Guyana chronicle e paper 10 10 2017 by Guyana Chronicle

Primary school student assaulted with hair ribbon Page 9

…parents not taking matter lightly

No. 105061

First wave of evacuees arrive from BVI

TUESDAY OCTOBER 10, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

The look on their faces says it all as the evacuees touched down at the Ogle International Airport on Monday evening (Photo by Adrian Narine)

– many received by family members, gov’t to provide housing for others

‘Smallie’ nabbed at last

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– after four long months on the run

M&CC closes five food businesses Page 13

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UNICEF ready to help

– as gov’t prepares to welcome home Guyanese displaced by hurricanes

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

BNTF national project launched – Guyana to benefit from initial US$6.1M THE Basic Needs Trust Fund (BNTF) National Project was launched here on Monday with the country in line to benefit from an initial sum of US$6.1M for developments in the areas of agriculture, renewable energy, human resource and livelihoods’ enhancement. Launched under the theme “Partnering against Poverty”, the National Project forms part of BNTF 9th Programme funded by the Caribbean Development

Bank (CDB) to the tune of US$40.8M. This phase will be implemented between March 2017 and December 2020. Aside from Guyana, eight other countries including Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Jamaica, Saint Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and Suriname will also receive funding to improve access to quality education; water and sanitation; basic community access and drainage; livelihoods’ enhancement and human resource development in

low-income and vulnerable communities. The programme is CDB’s main vehicle for tackling poverty in the Region. Finance Minister Winston Jordan launched the National Project at the Guyana Marriott Hotel on Monday in the presence of the Director of CDB Projects Department, Daniel Best; BNTF Project Manager, Michael Singh; Chairman of BNTF Oversight Entity, Bernard Lord and beneficiaries of BNTF’s previous cycles,

Government officials and beneficiaries who were present at the launch (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

Finance Minister Winston Jordan delivering remarks during the launch of the CDB’s BNTF 9TH Programme here

Ganesh Singh and Shanile Garraway. Minister Jordan, in his address, noted that on June 20, 2017 he signed the agreement on behalf of Guyana for the 9th Cycle of the BNTF Programme. “In this cycle, Guyana stands to benefit from an initial US$6.145M. It also stands to benefit for an unallocated amount of US$5.2M, if we can continue to get our act together,” he said while underscoring the importance of successfully completing the sub-projects on time. It was noted that the funds will be used on projects that contribute to poverty reduction, and simultaneously the inclusive and sustainable growth of the economy. Prior to May, 2015, the NBTF Programme here had focused primarily on infrastructure development such as the construction of roads, hospitals and schools, but Minister Jordan, in his discussions with the CDB President Warren Smith, advocated for the programme to be centered on the development of human capita. “Since assuming office in May 2015, our government observed while Guyana was able to maintain favourable macroeconomic indicators in the previous five years, these outcomes did not translate into better living standards for the poor and vulnerable. In fact, poverty remained high and persistent,” Minister Jordan pointed out. He said it is for that reason that the Government, through programmes such as the Sustainable Livelihood and Entrepreneurial Development (SLED), the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and the BNTF have been empowering people, both

Director of CDB Projects Department, Daniel Best

socially and economically. As the government seeks to have more balanced and diversified economic growth and development, Minister Jordan said the BNTF unit in the Ministry of Finance would partner with other agencies such as the Ministry of Business, the Youth Empowerment Department and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute (NARIE) to develop an indicative list of sub-projects for the 9th Cycle. These sub-projects will seek to broaden and deepen micro and small-scale agricultural enterprises; enhance

value added agro processing and agro industrial industries; promoting self-sustaining entrepreneurial enterprises and enhance the livelihoods of rural villages. The sub-projects will also providing for rural food security in a green and sustainable environment. Also under the 9th Cycle, several schools which were funded under the other cycles will be powered, using photovoltaic technology in keeping with BNTF’s push for the use of renewable energy. “These focuses are particularly welcomed by our Turn to page 3 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

‘Smallie’ nabbed at last – in minibus at Weldaad, after four long months on the run COMMISSIONER of Police (ag), David Ramnarine has confirmed that prison escapee, Mark Royden Durant, aka Smallie and Royden Williams, was captured on Monday evening. According to Ramnarine, the wanted man was intercepted in a minibus which was heading east along the public road at Weldaad, West Coast Berbice (WCB) around 20:00hrs. Durant, who escaped from the Camp Street Prison during a riot on July 9, 2017, had been on the run for over three months. The wanted man reportedly adopted a new look by removing his dreadlocks, and was living among the residents of West Coast Berbice. According to a statement from the police, Durant was travelling alone and unarmed when he was apprehended during an intelligence-led operation. Reliable police sources confirmed that Durant was taken to a holding facility in

Georgetown. Before his escape, he was on death row. The condemned prisoner was jointly charged with Michael Caesar for the murders of Fazil Hakim, called “Boyie”, and Rajesh Singh, called “Rabbit” at a liquor bar on Agriculture Road, Triumph, East Coast Demerara in December 2007. He was also convicted for his involvement in the February 17, 2008 Bartica Massacre of Lance Corporal Zaheer Zakir, Constables Shane Fredericks and Ron Osborne, civilians Edwin Gilkes, Dexter Adrian, Irving Ferreira, Deonarine Singh, Ronald Gomes, Ashraf Khan, Abdool Yasseen, Errol Thomas, and Baldeo Singh. He was also convicted on eight counts of murder, and four counts of manslaughter, and was sentenced to death by Justice Roxane George SC, now Chief Justice. As it relates to the Bartica Massacre, Williams has a second indictment for terrorism, and three counts for break and

Mark Royden Durant, aka Smallie, in the police vehicle after being apprehended at Weldaad on Monday night

BNTF national...

government, given the country’s high energy and logistic costs, coupled with poor connectivity along the coastland and hinterland,” Minister Jordan posited. The CDB Director of Projects Department said the flagship poverty reduction programme is being implemented in nine of the banks borrowing member

countries. “The goal of this phase – the 9th phase of the BNTF – is to contribute to improvements in the living conditions of poor and vulnerable communities in participating countries. It builds on the commitment we made during the launch of the seventh phase BNTF, at which time we reaffirmed our commit-

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ment to deliver better outcomes for the people in our Region who live in poverty,” Best stated. He reminded that the economies of borrowing member countries are small, while production and diversity are limited coupled with their extreme vulnerability to natural hazards. “Amid all this poverty is

persistence,” he emphasized. Best pointed out, too, that the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development recognizes that ending poverty in all its forms and dimensions including extreme poverty remains the greatest global challenge. “Ladies and gentlemen, these very real challenges and this ambitious agenda illustrates why partnerships like ours are critical to maintain. We must continue to

enter and larceny. Last month, the convict was allegedly with fellow prison escapee, Uree Varswyck in the Amelia’s Ward area. The pair reportedly opened fire on members of the Joint Services, who returned fire which resulted in

Varswyck, who was wearing a military vest and boots, being killed. Meanwhile, the search is still on for Cobena Stephens, called OJ and Paul Goriah, who escaped in a separate prison break at the Lusignan prison.

confront poverty head on,” he said. The CDB officials said it for this reason the bank through BNTF supports governments in the poverty reduction efforts which give rise to socio-economic development, environmental protection and sustainable development. “I am pleased to report that CDB has negotiated an increased contribution to the BNTF from the special development fund. With this

additional funding, we are better position to design and implement a more nimble BNTF programme with an even bolder agenda for tackling poverty in the region,” he disclosed. Guyana’s participation in the BNTF dates back to 1993 when the country accessed its first loan from the BNTF under the third cycle. Since then Guyana has benefited from successive cycles for an accumulated amount of US$30.1M.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, TUESDAY October 10, 2017

Trump to roll back Obama clean-power rule THE Trump administration has confirmed plans to repeal an Obama administration rule to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Scott Pruitt, who has cast doubt on climate change, said the Clean Power Plan was an overreach. President Donald Trump ordered the EPA to rewrite the rule in March. The Clean Power Plan requires states to meet carbon emission reduction targets based on their energy consumption. Mr Pruitt said he would sign the proposed rule to begin withdrawing from the plan on Tuesday. “The war on coal is over,” he told a crowd in Hazard, Kentucky, on Monday.

He continued: “That rule really was about picking winners and losers. “Regulatory power should not be used by any regulatory body to pick winners and losers.” Mr Pruitt has previously argued that the Clean Power Plan would force states to favour renewable energy in the electricity-generation market. As Oklahoma’s attorney general, he took part in a lawsuit by 27 US states against the rule. A Supreme Court ruling in February 2016 left the regulation in limbo. The EPA under President Barack Obama said the Clean Power Plan could prevent up to 150,000 asthma attacks in children and 6,600 premature deaths.

But according to US media, a leaked draft of the repeal proposal disputes the health benefits touted by the previous administration. The draft also reportedly argues the country would save $33bn (£25bn) by dropping the regulation. The Clean Power Plan required states to devise a way to cut planet-warming emissions by 32% below 2005 levels by 2030. Eliminating the rule would make it difficult for the US to fulfil its promise to cut emissions as part of

the Paris Climate accord, a 2015 international agreement which President Obama signed with nearly 200 other countries to limit greenhouse gas emissions and combat global warming. Mr Trump in June signalled that he would pull out of the pact, dismantling his predecessor’s environmental legacy. In August the Trump administration issued its first written notification to the UN that it intended to withdraw from the agreement. But the move was largely viewed as symbolic as no

nation seeking to leave the pact can officially announce an intention to withdraw until 4 November 2019. The process of leaving then takes another year, meaning it would not be complete until just weeks after the US presidential election in 2020. The planned repeal of the Clean Power Plan has sparked outrage among environmental groups. The National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) threatened to sue the EPA if the plan is re-

pealed while the Sierra Club has indicated it would fight any new rule that does not comply with the country’s air pollution laws. Mary Anne Hitt, the director of the Sierra Club’s Beyond Coal Campaign, said in a statement the Trump administration was “putting the safety of our communities at risk, and making it crystal clear they have no intention of safeguarding people from the very real, immediate dangers of climate change.” (BBC)

