationship between our countries and deepen mutual cooperation in the fields of our interests,” he said. Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge, Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams and Director General in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Audrey Waddell were also present at the accreditation ceremony, after which, the two Ambassadors visited the Independence Arch on Brickdam where they laid wreaths at the Independence Monument amidst a military procession. (Ministry of the Presidency)
EU, FAO to tackle food waste, safety
“Action Plan for the Circular Economy”. FAO is already an active member of the EU’s Platform on Food Losses and Food Waste. In June, the EU Commission adopted a new EU Action Plan on AMR, underpinned by a One Health Approach and fully in line with the WHO Global Action Plan on AMR and the FAO Action Plan on AMR 2016-2020, which focuses specifically tackling the problem within food chains. Opportunities for strategic leveraging the knowledge and resources of the two organizations are manifold. Examples include: • Synchronizing efforts to quantify food losses and waste at each state of the food chain • Enhancing the exchange of information and evidence related to antimicrobial use in food production as well as AMR management best practices
• Joint advocacy and education efforts to promote the responsible use of antimicrobials and improve farm-level hygiene to reduce the need for their use in the first place • Supporting countries in drafting legislation of antimicrobial usage • Conducting joint trainings and capacity building aimed at improving national capacities to for tracking the use antibiotic in food systems and mapping the presence of AMR. FAO and the EU will also team up to support governments in implementing standards and guidelines related to AMR adopted by the Codex Alimentarius Commission. The EU is the largest source of voluntary contributions to FAO beyond its regularly assessed dues, and the two organizations have a long history of cooperation on a range of issues.
THE EU Commissioner of Health and Food Safety Vytenis Andriukaitis and FAO Director-General José Graziano da Silva last week agreed to ratchet up collaboration between the two organisations to address food waste, food safety, and antimicrobial resistance in supply chains. In a new letter of intent FAO and the EU pledge to work closely together to halve per capita food waste by 2030, a goal established under the new Sustainable Development Goals global agenda. It also commits them to intensified cooperation on tackling the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on farms and in food systems. Speaking at a signing ceremony at FAO’s Rome headquarters, Commissioner Andriukaitis said: “Food loss
Ambassador Marianne Feldmann of the Republic of Austria laying a wreath at the Independence Arch on Brickdam after the accreditation ceremony
and waste represent an unacceptable, unethical and immoral squandering of scarce resources and increase food insecurity, while AMR marks a grave societal and economic burden,” adding: “We are becoming more united, more efficient and more strategic in how we tackle these issues, and as such, this agreement should be celebrated.” Calling AMR growing global concern, Graziano da Silva said: “Unfortunately the use of antibiotics, including their use to promote growth, is already widespread.” He described FAO’s vision that antibiotics and other antimicrobials should be only used to cure diseases and, in certain circumstances, to prevent epidemics. They should not be used for growth promotion, he said. Noting that food loss and waste is linked
to many aspects of sustainable development, Graziano da Silva cited the importance of strong partnerships like that between the FAO and the EU in addressing the problem. SHARED CONCERNS Globally, one-third of all food produce for human consumption - 1.3 billion tonnes -- is lost or wasted, each year, causing massive financial losses while squandering natural resources. In Europe alone, around 88 million tonnes of food are wasted each year, with associated costs estimated at €143 billion, according to EU estimates. Meanwhile, the increased use -- and abuse -- of antimicrobial medicines in both human and animal healthcare has contributed to an increase in the number of disease-causing microbes that
are resistant to antimicrobial medicines used to treat them, like antibiotics. This makes AMR a growing threat that could lead to as many as 10 million deaths a year and over $100 trillion in losses to the global economy by 2050, according to some studies. And in addition to public health risks, AMR has implications for food safety as walls as the economic wellbeing of millions of farming households across the globe. NATURAL ALLIES FAO is leading an international effort to improve global measurement of food loss and waste, including the publication of an Annual Global Food Loss Index; the European Commission is also working to develop a methodology for measuring food waste as part of its
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
Harmon lauds operations at rice cereal plant MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon on Wednesday toured the Morning Glory Rice Cereal Plant, located at Anna Regina on the Essequibo Coast, where he said that the business venture is one from which the rest of Guyana can learn as it utilises rice, both whole and broken, to manufac-
benefit from this type of initiative. “I believe that the mandate of the IAST should be to do things like this, bring it to a certain level and then move on, because really it is a science-based organisation and we invent. We see what we can actually do with the products which we produce in Guyana and to add value
benefit from it. I think this is excellent work and I believe that this is what needs to be understood. When we invest, this is what we should get. Guyanese should be proud to know that this is what is being produced,” the Minister of State told the Director of IAST, Professor Suresh Narine. Ultimately, the IAST has recommended
being piloted. Therefore, the National School Feeding Programme is expected to provide an institutional market for uptake of some of the facility’s production in the near-term. Further, the IAST has engaged the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), which has made a preliminary indication of its intention
Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon, pays keen attention to Dr. Narine as he explains the processes associated with manufacturing of the rice cereal
Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon; Director of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), Professor Suresh Narine and Regional Executive Officer of Pomeroon-Supenaam (Region Two), Mr. Rupert Hopkinson and staff of the Morning Glory Rice Cereal Plant, pose with the boxes of their cereal
ture a high-quality, nutritious rice cereal. The company also answered the minister’s call to honour its social responsibility by supporting the national hurricane relief effort and pledged 20,000 boxes or $8M worth of cereal for distribution to affected countries. The plant is currently owned by the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), as it was constructed through funds received via a warrant to the IAST from the former Ministry of Tourism, Industry and Commerce. However, the equipment for the plant was procured earlier this year and was tested exhaustively by IAST’s technical staff in China before being shipped to Guyana. Minister Harmon said that he was impressed by what has been achieved, but is also pleased that one of Guyana’s and the Region’s main agricultural products, rice, is being used for value-added production. As President David Granger continues to push for a vibrant manufacturing sector in Guyana and more value-added production from the primary sectors in the country, Minister Harmon said that other regions in the country can learn and
to them. I think this is an excellent way of adding value to a product that is sold just on the market in its raw stage. I am impressed and I think there is great capacity to take other raw materials produced by our farmers and take it to the next level and capture markets. I think other parts of Guyana can benefit from this,” Minister Harmon said. Minister Harmon noted that the Government has received requests for further funding from the IAST and as the Budget 2018 cycle commences, it was prudent for Government to witness what benefits the investment would have for the people in the community and region. Based on his observations, Minister Harmon said that the plant can only be poised for greater successes in the coming days with support from the administration. “We have come to a stage where it is in production and as you quite rightly said, we can start to show a profit. The other thing is that you are providing employment for the people in Region Two and it is a good model, where you actually take a science-based produce and then create a business opportunity and allow the community to
that once the plant is fully operational and is generating a cash flow, it should be divested as a private sector entity or through a public/private partnership. Divesting the plant, the IAST believes, would allow the Government to recoup its original investment at an appropriate premium, so that this capital can be used to develop other such value-added processes in other communities. Currently, there are 26 persons employed at the plant, 16 from the surrounding communities and 10 technical staff from the IAST. The plant is focused on the production of breakfast cereals and nutrition bars. The main ingredient used is rice, with other major ingredients being rice bran, sugar, molasses and peanuts, which are procured in the region. Additionally, the IAST has been working with the National School Feeding Programme operated by the Ministry of Education in a pilot project, to test the acceptance of the cereals by several schools on the Essequibo Coast. Professor Narine said that there has been an enthusiastic response by the students to the product, which is a favourite among the several products
