UG degree integrated into GDF cadet course Page 4
GECOM not in crisis FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2017
No. 105057
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…US Ambassador says Constitution being followed …hopeful of consensus Page in selection of next chair 3
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here is a process and it is dictated by law and regulation in Guyana. I think the process is largely being followed. I don’t think we are at a crisis point yet,” United States Ambassador to Guyana Perry Holloway told the Guyana Chronicle on Thursday. He stressed that a number of professionals are employed at the Commission and it is for this reason, GECOM continues to function. He
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likened the situation to that of the U.S. Embassy in Guyana being without an Ambassador for 14 months before he was appointed. “But obviously, having a head is better than not having a head and I do hope that the President and Mr. Jagdeo meet and reach some sort of consensus, or make a decision. I think it would be good for the country as a whole,” said Ambassador Holloway in response to questions on the subject.
Policewoman hacked to death
Exxon in fifth oil strike offshore
U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway (photo by Samuel Maughn)
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Fire destroys Skeldon home
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Policewoman hacked to death … assailant hangs self By Clifford Stanley
A 39-YEAR-OLD policewoman sergeant who lived at #30 Village, West Coast Berbice, was hacked to death in her home by a male acquaintance who committed suicide shortly after. The dead policewoman was identified as Sgt. Kennesha Sheriff- Fraser, while her assailant who later hanged himself from a Courida tree on the Atlantic foreshore was identified as Clayton Anthony, known as Woody, also of # 30 Village. Anthony lived in the bottom flat of a two storeyed building at Lot 370
and the dead woman lived on the upper flat of the building. Reports are that Anthony was a close acquaintance of the dead woman and her relatives and at one time lived with them in the upper flat of the building before moving to the lower flat of the building, which became vacant some time ago. Sgt Fraser, popularly known as “Tekkie”was the Deputy Supervisor of the Registry at the Central Police Station at New Amsterdam. The murder occurred around 09:00hrs and Anthony took his own life about twenty minutes later. Shocked neighbours said
Sgt. Kennesha Sheriff- Fraser yesterday that they had little or no inkling that something serious had occurred at the house. “I didn’t hear any quarreling; any raised voic-
es. I heard her cry out once but I thought that maybe she had had some bad news and had shouted in distress,” one neighbour said. They realised that something was amiss when they saw Anthony soaked in blood and holding a rope in his hand and running towards the northern section of the village which is close to the Atlantic Ocean. “I see he running and looking back and running and looking back and then I suspected that something was wrong,” a neighbour who was among those who made the discovery of the woman’s mutilated body said. Another neighbour disclosed that both Ms. Fraser and her attacker were alone in the house at the time; she upstairs and he downstairs, since the adults in the home had gone to work and the children had left for school. Reasons for the savage attack baffled many neighbours. “This chap lived with this family off and on for many years; only God knows why he had do such a savage act on someone he knew.” Another source disclosed that shortly before the attack, the now dead woman had called her mother, also a policewoman to query about the whereabouts of her cell-
phone, since it could not be found. The mother had replied that she did not know where her cellphone was. Another source who was on hand to witness when Anthony’s body was cut down, said that when he was searched he was found to have two cellphones in his trouser pocket; one belonged to him and the other belonged to the dead woman. Rumors about motive abounded. The dead woman’s husband lived with her in the upper storey of the building where her murderer also lived with them before moving downstairs. “They all lived together in the upper flat of the building at one point in time, but her husband was in the bush most of the time,” she said. Another neighbour averred that the killing and suicide was premeditated, since Anthony had invited him to take a drink with him “for the last” Wednesday afternoon. “Those were his words. He said: “Well boy, come leh we take a drink for the last. He didn’t say why he said that,” the neighbour said. Anthony was said to be a prosperous miner at one point in time but had apparently fallen on hard times, since he had been living
Clayton ‘Woody’ Anthony on the coast for the longest while eking out an existence on farming and occasional construction work, one neighbour said. The man who had been married at one time was reportedly said to have violently chopped his wife while he and she lived in New Amsterdam and had been shot in the leg by police during an investigation into that offence some time ago. Sergeant Kennesha Sheriff-Fraser leaves to mourn her three children: Rinson Rose 18, Dacuan Fraser 11 and Danara Fraser 5. The bodies are at the Anthony’s Funeral Parlour at Fort Wellington, West Coast Berbice, awaiting post-mortems.
Residents gathered outside of the house of the victims (Nakasia Logan photo)
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GECOM not in crisis
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
… US Ambassador says Constitution being followed
… hopeful of consensus in selection of next chair By Ariana Gordon UNITED STATES Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway has said that the elections management body here is not in crisis and that the constitution is being followed in the selection of a new chairman. Holloway told this newspaper during an exclusive interview on Thursday, that while a chairman should be named soonest, in the interest of the people, there is no crisis situation. “There is a process and it is dictated by law and regulation in Guyana. I think the process is largely being followed,” said the U.S. envoy who made it clear that the matter is subject to interpretation. “I don’t think we are at a crisis point yet,” noted Ambassador Holloway, who stressed that a number of professionals are employed at the Commission and it is for this reason, GECOM continues to function. He likened the situation to that of the U.S. Embassy in Guyana being without an Ambassador for 14 months before he was appointed. “But obviously, having a head is better than not having a head, and I do hope that the President and Mr. Jagdeo meet and reach some sort of a consensus, or make a decision. I think it would be good for the country as a whole,” said Ambassador Holloway, in response to questions on the subject. Local Government Election (LGE) is slated for 2018. The envoy said while the process seems to be taking long to be completed, both the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo and President David Granger have been complying with the Constitutional requirements for the appointment of a GECOM chair.
U.S. Ambassador to Guyana, Perry Holloway GECOM has been without a chairman since February when former chairman, Dr Steve Surujbally, who served for 15 years, retired. “…to Mr Jagdeo’s credit, he has continued to give lists, three lists [and] the president has considered them. He said he is considering the current list he has on his hand and he wants to talk to Mr Jagdeo, so hopefully the two would be able to figure it out,” Ambassador Holloway stated. Jagdeo has thus far submitted three lists containing six candidates each to President Granger, two of which have since been rejected by the President. The President is currently reviewing the third list which was submitted to him in late August, and is expected to meet with the Opposition Leader sometime next week. The third list submitted by Jagdeo, 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.
PROPOSED MEETING On Wednesday, the head-of-state told reporters that he looks forward to meeting with the Opposition Leader but could not state when that meeting will be held. “I haven’t set a timeline, I don’t know about Mr. Jagdeo’s availability, 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.” Jagdeo, a former president, has said that the absence of a chair at GECOM has resulted in the work of the commission being stalled. The Constitution provides for the appointment of a GECOM chair pursuant to Article 161. Article 161 (2) says “…the Chairman of the Elections Commission shall be a person who holds, or who has held office as a judge of a court having unlimited jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters in some part of the Commonwealth, or a 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…” President Granger has repeatedly said that the nominees put to him in
the two rejected lists were not found to be fit and proper. Jagdeo’s second list of nominees included: Justice of Appeal, B.S 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 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 . COURT RULING Meanwhile, businessman Marcel Gaskin had approached the High Court to interpret Article 161 of the Constitution, which resulted in Chief Justice, Roxanne George-Wiltshire confirming that the President acting on his own deliberate judgment must determine whether a person is ‘fit and proper’. Gaskin questioned
whether the list of persons for appointment as GECOM Chair to be submitted by Jagdeo must include a judge, former judge or person qualified to be a judge. The President is required under the constitution to state reasons for deeming each of the six names on the list as unacceptable; the President is obliged to select a person from the six names on the list, unless he has determined positively that the persons are unacceptable as fit and proper for appointment, and whether a finding of act by the president that one or more persons on the list is not fit and proper renders the entire list as unacceptable. Justice George- Wiltshire ruled that persons nominated to be selected as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) do not have to be judges, former judges or persons qualified to serve as a judge. Also in her ruling, the Chief Justice 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. On Wednesday, the
President said he is studying the “opinion of the Chief Justice (ag) and its implications for the decisions he is to 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.” The Constitution states too, that if the Opposition Leader fails to submit a list as provided for, the President can appoint a person who holds or has held office as a judge, or a person who is qualified to be appointed as a judge.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
UG degree integrated into GDF cadet course
GDF Chief of Staff, Patrick West, and UG’s Vice Chancellor, Dr. Ivelaw Griffith, signed the MOU on Thursday FOR the first time in its 48 year history the Standard Officers (Cadet) Course of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) will receive a boost in its academic programme with the integration of an Associate Degree in General Studies from the University of Guyana (UG).
The new programme, it is hoped, will take on a transformative role and elevate the course at a level on par with similar international programmes. The GDF and UG formally sealed the landmark collaboration on Thursday with the signing of a Mem-
orandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Officers’ Mess Hall, Camp Ayangana. The programme which targets some 40 trainees will commence in November and will run for a two-year period. Lectures will take place at Camp Stephenson, Timehri. According to UG, the Associate Degree will be done in alignment with the course. Chief of Staff (CoS) of
the GDF, Brigadier Patrick West, said he was pleased to sign the academic collaboration which will enhance the academic programme of this and future Standard Officer’s Courses of the GDF. At the same time, he said it will develop the Agriculture Corp of UG. “This is only part of our efforts towards the theme of effective transformation
towards national defence”, West told the small gathering at the army’s headquarters. The Cadet programme was established in 1969. It was after twelve years in that form that it evolved into the first Officer Cadet Training school within the Caribbean. It was named the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School (CUPOCS) in honour of Colonel Pilgrim, the first commander of the force. So far some 49 courses have been completed. “The initiative will give us a more rounded and educated officer who is prepared to fulfill his role in promoting national defence,”
Colonel West said. “After graduation, students will not only receive their instruments of command, but also an associate degree from the University of Guyana.” UG’s Vice Chancellor Dr. Ivelaw Griffith said the two institutions have a critical role not only in enabling the nation with their respective individual mandates, of educating and defend. He said within those mandates, there are many elements and dynamics, some of which means that educational collaboration is critical and others which mean that other kinds of relationships are required.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Fire destroys Skeldon home
A FIRE suspected to be electrical in origin completely destroyed the home of a Skeldon family of five Thursday morning. The fire which started around 10:45hrs, also damaged two other houses situated on both sides of the Lot 46, Rahaman Street, Number 78 Village, East Berbice Corentyne two-storeyed building. The home belonged to Shaklema Roy and Ramesh Seenarine, who resided there for the past eight years. The family sells food at the market and Shaklema explained that at the time of the inferno, her husband was at the market plying their trade when the tragedy struck. She had just returned after picking up supplies for the next day’s sale when the fire started. She explained that at the time two of their three children were at home with her when they heard crackling sounds from the front room of the upper flat. “I was downstairs when I hear something sparking, so me follow the sound and realise it coming from upstairs in the front room. When me reach I hear a louder spark right where the bulb and light switch is and the wall catch afire. So me start fuh shout and everybody telling
The damaged house belonging to Mohan Chetram
me to get out the house. I grab them two children and run out. By the time me reach outside, the roof cave in and the fire spread more” She continued that as neighbours called the fire service, the fire quickly engulfed the home and they could not save any of their belongings and instead of trying to extinguish the fire and try to save items, the focus had to be placed on the two neighbouring houses that were quickly catching. According to Shaklema, the fire has rendered them helpless since all their appliances used for their livelihood, as well as their personal belongings
that they spent years to accumulate were destroyed in a matter of minutes. She is appealing to the public for assistance, since they now have to restart their lives from scratch. “We spent years working hard to get where we are today and everything just gone, we would accept anything to help us get back on our feet because we don’t have anything and (the) three children for now gon stay wid family.” Meanwhile, Lalita Persaud, 35, who lives on the eastern side of the inferno, said she was alerted to the fire by loud shouts of “fire! fire!” by neighbours to the
Jagdeo hopes President has selected GECOM chair Leader of the Opposition, Bharat Jagdeo said he is willing to meet with President David Granger on the matter of selecting a new chairman for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). DURING a media briefing on Thursday, Jagdeo said he looks forward to meeting with President Granger, with the hope that he has selected someone from the recently submitted list of nominees for the position. President Granger had 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 availability, 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.” “Usually when he rejects my list, he would usually send a letter, but since this will be an actual meeting, which is a change, I hope he has selected someone,” said the Opposition Leader who reminded members of the media about his two lists of nominees that were rejected. The last list of nominees
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Jagdeo: Leader of the Opposition, Bharat Jagdeo (Adrian Narine photo)
includes Major General Joseph Singh, Onesi La Fleur, Sanjeev Datadin, Annette Arjoon-Martins, Krishnadatt Persaud and Teni Housty. On Wednesday President Granger told members of the media that in addition to studying the Curricula Vitae of the list of nominees, he has been studying the “opinion” by the Chief Justice (ag), Roxanne George-Wiltshire and its implications for the decisions he will soon make. Deliberating on Article 161 (2) of the Constitution, after the High Court was approached by
businessman Marcel Gaskin for an interpretation, the Chief Justice said the President 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. Jagdeo said, now that he has the written ruling from the court, he expects the President to respect it and ensure that it is applied to the selection of a candidate. The Leader of the Opposition believes that unlike the past two lists that were rejected without an explanation, if this one is not accepted then he expects the President to give a reason in order to maintain good governance.
west of the blaze. “I was doing some work and me hear people shouting “fire! fire!” so me run out and me see Shaklema them front room on fire. Me and all start shouting but the place blaze up quickly, so me start fuh panic cause them house deh close close and me done start fuh feel the heat.” Persaud’s home suffered major damage on the eastern side. The owner Mohan Chertam said all the windows were shattered and had to be replaced, PVC plumbing melted and his concrete walls were cracked with the plaster falling off on some section and part of the roof was burnt. They, however,
The home of Shaklema and Ramesh Seenarine managed to move some of the household items. When this publication visited the scene, workers were busy trying to replace the tank and pipes to get water back into the home, while there were females mopping out water and cleaning up the
upper flat. Meanwhile, the neighbouring house on the Western side was also scorched due to the intense heat. The owners related that the windows and part of the roof will have to be replaced. The Guyana Fire Service is currently investigating the origin of the fire.