Liberia set for landmark election LIBERIANS are set to go to the polls to choose a successor to Africa’s first elected female president and Nobel Peace laureate Ellen Johnson Sirleaf. Ex-football star George Weah and Vice-President Joseph Boakai are the main contenders in the race to succeed her. Liberia, founded by freed US slaves in the 19th Century,

has not had a smooth transfer of power in 73 years. Ms Sirleaf urged people to vote peacefully in a nation still recovering from a 14-year civil war. “Your vote is about you and your family - not party, ethnicity,” she said in an address to to the nation. A total of 20 presidential candidates are running to succeed Ms Sirleaf. They include Alex Cummings, a former Coca-Cola executive, and MacDella Cooper, an ex-model and girlfriend of Mr Weah. Ms Sirleaf, 78, is stepping down at the end of her two terms. She took office in 2006, after

her predecessor, Charles Taylor, was forced out of office by rebels in 2003. Taylor is currently serving a 50-year prison sentence in the UK for war crimes related to the conflict in neighbouring Sierra Leone. Mr Weah, 51, has chosen Taylor’s ex-wife Jewel Howard Taylor as his running mate. This is the former footballer of the year’s third attempt to become president. Ms Sirleaf has failed to campaign for Mr Boakai, fuelling speculation that the two have fallen out. Supporters of Mr Boakai, 72, are campaigning under the slogan: “Our ma [Ms Sirleaf]

spoil it, our pa will fix it.” Almost 2.2 million people are registered to vote in the election. Parliamentary elections are also due to be held at the same time. Campaigning has been dominated by promises to tackle poverty, corruption, and guarantee stability in the West African state. Liberia is one of the poorest countries in the world, with more than 50% of people living in poverty. It was one of three West African states badly hit by the 2014-15 Ebola outbreak which left more than 11,300 people dead. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, TUESDAY October 10, 2017

Several Dominican students killed --during passage of Hurricane Maria

ROSEAU, Dominica, CMC – A senior education official Monday said that several students were killed when Hurricane Maria passed through the island on September 18, leaving a trial of death and destruction. Official figures here indicate that 28 people had been killed by the Category 5 storm when it barrelled its way through the island, with at least 32 people still reported missing. However, unofficial figures have put the death toll as high as 60. peaking at the daily press briefing here on Monday, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Education and Human Resource Development, Mrs. Chandler Hyacinth, while not disclosing the exact number of students killed, confirmed that some had died. “We have had a few deaths among our students, so we

want to extend our deepest sympathies to the families of those students who have passed on,” she said, adding that schools across the island had suffered damage and that the “ the impact of this disaster to the education (sector) is vast”. She said that every effort is being made to get schools that have been classified as not seriously damaged opened as quickly as possible, adding that schools here will be opened in phases based on the degree of damage. But she said there were other factors that will contribute as to when schools are opened including transportation and the provision of basic amenities. “We are looking at road safety, availability of transportation…we are mindful of the sanitary conditions and health conditions at some of

our schools especially at it relates to access of running water,” she said, noting also there is need for psycho-social support for students “and we are preparing for that”. She said priority will be given to re-opening secondary schools where students are preparing to write several exams set by the Barbados-based Caribbean Examination Council (CXC). The education official said that the public library system here has collapsed completely. Chief Education Officer, Melina Fontaine, urged parents “to find some time for your children to do some school work” while the Acting Chief Education Officer, Dr. Jeffrey Blaize said school hours will be from 9.00 am to 1.pm (local time). Fontaine also urged parents, “Know where your children are at all times.”

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE, TUESDAY October 10, 2017

CALL FOR NEW CARICOM RESPONSE TO HUMANITARIAN DISASTERS

THE DEVASTATING consequences of hurricanes Irma and Maria call for a major re-orientation of attitudes in the Caribbean, primarily to ensure that all Caribbean lives are seen to matter equally. In this spirit, a recent meeting of Guyanese civil societies to review the humanitarian disasters is calling on Caricom to appoint a Special Caricom Representative for Humanitarian Affairs to develop a regional policy that identifies the principles, values and standards which humanitarian responses must meet. This decision echoes the sentiments expressed by Chairman of Caricom, Prime Minister Mitchell of Grenada, to the effect that “Caricom, the individual sovereign states and all the institutions of Caricom must fashion a new discussion and a new methodology to deal with the challenges posed by disasters”. Such a discussion should be a major priority engaging the civic, business and political leaderships of Caribbean territories, not

primarily technical agencies. The starting points of the proposed conversation are three-fold. In the first place the disasters underline that our time-table for addressing global warming is too complacent. Secondly, while the outpouring of compassion to provide immediate relief are all-embracing, the prolonged recovery phase is beneficial to far fewer people. The third starting-point is that responses to extreme devastation require political decision-making and cannot become a monopoly of those who deliver technical assistance and resources. All of our territories have repeatedly signed up to accepting ‘common and differentiated responsibilities’ in global Climate Change agreements. Operationalizing these responsibilities, whether in emergencies or normal times has now become an urgent governance priority, across the Caribbean. Widespread mobilizing of generosity across the Caribbean is a well-established response in the relief phase.

However, those who recover most quickly are the sectors, particularly the business networks, best positioned to call on insurance and financial relief. Very large numbers of small farmers, informal businesses and householders, on the other hand, never recover since they do not attract the attention they deserve. Without wishing to suggest that the personal and civic compassion reflected in relief efforts are consciously discriminatory, the possibility of some sectors being overlooked is obvious and it is the role of governments to anticipate such short-comings. In particular, governments must be vigilant that relief efforts are guided by the humanitarian principles of independence, impartiality, non-discrimination and neutrality in order to avoid, eliminate or compensate for inappropriate forms of political or ethnic discrimination which may favour some sectors over others. In light of the severity

and numbers affected, it is imperative that the recovery phase of reconstruction of these societies be guided by rights-based considerations. Such approaches reflect the ethical urgency of eliminating suffering that violations constitute in contrast to standard ‘development’ approaches. Human rights claims on governments, such as Article 25 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR), for example, are not suspended because of emergencies: “Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services” (Article 25 UDHR). Similarly, civil and political rights to participate in decisions affecting oneself and one’s family also need to be protected. One of the hazards of the politics of compassion is that the moral ownership of tragedy, which rightfully belongs with victims, gradually passes to those providing relief and

resources. A particularly pressing rights-related concern is to protect disaster victims from the harassment too frequently experienced by Caricom citizens in other Caricom territories. A principled and uniformed legal approach to people fleeing disaster is urgently needed as part of the urgent review called for by the chairman of Caricom. Such normative considerations were first raised in civil society circles with respect to the humanitarian crisis in Venezuela; a concern which has been temporarily side-lined by the disasters in the Northern Caribbean. A starting point for a civic response is being proposed in the recommendation outlined below.

RECOMMENDATION Civil Society Organizations listed below are calling on Caricom to appoint a Special Representative on Humanitarian Issues charged with the following tasks: * Adopt a common rights-based framework of principles and standards for humanitarian disasters to be implemented by governments, civil society and international forces. * Create clear and compassionate model legislation in accordance with international norms governing refugees and persons internally and externally displaced by humanitarian crises. * Operationalize the ‘common and differentiated responsibilities’ of governments and civil society ratified in all Climate Change agreements.

How much did taxpayers lose after GECOM toner purchases? Dear Sir, In 2009 the Audit Office of Guyana started a forensic audit into GECOM’s procurement of Okidata toners purchased from Mike Brasse Mobile Authority and Mtech Business Solutions. These toners which are used to produce national identification cards were acquired via the restricted method of procurement using the three-quote system. The three quotations were evaluated by admin manager, Ms. Mona Bynoe and sent to the Accounting Officer, Mr. Boodoo for his approval.

It was then sent to the National Tender Board for its deliberation for Cabinet approval. There was a strange quote amongst the three on Bovell’s stationery which carried a Robb Street address. The audit team led by one Springer could neither contact Bovell’s Stationery by phone or at their address, but like the audit on the $25,000,000 janitorial suppliers from Mike Brasse and Tri Star, Mr. Sharma failed to call in the Police. Was he acting on instructions from Freedom House? Was Mike Brasse’s winning quote for $24,000,000 the real cost for those

toners? Did Guyanese taxpayers get value for their money? How did Glen Lall and his deputy Gildharie miss this GECOM procurement debacle? The then P.R.O’s door was not padlocked. Fast track to 2015 and the Auditor General’s pace for Police action at GECOM had Usaint Bolt thinking about aborting his retirement. Mr. Sharma is alleging that the Police should be called in for an alleged fake quote from Massy Industries but Mr. Boodoo, Okidata toners were purchased with a fake quote and a fake address. How many times did this occur when

GECOM procured Okidata toners from Mike Brasse’s companies under Gocool Boodoo’s watch as accounting officer? Could Mr. Deodat Sharma tell this nation, including the Guyana Police Force, if the 2015 Massy Industries alleged fake quote is not the first to pass the eyes of the former Cabinet. Mr. Sharma should also inform his friends at the Waterfalls Task News Agency that his favourite GECOM Accounting Officer, Gocool Boodoo had the Internal Auditor, Tariq Abrahim, the electricians Rejendra Singh and Andy Ramlagam as purchasing

clerks. In closing, we all know how the former Deputy evaluated and approved GECOM’s ads. It all started allegedly under Mr. Boodoo. This cast comprising the former Cabinet, the Auditor General, Glen and Gildharie at Kaieteur News and Mike Brasse would have produced a best seller for the late Italian writer, Mario Puzzo’s novel “The Failed Conspiracy.” Regards, Former GECOM employee

GUYANA CHRONICLE, TUESDAY October 10, 2017

Total destruction

-Guyanese from BVI here to bury his father who lost his life to Hurricane Irma MANY lost their homes and their livelihood after the Category Five hurricane Irma swept through the streets of Tortola, British Virgin Islands (BVI), but four families including Randy Ragnauth, a Guyanese lost something that cannot be rebuilt--a loved one. “It was total destruction when we looked out after the eye of the hurricane came,” said Ragnauth who told the Guyana Chronicle on Monday evening that his devastation was hearing that his 55-year-old father, Derrick Ragnauth did not make it through the disaster. Ragnauth, who has been living there for 10 years, was one of the ten Guyanese who arrived in Guyana on Monday evening as part of the Government’s promise to assist those in need. Unlike the others who have returned to either recoup or start anew, the young man is here to bury his father to fulfill the family’s wish of having him laid to rest in his homeland. “I am here to get things sorted out and get the body here because the entire family wants him here, then I’ll

salvage stuff from my sister’s house when we saw persons coming from the direction where my father’s business is, saying that two persons died in that area,” said Ragnauth. The distraught young man recalled persons saying that one of the persons who died was the guy who had the business, so they went to check but by the time they arrived at the scene, his sister was in complete shock. Randy Ragnauth

return and get my life back together,” said Ragnauth, who is an employee of the BVI Electrical Company. When he returns, he said he would assist with rebuilding the BVI. He, however, reflected on what led to the need for rebuilding. “When we heard about the hurricane, we went to my sister’s house because she has hurricane shutters,” said Ragnauth who was in tears. They, however, underestimated the hurricane because they had faced many storms in the past and they realised this was different when a huge hole appeared in the front door.

