Guyana Chronicle E-paper 10-28-2018

28th October, 2018

No.105441

Known bandit 09 killed in Zeelugt PAGE

Tumatumari hydro project closer to reality PAGE

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–– with securing of a supplier’s credit in the sum of US$3.6M

Dead: Noel Kissoon called “Kevin”

Jamain Hatton

Parent beats teacher with metal pipe 02 PAGE

Two members of the Wowetta Women’s Agro-Processors group showcase their products at the recent launch of a farine processing factory in North Rupununi (DPI photo)

Essequibians grace RACE in huge numbers

Centre pages

Independent 19 candidate ready to challenge big political parties PAGE

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Parent beats teacher with metal pipe

By Alva Solomon

A TEACHER attached to the Institute of Business

Education (IBE) on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD) is counting his lucky stars after he was viciously

assaulted with a metal pipe by an irate parent on Saturday morning.

Science teacher Jamain

Hatton told Guyana Chronicle that he teaches science on Fridays and Saturdays at the school which is located at Lusignan, ECD. He said he was on his way to the school on Saturday morning when the parent launched the attack.

Hatton said the incident stemmed from an upbraiding he gave to a fifth form student about his behaviour the day before.

He explained that on Friday the student was in his class while another student in a lower class was being dealt with by the school’s administrators for dressing inappropriately. Hatton said the student passed a belt, which he was admonished for, to the fifth form student for him to keep. He said while the lower level student was leaving the school to fix his clothing, the fifth form student who collected the belt was called to the school’s office regarding his behaviour. He noted that the young man is ill-tempered and was cautioned multiple times by the school.

The teacher said he told the student that he should change his attitude. “I don’t

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

Jamain Hatton know what he went and told out two metal pipes but one his parents or his father, but was stuck under his seat, so the car was parked along the he grabbed the smaller one Lusignan Public Road, so and hit him on the neck. Hathe came with an intention,” ton said during the tussle, his Hatton said. The incident spectacles fell to the ground occurred around 08:40hrs. and broke.

“The incident really could After hitting the teacher, have resulted in the loss of the irate parent then jumped my life,” Hatton said, relating into his car and drove away. that he never saw the par- The teacher said that he ent before. He said the man obtained a medical which menacingly approached and indicated that there was asked “Wha is you problem swelling around his neck. with my son?”

Ranks at the Vigilance PoHe said he told the parent lice Station are investigating that the road was not the the incident. place to address the issue.

Hatton said that this But this angered the man was not the first time he who threw a punch at him, had such an experience, as but he moved out of the way. he noted that a few years The angry father, the teacher back a parent attempted to said, then ran to his car, a stab him. The teacher said move which terrified him. he has now decided to quit He said the man pulled the teaching profession.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

Tumatumari hydro project closer to reality –– with securing of a supplier’s credit in the sum of US$3.6M

By Svetlana Marshall

WITH a supplier’s credit in the sum of US$3.6M already secured from Chongqing Water Turbine Works Co., Tumatumari Hydro Inc. is putting plans in motion to commence the rehabilitation of the Tumatumari Hydropower Station on the Potaro River, Region Eight.

In an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Saturday, Tumatumari Hydro Inc. Director and Corporate Secretary, Lloyd Rose said the project is expected to cost US$4.6M while noting that the financing structure comprises two components – Equity Capital and Debt Capital.

“In relation to the debt capital, we have acquired already by virtue of a contract for the engineering, procurement and construction for the new equipment and that comes along with supplier’s credit in the amount of US$3.6M,” Rose told this newspaper.

That contract was signed between Tumatumari Hydro Inc., a private sector special purpose company established in 2010, and Chongqing Water Turbine Works Co. on May 26, 2018. Chongqing Water Turbine Works Co. manufactures hydropower equipment. It was founded in 1981 and is based in Chongqing, China.

The US$1M equity capital has not been acquired; however, Rose assured that the Tumatumari Hydro Inc. is in the process of securing the finance. The company has since reached out to the government.

“We have indicated to the government where we are and we have invited the Government to see the options there might be to support the initiative, and so we have invited them,” Rose said.

The multimillion-dollar rehabilitation project is expected to commence early 2019 once the required funds are secured.

“The scope of the project is the full rehabilitation of the existing plant which will take the form of the complete replacement of all the electromechanical equipment resulting with the new capacity of two units of 1.1 megawatts each,” he explained.

Once the project is completed, the special purpose company, which was designed to rehabilitate, operate and maintain the supply services, will sell bulk energy to Mahdia Power and Light Incorporated and Troy

power company submitted an application to the Environ-mental Protection Agency (EPA) for the rehabilitation of the Tumatumari Hydropower Station.

According to an EPA advertisement published in Thursday’s edition of the Stabroek News, THI has submitted an application for environmental authorisation to undertake the rehabilitation of the Hydroelectric Power Generation Plant, located on the Tumatumari, Potaro River, Region Eight.

Last Thursday, while

wind power or water power can help to drive small industries, household industries…,” the President said.

Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan said government is cognisant of the challenges Tumatumari Hydro Inc. is facing in acquiring the equity capital.

IN NEGOTIATION According to Minister Bulkan, the government is in discussion and negotiation with Tumatumari Hydro Inc., noting that the government will

continuous and reliable,” Minister Bulkan said. Discussions are ongoing with the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

The Tumatumari Hydropower Station was the first hydropower station to be constructed on the Potaro River. The plant was constructed in 1957 by the British Goldfields Limited and operated until 1959 when the mining operations ceased.

In 1969, the then government re-commissioned the station where the power was transmitted to serve the Guyana National Service

The site of the Tumatumari hydropower station in November 2010 (Photo by Raquel Coelho - raquelvso. blogspot.com ) Resources Guyana Inc. ACQUIRING LICENSE Tumatumari Hydro Inc. had acquired the rights to the area housing the now defunct hydropower station, and is now in the process of acquiring a license to operate the new facility.

“Under the law we have to acquire a license to own and operate a hydroelectric facility and we are well on our way to acquiring that license to do so in the context of the law,” Rose said.

In 2017, the hydro-

addressing hundreds of residents during a ceremony held to mark the declaration of Mahdia as a town, President David Granger reminded the residents of the capital town’s energy potential.

“You have the possibility of generating energy and I would like to support the minister of communities in his thrust to reactivate the Tumatumari Power Station, that eventually you will be able to get cheaper power, but even so you can get solar power, wind power, and that solar power or

try as far as possible to accommodate the company on the basis of the benefits of the project to the people of Mahdia and neighbouring communities.

“We recognise the benefits if we can have hydro power – hydro power is ''green'' power, it is clean power, it would be cheaper power, the cost to consumers in Mahdia would be about half of the current tariff. Currently, the tariff is about close to a $100 a kilowatt hour. It would be halved; it would be

Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan camps at Tumatumari and Konawaruk. The development included an embankment dam, a concrete overflow dam, and a two-unit powerhouse with an installed capacity of 1500 kw, using 2 X 750 kw Francis turbines.

Tumatumari Hydro Inc. and Hydro Quebec International signed a Memorandum of Understanding for the development of this hydro station and were looking for a developer to complete its final works.

Several MoUs were signed with various companies for the development of the Tumatumari Hydropower Project.

However, all have since expired. Rose is optimistic that this time around the project will materialise.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

Central American caravan moves on ––in spite of Mexico jobs offer

ARRIAGA, Mexico (Reuters) - A U.S.-bound caravan of Central Ameri-

can migrants pressed on through southern Mexico on Saturday, in spite of

government offers of jobs, as authorities stepped up efforts to disperse the con-

voy that has angered U.S. President Donald Trump.

Mexican police in riot gear briefly blocked the march of men, women and children as they neared Oaxaca state before dawn, to relay the offer of temporary identification papers, jobs or education for those seeking asylum in Mexico.

Trump has threatened to send troops to the U.S. border and cut aid to Central America to try to stop the group of several thousand people that left Honduras two weeks ago.

Estimates vary significantly on the group’s size, which has morphed as some migrants return home and newcomers join. At least 150 migrants travelling separately were detained by Friday near Guatemala’s border, a Mexican official said.

More than 1,700 people in the convoy have applied for asylum, while others have

returned home, according to Mexico’s government. The Honduran ambassador said on Friday the group officially had 3,500 members. Other estimates go much higher.

By Saturday, more than 100 Honduran migrants opted to seek refugee status and enter the temporary work programme proposed by President Enrique Pena Nieto on Friday, said Mexico’s National Migration Institute.

Many others rejected the offer.

“We’re going to the United States, because that’s our dream,” said 28-year-old Honduran Daniel Leonel Esteves at the head of a 50-person wide column of migrants snaking down a highway into the hills.

Others echoed his goal to cross the border, declining Mexico’s offer. “Our destination is the United States,” said Francisco Ramirez.

A police official on a road just south of Oaxaca, where migrants were proceeding north from the town of Arriaga in Chiapas state, said authorities intended to keep presenting the asylum offer.

“We think it’s very important that every person in the caravan knows these benefits, so that they stop putting their safety at risk crossing these roads,” said federal police commissioner Benjamin Grajeda.

Trump and his fellow Republicans have sought to make the migrant caravan and immigration major issues before the November 6 elections, in which Republicans are battling to keep control of Congress.

Honduras said 4,500 of its citizens attempting to emigrate have returned to the country in recent days.

Pittsburgh shooting...

Multiple casualties at Squirrel Hill synagogue ELEVEN people have been killed, officials say, in a gun attack on a synagogue in the US city of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

The gunman, who opened fire as the Tree of Life synagogue held a service, was later taken into custody.

President Donald Trump said “a lot of people” had been killed and injured in a “wicked act of mass murder”.

The suspect, who has been officially identified as Robert Bowers, 46, was injured and is receiving treatment.

Two other people are in hospital in a critical condition, police said.

Federal investigators are treating the shooting as a hate crime. The Anti-Defamation League, a Jewish non-governmental organisation that fights anti-Semitism, said: “We believe this is the dead-

liest attack on the Jewish community in the history of the United States.”

Hundreds of people from the neighbourhood and also all across Pittsburgh - later gathered for an interfaith vigil for the victims of the attack in Squirrel Hill.

Sophia Levin, a local resident and one of the organisers, told the BBC some people were “really sad” and the mood was “heavy”.

But she added that people also wanted to be “together, not alone”, and the vigil would help heal the city.

President Trump said he would visit Pittsburgh following the attack.

On Saturday morning, worshippers had gathered at the synagogue, in the Squirrel Hill neighbourhood, for a baby naming ceremony during the Sabbath.

Squirrel Hill has one of

the largest Jewish populations in Pennsylvania, and this would have been the synagogue’s busiest day of the week.

According to reports, Mr Bowers, a white male, entered the building armed with an assault rifle and two pistols.

Reports say he barricaded himself in a room at the synagogue when police approached.

Emergency services arrived at the building at about 10:00 local time (14:00 GMT), and gunshots could be heard.

Pittsburgh’s Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich later confirmed Mr Bowers was in police custody, and was being treated in hospital.

The crime scene was “horrific”, he told reporters.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

Young to citizens...

‘Stand with law enforcement’ (Trinidad Newsday) NATIONAL Security Minister Stuart Young has called on citizens to stand with law enforcement officers after an incident Thursday night in Trou Macaque, Laventille, where police killed five people.

Young was speaking with the media Friday at the Police Training Academy, St James, after the launch of the Emergency Response Patrol unit.

He said he briefed the Prime Minister at 1 am Friday on the incident as Dr Rowley is chairman of the National Security Council and he tries to keep him abreast of information important to national security.

“So late last night as the

information came through it was fed to the Prime Minister, and the other members of the National Security Council. He has put out a statement that says his sentiments very clearly and we stand by that supporting it.

I don’t have all the facts and circumstances surrounding what happened.”

Young said he was told law enforcement officers were on an exercise and one was shot in his chest.

“And thank God for the bulletproof vest that stopped it. It was not a fatal incident.”

He said there was an exchange of gunfire.

“We are aware of the type of fire power and the type of illegal firearms that are outside there. We stand

From page 4 ►

Multiple casualties at ... nd I’ve worked on some plane crashes. It’s very bad,” he added.

He said that two officers were injured in an “initial confrontation”, and that a further two SWAT officers were later hurt by the gunman when they entered the building. He said that no children were among the casualties.

US media said the gunman had shouted “All Jews must die” as he carried out the attack.

Social media posts by someone with the name Robert Bowers were also reported to be full of anti-Semitic comments.

Pittsburgh FBI’s special agent in charge of the investigation, Bob Jones, told a press conference that Mr Bowers did not appear to be known to authorities prior to events on Saturday.

He said that any motive remains unknown but that authorities believe he was acting alone.

Mr Jones added that the investigation was “in the early stages”. “We will look at every aspect of the suspect’s life,” he said.

Mr Bowers is receiving treatment for what has been described as multiple gunshot wounds. (BBC)

with the police service and other arms of national security in getting as much of these illegal firearms off the street as possible but also a message to the criminal element that you can’t just go and take on the State.

The State is not going to sit by idly. the Police Service,

the Defence Force, and we the citizens have to stand along with our law enforcement officers and support them and that is what the Government is doing once they are operating within the confines of the law and I am certain that they are.”

Mottley fully supports digital money (Nationnews) Barbadian businesses and consumers signing up to use the digital payment services of BITT Inc have been assured their digital money would be fully backed by cash.

