Guyana chronicle e paper 11 25 2017

A cry for justice

Page 8

–– young mother accuses police of assault

No. 105107

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2017

Price: $80 (VAT Inclusive)

‘Can’t fake experience’

…Pres Granger defends Trotman’s appointment as GECOM Commissioner …AFC fumes, says revision of Cummingsburg Accord urgent

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Cops to probe Coen

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… Bishops’ HM to be reprimanded

Garbage contractors paid Page 2

… as gov’t bails out M&CC

WPA executive member, Desmond Trotman takes the oath of office as GECOM Commissioner before President David Granger on Friday at State House. (Delano Williams photo)

Toddler killed as father reverses minibus

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Top Cop to remain on leave until January

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

Garbage contractors paid

… as gov’t bails out M&CC By Telesha Ramnarine THE government, through the Ministry of Communities, has paid over the bulk of the funds owed to the two main garbage contractors of the Mayor and City Council (M&CC), following a bailout request from the municipality, recently. Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan made the disclosure to the Guyana Chronicle during an invited comment on Friday afternoon. In addition to granting of the bailout, the government through Bulkan’s ministry and the Public Infrastructure Ministry is working on an “emergency short-term support” to re-engage the two contractors for services up to December 31. Bulkan said the government is hoping to engage the contractors so that they can resume their operations as early as Monday or Tuesday.

Mr. Kalesh Puran, Manager at Puran Brothers Disposal Services, and Mr. Morse Archer of Cevons Waste Management Inc. on Friday confirmed that they have received most of the money owed to them by the City Council. Puran’s was paid on Thursday and Cevons’ received payment sometime between Tuesday and Wednesday. The government made direct payments to them as no money was forwarded to the City Council. Puran said the company is hoping to resume its operations in good faith, especially as it insists on high standards and good quality. Archer commented that while no definite arrangements were made for re-engagement, the government did indicate that it is willing to do so. Town Clerk Royston King had written to Bulkan seeking $475,635,245 for payments to the contractors

dating back to 2015. This move followed a motion that Mayor Patricia ChaseGreen had moved to seek a bailout from government and which received support from the majority of city councillors. The contractors had suspended their services since last August because the City Council was not keeping its side of the bargain to keep up with current amounts. The companies had agreed to wait for what was owing to them for 2015 and 2016. Ever since then, the Council hired three smalltime contractors to work along with trucks belonging to the M&CC, but Head of Solid Waste Management Walter Narine had reported that a number of setbacks were being encountered with the trucks. At one point, trucks belonging to both M&CC and the private contractors were down at the same time. Collection days had been reduced and the Coun-

Charlestown.” These are the areas that produce the most garbage which results in great costs to the City, he explained. At a Council meeting last week, Chase-Green declared that the City is in a garbage crisis and lamented that there were heaps everywhere she looked. “The garbage is killing me. I gotta get it under control. Christmas coming. I going to government to beg for this bailout to bring this City back in order,” she

Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan cil started working with an irregular schedule. At the moment, there has been no clearance of household garbage for two weeks in some areas. Narine had told the Chronicle that when the two contractors come back on board with the City Council, they would not do so with the same “luxuries” that they previously enjoyed. “Both of them are coming back, but not with the same ‘luxuries’ that they had before. We will take back the markets from them and we are going to do high-producing areas like commercial, Albouystown,

said. Her ‘begging’ comment came in response to the town clerk’s statement that depending on a government bailout dilutes the authority and autonomy of the City Council. Meanwhile, in an effort to garner revenue, a on- amnesty period was granted by the City Council for defaulting ratepayers. A 100 per cent amnesty on interest was approved for the period November 15 to December 15, 2017.

Two arrested after pastor robbed of $1.8M THE police have arrested three suspects who last Wednesday allegedly robbed a pastor of $1.8M in cash on Church Street in Georgetown, shortly after he left a city bank. The victim, Pastor Eldon Anderson, 66, of Haslington, East Coast Demerara, had stepped out of his vehicle to investigate if there was any damage after the vehicle had been struck from the rear by a silver-coloured Spacio. Two armed occupants of the Spacio then snatched a parcel containing the money, which was inside his vehicle. However, the vehicle allegedly used, along with a pair of number plates and a part of the stolen cash, has been recovered. The police said one of the suspects has since confessed to the crime and has also implicated the others, as well as another who is yet to be apprehended as the investigation continues.

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‘Can’t fake experience’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

… Pres Granger defends Trotman’s appointment as GECOM Commissioner

… AFC fumes, says revision of Cummingsburg Accord urgent By Ariana Gordon PRESIDENT David Granger on Friday swore in executive member of the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) Desmond Trotman as a Commissioner of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) amid fierce protest by the Alliance For Change who expressed disappointment that their nominee was not picked. President Granger has however defended his selection, deeming Trotman the most ‘fit and proper’ of the nominees submitted to him. Granger told reporters just after the simple swearing-in exercise that Trotman, a former Member of Parliament outshone other nominees put forward by the AFC which included Trevor Williams and Beverley Alert, as well as the PNC in the name of attorney Kesaundra Alves. Additionally, the head-of-state made it clear that it was

the Commission and I am confident that the people of Guyana will be satisfied with the appointment,” said Granger. He encouraged the Commissioners to work tirelessly in preparation for Local Government Elections (LGE) and thereafter the 2020, General and Regional Elections. The AFC was notably absent from the swearing-in, but the President said the party was not required to be at the ceremony. “No, they are not required to be here. Normally, the Minister of State, my Director of Protocol [attend] and there is no rule as to which ministers would attend and Mr Trotman is free to invite his own relatives and people who he wants to advice,” said Granger. The President reiterated that he consulted with all partners within the coalition, all of which made nominations.

President David Granger speaks during the swearing in of Desmond Trotman as GECOM Commissioner. Also seated in photo are GECOM Chair, Justice (ret’d) James Patterson (left), Desmond Trotman (centre) and Commissioner Charles Corbin (right); Standing is Director of Protocol, Colonel Francis Abraham (Delano Williams) based on the nominees submitted to him; he used his own deliberate judgment and selected Trotman. Asked why he chose Trotman over the other nominees, he said, “You can’t fake experience.” “My judgment prevails and I am empowered under the constitution to exercise my judgment in this matter. I believe that when all of the nominees were looked at, Mr. Trotman is the fittest person”, he said. Article 161 (3) of the Constitution of Guyana states that in addition to the appointment of a Chairman of the Elections Commission, there shall be six members of the Commission. Three members are to be appointed by the President, acting in his own deliberate judgment and three members to be appointed by the President acting in accordance with the advice of the leader of the opposition tendered after meaningful consultation with non-governmental political parties represented in the National Assembly. Difficult year for GECOM “This has been a very difficult year for the Guyana Elections Commission and we are anxious to ensure that in every respect we enable the institutions of this country to function efficiently; and we did so with the appointment of the Chairman and now, just four days after the death of Sandra Jones,” said President Granger. He said the appointment of Trotman would allow for GECOM to “get on with its business” which has unfortunately been delayed for much of 2017. Immediately after the swearing-in of Trotman, which was witnessed by GECOM Chairman Justice (ret’d) James Patterson and Commissioner Charles Corbin, a meeting of the Commission was scheduled. The President assured that every decision he has made over the last 30 months was in conformity with the constitution, while stressing that there was wide consultation on this matter. “…In this particular instance, it is up to my judgment and I consulted widely among my coalition partners and Mr Trotman was not the only nominee but in my mind, he was the fit and proper person. He brings tremendous experience to

AFC DEEPLY DISTURBED Leader of the AFC, Raphael Trotman, just before the swearing-in of the WPA executive, told reporters that President Granger had informed him of his choice. He described Trotman as a “strong fighter” whom he has no doubt will do well. “On the other hand, the AFC as a party is deeply disturbed and disappointed that it was not chosen again to be a replacement,” he said, noting that the party has for eight years been trying to have a seat on the Commission. “We had been promised and we had really hoped that having been seen as a worthy coalition party to name one of our ranks…Trevor Williams” that their nominee would have been selected. “We are entirely disappointed in the process…once again the AFC feels an injustice has been meted out to it,” he said, noting that his party will meet over the weekend to deliberate on the matter. Later Friday, the party in a statement said, its Management Committee met and “is disappointed and disturbed that it could not be represented on the Commission, a principle which it has maintained for over a decade.” Additionally, the party has said that with 65 per cent of the electorate being under the age of 40, it believes that “the appointment of the GECOM commissioner should have taken this salient point into consideration.” “In this regard, the rank-and-file members of the AFC have expressed reservation about the appointment and were expecting the new commissioner to be a youth or a woman as was proposed by the party,” the statement said, while reiterating the need for a review of the Cummingsburg Accord which comes to an end in February, 2018. Meanwhile, the newly-appointed Commissioner told reporters after the swearing-in ceremony concurred with President Granger that he has experience in the field. Trotman explained that over the past 30 years he has garnered much experience and has interfaced with the Commission on many levels during that period. “So I think I bring

some value to the work of the Commission. More importantly, I believe that in keeping with the President’s wishes of wanting to ensure the Commission works to ensure there is free and fair elections, that my contribution is going to be important,” the WPA executive member stated. He noted that while the Commission seems to be split along political lines, his membership there is geared at representing the interest of the people of Guyana and not his party. “I would hope that all of the other members of the Commission will assume that same posture. I believe the Commissioners representing the government’s side will understand the importance of adopting a position that advances the interest of the nation. And I would hope that the Commissioners on the other side would take the same position,” he said, as he looks forward to working on the Commission. “I hope that whatever decision we arrive at, are decisions that would advance the interest of the people as against the interest of political parties,” he reiterated. Trotman joins government-nominated commissioners Charles Corbin, and Vincent Alexander and the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) commissioners Robeson Benn, Sase Gunraj and Bibi Shaddick. Asked whether he sees his new post as a conflict of interest with his existing employment at the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) Trotman said, “No, I don’t know that there is anything within the Elections Commission legislation that disqualifies me from holding both positions but if there is, I am going to step down in favour of remaining at the Elections Commission.” Asked why he would choose GECOM over his job at SARA, he said “…though I see both jobs as important I do believe that in this particular phase that we are in, it is important to ensure that the Commission advances the country’s interest and I believe the best way to do it is by me identifying with the work of the Commission, if that becomes necessary.” Ministers of State, Indigenous People’s Affairs, Social Protection and Public Service, Joseph Harmon, Sydney Allicock, Keith Scott and Dr Rupert Roopnaraine respectively, attended the ceremony. Also there was Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of the Public Service, Reginald Brotherson and WPA executive member Tacuma Ogunseye.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

Speak out! Let’s stop the violence! --Min Ally urges at ‘16 Days of Activism’ launch in East Berbice

By Nafeeza Yahya MINISTER of Social Protection, Amna Ally, on Friday called on Berbicians to help stop the violence against women and girls by speaking out. “We must speak out against violence, we must support survivors and commemorate the victims,” she said. “We must stand together in our commitment to end violence against our women and girls in all forms. Together we can and will make the progress needed to eliminate this scourge on our society,” she told the sizeable gathering of mainly schoolchildren at the Albion Sports Complex for the launch of the annual 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based

Violence. An event observed the world over come this time of year, it begins on November

Human Rights Day. As Minister Ally observed during her address, gender-based violence can

Minister of Social Protection Amna Ally addressing the audience on Friday at the ‘16 Days of Activism’ launch at the Albion Sports Complex

24 with the commemoration of International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, and concludes on December 10 with the marking of International

DATE: Wednesday, November 22, 2017

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never be acceptable, since it’s a grave violation of the most basic of human rights. Noting that the Ministry of Social Protection is prepared to do whatever it

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in collaboration with partner agencies, be embarking shortly on several activities to raise public awareness and mobilise all stakeholders throughout Guyana to bring about change.

