Guyana Chronicle E-paper 11-04-2018

4th November, 2018

No.105448

Robust 09 security for holidays PAGE

––'A' Division commander urges citizens to be extra careful during Christmas shopping

Man in custody 09 for selling explosives

GECOM promises timely results PAGE

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–– results from small LAAs to be released within hours of close of LGE polls

PAGE

One of the floats at the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha’s annual Diwali motorcade and cultural show on the East Bank of Demerara Saturday night (Delano Williams photo)

Linden to Lethem 03 road remains priority –– even with change of government in Brazil, says top Brazilian diplomat PAGE

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Hinterland needs bank, better – youths talk up their plans for LGEs roads, D&I

By Alva Solomon

IN the coming days, Local Government Elections (LGE) will be held for the second time in three years and several young candidates from the hinterland areas want to see that their respective constituencies benefit from their inputs.

At Port Kaituma, Tifnie Daniels, who will be contesting in Constituency Two at the North West District community on behalf of her party, the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), told the Guyana Chronicle that she will fight for the needs of her constituency which includes the Port Kaituma Compound, Oronoque, Log Pond and a section of the Port Kaituma Main Road.

This is the first time Daniels is participating in the LGEs and she said, “I think we need a change within the environment.”

Daniels, who is participating in the LGEs for the first time, said the area has been stagnated for too long under the current Neighbourhood Democratic Council (NDC). “The young people need to be more involved, this community needs to improve, so I am there to represent us, the youths,”

she said.

Daniels, who was born and raised at Port Kaituma, said she aims to work with all stakeholders if elected to serve. “I am young and into it for the long haul,” she said, noting that she is confident in her potential to get the job done.

She said since her name was announced as a candidate for the APNU, she has received positive feedback from persons in the community.

She noted that there are opposition forces who have been trying to poison the minds of supporters, but she noted that she is confident that the party will gain the support it needs to manage the NDC. “I think we need to bypass party politics and for this election focus more on the community; it’s more about community development,” Daniels said with an air of confidence. “We should all work together,” she said. Improved drainage and roads within the area are among the issues which she said needs to be addressed.

She pointed out however that the government is undertaking major road projects in the area and the plans of the NDC should include proper maintenance

Harley Joseph

Tifnie Daniels

of the roads when works are completed.

Daniels said Port Kaituma is a business community, and as such, persons should work together to improve its image.

“My aim is to better my community because it’s my hometown,” she said.

Among his immediate plans is to ensure his constituency receives potable water. “I’m not far from the Town Hall and we are not getting pipe water. My entire village,” he said.

He said another matter which he is concerned about is the historical “Kissing Rocks” site at Mabaruma which he noted may soon be in the hands of a businessman. Reports are that parcels of land close to the site were sold to the businessman from Kumaka.

Phang said the effect which access to the site may have on the people in the area, especially those living in the Aruka Mouth area, needs to be considered as well as the impact ownership may have on

MABARUMA Chris Phang, another young candidate at this year’s LGEs, is vying for a post on the Mabaruma Town Council.

He is representing Constituency Two (Mabaruma/ Barimanobo) at this year’s elections as a candidate for the People’s Progressive Party (PPP). He also believes that the elections are more about community development.

Chris Phang local tourism.

“Once it is privately developed, it will be taken away from us the people,” Phang noted.

Phang said the issue of jobs-- especially provisions in large infrastructural contracts for locals to gain employment-- is another issue he plans to talk up.

“I am sure we have the same skills and there are people in the area that can do the very job,” he said. He said the issue of security, mainly the need for additional police patrols, is also another matter of concern which he plans to address.

MAHDIA Harley Joseph is contesting at Mahdia, Guyana’s newest town and he will be representing the Alliance For Change (AFC) at Constituency One, which encapsulates the Euwang/Central Mahdia area.

“I wanted to be part of the elections and focus on a lot of issues; it is more about youth empowerment,” he said. Joseph

said too the elections “have nothing to [do with] people passing orders from Fort Street, Kingston.”

In a frank tone, Joseph noted that issues relating to healthcare; the need for information technology hubs; educational programmes and a trade school at Mahdia, are among the topics he plans to bring to the table once elected to serve.

He believes too that the town council will have to find means to generate funds; and he believes that taking business to Mahdia by connecting the area through building a road link to the Pamela Landing can help to increase business prospects for residents.

He said too that the gold-producing town is also in need of a commercial bank, since many persons transact business at the town on a daily basis with gold or cash.

“Mahdia becoming a town is a big occasion for us; and while a lot of people do not fully understand, as a resident, I can relate to what is needed here,” he said.

Joseph said too that LGEs present an ideal opportunity for Mahdians to promote and develop the town. “We got a chance to do it for ourselves.”

Local government elections are scheduled for November 12, 2018.

On Friday last the disciplined services voted as the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is preparing to undertake the second LGEs since the March 18, 2016 polls.

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Linden to Lethem road remains priority

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

–– even with change of government in Brazil, says top Brazilian diplomat

A SENIOR government official from Brazil’s Ministry of External Relations has revealed that the commitment to build an all-weather road from Lethem to Linden remains a priority for the country even with a change of government.

Head of the Division of Venezuela, Colombia and Guyana, Ana Beatriz Nogueira, recently said “The organs responsible for infrastructure in Brazil are aware of the strategic importance of the Linden-Lethem road.”

She further explained that while some key appointments are political in nature, the secretary of infrastructure assured that the necessary budgetary arrangements have already been made.

“They have a technical corps that is not usually affected by political changes,” she said.

Nogueira led a delega-

tion of some 30 officials from various agencies in Brazil to meet with Guyanese counterparts at the Seventh Meeting of the Bonfim-Lethem Border Committee that was held in

Bonfim on October 30 and 31, 2018.

Chief Transport Planning Officer in Guyana’s Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Patrick Thompson, provided an update on

Chief Transport Planning Officer, Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Patrick Thompson, while making a presentation at the meeting

the project during discussions.

“The paving of 454 kilometres of the Linden to Lethem Road and the construction of a deep sea port remain priorities on the infrastructure agenda for Guyana,” he expressed.

The Linden to Lethem roadway is being done in phases, starting with the approximately 125 km section from Linden to Mabura Hills. Some US$120M has been guaranteed by the United Kingdom Caribbean Infrastructure Partnership Fund (UKCIF) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB).

In his update at the meeting, the chief planning officer stated that a recently identified international engineering firm is expected to begin the design process in January 2019, which is expected to last for 10 months.

The Guyana-Brazil Joint Commission on In-

Sub-committees discussing the various areas of mutual cooperation at the University of Brazil in Bonfim

Head of the Division of Venezuela, Colombia and Guyana--Brazilian Ministry of External Affairs-- Ana Beatriz Nogueira frastructure is pursuing the detailed designs for Phase 2 of the project, which is the 320 km section between Mabura Hills and Lethem.

“We are looking forward eagerly to the day when the journey between Georgetown and Lethem is reduced to a mere four hours,” Thompson added.

Meanwhile, a study is being conducted by a firm from the Netherlands to determine the location for a deep sea port close to the mouth of the Demerara, Essequibo or the Berbice River.

“Once completed, Guyana will advertise for expressions of interest from national and international firms desirous of constructing and operating the port in a public-private partnership with the Government of Guyana,” he revealed.

Despite looming implications of political changes in Brazil, the border committee made progress on a number of issues including

the re-establishment of the Bilateral Commission on Police Cooperation and Drugs with its first meeting set for March 29, 2019.

During the discussions, representatives in the security forces of both nations committed to working closer to curb cross border crime. Brazil has agreed to offer training in the initial instance to 10 Guyanese police officers in identifying vehicular theft.

The two sides were also able to agree on collaboration to combat plant diseases, particularly the Carambola Fruit Fly, which has had implications for trade.

Other areas discussed were health, education, environment, judicial cooperation and the International Road Transport Agreement.

Guyana and Brazil have agreed to meet again shortly to evaluate areas of cooperation.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

Lawyer flees Pakistan in fear of his life (BBC) The lawyer representing a Christian woman acquitted of blasphemy after eight years on death row has fled Pakistan in fear for his life.

Saif Mulook told news agency AFP he had to leave so he could continue to represent Asia Bibi, whose conviction was overturned by judges on Wednesday.

Officials have since agreed to bar Ms Bibi from leaving Pakistan in order to end violent protests over the ruling.

Campaigners blasted the deal as akin to signing her “death warrant”.

Asia Bibi was convicted in 2010 of insulting the Prophet Muhammad during a row with neighbours, and many are calling for the reinstatement of the death penalty following her acquittal.

Mr Mulook told the BBC earlier this week she would need to move to a Western country for her own safety.

A number of attempts have previously been made on her life.

Sunday, November 04, 2018 - 2:00hrs –– 14:30hrs

Several countries have offered her asylum.

Pakistani Information Minister Fawad Chaudhry defended the government against allegations that a deal reached with an Islamist party was capitulating to extremists.

He said the government would “take all steps necessary” to ensure Asia Bibi’s safety.

Mr Mulook, however, called the agreement “painful”.

“They cannot even implement an order of the country’s highest court,” he told AFP before he boarded the plane to Europe.

Mr Mulook said he had decided to leave as it was “not possible” to continue living in Pakistan, adding: “I need to stay alive as I still have to fight the legal battle for Asia Bibi.”

He told Pakistan’s Express Tribune he would return to the country to defend his client - but needed the government to provide security.

The protests were led by the Tehreek-i-Labaik (TLP) party.

As party of its deal with the TLP, the government said it would not oppose petitions filed against the Supreme Court’s verdict.

What else is in the deal?

All protesters arrested since Asia Bibi’s acquittal will be released, and any violence towards them will be investigated.

The government will also start legal proceedings to put Ms Bibi on a list which would ban her from leaving Pakistan.

In return, the TLP is asking its supporters to stop the protests and disperse peacefully.

The authorities earlier said that Ms Bibi was scheduled for release later this week.

What was she accused of?

The trial stems from an argument Ms Bibi, whose full name is Asia Noreen, had with a group of women in June 2009.

They were harvesting fruit when a row broke out about a bucket of water. The women said that because she had used a cup, they could no longer touch it, as her faith had made it unclean.

Prosecutors alleged that in the row which followed, the women said Asia Bibi should convert to Islam and that she made offensive comments about the Prophet Muhammad in response.

She was later beaten up at her home, during which her

accusers say she confessed to blasphemy. She was arrested after a police investigation.

In Wednesday’s ruling, the Supreme Court said that the case was based on flimsy evidence and her confession was delivered in front of a crowd “threatening to kill her”.

Why is this case so divisive?

Islam is Pakistan’s national religion and underpins its legal system. Public support for the strict blasphemy laws is strong.

Hard-line politicians have often backed severe punishments, partly as a way of shoring up their support base.

But critics say the laws have often been used to get revenge after personal disputes, and that convictions are based on thin evidence.

The vast majority of those convicted are Muslims or members of the Ahmadi community, but since the 1990s, scores of Christians have been convicted. They make up just 1.6% of the population.

The Christian community has been targeted by numerous attacks in recent years, leaving many feeling vulnerable to a climate of intolerance.

Since 1990, at least 65 people have reportedly been killed in Pakistan over claims of blasphemy.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

100 murders in TT since Young became minister

(Trinidad Newsday) NAPARIMA MP Rodney Charles says there have been more than 100 murders since Stuart Young became national security minister.

He was speaking on Friday as Parliament debated the adoption of the report on the Joint Select Committee on the Income Tax (Amendment) Bill 2018.

He said while Government was threatening the Opposition that it was going to “follow

the money and somehow we should be scared” he recommended they follow the money with A&V Drilling, Galleons Passage, the “Astral” (Austal) ferries and the Ocean Flower.

He also said Government was hiding behind the assumption that crime had gone way but since Young was appointed in August there have been 104 murders.

“One hundred and four of our citizens dead.”

On the bill, Charles said

the PNM has lapsed in getting TT off the European Union watch list and waited for the last minute as they did with the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act. “They bring legislation, they tell us like Chicken Licken the heavens will fall if we do not pass this immediately, forthwith, and then try to hoodwink us to pass this inadequate legislation that is not the best.”

National Security Minister Stuart Young

TT PM: More than $30m for flood relief (Trinidad Newsday) GOVERNMENT has spent over $30 million on flood relief effort, the Prime Minister disclosed on Friday.

Recalling the initial figure proposed was $25 million, Dr Rowley said, “We have since gone past that and we may go a bit further.” He could not say what that final figure could be but Rowley indicated Government is committed to doing all it can to help people affected by floods two weeks ago “get back on their feet.”

The PM said, “At the end of the day, it will be a tidy sum.” He spoke during a news conference at Tower D of the Port of Spain International Waterfront Centre.

Last Thursday, Newsday reported that Gov-

ernment had printed and distributed at least $30 million in cheques for approximately 30 per cent of the people affected by the floods on October 19 floods . He reiterated that grants of $15,000 and $20,000 were approved for flood victims who were single individuals and families respectively. Rowley said Government will also respond to those people who “suffered physical damage to the homes where their plumbing or their structure has been damaged.”