Prime Minister Mia Amor Mottley told a media conference Friday consumer protection was a high priority for Government which is aiming to attract major international corporations and local FinTech (financial technology) start-ups alike to a new mechanism called a Regulatory Sandbox, which was formally announced Tuesday.

“We must embrace new technologies to be cutting edge,” Prime Minister Mottley told journalists. She hailed the work of staff of the Central Bank of Barbados, the Financial Services Commission, economic adviser to Government Professor Avinash Persaud and several other contributors to the creation of the regulatory mechanism, in a matter of just over a month.

“We have got to protect consumers and avoid systemic risk,” the prime minister remarked.

BITT’s money service permits citizens and businesses to send and receive digital Barbados dollars, as well as pay for goods and service such as food and gasoline with a smart phone app.

The Regulatory Sandbox is an environment administered by the Central Bank of Barbados and the Financial Services Commission (FSC) which allows large corporations or small companies to have their products and services tested to high standards of regulation related to money laundering, financial viability and technology adaptation to protect consumers and the financial system.

BITT’s Chief Executive Officer Senator Rawdon Adams said the company’s regulation under the Sandbox would be robust. He described the BITT’s entry into the regulatory environment as “an amazing, historic opportunity”.

Grenada maintains strong economic growth ––for sixth-consecutive year (Jamaica Observer) ST GEORGE’S, Grenada (CMC) — Grenada is expected to maintain economic growth for the sixth-consecutive year, based on prelimiary data for the first half of this year.

Describing this as a remarkable achievement, Prime Minister Dr Keith Mitchell says the sectors contributing to the increasing economic activities since his New National Party (NNP) returned to office in 2013 are the construction, tourism, transport and retail trade sectors, in addition to the expansion of the private sector.

“In general, whether it is in education services or other services, we are seeing tremendous increases in the service areas,” he said while addressing the media as the guest of the weekly post-Cabinet briefing on Wednesday.

Speaking about the impact of investment in the education sector, he referred to St George’s University, explaining that the American-owned offshore education institution that provides university education contributes no less than 22 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).

“When all the numbers have been tabulated and

analysed, it is expected that the growth of the economy will be about 5.2 per cent in 2018, and that in effect is a clear example of what is taking place in the country, given that we are just coming out of a structural adjustment programme where we were limited in what we can do,” he said.

“Grenada remains, therefore, the fastest-growing economy in the region, averaging an average growth rate of five per cent since 2013,” he said, while reminding reporters that the economy grew by 5.1 per cent in 2017.

“The growth process for Grenada is very positive barring any unexcepted shocks such as hurricanes and other natural disasters, but we expect growth to be very positive and robust, in the coming year and beyond,” he added.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

Rejecting PPP’s position on copyright laws

MR. Bharrat Jagdeo, on October 25, articulated the People’s Progressive Party’s (PPP) position on copyright legislation, in response to government’s announcement that an updated intellectual property rights bill will soon be tabled in the National Assembly.

Mr. Jagdeo said, “It may not sound the most enlightening position.” And indeed, it must be agreed that the position taken by the PPP is not only unenlightened, but also unfair, insupportable, prejudiced, contrary to international agreements, and morally improper. Mr. Jagdeo’s remarks should therefore be refuted and his party’s position absolutely rejected.

Mr. Jagdeo asserted that Guyana is not prepared for the “revolution” that would come with the implementation of copyright laws. The leader of the opposition said, “We are a poor developing country; wait until such time in the future when people can afford to pay for the copyrighted stuff. That is how I see it.”

In justification of his position,

he said that when government passes this legislation, “Every video store in this country that sells these bootlegs will have to close.” Mr. Jagdeo said, too, that Guyanese “should get a special position,” as he supports the protection of local artistes only. Mr. Jagdeo also said that he agrees with U.S. President Donald Trump’s philosophy of ‘Making America Great Again’ and protecting what is American as relevant to Guyana. “We don’t have to be the policeman for the globe.”

Mr. Jagdeo’s position is unacceptable. Intellectual property -- movies, books, stories, art, computer programmes, academic papers, music, and other patented, copyrighted, or trademarked materials -- are creations of someone’s mind. Somebody spent their time thinking and creating a product that did not previously exist. That product is the result of someone’s hard work, and that person deserves to be paid when people make use of his/ her creation.

Mr. Jagdeo’s suggestion amounts to the proposition that

Is Mr Lowenfield beholden to Ms Shadick Dear Editor PLEASE allow me some space to respond to Bibi Shadick’s attack on GECOM’s CEO Keith Lowenfield in the Thursday, October 25, 2018 edition of the Guyana Times and the Stabroek News.

The honourable PPP Commissioner mentioned in the last paragraph of her missive that next Tuesday, October 30, 2028 will be the day after the Discipline Services will have exercised their franchise at the Local Government Elections 2018.

Is this PPP Commissioner talking about an act at the Saurez Circus at D’Urban Park?

The gazetted day for D-Day is November 12, 2018.

Probably Commissioner Shadick is really gaffing, but according to Commissioner Desmond Trotman in an article in the Guyana Chronicle on 2018-10-23, there is indeed an urgent attempt by the opposition Commissioners at GECOM to mislead this nation with lies and half-truths.

So, the million-dollar question voters are asking is: Is Mr Lowenfield answerable only to Commissioner Shadick.

Regards GECOM employee

because we are a developing country, it is acceptable to continue the practice of stealing another person’s property; a person who expects to be paid. That is why the creator copyrighted the product in the first place.

Considering his background in economics and the constitutional office that he occupies, Mr. Jagdeo, in positing that “every video store in this country will have to close,” reveals a surprising ignorance of how markets work, as well as a misdirected moral compass.

The fact is, this pro-business administration has always made clear that it prefers a phased approach to development. Businesses will therefore have time to adapt and adopt new strategies and approaches; the current condition of stealing intellectual property -- which became entrenched under the PPP regime, and is now being defended by that party -- is gradually being phased out.

Ms Abiola Inniss, a researcher in Law and Public Policy at Walden University, USA, asserts

that Guyana cannot continue to use this excuse at the expense of leaving its “innovative class” without protection. It cannot escape notice that this same discredited argument, designed to frighten citizens, was recently used by the PPP with respect to regulations on cigarettes.

Mr. Jagdeo’s suggestion that only local “artistes” be protected by law is preposterous. Who is “local”? A citizen, a resident, a citizen residing abroad, a foreigner living in Guyana? And what will our CARICOM brothers and sisters think about that idea, not to mention developed countries with which we must do business?

Having noted that the opposition leader’s position is unacceptable, his only point that may have a bit of merit is the fact that some businesses may be affected. However, as was stated, businesses, by their very nature, adapt. Additionally, under no circumstances can Mr. Jagdeo justify stealing someone else’s property and selling it.

And the former president’s attempts to justify theft is nothing

short of shocking. The fact is, the current law, which dates back to 1956, is outdated and largely irrelevant to present realities. Technologies have changed, people have changed, values have evolved, and the world has moved on. Guyana, too, needs to move on and catch up in order to encourage innovation, entrepreneurship, and intellectual advancement.

And that is what the government intends to do. U.S. Ambassador Perry Holloway agrees. He wrote, “The protection of the creativity and hard work of writers, artists, musicians, and others makes prosperity and progress possible.”

Finally, as regards Mr. Jagdeo’s reference to the U.S. President’s policy of ‘America First’ and its relevance to Guyana, the leader of the opposition may wish to study the current global trading situation, particularly as it relates to China, the world’s most populous country.

Making a substantial difference –– at the LGEs 2018

Dear Editor, WE recently had a experience with our Better Hope Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC) in relation to garbage collection.

On Tuesday, October 9, we contacted our NDC for their scheduled disposal days, and were elated when we were informed that Wednesday is the weekly scheduled pickup day for our community.

We were also advised that since pickups are not timed, it would be best to leave the secured garbage bags on the parapet for removal. On Wednesday, no garbage was picked up. But after numerous calls and a

visit, the garbage was finally collected on Friday, October 12.

Sadly, and in most communities, it is a norm that if the scheduled garbage disposal day passes, it is expected that residents would wait for the next scheduled pickup day the following week.

This is unacceptable. This is a regular garbage disposal issue with many NDCs. Too often the excuses are not practical.

With Local Government Elections (LGEs) scheduled for November 12, 2018, I plead with our local representatives to address this issue, as it is one of many critical subjects and the only acceptable solution

lies in electing policymakers who are responsible, and share the view of serving and protecting the public interest.

Further, they should also be capable of making tough public-policy decisions and holding the Council responsible for their mandate.

This garbage disposal issue poses a serious health concern, and it affects all of us. Let’s all act affirmatively, and make the necessary choices that will lead to a timely resolution of this problem.

Regards D. Jodhan

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

PPP opposed to discussing Berbice toll hike Dear Editor, IT IS with very great concern that we pen this letter to your media house in highlighting and educating our brothers and sisters in Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice) as to what recently took place under the PPP leadership at the Regional Democratic Council (RDC)’s Monthly Statutory Meeting.

On Thursday October 18, 2018, the Council met for its monthly statutory meeting.

As we all know by now, the Council is at an impasse because of the PPP’s failing to respect the Standing Orders that govern the RDC, and want things to go their way.

And as long they cannot have it their way, then they do everything possible to ensure that no meeting is held in order to pass the minutes.

But we will deal with that issue later, or at another time.

At this statutory meeting, the vice- chairman presided as chairman because the elected chairman was not present. The meeting started as per agenda, but before we got to the end of the third item on the agenda, which is announcement, the presiding chairman asks if there are any other announcements.

At this point, Councillor Abel Seetaram stood up and indicated to the presiding chairman and the House that he would like for the Standing Orders to be suspended so that the honourable members of both sides of the House can address a very important issue that is hot in the air, and will affect all Berbicians and Guyanese at large.

That issue, he said, was the rise in the Berbice River Bridge Toll, which was announced by the chairman of the BCCI a few days ago.

He then asked for the Standing Orders to be suspended, and it was seconded

by fellow councillor, Mr Thakoor Singh. However, the chairman started a discussion on the matter without indicating if the suspension of the Standing Orders was permitted as was seconded.

The chairman indicated to the House that he would prefer that the matter at hand, which, by the way, is very important, be brought in the form of a Motion to the House and sent to the clerk of council so that we can deal with it at the next sitting of the RDC, which, by the way, is not until November 15, 2018.

Councillor Seetaram stood once again and implored for the matter to be dealt with right away, because the next sitting will be a few days after the BCCI said they will implement the new toll.

Councillor Seetaram told the House that it won’t be wise for us to wait until the next meeting to share our views on the monumental rise in the bridge toll, which will heavily affect Berbicians, because the Council, since March of this year, never passed line item Number Three under the agenda because of the impasse in the House. So, how can we deal with motions which fall under line item thirteen of the agenda, when we never pass line item three?.

Councillor Seetaram went further and told the House we don’t need a motion; that all we on this side of the House were trying to do was to ensure that we as elected representatives of the people share our views as to this very important matter at hand.

At this stage, the chairman went further and said that he thinks and will advise that the council\clerk organise a special sitting of the RDC to deal with this matter, which is of importance.

Councillor Singh stood

up and spoke to the importance for us to share our views on the matter, while Councillor Crawford also enquired whether the Standing Order was suspended but the discourse continues.

The sitting chairman then decided and said that he thinks we should go to a vote to see if the Standing Order should be suspended to deal with the monumental rise in the Berbice River bridge toll.

At this point, Councillor Seetaram told the chairman that he doesn’t think we need to go that route because this is a matter that will affect the residents of Regions Five and Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and we need to share our views on this matter today.

Anyway, for the sake of the people, we on the APNU+AFC side decided to go with the decision of casting votes towards having the Standing Order removed for us all to share our views.

It was then we realised that the PPP is playing games with the people of Region Five that they claimed to have at heart and truly represent. We in the APNU+AFC side allowed the vote to be cast, because we really wanted to see if the PPP side really cares about the people of Berbice, especially the people of the Mahaica-Berbice region.

The entire APNU+AFC side voted “for”; and the most amazing part that hurts is to see that those wolves in sheep’s clothing on the PPP side voted against having the suspension of the Standing Order so that we can share our views on the matter.

That was shocking because this is the same PPP and its leader that are claiming to be innocent of the things within the contract and the Bridge Act that was put in place by their government to ensure that Berbicians suffer at all costs, and that the bridge

company makes money.

The vice-chairman, who chaired the meeting, as well as the entire PPP side of the House were all afraid to grant the suspension of the Standing Orders because they knew that the PPP must be blamed for the situation. They knew that it’s the PPP that took NIS monies and invested it in the bridge, and by so doing deprived thousands of pensioners of their benefits.

Berbicians must know that the PPP dictators have instructed its regional members in the Mahaica-Berbice Region RDC not to allow the monumental rise in the Berbice Bridge toll to be debated or talked about at the sitting of the RDC. It’s a shame to know that those are the people who said they care for and love Berbicians. It’s a shame to know that those are the people who said that they have Berbice at

heart, and are truly representing them at all levels.

Brothers and sisters of Berbice, we MUST NOT allow the BBCI to dictate to us what fare they want, because it’s our monies that were invested in the bridge by the NIS under the PPP. We cannot allow the PPP and the BCCI to ride us any longer.

We call on all Berbicians and Guyanese at large to RALLY AGAINST THE BERBICE BRIDGE COMPANY at this time that they want to make us suffer.