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Noting also that Indigenous women and girls are particularly subject to violence of every sort, Minister

elimination of violence against women is a social, political and civil duty for us all; whatever our posts are or whatever aspect of life we operate in, we should all combat this plague,” Minister Ally said, adding: “As minister of social protection, I deem it as my duty, as well as the duty of all in Guyana, to focus our efforts towards achieving equality between men and women and eliminating domination and violence against women. “These women are our mothers, sisters, wives, family and relatives; they are a

Mrs Sita Nagamootoo doing her bit to help people speak out and end the violence

Saturday, November 25, 2017

Friday, November 24, 2017

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takes necessary to eradicate this scourge from these shores, Minister Ally said that for starters, they will,

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Ally said such behaviour will no longer be tolerated. “This campaign for the

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Friday, November 24, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

Speak out! Let’s stop ... key segment of the society.” She also called on the men to speak out also, whether against violence or gender inequality, as it is crtical to do so if Guyana is to move forward as a nation. “I am optimistic that the campaign for the elimination of domestic violence in general, and violence against women in particular will be successful, and I urge everyone to be supportive of this important initiative,” Minister Ally said in closing. “On this day, I urge all Guyanese to make a commitment to stop the violence against women and girls. You can start by taking a pledge to end all forms of violence. I believe that together, we can create a Guyana and a world where all citizens are respected, valued equally, and [are] safe from violence,” she added. She was not the only one to make an impassioned plea to end the violence, as the Prime Minister’s wife, Mrs. Sita Nagamootoo, also lent her voice to the cause. “We can put a stop to this! Guyana has laws, and we must demand strict enforcement of those laws

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Bandit disarmed during attempted South Road robbery

One of the many booths at the 16-day event launch in Berbice

against perpetrators of violence against girls and women,” she said. “But this is not a problem that can be successfully solved by governmental authorities alone; it requires a collective effort by all stakeholders. “Our academics can help us to understand the issues, and to adopt approaches leading to effective solutions. Social workers and religious leaders can lend themselves to providing professional assistance and

moral and spiritual comfort to those suffering from violence.” She specifically called upon the media to be responsible in their reportage, and help be the watchdogs of victims. “I appeal to the media not to sensationalise acts of gender-based violence, but rather to help in warning aggressive, arrogant or unapproachable males of the consequences of physical violence,” Mrs Nagamootoo said, adding: “No more must we con-

done any public official threatening in public to ‘slap and strip’ women activists. Persons who are vulnerable to such violence must be educated about their rights and, also about the many avenues through which they could escape from harm’s way. “Yes! We need each and every link in the chain to be in good working condition, so I welcome this ceremony and exhibition to observe ‘16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence.”

The 9mm Ruger pistol and magazine that were recovered

A BANDIT was disarmed during an attempted robbery on South Road, Bourda, Friday afternoon. Police hailed as brave and courageous the action by the victim and two public-spirited citizens. The trio was able to disarm the bandit but he fled the scene on a waiting motorcycle. According to a police statement, the firearm, a 9mm Ruger pistol with 12 live rounds were handed over to the police who responded promptly. The victim,a 46-yearold businessman was about to enter a store on South Road, Bourda about 15:45hrs having shortly before dropped off a customer at a city bank, when the bandit with firearm brandished, pounced and demanded that he hand over his money. A struggle ensued and the victim held onto the weapon whilst two members of the public went to his assistance during which the suspect was disarmed. The suspect is currently being sought.

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Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

The AFC’s leaked emails

THE Alliance For Change (AFC) within recent days has been attracting public scrutiny regarding the contents of leaked emails exchanged among its leadership in Guyana and Canada. The candid nature of the email, would understandably attract attention, some less than positive. What is clearly evident is the spirited exchanges surrounding the identification of a candidate for Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), and the subsequent appointment of Justice James Patterson. Vi c e - P r e s i d e n t a n d Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, who is also Chairman of the AFC, has said that in politics “perception is reality.” Where the AFC after the appointment issued a statement saying it was not consulted, leaked emails informed that its leadership has rendered advice to President David Granger in his consideration of making an appointment came as a surprise. It was also learnt that

Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman, Leader of the AFC, was invited by the President to State House and apprised of the identified nominee before Leader of the Opposition Bharrat Jagdeo was invited and the swearing in took place. Putting the pieces thus far known together it is reasonable to arrive at a conclusion that there was some level of knowledge, involvement and/or input by the AFC in arriving at the appointment. There is no interest in debating the intricacies, mindful of the legal challenge to the appointment, acting Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire had advised the government and opposition to desist trying the case in public. Those emails also brought to the fore the importance of having frank and honest conversations on our history, not only to ensure accuracy but also given its importance to human development. Race in politics remains a divider, continues to have polarising and debilitating impacts on society. This has been a

major problem for eons and the proverbial circling of the wagons will not help. Where Dr. Rohan Somar, an AFC leader, expressed what is considered to be a “unilateral appointment” by the President and that given Patterson’s race such would cause the party to lose East Indian support and rip open the scars of People’s National Congress (PNC) rigging, his frankness cannot be ignored. These perceptions are deserving of attention. They carry inferences such as were an East Indian appointed under the exact circumstance it would not have found disfavour, Indians would not leave the party, their fear about rigged elections would be allayed or should such happen it would have been found acceptable. Allegations of rigged elections, though often attributed to the PNC Government are not unique to that given recent incidents when the People’s Progressive Party/Civic was in government. The 1997 General and Regional Elections were nullified by the High Court

because they were deemed fraudulent (i.e. rigged). In the 2006 Elections the AFC was denied the Region 10 seat it had won with the votes that came from an African stronghold. Those elections were presided over by a GECOM chairman of East Indian ancestry and its Chief Election Officer of identical ancestry. Further examination of the AFC’s votes shows the majority have come from African strongholds. It becomes important where thoughts are freely expressed that respect for them do not ignore how the racial other is likely to feel, given that they are seen as pre-disposed to deviant characteristics, though their votes are relied on to be elected. Racial respect and harmony are important factors to a united Guyana, and any view expressed that lends to perception that in the same scenario what one group does is bad and the other good does not further the national goal. Ageism continues to haunt even among those charged with constitutional responsibility

to protect all citizens and where they themselves can too be seen as old and unfit to serve, given they are relatively older than the majority. Approximately twothirds of our population is 40 years and younger. Every citizen, irrespective of age or other diversity, should feel secure in the state, government and those seeking and holding political office will protect and defend their rights. Age, outside of child labour, is not a disqualifier to work and earn. While in the email Justice Patterson’s age was considered an ineligibility to serve, similar nexus and disapproval were expressed in the appointment of Dr. Barton Scotland, Speaker of the National Assembly. It was proffered this position should have been held by

Attorney-at-law Stephen Fraser, comparatively of younger age. However, by the same criteria the preference ignored Mr. Fraser is older than the majority, a demographic that can consider him old and ineligible. Emails are leaked for various reasons. Whereas it can be surmised or not known what is/are the reason/s and whether there will be more leaks, the AFC as a member of the coalition government undoubtedly would find it useful to assess the serious implications of their contents. Guyana’s motto is “One People, One Nation, One Destiny.” Inherent in this is oneness of all, meaning oneness of treatment, respect and opportunities. There remains much work to be done in this regard.

Infrastructure that supports sexual predators must come down Dear Editor,

I REFER to an article in Kaieteur News, November 24, 2017 captioned, ‘’ School sexual abuse allegations … GTU denounces sexual misconduct in school system,” in which the Guyana Teacher’s Union president Mark Lyte was clear where his union stands on this grave issue of sexual misconduct by members of his union. His statements have been forthright, and objective, seeking to give balance to a scandal that has rocked the state’s

school system. However, as part of his statement he said, “We have to be cautious how we comment on this matter…” He also said that the procedures of the investigative process should be allowed to take its proper course (this is my understanding of that section of his pronouncements). What Mr. Lyte needs to appreciate is that there is a pervasive rape culture that has, sadly, become part of the general Guyanese male psyche, and that decent citizens are fed up with it. It illustrates a sickening, caveman

culture where our women folk, both young and old, are seen as prey and property to be hunted and pursued like beasts, and finally taken down and physically devoured. Not even infants are spared this brutal ordeal. This is the reality of what our women and girls face in Guyana – they have become an endangered species! We must not ever point to its occurrences in other parts of the world; for this abuse has now become a daily feature in our communities, as if it is a social past time -- we are in deep crisis where sexual

violence is concerned. And again, this is best illustrated by the recent case of a taxi driver brought to court for allegedly abusing a sevenyear-old. This particular case may very well have negative repercussions for taxi drivers being hired to transport children to schools. Thus the nation is fed up, to its proverbial teeth, and becoming very angry with the epidemic of sexual abuse in our society. Many of the women in the system have become acculturated to accept it as normalised

behaviour; therefore, whatever comments that have been made, whether in print or electronic media, or via social media must be seen and understood against such a background; especially in a country where the conviction rate for sexual offences is exceedingly low. Editor, I am certain that Mr. Lyte should be aware of such incidents being swept under the carpet in the many schools where they have occurred. It would, I believe, do his union a great good, to begin regional seminars for edu-

cators, as a reminder that their employment responsibilities entail the shaping of young, impressionable minds and do not include sexual abuse; pressuring female students, grooming students, and harassing them when they refuse such advances. The entire infrastructure that supports sexual predators needs to be deconstructed through our collective voices and actions. Regards EARL HAMILTON

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

Violence against women endemic-WGEC Dear Editor

THE United Nations’ (UN) International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women is an occasion for governments, international and non-governmental organisations to raise public awareness of violence against women. It has been observed on November 25 each year since 2000. While there have been some significant milestones at the policy and legislative levels and some excellent service providers and community-based advocacy at national and community levels by NGOs, the bare fact is that violence against women specifically and gender-based violence, generally is at epidemic levels in Guyana. The associative factors of gender-based violence, murder and suicide have reached alarming proportions for a country with such a small population. The situation in the interior is a negative one as shown by the WGEC “Access to Justice” outreach in all 10 regions of Guyana and reported to Parliament with our recommendations. A welcome push forward for Georgetown has come with the recent courts set up to address Sexual Offences and Domestic Violence with Guidelines in place – and with the National Task Force finally activated as the oversight body. The question remains, however, as to what impact these progressive forward moves will have in the deep rural and hinterland areas – and how they will be effectively implemented there – with the currently inadequate court systems in place and virtually no effective support services, shelters and very limited counselling available? At one of the WGEC-sponsored parliamentary seminars held in 2015, the then Puisine Judge, Justice Roxane George promoted the idea, via a video recording, of mobile courts being set up using buses and boats to deliver court services to remote communities. There are working precedents for this in other parts of the world, she reported. WGEC calls on the relevant authorities to have an honest review of its level of access to justice and related services for victims/ survivors of domestic and

gender violence and to take on board our recommendations tabled in order to better avail Guyanese everywhere of their rights to Gender Justice. The Commission has recommended to Parliament the implementation of a Sexual Harassment Policy at all places of work and educational institutions. This has been accompanied by public advocacy by the WGEC at workshops and conferences and through Bill Boards and the wide dissemination of information and posters in the various regions. Sexual Harassment is rife in Guyana – but without conviction in courts. WGEC is of the view that the current “catch-all” law under which sexual harassment may be prosecuted is inadequate. We have therefore been advocating for specific legislation on Sexual Harassment with a view towards greater understanding of these rights and violations and attendant services and court support to better prosecute and protect. Sexual Harassment affects all genders and ages and we need to stop sweeping it under the rug where it remains festering in our society. In observance of 25 November 2017, the Women and Gender Equality Commission held discussions and handed out posters at all the secondary schools around Georgetown. The objective

is to reach all the secondary schools across Guyana. WGEC has also advocated for and recommended the establishment of Community Counselling Centres and “friendship benches” across the 10 administrative regions. The recommendations from the schools outreach and these regional conferences would be made public at a Round Table to be held at the Rights Commission Boardroom on 12th December, 2017. Since 1996, Guyana ratified the Inter-American Convention on the Prevention, Punishment, and Eradication of Violence against Women, known as the Convention of Belém do Pará which defines violence against women, establishes that women have the right to live a life free of violence and that violence against women constitutes a violation of human rights and fundamental freedoms. This was the same year that the Domestic Violence Act was legislated in Guyana – as part of Guyana’s commitments to the Beijing Platform of Action. The Commission has taken note of all related issues of gender-based violence in Guyana and is especially concerned with what is happening in the schools. We welcome the chorus of voices calling for an end to the violence that affects an estimated one in

three women. In support of what the UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said in his 2014 speech “...we commend all those leaders who are helping to enact and enforce laws and change mindsets. We also pay tribute to all those heroes around the world who help victims to heal and to become agents of change.”