to purchase the cereal for its troops. The IAST continues to produce the product at a pilot scale and to solicit other mar-
kets, so that the plant’s produce can find markets in the early stages of operation. The institute is also in dialogue with regional conglomerate, Massy Stores Limited. The intent is to secure enough markets ahead of production, so that the plant can operate at least one shift profitably. On the environmental front, the plant has been designed to only generate minimum organic waste, related to over-pro-
duction during operation. This waste is edible, since it is breakfast cereal and will be utilised in collaboration with ruminant farmers in the region. The process does require rice to be milled into flour. The facility in which the milling will be conducted will be noise-insulated, to further reduce any potential impact of noise. There is no air pollution generated by the plant. (Ministry of the Presidency)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
New board installed to run Kwakwani power company THE board of the Kwakwani Utility Incorporated (KUI) was on Tuesday officially installed, with Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, calling for improved services to the residents and greater dedication by the new appointees. The newly-installed board is being chaired by Byron Lewis and the directors include: Audwin Rutherford, Elroy Adolph, Donnette Jeffrey, Horace Williams and a member of the Parliamentary Opposition. The responsibility of the board is to have oversight of the operations of the company and not its day-to-day activities. The management of the board will provide the relevant information to craft policies that are in keeping with government’s agenda, a release by the Ministry of Public Infrastructure said. Minister Ferguson in her remarks to the newly-commissioned Board said: “I know you the members of the elected
One of the generators at the utility company
Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, poses with members of the new board of the Kwakwani Utility Incorporated
board will bring a degree of experience to take the Utility Company forward.” She disclosed that government has approved two new engines which are expected to take the utility company to a higher level of service to the people of Kwakwani. “I have visited
your power company and realised that they are a few engines that are having some challenges which will be addressed immediately.” In response, the Chairman told Minister Ferguson that he considered it a privilege to serve on the board. He also
expressed his willingness to work hard to help the company achieve its objectives. “I am sure that consumers will applaud the government for tasking us with such a responsibility, because they will see a turnaround for the good. We will join hands together to make outstanding things happen for our country, especially in Kwakwani.” Mr. Lewis said. For his part, Chief Executive Officer of the KUI, Fitz Mc Pherson, expressed his gratitude for the establishment
of the new board. “Minister, you have just made my job easier,” he said. Other members of the board expressed their gratitude for being able serve. Meanwhile, Minister Ferguson also went on a site-visit of the Kwakwani Utility Incorporated facility to familiarise herself with the operations of the Power Plant, listen to concerns of staff members and members of the community. During the visit to the Power Plant, it was relayed to the minister by staff members that the generator is an antiquated one that has been in use since the 1950s. The company is therefore recommending a new engine be put in place to meet the needs of the residents. The managers and staff were also very pleased with Government for responding to the needs of the residents of Kwakwani as they discussed with Minister Ferguson ways
in which the service could be improved, the release added. One recommendation was to have government buildings be rehabilitated. Furthermore, there were other issues raised that were unrelated to KUI, but Minister Ferguson assured that the information would be passed on to the relevant authorities. “My Government listens to the people and we will meet with you to ensure that the good life promised to all Guyanese be enjoyed by the people of Kwakwani,” she stressed. In Kwakwani, electricity supply is free except for four big companies in the area. These are Western Union, GTT, Digicel, and Rusal who pay $60 per kwh for an average of 5,952kwh per month. Over 1,000 homes are being serviced with electricity. KUI receives an annual subvention of $258M.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
FFTP donates 825 gallons of paint to Education Ministry FOOD For The Poor Guyana (FFTP) Inc. on Wednesday donated a large quantity of paint to the Ministry of Education, as part of its ongoing collaboration with the entity. THE donation totalling 825 gallons come in three colours: green, brown and orange, each in 275 gallons containers. In handing over the paint, Food for the Poor’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kent Vincent noted that over the
years, Food for the Poor has had an excellent relationship with the Ministry of Education and in the process, has donated a lot of items to the ministry. “We have donated a large quantity of books; computer training kits; school furniture, paint; tiles to schools; as well as we’ve contributed to the schools’ feeding programmes around the country,” he said, adding that the organisation has even built some nursery schools, or at least helped to rehabilitate
some of them. “So we believe, just like the ministry and most people – if not all, that education is the key to getting people out of poverty. So we are happy today, to be able to donate these three tanks of paint – green, brown and orange: 275 gallons in each tank, making a total of 825 gallons of paint,” Mr. Vincent said. He recalled that FFTP’s field officer and some of their staff were out on the highway and visited some of the
At left Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry, delivers brief remarks at the ceremony to mark the handing over of a quantity of paint to the Ministry of Education by Food For The Poor Guyana Inc.
At Wednesday’s presentation ceremony for the donation of a quantity of paint to the Ministry of Education by Food For The Poor Guyana Inc. At centre, Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry and Food For The Poor’s Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Kent Vincent exchange the symbolic handshake. Others from left are: FFTP’s Public Relations Manager, Mr. Wayne Hamilton; Chief Education Officer, Mr. Marcel Hutson; Snr. Manager, Gifts- in-Kind, Mr. Jimeel Davis and Field Officer, Mr. Compton Giddings
Linden youths prepped for world of work THE Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency on Wednesday engaged youths of Region 10 in a capacity-building workshop in order to better prepare them for the world of work. Participants were educated on proper resume preparation, interview techniques, work ethics, labour laws, functions of the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency (CRMA) and the role of the Board of Industrial Training (BIT). In a release the Min-
istry of Social Protection said that Assistant Chief Probation Officer attached to the CRMA, Ms. Yolanda Grant, encouraged the youths to use the services of the Central Recruitment and Manpower Agency, but cautioned that the agency is only able to assist in facilitating the process to the point of the interview. She said although the agency wishes that it had the authority to immediately find employment for clients, employment is left to the discretion of the employ-
er, based on the interview process. She said, however, the agency would follow up with employers to find out where the interviewee would have gone wrong if they did not succeed and work with that person to improve for subsequent interviews. Region 10 Chairman, Rennis Morian, in his address to the participants said the training was timely for the region. In motivating the young persons to take advantage of their youth, he urged them to be more stra-
tegic in the planning of their lives. “You need to have a strategy to win…you should work smart, not hard” he said. Morian urged those present to heed carefully the
schools out there, when they noticed that some of them were in need of painting. “So we are happy to donate this. Maybe not only to assist on the Linden Highway, but wherever the ministry sees fit–to enhance the schools around our country,” the CEO said. He expressed gratitude to the Minister of Education, Hon. Nicolette Henry and the Chief Education Officer, Mr. Marcel Hudson for being present at the ceremony and expressed the hope that “With God’s blessings, this wonderful relationship will continue over the years.” Meanwhile, the Minister of Education extended thanks to Food for the Poor, stating: “I would certainly like to thank
Food for the Poor for this donation. This is a symbol of partnership with the community and Education, and we believe that through strong partnership from all stakeholders we would certainly be able to have better outcomes in education.” Noting that painting is an important part of infrastructural development, the minister said the ministry needs to ensure that students are in class rooms that meet the standard, so that they can have an environment that is conducive to learning. “And so I want to definitely take the opportunity to thank Food for the Poor. They have been a long time partner, not only in education, but many of the other sectors…”
advice and training. The CRMA is a division of the Social Protection Ministry that registers applicants for employment, taking specific note of their occupational qualifications, experiences and desire. It also evaluates, if necessary,
their physical and vocational abilities. Its objective is to place individuals seeking jobs in suitable employment while providing career guidance and counselling. The Agency was established by the Government of Guyana in October 1944.