We the members of the APNU+AFC side of the Mahaica-Berbice Region stand with you AGAINST THE RISE IN TOLL. We will ensure we take every step possible in representing you and not run, duck and hide like the PPP did at the RDC. We would like you to know that it is not this government that make this happen but the PPP that is causing

this by the contract they make in ensuring that the BCCI gains and Berbicians suffer.

We ask you to look at the press conferences of the Government, BCCI and PPP (leader of the opposition, we say this because he does his own presser and the PPP does theirs...lol) and see the lies and deception in the face of the leader of the opposition when he talks of the contract.

Regards APNU+AFC RDC Councillors Mahaica-Berbice Region Delon Craword - 6734858 Abel Seetaram - 6192674 Thakoor Singh - 3287818 Glorian Wolfe - 6435480 Hermon Anthony 6105942

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

OP-ED

By Imran Khan

Facts, not fiction...

Murders down, crime down under coalition –– exposing Jagdeo’s Red herrings

MEMORY can be faulty. Events of the past slip from the mind. Political beliefs colour recollections.

But credible, verifiable statistics are at hand to provide clarity and comparison.

One of the narratives pushed by the PPP and by the urban chatterati class, is that crime has gone up under this Coalition Government; that criminals are on the rampage.

Guyana and Guyanese are not unique in this faulty perception.

Even in developed countries where crime rates have steadily and significantly dropped over the decades, surveys continue to show that many people think they have actually gone up. The view is that this is partly fuelled by the conservative media with its thinly veiled racist agenda promoting fear of immigrants-- people of colour.

In Guyana, it is ironic that the Guyana Times, which on its launch pledged not to highlight crime, has done a complete 180 degrees and now splashes it all over the front page. One can only ask, why this change in policy? That paper and the Newsroom recently carried stories with the headlines, “Robberies up 22%”; but when one looks closer at the police press release on which the stories are based, this 22% is for robberies where no instruments were used, the least serious category.

There was in fact a 3% decrease

in robbery under arms where firearms were used; a 20% decrease in robbery under arms where instruments other than firearms were used; a 36% decrease in robbery with aggravation; a 13% decrease in larceny from the person; a 2% decrease in rape; a 9% decrease in burglaries; and an 11% decrease in break and enter and larceny. But no “Robberies up 22%”.

Meanwhile, Jagdeo and his PPP have always portrayed themselves as some Thin Red Line standing between their law-abiding supporters and the forces of anarchy. After all, he warned his supporters in 2015, “[w]hen they link up with the military and come into your homes and start kicking the doors down, and when they come after you, who is going to be there…?” Even Anil Nandlall fear-mongered at a PPP rally that the “Devil is coming!”

But to get a clearer picture of crime, one needs to look at longterm trends in the statistics provided by the Guyana Police Force. Let’s examine what actually happened under Jagdeo and the PPP’s watch.

First, let’s look at the murder rate for the period from 2001 to present. In 2001, it stood at 79 murders (relatively low). But in 2002, the rate jumped to 140 and then skyrocketed to 206 in 2003.

It was indeed a dangerous time, and perhaps many could recall that

people did not venture much out of their homes after dark for fear of encountering criminals.

The murder rate declined slightly thereafter, but still hit peaks of 153 in 2006 (the murder of a sitting minister Satyadeow Sawh); 168 in 2008 (the year of the Bartica, Lusignan and Lindo Creek Massacres); and 155 in 2013. In 2014, the last full year of the PPP, there were 149 murders. Since then, murders have declined to 116 in 2017. That is half the rate of 2003, and substantially lower than any average year under the PPP. And it is worth mentioning that many of those murders under the PPP were drug-related. In comparison, for 2018 to date according to the statistics released by the GPF, 30 of the murders were disorderly; 20 were domestic; 13 were in the course of a robbery; one was an execution; and eight were under unknown circumstances. The overwhelming majority of murders were therefore perpetrated by people close to the victim.You have close to 10 times as much chance of dying in a road accident as a driver, passenger or pedestrian, as being murdered in the course of a robbery.

Let us move on to statistics for robbery under arms. In 2001, there were 1605 such reported cases, rising to 1620 in 2002; once again declining thereafter, but still

reaching 1448 in 2006, and 1186 in the last year of the PPP’s time in office. Under the coalition, the rate dropped to 964 in 2017; and statistics for the year to date stand at 659, indicating that 2018 will show further improvements.

A lot of this decline in crime has to do with better political and police leadership. Contrast that to 2006 when Jagdeo insisted on appointing Henry Greene as commissioner of police, even though it had been shown he had ties to the drug trade, and that the U.S. had revoked his visa. A U.S. embassy official at the time noted, “This issue reveals a real stubborn streak in Jagdeo -- he is doggedly sticking with Greene, knowing that he is corrupt and incompetent – that doing so strains Guyana’s security situation and its foreign relations, and imperils GPF operational efficiency.”

Moreover, the addition of known drug traffickers into the crime fight created massive contradictions surrounding law and order in this country. It deeply muddled the citizen’s sense of what is right and wrong. And it is why, even up to today, Jagdeo can get away with talking against Guyana enacting copyright laws.

The recent crime improvements stem from increased training and resources, along with the police simply being allowed to be more

professional; to do their jobs without political interference from a minister or superior on behalf of a family or friend. Gone are the days when murders went unsolved (possibly because at one point, those doing the killings were blessed from on high). Who can forget a minister sending the order “Kill” down the phone line?

In 2017, of the 116 cases of murder, 88, or 77% were solved.

That is high by any country’s standards. Obviously, much more needs to be done; and the establishment of a Police Service Commission is a foundation upon which better policing can occur.

As President David Granger noted in August, “The days of concealing security sector mistakes and misdeeds are over. The force’s officers will be held accountable for the consequences of their actions and for the instructions they issue to their subordinates.”

His Excellency said when he took office that law and order was a priority, and he entrusted Public Security to Minister Khemraj Ramjattan. We are now starting to see his careful steps bearing fruit. A safer country has already arrived and an even safer country awaits. And all this without any mention of the piracy epidemic having been wiped out in Guyana’s waters.

Time for a change of guard at City Hall Dear Editor, ONE has to wonder if the time has not come for the disbanding of the City Constabulary of Georgetown; if the time has not come for the formal handing over of the responsibilities of protecting the city to the national police who are already performing this function; and if the time has not come for the property rates of the citizens to be better spent.

Every time one hears from the Chief, one hears of the human re-

source and other constraints faced by the Constabulary, yet they have the resources to provide eight bodyguards to the Mayor, another batch of bodyguards to the Town Clerk, plus static security at their residences as though these individuals are heads of state or government.

Recently they received as a gift 30 or more bicycles and allied equipment, and had officers trained in the United States, yet the citizens have never seen more than six bike patrol officers? Can six officers patrol all of the wards of the city

effectively?

However, when the notorious parking meter project came into operation, dozens of constables were found to be harassing supposedly errant drivers, even pestering the driver and security detail of a former president. Where have these constables gone to?

Now we hear of the epiphany the Mayor had after awaking out of 24 years of slumber to realise that the City Constables are on the take. Oh please! What is City Hall?

Comedy Central? Is she ‘Sally in

the Alley’?

Even a small private security force engaged by the vendors of the Bourda Market has proven to be more effective in capturing a criminal in just a few weeks of their engagement. Is that not convincing enough?

All we hear from the Constabulary is the shooting to death of mentally ill young men; sexual assaults against minors; arms, ammunition and bullet proof vests going missing; the pillaging of the training school; fights in its headquarters

with citizens; beatings by senior officers of their parmours; bail money and welfare money going missing; shaking down of vendors; and harassment of business persons.

And when their Chief is asked about it, all he has to say is in terms of this, and in terms of that and in terms of the other.

Regards Roseanne Rodgers

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Pillars of People’s Power

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

NO one can reasonably dispute the fact that the Granger-led APNU+AFC coalition government has been strengthening the pillars of people’s power in Guyana.

Today, our new-wave democracy, like a house built on solid foundation, spreads and shares the responsibility of governance, bottom up.

At the centre of this popular revolution is the restoration of grassroots, local, community-based participation with simultaneous election of Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and Municipal Councils.

The next elections are carded for November 12, instant.

These would be the fourth such elections to be held in the 50 years since Guyana became an independent state.

Local government elections were previously held in 1994, after which I was appointed Senior Minister for Local Government and Information (with responsibility for Amerindian Affairs). I was unceremoniously relieved of the local government portfolio in the absence from the country of the President, allegedly for getting too popular among the grassroots. That opened the way for local government elections to be stalled by successive deferrals.

Then they were buried for the next 20 years.

CONSTITUTIONAL SAFEGUARDS In 2016, the coalition government resurrected this important pillar of people’s democracy when it held the first of two such elections within three years of taking office.

It has since provided constitutional safeguards for functioning of the local councils, to insulate them from political interference, with the establishment of the bi-partisan Local Government Commission.

Minister Ronald Bulkan, a consummate advocate of popular democracy, has piloted several other innovative features in local government; these would insulate the system from political manipulation, such as had taken place under the previous administration. He has successfully, for the first time since 1970, convened a summit of all local leaders and presented them a road-map for stimulating local democracy and community development.

That administration had invoked zombies known as Interim Management Commitees (IMCs) that took control of towns and neighbourhoods when the time for fresh elections had long passed, and incumbent councils became depleted from resignations, migration and death of councillors.

SHEER HYPOCRISY There is every justification, therefore, for decent-minded persons to conclude that the noises that the opposition is making over local government processes lack credibility.

While it appears as sheer hypocrisy, it sets the backdrop for a heightened campaign to discredit Guyana’s democratic electoral system and the law-enforcement agencies and to impugn the integrity of the judiciary. The latter is prosecuted through unmeritorious legal challenges that have given the opposition the unflattering appellation as the “sue-sue party.”

People still remember with distaste the ramrod-like “Shoba” executive machine that was imposed on the Georgetown municipality. The Garden City rapidly became the Garbage Capital of the Caribbean. It was exposed to periodic and regular floods;epidemics of dreaded diseases had hovered over the city.

The coalition has tried not only to salvage the capital, but to also spruce up the other towns. It has commissioned four new municipalities – Lethem, Mabaruma, Bartica and now Mahdia. The latter, a hinterland mining town, is the fourth since the people rejected the PPP at the 2015 polls.

Guyana now has ten (10) municipal councils which, together with the NDCs, the Toshao Village Councils, Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) and central government form the solid pillars of our political democracy.

UNIQUE DEMOCRACY As I noted at the Prime Ministerial Community Outreach at Auchlyne on Friday last, Guyana is on the path of creating a unique, native or autochthonous democracy.

Our Inclusive State needs the partnership at all levels to address the needs of our communities on the coast and in the hinterland; from the grassroots to the pinnacle of power.

Having been removed from unbroken power after 23 years, it must be painful for the post-Jagan PPP to countenance the possibility of being replaced at least in some of the neighbourhood and municipal councils, especially in their traditional ethnic base.

This morbid fear has unfortunately forced it to resort to dirty, desperate and dangerous tactics such as the political

Known bandit killed in Zeelugt A KNOWN bandit, who was previously charged for rape and armed robberies and having matters pending before the court, was shot and killed Saturday morning after he attacked a policeman who cornered him in Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo (EBE).

Dead is Noel Kissoon called “Kevin”, 19, of lot 808 Phase Three, Zeelugt New Scheme, EBE. He was a known character who had several brushes with the law.

“We are very happy of how the police operated and they must be commended

Dead: Noel Kissoon called “Kevin”

for their actions; this type of lawlessness must stop,” one resident said.

Reports indicate that the armed bandit robbed a 38-year-old housewife of Zeelugt New Scheme, EBE, Friday night of a quantity of gold jewellery and cellular phones.

The same day he also robbed a 56-year-old mason, also of Zeelugt New Scheme, of his lunch bag and cell phone.

The victims visited the hospital and received treatments for injuries received, and were discharged.

Acting on information received, police on Saturday cordoned off the house where Kissoon lived and, in a bid to arrest him, a confrontation ensued and he was shot in the abdomen and later succumbed at the Leonora Cottage Hospital.

His body is currently at the Ezekiel Funeral Home awaiting a post-mortem examination. The stolen articles have also been recovered.

Police Press Officer, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan disclosed that See page 12

assassination of new and young candidates.

In the context of Guyana, such tactics are racist and reactionary; and they could lead to despicable and deadly outcomes as we see unfolding in the United States of America.

There, racist, right-wing, neo-fascist groups have been identified with the attempted assassination of several high-profile, anti-establishment leaders, including former democratic presidents, Bill Clinton and Barack Obama.

POLITICAL PROVOCATION The decision by the opposition to picket me in Auchlyne, then hold a counter-meeting nearby in Whim, went beyond desperation. It was an outright political provocation to incite division and confrontation in this tiny fishing village of my birth.

This village, as well as nearby Letter Kenny and Bloomfield, has long been a PPP stronghold. It is unlikely that this could change any time soon. But what will never change is that my navel string is buried in this area-- in Whim. So in spite of political outcomes at the polls, I will always render whatever assistance my villagers need.

They wanted street lights and road lamps. They got them.

But I couldn’t help noting the bald-headed and bare-faced bid of the PPP to own up to these achievements by hastily nailing party flags on the lamp posts.

The Department of Public Information (DPI) captured my response in these words:“Yuh can’t come and put flag on de pole dat Minister David Patterson put light on and think yuh own Whim, Auchlyne, Letterkenny and Bloomfield.”

