Guyana chronicle e paper 12 10 2017

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No. 105122

SUNDAY DECEMBER 10, 2017

Price: $140

Still hope in sugar

– Hanoman says smaller operation necessary for industry’s survival

(VAT Inclusive)

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No longer ‘man and woman story’ – Harmon urges collective effort to fight domestic violence

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Minister of State Joseph Harmon embraces Natasha Houston, a survivor of domestic violence at the “Women Empowerment” programme hosted by the Guyana Chronicle on Saturday (Adrian Narine photo)

Two of six Law school No major drug NOC inmates conspiracy shortage at NA … AG sees PPP’s hand in recaptured stalling law school set up Hospital Page 2

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Two of six NOC inmates recaptured TWO of six juveniles who escaped from the New Opportunity Corps (NOC) at Onderneeming, Essequibo Coast, were recaptured Saturday, hours after escaping.

Reports indicate that the two who were recaptured are females, ages 15 and 16. On the run are three males and one female. A 15-year-old of North Road, Lacytown, Georgetown,

who was sentenced to two years for simple larceny; a 17- year-old of Kaneville, East Bank Demerara, who was sentenced to two years for larceny; a 17-year-old of Cummings Park, Sophia,

who was sentenced to two years for break and enter and larceny; and a 16-yearold female of Vigilance, East Coast Demerara, who was sentenced to one year for simple larceny. According to sources, the three boys escaped at 18:30hrs and returned for three females at 01:30hrs. Two of them were later caught by staff from the NOC at 07:30 hrs at a house in Onderneeming Sand Pit, Essequibo coast. Although their movements are being monitored, officials admitted it is difficult to watch them all the time, due to a few security hiccups. It was explained that all the detainees have a schedule that takes up most of their time but some are uncontrollable, despite strict disciplinary actions.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017

Pensioner’s car hijacked A 65-year-old taxi driver of Goed Intent, West Bank Demerara, was robbed of his Toyota Fielder Wagon bearing registration number HC 6999 Friday night at Flamboyant Avenue, Eccles, East Bank Demerara. Reports indicate that the taxi driver was plying his trade at the Stabroek Market car park when he received a call via his cellphone from an unknown number. On the other end of the line was a female requesting to be picked up at Regent Street and Orange Walk, Bourda, Georgetown.

Upon arrival at the location, the taxi driver collected two persons: a man, who sat in the front seat and a woman who sat in the back seat of the vehicle. They both requested a drop-off at Flamboyant Street, Eccles. On arrival at the destination, the man exited the vehicle, walked over to the driver’s side, took out a handgun from the waist of his pants and ordered the driver to exit the car. Fearing for his life, the pensioner complied. The robber then jumped into the car and made good his escape.

20 years for raping middle-aged woman RAYMOND Goviea, 22, called “Ryan” of Kingsley Village, West Coast Berbice, was sentenced to 24 years imprisonment by Justice Jo Ann Barlow after he was found guilty of raping a 48-year-old woman. Initially, Goviea had pleaded not guilty to the

indictment, which stated that on September 14, 2015, he sexually penetrated the woman without her consent. The trial was heard in camera, in keeping with the Sexual Offences Act and at his sentencing, the judge informed the prisoner that the penalty carries a maximum of life imprisonment. The prisoner was also told by the judge that the virtual complainant was old enough to be his mother. “She was going about her own business when you attacked and violated her. She sustained injuries and you thereafter threatened her. The sentence of this court is 24 years. However, the court takes into account the mitigation, your age, and before this incident you were not known to the police. I have taken off two years for the mitigation and one year 11 months for your period in custody. The prison officials will tell you how much time you have to serve.” His attorney Sasha Roberts in her plea for mitigation said the prisoner is the eldest of five children and was forced to drop out of school at the primary school level. After dropping out, he started to work as a coconut peeler to supplement his family’s income. When the sentence was handed down, Goviea was asked by the judge if he wished to say anything and in response, he shook his head and remained speechless.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017

– Hanoman says smaller operation necessary for industry’s survival By Zena Henry GUYANA Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Errol Hanoman has said that the company must stay on course to avoid a collapse of the sugar industry. He made the remarks in view of the move by the corporation to issue redundancy letters to hundreds of workers. Accompanied by Board Chair, Professor Clive Thomas and Finance Officer Paul Bhim at a sit-down with the Guyana Chronicle on Friday, Hanoman said the problems facing GuySuCo are much deeper and complex than the fear and discomfort being felt regarding the gradual discharge of some 4,000 workers. “The bottom line really is to find a solution to the sugar industry. Now, if we had not found a solution for

that the corporation is on its way to a better economic life, as long as the reorganisation plan is adhered to. “I am optimistic that it is a workable plan. But what we need to do is work the plan, stick to the plan and not deviate,” he said,

next week and training for farmers who will guide the transitioning sugar workers is almost complete. According to Hanoman, the intention is to “upskill” workers so that “come next year, once they have gone through some basic train-

GuySuCo CEO Errol Hanoman

the sugar industry, the entire industry would have died. Not only would it have died, it [GuySuCo] would have collapsed by now,” Professor Thomas interjected. The CEO reiterated that GuySuCo was burdened and unable to keep up with its expenses and a reorganisation plan has been put in motion “to ensure that a sugar industry remains in Guyana.” Hanoman, who is expected to leave GuySuCo by year-end, said he is satisfied

The 4000 workers who will be leaving, will be trained in areas in which they are interested as part of the “Alternative Livelihoods Programme”, Hanoman said

pointing out that numerous opportunities exist for redundant workers, some of whom have already begun to benefit from alternative measures. The CEO said where workers are interested in agriculture, training will begin

ing, instead of bringing in contractors as we have been doing over the many years, is to bring in those very workers to help us repair bridges and other assets.” “What it means as well is they will not only work with the industry as contrac-

No major drug shortage at NA Hospital CONTRARY to claims made by opposition Member of Parliament (MP), Dr. Vishwa Mahadeo, there is no widespread shortage of drugs at the New Amsterdam Hospital when a Health Ministry team paid a visit to the Region Six health facility on Saturday. The team comprised

Health Minister Volda Lawrence, Member of Parliament John Adams and PAHO Country Representative Dr.William Adu-Krow and the visit was made in light of allegations made by Dr Mahadeo in his budget presentation. The minister was assured by pharmacy officials that the supply of drugs is fairly

good, but noted that there is a shortage of septrin (antibiotic) and a topical ointment for pain, which is due to an increase in prescription for the items. To this end, Minister Lawrence called on administrative staff to be more vigilant and forecast usage of drugs and supplies to avoid shortages in the future.

Dr Mahadeo during his budget presentation had pointed to a region-wide shortage of drugs and non-functioning operating theatres at the New Amsterdam Hospital, as well as the non-use of a CT scan machine donated to the hospital more than a year ago. However, during an allday tour of the region, the

tors, but in the communities as well.” Hanoman said that of the 4000 workers who will be leaving, they will be trained in areas in which they are interested as part of the “Alternative Livelihoods Programme.” These include carpentry, mechanics and farming, among others. Already on the West Bank, where some workers were laid off last year, at least 50 per cent of the cane needed at the Uitvlugt Estate is being produced by farmers. Some workers, the CEO said, had applied for the land and they have already received it. Pricewaterhouse Coopers, a London-based multinational company has been hired to help manage the transition process, and Hanoman said decisions regarding workers must take into consideration their needs and wants, families, ages and their various stages

of life. He said it is for this reason that surveys were conducted and other mechanisms were used to assess the needs of the recently made redundant workers. That information is to be processed. Bhim explained that agriculture will be market-driven and agencies such as the Guyana Livestock Development Authority, the Guyana Marketing Corporation and the National Agricultural Research and Extension Institute are already on board and aiding where necessary. The aim, he said, is to help create self-reliant communities and to develop communities along the sugar belt and reduce their heavy dependence on GuySuCo. Although GuySuCo is a sugar-producing entity, it provides drainage, health and other services to some communities.

health minister was able to see first-hand that all three operating theatres at the hospital were in working condition. During the tour, media operatives were able to get verification from staff that the facilities are all in working condition. Acting Medical Superintendent Vinashri Khirodar, said one of the theatres was briefly out of commission due to a faulty light, but that has been since remedied.