We still have a hard and rocky road ahead to change those norms in our society that accept violence against women, children and all forms of gender-based violence. Attitudes, practices, beliefs are difficult to change. But change is also inevitable. Let 2018 see benign and positive winds of change flow through all

Guyana powered by us all to make Guyana & Guyanese stop violence against women and children in all its forms and embrace gender equality and gender justice for all. The WGEC stands in solidarity with all such efforts. Regards Women and Gender Equality Commission

A cry for justice

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

– young mother accuses police of assault By Naomi Marshall

AS the world observes International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and Girls, a 20-year-old woman who hails from Linden, Region 10, is crying out for justice after allegedly being assaulted by the father of her child who is a policeman. But the assault did not stop there. The young mother allegedly had her wig ripped off while being given a sound thrashing by two policewomen in the compound of the Wismar Police Station when she attempted to file a report against her ‘ex.’ Though it has been more than two weeks since the matter has been engaging the attention of the Police Complaints Authority, the aggrieved woman is still waiting for the matter to be heard in court. In a late-night interview with the Guyana Chronicle, Valicia Richardson said that though the incident occurred more than two weeks ago, she is still traumatised, and the physical scars are a daily reminder that enough is not being done to end violence against women and girls, even at the level of the Guyana Police Force. Chronicling the events that ended in a violent confrontation with the police, Richardson recalled that on the night of November 6, 2017, she visited the Wismar Police Station to collect child support from the father of her child, Joseph Cardiss, but was informed that he was not there at the moment. But upon exiting the compound, she noticed Cardiss sitting in a car a short distance away and decided to approach him. TAKEN BY SURPRISE What happened next took her completely by surprise, as according to the young mother, Cardiss held on to her hands and instructed the driver to reverse the vehicle and then drive forward into the station yard. As the driver complied with the instructions he was given, Cardiss shoved her so violently that in the ensuing confusion, her umbrella, phone and purse fell into the car. Desperate to retrieve her belongings from the vehicle, Richardson said she returned to the station to do so, as well as file a complaint

Richardson’s phone which was damaged during her near-fatal encounter with one of the policewomen on duty against her ‘child-father.’ As she was speaking to the two ranks she met at the Inquiries Office, a male and female (names given), Cardiss reportedly entered the room. On seeing him, Richardson said she used the opportunity to enquire about the child support, but was told by the female rank that the station was not the place for such discussions. The 20-year-old is alleging that while she was speaking, she must have unwittingly pointed in the direction of the female rank, who thereupon accused her of being disrespectful. “She was like, ‘Why are you pointing your hands in my face? You need to respect the police,’” Richardson said, adding that her immediate response was: “How can I respect the police when they don’t respect themselves?” Not liking her tone, Richardson said the female rank retaliated by giving her a chuck. But the night’s ordeal was not yet done by a long shot, for as Richardson was leaving the station yard, she was pursued by another female rank (name given). “She rushed out behind me and started

Fined for illegal entry A 31-year-old Venezuelan man was on Friday fined $50,000 by City Magistrate Judy Latchman for entering Guyana illegally.

Erick Jesus Guaregua confessed that on July 16 at Eterinbang, in the Cuyuni River, he entered Guyana by sea and disembarked without

presenting himself to an immigration officer. With the aid of an interpreter, the unrepresented man told the court that he

The wound Richardson obtained when she was hit in the head with a stick beating me. This police even rip off my wig and throw it on the ground,” Richardson said, adding that eventually she was taken the Inquiries Office, where she was able to retrieve her belongings. MORE BLOWS But again as she was leaving the station yard for a third time, she was pursued by the same female officer who had assaulted her earlier. “She come and stand in front of the gate. I asked for an excuse, but she was just there ignoring me, so I opened the gate, and she give me one lash straight cross meh back with a stick,” Richardson said, adding: “With that, my purse fell. And as I bend to get the purse, she lash me again, and lash the phone out my hand, because I was barring. “As I bend to get the phone, she lash me two times in my head; and with the second lash, I saw blood rushing from my head.” Later that night, Richardson was taken to the Mackenzie Hospital where she received four stiches to her head and also did a medical examination. On November 7, Richardson said she met with the Commander of ‘E’ Division, Fizal came to Guyana because of the recession going on in his homeland. According to reports, on November 22, the foreign national turned himself over to the police at the Providence Police Station after his friend, Ram Raymond,

Injuries she received to the neck Karimbaksh, who reportedly told her that he couldn’t deal with the matter. “He said he cannot deal with the matter, and that the Office of Professional Responsibility will be in Linden the Wednesday, and that I need to make myself available,” Richardson said, adding: “I feel like my voice isn’t going to be heard, since this matter is my word against the police officer. “I don’t feel safe, because I was badly beaten by the very people who supposed to be serving and protecting me.” She said she did as advised and raised the matter with the Police Complaints Authority. “I went to the Police Complaints Authority the Thursday in the same week, and they took the statement and told me that they have to call for the police that assault me to investigate the matter. But I haven’t heard anything from them since,” the young mother said. “I am pleading with the people in authority to please look into my matter, since I could have lost my life that night, leaving to mourn my two-year-old daughter and my sick mom that I take care of,” she implored.

told him that he is wanted by the cops. Magistrate Latchman ordered Guaregua to either pay a fine of $50,000 or spend weeks in prison. He will be deported after paying his fine or serving his time.

Erick Jesus Guaregua

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

Policies continue to be refined in preparation for ‘first oil’ - Trotman urges skill enhancement in other sectors

By Telesha Ramnarine POLICIES needed to facilitate a thriving oil and gas industry are being drafted, strengthened and updated by the Government of Guyana, through its Ministry of Natural Resources.

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman speaking at the event

Minister with the portfolio, Raphael Trotman on Friday detailed some of the preparatory work being undertaken by the government which he said has been looking at many examples worldwide and have even adapted many good lessons in its preparations for ‘First Oil’ and beyond. He was speaking at the first-ever stakeholders’ oil and gas symposium organised by the University of Guyana,

Faculty of Technology, at the Marriott Hotel in Georgetown which sought to broaden the perspective of the university’s faculty, students and other institutions in embracing the new opportunities that will become available in the country’s petroleum sector. Speaking of current efforts, Trotman called attention to the present Petroleum Act which is being revised and which has been making rapid progress towards public engagement and consultations within the first quarter of 2018. “This is the main piece of legislation which details the conduct of activities and their regulation within the sector. This Act will be supported by a series of detailed regulations, the first series of which will speak to the technical, health, safety and environmental requirements,” the minister explained. He said the Petroleum Commission of Guyana Bill is aimed at establishing an agency responsible for the regulation of the sector, ensuring that activities are carried out in conformity with policies, legislation and regulations. “This Bill which is currently before a Special Select Committee, continues to go through a series of national consultations to ensure that we create an agency

which is relevant, capable and equipped to carry out this critical function.” The Sovereign Wealth Fund Bill is also in draft form and under review, Trotman pointed out, and this process is being led by the Ministry of Finance. The Petroleum Taxation and other fiscal legislation are also in the process of review and development and are also led by the Finance Ministry.

“Within the Ministry of Natural Resource we have been consistently expanding our internal capacity through the engagement of expert advisors and establishing a Petroleum Department, and supporting the key governance initiatives such as the recently formed Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (GYEITI), through which, Guyana recently became the 53rd candidate country of the international

Stakeholders present at the symposium

At the level of Cabinet, a Sub-Committee for the Petroleum Sector has been formed comprising Trotman, the Ministers of State, Finance, Infrastructure, Business and the Presidential Advisor on Petroleum. At the level of the ministries, there is also a Petroleum Sector Ministerial Committee comprising the Ministers of State, Natural Resources, Finance, Infrastructure and Business.

institution – the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI),” Trotman informed. In 2018, he said this work will continue and focus will be intensified on the establishment of a national oil company, with responsibility for Guyana’s commercial interest in the sector; a scientific institute to support cutting edge regulation and the development of the sector. An offshore logistics base which will serve

to not only support the operations of the oil operators and bring much needed revenue to Guyana, but also to support the development of other local industries. ENHANCE SKILLS Minister Trotman urged the stakeholders to think about enhancing the skills that are transferrable to other sectors when the oil and gas industry gets into full swing.

Fabrication, for instance, can be utilised in mining and shipbuilding, the minister noted, while IT and telecommunications could be applicable across a wide range of sectors as can welders, chefs, mechanics, logistics, marketing and business administrators. “I also encourage you to make the most of the experienced members of the diaspora, visiting professionals and resident operating

Education Minister Ms. Nicolette Henry; Dr. Paulette Bynoe, AA, Dean of Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences; and Mr. Doug McGhee, Upstream Operations Manager, ExxonMobil Guyana Ltd

“Relative to the large capital employed, the industry does not employ many persons directly. However, the industry generates revenues that can be made available to expand development and provide jobs in other sectors of the economy,” Trotman said at the stakeholders’ oil and gas symposium.

and service companies, to provide input in curriculum development. Partner with professional associations such as the AAPG and the Society of Petroleum Engineers to benefit from guest lectures, since many of these associations have regional offices,” Trotman urged.

Pres. Granger urges Region Four to ‘lead the way’ -as he bemoans parochialism

By Vishani Ragobeer AS the government seeks to bridge the divide between the hinterland and coastal regions, President David Granger has highlighted that Region Four: Demerara- Mahaica, is well poised to lead the development of all of the nation’s administrative regions. Speaking at the opening of the Demerara-Mahaica Regional Democratic Council (RDC)’s inaugural Regional, Agricultural and Commercial Exhibition (RACE), hosted at the Lusignan Community Centre ground, the President highlighted that despite being the smallest region, Demerara-Mahaica is well experienced in many facets of development. As a result of this, the head of state related, “It is my view that Demerara-Mahaica shows the way. Demerara-Mahaica can lead the way, Demerara-Mahaica can instruct regions in cooperation, in transportation, in communication, not only by growing and showing, but also by implanting its technologies in all of the other regions.” But he lamented that the five largest regions in Guyana

happen to be the five poorest regions -- and five hinterland regions. Thus, instead of focusing on the development of Region Four in isolation, he stressed that there must be

standards between the coastal and hinterland regions. “With this economic vitality and with this economic diversity, we are confident that the holding of these regional ag-

President Granger commissions one of the two buses that will be given to Region Four as part of his 5Bs initiative. Both buses were donated by overseas members of the People’s National Congress/ Reform (PNC/R) party residing in Miami, Florida. (Adrian Narine photo)

deviation from parochialism and focus instead on building the capacity of the other regions. There is much more potential to the hinterland regions than just gold-mining and logging, since there is an immense economic potential for agriculture and energy generation, according to the President and these exhibitions provide a unique opportunity to create equal

ricultural exhibitions, every year in every region, can help to augment production,” he affirmed and added that the “gap” between the hinterland and coast would be bridged. Weighing in also was Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, who highlighted just how meaningfully Region Four contributes to the national agricultural output but levelled this by reminding that many agricultural agen-

cies and support services are located here. Like the President, the agriculture minister identified these exhibitions as means for farmers and businesses to not only

This was a daunting revelation but Minister of Business, Dominic Gaskin, highlighted that Guyanese could aid in reducing this by simply supporting the local agricultural

President Granger examines some of the local products during his visit to some of the booths at the RACE (Adrian Narine photo)

market themselves and their products, but to engage in capacity-building and learning better agricultural practices to augment production. While he sought to underscore the government’s efforts in fostering such activities and generally promoting agriculture, he explained that Guyana remains vulnerable to stark expenses through its food- import bill which was pegged at $261M in 2016.

sector. “Farmers need a lot of support and the public needs to consume food that we produce in Guyana,” Gaskin said but also acknowledged that better must be done with regard to value-added products. Processing and manufacturing are activities the minister stressed should be done right in Guyana, not only to satisfy locals but to also penetrate foreign markets. Regional Chairman,

Genevieve Allen, in giving an overview of the RACE detailed that the event was designed specifically to improve the entire agricultural process “from the farm to your table,” but highlighted that this could only be achieved if farmers delved away from traditional practices. She highlighted the increasing role modern technology plays in agriculture and everyday activities and the region’s farmers must also be cognisant of this. In keeping with this, the RDC in collaboration with the Ministry of Public Telecommunications (MoPT) will be launching the ‘Farmer’s’ App’ created during the ministry’s CODESPRINT competition held earlier this year. In essence, this seeks to connect farmers and consumers. This exhibition continues today and will culminate tomorrow. Similar exhibitions were launched in Pomeroon-Supenaam (Region Two), Mahaica-Berbice (Region Five), Upper Demerara-Upper Berbice (Region 10) and in Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region Nine).