COME OUT, AND VOTE! That’s the problem right there. For years, villages controlled by the opposition have been purposefully neglected, even though the councils benefited yearly from millions in state subsidies-- and they collected rates and taxes from citizens. It is time that our people demand accountability.

It is time they vote for better leadership.

My advice to our folks is: Don’t let them scare you.

Come out and vote on November 12.

Divisional Commander Edmond Cooper showing the jewellery that was stolen by Kissoon on Friday night

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

Reducing morbidity, mortality associated with breast cancer ONE of the most devastating group of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) to plague humanity on a global scale are cancers.

The American Cancer Society (ACS) in its 2017 Report of Cancer Facts and Figures stated that cancer accounts for approximately one in every seven deaths worldwide, and in 2012, an estimated 14.1 million cases of cancer were diagnosed around the world which resulted in 8.2 million cancer deaths. The ACS also states that more than 60% of these deaths occurred in low and middle-income countries. The global cancer burden is growing at an alarming pace: in 2030 alone, about 21.6 million new cancer cases and 13.0 million cancer deaths are expected to occur, simply due to the growth and aging of the population.

The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that in both developed and low and middle-income countries, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women, resulting in approximately 1.38 million new cases and 458,000 deaths from breast cancer each year.

The 10-year Cancer Profile 2003-2012, of Guyana, reported that breast cancer was one of the leading causes of death in Guyanese women.

October 1 marked the beginning of

Breast Cancer Awareness Month in most parts of the world, including Guyana.

According to the WHO, Breast Cancer Awareness Month is used to increase awareness of early detection and treatment and palliative care of patients suffering from breast cancer.

BREAST CANCER DEFINED According to the ACS, breast cancer occurs when breast cells grow and proliferate at an abnormal rate and develop into a tumour that can be observed (seen or palpated) as a lump or detected on an X-ray. Breast cancer cells grow into (invade) surrounding tissues or spread (metastasize) to distant areas of the body.

Breast cancer principally occurs in women, but can also occur in men.

MODIFIABLE AND NON-MODIFIABLE RISK FACTORS The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stated that the non-modifiable risk factor for breast cancer includes aging (most breast cancers are diagnosed after 50 years of age); genetic mutations (such as inherited mutations to genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2); reproductive history of early menstrual periods before are 12 years of age or menopause after 55 years of age;

and family history of breast cancer.

The modifiable risk factors of developing breast cancer according to the CDC include lack of physical activity; being overweight or obese after menopause; use of hormonal replacement therapy during menopause; use of certain birth control pills; consumption of alcohol; or a reproductive history of having become pregnant for the first time after 30 years of age, not breastfeeding a child, or never having a full-term pregnancy.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OBSERVED DURING SELF OR CLINICAL EXAMINATION OF THE BREAST According to the literature on cancers, it is stated that the most common symptom of breast cancer is a new lump or mass in the breast which can be painless or painful, hard or soft, possess irregular edges or round.

Other symptoms of breast cancer are swelling to all or part of the breast, skin irritation or dimpling, breast or nipple pain, nipple retraction, redness, scaliness, or thickening of the nipple or breast skin, and nipple discharge that is not breast milk.

Occasionally, lumps can be felt or observed under the arm or around the collarbone, indicative of the spread of cancer to the lymph nodes. It is vital that women perform regular self-examination of their breasts; detection of any of the signs and symptoms mentioned above should be immediately reported to a duly qualified medical practitioner for further investigation.

The Ministry of Public Health in Guyana is working assiduously to meet the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goal Number 3: Good Health and Well- Being: Ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages and its associated targets, especially 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment and promote mental health and well-being. The ministry is aiming to reverse the current statistical trends observed amongst Guyanese women as it relates to breast cancer, a non-communicable disease (NCD). The prevention and treatment strategies currently being utilised by the Ministry of Public Health to combat the scourge of breast cancer among the Guya-

nese populace include, but are not limited to, the following: 1. Enhancing screening programmes and providing more effective breast cancer surveillance programmes to aid in early detection of the disease. These activities, coupled with the installation of state-of-the-art technologies to provide the highest-quality images possible, to be interpreted by radiologists who specialise in breast imaging, will form an essential part of our ministry’s plan to take the fight to breast cancer.

2. Commissioning of a building by the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation in its compound, to house the new Oncology Department on 29th June, 2018, in an effort to ensure that the best possible treatment and care are offered to our cancer patients.

3. Drafting and executing a robust public education programme designed to spread awareness of the risks of getting cancer and the necessary steps to be taken by individuals in significantly reducing those risks. This public education programme will also point out the benefits of screening as well as, the intrinsic value of early detection. It will also contribute to raising the level of cancer literacy and awareness.

4. Engaging our international partners like the Pan American Health Organization/ World Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) to assist the Ministry of Public Health with the development of a comprehensive strategic plan for combating cancer in Guyana.

5. Working continuously at the primary-care level to encourage and promote healthy choices and healthy lifestyles, especially among those persons living in the hinterland regions of Guyana.

The Ministry of Public Health will continue to intensify national efforts to reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with breast cancer.

This includes initiatives to increase awareness, including the publishing of information on ways to reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, as well as the benefits of early detection.

For more credible information on breast cancer, please visit the following websites: - The American Cancer Society - Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - World Health Organization - Pan American Health Organization

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

Understanding Energy

What a third drillship means for Guyana

EVEN after an incredible series of oil finds, Guyana’s oil industry is still ramping up.

By the end of October, a third deep-water drillship will be exploring in the the Stabroek Block. Already, drillships in the block have made oil discoveries in an astounding nine out of 11 formations.

The new drillship to enter Guyana’s waters, the Noble Tom Madden, will be headed for the Pluma prospect. The site is 27 kilometres from the 2017 Turbot discovery in the south-eastern corner of the Stabroek Block. This block is licensed to a consortium led by ExxonMobil’s local subsidiary Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited.

The plans to add a third drillship to the area were first announced in June after the Longtail discovery. According to Exxon’s press release at the time, “The new vessel will operate in parallel to the Stena Carron to explore the block’s numerous high-value prospects.” According to Noble Corporation’s website, it will remain in Guyana’s waters through at least late December.

This will be the second vessel focused on drilling new exploratory wells, the other being the Stena Carron, which recently drilled successful wells at the Hammerhead and Longtail sites. Meanwhile, the Noble Bob Douglas continues to drill development wells which will produce oil for the Liza Phase 1 project.

Following the Liza 1 discovery, Exxon conducted the largest deep-water seismic study ever done in the Stabroek Block. The data collected was used to build 3-D maps of more than 6,500 square miles of sub-ocean floor geologic formations and identified more than two dozen promising oil prospects.

So far, more than four billion barrels of oil equivalent have since been found and more than a dozen promising sites remain to be explored.

Deep-water drillships are massive and highly specialised vessels that are

rented by exploration and production companies such as Exxon for daily rates that can exceed hundreds of thousands of U.S. dollars. For example, the daily rates that Noble Corporation provides for its fleet range from tens of thousands to just under $500,000USD. Factors such as the price of oil, water depth, water pressure and each ship’s technical capabilities, all play an integral role.

The Stena Carron will reportedly be leaving Guyana for a few months of maintenance soon after the Noble Tom Madden arrives, but will return after that.

The presence of three drillships even for a short time puts Guyana in an unusual and possibly unique position. It’s rare for a very new oil region with no history of production to attract this kind of attention and investment. It’s a strong vote of confidence in Guyana from international oil companies.

It also points to the intensive exploration timeline for the Stabroek, as mandated by the production-sharing contract. The contract requires Exxon and its partners, Hess and CNOOC, to relinquish ownership of unexplored areas after a certain amount of time and mandates that they develop any discoveries rather than waiting.

As a result of initial success, the consortium has sped up its exploration goals and expanded its drilling areas as Guyana’s extraordinary run of successful oil strikes continues. It’s been a particularly remarkable string of finds, considering that in a normal frontier region a 20 per cent success rate for exploratory wells is considered standard.

Other companies are seeking to build on that momentum and invest even more in exploring for Guyana’s energy resources.

Tullow Oil, Eco Atlantic Oil, and Total plan to start drilling on the neighbouring Orinduik block in the third quarter of 2019, based on the success of the Hammerhead-1 discovery. That find

was only seven km from the boundary that separates the Stabroek from the Orinduik.

This kind of interest can only be a good thing for Guyana and should assuage concern that the large size of the Stabroek and other blocks would somehow hinder development and ex-

ploration.

Instead, the incredible discoveries offshore are driving an increasingly ambitious exploration and development timetable that could continue to result in new finds and eventually in new wealth and new opportunities for Guyana.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

Bandits brutalise elderly Corentyne couple POLICE in ‘B’ Division are investigating an armed robbery committed on a Lot 15, Number 65 Village, East Berbice, Corentyne cattle and rice farmer on Friday.

The robbers carted off a 12-gauge shotgun with 12 matching live rounds, an undisclosed amount of jewellery, $300,000 in local currency, US $2575, one Apple iPhone, two Samsung phones and three bottles of whisky valued at some $30,000.

According to information received, at approximately 18:45hrs, Thirbenny Ramnauth, 66, called “Reds” and his wife Chandrawattie Ramnauth, 62, were relaxing in the lower flat of their home when two men, masked and armed with guns, approached them and demanded cash and jewellery.

After making their way into the home, the robbers proceeded to brutalise the elderly businessman as they ordered the couple to hand over all their cash and valuables to them. They also bound the man’s hands and made him lie face down in the kitchen.

One of the bandits then forcefully took his wife to the upper flat of the house, placed a gun to her head and, out of fear for her life, the elderly woman handed over the cash and other valuables to the robbers.

Chandrawattie said while her husband is recovering from the traumatic incident, he is still in “severe pain”. He was taken to the Skeldon Hospital where he was admitted, but was discharged Saturday morning.

Police have held several persons for questioning as they launched an investigation into the robbery and assault of the elderly couple.

The Lot 15, Number 65 Village, East Berbice, Corentyne home that was robbed on Friday

Known bandit killed ...

From page 9

Kissoon was a known character who was previously convicted for break and enter and larceny and currently has pending matters before the court for robbery under arms, rape, and possession of narcotics. In addition, he was wanted for several recent robberies and also for an alleged indecent assault of a female.

Commander of ‘D’ Division, Edmond Cooper, said investigations revealed that during a robbery on Friday night, Kissoon attacked a husband and wife who were relaxing on their veranda about 19:00hrs. Kissoon, armed with a handgun, pounced on the couple and relieved them of a sum of cash, four cellphones, two gold bands and a finger ring. Before escaping, the suspect allegedly struck the victims on their heads with the firearm.

Commander Cooper explained that based on information received, about

The guns, jewellery and cell phones recovered from the bandit 05:45hrs on Saturday, police proceeded to the suspect’s home and on arrival, the suspect allegedly came out brandishing a handgun in a menacing manner.

He reportedly pointed the gun at police ranks to back them off and, during the confrontation, he was shot once in the lower abdomen.

Kissoon was rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hos-

pital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

The ring snatched from the female victim was found on one of the deceased fingers while the other items, except the cash, were found in his house.

According to Commander Cooper, the overwhelming majority of residents can now go about their daily lives with a sense of security.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

Indian Sculptor calls on Prime Minister Nagamootoo

(DPI) POLITICAL Counsellor to the High Commissioner of India, R.K Perindia and Indian sculptor, Sameer Anil Sutar, paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo at his official Main Street residence on Saturday.

Sutar is the grandson of Ram V. Sutar, the sculptor who designed the Indian Immigration Monument which is being erected at Palmyra Village, Corentyne, Region Six. The young Sutar said his grandfather took “around seven months” to complete the sculptures. He told the Department of Public Information that he is following closely in his grandfather’s footsteps, and having acquired his Bachelors of Fine Arts Degree, plans to pursue his Masters.

The sculptor explained that his grandfather established the family’s business--

Ram Sutar Fine Arts Private Limited. The company has produced realistic sculptures which have been recognised by countries across the globe.

Sutar visited Guyana to ensure that the sculptures are properly mounted and expressed his satisfaction with the job done. Works are still ongoing at the Palmyra monument site and are expected to be completed in November 2018.

The monument was a gift from the Government of the Republic of India to the Government of Guyana in honour of the continued diplomatic relations between the two nations. It is sculpted in bronze and is a visual representation of ordinary East Indian people in everyday life. Each bears a significant artifact as an ode to the continued traditions brought by foreparents from India which have translated to current living and practices of Guy-

Workshop aims to boost regional tourism product (DPI) Guyana’s pristine natural attractions and unique cultural heritage makes it a perfect getaway for visitors. With this in mind, the Department of Tourism, Ministry of Business is working along with the various regional authorities to develop several Regional Tourism Committees in order to expand Guyana’s tourism product.

The department hosted a workshop with the regional authorities of Region Five, Mahaica-Berbice and Region Six, East Berbice-Corentyne on October 25 in New Amsterdam.

Director General, Department of Tourism, Donald Sinclair highlighted that these Regional Tourism Committees will be expected to be in the forefront of efforts to develop and market a strong and sustainable tourism product in the respective regions. This, in turn, will allow for the improvement of livelihoods, strengthening of communities and enhancement of the physical environment.

According to Sinclair, workshops such as these are hosted to highlight and educate Guyanese on the hidden beauty and rich history of their homeland.

During the exercise, tourism stakeholders and regional authorities from both regions proposed activities that could be held in Berbice, during the observation of Tourism Awareness Month in November. Some of these were a street fair exhibiting the history of Berbice; a food festival showcasing Guyana’s diverse culinary dishes and a historic tour of the ancient county.