Two of the three theatres are used for general surgery, while the other is used mainly for ophthalmology operations As for the CT scan machine, media operatives were told that the room to house the machine next to one of the theatres is currently being used by laboratory staff. A new building is being erected to house the increase in demand for the lab services.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017

No longer ‘man and woman story’ –– Harmon urges collective effort to fight domestic violence

By Alva Solomon MINISTER of State Mr Joseph Harmon said it best when he declared: “We will no longer turn our backs to the horrors of domestic violence; domestic violence is no longer ‘manand-woman story’.” He made the impassioned declaration at a function late Saturday on the forecourt of

the Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL)’s Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park Head Office to mark the coming to a close of the annual “16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence” which ends today, regarded worldwide as World Human Rights Day. Harmon said that not only have the police been in receipt of training of how best

to handle such matters, from entry level right up, but the laws as well have also been strengthened. Noting that even the facilities at police stations have seen a marked improvment, he hastened to acknowledge that there’s a whole lot more that needs to be done. As such, he called on all stakeholders to “come together and work, as all and

Minister of State Joseph Harmon chats with GNNL Chair, Ms Geeta Chandan-Edmond, News Editor, Mr Tajeram Mohabir and acting General Manager Moshamie Ramotar during a tour of the newspaper following the event

sundry must recognise that domestic violence is everybody’s business.” GNNL Chair, Ms Geeta Chandan-Edmond, on the other hand, called for stronger action in the form of empowerment and a change in the mindset towards the issue of violence against women and children. “It is time for stronger action,” the former magistrate said, noting that measures have been taken to address the issue, among them the Domestic Violence Act. She said that the law is an essential step in that regard, to the extent that it introduces punishment and also creates a legal protection for victims. But by the same token, she said, the law is not the only way forward; that a change of mindset is. Chandan-Edmond recounted that as a magistrate, she’s seen victims have a change of heart and offer no evidence against the perpetrators in court. To this end, she noted that despite it being a pervasive violation, it is one of the least prosecuted. “We are the agents of change, contributing to all aspects of development,” she

GNNL Chair Ms Geeta Chandan-Edmond addressing the gathering Also adding her voice noted of the woman’s role. She also spoke of adopting to the discourse was Mrs a multi-sectoral approach to Sita Nagamootoo, wife of the fight against overcoming the prime minister, Mr the cycle of violence against Moses Nagamootoo, and she told the audience that females. “ W e a t t h e G u y a n a gender equality offers an Chronicle know that we have opportunity for the sharing a role in these times; we of responsibilities between know that we have to do partners in the home, as much more to respond to the it helps to make decisions deafening cries for help and regarding the home and justice,” Chandan-Edmond See page 5 noted.

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No longer ‘man and woman ...

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From page 4

enables women to be the economic partners within the household. She said that literacy and education are instruments of empowerment, as they both help empower women to market themselves. Noting that there’s now a long list of prime public sector positions that are occupied by women, Mrs Nagamootoo declared: “We are excelling! We are becoming powerful!” Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Ms Simona Broomes, known far and wide as a champion of women’s causes, recounted to the audience her role as a member of the Guyana

Women Miners Organisation during its infancy, while Minister within the Ministry of Health , Dr Karen Cummings, noted the role of the Public Health Ministry in the cause of women. She also commended the media for the role it has been playing in the stymieing of domestic violence. Assistant Commissioner of Police, Ms Maxine Graham, also gave her perspective on the issue by noting the role of the police in the fight against domestic violence. She mentioned that there are standard operating procedures which must be adhered to by ranks in addressing the issue.

During Saturday afternoon’s forum, several cultural items were on show. In addition, the gathering felt emotional as Natasha Houston, a victim of domestic violence recounted her story, one which led to her losing her arm, as well as her two young children several years ago. Houston offered advice to women and victims of domestic violence, one which points to removing oneself from situations where the issue rears its ugly head. Her presentation was well received, as those in attendance were gratified by her story, a story on domestic violence, which has no place in the Guyanese society.

A section of the audience at the late-afternoon event

Mrs Sita Nagamootoo, seated second right, pays rapt attention, as does Minister within the Ministry of Health, Dr Karen Cummings, right (photos by Adrian Narine)

Guyana Chronicle staffers, Akash Persaud and Shivanie Thomas doing a skit at the event

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017

Oil discovery and our contentious politics

AS we come to the end of the year, it is worth the while to reflect on what the next few years could look like for Guyana as we prepare to join the few countries that have been fortunate to discover oil and use it as the path to economic development. From all indications, the immediate future could be a transformative period for our country. Already, many Guyanese are speculating that Guyana could be entering a period when we could well unlock the gates to the collective prosperity to which all ex-colonial countries aspire. It is indeed an overwhelming feeling for a country that is among the poorest in the Americas. But as we have seen from the debates, the much-anticipated economic prosperity would not wipe away our decades of contentious politics, nor would it immediately solve our economic woes. To the contrary, one could conclude that the coming of oil would exacerbate our divisive politics and that could have a negative impact on our capacity to successfully use the oil revenues to effect economic transformation.

In this regard, the opposition should rethink its strategy of relentless negativity. One gets the impression that most of the time, the opposition is more concerned with scoring political points rather than helping to improve the situation. Over the last year, there has been no shortage of advice from local and international experts on how to avoid the pitfalls that accompany oil discovery. Indeed, much of that advice comes against the backdrop of the vulnerability of our political economy and the perceived track record of the oil companies that are poised to dominate the industry. This is understandable, given the experiences of countries and the sense of nationalism that accompanies oil discovery—the old debate about the extent to which countries benefit from their resources. Suffice it to say that Guyana has in the past not satisfactorily negotiated the best deals for itself. But even as we make that observation, we must strive for cooperation and consensus rather than confrontation with foreign investors. In this regard, Minister of Foreign

Affairs, Carl Greenidge, one of our premier economists was moved this past week to caution against overreaction against Exxon Mobil. The minister seems to suggest that such a stance is unhelpful. It is, of course, valuable advice from someone who is obviously schooled on these matters. While we must be forever vigilant, such vigilance should be balanced and constructive. After initially deciding not to publicly release details of the contract with Exxon Mobil, the government changed course this past week. As it explained, notwithstanding its concerns about confidentiality clauses, the ultimate decision was guided by its commitment to transparency. But, ironically, just as critics were digesting this new development, the government announced that it had not informed the country that it had received a signing bonus from Exxon Mobil. The opposition was quick to pounce on this development and not unexpectedly, suggested negative intent on the government’s part. The government has explained that the decision was not the result

of any hidden agenda and that the announcement would have been part of the general revelation of the overall contract. In a sense, then, the government seems to be suggesting that it was guided by the same considerations that caused it to delay the public declaration of the contract. It should be noted that the opposition and other government critics have not revealed any explicit ulterior motives by the government for withholding the information. Governments make mistakes all the time. Insofar as this matter is concerned, we feel it was a case of judgement rather than malicious intent. The government itself has suggested that much. This government has been in office for a mere 30 months or half of its designated fiveyear term. That is not a long time in the life of a government, especially one that succeeded a 23-year regime. As should be expected, it has made its fair share of errors. But these should not be translated into strident charges of bad governance. In the end, we undermine our own cause by reaching for partisan imperatives.

GAWU always concerned about workers’ plight

THE Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) has recognised from a Newsroom report entitled “Fmr. Gov’t Minister touts international relief fund for sugar workers” that prominent business executive, Mr Ramesh Dookhoo, who was interviewed, is quoted to have said that the sugar unions should “focus a little more on the plight of the workers who have so far been dismissed.” While heartened by for-

mer Minister Robert Persaud’s call and pleased by Mr Dookhoo’s interest, at this time, however, we cannot fail to point out that we have always been concerned about the workers’ plight, moreso now with the serious difficulties that will flow from the cutting down of the sugar industry. Our union, since the announcement that Wales would be closed in January, 2016, has been mounting a strong and consistent struggle against estate closure and sell-

out, recognising the obvious hardship that it would bring to those affected. We have used every available medium to share with Guyanese and even those beyond Guyana’s shores, to bring awareness about the dilemma to not only the workers, but their families and also to many communities and scores of small and medium-sized businesses which depend significantly on workers’ earnings from the industry. In addition to the regu-

lar media activities, no one can deny our active interaction with the working people and which was reflected by public meetings and marches and picketing exercises in the sugar belt, which in totality attracted thousands of workers and non-workers alike. We also mounted banners in several villages to call attention to what would emerge should the plans for sugar be implemented. We have even sought the intervention of the judiciary to champion the workers’ cause. For our principled stand-

ing-up, we have faced several criticisms launched by the administration and its supporters. Nevertheless, we have not been daunted and will continue to speak up. Our union has a proud history of struggles regarding matters related to the workers’ interests, regardless of the stones that our enemies may throw in our way. As thousands of workers now face a difficult road ahead, we stand with them and will work along with and urge any genuine partners, organisations and in-

dividuals, who are moved and want to help to ease their burdens and lessen their travails. Our union’s representation has not been confined to the bargaining table, but we have and will continue to use all possible measures to make our members lives better and more fulfilling. This is our duty and commitment as a union. Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General-Secretary GAWU