Officials and participants at the training workshop
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday October 5, 2017
DDL embarks on $ By Ariana Gordon
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo speaks on Wednesday following a tour of DDL’s Diamond facility.
DEMERARA Distillers Limited (DDL) on Wednesday announced that it is on the verge of embarking on a US$50M investment programme over the next three years, which includes the construction of two warehouses and a blending facility to ramp up its juice production. Chairman of DDL, Komal Samaroo, told the media during a tour the company’s Diamond operations. “This event coincides with a very important point in DDL’s development; we are about to embark on a major investment programme, which over the next three years will exceed $10B Guyana or USD$50M. Some of these projects have started already. We have seen the new warehouse, we have [a] new blending department, and we are building a new warehouse for our distribution company,” said the DDL chairman. He said the beverage company is currently in the planning stages with regard to other projects the company has on stream. “Over the next three years, we will see a significant investment that is taking place in pursuance with [sic] DDL’s strategic goals…to increase its export earnings and diversify its income base.” On Wednesday, Samaroo and a team of
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo speaks with fruit farmer Hassan Ali, during his tour of DDL’s Diamond EBD facility.
…new warehouses, blend
officials hosted Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, his wife Sita Nagamootoo and Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin at its Diamond facility. He said the tour of the Topco juice plant, the rum warehouse, and the bottling plant represents “just a little glimpse of what we are doing.” “We hope that this is the beginning of several other visits to come, so they can see some of these projects after they are completed,” the DDL Chairman added. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo lauded DDL for its work and commitment to local content and value-added products over the years. He described the tour as very important, as it gave him an opportunity to observe first-hand some of the operations of the Diamond beverage facility. In particular, the prime minister expressed much appreciation for being able to tour the Topco factory which produces locally made box juices. “We started in the juice factory and ended
up in the liquor section and immediately opens up an idea and a message at the same time to those who are saying that the sugar industry is dead or will be dead, they should come and take a tour of DDL bond and production factories…there is abundant need for molasses and unending need for liquor (rum and vodka),” said Prime Minister Nagamootoo. He told reporters that he sees no “sign of death of the sugar industry” that has over the years been plagued by dire financial straits. “Guyana will continue producing sugar once there is a need for molasses,” he assured. Similarly, Minister Gaskin lauded DDL’s efforts to expand in spite of various challenges. He described the tour of the facilities as “interesting” and noted that DDL is one of the biggest value-added producing companies here and possibly the most successful. “…So it was good for us to get a walk through and a glimpse of their expan-
A female staff member washes fresh cherries at DDL’s Topco plant
DDL’s chairman Komal Samaroo (l) makes a point to Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife Sita
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday October 5, 2017
$10B investment
ding facility on the cards sion plans and upgraded facilities; and it is something that our government repeats ad nauseam that we promote and encourage value-added production of Guyana’s indigenous materials, as well as agricultural products. We see it happening here, and it is enjoyable to watch,” stated Gaskin. He congratulated DDL on its move to expand and gave government’s commitment to supporting the company wherever possible. Government’s support, he added, is also extended to other value-added industries. That aside, Prime Minister Nagamootoo met with two fruit farmers who supply DDL with their produce. The farmers who primarily supply cherries, complained that they need more money for their produce. Hassan Ali, one of the farmers present on Wednesday, told the prime minister that when he factors in the cost for weedicide, labour and transportation, he seldom makes a profit. The
farmer explained that since DDL’s market for the TOPCO juice was slashed, the company has been unable to purchase all of his cherries. DDL lost the bid to supply the locally made juices to nursery schools across the country, through the Government’s school feeding programme sometime in 2016. The programme allowed each child to receive one box of juice along with biscuits, as a mid-morning snack. The biscuits were provided by Banks DIH Limited. DDL’s production for the Topco juice has been reduced to two days from an operation of six days. The company had in the past employed 65 persons but the number of persons employed was slashed to 32. The second farmer indicated that he has been supplying DDL with his produce for some six years, but said, “The price is not where I think it should be.” He explained that the labour cost is “very high” and noted that after taking labour and
Cherries being screened by staff of DDL
transportation into account, “I am just getting $500 a bucket.” After listening to the farmers, the prime minister and Minister Gaskin encouraged the farmers to create their own markets and step outside of the conventional business. “I am talking this way because I am really interested in people doing large-scale cultivation,” said the prime minister, who noted “We understand, but this is a good sign that at least you have a market to start with.” The prime minister had previously met with farmers from Canal Polder and other areas who complained that they were not getting markets for their fruits. “We see DDL is willing and ready to receive fruits from local Guyanese farmers …and these are the juices we would want our families or kids to use… that are produced from local fruits, both from the perspective of produced in Guyana, consumed in Guyana and at the same time creating livelihood for farmers who produce fruits,” said Nagamootoo. Additionally, DDL’s chairman called on the farmers to understand that the market is an open one with lots of imported juices to compete against. “The big countries do it on the large scale…it is very competitive,” said Samaroo.
Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, makes a point during a tour of DDL’s Diamond, East Bank Demerara facility
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and his wife Sita (centre) observe the bottling process at DDL’s Diamond, EBD facility. Also in photo are DDL’s representatives
Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, his wife Sita (l) and Minister of Business Dominic Gaskin prepare to sample fresh cherry juice while at DDL’s Diamond facility (Samuel Maughn photos)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
Riverview, Alexander Village battle floods …residents pin blame on koker attendant
City Mayor Patricia Chase-Green, Town Clerk Royston King and other City Council members walked through Riverview Wednesday following floods. (Kawise Wishart photo)
By Ariana Gordon RESIDENTS of Riverview and Alexander Village, Georgetown, early Wednesday morning woke up to their yard being inundated as a result of a koker attendant reportedly falling asleep, leaving the koker door open. The flooding which occurred just after midnight, has left millions of dollars’ worth of equipment damaged for residents of the two communities and City Mayor, Patricia ChaseGreen, has assured them that an investigation has been launched into the matter. She described the situation on Wednesday as “unfortunate and sad” and noted that during her walk
through of the two communities, she had observed “lots of damages”[sic]. “Whose fault it is, we will determine that before the day is over,” Chase-Green told reporters. “I was told that the koker door was jacked…that’s all I am prepared to say right now…but a full investigation would be launched,” she assured. Similarly, Town Clerk Royston King told reporters that the Council regrets the unfortunate circumstance which has resulted in widespread flooding in the two communities, due to what he termed “overtopping.” King said, “Many of them [residents] have been inconvenienced as a result of what has happened… we have already called for an investigation into the
matter.” Attempts to contact the mayor, town clerk or the public relations officer on Wednesday afternoon proved futile. However, residents were quite convinced that it was the koker attendant’s falling asleep that caused the flooding. “I was coming home from wake at 12:00hrs and I noticed that the water was coming in from Ruimveldt station area…so when we daughter look now, we see the koker door open …it went high … when we come home rinse out we skin… we hear get up, get up like this man sleep away and left the koker door open. So said so done…by the time we knock at the door the water done start coming in …the most we get fuh do is put up the chair them…” said an
City Mayor, Patricia Chase-Green wades through floodwater in the yard of an affected resident (Kawise Wishart photo)
A frustrated resident stands in her inundated home (Kawise Wishart photo)
The breached koker (Samuel Maughn photo)
Alexander Village resident. Like that resident, a teacher from the said community questioned who is going to compensate her family for their losses. “Everything in my house is damaged right now, the chairs, the fridge, the vanity, the computer … I am a teacher that [computer] is one of my main tools. Who is going to reimburse me these things? It is no fault of ours but the fault of the guy at the koker,” the frustrated teacher said. She explained that she was forced to have her young daughter sit on her verandah for hours, so as to prevent her from being in contact with the dirty water. Another affected resident, Travis Spencer, recounted the ordeal: “We
wake up this morning and suddenly a whole set of water keep rushing in, fridge, TV, nearly fall down, chair set wet up and damage… all in the fridge get water. I had to run and leave work to ensure my stuff pack up.” Meanwhile, another affected resident said he was almost electrocuted Wednesday morning as all of his electrical appliances were covered by the water. “By the time I wake up, everything under water,” the frustrated man said, as he carried his young daughter on his back. Many of the affected families questioned how they would be able to replace their damaged items and whether they would receive any form of compensation. “When I was sleeping, my neighbour
phone and call me and tell me the place is flood. When I get up and run downstairs, the place was flooded. We started to pick up things and when we go on the street, it was flooded, plenty, plenty water,” said a Riverview resident known as ‘Aunty.’ Florence Nagamootoo told reporters that “the koker man does drink… they don’t do their work there” and while showcasing all of the damaged items in her house. “The scene was like we living in the Demerara River… sleeping and get a phone call that the yard flood… when we jump off the bed is in the water. I see big, big water in the house, we had to lift up the fridge and everything,” said another resident.
A flooded street in Alexander Village (Kawise Wishart photo)
A man traverses the floodwater on his bicycle carrying a big bag. (Samuel Maughn photo)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, October 5, 2017
WHO calls for large-scale deworming to improve children’s health
PERIODIC deworming programmes with a single-tablet treatment can drastically reduce the suffering of those infected with parasitic intestinal worms and protect the 1.5 billion people currently estimated to be at risk, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has said. Four main species of intestinal worms (also known as soil-transmitted helminths) affect almost a quarter of the world’s poorest and mostly marginalised people. They are a major public health problem because the worms disrupt people’s abili-
ty to absorb nutrients, impeding the growth and physical development of millions of children. WHO has long promoted large-scale treatment for intestinal worms, but this is the first guideline approved by WHO’s Guidelines Review Committee, confirming that deworming improves the health and nutrient uptake of heavily infected children. “There is now global evidence-based consensus that periodic, large-scale deworming is the best way to reduce the suffering caused by intestinal worms,” says Dr Dirk Engels, Director
of WHO’s Neglected Tropical Diseases Department. “These new guidelines have been issued at a time when countries where intestinal worms are endemic are accelerating control programmes with the help of partners – to both treat people who are infected and those at risk of infection.” Large-scale deworming programmes are facilitated by WHO, using medicines donated by pharmaceutical companies. WHO coordinates shipment of these medicines to countries requesting them. They are then distributed freely by national
disease control programmes during mass treatment campaigns. ”Providing medicines to populations at risk reduces the intensity of intestinal helminth infections,” said Dr Francesco Branca, Director of WHO’s Department of Nutrition for Health and Development. Deworming is not the only solution, however. “Improving basic hygiene, sanitation, health education and providing access to safe drinking-water are also keys to resolving the health and nutritional problems caused by intestinal worms,” says Dr Francesco
Branca, Director of WHO’s Department of Nutrition for Health and Development. In 2015, just 39% of the global population had access to safe sanitation, while 71% could access safe water. Treating schoolage children for intestinal worms occurs in schools during “deworming days”. Teachers supervise the process, freeing up health workers to focus on other demands. Many countries combine deworming activities for pre-school children with other health campaigns, such as vaccination, child health and
vitamin supplementation days. “WHO aims to eliminate the harm caused by worm infections in children by 2020 by regularly treating at least 75% of the estimated 873 million children in areas where prevalence is high,” says Dr Antonio Montresor, who heads WHO’s global deworming programme. “In 2016, WHO Member States treated 63% of children requiring treatment. Now that the world has agreed standards for deworming at-risk populations, we are in a better position to reach this target.”
