Guyana Chronicle E-paper 12-08-2018

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SATURDAY 8th December, 2018

‘Cold, fairytale Exceed speeches’ No.105482

His wins his losses

… AG says of 277 cases, he only lost 68 P A G E

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…PM rips opposition 03 budget contributions PAGE

Gov't … says PPP lust for power will not change benefits for citizens to clear

70% of City Hall debts 09 PAGE

to garbage contractors

Man gets

'life' for raping baby

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‘Opposition proffered no alternatives to budget’ 05 PAGE

– Jordan

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan wrapping up the budget debates late Friday in the National Assembly (Adrian Narine photo)

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His wins exceed his losses

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

–– AG defends stewardship of Legal Affairs Ministry

–– of 277 cases, he only lost 68

By Lisa Hamilton ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams, SC, has set the record straight on the performance of his chambers, providing statistics to show that they have won twice as many cases than they have lost.

Williams’ stewardship of the AG chambers has attracted attention over time as manifested through comments by his predecessor Anil Nandlall’s claims of “winning many cases” against the AG. On the final day of the

2019 budget debate, Williams came up against Nandlall who claimed that it is “impossible to examine the performance” of the chambers. However, providing actual data coming out of the 277 cases that were concluded, Williams showed that 118 were dismissed or discontinued; 110 were won with and without costs and 68 were lost. “So where is the losing Attorney General’s Chambers?

Our winnings double what we lost!” Williams said.

In addition, he pointed out that in 2018, the AG’s Chambers won several high-profile

People’s Progressive Party (PPP) parliamentarian and former Attorney General Anil Nandlall (Adrian Narine photo)

cases. Two he highlighted were the Bibi Safora Shadick vs the Minister of Communities and chief elections officer case which was thrown out, thwarting the attempt to stymie the hosting of the November 12 Local Government Elections (LGEs).

Another he noted was the Court of Appeal case of People’s Progressive Party (PPP) executive Zulfikar Mustapha who came against the appointment of Justice James Patterson as Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairman.

“The Court of Appeal upheld the decision of President David Granger’s decision to appoint retired Justice James Patterson to the office of Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission, as constitutional,” the AG reminded.

Regarding the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ), the case of Attorney General of Guyana vs Cedric Richardson, the Court upheld that presidential term limits were valid.

Meanwhile, the AG’s Chambers also won the Guyana Stores Limited vs the AG of Guyana; the Guyana Revenue Authority and the Commissioner-General of the Revenue Authority; the Sattie Basdeo vs Guyana Sugar Corporation

Limited; Noel Holder and the AG of Guyana and the Marcus Bisram case.

“These cases are in the CCJ!” Williams said to the opposition, “I want them to show me where they won comparable cases in the CCJ under the tenure of the Honourable Member [Nandlall]. What he did was to leave us with some enormous amounts of heavy judgements.”

Altogether, in 2017 some 388 court matters engaged the attention of the law officers of the state and 552 new matters were filed against the state from January 1 to December 3, 2018 taking on a grand total of 940 matters, engaging the chambers. Of this number, Williams stated that 35 per cent of the litigations were filed by the Attorney General’s Chambers, while the remaining 65 per cent were filed in favour of the other litigating parties.

During a press conference last year, President David Granger was asked to comment on the performance of the attorney general and he said: “I wouldn’t blame the Minister of Legal Affairs. I think that within that ministry, there were some persons who were not doing necessarily the best for the Government of Guyana,” President Granger had said. “I do not feel that in the past we had the best representation; some of the cases which we inherited were lost before we started, because some of the representation was inadequate

Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister Basil Williams (Adrian Narine photo) and that is a great pity.”

President Granger also said that the attorney general made several internal changes in his ministry after taking up office “in order to get the best quality representation.”

He is a very experienced lawyer and as long as you go to the courts, you have to expect that the outcomes may not be in your favour; but you can’t win everything, and I think he has worked hard,” Mr Granger told the media.

RULE of LAW Further criticising the legal sector, Nandlall had accused the coalition of “assault on the rule of law,” listing public safety; violations of the Procurement Act and the payment of severance to sugar workers as references.

However, Williams contested that the PPP should be the last to speak on the topic as the rule of law never existed in the 23 years of their time in office. “What their rule produced was a gangster [Roger Khan] advertising in the national newspapers that he was in charge of the national security of this country. What that administration produced is the largest killing field in the history of CARICOM and

Guyana where over 800 young Guyanese –husbands, brothers, uncles, sons -- were decimated in a crime spree in this country never seen before,” he said, adding: “They are in no position to lecture us on anything about the rule of law!”

Touching too on the matter of severance payments to sugar workers, Williams added: “What we did is, we saved the sugar industry; we inherited a sugar industry that was in a [terrible] state and we the APNU+AFC government rolled back all those years and we decided that notwithstanding the failures of the PPP, we were going to ensure that we salvage the sugar industry and justify the existence of the sugar workers in this country.”

Williams said that the government, then opposition, had advised the PPP that sugar was not going to have the preferred position under the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) convention and that they should begin retraining workers. Instead, he added, that the sugar industry was being managed by former president Donald Ramotar and the chief executive officer (CEO) who was operating out of New York.

“They never did that [retrained workers],” Williams said. “So we refute out of hand that we have anything to do with the sugar industry reaching its nadir; and we will continue to look after the sugar workers to the best of our ability. The Legal Affairs Minister said that for years he has spoken in the House of Assembly in support of traditional workers in the public service who were even neglected by the government in favour of the sugar workers. “The divisive politics of the past will prove to be the death knell of the People’s Progressive Party,” he forecasted.

“We will not be sidetracked. You have the biggest budget ever in this country and they’re trying to tell the nation that big is little; that big is nothing, so you can’t fool the people of this country.

What the budget is saying to you is that inclusivity has triumphed over divisiveness that hitherto permeated the politics of this country.”

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Cold, fairytale speeches

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo on Friday flayed the opposition for what he called their “cold, fairytale speeches” on the budget, asserting that provisions in the budget will benefit the lives of all and negative speeches and the lust for power by the opposition will not change this.

He told the House during the closing stages of the budget debate that the 2019 estimates like previous budgets under the APNU+AFC government find ways and means of helping all communities in becoming cleaner, healthier and models of what can be done in Guyana.

The prime minister said the budget benefits all strata of society and every geographic region; and it is within the budget that monies are found to maintain several constitutional agencies, such as parliament and the judiciary.

The PM explained that under the PPP there was a practice of political interference when even the chambers of the Director of Public Prosecutions and the Guyana Elec-

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo tions Commission were subservient to a minister’s discretion.

“If the elections commission wanted money to do anything, to ensure the integrity of the electoral process for which they are commanded by the constitution, they had to take their hats out and go to a minister of government or the Head of the Presidential Secretariat back then, and even if the chancellor wishes for a judge to travel overseas, they would have had to go to a subject minister because monies were coming from the budget agency and you know the old saying he who pays the piper calls the tune, so justice could have been compromised if you had this type of political control over the constitutional bodies ” Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo said.

LUST FOR POWER The prime minister said under the APNU+AFC government many constitutional bodies were guaranteed their financial autonomy. The leader of government’s business said the PPP/C has attacked the budget with old-style politics, but the content of the budget will benefit the lives of all and negative speeches and the lust for power by the opposition will not change the benefits that citizens will experience.

“There were no honest, sincere, positive contributions on how we can improve on the budget or the next budget, since we always welcome ideas, but we have seen the opposition at its worst ever, we have heard the noisy, insulting and disrespectful tones of contributions and the huff and puff, the

… PM rips opposition budget contributions

… says PPP lust for power will not change benefits for citizens distorted facts and untruths of old and cold speeches of a fairytale,” the prime minister noted. He said based on the PPP’s perspective, they should remain in opposition since “a good term of opposition deserves another.”

Sugar industry rescued Turning his attention to the sugar industry, which he referred to as the ‘whipping boy’ for the opposition, Mr Nagamootoo stated that it was never the intention of the current administration to close several sugar estates across the country. He remarked it should be understood that this matter had been carefully deliberated by Cabinet. The PM said that the government was “carrying this industry” however, their “interest was to save it.” “It needs to be explained to Guyanese sugar workers that this is a government that has thought over the matter, brought a green paper to this National Assembly having first established a commission of inquiry to look into the problems of the sugar industry.”

It was after this that the decision was made to “modernise and transform the industry, and put finances and capital into the three estate factories that could survive.”

Prime Minister Nagamootoo reminded the National Assembly of a feasibility study done in 2000 concerning the sugar industry which showed that the “estate should be concentrated in East Berbice where it is better suited for cane cultivation.” He remarked that it was the previous administration who caused the industry to collapse as they did not heed the advice from the study. According to the prime minister, after the coalition assumed office in 2015, the Cabinet spent “days, weeks and months agonising on how to deal with the tragedy of the sugar industry.”

“It had become unstainable to operate the sugar industry without bringing the entire economy down!” Prime Minister Nagamootoo remarked. It was highlighted that alternatives were made available for the retrenched workers and government was prepared to pay workers their severance, but it was the PPP/C aligned Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union who stopped the process from going forward.

“They filed a court action and got an injunction that the severance should not be paid and they were consulted.”

The prime minister further explained that the union wanted outstanding payments to be deducted before the workers received their benefits. He noted that the government kept to their agreement and paid the sugar workers as soon as a ruling was made .

BIGGER PAY FOR PUBLIC SERVANTS Additionally, the prime minister said it was difficult to make sense of this political “nihilism” by the opposition as he referred to their continuous description of the budget as visionless and lacking in investments. According to Prime Minister Nagamootoo, the opposition’s rejection is confusing as they seek to condemn the very thing they wish to advocate … “jobs for citizens.”

“The opposition during these debates say there are no jobs”…but the opposition opposes $16 Billion set aside for public servants …they condemn the very thing they are advocating for.” Prime Minister Naga-

mootoo said. The salary for public servants has increased; the new minimum wage is 60 thousand dollars. This is an increase of four thousand four hundred and forty-five dollars ($4,445) Prime Minister Nagamootoo went on to state that the budget will not only benefit public servants, but will also aid in the alleviation of food shortages, as much emphasis has been placed on agricultural development. “Monies from the 300.7-billion-dollar budget ensures that the programmes in health, education, housing, water and security sectors are adequately funded, “jobs must be maintained” ….

“In this budget, Agriculture will get a big boost, securing the livelihoods of our farmers,” says the prime minister.

BETTER POSITION Touching on the quality of life of Guyanese, Prime Minister Nagamootoo told the House that the country is in a better position today than it was under the previous administration.

Citing a 2011 Ram and McRae Report which spoke to a mountain of corruption, and also stated that “Guyana could not even make its integrity commission functional”, the prime minister rebuked the opposition’s accusations of corruption within this current administration.

He noted that it was the coalition that has made greater efforts to clamp down on corruption. “We revived the integrity commission” … “today we have a functioning integrity commission that is asking and going after the declaration of assets and incomes of public officials” Addressing the Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo who had left the chambers, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said according to the 2011 report, his presidency was riddled with corruption.

“Ram and McRae said this … they concluded that the (2011) Executive Presidency was synonymous with dictatorship.”

The prime minister said that even though the damage done to the country under the PPP/C has left scars, the coalition government remains committed to fighting corruption as it “hinders economic growth and development and undermines public confidence in the administration.

LOPSIDED AGREEMENT Meanwhile, Jagdeo lambasted government during his contribution to the 2019 budget debate, noting that there are no measures in the budget for lowering the balance-of-payment deficits, or what he termed other worrying economic indices.

He noted that there have been reductions in spending on sectors like health and the Director of Public Prosecutions, compared to previous years.

However, Jagdeo refer-

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo enced the increases in non-essential areas.

In addition, the opposition leader stated that certain measures and legislative reversals are a recipe for corruption.

Jagdeo also hit the government for what he called the lopsided agreements with oil companies.

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‘No surprise to us’

Jordan says on closure of Bank of Baroda

By Alva Solomon

INDIA’s international financial institution, the Bank of Baroda, signalled since April this year its intention to close its operations here and the move by the bank presents an opportunity for Guyanese to launch their own banking ventures.

This is according to Finance Minister Winston Jordan who told the National Assembly on Friday night that those efforts by the opposition People’s Progressive Party to tie the decision of the bank to the state of the Guyana economy are “wicked” in nature.