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017

Guyanese must demand transparency and accountability EVER since Christopher Ram’s revelation that the coalition government had extracted a signature bonus of US$20 million from ExxonMobil for the June 27, 2016 renegotiated contract, there has been a combination of avoidance of the question, silence on the matter and outright contradiction of the assertion by various government officials. The December 8, 2017 edition of Stabroek News (SN), which confirms that a signing bonus was indeed negotiated and that the Bank of Guyana was asked in a letter dated September 20, 2016, to create an account to receive it is a shock to anti-corruption

advocates and to Guyana as a whole. On September 26 of this year, Christopher Ram had questioned Minister Trotman’s signing of a new agreement with ExxonMobil (See SN, September 26, 2017). He followed this up with the assertion that a signing bonus of US$20M was paid and asserted that securing a signing bonus was the real reason behind the renegotiated contract (See SN, October 30, 2017). By then, the Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, had been asked whether a signature bonus was paid, but he provided no direct answer (see SN, October 23, 2017). He

however, indicated that the new contract was not much different from the previous one, which to a large extent now lends support to Ram’s conclusion. The Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan, was also asked about the matter. In response, he indicated that there was “no agreement for any bonus” and he furthermore indicated the assertion that there was a signing bonus of US$20M was a “figment of the imagination” (see Kaieteur News (KN), November 23, 2017). The November 23, 2017 edition of KN also quoted the Minister of Natural Resources as indicating that some statements coming

from sections of society are based on “hearsay.” There is now proof that there was a signature bonus and furthermore, that the government had acted on it more than a year ago before the recorded comments were made. On top of this discovery that a signing bonus was secured, there are the matters of how it has been and is being handled and whether this explains the secrecy and falsehood in which it was shrouded. While they were in the opposition, the APNU and AFC railed against mismanagement of state funds. They were especially adamant, and correctly so, about the use of the Consolidated Fund as

provided for by the law. The APNU+AFC coalition government is therefore well aware of the law governing the Consolidated Fund and about what funds should be deposited there. The move to set up a separate account to receive the signature bonus therefore appears as a move to avoid accountability. Was the idea to use this new account to initiate a sovereign wealth fund? If so, can we expect that the appropriate legislation will follow? The government has failed to handle matters related to oil with transparency and it appears to have deliberately engaged in deception in relation to the matter of a signature

bonus. The Minister of Natural Resources in particular and the government in general have done much to drain whatever residual confidence there was in their handling of the oil industry in Guyana. This verification of the signing bonus and the move to handle it outside of the Consolidated Fund, must galvanise all Guyanese, whether supporters of the government or not, into demanding transparency and accountability. There is just too much to lose by standing behind partisan politics. Yours sincerely, Transparency Institute Guyana Inc.

Suspend current process of re-populating ‘rights’ Commissions INTERNATIONAL Human Rights Day 2017 finds Guyana still without a Commission on Human Rights. It is evident that the substantial section of the population seeking reform of our ramshackle and decrepit political structures seems likely to remain disappointed. A more promising prospect than a formal constitutional reform process might be creation of a civic-driven constitutional reform movement to elaborate the needed reforms and subsequently to seek political party endorsement of them. A high priority among such reforms would be the re-formulation of the entire section dealing with the ‘rights’ Commissions. Contrary to popular opinion, the mechanisms misleadingly known as ‘rights’ Commissions produced by the constitutional reform process of 1999-2000 possess neither the mandate, competence nor powers essential to any bona fide rights mechanism. Of fourteen (14) ”functions” listed for the Women and Gender Rights Commission, only one refers to women’s rights and only one of the nine in the case of the Indigenous Peoples Commission. Moreover, their capacity to advance the cause of human rights is hamstrung by byzantine inter-locking structures and no powers of enforcement. Heads of thematic rights Commissions, -- Women & Gender, Children’s Rights, Indigenous Peoples and Ethnic Relations -- de-

spite not being elected by reference to their interest or track-record as human rights defenders, constitute the proposed membership of the Human Rights Commission. It is difficult to see how a credible Human Rights Commission could emerge from theses dysfunctional and convoluted arrangements. Like many of the more progressive recommendations that emerged from the Constitutional Reform Commission of 1999-2000, the ‘Rights Commissions’ were diminished and distorted by the subsequent Parliamentary Oversight Committee. The confused thinking reflected in the mechanisms themselves seems also to have infected the numbering system adopted for the rights Section of the Constitution, all captured under one Section, 212,with sub-sections that run from 212 “A” through the entire alphabet to 212 “Z”, then on to “AA,” “BB” et, over 30 pages. Nothing was done to implement this daunting section of the Constitution until a Presidential ‘Stakeholder ‘ consultation took place in 2008, aimed at securing civic support for a large-scale security programme. As a ‘quid pro quo’ for civic support, the government agreed to implement the rights Commissions. Following that consultation, a separate civic process generated a Submission to the Appointive Committee of Parliament endorsed by over 60 organisations, setting out the modifications demand-

ed by civil society to the rights Commissions prior to their implementation. These recommendations were neither acknowledged nor acted upon. In 2009, the Rights Commissions were activated under a process devised by the Parliament Office, which saw a wide range of organisations without any clear criteria as to eligibility invited to nominate members of the Commissions. We do not wish to suggest that the Parliament Office did not strive to be fair and inclusive, but it was clearly unfamiliar with and ill-equipped to undertake the task it was mandated to complete. The Guyana Human Rights Association (GHRA) strongly recommends that the Parliament Office suspend the current process of re-populating the ‘rights’ Commissions until an impartial review of their performance over the past seven years has been undertaken. The GHRA equally strongly re-iterates its opposition to any attempt to create a Guyana Human Rights Commission on the basis of the current bizarre formula embodied in Article 212. The civic consultation process referred to earlier represented the kind of constitutional reform movement that appears to be needed at the present time. The end result of such a process would hopefully be a Human rights Commission reflective of the needs, capacities and resources to advance human rights in Guyana. To

encourage such thinking, the GHRA is offering to make the Submission to Parliament and list of endorsing organisations better known by making them available upon e-mail requests to ghraguy@ gmail.com.

The Submission was entitled Forum on Effectiveness & Solidarity (FES) Submission to (1) the Appointive Committee of Parliament and (2) the Parliamentary Committee on Constitutional Reform

on Implementation of Stakeholder Recommendations June 2008. Yours sincerely, GHRA Executive Committee

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017

Law school conspiracy … AG sees PPP’s hand in stalling law school set up A REVIEW Committee of the Council for Legal Education (CLE) has agreed that the Council should defer the establishment of new law schools; a move Guyana’s Attorney General (AG) and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, believes is as a result of the opposition People’s Progressive Party (PPP) move to sabotage Guyana’s efforts to establish its own law school. In January, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Government of Guyana and the University College of the Caribbean (UCC) and Law College of the Americas (LCA) was signed with the aim of establishing a law school here. The school would bear the name, JOF Haynes Law School of the Americas (JHLSA) after the late outstanding Guyanese Jurist, JOF Haynes. It would afford the holders of Bachelors of Law Degrees (LLB) to obtain their Legal Education Certificate (LEC) here without having to travel to Trinidad and Tobago or Jamaica. The Government of Guyana will hold 30 per cent shares, and will contribute only the land where the school is to be built, while its partner will hold 70 per cent shares and will foot all other costs. The school is likely to be located at Turkeyen, Greater

Georgetown. However, in a statement to the media Saturday, the AG said new Chairman of the CLE, Reginald Armour, of Trinidad and Tobago “is relying on a report of a Review Committee which included former Chancellor Carl Singh, to now say that the CLE never gave permission to Guyana to establish its own Law School after decades in the belief of the Guyanese legal fraternity.” The former Chancellor was the only Head of Judiciary on the Review Committee established in 2009 and was allowed to continue to serve on it by the new Chairman, until his removal was requested as he had retired from that office, at the last CLE Council Meeting held in Trinidad and Tobago from September 7 to 9, 2017. According to the AG, the Review Committee which was set up for a different purpose, suddenly reopened a decision of a Council Meeting in Antigua in September 2016, chaired by previous Chairman Jacqueline Samuels-Brown S.C., of Jamaica, who concluded after considering several documents, including an unauthorised letter of inquiry by one Trevor Hamilton of Jamaica, that some “determination had been made.” That is, granting Guyana permission to establish a Law School.