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Editorial
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Another oil discovery ANNOUNCEMENT on Thursday by ExxonMobil that it has discovered another source of oil offshore Guyana could have the impact on Guyanese pinching themselves and asking the question, “is this fuh real?” The oil giant has discovered its fifth well at Turbot-1, adding to previous discoveries at Liza, Payara, Snoek and Liza Deep. History will recall that exploration was conducted during the era of the Forbes Burnham Government and the result declared by the multinationals that were involved in the exercise was that Guyana does not have oil in commercial quantities. For years there have been lingering thoughts that the result was suspect and more reflective of serious political influences at the international level. The alleged non-discovery of oil in commercial quantities occurred at a time when the price of oil in the international market had soared and purchasing of this commodity put a strain on foreign currency and what the society could produce and import, which ultimately had an adverse impact on the nation’s development in every sphere. The oil and gas sector has always been an important element in a country’s development. It is to be treated as the primary energy resource in man’s day-to-day life, with a heavy reliance on it given that production of goods and services depend on it. Oil producing countries are known to be better able to develop a thriving manufacturing sector which enables them to compete effectively in the international market. At the core of countries that produce oil, where properly managed, improvement can be seen in such areas as physical infrastructure (road, bridges, transportation, housing, etc.), education and health services, income, direct and indirect economic opportunities and disposable spending and taxes. In this light, it is reasonable that had Guyana broken earlier into the sector and coupled with the economic self-determination
pursuit, we could have been far ahead today. At the same time it cannot be ignored that in the Cold War era, a newly-independent nation that saw wisdom in advancing a non-aligned foreign policy agenda, forging and maintaining relations with both West and East based on national interest, would have made countries that shared a close relationship with the oil giants uneasy. Oil and party/ideological politics intersect and are intertwined. And whereas the perception is held that the Cold War as we know it may be behind us, the politics of the sector and those who influence and could influence it, domestic and foreign, should not be ignored by politicians, governments and other stakeholders. In addition to the positives this sector can bring there could be corresponding negatives when it is not properly managed and infrastructures such as laws, programmes and policies put in place to safeguard the environment, people and revenues that flow therefrom. The society is saturated with expectations, be they real or hyped, that the sector can be a panacea out of underdevelopment. Such an understandable desire also risks ignoring that this would not be a magic bullet in planning around the fortunes of the country. At the same time where the sector is set for production in 2020 and the expectation that ExxonMobil will submit its Local Content Plan by December, there exists the need to empower society, notably the stakeholders who will be relied on to supply the labour, facilitate business - private and public - protection of the environment and so forth. In our society where politics has historically intertwined with race, geography, allocation of resources and sectional interest, our stability cannot be ignored in the presence of numerous global examples where such fragility has been preyed on at the expense of the country and the development of the people.
Glasnost and involvement remain the better, if not the best, approach to avoid socio-economic and political crises because as Guyanese fight among themselves, our wealth will be extracted and expatriated, not to our benefit. The importance of a strong and independent judiciary, insulated from political and other influences cannot be over-emphasised. As deserving attention is being paid to the judiciary, similar attention should be placed on creating laws and new structures, such as industrial courts/tribunals and equal opportunity laws. Exploiting this sector will undoubtedly see an influx of non-Guyanese who will bring unique cultures, and the possibility of regard or disregard for our laws, customs and practices. In the absence of regulations/laws and strong reinforcement, our way of life can be threatened, including our identity and developmental pursuit. The task ahead could be daunting and it would be to the nation’s benefit in the presence of these discoveries not be complacent or over-enthusiastic with regard to the potential windfalls. We have to move purposefully to put systems in place to guard our national patrimony, environment, people and identity.
Jagdeo standing on shaky ground Dear Editor, Look who is claiming the high ground, at press conferences, and other public fora – Bharrat Jagdeo. This leader of the Peoples Progressive Party/Civic(PPP/C, as President of this nation, presided over what is now recorded as the most traumatic of our modern political history: the period 2002-2008, inclusive of his 12-year rule, will long be remembered as one in which organised crime flourished, aided by a killer squad that systematically murdered Guyanese; of police stations where gates were closed before sundown; of policemen being shot and killed; of narcotics becoming the symbol of state affluence, but deep in the tentacles of criminality and when most forms of public morality became desecrated on the altar of self- enrichment, where friends, families and
cronies benefitted. It is a period which effects are still being felt by Guyanese in many ways. For example, the advent of young criminals, many of whom would have lost their fathers during that unforgettable period. But this letter is about Jagdeo, who would be amusing if the issues he pronounces and pontificates upon were not so serious. Jagdeo, attempting to lecture the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU + (AFC) on what it should do, or what should not be done. What is so amusing, is that these were very serious issues that arose during his tenure, and by extension that of his surrogate, President Donald Ramotar. Take for example, the contract for the Marriot Hotel. Despite calls from the then opposition and sections of the public to release details of that contract, he refused, citing confidentiality issues. I stand to be cor-
rected that recently, when the coalition government spoke about such contracts and their clauses, he said that it should publicise the very details. What game is he playing? Just who is he trying to fool. This is an instance, in addition to many, where this discredited leader continues attempts at sanitising himself and a record of PPP/C governance that was venal in so many ways. Not so long ago, he sought to criticise the coalition government on the crime situation in Guyana, despite the fact that available stats then pointed to a decrease. To say that “Crime has never been so bad” was a criminal lie that pandered to similar views from a private sector that had benefitted in so many ways from tax waivers and tax concessions from his government. Just imagine, editor, from a poor country as ours. Anyone, matured enough, and residing in
Guyana at that time, would remember the climate of fear, from the nightly staccato of automatic gunfire that left bodies lying in the city suburbs and its environs. It was mayhem, coming from a mix of forces, including the currently incarcerated Roger Khan, whose gunmen were allowed to ride rough shod over the Guyanese citizenry. As a matter of fact, in a fully paid print ad in the newspapers, he claimed that he had been assisting the government to combat criminal violence! How could such a notorious personality have been allowed such a portfolio? I look forward to an inquiry into this period of this nation’s history. It will astonish all! Maybe, Jagdeo was hoping that the same frightening scenario from the jailbreak of 2002, replicate itself. Sorry, the police force rose to the occasion and within
a short while recaptured all of the escapees, except, two who are reportedly still at large. Our citizens were not in fear as in 2000 and onwards. That Jagdeo can continue to rave and rant, and survive as a politician in this country, is due to the particular nature of our race-based politics. For, in any other jurisdiction of a homogenous type, he would have been consigned to the dustbin of discredited national leaders, who presided over a criminal state. No ambiguities with regards the latter; for the many audits thus far tell a story of wholesale theft of every type, state assets included. A real gangster state where corruption became a way of life, and still poses a major challenge to good governance, despite the best efforts of the government to rein in this dangerous beast. Editor, these are matters that ought to be highlighted, if only to remind the Guy-
anese people to beware of a leader who pretended to be a democrat, but who instead trampled on its great tenets. I believe in freedom of speech, but not when someone like Jagdeo uses its sacred tenets to mock the sensibilities of this nation on almost a daily basis. He has no morality of whatever kind, to speak. Another reminder; his idea of democracy, for example, had been to deny very credible media houses and personalities broadcasting licenses, but doled out such to very close friends and family in multiples, giving them superior reach to every region in this country. Recall that during the recent debate on the Broadcast (Amendment) Bill, he stated that freedom of the press had been under threat. What a convenient human! Regards Earl Hamilton
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Audit should be done into Gocool The GRA does not make, but Boodhoo activities at GECOM only administers the law
Dear Editor
IS the question of transparency and accountability at GECOM really a focus point for the People’s Progressive Party/Civic? Since the 2001 General Elections, the Auditor General’s office has zeroed in on GECOM suspicious transactions with Mike Brasse, but the AG Office refused to conduct a Forensic Audit. Gocool Boodhoo, who was Assistant Chief Elections Officer got appointed as Chief Elections Officer. More allegations of corruption, GECOM purchased
$25,000,000 worth of janitorial items at exorbitant prices from Mike Brasse’s company, Tri Star, which was never registered at the Deeds Registry. The business registration that Mike Brasse provided to GECOM was proven by the Audit Office as fake, but again the AG office failed to call a Forensic Audit. In 2008, the Audit Office started a Forensic Audit of $24, 000.000 expended for OKIDATA Toners. Fake quotations were allegedly submitted because the company could not be located by visits or phones.
The audit was suddenly halted. In 2009, the present PPP commissioner Bibi Shaddick publicly criticised the accounting officer Boodhoo, after a public accounts meeting. In 2010, then President Bharrat Jagdeo raised concerns about the accounting officer Boodhoo’s regular submissions of single-sourcing for cabinet approval. All these are matters that ought to be investigated Regards Former GECOM employee
Who selected the 27-man football squad?
Dear Editor
NOTE has been taken of the publication of a 27-player squad of locally based footballers, to pursue training for an international friendly against host Grenada, on 08.10.17, with the possibility of a few overseas-based players being included. Editor, in my estimation, the GFF once again has found itself “caught between a rock and a hard place.” Since I would seriously like to know: what were the criteria used to select the locally based players? Who are the members of the selection panel? Does the GFF have within its database a list of overseas-based players profiles, is the GFF au fait with club representation, fitness levels, playing time (weekly), division, standard and training? Suffice, it to say that we are in the electronic age, and definitely not “in “ stone age, aided by a Jurassic style of administrative leadership.” Meanwhile, how many matches of the Hamilton Green K.O. and the Corona Beer Round /Robin K.O did members of the selection panel attend? Is it not a burning shame for two privately-run tournaments to be utilised for selection, moreover with the former first round not being completed? Since when playing a knockout tournament is justifiable for selection, with the adage,” Losers walk the plank”? Within a League/Round Robin albeit, on a bad day as was the mantra, compliments of former coach, Deryck Whyte. “From all indications, luck is not on our side today, missing easy goals, including a penalty, struck the woodwork twice. Fellas, if we can’t score in the second half, please ensure nothing scores on us, at least, we’ll have to settle for the 1 point from the draw.” At the time
“Whytey” was the coach, myself Secretary of Georgetown and arguably the nations’ most successful club Fruta Conquerors. By relevant comparison, with a team becoming a firstround causality, in a knockout. What assessment of a player can be made? As a consequence, it remains downright “ tomfoolery” for the selection panel to overlook police’s Dwain Jacobs, a former national, who netted a hat-trick in the recently-concluded Corona Beer RoundRobin/K.O finals, en route to police’s 4-0 victory over host GFC, with the lawmen winning 2 out of 3 finals within two years. Why is it that police, along with beaten finalist GFC, cannot have a single player each, in a squad of 27 locally based players? Given the fact that the Upper Demerara Football Association - - an affiliate of the GFF -- was coordinating an Inter-Association Round-Robin/ Knockout Tournament, would it not have been more prudent to utilise same for selection, despite the fact that a smaller pool of players would have been vying for selection? Or was it taken into consideration the possibility of favouritism would have existed at the association level, in relation to selection. But the inclusion from Bartica and East Bank ought not to have been overlooked! Then, the surprise selection of Gregory” Jackie Chan” Richardson, who last donned national colours almost two years ago, remains puzzling. Was/is Richardson active in either of the two privately coordinated tournaments? However, in the absence of senior league competitions being played locally in any association, compounded by the inability of the GFF to indicate when the third edition of the Elite league is set to kick off, surely, is a clear indication
of continued under-development of the sport, since September, has come to an end, and the international friendly is a few weeks away. As it relates to the GFF monthly financial assistance for regional member associations, editor, while the adage of: “better too late than never” becomes applicable, I do hope that “overt politicking “isn’t an established factor, since the “monthly financial assistance” isn’t something new and it would be “down right dishonesty” to claim so. If my maths is correct i.e $50,000 x 8 x 12 =$4,800,000 annually. But for public dissemination and the records, while I was the Assistant Secretary/Treasurer, GFA (2008-2010), our association along with others, on a monthly basis had the following expenses paid by the then president Colin Klass: office rental and secretarial staff; GPL and GTT utility bills, with the latter inclusive of intendent fees. Interestingly, all the other requirements that were publicised had to be met on a monthly basis. But this should not preclude the GFF from requesting bi-monthly meetings instead. However, from an economic standpoint, in this “day and age” $50,000 monthly in Georgetown cannot suffice to pay a typist privately and rent a venue to convene meetings, much less to have an office running on a daily basis five days a week; lest I forget, the furnishings for our office, which was located at Robb & Oronoque Streets, Bourda, was provided by the GFF, inclusive of a computer. Regards Lester Sealey
Dear Editor The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has made note of the letter in your September 28, 2017 Edition (Pg. 6) titled “Why does GRA no longer give mortgage interest relief to first-time home owners, if they don’t have taxable income?” by Jorge Bowen Forbes, in which the writer expresses concern about one of the criteria for acquiring Mortgage Interest Relief (MIR) from the GRA. In response, the Agency hereby steers the writer to the Income Tax (Mortgage Interest Relief) Amendment Regulations 2015 Section 6 (1) which states “In ascertaining the chargeable income of a person who is eligible for
mortgage interest relief there shall be allowed a deduction against his chargeable income, the amount of the interest paid to the Financial Institution in the year preceding the year of assessment.” Additionally, Section 6 (2) indicates that “In ascertaining the amount of the refund payable on the eligible relief under section 20 (A) of the Act, the Commissioner General shall first ascertain the chargeable income of the taxpayer and if it is determined that the chargeable income is not sufficient and will result in reducing the chargeable income below zero, then the refunds paid on the mortgage interest relief to the taxpayer will be reduced accordingly and he shall not be eligible for the full relief.” The GRA does not make
but only administers the law. The Authority wishes to advise the writer that at no time will age be a determining factor when dealing with taxpayers. MIR is a form of refund and as can be observed, it is processed through GRA’s Refund section. Consequently, with a refund being that of a tax payment, there can be no refund when no tax is paid in the first place. We trust that this adequately answers the writer’s question. However, should he have further queries, he is welcome to call the Agency on 227-6060 extensions 1201-1204. Regards Guyana Revenue Authority Communications Unit
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
PNCR raises flags in celebration of 60 years By Stephan Sookram
THE People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) on Thursday morning commemorated its 60th Anniversary with a flag raising service at their Sophia, Greater Georgetown headquarters. The early morning event encompassed several sessions, including the hoisting of the party’s flag, after which President David Granger remarked on the prestigious history of the party. “It was a great day when, happily, Comrade Forbes Burnham, our founder-leader, together with Comrade Joseph Prayag Lachhmansingh, our founder-chairman, and Comrade Jane Phillips-Gay, our founder of the Women’s Movement, set out on a mission to change colonial conditions of life in fundamental ways,” the PNCR leader said. He added, “Forbes Burnham, Joseph Lachhmansingh and Jane Phillips-Gay erected an institution aimed at encouraging and empowering poor and powerless men and women, to combine their energy and talent to trans-
form a backward plantation economy into an independent nation.” He noted that, the party at the social level, introduced social protection, improved access to public housing and public health, expanded public education and extended the provision of public services to the people. ”Our party, at the cultural level,
for each other’s religions, celebrated the history of our peoples and promoted patriotic pride and national unity.” According to President Granger, at the political level the PNCR rejected colonial domination, strove for fair representation, struggled for Independence and steered the colony of British Guiana into
The Flags fly proudly following the celebration of the 60th year of activity nomic level, initiated major drainage and irrigation and sea defence works in order to augment agricultural pro-
PNCR Leader, President David Granger and General Secretary of the Party, Amna Ally, observing the proceedings (Delano Williams photos) enhanced social cohesion and integration, fostered respect
nationhood. “Our party, at the eco-
duction. It improved public infrastructure in order to promote more efficient
land, riverine and aviation transportation and communications. Our party, at the international level, defended Guyana’s national sovereignty and territorial integrity, initiated actions which, with other states, led to the liberation of colonial possessions and the establishment of organisations among African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) states that conduced to making the world a freer and safer place.” President Granger added, that PNCR as part of a coalition administration with its partners – the Alliance For Change, the Guyana Action Party, the Justice For All Party, the National Front Alliance and the Working People’s Alliance – celebrates this, its 6oth Anniversary, with a sense of satisfaction with the success of its efforts to make Guyana a better place for everyone. “We are the heirs and
successors of the unsung and uncelebrated ‘heroes of yore.’ We pay homage to our founders who established this proud, principled party. We honour those who, today, inspired by our founders’ vision, continue to contribute to our country’s development. Also speaking during the ceremony was PNCR Chairman, Basil Williams, who is also this country’s Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs. He told the gathering that the party was, is, and will always be for the people. “Our party is a party of struggle. That’s why we are here. But we are not a party that struggles in vain, are we? No, we are a party that struggles and overcomes, and we resolve that we keep on overcoming because the work of the People’s National Congress is not finished.