On Thursday , the India-headquartered bank said that it was seeking investment bankers for the sale/disinvestment of Bank of Baroda’s entire 100

percent stake in the Bank of Baroda (Guyana) Inc.(BOBGI) operations. The bank’s executives were quoted in a report as saying that they wish to focus more on other markets, including moves to tap into the Asian markets.

Minister Jordan said that opposition MP Anil Nandlall during his budget debate presentation on Friday morning stated that the action of the Bank of Baroda as well as Scotiabank, which recently entered into an agreement with Republic Bank for a takeover by the Trinidad-owned banking institution - represented “a verdict.”

Jordan said the closure of the bank comes as no surprise to the government. He said that the government had been alerted since April that the

Saturday, December 8, 2018 –– 05:30hrs

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

… says move presents opportunity for Guyanese to launch own banking ventures Bank of Baroda was moving from Guyana; and he noted that government tried to persuade the bank that “doing business in Guyana is good.”

He said he learnt that even the local chiefs of the bank were unaware of the decision of its principals in India. “The point being made is that these banks consider doing business in these states, not profitable anymore”, he said. He said the risks have increased, including regulations which they have to contend with. ”So they don’t consider our territories to be profitable, investment territories anymore,” he said. He said the decision

by Scotiabank may be similar in nature.

The Finance Minister noted that the scenario presents an opportunity for Guyanese to “step up to the plate.” He said that opportunities exist for local and overseas businessmen to enter similar businesses. He said with five billion-plus barrels of oil estimated by American oil giant ExxonMobil in the Stabroek Block offshore Guyana, a number of opportunities exist.

He noted that many global businesses are focusing their attention on these shores, including international air carriers. “American Airlines is here,” he said, noting that similar entities are all lining up and will “galvanise” when the first barrel of oil is pumped come 2020.

Jordan said within the banking sector, there are many headlines which tell of the successes of other commercial banks. “Republic Bank’s profit up by 14.4%, Demerara Bank records two billion in profits,” he said of their performance, adding that Citizens Bank recorded a 51.6% increase in after –tax profits in 2017. ”Does that look like the verdict is in?”

Jordan asked.

The Finance Minister said that “it’s just a wicked piece of commentary “made by Nandlall to satisfy an audience, noting that he knows

the truth. Reports are that the decision by the Bank of Baroda lies in its plans to shift its focus on four overseas territories, those being the United States, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Singapore.

The Bank of Nova Scotia reported last month-end, that fourth-quarter earnings which were marginally below expectations and said it planned to exit nine countries in the Caribbean as part of a shake-up of that business.

The bank, which has operated in the Caribbean since 1889, said that it would refocus its business in the Region by selling its insurance operations in Jamaica and Trinidad & Tobago to Sagicor Financial Corporation, with which it will partner to sell insurance products in those countries.

Scotiabank said it planned to sell its banking operations in Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Maarten and St Vincent & the Grenadines to Republic Financial Holdings. The Ministry of Finance subsequently said that Republic Bank currently holds 35.4 per cent of the banking systems assets and 36.8per cent of deposits in Guyana and the acquisition of Scotiabank will up this to 51 per cent of both assets and deposits.

This too will have an impact on competition and the potential for Republic Bank to have too much influence on pricing of banking products and rates. The sale will also have an impact on issues related to correspondent banking options and the loss of jobs, with Republic Bank likely to consolidate branches.

The Finance Ministry said the decision was made when Guyana’s economy is on the cusp of financial transformation with the onset of the massive new oil and gas sector raises concerns and is regretted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

‘Opposition proffered no alternatives to budget’ – Jordan

MINISTER of Finance Winston Jordan provided mathematics lessons in his final wrap up of the budget debate on Friday night even as he lambasted the Opposition Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) for “falsifying” statistics during the week-long presentations.

Jordan stated that there may be consequences for the “untruths” being peddled by the PPP. Opposition MP Irfaan Ali, who was speaking during the budget debates on Monday, claimed that the President’s team has expended some $1B in travel expenses. On Friday night, Jordan provided clarity on the issue.

He said that in the year 2012, the then government budgeted $270M for travel but in fact spent $343.4M that year.

In 2013 a sum of $343M was budgeted but in reality the expenses were $ 412M. He said that in 2014, a sum of $392M was budgeted

for travel, however only $352M was spent and Jordan posited that the sum may have dipped because it was the year before the 2015 general and regional elections.

As regards government spending, Jordan said that in 2015, a sum of $392M was budgeted but only $ 263M was spent on travel.

He said in 2016, government decided to slash the travel budget to $360M and in reality, only $232M was spent. He said that in 2017, another decision was made to cut the budgeted sums of the previous year to $300M and in actuality, only $294M was spent on travel. The minister said that this year, $300M was budgeted and according to him, based on projections the government’s travel figure will fall below $300M. Jordan informed the National Assembly too that the opposition MPs travelled “royally” when they were in office. He said MP Gail

Teixeira, while serving as an advisor under the PPP government, travelled to Geneva, first class on one occasion. He said that she spent US$500 per night for five nights, when the approved rate of passed by Cabinet stood at US$250 per night.

“So it is amazing that when it comes to this House , people who are coming with equity are not coming with clean hands, but they think they are dealing with people who have short memories,” he said, as he noted that he operated in the “belly of the beast” and that “I now where the skeletons are.”

Jordan said that there appeared a “pattern of falsifying statistics to create confusion and to leave in the minds of the public an image of something that did not really happen.” He said Ali made several mathematical errors in his attempt to explain inflation.

Jordan said that if there are three products, egg, bread and milk, each of which cost $100 and the price of eggs went up by

one per cent, bread: two per cent and milk: three per cent, statistically, the opposition calculated that the total increase in price is six per cent. “Now which school these people went to Mr. Speaker?” Jordan asked. He questioned the level of numeracy on the opposite side of the House.

He said in actual fact, a one per cent increase of $100 is $1, two per cent increase of $100 is $2, a three per cent increase of $100 gives $3, a total increase of $6 which translates to a two per cent increase in total.

“Now we on this side could give free lessons where this is concerned,” he added, to loud cheers from his colleagues.

He said Opposition MP, Gillian Burton-Persaud wrongfully calculated 0.5 per cent of a million dollars and arrived at $20,000 increase during her presentation. The finance minister reiterated that there is a pattern of “misinformation from the opposition,” using statistics. On Friday night, Jordan noted that the government is private-sector

friendly and to this end he described the national budget as private sector friendly. He repeatedly noted too that the APNU/AFC government has not increased “a single tax” since assuming office in 2015.

Jordan said the opposition was not facing reality when it comes to Guyana’s economic performance under the coalition government. Defending Budget 2019, the minister cited the example of purchasing oil on the international markets. He explained that claims made about prices falling did not reflect the reality of the local markets.

Guyana was hampered by the fact that its oil and petroleum purchases were constrained since it was a small buyer and its facilities could not take up larger tankers that could have been berthed locally.

“Prices were set when our vessels berthed overseas and the price on that day, was what had to be paid,” Minister Jordan explained.

The fact that sugar prices were low despite the advent of new markets must not

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be forgotten, the minister noted.

The opposition’s reference to the past performances of commodities such as gold was reflective of those past days, he posited. The price of rice, for example, the minister reminded, was still lower, though favourable with the Panamanian market, than what obtained for the defunct Venezuelan market.

“The world’s economies have changed and many should be aware of the various factors that drive and shape prices, and Guyana’s was no different,” Minister Jordan said.

He assured that the local economy will improve even further with the advent of oil within two years. The opposition had no suggestions or alternatives, Minister Jordan pointed out, “Except for MP Odinga who suggested that the Budget be taken to the Select Committee.”

The economy is projected to expand by more than three per cent for 2019 according to the finance minister.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

The enormous benefits of exercise MUCH emphasis is placed on the things we should not do if we want to stay healthy: we should not smoke, drink alcohol in excess, use too much salt and sugar and so on.

Unfortunately, less emphasis is placed on the other side of the equation; what are some of the practices we should adopt?

What activities will keep us healthy, improve our quality of life and extend our life expectancy? Since we all want to be healthy, those questions should be important to everyone.

In answer to those questions, most experts would agree that if regular exercise is not at the top of the list, it is close.

Exercise is defined as any bodily activity that enhances or maintains physical and mental fitness and positively contributes to overall health and wellness. Exercise is divided into three broad groups: aerobic, anaerobic, and flexibility exercises.

Aerobic exercises include running, swimming, cycling, walking, and playing games such as cricket or football. Those activities use large muscle groups, thereby making the heart stronger. Anaerobic

exercises are primarily weight-lifting and resistance training such as push-ups, pullups and crunches. Those exercises build, strengthen, and tone, muscles; and increase bone strength.

Flexibility exercises are basically stretches that increase the range of motion of joints. Such exercises are usually recommended by doctors after muscle or bone injuries, because they help patients to recover.

The enormous benefits of exercise are well known and understood by medical experts. Regular exercise is statistically correlated with increased life expectancy, because exercise helps to maintain a healthy weight, sustain strong muscles and bones, promote digestive health, maintain good blood circulation, build a strong heart, sustain clear lungs and respiratory pathways, improve the ability of the body to fight infections, improve brain function, promote good sleep, boost energy, and encourage an otherwise healthy lifestyle. In other words, people who exercise are more likely to develop and maintain other healthy habits such as eating good food, while avoiding unhealthy practices such as smoking.

While the physical benefits of exercise are well known, the benefits to mental health are equally evident to medical experts, although less glamourous. According to studies, exercise helps to balance many substances in the brain which keep us in good mental health. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, USA, has compiled a dossier of 11 separate studies concluded between 1981 and 2016 which all show similar results.

Exercise results in increased levels of: brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that creates and protects brain cells; endorphins, a chemical that reduces stress and pain; serotonin, that regulates appetite, sleep, and mood; dopamine, which helps prevent mental illness and substance abuse; Glutamate and GABA, which regulate heart rate, emotions, and mood. Additionally, the direct and immediate effect of exercise sends more blood to the brain, increasing the levels of oxygen and nutrients available to brain cells.

The same report by the CDC concludes that, “Just one hour of exercise per week is related to lower levels of mood, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders.” The report

adds, “Among people in the US, those who make regular physical activity a part of their routines, are less likely to have depression, panic disorder, and phobias.” The report also makes specific recommendations based on the research. For example, it states, “For people with schizophrenia, yoga is the most effective form of exercise for reducing symptoms associated with the disorder.”

Since we know that on the other hand, the lack of exercise results in overall higher risk of disease. For example, according to the World Health Organisation, a lack of exercise increases the risk of coronary heart disease by six per cent, making a heart attack more likely. The absence of physical activity elevates the chances of getting diabetes by seven per cent, breast cancer by 10 percent, and colon cancer by 10 per cent.

Does it not make sense to adopt a healthy lifestyle which includes regular exercise?

While we contemplate improving our lifestyle choices and living a better, longer, more rewarding life, it must be noted that doctors recommend consulting a physician before embarking on any strenuous exercise regimen.

Minister Patterson responds to SN article Dear Editor, THE Ministry of Public Infrastructure wishes to respond to an article published in Stabroek News under the headline, “Gas and Patterson”, on Friday, November 7, 2018, in which there are a number of inaccurate statements that were advanced by the author.

As minister, I adamantly and in no uncertain terms refute this narrative that was posited by the author, and wish to correct certain statements through the following facts: (i) Included in Volume 1 of the estimates is the Energy Matrix Diversification Programme, which covers three major components targeting the synergy of our energy sector- (1) institutional strengthening of the Department of Energy to develop a regulatory framework and improving institutional capacity and governance of the oil-and-gas sector,

(2) investment in sustainable and cleaner energy matrix in three townships-Bartica, Mahdia and Lethem-through the installation of three solar farms plus battery storage and (3) investing in the reinforcement of transmission infrastructure to improve reliability and stability of the DBIS. The nexus of these programmes lies in the promulgation of government’s message emphasised through our Green State Development Strategy, which has been time and time again highlighted. There is no one without the other if we want to ensure a strengthened energy supply.

Therefore, claims by the author that my ministry has expended resources on natural gas -this budgetary allocation has nothing to do with natural gas. ii) Government has not reneged on its commitment and ongoing advancements regarding natural gas development; rather, in fact, the position remains grounded in

ensuring that all aspects of the project are technically sound and prepared for Guyanese to achieve the best output through multilateral support and instruments for technical studies, modelling and expert advice to achieve a beneficial holistic output. I also wish to note that government continues its dialogue with ExxonMobil, including Mr. Ron Henson (not Henderson), country representative. It is therefore in nobody’s interest to assume or peddle that this is not priority, nor has it been considered at all stages. (iii) I wish to also clarify that I did not personally speak with this publication regarding statements on any ocean-floor mapping exercise; therefore, I caution the use and application of this ‘interpreted quote,’ as well as the use of information from sources that are apparently close to this ‘process.’