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‘Giant tent’ being discussed to end rain delays in cricket PLANS to stop rain delays at cricket matches by covering pitches with a giant mesh tent are being discussed by the sport’s governing bodies. The Telegraph says an American company has approached the MCC and the English Cricket Board (ECB) with the idea. The transparent mesh could be held up by wires attached to floodlights and a hot-air balloon in the centre. An ECB spokesman told the BBC they were looking into “new technologies” but did not confirm any specific plans. But the new MCC chief executive Guy Lavender says they are in conversation with
The ECB and MCC are hopeful of ending rain delays using a new transparent mesh tent
ECB chief executive Tom Harrison in how they can partner up on the research. Testing is at a very early
stage and the technology is believed to be at least two years away from becoming a reality, with issues such as
safety in high winds and water run-off to be considered. “There are an enormous number of technical challenges and issues, but that’s not to say we shouldn’t look at it seriously,” Lavender told BBC Sport. “It’s certainly not something that’s going to be viable initially but I think we have a role here at MCC to investigate and look at new technologies. “It’s signalling our intent to think about new innovations and new technologies that can keep the game being played. This is the start of a journey of seeing what’s practical and what’s possible.”(BBC Sport)
Australia quick Pattinson Bacchus Sports Club overpower Gunners in T20 competition ruled out of Ashes (REUTERS) - Australia fast bowler James Pattinson will take an indefinite break from cricket and has been ruled out of the Ashes series against England after re-aggravating his lower back stress fracture, Cricket Australia said yesterday. The 27-year-old will continue his rehabilitation after pulling out of Australia’s recent tour of Bangladesh with inflammation in his back. “We made the decision to withdraw him from the tour of Bangladesh and monitor his pain. He returned to bowling after a period of rest and unfortunately he is still experiencing pain with bowling,” CA science and sports medicine manager Alex Kountouris said in a statement. ”During this time we have been monitoring him, including regular scans, and recent imaging has confirmed that James has begun to re-aggravate his previous lower back stress fracture. ”As such, he has discontinued bowling as part of his recovery which unfortunately
means that he will be unavailable for the beginning of the Sheffield Shield and subsequently Ashes campaign. “Whilst this is very disappointing that James has re-aggravated this old injury, we are confident that he can recover from this and return to playing.” Pattinson’s unavailability ruins a potential fast-bowling quartet against England, made up of the Victorian right-arm quick and the New South Wales trio of Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Pat Cummins. “I‘m especially disappointed to miss out on the possibility to play in a home Ashes series,” said Pattinson. “Over the next few weeks I will discuss all available options available to me with medical staff, to work out the best plan to prevent this from happening again.” Australia’s five-Test Ashes series against holders England starts in Brisbane on November 23. Reporting by Hardik Vyas in Bengaluru; editing by Sudipto Ganguly
THE North Essequibo Cricket Committee (NECC)-sponsored T20 round-robin competition continued recently with a resounding victory for Imam Bacchus Sports Club against Gunners at the Imam Bacchus Sports Complex in Affiance. Bacchus SC, winning the toss and batting first, were led by an entertaining half-century from opener Parmesh Persaud whose 67 contained 7x4s and 2x6s. He was ably supported by former national youth batsman Yogeshwar Lall, 35, (1x4, 1x6) as well as an unbeaten cameo from Ganesh Mangal 28 (2x4, 1x6) to propel Bacchus SC to 185-6 in their 20 overs. National Under-15 all-rounder Lance Roberts claimed 3-21 from 4 overs while Elroy Stephney took 1-25 from 2 overs. In reply, the Gunners went cold and never threatened the score and were eventually all-out for 86 in the 15th over. National Under-15 bats-
man Sheldon Charles made a brief 30 including 2x6s and 1x4 to top-score. There were 2 wickets each for pacer Lalbachan Narine (2-12) from 4 overs and off-spinner Wayne Osborne 2-16 from 4. Meanwhile, over at the Walton Hall cricket ground, the host crushed Charity SC by 60 runs. Batting first after the game was reduced to 18 overs-a-side, Walton Hall amassed 185-7 then bowled Charity out for 120 in 16 overs. In the other match which was also reduced to 18 overs, Young Achievers secured a 30-run victory over Devonshire Castle. Batting first, Young Achievers made 1858 then restricted Devonshire Castle SC to 145-7 when the overs expired. After the fourth round of matches Walton Hall are leading the points table having played unbeaten. The next round of matches will continue this weekend at various venues in North Essequibo. (Elroy Stephney)
Kolkata to host opening Test between India and Sri Lanka MUMBAI, India (Reuters) Kolkata’s Eden Gardens will be the venue for the opening Test when India host Sri Lanka in a full series starting next month, the country’s cricket board (BCCI) has announced. India blanked Sri Lanka 9-0 across all three formats
on their tour there earlier this year. The first Test starts from November 16 while Nagpur and Delhi will host the second and third Tests respectively before the sides play three one-day internationals and a similar number of Twenty20 internationals.
Fixtures
November 16-20 - First Test, Kolkata November 24-28 - Second Test, Nagpur December 2-6 - Third Test, Delhi December 10 - First ODI, Dharamsala December 13 - Second ODI, Mohali December 17 - Third ODI, Visakhapatnam December 20 - First T20, Cuttack December22 - Second T20, Indore December 24 - Third T20, Mumbai
Guyana Olympic Association supports International Hockey Cups SPORT in Guyana has benefited once again from the valuable input of the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA). The organisation made a presentation to the Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) in the form of a sponsorship cheque towards the upcoming International Pan American Hockey Cup. The tournament, scheduled for October 14-22 at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall, features teams representing all of the Americas and will feature simultaneous competition for both men and women. The GHB expects this event will contribute significantly to Guyana’s efforts to becoming a priority destination for sports tourism. The GOA is no stranger to hockey and has worked together with the Guyana Hockey Board on several projects over the years. “The Guyana Olympic Association has always been a great supporter of hockey locally and our sport has benefited a lot from their efforts over the years. President of the GHB, Philip Fernandes, was very
excited about this development saying, “When we first embarked on the Diamond Mineral Water Festival in 2004, the GOA was one of the main organisations to give us its support. “We are so pleased to have them participate in this monumental event as well and .this festival has paved the way for Guyana’s consideration for this major international.” The 2017 Indoor Pan American Cup (IPAC) features competitions for both men and women and serves as the Pan American Continental Qualifier for FIH Indoor Hockey World Cups scheduled for February 2018 in Berlin, Germany. This year will be one of the largest in the tournaments’ history and the Americas are well represented. Seven women’s teams and six men’s teams from Guyana, Argentina, Barbados, Canada, Mexico, Trinidad & Tobago, USA and Uruguay will participate with the top team earning a coveted spot in the World Cup.
From back page
Former athlete Rocky ...
“Rocky was our champion. Back in those days, you had the 100 yards dash and he used to beat whoever they brought.” “Barry Massy used to keep Games twice a year, around the Easter and the August holidays, when all the top athletes from around the Caribbean used to come to Guyana to compete. Athletes like George Lewis, who used to run for Trinidad and represented them at the 1948 Olympics. He came to Guyana and Rocky used to beat them all of them,” Denny said. “I also remember one time they brought McDonald Bailey to Guyana. Those times, Bailey was a top athlete. He had won an Olympic medal (bronze in 1952), and Rocky was right up there. He was a special talent, Rocky, and everyone loved him,” Denny recalled. According to Denny, McPherson was also very helpful to other athletes. “I used to run the 400m and he used to come to us, help with technique and so on, always there to correct you and always ready to assist in any way. He went to Germany to be a coach and when he came back he was responsible for a lot of athletes back in those days.” Former Prime Minister Hamilton Green, an athlete
himself during McPherson’s track career said, “To the older generation Rocky, his household name, was one of our best known athletes. In my early athletic days Rocky was small in stature but technique and speed earned the admiration of many of us.” “Rocky never gave up athletics and won many medals and acclaims as he continued into his later years, never giving up or accepting advancing age as a hindrance or impediment. Rocky’s continuous athletic progress is a sterling example to many of us who gave up our sporting activity as we approached the proverbial middle and later age,” said Green who is also Georgetown’s longest-serving Mayor. Green believes that the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) and the Ministry of Social Cohesion should, “do something to remember this sporting giant. I remember Rocky on and off the athletic track, always pleasant with a smile, and his conversations were always optimistic and uplifting. “He ran an excellent race; he has taken the inside track of the final bend and has now passed the finish line into eternity. May his soul rest peacefully!”