Many persons gathered on the lawns of Congress Place for the flag raising ceremony
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Young farmers 'tell it like it is' –– at PROPEL-led discussion on challenges facing women, youth in agriculture
By Wendella Davidson IT’S no secret that women and young farmers play an integral role in agriculture and food the world over. And it was with this in mind that a timely multi-stakeholder forum, which sought to bring to the fore and seek solutions to the myriad of challenges facing women and young farmers in Guyana, was convened on Tuesday at the Herdmandston Lodge, here in the city. Organised by the local chapter of PROPEL (Promotion of Regional Opportunities for Produce Through Enterprises and Linkages), the forum, themed “Shaping programmes based on the realities of Women and Youth”, brought together representatives from various stakeholder groups in agriculture, such as the public and private sectors, Non-governmental Organisations (NGOs), and the media. And together they brainstormed ideas in the hope of identifying mechanisms that can be developed to help remove barriers, and ensure that the priorities of women and youth are given the required attention. Among topics that were discussed by the participants
which is not right. A sore point for her and other women farmers also, is that they are often subject to praedial larceny, resulting in their suffering heavy losses and causing them to be hesitant to invest and expand in their respective enterprise.
Ayodele Sampson participation. Ms Sheltinga, said, too, that the role of extension services is absolutely critical to this equation, and that there is an urgent need to improve the productivity and support of the women and youth-led opportunities. She also reiterated the need for women farmers to be empowered in an effort to broaden their lives. HOLISTIC APPROACH PROPEL’s Deputy Director, Munish Persaud, noted in his opening remarks that the aim of the forum was to look at agriculture from a holistic point of view, and
Dexter Southwell available in the agriculture sector. An important feature during the first session were presentations by Dexter Southwell, Ayodele Sampson, Anna Bridgelall and Roseman Miller, all of whom spoke on the numerous challenges they are faced with as producers of agricultural products, and made a few suggestions as to how they might be solved. According to Southwell, young farmers primarily face challenges in the area of access to certain enabling resources, such as drainage and irrigation (D&I) and extension services; training in areas of business and busi-
Participants at the PROPEL Multi-stakeholder Consultation Forum on Tuesday at the Herdmanston Lodge (Photos by Delano Williams and Samuel Maughn) were: Who or what agencies should be involved in the process and what roles they should play, as well as the coordinated action that may be required, and how these can be successfully undertaken. Guest speaker, Ms Jan Sheltinga, who is Counsellor for Development Cooperation in Guyana, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago, High Commission of Canada, underscored the role of women and youth in agriculture, noting that full economic growth cannot be achieved without their
seek to find out what are the obstacles preventing the country’s agricultural sector from doing much better than it is doing at present. In acknowledging and applauding the representative stakeholders, Persaud said he was particularly enthused by the participation of the media, whom he views as not only participants but a critical element to the conversation, as they can play an important role in the area of educating and sensitising the general public on the services that are
ness management; training programmes that cater for the needs of young women; and market structures that are unfavourable to young farmers. He also told the gathering that the reason many youths tend to shun agriculture is because they are typically subjected to labour-intensive farm activities. There’s also the stigma associated with slavery and agriculture in some communities, Southwell said, not to mention a limited knowledge of how markets work; the lack
Rosaman Miller of basic information on market prices; and the inability of youths to access loans because they do not possess collateral. LOW SELF-ESTEEM Another deterrent, he said, has to do with the youth farmers being portrayed as people of low self-esteem and lacking in aspiration. As such, he said, youths listening to such stories can become demotivated. Sampson, in her presentation, spoke on the barriers facing women farmers as they seek access to local markets for their produce,and legal advice to do with land tenure; training in the area of negotiation; and the need for an informal agriculture women’s network. She also lamented the fact that most women are often being taken advantage of, due to their limited knowledge of agriculture and the cost associated with various activities, and technical advice on the scheduling of extension support in agriculture farming. Bridgelall, who addressed soil management, spoke of women not being able to have access to agricultural machinery, such as tillers and tractors; the prohibitive cost of getting an excavator to dig drains and canals and for tractors to plough a field, all works associated with farming. She zeroed in, too, on the inadequacy of technical support, and the need for women farmers to be encouraged. Miller, in her presentation, addressed the lack of access to farmlands and farm-to- market roads; the shortage of labour force and the high charges being demanded to do the work because the farmers are women; the need for women to be introduced to an alternative method of farming,such as shadehouse farming since field farming is too
Anna Bridgelall rigorous for women; and access to agricultural loans and technical know-how in the area of post-harvest handling and the management
DONOR SUPPORT The PROPEL project is implemented by the World University Service (WUSC), with the financial support of donors and from the Government of Canada through Global Affairs Canada (GAC). PROPEL is scheduled to wrap-up in December 2018, and to this end, participants, following
Guest speaker, Jan Sheltinga
of products. On the issue of communication of market information, Miller, who hails from Stanleytown on the West Bank of Demerara, said many times women farmers are deliberately given inaccurate market information,
their respective presentations, examined areas and sought to develop mechanisms that could be implemented to ensure that women and youth priorities in agriculture continue, and get the required attention.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
GPSU calls for ‘serious’ dialogue with gov’t
PRESIDENT of the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), Patrick Yarde, is calling for ‘serious’ dialogue with the government to iron out the challenges faced by public servants and foster better working conditions. Speaking at the opening of the 22nd Biennial Conference of the GPSU last Wednesday, Yarde underscored the difficulties faced by public servants and advocated for “an early return
to formal, periodic dialogue between the union and government.” The president posited, “This dialogue must be serious, it must be sustained, it must be agenda-driven and it must be underpinned by an environment of goodwill, robust enough to withstand the challenges of industrial disputes, even work stoppages. Above everything else, it must be decision-oriented.” He mentioned the union’s proposals to the
Installation of the newly-elected GPSU Executive Council for the term of office 2017-2021 Finance Ministry for the 2018 National Budget, where recommendations were advanced that seek to impact the long-term quality of the lives of the workers. According to him, it was no different from the proposals fashioned for the 2015 - 2017 budgets. “We put forward meaningful and practical recommendations not only for the creation of a qualitatively better Public Service but also for the creation of a public servant whose circumstances as well as his or her tools and his or her environment – better positions him or her to serve this nation,” he contended. He stressed that while the union’s recommendations have been largely unattended to over the years, the deliberations between the government and union were taken seriously and
the union now expects that the administration would do the same. ‘LIVING WAGE’ Moreover, Yarde highlighted some issues the union and public servants are facing that require immediate action. He stressed the need for payments of the ‘living wage’ and the payments for increments and debunching. Through negotiations conducted between June and August, 2016, however, the GPSU initially proposed a 40 per cent across-the-board increase for public servants, but this was subsequently adjusted to 25 per cent. The union had also demanded that allowances be included in the negotiations. The Government responded by proposing that persons earning less than $100,000 be paid a 10 per
cent increase while persons earning above $1 million would only get a one per cent increase. Furthermore, Yarde raised the contention that “ridiculously low” allowances for public servants have in many cases remained unchanged for over two decades and require urgent attention. He recounted an engagement with Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, and said, “The ridiculously low allowances paid to public servants would be addressed urgently, Jordan had said. To date this has not happened; that commitment has not been honoured.” “We are most disappointed with the apparent lack of interest that has so far been displayed by a Government functionary recently towards our recommendations,” Yarde declared.
Teachers are the backbone of our society- CEO CHIEF Education Officer (CEO), Marcel Hutson, on the behalf of the Ministry of Education expressed his gratitude towards the country’s teachers for their dedication in shaping and molding the minds of the future leaders, in observance of World Teacher’s Day being observed under the theme, “Teaching in Freedom, Empowering Teachers”. “As the Chief Education Officer, I recognise that teachers are the backbone of our society (Guyana) because they majorly contribute in shaping the future of our nation. A teacher’s job is full of responsibility and challenges because not every student is the same, and thus the teacher has to be dynamic and adopt different teaching patterns for different students,” the CEO explained. He noted that teaching is a social practice, therefore teachers must be able to shoulder the responsibility of their career and understand the sensitivity of the situation, where students from different background and make-up are involved.