What this article has sought to achieve was the amalgamation of numerous headline

issues into a singular fictitious chapter that attempts to paint the picture of gross misconduct, negligence and wastefulness by my ministry. Yet, what is pellucidly clear is that the statements contained within this column are purely based on assumptions and conjecture.

For this, I choose not to engage in a ‘war of the words’ with the author, but merely wish to reiterate my firm commitment through my ministry in developing options for achieving reliable, stable and lower-cost electricity to all in Guyana through clean and green energy supply, recognising that the opportunity that lies before us will not be carelessly or negligently squandered, but will be for the benefit of all Guyanese.

Regards David Patterson Minister of Public Infrastructure (MP)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

How can a payout package for Sooba become part of City Hall CoI recommendations Dear Editor AS a Guyanese citizen of voting age, a property owner in Georgetown and a student of Law, I am paying keen attention to the commission of inquiry into the affairs of the Georgetown City Council.

Its methodology, approach, findings and recommendations coming out of the draft report make for interesting reading. I have to confess that my first impression of the commission is that it appears to be a travesty of justice and fair play. It seems as though the commission itself is working with a not-so-hidden agenda to achieve a particular outcome.

It appears to be politically motivated. The commissioner’s public rebuke to the chief citizen to “shut up and listen” said it all. Its composition and appointment seem

questionable. I must make two basic points here: First, when one considers sections 14 and 19 of the Local Government Commission Act of 2013 and the Eighth Schedule of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01, the commission of inquiry seems to be in breach of those legal provisions and therefore, null and void. The Terms of Reference of the commission published in the Official Gazette also appears defective for want of specificity; if the scope of the commission is not limited to any particular matter, but is roaming and at large, then there would be no limit to the questions which witnesses might be required to answer, thus the need for the Terms of Reference to be specific.

The other point I wish to make in this regard is that the methodology used by

the commission struck me as odd, unfair and designed to deliver a certain outcome at the end of the inquiry. Allegations were made against officials; and without them being present to hear and understand the precise nature of the allegations made against them, those officials were summoned to the commission to defend themselves in the absence of those who made the allegations and in almost all cases, without the support of proper legal counsel. A most unfair and demoralising situation for any public official. Questions of natural justice, human rights and the constitutional rights of those officials were ignored by the commission of inquiry.

The other question is, how were witnesses selected or screened by the commission? Apparently, the only individuals who appeared

before the commission are those who have grievances with City Hall; weren’t there any witnesses who wanted to testify about their good experiences with that organisation?

There are no reports of positive things done by the Georgetown City Council. It seems to be the case that the commission in character and spirit, was lopsided, discriminatory, prejudicial and biased against that entity.

Perhaps the most noticeable thing in the media reports I have read about the commission’s report is that the commissioner made no reference to the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01, which guides the actions of the Council; but he referred to the Public Corporations Act and Companies Act. These have very little to do, if at all, with the matters at hand and those

that are encouraging public conversation about the council.

There can be no proper inquiry or investigation into the actions of the City Council unless there is sufficient consideration of the Municipal and District Councils Act, Chapter 28:01 and the statutory powers vested in the officials of the council.

Actions of omission and commission by city officials must be taken within the context of the Act, Chapter 28:01, custom and practice of the organisation, policies of the organisation, and the political, social and economic environment prevailing at the time the action or decision was taken. But it could be the case that given the need for the commission to deliver a certain outcome, the commissioner felt that the Act, Chapter 28:01 was not particularly relevant to

the inquiry. The commission of inquiry was required to investigate operations of the City Council; the commissioner investigated officers.

One final point: by what process did the commission of inquiry include matters pertaining to the former town clerk and sitting Commissioner on the Local Government Commission, Ms Carol Sooba? Did she appear before the commission? Or is it a case of he who pays the piper calls the tune? This compromises the integrity of the entire investigation.

How can a payout package for a sitting commissioner Ms Carol Sooba, who worked at the Mayor and City Council become part of a recommendation by the commission of inquiry?

Regards Timothy Davison

A sturdy plan needed to tackle crime around Stabroek Market

DEAR Editor,

AFTER numerous concerns have been made bombarding the media about the escalation of crimes around the Stabroek Market and bus parks, the presence of uniformed police, in collaboration with the city constables, seems to be a welcome sight to commuters/shoppers around the environs.

Notably, various suspicious characters could be seen getting stopped and searched and many being taken to the outpost.

Indeed, the operation is a great relief to many and I hope it continues and plainclothes officers also are present. Whilst the officers are conducting their duties, many are hostile to the officers, especially teenagers who see no fear in using expletives to the

officers. My assumption is that they tell themselves they are being wronged and their ignorance overcomes them.

Parents should caution their children to cooperate with the officers if they have nothing to hide. For too long the Stabroek Market and various parks have been seen to be a training ground for aspiring criminals and a sturdy plan should be in place to combat this nonsense.

CAL treated passengers crudely Dear Editor I AM making a formal complaint about my nightmarish flight from JFK destined to GEO 11/02/8018 BW521 connecting in Trinidad, where it was cancelled by CAL with major flaws in communication at the counter in Trinidad.

I was in the VIP lounge at POS not Club Caribbean. I was told one hour after the flight was cancelled that I needed to go to counter 4 at POS; no other information about my bags or what to do with my liquor. The run around with misinformation from CAL employees and the complete disregard and carefree response I received was disgraceful. I have never experienced this in my entire life with a carrier. The flight was eventually cancelled with no information about another flight to get the passengers to GEO. We were taken to a hotel and left there with absolutely no information. I got a wake-up call at 3:59am and told to be ready in the lobby at 04:00hrs--completely unac-

ceptable. At the airport on 11/03/2018 I was on BW601, got to GEO around 09:00hrs and had to wait until 10:30hrs for my bags, because they were on another flight. I have never ever experienced this with CAL and I’m very disappointed, hurt and angry because I’ve been travelling with CAL for 18 years and is a Silver Star member. This is unacceptable by any airline and I feel we as Guyanese passengers were discriminated against, almost as if we didn’t deserve information from CAL about what was happening; sort of, we had to take what we were given. This would have never happened in Miami or any other western country or people. I want CAL to take responsibility for what happened.

I want to be compensated with something, anything for what I went through and how terrible and worthless I felt as a passenger that day.

Regards Savitri Deodat

Many city constables and police officers know the criminals and when they commit a crime, once they get a description of the criminal, contact is made and drawbacks are paid. I personally see illicit drugs being openly used and young girls around the age of 14 being encouraged to use it and being praised for their boldness. More than once, schoolchildren in uniform could be seen at the park liming after 10:00pm.

Whenever a crime or fight takes place, they rush with the crowds either to assist a crime or commit a crime. I wonder if parents care about their children’s future?

Editor, over the years whenever there’s Parliament, traffic gets congested and causes tremendous headaches all around Georgetown.

I see no reason why the environs around Parliament have to be blocked.

It’s understandable that the

front of Parliament should be so that members of parliament(MPs) have easy access and many of the MPs seem to have sympathy for the headaches commuters go through and they are just concerned about enjoying the perks attached to the positions they inherit and seem hell bent to abuse them.

Regards Sahadeo Bates

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Greenidge reassures House ...

All systems being put in place –– to deal with any oil spill

By Tamica Garnett MINISTER of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge on Friday reassured Guyanese that proper systems will be put in place for the handling of any oil spills and multinational companies operating here will be monitored to ensure adherence to the country’s policies.

Greenidge made the comments during his budget debate presentation in the National Assembly on Friday. He observed that some observers have spoken about handling of oil spill as a condition for their support for exploration and production. However, he explained that systems will be put in place to deal with the risk of such an eventuality and will see the involvement of all the local disaster management agencies. “No single developing state has ever been called to meet the cost of a petroleum spill in

its entirety. States insulate themselves from the risk by insurance, industry insurance and national disaster arrangements and Guyana will be no exception in this regard,” Greenidge who is also the second vice- president said.

A former finance minister under President Desmond Hoyte’s administration, Greenidge explained that his ministry has actually already taken to Cabinet a number of existing agreements that would help in this regard. There have also been consultations with other countries more versed in the area, “including our CARICOM neighbour, Trinidad and Tobago.” “The Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented to Cabinet, and Cabinet has accepted, recommendations regarding the international agreements and conventions to which we need to be signatories. In order to benefit from such protection,” Greenidge said.

“We’ve had talks with the Trinidad and Tobago government to get insight into how they are handling their risk and how our risks may overlap, and how we can tackle these eventuality.

We will also when the time comes advise cabinet to have the relevant agencies on the internal front put in place the appropriate regulations. We can have tankers operating in Guyana’s waters contributing to funds to ensure that the disaster relief arrangements are properly in place on the internal side, as well as not only on the international front,” the Foreign Affairs Minister told the House.

Greenidge said his ministry is also working on interfacing with international companies that would be looking to enter the Guyana economy, particularly as it pertains to the provisions in the labour sector. “We expect all operators to adhere to our laws and regulations,”

Greenidge said. “We try to convey to the multinational corporations that they have a responsibility to live within Guyana’s laws and their performance is mutually beneficial.

They have to operate with an eye on the sensitivities of the legal requirements, especially with current debate in relations to honouring labour laws.”

WELL-STAFFED Greenidge said that the ministry is well staffed to handle the issue, with staff being constantly trained both locally and internationally. He also spoke of the issue of the sourcing of funding for the necessary infrastructure that will need to be put in place to bring the oil and gas industry on stream, noting that there will be need to turn to a number of non-traditional sources.

“There’s a most urgent need for the country is the shortage of physical and socio-economic infrastructure. And the provision of infrastructure is an area in which Guyana has struggled to secure meaningful funding over the past four decades,” he explained. “Most traditional bilateral partners have shown little interest in rendering assistance in this context, so we have to turn to non-traditional partners.

Other agencies private sector and NGOs to secure funding for the development of infrastructure for that aspect.”

Only on Thursday the Inter-American Development Bank announced that it has approved a US$11.6M loan to Guyana to help it

prepare to transition towards becoming a major oil and gas producing state. The policy-based loan will fund a project designed to support the strengthening and the sustainability of the energy sector in Guyana by contributing to the institutional development of oil and gas governance and the development of cleaner energy sources for electricity generation, the IDB said in a release.

The specific objectives of the loan programme are: first, to develop a management and planning framework for Guyana’s oil and gas sector; and second, to contribute to the development of a policy framework so that Guyana may diversify its electricity-generation matrix using cleaner or renewable sources.

Guyana’s new energy scenario, which will likely yield significant revenues for the government, represents a transformative shift in Guyana’s development trajectory, the IDB said, adding that it embodies a crucial and unprecedented opportunity for economic growth and sustainable development. “The conversion of short-term oil wealth into long-term, well-being hinges on the capacity of the Guyanese Government to adequately manage this new sector and enact productivity-enhancing reforms. If handled well, it can boost the overall standard of living for the country.”

However, the bank said there is considerable work to be done so that Guyana can enjoy the benefits of its recent—and potential—oil

Minister of Foreign Affairs Carl Greenidge (Adrian Narine photo) and gas wealth. “Too often resource-rich countries have become or remained poor as a result of inadequate resource management. Hence, there is an urgent need to improve the governance of Guyana’s oil and gas sector ahead of the start of production in 2020.”

The agreed-upon policy commitments of the first tranche of the programme are as follows: (1) creation of the Department of Energy (DoE) within the Ministry of the Presidency to take over responsibilities related to the governance and development of Guyana’s oil and gas sector; (2) approval by the DoE of a draft roadmap to develop Guyana’s oil and gas institutional framework, and; (3) design of a model contract for future Production Sharing Agreements (PSA) by the DoE and presented to Guyana’s Ministry of the Presidency.

On Monday, ExxonMobil announced that it has made its 10th discovery offshore Guyana and increased its estimate of the discovered recoverable resource for the Stabroek Block to more than five billion oil-equivalent barrels. The resource estimate, up from the previous estimate of more than four billion oil-equivalent barrels, is a result of further evaluation of previous discoveries and includes a new discovery at the Pluma-1 well, the company said in a statement. “The discovery of a resource base of more than five billion oil-equivalent barrels in less than four years is a testament of our technical expertise and rigorous evaluation and pursuit of high-potential, high-risk opportunities in this frontier area,” said Neil Chapman, ExxonMobil senior vice-president. “We will continue to apply what we’ve learned to identify additional exploration prospects and potential future discoveries that will deliver significant value to the Guyanese people, our partners and shareholders.”