Ragnauth said his family rushed to the bathroom but his father, who was a businessman, wanted to stay at his place of business, a few blocks away from the house, for reasons unknown. In an effort to get protection from the fierce wind, Ragnauth said they hid in his sister’s bathroom for two hours until the eye of the hurricane (the calm) arrived. When the wind stopped, he recalled that they came out but the entire house was destroyed. They, however, used that opportunity to go to a nearby concrete shelter for protection. “Eventually, the hurricane passed so we went out to

Stabroek Lions hosts medical outreach --at Stabroek Market Square A WIDE cross-section of persons benefitted from a range of free medical services on Saturday when the Georgetown Stabroek Lions Club, District 60-A, in collaboration with the Guyana Defence Force Medical Centre and the Ministry of Public Health, conducted a medical outreach at Stabroek Market Square. The health initiative,

spearheaded by Georgetown Stabroek Lions Club President, June Leitch, got underway at approximately 09:30hrs, and when it concluded around 14:30 hrs over 200 persons had benefitted. Medical services such as blood pressure testing, eye care, blood sugar testing, dental services BMI and nutrition counselling, mental health counselling and HIV

Dental technicians at work

testing, were some of the services provided. Additionally, there were six doctors on board to whom complex issues were referred, and a team from the National Blood Transfusion Services (NBTS). Club President Leitch, who said she was overjoyed at the success of the outreach, added that sometimes people are in need of on the spot medical attention, “so this initiative really served its purpose.”

Derrick was a role model for his entire family because he moved away from Guyana 15 years ago to create a better life for his children, which was going well until Irma swept it away in one day. Many persons from the island are reportedly in similar situations, said Ragnauth, who pointed out that in order to survive for the time being, persons were using tarpaulin in place of rooftops and other items to

erect makeshift homes. Ragnauth will however get assistance from the Government to bring the body of his father here. According to Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, they were supposed to bring in the body already, but they had some logistical hiccups but he assured members of the media that they were working with aircraft owners to get the body in.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

UNICEF ready to help – as gov’t prepares to welcome home Guyanese displaced by hurricanes By Alexis Rodney THE United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has said Monday that it stands ready to help in whatever way it can with the relocation of Guyanese families rendered destitute by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. The agency said that in keeping with the tenets of the Convention on the Rights of Children (CRC), it is particularly interested in the welfare of those children coming with their parents, and wants to ensure that all systems are in place when they arrive here. “Whether they are Guyanese or not, we want them to have access to basic services such as the birth registration,

if they didn’t have; access to education; access to health; and the financial support that may be needed from the family back in other places,” UNICEF Country Representative, Ms Sylvie Fouet told the Guyana Chronicle on Monday. Her comments come in the wake of a government-led operation to bring home those of its people who were living in the Caribbean and lost everything, even loved ones, when the two Category Five hurricanes struck. According to Ms Fouet, the influx of families with children is all the more reason for having the Convention in place, so as to ensure that their needs are met.

UNICEF country representative to Guyana and Suriname, Ms Sylvie Fouet

The Convention is an international treaty which recognises the human rights of children. It covers various elements of children’s rights, among them child protection, adoption, abduction and maintenance relating to child support. It also featured prominently on the agenda of the recently concluded Hague Conference of Private International Law (HCCH) hosted here by the Ministry of Legal Affairs. Fouet said that while the framework is in place, what is critical to the process is having a conversation with the relevant players. During the Hague Conference here last month, she said an agreement was

reached to work towards the four areas of the convention. And with the appointment of Chancellor of the Judiciary, Justice Yonnette Cummings-Edwards and Chief Justice Roxanne George-Wiltshire, she said, there is some amount of “positiveness” that could come out from the conversations. She said not only is there willingness and interest in going forward, but there is also need for the network to put that into forward motion. According to her, the issue now is putting the framework into motion. “To look at those elements, you need to have a mechanism in place that can fix certain issues,” she said.

Contractor followed instructions Vandals burn Goedverwagting – source says in defence of alleged shoddy bridge a second time work on Waramuri school – residents suspect ‘Pradoville’ people

The newly-constructed Waramuri Secondary School

THE new Waramuri Secondary School was constructed according to specifications, and in tune with the contract. That’s the word from a source familiar with the $15M project, which was completed several weeks prior to the opening of the September school term. Over the weekend, a senior official of the Region One(Barima-Waini) village told the Guyana Chronicle, that the regional authorities along with the contractor, had paid the community a visit in August and promised to fix the many faults that had come to light after the build-

ing was completed. But to date, he said, those promises are yet to be fulfilled. Those faults include, the use of latticework instead of glass for the windows, the end result of which is that whenever it rains, the children would get wet. Another is the failure to make adjustments to certain areas of the building to accommodate windows and other air vents, and the painting of it. According to a source close to the contractor, Sattaur Mohammed and Son Construction and Hardware Supplies, the building was constructed in accordance

with the technical specifications. He said that as a matter of fact, the company had warned the regional authorities, through the regional engineer, that the use of latticework rather than glass for the windows would have posed a problem. But those warnings, he said, were largely ignored. The new school was built by the government in order to facilitate those students who had to travel some 25 miles to get to Santa Rosa, where there is a secondary school. Officials of the Region One administration are expected to visit Waramuri this week to address the issue.

“It is becoming very frustrating for the residents,” RESIDENTS of the East have been vandalising the Leonard said. “This is a Coast Demerara Commu- bridge, as they have long had bridge that children use to nity of Goedverwagting are an issue with Goedverwag- access the ‘line-top’, and feeling the squeeze after ting people passing through people who going to work at the Ogle Airport use it to get an access bridge on which their community. they heavily depend was set This has been going on to work.” He said while the bridge alight last Thursday night. since the Pradoville commuwas out of commission According to the resi- nity was established back in following the fire last dents, it is the second month, schoolchildren such occurrence. The had to use the “very bridge in question rebusy” Railway Embankportedly connects Goedment Road. verwagting with neighBack then when the bouring ‘Pradoville’. incident occurred, GoedThey told the Guyverwagting residents had ana Chronicle that early told the Guyana Chronin September, the Plaiicle that they believed sance Neighbourhood their Pradoville neighDemocratic Council bours had finally suc(NDC) had cause to ceeded in keeping them lodge a complaint with out of their community. the police in their comThat bridge was said munity regarding the to be a “saviour” for wanton destruction of many schoolchildren the bridge by persons attending the Bladen unknown. Hall Primary and CumWhile investigamings Lodge Secondary tions into that fire were Schools, as it helped still ongoing, resikeep them off the busy dents moved to have The Goedverwagting-Pradoville Railway Embankment the bridge rebuilt last access bridge after last Thursday Road. Monday. However, three night’s fire Leonard said the days after it was reconbridge had been in exstructed, it was again set 2002, Leonard said, adding alight. that while the police are still istence long before ‘PradoRodwell Leonard who re- doing their investigations, ville’ was established. Before the fire last sides in the community, said they have two suspects on month, residents in Prathat last Thursday around their radar. 02:00hrs, he and his fellow He hopes the footage doville had allegedly atvillagers “had to come out from the CCTV camera over- tempted to burn the bridge again and out the fire.” looking the bridge would on two occasions. “But we He said they have every be of help to the police, as always see smoke and run reason to suspect that it is the the issue is becoming over- out to out it,” one Goedverwagting resident said. residents of Pradoville who bearing.

No new taxes for 2018 GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

– finance minister announces FINANCE Minister Winston Jordan on Monday announced that no new taxes would be implemented in the 2018 National Budget, even as government reviews the 14 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on private tuition. The 2018 budget is scheduled to be presented in November, and will cater to the long overdue construction of the East Bank Berbice (EBB) road, which is expected to cost approximately $1.5B. “We said those people were promised that road endlessly; we have to build the road. The road is going to cost between $1.3B and $1.5B,” Minister Jordan said. “But it’s not going to be the whole road; it’s going to be a significant part of the road. So we have provided half the sum in the budget to

start the road,” he told reporters at a press briefing at his Main Street office. Noting that the APNU+AFC coalition government has not added any new taxes since taking office in May 2015, Minister Jordan said: “When you look carefully at the last three budgets, there was never a new tax; all we were doing was shuffling them around.” What they’ll be doing with next year’s budget, however, is cleaning things up; delivering on a few promises. “We have promised some sectors to see how we could support them,” he said, adding that one such sector that readily comes to mind is forestry. TAX ON PRIVATE TUITION And in response to a que-

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan

ry as to whether the government will be reviewing the Value Added Tax (VAT) on private tuition, which was implemented early this year, Minister Jordan said: “It will be reviewed; it is under consideration in the 2018 Budget.” He, however, declined to say whether the tax is likely to be removed altogether.

Amid protests by parents of students attending private schools across the country and even some of the students themselves, President David Granger had in April committed to having the 14 per cent surcharge on private-school fees reviewed before 2018. “We are asking people to be more patient; more tolerant. We have committed to reviewing it, and I would like to see it lowered,” the president had said, adding: “We have explained that we had to widen the tax base; that there was widespread tax evasion. We need to collect taxation; that is how governments work. Once you see there is massive evasion and non-compliance, it then means that the government’s work will be hampered.” CONSULTATIONS As to the obligatory budget consultations, Minister

Jordan said they are progressing smoothly, although the Opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) has failed yet again to be a part of the process. He recalled that the last time they did, which was back in 2015, they’d requested a plethora of public documents from his ministry before doing so. Other than that, he said the process this year is “intense and ongoing,” since the Ministry of Finance took a decision to broaden its pool of stakeholders. He said that thus far, his team has met with traditional groups of persons, including the private and public sectors. But they’ve also made it a point of meeting with young entrepreneurs, professionals, and youths from across the country. Meetings have also been scheduled with the Upper Corentyne Chamber of Commerce and

Industry, as well as the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “Generally, the budget consultations have been positive; none of them I recall being acrimonious,” he said, adding that while the suggestions have been many, some are more long-term in nature rather than immediate measures to stimulate the economy. Speaking of which, Minister Jordan said that the present goverment, ever since it came to office, has done everything humanly possible to stimulate the economy. “We have done measures to stimulate the economy from Day One when we came in,” he said. “We removed a range of VAT from a range of products. We removed tax on NIS, ramped up salaries, and gave a one-off bonus to the entire public service. We have done quite a bit.”