It was highlighted that the Ministry of Education has initiated and implemented many programmes to improve the quality of education which would not be possible without the cooperation of teachers; hence the significant improvement shown in the results of the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) examination. Hutson also requested that teachers continue to educate young people with diligence and become a long-lasting influence in the lives of their students, quoting Chinese philosopher Confucius, who said, “Even if someone is your teacher for only a day, you should regard him as your father for the rest of your life”. This year’s theme echoes the Sustainable Development Goal (SDGs) number four which speaks to quality education; one of the primary agenda that government has highlighted in ensuring that all children across of Guyana have access to education.(DPI)
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Farm Produce Larceny Bill for Parliament
FARMERS are soon to breathe a sigh of relief when the government tables a bill in the next Parliament to address the issue of Praedial larceny-the loss of farm produce through theft. In an exclusive interview with the Department of Public Information, Agricultural Health and Food Security Specialist of the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Mark Pierre said addressing praedial larceny is of great importance since it is a practice which affects the livelihood of all farmers and can have an especially crippling effect on small farmers. In addition, Dr. Pierre said, “it (Praedial Larceny) also has other implications in terms of disease control which ultimately affects
trade in the long run for the country.” While there is legislation, there is a greater need for enforcement for there to be a positive effect in stemming the larceny of agricultural produce, whether crops or livestock. The specialist pointed out that, “One of the main issues with legal matters is enforcement, and I think we have all the laws in place and we can do a lot of things. We can have a lot of control, but there is always the issue of enforcement and with enforcement. I think that’s one of the areas we have to tighten up.” Further, Dr. Pierre said that incidents of theft can be minimised if citizens act within the laws of the land. “When something is
stolen the people, who steal it would have to sell it to make it worthwhile so we must look at the purchasers, where the stolen materials or goods will be entering the market chain we would now have an issue of compliance of the vendors of whatever agricultural product it is.” The last known amendment, “praedial larceny (enhancement of punishment act 1983)” sought to increase fines from five hundred dollars or imprisonment for six months to, “not less than five hundred dollars nor more than one thousand five hundred dollars together with imprisonment for not less than six months nor more than eighteen months.” (DPI)
Agricultural Health and Food Security Specialist of the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr. Mark Pierre
Riverview flooding
City Hall sends home supervisor, pump attendant THE two persons left in charge of the River View Koker, who residents alleged slept through the high tide resulting in massive flooding to that community and that of Alexander Village were handed letters to proceed on their administrative leave on Wednesday. Public Relations Officer, Debra Lewis told the Guyana Chronicle on Thursday that she had been advised by Town Clerk, Royston King not to make public the names of the two officers until the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) does an
by King to provide a conditional analysis of all sluices/ pumps in the city. Lewis also informed that M&CC’s environmental officers were deployed to the affected areas on Thursday to distribute cleaning supplies. The residents were also invited to a meeting with Mayor Patricia Chase-Green today (Friday) for discussion of the way forward regarding compensation. Residents, who woke up Wednesday morning to flooding in their community, complained of losses worth millions of dollars. The mayor, in a walk through, described the situation
that resulted in the flooding. “I was coming home from wake at 12:00hrs and I noticed that the water was coming in from Ruimveldt station area. We see the koker door open. It went high. 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…” one resident of Alexander Village told the Guyana Chronicle. A teacher from the same community pondered who
A flooded street in Alexander Village (Kawise Wishart photo) investigation. The two men, the supervisor and pump attendant, were directly involved in the operations of the sluice when the tragedy occurred. In the meantime, Lewis said arrangements were put in place so that the said koker can continue to function, and increased supervision of it has also been advised by the M&CC. City Engineer, Colvern Venture was asked
as unfortunate and sad and conceded that she observed lots of damages. The Town Clerk told reporters that the Council regrets the unfortunate circumstances which resulted in widespread flooding in the two communities, due to what he termed “overtopping.” But residents are convinced that it was the koker attendant’s falling asleep
was 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,” she 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.” Another resident said he was almost electrocuted Wednesday. “By the time I wake up, everything under water,”
the 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.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
ACDA says there’s a vicious campaign against empowerment of Afro-Guyanese
THE African Cultural and Development Association (ACDA) says despite the end of slavery there are persons and organisations that are still bent on keeping African–Guyanese under subjugation and at the margins of economic life of the country. In a statement issued on Thursday, the body said this was blatantly evident during the 23 years of the previous PPP government where African Guyanese had been structurally and purposefully excluded from the Guyanese economy, both by the PPP and also by the dominant players in the Private Sector, including the Banking Sector. The body noted that racial economics has resulted in the procurement contracts, licences, jobs, land, oil concessions and other national patrimony steered towards non-African and Non-Amerindian communities and businesses. “The United Nations through Ms. Gay McDougall reported on these phe-
nomena in 2008. The election of the APNU+AFC government and the immediate focus on Social Cohesion set the expectation that fighting against inequality by targeting discrimination and poverty would be the central focus of the administration. Two years after the election of the APNU+AFC government it is clearly obvious that the PPP, its agents, supporters, some media houses and persons, have started a vicious and rabid propaganda campaign against any effort to level the economic playing field laid by the previous PPP government. This campaign seems to have rendered the APNU+AFC government fearful and hesitant to work towards economic parity for African-Guyanese.” ACDA said this failure is evident in the lack of spending of even the approved budgetary allocations, high unemployment among our youths, slow access to lands and the lack of infrastructural projects that would create work in
our communities. “We still stand aside and look at the contracted works being done that are awarded to persons outside of our communities, a skewed procurement system and the retaining of persons who have and continue to work at sabotaging every effort that would appear to bring economic justice to African-Guyanese.” “ACDA believes that the government is put in this position because of its failure to clearly develop, communicate and implement empowerment policies to eliminate inequality. The result is that African and Amerindian Guyanese are being cheated, while other Guyanese (including many African Guyanese) feel that greater political representation and other minor gains are enough and see our demands for economic inclusion as audacious. “In short, this administration’s Empowerment Policy leadership failure is being expertly exploited by the PPP, the entrenched private sector (particularly
those built on government largesse), and sadly, most often with the support of the media.” As such ACDA calls for an Ancestral Rights Bill similar to the Amerindian Act of 2006 which involves a Ministry of African-Guyanese Affairs and Land Justice; the APNU+AFC Government to move past just the recognition of the UN International Decade for People of African Descent, and to begin to take concrete steps to make the necessary financial resources available; as well as the economic, social and educational opportunities available to enable the People of African Descent in Guyana to begin to move away from the disadvantaged economic position we now occupy. In the area of procurement ACDA said this is a critical area of inclusion in the Guyanese economy for the excluded class of African businesses and entrepreneurs. “The PPP had changed procurement rules to build and enable their
supporters to be economically empowered, resulting in most of the procurement contracts awarded (being) dominated by a select group.” Additionally, ACDA calls for village diversification by the setting up of a Rural Development Fund; assistance to the City Council so that they can offer a permanent solution to the plight of vendors; ensure that adequate workable mining lands be made available to the newly formed mining syndicates and recognition that in Guyana the Africans and Amerindians own a very small piece (3 to 5%) of the economic pie. ACDA said with oil on the way, these groups should be given some oil concessions in order that they would be able to form joint ventures with experienced and financially viable groups. “The APNU+AFC Government has to be more pro-active or the historical inequalities (poverty) will continue.” Meanwhile, ACDA said
next Thursday it will join with other African-centered organisations and First Nations globally, to commemorate and host a Holocaust/Maafa Memorial programme at the Seawall Bandstand. The programme will start at 08:00 hrs. High tide is at 09:45 hrs, ACDA said in a release, adding that floral tributes are encouraged. According to the organization, in Guyana the gathering is meant to memorialise the more than two centuries of brutal removal of African people from their lands, their subjugation, the heinous acts committed against them during chattel slavery and the decimation of their families and cultures. “The Holocaust /Maafa refers to the largest mass murder and the largest economic genocide of a race of people. The African Holocaust/Maafa has been described by the UN as “the greatest crime against humanity,” ACDA concluded.
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Friday October 6th, - 05:00 hrs Saturday October 7th, - 05:30 hrs Sunday October 8th, - 05:30 hrs
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Exxon in fifth oil strike offshore
FOR the fifth time around, United States oil supermajor Exxon Mobil has made a significant discovery offshore Guyana, less than a month after it began drilling the Turbot -1 well some 50km away from the Liza Phase One project. Exxon’s affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Ltd. began drilling the Turbot-1 well on Aug 14, 2017 and encountered a reservoir of some 75 feet or 23 meters of high-quality, oil-bearing sandstone in the primary objective. The well was safely drilled to 18,445 feet or 5,622 meters in 5,912 feet or 1,802 meters of water on Sept. 29, 2017. The last discovery comes less than two months after the company reported that it discovered additional oil in the Payara reservoir offshore Guyana, increasing the total Payara discovery to approximately 500 million oil-equivalent barrels back in July of
this year. The positive well results increased the estimated gross recoverable resource for the Stabroek Block to between 2.25 billion oil-equivalent barrels and 2.75 billion oil-equivalent barrels. “The results from this latest well further illustrate the tremendous potential we see from our exploration activities offshore Guyana,” Steve Greenlee, president of ExxonMobil Exploration Co, said in a news release on Thursday. “ExxonMobil, along with its partners, will continue to further evaluate opportunities on the Stabroek Block.” Turbot is ExxonMobil’s latest discovery to date in the country, adding to previous discoveries at Liza, Payara, Snoek and Liza Deep. Following completion of the Turbot-1 well, the Stena Carron drillship will move to the Ranger prospect. An additional well on the Turbot discovery is being planned for 2018. The Stabroek Block is
some 6.6 million acres or 26,800 square kilometers. Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 percent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd. holds 30 percent interest and CNOOC Nexen Petroleum Guyana Limited holds 25 percent interest. Earlier this year, ExxonMobil and partner Hess made the final investment decision for $4.4 billion first phase development of the Liza field offshore Guyana. SBM Offshore has awarded Keppel Shipyard the contract to convert a very large crude carrier into a floating production, storage, and offloading vessel that will be deployed at the Liza field in the Stabroek block. Meanwhile, the Ministry of Natural Resources in a statement said it joins His Excellency David A. Granger and the Guyanese people in
Soesdyke woman hospitalised after beating from husband A SOESDYKE, East Bank Demerara woman is now lying at a public hospital after she was beaten and choked by her husband last weekend. Reports are that Savita Persaud , a mother of three , accompanied her in-laws on an outing to a creek last weekend with her children and after she returned home , the woman was subjected to a severe beating at the hands of her husband , one Naresh Dass. According to a relative, during the melee, the man flung the woman’s belongings out of their home even as his sisters attempted to quell the situation. He then proceeded to beat his common-law wife in the presence of their children and his relatives. The relative recounted that the man’s sister, who is visiting from Trinidad, took Savita and her children to the creek to spend the day last Sunday. When they returned, the irate man expressed anger that the woman took their children without informing him. “Her husband was so upset that he threw his sister’s suitcase and belongings out the house,” a relative noted. As he argued with his sister, the man rushed upstairs at the home and proceeded to throw his wife’s belongings outside as well. The woman followed him up the stairs and according to a relative it was then that the man started to beat his wife. “He grabbed her by the neck, lift her up and throw her down on the concrete. She remained on the concrete for a while and then his sister took her to Diamond hospital,” a relative of Persaud told this newspaper. She said that the man is in the habit of beating his wife for years and according to her, the man’s sister took the injured women to the hospital for treatment.” She told the doctor that Savita had an accident and they took some blood tests and sent her home,” the injured woman’s relative related. However, Persaud continued to experience severe pain and her brother and sisters went to
Savita Persaud as she laid motionless on a hospital bed this week days after she was beaten by her husband their sibling’s house to pick-up the woman to take her to another hospital but her husband tried to stop them. Reports are that the woman’s relatives managed to take the injured woman to another hospital and doctors there recommended that she undergo an MRI scan since her spinal cord may have been damaged. “She cannot move and she cannot help herself,” Persaud’s relative noted. She said that for years the woman was being abused physically and verbally by her husband and he even threatened to take her life on several occasions. “He going around telling people she look for that,” the woman’s relative noted. The matter was reported to the police earlier this week but relatives noted that the police were awaiting a statement from the bedridden woman. Relatives are praying that Persaud will recover from her injuries.
congratulating ExxonMobil and its joint-venture partners Hess and CNOOC Nexen for their latest discovery at the Turbot-1 well in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana. The announcement, following that of the Payara-2 discovery in July 2017, is another important milepost in Guyana’s journey towards becoming an oil producing country, the miistry statement read. “This latest discovery also underscores the need for continued capacity building not only of Government and its agencies but also of the private sector, civil society and individuals to ensure that they contribute to and benefit from the oil and gas sector in an equitable manner.” According to the ministry it looks forward to the support of all stakeholders as it puts in place a strong regulatory and fiscal framework to ensure that production of petroleum is carried out in a transparent and accountable manner and
in a way that is respectful of our environment. “The ministry expresses its appreciation to all our local, regional and international partners working to bring us to the point of
readiness for the emerging oil and gas sector and calls on the People of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana to embrace this new reality thrusted upon our beautiful country.”
Six times
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--The saga of a young family’s struggle By Vanessa Braithwaite RONELLA Jarvis gazes at the stretch marks on her baby bump, but the smile of an expectant mother that should naturally accompany that gaze is not there. It is stifled by the myriad negative thoughts suffusing her troubled mind. “Will this one, too, be born visually impaired?” This is a question she has repeatedly been asking herself. Tears well in her eyes, and as she looks in the direction of her sons, six-year-old Relon and four-year-old Roell, she feels a little relieved that her moment of sadness did not interrupt their little conversation and giggles. Of course, they cannot see her, because they are both visually impaired. What could have caused both of her sons to be born with an eye condition remains a mystery for this young mother, even though she practically lives at the hospital in her quest for answers. “I used to carry them to town and to the eye clinic, and all they used to say is that is just a jerky movement; that is just an issue with the eye, and I just went with it,” Ronella told the Guyana Chronicle. Then, just as she was about to accept that her boys were a little different, and to hope they won’t lose whatever little vision they had left, Ronella received a call from their teacher, Ms. Shellon Swaving. Swaving is a special-needs teacher at the Wismar Hill Research Institute for the Blind, where the boys went to school during their formative years. And what she had to tell Ronella was the last thing any mother would want to hear, as Relon, the older of the two boys, had confided in their teacher that what little vision he had in his left eye was now completely gone. This bit of news not only took the wind out of Ronella’s sails, but right back to the Linden Hospital Complex (LHC) in search of answers as to how she can save that left eye. FINALLY, SOME HEADWAY Relon was 12 years old at the time, and the sole ophthalmologist at the LHC, Dr. Rameeza McDonald, diagnosed him as having congenital toxoplasmosis.
la’s children showed they all had the disease. “We have a paediatric optometrist who would have tested them,” Madonna said. “So we did a comprehensive eye examination with them. And when we did the eye test, we saw the level of vision, and we had the ophthalmologist seeing them,” she added. Noting that all the children will soon be outfitted with spectacles, Madonna said: “The spectacles help with light sensitivity; it’s not much it can do for them. What we are basically giving them is not so much to improve their vision, because they have already lost it.”