Attorney General, Basil Williams

The Review Committee comprised the Principals of the three Law Schools under the CLE; a Senior Counsel from Barbados; former Chancellor Carl Singh, and the new Chairman. Guyana’s delegation at the September, 2016 meeting of the CLE in Antigua included Madam Yonette Cummings-Edwards, Chancellor (ag); President of the Bar Association, Ms. Gem Sandford-Johnson; Secretary of the said Bar, Ms. Excellence Dazzle and AG Williams S.C. “This determination by the immediate past Chairman, Jacqueline Samuels-Brown S.C. was carried by the Council Meeting which included the new Chairman who did not demur,” said Williams. It is as a result of the decision of the Council that Guyana entered into the MoU with the University College

of the Caribbean (UCC) and the Law College of the Americas (LCA) on January 11, this year. The MoU provides for a feasibility study to be undertaken to determine whether the Joint Venture Partners should proceed to execute the establishment of the Joseph Haynes Law School (JHLS) here. In light of this, Guyana and its partners pursued the feasibility study and made a request to Chairman Amour to provide Guyana formally with the criteria to operate the local law school. This was not done. “…but he has not done so and has raised some other

Executive Member of the PPP, Anil Nandlall

purported concerns of the Review Committee to wit, “It was agreed that Council should defer establishing new Law Schools.” Williams noted that the Review Committee’s view does not represent a decision of the Council and said the matter will be placed on the agenda of the next CLE Executive Council Meeting, in 2018. MASSIVE ATTACK Meanwhile, it should be noted that on January 16, 2017, former AG and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall “launched a massive attack against the establishment of such a school”. It was at that press conference that Nandlall disclosed that he had written the CLE to oppose the initiative geared at removing the hard-

ships suffered by Guyanese law students attending the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) in Trinidad and Tobago. Nandlall at that press conference said, “The Council of Legal Education is an institution within CARICOM. There are three (3) law schools established under this arrangement: the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago, the Norman Manley Law School in Jamaica and the Eugene Dupuch Law School in the Bahamas. By signing this MoU is Guyana not violating its treaty obligations with its Caribbean counterparts?” A week later, the new CLE Chair indicated to Williams that Nandall had complained to him via email dated January 21, 2017 about the signed MoU to establish the law school here. “Mr. Armour assured Mr. Nandlall he would put the matter on the agenda of the CLE’s Executive Council Meeting to be held in Jamaica on January 27, 2017,” AG Williams was informed that he requested that the matter raised by Nandlall be placed on the agenda of the January 27 meeting. On the said day of the meeting, Nandlall in a statement to the media denied he made a move to block the establishment of the law school, while noting that the CLE learnt of the signing of the MOU for the new law school via the media. The AG said when he arrived in Jamaica for the Executive Council Meeting of the CLE, “He was accosted by the new Chairman, Armour, who handed him a letter dated 26th January, 2017 captioned “Media Statement on Guyana Law School”. Armour reportedly told Williams that he had sent copies to all media houses across the Caribbean Region after a meeting with the Review Committee which was one day prior. The media statement said, “No decision has been made by the Council of Legal Education (Council) on the establishment of a Law School in Guyana under the auspices of Council.” Williams believes

that the media statement came “in direct response or support of the PPP/C’s contentions.” Williams said he questioned the motive of the statement, given that Guyana was not given a hearing either at the Executive Council or the CLE meeting. In response, Armour told him that the former Guyanese Chancellor was a member of the Review Committee. “Armour never told AG Williams whether Singh participated via teleconference, Skype or in person,” the statement added. Notwithstanding, Williams said he briefed the Attorneys General present at the meeting who supported Guyana’s position and directed the Chairman to recall his media statement forthwith, which he did. “The CLE determined that Guyana would conduct its feasibility study but incorporate the requirements of the CLE that a law school under its auspices must satisfy, Williams stated Saturday. Guyanese students reading for the Legal Education Certificate (LEC) at the Hugh Wooding Law School (HWLS) are required to pay an increased tuition fee of TT$94,000 or US$15,000 or G$3M. In addition to tuition, Guyanese students have to pay for rent, meals, books and travelling in Trinidad and Tobago. “Further, between 2009 and 2015 the Guyanese Law Students’ suffering increased and it was uncertain each year whether the paltry 25 places HWLS was offering would be available to them despite both HWLS and the Norman Manley Law School churning out over 200 Law students every year.” Williams noted that it was not until the APNU+AFC government entered office in May 2015, that the Collaborative Agreement between the University of Guyana (UG) and the University of the West Indies (UWI/CLE), guaranteeing 25 places to Guyanese Law Students for 3 years, was signed. That agreement was signed in 2016. Attempts to contact Nandlall Saturday proved futile.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017

RESPECT FOR HUMAN RIGHTS RESTORED TODAY is International Human Rights Day, observance of which goes back to 1948 when the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In a statement on the occasion, the UN again hailed the Declaration for proclaiming the inalienable rights to which all are entitled – regardless of race, colour, religion, sex, language, political or other opinion, national or social origin, property, birth or other status. It added that the Declaration established the equal dignity and worth of every person and laid the foundation for a more just world based on equality, justice and human dignity. This Declaration has also motivated freedom fighters everywhere and its main principles of equality and justice were inscribed on the banner of all anti-colonial revolutionaries. FUNDAMENTAL RIGHTS It further formed the basis for the constitutions of newly free countries such as Guyana, which have all enshrined elaborate sections on fundamental rights and freedoms of the individual. In the case of Guyana, our constitution amplified these rights and placed them within the context of a defined political, economic and social system. These are the declarations and principles against which countries are judged when their report cards are examined for violations. Very few countries ever live up fully to the expectations much less, the letter of those entrenched rights. Most countries, even the most developed, would be cited annually for violation of one or more aspects of human rights This is a good opportunity for our people, especially students, to pick

up the constitution of the Co-operative Republic of Guyana and read the lofty goals that this nation has set itself. It is also timely to do so when both promises and calls have been made for a comprehensive review of the constitution and for consultations to begin on reforming it. It should be noted that for this process to take place, a further financial allocation has been made in the 2018 Budget. TWO-THIRDS MAJORITY I fear though, that this process may not kick off any time soon, since constitutional reform would require a buy-in from all the parliamentary political parties. In the least, fundamental changes would require a two-thirds majority of the votes in the National Assembly. No one party would be able to effect any major changes. As of now, the opposition party has taken an ambivalent position that while it recognised the need for constitutional reform, it would insist instead on what it described as “constitutional compliance” by the government of key provisions of the existing constitution. Translated into practical terms, the PPP is saying, “Yes, but not yet.” On the other hand, the government believes in the need for review of the powers of the Executive and for provisions to be included that would allow greater inclusion in the governance process. Some members of

the government have gone so far as to articulate the need for a power-sharing constitutional formula based on the winner-does-not-take-all principle. They believe that Guyana should evolve an authochthonous or local model of governance on the basis of its plural, multi-ethnic, multi-cultural population. NATIONAL UNITY That model, styled a Government of National Unity, had been mooted in the 70s, and advocated by constitutional experts such as Professor Harold Lucthman in the 80s. It has since been described invariably as a Rodneyite principle, and was articulated by the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) in the mid-70s as a formula for a government of national reconstruction and, two years later, by the Jagan-led PPP in its proposal for a National Front Government. In spite of very good intentions, Guyana was to endure some 50 unbroken years of one-party rule, interchangeably by the two dominant political parties the PNC and the PPP. However, the back of one-party rule was broken only once since then, with the entry to office after the May 2015 elections of a multi-party coalition government. Now, mid-way into its first term in office, the issue of a government of national unity is once again surfacing under the guise of constitutional reform. One of the foremost proponents is Lincoln Lewis who, to

his credit, has insisted on full respect for Article 13 of our Constitution, and for inclusion to reflect the the aspirations of the working people. DEVOLUTION OF AUTHORITY An aspect of fundamental human rights of the Guyanese people is local governance, which is the devolution of political authority to the grassroots. The government could rightly feel satisfied that just after a year of taking office, it held local government elections which were denied by the previous administration for some two decades. The government would also claim that it has even partially fulfilled the requirement of inclusive governance through its six-party coalition, and it continues to promote both bi-partisanism at the parliamentary level and partnership with labour and business at the social level. Heading the list of fundamental human rights is the entitlement to a happy life. The four budgets of the coalition reflect that goal, and are committed to pursuit of the good life for all. It provokes annoyance from the opposition for whom the good life should be delusional and unattainable. IMPRESSIVE SCORE SHEET The government has an impressive human rights score sheet. There are no political prisoners in Guyana; no extra-judicial killings;

no torturing of prisoners, no incestuous relations with drug cartels – all of which have tainted Guyana’s image abroad under the previous PPP government. There have been allegations after the July prison fire and the re-location of an estimated 1,200 prisoners that the holding areas did not meet approved standards. No one could deny that the open-air holding area at Lusignan, literally a pasture, was not suitable, but it was what was available in the circumstances. Immediately efforts got underway to reconstruct some of the facilities at Camp Street and at other locations including Mazaruni. What would continue to raise the eye-brows of human rights activists is why and how the central prison that was built to house 600 inmates became over-crowded with over 1,200? And why would prisoners be languishing on remand for as many as 10 years? This remains a serious indictment of the PPP administration, which had been in office for over two decades. MEDIA FREEDOM An important human right is to impart and receive information. In this regard, Guyana enjoys freedom of the press as never before. There is no political interference with the media; no denial of state advertisements to non-government newspapers. The media remain plural, but a fresh controversy has been raised over the grant of radio licences to