The PM restated that Greenvale residents would have a three-month deferral of their mortgage payments to the Housing Development Corporation (HDC). Rowley explained this meant the res-

idents could use money allocated for their mortgage payments to help them rebuild after the floods. Residents, Rowley continued, would not suffer any penalty during this period. But he made it clear “no person should interpret a deferral to mean a waiver.”

Saying no member of the government can instruct the HDC to waive the mortgage liabilities of its clients, Rowley said, “People who own those properties have contracted mortgage liabilities. They can’t walk away from those liabilities if they are to preserve their homes.” The PM said Greenvale residents should not fear their properties would be devalued as a result of the floods.

He was confident the val-

ue of properties in Greenvale would “bounce back” once the necessary engineering and other works to mitigate flooding in the area are done.

Rowley recalled similar fears expressed about Diamond Vale, Diego Martin years ago after severe flooding. He said today property values in Diamond Vale have improved considerably.

Rowley also said there is no reason why insurance companies would not insure HDC properties that were affected by floods.

Referring to his own house in Goodwood Park, Rowley said it was par for the course for insurance companies to evaluate risks for homes in all parts of the country.

2,400-acre farm in Jamaica to employ more than 900 workers

(Jamaica Observer) KINGSTON, Jamaica — Minister without Portfolio in the Ministry of Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, JC Hutchinson, says the 2400 acre farm to be established at Holland Estate in St Elizabeth, will provide employment for over 900 individuals.

Speaking at the 20182019 Irish Potato Sensitisation meeting, held at the Green Valley Apostolic Church, Lewisville, New Market, St Elizabeth on Thursday, Hutchinson said the majority of those who will be selected to work on the property will be females.

“We are going to be looking at having over 900 people to work on the farm.

I am just saying most are going to be women. [However], any male, any female that is interested, I am sending it out from now, get yourselves in a formal farming organisation so that you can find work down at Holland when the time comes,” Hutchinson stated.

He reiterated that preparation of lands for farming at Holland Estate will start in June/July of 2019, after the final cane crop is reaped by J Wray and Nephew’s Appleton Estate.

He further stated that his ministry is currently putting in place “the programme, whereby we will make a

steady transition for all the farmers.”

In the meantime, Hutchinson is urging small farmers in St Elizabeth to apply to take up lands at the Holland Estate.

He noted that lands will be leased to mostly small farmers, with no one person being able to secure more than 25 acres of land.

“There are many persons who want to go into agriculture, but do not have lands. Many may have a square or an acre but want more land. Holland Estate is closing and there are a number of proposals that have come in,” Hutchinson said.

“Those who are interested, we are taking applications now and I have some young people up in New Market here for them to register to come and get lands out at Holland,” he emphasised.

He also informed that the application period closes on November 10.

Hutchinson told the farmers that the Agro Economic Zone to be established on the Southern side of Holland Estate, will prevent a market glut for their produce.

He noted that the zone will consist of a complex housing storage, grading, drying, packaging, and processing facilities.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

The importance of our local government system WHILE many countries have multiple tiers of government, including local government systems, Guyana may have one of the best. The impending local government elections scheduled for November 12 have understandably caused many Guyanese to ask the questions: on what premise or logic is our system of local government based?

What is the thinking underlying our system of municipalities and neighbourhood democratic councils (NDCs), and how important is it?

The fact is, our system of local governance is based on a great deal of enlightened thought and deliberation. The system is vital to democratic governance, and all Guyanese have a patriotic duty to participate in the processes of local governance for their own benefit.

Guyana’s constitution, enacted in 1980, mandates the existence of local democratic organs -- municipalities and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) – and defines their roles within the

scheme of national governance.

Article 12 reveals the importance of the system; it declares, “Local government by freely elected representatives of the people is an integral part of the democratic organisation of the State.”

Articles 13 and 71 state the purpose of the local tier of government. Article 13 states, “The principal objective of the political system of the State is to establish an inclusionary democracy by providing increasing opportunities for the participation of citizens and their organisations in the management and decision-making processes of the State, with particular emphasis on those areas of decision-making that directly affect their well-being.”

Article 71 underscores the idea that, “Local government is a vital aspect of democracy, and shall be organised to involve as many people as possible in the task of managing and developing the communities in which they live.”

The constitution evidently places much power in the hands of the

local tier of government. Articles 74 and 75 stipulate that local democratic organs shall be autonomous and have clearly defined, specific responsibilities intended to raise the standard of living of all Guyanese.

The ideas underlying those vital constitutional provisions were conceived prior to enactment of the constitution and articulated in a document titled, STATE PAPER ON THE RE-ORGANISATION OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT SYSTEM IN GUYANA. The paper was tabled in the National Assembly on August 5, 1980 by then Minister of Economic Development and Cooperatives, Mr. Desmond Hoyte.

The State Paper was the product of deliberate consultations. The document explains, “By Resolution NO. CXXIII of 21st July, 1978, the National Assembly established a Constituent Assembly for the purpose of devising a new constitution for Guyana. This constitution, the first to be fashioned by the Guyanese people for themselves,

was intended to be consistent with and reflect the prevailing ethos, the social objectives and the aspirations of the Guyanese people.”

Further, it explains, “Such a far-reaching enterprise as the elaboration of a new constitution, of necessity, had implications for and impinged upon every aspect of national life, not the least important being the local government system.”

Local government and its importance to national development was obviously at the forefront of the minds of the framers of Guyana’s constitution.

The document repeatedly emphasises the importance of local government. “The constitution identifies and enshrines the local government system as one of the most important democratic institutions. Indeed, the pivotal and pervasive role assigned to local government and its integral importance in the political framework constitute an essential characteristic of the democratic organisation of the State.”

Referring to the old system, the State Paper observes: “In the colonial context, local government was peripheral to the political and economic life of the country; that “local government is an ideal institution for mobilising the rural population and resources, and liberating the productive forces for development.”

Clearly, Guyana’s system of government at the community level is based on careful consideration of our country’s post-colonial realities, and deliberate attention to its post-independence developmental aspirations. The essential and important role of government at the local level, therefore, cannot be overemphasised; the origin of the system proves that fact.

As such, Guyanese are urged to participate fully in the system, because it is the level of government which has the greatest and most direct impact on their lives.

Voting on November 12, therefore, should be a commitment of every Guyanese citizen.

ACM: We will not be silenced ––‘killing a journalist does not kill the truth’ Dear Editor THE year 2018 marks the fifth observance of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists (IDEI). In 2011, we joined with the IFEX network, of which we are a part, in global observances of impunity as one of the single greatest threats to freedom of expression worldwide.

November 2 observances are important to media workers, as it

allows us to bring about awareness to free-press issues, particularly attempts to silence the media through criminal means.

This is not unknown in the Caribbean, and the ACM has cited instances in Haiti and Guyana in which attacks on media workers have gone unpunished.

Every year, dozens of journalists are killed worldwide while in their pursuit to bring truth to the public.

This year, so far, the Committee

to Protect Journalists reports that 45 journalists have lost their lives; more than half were murdered, while others were killed on a dangerous assignment or in crossfire. While these incidents have happened in other parts of the world, Caribbean media professionals must not become complacent. We must continue to fight against all threats to silence the media. Crimes against journalists must not go unpunished and it is our responsibility to continue to high-

light criminal acts committed against the media.

Tolerance and understanding are key to the process of ending impunity for crimes committed against journalists. We therefore call upon politicians and other leaders to refrain from rhetoric that may incite violence against journalists.

The Association of Caribbean MediaWorkers supports the work of organisations like IFEX, which played a critical role in establishing IDEI, and UNESCO, which continues to defend the right to a free press and free expression. This year, UNESCO is launching its “Truth Never Dies” campaign where everyone is encouraged to celebrate the legacy of murdered journalists by sharing their work. Let the world know that killing a journalist does not kill the truth.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

GECOM promises timely results

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-- results from small LAAs to be released within hours of close of LGE polls

By Svetlana Marshall THE declaration of results for small Local Authority Areas (LAAs) in the upcoming Local Government Elections would be released by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) within the first three hours of the close of polls, according to GECOM’s Public Relations Officer Yolanda Ward.

“Let’s use the three new Local Authority Areas (LAAs) that we have in the Pomeroon River where each of them only have three constituencies, the returning officer can quickly tabulate for each constituency for the First-Past-the-Post component within the first hour,” Ward explained while noting that larger LAAs such as Georgetown and Linden could take a little longer.

“The (results for) Pro-

portional Representation can come within the next two hours or even less depending on the distance the RO [returning officer] needs to go to in terms of uplifting all the statements of poll, verifying all of the information, doing tabulation, arriving at the quota and all of that, and to

make that declaration,” she further explained.

At the time, Ward was speaking to reporters on the sideline of an informative session organised by the Guyana Press Association (GPA) in collaboration with GECOM on Saturday at the National Racquet Cen-

GECOM’s Public Relations Officer Yolanda Ward and Registration Officer Clairmont Mingo (Delano Williams photo)

Media operatives in National Racquet Centre Boardroom during the informative session organised by GPA in collaboration with GECOM

Ensuring mayor’s security comes with the office THE City Constabulary Department is responsible for securing the council’s assets, which include all buildings such as markets, daycare centres, health centres and all other assets that are the properties of the council.

The office of mayor, regardless of who that person is, is afforded one security personnel and the residence is provided with security personnel that operate on a shift system from 7am to 3pm; 3pm to 11pm; and 11pm to 7am.

This security detail was provided to all other past mayors, among them Robert Williams, Ranwell Jordan and Hamilton Green.

Regards Debra Lewis Public Relations Office

Barking at the wind Dear Editor I WONDER what impression PPP/C Member of Parliament (MP), Juan Edghill, who has assumed the role of his party’s bulldog, believe he is seeking to convey by attempting to bully answers concerning medical expenditures for government officials, especially its Cabinet members, out of government’s Minister of Public Health.

I cannot fathom any good reason for such an unusual line, given that this MP’s party has had a bill of in excess of $100M for a threeyear period. And this does not include a similar sum being expended on medical

tre Boardroom.

Early declaration of the results means that candidates with the most votes in the First-Past-the-Post component for the various constituencies within a Local Authority Area (LAA) would be announced by GECOM. Similarly infor-

expenses for the husband of Indra Chandarpal, who suffered from a terminal illness, before he eventually succumbed.

I am certain that whatever sums would have so far been paid as coverage for the government’s ministers would not include any such dental price tag that had been accrued by the former PPP/C Cabinet minister Pauline Sukhai.

Conscious of the fact that medical attention and treatment, especially when accessed overseas, carry astronomical costs and was usually borne by taxpayers, explains the reason the current administration has decided to opt for insurance

coverage of its Cabinet officers; 50 per cent coverage, with any sums that exceed that being deductible from the particular minister’s salary. This is ensuring that no undue burden falls on the taxpayer.

Which leaves me to wonder what is Juan Edghill hoping to prove by tactics, which are of the scraping-the-barrel type.

I wonder what he thinks Minister Lawrence will reveal when she announces figures in respect of her colleagues.

Regards Earl Hamilton

mation for the Proportional Representation component in the mixed Local Government System would be revealed.

“In terms of the release of the information, we will do it by Local Authority Area, constituencies, the Proportional Representation Com-

ponent, the First-Past-thePost Component, the number of seats, the number of valid votes cast,” the GECOM PRO said. The results would be broadcasted on the National Communications Network (NCN) Turn to page 11 ►

Bruised backs, burdensome bridge 8

NOW that the court has conclusively decided that the remaining severance, with interest, must be paid no later than January 15 next year, the combined union/party opposition should come off the bruised backs of the sugar workers.

It is possible that payments could be made earlier, before year-end, as the National Assembly has given the green light on Thursday last for disbursement of the

additional $2.451B (two billion, four hundred and fifty-one million dollars).

After four of the seven sugar factories were closed late last year, the bankrupted and crippled state corporation sought a bailout from the Coalition Government to the tune of $4.563B (four billion, five hundred and sixty-three million dollars) to meet severance, overtime and holiday pay for an estimated 4,763 workers.

That was in addition to previous bailouts amounting to some $38B, which the government had to find within three years of taking office.

WORKERS NOT ABANDONED The government did not abandon the severed sugar workers, though the opposition (then PPP government) had placed them in jeopardy in the first place.

It was they who ran the industry into debt in the amount of $85B, and saddled it with a politically imposed, inefficient and incompetent bureaucracy.

By the end of January 2018, the Coalition Government produced a rescue plan by paying in full the most vulnerable workers who were entitled to $500,000 or less; some 1,600 workers took full pay.

The government had then set aside $500M to help GuySuCo, but that sum was not enough. Finance Minister Jordan then went to Parliament for almost $2B ($1 billion, nine hundred and thirty-one million dollars), at which sitting many PPP MPs stayed away.

That has been the pattern of the opposition’s irresponsibility; to make big noises,

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

beat their chests in lamentation over the condition of sugar workers, but they would not identify with the efforts to find money for the bailout packages.

On this last occasion, their leader left the National Assembly long before the vote was taken to approve the additional sum for the affected sugar workers.

HUGE, GENEROUS HEART History would record that this APNU+AFC Coalition Government has opened its huge, generous heart to sugar workers.

Initially, it had set up a thorough inquiry into the run-down state of the industry, while keeping sugar workers on life-support.