Ronella Jarvis and her husband, Ryan Waldron, with five of their six children, three of whom have already been diagnosed as visually impaired
“She said that there is a small percentage in my blood, and that I either contract it when the cats and dogs used to be around me, or I ate half-cooked food,” Ronella said. Congenital toxoplasmosis is a disease that occurs in fetuses infected with Toxoplasma gondii, a protozoan parasite that is transmitted from mother to fetus. In cases where the mother does not miscarry, the child may be born with serious and progressive visual, hearing, motor, cognitive or other problems. Impaired vision, however, is most common. Other symptoms include swollen lymph nodes, enlarged liver and spleen, macrocephaly, developmental delays, hydrocephalus, intracranial calcifications and seizures. If a mother becomes infected with the parasite during the first trimester of pregnancy, the baby has a 15 to 20 per cent chance of contracting the disease. However, if they become infected during the third trimester, there is a 60 per cent chance of contraction. When Ronella was diagnosed with the disease, she’d already had five children. She later had one more. The two
older boys are already visually impaired, while tests done on the other children at Optique Vision Care in Georgetown, and at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), have shown that the last two children may also become impaired as they grow older. Then, there’s her third son, who is also complaining of blurred vision, while her daughter is having problems seeing at night. RISK FACTORS As Dr. McDonald, the ophthalmologist who did the initial diagnosis explained, while the main host of the parasite is cats, those persons consuming uncooked meat or vegetables are also at risk of contracting the disease. If contracted, it can stay within the person’s blood tissues for life. Said Dr McDonald: “The main host is the cat, and the cat would excrete the eggs of this parasite. And these eggs would come out in the faeces and be in the soil, and the human can get contaminated by playing in the soil, and without washing their hands, putting their hands in their mouths...” The disease, Dr McDonald went on to explain, has various levels of severity.
Damage to the vision is considered mild, while damage to the brain is another story. “There are different kinds of reactivation,” she said. “A regular person who has a good immune system, it might just present itself in the eye. But a person whose immune system is very low, it can manifest itself in the brain, with seizures and other neurological problems.” There’s also the pregnant mother, who can pass on the disease to the unborn child through the placenta. This occurs mostly when her immune system is low. “If she eats uncooked meat or unwashed vegetables,” Dr McDonald said, “it can also get into the system, because it is in the tissue of the animals. “So, if it is not properly cooked, the eggs are right there. It’s the same with fruits and vegetables if they’re not washed.” Dr McDonald explained that when the child is born, if an eye test is done immediately, it can pick up the disease. But most parents, she said, do not know that their child has an eye condition until they are about two years old. “You can have a normal child with their vision being infected, or a child who is
very ill mentally… “When the test is done, we normally see scar tissue on the macula of the eye, and it is usually on both sides,” the doctor said. AVAILABLE DATA During her five years of practice at LHC, she said, she’s known of about 10 persons that were diagnosed with the disease. And while recent figures of the number of persons diagnosed in Guyana were unavailable to this publication, research has shown that in the United States alone, there are approximately 400 to 4,000 cases of congenital toxoplasmosis each year. Optique Vision, a private optometry centre in Georgetown, conducts tests for congenital toxoplasmosis. When the tests are done, the patients are referred to the GPHC, where they see an ophthalmologist for diagnosis and treatment. Optique Vision supplies the patients who are diagnosed with the disease with spectacles, which, in some cases, enhance the vision to a point. Staff member, Madonna, told the Guyana Chronicle that tests done on Ronel-
A GREAT HELP Ronella is truly grateful for what Optique Vision has been doing for her children, free of charge, since continuous testing will show whether the other children have contracted the disease as well. Optique Vision’s charitable offer was in response to a request from the Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), United Women for Special Children, which is based in Georgetown. After realising that the condition was prevalent in Linden, Angella Rahaman, the NGO’s President said the organisation embarked on a project to test the eyes of the children in the community, and to pick up the tabs for transportation and other costs to get the 30 or so of them found to be visually impaired to get to Georgetown for treatment. She said the group will continue doing so for as long as it takes necessary, since the aim is to see whether there is any progression in the children’s vision. Noting that Ronella’s case was special, after realising that it was several of her children with the eye condition, Rahaman said: “What we found out is that one of the children has the best vision out of the six, but may need spectacles a little down in life, because we were told that their eyes won’t get better; their vision will deteriorate.” The organisation feels very proud of being able to assist Ronella, not only because of her circumstance, but also because she is unemployed. “We feel good about what we do; we feel accomplished at the end of the day, because we know these kids are ben-
the agony
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
with congenital eye disease, blindness al Grade Six Assessment. While Roell continues to be at MHS after being promoted to Grade Eight with a 77 per cent pass, Relon’s dream of writing the Carribbean Secondary Examination Council (CSEC) may have been dimmed, since the school does not have the facilities to accommodate his disability. In fact, no educational institution in Linden has, and unfortunately, Relon is now at home, hoping for a miracle. Their father, Ryan Waldron is peeved over the situation and the lack of support he said his family is receiving from the government and education officials in the region, since the boys’ education and their future are at stake. The family, he said, is not in a position to provide for the boys all the days of their life, since they are very poor. “That is why we insisting on the education, because if them ain’t catch nutten, we have to look them after all the years, because they won’t
be able to earn,” Mr Waldron said. “So that is why we insisting that they get some kind of education, because we won’t be here all the time,” he added. Other than selling homemade bread in the afternoons, the family has no other means of income, save the public assistance of $7, 500 each they receive for the two boys. IN HIGH SPIRITS But despite these setbacks, the boys continue to be in high spirits and are not allowing their disabilities to affect their everyday life. They both play blind cricket, and have represented Guyana on the national team as well. Relon has dreams of becoming a teacher for visually-impaired children. “I feel that they don’t have enough teachers, and I will be able to help out in a great way,” he said. Roell is hoping to continue excelling at school as he did at his first end-of-
term examination. “The children feel that because I get this eye problem, I can’t do good,” he said, adding: “And the teacher said that she would automatically put me over, because the pass mark is 55 per cent; but I have to get 65 per cent. “And I said I will pass both 55 and 65 per cent.” Dr. McDonald is encouraging all parents living in Ronella and Ryan’s shoes to continue fighting the good fight with their children, and reminding their children each day that they can be whatever they want to in life. “They need to be reminded that the child is not his or her vision, and there is more to the child,” she said, adding: “They can hear, they can walk, they can talk. They need to be encouraged to work with these other abilities of the child; read to them, speak to them more often. They must be encouraged not to give upl that and
Relon (batting) and Roell (bowling) enjoying a game of blind cricket in their yard
efiting from what we are doing,” Rahaman added. LACK OF SENSITISATION But with all the help she’s receiving, Ronella’s frustration continues to grow as now that she knows more about toxoplasmosis, she can’t help feeling guilty that it’s because of her negligence that her children are now being made to suffer. And while Ronella cannot recall ever playing with cats as a child, or being unhygienic for that matter, Dr. McDonald explained that all it takes is one contact with the parasite to be infected. As such, she is calling for more sensitisation programmes to be done, in an effort to edify the general public, especially pregnant mothers, about the disease. “I think we can do some more; more sensitisation of the general public, to become aware of the effects of it,” Dr McDonald said, adding: “Because, once it gets into your system, it is there for life. Every man, woman and child is at risk of getting toxoplasmosis.” Recalling a situation where a mother was encouraging a young child to play
with a cat at a butcher’s shop, Dr McDonald said: “Now, these are cats that are exposed to uncooked meat on a regular basis, and she was trying to take one home. And I was telling her not to, but I don’t think she understood how serious it was; I don’t think they are aware. “It is not a situation where you cannot have a pet cat; but I would encourage the populace to be very hygienic around the animal, and to always remember to thoroughly wash hands directly after making contact with them, especially after cleaning their litter box.” All vegetables and fruits also must be properly washed before consumption, and be properly cooked. All meat should be completely cooked, since the parasite lives in animals, especially pigs. Persons are also encouraged to consume clean water, and to store it safely, since research has shown that mosquitoes and flies can pass on the egg of the parasite from the host to water sources. TREATMENT Given that the disease cannot be cured, Dr McDonald explained that there are treatments to reduce the
inflammatory process and the scarring of the macula. If the disease is activated, especially within a pregnant mother, she is given the necessary medication to reduce infection. And while the ideal medication for treatment is not available in Linden, Dr McDonald has been using a substitute until the ideal drug becomes available. THE CHALLENGES For any mother, raising normal children can be a challenge. Therefore, for a mother raising several children that are differently abled, there are challenges that require that mother to possess insurmountable strength. Ronella has proved to the world that she is very strong; strong enough for each of her six children. She fights day by day to make sure that they live a normal life, especially to be educated. This is the hardest fight she has ever had. According to the mother, there is much to be desired in the education system in Linden. What is most disturbing for her, is that Relon, who is now 15, and Roell, who is 13, are very intelligent. Both secured places at Linden’s top high school, Mackenzie High, when they wrote the Nation-
Teacher Shellon Swaving with Relon, Roell, and their little sister, all of whom attend the Wismar Hill Research Institute for the Blind
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Bahadur arrives in New Jersey
–to ‘represent’ at the Miss India Worldwide pageant COME tonight, Guyana’s Sangeeta Bahadur begins her bid for a chance at the Miss India Worldwide crown with the Talent and Evening Wear segments, culminating on Sunday night with the Grand Finale. This year, the pageant will be once again held in New Jersey at the Royal Albert’s Palace Hall, with the host hotel being the Edison Hotel and Banquet Hall. National Director of the Miss India Guyana Organisation, Uma Bux says a lot has been invested in Miss Bahadur and a lot is going to be expected. “I expect her to be placed in nothing less than the top five, and hopefully win, given all we have invested into Sangeeta’s preparations, ensuring she has all the necessary tools to succeed, and her talent piece along with her overall performance since being in NJ,” Bux told The Buzz in an exclusive interview. “Assessing her and the other young ladies, San-
geeta is standing out at every aspect in the pageant activities. Being an excellent public speaker, go-getter, humble and poised young woman, she is definitely making Guyana proud, and making me proud to have her as Miss India Guyana. “I’m truly proud, satisfied and happy with her reign and representation.” Last year, Guyana ended in the top ten at the pageant, so this year Bux is anxious to start a trend of development. Since her arrival in New Jersey early this week, Sangeeta has been participating in a series of activities and training amongst 17 other contestants from across the globe. This year’s Miss India Worldwide will see a reduction in the number of international participants compared to last year, with the number being the lowest in recent times. According to the IFC, this is due to the devastating impact Hurricanes Irma and Maria have had on the
Caribbean franchise holding countries, in addition to the on-going imposed travel ban issues between the United States and Middle Eastern Countries. Bahadur, Bux said, has been undergoing training for some four months now, ever since she clinched the national title back in May. Training included gym, talent, make up, and pageantry skills. The time period was a marked improvement for the Guyana team, which on the last outing had only a matter of weeks to prepare last year’s representative, who was eventually relieved of her national title. “This year preparations has been a lot better than last year,” Bux said, adding: “We had a longer period of time to ensure Sangeeta is fully prepared mentally and physically for internationals. It also gave us a good opportunity to get to know her as a young woman and representative of the Miss India Guyana brand.”
However, the training was not without it’s challenges, particularly given that Bahadur, who is a Canadian-Guyanese, resides overseas, which made it difficult for her to access the fitness training provided by the local franchise. “The most difficult part for us as an organisation was ensuring she was well prepared physically,” Bux said, adding: “Given her mature, professional, humble demeanor, we had no other difficulty with her preparation other than not having her in Guyana to personally manage the gym sessions with our very own fitness trainer, Shavi from Genesis fitness. “After encouragements from us, she took it upon herself and enrolled into a personal training programme with a gym in Canada.” Bahadur trained with Nathan Heimonen from 5 Star Fitness and Nutrition. A versed Bharatanatyam dancer, Bahadur also mostly catered to her talent training, which Bux said she is confident about.