political operatives by the Jagdeo administration, even whilst the licensees held ministerial portfolios. One of the directors was a presidential adviser and another the General Secretary of the ruling party. That justifiably raises issues of sleaze and nepotism. The separation of powers is fully observed in Guyana. There is respect for the rule of law and the principle of non-interference. It is this coalition government that made the judiciary a constitutional agency and guaranteed its financial independence along with the Parliament Office, the Elections Commission, etc. The former administration resisted all attempts to give the constitutional agencies a lump sum allocation, and had made them vulnerable to political blackmail and diktat. FULL PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRACY Finally, there is full, open, multi-party, parliamentary democracy in Guyana. The opposition’s claims of being muzzled is false and baseless. Under the PPP, the 10th Parliament held 88 sittings. But this 11th Parliament has already held 79 sittings, even though this is only the mid-term of the Coalition Government. It is with a sense of pride and satisfaction that I salute Human Rights Day, and encourage all human rights activists to stand up, speak out, and continue to be vigilant.

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Sugar and politics and the politics of sugar THIS past week Guysuco announced that it is retrenching 4,000 sugar workers based on recommendations contained in a State Paper on sugar that was reportedly agreed to by Cabinet. Minster Joe Harmon questioned the timing of the decision and bemoaned the fact that Cabinet’s approval was not sought. The PPP quickly jumped on the announcement with one PPP leader calling the action “racist.” Guysuco reiterated its commitment to restructure the industry to make it profitable. I am a supporter of relieving the country of the sugar burden. But I recognized that the matter is a complex one whose resolution should be a national undertaking. The politics of sugar are buried deep in our ethno-racial politics and thus should not be taken lightly. Today, I repeat some observations I have made on this matter We in Guyana are left behind only because sugar

became trapped in our ethnic and political quarrels. Fifty years after independence we are now faced with the stern challenge about what to do about sugar. Production has declined from 300,000 tons in the 1960s to 207,000 tons in 2015 and a contribution of 3.5 percent to Guyana’s Gross Domestic Product. The global cost of sugar production averages 16 US cents per pound while Guyana does so at between 35 to 45 US cents per pound and sells it at 25 US cents per pound. Guyana is not only recording a loss, but has been also subsidising sugar sold to Europe: GYD$12 billion in 2015; GYD$9 billion in 2016 and a projected GYD$18 billion in 2017. From a purely business perspective, the Guyana Sugar Corporation is unsustainable, but on the other hand there are 16,000 workers and 300 service providers to the industry and sugar is still the third largest foreign exchange earner at 3.5 percent of Gross Domestic Product.

I agree with the PPP and others that diversifying out of sugar would have a near-term impact on the mostly Indian Guyanese workforce. But to not point out that the present government has continued the subsidy of the industry even as it searched for ways to get out of the historic hole leads me to question the objective of the leaders. If you are making a case of Indian suffering, at least lay all the facts on the table. Its commonsense economics that if a poor economy such as ours continues to bury money in an unprofitable industry that is not able to generate enough to at least pay back the subsidy, then in the end the country, including the workers in the subsidized industry, suffers. Yes, sugar workers would have their jobs, but their wages and those of other workers would continue to be low; the government would have less to spend on other critical areas such as education, health care and infrastructure. I am aware that this line

of argument will not easily convince those who are about to lose their jobs. But the truth should be told. The Indianists should pressure the PPP and the government to devise a plan to guarantee the sugar workers an income during this period of transition. The fight should not be simply to save a dying sugar industry, but more importantly to guarantee sugar workers their daily bread while we root ourselves out of the sugar trap. Directing sugar workers’ anger at the government while behaving as if the PPP has no responsibility for where things are, (are) unhelpful and deceptive. For 23 years, the PPP, in the face of all the signs that sugar was dying, did absolutely nothing to sensibly address the situation. The Indianists must remind the sugar workers that GUYSUCO under the PPP, threatened to de-recognize their union for standing up to the powers that be. This government has not done so. To the government, I said

the following: We can’t have the PPP in the communities rankling the anxieties and the insecurities and the other side is absent from the conversation. Where are the government leaders in the sugar belt, under the bottom-houses, and on the estates talking to the workers? Where are they? It is easy to criticise Mr. Jagdeo and the PPP for spreading doom, but what is the government doing to counteract that message of doom? Sugar workers must be convinced that they have to give something, but the rulers also must be convinced that they have to give something, and you can’t work that out behind the backs of the people. You have to work that out with the people--sugar, labour and politics. It can’t be sugar and politics. An African government overseeing the reorganisation of an industry that is grounded in Indian Guyanese is a recipe for anxiety. Afro-Guyanese are also affected because the conversation for them is that when the public

service or when bauxite was going under there was not as much fuss; why the fuss over sugar. Against that background, those who are in favour of retaining the industry in its current state and those who want to trim Guysuco’s operations down, are both correct. There are two sides of the sugar discourse. When one side talks about sugar being unprofitable, they are correct. When the other side talks about if you get rid of sugar, you would be hurting thousands of workers, they are correct. One of the single biggest failures of independence is that Guyanese have been unable to combine their discourses for the broad benefit of the country. More of Dr. Hinds ‘writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his website www. guyanacaribbeanpolitics. com. Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com

Mackenzie High rewards its high achievers – at academics and sports at annual prize-giving ceremony By Naomi Marshall MACKENZIE High on Thursday celebrated yet another year of phenomenal success, at both academics and sports, under the theme, ‘Consolidating our legacy while striving for excellence.’ The occasion was the hosting of its 71st Annual Speech Night and Prize-giving Ceremony, which saw more than 150 students, past and present, and teachers being awarded for their achievements during the academic year, 2016-2017. According to the school’s principal, Mr Haslyn Small, 80% of the children they sent up passed the National Grade Nine Assessment (NGNA), with 51% passes in Mathematics; 71% in Science; 88% in Social Studies; and 100% in English. The prize for the school’s

NGNA Top Student this year went to Sharlene Wilson. At the Caribbean Secondary Examination Council (CSEC), Mackenzie High got an overall pass rate of 78%, with 144 Grade Ones. Eight of those students were named among the country’s Top 10 performers. According to a breakdown by subject, Mackenzie High obtained 100% passes in Agricultural Science, Electronic Document Preparation and Management (EDPM), Family and Resource Management, Food, Nutrition and Health, Principles of Accounts, Technical Drawing, Industrial Technology, Textile Clothing and Fashion, and Physical Education. The prize for the school’s CSEC Top Student this year went to Tyrique Jacobis. Performance-wise at the Caribbean Advance

Proficiency Examination (CAPE), Mackenzie High obtained an overall pass rate of 83%, with 100% passes at Agricultural Science Unit 1, Caribbean Studies, Communication Studies, Geography Unit 1 and Geography Unit 2. Asher Marks was titled as the top performer at the CAPE level for the entire township of Linden. According to Principal Small: “Mackenzie High School has recognised the need for striking a balance between syllabus, books, curriculum and co-curricular activities.” This led to the recognition of all those who excelled at co-curricular activities in 2017, such as Chantoba Bright, Daniel Williams and Deshawna Skeete, just to name a few who did. In addition, Bright was awarded Sportswoman of the Year, while Williams

was titled Sportsman of the Year. Presidential adviser on Youth Empowerment, Mr Aubrey Norton, in his remarks noted that the success of Mackenzie High School is dependent on all stakeholders taking up their roles. He advised the awardees to have a vision, and to develop a plan to ensure that they become who they want to be. “If there is one thing that can take you out of poverty honestly, is that band of education. Take the opportunity; education is surely one of the best ways of emancipation,” Norton said, adding: “To all of you who would have received awards, ‘Congratulations!’ But you also have a duty to help those that didn’t receive awards. A lot of times we become selfish with our knowledge; and so I urge you to remove the selfishness that characterises

Top CSEC student of the Mackenzie High School,Tyrique Jacobis

our society, and recognise that education form in a communal way with each of us helping each other will cause us to succeed.” In closing, he urged the awardees to become leaders and not a band of followers. “If you don’t solve problems,” he said, “you wouldn’t progress. If you get everything on a platter, you wouldn’t get the best… “I urge you to utilise the

skills that you pursue; I urge you to utilise this opportunity and to begin the process of further transforming Mackenzie High School.” At the event, special awards were also presented, such as the Jerimiah Nurse Award, Visually Impaired Award, Jonathan Peters Award, Business Achievers Award, Arts Top Achievers and the Science Scholars Award.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017