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

GCCI pushes gov’t to cut taxes in several critical sectors By Svetlana Marshall

AHEAD of Budget 2018, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) is imploring the government to remove the Value Added Tax (VAT) from finished products in the logging industry and from the inputs for rice operations, in addition to the reinstatement of the 10% Tributors Tax against the 20% imposed this year. The GCCI is also calling on government to reduce the Corporate Income Tax by 10% from its current high of 35% through a process of gradualism. On Friday, GCCI released its 14-page submission to the Minister of Finance Winston Jordan on Budget 2018. The document was submitted to the Finance Ministry on September 20, 2017. In justifying its recommendations, the GCCI pointed out that the forestry sub-sector has been on the decline in 2017 with contraction totalling 18.2% during the first half of the year, following the 13.1% decline at the end of June, 2016. “The forestry sector performance has been declining over the last few years; this can be ascribed to greater

market conditions and sector review within Guyana,” the Chamber stated, while further pointing out that statistics indicate that the output of logs has declined, while roundwood and plywood declined by 1.3% and 52.2% respectively during the same period. Only sawn wood recorded a positive growth rate of 20.5%. Based on the trends, GCCI lobbied government through the Finance Ministry for removal of VAT from finished products. “We received many complaints that [the] 2017 budget measure to increase [the] tax burden on the stakeholder, we register that this has a negative impact on trade in the sub sector and we request the Ministry of Finance to review and remove VAT on these finished goods,” the GCCI stated in its submission. A similar concession was recommended for the rice industry. “Having witnessed a drastic decline by 26.2% in the first half of 2016, the rice sub-sector recovered in the first half of 2017 with a growth rate of 35.4%. This recovery was justified by higher acreage cultivated,

higher yields per hectare and better disease management,” the chamber said as it gave an overview of the industry’s performance. In doing so it also took

GCCI President Deodat Indar (Adrian Narine Photo) note of the fact that rice farmers and millers during the early months of 2017 secured new rice markets in Cuba and Mexico. But while rice production is expected to increase significantly by the end of 2017, reaching 590, 000 tonnes, GCCI said production costs have increased

to the disadvantage of farmers although the sector provides economic and social gains in Guyana. “We are informed that cost of production increased and market prices for rice has[sic] not improved proportionately, causing reduction in profits in the venture at a small-scale level. We are informed that land rent increases, VAT on fertiliser, herbicide and pesticides caused great financial harm to farmers,” GCCI reported while calling on the Finance Ministry to remove VAT from the inputs to rice production. It also wants the rental fee for rice lands to be reduced. Addressing the issue on a much wider scale, the GCCI said VAT has been a financial burden to many commercial entities. “A revision and amendment to the Value Added Tax Act of 2005 to re-examine and shift the taxpoint for goods manufactured at the point of finished goods sold rather than at the point of importation of raw and packaging materials for those said goods. The effect of this law has been that government stretched its hands into private corporations and taxed them via VAT, causing significant strain on working capital. To address the working capital woes, bank financing at a cost of 10% to 12% is sought to continue operations,” GCCI stated. As such, it is also calling for the removal of VAT on finished foods. “Currently fast food outlets are competing on uneven playing fields with other forms of food vending,” the chamber further noted. The increase in Tributors

Tax was also among concerns raised by the Georgetown Chamber. It was pointed out that gold output declined from 322 troy ounces at the end of June 2016 to 317 troy ounces at mid-year 2017. “This 1.7% contraction was justified due to adverse weather conditions and falling gold prices. It should be noted, however, that as at June 2017, Gold still accounts for 15% of Guyana’s GDP (GYD$21.340 Million,)” the chamber noted.

porate Income Tax by 10% through a process of gradualism. “We are proposing a sliding -scale reduction of corporate income tax by 10% from its current high rate of 35% of income generated by a corporation. This sliding scale over six years can be as follows: 2017 – budget reduction resultant rate at a period end 27.5%; 2018 – 1.0% reduction resultant rate at period end 26.5%; 2019 – 1.0% reduction-resultant rate

A gold-mining operation in Region Nine Based on the trends detailed, the Georgetown Chamber has recommended that the 10% Tributors Tax be re-instated as against the 20% that was imposed. “… knowing the nature of this business and the workers’ culture, it has created confusion in the small and medium-sized workforce,” GCCI posited. Additionally, GCCI said that data illustrated by the National Tax Reform Committee Report of January 2016 shows that Guyana’s Corporate Income Tax Rates are uncompetitive. On this basis, the chamber has proposed a reduction of Cor-

period end 25.5%; and 2020 o.5% reduction resultant rate at period end 25.0%,” GGCI detailed. The Georgetown Chamber, in its submission, told the Finance Minister that it is cognisant that such recommendations if implemented would result in revenue loss and as such, it further proposed that in return the cost of goods produced and sold to the wider population be reduced and sold at more affordable prices. It is believed that such actions would reduce the cost of living and simultaneously control the inflation rate.

Figueira exonerated –– in obstructing the peace matter

THE case against Region 10 Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira, who allegedly played music without first obtaining a licence from the District Magistrate, was dismissed by Magistrate Clive Nurse on Friday in the Upper Demerara Magistrates Court. The dismissal came when Magistrate Nurse told the court that the case brought against Figueira failed to prove it was he who kept the promotion, and was responsible for the music being played. In an invited comment, Figueira said he was pleased that the matter is now behind him, and he can get back to his responsibility of serving the people within his constituency in the best way he can. It was alleged that on June 24, 2017, Figueira held a Stag promotion event, which was deemed public, at Figgy’s Grocery Mart, Wismar, Linden, without obtaining the necessary licence from the court and permission from the police. According to the police, he was warned

Member of Parliament Jermaine Figueira exiting the courtroom of the Upper Demerara Magistrates Court yesterday after his case was dismissed to desist from holding the event, but he continued, hence he was charged and placed before the court.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

MOPT Web Master represents at conference on IT Accessibility for the vulnerable MINISTRY of Public Telecommunications Web Master, Jaime Skeete, recently participated in the 2017 LatAm conference titled “Information and Communications Technologies for ALL” in San Jose, Costa Rica. The three -day event, organised in collaboration with the International Telecommunications Union (ITU), was intended to encourage governments, industry, academia and other stakeholders to provide physical and ICT-related accessibility for persons with disabilities, women and girls, the elderly, indigenous and others. Generally, it is to create fair and equal opportunities for all workers and citizens. In a release, the MOPT said the 4th Annual Accessible Americas IV conference was held at the Barceló San José Hotel, Costa Rica from November 21 to 23, 2017. More

than 200 representatives of the telecommunications sectors in Central/Latin America, the Caribbean, North America and Guyana attended and discussed the many ways to encourage governments and stakeholders to immediately implement (modern) measures to protect the rights and dignity of people with disabilities and vulnerabilities. Discussions centered around access to telecommunications – IT services and the internet - for the indigenous populations, women heads of household, youth, children and other vulnerable groups. Conference participants also shared best practices and initiatives. This year Costa Rica was chosen as the venue because of its technological advancement and its high penetration of telecommunications services throughout the Central American nation.

Be on the alert –– for fake cheques, counterfeit currencies, police warn Berbicians

THE police in Berbice are urging businesses and persons to look out for fake managers’ and personal cheques, counterfeit U.S. currency and the movement of large sums of cash over the upcoming festive season. This was underscored this week when Commander of ‘B’ Division, Linden Alves and Deputy Commander, Superintendent, Edmond Cooper unveiled their 2017 Christmas Policing Plans, at the Regional Health Services boardroom, Berbice. Commander Alves explained that the Christmas Policing Plan entails the division being divided into four sectors and an officer/ inspector will oversee each division. Sector One, Central, from Borlam Turn to Mara will be manned by Assistant Superintendent (A.S.P) M. Vigilance; Sector Two, Borlam Turn to Number 62 Village, by Superintendent Boodnarine Persaud; Sector Three, Abary to Ithaca Village by A.S.P. E. Davidson; and Sector Four, Number 62 Village to Moleson Creek by A.S.P. J. Singh. Adding that this will ensure a safe and secure environment for visitors and shoppers during the festive season, Alves said also, that attracting heavy police at-

Commander of ‘B’ Division Linden Alves

Deputy Commander, Superintendent, Edmond Cooper

tention are the main shopping areas and other populated areas and hot spots in New Amsterdam, Rose Hall Town, Springlands and Rosignol, even as, mounted patrols will be active, 24 hours in the backlands Meanwhile, Deputy Commander, Superintendent, Edmond Cooper told this newspaper that special arrangements will also be put in place for Christmas Eve and Old Year’s Day to manage traffic, crowd control, late shopping and other social gatherings at a number of locations throughout the

Division. Cooper noted that the Force will up the ante against persons selling and lighting squibs and bombs, noise nuisance and road rage. The senior superintendent added that the plan will be assessed on a weekly basis and adjustments will be made where necessary, while promising to work with all stakeholders to ensure, as far as possible, a crime and accident-free Christmas for the residents of Berbice. The ‘B’ Division Christmas Policing Plan extends from November 15, 2017, to January 15, 2018.

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Participants of the LatAm Information and Communications Technologies conference

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

Linden tightens security

–– for Christmas season THE police in ‘E’ Division have announced that measures have been put in place to minimise criminal activities, reduce traffic

congestion, decrease road accidents and provide a safe and secure environment for residents, visitors and businesses of Linden during the

Christmas season. The Christmas Policing Exercise will be carried out during the period November 15, 2017 and January 15,

Divisional Commander Fazil Karimbaksh making his presentation at the Constabulary Hall, Mackenzie, Linden 2018. During a presentation, Divisional Commander Fazil Karimbaksh observed that there is usually a spike in social, cultural and economic activities during the Christmas season, which results in an increase of crimes and accidents. As such, ‘E’ Division will be divided into three sectors which will be commanded by an inspector and adequate ranks. The three sectors are Amelia’s Ward, Mackenzie and Wismar. In Sector One, Amelia’s Ward, Linden, the areas of focus are the entire South and Central Amelia’s Ward where traffic-block spots will be positioned at Moblissa, Linden Highway and Loo Creek, Linden Highway. Business entities such as Dr. Haynes’s Mall and McRae Variety & Hardware Store will also be covered. Sector Two, Mackenzie, Linden, areas of focus are the Mackenzie Market Square, Retrieve, Republic Avenue, Co-op Crescent, Greenheart Street and businesses such as Republic Bank and Citizens

Bank, among others. Sector Three Wismar, Linden, areas of focus include the Wismar Market, One Mile, Half Mile, Post Office and Roger Hinds Gas Station. Checkpoints will be established at Bamia, Tri-Junction and Mabura, which are vital for operations since drugs, guns and ammunition are usually obtained at these points. There will also be several types of patrols, including anti-crime, which will comprise motorcycles, beat, bicycles and marine patrols. ‘E’ Division will continue with their usual roadblocks, cordon searches, intelligence gathering, profiling of known characters, traffic patrols, monitoring of post offices at Mackenzie, Wismar, Ituni and Kwakwani during the payout of Old Age Pensions, monitoring of key points and vulnerable points, including business places, commercial banks and other financial institutions. CID patrols will be operating out of Mackenzie, Linden and will be networking with the ‘A’, ‘B’ and ‘F’ Divisions.

According to Commander Karimbaksh, there have been 50 reports of serious crimes, seven fatal accidents and eight persons have been charged with possession of firearms and ammunitions so far this year. So far this year, there has been one murder in ‘E’ Division. Fifty-seven persons were arrested for trafficking in narcotics, totalling 41 pounds. There were six robberies for the year and all six were solved, resulting in eight persons being prosecuted. Commander Karimbaksh stated that intelligence-led operations resulted in the recapturing of Kendal Skeet and Uree Varswyck (deceased) who had escaped from the Camp Street Prison. He also pointed out that stop-and-search exercises were conducted at the Mabura Police checkpoint, resulting in the seizure of 200 grams cocaine, 26.4 kilograms of cannabis, 32 pistols and several rounds of matching ammunition. Due to drug-eradication exercises at Rockstone, Kwakwani, the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and Coomacka Mines, over 15 acres of cannabis were destroyed and at an average 9130 cans were destroyed. “Significant achievement that caused the crime rate to reduce is where we increased our anti-crime patrols. If you notice, four additional motorcycle patrols were introduced, so these motorcycles would check the areas that the fourwheel vehicles can’t go,” the commander explained. He also noted that two additional four-wheel vehicles anti-crime patrols and one traffic car patrol were introduced. “We will continue to perform our duties professionally to the best of our skills and abilities based on the oath we have taken, so you will see police professionalism once I am in command of this ‘E’ Division,” promised the commander. Linden’s Regional Chairman Renis Morian commended the management of ‘E’ Division for the work it has done to keep the region safe.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

Top Cop to remain on leave until January MINISTER of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan has instructed Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud to proceed on the continuation of his leave which ends in January of 2018. Persaud was required to resume duty on Friday but Ramjattan instructed him to take the remaining 56 days of his leave. The Top Cop’s accumulated leave commenced in July last. “He will be taking that [56 days leave] and coming out now sometime on the 18th January,” the Public Security Minister told the Guyana Chronicle. The country’s 31st commissioner of police is officially set to retire in April 2018. Assistant Commissioner of Police David Ramnarine will continue acting in Persaud’s absence. Commissioner Persaud, who hails from the Essequibo Coast, will complete 33 years Commissioner of Police Seelall Persaud as a member of the Guyana Police Force upon retirement. He served most of the time in the Criminal Investigations Department. He headed the Police Anti-Narcotics Unit (Drug Squad) for 10 years and served as the country’s lead detective (Crime Chief) for another seven years. During his career, he worked on the coastland as well as in the interior. The Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the alleged plot to assassinate President David Granger had recommended that Persaud be made to resign or proceedings should be initiated in accordance with Article 225 of the Constitution to have him removed from office for misbehaviour. The CoI was conducted by retired Assistant Commissioner of Police Paul Slowe and the report was handed over to President David Granger two weeks ago. The report stated that Persaud had improperly inserted himself into the investigation into the alleged plot, although he was on leave. At that time Ramnarine was acting in the capacity of police commissioner. He is the second most senior rank in the Force.