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday October 5, 2017
PCL Regional four-day season to bowl off on October 26 ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Director of cricket Jimmy Adams has urged players to use the upcoming first class season to stake their claim for a place at the higher level. The four-day season is set to bowl off on October 26 and Adams said the three-month season provided the ideal chance for youth cricketers and fringe players to grab the attention of senior selectors. “It’s an opportunity for the talented players in our game to stake a claim for a place in international matches,” said Adams, who took over from Englishman Richard Pybus earlier this year. “It’s also an opportunity for us to see young players that have just come out of youth cricket and it’s another
… Opportunity knocks for players, says Jimmy Adams
opportunity for us to showcase the depth of West Indies talent, so I am quite looking forward to the start of this four-day season.” The first class tournament will kick off the West Indies’ domestic season, which also includes the Regional Super50 one-day tournament next January and the Caribbean Premier League at the back end of next summer. For the fourth straight year, the season will be played under a home-andaway format which will again see 10 rounds of matches, a feature Adams said was key to player development. “This tournament is critical to our game in view of its
West Indies Director of Cricket Jimmy Adams
length, since there are return matches. It provides so many opportunities for young players and for some who have been around for a long time to get a lot of matches under
Foster refuses to comment … remains the preferred presidential candidate
Hilbert Foster
By Rajiv Bisnauth POPULAR cricket administrator Hilbert Foster yesterday refused to comment on his decision whether he will be a presidential candidate for Sunday’s Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) elections. Foster’s new approach has now put the most vital elections in the history of the BCB in suspense, and at the same time leaves Dhierandranauth Somwaru as the only confirmed candidate for the upcoming presidential polls. “I have no comment to make,” Foster said, when asked yesterday whether he has decided to contest for the BCB top post. Foster, who is the Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club had told the Chronicle Sport in an interview recently that it will take a superhuman effort to lift Berbice cricket. However, while Foster is unclear of his approach, he remains the preferred presi-
dential candidate. Chronicle Sport spoke to a number of present and former cricketers and cricket administrators, who have clearly aired their support for Foster. “Cricket in Berbice needs someone like Foster, a former West Indies opening batsman, who wishes to remain anonymous, said. “Look its straightforward, they had this guy (Somwaru), who took over from Beharry (Anil), and this guy just doesn’t have a clue what is going on, I am not saying he (Somwaru) can’t be the right man for the job, but at present I am of the opinion that Foster is the man. He can move Berbice cricket forward,” a former BCB administrator, who also wishes to remain anonymous, opined. 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. Each sub-association is entitled to four voting delegates while the clubs have two voting delegates each. The October 8 elections will be the first since 2014, and perhaps will be the most important one for the county.
their belt,” said the former West Indies captain. “I think it is also good for the selectors to have an opportunity to see more of the players in different conditions, so it will throw up a lot of very, very useful information and give us a better indication about the quality of our players. “It’s a very important cog in the wheel of the development cycle, so I am looking forward to seeing how players have progressed from the end of last season.” He added: “Just the fact that they are playing consistently more games, it has been critical for a lot of our players along that development curve
to be able to play as much as they can within the season.” Cricket West Indies (CWI) has transformed the first class tournament into a professional franchise set-up from the old territorial format, with players on full contracts and the season extended to include home-and-away fixtures. Under the new stipulations, players can also move between franchises, and are selected out of a draft ahead of each season. This year, the season has been squeezed into three months – wrapping up January 21 – and Adams underscored the importance of player fitness to cope with the demands.
“It will be a demanding season for the players and to be able to cope with the level of sustained physical and mental pressure, we will need them to be in top condition, so that they can repeat good performances and so it has to be a massive part of their preparation going into the season.” Three-time reigning champions Guyana Jaguars will open the defence of their title against Jamaica Scorpions at the Guyana National Stadium while Barbados Pride host Trinidad and Tobago Red Force at Kensington Oval and Windward Islands Volcanoes and Leeward Islands Hurricanes clash at the National Cricket Stadium in Grenada.
Test batsman De Silva to lead Sri Lanka A on Caribbean tour COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (CMC) – Test batsman Dhananjaya De Silva will lead a 16-man Sri Lanka A squad on the tour of West Indies starting next week. The 26-year-old played the last of his 10 Tests against India last August, and averages 38 with two centuries already under his belt. Twenty-year-old Charith Asalanka, an off-spinning all-rounder who led Sri Lanka Under-19s last year, will serve as De Silva’s deputy. Sadeera Samarawickrama and Roshen Silva, both of whom are part of the Test squad in the ongoing series against Pakistan in United Arab Emirates, will join the A-side once that series wraps up. Neither player has played an international match for Sri Lanka. The squad has been bolstered by the inclusion of three other players with Test experience, with fast bowlers Dasun Shanaka and Lahiru Kumara, along with
Dhananjaya De Silva to captain Sri Lanka A on Caribbean tour
left-arm spinner Malinda Pushpakumara, having played 11 Tests among them. Sri Lanka A are expected to leave tomorrow for Jamaica where they play three four-day ‘Tests’ and as many one-dayers against West Indies A, from October 11 to November 5. SQUAD – Dhananjaya De Silva (captain), Charith As-
alanka (vice-captain), Sadeera Samarawickrama, Roshen Silva, Sandun Weerakkody, Ron Chandragupta, Shehan Jayasuriya, Dasun Shanaka, Wanindu Hasaranga, Amila Aponso, Malinda Pushpakumara, Chamika Karunaratne, Lahiru Kumara, Vimukthi Perera, Asitha Fernando, Kasun Rajitha. Schedule of matches: OCTOBER Wednesday 11th to Saturday 14th - 1st ‘Test’ – Trelawny Multiplex, Jamaica Thursday 19th to Sunday 22nd - 2nd ‘Test’ – Trelawny Multiplex Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th - 3rd ‘Test’ – Sabina Park, Jamaica NOVEMBER Wednesday 1st - 1st One-day Match – Sabina Park Friday 3rd - 2nd One-day Match – Sabina Park Sunday 5th - 3rd One-day Match – Trelawny
Malinga dropped by Sri Lanka for five-match ODI series LASITH Malinga has been dropped by Sri Lanka for the five-match ODI series against Pakistan. Malinga has struggled for form since making his comeback to the team in February and the seamer has been overlooked for the latest selection. Former captain Angelo Mathews - already missing from the squad for the ongoing Test series - has failed to recover from a calf injury in time to be included. Middle-order batsman Chamara Kapugedera makes the cut, while
Lasith Malinga
all-rounder Seekkuge Prasanna returns to the side. Test skipper Dinesh Chandimal, who was not initially included for the recent ODI series against India, also features.