Gov’t lacks testicular fortitude to contain Russia, it will be worse with ExxonMobil NO foreign business, regardless of who owns it or what it brings to the table, must be allowed to think that its management can get away with treating Guyanese worse than dogs and trampling the constitution and Laws of Guyana. No party/group administering the government must allow any Guyanese, much less foreigners, to transgress the rights of another and/or violate our laws. Our forebears did not fight for and achieve freedom in order for us be shackled today. Love of country is much more than flying the flag high, reciting the National Pledge, singing the National Anthem, observing traditional pomp and ceremonies, and glibly talking about obeying laws and treating others with respect. Patriotism requires protecting and defending the sovereignty of one’s country with all one’s might, be it going to war for its ideals, safeguarding its institutions (laws, ethics, values, etc) and protecting its citizens. You cannot claim patriotism or love of country and allow others to get a pass trampling its institutions, the dignity, dreams and aspirations of its citizens. This issue where government continues to allow Russian Aluminium (RUSAL) management -- who has 80 percent shares in the Bauxite Company of Guyana (BCGI) and Government 20 -- to stomp on our laws and mistreat Guyanese workers brings into question who really running things in this country and to whom our political leadership feels beholden or obligated. What is taking place in independent Guyana where members of the government are behaving like Donald Trump towards Russia ought to make us very concerned. Unlike the United States

where media, sections of its political leadership, institutions of state and civil society will unrelentingly hold the President to account, we do not have such a formidable force, though we are not incapable of rising to similar level. That society will get to the bottom of what made Trump, retired Lieutenant General Michael Flynn, Paul Manafort et al malleable in the hands of the Russian Government and that un-nerving sense of demonstrated obligation. Following Special Prosecutor Robert Mueller’s revealed findings proving that taking the oath to uphold the laws, being commander-in-chief, head of state, serving in war, etc do not automatically transfer to patriotism. Where the U.S. has to sort out its problem of alleged Russia’s interference in its elections, depriving the electoral free will to elect their candidate, and the subverting its sovereignty, we have our problems to sort out or our faith will be that of a satellite country and our people pawns to expansionism. This issue where BCGI is being allowed to get away with mistreating Guyanese either because our elected leaders are afraid of Russia or in similar predicament like Trump et al, bears dire consequences. Like Trump who lacks the balls to stand up to Russia, evident in refusal to sign into law sanctions passed by the Congress or efforts to remove those imposed by predecessor Barack Obama via Executive Orders, our concern, outrage and disappointment cannot be directed there and not here for we are charting similar waters. Lying before me is a circular issued by BCGI management informing workers

that the waiver on tax-free overtime and premium hours worked benefit, retroactive from 2016 to present, will not be paid this year but next year (2018) via weekly pay-outs, and this represents an agreement arrived at with government. In last week’s column, I noted when Minister Keith Scott sought engagement with the BCGI management on Wednesday 29th November to address non-payment of the benefit in the absence of the workers’ representative (GB&GWU), he was transmitting a message that government is timid in the face of foreign force and accepting continuous abuse of local labour and our laws. When the union delegation met the minister on Thursday, 30th November, said concerns were noted. Our worst fear has materialised. BCGI workers issued an ultimatum to call a strike on 30th November if this benefit was not paid. This was averted when Minister Scott got BCGI to finally sign the agreement and thereafter pronounced that the money must be paid before Christmas. Somebody is lying to the workers or there exists clear collusion on the part of both to continue the disrespect and abuse. BCGI is seemingly confident it could get away with murder, or as Trump once remarked during his campaign, that he [it] can shoot somebody and still won’t lose support. Last week I was in BCGI putting in place the new branch leadership after GB&GWU on 3rd October won the poll by landslide. The disgruntlement is suffocating. Workers not only feel betrayed by their government, but are incensed that in their efforts to make a living and provide for their families, their dignity and

respect are coming into the cross-hairs. Conditions of work are deplorable. For instance, in an eight-hour work day a heavy-duty operator is being paid approximately $4000. This is less than the unskilled worker will receive at a construction site. The BCGI doesn’t want unions in the workplace, knowing full well there will be zero tolerance for mistreatment of workers and contempt for the laws. And where government as the custodian of the laws lacks the cajones to enforce them as with any oppressive system the oppressed will fight back. Last week Stabroek News did an incisive editorial on the issue. I recognise the media for keeping our feet to the fire because by doing this, they play an important role in bringing about and ensuring law and order and development of society If any harbours the notion that abuse is a hazard of foreign investment and government has to suck it up, wait until ExxonMobil starts work here -- BCGI abuses will be child’s play. Our wealth will not only be expatriated, but as is happening in other countries where government or those seeking office are prepared to cast the nation and citizens’ welfare aside in the name of greed, the worse is yet to come. The story of ExxonMobil and Papua New Guinea is one with which every citizen must become acquainted, for it’s not only hair-raising, but lawless and corrosive. Yesterday, after prolonged silence and allegations, government made known the US$20 million signing fee received from ExxonMobil will go towards defending Guyana’s territorial integrity. This information only became public thanks to the unofficial release of the

cheque by a patriot, showing the money was paid. Government had earlier committed to make the contract public, though this came after public pressure and society looks forward to it. Person(s), including the media, pursuing the matter of transparency and public disclosure are demonstrating love of country. That US$20M came from the proceeds of the people’s resources and we are entitled to know how our business is being managed. While the PPP/C played its watchdog role in questioning and calling for disclosure, its conduct in government on Exxon was shady and it must recognise that its attitude will be viewed as insincere and more akin to thief-man not liking to think or know he mattie gat bag. Patriotism must not be reduced to buzzwords or sloganeering, hoodwinking the masses as Trump’s “Make America Great Again.” With Russia expanding its wings and strengthening ties via Venezuela’s oil resources by helping Nicolas Maduro pay Venezuela’s debts, as we debate handling the border controversy it is to Guyana’s strategic advantage and survival ensuring our laws and citizens are respected. Government is better empowered to make a stronger case and secure empathy internationally; demonstrating it zealously guards the nation’s laws from the threat of any foreign force. Government will not be taken seriously by Venezuela when it watches its greatest ally (Russia) being allowed to trample Guyanese and our laws. International relations, though complex, is not devoid of shrewdness including ensuring the institutions of state, particularly in our case of border conflicts, and oil

and gas belching from the country’s stomach. These are intertwined and can be affected through tactics of non-cooperation, alliances, hindrance and collusion to corrupt. Here is where I take serious objection to David Hinds seeking to justify Forbes Burnham’s “ideas are a thing of the past,” for Burnham was a leading fighter for our independence from foreign control, Guyanese exploiting the nation’s resources for our development, and laying the foundation to forge one nation out of six peoples by legitimising rights and freedoms To Eric Phillips who repeatedly expressed the view on my facebook that I daily speak for sugar workers and not reparation, let me accordingly advise him. The fight to make reparation (unpaid labour) a regional issue was fought by others, including the labour movement, in his absence. He now has the privilege to serve as Guyana’s representative on CARICOM’s Reparation Commission established in 2013. Being black and proud or black and conscious doesn’t mean one cannot represent the rights of others. I’m well aware that the threat to the rights of any group poses a threat to the rights of all groups, and group/individual that sees such threat from government or person is likely to hear from me. Black pride and consciousness would recognise these principles and safeguard them. When we are welded around common values, protected by the same institutions and know that Government will safeguard these with all its might, it makes it difficult for foreign forces to penetrate and exploit us.

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Oil and gas in a‘Green’ State future

PRESIDENT David Granger has declared that Guyana will become a ‘green’ state, defined by protection of the nation’s natural patrimony; its diverse eco-systems, vast untouched forests teeming with magnificent flora and fauna. Guyana is committed to green-energy generation, even as it looks to use the revenues it will gain through its oil-andgas future. In the last Government in Action, we discussed the Government of Guyana’s push for transparency and accountability in the emerging Oil and Gas sector, as well as what are the benefits to be had for the ordinary Guyanese. This week we will focus on how the administration intends to balance the exploration of the country’s oil wealth with its ‘green’ future. OIL AND THE ‘GREEN’ STATE As it stands, the country is aggressively pursuing a Green State Development Strategy, which is aimed at building greater economic resilience by diversifying production and reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and generating renewable energy from

a number of sources – biomass, hydro, solar and wind; emphasise low-carbon manufacturing. It goes without saying then, that the delicate balance between the extractive industries, including oil, and the commitment to green development must be clearly defined and maintained.