The Pluma-1 well encountered approximately 121 feet (37 metres) of high-quality hydrocarbon-bearing sandstone reservoir. Pluma-1 reached a depth of 16,447 feet (5,013 metres) in 3,340 feet (1,018 metres) of water.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Gov’t to clear 70% of City Hall debts to garbage contractors

By Telesha Ramnarine

THE Guyana Government has once again decided to step in and assist the cash-strapped Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to honour its obligations to its two main garbage contractors. As such, this support will allow for 70 percent of the debts being paid.

Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan told the Guyana Chronicle on Friday that he met with a team from City Hall on Thursday, along with the two principal solid waste contractors, Puran Brothers Disposal Services, and Cevons Waste Management Inc. “This resulted from a request by the Georgetown Council to assist with arrears owed for services. The central government, mindful of the challenges faced by the city in discharging its obligations and of the particular status of it being the capital, decided to once again step in and provide support,” Bulkan expressed.

The support will allow for approximately 70 percent of the debts being paid, following availability in January of 2019 allocations.

According to the min-

Representatives of City Hall’s two main garbage contractors at a meeting recently. From left are Kaleshwar Puran, Morris Archer and Morse Archer ister, the contractors have advised that they were prepared to resume services immediately.

“The central government remains very concerned over the many issues raised in the recently concluded commission of inquiry and will continue to monitor the workings of this council to raise its performance level,” Bulkan said, adding that government is also mindful of not saddling the new council with onerous liabilities.

“It is against the fore-

going that the government has approved a contract valued $320M to allow for mass property valuations.

This will greatly enhance the revenue base of LDOs countrywide, given that rates on properties are the principal revenue tool for local authorities,” Bulkan pointed out.

Manager at Puran’s, Kaleshwar Puran, told the Chronicle on Friday that due to the minister’s undertaking, his company is willing to resume its operations as soon as possible, but will

have to wait on the greenlight from the City Council.

In a joint statement to the press, the contractors said the meeting held with Bulkan was amicable and constructive. “It yielded what we believe to be credible assurances that settlement of the outstanding debt will commence very shortly.

Our understanding is that the first payment will be made before the end of 2018. We have, without prejudice, accepted those assurances.”

The contractors said they remain mindful of the man-

ifest inconvenience which citizens of the capital and its environs have had to endure. “Our goal is to restore a condition of normalcy in the shortest possible time.

This decision has been taken in good faith and [is] consistent with our commitment to contributing to the welfare of the capital and its environs.”

Following the pull out by the contractors in November, City Hall hired a number of smaller contractors whom they said would have been able to continue collection according to the regular schedule in place. However, not all of the areas could benefit from garbage collection as per normal.

The City Council has however been making an effort to provide clearance to the communities at least once per week. This meant that once residents did not receive collection on the scheduled day, they would need to keep putting out their barrels each day until the trucks arrived.

Both contractors wrote to the M&CC recently, stating that it was not that they want to stop working, but their current financial positions could not permit them to

continue working without pay.

The contractors have not been paid since last June and even though the M&CC announced that it was going to make a part payment some time ago, none has since been forthcoming.

Representatives of both companies said last month that they were frustrated by the M&CC’s inability to make timely payments to them.

The contractors had opted to pull their services in August 2017 when the City Council had racked up more than $400M in debts to the two companies. Although the companies had agreed to wait for payments for the years 2015 and 2016, the municipality was not even keeping up with its current balances for 2017.

Government stepped in and paid the contractors all of the outstanding balances and even went further to create a special arrangement to cover services up to the end of that year.

During that time, the contractors had anticipated that the City Council would have made some effort to contact them on a new system beginning in 2018.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Gov’t to ramp up anti-corruption war

ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams SC on Friday riled up the opposition after mentioning the names of corruption suspects here currently before the courts—many of whom are former government ministers—some sitting as members of parliament.

At one point the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland had to caution Williams not to mention names after vociferous complaints by the opposition. Williams was at the time making his contributions to the budget debate during which time he outlined that the APNU/AFC Government continues to have combatting corruption on the front burner. “The government has been working to fight against all forms of corruption and our policy is that corruption must be eliminated. This government recognises that corruption hinders economic growth and development and undermines public confidence in the administration. The government therefore continues to strengthen its anti-corruption mechanisms and formulate strategies to ensure that all Guyanese, not some, can enjoy the good life,” Williams told the House.

She spoke of the many seminars the AG Chambers has held and promised that these will continue along with training programmes next year. He then turned his attention to the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) noting that this agency continues to be focused on money laundering, weapons of mass destruction proliferation and terrorist financing, given that the Fourth Round Mutual Evaluation in 2022

… AG naming of suspects roils opposition

requires more convictions to show sufficient progress on effectiveness by the law enforcement agencies more specifically, the SOCU of the Guyana Police Force.

According to Williams SOCU has seen significant improvement in the number of files referred for prosecu-

mer Permanent Secretary of the Office of the President is being investigated for $20 billion dollars; Guyana Gold Board, Ashni Singh and Winston Brassingtonwho are on eight charges of misconduct, GRDB case (132 counts of keeping fraudulent accounts of

lic office. Further, there are about 14 other files awaiting evidence from State agencies for criminal charges to be instituted.

Mr. Speaker, there are several investigations that have been held up as a result of the Magistrate Court’s refusal to grant

fulfilled. Additionally, several agencies are still going through mountains of old documents to find the relevant pieces of information which are needed to wrap up cases. “Mr. Speaker, there are another 12 cases with a possible recovery value of over two billion

Attorney General, Basil Williams speaking in the National Assembly tion for its core function and other financial crimes. “Mr. Speaker, since the amendment to the AML/CFT Act which made money laundering a hybrid offence the FIU during the period October 2017 to October 2018, submitted eighteen (18) ML/TF referrals to SOCU inclusive of Mr. Shervington Lovell. This has resulted in several criminal and civil files for prosecution including one (1) ML file referred for prosecution and two (2) Civil Forfeiture applications to the High Court.

Additionally, the AG mentioned that the cases referred for prosecution over this period includes the GBTI cases, the Omar Shariff case where the for-

body corporate or public company($428,328,940) involving PPP MPs Dharamkumar Seeraj and Nigel Dharmlall; MP Anil Nandlal who has been charged with one count of larceny by a bailee ($2,313,853) , Irfaan Ali-19 counts (Pradoville Two lands-$174,824,388) and Guyana Marketing Corporation ($31,588,303).

“Mr. Speaker this figure is excluding twenty two other forensic audits/ corruption type investigations involving billions of Guyana Dollars. Currently, there are more than 40 files awaiting the decision of the Honourable Chief Justice, Madam Justice Roxanne George with respect to the issue of misconduct in pub-

Court Orders where there are no pending cause or matter before the court.

This is pursuant to the Evidence Act Cap. 5:03.”

REPOSSESSION OF LANDS Touching on the work of the State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA), Williams said this body’s role is to recover stolen national wealth.

He said the agency has been working on 25 cases referred to them by the police legal advisor plus other referrals. Presently, the agency has five cases, which are 90 per cent complete and are only held up because requests for information have not yet been

dollars that are about 70 per cent complete. SARA, working with NICIL, was able to have three pieces of government property repossessed from delinquent leasees. Two of these properties are again on the market and interested parties are prepared to pay 300 per cent – 400 per cent more than the previous tenants. The third piece of property was sold to GRA for $60M.” Williams said SARA, working alongside the various agencies which have the responsibility for lands, was able to provide information, which led to the Guyana Forestry Commission repossessing approximately 2,000,000 acres of forestry lands; Lands and Survey

Department repossessing approximately 80 house lots; GuySuCo was able to repossess 100 acres of land plus several smaller pieces. “Further, Mr. Speaker, SARA, working with ministries and regions led to improved inventories of equipment and the repossession and reallocation of more than 30 buildings across the country.”

According to the AG, SARA working with the Ministry of Legal Affairs and Ministry of Foreign Affairs is seeking to recover revenue loss through gold shipments leaving Guyana.

“There have been several cases where amounts declared at Cheddi Jagan Airport were vastly different to what was declared at J.F.K. in New York.” He said SARA is also presently seeking cooperation with Brazil to identify and if possible recover gold held in Brazil due to illegal activities by Guyanese smugglers. Williams said since corruption is at the root cause of government property being stolen, the less the nation loses, the less the need to recover, hence SARA has made meaningful contributions to the anti-corruption efforts.

“Mr. Speaker, available figures as cited in a series of articles written 20122014 show the Government of Guyana losing billions per annum in procurement fraud. Tens of billions were lost in illicit capital flight and tens of billions due to the activities of the underground economy.

While the analysts in SARA are still working to obtain current figures using three international indices as references, we have moved several points in the right direction,” the attorney general said.

Wales estate sugar workers receive final severance OVER 300 retrenched workers from the Wales Estate on Friday turned out to receive the last of their severance payments following the court ruling on December 5, 2018.

Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder during his 2019 Budget presentation had explained that the monies for the payment were secured and GuySuCo is fully prepared to commence payments once Justice Sandil Kissoon

made his ruling.

High Court Judge, Justice Kissoon ruled that the workers are to be paid interest in addition to their severance. Friday morning the retrenched workers gathered at the estate’s pay office to collect their benefits. The Department of Public Information spoke with some of them who expressed their satisfaction with receiving their payment.

Andrew George told the

Retrenched workers wait to collect their benefits

Department of Public Information that he “felt good” having received his payments. After working on the estate for thirteen years, Satrohan Singh remarked that he is “glad to know that I’m taking home what I have been working for all these years.”

Another worker Alvin Bradford remarked he is happy to receive his payments and thanked the administration. “I am so relieved

because we waited so long for this moment and today is the day for us.

I thank President Granger and Prime Minister Nagamootoo for what they did for us today, I’m grateful for it on behalf of myself and all the other cane harvesters.” Payments will continue on Saturday, December 8th from 9am to 4pm at the Wales Estate Pay Office, on the West Bank of Demerara. (DPI)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Man gets 'life' for raping baby

“I HAVE nothing to say your honour,” were the words of Rodney Kertizous on Thursday afternoon, after a 12-member Jury found him guilty of rape of a child.

The unrepresented man was charged for engaging in sexual activity with a one-year-old child on July 27, 2017.

Because of the nature of this matter, other particulars of this offense cannot be disclosed.

Before serving him with the maximum sentence of life imprison-

ment, Justice Jo-Ann Barlow said that this case is troubling because the child was left in his care and he abused his position of trust. Among the aggravating factors, he performed the activity in the presence of other children who are now left with that image in their minds, Justice Barlow said.

Labeling this case one of the “worse of the worst,” the judge said that the message has to be sent to society that such actions are unacceptable and imposed upon him life imprisonment, not

eligible for parole until he has served 25 years.

There were no mitigating factors to be considered.

The judge also ordered that he be exposed to programmes facilitated in the prison for persons serving time for sexual offenses.

The state was represented by Seeta Bishundial.

Child Rapist, Rodney Kertizous

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584 graduate from GTI

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

… urged to develop oil-and-gas industry

THE Government Technical Institute (GTI) sent off 584 students into the world of work to put to practice what they have been taught during the course of the years they spent at the institution.

At the 67th Convocation and Prize Giving Ceremony at the National Cultural Centre, on Thursday afternoon, the students graduated from the institution with support from a packed audience of friends, colleagues, lecturers, parents, guardians, relatives and well-wishers.

During her report, the Principal of the institution, Mrs. Renita Crandon-Duncan, announced that the Mechanical Department of the GTI is this year’s most outstanding division, after gaining a 92 per cent pass rate. While the Business Department was judged the most improved department for the year 2018 as there was a vast improvement in their performances.

According to Mrs. Crandon-Duncan, the total percentage pass rate

now deemed competent after demonstrating their proficiency in the respective units of competency.

She said that 282 of these trainees were assessed and each will be awarded by the Council for Technical and Vocational Education and Training (CTVET) with the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ).

The principal added that through the industrial attachment programme, during the months of June

and July of this year, 85 companies welcomed staff and students into their spaces and exposed them to the rudiments of industry practices.