Vandals accused Primary school student assaulted of $25M with hair ribbon …parents not taking matter lightly restaurant theft THE PARENTS of a nineyear old student of the Eccles Primary School on the East Bank of Demerara, are mulling their next move after their daughter was assaulted by another student with a hair ribbon. Reports are that the young girl was preparing to enter a classroom last Friday when she was accosted by an older male student from another

Gary Grant

Shawn Clark

TWO vandals who allegedly broke into the closed Chicka ‘D’ restaurant on Vlissengen Road and carted off over $25M worth in items were on Monday remanded to prison by City Magistrate Judy Latchman. Shawn Clark, 45 and Gary Grant 41, both denied that between September 25 and October 6, at Vlissengen Road they broke and entered the Chicka ‘D’ restaurant and stole an ice cream machine and other items totaling $25.2M, property of Deonarine Singh. Additionally Clark was separately charged for assaulting a police officer and behaving disorderly on October 6, at Vlissengen Road. According to reports on October 6, police acting on information received went to

the restaurant on Vlissengen Road which had recently closed down, where they saw the two defendants removing items. Constable Brummel attempted to arrest Clark but the man pulled out a knife and advanced towards him, while Grant surrendered. Clark cuffed the officer to his eye and escaped but was later apprehended by public spirited persons. Police prosecutor Adoni Innis objected to the duo being released on bail on the grounds that they had no fixed place of abode. Magistrate Latchman remanded them on the break and enter charge but granted Clark $60,000 bail on the two other charges. The matters are adjourned until October 30.

class. The student sustained a visible wound to her neck after her attacker placed her ribbon around her neck and attempted to choke her. The child’s relative placed an image of the wound on social media on Monday morning, and according to the woman members of the school’s administration became enraged. She noted that it was only

then that the school’s headmistress contacted the child’s mother, and reports are that a letter was being prepared to be sent to the Ministry of Education’s School Welfare Department detailing the issue. The parents of both students are expected to meet to discuss the incident. However, the relatives of the assaulted child were not sat-

isfied with the manner in which they were treated by the school’s teachers. In addition, they said they were verbally abused by the parents of the attacker. The victim’s relatives noted that they were not prepared to have the matter taken lightly, as many persons on social media advised the family to report the incident to the police.

Woman accuses man of attempting to take over her family’s lands …Land Commission of Inquiry By Alva Solomon AS the hearings continued at the Land Commission of Inquiry on Monday, a Turkeyen woman has made claims that a man known to her has sold a parcel of her family’s land to himself and his children. According to Isla Barry, her brother, one Fitz Roberts, died in 2015 and held rights to a parcel of land at Friendship on the East Bank of Demerara. She said one Noah Yashuran , told her that he should be made a power of attorney so that the land can be placed under the ownership of herself and siblings. Describing the land as African ancestral lands,

Barry who noted that she is a descendent of slaves, recounted the name of her late great-grandfather, the late Robert Roberts. She said that she possess a transport for the land in question. Barry said that after making Yashuran the power of attorney, the man made moves to sell the lands to himself and his children and according to the woman, when she learnt of the man’s intentions, she terminated the power of attorney. She said that Yashuran sent her a letter, which she read to the commission. She said the letter contained words which stated that on January 27, 2017, she gave all rights to the land at Section ‘B’ Friendship to him.

Isla Barry

Barry said that she was the administrator of the land and during the hearings she presented documents which included an agreement for sale which was written up by the man. She said that

the man took her to a lawyer to draft the documents but according to her, she did not read the document. She said that her sibling informed her that she should have been careful in making such a move. “Is till when I hear that he gon tek over the land, and then he said that I gon can’t even sit or walk on it,” she told the commission under questioning. Barry said she visited a lawyer and he advised that she place a caveat (a notice) on the land, a move which she followed. The commission promised to investigate the matter and decide what recommendations could be made in connection with the issue.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Guns shipped in barrel from New York

Tuesday, October 3, 2017 - 08:30 hrs Wednesday, October 4, 2017 - 09:30 hrs Thursday, October 5, 2017 - 10:30 hrs

A 45-YEAR-OLD man who reportedly shipped two guns stashed in motorcycle parts in a barrel from Brooklyn, New York to Guyana was on Monday remanded to prison for firearm possession. Dwayne Phillip of Bourda, Georgetown appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and denied the two firearm-related charges. The first charge read that between January 1 and July 11 at the Guyana Na-

tional Shipping Corporation (GNSC) wharf, Lombard Street, Phillip had a 9mm GLOCK and a 9mm Taurus pistol in his possession when he was not a licensed firearm holder. He further denied that he had 56 rounds of 9mm ammunition on the same day in question. Phillip denied both of the charges while his attorney, Keoma Griffith, told the court that his client came to Guyana to visit his reputed

wife and his eight kids. The barrel containing the firearm was shipped from New York during January and arrived in Guyana in July. While the barrel was being searched by Customs officers at the GNSC wharf, the guns and several rounds of matching ammunition were found stashed in bike parts That barrel was reportedly addressed to Phillip’s reputed wife and was shipped by the accused who was

recently nabbed by police upon his arrival at Cheddi Jagan International Airport from Brooklyn. Police Prosecutor, Arwin Moore objected to the defendant being released on bail on the grounds that he posed a flight risk and also the seriousness of the charge. The Chief Magistrate ruled in the prosecution’s favour and remanded Phillip until October 16.

Security Guard denies forging Police document A 35-YEAR-OLD Security Guard attached to the Professional Guard Service (PGS) was on Monday released on $300,000 bail

by City Magistrate Judy Latchman for forging a Guyana Police supernumerary constable’s percept. Donnet Jupiter appeared before City Magistrate Judy Latchman and denied that on September 25 at Subryanville, Georgetown, with intent to defraud she uttered to the Chief Security Officer of PGS a forged Guyana Police supernumerary constable

percept, purporting to show same was issued by the Guyana Police Force. Jupiter further denied that on September 21 at Georgetown, she conspired with others to forge the instrument in her favor purporting to show that it was issued by the GPF. Police Prosecutor, Adoni Innis told the court that Jupiter had applied for the percept which allows her to carry a

weapon on the job, but the application was denied. However, the woman conspired with others to forge the document instead and presented it to an officer at PGS Innis made no objection to bail and the Magistrate released Jupiter on $150,000 on each of the charges. The matter was adjourned until October 30 for report.

Young taxi driver gets bail on ammo charge A 28-year-old taxi driver was on Monday granted $80,000 bail by City Magistrate Judy Latchman for ammunition possession. Clive Williams of Diamond Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, denied that

on October 6 at North Ruimveldt, Georgetown, he had in his possession 9mm and .32 ammunitions when he was not a licensed firearm holder. Williams’ attorney, Paul Fung-a-fat told the court that the ammunition was

Clive Williams

found in the backseat of his client’s vehicle on the day in question. However, Police prosecutor Adoni Innis told the court that the police, acting on information on the day in question, intercepted Williams’ vehicle at North Ruimveldt. The vehicle was searched and the ammunition, several cellphones and a computer were found in the back seat. The prosecutor objected to bail being granted to the accused based on the seriousness and prevalence of the charge. Magistrate Latchman overruled the prosecution’s objections and released the father of two on $80,000 bail. The matter was adjourned until October 23 for report.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Port Kaituma woman suffers breakdown – while telling Land CoI how miners cheated family out of property A PORT Kaituma woman broke down on the stand during Monday morning’s session of the Land Commission of Inquiry (CoI) as she called on the body to address the issue of mining by persons on her family’s land. At the same time, the woman, Claire Fowler of 10 Miles, Port Kaituma, Region One (Barima-Waini), highlighted several back and forth frustrating run-ins she has been enduring as she detailed her concerns to the commission. The woman told the commission during her testimony that the issue centred on several hundred acres of land on which her family resides at Port Kaituma. She said that her late father, John Rodrigues, and family have been occupying the land since 1974, and that prior to his death, the family began to make moves to ensure that they have all the relevant documents regarding ownership of the land. “We grow up at 10 Miles, Port Kaiutma and after he died, there were a lot of miners coming into the area, presenting no documents from GGMC and they came and mine on our farm land,” she said, adding that the family currently occupies a portion of the land, which amounts to 15 acres. The Commission also

Claire Fowler as she addressed the commission on Monday morning (Photo courtesy LCOI)

heard how the family made moves to apply for 242 acres of land for additional agricultural purposes, since they had long-term plans as the only ones living there. She said the miners were mining among several trees and a pasture which her family operated and according to her, the landscape is today different mainly as a result of mining. She said that since 2002, the family started making moves to apply for ownership of the land through the Guyana Lands and Survey’s Commission (GL&SC), a process

that has reached nowhere now 15 years later. Fowler presented receipts which indicated that her father paid sums of monies to the Mabaruma branch of the GL&SC regarding the land. She said that after he died in 2006, she wrote the GL&SC head at the time and was told to visit the Mabaruma office. She said one Dexter Chacon informed her that the commission was expected to acknowledge her claims, but she noted that the family received none. Fowler said that she paid various sums for the land to

be inspected by the GL&SC. “Presently, the land is no longer how it used to be,” she said, noting that miners mined out most of the areas. She said that in 2012, the family re-applied to the GL&SC but again no acknowledgement came their way. Fowler said on several occasions she visited the GL&SC and her frustrations saw her visiting all departments of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), as well as the former Ministry of Amerindian Affairs. However, she never received any form of assistance. The woman said she visited the GGMC office at Falls Top near Port Kaituma recently and the officer-in-charge informed her that he could not help. At this point the woman broke down in tears. She said she was locked-up by the police in the area in connection with the incident and as her voice grew weak, she told

the commission that she felt cheated. “I said you know something this is not right, I wrote a letter to GGMC, and after that, after about two hours they locked me up, I said I will not give up,” Fowler added. The woman said that

she read that the land COI was ongoing and decided to seek its assistance. According to her, the family built a foundation in the area and she noted that she will continue to fight for the rights to the land. The hearings continue today.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, TUESDAY October 10, 2017