Participants at the workshop were encouraged to promote their regions to the fullest so that visitors will want to visit each region for its hospitality, historic views, cultural dishes and a clean and sustainable environment.

Attending the workshop were Region Six, Deputy Regional Executive Officer, Claude Henry, New Amsterdam Health Inspection Officer, Ackloo Ramsudh, members of the joint services, members of the business committee, RDC representatives and representatives from the Chambers of Commerce of both regions.

Sinclair said at the conclusion of all the workshops, the tourism department will assist the various regional authorities to create their Tourism Committee comprising a corps of individuals that will work to develop each region’s tourism product.

Similar workshops are also being held in different regions across the country.

anese today.

The visit concluded with the Prime Minister presenting literary tokens to both men and gave them a tour of the residence’s ground, showing them various Indian artifacts displayed.

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Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo showing Indian sculptor, Sameer Anil Sutar and Political Counsellor to the High Commissioner of India, R.K Perindia an Indian artifact

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

Wowetta women commission farine factory

(DPI) THE Wowetta Women’s Agro-processers group has officially dedicated their farine processing factory in the North

Rupununi as part of the Agriculture Month 2018 celebrations.

The factory project started in 2015 and was funded

by the Canadian government with support from the government of Guyana, the Inter-American Institute for Cooperation on Agriculture

(IICA) and Conservation International. It was executed under the title “Empowering the women of Wowetta to mitigate threats

Two members of the Wowetta Women’s Agroprocessers group showcasing their products

of food security resulting from drought, flooding, wildfire and extreme climate change.”

Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder and Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, were present at the dedication ceremony held at the Wowetta Benab, Annai sub-district, Region Nine.

During his feature address, Minister Allicock said that the project goes hand in hand with the government’s vision of creating a green economy by empowering the people at the local village level.

From time immemorial, he said, the Indigenous people have been using cassava as their main staple and, today, cassava has about 20 by-products.

“The farine factory will now need large supplies of cassava and you the people can supply the facility.

Neighbouring Aranaputa has peanuts; let us begin to think about other products and support each other. Let us also begin to look at other crops that are not on the market and process it and make an income for yourselves and the villages.”

Minister Allicock said that Wowetta is leading women’s empowerment in the North Rupununi and urged other villages to follow suit.

Minister Holder said the contribution of the agriculture sector to the reduction of poverty and enhancement of food security can be undermined by both obvious and less visible disasters due to flooding and drought.

“Therefore, we are tasked with attaining more resilient food systems. To achieve this, we need to foster the development of those systems which are designed to reduce disaster risk, such as this farine processing facility with the stocking capacity

of 10,000 pounds of farine.”

The minister underscored the importance of adding value to their products. He assured the women’s group that the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) would purchase their products and noted that their farine is already available in the Guyana Shop in Georgetown.

Janine Cocker, Counsellor, Development Cooperation, Global Affairs Canada, said her government is very pleased to be associated with such a project that is aimed at securing livelihood options for the people.

Chairperson of the Wowetta Women’s Group, Priscilla Torres, explained that the group started in 2008, when it was observed that a large number of women in the village were migrating to Brazil to seek jobs.

During that time, Torres said that the women’s group began farming several acres of land by way of self-help.

The Village Council and Woweta Village Enterprise provided support to the venture. “Today, our dreams have come true. While we had a number of challenges, we are happy about the success of the project and we are proud to say that we have achieved all of our goals.”

From the inception of the project, the women benefitted from training in customer care, record keeping, maintenance, food handling and business management, among other areas. Once completed, the facility was registered and an inspection conducted by the Ministry of Health’s Food and Drug Department.

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Media operatives urged to report responsibly on PWDs –– as NCD partners with GPA to host Media Summit

MEDIA operatives were urged to do more to safeguard the rights of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) when the National Commission on Disability (NCD) partnered with the Guyana Press Association (GPA) to host a Media Summit at the Herdmanston Lodge on Saturday.

With a population of more than 50,000 persons with disabilities living in Guyana, activists believe that the country has a far way to go in addressing many of the challenges they face.

On a daily basis many persons with disabilities encounter challenges in accessing public transportation, gaining employment, and accessing finance. Referring to persons as differently able, handicapped and wheelchair-bound does not help the situation, the NCD Chairperson Evelyn Hamilton said as she addressed media operatives and per-

Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Tamara Khan, in her address, said the media must play its role in helping to give effect to the commission’s objective of strategic and effective advocacy.

“This can be one of the most effective ways to advocate for the rights of persons with disabilities. Training provided by the National Commission on Disability can equip and empower media personnel and wider society with the tools needed for a better engagement,” Khan said.

The Legal Adviser posited that the summit will improve the way in which See page 22 NCD Chairperson Evelyn Hamilton (Photo by DPI) sue, Simone Poole, in her Disability Etiquette Presentation, outlined the dos and don’ts when treating with persons with disabilities.

Poole said oftentimes the views of persons with dis-

abilities are disregarded and decisions are often made for them without consultation, but she emphasised that persons with disabilities have views and must be respected.

Legal Adviser to Prime

Some of the media operatives and persons with disabilities who attended the NCD Summit at the Herdmanston Lodge (Photo by Delano Williams) sons with disabilities at the Herdmanston Lodge.

She urged them, particularly the reporters, videographers and photographers present to use the correct terms when crafting their pieces, such as “wheel chair users” and “person with a disability.”

“I hope you will continue to remind your readers/ listeners or viewers that not everyone is born with a disability… some disabilities are acquired through accidents, illnesses or simply through age. I think if we remembered this we would be much more likely to treat Persons with Disabilities and all persons with respect,” Hamilton said.

Weighing in on the is-

Legal Adviser to the Prime Minister, Tamara Khan (Photo by Delano Williams)

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Essequibians grace RACE in huge numbers

HUNDREDS on Friday night flocked the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground to be part of the Regional Agricultural and Commercial Exhibition (RACE) held under the theme: “Shaping agriculture and commerce for a greener economy in Region Two”.

Formerly known as

‘Essequibo Night’, the annual event was declared opened by Regional Chairman Devanand Ramdatt and was blessed by religious leaders of the various faiths.

Hailing the huge turnout, Ramdatt praised the work of the RACE organising committee for showcasing the agricultural potential and oppor-

tunities in Region Two, as well as fostering unity among the people of the region.

He also said that the funds of the event should be used to further develop the region and suggested the construction of a cultural centre or a gymnasium, where youths and residents can benefit.

He noted that the re-

Region Two Chairman Devanand Ramdatt addressing the opening of the annual exhibition

Students from the Guyana School Agriculture (GSA) displaying their products

gion needs infrastructural development but also noted the importance of cooperation at the level of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) and among major stakeholders for continued progress.

The chairman also called on government to continue to work on the Aurora Land Development Project to make more lands available for agricultural purposes, as well as to ensure passport services are available in Region Two. Regional Executive Officer Rupert Hopkinson also echoed the need for cooperation to move the region forward.

“Social cohesion is essential towards the development of any region; on occasion like this cultivates seeds of unity and cooperation. There is no time for political interference, this is a significant, emergence era of social cohesion,” Hopkinson said.

The event featured exhibits of local manufacturers. Edward B Beharry and Company used the opportunity to promote its whole wheat chowmein and a chef was on site cooking and serving persons visiting

Products produced by Luke Manufacturing

Members of the Kabakaburi Handicraft Association with their creations

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

A scene from the Regional Agricultural and Commercial Exhibition which opened on Friday night at the Anna Regina Community Centre Ground its booth.

A Ministry of Agriculture booth showcased the services of the Guyana Rice Development Board, the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute, among other agriculture agencies.

New and innovative ways of farming and the use of technology in agriculture were also illustrated through various presentations.

This year, the private sector played an integral part in the exhibition with many businesses coming on board. Comfort Sleep, Big Bird International Fish Complex, Sueria Manufacturing, Kababkaburi Women Agro Processors, Ansa McAL and

Imam Bacchus and Sons were some of the big businesses present. Many of them offered deals to patrons.

In the craft section of the exhibition, the Kabakaburi Handicraft Association was prominent. The association featured its work which included hammocks and chairs made from tibisiri. Its representative, Rita Jacobus said the association is happy to be part of the grand exhibition.

Wine lovers were also treated to some locally made wines by Lascels Pearson from Mainstay/ Whyaka. Pearson’s “De Cheif” wines are made from processed jamoon, cashew, guava, banana and pineapples.

Lascels Pearson with his De Chief products Another business, Luke Manufacturing also used the opportunity to launch its new all-pur-

pose seasoning, hot sauces and wines made from potatoes and passion fruit.

The company, which has

been in business for the past 15 years, sources its raw materials from the Pomeroon River.

The exhibition and fair is showcasing the work of more than 100 exhibitors.

$60M roads for De Kinderen (DPI) THE government has pumped $60M into the construction of 1744 metres of asphaltic concrete roads in De Kinderen, Region Three ( Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

Residents of De Kinderen Old Road, Young and Restless Street and the GDF Scheme are benefiting from this collaboration between the Ministry of Public Infrastructure (MoPI) and the regional administration.

According to MoPI Engineer Patiram Ramlall, the works came at the request of residents in the community, during an outreach Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure Annette Ferguson had in the community.

“Residents expressed their dissatisfaction with the roads in the area and after an inspection revealed that the roads were indeed in an unacceptable state, the ministry took a decision to bring immediate relief to the people of that community,” Ramlall said.

“The old road was virtually impassable and we had to start from scratch by laying a proper foundation. GDF scheme already had an existing foun-

dation, but the potholes were too many to just patch. The integrity of that road was compromised, hence a complete resurfacing was necessary.”

Young and Restless Street was upgraded following a separate outreach with the Regional Executive Officer Denis Jaikaran, when residents made representation for the street to be repaired. REO Jaikaran assured the residents that development will continue in all the communities across the region.

Representing the community, Councillor Colbert Leander thanked the ministry and the regional administration.

The 620 metres of road constructed in De Kinderen Old Road cost $31.6Million; GDF Scheme road with a length of 514 metres cost $13.4Million; and Young and the Restless Street with a length of 610 metres, was constructed at a cost of $15Million.

The works were done by Courtney Benn Contracting Services Ltd, XL Engineering and Y. Bhola Construction Company, respectively.

De Kinderen Old Road

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Independent candidate ready to challenge big political parties

By Svetlana Marshall

WITH Local Government Elections less than a month away, Attorney-at-Law and independent candidate for Constituency Nine in the municipality of Georgetown Mayo Robertson is calling on residents to throw their support behind independent candidates like himself and civil groups.

“I believe once the political parties contest at the local level, what we have is that they import into the local politics the political tribalism, the issues that divided them for so long, and those issues have no place in our local communities because for people who live in our communities the issues are essentially local,” Robertson told the Guyana Chronicle.

Independent Candidate Mayo Robertson Robertson, who has been a lawyer since 1975 and has a background in business management and international development, said residents of Constituency Nine, which consists of all of Lodge, Durban Backlands, and Meadowbrook Gardens, need more than politics.

“We want safe streets, we want community activities, we want programmes for our young people, we want to make sure that whomever represents us at the local level is just a simple phone call or a simple visit away and once the parties get into the process, the process becomes a little more difficult for the average consumer to access their representatives,” Robertson explained.

According to the attorney, in Durban Backlands, the municipality has done little to nothing to improve the livelihoods of residents there.

“I haven’t seen any perceptible impact of municipal government in my area over the life of this new municipality,” he said.

He said checks with residents in other parts of the constituency have confirmed his belief that the Mayor and City Council, which took office in 2016 following the historic Local Government Elections, has failed to address many issues in Constituency Nine.

“Areas like Princes Street, Lodge for instance, a lot of work needs to be done. You can’t describe the Princes Street Road between Vlissingen Road and Mandela Avenue as nothing more than appalling. There are huge craters on the road to the point where taxi cabs would not take people into those areas, and on the canal side of Princes Street the grass hasn’t been cut, it would appear for months,” Robertson pointed out.

Mosquito infestation due to overgrown vegetation in the areas, and poor lighting facilities in the constituency, are among other issues plaguing residents, he said.

Robertson said among his plans is the development See page 20

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Independent candidate ready...

From page 19 of a mentorship programme for the young people in his constituency.

Cognisant of the fact that it would take financial resources to correct many of the issues facing residents, Robertson said the Georgetown City Council, which continues to experience dire financial constraints, would need to come up with creative ways of securing finances, and he has some ideas to share, if elected.

“The City Council has to come up with creative ways to

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

increase revenues; and that points to another reason why we should keep the national parties out of it because there is so much of a history of animosity between the parties so that those issues prevent them from looking at creative ways from dealing with the localities; and I believe that independent candidates are able to focus strictly on the city at large and the municipality in particular,” Robertson said.

Independent Candidate Michael Okombo Williams, on Nomination Day, had expressed similar sentiments. Williams, who is contesting Constituency Four in the Municipality

A section of the Princes Street Road of Georgetown, told the Guyana Chronicle that little was done for his constituency though there were many promises.

“There were many expectations but there have not been many fulfilments. So I thought it best, in the interest of my constituency [sic], and in the interest of the residents there, to go independently,” Williams said.

According to him, if elected to serve on the Council, he will work to address the issues facing his constituency [sic].

“Drainage, sanitation and security, those are three of our primary concerns, not forgetting pest control measures. So my intent is to focus heavily, should I be elected, on those issues,” the independent candidate said.