Mrs. Crandon-Duncan explained that staff continue to benefit from training opportunities and healthy relationships have continued with industry partners.

Delivering the feature address at the graduation was the Director of the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD), Mrs. Jennifer Cumberbatch.

She told the graduates that they are the generation

that will take the technology of today into new dimensions while solving environmental problems.

She advised them that their contributions to society will be determined by how they follow their dreams, challenging them to follow their quest for knowledge and reminded them that education does not stop after their graduation.

They were also encouraged to reach beyond existing boundaries, “You can do anything that you put your See page 13

Government Technical Institute’s 2018 Valedictorian and National Awardee, Shurlon Tudor for 2018 is 77 per cent, a one per cent increase from 2017’s 76 per cent and a 12 per cent increase from 2016’s percentage pass rate of 65 per cent.

She said that two students of the GTI have received national awards at the GTI Education Examination among the Technical Institutes for outstanding performances. Those students were Ms. Aaliyah Noble

who completed the Ordinary Diploma in Commerce programme and Mr. Shurlun Tudor who completed the Technician Diploma in Building and Civil Engineering.

Further, the principal said that the fifth batch of level one and two trainees in Competency Based Education (CBE) programmes graduated. As such, those trainees are

A section of the 2018 graduating class of the Government Technical Institute

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

584 graduate ...

From page 12

mind to do,” Cumberbatch said.

Chairman of the Government Technical Institute and Guyana Industrial Training Centre Board of Governors, Mr. Vincent Alexander, reminded the students that the GTI should also be seen as a ‘finishing’ school. He said that during their tenure at the institution they would have undergone a process of refinement.

He told the students that not only can they now display their certification but they can also showcase their maturity when they become part of the global job market and employed in various industries.

Noting that Guyana is on the cusp of becoming an oil and gas producing nation, Mr. Alexander urged the students to take advantage of the new sector to develop Guyana. However, he advised that the development which is pursued must be done in a sustainable manner which takes Guyana into consideration beyond the oil and gas moment it is about to experience. This year’s Valedictorian, Shurlon Tudor, told his colleagues in his valedictory address that they must think about how far they would have come individually and as a class; think about how they supported and encouraged each other during sports and the fun class experiences.

“Those moments taught me that it is not just about keeping your head in the books or phone, but taking some time to enjoy life while we study,” Tudor said. He urged his colleagues to follow their dreams and to do what makes them happy.

“Strive to become the best version of yourself, fly through the turbulence and live life intentionally because you are a warrior, be phenomenal or be forgotten.”

13

REOs to be reassigned from January 2019

FROM January 2019, regional executive officers (REOs) of several administrative regions will be reassigned, Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan has confirmed.

The minister told the Guyana Chronicle on Friday that earlier this year, the officials were alerted by him of the rotation process. He said the regional officials stationed in the B a r i m a - Wa i n i ( R e g i o n One); Pomeroon-Supenaam (Region Two); Essequibo Islands –West Demerara (Region Three) ; CuyuniMazaruni (Region Seven); and the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region Nine) regions will be shifted around.

This publication understands that the REO of the Region One, Leslie Wilburg, will be taking up a similar position in Region Nine.

Minister Bulkan said that the issue of rotation is not unfamiliar to the public service

and the ministry. According to him, the process allows officers stationed in different positions to broaden “the scope of their exposure.”

The minister noted too that it ensures that permanent positions are not created within the councils and that it allows for a “healthy exchange” of personnel, which helps to reinforce confidence in the management and administration of the regional democratic councils. Bulkan said the move also addresses the question of succession, that the system ought to be “robust enough” to allow for a change in personnel and allows for a greater level of effectiveness.

In October 2015, Cabinet approved “an enhanced remuneration package” for

all REOs, which totalled approximately $600,000.

The package includes a basic monthly non-taxable salary of $300,000; a $70,000 duty allowance, which is also non-taxable, and a $10,000 allowance for cellular phones.

The REOs are also entitled to 42 days vacation leave; duty- free concessions (Scale A); vacation allowances; gratuities; payment of residential landline bill, (local calls only); the payment of electricity charges at places of residence; the provision of security at the place of residence; and the provision of a government vehicle and driver. Each REO was expected to be contracted for three years.

Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan

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ETI offers two First Lady ICT graduates full scholarships –– total of 43 complete workshop

PRINCIPAL of the Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI) Mr. Rawle Pearce on Thursday offered full

scholarships to two young women who were numbered among a total of 43 graduates from First Lady

Graduate, Mr. Dexter Mendonca smiles as he receives his certificate from Canadian High Commission Counsellor Ms. Janine Cocker

Mrs. Sandra Granger’s Information and Communication Technology (ICT) workshop in Pomeroon-Supenaam (Region Two).

Mr. Pearce extended the offer to Best Graduating Student Ms. Atika DeJonge and Second Best Graduating Student, Ms. Jada Hendricks during the ceremony, which was held at the ETI. The scholarships include free personal protective equipment and free textbooks and a work attachment during the July/August vacation period.

All of the other participants were offered a 50 per cent reduction in registration fees to the institution. The principal also told the graduates that if they desire to assemble

themselves into a group, transportation to the institution would be provided at a reduced cost.

Meanwhile, Counsellor at the Canadian High Commission Ms. Janine Cocker, in her remarks during the ceremony said that the high commission is continually impressed by the work which is done to organise workshops which improve the skill sets of young people, for the benefit of communities. “This is a great initiative and we are continually impressed by the thought and the calibre and community that go into the organisation of these workshops… looking to the future, ICT for development is not only about computers and mobile phones and the internet, but about support and the training of human resources to link them to communities; and this is no doubt going to lead to increased productivity, support for innovation and the impetus for inclusive growth,” she said.

In addition, Chief Exec-

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Best Graduating Student and Valedictorian Ms. Atika DeJonge receives her scholarship from Chairman of the BIT Board of Guardians Mr. Deleep Singh at the graduation ceremony utive Officer of the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) Mr. Richard Maughn encouraged the graduates to strive to overcome obstacles along their paths to success. “I want to tell you about the dream-job syndrome. [there are] people [who] believe there is only one path to take them to their dream job… because of certain circumstances you may not have gotten that job and you decide not to do anything…sometimes the dreams that you have for yourself [are] too big to travel on one road; some-

times you have alternative paths you have to use to ensure that you get to your dream job,” he said.

The five-week workshop was held in collaboration with the Ministry of Social Protection’s BIT unit. It is the fifth and final one for 2018 and some 200 youth have benefited. The workshop will start again in January, with the first one scheduled to be held in Linden.

Chairman of the BIT’s Board of Guardians, Mr. Deleep Singh also attended the ceremony. (Ministry of the Presidency)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Seeraj urges gov’t to reduce fuel tax, D&I fees

OPPOSITION Member of Parliament (MP), Dharamkumar Seeraj has called on government to reduce the tax on fuel and reduce the fees for drainage and irrigation.

“Let the farmers benefit…the cost of production is going up and it is now $15,000 per acre for drainage and irrigation…the purchase

of fuel alone has cost farmers $3 billion in taxes…they need to give support so that farmers can produce and compete,” said Seeraj during his presentation on the fourth day of the budget debates.

Seeraj argued that rice farmers in particular have been losing because seedlings distributed by the Guyana Rice Development Board

(GRDB) do not germinate.

Minister of Finance Winston Jordan in his budget speech said the introduction

by GRDB of a new and higher yielding variety – GRDB 15 – in time for the second crop of 2018, as well as improved practices and domestic prices is expected to result in growth of 0.2 per cent in total production for

Insecure man jailed for stabbing wife

A 49-year-old construction worker was on Friday sentenced to two years imprisonment for stabbing his reputed wife.

Ivor Gillis of Middle Road, La Penitence, Georgetown, admitted that on November 26, 2018 at Middle Road, he wounded Karen Blaze with intent to maim, disfigure, disable, or cause grievous bodily harm.

Gillis told the court that he suspected that Blaze was cheating on him.

“Imagine we been to counselling and she still doing the same thing,” the unrepresented man told the court.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the court

Jailed: Ivor Gillis that Gillis is in a habit of assaulting Blaze. According to reports on the day in question, around 20:15hrs Blaze came home and was relaxing watching TV. However, Gillis came

and told the woman that he wanted to talk with her concerning their relationship.

Blaze went into the bathroom to bathe as Gillis followed her and continued talking; after finishing her bath, she emerged from the bathroom, dressed and returned to watch TV. This annoyed Gillis who picked up a pair of scissors and stabbed the woman 10 times about her body.

The magistrate told Gillis “You’re not allowed to take the law into your own hands and therefore you will be held accountable.”

Gillis was sentenced to two years imprisonment and will have to undergo counselling.

the year.

Jordan also said the international price of rice is anticipated to rise to US$420 per metric tonne at the end of 2018, and to US$422 per metric tonne, in 2019. However, global rice production is projected to decline towards the end of 2018, and into 2019.

Seeraj however contended that farmers continue to face numerous problems, and have been getting low prices for their paddy and even losing paddy because

of pests and diseases.

“Just last season farmers lost over $1 billion because of poor pest control,” said the MP, adding that government needs to explore this area of concern. He said farmers have also incurred and encounter difficulties with their machines which basically sustain their livelihood.

According to Seeraj most of the rice producers are private individuals who are sustaining the rice industry.

Opposition MP, Dharamkumar Seeraj

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Persons with cognitive disabilities benefit from NCD training

PERSONS with disabilities (PWDs), who are especially dealing with cognitive infirmities, have been able to benefit from a four-day initiative aimed at empowering them.

National Commission on Disability (NCD) Advocacy and Communication Officer Avonel Corrica organised a number of activities beginning last Monday under the theme,

“Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality.”

Students with cognitive disabilities from St. Barnabus Special School, the Open Doors Vocational Training Centre and Sophia Special School were able to benefit from the programme.

Employment sessions were conducted by experts from the Ministry

of Social Protection and empowerment sessions were conducted by Transformational Leader, Therapist, Professional Social Worker and Author Dr. Joy Wilson.

The sessions included how to build self-esteem; how to set and achieve goals; and problem solving, among others.

Leroy Phillips, who is blind, participated and shared some of his ex-

perience as a PWD with other participants. He was awarded bookmarks by Dr. Wilson for his remarks of encouragement.

According to Corrica, the commission continues to work to ensure inclusivity of programmes to empower PWDs and ensure services are available to them.

These include the training sessions available at the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) and assistance in the area of employment that is offered through the Ministry of Social Protection Recruitment and Manpower Department.

Leroy Phillips receiving his bookmarks after sharing his experiences as a PWD from Facilitator Dr. Joy Wilson and NCD’s Executive Secretary Beverly Pile

Students with cognitive disabilities were able to benefit from the four-day initiative

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

‘Don’t just meet requirements, become leaders’ –– T&T energy chamber head urges local businesses

AS Guyana prepares to welcome the new oil and gas industry, local stakeholders would have to develop a robust culture of safety and become leaders in safety.

“If your objective is just to meet the requirements set by operators, you will fail. If your objective is to become a leader in safety and build a robust safety culture in your company then you will be able to meet the requirements,” said President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Thackwray Driver, during his remarks at the Guyana

world class energy industry that benefits the local economy, it is critical for a robust safety culture to be adopted now.

Dr. Driver believes that it is imperative for Guyana to adopt safety systems and procedures that international operators consider basic to safe and productive operation.

“Adherence to such systems would also give locally owned and operated contractors greater access to work in the sector, which will enhance local content development,” he said, adding that it was with this in mind that the Guyana Safety Forum was concep-

The issues addressed at the session were based on information on how contractors can implement a strong safety programme in a new hydrocarbon environment, so that they are able to access jobs with the multinationals.

Presenters from all sectors within the Guyanese, Trinidadian and International energy industry presented their perspective and shared their knowledge of how this can be achieved.

One of the major messages of the forum was that any emerging hydrocarbon industry should encourage the development of a group

A section of the gathering at the forum on Thursday (Delano Williams photo) Safety Forum at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre on Thursday.

In order for Guyana to experience sustained growth and develop a

tualised.

The forum was organised by the Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago with a view of promoting knowledge transfer.

of well-qualified, experienced and ethical local professionals who would ensure that high standards of safety at all levels of operations is not just given

lip service.

Dr. Driver believes that one of the barriers facing small contractors and service companies wanting to do business with international oil and gas companies is meeting the high safety, health and environmental standards that they demand from all their suppliers.