It then came out with a bold and courageous rescue plan: to close the unproductive estates pending divestment, and to modernise the others. It will not allow the sugar industry to die, and will secure the employment of 10,000 workers.

It was a struggle to keep the sugar industry afloat, while simultaneously combating piracy that had terrified our fishermen; finding markets for our rice and paddy to save farmers from bankruptcy; breaking the back of narco and human trafficking; smashing the politically aligned death squads;and checking the growth of the criminalised state.

Also, the government has secured pass marks in boosting public education, public health, public safety, low-cost housing, etc.

The government also signalled that alternative jobs were available for retrenched workers at the grinding es-

tates, and at security and drainage and irrigation facilities. It continues to explore options that would allow sugar workers to secure leases for plots of land to do agriculture and aqua-culture.

It encouraged private sector agencies to absorb the children of sugar workers in call-centre and other IT operations, and to enlist them in skills training for the oiland-gas industry.

But the opposition shrugged off all those efforts with disgust and disdain.

Their mouthpiece,Guyana Times, argued that sugar workers even if provided land, cannot do other crops.

They compared cane-cutters with dancers at an opera: “A thing of beauty to behold.”

“These fellas are specialists whose work is so practiced (sic!) and fluid that to look at them is to look at the Bolshoi Ballet performing Swan Lake!”

(November 24, 2017).

LIGHT A CANDLE I know the extent of that contempt of the opposition gang, which had led me to pen the statement in 2010, before I walked away from the PPP, “Light a candle for sugar workers.”

I should also be writing, “Light a Candle for Berbice Bridge Commuters” who have been saddled with a river bridge, whose tolls are becoming burdensome. It is now public knowledge that what has been conceived as the Berbice bridge, was in reality “Bharrat’s Best Buddies’ Bridge.” Those Bs have the majority of votes on the board of the bridge company; and they have decided to inflict on Berbicians a deadly sting of a 500% increase in tolls.

It is now public knowledge that the former government used up monies which sugar workers and public servants had in the National Insurance Scheme (NIS) to finance the bridge, together with private investors, who were (and are) near and dear to the then President.

The opposition cannot easily wriggle itself out from this mess where, on the eve of local government elections and unease in the sugar belt, it tried to blame the government for causing the proposed oppressive increase in the tolls.

Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson has told the National Assembly that the Coalition Government “cannot, and will not accept, under any circumstances” the proposed toll hikes.

NATIONAL GOOD The private owners had given the former government a honeymoon, sweetheart pass by not asking for any increase in the tolls for seven consecutive years between 2008 and 2015.

But as soon as the Coalition Government took office, it downed the hammer and demanded in 2016 a hike. The coalition absorbed the increase by giving the company subsidies totalling $465M, instead of allowing the increase to be heaped on the backs of commuters.

Any disruption of the Berbice bridge would destabilise traffic and bring hardships to all Guyanese.

The government has an obligation, therefore, to secure this bridge as a public or national good. It must ensure that neither the tolls are increased nor traffic interrupted on November 12, and thereafter.

Robust security for holidays SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

9

–– 'A' Division commander urges citizens to be extra careful during Christmas shopping THE Guyana Police Force is calling on all persons to be extra vigilant as they go about their shopping during the upcoming Christmas season, while urging persons to use the banking services or private security services when handling large amounts of cash.

In an exclusive interview with this publication, Commander ‘A’ Division Assistant Commissioner, Marlon Chapman, said intelligence led policing, strict traffic control, patrols in the housing schemes and business areas will be very active during the Christmas season.

He explained that

neighbours must look out for each other during the season since bandits and robbers prey on unoccupied homes that are left unattended by persons who are out shopping during the season.

Although holiday shopping can be stressful enough, taking extra precautions against pick-pockets, burglars and bandits can seem like a burden, but the commander said persons should shop in the daytime with at least one other person and where necessary, park in well-lit areas, and near other vehicles.

He advised that owners of small cars should avoid parking next to large vehicles, since this can provide

cover for thieves and possibly cause obstruction in the case of an emergency.

The commander noted that persons should keep their wallets or purses close to their bodies, and limit the amount of cash they carry to what they will need for the shopping trip.

Further, he explained that shoppers should not become complacent while in stores, since it is important to observe the people around while not loading one’s self down with bags.

Adding that persons should have keys in hands when approaching their vehicles, Commander Chapman said when drivers approache their vehicles they should be able to

unlock the door and not be delayed by fumbling and looking for keys.

“Petty thieves are attracted to expensive phones so people should keep their devices hidden when they are in public and don’t wait until Christmas Eve to do last minute shopping because that’s when it’s crowded and most pick-pockets happen,” he advised.

He underscored that crime can happen anywhere and persons can protect themselves, others and property by staying alert, be safety conscious and informed. “Trust your instincts, if something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.”

As such, he said that

Man in custody for selling explosives A SALESMAN at Charity, Essequibo Coast, who was vending explosives, is in custody after he was caught by police during a routine check in the area.

The 21-year-old salesman who resides at Kitty, Georgetown was found with 47 boxes of mini-cicciolo, 97 golden blazes, 36 sharks and 40 boxes of mini-bengs.

Police in ‘G’ Division have also raided 10 other stalls at Charity and Anna Regina over the past few days in a bid to protect residents and animals from loud and abrupt blasts during Diwali celebrations.

The explosives that were seized by police

Prisoner, officer nursing stab wounds A REMAND prisoner sustained eight stab wounds while a prison officer was also wounded during a fracas at the Timehri Prison on Saturday morning.

Reports are that around 08:55 hrs on Saturday, November 3, 2018, a convicted

murderer stabbed the remanded murder accused with an improvised weapon.

Reports are that the prisoner who sustained injuries made threats to the life of a prison officer on Friday and also disturbed the other prisoners by kicking against

a steel door later that night.

During the morning routine procedures that was undertaken at the prison on Saturday, the attack occurred.

Reports are that three officers attempted to part a fight and one sustained two stab wounds to his arm and

temple.

The injured prisoner was said to have received eight stab wounds about his body.

Both injured persons are receiving medical attention.

Police and the prison authorities are investigating the incident.

the Guyana Police Force has several measures to beef up security during this year’s Christmas season.

Some of the measures include vehicle, foot and bicycle patrols; road blocks; “riverine postures” and parking arrangements to reduce traffic congestion.

The plans will be implemented in phases as Guyanese prepare for the annual traditions associated with the Christmas season, where shopping at late hours is expected.

Special focus on implementing the measures will be placed in the capital city, Georgetown, where the majority of the country’s serious crimes are

Commander ‘A’ Division Assistant Commissioner, Marlon Chapman recorded.

In addition, the commander said that police presence would be beefed up around several strategic areas, which include the seawall, Stabroek Market, banks, restaurants, and nightclubs.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Understanding Energy...

Long-term outlook for local content

MANY Guyanese are understandably curious about future local content and how Guyana will develop the capacity to deliver that content. Groups such as the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) are aggressively pushing for policies to mandate specific levels of local content in the emerging oil-and-gas industry.

While it’s impossible to say with certainty what shape Guyana’s future industries will take, we can look to international examples of oil development for guidance.

It’s important to note that Guyana is unique because our early oil development will be happening exclusively offshore.

Offshore development is an especially technology-intensive and high-skilled form of oil-and- gas extraction, compared to onshore drilling, requiring a variety of very specialied services.

Aberdeen, Scotland, which has come up before in this column, is a similar and interesting example. It was a small city that was traditionally reliant on one industry--fishing-- in this case, which then saw incredible development as a result of major offshore oil discoveries.

Aberdeen became an international centre for companies that provide the kinds of hyper-specialised services that are important to offshore drilling, such as underwater seismic studies, helicopter transport, and commercial diving.

But local content is important long before an oil region starts dealing with that kind of specialisation. Scotland had a long history of advanced engineering and technology, which Guyana lacks. At the beginning of oil development, the first step towards developing in the Aberdeen model is focusing on local content that is focused on the basic services a country can provide.

Businesses such as caterers, bakeries, transport services and other industries are already seeing positive impacts in the form of contracts and subcontracts to provide needed supplies and logistical support to the oil-and-gas industry and related industries.

The list of Exxon contractors released by the Department of Public Information is full of just this type of basic non-technical enterprise that is nonetheless employed by a major multinational company and its top contractors.

The next tier of local content involves

specialisation and development directly related to oil extraction. Guyana’s engineering, machining, and marine logistics companies are jumping on this opportunity; they are led by companies such as Guysons Oil and Gas, which recently obtained the prestigious ISO:9001 certification, an international measure for quality management. These firms have existing technical capacity and many are seeing oil as a huge opportunity for the future, even if they are not yet ready to meet many of the industry’s needs.

Joint ventures with international companies are a good example of this stage of capacity-building; combining foreign capital and sector expertise with local knowledge and manpower.

By working with the oil companies and training to meet specialised industry needs, companies can try to position themselves to be major players in an emerging industry and to build capacity organically.

Already, at least four other companies are pursuing ISO:9001 certification with the help of the Centre for Local Business Development.

These companies hope they can follow the same course as many other developing

oil regions have; orienting existing industrial skills towards oil and gas development and gaining key sector-specific skills with an eye to the future.

Many of the international oil field services companies in Aberdeen got their start as smaller local players in engineering, aviation, or building.

They gained specialised experience and a reputation in the industry through their work in oil and gas; and that eventually allowed them to be globally significant players, whose skills were applicable anywhere there was significant offshore drilling. Their skills also enabled them to play significant roles in newer industries as well,such as offshore wind that demand many of the same capabilities.

Achieving an outcome such as this is a balancing act. Governments must be careful to not stifle investment by requiring local content that Guyana doesn’t yet have the ability to provide, but still invests in building that kind of capacity for the future.

Thankfully, Guyana’s local companies are showing signs of steady progress towards that goal, even without a local content policy in place.

18 doctors at New Amsterdam Hospital on leave simultaneously THE Region Six administration is outraged after the Director of Health Services Jevaughn Stephens confirmed that 18 doctors at the New Amsterdam Hospital, including specialists, have recently proceeded on their annual vacation leave.

Stephens said he has done nothing wrong and placed the blame squarely at the feet of Medical Superintendent, Dr V. Khirodhar, who is tasked with preparing the roster for the doctors.

Addressing Regional Chairman David Armogan at a recent monthly statutory meeting, Stephens said,

“Chairman, I have not seen the leave applications. This is unacceptable.

Khirodhar has the responsibility of scheduling the doctors and she is also on leave.”

But, Armogan, fueled by a report of a councillor who claimed to have received poor service while being a patient at the Accident and Emergency Unit, said, “It’s ridiculous. How can you send eighteen doctors on leave,” he questioned.

“There is a shortage, because the A&E is not fully staffed and the medical superintendent went on leave and

has approved 18. Those remaining cannot take off the workload as the A&E patients have to wait for several hours. This is totally unacceptable for health services. Something is wrong with the rostering of the leave. The roster should have been prepared in such a way that the system does not suffer its beneficiaries,” the regional chairman said.

He has since suggested that some doctors be recalled while charging the director to ensure that there is a full complement of doctors to meet the demand.

Region Six Chairman David Armogan

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

Cannabis field GECOM promises ... destroyed; police hunting attackers From page 7

and released to the media as they are confirmed

by GECOM.

READY Ward said the Returning Officers (ROs) are ready to deliver. “We have worked out with our returning officers the importance of them working out a faster mythology to ensure those results are available. Our returning officers have been working very hard to ensure that they are able to deliver on that in their respective areas,” she said.

Last week, GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer (CEO) Keith Lowenfield had assured that the counting of ballots and declaration of results would not go beyond November 13, 2018.

Probed whether the Elections Commission feels pressured to deliver more timely results when compared to hosting of 2016 Local Government Elections, and the past General and Regional Elections, Ward said no.

“I don’t think it is public pressure. I know we are talking elections and accuracy of the results is what is important and for us being a constitutional agency with a constitutional mandate, from the average person outside the anxiety is always there but for us the accuracy of that results is what is even more important because once something is released you cannot pull it back,” she told reporters.

Ward emphasised that though GECOM understands the “anxiety” that comes with any local or general elections, accuracy is GECOM’s number one priority.

On November 12, approximately 573, 000 eligible voters within the 80 Local Authority Areas are expected to vote at 1,674 polling stations countrywide.

During the informative session, which sought to educate media operatives on the electoral process, GECOM Registration Officer Clairmont Mingo disclosed that during the course of this new week, GECOM’s Secretariat would be transporting the election materials to central locations within the LAAs. TIGHT SECURITY Weighing in on the topic, Ward told reporters that the materials which include ballots would be escorted under tight security.

“Now at the top of our priority is security, so there are systems in place for the movement of any election material… it is a lock and key scenario. So when materials are moved from Georgetown to any other location it is being moved with security presence that remains there for 24 hours,” she noted.

The ballots procured from the Canadian Bank Note Company have arrived on schedule, according to GECOM, and are being secured by the Guyana Police Force (GPF).

The informative session with local media operatives, primarily reporters, was held to educate them on the existing systems within the electoral process.

“The media is a very important stakeholder when we are talking elections, you are the people who channel information out to the public and so it is important for you to have the information in terms of the electoral procedures as you report the information that is filtered to the public is as accurate as possible and you are reporting from a contextual perspective.”