Sri Lanka won the first of two Tests between the sides before the teams lock horns in the shorter format from October 13. Sri Lanka squad: Upul Tharanga (captain), Dushmantha Chameera, Dinesh Chandimal, Akila Dananjaya, Niroshan Dickwella, Vishwa Fernando, Chamara Kapugedera, Suranga Lakmal, Kusal Mendis, Thisara Perera, Nuwan Pradeep, Seekkuge Prasanna, Milinda Siriwardana, Lahiru Thirimanne, Jeffrey Vandersay. (Omnisport)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday October 5, 2017
Time we start acting, Harper urges Dr. Norton … as seventh edition of Guyana Softball Cup launched
By Rajiv Bisnauth ROGER Harper, a man with many titles yesterday called on Minister of Social Cohesion, with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton, to take serious steps to improve the image of sport locally. Harper made the appeal during his brief remarks at the launching of the seventh edition of the annual International Softball Tournament dubbed ‘Guyana Softball Cup 7’, yesterday at the Demerara Cricket Club pavilion. “We, the members of the sports fraternity, look forward under his (Dr George Norton) leadership for greater emphasis, greater application, and of course, to see this drive forward as far as sports is concerned, because from my perspective, we talk a lot about sports, but it’s time we start acting, and I look forward to this happening under the new Minister,” Harper, the president of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), said. Organised by the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA), the tournament has been confirmed for November 3 to 5 in Georgetown, with the finals billed for the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) under
lights. Further, Harper disclosed that the organisers must be commended. He is of the opinion that the tournament will provide a significant tourism boost as well it will raise the profile of sport locally. Harper, who is the acting president of Demerara Cricket Club (DCC), the home of legends, lauded the relationship the club and GFSCA has built over the years, adding that the club looks forward for a long-term bond. Meanwhile, during the feature address, Dr Norton acknowledged that the tournament will not only benefit those participating, but also provide a boost to sports in
while the tournament will help to raise the sport profile in Guyana, cricket certainly brings people together, while
Ministry’s full support for the tournament, commended the GFSCA, and at the same time called on all Guyanese
President of the GFSCA, Ramchand Ragbeer, makes a presentation to Minister of Social Cohesion, with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport Dr George Norton.
GFSCA, Ramchand Ragbeer, indicated that the tournament has gained tremendous success over the years. Vice-president Jailall Deodass highlighted that the tournament has reached greater heights over the past six editions, adding that the tournament has grown over the years, and has become the single largest tournament locally. Anil Beharry, chairman of the seventh edition, promised that this year’s tournament will definitely be bigger and better, with nine overseas teams confirming their participation. He indicated that close to 15 teams locally have indicated an interest to be a part of the event.
Dr George Norton (seated centre) is flanked by executive members of the Guyana Floodlight Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA) and sponsors at the conclusion of the launching ceremony of the seventh edition of the Guyana Softball Cup.
general, and sports tourism in particular. Dr Norton added that,
promoting social cohesion. In conclusion the minister, while indicating his
to come out and be a part of the three-day event. Further, president of the
Teams will compete in the regular two categories - Open and Masters. In the
open category, the winners will receive a trophy and $800 000, while the runners-up will walk away with $200 000. The winner in the Masters competition will take home $600 000, while the runners-up will collect $150 000. The player-of-the-series in both categories will be the recipient of one softball bracelet. This gesture was also made last year. Meanwhile, representative of one of the sponsors, Rhonda Johnson of RUBiS Guyana indicated that her company sees the value of the tournament, and as such is eager to embrace such an event. Sheldon Hazelwood of Ansa McAl said that the company, via its STAG Beer brand, the official beer of the tournament, was proud to be a part of the competition once again, since the company will be celebrating its silver anniversary (25 years of service in Guyana). Also making brief remarks were Avinash Hardat of Clear Water, the official water for the tournament, Mark DeFreitas of Survival Travel Agency and Ajay Jha of Mike’s Pharmacy, who all echoed the sentiments of their fellow sponsors, saying it was their company’s pleasure to be a part of the tournament.
Guyana’s 3X3 team bounces into action today GUYANA’S 3X3 basketball team, competing for the first time at the South American Youth Games, currently on in Santiago, Chile, will bounce into action today when they face Ecuador from 16:60hrs. The team of Nigel Bowen, Shemar France, Akeem Crandon (captain) and Isaiah Hintzen, will try to write their names in the history books, since this is the first time that Guyana will play at an International 3X3 tournament. Eleven countries will be competing for the South American Youth 3X3 Gold in Chile, which will be played from today through October 8. Guyana will meet Venezuela tomorrow from 12:25hrs, and will hope to feature in Saturday’s quarter-finals, while semi-finals and final will be contested on Sunday.
CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday October 05, 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)
Jonny Bairstow-302 runs
(2)
Evin Lewis-200 runs
Today’s Quiz: (1) Who took the most wickets for ENG in the recent ODI series against the West Indies? (2) Who took the most wickets for the West Indies? Guyana’s 3X3 team, manager and the South American Youth Games mascot.