If a contractor or service company does not meet the operator’s health, safety and environmental (HSE) requirements, they will not even be able to bid for work.

Meeting these HSE requirements will not necessarily mean the bidder will win business but, he said they must also meet all the technical requirements and be competitive on price.

“International operators are not going to lower their standards to accommodate local contractors. As leaders in the industry we have an obligation to make sure that every single one of the people, who come to work on any of our facility, goes home to their families in one piece at the end of each day,” said Dr. Driver.

Meeting the high safety standards of operating companies can, however, be a challenge in countries with new hydrocarbon industries, such as Guyana.

This is especially the case if the country does not have an existing well developed national legislative framework and a history of a strong safety culture in other sectors.

President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Thackwray Driver (Delano Williams photo) For most local com- we had a very weak legispanies in Guyana, the lative framework for safety. chamber’s president said However, because of the meeting the high standards long history of activity in of international operator the energy sector, we did companies will involve a have a reasonable well-deserious change. veloped safety culture “Guyana will need to within the energy sector, develop a cadre of well- not stellar but not entirely trained, seasoned and absent,” Dr. Driver added. certified Guyanese HSE The knowledge and exprofessionals who will dis- perience in Trinidad and charge their responsibilities Tobago is also available to ethically and professional- Guyana, within the framely,” said Dr. Driver, noting work of the Caribbean Sinthat leaders of the local gle Market and Economy private-sector will have to (CSME). internalise a safety culture The Energy Chamber and understand that certi- expressed its full commitfication and safety cannot ment to helping persons be bought. build the necessary cadre “When Trinidad and of HSE professionals and Tobago was undergoing the the supporting systems rapid expansion of our gas that you need to embark industry in the early 2000s, on your safety journey.

Major infrastructural development for Cuyuni-Mazaruni

MAJOR infrastructural development is in the pipeline for Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) in 2019, said Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams in her presentation on the fourth day of the budget

debates on Thursday.

Hastings-Williams, who is responsible for the region, said the government is doing way more for the communities in the region than what was done by the previous administration.

She lamented the inadequate infrastructure which the current administration met when they took office in 2015. The minister contended that from 2011-2014, monetary allocations for public works in the region was a

mere 10 per cent.

Monetary allocations in the region have since increased by 4.8 per cent, taking the total allocations to about 13.4 per cent from 2015 to 2018. “We are on track in the region and we are beginning

to have roads,” said the minister, who managed to attract the attention of her colleagues who started to shout “proper roads too.”

Among the communities to benefit from road upgrades is Bartica where government will be

constructing a pedestrian pavement and asphalting some of the main access roads in the town. Roads from Kato to Waramadong will be rehabilitated as well, as part of an effort to improve transportation between the communities.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Delinquent teens granted bail ... pending appeal of ‘harsh’ sentences

THE two children who were granted “harsh” sentences for minor offences earlier this year have been released on bail, thanks to the efforts by ‘Enhancing Potential to Inspire Change’ (EPIC) Guyana, a non-governmental organisation working to assist children who have had issues with the law.

EPIC Guyana is especially happy that the two 17-year-olds have been released in time to spend the holidays with their family and friends, and the body has already arranged to assist the youngsters to begin earning

On March 23, 2018, Pachia was sentenced by Berbice Magistrate Charlyn Artiga to four years imprisonment for stealing groceries totaling $8,260. Gibbs, on the other hand, was sentenced to 36 months in jail by Leonora Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool for also stealing items from a shop valued at $45,378.

According to the particulars of Pachia’s charge, between last April 30 and May 1, at Number 50 Village, Corentyne, he broke and entered the shop of Charles Forde and stole the groceries.

EPIC Guyana picked up on the stories and approached lawyer Dexter Todd for help in securing bail for the teenagers pending an appeal to their sentences.

“Akash can’t believe how his life has changed direction with these new opportunities,” EPIC Director Brian Backer told the Guyana Chronicle on Friday. “We’ve found a job for him that he will start next week. He will be learning steel fabrication and will receive a stipend.

Our patron, who’s a good friend and business partner, has offered him a paid

Akash Pachia (centre) with EPIC Director Brian Backer (at left) and Cadet Officer Twain Hemerding assistance; has pledged to provide each of these families with vouchers that can be redeemed at any of the Bounty Supermarkets,” Backer further informed.

a living.

Akash Pachia was granted $50,000 bail by Justice Jo-Ann Barlow while Keysha Gibbs was granted $25,000 bail. Both individuals were serving time at the New Amsterdam Prison in Berbice.

Gibbs also pleaded guilty to her charge which read that on June 7 at Leonora, she broke and entered the shop of Yaphet Marks and stole 51 bottles of rum, wines, cakes and other items.

Following the sentencing,

internship,” Backer, whose organisation paid both bail amounts, informed.

“Thanks to John Fernandes Group of Companies, which is one of our corporate partners that always answers the call for

NO SUBVENTION Backer pointed out that there are commissions and organisations that receive tens of millions of dollars annually in subventions, which are tasked with protecting the rights of children and even providing legal assistance when necessary.

“However, these two children were in court unrepresented when they received these harsh and unfair sentences. Their rights were obviously not respected.”

Backer noted that while EPIC Guyana does not receive any subvention, the organisation did its research, identified the youths and took the necessary action to bring them relief. “Dexter Todd is really a hero in this because

Public Affairs Minister, Dawn Hastings-Williams making her presentation in the National Assembly

Residents of Kaburi will also be able to travel freely since government has made provisions to rehabilitate the Kaburi Bridge. A special education building will also be constructed at Bartica while living quarters for doctors will be constructed in Kamarang where the villagers will have a resident paediatrician. The minister said there are many more

infrastructural projects in the pipeline; projects which she believes will enhance the entire region.

Minister Hastings-Williams said government will be constructing a $50 million airstrip at Philippi and installing photovoltaic systems (solar powered systems) in the community.

She contended that budget 2019 has a lot in

store for ordinary people, especially in the hinterland regions.

Another major project in the pipeline for the region is a $375 million investment in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) Hubs in the hinterland.

“This government will not embark on projects on elections, we look at our people in a better way,” said the minister.

From left are: EPIC Guyana Administrator Kendra Francis, Keysha Gibbs, and Cadet Officer Twain Hemerding

he did not charge any legal fees.”

EPIC Guyana paid the bail for the teenagers with help from persons who usually support the body with initiatives like these. Both persons come from families that are dealing with severe economic challenges.

“Here we are…two children home for the holidays and with their whole lives ahead of them. But where are these multi-million dollar entities on these issues? These are the issues that matter,” said Backer.

Meanwhile, Todd, in a previous interview, said the sentences were harsh if the particulars of the charges are taken into account; and that the magistrates could have acted with some more discretion.

He said he was by no means trivialising the offences, but feels that the individuals can be helped to reform themselves. “They’re Government remains committed to supporting the preservation of indigenous peoples’ culture.

To this end, government has contributed $203 million in 2018 to support indigenous peoples’ cultural celebrations. In 2019, government will contribute $210 million to sustain the hinterland people‘s festivities.

These include: the Heritage Pageant, Rupununi

so young; they’re more in need of counselling. They both have the ability to be rehabilitated and there are other measures that would see a reformation of the individuals.

This is not an attack on the judiciary.”

COCONUTS AND FRUITS Backer had previously told this publication that he doubts any detailed assessments were done on the teenagers before the sentences were imposed.

One of the prosecutors, Backer reported, said Pachia was a menace to society and had been before the courts several times for stealing people’s coconuts, fruits “and them kinda things”.

“But I think that a fouryear sentence for stealing $8000 is unfair to anyone. I don’t care if you’re 50 years old and if you have been in and out of the system.”

Rodeo, Rupununi Music and Arts Festival and Upper Mazaruni district games.

Government has prioritised development of hinterland regions as reflected in the increased investments in infrastructure, education and health. These interventions will directly and indirectly impact the lives of our hinterland people.

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GBTI extends goodwill to those in need

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Representatives of some of the NGOs receiving their cheques GBTI continues to give back to the community through its various corporate social responsibility initiatives, the bank said in a release on Friday.

This year, the bank again signaled its support to the humanitarian efforts of several non-governmental organisations through its usual financial contribution. Among those receiving the support of the bank this year were: Help and Shelter, Artists in Direct Support, Uncle Eddie’s Home, the Salvation Army, Dharma Shala Benevolent Home, Guyana Red Cross Society, Guyana Society for the Blind, Guyana Relief Council, Guyana Society for the Prevention of

Cruelty to Animals and Food for the Poor.

“We recognise that the work of these organisations often go unnoticed and so at this time of year, in the spirit of goodwill and good corporate citizenship, our hearts are opened to supporting those in need and those who provide for those in need.”

Meanwhile the staff of GBTI also opened their hearts to the children of Hararuni this year by gifting them through the Guyana Red Cross.

A total of one hundred gifts will be distributed at a special party in the village located along the Linden Soesdyke Highway, during the week.

Several staff of GBTI present the gifts to Red Cross Representatives at GBTI’s Corporate Office, Kingston

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Local gov’t agenda to be strengthened in 2019 –– Bulkan says $1.04B to cover range of activities

practices; to be accountable to relevant institutions and principally, their constituents,” he said.

Minister Bulkan said

By Rabindra Rooplall IN 2019 institutional strengthening, capacity building, community participation and financial autonomy will be key in consolidating and entrenching the local government agenda and ensuring sustainability, according to Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan.

He made the remarks during his budget debate presentation on Thursday evening. He said continuing public education will serve as the vehicle for community involvement in local government jurisdictions and the 2019 budget allocates $1.04 Billion to cover a range of activities in these areas.

“I wish to remind members of this honourable house that prior to the enactment of the Municipal and District Councils (Amendment) Act No. 15 of 2013 and the Local Government (Amendment) Act No. 5 of 2015, local democratic organs (LDOs) were required to seek ministerial approval to conduct a significant amount of their daily affairs,” Minister Bulkan said.

He explained that the ministerial authority exercised previously has been significantly curtailed, thus allowing organs to function autonomously to a greater extent.

“These changes reduce the chances of interference by the central government in the daily affairs of local democratic organs and duly empower the organ, ‘Empowering People,’ this is why this budget can be boasted about,” he said.

Noting that although there is no silver bullet for our council’s revenue woes, the minister said the transformation and modernisation of the property assessment framework remains a priority.

He said it’s a constitutional prescription that local government areas be economically viable and have an adequate resource base for the management and development of their areas as per Article 72. “An

Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan updated property register is therefore key to council’s empowerment to be effective in the discharge of its functions and to its financial autonomy and viability.

The minister of finance announced in his speech that government has agreed to invest $320M to conduct mass property valuations over an 18- month period,” Bulkan said.

Further, he noted that by the end of 2019, an updated register enabling them to make equitable decisions on the rate percentages on priorities they want to utilise. “The choice of rates will invariably determine the quantum of resources available to the council, the quality and delivery of services and level of investment in the community.

However, the choice of rates will ultimately be a decision of each council, individually, not a central government one,” Minister Bulkan said.

Further, Bulkan said that as the subject minister, he does not play a part in exercising taxation, as is erroneously labelled by the opposition. This exercise, he said, is with the local democratic organs which are insulated from the whims and fancies of politicians and agencies fixated with control.

“In some local democratic organs this subvention reliance meant that central government accounted for over two-thirds of their actual expenditures. It is government’s wish to have our councils liberated of such central political control, to be guided by established norms and good governance

that the budget recognises the importance of improving access to affordable and suitable housing; improving access to quality potable water; improve sanitation services; building the self-sufficiency of our local government

system and addressing the outdated property and land values, strengthening the regional capacity to plan and implement sustainable development initiatives amongst others.

He explained that this

will be a significant step in equipping empowering councils, a significant step towards their eventual fiscal sustainability and independence and a further step towards empowering people and communities.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Local boxers make positive start to Caribbean Boxing Championship … Five victories from six contests on opening night

By Michael DaSilva LOCAL boxers made a positive start in this year’s Caribbean Boxing Championship which got underway on Thursday evening at Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH).

The Guyanese won five of the six bouts they contested.

Despite a very late start to the championship dubbed `Caribbean Nuff Cuff Championship’, boxing fans got their money’s worth from the first to the final bell on the night’s 10-fight programme.

Guyana’s Alex Murray and Desmond Amsterdam’s bouts were by far the two most entertaining of the evening.

When the final bell of the night sounded, Guyana had chalked up their fifth win from six contests; Trinidad and Tobago won three of six, Grenada one of three and St Lucia one of one.