Media operatives were also presented with a manual for polling day which includes a general background on GECOM, and the roles and responsibilities of its permanent and temporary employees. Some 10,700 polling staff have been trained to date by GECOM.

SOME eight acres of cultivated cannabis with about 7,600 plants ranging in height from five inches to six feet and weighing 15,025 kilograms were destroyed during two recent drug-eradication exercises at Kimbia, Berbice River and Onderneeming, Essequibo.

The police in a release said during the operations, some 82 kilograms of processed cannabis were also found.

No arrest has been made thus far in relation to the finds; but investigators are making efforts to apprehend several persons who discharged rounds at them at Kimbia and escaped in the thick vegetation; they behind 20 live cartridges which have been lodged.

Some of the plants found

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QC celebrates Diwali

STUDENTS of Queen’s College joined together on Saturday to celebrate the Hindu Festival of Lights, known as Diwali, with their annual Puja and Rangoli competition.

The day’s activities began early Saturday with the ‘Diwali Puja’, that has been a tradition of the college for many years. The Puja is always held in the school’s auditorium and is done the Saturday before Diwali.

It is intended to usher in blessings for all students and members of the college.

Upon the completion of the Puja, there is the Rangoli competition where groups of students within the college compete to cre-

ate magnificent designs, as part of the celebrations for Diwali. Both the Puja and the competition are organised by the school’s Hindu Society.

“The Rangoli is essentially a decorative artwork and it is done on festive occasions,” President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha (GHDS) Dr. Vindhya Persaud, explained to the Guyana Chronicle earlier.

For this year’s competition, there were twelve teams participating and the Rangoli created by the Nobbs (L) house within the college was adjudged the best.

Diwali will be observed on Tuesday, November 6.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Students from the Lower sixth form joined hands to create this design [Vishani Ragobeer photos]

Another group of students from Queen’s College in the process of creating their Rangoli

Students participate in the Diwali Puja, which is a tradition of the college

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

No time for complacency

By Svetlana Marshall

MINISTER of State Joseph Harmon has urged members and supporters of the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) to turn out in their numbers on November 12 and vote in the Local Government Elections, noting that there is no time for complacency.

Harmon, the APNU Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) campaign manager, said after the APNU laboured under the stewardship of President David Granger for the return of local democracy in Guyana even before they got into government in May 2015, members and supporters did not attach the level of importance required for Local Government Elections.

Addressing supporters at Pouderoyen on the West Bank of Demerara on Friday night, Harmon said when Local Government Elections were held in March 2016 under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government, only a few turned out to vote.

“The People’s Progressive Party (PPP) did not beat us here. They did not beat us! We defeated ourselves! We defeated ourselves!” Harmon told the APNU supporters.

According to him, the PPP/C is hoping that the APNU supporters do not vote so that they can get the edge again over the governing party.

He told those present “not this time comrades” as he urged them to turn out in their numbers and express their democratic right to elect local leaders.

“So we are going to come out on the 12th November and teach the PPP a lesson,” Harmon posited.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, like Minister Harmon, reminded those present that it was under the present APNU+AFC Government that Local Government Elections were held in March 2016 after 22 years.

“Under the People’s Progressive Party administration we were denied our constitutional right to elect our local representatives, but it is under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) while we were in opposition, we fought, we called on the then Donald Ramotar administration to set the date,” she said.

Ferguson, who did not mince words on Friday night, said it was because

–– Harmon urges supporters to vote in full numbers on November 12

Minister of State and APNU Region Three campaign manager Joseph Harmon encouraging persons to go out and vote on November 12 (Delano Williams photo) of the failure of APNU supporters to vote during the last Local Government Elections which led to the PPP/C dominating in many of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs).

She contended that those PPP/C controlled NDCs are now led by “visionless leaders” who have failed to effect the necessary changes.

Many Local Authority Areas (LAAs) remained stagnant.

“Why? Because we failed ourselves as a people when we did not turn out in our numbers in March of 2016 to throw your support solidly behind the A Partnership for National Unity and the Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) then. So what do we have now; majority of the NDCs are PPP controlled NDCs and it is not within their interest to bring about the desired change for your communities because, remember for 20 plus years, they failed to give us Local Government Elections.

What they did, they imposed IMCs upon us,” Ferguson said.

Ferguson, who said local democracy is not just about “digging drains,” told those present that it is time to bring about the required change that would see local leaders creating avenues for developments, such as cottage industries.

“It is the responsibility of those elected officials to come up with ideas; how can we generate cottage industries within the respective constituencies so they can get money to effectively man the affairs of your community. But comrades, what we have here currently is a set of visionless people,” Minister Ferguson said.

She added: “November 12 is the day when you must be able to vote [out]

these visionless people, and vote in people who can carry your NDC to another level.”

APNU supporters at a public meeting in Pouderoyen on Friday (Delano Williams photo)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Golden Fleece Mandir is the winner

The Golden Fleece Vishwa Jhotir Mandir float

SCREAMS and sounds of tassa drums emerged from the crowd as Chief Judge Chandradai Singh announced the Golden Fleece Vishwa Jhotir Mandir as winner of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha Essequibo Coast Praant Annual motorcade Friday night.

The large float outshone 11 other illuminated ones with its expertly crafted and modern de-

The Reliance Mandir float was also a standout during the motorcade sign. Youths neatly crafted a message with the use of raw materials depicting Goddess Lakshmi and her consort God Vishnu.

The float also depicted how goddess Lakshmi came into existence (by the churning of the milky ocean). Young girls from the mandir were decoratively clad in red, golden sarees for the competition.

The first-placed winners took home the top prize of $120,000.

In at second was Spring Garden Mandir which was followed by the Reliance Mandir at third; Airy Hall Mandir at fourth; and Aurora Estate Mandir at fifth.

Other mandirs that participated and won consolation prizes included Ma-

ria’s Lodge Mandir, Queenstown Mandir, Affiance Mandir, Anna Regina Mandir and Adventure Mandir.

President of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha Dr Vindhya Persaud called on Essequibians to celebrate the festival with passion and love.

The annual Diwali motorcade is the brainchild of her late father Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud, whom she described as a visionary. The motorcades bring together communities, mandirs and people from all walks of life.

The lively cultural programme Friday night featured dances, skits, live tassa drumming and songs.

These girls are dressed like Goddess Lakshmi

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Revolutionary initiative

15

–– Bill to allow moveable property as bank collateral coming

–– consultations held with lawyers AS stakeholders continue to be engaged about the Moveable Security Bill the Guyana Bar Association was on Saturday given an in-depth examination of the provisions of the Bill and given a chance to make inputs at a workshop held at the Cara Lodge.

The workshop was conducted by Inter-American

such transactions becoming secure.

“The law governing secure transactions rely on complex legal and equitable rules for determining propriety amongst claimants competing for the same assets when a debtor defaults.

These rules increase uncertainty for lenders,” Williams said.

Tom Johnson, Legal Consultant, Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), (Delano Williams photo) Development Bank (IDB) Legal Consultant, Tom Johnson, who carried out his first exploratory mission in Guyana in January of this year.

Attorney General Basil Williams delivered the opening remarks at the event.

“To the lawyers present, we are prepared to receive your input and demonstrate the applicability of this bill,” Williams said.

President of the Guyana Bar Association (GBA) Kamal Ramkarran thanked the facilitators for providing the opportunity for legal minds to better understand the provisions of the Bill and what it would mean for them.

“It is extremely beneficial for us to be fully aware of the legal issues arising out of this legislation and to find ways to make full use of it when it comes into force,” Ramkarran said during his address.

In the works as far back as 2002, the Moveable Security Bill seeks to allow for moveable property to be used as collateral when seeking access to finance. Generally, such transactions are not considered secure, so lending agencies are skeptical to use such assets as collateral.

However, implementation of the bill will now see

The Inter-America Development Bank (IDB) funded project is being rolled out by the Ministry of Business in collaboration with the Ministry of Legal Affairs and aims to allow the use of moveable property as collateral when seeking to access finance.

Williams called the initiative “very revolutionary” for what it would mean for many small businesses in Guyana and access to finances.

“Farmers and miners have difficulty using their livestock and minerals as collateral. Access to credit in the existing system increases the risk for financial institutions, deters foreign direct investments and impedes access to finance for small and medium-sized business,” Williams explained.

“The solution? The Moveable Property and Security Bill 2018 provides for a comprehensive integrated framework for secure transactions in moveable property.

In this framework all moveable property assets qualify as collateral, regardless of item or title.”

The initiative comprises of two parts: the development of a legislative frame-

work and the establishment of an electronic collateral registry -- The Secure Traction Regime project. It is expected to work alongside other credit systems already in place.

“Together with the newly introduced credit information system and legislation, this legislation will enhance risk-assessment management and mitigation for lenders,”

Williams said.

Williams recalled having first encountered such a system in Kenya, where cattle are a very important commodity and persons were able to use their cattle as a means of wealth.

“I was so happy to see that farmers in fact utilise their livestock as collateral,” said Williams.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams SC addressing the gathering

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

GRA clears air regarding Venezuelan diplomat

T

HE Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) said it has merely resounded to a correspondence from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with an attached letter from the Venezuelan Embassy regarding one of their diplomats here.

On October 28, online news outlet, Newsroom, carried an article headlined “GRA seizes vehicle of Venezuelan Diplomat”, on the grounds that she owes approximately $2.4M in taxes and to several telephone requests from new agencies seeking explanations as to the basis of the tax due, GRA in a statement said on Thursday, October 25, it received a correspondence from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs with an attached letter from the Venezuelan Embassy, stating that the tour of Mrs. Luz Anandha Isaray Leon Guillen, former first secretary of the Embassy of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, ended in November 2017, and requesting that the diplomatic licence plate DPL-6-04 registered to the Venezuelan Embassy be withdrawn and be put out of circulation.

The revenue body said acting thereon, the Law Enforcement and Investigation Division (LEID) of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) intercepted the motor vehicle bearing the said diplomatic plate and advised the said former first secretary that in accordance with the provisions of Article 34 and Article 39 of the Privileges and Immunities (Diplomatic Consular and International Organisations) Act, Chapter 18:01 respectively, that prorated taxes of 2.4M must be paid and the be vehicle privately registered or until then, the vehicle cannot be driven under the said withdrawn diplomatic plate.

“At no time was the former first secretary treated with disrespect. Matter of fact, when the matter was brought to the attention of the commissioner general, discretion was exercised to allow for the motor vehicle to be utilised by her provided that she takes the necessary steps to have same registered with an ordinary registration number and any outstanding pro-rated excise tax paid on or before December 1, 2018, (the date of her purported return ticket) should the motor vehicle be sold or remain in the jurisdiction after that date. In the alternative, no tax will be payable should the vehicle be exported.

The Guyana Revenue Authority has advised her of the said offer, which to date she has failed to take up,” the release concluded.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Herstelling AOG celebrates 50th anniversary –– with medical outreach and street expo

HUNDREDS of residents turned out at the Herstelling Assembly of God Global Outreach Centre to benefit from the services provided at a medical outreach and street expo that was held as part of the church’s 50th anniversary celebrations on Saturday.

Held in partnership with the Giving Hope Foundation, some 11 doctors were on site volunteering their services and equipment, including the church’s pastor, Dr. Ravindra Shiwnandan and his wife Michele Shiwnandan.

Services provided included pap smears, vaginal inspection with acetic acid, breast examination, prostate screening, HIV testing, eye testing,

Shiwnandan noted.

“We assessed the community and we noticed that there were a lot of school dropouts and low literacy rate and problems with drugs, problems with unemployment, lack of skills; so we thought a good thing to do would be to set up an institute to help the students.”

Working in collaboration with the Board of Industrial Training, the institute offers certification in Information Technology (IT), office procedures, catering, cake decorating, cosmetology, sewing, and floral decorations. In previous years, the institute had also offered training in welding, electrical installation and joinery.

A patron’s pressure being tested at the medical outreach (Delano Williams photo)

Cake decorating is one of the courses offered at the Vocational Training Institute (Delano Williams photo) blood pressure testing and glucose monitoring, etc, while there was also a blood drive.

The medical outreach follows a four-day series of domestic violence combating activities that the church held a few weeks ago.

“We’ve been doing these for the past 25 years. We would do them at our church, but we would also do them at outlying communities,” Dr. Shiwnandan said.

The medical outreach is not the only way that the church has been giving back to its community and society at large. Ten years ago the church established its Vocational Skills Training Institute, aimed at helping under privileged youths in the community through training in a number of vocational skills.

“Over the past 10 years we have trained about 3000 school dropouts and youths,” Dr

Classes are open to persons from 16 – 35 years old. And everything is offered free of charge.

“It’s funded basically by the church in partnership with the Government of Guyana. In the past we’ve collaborated with the European Union and the Trust Bank. All of the instructors come from our church-- generally volunteers-they do it as a service unto the Lord.”

A batch of 97 students is scheduled to graduate from the institute today. Many of the students had their products from their classes on display at the street expo yesterday.

The activities culminate with the church’s official 50th anniversary ceremony next Sunday.

Dr Shiwnandan took the opportunity to remind that the entire public is invited to the celebrations.