Toddler killed as father reverses minibus A MAN is in police custody after he accidentally reversed his minibus, BVV 9628 over his one- year-old son at their home in Kitty, Georgetown. Dead is Mallakai Willis of Lot 21 D’Andrade Street, Kitty, Georgetown. Reports indicate that the father was in the process of reversing his minibus out of his yard, oblivious that the child was behind the vehicle. After realising that the toddler had been crushed, the distraught father was heard shouting and seen attempting to remove his child from The minibus impouned in under the minibus. The toddler was front of the Kitty Police p r o n o u n c e d d e a d Station at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH) and the body was taken to the Lyken’s Funeral Parlour. The minibus was impounded at the Kitty Police Station as investigations continue.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

Need for public transport authority –Min Patterson

THERE is need for a public transport authority and improvement of the road network system in the city, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson has said. Patterson was at the time giving remarks at the stakeholders’ consultation Friday on Sustainable Urban Study for Georgetown held at the Cara Lodge Hotel, Quamina Street, Georgetown. He said the study was aimed at presenting a comprehensive look at the city of Georgetown to promote effective mobility. Minister Patterson said the recommendations fall under the Mayor and City

Council of Georgetown and the ministry will not usurp their responsibility. At the end of the stakeholders meeting, he said a final report will be presented to the ministry and the municipality. The study entails five sectors: The Urban Improvement Transportation sector; Traffic Improvement Programme; Gender study and institutional strengthening, and the parking management plan. “It is necessary that we have to change the operational mode of the transportation system in Georgetown…so we have to introduce new requirements for drivers and vehicles and the creation

GPL rolls out multibillion-dollar network for East Coast villages THE Guyana Power and Light Incorporated (GPL) has started the roll-out of a multibillion-dollar upgrade to the electricity distribution network for villages on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD). Speaking at a community outreach with residents of Buxton and neighbouring communities at the Buxton Secondary School Thursday evening, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) acting, Renford Homer said the project is part of the wider Power Utility Upgrade Programme (PUUP) and is aimed at providing a higher quality of service to its consumers. “It’s not just about what’s happening in Buxton/ Friendship. This is a programme that has been identified to help our company in improving the quality of service. This has come about because there has been a long recognition that our network is quite aged but more importantly, because as a company we are always challenged financially because of the intense cost of generating electricity,” Homer told the gathering of residents. The renovation to the East Coast distribution network is part of an approximately US$65 million utility upgrade funded equally by a grant from the European Union (EU) and a loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The project among other things will see the use of distribution boxes and insulated wires, to minimise the instances of illegal connections that cause disruptions to the power distribution network; and smart meters to allow for more frequent, accurate readings without the need to visit a consumer’s premises. According to the CEO acting, the upgrade which targets an overall 85 communities, will be rolled out in four phases, namely excavation and pole-planting, stringing of conductors, electrical installation, and installation of smart meters. He explained that this is just one phase of a project that is expected to span approximately 830km of new and upgraded cable and it’s also meant to see overall an average of about 58,000 being equipped with more modern electronic meters. GPL advises that during phases two and three, there will be extended periods of outages and ask that consumers bear with them. The contract for execution of the PUUP was awarded to China National Machinery Import and Export Corporation/China Synergy Electric Engineering Company (CMC/CSEEC). The local sub-contractor is Ramoutar and Sons Contracting. (DPI)

of new responsibilities for persons involved in public transportation and one of the recommendation [s] is an agency to overlook public transportation,” Patterson said The Sustainable Transport Sector Plan (STSP) 2016-2026, is one of the key economic infrastructures to support the socio-economic development of Guyana. According to the plan, this is in line with the sector-wide planning approach

adopted by government to provide a coordinated and cohesive planning framework that enables a whole of government’s perspective in the prioritisation and funding of investments in the transport sector. This approach is supported by a consistent policy and regulatory regime that ensures efficiency, safety and sustainability in the construction, maintenance and use of physical transport infrastructure and services.

The consultant reviewed sectoral performance over the past five five years, analyse developmental issues, challenges and opportunities and set key objectives, policies and strategies to guide the development of the sector in the next five years. The plan must provide a prioritised investment programme for the Land, Air and River sub-sectors with estimates of the financial and human resources required to implement it.

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Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson

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Cops to probe C GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, November 25, 2017

… Bishops’ HM to be reprimanded By Ariana Gordon THE Guyana Police Force (GPF) is now investigating the alleged sexual grooming and misconduct of the Business and Economics teacher of the Bishops’ High School even as the Ministry of Education has determined that the school’s head teacher, Winifred Ellis, breached Section 35 of the Education Act 39:01 which speaks to “Inappropriate behaviour by teachers in school”. Given the breach, Ellis is liable to a first warning, a statement from the Ministry of Education said on Friday. The ministry said it has completed its investigation into the allegations levelled against the 39- yearold Bishops’ High School teacher, Coen Jackson. “In the case of the Bishops’ High

School teacher, Mr. Coen Jackson, the Ministry of Education Welfare Department in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Protection concluded its investigation and handed the matter over to the Guyana Police Force,” the statement said. Jackson has since denied the allegations but admitted to being in relationships with two former students of the senior secondary school. In fact, he is currently in an “extremely strong relationship” with a young woman; he says is 21 years old. He says he has been dating the woman for a few years. At a news conference held on Tuesday, Jackson, in the presence of his attorneys, Jerome Khan, Priyanka Sookraj and Siand Dhurjon said “You can’t stop people from falling in love; you can’t stop people from inter-

acting.” In his own defence, he sought to blame Cultural Policy Advisor, Ruel Johnson who on Monday wrote a letter of complaint to Chief Education Officer, Marcel Hutson, and copied the missive to Nicolette Henry, Minister of Education; Khemraj Ramjattan, Vice-President and Minister of Public Security; Amna Ally, Minister of Social Protection; Volda Lawrence, Minister of Public Health; Basil Williams, Minister of Legal Affairs; and George Norton, Minister of Social Cohesion (Culture, Youth and Sport) on the issue. Johnson in his complaint, outlined the teacher’s alleged predatory behaviour over the years and noted that he learned of the allegations a few months ago and began his investigation of the

matter then. He has since spoken with victims of the public school and said since his social media posts on the subject, several other past students from other schools, where Jackson taught, came forward with similar reports. But Jackson has maintained that Johnson’s letter of complaint is only as a result of “serious disagreements” between them; something Johnson has vehemently denied. On Tuesday, Johnson issued a statement standing by his comments on the issue. He said, “…since this issue has started, multiple young women have in fact come out to say publicly that he has sexually propositioned them while they were his students at various institutions, including Guyana Technical Institute, the Business School, School of the Nations, Georgetown

Bishops’ High School head teacher, Winifred Ellis

Embattled Bishops’ High School teacher, Coen Jackson

Technical Institute, Leonora Technical Institute, and Mae’s.” On Friday, this newspaper reported that former Chairperson of the Teaching Service Commission (TSC), Leila Ramson has said that the Police should have been called in immediately by the Education Ministry to investigate the allegation of sexual

misconduct and grooming of school-aged girls by Jackson. She acknowledged that Bishops’ High School is managed by a Board of Governors, and as such, the matter would not have been brought to the Teaching Service Commission (TSC) had it been constituted. Notwithstanding that, Ramson explained that in the past

Coen

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when such matters arose based on the seriousness of the allegations, the cases of sexual misconduct were handed over to the police. Meanwhile, the Education Ministry said it concluded the matter relating to the Bishops’ High School Head teacher Winifred Ellis and recommended that Ellis be reprimanded and she must apologise to the students and teachers of the school. Ellis on Monday chided the female students of the school for not defending Jackson on Facebook, where there has been an outcry on the matter. In an audio recording, Ellis was heard telling the students that they were “slackers” and “loose” while requesting those who felt uncomfortable around Jackson in the past, to publicly step out of the assembly line or make a show of hands. On Friday, the Ministry said a team comprising Chief Education Officer (CEO) Marcel Hutson (Chief and final arbiter), Legal Advisor to the Ministry of EducationKelly-Ann Payne-Hercules, Guyana Teachers Union Representative Lance Baptiste, President of the Bishops’ High School Board Ruth Lee, President of The Bishops’ High School Parent Teachers Association (PTA) - Sondra Lowe, National PTA Co-ordinator- Nadia Hollingsworth, Co-ordinator of Health and Family Life Education (HFLE)- Coleen King-Cameron and the two Head Prefects of the Bishops’ High School met. During that meeting, a recording of the Headmistress’ address to the students was presented and the Head Mistress had an opportunity to provide an explanation. “Based on the evidence presented and the explanation proffered, the committee found the Headmistress culpable of breaching the regulations under the Education Act 39:01 section 35 “Inappropriate behavior by teachers in school” which is liable to a first warning,” the statement said. It was also recommended that the Ministry of Education provide training and support to teachers on how to deal with chil-

dren on sexual issue and that counseling support requested by the students be provided. STUDENTS’ BODY Meanwhile, student of the school ,Jensen Samaroo in a recent address to representatives from the Bishops’ High School Board of Governors, The Bishops’ High School Old Students’ Association, The Bishops’ High School Parent Teachers Association, The Ministry of Education, The Guyana Teachers’ Union and The Child Protection Agency , called on the public to refrain from attacking the school. In a missive, posted on his Facebook Page, Samaroo outlined how he and other students of the school are affected by the sexual allegations levelled against Jackson. He said since the allegations surfaced there have been no formal and appropriate channel to which the current students of the school were able to speak. “This is rather unfortunate. We, the students of the Bishops High School are at the centre of public discourse and everyone sees it fit to listen to everyone else except us.” The student continued: “What began as condemnation of an individual has now transcended into an institutional attack. We the students of the Bishops’ High strongly believe in our judicial system and every other such system which has been established to deal with matters involving a breach of the law or some established code.” Samaroo made it clear that the students of the school believe that once a law is broken persons ought to be made accountable but noted that the relevant and correct procedure should be adopted. “Launching an institutional attack is unwarranted and unjustified. The inherent pitfall and danger in this approach that has been adopted is that, in an attempt to help apparent victims of a ‘nationally’ flawed system that has failed them, a wider array of persons, who happens to be children, have become subjected to

victimization. Victimisation is victimisation, regardless of what form it takes and if one condemns and detest one form but do not do same for another form, it rightfully ought to be deemed as hypocritical,” he declared. The student noted that Bishops’ High School students have been subjected to “outrageous comments and questions when they walk the streets.” “Indeed this morning, within the space of ten (10) minutes I was subject to two (2) such occurrences. I was at the Beacon’s Café when a young lady who professed herself to be a past

student (which was even more disheartening) cheerfully questioned and with a chuckle at the end, “Jackson ever messaged you?” I left the café without responding and proceeded to Metro to get something printed. On my way back a gentleman whose first name I don’t even know, asked, “de teacher never touch yuh?” I continued to walk without responding and he proceeded to comment, “I hope he never touch yuh,” Samaroo recounted while noting he is psychologically prepared to handle the aforementioned. His concern however, is

that the other students of his school may not be able to, referencing the younger students who are pre-teens. The student pointed to the perception that the senior secondary school “perpetuates rape culture” has resulted in the public believing that “rape culture is inextricably linked to “Bishops’ culture”, and that is absolutely, absolutely ridiculous.” Additionally, the student noted a report that a male student of the school on the way to the bus park was stopped by a woman and asked ‘you gon molest my daughter too?’

“This gives you the general idea of the conceived thoughts of persons because of the information that is being peddled to them. That the boys in the Bishops’ High School partake in rape culture; that every girl at Bishops has been molested; that so long as you are attired in Bishops uniform you ought to be looked at differently in light of recent events,” he said, calling for appropriate action to stop what he considers to be the peddling of “outrageous propaganda about our beloved school”.

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Pepsi Hikers, Queen’s Park on collision course THE mighty Pepsi Hikers put on another impressive show of hockey skills on Thursday evening. They chalked up their second victory in as many nights when the Diamond Mineral Water Indoor Hockey Festival resumed at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. Queen’s Park CC were the other big winners of the evening in the men’s category, setting up a possible exciting climax of the two finalists from last year’s event. The marquee matchup of the evening between the Pepsi Hikers and Bounty GCC did not disappoint the crowd, as the game saw action throughout the match with a fine display of skills from both teams and an exciting finish. In the very first minute of play, the GCC men were caught napping, as a Shane Samuels pass from deep defence found a free Robert France in the scoring circle. France made a swift drag to his right before sending his shot into the net past the advancing GCC

goalkeeper Medroy Scotland. Although GCC equalised five minutes later through a Peter DeGroot penalty stroke, the Hikers kept themselves ahead ever so slightly throughout the match with GCC keeping themselves within striking distance. The Hikers scored three more field goals in the half through Randy Hope, Quin Clarke and a brilliant solo run by Shane Samuels while GCC’s Dwayne Scott scored once more for GCC. With the halftime score at 4-2 in favour of the Hikers, each team managed to add four more to their tally in the high-scoring affair that saw the Hikers emerge with the 8-6 victory. Hikers captain France and Shane Samuels added one each to their first half totals while Aroydy Branford and Devin Munroe completed the team’s list of goal scorers. GCC’s Peter DeGroot scored twice again to complete a hat-trick for the match while Mark Sargeant and Orland Semple were the other goalscorers. Queen’s Park CC, the 2016 silver

medallists, turned the Mixed Nuts into parched nuts as they scorched the young side by 13-1 in their men’s division clash. Trinidadian international Akim Toussaint was the high-scorer for the match with five goals to his name. Teammates Matthew Tang-Nian and Mahinder Malli scored doubles while Cade Lue Sue, Jordan Vieira, Kadeem Fortune and Michael Durity each scored a single for Queen’s Park CC. Onassis Fraser brought loud cheers from the crowd when he scored the lone goal for Mixed Nuts. The Old Fort men, coming off a narrow defeat the previous evening against the Pepsi Hikers, released their frustration on Saints HC in their 7-2 victory. In the lone ladies fixture of the evening the Pizza Hut GCC ladies brushed off the Old Fort Shooting Stars with a 6-2 victory. Matches continue throughout the weekend with the finals being played from 17.00hrs on Sunday November 26.