First wave of evacuees arrive from BVI --many received by family members, gov’t to provide housing for others

By Navendra Seoraj

STEPPING off the Trans Guyana Airways Aircraft late Monday was the best feeling they’ve ever had in weeks. The occasion was the re-

start, or to temporarily relax and recuperate. On September 6, the BVI was hit by the Category Five hurricane that reportedly destroyed almost 90 per cent of the buildings on the island. As a result of the catastro-

nalled their interest in returning, and that so far, many have done so. “This is our first major flight with persons who are coming back,” said the minister, who pointed out that Trans Guyana Airways will

matter where they are,” Minister Harmon said. Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix, who was also on hand to welcome the evacuees, told members of the media that as persons come in, immigration officials will enquire about those documentation that they may have lost, such as birth certificates and passports, so that they may help replace them. PLACED IN SCHOOLS He also pointed out that the intention is to ensure that the children who return with their parents or guardians are assessed and placed in schools, so that there will be less idle time. “As persons come in, we will start to do continuous

hurricane,” she said, “I was so worried, my blood pressure and so went up. But I was happy to know that my family was safe.” Chan said she was happy when she saw the girls, aged 14 and eight, step off the plane, and that her first order of business is to ensure that they don’t waste a day while here. She said words cannot express how happy she is that they will be given a chance to go to school. Similarly, the grandmother of young, Jared Newman travelled all the way from Rosignol,on the West Coast Berbice to collect her grandson, who was one of the 10 persons to arrive here Monday evening. She said her only plan for him is to get him into a school. Jared said that although he

in coming back. According to him, 43 persons were initially slated to come to Guyana from Sint Maarten, but over the past few days the number has increased to 116. Sint Maarten, unlike the BVI, was hit by Hurricane Maria that did similar damage to the country and its people. General Manager of Jags Aviation, Christopher Cheong, told the Guyana Chronicle that they will be leaving for Sint Maarten today with a load of goods. He said they will be bringing back with them about 15 persons when they return on the following day. According to Cheong, their flight to and from the island is part of a humanitarian effort. Minister Harmon also in-

Avril Chan embraces her granddaughters Monday evening on their arrival from the BVI

turn of the first batch of 10 Guyanese nationals to their beloved country after suffering heavy losses when Hurricane Irma wreaked havoc on the British Virgin Islands (BVI), their second home, early last month. The 10, comprising a mix of both young and old, were brought here as part of the government’s promise to assist those who wanted to come home in order to have a fresh

phe, many persons, including Guyanese who lived there, were left homeless. The Guyana Government as such started the process of assisting their fellow Guyanese by bringing them home and sending in food and other items. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, who welcomed the evacuees on arrival around 19:30hrs, said they are bringing home Guyanese who sig-

be bringing in more Guyanese from the BVI. In addition to bringing persons to Guyana, the Trans Guyana aircraft also took approximately 3,300lbs of food and other much-needed items to the BVI for distribution among the residents there. “We want everyone to know that the government is working with the private sector to do everything to ensure that our citizens are cared for, no Jared Newman about to be given a welcoming hug by his grandmother (Photos by Adrian Narine)

Guyanese returning home from the BVI after Hurricane Irma

interviews in order to ensure that we have enough information on persons so that we can make an informed decision,” Minister Felix said. Given that most of the persons who returned on the first flight were children, their families who were there to receive them were excited to know that there are already plans to have them integrated into the school system. Avril Chan, a resident of Grove, East Bank Demerara, embraced her two granddaughters, both of whom she was seeing in person for the very first time. “When I hear about the

is excited to go to school in his homeland, he will surely miss his friends back home, and his mother who he hopes to see again when she arrives in December. For those who do not have family members here, the government has made arrangements for them to be temporarily housed at the Hugo Chavez Centre at Onverwagt in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice). OVER 100 MORE TO COME Minister Harmon said many persons have heard about what the government has to offer, so they are interested

dicated that Jags and Trans Guyana will be doing flights throughout the week to ensure that everyone is here by this weekend. Chairman of the Correia Airport, Michael Correia said he and his colleagues are happy to be playing a part in ensuring that Guyanese return to their country. The names of the persons who returned on Monday are: Randy Ragnauth, Avril De Santos, Nanshalee Foxe, Brianna Foxe, Nia Asanti Gill, Rolanda Flatts-Gill, Javed Newman, Janice Callwood, Cameron Foxe and Coran Penn.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, TUESDAY October 10, 2017

Parking meter fiasco…

Seven city councillors selected --to sit on re-negotiating team

By Telesha Ramnarine A PARTNERSHIP for National Unity (APNU) Councillor, Akeem Peter, will now head the new team selected to re-negotiate the contentious parking meter contract with Smart City Solutions (SCS), the foreign company that was granted concession to install parking meters in the City. Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen, along with a majority of city councillors, voted for APNU’s Councillor, Noelle Chow-Chee to be Vice-Chairman when the statutory meeting convened at City Hall on Monday. Apart from Peter and Chow-Chee, the other members of the new re-negotiating committee are: Councillors Oscar Clarke, Jameel Rasul, James Samuels, Heston Bostwick, and Ivor Henry. People’s Progressive Party (PPP)’s Bishram Kuppen was chosen to sit on the committee by Councillor Bostwick, but he declined the nomination.

Vice-Chairman, Noelle Chow-Chee

Town Clerk Royston King noted that he has since received about four names of members of the public who will also serve on the committee, among them an engineer, lawyer and accountant. These names will be circulated to councillors today, and a vote will be taken at a special meeting next Monday. In an invited comment following the meeting, Peter told the Guyana Chronicle

that the new team will be working to achieve “the most possible and suitable deal” for the citizens of Georgetown. “One of the first things I would be doing is asking for much more external helpers as it relates to the accounting systems. Numbers would play a great role,” he said, adding that the working income of most of the workers in Georgetown and the affordability of parking meters on the ‘normal’ person will have to be studied. “We will bring the human face back to the issue, because we understood that it wasn’t really about parking meters, but it was about the contract. We want to help people understand the process,” Peter offered. Peter said along with a reduction in the cost to park, the team will also be looking at the spaces that were offered to SCS, such as those in front schools. “Even though we began on a wrong foot, I view this as an opportunity now for us

Chairman of re-negotiating committee, Akeem Peter

to realign ourselves along the right path and get a human face to parking meters. The submission of documents is not an option; it’s a necessity, a must do. Once those are submitted, I see us moving forward,” Peter said. Meanwhile, Councillor Kuppen had objected to the town clerk serving on the new committee, citing the sensitive nature of the issue. “The town clerk should not be part of the negotiating

Dynamic Airways stops Guyana-New York service … may enter new arrangement with interested party DYNAMIC International Airways has officially discontinued its service between Guyana and New York, the entity’s Chief Executive Officer, Tim Lawlor said in a statement on Monday. Lawlor in the statement said that effective October 3, the Airways discontinued its regular service between Guyana and New York and noted that the move became necessary as the entity continued to reorganize in its Chapter 11 case. “We regret this development and take this opportunity to thank all our customers for their support over the last four years that we have served the Guyana market.” In July the carrier announced that it had filed a voluntary Chapter 11 petition with the United States Bankruptcy Court. It stated that it intended to continue its operations here as its prin-

cipals restructured plans. The airline noted that its decision to file for bankruptcy protection followed upon litigation matters, resulting from Hajj flights the airline operated in 2014 for Air India. “It also follows the entry of a judgment in the United States District Court for the Middle District of North Carolina, affirming an arbitration award against Dynamic Int’l issued by the Canadian Arbitration Association in April 2017, which determined that Dynamic Int’l was in breach of contract by failing to pay commissions to BKP Enterprises in connection with the Hajj flights. While the debtor has filed a notice of appeal and intends to challenge the judgment and award, Dynamic Int’l said it had no immediate recourse to stay the judgment and had determined the commencement of the Chapter 11 case was necessary,” the

statement said. However, on Monday the CEO apologised for the inconvenience caused to customers who had loyally supported the airline over the years. The CEO pleaded with passengers to be understanding, while noting that all passengers who were scheduled to use the service after October 3 would be “issued a refund on the un-used portion of their tickets.” “Dynamic intends to honor all its financial commitments to passengers, the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA),” Lawlor stated, while noting that Dynamic Airways will soon enter into discussions with an interested party about serving the Guyana – New York market under a new arrangement which he says is permitted while the entity reorganises.

“The new arrangement, known as an ACMI agreement, would allow Dynamic to serve the Guyana/New York market,” said the CEO. Approximately two weeks ago, travel agents indicated that they were unable to book flights with the troubled airline. Captain Gerry Gouveia, CEO of Roraima Airways, the local handler for Dynamic, suggested in a social media post in September that the end was near for the international carrier. “The final days for the final flights are being counted down, even as the planes continue to operate with 90% loads,” Gouveia had written on FB. Dynamic’s exit from the local market leaves only Caribbean Airlines and Fly Jamaica Airways to operate flights along the lucrative Guyana- New York route. Dynamic Airways entered the market in 2014.

committee, even sitting as an advisor,” Kuppen said. “The initial problems that came from the contract came from the actions he took, in that the contract was never tendered; the transparency and impact studies were not done; and I think that he should have rightfully recused himself because he was not part of the previous negotiating committee,” he’d told the Guyana Chronicle. He further opined that it is highly prejudicial that King will be part of a committee, where he would be able to influence its discussion or the direction that it takes. At a special meeting last month, 13 of 25 councillors voted in favour of setting up a new committee to start a fresh process of negotiation with SCS. The contract that the M&CC entered into with SCS came under heavy criticism from some City Councillors, who called for a complete revocation of it, while some others suggested

waiting on the outcome of a court case that has a bearing on the matter. The majority, nevertheless, voted in favour of renegotiating with SCS under some new rules. Member of the Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM), Don Singh had told this publication that the M&CC is going ahead with re-negotiating an illegal contract. “Now I don’t know how that works,” he’d said, adding: “We at MAPM are 100 per cent sure that the court case will justify our position that monopoly laws were broken; procurement laws were broken, and the general contract is illegal. So they will be faced with further problems down the road by taking this action.” Another member, Luana Falconer, said that it was shocking to see that it did not matter to 13 councillors that the contract with SCS is illegal. “Where in the world is negotiating an illegal contract okay?” she said.