Along with independent candidates, a number of civil groups are challenging the major political parties in the November 12 Local Government Elections.

The major parties are the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), the Alliance For Change (AFC), the People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) and the United Republican Party (URP).

A section of Lodge Housing Scheme

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

Young Barticans equipped with employable skills

SEVERAL young Barticans who are now formally equipped with employable skills graduated from the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) skills training programme at Skipp’s Place, Bartica, Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), on Wednesday last.

Minister of Public Affairs within the Ministry of the Presidency, Dawn Hastings-Williams, delivered the keynote address to the young graduands.

“One of the aims of His Excellency President David Granger is that the hinterland will develop at the same rhythm as the coastland; and one of the ways that this can become a reality is by returning to your communities, neighbourhoods, to your constituencies; and in this way you would show concern for the other young men and women who are there.

In other words, you can be a role model or an example to them, even while you improve as an individual or as a professional,” Minister Hastings-Williams told the graduands.

She urged the graduands to love themselves for who and what they are, as it is a very crucial aspect of their self-development. She stated that love will play an important component of self-esteem and overall well-being.

“It is generally difficult but not impossible to be transformed without being able to first of all love and accept yourself for whom you are. Researchers have discovered that the practice of self-love is appropriated with a multitude of benefits, such as life’s satisfaction; increased happiness and greater resilience,” she stated.

Minister Hastings-Williams also encouraged the young people to have positive, daily interaction, pointing out that once there is respect for self, it

will become easy to also respect others.

CHOSEN DISCIPLINES T h e B o a r d o f I ndustrial Training (BIT) indicated that no male completed the training in catering and cake decoration. This, the minister said, must change.

“Let me tell you and I want you to listen carefully: many of the world’s top chefs and renowned pastry chefs are men. It is noteworthy to mention that catering and cake decoration, with the proper training and business guidance, can be a definite path towards success; it is also a very lucrative occupation,” Minister Hasting-Williams told the gathering.

She also urged the female graduands to be willing to take up roles that were long seen as only for males.

“If no one has done it before, it does not mean that you cannot do it; what it may mean that you are the first – to be the pioneer of a grand idea that will take courage and fearless determination to be completed,” she said.

GENDER-FREE At this point in her presentation, Minister Hastings-Williams invited the four female graduands who completed the training in welding to stand.

“Your stamina and determination prove once more that women are strong; they are courageous and victorious; you have to be strong of course to give birth; you have to be strong to withstand heartbreak; you have to be strong to be a single mother and the breadwinner of an entire household; you have to be strong to balance See page 22

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Region Seven Chairman Gordon Bradford; Minister of Public Affairs Dawn Hastings-Williams and officials of the Ministry of Education

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Young Barticans equipped ...

SUNDAY CHRONICLE October 28, 2018

From page 22

work, house duties and studies at the same time.

You have proven once more that women can be anything they wish to be in a field that is dominated by men,” she added.

She therefore urged all

present at the graduation exercise that they should bear in mind that by viewing careers, skills, abilities and competencies as gender-free, Guyana will become a more cohesive and developed society.

Minister Hastings-Williams told the graduands that they need to be individuals of integrity, regardless of their religious backgrounds.

“You are called to be kind; you are called to

A section of the graduands listen attentively to Minister Hastings-Williams be hard-working, honest, transparent, and loyal to the principle – doing what is correct of the circumstances.”

She urged, especially those who are just out of high school, to continue reading.

“Reading on every possible subject will help you become well-rounded individuals; it will also improve your quality of life and broaden your perspective on life as well; developing you in the skills and abilities you need to have to go on the journey far and wide.

“Having integrity does not mean that you would not encounter difficulties in life, but what it means is that you will be better equipped with emotional and spiritual strength you will need to face the difficulties of life… therefore, pursue constant learning, never give up; you are the leaders of tomorrow and you will need to be equipped to perform accordingly, Minister Hastings-Williams stated.

The Hope Foundation in Bartica played a pivotal role in the training of many of the graduands.

Media operatives urged to report ...

From page 15 media operatives report not only on persons with disabilities but when treating with sensitive cases.

“Media reach, in particular, as is the focus today, would aid in dispelling myths and reveal that persons with disabilities have feelings, needs and problems like any other person. There are persons who were born with their disabilities, and there are others who acquired disabilities by accidents, violence, or the simple business of living (and ageing),” she said.

Like Khan, the NCD Chairperson said that the Summit was key to fulfilling one of the commission’s objectives to edify media operatives on the content of the Persons with Disabilities Act, specifically Sub Part 8 which speaks about communications and broadcast media.

Activist and Commissioner on the NCD Ganesh Singh bemoaned the slothful implementation of the Persons with Disabilities Act as he too referenced to sub-Part 8 – Communication as an example.

Sub-Section 8:26 (1) states: “Within 10 years of coming into operation of this Act or a later date that the minister may prescribe, the person in charge of every national television station shall provide a sign language inset or subtitles in at least one newscast programme daily and special programmes covering events of national significance.”

Singh said that this article along with the other article that mandates every telephone provider to provide and install special telephone devices or units for the hearing-impaired have not been implemented as required.

It must be noted however, that in the case of the National Communications Network (NCN), sign language insets form part of its daily news along with programmes broadcasting national events.

Media operatives were also taught the basic forms of interacting with persons with disabilities, how to communicate with the deaf and hearing-impaired, communicating with the blind and visually-impaired, describing disabled persons along with what words to use and what words to avoid.

President of the Guyana Press Association Nazima Raghubir, Director of the Disability and Rehabilitation Services of the Health Ministry, Dr. Ariane Mangar and 2018 National Awardee Julie Lewis were among the other officials present.

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Windies level ODI series despite Kohli’s historic achievement Despite Kohli’s heroics, India’s batsmen mostly misfired as they were eventually dismissed for 240 in 47.4 overs, with Marlon Samuels grabbing three wickets.

The victory was only the Windies’ sixth in the last seven years against India and their fifth win overall in the last 26 ODIs dating back to January 2017.

Having scored over 320 runs in the two previous ODIs, India would have favoured their chances of chasing down 284.

Captain Jason Holder struck early on though, uprooting Rohit Sharma’s middle stump for just eight, after the opener played down the wrong line of a delivery which just moved away from him to leave the score eight for one.

This brought Kohli to the crease and immediately with Shikhar Dhawan sought to build a lasting partnership.

The two took a particular liking to left-arm seamer Obed McCoy, who Dhawan slapped for two consecutive boundaries through cover in his first over to bring up the 50-run partnership.

Kohli joined in on the action too, first flicking McCoy to fine leg for four and then ruthlessly driving him straight back down the ground off successive deliveries, as McCoy’s first two overs went for 20 runs.

But just as it seemed the two were changing gear, Dhawan tried an ambitious sweep off Nurse from middle stump, but missed and was given out leg-before-wicket for 35 to leave India 88 for two.

Kohli, however, continued his assault, launching Nurse over deep square leg for four to bring up his half-century off 63 balls and added a six shortly after when he lifted debutant Fabian Allen over long-off.

Ambati Rayudu had looked in good touch, sweep-

ing Nurse to the boundary then driving him over midoff for another to quickly move to 22.

McCoy was reintroduced to the attack and got Rayudu to chop a close delivery into his stumps as he tried to run it down to third man as Indian fell to 135 for three in the 25th over.

Allen gave new batsman Rishabh Pant a lifeline when he put down a difficult chance diving to his left off the bowling of McCoy, off the first ball he faced.

Pant responded by smashing McCoy for two boundaries and added a six off Allen for good measure as India kept pace with the required run rate.

Nurse though, would have Pant dismissed for a quick-fire 24 from 18 deliveries after calling for a review. He had originally been given not out but the review showed the faintest of touches as the ball nicked his glove on the way through to the keeper.

At the other end Kohli kept grinding on, with another boundary through midwicket moving him into the 80s.

He continued to lose partners though, with Mahendra Singh Dhoni edging a catch behind off the bowling of Holder to leave India 194 for five.

Kohli eventually brought up his 38th ODI century off 110 balls, albeit a subdued celebration, with a single down to fine leg.

Following the dismissal of Bhuvneshwar Kumar for 10, Kohli’s attempt to go after Samuels cost him his wicket.

With the required run rate at over seven runs an over, Kohli completely missed his pull shot and was cleanbowled by the part-time off-spinner, to spark wild celebrations among the Windies’ players, with Indian slumping to 220 for seven in the 42nd over.

He faced 119 balls and struck 10 fours and one six.

His departure signalled the end of India’s resistance, with Samuels grabbing the final two wickets to wrap up the match.

Earlier, crucial knocks from Hope, Shimron Hetmyer and Nurse, helped the Windies get up to their eventual target.

Hope narrowly missed out on his second hundred of the series, but formed several crucial partnerships to help revive the innings.

He first shared a 56-run, fourth-wicket stand with Hetmyer and then in a 76run, sixth-wicket partnership with Holder.

Hope eventually departed in the 44th over with triple figures in sight, and it was left to Nurse, batting at number nine, to propel the innings late with four fours and two sixes.

Wexford 08:20 hrs Panther Soul 08:50 hrs Sapphire Lady 09:25 hrs Sometime Soon 10:00 hrs Josephina 10:35 hrs Holy Motivation 11:10 hrs Crazyheart 11:45 hrs Gentlemen Duke 12:20 hrs Blazing Beth

Galway 08:35 hrs Getaway Katie Mai 09:05 hrs Blow By Blow 09:40 hrs Don’t Kick Nor Bite 10:15 hrs Shanklys Dawn 10:50 hrs Vinnie The Hoddie 11:25 hrs Crosshue Boy 12:00 hrs Wicklow Brave 12:35 hrs Kalanisi Og

Scoreboard WEST INDIES innings K. Powell c Sharma b Bumrah 21 C. Hemraj c Dhoni b Bumrah 15 S. Hope b Bumrah 95 M. Samuels c Dhoni b Ahmed 9 S. Hetmyer stp. Dhoni b Yadav 37 R. Powell c Sharma b Yadav 4 J. Holder c (sub. Jadeja) b Kumar 32 F. Allen c Pant b Chahal 5 A. Nurse lbw b Bumrah 40 K. Roach not out 15 O. McCoy not out 0 Extras: (b-1, lb-4, w-5) 10 Total (9 wkts, 50 overs) 283 Fall of wickets: 1-25, 2-38, 3-55, 4-111, 5-121, 6-197, 7-217, 8-227, 9-283.

Bowling: Kumar 10-0-70-1, Bumrah 10-1-35-4, Ahmed 10-0-65-1, Chahal 10-1-56-1, Yadav 10-0-52-2.

INDIA innings R. Sharma b Holder 8 S. Dhawan lbw b Nurse 35 V. Kohli b Samuels 107 A. Rayudu b McCoy 22 R. Pant c Hope b Nurse 24 MS Dhoni c Hope b Holder 7 B. Kumar c Powell b McCoy 10 K. Yadav not out 15 Y. Chahal c (sub. Paul) b Roach 3 K. Ahmed stp. Hope b Samuels 3 J. Bumrah c Holder b Samuels 0 Extras: (lb-1, w-5) 6 Total: (all out, 47.4 overs) 240 Fall of wickets: 1-9, 2-88, 3-135, 4-172, 5-194, 6-215, 7-220, 8-225, 9-237.

Bowling: Roach 10-0-48-1, Holder 9-0-46-2, McCoy 5-0-38-2, Nurse 10-0-43-2, Allen 10-0-52-0, Samuels 3.4-1-12-3.

Man-of-the-Match: Shai Hope

Forgotten Youth Foundation capture four gold medals FORGOTTEN Youth Foundation came out on top when the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) staged the last of the Pepsi Mike Parris Under-16 competitions at the Andrew ‘Six Head’ Gym yesterday.

Forgotten Youth Foundation captured four gold medals to better their closest rivals Rose Hall Jammers who finished with two gold medals.

The Under-16 competition was organised

by AIBA Three Star coach Sebert Blake.

GBA president Steve Ninvalle said that 2018 was one of the better years for Under-16 boxing as the nation retained the Caribbean title and staged the most competitions.

“In a three-month period we had seven

Irish Racing Tips

competitions, one of them being of international flavour. During the year we will be able to organise 10 Under-16 competitions,” Ninvalle revealed.

“We would like to extend gratitude to the management of Demerara Distillers Limited and Trustees Pawn Shop for staying with us throughout the years.”

Meanwhile, Ninvalle said that he would be travelling to Moscow shortly to attend the AIBA Congress and upon return his association will move “full throttle” into preparations for the Caribbean Championship, scheduled for Guyana from December 6 to 9.

South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:30 hrs Hotel Cipriani 09:05 hrs Saltoro Ridge 09:40 hrs Run Red 10:15 hrs Raven Girl 10:50 hrs Seeking Wisdom Greyville 08:50 hrs Roy’s Stingray 09:25 hrs Savuti 10:00 hrs Rich Harvest 10:35 hrs Paths Of Victory 11:10 hrs Hello Summer 11:45 hrs Walterthepenniless

English Racing Tips Aintree 12:40 hrs Aye Aye Charlie 09:15 hrs Spider’s Bite 09:50 hrs Beat That 10:25 hrs Byron Flyer 11:00 hrs Cloudy Dream 11:35 hrs Drovers Lane 12:10 hrs Tashunka

Wincanton 09:00 hrs Arty Campbell 10:45 hrs Sumkindofking 11:20 hrs Rhythm Is A Dancer 11:55 hrs Teaser 12:30 hrs Mick Thonic

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Mane, Salah fire Liverpool top; Bournemouth, Watford win

By Tom Hayward LONDON, England (Reuters) - Sadio Mane scored twice and Mohamed Salah continued his return to form as Liverpool eased to a 4-1 win against lowly Cardiff City, to move top of the Premier League at Anfield yesterday.