Students of the floral arrangements class had their work on display yesterday at the street expo (Delano Williams photo)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

1,600 set to graduate from UG

MORE than 1,600 students are expected to graduate at the University of Guyana’s Turkeyen Campus 52nd Convocation, to be held on Saturday, November 10, at the National Cultural Centre.

There the university will celebrate the accomplishments of the Class of 2018. For the first time in the history of the university, the certificates, diplomas and degrees will be awarded at three ceremonies held on the same day.

The increase in the number of ceremonies, from two last year, is due to the large number of graduating students; then there is the desire to avoid having very long ceremonies, while still maintaining the personal touch, where each graduand crosses the stage and shakes the hand of the chancellor.

The first ceremony will be held at 09:00hrs and will feature the Faculties of Agriculture and Forestry, Earth and Environmental Sciences and Education and Humanities. The graduation address will be delivered

by Professor David Phoenix, Vice-Chancellor of London South Bank University; this is one of the leading British universities with which UG is developing relations.

The second ceremony for the Faculties of Engineering and Technology, Health Sciences and Natural Sciences, will be held at 13:00 hrs.

The feature address there will be delivered by Guyana-born Professor Norman Munroe, Director, Office of Student Access and Success and of the Center for Diversity in Engineering and Computing at Florida International University.

The largest of the three ceremonies will be held at 17:00hrs; it will involve the Faculty of Social Sciences and the School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation, the two largest units of the university.

The keynote speaker there will be Attorney-at-Law Kamal Ramkarran, a University of Guyana alumnus of the Class of 1997. Mr Ramkarran is a partner at Cameron and Shepherd, one of the nation’s leading law firms.

Ramkarran is serving his second term as President of the Guyana Bar Association.

SPOTLIGHTING ALUMNI Additionally, as part of continuing efforts to embrace alumni, the university will continue to spotlight alumni at the various convocations.

Sara Bharrat (Class of 2015), Dellon Fraser (Class of 2011) and Nelsonia Persaud-Budhram (Class of 2010), will offer words of wisdom to the prospective alumni at the Turkeyen ceremonies; Somattie Sayrange (Class of 2002, 2004, 2009) will speak at the Berbice campus when it holds its 17th Convocation. The more than 1, 6oo students will graduate with masters and bachelor’s degrees, associate degrees, diplomas and certificates. The ceremonies will honour graduates from 116 academic programmes in UG’s eight academic units— the Faculties of Agriculture and Forestry, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Education and Humanities, Engineering and Technology, Health Sciences, Natural Sciences, Social Sciences and the School of Entrepreneurship and Business Innovation (SEBI).

This year marks the first time that students will graduate through SEBI since the launch of the School in 2017. The prospective graduates are third-year students in the Faculty of Social Sciences, pursuing programmes that were transferred to SEBI. Notably, also, will be the graduation of the first batch of students from 12 different programmes offered at the university.

Professor Norman Munroe

Dr Bibi Areefa Alladin-Karan

From the Faculties of Health Sciences will be the Diploma in General Psychology; Master of Medicine-Emergency Medicine, Master of Medicine-Family Medicine, Bachelor’s of Science Medical Rehabilitation -- first batch of students to graduate with the option in Speech, Language Therapy and Audiology.

From the Faculty of Engineering and Technology will come the Associate of Science in Industrial Engineering -- previous batches did the certificate and diploma. Not to be left out is the Faculty of Natural Sciences, with the Associate of Science in Computer Science -- previous batches did the diploma. Natural Sciences also will graduate its first

Associate of Science in Information Technology, Bachelor of Science in Information Systems, Bachelor’s of Science in Information Technology and Associate of Science in Biology – first batch from the Turkeyen campus.

The Faculty of Social Sciences will produce its first Bachelor of Social Science in Business Economics.

The President’s Medal for the best graduating bachelor’s degree student will be among numerous awards and prizes presented at the university’s 52nd Convocation.

NEW AWARDS Additionally, two new awards will be presented from this year.

The Francille Griffith

Professor David Phoenix Award for Excellence in Nursing will be presented to two outstanding nurses pursuing their bachelor’s degrees in nursing in the Faculty of Health Sciences. The award, valued at $ 50,000 each, will be offered annually to a thir- year student and a graduating student. The second new award is the Dr Cyril Solomon Prize for the student with the best overall performance at first attempt at Applied Microeconomics, Applied Econometrics, Labour Economics I, and Labour Economics II; these were courses taught by the late Dr Solomon during his time at the University of Guyana. The value of the award is $50,000.

At the Berbice campus convocation, where more than 200 students will graduate on Novem-

ber 17 on the University Square at Tain, the keynote address will be delivered by University of Guyana alumna from the Class of 2016, paediatrician Dr Bibi Areefa Alladin-Karan. Dr Alladin-Karan, a Berbician is a lecturer in the School of Medicine and a practitioner at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Meanwhile, the Institute of Distance and Continuing Education, the extra-mural arm of the university, is scheduled to hold its graduation ceremonies for its four centres as follows: the Georgetown Centre on November 24; Linden Centre on November 25; Anna Regina Centre on December 1 and the New Amsterdam Centre on December 8, 2018.

Since 1968, when the university held its first graduation, it has become a leading provider of tertiary education in the country. It graduates every year, professionals with the knowledge and skills that are needed by the local, regional and global job markets. UG graduates can be found in senior positions in major public and private sector agencies, both locally and around the world.

To date, more than 20,000 students have graduated from both the Turkeyen and Berbice campuses.

Purse with ammo handed over to police

A MEMBER of the public on Saturday reportedly found a purse containing 20 live rounds of 7.62 ammunitions. The individual promptly went to the Ruimveldt Police Station and handed over same, police said in a release.

The purse and ammunition that were handed over to police

‘A huge hit, as always’

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

–– say patrons of Farmers’ Market Day 2018

By M Margaret Burke THEY came from near and far; some from as far as Mainstay on the Essequibo Coast to set up shop. And they had only six hours in which to do it; from 06:00 to 12:00hrs.

The occasion was Farm-

about the product that I sell, which is pasteurised sugarcane juice.

“This is the first in Guyana and I am excited about the growth of my company and the further expansion, in terms of my product getting on the entire outskirts of Guyana.”

shortly, are getting properly registered, and sourcing proper packaging for his wines.

Said he: “I would like for the business community, which is the private sector who normally imports packaging materials, to come on board so that they can see

Permanent Secretary Ms. Delma Nedd along with several GMC staff members ers’ Market Day 2018, held Saturday on D’Urban Park just off Brickdam and Vlissengen Road here in the city; and hosted for the third consecutive year by the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC).

And from all accounts, it was a surefire hit as always, according to Andrea Seechun, who came all the way from Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) to represent the Adventure 28 group; although it was a first for her, she said she thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Most of their products were fruits and vegetables and seasonings.

“Within an hour, everything was gone,” she said.

“The response from the public was tremendous, and deed sure, I look forward to another Farmers Market Day very soon.”

It was also a first for Samuel Blackman, Director of B and S Greenfields Cane Juice.

Said he: “I must say that it was exciting; a lot of persons are very excited

He said that he was very pleased with the response of the public, most of whom tasted his product on the spot and immediately there were favourable responses.

Other than that, there were no challenges, he said. Everything went very smoothly; things were well organised, even though he lost out a bit by arriving a tad late.

Jergle Lamazon of Wines, Juices and Shakes is what we would call “an old hand” at this sort of thing, as this was the third time that his company was participating in the event.

POSITIVE RESPONSES And he, too, reported having had positive responses to his products.

“My wine ran out and I had to send for more,” Mr Lamazon said, adding: “And many people are saying that they need to see much more in the supermarkets.”

The only two flies in the ointment for him, however, which he hopes to address

what is lacking. They are the ones who are importing, so they would actually be a part of assisting us when it comes to packaging.

“If only we can have that one-on-one contact when it comes to we the agro-processors...

“Then they have the business community who import stuff. So, if it is that they can bring in these materials, then we will buy from them and then they would buy from us; once the cost is right.”

Since the launch of the event back in 2016 under the auspices of the Ministry of Agriculture, the GMC said it has known nothing but overwhelming responses; and the idea is to promote what’s available here by way of farm-fresh fruits and vegetables and their by-products.

At the same time, farmers are given an opportunity to develop market connections and build relationships with their customers.

According to Packaging Facilities Manager Celestine Butters,invitations were sent

out this year to more than 40 farmers, among them agro-processors; growers of plants and seedlings; and those who sell from fresh fruits to vegetables and ground provisions, ducklings and meats of all kinds among other produce, and that in all, there were about 700 local items on display.

“Because of this,” she said, meaning the opportunity to display their wares all in one place, “they have the exposure of other people, such as exporters, housewives and many other persons who come and meet with some of them; getting themselves au fait, as well as buying things that exist locally.”

ALL HOME-GROWN As she later observed, people are often astonished to learn that many of the products they purchase are made locally and that as such, this year’s market day not only gave exposure to farmers and agro-processors, but also allowed many people to know where to source the many excellent products available there.

Noting that the annual exposure really does make a world of difference to all parties involved, Ms Butters said: “As we stand here today, it is so overwhelming; many of them are saying, ‘I am sold out.’ We have Mr. Luke coming all the way from Mainstay and he is asking to be invited when-

GMC Packaging Facilities Manager Ms. Celestine Butters ever again there is another such event.

“And there are so many more people; even the meats had to be replenished because they have been sold out.”

Among products people were mainly after that day were fresh fruits and vegetables; ducks, both plucked and the little ducklings to rear and coconut oil.

Even NAREI (the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute), which was a part of the market day activities this year, was sold out and had to replenish their stocks again and again.

The only disappointment this year, Ms Butters said, was that because of the ear-

ly-morning start, those who came with big baskets to do loads of shopping had to go away almost empty-handed; by the the time they arrived, everything was long gone.

But all is not lost. According to Ms Butters, because of the high demand for the event, and because of all the enthusiasm it has generated, the GMC is looking at December 15 to have another Farmers Market Day. “So far,” she said, “all of the expenses have been borne by GMC: the tents, chairs, tables and everything, but we need to look at it now, where the participants should be a little more involved in having to pay a little stipend.”

Ms. Andrea Seechun of Region Six

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Vote for policies, vote to prioritise youth - URP reaches out to youth THE United Republican Party (URP) is urging all citizens, especially the younger demographic, to vote for candidates who have policies that advance their interests instead of voting on the basis of race.

According to the URP’s leader, Dr. Vishnu Bandhu, the party will be contesting in 20 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) and six of the townships in Guyana at the Local Government Elections (LGEs) slated for November 12.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle, Dr. Bandhu said the URP has a vision for communities to be transformed economically.

For him, local Leader of the URP government means Dr. Vishnu Bandhu developing and maintaining the communities’ infrastructure and handling taxes.

But more than that, he said: “We want to go further than that, yes we will look after all that but we want to create industries in NDC areas and in township areas so that we can be able to create employment for our younger generation.”

In creating industries, URP candidates will be seeking to push local agriculture if elected, according to him. He explained that the aim is to establish concrete markets for produce locally and to create a massive network that can tap into foreign markets.

“We are also trying to lobby to bring down the cost of production in Guyana,” he said and opined that if this cost is not brought down, then it will continue to be difficult for Guyanese producers to compete internationally.

And teaching farmers techniques that are conducive to mass production is a key component of this vision also, Bandhu highlighted.

This vision of the URP can only come to fruition if the party manages to get the majority of seats in the NDCs. “If we don’t get the majority of seats that we have, our plans that we have for economic See page 21

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Vote for policies, vote to ...

From page 20

development would not go through [but] even if we get one, two or three of the majority seats in the NDCs we are contesting in, we will show how an NDC is supposed to be run,” the party’s leader posited.

YOUTH Even as the URP laid out major vision for economic development in communities, another key aim of the party is to have youth play a bigger role in the decision-making processes in Guyana.

Nikosa Bruce is a young person and local social media personality who joined the party recently.

For him, youth need to play a more decisive role in society.

“I realise that if we want to get things done, we need to do away with the old politics of Guyana.

Yes, we can have the older parties as points of guidance to learn from their shortcomings and what they did well so we know how to maneuver around the political playfield,” Bruce related.

According to him: “First and foremost, leaders must be answerable to the people.” He has been tapping into social media to educate youth and encourage them to vote; not necessarily for the URP, but for candidates who advance the community’s interest.

“What I’ve been trying to do, is reach them [youth] on their level. I do live videos on Facebook where I privy myself to be questioned [and] I try to explain to them that should I be elected, this is what I intend to do: Be accessible to you,” he shared.

He will be contesting in the municipality of Georgetown and highlighted that the feedback has been tremendous, not only in showing support but also in reaching out to ask questions about what are some of the plans he has and what he intends on doing.

Bandhu also noted that within the party, there is a mixed grouping of persons, but the majority of the can-

Youth-arm leader of the URP, Nikosa Bruce didates are younger people.

He related: “We realise that both [sets of] people have their part to play in society: the younger people are more attuned to technology, which carries today’s society, while the older people have experience. And if we can blend those two together, we will be a super group.”

Furthermore, he opined that the younger people who do not have experience will be able to gain experience by working with the older people.