M&CC closes five food businesses --until they put their houses in order THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) on Monday took a decision to close five businesses in Georgetown until such time as they can become registered and obtain other necessary documentation. Bryan Carter of Denis Street, Sophia, who operates ‘Donne’s Delight’, was brought before the City Council, along with Orian Isaacs and Rowena Noel, of Castello Housing Scheme, who operate the ‘Soup Hut’ on Cemetery Road. Also hauled before the Council were: Nadia Singh, of Lot 46 Sheriff Street, Campbellville, who operates ‘Trini’s Grill’; Peggy Oudkerk, of Lot 32 Duncan Street, Campbellville, who operates a liquor restaurant; and Rajkumarie Singh, of Lot 38 Sheriff Street, also in Campbelleville, who operates a snackette. The businesses were found to be unregistered by City Hall officers, and to be operating in unsanitary conditions. Furthermore, they were all found to be without a Food Handler’s Certificate. Isaacs conceded that he received about three or four notices from the officers about the way he

was operating, but nevertheless asked for a chance to get his house in order. Councillor, Oscar Clarke observed that while a business may be registered in the Deeds Registry, it must also be registered in the Town Clerk’s office. Councillor, Malcolm Ferreira pondered why more people in breach were not being brought before the council, while Councillor, Welton Clarke said that there are certain basic health and environmental standards that must be followed, and that the rules must not be bent. Councillor, Monica Thomas said health is of utmost importance especially in view of the many diseases that are breaking out recently, while Councillor, Andrea Marks suggested that “them dutty Chiney” restaurants should also be looked into. Town Clerk Royston King said the officers would have been working with these individuals for years, and that bringing them before the council was the last resort after all other options would have been tried.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Back under her own roof MS. SHEILA HARRICHAN of Bath Settlement, West Coast Berbice (WCB), whose home was flattened by a freak storm which ripped through a section of the village on September 18 last, was last weekend back under the roof of her home which was rebuilt following the intervention of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and the Civil Defence Commission (CDC). The woman had been promised assistance but experienced a delay in the rebuilding because the vehicle transporting materials had broken down. Prime Minister Nagamootto disclosed that when his attention was drawn to the delay in the rebuilding of the house, he immediately responded and sent a team of workmen from GAICO Construction and in one day they rebuilt the house. Ms. Harrichan was one of several residents of Section `D’ in Bath Settlement, WCB, whose homes had been damaged by the freak storm but her home was the hardest hit. Some of the affected residents had fixed their own homes using their own financial resources and a combination of paid labour and community self-help. But the woman who lives alone had been unable to find the financial resourc-

Back under her own roof Ms Sheila Harrichan last weekend

es to get her life back on track. Ms Harrichan moved in under her own roof last Friday and expressed gratitude to the government for its assistance in helping her to regain normal life.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Poland safely through; perfection for Germany PARIS, France (AFP) — Robert Lewandowski scored a European-qualifying record 16th goal as Poland defeated Montenegro 4-2 yesterday to reach next year’s World Cup, while reigning champions Germany secured a 10th successive win. Bayern Munich striker Lewandowski struck again in what has been a remarkable qualifying campaign, as Poland recovered from throwing away a two-goal lead in Warsaw to secure a first trip to the World Cup finals since 2006. “I was angry. We were leading 2-0 at home and then let them equalise for 2-all. We had to score that third goal to calm things down,” said Lewandowski, who moved back ahead of Cristiano Ronaldo’s 15-goal tally.

Krzysztof Maczynski and Kamil Grosicki struck early as Poland made a dream start, but Montenegro hit back through goals from Stefan Mugosa and Zarko Tomasevic to pull level with just seven minutes left. Lewandowski restored Poland’s advantage on 85 minutes before a late own goal from Filip Stojkovic sealed victory, although Denmark’s 1-1 draw at home to Romania ultimately rendered the outcome irrelevant. The Danes needed to win in Copenhagen while hoping that Montenegro could upset Poland to finish top of Group E, but Ciprian Deac’s late equaliser cancelled out a 60th-minute penalty from Christian Eriksen. Denmark are at least assured of a place in next month’s playoffs as one of the eight-best run-

ners-up from the nine qualifying groups. Germany made it 10 wins from 10 in Group C, after routing Azerbaijan 5-1 in Kaiserslautern to join Spain as the only nations in history to finish a European World Cup qualifying campaign with a perfect record. Leon Goretzka’s opening goal was negated by Ramil Sheydaev on 34 minutes, but Sandro Wagner and Antonio Ruediger scored after half-time before Goretzka notched his second and Emre Can completed the victory. Germany scored a European-qualifying record 43 goals on the road to Russia, emulating Spain who achieved perfection in qualifying ahead of their triumph at the 2010 tournament in South Africa.

Costa Rica clinch World Cup berth with 1-1 draw against Honduras SAN JOSE, Costa Rica (AFP) - Kendall Watson’s header deep into injury time gave Costa Rica a 1-1 draw with Honduras last Saturday and a berth in the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Eddie Hernandez had headed Honduras ahead in the 66th minute, and it appeared that Costa Rica would have to put their Russia plans on hold. But five minutes into stoppage time, Watson rose in the centre of the area to head in Bryan Ruiz’s cross and spark joyful celebrations at the national stadium in San Jose, where the match was postponed from Friday due to the effects of Hurricane Nate. Costa Rica had a golden chance to take the lead in

the 60th minute. Honduran goalkeeper Donis Escober had pushed a shot back into the middle of the area, only for Marcos Urena to fire over the empty net. Six minutes later, Romell Quioto sprinted down the wing and crossed into the box where Hernandez connected with a thundering header to put the visitors in front. Costa Rica, with 16 points, joined Mexico (21) in advancing from the North and Central America and Caribbean (CONCACAF) region with three final matches to play today. Three CONCACAF teams advance directly to the finals in Russia, with a fourth to play off against either Syria or Australia for

a berth. The United States moved into third place on 12 points on Friday with a 4-0 romp over Panama. Panama are on 10 points in fourth and have the advantage on goal difference over Honduras, also on 10. CONCACAF’s six-nation final round of qualifying concludes today Tuesday, when the United States travel to lowly Trinidad and Tobago, Honduras host Mexico, and Panama host Costa Rica. Costa Rica will be playing in their fifth World Cup finals. They were quarter-finalists in Brazil in 2014 and reached the knockout stage in Italy in 1990. The Ticos also played in 2002 and 2006.

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Iceland becomes smallest ... From Backpage

Until fireworks went off after the final whistle, Monday’s match on a wet Reykjavik night rarely felt like an historic occasion, with the hosts grinding out a routine win against opponents who were more refined technically but lacked punch. Iceland’s starting lineup included four players based in England’s second tier, two from the English Premier League, one from Italy’s Serie A and one each from the top flights of Denmark, Sweden, Scotland and Russia. An emphatic 3-0 win in Turkey on Friday had sent Iceland top of the group for the final match, although they struggled to impose themselves against the group’s bottom side. Iceland had to wait half an hour for their first real chance when Jon Bodvars-

son’s far post header was easily saved by Samir Ujkani. Milot Rashica gave Iceland a fright with a longrange shot which flew past Hannes Halldorsson’s post but Iceland went ahead with their next attack and their first shot on target. Sigurdsson collected the ball on the edge of the area, wriggled his way past Amir Rrahmani and fired beyond Ujkani for his fourth goal of the qualifiers. Iceland were happy to sit on their lead but struck again in the 68th minute when Sigurdsson again got past Rrahmani and laid the ball into the middle for Gudmundsson to score from close range. Iceland’s seven wins in the group included all five of their home matches where previous World Cup semi-finalists Croatia and Turkey were among the victims.

Racism held back overseas-born players in Australia - Khawaja AUSTRALIA’S Usman Khawaja says being racially abused as young players has stopped many overseas-born cricketers from playing for the country. The 30-year-old, who was born in Pakistan, said such abuse culminated in his not supporting Australia teams. “Getting sledged by opposition players and their parents was the norm,” said Khawaja on the Players Voice website. “Some of them said it just quietly enough for only me to hear. It still hurt, but I would never show it.” Khawaja became the first Muslim to play Test cricket for Australia when he made his debut against England in 2011. He has scored 1 728 runs in 24 Tests, including five centuries. “I was brought up to be respectful, humble and polite. But when I watched the Aussie team, I saw men who were hard-nosed, confident, almost brutish,” he continued. “The same type of men

who would sledge me about my heritage growing up. “It is for this reason why so many of my friends, most of whom were born outside Australia, didn’t support Australia in sporting contests. I didn’t either.” He added: “My point is this: it’s no surprise it has taken Australia cricket so long for coloured players to come through the system.” Khawaja, who was the only Asian at first-class level in Australia when he began playing for New South Wales, added that the situation has improved because “youngsters are given a bit more support to nurture and grow as players”. He said this is “paving the way for all cricketers from all ethnic, religious and socio-economic backgrounds”. His article ended: “Australian cricket is slowly changing and will finally have a chance to reflect what Australia really is - an international team truly representative of its richly diverse population.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Shafiq and Sarfraz give Pakistan hope of unlikely win ASAD Shafiq and Sarfraz Ahmed gave Pakistan hope of drawing the series with an unlikely victory in a captivating second Test after Sri Lanka were embarrassingly dismissed for only 96 on day four in Dubai. Wahab Riaz took 4-41 and part-time spinner Haris Sohail (3-1) became the first man to take three wickets bowling just one over in the longest format as the tourists were pitifully skittled out yesterday. Dilruwan Perera (3-76) came to the fore to leave Pakistan in the mire on 52-5 chasing 317 to win, but Shafiq (86 not out) and captain Sarfraz (57 n.o.) came to the rescue with an unbroken stand of 146 – a record for the sixth wicket against Sri Lanka. Pakistan, striving to avoid a first Test series defeat in the United Arab Emirates since they have been unable to play on home soil, closed on 198-5 and require another 119 to complete a remarkable fightback and salvage a 1-1 draw on the final day. Sri Lanka slumped to 34-5 in a dramatic final session on day three and were six down for 59 when Niroshan Dickwella (21) was well taken by wicketkeeper Sarfraz to become Wahab’s fourth victim after the dangerous left-hander struck four boundaries. Dilruwan followed in the next over when he was trapped in front by a Yasir Shah flipper and Sohail

Demoted after a failure in the first innings, Asad Shafiq put on an unbroken century-plus stand with Sarfraz Ahmed to revive Pakistan’s hopes ©Getty Images

wrapped up the tail in a flash by getting Rangana Herath, Kusal Mendis and Nuwan Pradeep in an astonishing over. Debutant Lahiru Gamage was left frustrated when he had Sami Aslam caught at second slip early in Pakistan’s run chase but was deemed to have over-stepped, before getting rid of the opener in the same manner two balls later. Pakistan collapsed feebly in their first innings and looked set for a crushing loss when they lost four wickets in the space of nine overs in the second session. Dilruwan seemingly put Sri Lanka well on their way to victory after Pradeep removed Azhar Ali, Sohail feathering one behind which turned away before the all-rounder saw the back of Shan Masood and Babar Azam in the same over.