Mane scored two fine second-half goals while Salah ended any suggestion that he was suffering from a ‘goal drought’ with his fourth strike in three matches to go alongside two assists.

Xherdan Shaqiri was also on target for the hosts while Callum Paterson netted for a struggling Cardiff side who remain 17th with five points from their opening 10 matches.

Liverpool, still unbeaten and winners of eight of their 10 league matches, have 26 points - three clear of champions Manchester City who will reclaim top spot if they beat fifth-placed Tottenham Hotspur at Wembley tomorrow.

“Happy for the result and the performance of the team,” Mane told the BBC. “A little tight in the second half but at the end we controlled the game, tried to push on and scored twice to make it easier.

“I was very happy of course to score but most important is the three points.”

Bournemouth also continued their fine start to the season with Callum Wilson scoring twice and talented youngster David Brooks

Liverpool’s Sadio Mane celebrates scoring their fourth goal. (REUTERS/Russell Cheyne)

on target in a 3-0 victory at struggling Fulham.

Eddie Howe’s side, who are sixth with 20 points, are enjoying their fourth season in the top flight.

“We are flourishing and take the three points,” forward Wilson said. “We are getting better at counter-attacking teams as you saw with the second goal. Being clinical is the main thing.”

Watford too maintained their impressive start, comfortably beating visiting bottom side Huddersfield Town 3-0, while Brighton & Hove Albion defeated Wolverhampton Wanderers 1-0 and Southampton and Newcastle United finished goalless.

COMMANDING REDS After Salah poked Liv-

erpool ahead in the 10th minute, the Reds enjoyed 86 percent possession and had 12 shots in a commanding first half, the only surprise being that Juergen Klopp’s side did not add a second goal before the break.

It took until the 66th minute for Liverpool to add a second, with Mane wriggling through a couple of challenges before unleashing a fierce drive into the corner with his left foot.

Cardiff City set up a potentially nervy finish when Paterson scored in the 77th, but Shaqiri and Mane converted Salah passes within three minutes of each other to seal victory.

“We are a top team; to be successful we have to win these games,” Shaqiri said.

“They are tough, not always nice to play.

“It is the beginning of the season, so we have to keep going like this. If we do, we are going to have a successful year.”

Like Bournemouth, Watford have been one of the early season surprise packages and they too claimed their sixth victory in 10 games against a toothless Huddersfield side.

Roberto Pereyra and Gerard Deulofeu scored two sublime first-half goals before Isaac Success’s late strike condemned Huddersfield to another one-sided defeat.

“Defensively this was not the performance we wanted.

We didn’t look solid, stable or compact,” Terriers manager David Wagner said.

“In open play we were not aggressive enough to make them uncomfortable.

I am disappointed because in recent weeks we had defended better, but it was our worst performance defensively for a while.

“Next week against Fulham is a belter and an opportunity that we have to use.”

Glenn Murray scored his 100th Brighton goal as the south-coast side beat Wolverhampton Wanderers to maintain their encouraging start, but rivals Southampton extended their league goal drought to five games after they drew with Newcastle.

AFC congratulates Dr Shivnarine Chanderpaul THE Alliance For Change (AFC) has congratulated Dr Shivnarine Chanderpaul on receiving a wholly deserving Honorary Doctor of Laws from the University of the West Indies.

Dr Chanderpaul is a true Guyanese champion who exudes the quintessential indomitable spirit of a Guyanese warrior.

Shiv faithfully served Guyana and West Indies cricket for well over two decades and continues to be an exemplar and role model for young Guyanese and young people around the world.

Shiv commands the respect of millions of fans globally and proudly flies the Golden Arrrowhead wherever he is engaged, on or off the field.

The AFC looks forward to his continued contributions in cricket and in moulding the next generation of

Former Guyana and West Indies batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul on Thursday received the Honoraray Doctor of Laws from the UWI.

Guyanese citizens.

The party salutes Dr Chanderpaul and recognises him as the most outstanding and distinguished Guyanese citizen to have emerged from the East Coast Demerara village of Unity.

Halley’s 6 lead in Trophy Stall three-way dominoes tourney

AFTER two rounds of action in the Trophy Stall-sponsored threeway dominoes tournament, being held in honour of former Guyana Chronicle senior sports reporter and Interna tional 6 player, Frederick Halley, Halley’s 6 are the frontrunners with 159 games.

The tournament, which is being played at the Everest Cricket Club pavilion, saw Halley’s 6 win both the first and second rounds with scores of 81 and 78 games respectively. They are, however, hotly pursued by Barbara Marshall’s 6 who are eight games be-

hind on 151, having scored 80 in the first game and 71 in the second. Rishi Das’s 6 trail with 137 after mustering 75 and 62.

Leading Halley’s 6 in the first round were Intikab Ali and Dexter Sue with 15 games each while Hilbert Ali had 14 and Frederick Halley 13. Vackacy Joe led the way for Marshall’s 6 with 17 games while Dillon Thornton marked 16 and Chris Isaacs 14. For Das’s 6, the top performers were L. Griffith (16), Das (14), S. Prescott (14) and W. Anthony (14).

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Club 49 members ready for Barbados pool competition today SEVEN members of Club 49 are currently in Barbados preparing for the Rack ‘Em’ Up 9-ball Pool tournament, which is set for today at the Casablanca Sports Bar in Christ Church.

The Guyanese pool players will battle teams from St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, Jamaica, Dominica, Trinidad and Tobago, Grenada, Martinique and Barbados.

Most of the players are new to this level of compe-

tition, but they will be under the mentorship of two of the country’s senior pool players, two-time national champion Anthony Xavier and Ryan Baksh who has over 35 years of pool experience under his belt.

One of the members, Steven Persaud, told the Guyana Chronicle that the team members will bring their A game and look to represent Guyana well.

“Our mindset is to focus on ourselves as sportsmen

and remove all other elements from our mind, trust in our skills and be confident that we are ready to go out there and do our best.”

Persaud said that the club, which does not have a central location, will look to be aggressive and determined, while still having fun.

The full team reads: Anthony Xavier, Ryan Baksh, Dave Rupnarain, Kamil Husain, Abdool Salim, Johnaton Parbu and Steven Persaud.

The seven players who will participate in today’s competition.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

Contracts worth $320M signed for Berbice, Linden synthetic tracks TWO contracts collectively worth $320M were signed on Friday for phase three of the synthetic track projects in Region Six - East Berbice-Corentyne, and Region Ten - Upper Demerara-Berbice.

Representatives of BK International Inc. and Builders Hardware and General Supplies were on hand on Friday afternoon to sign the contracts at the boardroom of Ministry of Social Cohesion, Main and Quamina Streets, Georgetown.

BK International Inc. has been awarded the contract for Region Six track, to be built at Burnham Park, New Amsterdam, Berbice, which is worth approximately $141M. Builders Hardware and General Supplies has secured the contract for the facility at Bayroc Community Centre ground, Wismar, Linden, to the tune of $179M. The two contractors were selected from 14 tenders for Region Six project and from 12 for Region Ten.

Briton John cops seventh annual Payless Variety cycling title

Briton John (left) did just enough to hold off Paul DeNobrega to claim the seventh annual Payless Variety cycling title. (Delano Williams photo)

YOUNG Briton John came out on top amongst stiff competition to cop the feature Schoolboys and Invitational 35-Lap at the seventh annual Payless Variety store 11-race cycling meet yesterday.

John clocked a winning time of one hour 17 minutes 44.94 seconds, ahead of the in-form Paul DeNobrega who had to settle for second this time around. It was a thrilling finish as John fended off DeNobrega in a powerful sprint to the finish line.

Meanwhile, veteran Junior Niles finished third while Christopher Griffith, Alexis Mendes and Paul Cho Wee Nam finished fourth to sixth in that order.

Eight prime prizes were up for grabs and John copped two, while Niles had three, DeNobrega two and Griffith one.

Tavishte Persaud won the BMX Boys and Girls 9-12 race while Niles was victorious in the Veterans U-50 event, ahead of Nigel London and Jaikarran Sukhai who were second and third respectively.

Linden Blackman was the first Over-50 veteran across the line while Kennard Lovell and Chamar Baksh finished second and third.

Briton John beat Adealie Hodge in the Juveniles 10-lap event while Sherwin Sampson took third place.

At the signing, Deputy Director of Sport, Melissa Dow-Richardson noted; “We’re in phase three and this is specific to the ground preparation … there will be groundwork, laying of necessary drainage pipes, curb work, asphalting and concreting where necessary. This is prior to phase four when the laying of the synthetic material would be conducted.”

Actual work will start seven days after the signing of the contract, while this phase should be completed

Contracts are signed in the presence of Minister of Social Cohesion Dr George Norton (far left) and Assistant Director of Sport, Melissa Dow-Richardson (far right), by Chief Executive Officer of Builders Hardware and Supplies, Rakesh Samaroo. (DPI photo)

within three to six months, Dow-Richardson explained.

Minister with responsibility for Sport, Dr. George Norton, said community in-

volvement in the project has been sought to ensure government gets worth for money.

He revealed also that

while he was pleased that work on the two tracks is heading in the right direction, the signing of contracts is long overdue.

18th GTT National Indoor Hockey Championships begins today THE annual GTT National Indoor Hockey Championships shoots off today, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. The Guyana Hockey Board (GHB) and GTT have partnered in this event for 18 years and it is the top local indoor competition that determines the annual national champions.

The competition has expanded this year to include a women’s second division competition for the first time in its history which reflects the growth of the female side of the playing population which now matches that of the male side.

Apart from the clubs, a national male junior squad will compete in the men’s first division competition as ‘Supernova’, although they will not be eligible for trophies.

The competition features five divisions being Men’s and Ladies’ First Division, Men’s and Ladies’ Second Division and Veterans (Over35).

Bounty GCC will face their toughest competition in recent years as Old Fort

Lamborghinis have been strengthened by two of the top junior players - skilful Omar Hopkinson and prolific goalscorer Warren Williams.

In addition, previous three-time champions Pepsi Hikers will be at full strength with the likes of their fantastic four - Robert France, Andrew Stewart, Jamarj Assanah and Aroydy Branford.

The GCC Tigers have dominated this competition for the past 11 years and enter as favourites to take the gold in the women’s first division. Leading all-time female goalscorer Sonia Jardine will be on show along with nationals Gabriella Xavier, Aliyah Gordon, Trisha Woodroffe and Marzana Fiedtkou in a star-studded line-up.

Traditional arch-rivals Woodpecker Hikers will be gunning for top spot with the likes of nationals Marisha Fernandes, Nicole Eastman and Latacia Chung. Old Fort Team 2.1.2. has been improving steadily and many of their players would be fresh off the recent victory in Noble House junior indoor

Flashback! Old Fort’s Omar Hopkinson is at full stretch to stop Peter DeGroot of Bounty GCC.

championships. Minsodia Culpepper and Bushani Kaladeen will lead their effort.

Saints and Bingo Spartans feature the youngest sides in the division and will surely use their superior conditioning and quickness to create havoc among their senior rivals.

The newly-introduced women’s second division competition will find GCC Spice as favourites among their junior opponents of Old Fort Goalchasers, Bingo Spartans and Woodpecker

Halley’s 6 lead in Trophy Stall ...

Intikab Ali was again in superb form in game two, registering the maximum 18 games for Halley’s 6 with Halley scoring 16, Mark Welsh 14 and Dexter Sue 14. Marshall’s 6 top players were Clive Xavier with 17

games and Colin McCue with 13. For Das’s 6, Claude Stuart marked 14 games and Manniram Shew 13. The lone lovebird was Brian Allen of Marshall’s 6.

The final round will be contested on Tuesday at the

same venue and at stake are a winners’ and a first runners-up trophy, one cup each for the top three players in the winning team, one cup each for the two top players in the second team, a cup for the top player in the third

Hikers.

This division will feature many of the outstanding junior players recently on show in the Noble House junior championships.

GCC Vintage are the double defending champions in the Over-35 division which once again sees challenges from the Old Fort Mustangs and Antonio’s Hickers.

Matches start today at 14:00hrs and the finals will be contested on Sunday (November 4).

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team and a cup for the player sharing the first love.

The tournament has been organised by popular dominoes enthusiast Manniram ‘Packer’ Shew.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

Guyana Softball Cup 8 concludes today under lights at DCC … Floodlights Masters booted

By Rajiv Bisnauth AFTER two days of rip-roaring battle among 24 local and overseas softball teams, the Guyana Softball Cup 8 will climax today at the Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) ground under lights.

The atmosphere at softball encounters is usually very noisy and exciting and today should be no different with some of the country’s top softball players expected to showcase their talent in what should be three riveting finals in the Over-45, Over50 and Open categories to be played under floodlights.

To add to the day’s excitement, Trophy Stall Angels, 4R Lioness, Mike’s Wellwoman and Karibee Girls will battle in the female category.

Action bowls off at 10:00hrs.

Meanwhile, Regal Masters and Fisherman Masters will lock horns in the Over45 final while Floodlights and Parika Defenders will battle in the Over-50 category.