Bruce said: “I want to appeal to my fellow youth, as I have been appealing to them, that this is the URP, this is a platform for us to speak, this is where we can come together and give our ideas and have our chance to speak, this is a chance to contest at these elections and put in places of power so that we can have some influence over our future.”

In campaigning for the URP, Bruce came across people who were dissuaded from voting because of what they believe is an entrenched system of racebased politics. According to him, this should not be.

He, however, highlighted that he is not saying that persons have to vote for the URP or that they have to join the URP. What he is postulating is that persons should think first and not vote based on race, but on policies and who best advances their interest.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Salvation Army Christmas kettles begin filling up THE Guyana Division of the Salvation Army has begun filling up their red Christmas Kettles, as the organisation prepares to continue its social work and spread massive Christmas cheer this year.

[to].”

Furthermore, she acknowledged, “For many years the Salvation Army has been the helping hand for those who have been through perilous times for those affected emotionally or physically.”

Timbrellists of the salvation army perform a Christmas piece At a launch held at the Georgetown Club and in the midst of prayers and Christmas carolling, Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings, put the kettle to boil as she made the first contribution on behalf of President David Granger and the Government of Guyana.

Hastings said: “Christmas, as we all know, is the time of the year to which many of us look forward

She urged everyone not to pass the persons placed at strategic positions with their bright red kettles but instead leave whatever small contributions they can.

According to her, the funds raised will help to provide food and clothing for the elderly, for less fortunate children and towards the robust

See page 23

Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings starts off the contributions for this year Christmas Kettle appeal by the Salvation Army

SUNDAY CHRONICLE November 4, 2018

Salvation Army Christmas kettles ...

From page 22

drug rehabilitation programme of the army.

This year too, the minister highlighted: “[The Salvation Army] is also venturing to assist the prisons with hampers.” She added: “It is easy to love those that do

marks, highlighted: “Our aim this year is to share 1200 food hampers, keep parties for children and give them gifts and visit homes to give gifts and so on.”

In addition to the usual services offered, he also shared that the or-

Students from the Bishop’s High School and Marian Academy were among those who were involved in the first donation towards the Salvation Army Christmas Kettles [Adrian Narine photos] good to us but those that do not good to us is often quite challenging.”

Christmas is a time for family and togetherness, Minister Hastings reminded and said that many affected persons have received help from Salvation Army projects.

As the Christmas kettles were officially launched, she noted: “This action is the reason Christmas exists: there is a great action of humanity and selflessness there.”

Divisional Commander, Major Matignol Saint-Lot, adding to Minister Hastings’ re-

ganisation was able to respond to many families affected by the high tide which struck Stewartville, on the West Coast of Demerara. As such, he made the point that all contributions go a far way in contributing to society.

The launch attracted members of the private sector, representatives of Marian Academy, Bishop’s High School, St. Roses High School, religious denominations and private individuals, all coming together with officers and members of the Salvation Army.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

St Pius, West Ruimveldt set up final berth

THE 2018 final of the COURTS Pee Wee Football tournament will see either West Ruimveldt or St Pius walk away with the title and bragging rights.

Both teams secured their respective spots after semi-final action yesterday at the Ministry of Education ground on Carifesta Avenue.

St Pius had a one-goal result at the end of the whistle when they faced Tucville; Jamal Fraser being the decisive scorer in the 39th minute.

On the other end, West Ruimveldt were made to work for their victory against Mocha.

Mocha had the early scent of victory when they scored first in the 4th minute thanks to Jiheam Lewis, but Mark Phillips (32nd), Jonathan Andries (42nd) were the persons that snatched the victory away.

In the 13-16 playoff, Jerimiah Parks’

7th minute strike helped Colaaco overcome Soesdyke while Ezra Clarke spurred Plaisance to a 1-0 win over Timehri.

In the 9-12 playoff, Marian Academy lost 3-4 on sudden death penalties to Mae’s after Jeremy Ten Pow scored for Marian and Mae’s benefited from an own goal.

South Ruimveldt trumped Enterprise 2-1 thanks to a brace from Collin Saul (7th, 28th). Enterprise had Christopher Witter (29th) on target.

St Agnes thrashed Golden Grove 5-0 in the 5-8 playoff with strikes from Justin Alcindor (p-5th), Shawn Murray (15th 16th), Darius Chester (19th) and Cleon London (30th).

Meanwhile Garey Primo helped North Georgetown dismantle St Ambrose 6-0 with strikes in the 2nd, 13th, 17th, 18th, 35th and 40th.

The final is billed for next Sunday.

KFC taps into go-kart racing with Mega Cup GP BEHARRY Restaurant Holdings, through its Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) franchise, has taken a dip into go-kart racing, partnering with Pure Racing and GT Motorsports to stage the inaugural KFC Mega Cup Grand Prix.

At the official launch on Friday afternoon at GT Motorsports, Albert Street and Thomas Lands, it was revealed that the alliance will hold two events before the end of 2018.

The Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club-sanctioned event will take place on November 18 and December 9 at the GT Motorsports track, and both will be day events, starting at 15:00hrs and concluding by 18:00hrs.

Four categories would be contested, namely Easy Cup Rookie, 60cc Kids Cup, X30 125cc Junior and X30 125cc Senior. Each race will consist of Qualifying (five laps), Pre-final (10-laps) and Final (20 laps).

The top three finishers in each category would be rewarded with trophies and cash prizes, specifically $40 000, $20 000 and $10 000 respectively.

The organisers would also be providing tyres to the competitors - one set red for Rookies and 60cc for both events, and two sets yellow for 125cc karts.

In announcing her company’s sponsorship, Wendy Fernandes, Restaurant Gen-

eral Manager of KFC’s Vlissengen Road branch, said motor-racing has become a major sporting event in Guyana and the future of the sport looks promising with the current generation of talented youths who are involved.

“KFC, in our commitment to supporting and developing our Guyanese reputation as producing world-class champions, has invested substantially to make this the biggest go-kart racing event ever,” Fernandes said.

She added, “We are confident the series of races will be an exciting exhibition of skills and competition that will result in a thrilling experience for all racers and race fans. We take this opportunity to wish the competitors well and we urge the fans to come out and experience the biggest go-kart racing event in the history of motor-racing in Guyana.”

Leah Alphonso of GT Motorsports said the entity is happy to partner with KFC and Pure Racing to host the first-ever Mega Cup GP. “We are grateful for this opportunity given in this

two-part series to promote motorsports, especially for the youths. We look forward to an exciting partnership, and competitive but safe racing in the KFC Mega Cup,” Alphonso told the gathering.

Anna Lisa Fraser-Phang, Administrator of Pure Racing, a family-oriented group with a common interest in motorsports, said the event is geared to provide an opportunity for the young talents in the sport to be exposed to competitive racing.

Fraser-Phang noted that karting is the foundation from which almost all top racers have emerged and the Pure Racing family is enthused to provide such an avenue for the next breed of Guyanese racers to prosper.

Cheryl Gonsalves of the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports, said karting is moving in the right direction in Guyana and the club is keen on having more participation, especially among the younger ones.

She expressed gratitude to KFC for coming on board as a sponsor and wished the organisers and racers well at the upcoming races.

Fitness a big concern for Windies, claims Law FITNESS will be a major concern for the Windies going forward, claims head coach Stuart Law as he believes the team tired badly in the final two matches of the One Day International (ODI) series against India.

The tourists had proved competitive, in some respects, in the first two series. Despite losing the first by 8 runs, the regional team had put 322 runs on the board and tied the second after making 321, before winning the third.

The final matches proved to be complete mismatches. The Indians bowled the Windies out for 153 in the fourth match, having posted a mammoth

377, before dismissing the Windies for 105 in the final match. Law believes the team simply ran out of gas.

“The one thing that really stands out is that in Pune we played a great game of cricket. In Visakhapatnam, we played a great cricket as well to tie the game. But I think those games really took a lot out of us. In the final two games we had no petrol left in the tank,” Law said.

“That’s one thing we are trying to address, our fitness and strength areas.

We obviously still have a way to go. Coming here it’s not just about playing, playing the best team in the world. It’s about battling conditions.”

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

Emotions high as Gray seals Leicester City win on testing day

By Neil Robinson LONDON, England (Reuters) - Leicester City’s traumatic week ended with a 1-0 win at Cardiff City although the result was never the chief concern on a day when the tributes flowed for the Midlands club’s late owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha who died in a helicopter crash.

Several Leicester players were due to fly to Thailand later yesterday for his funeral and a minute’s silence was held at all Premier League grounds to mark last week’s tragedy outside Leicester’s stadium in which four other people also died.

TV requirements saw yesterday’s games staggered over four separate kickoff times with Liverpool moving top of the Premier League - at least until Manchester City entertain Southampton tomorrow - after their 1-1 draw at Arsenal.

Manchester United recovered to win 2-1 at Bournemouth to move seventh, Newcastle United recorded their first league victory of the season, 1-0 over Watford, while Everton and West Ham United also won.

Most attention was inevitably focused on the Cardiff City Stadium where tributes included a wreath brought on to the pitch before the game and the unfurling of a huge flag among the crowd in memory of the 60-year-old

Thai billionaire.

A second-half goal from Demarai Gray sparked jubilation amongst Leicester’s players and fans, although referee Lee Probert will face criticism for booking the forward after he took his shirt off in celebration to reveal a T-shirt with the words ‘For Khun Vichai’ across the front.

“I feel proud, it’s been a really tough week for everyone,” said Leicester keeper Kasper Schmeichel.

“The way everyone at the club handles himself is a testament to the family Vichai built.”

At the Emirates, a superb late strike from Alexandre Lacazette gave Arsenal a point after James Milner, who later broke his nose in a freak clash with team mate Joe Gomez, had given Liverpool a second-half lead.

A richly-entertaining game threw up chances for both sides as Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp maintained his record of never losing to the Gunners in six encounters.

LUCKY MOURINHO On the south coast, Manchester United’s late win, via a Marcus Rashford strike, failed to alleviate Jose Mourinho’s disappointment at another below-par performance.

“I said at halftime I was the luckiest manager in the Premier League,” said

Mourinho who added that he thought Bournemouth should have been 5-2 or 6-2 up by then.

“I said it is impossible to play worse than we did so the second half will be better for sure. I really can’t understand the kind of mentality that brings me more white hair!”

The win moved United level on points with sixthplaced Bournemouth and a point off Tottenham Hotspur who were fifth ahead of their evening kickoff at Wolverhampton Wanderers.

Newcastle fans finally had something to celebrate as Rafa Benitez’s side won at the 11th attempt after Ayoze Perez flicked home a 65th-minute header from a Ki Sung-yeung free kick.

The win took Rafa Benitez’s side out of the relegation zone at Cardiff’s expense, with West Ham, who beat Burnley 4-2, also edging further clear of the scrap at the bottom.

The Hammers’ deserved win was their first in the league since late September and owed much to two goals from Felipe Anderson. The result would have been even worse for Burnley had Joe Hart not pulled off a string of fine saves.

Everton beat Brighton & Hove Albion 3-1 - their third win in four league games - with Richarlison’s double taking his tally to six goals this season.

RACING TIPS

10:10 hrs Winter Escape

09:00 hrs One For Rosie

Irish Racing Tips

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09:30 hrs Al Shahir

Naas 08:20 hrs National Guard 08:50 hrs Tide Of Time 09:20 hrs Turnberry Isle 09:55 hrs Ferretti 10:30 hrs Art Of America 11:00 hrs Uradel 11:35 hrs Hazel Bay 12:05 hrs Riven Light Cork 09:05 hrs Éclair De Beaufeu 09:35 hrs Robin De Carlow

11:15 hrs Rogue Angel

10:05 hrs Take A Break

11:50 hrs Artic Light

10:40 hrs Looksnowtlikebrian

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South Africa Racing Tips

11:45 hrs Cyrname

Greyville

12:15 hrs Alright Sunshine

08:45 hrs Silver Rose 09:20 hrs Captain Irish 09:55 hrs Thanksgiving 10:30 hrs Twice Ass Smart 11:05 hrs Big King English Racing Tips Carlisle

Huntingdon 09:10 hrs Lazarus 09:45 hrs Bold Reason 10:20 hrs Full Bore 10:50 hrs Darebin 11:55 hrs Strong Resemblance

The Leicester City team hold up a tribute banner to the club’s late owner Vichai Srivaddhanaprabha, who died in a helicopter crash.

(Photograph: Richard Heathcote/Getty Images)

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

First Test

Williams falls short of ton as Zimbabwe frustrate Bangladesh

Sean Williams unfurls a picture-perfect cover drive en route to his fighting 88 (AFP)

THE first Test between Zimbabwe and Bangladesh is in the balance after a first day in which Sean Williams fell 12 runs short of a century.

Williams was the star of the show for the tourists in Sylhet, the left-hander steadying the ship for Zimbabwe after they slumped to 129-4.

Captain Hamilton Masakadza scored 52 of Zimbabwe’s first 85 runs before he became the third wicket of the day. Zimbabwe appeared in trouble when Sikandar Raza followed for just 19, but Williams shifted the momentum in their favour.

His 88 featured nine boundaries as he combined for a stand of 72 with Peter

Moor, but Williams was denied a second Test ton as he edged Mahmudullah to first slip just before the final drinks break.