Winning for Guyana were Christopher Romeo and Mark Crawford in the Juniors category, Alex

Murray in the Novices category and Markember Pierre and Desmond Amsterdam in the Elite category.

All five Guyanese secured victories via unanimous points decisions.

Romeo, fighting in the Juniors category as a featherweight, defeated Barbados’ T. Taitt, Crawford who fought in the junior lightweight category defeated Barbados’ Reshwan Holder, while in the Novices category, Murray defeated Guadeloupe’s Mackelson in a middleweight contest.

In the Elite category, Pierre made light work of Trinidad and Tobago’s Shakir Flemings in their light heavyweight contest and Amsterdam out-scored Trinidad and Tobago’s Aaron Prince in their middleweight clash.

In other results, Grenada’s Prince Henry caused

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the referee to stop his contest against Trinidad’s Shawn Jackson at one minute 11 seconds of the third round in their welterweight bout of the Novices category, Trinidad’s Jamil Joseph scored a technical knock-out win over Guadeloupe’s Michael Torchy after Torchy’s corner threw in the towel at two minutes 29 seconds of the first round in their Youth middleweight affair.

In the Elite lightweight category, Trinidad’s J. Beckles defeated Grenada’s Nelon Cyrus and St Lucia’s Lyndel Marcelin was too much for Guyana’s Emmanuel Sancho in their welterweight contest.

The championship will continue tonight with semi-final action in all weight divisions and categories. The finals are set for tomorrow night.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

New Zealand seal historic win over Pakistan (REUTERS) - NEW Zealand dismissed Pakistan for 156 in their second innings to seal a 123-run victory and a 2-1 series triumph on day five of the third and final Test in Abu Dhabi yesterday.

Set 280 for victory on the final day, Pakistan suffered two separate batting collapses as New Zealand’s bowlers secured a memorable victory - and their first away series against Pakistan in 49 years.

Debutant William Somer-

a long time,” Kiwi skipper Kane Williamson, who was named man-of-the-match, said.

“We know the game can ebb and flow very quickly but we came out and played well today. The spinners who came along in this tour ... they played a huge part in our win.”

Earlier, Henry Nicholls scored his third Test ton, finishing with an unbeaten 126, as New Zealand declared their second innings at 353-7.

Mohammad Hafeez was bowled by a brute in his final Test innings v New Zealand, 3rd Test, Abu Dhabi, 5th day, yesterday. (Getty Images) ville took 3-52 to end up with a match-haul of seven wickets. Fellow spinner Ajaz Patel finished with 3-42, while paceman Tim Southee also claimed three victims at the Sheikh Zayed Stadium.

“It was fantastic. Beating Pakistan in their backyard is very tough. It feels special, and this will be one that the guys will remember for

Williamson, who batted through the day on Thursday to score 139, was given out leg-before-wicket to seam bowler Hasan Ali with the first ball of the morning, leaving the visitors on 272-5.

Nicholls, whose 266-ball knock included 12 boundaries, then helped raise the scoring rate along with Colin de Grandhomme (26) as New

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday December 08, 2018) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz:

(1) 31 matches (WI 20, BANG 9, NR 2) (2) BANG 14, WI 13, Neutral Venues 4

Today’s Quiz:

(1) Who scored the first ODI century for the WI against Bangladesh?

(2) Who cracked the first ODI hundred for Bangladesh against the WI?

Answers in tomorrow’s issue

Zealand scored 81 runs in nine overs.

Pakistan’s reply began on a shaky note, as struggling opener Mohammad Hafeez was dropped by Williamson at second slip off paceman Tim Southee.

The 38-year-old was then bowled by Southee in the

sixth over for eight. First-innings centurion Azhar Ali perished for five, edging one to wicketkeeper BJ Watling off Colin de Grandhomme.

Somerville, who claimed 4-75 in the first innings, struck twice in two balls to remove Haris Sohail and the in-form Asad Shafiq to

heap the pressure on Sarfraz Ahmed’s side.

Babar Azam tried to steady the ship with a fighting half-century, but the Kiwis ran through the Pakistan tail to secure victory.

“If you look at the series, it was in our hands and we let it slip. We had our opportuni-

ties. Unfortunately our lower order couldn’t score runs,” skipper Ahmed said.

New Zealand won the opening Test in Abu Dhabi by four runs before Pakistan squared the threematch series with victory in the second Test in Dubai by an innings and 16 runs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Head gives Australia hope

(REUTERS) - TRAVIS Head scored an unbeaten half-century on his home debut to give Australia hope of reeling in India’s first-innings lead despite a string of batting failures

on day two of the first Test yesterday.

Australia were 191 for seven, with Head 61 not out and tail-ender Mitchell Starc on eight, still 59 runs short of India’s modest total of

250 at the close of another baking hot day at Adelaide Oval.

While the South Australia captain’s second fifty in his third Test was a boost to home fans, it merely glossed

over the fault-lines snaking through the batting in Tim Paine’s team.

Having wrapped up India’s innings with the first ball of the day, the top order was almost as quick to blow

Travis Head drives on the off-side v India, 1st Test, Adelaide, 2nd day, yesterday. (Associated Press) Australia’s advantage.

Aaron Finch was bowled for a duck third ball by paceman Ishant Sharma and number four Shaun Marsh’s dreadful run of form continued when he dragged spinner Ravichandran Ashwin onto his stumps for two after an excruciating 19-ball innings.

Debutant opener Marcus Harris, one of three Ashwin victims, was quick to blame a “tough” drop-in wicket and worked hard to put a rosy spin on the batsmen’s travails.

“It’s not as easy as the old Adelaide Oval wicket,” said Harris, who was caught in close for 26 after nicking onto his pads.

“We’re definitely still 100 percent in the game.”

Wicketkeeper-captain Paine’s 20-ball five was almost as tortured as Marsh’s innings and he was caught behind prodding a leaden-footed drive at Ishant.

The batsmen who did get in could not go on with it, with Usman Khawaja gloving a catch for 28 off Ashwin and recalled middle-order batsman Peter Handscomb throwing away his wicket for 34 with a loose angled shot off Jasprit Bumrah.

Paine’s dismissal reduced Australia to 127 for six, but Head found rare defiance in batting partner, tail-ender Pat Cummins.

The pair carved out Australia’s first 50-run part-

nership, with Head cutting a Murali Vijay delivery through the covers for a single to bring up his fifty and trigger a roar from the sun-baked terraces.

“It’s nice to do a good job for the team,” said Head.

“We’re hanging in there; India bowled exceptionally well and put us under pressure.

“Fantastic little fightback at the end there sets up a really important first hour in the morning. If we can get close, it’s game on.”

His and Cummins’ stand was broken as soon as the second new ball was taken, however, when Cummins declined to play a searing Bumrah delivery and was out lbw.

Despite a slew of false shots and beaten bats, Starc and Head somehow survived the final overs to give Australia hope of mustering a total on day three.

Having lost nine wickets on day one, many of them cheaply, India were rightfully proud of their bowlers’ work on day two.

“I see it as neck and neck as far as the game goes right now,” said Ashwin, who conceded only 50 runs in a heavy 33-over load.

“Whoever leads first of all gets the momentum from here and obviously has an edge in this Test match.

“I feel it’s extremely well-poised and every run is going to be gold dust here.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Stokes, Hales cleared for Caribbean Tour (ESPNCRICINFO) - BEN Stokes and Alex Hales will both be available for selection for the full itinerary of England’s tour of the Caribbean in the New Year, after the Cricket Discipline Commission (CDC) concluded their inquiry into the events in Bristol in September 2017.

Stokes was handed a £30 000 fine and an eight-match ban, although having missed two ODIs against West Indies in addition to the Australia leg of last winter’s tours,

it was deemed that he has already missed the sufficient number of games.

Hales was handed a £17 500 fine, with £10 000 suspended as well as a six-match ban, four of which are suspended for 12 months.

Both players and the ECB have accepted the verdicts - the CDC is funded by the ECB but claims to run as an independent organisation which means there will be no appeals. As a result, a saga that had hung over England cricket for more than 15

months is finally over.

Indeed, both players pleaded guilty to the charges and have released statements expressing remorse. In his statement, Stokes for the first time apologised “to England supporters and to the public for bringing the game into disrepute”.

Both players were charged with two counts of bringing the game into disrepute. The first related to events outside a Bristol bar in September 2017 and involved staying out too late

Banks DIH to host two-day Futsal tournament on December 14, 21

Following the postponement of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’, Banks DIH will host a two-day tournament on December 14 and 21.

BEING aware of the disappointment of teams and fans that the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ competition has been pushed backed to January 18, 2019, organisers of the event have scheduled a two-day tournament which will be staged on December 14 and 21, at the National Cultural Centre tarmac.

This was revealed by Banks DIH Brand Manager,

Lee Baptiste, to the organisers of Three Peat Promotions, recently.

According to Baptiste, the decision to push back the tournament to January was made following a review of this year’s competitions.

Baptiste said they wanted to make the tournament more compact, meaning instead of the stop-and-start format where a Zone is completed then fans and teams have to wait a few months,

they are now going to run the Zones every month so as to have continuity until the National Playoffs.

However, he said they have considered the understandable disappointment of the teams and fans and have decided to stage a two-day competition later this month in appreciation of the support usually shown by teams and fans.

More details will be released in the near future.

and drinking too much alcohol midway an ODI series.

The pair also subsequently became embroiled in a fight, though a court cleared Stokes of the charge of affray while Hales was not arrested.

The CDC imposed a ban from playing for England for six matches and a fine of £15 000 upon Stokes for that charge - they accepted he had already missed those matches - and a ban of four white-ball matches (two of which were served and two of which are suspended for 12 months)

and fine of £7 500 (of which £4 500 is suspended for 12 months) upon Hales.

The second charge related to “inappropriate images” in the case of Hales and “inappropriate video” in the case of Stokes. In Hales’ case that relates to Snapchat images that appeared to show him in a state of undress, while in Stokes’ it was a video that appeared to show him mimicking Katie Price’s disabled son, Harvey.

The CDC imposed a ban from playing for England for

two matches and a fine of £15 000 (to be paid to charity) upon Stokes for that charge they accepted he had already missed those matches - and a ban of two white-ball matches (suspended for 12 months) and fine of £10 000 (of which £5 500 is suspended for 12 months) upon Hales.

Hales is also required to undertake, at his own cost, “appropriate training, as agreed and approved by the ECB” within three months.

He joined Stokes in offering an apology.

Mohamed, Latif lead MYO to victory over GNIC in 40-over cricket THE left-hand, right-hand combination of spinners Timore Mohamed and Richard Latif helped the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) to an exciting two-wicket win against GNIC when the New Building Society (NBS) 2nd Division 40-over cricket tournament continued recently at the MYO ground.

GNIC won the toss and batted. Although Mohamed removed the openers, GNIC were able to take the initiative. For the third wicket, Premchand Sookdeo and Ryan Shun combined for 71, but Mohamed, who flighted the ball well, continued the damage, he took his third and fourth wickets in the middle of the innings after Latif had removed Shun for 47 (7x4, 1x6).

The left-hander got the wickets of Sookdeo (34 4x4s) and Shone DeSouza (8), before Latif cleaned up the tail.

Both bowlers finished with four wickets each as GNIC folded for 169 in 34.2 overs.

Although the home team reached the total with more than 12 overs to spare, they lost quite a few wickets in the process. Shefiek Ishmile 31 (5x4, 1x6) and skipper Kemraj Ramdeen 36 (8x4) put on 49 runs for the second wicket, but when the two became victims of Trevor

Timore Mohamed celebrates the wicket of Shone DeSouza.

Jones, MYO collapsed.

It took an unbeaten knock of 30 by Vinash Rampersaud to see the team home. Rampersaud, who ran the singles hard, struck two fours and a

six to lead MYO to 173-8 off 27.2 overs.

Jones finished with four wickets, while Jermaine Grosvenor and David Dick supported with two each.

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

PPP-built sports facilities falling apart SEVERAL sports facilities, built by the opposition during their time in government, particularly the almost half a billion National Aquatic Centre and the $1 billion National Track and Field Centre - are already falling apart and will be in need of very costly repairs in the not-too-distant future.

Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr George Norton, pointed out during his budget debate that the cracking at the National Aquatic Centre has gotten even worse, and cracks to the floor of the pool had to be recently rectified.