United Nations Environment Assembly in Nairobi, Kenya, said that our natural resources cannot be developed at the expense of the future of our people. “People, therefore, must be at the heart of the development of our natural resources. People must come before profits. The pursuit of prof-

President Granger, during his address to the High-level Event on Combating Pollution in the Extractive Industries on December 4, 2017 at the

its has been accompanied, over the past century, by an exponential increase in extractive industries. This expansion, however, has aggravated environmental damage, which can have a long-lasting and harmful negative impact …on human dignity and well-being,” he said. The Head of State said that pollution in the extractive industries threatens environmental security and it increases human vulnerability to human-induced environmental degradation and impacts on human security. Guyana has faced these risks before, with the extractive industry being one of the major income-earners. President Granger believes that as we look to an oil future and learn the lessons of the past, we can align divergent sectors to create an economy which is centred on ‘green’ development. “Guyana’s ‘Green State Development Strategy’ will become our blueprint for moving towards becoming a ‘green state.’ The ‘green state’ will exemplify the policy of placing people before profits. The ‘green state’ will demonstrate how

our extractive industries – bauxite, diamond and gold mining and logging – can be aligned with the protection of our environment, the preservation of our biodiversity and the promotion of the generation of energy from renewable sources. The ‘green state’ will become a model of envi-

ronmental stewardship. It will demonstrate the signal role which a small state can play in protecting the world’s air, water and land from the threat of pollution,” the Head of State noted. GSDS GAINING INTERNATIONAL MOMENTUM Head of the Project Management Office

(PMO), Mr. Marlon Bristol, in an interview with the Ministry of the Presidency, said that the actions of government demonstrate that it is serious about the development of a diversified economy, built on a climate-resilient, people-centred approach. “The Green State Development Strategy is basically putting the people before the profits. What has basically been the criticisms of the LCDS is that it has not been inclusive. What is it that makes the GSDS inclusive is the consideration for the people and consideration for the sectors. So we moved from low carbon to low emissions, expanding from the forestry sector to beyond. If you look at the pillars of the Green State Development Strategy, you would see that the human development and human welfare is a very, very critical focus,” Mr. Bristol said. Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon, who holds responsibility for oversight

of the Department of the Environment, in his presentation to the National Assembly on December 7, 2017, added to the President’s comments, noting that Guyana has been a global leader in the fight against climate change by not just pursuing a ‘green’ agenda in the face of an impending oil-and-gas sector but an agenda, which is comprehensive and seeks

to promote the wholesome development of the country with a special emphasis on the protection of its environment and extensive biodiversity. “I believe that in any part of the world, Guyana is the place to be. We have a broader strategy that [sic] the Low Carbon Development Strategy. Our strategy involves everyone, it involves the transportation sector, the use of solar energy, of wind energy, of technology and all of these elements,” he said. Mr. Bristol echoed these sentiments, saying that the government’s Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) is a far more comprehensive approach than the Low Carbon Development Strategy (LCDS). The GSDS is so far-reaching and comprehensive, that the Government of Guyana has managed to receive funding from the Government of Norway to the tune of US$1.5M to take the strategy to citizens to ensure that it is wholesome, well

rounded and representative of all Guyanese. “This is why the Minister of Environment has endorsed the President’s Green State Development Strategy. The Green State Development Strategy looks at energy and resource-efficiency, it looks at reducing carbon emissions and pollutions, it See page 13

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Oil and gas in a‘Green’ State ...

From page 12

and accountability in the mining sector. It is also about transparency and accountability in the oiland-gas sector and the revenues, which we will get,” he said.

looks at a more equitable distribution of income, it looks at increasing decent jobs and it also looks at preventing loss of biodiversity and ecosystem services. So those areas show that the GSDS is far more comprehensive than the Low Carbon Development Strategy, which is focused on low carbon, low emission from deforestation and degradation…,” he said. BALANCING OIL AND PROTECTION OF THE ENVIRONMENT Addressing a gathering of Guyanese in New York in September, the Head of State said that Guyana will be “walking on two legs” as it intends to ensure that while it reaps the economic benefits of a booming oil and gas sector, its national patrimony, fragile ecosystems, pristine rainforest and biodiversity are protected. “When we speak of petroleum exploration, when we speak of the prospect of becoming an oil state, we are not abandoning our commitment to our biodiversity – we will walk on two legs. We will become a ‘green’ state and we will use the petroleum profits to develop the infrastructure, and develop the other requirements of our country. Petroleum is going to be transformative from an economic point of view [but] we are not going to destroy our biodiversity, our beautiful rivers and waterfalls, our lakes. We’re going to ensure that new industries fit into our landscape, fit into the plan for the economic development of our country,” President Granger said on that occasion. The Head of the PMO, Mr. Bristol too, believes that the balance is more than possible, as he noted that the pursuit of a ‘green’ state can run in line with the production of oil. The commitment and political will from the Head of State and the government, he said, makes it even more

realistic. “Definitely we can balance both and that is why the voices on social media and other places are as loud as it is right now. Those voices are there because they are seeking for that to be achieved and that is what the government has committed to, having a ‘green’ economy in the midst of oil and we can definitely achieve that. I do not think that the oil is more or less for local consumption. It will be exported and that is why you see the production of oil moving our current deficit to a surplus so exports will escalate definitely. I do not think that finding oil is an impediment to achieving a green state,” he said. Moreover, the strategy will add value to production through cleaner, cheaper and renewable energy- generation and propose plans to move closer towards the goal of full, renewable energy by the year 2025, thereby reducing the country’s exposure to the volatility of oil markets. What is interesting is that the new stream of revenue that oil is expected to pump into the economy will enable the country to implement this green strategy. This point was reinforced by Minister of Public Infrastructure, Mr. David Patterson, who explained that on the part of

the Administration there is a strong, unwavering resolve in so far as it relates to green development and oil will only serve to strengthen that resolve. “We see oil as a resource which we will use to empower our renewable-energy portfolio. The revenues from there will be pumped into our green initiatives… we will be able to transition even faster with additional resources,” Minister Patterson said. Mr. Bristol agrees that the oil revenues will fuel initiatives, projects and programmes, which can see the country becoming a fullfledged ‘green’ nation. “There are two initiatives that will drive that. One is that His Excellency talks about establishing a Sovereign Wealth Fund (SWF). In fact, Norway has the largest SWF in the world and what the SWF does is it makes investments into other sectors and initiatives even outside the boundaries of Guyana to stabilise the fluctuation of oil prices. This ensures a stable economy and resources are there to ensure that development is consistent over the years. In addition to that, the reason why Guyana is pursuing an Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is not limited to transparency

THE ‘GREEN’ STATE AND RENEWABLE ENERGY Already, the government through various partnerships with local and international partners and donors have been embarking on projects, which will solidify the commitment to the ‘green’ agenda. Through the Government of Norway, the country has secured funding for three major projects, worth over US$32M even as a ministerial team is expected to meet with the Norwegian Government to discuss and fine-tune the plans with regard to hydropower. In the meantime, however, Mr. Bristol explains that the projects will target the Green State Development Strategy, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and Sustainable Land Management. Additionally, through funding from the Italian Government to the tune of US$650,000, a project was launched earlier this year with the aim of establishing a reliable point of reference for the existing state of energy use in Bartica. Further, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on July 13, 2017, the Japan-Caribbean Climate Change Partnership (J-CCCP)

was launched in the town. Through that initiative, the town benefitted from the installation of a 20Kwp grid connected Solar Photovoltaic (PV) system at the Three-Mile Secondary School along with the installation of energy-efficient lighting, as well as light-emitting diode (LED) street lighting. The partnership was funded by the Government of Japan to the tune of US $15 million and supports

countries in advancing the process of improving energy-security planning for adaptation to climate change. Guyana in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) is also in the early stage of a US $1.6M programme known as Mainstreaming Low Emissions Technology in Guyana. The funding is being secured through the Global Environment Facility.