Shafiq and Sarfraz both had a stroke of luck when Mendis failed to hold on to sharp chances at short leg in consecutive deliveries, but the pair showed their team-mates how to counter the spin as they batted with increasing assurance. They used their feet expertly and waited for loose deliveries to be served up, Shafiq bringing up his 19th Test half-century with a sumptuous cut to the boundary and Sarfraz also passing fifty by pulling Mendis for four. Sri Lanka were unable to conjure up a late breakthrough and lost their second review in the final over of a day which left the outcome in the balance, with the tourists having only seven overs to wait before they can take the new ball on day five. (Omnisport)

SCOREBOARD SRI LANKA 1st innings 482 (D. Karunaratne 196, D. Chandimal 62, D. Perera 58, N. Dickwella 52; Y. Shah 6-184) PAKISTAN 1st innings 262 (A. Ali 59, H. Sohail 56) SRI LANKA 2nd innings (Overnight: 34-5) DimuthKarunaratnebRiaz 7 Kaushal Silva c S. Ahmed b Abbas 3 Sadheera Samarawickreme c S. Ahmed b Riaz 13 Kusal Mendis c S. Ahmed b Sohail 29 SurangaLakmallbwbShah 1 Dinesh Chandimal lbw b Riaz 0 Niroshan Dickwella c S. Ahmed b Riaz 21 DilruwanPereralbwbShah 0

Rangana Herath c B. Azam b Sohail 17 Lahiru Gamage out 1 Nuwan Pradeep lbw b Sohailv 0 Extras: (lb-1, nb-3) 4 Total: (all out, 26 overs) 96 Fall of wickets: 1-3, 2-22, 3-26, 4-33, 5-34, 6-59, 7-60, 8-95, 9-96. Bowling: Mohammad Abbas 4-2-6-1, Yasir Shah 12-247-2, Wahab Riaz 9-0-41-4 (nb-3), Haris Sohail 1-0-1-3. PAKISTAN 2nd innings (Target: 317 runs) Shan Masood c Dickwella b D. Perera 21 Sami Aslam c K. Mendis b

Gamage 1 Azhar Ali c K. Silva b Pradeep 17 Haris Sohail c Dickwella b D. Perera 10 Asad Shafiq not out 86 Babar Azam c K. Silva b D. Perera 0 Sarfraz Ahmed not out 57 Extras: (lb-1, nb-5) 6 Total: (for 5 wickets, 73 overs) 198 Fall of wickets: 1-5, 2-36, 3-49, 4-52, 5-52. Bowling: Suranga Lakmal 11-4-28-0, Lahiru Gamage 13-4-27-1 (nb-3), Rangana Herath 19-2-53-0, Nuwan Pradeep 8-3-6 – 1 (nb-1), Dilruwan Perera 21-1-76-3, Kusal Mendis 1-0-7-0 (nb-1).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Head coach urges Windies-A players to get among the runs, wickets MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica (CMC) – Head coach Graeme West has urged his players to make the most of the opportunity by getting among the runs and wickets, as West Indies-A chase a series win in the upcoming three-match four-day ‘Test’ rubber against touring Sri Lanka A. The two teams face off in the opening match at the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium starting tomorrow, with several regional players hoping to press their claims and impress selectors. “Sri Lanka has come with a good mix of experienced and very promising players, so it would be pleasing to record a series victory against them or any other visiting side for that matter,” the Englishman said. “Apart from this, it would be good to see batsmen like Montcin Hodge and John Campbell, as well as Vishaul Singh, who has had an opportunity to play for the senior team, and captain Shamarh Brooks get significant scores.” Singh was the leading scorer of the Windies-A tour of Sri Lanka last year with 324 runs at an average of 64 while Brooks gathered 249 runs at nearly 50 per innings. Hodge, meanwhile, was one

Left-hander Vishaul Singh hopes to impress against Sri Lanka after making his Test debut against Pakistan.

of seven batsmen to pass 600 runs in the last first class season with Campbell compiling nearly 500 runs. Two relatively untested pacers, the Jamaican pair of Reynard Leveridge and Oshane Thomas, have been included in the squad and West said the series would provide both with an important challenge. “It will also be a big test for two of our fast bowlers, Reynard Leveridge and Oshane Thomas,” West explained. “They have just five matches between them, but they have great

ability and can bowl quickly so it will be important to see if they can keep it going throughout a day and a four-day match.” He continued: “In the spin bowling, we have players that are familiar with the A-Team set-up and have been consistently performing in regional tournaments, so it would be a good opportunity for them to push their claims by taking wickets and bowling effectively in the conditions that we find throughout the series.” The series represents the first one in 12 months for Windies-A,

following their full tour of Sri Lanka last year October. Of that squad, several players progressed into the Test arena, featuring in series against Pakistan in the Caribbean and on the recent tour of England. West urged players who had already made their mark to reproduce their form against the Sri Lankans, noting this was the only route into the international side. “The players that have progressed to the senior team over the last 12 or 18 months have done it on the backs of some consistent performances in A-Team matches,” he pointed out. “More of the same is required from the team, as a collective to do well, but with strong contributions from each individual. “We have players in this squad at different points in their career but there are a few of them that will feel they need to really make a move forward over the next few weeks, and ahead of the start of the next regional season, so this is a really great opportunity to get ahead of the game.” The second ‘Test’ bowls off at the same venue on October 19, with the final match – a day/ night contest - set for Sabina Park in Kingston from October 26 to 29.

Ninvalle to chair AIBA meeting of the Caribbean on Saturday

PRESIDENT of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle will, on Saturday, host the International Boxing Association (AIBA) meeting of the Caribbean, at the Resource Centre in Georgetown from 10:00hrs. Ninvalle, an Executive

Committee Member of the sport’s governing body, was recently elected to the AIBA Executive Committee Bureau. He stated that the meeting on Saturday will address several critical areas of development for the Caribbean. Initially, there was a meeting scheduled for Sep-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

COMPLIMENTS OF: THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE 176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)Jos Butler-7 dismissals (6 catches/1 stumping) (2)Shai Hope-5 dismissals (5 catches) Today’s Quiz: (1)How many Test matches WI and Zimbabwe

have contested against each other to date?

(2)Where and when was the first WI/ZIM Test

played?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

AIBA’s Executive Director William Louis-Marie

tember 10, but due to Hurricane Irma, that meeting was later postponed. William Louis-Marie, AIBA’s Executive Director, is expected to be in Guyana for the important meeting, as well as a representative from the America Boxing Confederation (AMBC). Ninvalle pointed out that their presence represents the Caribbean’s desire to ensure equal exposure for its fighters. Ninvalle commented that

the meeting comes on the heels of the Court of Arbitration ruling in the impasse between long-serving AIBA president Wu Ching-Kuo and an Interim Managing Committee (IMC). Wu is set to remain in power for the immediate future after the Swiss Court of Lausanne dismissed attempts from a rival organisation to seize control of the sport’s world governing body. The IMC, which was established in July following a vote of no-confidence in Wu, has been seeking to remove the Taiwanese official from power amid allegations of financial mismanagement under his administration. However, the Lausanne court rejected all of the IMC’s claims in full, upholding the position of Wu and executive director William Louis-Marie, whom the IMC has also been seeking to oust.

North Georgetown Inter-School Championships

Richard Ishmael poised to defend Zone One title FULL participation throughout the day helped Richard Ishmael (RI) to amass a significant lead in the Zone One Inter-School Track Championships which began yesterday at the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary. Though the 200m races still remain to be completed, the defending champions enter today with an 83-point lead, after ending yesterday’s competition with 274 points, followed by Kingston Secondary with 191 points. Queen’s College, who had been leading in the other divisions of the Inter-School championships so far, ended yesterday’s track competition in third position with 157 points. Chase Academic Foundation, who finished in second place last year, are just behind QC with 141 points. Guyana Technical Institute (GTI) ended the day with 74 points, while Marian Academy have 36 points. It was a good day for RI on the track mainly in the distance races, while the wins in the sprints were more shared by the other schools. Ricardo Manasingh gave RI the Boys 1500m win, one of only three races where the school placed first. They however topped

the points table. Taking second place in the race was QC’s Joshua Kalayeziah, while RI picked up third-place points thanks to Kishawn Johnson. There was another win for RI in the Boys’ Under-16 800m, through Shawn Adonis. Kingston’s Osafa Jackson placed second while QC’s Leedronna Bacchus came third. RI’s other win of the day was in the Under-12 Girls’ 1000m, championed by Shaquisha Johnson. The school also took second place through Jada Jeune. It was another third place for QC, taken by Destiny Shultz. QC had better luck in the 100m races, where Virlyn Gibson won the Girls’ Under-18 race and Jorrel Desates won the Boys’ Under-16 race, relegating RI athletes to second place in both cases. Felessa Jones was second in the Girls’ Under-18 100m, Kingston’s Brandy Edwards came in third. In the Boys’ Under-16 Adonis finished second.. Chase also found success in the 100m races, with Tatianna Jones taking the Girls’ Under-20 title, Kevin Padmore ruled in the Boys’ Under-18 category and Brianna Charles won the Girls’ Under-16 race.