SVC will meet either Regal All Stars or Ariel Speedboat in the Open final. Up to press time last evening, Regal All Stars and Ariel Speedboat were locked in battle under lights at DCC. Floodlights Masters and

Regal Masters continued their softball rivalry when the two teams met in one of the Over-45 semifinal games.

Played at the DCC ground in front of avid softball fans, a thrilling final over saw Regal Masters get the better of their opponents by three wickets.

Floodlights, asked to bat first, managed 139-7. Uniss Yusuf and Ramo Malone added 29 for the first wicket before Yusuf was bowled

by Mahendra Arjune (3-28) for 17. Malone was then bowled by Laurie Singh for 11, before Arjune continued the slide with the wickets of Ramesh Deonarine (16), and Jagdesh Persaud (1), at 61-4.

Vinesh Vivakanand (36), Patrick Khan (12), and Wesley Parsnauth with an unbeaten 32, propped the innings towards the end. David Harper took 2-22 while Mahendra Hardyal claimed 1-8.

In reply, two-time Prime Minister’s Cup champions held their nerve in a hardfought run chase to clinch a victory with one ball to spare.

They reached 140-7 in 19.5 overs with Eric Thomas leading the way with an unbeaten 30. He received support from Mahase Chunilall who contributed 24.

In the other semifinal clash, Fisherman Masters edged Albion Masters by three wickets with four balls

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday October 28, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALLBourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 2259230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)

Shivnarine Chanderpaul-46 matches

(2)

Mohammed Azharuddin-43 matches

Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the second ODI of the current WI/India series?

(2) Who was declared Man of the Match in the second ODI of the current WI/ India series?

Eric Thomas

to spare.

Batting first, Albion Masters made 145-6. Imran Hussain hit five fours and three sixes in his 67 while Veerapen Moonsammy contributed 41. In reply, Fisherman team rallied around Robert Mohan, who made a composed unbeaten 35.

Fazal Ali made 32 while Hemraj (17) and Baldeo Persaud (16), contributed towards the win. They eventually reached 149-7.

The Open semifinal between SVC and SVC Spartans was a highly competitive game, but in the end SVC came out victorious,

SVC players after their victory over the SVC Spartans

winning by 28 runs.

Batting first, SVC compiled a challenging total of 199-6. The total was built around an attacking 78 from Vijay Surujpaul, who smashed ten sixes and a four in his knock. He received support from Andrew Gonsalves with 40.

In reply, SVC Spartans were restricted to 170-6, despite a fighting unbeaten 89 from David Looknauth - an innings which included four fours and ten sixes. Richard Latif and Mark Harold claimed two wickets apiece for the winners.

The Over-50 semifinals saw Floodlights whip the NYSCL by nine wickets.

Scores - NYSCL 128-9.. O. Jackman 29 and R. Singh 22; Floodlights 133-1, with K. Baljit 62 and R. Pereira 42 not out).

In the other semifinal Parika Defenders defeated New York President’s X1 by 42 runs. Scores – Parika Defenders 174-5; New York President’s X1 132-9.

The event, which is organised by the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA), has grown to become the most

popular and well-attended softball cricket competition in Guyana.

While the organisers have not disclosed the financial rewards, Chronicle Sport was informed that a substantial amount will be handed over to the winners and runners-up in all categories.

Three gold pendants in the shape of a cricket bat will also be presented to the Most Valuable Player of the Open, Over-45 and Over-50 categories.

Ming completes star-studded SR3 line-up for Ignite OVERSEAS-based Guyanese and NACAM F4 Champion Calvin Ming has confirmed participation in the Radical Caribbean SR3 Cup set for November 10 and 11 at the South Dakota Circuit.

The Guyanese, who was on the list as a provisional entry confirmed it yesterday afternoon.

Ming, who earlier this year closed off the USF2000 series in fifth with the PABST racing team in the United States, will join up with fellow Guyanese Mark Vieira and MSVR Radical contender and factory Radical’s Kristian Jeffrey.

Ming and Jeffrey have only met completely in Barbados during that country’s Suzuki Radical series and their meeting here marks the first head-tohead contest the sons of the soil will have.

Many have placed the wager on either side of the coin with Jeffrey having the experience in the SR3’S after two years in Europe.

Ming, on the other hand, is no stranger to the SR3’s himself, after competing in the Barbados’ Suzuki Radical Challenge years ago with great success.

Former Group Four champion Mark Vieira is expected in the mix as well, to complete the trifecta of Guyanese drivers set to defend home turf.

They will have no easy task as they scrap to take on the three brothers of current SR3, Stuart Maloney, Mark and Sean Considered some of the more experienced radical drivers having brought the sport here just under five years ago, the Maloneys are serious game when it comes to the SR3s.

Add teenage driving sensation and Championship Isa Deen out of Trinidad and it’s sure to make for a closely contested battle.

Deen will have support from countrymen Kristian Boodoosingh and Luke Bhola, completing the nine-car SR3

Calvin Ming and Kristian Jeffrey will go head-to-head for the first time here when GMR&SC stages the Ignite race meet in November. (Ackeem Thomas photo)

grid for November 10 and 11.

Figures from the organisers indicate that Stuart Maloney currently leads the fray with 167 points with standout Trinidadian and 16-year-old Deen second on 154 points.

Deen is the meat in a Barbadian sandwich with Mark Maloney third on 140 as the three head for Guyana, knowing full well that any mistake in the 20-lap affair could cost them the inaugural champi-

onship.

Further down in fourth is Boodoosingh on (94 points), Sean Maloney is fifth on (70 points) and Barbadian Suleman Esuf (Bar) is one point adrift on 69 points.

Bhola (38 points) who joined the series late is seventh, with Barbados’ Justin Maloney (28 points) with Mark Vieira, who only participated in one round, ninth with 10 points.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, October 28, 2018

Police end GDF’s reign at Inter-Service Annual Athletics Championships POLICE ended the threeyear reign of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) in the Inter-Service Annual Athletics Championships (ISAAC) after a strong final day at the Eve Leary ground on Friday.

GDF won the last two events of the 2018 edition of the games, but still lost by over 90 points, due mostly to a strong showing by the female Police athletes, led

by Natasha Alder in the field and by Alita Moore, Jevina Sampson and Kezra Murray on the track.

Overall, Police finished the multi-day affair, which also included swimming and road races, with 1 099 points, while GDF ended with 1 004 points, the Guyana Fire Service with 223 points and the Guyana Prison Service with 107 points.

Alder and Moore tallied 30 points each to finish as joint champions in the female division.

GDF’s Damon Williams,

who won the men’s triple jump and finished in second place in the high jump and the long jump was crowned champion male, while fellow GDF athlete Akeem Stewart, who clocked an extremely close second place in the 100m, finished as runner-up.

The Championships, which began in 1976 has spurred on a healthy rivalry, but GDF had managed to take a grip in recent years, owing to victories in 2014, 2015 and 2016. In 2017, the competition had an off-year, which made the 2018 edition even more competitive.

GDF finished 1-2-3 in the women’s 100m officers’ dash, with Kesha Aaron (14.81s), winning ahead of teammates Stacy Cadogan and Melissa Stewart, but they dominated very little afterwards.

Police trump card, Moore, was incredible and she defended her 100m, 200m and 400m events that she had won in 2016. She clocked

12.41s, 25.56s and 57.82s respectively. The 24-year-old, who credits “hard training” for her wins, also helped her team to a 4x100m relay title.

Sampson and Murray showed their dominance in the longer distances. Sampson won the 1500m and finished second in the 400m, while Murray won the 800m and the 3 000m.

Alder was in a league of her own in the throws. She won the shot put with a toss of 12.12m, the discus with a distance of 41.43m, almost four metres farther than her closest opponent (GDF’s Tenisha Cort), while she edged out Cort in the javelin with a winning throw of 33.87m. Cort finished with a top throw of 33.55m.

The high jump was also a close battle as eventual winner Cindy Fraser (1.51m) got past GDF’s Donella Joe (1.49m). The Police athlete Fraser (5.50M) had finished second to teammate Taznika Lovell (5.58M) in the wom-

en’s long jump.

MALE DIVISION Although Williams and Stewart finished with the most points - it was Police athlete, Davin Fraser who was the talk of the afternoon in the male division.

Fraser (10.62s) edged Stewart (10.63s) in the 100m race, while he got past Olympian Winston George in the 200m. The 25-year-old, who clocked 21.22s, began celebrating before he reached the final line. George ended on 21.40s and Linton Mentis (also from the GPF) in third on 21.51s.

GPF’s George bounced back later in the day to claim a first place in his ‘pet event’, the 400m, in a time of 48.74s.

Mentis finished second in 49.14s, while GDF’s Dequan Vancooten placed third (50.08s).

GDF’s Denzil Leitch won the 800m (1:52.09), ahead of Police athletes Andernee Headecker (1:52.39) and

Head coach of the Police team Lyndon Wilson (right) collects the championships trophy in the presence of his elated athletes. (GPF photo)

Quacy Morian (1:54.06).

Leitch (4:04.79) had to settle for a second-place finish in the men’s 1500m as Headecker rallied to victory in 4:03.59s. Soldiers Tyshon Bentinck (4:04.88) placed third.

Earlier in the week, GPF’s Winston Missigher (16:37.64s) had defeated seasoned athlete Cleveland Forde (16:38.34) in the 5000m.

In the field, triple jump winner Williams (14.52m) settled for second place in the high jump and the long jump. Torique Boyce, who jumped 2.00m finished first in the high jump, while Lurex Stewart was the top long jumper (6.81m).

Meanwhile, GDF’s Selwyn Henry won the shot put with a throw of 13.38m.

Super50 final today

Marooners, Jaguars both looking to end lengthy droughts BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Guyana Jaguars captain Leon Johnson is hoping that his side can claim their first Regional Super50 title in 13 years, while Combined Campuses and Colleges Marooners skipper Carlos Brathwaite will be looking to capture their first-ever regional title when they clash in today’s final at Kensington Oval.

The two sides advanced to the final in contrasting styles with Jaguars recording a tense one-wicket win over Jamaica Scorpions while the Marooners hammered Trinidad and Tobago Red Force by seven wickets in a lopsided contest.

According to Johnson, a defeat at the semifinal stage in last year’s competition has been the driving force behind the Jaguars’ performances.

“It would mean a lot to us obviously (to win). We

have put in a lot of work and we lost earlier this year in a semi-final and we had a long discussion after that semi-final defeat.

“It’s pleasing to get to the final not just because we lost in last year’s semis, but also the work that we put in after that loss. Two weeks after that loss we started training and we put in a hell of a lot of work leading into the tournament. It’s pleasing to get to the final but it would be even more pleasing to win,” Johnson said.

However, he stressed that for his side to lift the trophy they would need to be at their best against what he considers a strong CCC team led by Brathwaite, the West Indies T20 captain.

“In the semi-finals there were a few positions we could have played better, bowling-wise and batting-wise but we were good

enough to get over that hurdle.

tential. They have been bowling pretty well and we have

Guyana Jaguars captain Leon Johnson

“The Marooners have been doing well. They are well-led by Carlos Brathwaite, who is an experienced leader, so I expect it to be a good game … once both teams play to their po-

discussed that as well, so we won’t stray away from our plans,” Johnson added.

For Brathwaite, victory for the Marooners would be a monumental achievement.

“We spoke about winning

this tournament before the semi-final and I think this programme goes way beyond any of us that are currently representing the team. We have Sir Hilary Beckles who has been phenomenal in trying to get the CCC formed to begin with in 2008 and then to keep it going and keep it playing regional cricket,” the skipper outlined.

“Floyd Reifer has been a stalwart from inception, whether as a coach or a player … and I think the number of guys who have passed through the CCC including myself and gone on to higher honours for West Indies is phenomenal. Hopefully, it continues to go from strength to strength not only in the Regional 50-over, but hopefully also in the Four-Day tournament and it continues to give guys who are deserving opportunities at the first-class level.”

Brathwaite said his side would be going into the final on a high after soundly whipping the pre-tournament favourites in the semi-finals.

However, he maintained the Marooners would not be taking the Jaguars lightly.

“I think it was phenomenal for a bunch of young guys, as experienced as they are, to come up against world beaters. To put in the performance that we did and for us to come out and execute the way that we did was very, very pleasing.

“But Guyana are a team that always play on your patience, a fighting team and they never say die, but I think we have some of those qualities in our dressing room and some of that character as well,” Brathwaite said.

Windies level ODI series despite Kohli’s historic achievement PUNE, India (CMC) – The West Indies finally got their first win on the tour of India, as they produced a disciplined batting and bowling performance on their way to a 43-run victory over the home side, despite another Virat Kohli century in the third One Day International at the Maharashtra Cricket Association Stadium here yesterday.

Kohli scored 107 to become the first Indian player to score hundreds in three successive ODIs, but it was not enough to prevent the Windies from levelling the five-match series at 1-1.

Buoyed by Shai Hope’s 95 and a late 22-ball cameo of 40 from Ashley Nurse, the West Indies got up to a competitive total of 283 for nine in their 50 overs.

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Shai Hope struck a measured 95 to carry West Indies towards a competitive total ©AFP

Another day, another Virat Kohli century: He also became the first Indian to score three consecutive ODI tons

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Forgotten Youth Foundation capture four gold medals

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Super50 final today

Winners at yesterday’s Pepsi Mike Parris competition

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Marooners, Jaguars both looking to end lengthy droughts Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

SUNDAY, OCTOBER 28, 2018