It is common knowledge that the facility has been experiencing structural issues for some time now, with the first having appeared just months after the facility was commissioned in 2011, it has now gotten worse. The facility’s main building has shifted from its original position, according to Norton.

“You walk around the building you’re actually seeing the building shifting as much as 17 inches from the position where it’s supposed to be. “The pool building is cracked, the actual floor of the pool is cracked and had to be patched up. The tiles are coming off by them-

National Aquatic Centre

selves. I met it like that, those are some of the major issues that we’ve seen there, at that facility,” Norton said.

He did not mince words on what was the cause of the defects. However, the damage is so severe that it might run into serious construction to rectify. “It was bad construction, definitely bad engineering. I doubt whether there’s anything that we can do (to fix the cracks). We might have to break down that entire building. But I would leave that for the experts to decide. We have no choice but to do that, to have the experts go in to have a look and to say how bad it is, and how long it will last,” Norton explained.

Construction on the facilities at the National Aquatic

Centre, which features the country’s only 50m Olympic-sized swimming pool first began in early 2008.

After several missed deadlines, suspension of works due to design and engineering problems and huge cost increases the facility was officially commissioned in November 2011, by then President Bharrat Jagdeo.

At that time the pool came under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sport, headed by then Minister Dr Frank Anthony. In 2012 Anthony finally admitted that the actual cost for the pool was $581.3M, up from the $425.1M engineer’s estimate.

Despite the inflated price the facility did not include a warm-up/warm-down pool

that was included in the original design. A 25m warmup/warm-down pool was later added to the facility at a cost of $37.3M, with construction beginning in September 2013 and this pool being commissioned by then President Donald Ramotar in February 2015.

Apart from that, the Synthetic Athletics Track on the West Coast of Demerara has already begun to concern stakeholders, though the facility is just three years old, first commissioned in April 2015.

The rubberised surface of the track is breaking apart and the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) is worried but hopeful the issue is addressed.

“The track itself has de-

Browne’s century leads Malteenoes to victory in GCA competition A WELL calculated century

by Stephan Browne led the Malteenoes Sports Club to a 22run victory against home team, Gandhi Youth Organisation (GYO) in the latest fixture of the GCA/New Building Society (NBS) 2nd Division 40-over cricket tournament.

Malteenoes lost the toss and were sent in to bat. They looked solid early even after losing opener Shaquille Moseley (0), as Tuen Hicks joined Browne and the pair tallied 88 runs with the former hitting 30 (4x4).

After Hicks fell, it was all up to Browne. The opener, who has shown form over the last few months, paced his innings well despite losing wickets constantly at the other end.

He brought up his century with an exquisite four, driven through the deep midwicket

Stephan Browne

boundary off medium pacer Sachin Singh (not the national U-17 captain), before he was caught a few balls later attempting another big shot.

His 102 included 13 fours. Two balls later, Malteenoes were bowled out for 223 as the innings wrapped up in 39.5 overs.

Left-arm spinner Trevon France finished with 3-34, while Darshan Persaud, Divesh Ramjattan and Singh picked up two wickets each.

GYO’s batsmen had a few starts, but five of them lost their wickets without reaching double figures. Michael Deonarine led the home team’s attack with 58 (4x4, 1x6), while teenager Navindra Persaud, who scored a century against the Diplomats in the previous clash, added 47.

The youngster, who struck four boundaries, was patient at the crease.

Also getting a start was Singh, who scored 27 (3x4), but support was little as Malteenoes skipper Nicosie Barker and Delon Dalrymple took three wickets to bowl out the home team for 201 in 38.5 overs.

veloped some areas where the rubber is coming off the bottom surface, and it needs to be addressed given the international events we have to prepare for next year and those we’re looking to host in 2020,” explained AAG president Aubrey Hutson.

Norton says he does not understand how the track has deteriorated to such a state when just over two weeks ago, the National School Championships was held there.

According to Norton, from all information afforded to him, the rubberised material on the track should have been thicker than what was used. The rubberised surface of the track was laid by the German company BSW Regopul.

“This is only our second National School Championships (being held at the track) and I doubt whether it would last another two, I showed what the material is supposed to look like as compared to what it is at the moment,” said Norton, who had displayed in Parliament on Wednesday a piece of the synthetic track that had come off.

“It is supposed to be ½ an inch but it’s about 1/8th of an inch in terms of thickness.

It’s happening all around the track, we’re finding. That red surface that you seeing there is peeling off its beading out like sand. One of the workers there he used some glue, spread it as if he’s painting it.

That’s what we’re doing to keep it covered otherwise we would not have a track at this point in time. That is really unfortunate because I don’t think we have gotten the full use of that track there.”

However, the deterioration comes at a time when Guyana is about to get two additional synthetic track facilities, one in Berbice and one in Linden.

The Minister noted that another international company, MONDO Tracks, has indicated that it would be willing to assess the situation of the track on a pro bono basis.

Smalta Girls U-11 Schools Football tournament

Finalists to be decided today THE fifth annual 11 years and under Pee Wee football tournament for primary school girls, being sponsored by the Ansa McAl through their Smalta, Lyrix and Icool brands continues with all the semi-final matches today at the Ministry of Education (MoE) ground on Carifesta Avenue.

The action gets underway from 13:30hrs with the three matches which will be contested to determine the 8th to 10th rankings of the teams before the last four matches that will be competed simultaneously from 15:10hrs.

Defending champions South Ruimveldt will be led by 2017 MVP and current leading goalscorer Fayon Henry and the school will be

the favourites in the clash against North Georgetown.

The other semi-final will pit West Ruimveldt against St Pius.

West will be motivated by their boys’ team who are the twotime defending champions in the COURTS-sponsored Petra Organisation’s event.

The day’s full fixtures are as follows: 13:30hrs - St Margaret’s vs Smith Memorial 9 to 10 14:20hrs - Tucville vs Enterprise 5 to 8 14:20hrs - Genesis vs St Stephen 5 to 8 15:10hrs - West Ruimveldt vs St Pius semi-final 1 15:10hrs - South vs North Georgetown semi-final 2

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, December 8, 2018

Rangers, GFC to clash in Turbo final AFTER many nights of closely-fought action, the title of 2018 Turbo Knockout Football Champions will be decided between Northern Rangers Football Club (NRFC) and Georgetown Football Club (GFC).

Semi-final action ended on Thursday evening at the Ministry of Education (MoE) ground and the finalists will lace up next week in a mouth-watering clash.

In the first semi-final GFC made early inroads into the Mahaica Determinators, putting them on the back foot early and securing that all-important win.

After Daniel Ross got the ball rolling in the 11th minute and Ralph Parris doubled the score in the 32nd minute, the Georgetown based side never looked back.

A few close calls and scares were all that GFC had to worry about in an

Intense action was displayed in the semi-final stage of the second annual Turbo KO football tournament. In this first semi-final, photographed by Samuel Maughn, GFC won 2-0 against Mahaica Determinators.

otherwise routine game.

In the second game,

Northern Rangers were made to work for their win

Zeeburg defeat Rising Stars, MMZ in limited overs cricket

Richie Looknauth, Yutesh Dhanpaul and Malcolm Hubbard were on target for the winners.

ZEEBURG Sports Club recorded back-to-back victories over the Rising Stars and Meten-Meer-Zorg (MMZ) Sports Clubs over the weekend in limited-over cricket clashes at the Meten-Meer-Zorg ground.

In their first game, a T20 match against the Rising Stars, they batted first and raced to 181-8 with Malcolm Hubbard hitting a 35-ball 50.

Yutesh Dhanpaul supported with a 13-ball 33 and Ganesh Narine with a 10-ball unbeaten 24.

Rising Stars, in reply, were bundled out for 137 in 18 overs, with J. Hector scoring 41. Hubbard, Dhanpaul and A. Seepersaud combined for six wickets.

Hubbard took 2-21, Dhanpaul 2-25 and Seepersaud 2-27.

Against home team MMZ, in a 10over clash, Hubbard (24) and Richie Looknauth (21) led the visitors to 93-7 off their allotted over. Although Sheldon Alexander scored 21, the home team could reach only 70-6 in reply. Dhanpaul led the bowling attack with 3-5, while Richie Looknauth took 2-7.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, December 16, the Zeeburg SC will hold a Memorial cricket match for the Rocky Memorial Cup, in memory of former skipper Amreith Rai (Rocky).

The game is set for a 10:00hrs start.

against Santos FC in a match which went right down to

penalties.

For the greater part of

the match, Santos had the lead, granted through Orin Yarde in the 16th minute and they did well to fend off the incoming challenges of the Rangers.

At the halftime whistle, things were going according to plan for the Santos side but sure enough, Nigel Denny in the 70th minute brought things level again.

For the remaining 20 minutes, the action intensified with both teams searching for that decisive goal that would give them the spot in the final.

Even in extra-time, things were still deadlocked, both sides getting into scoring positions several times but squandering their chances to take the game home. At the end, however, Rangers succeeded 4-2 to move onto the final.

Mahaica and Santos will contest the third-place playoff next Tuesday from 19:00hrs.

GUYOIL/Tradewind Tankers School football league

Inaugural champions to be decided this weekend THE first in a long line of champions of the GUYOIL/ Tradewind Tankers School football league will be crowned this weekend when action commences today.

The tournament, also sponsored by Ansa McAl through their Icool, Smalta and Lyrix brands, will see champions and runners-up book their spaces in the 2018 KFC Goodwill Cup Series.

Heading into the twoday match weekend, Lodge Secondary lead the league with 27 points while Annandale are second with a lesser goal difference. Tournament favourites Christianburg/ Wismar Secondary School (CWSS) currently occupy the third spot 26 points with each of the top three having a game remaining.

Lodge have one loss in the tournament and will come up against the unbeaten and prolific CWSS side who have scored 54 goals in their ten completed matches.

The GUYOIL/Tradewind tankers football tournament will conclude this weekend

While those two get going, Annandale will be keeping a close eye on them, with their final match opponents being city side Queen’s College on Sunday.

Annandale will take comfort in the fact that the QC side have only registered two wins, one of which was a walkover but they should not get complacent.

A win for Annandale would hand them the championship should Lodge lose.

The winning team along with the runners-up of the tournament will join Annai Secondary of Region Nine along with Shiva Boys Hindu College of Trinidad and Tobago for the KFC Tournament from the 18th to 22nd of this month.

See Page 30

Guyana’s Mark Crawford (left) connects with a series of combinations to Barbados’ Reshawn Holder in their lightweight bout in the Juniors category of the Caribbean Boxing Championship at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Thursday night (Photo by Delano Williams)

Local boxers make positive start to Caribbean Boxing Championship Smalta Girls U-11 Schools Football tournament

Finalists to be decided today See page 34

The finalists of the Smalta Girls U-11 Schools Football tournament will be determined today.

CWI/ PCL Regional four-day tournament ….

Pestano, Permaul rule day two THE Guyana Jaguars are 115 for the loss of three wickets batting a second time around in their Cricket West Indies (CWI) Professional 4 day match against the Windward Island Volcanoes.

Leading by 152 runs, the Guyanese will start day three today with Targenarine Chanderpaul 29(125) at the crease alongside Clinton Pestano who is yet to come off the mark after facing 8 deliveries.

The wickets of Trevon

Griffith went for 23 (36), Skipper Leon Johnson (51 from 72) and Vishal Singh (3 from 9) fell during the last session of day two at the Darren Sammy National Stadium in St Lucia Yesterday, the Windward Islands managed only 187 when their last wicket fell.

Resuming the day at 32-2, the Volcanoes were hoping for a better day but the dismissal of Taryck Gabriel (7 from 26) just under two overs into day was a major setback.

The loss of Ronald Cato 0(3) just two deliveries later only compounded the problem with Clinton Pestano continuing his dream performance.

From there on it, the results were heading in favour of the Jags, Kavem Hodge managing just 19 from 43 balls before he was caught

by Christopher Barnwell off the bowling of Keon Joseph.

Alick Athanaze (34 from 80) provided resistance alongside Dennis Smith (20 from 36) as well

as Delorn Johnson (34 from 33) but aside from that, there were no other meaningful contributions.

Pestano added two more scalps to his day one performance to finish with 4 for 46 from 14 overs while Versammy Peramul finished with 3-13 from 6.1 overs as he mopped up the tail.

There was a wicket each for Keon Joseph (137off 14) and Romario Shepherd (1-44 off 18) as the Jaguars seized control.

Day three continues today.

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PPP-built sports facilities falling apart See Page 34 SATURDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2018