GCB congratulates BCB THE executive and members of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) wish to extend their congratulations to the new executives of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB). The GCB notes that the elections, the first since 2014, was timely and, in accordance with Schedule Three of the

Cricket Administration Act. The GCB believes that the membership of BCB has spoken, and looks forward to effectively working with the new executives in organising, developing and promoting cricket in the Ancient County, and in Guyana as a whole.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, October 10, 2017

Windies team leave for Zimbabwe tour … skipper Jason Holder promises no slackening for the home team BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – West Indies captain Jason Holder does not foresee any decrease in intensity from his side when they take on minnows Zimbabwe in two Tests in Bulawayo later this month. The Caribbean side left the island yesterday for the short rubber, which will see them chase their first series win since they beat Bangladesh in a similar two-Test series in the Caribbean three years ago. Holder said the trajectory of the Windies performances was headed in the right direction and Zimbabwe presented an ideal opportunity to continue that progression.

“It won’t be difficult to motivate the guys,” Holder told CMC Sports prior to the team’s departure. “We’re a young side. After the performances we’ve had in England and earlier in the year against Pakistan and also in the back end of last year against Pakistan again, I think it is encouraging and we have to keep heading in the direction we’re going.” He continued: “I am seeing really good things from this group and I don’t think there should be any difficulty in motivating any of the guys. Everybody should be

up for it. It’s our chance to win a series. We haven’t won a series in a while and Zimbabwe will be a good opposition for us to play.” West Indies have never lost to Zimbabwe in eight previous meetings, winning six times and drawing twice. But even though the African nation are without a Test win in nine outings inside the last four years, Holder said the Windies would be professional in their approach and taking nothing for granted. “They had a really good time in Sri Lanka the last tour they had and they seem to be very competitive,” the all-rounder

noted. “And obviously with the added boost of Brendan Taylor and Kyle Jarvis coming back into their squad, they’re pretty much at full strength as well.” West Indies, ranked number nine in the World, have won just three Tests in their last nine matches but are coming off an encouraging tour of England when they stunned the hosts in the second Test at Headingley, despite losing the three-match series 2-1. Holder said the key objective on the pending tour would be to build on the recent successes, with

the aim of winning the series. “I just want the guys to focus on what we set out to achieve, just dialling in on the process,” the Barbadian stressed. “The result of the games will take care of itself once we do what is required. We have set out stuff in terms of being consistent. “Consistency is something I’ve preached in the dressing room for a very long time and I think once we’re consistent in all departments we should get the results we’re looking for.” West Indies open the tour with a three-day match against Zimbabwe-A starting next

West Indies captain Jason Holder Sunday before the first Test at Queens Sports Club which bowls off October 21.

Berbice cricket stakeholders move to court today to challenge BCB’s elections

By Rajiv Bisnauth

THE majority of the cricket stakeholders in the Ancient County will move to the Court today to challenge the legality of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) elections, which was held last Sunday at the Classic Hotel and Resort in Corriverton. The cricket stakeholders are claiming that the elections were rigged, adding

that it was not held in accordance to the Cricket Administration Bill, and more so it was not carried out based on the directives given by the Justice Navindra Singh. Information reaching Chronicle Sport indicates that the cricket stakeholders will move to have the BCB’s elections results quashed. In addition they are expected to file for contempt of court against elected BCB president Dhierandranauth

Somwaru, treasurer Godwyn Allicock, and secretary of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Anand Sanasie. Sunday’s elections, the first since 2014, were scheduled following a ruling delivered by Justice Navindra Singh on September 8. However, Rabindranauth Saywack, the driving force behind the Court action, indicated that Sun-

Dhierandranauth Somwaru

day’s elections were not carried out based on the directives given by the Judge. “Look, a directive was given by the Court to allow clubs to vote once members can show documents to verify their legitimacy as they seek to enter the venue. That’s one. Another directive is that the Returning Officer must be elected at a by-election by member clubs on the day itself, but that was not done,” Saywack said

during an invited comment yesterday. Former Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) president Drubahadur was nominated as the Returning Officer by 18 members prior to the start of proceedings, an act which created the tension for the entire elections. Sunday’s elections have now left the administration of the game in limbo, a situation, which started since the 2014 elections.

Skeete’s ‘historic’ gold highlights Guyana’s showing at South American Youth Games … Team to return home today THE second edition of the South American Youth Games wrapped up in Santiago, Chile, with Guyana securing four medals, all in the discipline of athletics. Fifteen athletes represented Guyana in track and field, badminton, table tennis and 3X3 basketball at the September 29 – October 8 multi-sport event, organised by the Organisación Deportiva Suramericana (ODESUR), held every four years consistent with the current Olympic Games format. The age limit of the athletes is 14 to 18 years. At the first edition which was held in Lima, Peru, in 2013, Guyana finished with seven medals – one silver and six bronze – but this time around, thanks

to third former Mackenzie High School (MHS) Deshanna Skeete, Guyana won gold in the Girls 400m. Skeete clocked 57.28 secs to win ahead of Brazil’s Jessica Moreira who ran 57.54 seconds, while Ecuador’s Andreina Valencia (58.81 seconds) had to settle for third. Kenisha Phillips showed why she’s one of Guyana’s upcoming sprinters. After returning from a hamstring injury she suffered during the Commonwealth Youth Games in the Bahamas this year, she won silver in the 100m and 200m in Santiago. It was also a close finish for Phillips in the women’s 100m with Colombia’s Angie Echeverria winning in a ‘photo-finish’, running

(L-R) Kenisha Phillips (100M & 200M silver), 400M Gold Medallist Deshanna Skeete and Jermaine King (100M silver

12.14, as compared to the Guyanese time of 12.18 seconds. In the 200m, she ran 24.40 seconds, behind Echeverria who copped gold in 24.33 secs. Jermaine King, the 6’5” teenager from Berbice will return home with silver, having finished second in the 100m. Paraguay’s Fabrizio Aquino finished first with

10.92 secs, ‘edging’ Guyana’s king at the line, as he registered 10.963 secs for silver while Colombia’s Gian Mosquera placed third in a time of 10.966 secs. In the 200m, he just missed the podium, placing 4th (22.11 secs) behind Brazilian Lucas Vilar (22.02 secs). Colombians Sebastian Berrueco (22.07

secs) and Gian Carlos Mosquera (22.09 secs) finished second and third respectively. Prior to the great showing on the track, the Guyana National Anthem was not heard in Santiago, since the other representatives were either knocked out in the quarterfinals or preliminary stage of their respective events - except for the case of Boxing where our fighters were deemed ‘ineligible’ to participate. Guyanese boxers Keevin Allicock and Christopher Moore were deemed ‘too experienced’ and were knocked out of the competition without throwing a single punch. A protest against a change in age requirement, without prior notification, was turned down.

Commonwealth Youth Games silver medallist Allicock was originally scheduled to be in the 50kg to 52 kg (flyweight) category, while Moore was placed in the 60kg to 63kg men’s (lightweight) division. Both boxers left Guyana with high hopes, as did their supporters. However, it was not to be. According to a report issued from the Guyana contingent’s Chef-deMission, Godfrey Munroe, it was not until a technical meeting that boxing coach Terrence Poole was surprisingly informed that an age change rendered the two boxers ineligible to participate – a change that Guyana was never notified about, prior to leaving the country.

Windies team leave for Zimbabwe tour

Page 23

Persaud is top-shot on day one as WIFBSC opens By Stephan Sookram

Brigadier Patrick West, president of the GuyanaNRA fires off the opening shot of the West Indies Full Bore Shooting Council Championships and the NRA’s 150th Anniversary celebrations. (Adrian Narine photo)

Shooters line up at the 300-yard detail for the first shoot of the day.

Racism held back overseas-born players in Australia - Khawaja

Iceland becomes smallest country to qualify for World Cup REYKJAVIK, (Reuters) - Iceland became the smallest country ever to qualify for the World Cup when they beat Kosovo 2-0 yesterday to book a place at their first finals in Russia next year as winners of Group I. Gylfi Sigurdsson settled their nerves with a superbly-taken goal five minutes before halftime as Iceland proved that their run to the 2016 European Championship quarter-finals, which included wins over Austria and England, was no fluke. Sigurdsson also set up the second for Johann Gudmundsson midway the second half as Iceland completed the campaign by winning their final three games without conceding a goal. It was a remarkable achievement for a country which has a population of about 350 000. The previous smallest country to have reached the finals was Trinidad & Tobago, in 2006, with 1.3 million people. Coached by part-time dentist Heimir Hallgrimsson, Iceland finished the group with 22 points from their 10 games.

Usman Khawaja

THE prestigious West Indies Full Bore Shooting Council Championships (WIFBSC) and Guyana National Rifle Association (NRA) 150th shoot opened today in Guyana with National captain Mahendra Persaud leading the way. The Guyanese was in top form after the aggregate of the day’s 300-, 500- and 600-yard flights yesterday, amassing 134 points with 14 V bulls. He was followed closely with 133 points (10 Vs) by England’s Nigel David Stangroom and Guyana’s Lennox Brathwatie third on 132 points with 13 Vs. England’s David Calvert finished fourth (131, 10 Vs) with countrywoman Charlotte Alice Staples fifth (130, 13 Vs) The first event of the day at the 300-yard range, Guyanese Sherwin Filicien lost on a countback to Britain’s David Calvert after both men shot 35 (5 Vs). Kimberly Pope of Ireland finished third on account of equal points but with two less Vs while Stangroom finished fourth with 2 Vs. At the 500-yard, Staples tied on a countback against fullbore captain Persaud with both shooting 50 points with 6 Vs. England’s Henry Albert Day shot a similar number of points with three less Vs. At the 600 yards is where Persaud showed his dominance, managing the same score while compatriot Brathwaite finished second and Stangroom third; a V bull separating the three top finishers. Meanwhile, at the launch during the morning period, the ranges were officially reopened after a brief period for renovation. Speaking at the opening, president of the GuyanaNRA Brigadier Patrick West contended that it was a great day for the sport. “Words cannot explain but this is a milestone event for the GuyanaNRA. I think as we celebrate 150, this competition here puts us in a position where the rest of the world is showing us that we are celebrating with you,” the Chief of Staff added. “We anticipate as well with the better range that we’ll have more competitions this year and in the years to come because of the facilities we have to offer.” The opening shot was fired by Brigadier West in the absence of Club Patron, H.E Brig. David Granger.

Turm to Page 20

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Iceland’s Gylfi Sigurdsson celebrates after scoring against Kosovo, during the World Cup Group I qualifying match. TUESDAY,OCTOBER, 1 , 2017