Miss India Guyana 2017 Sangeeta Bahadur being sashed at the Miss India Worldwide Pageant earlier this week (Photo courtesy Miss India Guyana Organisation)
Guyanese wins spot on ‘The Voice’ EVER since Guyana’s Lisa Punch was on ABC’s Rising Stars Reality Show in 2014, Guyanese have been starved to see another of their own on the big stage. Not any more! As they will finally have their chance to root for 26-yearold Stephan Marcellus, who landed a spot on the NBC hit show, “The Voice”, on Jennifer Hudson’s team. Marcellus’ selection was described by some outlets as the most memorable part of last Tuesday night’s episode of the show. Despite stumbling and even forgetting some of the lyrics in the opening of his rendition of Hozier’s “Take Me To Church” during his blind audition, which aired last Tuesday night, Marcellus was still able to impress Hudson within the first 20
seconds of his performance, just as he began hitting those high notes. What may have gotten him over the hump was his family nervously standing on the sideline the entire time, whispering words of encouragement. Both of Marcellus’ parents are from Guyana. According to his NBC ‘bio’: “Because his parents started with nothing, they stressed the importance of a college education. Stephan went to Bowie State University in Maryland to study child and adolescent studies. “After college, he ended up working in retail, which took time away from music. He ended up quitting and moving back in with his parents, where he is still living, so that he can pursue his music dream.” Though he may have
had a bad start, Marcellus’ confidence grew with Hudson’s pick, and proved that he has great stage presence. By the end of his performance, Marcellus had fellow judge Miley Cyrus bobbing along and enjoying his performance, while he also had the support of the audience. “I don’t think I heard the right notes and I messed up,” Marcellus said at the end of his performance, when Judge Adam Levine asked him what happened. In another interview, Marcellus said that he almost had an anxiety attack while waiting to perform. Hudson explained that she chose Marcellus in spite of his blunder because she has been there before. “It was because I was in the same position before,”
Stephan Marcellus during his performance last Tuesday on ‘The Voice’
the American Idol alum told Levine. “I completely forgot all the words to the song, but that don’t mean you can’t sing. And so I could instantly relate.” Turning to Marcellus, Hudson said: “But you didn’t stop. You stumbled a bit, you went away, but that voice was still there, and I could hear that. “With the right direction and the right coaching, you could get there, because you do have a great voice.” Blake Shelton welcomed Marcellus to ‘The Voice’ family, saying: “Jennifer is your hero! She swooped down and she saved the day!” Marcellus joins eight other contestants on Jennifer Hudson’s team, with another three on the team still to be announced.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Teaching the adventures of entrepreneurship --from ‘Lil ABC’ OUR local thinking has got to be compatible with the global realities that are encroaching continuously on the way we live. That the economic world has changed cannot be argued with. The propaganda of local politics, however, remain rooted to arguments and rhetoric that have remained counter-productive to the logic of crucial ‘bread-andbutter’ issues. No longer can we pretend that our education curriculum will serve its purpose, convincing students that education will prepare them to acquire jobs in this or that public sector entity as theirs and our grandfathers and grandmothers did. We are in the age where technology is the graduate that has been successfully sharing the office, studio and production space as a formidable companion, supervisor and in many cases ‘The Manager’. The culture and family of technology has become ingrained in our daily lives. The products of Quantum Physics has accelerated the machine age, and we are not understanding or learning the landmarks of the new territory fast enough. And in the process of that learning, we in ‘GT’ have also got to
instantly be smart enough to engage, and not to be driven by technology. I was at the GNNL as the company’s freelance artist when I received a new order of Letraset fonts and screens, which artists applied manually, and still do, in the Manga comics production [Japanese comics]. This was somewhere in the early 90s. I approached one of the production managers with the potential order. Pearcey looked at me, smiled and said: “Boy, yuh ain’t gon need them things anymore; the computer software got all ah that.” I was confused; I didn’t understand what he was talking about and was resentful at the same time. END OF AN ERA What Pearcey was implying was that it was the demise of an age that I had evolved in as a teenage artist. “Computer!” was my only response at the time. But I would witness this revolution and its slaughter of ‘human jobs’ as it unfolded before my very eyes. The entire paste-up department was retired and replaced with two computers, each equipped with the software,
PageMaker. I conceded that I had no option; that if I were to stay developing the career I was in, that I would have to computerise, since I had the experience of being told that the printing presses that we were working with were now obsolete, and any replacement would be designed to print from the computer-generated process to press. The clean, computer-created mechanical image on paper had, in a matter of a decade, replaced over 100 years of printing practice-culture. That case study envelopes the speed that our world was been forced [not by any local conscious effort] to metamorphose. To date on the local front, the computer has largely been an imposition. The past administration, in a ‘green-bottle’ puff, came up with the idea that every home should have a Lap Top, ignoring the cultural shock and habitat imbalance involved. Our very home architecture, salary structure and cultural framework defies an impromptu insertion of such a significant cultural addition as the computer age, void of preparing our population, whether through media, popular culture or any social coercing system for the accommodation of the highly literate, reference-based knowledge pool that navi-
gating the Internet demands. The student, including my children even before I had a computer at home, were given school assignments that required visits to the Net Café, regardless of whether or not one had money. Someone at the Ministry of Education was incredibly insensitive or staring mad, was my conclusion. A MAJOR INVESTMENT A computer is a major economic involvement, and the evolutionary rush imposed, through a panicked after-thought realisation, of our distance behind a transforming world. This sophisticated culture shock was bound to create working-class depression, especially when the added expenses of paper, Internet fees and printer ink begin to tear at the fixed income. We pushed our working-class to devise ‘runnings’, once the opportunity presented itself, to meet these new expenses. And now that door has been opened, it has never stopped, with the old culprits still in crucial seats in an antiquated system without modern checks and balances. On the other hand, when the computer becomes an ‘income-earning tool’ and not a surprise imposition, or
just a Facebook ‘who’s who’ novelty, a different attitude to technology is awakened. The leading metropolis of our age is the USA. In that country, there is a record 43% of home-run businesses. That’s a big piece of the earning pie; a direct product of the computer-Online superhighway that has already begun here, but will be in full swing when the potential leave the few and wheel into the majority, and GPL gets its act together. The other problem is social. How did we end up with a sizable semi-literate and illiterate population can be easily traced to the events over the past two decades. But what are we telling our school masses today? And I’m not talking about those privileged schools; I’m talking about the schools and communities left behind, many of them in Georgetown. The concept that school only serves as a facilitator to acquire a job and not the dual option that it also serves as the base to create one’s own employment in the long-term is counter-productive. I was not indulged in my school years that my education could serve to develop an out-of- tradition, still-hardly-understood Cultural Industries business. But I was fortunate to live under
Forbes Burnham. And in my early teens, was part of a coop society, the ‘Kurukuru Agri-Industrial Young Settlers Coop Society’. There I learned the concept of independent thinking. And as the organisation’s secretary, I was taught the rudiments of management and bookkeeping. So I later started my business without a patron’s cheque, with impossible hours and financial responsibilities, but understood and maintained the credibility to deliver. The options are far more lucrative today. The public sector is going to be an important but minority employer in the future. But the public sector has to be shaped into a knowledgeable, cordial and functional partner for the small businesses that will bloom; not an indifferent aristocracy. And the scheming crooks and square pegs will have to go. The child in school today must be enlightened to the options of the two roads from where he or she is. Systems, legal and social, have to be created to diminish dependency, and encourage the practical adventures of self employment. And as the scriptures tell us, souls in prison [mental and physical] have to be ministered to. A tremendous task, but the only sensible option.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
It’s a Big Deal!
--for 12 young Berbician beauties hoping to take the coveted title
The 12 delegates vying to be a big deal (Photos courtesy RD Productions)
YOUNG women in Berbice are being prepared to be the change they want to see in their communities through the inaugural “I’m a BIG Deal” beauty pageant hosted by Royston Drakes Production. The pageant, which will be held on November 18 at the Albion Sports Com-
plex Ground, was officially launched last Saturday at the same location, with the sashing of the delegates before a packed out house. The delegates taking part in the pageant are: Clendolita Lashley, Natasha Pantlitz, Tracy Griffith, Farah Bates, Chelcia Gobin, Seeta Dalloo, Tatiana Lancaster,
Kelisha Ramoutar, Jinnela Walker, Denica Henry, Shaquilla Sharpe and Latoya Williamson. The night also included a Kathak classical fusion, Hip Hop dancers, and even a performance by a saxophonist. The pageant is the brainchild of Capitol News’ senior journalist and producer
Royston Drakes, who himself is from Berbice. He said there is a need for young women to be more empowered, so that they can take up their rightful place in society and help to build Berbice by working to be a part of the solution. A number of activities are planned leading up to
Some of the performances at last weekend’s launch party and sashing ceremony of the “I’m A Big Deal” pageant
the pageant night, which includes a march, family fun day and a dinner and gala. The delegates are currently being trained, and expected to be collaborating with several Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs) as well as government agencies and other small groups to raise aware-
ness on their platforms. The event promises to be one of the most exciting pageant experiences Berbice has ever seen, and will be packed with fun for the whole family, and entertainment from local stars. Tickets are expected to be made available soon throughout Berbice.
‘Watch De Ride 3’ Rush Hour 4 is on! --but there’s a catch on Thursday @ NCC RONALD Hollingsworth’s “Watch De Ride 3” is now on for next Thursday at the National Cultural Centre as a matinee show for secondary-school children, under the directorship of veteran theatre personnel, Sheron Cadogan-Taylor. In “Watch De Ride 3”, subtitled “Snap Chat Blues”, the minibus culture is brought to the home of an unsuspecting family. The show was originally billed for September 15, but had to be postponed. The show will point out that while moms and dads are at work, some school-age children use their absence as an opportunity to experiment physically and emotionally. “Many times,” Cadogan-Taylor told the Guyana Chronicle, “our young adults make choices that
Sheron Cadogan-Taylor
weigh heavily on us parents and society in general. ‘Watch De Ride 3’ brings the complexities of secrets,
impulsive decisions, lies and tradeoffs out from under the carpet and thrust it before its audience. “Thus, while the audience may ponder on the what’s if’s and what may happen next in the drama, the chances taken by the young adults in the drama create some unimaginable problems for their families.” The cast includes Nelan Benjamin, Kimberly Fernandes, Mark Luke-Edwards, Sean Thompson, Nicola Moonsammy, Nathaya Whaul, Leon Cummings, Simone Dowding, Sophera Waldron, and Paul Budnah. “This dynamic cast is working assiduously, and is hoping to set the Cultural Centre stage ablaze once again,” Cadogan-Taylor said. “In other words, it is a must-see production!”
A DECADE has passed since Jackie Chan and Chris Tucker last shared the screen together, but it appears fans are now finally closer than ever to a Rush Hour 4. The veteran film actor shared the exciting news during an appearance on Power 106’s The Cruz Show, where he confirmed years and years of rumblings that he’d given the green light on
expanding the action-comedy franchise. “For the last 20 years, I’ve tried different characters,” Chan shared. “A few years ago, Karate Kid. There was supposed to be a Karate Kid 2 but the script isn’t right. Several years later, they want to do it and I say, ‘You still want to do Karate Kid? No; Karate Men.’ They’re taller than me now!”
He added, “Rush Hour you can do any time... Next year!” As it turns out, Jackie only very recently came to an agreement with insiders pushing to move the project forward. He explained, “For the last seven years, we’ve been turning down the script, turning down the script. Yesterday, we just agreed.” Chan added, “The script probably at the end of this month will have a second draft, and next year, we’ll probably start.” The catch? Because yes, there’s always a catch. Jackie said, “If Chris Tucker agrees.” The comedian and second half of the Rush Hour duo has yet to comment publicly on whether or not he’s on board with a fourth film, but Jackie said his decision will most likely come down to scheduling constraints. “It’s not about money!” Chan assured. “It’s about having the time to make. Otherwise, Rush Hour 4 we’re all old men. I tell Chris Tucker, ‘Before we get old, please do Rush Hour 4.’”(E! News)
GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
THIS weekend is an interesting cook-up of events, and we’ll see some fashion, charity, mixed with a birthnite bash and just a touch of culture on the side. And quite a few of these events have been long awaited shindigs that’re sure to be hot and happening. On Sunday, the Curl Fete is on at the Promenade Gardens, and just about everything you need to know about natural and then some is going to be on display! With the natural-hair boom over the past few years, this event is one that many have been praising ever since it began last year, and is sure to be another packedout event this year. Prior to that, on Saturday night Pulse Entertainment is bringing not one but two events, collaborating with a number of sponsors as they do their little part to support the breast cancer initiative at Palm Court. Part of the proceeds is going to the Breast Cancer Foundation, so if you’re going to party, might as well party for a good cause. Meanwhile, Pulse is doing it ‘old school’ at the motor racing club. The Miss World Organisation is also out for charity, hoping to raise some funds with a fashion show at the Tower Poolside. TODAY Today, Spain is playing Albania, and Mali is taking on Cote D’Ivoire this afternoon, so you can catch the action on the big-screens at The Boardroom up at the Giftland Mall! Tower Suites wants to give you that Italian experience! It’s their “Friday Afterwork Lime-Italian Night”! Try their Italian menu while you enjoy the promotional bucket specials on Red Stripe Beer and Dragon Stout! So come out and have a great time at the Tower Poolside. TOMORROW Selector Andre presents his birthday dance called “Live the Dream: The All White Edition” at City Vibes Lounge! Enjoy drink specials all night long, while the vibes will be provided by DJ Damion, Unity Family, DJ Fresh, DJ Dellon and Charly and Mayjah Viybz out of NYC. Pulse Entertainment, in collaboration with GTT Do More, presents “Pretty in Pink”, a breast cancer fundraiser at Palm Court. With every ticket purchased, $500 will be donated to the Breast Cancer Foundation! Get a free GTT Warrioer ribbon on entry! Entertainment provided by DJ Anesah, DJ Ryan, DJ Shizzle, DJ Carl and DJ Energy! Admission: $2000 before 22:00hrs. Tired of the same old mixes at every party? Well it’s time to experience all of your favourite jams from way back in the 80s to now, in one spectacular event. Pulse Entertainment in collaboration with GMR&SC presents “Clash of the Decades” at the GT Motor Sports Parking Lot! Get ready for an extreme transformation of the ‘Go Kart’ parking lot into a retro and modern party atmosphere! The track will be open for 10 lap races. Food bars will be available, as well as special cocktail mixes from Shakers Bar. Tickets: $2000. The Miss World Guyana Organisation needs to raise some funds, and they’re adding a little fashion to the mix with their presentation of “Runway to Sanya” fashion show at the Tower Poolside! Enjoy a night of elegance, fashion and tranquility as you support a worthy cause!! Gates open from 18:00hrs! Tickets: $5000. SUNDAY It’s back! With a new name and new sass, Guyana’s natural hair and beauty expo, “Curl Fete” returns to the Promenade! You can expect deals on hair and beauty products; a fashion market with top designers and boutiques; hair care and makeup workshops and demos; competitions, hair show, free hair cuts, interlocking, etc! Tickets: $1000 (adults) and $500 (children).
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Double-header to kick off Turbo knock-out football set for tonight FOOTBALL action commences tonight in the inaugural Turbo Knockout football tournament with a double-header at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue. In the first of the night’s games, Police will take on East Veldt FC from 18:30hrs while Pele FC will turn their attention to the Northern Rangers from 21:00hrs. Matches will continue on Sunday evening with Uitvlugt taking on Black Pearl FC while Grove Hi Tech oppose Santos FC. The 16-team tournament has been split into two groups. Group A comprises Pele, Santos, Riddim Squad, Northern Rangers, Flamingo FC, East Veldt FC, Uitvlugt and Beacons FC. Group B has Grove Hi-Tech, Pouderoyen, Buxton Stars, Camp-
town FC, Mahaica Determinators, Black Pearl FC, GFC and Police. Speaking at the launch recently, president of the Guyana Football Federation, Wayne Forde, contended that the Petra Organisation is a blessing to football in Georgetown. “You have almost singlehandedly revived football in Georgetown and I must applaud you for that,” he said. “My hope is that other corporate entities will recognise the efforts that the GBI makes to Guyana even as an expatriate, that is, they are not indigenous to Guyana,” he added. “Idle minds do idle things and we believe that - giving back to the people of Guyana in the form of sports,” Robert Selman, head of the GBI. It is for that reason the body came on board for the tournament, the GBI boss stated.