Moor (37 not out) and Regis Chakabva (20 n.o.) saw Zimbabwe to the close on 236-5, the former taking a patient and disciplined approach as he found the rope four times in what is so far a 122-ball stay at the crease.

Taijul Islam (2-86) was the pick of the Bangladesh bowlers, who were frustrated by a slow and low pitch and will look to provide the Zimbabwe lower order much more problems on day two.

Scoreboard ZIMBAWE 1st innings Hamilton Masakadza lbw Abu Jayed 52 Brian Chari b Taijul Islam 13 Brendan Taylor c Nazmul Hossain Shanto b Taijul Islam 6 Sean Williams c Mehedi Hasan b Mahmudullah 88 Sikandar Raza b Nazmul Islam 19 Peter Moor not out 37 Regis Chakabva not out 20 Extras: (lb-1) 1 Total: (five wkts, 91.0 overs) 236 Fall of wickets: 1-35, 2-47, 3-85, 4-129, 5-201.

Bowling: Abu Jayed 18-3-611, Taijul Islam 27-3-86-2, Ariful Haque 4-1-7-0, Mehedi Hasan 216-37-0, Nazmul Islam 19-5-42-1, Mahmudullah 2-0-2-1.

Persaud seeks to revive table tennis in Essequibo

By Elroy Stephney FORMER National Youth cricketer Nathan Persaud has embarked on a new sporting journey. The dapper multi-talented sportsman still enjoys huge success with the bat on the local scene, yet he is relishing his new role.

According to Persaud, “Table tennis is just another ball game which I am very good at.” he said. His passion for the game has now taken on new dimensions as he provides his expertise as a coach to young and aspiring racquet-wielders.

He now holds regular sessions at the Anna Regina Secondary School’s auditorium and within communities where there are facilities.

Persaud, who resides in Bush Lot is himself the recipient of many awards for his successes in competions in Essequibo and Georgetown.

As a result of his keen interest in the game, he was elected as a member of the recently-formed Essequibo Table Tennis Sub-Association with support from the Department of Sport in Region Two. In fact, the Department was also instrumental in having national coach Linden Johnson visit Essequibo to conduct coaching clinics in several schools and communities.

The way was then paved for Persaud to continue

providing technical support during his sojourn among school and club players.

He also enhanced his credentials by successfully completing the foundation course conducted by the National Sports Commission.

Though it has been a demanding task, it is being done voluntarily. “I am proud to be sharing my knowledge especially with students of Anna Regina Secondary which is my alma mater,” he disclosed.

Table-Tennis has not been among the popular sports being practised in Essequibo despite a heightened awareness to decentralise the game, especially in rural areas.

The challenge, though, is to have persons being readily accessible to more equipment including tables and racquets which are primarily only available in schools. Persaud has since been collaborating with the Region Two Department to create more opportunities for the underprivileged.

Among his priorities for the immediate future is gathering relevant information towards creating clubs to compete, building partnerships with other stakeholders to promote the sport and continuing his aggressive drive in coaching persons of different age groups.

At the moment, Persaud has been diligently and selflessly advancing his vision to

Nathan Persaud

have table tennis become a vibrant and competitive sport in the Region.

His aim also is to produce national players since he is convinced that tremendous talent exists and that players can make the sport a lasting profession.

In the past, Essequibo was known to have had some outstanding racquet-wielders including Ravindra Maniram, Nayeem Mohamed, Samuel Morrison, Dennis Benjamin, Joseph Livan and Persaud to name a few.

He is now continuing to preserve the once rich legacy by creating the opportunity for the next batch of promising players from Essequibo.

Hafeez continues fine run as Pakistan clinch T20 series

MOHAMMAD Hafeez’s rescue act kept Pakistan’s fine winning run going, in a six-wicket victory that secured the Twenty20 international series against New Zealand.

Pakistan won all three T20Is against Australia last month before edging the Black Caps by two runs in the sides’ opener on Wednesday, with Hafeez influential.

That was again the case two days later when he arrived at the crease with little time to spare and promptly smashed 34 off 21 to clinch victory with just two balls remaining.

A heroic showing capped a fine day for Hafeez, who sealed a return to the one-day international squad that may well lead to more misery for New Zealand.

The Black Caps were left frustrated as a target of 154 proved not to be enough despite the best efforts of Colin Munro with bat (44) and ball (1-22).

Munro smashed a six from the first delivery to set the tone for a strong opening partnership, aided by some sloppy Pakistan fielding.

Glenn Phillips escaped when Shadab Khan fumbled the ball at mid-on as the batsman dallied halfway down the wicket, before Hafeez dropped the big-hitting Munro on 32.

However, the stand for the first wicket ended at 50 as Phillips nicked Shaheen Afridi

(3-20) behind and Munro soon followed when Sarfraz Ahmed whipped off his bails.

The Black Caps were suddenly reeling and Colin de Grandhomme went to a brilliant Shoaib Malik catch, before a ruthless run-out accounted for Ross Taylor.

But a partnership of 42 between Kane Williamson (37) and Corey Anderson (44) carried New Zealand past 100, with the latter continuing to chip away and contributing heavily to a respectable final score of 153-7.

Pakistan similarly started brightly with the bat, losing Fakhar Zaman only after a swift 24 off 15 deliveries, but the run rate slowed after the first wicket.

Babar Azam plodded to 40 before departing, yet his dismissal in the 13th over left his teammates with little time to make inroads against a miserly New Zealand attack.

But Hafeez was next in and, although Munro trapped Asif Ali lbw for 38, the batsman speedily brought Pakistan into contention, ensuring only 14 runs were required from the final two overs.

The dismissal of Shoaib (10) set the nerves jangling, but Hafeez’s four over cover was enough to seal yet another series win with one game remaining.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

GTT National Indoor Hockey

Old Fort upset Bounty GCC on Day 6 of action OLD Fort Lamborghini handed Bounty GCC their second heart-breaking loss in as many matches with their winning goal on the buzzer in Friday evening’s men’s first division hockey match of the GTT National Indoor Hockey Championship.

The win all but guarantees Old Fort a top two spot in the pool and a semi-final berth. PEPSI Hikers retain their position as favourites in the men’s first division however, by destroying the challenge of Supernova by 11-2.

In the women’s first division tie, Woodpecker Hikers dispatched Old Fort 2.1.2 by 3-0 to secure their semi-final spot. Old Fort Mustangs got the better of Antonio’s Hickers once again in the Over-35 division while second division powerhouse Old Fort Top Form and the GCC Pitbulls confirmed their positions at the top of each pool with wins over Phoenix and Old Fort Rogue respectively.

An Omar Hopkinson goal just four minutes into the match between Old Fort Lamborghinis and Bounty GCC rocked the Bourda boys onto their back foot as the Lamborghinis raced to an early lead.

GCC were down but not out, however, and managed to draw even through a Kareem McKenzie direct penalty corner shot to take the score into halftime at 1-1.

The second half saw the teams trade shots and split a pair of penalty corners to take the match to 2-2 entering the final match. Jason DeSantos’ high and accurate penalty corner flick for Old Fort in the 24th minute was matched by a low hard Dwayne Scott shot in the 33rd minute.

With the clock winding down on what seemed like a certain draw, DeSantos pounced on a loose ball from a GCC defensive fumble and fed the ball into the GCC goal, literally, in the final second of play.

The jubilant Old Fort set themselves up to challenge the unbeaten PEPSI Hikers for the top spot in the pool as a result of their victory.

The PEPSI Hikers meanwhile crushed the feeble challenge of Supernova 11-2 in a match that never seemed to trouble the seasoned favourites.

The highly anticipated women’s first division matchup proved that the Old Fort 2.1.2 were not quite ready to upset the Wood-

pecker Hikers as the latter eased to a 3-0 victory.

National striker Nicole Eastman scored twice for Hikers while teammate Maria Munroe added a single.

PEPSI Hikers lead the men’s first division table with 9, Old Fort Lamborghini are second with 6, while Bounty GCC and Saints are in a tie for third spot on 3 points GBTI GCC Ladies are tied in the top spot of the women’s first division table on 9 points with Old Fort 2.1.2 and Bingo Spartans following with 3 points each. Saints are yet to secure points.

In the two-pool men’s second division competition, Old Fort Top Form lead Pool A with 6 points while GCC Pitbulls top Pool B with 6. GBTI GCC Spice head the second division table with 9 points followed by Bingo GCC Spartans on 7, Woodpecker Hikers on 4 and Saints with 3. Old Fort Goal Chasers remain without points.

Results are as follows: Men’s Division 1 Old Fort Lamborghini defeated Bounty GCC 3-2.

Jason DeSantos 2, Omar Hopkinson 1; Bounty GCC – Kareem McKenzie 1, Dwayne Scott 1

GCC goalkeeper Medroy Scotland saves the penalty corner strike of Jason DeSantos.

PEPSI Hikers mauled Supernova 11–2. Shane Samuels 3, Randy Hope 3, Jamarj Assanah 2, Robert France 2, Aroydy Branford 1l Supernova – Nandalall Persaud 1, Shomere Garnett 1 WOMEN’s Division 1 Woodpecker Hikers blanked Old Fort 2.1.2 3–0.

Nicole Eastman 2, Maria Munroe 1

MEN’s Division 2 GCC Pitbulls trounced Old Fort Rogue 4-1.

Kareem McKenzie 2, Shaquille Leung 2; Old Fort Rogue – Dwayne Allen 1 Old Fort Top Form thrashed Phoenix 9-2. Omar Hopkinson 4, Warren Williams 2, Dominic Allen 2, Nandalall Persaud 1 Phoenix – Steffan Simmons 1, Antho-

ny Cole 1 WOMEN’s Division 2 Woodpecker Hikers got the better of Saints 1-0.

Latoya Fordyce 1 OVER-35 Division Old Fort Mustangs beat Antonio’s Hickers 5-3.

Dwight Sullivan 3, Dwayne Allen 1, Askofu Simon 1; Antonio’s Hickers – Maria Munroe 2, Timothy Jonas 1

`Djokovic ousts Federer in epic Paris Masters semi-final PARIS, France (Reuters) - Novak Djokovic ruined Roger Federer’s ambitions of a 100th career title as he outlasted his great adversary 7-6(6), 5-7, 7-6(3) in an epic Paris Masters semi-final that stretched his remarkable unbeaten run to 22 matches yesterday.

In a 47th meeting between the two greats, the stubborn Djokovic simply refused to be beaten, as he eked out a fourth successive victory over Federer in a tiebreak decider after three compelling hours.

It gave the Serbian the opportunity to mark his return to world number one tomorrow by winning a record-extending fifth Paris title in today’s final against Russian Karen Khachanov, who earlier crushed Dominic Thiem 6-4, 6-1.

Djokovic, who had com-

plained of competing with flulike symptoms in his previous matches this week, looked proud and relieved to repel a wonderful challenge from Federer, who appeared close to his imperious best.

Yet even though his serve was not broken once, it was still not enough for the 37-year-old Swiss, whose nerve failed him in an anti-climactic final tiebreak in which he served a double fault and made two more careless groundstroke errors.

Federer was seeking to become only the second man after Jimmy Connors to win a century of professional tour titles following his 99th win in Basel but fell agonisingly short.

CODE VIOLATION The 20-time Grand Slam

Serbia’s Novak Djokovic celebrates after winning his semi-final match against Switzerland’s Roger Federer.

(REUTERS/Gonzalo Fuentes)

champion lost the first set despite having held set point in the tiebreak and had Djokovic in trouble in the final set when the Serb received a code violation at 4-4 for chucking his

racquet away in disgust after the Swiss had saved two break points.

Ultimately, though, Federer, who saved all 12 break points on his serve, saw his

resilience ended, as Djokovic extended his career lead over the Swiss to 25-22 after their longest-ever three-set duel.

It was the first time in their 12 years of battling that Djokovic had won four matches in succession against Federer, equalling the run that the Swiss himself had once achieved at the dawn of their rivalry.

Earlier, Khachanov showed why he is one of the finest young talents in tennis with a thunderous victory over Thiem.

The 22-year-old, 6ft 6in Russian, already the owner of two indoor hard court titles this year, moved one step away from the biggest title of his career, crushing his Austrian friend and practice partner in 70 one-sided minutes.

“It was one of my best

matches, and what I’m happy about is that I was increasing my level, which shows that I’m becoming a better player,” Khachanov, who reached his first Masters 100th final, said.

The 18th-ranked Muscovite overpowered a third top10 player in successive days, having hammered Alexander Zverev in the quarters and negotiated John Isner’s huge serves in the last-16.

Thiem, the world number eight, who on Friday had booked his place in the ATP Finals, was out of sorts and seemed rushed by the depth and power of Khachanov’s groundstrokes.

Remarkably, the Austrian saw his powerful serve broken five times in a row

by Khachanov at the end of the first set and throughout a surprisingly one-sided second.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

Taylor among captains thrilled with stand-alone tournament ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – West Indies captain, Stafanie Taylor, was one of several captains on Saturday expressing their delight with the Caribbean’s hosting of the historic Women’s Twenty20 World Cup, which bowls off next Friday.

In the past, the tournament has been played alongside the men’s showpiece but for the first time this year, it will be staged in the region as a stand-alone event from November 9-24.