Answers in tomorrow’s issue
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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday October 5, 2017
North Georgetown District Inter-School Championships
Winfer Gardens defends title against fierce rivalry from North Georgetown Primary By Tamica Garnett AFTER heavy competition from North Georgetown Primary School (NGPS), Winfer Gardens Primary almost found themselves dethroned, as the champions of the North Georgetown District 11’s Zone 4 Inter-School Track Championships. As the best of primary school athletes in the North Georgetown District took centre stage yesterday at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary, NGPS’s Raydell Paris and Kaiya McCaulay were two standouts who almost ended it all for Winfer Gardens. Winfer Gardens finished the day with 166 points, just six points ahead of NGPS, who were initially thought
North Georgetown Primary’s Raydell Parris anchors his school to a win in the Boys’ 4x100m yesterday. St Angela’s Jaeron Thomas comes in second. (Tamica Garnett photo)
to have been the winners before a follow-up tally of the points. St Agnes retained their third place position, with 150 points. However, last year’s second place finishers St Margaret’s Primary, this year saw
their team relegated to fourth place after only tallying 131 points. St Angela’s Primary scored 89 points, while Marian Academy had 87 points, St Ambrose 83 points and School of the Nations ended with 30
points. Notwithstanding their young ages, it was a day of fierce rivalry. Expectations pushed some to their limit while others were tearful and disappointed. But young Raydell Parris was one who reaped nothing but success dominating the Boys’ Under-12 category throughout the day. The upand-coming sprinter championed the 100m, 200m, and 400m events. However, Winfer Gardens were not far behind. Dequan James finished in second place behind Parris in both the 100m and 200m events. St Agnes’ Jamo Ross, who won the 1000m in the category, finished second in the 400m behind Parris. Parris later anchored his school to the win in the Boys’
Female 7s Rugby team coach optimistic ahead of RAN tournament
By Rawle Toney
GUYANA’S senior women’s national rugby team coach Theodore Henry, believes his ruggers stand an excellent chance of winning this year’s Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens tournament in Mexico City. The November 25-26 tournament will serve as a qualifier for the 2018 Central American and Caribbean Sports Organisation (CACSO) Games, 2018 Hong Kong Sevens, Rugby World Cup Sevens 2018 and Commonwealth Games. “I like our chances, I think these girls can go all the way,” said Henry in an exclusive interview with Chronicle Sport yesterday ahead of the team’s session at the National Park. Guyana’s ‘Green Machine’, the country’s senior men’s team, over the years had built a reputation of being the Caribbean’s most decorated and feared Sevens team,
Guyana’s Women Sevens Rugby Team during training yesterday at the National Park. (Adrian Narine photo)
and are seven-time holders of the RAN title but, Henry believes that the female team could have been just as dominant if the Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) had placed the same emphasis on their programme. “This year, we have a solid team. Last year, we placed fifth and we had some old legs but the ladies did well. This time around,
this team is much quicker and the ladies are responding well to training, so like I said, I like our chances,” Henry said. Asked about the team’s preparations, Henry said the ladies had all been excited about training, and moreover, are making use with the lack of practice games. The GRFU, despite having one of Guyana’s most
consistent and successful sports team and programme, has always found themselves with a ‘hand out’ whenever they’re asked to feature internationally. The lack of financing doesn’t allow for either team to travel and as such, they are forced to train and prepare at ‘home’. “We’ve been playing against the guys, the U-19 team really,” Henry highlighted, and further stated, “playing against the guys helps with the speed and in sevens rugby, that’s very important. That’s one of the things that beat us in Mexico the last time. So, this time around, I think the girls will be ready.” “I’m very proud of these ladies. They come out, train hard, push themselves and try to do all that I ask of them, so I know they will give their all in Mexico,” Henry added. The Guyanese women are three-time holders of the RAN Sevens title.
Seven-year-old Kaiya McCaulay from North Georgetown Primary tops the Girls’ Under-8 category. (Tamica Garnett photo)
open 4x100m. In the Girls’ Under-8 category, little Kaiya McCaulay was a lot of speed in a small package. The seven-year-old finished first in the 80m dash, as well as in the 150m sprint. However, Marian Academy’s Kaitlyn La Rose was just a little more than she could handle in the 400m, and had to settle for second place. Winfer Gardens, however, had their fair share of outstanding athletes, and Atalia Hinckson was one who hardly gave anyone a chance in the Girls’ Under-10 category, winning the 100m, 200m and 400m races. There was also Nathan Mayers in the Boys’ Under-8 category, taking second in the 80m, but ruling the roost in the longer 150m and 400m races.
Reifer credits healthy Guyana environment the best place for cricket WEST Indies invitee Raymon Reifer has credited an environment that fosters self-expression and creativity as crucial ingredients of Guyana’s recent dominance of the Regional 4-day competition. Despite being born in Barbados, Reifer has spent the last four seasons plying his trade in Guyana. During that time the Jaguars have been the team to beat in the four-day format, winning three out of the last four seasons. The Jaguars have also in addition seen talents like Reifer, Vishaul Singh and Shimron Hetmyer hovering in and about the West Indies squad. The recent success, the Barbadian national believes, is a direct product of a healthy environment for cricket. “I think the environment in Guyana is right for producing international cricketers and I think we will continue to produce great players for Guyana and West Indies like we have seen in the last three years. I think
Raymon Reifer
if you look around the Caribbean, to me Guyana has the best set up because they allow you express yourself and the team is still winning,” Reifer told the Guyana Times in a recent interview. Reifer was recently called to West Indies squad for the tour of England but only managed to play warmup games for the West Indies Cricket Board (WICB) President’s XI versus the likes of Pakistan, Leicestershire, Kent and England. The player has been again been included in the Test squad ahead of the series against Zimbabwe. (Sportsmax)
Winfer Gardens defend title against fierce rivalry from North Georgetown Primary
Page 27
Guyana NRA gearing up for WIFBSC Championships here next week By Stephan Sookram ALL systems are in place and ready for Guyana’s hosting of the West Indies Full Bore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) championships and Guyana National Rifle Association (NRA) 150th Anniversary shoot. During a press briefing yesterday, Full-bore captain Mahendra Persaud confirmed that despite the organisation’s major shortfall of funding, $14M to be precise, they are still going ahead with the event which begins on Monday. Normally, there are three days of individual shooting where the Caribbean Champion will be named following the grand aggregate. This is usually followed by two days of team shooting at both the short (300, 500 and 600 yards) and long (900 and 1000 yard) ranges to determine both long and short range country cham-
From L-R, Guyana NRA veteran rifleman and multiple-time Caribbean Champion, Ransford Goodluck; NRA Fullbore captain, Mahendra Persaud; Honorary secretary Ryan Sampson; vice-captain Dylan Fields and former Caribbean Champion Lennox Brathwaite. (Stephan Sookram photo)
pions. But what the Guyana NRA is doing, as part of its 150th year in action is mirroring the Queens shoot
Former athlete Rocky McPherson, Guyana’s treasure, remembered
that takes place in Bisley, England, which takes a fraction of the top shooters and eliminates until there is a core group that shoots for
the title. Persaud said, “After the end of the grand aggregate for the three days, we are going to be taking the top
sixty shooters who will then shoot together in one detail at 300, 500 and 600 yards,” Persaud said. He continued, “After
lunch on that day, they will take the top 30 shooters who will move onto the 900- and 1000-yard ranges where the winner will be crowned the 150th Anniversary champion. The Friday will be used for the WIFBSC meeting and as relaxation while Saturday will be the Milex/ Crown Mining long range trophy and Sunday will be WIFBSC short range trophy. The local long range trophy has been sponsored by Queensway and the Short range by International Safety Supplies Limited. The event will be opened on Monday by President David Granger with competitors coming from Antigua, Bermuda, Trinidad, and Tobago, Barbados, Jamaica, the Falkland Islands, the United States, Britain, Ireland and Scotland.
Guyana Olympic Association supports International Hockey Cups Page 24
By Rawle Toney THE athletics fraternity was plunged into mourning a few days ago, with the passing of Rocky McPherson, considered by many as one of Guyana’s best athletes in the late 40s through to the 60s. “His impact on track and field in Guyana was significant,” said former Athletics Association president Claude Blackmore, who remembered the ‘pint-size’ athlete after his athletics career was over. He was employed as one of three County coaches by the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Education. Speaking to Chronicle Sport, a former athlete,
Rocky McPherson in happier times
Neville Denny, who competed during McPherson’s reign on the track, recounted: Turn to page 24
GOA president, K. Juman Yassin hands over a cheque to the secretary of the GHB Tricia Feidtkou while executive members look on.
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THURSDAY, OCTOBER, 5, 2017