English Racing Tips Ascot 09:00 hrs Alaadel 09:35 hrs Storm Ahead 10:10 hrs Ekhtiyaar 10:45 hrs Raheen House 11:20 hrs Tribute Act 11:55 hrs Big Easy Fontwell 09:10 hrs Risk And Roll 09:45 hrs Adrien Du Pont 10:20 hrs Ivor’s Queen 10:55 hrs Go Conqueror 11:30 hrs Strumble Head 12:05 hrs Doing Fine Hexham 10:00 hrs Echo Lady 10:35 hrs Princess Tara 11:10 hrs Ebony Rose 11:45 hrs Shine Away 12:20 hrs Final Fling South Africa Racing Tips Greyville 10:35 hrs Taranaki 11:10 hrs Green Ice 11:40 hrs Keep Your Light On 12:10 hrs Penultimate 12:40 hrs Bonnie Dawn 13:10 hrs Leisure Trip 13:55 hrs Master Shogun 14:28 hrs Muntahaa 15:00 hrs Miss Ferris Irish Racing Tips Dundalk 12:30 hrs Declarationofpeace 13:00 hrs Sally Gap 13:30 hrs Military Decoration 14:00 hrs Battle Of Jericho 14:30 hrs Belle Boyd 15:00 hrs Shelbe 15:30 hrs Magwadiri 16:00 hrs Thunder Speed American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Paz rhe Wine Race 2 Frostie Anne Race 3 Tricky Escape Race 4 Flattermefabulous Race 5 Reedini Race 6 Startwithsilver Race 7 Dwizard Race 8 Lucky Song Race 9 Sand City
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Adana Homes donates to Everest Cricket Club
Everest Cricket Club executive member Juanita Mootoo (left), coach David Harper (right) and players of the club pose with the gear.
ADANA Homes, a Canadian Realty Brokerage Inc. company has invested in the development of young cricketers of the Everest Cricket Club located at Camp Road, Georgetown. The sponsorship was initiated by Anil Beharry, former president of the Berbice Cricket Board, who is a good friend of Satishwar Persaud, the owner of the company. Persaud is a lover of cricket and owns a team named Cambridge Jaguars in Canada. His team reached the final of a recent competition held there. After being approached, Persaud without any hesitation acceded to the request. At a simple ceremony held recently at the club’s headquarters, the kit of SS gear, consisting of one gear bag, four pairs of batting
gloves, three pairs of batting pads, one pair of wicket-keeping pad and gloves, two helmets, two thigh pads, two batting inners and one box of red balls with a total value of $113 000, was handed over to the club executives in the presence of players and their parents. In a prepared statement, Persaud said that he is happy to be part of this gesture and will continue to make meaningful contributions to his country of birth. He added that when approached by Beharry, he knew it was a good cause. He hopes that the kids will care the gear and make full use of them. He wished them well and challenged them to make a difference in Guyana and West Indies cricket. Beharry also thanked his friend Persaud for provid-
ing the gear for the young cricketers. He said that is it a great joy to share and care and he is happy to be part of this event. He commended the club for its recent interest in the development of cricketers, the young ones in particular and he hopes this generosity can help the club to win competitions and more importantly, produce more national and West Indies cricketers. He urged the youths to follow in the footsteps of Test opener Rajendra Chandrika and other regional and international cricketers produced by the club over the years and do even better. Speaking on behalf of the Everest Cricket Club, committee member and parent Juanita Mootoo thanked Adana Homes for the timely intervention. She said that
do, despite having no experience playing the game. “I never played cricket, which is a little bit interesting for some people,” she
me up from Goulburn to do the umpires course. “It took a few times to pass but it was something I was determined to do and
Claire Polosak will officiate at a match between New South Wales and Cricket Australia XI.
told reporters in Sydney on Wednesday, before adding she had been encouraged into it by her parents. ”I always followed cricket, my parents got me into it and Dad would drive
I kept working through the grades in the Sydney competition.” Polosak has been on the Cricket Australia’s development umpire panel for the past two years and has
By Rawle Toney
THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) yesterday began work on the country’s first football stadium – the FIFA Forward Programme. With works on the 8.5 acres land which was leased from the Eccles/Ramsburg Neighbourhood Democratic Council, Nabi and Sons was sub-contracted to work along with Greenfields and should see the first phase completed by the end of January, 2018. The key activity executed yesterday was the clearing of the field by the local contractor S. Nabi and Sons Ltd to prepare same for further works. President of the GFF, Wayne Forde, during a visit said he was happy that works have commenced, adding, “We’re happy to see movement on the ground. We will be keeping our members and the general public fully informed throughout the project.” The first phase of the project will see the construction of the artificial turf by Greenfields, a manufactur-
er of artificial turf. Other aspects of the facility will include dormitories, kitchen services, a gym and a pool. According to Forde, approximately 24 months is estimated for the completion of the entire facility, and he was certain that the project is “going to make a tremendous impact on the way football is operated in Guyana. Much of the encampment services that we’re involved in really requires a massive investment from the Federation”. Under the FIFA Forward Programme, National Federations are entitled to US$750 000 annually, but, in the case of Guyana, given the fact that it is the country’s first, Forde said that FIFA wanted to ensure that as much resources as possible are available, and as such, it was not possible for him to state the estimated cost of the entire project. The GFF president also noted that next, the GFF and FIFA will look to build a similar structure in Linden, and then Rupununi, after which, the other parts of Guyana will ‘fall in line’.
‘Sensational Shelroy’ leads Colts to GABA First Division title
Adana Homes
the club is heavily concentrating on youths so as to rebuild a stronger cricket structure with the aim of producing more national and West Indies players. She also recognised Beharry’s role in acquiring the sponsorship of the gear.
Claire Polosak set for historic umpiring debut in men’s cricket
(REUTERS) - Claire Polosak never played cricket and failed the umpires’ exam “a few times” but is set to become the first woman to officiate an Australian men’s top level fixture when New South Wales play a Cricket Australia XI in a one-day match on Sunday. Polosak, a fixture in men’s club matches in Sydney, will take the field with veteran umpire Paul Wilson at Hurstville Oval, where Australian pace bowler Mitchell Starc is also expected to feature for the Blues. The 29-year-old, who also officiated four matches at the Women’s World Cup in England earlier this year, said becoming a cricket umpire had been something she was just determined to
GFF begins work on football stadium
previously been a third-umpire in men’s domestic cricket. Despite the expected rise in standard this weekend, Polosak said her preparations would not change for the occasion. “There are preparations, playing conditions, learning the players, having a meeting with your teammate... discussing what signals you’re going to be using, how you’re going to communicate,” Polosak added. ”Physically, it’s very similar stuff to a player’s fitness, core strength, back and legs because you’re standing up on the field for seven hours. “I’ve got mental triggers so I‘m able to watch every ball as you go, so you can settle into that.”
COLTS solidified themselves as the City’s top basketball club, when they eased past Plaisance Guardians 93-86 in game three of their ‘Best of Three’ finals to win the Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) on Wednesday evening at Burnham Court. It was a showdown of the point guards with both teams being equipped with two of the country’s top back court players and they did not disappoint. However, when the dust settled, it was Shelroy Thomas who won the duel with an impressive game-high 29 points for the Colts, while Nikkoli Smith in a losing cause for the Guardians poured in 26 points in a sensational performance. Dave Causeway and Stanton Rose finished the night with 17 and 14 points respectively for the Colts and Marlon Chesney assisted Smith with 12 points. With the two teams splitting their previous games, it was clear that Wednesday’s game would have been a humdinger and the crowd at Burnham basketball court were satisfied. Colts, with Thomas, Rose and Causeway in their back court, they outmatched the Plaisance Guardians, but, Smith and Chesney were determined not to be out-done. Both teams ended the first quarter tied at 21 points, but it was in the second period that
Guardians began to fly away from the Colts, thanks to Smith. Guardians outscored the Colts 29-21 in the second quarter to end the half up by eight points (50-42). However, upon the resumption of the third period, Thomas went into overdrive and ran riot on the Guardians’ front court, much to the dismay of the Plaisance supporters. Colts outscored the Guardians 31-7 in the third and coasted to their largest lead in the game (16 points) to close the penultimate period up 73-57. Defensively, veteran Dane Kendall (10) and centre Shane Webster (10) made things difficult for the Guardians, as the two players manned the paint with authority, despite Smith’s fearlessness to get the rim. The athletic point guard, whose game mimics that of Oklahoma City Thunder’s Russell Westbrook, sparked a run that seem to have lifted the spirit of his team, bringing the game to as close as one point with just about two minutes to play. But even though the Guardians came close, racing to a 29-20 fourth quarter, the Colts held on, sinking their late free throws to clutch the winning trophy at the end of the night. It was an astonishing season for the Colts basketball club with Michael Singh at the helm, with the team also claiming the GABA U-23 and Second Division titles.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF)
Extra Time
GFF PARTICIPATES IN BREAST CANCER AWARENESS MONTH
A photo of some ‘little helpers’ who were there to wrap the trees and spread awareness was also taken
As Guyana observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has partnered with the Guyana Cancer Foundation in spreading awareness to the members of the public. This kicked off with a tree-wrapping exercise which saw the participation of four members of the National U17 female team – Siacy Adams, Shontel Greene, Latesha Sutherland and Tiandi Smith – who assisted in the wrapping of trees along Camp Street on Monday, 2nd October, 2017
Following the activity, Debra Francis, Communications and Public Relations Officer of the GFF said the organization was excited about this partnership. “As part of our corporate social responsibility, it’s critical that the GFF plays its role in promoting social causes such as breast cancer. We have an expanding female stakeholder group, including players, who potentially can be affected by breast cancer so it has become imperative that we educate and empower ourselves and activate our involvement in the community. We’re happy to partner with
Members of the National U17 female team along with President / Founder of the Guyana Cancer Foundation, Bibi Saeedah Akhtar Hassan
the Guyana Cancer Foundation in this cause.” President / Founder of the Guyana Cancer Foundation, Bibi Saeedah Akhtar Has-
san, s a i d she was happy for the participation of the National U17 team and expressed gratitude to the GFF. “I wish to take this opportunity to thank the ‘Lady Jags’ for participating in the year’s event.” For her part, captain of the National U17 women’s team, Adams said she was happy to participate: “As a national team player, I’m just delighted to be a part of the breast cancer awareness month activities and be doing my part to spread awareness of breast cancer because a lot of people are affected by breast cancer.” Greene echoed similar sentiments when she said: “I feel happy to come out here to spread awareness of breast cancer. It’s important I play my part to help people become knowledgeable about this condition.”
the
This is
second year the GFF has partnered with the Guyana Cancer Foundation,
the first in 2016, when three members of the senior men’s national team – the Golden Jaguars – participated in the activity and, the Secretariat’s staff participated in the “Wear It Pink” Day and the awareness walk. Additionally, the Golden Jaguars worn pink specially-designed breast cancer awareness jerseys during their warm up session in their game against Jamaica. For this year’s observance, the GFF will
again participate in those activities except for the Golden Jaguars’ warm up.
The tree wrapping exercise is an annual activity and is part of a schedule of activities for the month including the
following: • Church service – 8th; • No Bra Day – 13th; • National Mammography Day / “Wear It Pink” Day – 20th and • the Breast Cancer Awareness Crusade Walk – 21st
GOLDEN JAGUARS ARE OFF TO GRENADA FOR INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLY The Golden Jaguars arrived yesterday in Grenada as preparation intensifies for their International Friendly against Grenada on October 7, 2017 at the Kirani James Athletic Stadium, St. James.
The team, led by Samuel Cox, is coached by Wayne Dover and assisted by Charles Pollard Other members of the technical squad are: • Manager – Rawle Ad-
ams • Goalkeeper Coach – Eon De Viera • Physical Trainer – Lyndon France • Physio – Denzil Hernandez
PRODUCED BY THE GUYANA FOOTBALL FEDERATION INC. (GFF) AND DESIGNED BY THE GUYANA CHRONICLE
For further Information or should you have questions/comments , please contact: General Secretary Guyana Football Federation (GFF) 17 Dadanawa Street, Section “K” Campbelville, Georgetown TEL: +1 592 227 8758 ext. 102 FAX: +1 592 225 2096
e-mail: gff@networksgy.com WEBSITE: www.gffonline.com FACEBOOK: www.facebook.com/GuyanaFootballFederationInc INSTAGRAM: www.instagram.com/guyana_football_federation_inc/ SOUNDCLOUD: https://soundcloud.com/guyana-football-federation-inc LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guyana-football-federation-inc TWITTER: @GFF_Inc_
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
South American Youth Games
Guyana move into quarterfinals of badminton Girls’ singles, table tennis Boys’ team GUYANA’S Priyanna Ramdhani rebounded from her opening loss on Wednesday to clinch two wins to finish second in her group and move into the quarterfinals of the Girls’ singles in badminton, while the Guyana Boys’ table tennis team also made it into their quarterfinals at the South American Youth Games, ongoing in Santiago, Chile. Ramdhani, along with fellow badminton player, Tyrese Jeffrey, who is in the Boys’ singles, got the ball rolling for Guyana when badminton began on Wednesday. However, it was not a good opening for Guyana after Ramdhani went under 9-21, 16-21 against Peru’s Macaela Vasquez. Nonetheless, that was her only loss in the ground and she ended her day on a high after defeating Suriname’s Erica Bleau 21-4, 21-9. Yesterday she was out on the courts again, this time disposing of Chile’s Mickaela
Panama (21-6, 21-13), and Brazil (21-5, 21-11). In table tennis, Miguel Wong and Nickolus Romain thwarted the efforts of Uruguay’s Pablo Augustin Paulou
2 matches that went the full 5 games and the doubles which went the full five games. In the final match Romain lost to Pablo Paulou 3-2, but Wong defeated Rodgrio Baez 3-2.
the boys, losing 0-3 to the Peru team comprising Jhon Casio and Rodrigo Pacheco. Today it is expected that Guyana will begin their hunt in athletics, starting with
Guyana’s Boys Miguel Wong (left) and Nickolus Romain in action during the table tennis Boys’ team competition
Guyana’s Priyanna Ramdhani (right) poses with Chile’s Mickaela Hott after winning her match against her.