‘Green Machine’ begin journey to Commonwealth Games THE Rugby Americas North (RAN) Sevens Championship returns to Mexico City for the first time since 2014 with a lot more than regional pride at stake. One men’s and one women’s team will qualify for next year’s Rugby World Cup Sevens and the HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series qualifier in Hong Kong, while places at the Commonwealth Games and Central American and Caribbean Sports Organisation (CACSO) Games are also on the line. Based at the picturesque Campo Marte, a military and equestrian venue in the heart of Mexico City, the RAN Sevens will feature 10 men’s teams, split into three pools, and a seven-team,

round-robin women’s tournament. As six-time men’s champions, Guyana will start as one of the favourites to claim the coveted title and a ticket to San Francisco for RWC Sevens 2018. They return to the scene of their last triumph with the likes of talisman Avery Corbin on board, although regular captain Ryan Gonsalves is a notable absentee. Dwayne Schroeder will wear the captain’s armband instead. Guyana find themselves in Pool A alongside Barbados and the Cayman Islands. Jamaica Bermuda and the Dominican Republic are in Pool B while Pool C consists of Trinidad and Tobago, hosts Mexico, Curacao and the

American Racing Tips Aqueduct Race 1 Drover Crazy Race 2 Diamond Setter Race 3 Culture Carrier Race 4 My Impression Race 5 Blindded Vision Race 6 Boule Race 7 Night Time Lady Race 8 White Flag Race 9 Control Group Race10 Nile Prince Irish Racing Tips Gowan Park 08:05 hrs Kuraka 08:35 hrs Carter McKay 09:10 hrs Roaring Bull 09:45 hrs Pat’s Oscar 10:55 hrs Tin Soldier 11:30 hrs Little Stevie South Africa Racing Tips

British Virgin Islands. The top four teams in the men’s competition and the top three in the women’s will qualify for the CASCO Games. Twelve months ago, Jamaica’s women finished as runners-up to Canada, who are not taking part this year. Mexico ended up with the bronze medal. Trinidad and Tobago are the next highest seeds at this year’s event, followed by Guyana, Bermuda, Dominican Republic and French Guyana. The winner of the RAN Women’s Sevens will complete the 16-team line-up at RWC Sevens 2018, as all the other regional qualifiers have already taken place.

Turffontein 08:10 hrs Cashel Palace 08:45 hrs Bull Valley 09:20 hrs Like A Panther 10:50 hrs Crowd Pleaser 11:30 hrs Guns And Roses 12:05 hrs Fortissima 12:40 hrs Count Tassilo 13:15 hrs Bold Coast 13:50 hrs La Linea

08:10 hrs Dynamite Dollars 08:40 hrs Dawson City 09:15 hrs Clan Des Obeaux 09:50 hrs Diamond Fort 10:25 hrs Minella Awards 11:00 hrs Cue Card 11:35 hrs Henri Parry Morgan

English Racing Tips Huntingdon 08:00 hrs Mahlermade 08:30 hrs Casablanca Mix 09:05 hrs Clondaw Castle 09:40 hrs Chozen 10:15 hrs Lord Ben 10:50 hrs Miss Mayfair 11:25 hrs French Crusader Haydock

Ascot 08:20 hrs Perfect Harmony 08:55 hrs Remind Me Later 09:30 hrs Whatsthatallabout 10:05 hrs Flying Angel 10:40 hrs Defi Du Seuil 11:15 hrs San Benedeto 11:50 hrs Portrush Ted

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Top five hardest Track & Field records to break at ‘Nationals’ By Treiston Joseph There is no better feeling than opening the record books and seeing one’s name attached to a slice of history. Most athletes who have had that distinct honour of holding a record, whether it be school, college, national or even international, have that inner spirit that always hope their records never get broken. But as the old saying goes, ‘records are meant to be broken’. Following our ‘Five facts that you probably didn’t know about Nationals’ article, we take a look at what we believe are the five toughest athletics records to break at ‘Nationals’. FIVE: STAMINA If any record is the first to go on this list, it might just be this one. It’s going to be one hell of a run by the athlete who breaks Sheik Mohamed’s male 5000 metres record while competing for New Amsterdam (District 15). Mohamed’s record time is 15:50.0s and has now stood for 25 years since he ran it in 1992 in Linden. It’s one of the toughest records in the book and is also the third longest standing athletics record to date. FOUR: MASSIVE THROW Who would have thought that the youngster with the bullet arm would turn out to be a Major in the Guyana Defence Force? This record

is held by none other than Major Shen Fung, who once competed for North Georgetown (District 11). Back in 1996, Fung released the Javelin that flew through the air to record a throw of 55.6 metres in the Boys Under-20 category. It is the biggest throw at the national championships

competes for Upper Demerara/Kwakwani (District 10), Bonnett recorded a leap of 7.04 metres in the Teachers 21-30 category. With the talent pool in the Long Jump arena lacking at a national level and athletes struggling to meet the seven-metre mark, it’s safe to say that Bonnett’s record will be

noe. A year after setting this massive mark at the National School Championships, he went onto own the Men’s High Jump national record, which stands at 2.17 metres. With High Jump being one of the least developed field events in the nation, don’t expect to see this record falling

in the near future. ONE: ‘IRON LADY’ While many like to participate in sprints, I believe everyone knows how easily those records fall. This next record is held by an Olympian, by a Pan American silver medallist and a South American gold medallist.

Major Shen Fung to this day. This will continue to be one of the toughest records to topple at the championships. THREE: BIG JUMP The biggest jump in the National School Championships history is owned by a teacher. In 2006, Kevin Bonnett became the first and only man to jump over seven metres in the Long Jump event. Competing for East Georgetown at the time, although he is originally from Linden and now

safe for years to come. TWO: HIGHER LEVEL This record was made in 1994 and belongs to a high jumper. No, it’s not the phenomenal Daniel Williams, who has two High Jump records at the National School Championships. Rather the record belongs to North Georgetown’s Robert Bynoe, who made a leap of 2.03 metres to own the Under-20 record. While we are it, here is a fun fact about By-

Marian Burnett

If you are still wondering, this athlete also own the Women’s national 800 and 1500 metres records and is none other than Upper Demerara/Kwakwani’s (District 10) very own Marian Burnett. Burnett, contrary to her national records, owns the school championships Female 3000 metres record at 9:54.8s. To put Burnett’s record into perspective, the Women’s national 3000m record stands at 10:11.31s and is held by Alika Morgan, who has a few records of her own at the School Championships. Burnett’s record is also the second longest standing record in the book since 1991, so I guess we will not be seeing a new female 3000 metres school championships record anytime soon. HONOURABLE MENTIONS Shanna Robertson: West Coast Berbice (District 5); Under-20: 1996; Female Discuss; 35.24 metres. Chantoba Bright: Upper Demerara/Kwakwani (District 10); Under-16: 2015; Female Long Jump; 5.40 metres. Cleveland Forde: North Georgetown (District 11); Open: 2002; Male 10km Road Race; 33m: 20s. Kenisha Phillips: East Coast (District 4); Under-16: 2015; Female 100m; 12.0s.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: These records are listed in the official ‘Nationals’ booklet, which was issued in 2016. Treiston Joseph is an award-winning Sports Journalist at the Newsroom; an online and television news outlet in Guyana)

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Five facts you probably didn’t know about ‘Nationals’ By Treiston Joseph With the National School Championships just about a week away and athletes, teachers and relevant stakeholders gearing up for the 57th edition of the mega championships, News Room Sport looks at five fun facts that you probably did not know about the championships.

the answer for you and no it isn’t one of those athletes from the golden era (1980’s/90’s) as some might think. The young man has seven records in total and hails from Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani (District 10). If you guessed correct that young man is World Championships Under-18 400 metres silver medallists, Daniel Williams. Williams owns the Un-

Some choose between the two and some are undecided, but as is the usual saying ‘records are meant to be broken’ and that was made even more pertinent when South Africa’s Wayde Van Niekerk broke Michael Johnson’s 1999 record of 43.18s over 400ms to 43.03s. However, at ‘Nationals’ it isn’t a track record that stands the longest but cycling will take this one as

Kenisha Phillips is the fastest female at the National Schools Championship FASTEST WOMAN While it’s a recent record that many people might remember, Kenisha Phillips at the time running for East Coast (District Four) clocked the fastest time ever by a female at ‘Nationals’ in the 100 metres with a time of 12.0s in 2015. However, what makes the record interesting and fun is that Phillips ran the record in the Under-16 category while the Under-20 record still stands at 12.1s, which is held by Rhobyn Alleyne of East Georgetown (District 12) since 2004. MAN OF MANY RECORDS In case you ever wondered which athlete has the most records at the National School Championships, News Room Sport has

der-14 100m record at 11.6s, the joint holder of the Under-16 100m record at 11.0s, the Under-16 200m record of 22.6s, the Under-14 400m at 54.9s, the Under-16 400m record at 51.0s, the Under-12 high Jump record at 150cm and finally the Under-16 high jump record at 183cm. Williams, who will compete for the final time at the National School Championships before going off to college, will have a few more days to add more records to his name. LONGEST RECORD IN THE BOOKS There is often a common argument among athletes and it starts with the question, “What do you prefer, a world record or Olympic record?”

Colin Benjamin of Corentyne (District 6) has held the male 3000m upright cycle record since 1981 when he broke it in Linden with a time of 5:39.05s.

with two titles; their first in 1968 at Blairmont and the second in 1970 in Georgetown. MISCOUNT 2017 should actual-

1959 when the championships were first held, there have been four occasions when the event did not occur. The first was in 1963, the second in 1985, the

Daniel Williams crossing the line at last year’s schools championships ly be the 56th edition of the National School Championships instead the 57th edition; let’s get down to the facts. Since

third in 1999; none of these years according to the record books were counted and next to the year read “No competi-

tion (Venue); NIL (winner)”. However, in 2003, according to the record book, it read “No competition; NIL” but it was counted as the 43rd edition of the event. To be on the safe side the years that were abandoned due to rainstorms read exactly that and were also counted and had the venue of where the championships were being held. However, mistakes do happen so we will chalk it up to be simply an oversight on the part of the stakeholders. Bonus…Top guns to never compete at ‘Nationals’ While many had the misconception that they competed at the National School Championships, two of Guyana’s biggest stars never did compete at the event that is touted as the greatest collection of junior talents in the nation. Those two athletes are; Commonwealth 400m gold medallist and 400m national record holder Aliann Pompey and South American 400 gold medallist and national 400m record holder Winston George. Both have represented Guyana at the Olympics.

OLD SUCCESS While many follow the current battle between North Georgetown (District 11) with 14 titles and Upper Demerara/Kwakwani (District 10) with 15 in addition to noting the success of East Coast (District 4) with seven as the three share 36 titles out of the 56 editions of the mega event; there is one other district that has multiple titles and I am not speaking of the 12 held by Georgetown when it was combined unit in the 70’s. That district with multiple titles happens to be East Bank Demerara (District 14)

(EDITOR’S NOTE: These records are listed in the official ‘Nationals’ booklet, which was issued in 2016. Treiston Joseph is an award-winning Sports Journalist at the Newsroom; an online and television news outlet in Guyana)

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'PROFORMANCE' with Neil Barry

What’s separating you from the Pro’s? “You cannot know if you will be successful or not. You can only prepare for battle, and it must be done with all your heart and with all of your consciousness. In this manner, you will have an edge.” Sun Tzu, - The Art of War In Guyana many junior athletes have grown to become exceptional at their level on the local and regional scene, however very few have made it on the international scene, and less have had long term success there. Among some of the major problems many would agree are stagnation, constant injuries, and a general lack of resources, notably information, and specifically, the answer to the question “What are they doing, that we are not?” The media is littered with snapshots of elite training methods, but

copying them in isolation is of no use to the local athlete. Bodybuilders and Powerlifters represent but a percentage of our local athletes, but you will find far too many athletes from other sports getting caught up in isolated bodybuilding at local gyms. While this may lead to increased strength early on, it very rarely translates to consistent performance improvement. On the flipside, many good local athletes simply do not participate in enough strength training, and functional, sport specific strength remains a foreign concept at many local facilities. Finally, for many athletes, the only measure of improvement is in their respective sport/ event(s). Without information on the multifaceted nature of performance, many athletes are discouraged by the lack

of improvement on the big stage, but as many veterans will tell you, the scorecard never tells the whole story. Popular author and speaker Robin Sharma said that “what gets measured, gets improved”. This column aims to tell you more about what you can measure when it comes to performance, and how to improve them with the cutting edge science simplified for practicality, just like the pros. Elite athletes follow a very intelligent, systematic and integrated training approach to ensure consistent improvement. Science has been combined with practical application of human movement patterns to drive performance, and what many may see as new ways of training, are simply improvements that are based on a greater understanding of the ba-

sics. One of the first major components of elite performance, is actually getting to that level, and this can only be done through progression- in both a physical, and neurological sense.

or phases, and building on those every season. Elite coaches plan for progressions in every training session, and can use as many as 10 phases of training over the course of a season.