“I enjoy playing at home.

The Caribbean is a great place for cricket and this will be an awesome tournament,” Taylor told members of the media at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

“As I said before, the culture, the passion, the history and the people will make this one of the great event in Caribbean sporting history.”

She continued: “I think for any team, winning at home is a big deal. You always want to win with the support of your fans, your families, coming to see you. And I think for us it’s a great deal and to win – to regain the title here and not just that, but the first-ever stand-alone T20, that would be history.

“We definitely would want to create history again.

People here in the Caribbean are very passionate about cricket and I do believe that people will come out and support.”

Taylor is ranked among the top players in the world

West Indies captain Stafanie Taylor smiles during a media conference at the Coolidge Cricket Ground.

in T20s and One-Day Internationals and is also rated as the best West Indies player of all time, as the leading run-maker in both formats.

South Africa captain Dane van Niekirk said she was also excited about the upcoming campaign, especially coming on the heels of her side’s recent tour of the Caribbean.

She led the Proteas women in three ODIs and five T20s at Kensington Oval in Barbados and the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad last September.

“The crowds here are amazing. This is wonderful place for the game. We had some good times and played some great cricket in Barbados and Trinidad a few weeks ago and now we’re back and happy to visit these other venues as well,” she said ahead of the warm-up matches in Antigua.

“It’s due and it’s well-deserved. Women’s cricket de-

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Sunday November 04, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)

Ravendra Jadeja-1975 runs

(2)

Jimmy Adams-2204 runs

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

(2) Who was declared Man of the Series in the recent WI/India ODI engagement?

serves the ‘alone’ time. The way the game has grown, it’s been so fast, you have to pinch yourself to see how quickly it’s grown. And the entertainment factor is there now – bigger hits, quicker bowlers, athletic players. It’s a lot more exciting.”

Javeria Khan, who has taken over as the Pakistan captain, said a stand-alone event would allow the sport to fully thrive under an ex-

clusive spotlight.

“It had to be done. Because when there are men’s matches, then the focus is kind of on the men’s matches,” the 30-year-old articulated.

“But now, as a women’s tournament, [ICC] will give it full support, full priorities, full importance – like for the rules, the DRS system.”

She added: “They are doing some really good work.

In the past, women’s cricket was not given much importance, not much priorities, and this is why girls were not opting for cricket.

“So because of ICC’s step [of having a stand-alone tournament] more girls will come forward. They have a future in women’s cricket.”

The preliminaries of the tournament will be played in Guyana and St Lucia, with the semi-finals and final scheduled for Antigua.

Scott’s century leads Malteenoes to big win in NBS cricket

AN UNBEATEN century from Jerimiah Scott led home team Malteenoes Sports Club to a huge victory over the Diplomats Sports Club yesterday, in a reduced match of the New Building Society (NBS) 2nd Division (40-over) cricket competition.

The 18-year-old went into attack mode in a game that started as a 22-overs fixture, before a small shower further reduced it to 20 overs.

Scores in the game: Malteenoes 196-5 from 20 overs and Diplomats 75-9 declared in 16.3 overs.

Malteenoes were in initial trouble after losing their openers Stephon Browne and Clarence Baird for ducks, but number three batsman Marcus Watkins took on the bowling.

His 46 runs included two fours and five sixes.

The pendulum again swung as medium pacer Andre Foster brought the Diplomats back to life with three wickets, including that of Watkins; but Scott, batting at number seven, answered with 110 unbeaten runs. He was extremely aggressive as he blasted seven fours and nine sixes in his stay at the crease.

Scott and number six batsman T. Hicks tallied 134 runs for the sixth wicket, with the latter scoring just 13.

After the onslaught, the Diplomats were then tasked with scoring at almost 10 runs per over. Opener Claudius Fraser hit a six in the first over, but a lack of partnerships untwined the batting.

Mertima King, who hit Nichosie Barker on top of the Malteenoes clubhouse rooftop, led the visitors’ attack with 17 runs, but he became one of the victims of off-spinner Watkins, who, along with fellow spinner Wayne Bollers, quickly dismissed the visitors as the last five wickets fell for 14 runs.

Watkins finished with 3-20 from 3.3 overs, while right arm-leg-spinner Bollers nabbed 2-1 from two overs, Ntini Permaul 2-20 from four overs and Barker 2-19 from four overs.

UDFA/GTT League Football

Unbeaten Net Rockers move to top after crushing Blueberry Hill 7-0

… Double-header on tonight

Denzil Pryce

NET Rockers took the lead in the Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA)/GTT 2017-18 Senior Football League championship when they crushed a disunited Blueberry Hill United 7-0.

Amelia’s Ward maintained their third position with a 3-1 whipping of Topp XX when the competition continued Friday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.

Tonight, their main rivals, Eagles United, will try to join them on 18 points with a win when they face winless Hi Stars in the second game of a double-header. The first game brings together Botofago and Silver Shattas from 19:00hrs.

On a night when the Blueberry Hill barely made the field for their clash with the Rockers, it was soon apparent that they were ill-prepared for the encounter.

From as early as the 4th minute, Rockers rocked the back of the net through the in-form Clarence Huggins and by the 16th minute it was 2-0 for the Rockers when Deshawn Joseph netted, as they went to half time ahead.

Five minutes after play resumed, Denzil Pryce scored his first of two goals in the 50th minute for a 3-0 lead, before Joel Isaacs add-

Clarence Huggins

ed another (4-0) in the 56th minute, as the Blueberry Hill goalkeeper Kelon Neblett found it hard to stop the marauding Rockers side, The fifth goal for Rockers came through Deshawn Bobb-Semple in the 61st minute. Pryce returned for his second goal, scored in the 65th minute, before Leonard Wilson rounded things off for the night’s 7-0 win on Blueberry Hill in the 84th minute.

In the other game Amelia’s Ward Panthers scored a 3-1 win against Topp XX, led by the first goal from the boot of Keshawn Dey in the 13th minute which was the half-time score 1-0.

But Topp XX had some hopes of getting back into this game when they equalised through Abraham Bascom in the 65th minute. This score remained up to the end of regulation time but the lead went to the Panthers through Hosa Waddle in the 90th minute and moments after, in added time, the second goal for the Panthers came through a strike by Kennard Fraser as the match ended 3-1 for the Panthers.

On Wednesday another double-header is planned for the MSC ground in this league championship.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, November 4, 2018

GT Beer 8-a-side football kicks off in Berbice today

By Colin Bynoe

THE second annual GT Beer/BFA/Candy Boss and Antics eight-a-side Invitational football tournament will kick off today with two matches at the All Saints ground in New Amsterdam.

Thirty-two teams from Berbice, Georgetown, East Coast Demerara and West Demerara will be battling for supremacy and a chance to win cash prizes and trophies in excess of $1.2 million.

Paradise Football Club will do battle with Black Sharks FC in the opening game of the double-header card with Corentyne All Stars squaring off against Rosignol FC in the feature encounter.

There will be an opening ceremony at 18:00hrs where the Mayor of New Amsterdam, Her Worship Winifred Haywood has been invited to preside over the ceremonial kick-off.

Mayor Haywood in brief remarks at the launch on Friday at the New Amsterdam

Town Council Chambers welcomed the tournament to the township.

“We are delighted to welcome this tournament in New Amsterdam once again.

It clearly shows that the first event was a success so I would like to congratulate the organisers and to thank major sponsor Banks DIH Limited for supporting this event,” she added.

Banks DIH Limited Communications Manager Troy Peters said that his company continues to support sport locally as part of its corporate social responsibility.

“This yearend tournament is expected to bring top class competition to Berbice and we applaud the organisers for promoting football in the region,” he added.

Other speakers included Jevaun Stephens, Director of Health Services of Region Six, who represented Director of Sport Christopher Jones.

Stephens said the National Sports Commission and the Region Six Health

Mayor of New Amsterdam, Her Worship Winifred Haywood with tournament organisers, representatives of Banks DIH Limited and other sponsors at Friday’s launch

Services have renewed their support of the tournament.

Matches will be played every Friday and Sunday until the grand final on January 5, 2019 at All Saints ground. The tournament has been sanctioned

Boxers getting into shape ahead of GBA’s National Open Championships BOXING gyms across the country are a hive of activity as boxers get their bodies and minds in shape for the Guyana Boxing Association’s Terrence Ali National Open Championships, scheduled for November 16-18 at the National Gymnasium.

The event will see boxers from the following gyms: Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Guyana Police Force (GPF), Republican, Forgotten Youth Foundation (FYF), Harpy Eagles, Vergenoegen Rose Hall Jammers, Carryl and Young Achievers vying for championship honours in a quest to be selected to represent Guyana at the Caribbean championship which will be held here in Guyana next month.

It is expected that GDF, the defending champion gym, will field a large contingent of experienced fighters who did both the Army and Guyana proud over the years, winning gold and silver medals locally and regionally.

This year will see the inclusion of Quiny Boyce, Clifton Clarke, Royden Grant, Ashton Niles and Ronaldo Niles among others being included in the soldiers’ contingent.

All the above-named boxers won their respective weight divisions at the just-concluded National Intermediate Championship and are now graduates for the National Open level.

Boyce was adjudged Best Boxer at the National Intermediate tourney, having won all three of his fights during the championship via TKO. With this in mind, the other gyms named above will have their work cut out

to overcome the soldiers’ onslaught.

According to GBA president, Steve Ninvalle, exciting and entertaining boxing is anticipated as well as the largest representation by gyms, over the three nights.

Ninvalle said while he is anticipating a large turnout of boxers and supporters, he is hoping that corporate Guyana will lend support, because without sponsorship, there might not be as grand a tournament as is planned.

Ninvalle also stressed the need for even more corporate support for the Caribbean Championship, as this venture is more costly than staging national championships.

According to the AIBA Executive Committee member, this year’s Caribbean championships is expected to see boxers from the English-, Dutch- and French-speaking countries and islands sending representative teams to Guyana, come December 6.

According to the GBA head, teams are expected from Jamaica, Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, St Lucia, St Marten, Turks and Caicos Islands, The Bahamas, Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana, Suriname, Dominica, Cayman Islands and US Virgin Islands.

This will be the second time in four years that Guyana will be hosting the Caribbean championships which will see over 70 boxers and officials arrive in Guyana. This, according to Ninvalle, is good for sports tourism. (Michael Da Silva).

by the GFF and the Berbice Football Association.

The competing teams are Paradise, Black Sharks, Rosignol, Corentyne All Stars, Georgetown Police, Berbice Police, Santos, Wolves, Corriverton

Links, Beacon, NA United, Uitvlugt, Cougars Arsenals East, 41 Scheme, Cougars Arsenals West, GDF, Hearts of Oak, Orealla Falcons, Monedderlust, Pouderoyen, Timehri Panthers, BV United, Hop-

etown United, Mahaica Determinators, Number 5, Grove Hi-Tech, Edinburg Gunners, NA Prisons, Golden Stars, Soccer City, Hopetown FC and Siparuta.

Persaud continues dominance in Guyana Open Golf tournament … Joaan Deo leads in female category after day one

Avinash Persaud

By Rajiv Bisnauth THE Guyana Open Golf tournament is underway at the Lusignan Golf Course, and after day one defending champion Avinash Persaud is in the lead, taking control of the leaderboard late in the afternoon.

In mostly overcast conditions for most of the entire day, the eight-time winner turned in a superb performance to grab a share of the lead on opening day.

Persaud, the Lusignan resident competing in the Men’s A Flight 0-9 handicap, ended with a gross 69 to lead with Mohanlall Dinanauth

Joaan Deo

in second position with a gross 74.

The battle for golf’s Holy Grail is definitely in Persaud’s favour since Kevin Dinanauth is lurking in third place after shooting a gross 75.

Veteran player Ravi Persaud, Mahesh Shiv Raj and Max Persaud tied with a gross of 84 in the B Flight (10-18 handicap) category.

Mo Shafie is the leader in the C Flight (19-28 handicap) with a gross 84 with Guillermo Escaragga second with gross 87.

The women’s category is being led by Joaan Deo who ended with a gross 85 and a net 69. Shanella Webster is in

LGC president Aleem Hussain and former Prime Minister of Guyana, Samuel Hinds.

second position with a gross 86 and a net 70 while defending champion Christine Sukhram ended yesterday with a gross 88 and a net 77 competing in the Ladies’ Flight (0-36 handicap).

In the senior flight, Esau Shamshudin is in the lead with a gross 88.

Meanwhile, former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds was named an honorary member of the Lusignan Golf Club on Friday evening during the club’s champions cocktail.

Hinds, in his remarks, thanked the club, and wished the participants and organisers every success for the two-day tournament.

COURTS Pee Wee Football tournament

St Pius, West Ruimveldt set up final berth St Pius won 1-0 over Tucville for a spot in the COURTS Pee Wee football final.

(Delano Williams photo)

Fitness a big concern for Windies, claims Law PAGE

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KFC taps into go-kart racing with Mega Cup GP PAGE

Representatives of KFC, GT Motorsports, GMR&SC and Pure Racing with some of the participating drivers at Friday’s launch

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Windies head coach Stuart Law

Taylor among captains thrilled with stand-alone tournament 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

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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2018