Hott 21-17, 21-14. Things were not as fortunate for Jeffrey, who lost both of his matches - the first to Argentina’s Matthew Delmastro (21-12, 21-4) and the second
to Chile’s Alonso Araya (214, 21-2). Ramdhani and Jeffrey are also in the mixed doubles, but also suffered losses against Chile (21-12, 21-12),
and Rodrigo Baez by a 3-1 margin in a closely contested nail-biting and thrilling match to make it into the quarterfinals of the Boys’ team competition on Wednesday. Guyana’s Miguel Wong was in fine form picking up
Wong and Romain then defeated Baez and Pauluo 3-2 in doubles, followed by another win for the Golden Arrowhead as Wong edged Pablo Pauluo 3-2 However, yesterday morning was not as successful for
the Boys’ and Girls’ 100m sprints. Kenisha Phillips and Deshana Skeete will participate in the female race, while Mark Solomon and Jermaine King will be in the male race.
Franchise League 3-day tournament enters penultimate round … Essequibo maintain lead THE Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Franchise League three-day tourna-
ment enters its penultimate different venues in Berbice. West Berbice will host round, with three games set to commence today at Georgetown at the Bush Lot Points Allocation
Teams
Matches
Wins
Loses
Outright win
Essequibo Lower Corentyne West Demerara Georgetown Upper Demerara/ East Bank Upper Corentyne West Berbice East Coast Demerara
5 5 5 5 5
4 3 2 2 2
0 2 1 2 2
48 36 24 24 24
5 5 5
1 1 0
2 4 2
12 12 0
Abandon
3
Drawn
Batting Bonus
3 3 3 6 3
6
ground; Upper Corentyne will be up against Upper Demerara/East Bank at Port Mourant, while Lower Corentyne will oppose West Demerara at Young Warriors. Fast Bowling Bonus 1.4 2.4 1.9 2.5 3.8
Total
4 7 7 4 3
Team Bowling Bonus 15 15 11 15 13
6 0 2
15 15 11
1.6 1.8 3.1
40.6 28.8 25.1
71.4 60.4 49.9 48.5 43.8
Nand Persaud Group of Companies calls for good leadership in Berbice Cricket … Says Foster will do an excellent job
MANAGING Director of the Nand Persaud Group of Companies, Mohendra Persaud, has called for good leadership in Berbice cricket. To this end, Persaud fully supports well-known sports personality and community leader Hilbert Foster as the preferred presidential candidate for Sunday’s Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) elections. “Cricket in Berbice is at a virtual standstill; things are haywire and lost at the moment. Cricket is a national game that runs deep within the society and various communities.” Persaud continued that, “What is happening now is degrading, too much politics. It
needs quick and urgent rehabilitation. A man like Foster, with his proven track record, can stop the slid, excavate the rot and bring Berbice cricket back to where it used to be.
Mohindra Persaud
Things need to be done differently. The world over things are done differently. The cricket needs serious upgrading to make a difference and bring persons back to the sport.” He said that Foster’s reputation and achievements with the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (MS) are well known. They have Guyana’s most comprehensive Cricket Developmental and Community Enhancement Programme with teams at all levels and divisions. The club is the only one in Guyana with a female cricket programme. Persaud stated: “Our company is a reputable one, and Foster’s dealings with us have
being above board. We are both pacesetters and leaders. I have no hesitation in throwing our support behind Foster for presidency of the BCB.” The company once sponsored the Port Mourant Cricket Club for a number of years, but withdrew because of some upheavals. Accountability was one of the problems. The company’s sponsorship goes far and wide including the Karibee Boys and Karibee Girls softball cricket teams, horse racing, football, basketball, softball cricket among numerous others. He is willing to throw his support and the reputation of the company back into the fray as long as things change and there is accountability.
On the other hand, the other sixth round game between the unstoppable Essequibo and East Coast Demerara will commence tomorrow at Lusignan.
Meanwhile, Essequibo have maintained the lead after five rounds, with 71.4 points. Below are the Points at the end of Round 5:
GCA second division competition cricket continues this weekend PLAY in the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) second division cricket competitions continues this weekend, with a number of matches in the Noble House Seafoods two-day and New Building Society 40-over tournaments. In the Noble House Seafoods competition; GNIC will play Police at Eve Leary (umpires are Cyril Garnath and Hortence Isaacs); UG oppose Malteenoes at Bourda (Stephon Josiah and Clyde Layne); DCC host Transport (Ernest Hinds and Ravishwar Latif) and Everest host GCC (Flemroy Lambert and Linden Matthew). Meanwhile, in Saturday’s fixture for the New Building Society 40-over tournament Diplomats will play Ace Warriors at Camp Ayanganna (Matthew Kissoon and Joseph Jeffrey) and GYO will host Sophia (Andre Hurry and Abena Parker). On Sunday, Ace Warriors oppose GDF at Camp Ayanganna (Joseph Jeffrey and Mikoowanyah Yisrael), while Sophia oppose Third Class at GYO (Andre Hurry and Abena Parker) CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday October 06, 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) Liam Plunkett-8 wickets (2) Alzarri Joseph-5 wickets Today’s Quiz: (1) Who made the highest individual score for England in the just-concluded ODI series against the West Indies? (2) Who made the highest individual score for the West Indies? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Hyman excels as New York cart off NADF tourney By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada - It was the Jillian Hyman show last Saturday when the North American Dominoes Federation (NADF) staged the Toronto leg of the tournament, featuring players from the host team, New York, Orlando, West Palm Beach, Maryland and Montreal at the St John Devine Anglican Church, Scarborough here. In a dominant display, rarely seen in dominoes competition, Hyman registered the maximum 18 games in both the preliminary round and also in the final, leading New York to winners’ row, much to the delight of her teammates and the several followers who made the journey to Toronto. Of much significance was the fact that Hyman only “gave away” 34 games in her superb performance, 19 in the first round and 15 in the final. The final, which featured eventual winners New York, West Palm Beach and Orlando seemed an even one at the end of the second sitting with New York and West Palm Beach tied on 26 games and Orlando lagging behind on 20. West Palm Beach then took what looked like a commanding lead after the third, stretching their lead to 10
over New York and 11 from Orlando. N e w Yo r k , h o w e v e r, bounced back with the maximum 18 games in the fourth
penultimate sitting while Orlando slowly dropped out of contention. In the end, New York prevailed in the final sitting, end-
well for her 16 games. The top markers for West Palm Beach were Andrew Charles (17 games) and Deryck Jones (14 games) while Phil-
Palm Beach edge New York on sixes, eight to seven, with both teams tallying 78 games while Toronto were eliminated. Hyman was again in de-
The victorious New York team and supporters celebrate their triumph.
to again level with West Palm Beach on 50 while Orlando were stuck on 42. The two front-runners were again deadlocked on 60 games at the end of the
ing with 74 games to West Palm Beach’s 68 and Orlando occupying the third spot with 64. Apart from Hyman’s 18, Donna Degroot also played
lip Scantlebury and Phillip Pompey had 17 and 13 respectively for Orlando. The lone lovebird was New York’s Lurline Tracey. The first round saw West
structive mood with her 18 games while skipper Eldon Phillips marked 15. Anthony Hendricks made 16 for West Palm Beach while the best player for Toronto was Terry
Reynolds with 12. Orlando, with 82 games, took top honours over Maryland (72) and Montreal (70) in the other first round fixture. Eric McFarlane and Lynden Jones led the way for the winners with 17 games each. There were three lovebirds in Camille Austin (Orlando), Jainraine (Maryland) and Ronald Chin (Oralndo), with Dennis Hosanna having the distinction of sharing the first double love in the tournament with Austin and Jainarine being the victims. With the two winners and the best second team advancing to the final, it meant Orlando, West Palm Beach qualified for the grand showdown. Apart from copping the Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, Hyman was also adjudged the overall MVP while Charles and Scantlebury were the MVPs for West Palm Beach and Orlando respectively. Players from all three finalists were also in receipt of medals. The win marks New York first lien on the winners’ trophy following a similar performance by Toronto in the first leg, played in Orlando earlier this year. Montreal will host the next leg in June next year.
Germany qualify for World Cup Guyana fall 13-11 to Ecuador at South American Youth Games 3X3 basketball with easy win over Northern Ireland
Akeem Crandon
GUYANA’S 3X3 team were edged 13-11 by Ecuador in their opening game at the South American Youth Games in Santiago, Chile yesterday. It was Guyana’s first time playing at an International 3X3 tournament, and the quartet of Nigel Bowen, Isaiah Hintzen, Akeem Crandon and Shamar France were hoping for a perfect start in their quest for gold. Having lost to Venezuela 19-17 in their first game, Ecuador came into the game knowing that the clash against Guyana was a ‘must-win’. Aaron Garcia, the team’s main marksman, who finished the game with five
points, was a bother for the Guyanese and, along with his teammate Michael Toctaquiza (four), caused much trouble for the players from the Land of Many Waters. Akeem Crandon, team’s ‘big man’, kept Guyana in the game. Crandon finished with a team-high five points, while Nigel Bowen finished with four points. Hintzen and France scored a point each. Guyana will play Venezuela today from 12:25hrs, and will have to win by a considerable margin if they are to top the group and feature in Saturday’s quarter-finals. The semi-finals and final will be contested on Sunday. (Rawle Toney)
BELFAST, Ireland (Reuters) - Germany qualified for the World Cup in style yesterday when superb early strikes from Sebastian Rudy and Sandro Wagner set them on the way to a 3-1 win in Northern Ireland that maintained their perfect record in Group C. Rudy fired a remarkable out-swinging shot from longrange past Michael McGovern after two minutes and Wagner scored with another emphatic effort in the 21st as the world champions clocked up their ninth successive win to move on to 27 points. Joshua Kimmich added a third in the 86th minute as the hosts’ run of five successive wins was brought to an abrupt halt. Josh Maggenis scored a consolation in stoppage-time. Northern Ireland have 19 points from nine games and had already made sure of a two-top finish before the match. However, they are still not certain of finish-
ing as one of the eight best runners-up up in the nine European groups. The group winners qualify directly for Russia along with four winners of the playoffs which involve the eight best runners-up.
their first four home games in the group without conceding a goal but that record was quickly ended by Rudy’s thumping effort. The hosts, backed by a boisterous crowd, were repeatedly exposed and Mc-
Sandro Wagner scores one of Germany’s two first-half goals en route to a 3-1 win.
“I‘m satisfied. We scored an early goal and then controlled the game, like we wanted to,” said Germany coach Joachim Loew, whose side have scored 38 goals and conceded three in qualifying. Northern Ireland had won
Govern made a superb save at point-blank range to keep out a Sandro Wagner header three minutes later. Wagner headed against the post from Kimmich’s pinpoint cross before being rewarded with Germany’s sec-
ond goal, collecting Thomas Mueller’s pass with his back to goal before turning and firing a left-foot shot past a shell-shocked McGovern. Germany goalkeeper Marc-Andre ter Stegen was tested once in the first half when he dived at the feet of Corry Evans after he got free in the area. “This was a bonus game for us, it could have gone to 4-0 or 5-0 but we kept our goal difference in a healthy state,” said Northern Ireland coach Michael O‘Neill. “It could easily have been obliterated.” The hosts put Germany under more pressure in the second half and the best chance to Conor Washington who clipped the bar from an excellent position. Kimmich fired the third for Germany, although they were denied a clean sheet by Maggenis’s goal, which left the home crowd celebrating as if their team had won.
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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, October 6, 2017
Hyman excels as New York cart off NADF tourney
GFF begins work on football stadium
See Page 31
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GFF president Wayne Forde is seen (second from left) at the FIFA Forward Programme site, where the land-clearing exercise is being done for Guyana’s first football stadium.
Double-header to kick off Turbo knock-out football set for tonight
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Flashback to the launch of the inaugural Turbo KO football tournament
‘Sensational Shelroy’ leads Colts to GABA First Division title
Brazil police arrest Olympic committee chief in vote-buying scandal By Pedro Fonseca
SAO PAULO, Brazil (Reuters) - Brazilian police arrested yesterday the head of the national Olympics committee, who is accused of conspiring to bribe members of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to pick Rio de Janeiro as host of the 2016 games. Brazilian investigators say Carlos Arthur Nuzman helped arrange a $2 million (£1.52 million) bribe to get the games for Rio de Janeiro, where he was arrested early yesterday. Police said he was being held in connection with crimes in-
cluding corruption and money-laundering. Marcelo Bretas, the federal judge who authorised his arrest, said new evidence indicated that Nuzman’s role in the alleged vote-buying scheme was “more relevant” than initially thought. “The accusation of vote-buying for the 2016 Olympics is unfounded,” Nelio Machado, a lawyer for Nuzman, told reporters. “Today’s measures are harsh and unusual.” Bretas said in an arrest order that Nuzman’s wealth grew by 416 percent between 2006 and 2016 and that he had assets overseas that were only
declared after the vote-buying investigation began. The assets include 16kg in gold bars deposited in Switzerland, Bretas said. The IOC said yesterday it would cooperate in the investigation. Its chief ethics and compliance officer has asked Brazil for information to proceed with its own internal investigation, which is ongoing, the body said. “Given the new facts, the IOC Ethics Commission may consider provisional measures while respecting Mr Nuzman’s right to be heard,” the IOC said, without detailing the measures.
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Colts captain Shelroy Thomas collects the winning trophy from GABA’s Rawle Toney after his team’s 93-86 points win over Plaisance Guardians.
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FRIDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2017