Several muscles function in different ways to perform a simple movement e.g. Hip Flexor (1), Gluteus Medius and Maximus (2), Adductor complex (3). National Basketball Player Dominic Vincente - Photo Courtesy Top End Training Systems

How can you progress neurologically? A key concept in muscle development is the S.A.I.D principle, which stands for Specific Adaptations to Imposed Demands. It speaks to muscles adapting to suit the demands placed on it, but the S.A.I.D principle can apply to more than just muscle development. The human body is highly adaptable, and with the right cues, we can tell the body what we want from it. For the elite athlete, progressions are programmed in the neuromuscular system. A good coach plans for years ahead by breaking down training into cycles,

Having plotted the way for improved performance, elite coaches employ the concept of Integrated Training (I.T). This means incorporating all components necessary for performance, with modern injury prevention methods. I.T. focusses on developing functional strength and neuromuscular efficiency. According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine (N.A.S.M) functional strength is the ability of the neuromuscular system (muscles and the brain’s ability to control them) to contract eccentrically (while muscles lengthen), isometrically (when muscles stabilize a move-

ment), and concentrically (when muscles shorten) in all three planes of motion. To clarify planes of motion- the body can typically move forward/ backward, sideways, and rotationally, and therefore, training must prepare you for all of those movements as sports rarely require you to simply move in one direction. While many movements may indeed be simple, they all require the central nervous system (Brain and spinal cord) to allow agonists (big movement muscles-like biceps in elbow flexion), antagonists (opposing big muscles, like the triceps to the biceps), synergists (muscles that assist the primary movers) and stabilizer muscles to work together to produce efficient movement, and this is what defines neuromuscular efficiency. Consider this, to simply move your leg forward- as you would in walking, the main hip flexor (iliopsoas muscle) must function concentrically as the agonist; the main extensor- the antagonist, must function eccentrically; the IT band must assist as the synergist, and the stabilizing gluteus medius and adductors must prevent the hip and knee from moving too far right or left. So while traditional strength training focussed on isolated muscle strength (like biceps curls), functional athletic activities require multiplanar acceleration, deceleration, and dynamic stability so therefore training must address these needs.

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Smith, Marsh lead Australia revival at the Gabba By Ian Ransom BRISBANE, Australia (Reuters) - Captain Steve Smith frustrated England with a fighting half-century and pushed Australia to 165 for four at the close of a see-sawing day two, rescuing the hosts after a top order collapse in the series-opening Ashes Test in Brisbane yesterday. With his team in peril at 76 for four, Smith’s unbeaten 64 in an 89-run stand with number six Shaun Marsh gave Australia hope of reeling in England’s first-innings 302 at the Gabba. Left-hander Marsh, under pressure to perform after winning his eighth recall to the Test team, played a fine support role to be 44 not out at stumps. “I think the game’s in the balance still,” Australia spinner Nathan Lyon told reporters. ”There are two unbelievable batters at the crease. “Hopefully we can put (England) under pressure in the second innings but there’s a lot of cricket in this game.” After day one saw only four wickets fall, 10 tumbled on

day two as the Gabba pitch recovered some of its customary bounce and pace. England lost their last six wickets in a hurry to be out for 302 at lunch and Australia seemed to be back in control at their Brisbane fortress. But the pendulum swung again as England’s bowlers scythed through the hosts’ top order. After replacing Matt Renshaw in the squad, opener Cameron Bancroft’s first bat in his Ashes Test debut lasted 19 balls after he nibbled at a teasing ball from Stuart Broad and was caught behind for five. Number three Usman Khawaja’s problems against spin in the subcontinent followed him home as he was trapped lbw for 11 by Moeen Ali. The alarm bells began ringing when opener David Warner holed out for 26, pulling paceman Jake Ball straight to Dawid Malan at short mid-wicket to give the Ashes debutant his first wicket in Australia. And Australia were left reeling at 76 for four when Peter Handscomb was trapped

Australia captain Steven Smith calmly battles his way to an unbeaten 64 at the close.

lbw for 14 by James Anderson in the first over after tea. RESCUE MISSION Once again it fell to Smith to mount a rescue mission and the 28-year-old was a rock through 148 balls as he ground out one of his grittiest half-centuries. He reached his 22nd Test fifty with a single having all but nicked Anderson behind on the first ball faced. England had been in control at 246 for four in the morning session when momentum shifted away from them but

Ashwin takes four as India skittle out Sri Lanka for 205 (REUTERS) - Ravichandran Ashwin spearheaded a dominant bowling display by India, taking four wickets as they dismissed Sri Lanka for 205, after the visitors had won the toss and opted to bat on the first day of the second Test in Nagpur yesterday. The off-spinner took 4-67 while paceman Ishant Sharma and left-arm spinner Ravindra Jadeja shared the remaining six wickets as the touring side were bundled out in the final session on a greenish wicket. Sri Lanka, who succumbed by a 9-0 margin across all formats at home against India earlier this year, were finally given something to cheer about when Lahiru Gamage dismissed opener Lokesh Rahul for seven as the hosts went to stumps on 11-1. Murali Vijay, who returned at the top of the batting order after opener Shikhar Dhawan opted out of the match for personal reasons, and Cheteshwar Pujara were both unbeaten on two at the close of play. Half-centuries from Sri Lanka captain Dinesh Chandimal, who top-scored

Ravichandran Ashwin gave the ball plenty of revs and troubled the batsmen with his dip. (BCCI)

with 57, and opener Dimuth Karunaratne (51) gave Sri Lanka’s innings some respectability after they had lost Sadeera Samarawickrama and Lahiru Thirimanne cheaply before lunch. Pujara took a brilliant low catch at first slip to send back Samarawickrama for 13 off a delivery from Sharma, who replaced the injured Mohammed Shami. Thirimanne attempted a rash sweep off Ashwin and was bowled for nine. Pujara was then guilty of dropping Karunaratne on 15 after the batsman had

advanced down the pitch to Ashwin and played a lofted on-drive. The left-hander survived another scare on 21 when replays showed Jadeja had no-balled after wicketkeeper Wriddhiman Saha had stumped him. Sri Lanka, unchanged from the drawn first Test in Kolkata, were soon reduced to 60-3 after the break when they lost former captain Angelo Mathews leg-before to Jadeja for 10. After Karunaratne and Chandimal added 62 for the fourth wicket to steady the

seamer Ball felt his team were well-placed. “I think we’re in a good position,” he said. “I think with the turn and a little bit of varied bounce we were quite happy with the (302) score.” Malan had reached his third half-century in his sixth Test, completing a hat-trick of fifties for England’s rookie batsmen after opener Mark Stoneman had 53 on day one and number three James Vince scored 83. But like his colleagues, Malan squandered the chance by pulling Mitchell Starc

SCOREBOARD

ENGLAND 1st innings (o/n 196-4) A. Cook c Handscomb b Starc 2 M. Stoneman b Cummins 53 J. Vince run-out (Lyon) 83 J. Root lbw b Cummins 15 D. Malan c S. Marsh b Starc 56 M. Ali lbw b Lyon 38 J. Bairstow c Paine b Cummins 9 C. Woakes b Lyon 0 S. Broad c Handscomb b Hazlewood 20 J. Ball c Warner b Starc 14 J. Anderson not out 5 Extras: b-5, nb-1, w-1) 7 Total: (all out, 116.4 overs) 302 Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-127, 3-145, 4-163, 5-246, 6-249, 7-250, 8-270, 9-286. Bowling: M. Starc 28-4-77-3 (nb-1, w-1) J. Hazlewood 22.4-6 57-1, P. Cummins 30-885-3, N. Lyon 36-12-78-2. AUSTRALIA 1st innings C. Bancroft c Bairstow b Broad 5 D. Warner c Malan b Ball 26 U. Khawaja lbw b Ali 11 S. Smith not out 64 P. Handscomb lbw b Anderson 14 S. Marsh not out 44 Extras: (nb-1) 1 Total: (for 4 wickets, 62 overs) 165 Fall of wickets: 1-7, 2-30, 3-59, 4-76. Bowling: J. Anderson 15-4-26-1, S. Broad 10- -5-18-1, M. Ali 19-6-50-1, C. Woakes 8-131-0, J. Ball 8-1-35-1 (nb-1), J. Root 2-0-5-0.

straight to a fielder and was out for 56. The wicket broke a stubborn 83-run partnership with Moeen, and England promptly crumbled. Denied a wicket on day one when recalled wicketkeeper Tim Paine grassed a nick from Vince, spinner Lyon trapped Moeen lbw for 38 and bowled Chris Woakes for a duck in quick succession. Jonny Bairstow was caught for nine by Paine skying a pull shot, before Warner took a brilliant, diving catch at leg gully to remove Ball for 14. Broad was dropped in the deep by Marsh when on 10 but he was out for 20 pulling Josh Hazlewood to Handscomb, bringing an end to England’s innings. Starc captured 3-77 and Cummins 3-85 for Australia.

SCOREBOARD SRI LANKA 1st innings Sadeera Samarawickrama c Pujara b I. Sharma 13 Dimuth Karunaratne lbw b I. Sharma 51 Lahiru Thirimanne b R. Ashwin 9 Angelo Mathews lbw b Jadeja 10 Dinesh Chandimal lbw b R. Ashwin 57 Niroshan Dickwella c I. Sharma b Jadeja 24 Dasun Shanaka b R. Ashwin 2 Dilruwan Perera lbw b Jadeja 15 Rangana Herath c Rahane b R. Ashwin 4 Suranga Lakmal c Saha b I. Sharma 17 Lahiru Gamage not out 0 Extras: (lb-2, nb-1) 3 Total: (all out, 79.1 overs) 205 Fall of wickets: 1-20, 2-44, 3-60, 4-122, 5-160, 6-165, 7-184, 8-184, 9-205. Bowling: I. Sharma 14-3-37-3, U. Yadav 16-4-43-0, R. Ashwin 28.1-7-67-4, R. Jadeja 21-4-56-3 (nb-1). INDIA 1st innings L. Rahul b Gamage 7 M. Vijay not out 2 C. Pujara not out 2 Extras: 0 Total: (for 1 wickets, 8 overs) 11 Fall of wickets: 1-7. Bowling: Suranga Lakmal 4-1-7-0, Lahiru Gamage 4-2-4-1.

innings, Ishant trapped Karunaratne lbw after the left-hander had scored his 14th half-century in Tests. Chandimal also completed his 14th fifty before he was out leg-before trying to play a reverse sweep against Ashwin. India successfully overturned the umpire’s not-out verdict on referral. Ashwin and Jadeja ran through Sri Lanka’s innings after tea, as India took the last six wickets for 45 runs. Indian batsman Rohit Sharma was included for his first Test in more than a year after replacing seamer Bhuvneshwar Kumar, who withdrew from the final two matches of the series to get married.

GCA names fixtures, umpires for Noble House, NBS weekend matches THE Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) has announced fixtures and umpires for Noble House Seafoods second division (2-day) and New Building Society (NBS) (40-over) 2nd division cricket competitions. The Noble House matches will be played today and tomorrow at the various venues. The fixtures read: GYO vs Transport SC at GYO - Umpires Cyril Garnath & Keon Morris GCC vs Diplomats SC at Eve Leary- Abena Parker & Stephon Josiah Sophia CC vs Malteenoes SC at Malteenoes - Hortence Isaacs & Andre Hurry Starting-time for these matches is 10.30hrs. Meanwhile, the NBS 40-over matches will also be played today and tomorrow Today’s fixtures read: Starting-time: 10:30hrs. DCC vs GNIC at Queenstown Umpires: Matthew Kissoon & Clyde Layne - Ace Warriors CC vs UG at Turkeyen Linden Matthew & Joseph Jeffrey Everest CC vs GDF at Camp Road - Ashook Brijcoomar & Huevel Cunha Tomorrow’s fixtures: MYO vs UG at Turkeyen - Umpires: Ravishwar Latif & Moses Ramnarine Third Class CC vs GNIC at GNIC - Flemroy Lambert & Ashook Brijcoomar Starting-time for all matches is 10:30hrs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday November 25, 2017

In it to win it - Cassie Small gets ready for Nationals NEW Campbellville Secondary School fifth former, Cassie Small, admits that she is not fully 100 percent ready for next week’s National Schools Championships (Nationals), having put her athletics on hold as she prepares for her CSEC exams. However the 17-year-old is still looking forward to see how it goes. “To be honest I wouldn’t say that I’m that fully prepared, I only started training a few weeks now, but I’m going in with a strong mindset hoping to do my best as always,” Small shared. “I don’t underestimate anyone but I am always confident in myself and as I always say I am in it to win it.” Small admits that it’s often hard for her to balance her athletics and her academics, but with high hopes for both areas, she

tries to make the best of things as much as she possibly can. “It’s nothing easy balancing both track and studies and all these things, but hopefully I take it as far as possible,” said Small, who shared her aspirations of studying medicine, but also to take her athletic pursuits as far as she possibly can. Small will be representing East Georgetown (District 12) at the weeklong competition that will see rivalry in age-group swimming, cycling and track & field competitions. She’ll be in the Girls’ Under-20 category where she will have a packed week competing in the 100m, 200m, 400m, as well as the 4x100m and 4x400m relays. This will be her first year in the Under-20 category, after exiting the Under-18 category last year with a gold medal in the

100m and silver from the 200m. However, the super upcoming Runners Athletics Club athlete is hoping to lean on the experience that she picked up earlier this year, which included her participation at the Penn Relays as well as a six-month training stint that she did in New York. She will also be able to lean on her five years of experience at Nationals. Small first began participating at Nationals in 2011, when she finally decided that she was ready to take her athletic skills seriously. But for Small her athletic capabilities go way farther back than that. “I’ve always been running for as long as I can remember. Every time I would get sent somewhere, or go to the shop I would run. My grandmother used to joke and call me “Running

Brave daughter” because of how much I used to run all the time,” Small said. Although she did some running while she was young, it was Mercury Fast Laners athletics club coach, Christopher Gaskin, who finally convinced Small to take her running seriously and join his club, in 2011. She saw the fruits almost instantly. Then as a student of the Thomas Moore Primary, Small landed a place on the South Georgetown (District 12) team to Nationals, competing in all the sprints of the Girls’ Under-12 category. She copped gold in all three events. She has never missed a year at Nationals since, racking up quite the haul of medals along the way, and this year she’s very much looking to increase the tally.

Cassie Small

`Mayor’s Cup Football 2017

Which two teams will continue the rich Mayor’s Cup rivalry? … Answer tomorrow at MSC

THE two teams who will qualify for the final of the Mayor’s Cup will be known tomorrow when the semi-finals of the 2017 edition kick off at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground in Linden. In the opening encounter, the inform Police will collide with Soesdyke from 19:00hrs, while the feature clash pits Winners Connection against Milerock in what is anticipated to be a bruising engagement. The outcome of these two games sets up a highly anticipated final on Thursday, at the same venue. Police have been the most prolific team in competitions this year, making the final or semi-finals on numerous occasions; and because of their rich vein of form and confidence, combined with the quality of players in their line-up,

they are clear favourites to proceed to the championship. Players such as Quincy Holder, Kester Dundas, Lescharles Critchlow, Stefan Ramsay, Dwayne Wilson and the in-form Darius Frank between the uprights are all proven match-winners. Soesdyke’s chances of winning will rest on the shoulders of the skilful Tyrone Khan, the only player with a hat-trick in the competition. Players such as Colin McLean, Tyrell Khan, Alvin Batson, Colin Holder and Kelson Benson form the supporting cast and they will need to put together strong performances to guarantee a place in the final. What more could be said of the feature encounter between the two Linden heavyweights! Rawle ‘Boney’ Gittens, who will

certainly be one of the more experienced players on the pitch will lead Winners Connection’s bid for a place in the final. His support could come from Marmalique Davidson and Keon Sears, who are proven contributors in the goals column, while Trakel Thomas and Derrol Dainty have been a twoman rock of Gibraltar at the back. The performances from Joel McKinnon, Denzil Fordyce, Nellon Waldron and Lorenzo Miller are crucial for Milerock’s chances of advancing, while Oswald Benjamin and Akeem Green have the formidable duty to snuff out Winners Connection. Over $1M in total prize money is up for grabs with the winners set to receive $500 000 and the Ministry of Citizenship trophy, while the runners-up take

home $250 000 and the Busta trophy. The third- and fourth-placed finishers will walk away with $150 000 and $100 000 along with trophies donated by John Fernandes Ltd and Cummings Electrical respectively. A mouthwatering double-header is anticipated.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday November 25, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to Tuesday’s quiz: (1) Jeffery Dujon-270 (265 catches/5 stumpings) (2) Jeffery Dujon-204 (183 catches/21 stumpings) Today’s Quiz: (1) How many times the WI & NZ have contested Test matches against each other to date? (2) What is the scorecard? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday November 25, 2017

Confidence high as Double Trouble gets cracking

Jeremy Ten Pow being interviewed by the Jamaican press during yesterday's session.

(By Stephan Sookram in Jamaica, compliments of Fly Jamaica, GT Motorsports, Nexus Machinery and Bell Communications)

THE Jamaicans will have their hands full with Guyanese competition this weekend during the Jamaica Karting Association (JKA) Double Trouble battle.

Set for the Palisadoes karting track in Kingston, the two-day event will feature six Guyanese competing across three classes. After yesterday’s official practice, they are all upbeat about their chances in their respective classes. In the Rotax senior class, Guyana will be represented by Matthew Phang while in the junior division, the attack will be three-fold among Rayden Persaud, Mikhail Persaud and Elan Rahaman. Up to late yesterday, the Guyanese were still working to bring their times down to the average track times as they get ready for today’s qualifying which begins at 10:00hrs. According to track officials, the senior class karters are near the 57-second timings with Phang already down

Stewart to captain West Indies U-19s to Youth World Cup … Five Guyanese players included ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Batsman Emmanuel Stewart will captain a predictable 15-man West Indies Under-19 squad announced yesterday for next January’s ICC Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand. The core of the side has been kept together over the last year with the likes of Kirstan Kallicharan, Keagan Simmons and Bhaskar Yadram all included for the January 13 to February 3 campaign. Stewart and Kallicharan were part of the successful side, led by Shimron Hetmyer, which won the last tournament in Bangladesh in 2016. “It’s an exciting time for these guys now that they’ve discovered they’re going to be going to a World Cup,” said head coach Graeme West. “It’s a bit of a younger side than the last one we took to Bangladesh. However, we have a very established, experienced batting group, with the likes of Kirstan Kallicharan and Emmanuel Stewart who went to the last World Cup.” West Indies will contest Group A of the preliminary round, alongside the likes of Kenya, South Africa and hosts New Zealand. They will raise the curtain

Bhaskar Yadram - one of the five Guyanese included

on the tournament when they take on the Kiwis at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. West, who oversaw Under-19 tours of South Africa and Zimbabwe earlier this year, said it was crucial the Caribbean side made a strong start to the upcoming tournament. “(There will be a) lot more attention on the West Indies in this tournament, after the last tournament and title in Bangladesh,” the Englishman pointed out. “In the group stage, we’re in a very tough group as the number one seeds, so we’re going to have to hit the ground running, just to succeed in the group stage.”

Emmanuel Stewart will captain the West Indies Under-19s.

The squad will leave the region on December 28 and undergo a one-week camp in New Zealand prior to the start of the World Cup. Three players – batsman Brad Barnes, left-arm spinner Joshua Bishop and left-arm seamer Javier Spencer – have been named as reserves. SQUAD – Emmanuel Stewart (captain), Kirstan Kallicharan, Ronaldo Alimohammed, Alick Athanaze, Cephas Cooper, Jarion Hoyte, Kimani Melius, Ashmead Nedd, Kian Pemberton, Raymond Perez, Joshua Persaud, Jeavor Royal, Keagan Simmons, Bhaskar Yadram, Nyeem Young.

to low 58s while the juniors average just around the same. Rayden was pushing times of 58.5 for his junior class which carries just about the same time bracket with Mikhail posting low 59s and Elan in the same region. In the Macro class, Jeremy Ten Pow was able to post a 59.2-second time with the average time being around the 58-second bracket. Justin Ten Pow, who is in the Mini Max class was posting 1:05 second time in a group where the average time is around 1:03. Speaking to Chronicle Sport, JKA president David Summerbell contended that the process for the exchange programme begun just over a month ago. “Since we were down in Guyana about a month back,

we started discussions about having a few Guyanese here for our karting event. It is fabulous that it all worked out this way and we have some of the best youngsters here this weekend.” “I have to say a big shout

out to the sponsors, of course Total Lubricants, Fly Jamaica and there are so many more that have come on board for this event.” Today’s qualification begins at 10:00hrs with racing set for just over an hour.

Mikhail Persaud rounds the Penultimate corner of the Palisadoes race track.

Dr Mansingh quits as Cricket West Indies chief medical officer … cites `untenable’ relationship with board

KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) – Dr Akshai Mansingh has quit as Cricket West Indies’ chief medical officer, citing an “untenable” relationship between the medical panel and the board. The Jamaica Observer newspaper reported yesterday that while a frayed relationship had existed for some while, the recent last-minute scrapping of a conference for West Indies cricket medical personnel, scheduled for Trinidad and Tobago, had become the tipping point for Mansingh. “More and more obstructions were being put in the way of its (medical panel’s) functioning, so I felt the prudent thing to do was to resign,” the respected orthopedic surgeon told the Observer. “It was becoming untenable to work, and calling off this conference was probably the last straw. “With flight arrangements and hotel accommodation being made, it was called off without explanation. That was reflective of difficulties some panel members were having.” Quoting sources knowledgeable of the ongoing is-

Dr Akshai Mansingh has quit as CWI’s chief medical officer.

sues, the Observer said there was often tension between the CWI board and the medical panel, and that decisions in the past had been arrived at without enough input from the medical experts. While the situation had improved, issues of “non-medical people making statements” had continued to occur, the source said. Mansingh, whose involvement with the CWI medical panel spanned nearly 15 years, said the situation reflected a need for more direct engagement with medical personnel. “I don’t think they got

sufficient information from the experts to make decisions and come to conclusions and, instead of directly engaging people, it seems that they were relying more on third-party information,” he pointed out. “In a scenario like that I don’t think things can continue. West Indies cricket has a medical structure that could be considered worldclass, that was in keeping with the top boards in the world.” The medical panel is chaired by Dr Donovan Bennett and also comprises Dr Anyyl Goopesingh, Dr Renee Best, West Indies team physio CJ Clark, strength and fitness coordinator, Ronald Rogers, along with CWI chief executive Johnny Grave, COO Verlyn Faustin, and Director of Cricket Jimmy Adams. Bennett did not rule out further resignations. “We have lost a very important person from the panel, and I suspect more resignations are on the way,” he said. CWI president Dave Cameron shied away from comment. “I will not speak on the matter,” he was quoted as saying.

Confidence high as Double Trouble gets cracking

Page 31

Jake Newton to captain Guyana against Indonesia today DEFENDER Jake Newton will wear the captain’s armband for today’s International Friendly against Indonesia at the Patriot Chandrabhaga Stadium, in Bekasi, West Java. Kick-off time is 07:30hrs (Guyana Time) It is Newton’s first time being named as captain, and the 33-year-old UK-based defender said he welcomes the challenge and is happy to be part of history, since this is Guyana’s first game on the Asian continent. Head coach Wayne Dover and his troops have been in Jakarta since Monday and after several practice sessions, the dreadlocks-wearing coach stated that he’s cautiously optimistic of a positive outcome. Dover admitted that he’s clueless about the Indonesian team and their composition, but, stated that the experience is one that the entire team and

(L-R) Brandon Beresford, Jake Newton (captain), Wayne Dover (head coach) along with Indonesia’s head coach and captain at a pre-game Press conference.

staff will cherish. “We will make the GFF and the country as a whole, proud of this moment where we will triumph … it’s a moment we will approach with caution because we don’t know the opponent,” said Dover. Looking at the composition of the team, Dover said the team is a mixture of youth and experience, adding, “It’s very nice to have so many young players in the squad, because you know, as the GFF is aiming for the 2018/2019 season and will embark and depend on the young players to take us through that phase and that’s a good plus for us.” “The Indonesia will be our last game for the year and given the fact that a lot of young players will be chosen for exposure at some time in the game (that) will give us the best possible working group,” Dover pointed out.

Pepsi Hikers, Queen’s ‘Green Machine’ begin journey Park on collision course to Commonwealth Games Page 25

Trinidad and Tobago’s national striker Akim Toussant on the attack for Queen’s Park against Mixed Nuts. 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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Avery Corbin will play a pivotal role of Guyana in Mexico. SATURDAY, NOVEMBER, 25, 2017