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Drone operations need legislative backing By Lisa Hamilton

LOCAL businessman, Mr Lancelot Khan, is calling for the enactment of legislation governing the use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), better known as ‘drones’. The proprietor of a local security firm, Khan, who is also President of the Guyana Drone Operators Association (GDOA), made the call on Thursday during a workshop at the Duke Lodge aimed at

bringing together key stakeholders to address safety concerns. As he told participants, while the organisation is supportive of the use of ‘drones’, there are, however, several implications and concerns that need to be addressed, and urgently. One of those concerns is that drones can be negatively used to commit such illicit acts as drug distribution over prison walls, interrupting airline flight paths, hindering

emergency services from performing their duties, and creating privacy breaches, or even as inexpensive weapons. He said that it is with the foregoing implications in mind that the GDOA has sought the assistance of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) as well as the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) with improving regulations regarding the importation of drones, the granting of flight permission to their operators, and the

overall drone operations. “We’ve been mainly collaborating and speaking with the Civil Aviation Authority,” Khan said, adding: “They’ve been very cooperative and helpful; we’ve had many of our questions answered.” Yet, in spite of all the advances they have made so far, Khan said there are still some kinks that need to be ironed out. And one of the challenges of which he speaks has to do

Director of Aviation Safety Regulations, Christopher Kirkcaldy, delivering opening remarks at the ‘drone’ workshop on Thursday

GDOA’s Lancelot Khan talking ‘drones’ on Thursday

with the need to persistently upgrade the necessary regulations governing the use of drones as fast as the technology advances. Said he: “The regulations are developing all over the world. Even in the Caribbean, there are some nations that have outright put a temporary ban on the usage of drones, just because the technology keeps changing. “The applications keep changing, and the regulatory agencies just can’t keep up with the change of technology of those applications.” HELP IS ON THE WAY But, he needn’t worry, as according to Director of Aviation Safety Regulations, Mr Christopher Kirkcaldy, help is on the way. “Going forward from today, in the very near future, we will be putting into effect policies and regulations which will be approved for the use by all drone operators,” he said. “We will certainly attempt to have workshops with those drone operators; workshops that are necessary to ensure the safe use of the drones within the airspace,” he told the Guyana Chronicle at the end of the workshop. Unbeknownst to many, drones can be used for numerous purposes apart from aerial photography. Infrastructural inspection, construction, security, surveying, mapping, mining and aggregates, as well as search-and-rescue, are just some of the additional uses

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE December 10, 2017 of the remotely controlled aerial devices. As a safety precaution, the GDOA would like to encourage and remind UAV operators to: “Always keep the drone in sight; stay below 150m (492ft) away from all aircraft; stay 50cm (150ft) away from people and property; and never fly at nights, or in low-visibility conditions.” The organisation wants to assist UAV operators in becoming skilled, trained and certified operators, and as such,

measures have been taken to encourage individuals to register the necessary information about their drones, obtain written permission from the GCAA, and adhere to the GCAA’s directive. Said Kirkcaldy, “Any new drone operators that register or apply to us, we will look on them on a case-by-case basis to ensure that we’re satisfied that they are able to safely operate within the airspace, and to follow the instructions that are given to them.”

He said that quite a number of registrations have been received thus far, and would like to encourage other operators to register their drones, so that they can receive the necessary authority to use them in the public domain. As Khan observed: “We’re fortunate that the authorities want to engage us, and want us to be part of forming the regulations and the rules that will apply. “So, rather than sitting back and waiting... now is the time to step forward.”

Enthusiasts checking out the latest in ‘drones’ on Thursday (Photos by Samuel Maughn)

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CARICOM lauded for sustained engagement with Cuba

GUYANESE international relations specialist, Dr. Mark Kirton, has hailed CARICOM’S sustained engagement with Cuba over the past 45 years during a presentation at a conference organised by the Norman Girvan Centre for Caribbean Studies at the University of Havana, Cuba, on Friday. Dr. Kirton noted that “the courageous decision by the four Caribbean states, Guyana, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados and Jamaica in 1972 effectively blocked any effort aimed at the isolation of Cuba in the Region.” Additionally, Dr. Kirton argued, an assessment of a founding pillar of CARICOM --foreign policy coordination -- would indicate that the decision was one of the Region’s most significant achievements. Addressing contempo-

rary Caribbean and hemispheric issues, Dr. Kirton presented the view that sustainable peace and adherence to the principles of international law must guide the Region’s international relations. Among other issues, Dr. Kirton highlighted energy security as a major concern for hemispheric states and suggested that there be a review of the PetroCaribe arrangement, given the current conditions in Venezuela. He recommended that energy-producing states, members of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) including Brazil, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, Venezuela, Colombia and Mexico seek to establish a comprehensive energy framework and an alternative collaborative mechanism, which would shift the responsibility from

one state (Venezuela) to a consortium of states with the coordination from CELAC. Dr. Kirton also addressed the issue of climate change and disaster management and suggested that, with the increasing frequency of climate-related disasters, consideration should be given to extending participation in the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) to include countries of the Greater Caribbean including Cuba, which can bring additional expertise and experience to the Region’s disaster management arena. The conference which was hosted by the University of Havana is an annual event which coincides with the observance of Cuba-CARICOM Day and attracts scholars and academics from across the Region.

AMCAR workers now unionised

Representatives of the Department of Labour, Amazon Caribbean (Guyana) Limited and GAWU after the inking of the agreements on Friday

AMAZON Caribbean (Guyana) Limited, better known as AMCAR has recognised the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) as the bargaining agent for its employees. The two parties signed a Recognition and Settlement of Disputes agreement at the Department of Labour, Ministry of Social Protection, Brickdam, Georgetown, in the presence of Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle on Friday. GAWU President Komal Chand praised the agreement which recognises the union as the bargaining agent for the 35 employees based at Rosignol, West Bank Ber-

bice. The employees approached the union seeking representation and had made an application to be considered by the board since 2014. Chand noted that there were delays in formalising the agreement as all contentious matters had to be resolved, pointing out that these were done in an amicable manner, resulting in the inking of the agreement. He is now looking forward to fruitful relations with the heart of palm processing company. Meanwhile, Amazon Caribbean (Guyana) Limited Chief Executive Officer Jean-Francois Gerin said his company has been a certified

agro-processor of perishables since 1997 and is very pleased to ink the recognition agreement. The company, he said, is here to push the agro-industry and wants to see fruitful collaboration. Chief Labour Officer Charles Ogle said he is satisfied the parties have reached an agreement and is optimistic that they can wrap up the conditions-of-work labour agreement soon.= Trade unions, he said, are here to help build, not to disrupt and their place is to negotiate and make representation for workers and act as watchdogs against malpractices at the workplace.

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South Ruimveldt to face St. Angela’s in MoPH Smalta Girls U-11 final By Stephan Sookram DEFENDING champions St Angela’s Primary are back in the finals of the 2017 Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) Smalta Girls U-11 Football tournament. Following the quarter-final and semi-final action yesterday at the Ministry of Education ground, the two teams will now face each other in a bid for the 2017 championship. In the first semi-final, St Angela’s beat out St. Pius 4-1 thanks to Nakasi St. Jules. St Jules was instrumental as she scored in the 3rd, 19th, 28th and 30th minutes to ensure her team’s

run to the final. Kesia Wilson was the lone scorer for the losers. In the second semi, it was a different affair with South Ruimveldt getting the better of their Western Neighbors--West Ruimveldt--1-0. Fayon Harvey scored the decider in the 26th min. In the earlier quarter final, North Georgetown and South Ruimveldt drew their game with Jadea Maison scoring for North in the 26th and Kci Pollard for South in the 24th. St Pius also beat F.E Pollard 2-1 thanks to Kerry Boyce (5th) and Kezra Wilson (30th) while Tallia Wharton was F.E Pollard’s

scorer. West Ruimveldt also registered a 3-0 win over Redeemer thanks to Akila Smith, Celica Williams and Ashayla Pedro, while St Angela’s trumped over Tucville 5-0. St Jules again found herself on the scoresheet twice, with one each from Patricia Rollox, Akeela McKenzie and Shikaria Lupe. Apart from next week’s final, the third place playoff will be between West Ruimveldt and St Pius, the fifth place playoff between Tucville and North Georgetown and the Seventh place playoff between F.E Pollard and Redeemer.

From back page

GFF partners with Corona... teams are: Ann’s Grove, Buxton United, Camptown, Cougars, Den Amstel, Fruta Conquerors, Grove Hi-Tech, Guyana Defence Force (GDF), Guyana Police Force (GPF), Indigenous All-Stars, Milerock, New Amsterdam (NA) United, Pouderoyen, Victoria Kings, Western Tigers and Winners Connection. The winning team will go home with $2M, second place $1M while third and fourth placed teams is expected to pocket $500,000

and $250,000 respectively. According to the GFF’s president Wayne Forde, the tournament marks the start of a regularisation process for ‘Year-End’ football in Guyana, while the Federation seeks to regulate football played in the country. Looking ahead at the tournament which starts next Friday in Linden, Forde said he was happy to partner with Top Brandz Distributors, since they share a common interest, which is to see the growth

of Football in Guyana. Top Brandz Distributors’ Marketing Manager, Marvin Wray, noted that “this is the beginning of a beautiful relationship that will last for years. We believe in the GFF and the Guyanese culture.” Wray told the gathering of media and officials of the participating teams that his company is looking forward to their relationship with the GFF and that together, they can truly take the game forward.

From back page

GFF moves to regularise ...

“In particular, the GFF Executive Committee's Constitutional mandate is to control the game in all its forms. As the final adjudicator in all football matters, the GFF has to ensure that the rules, officiating, security etc. comply with the regulations of FIFA, CONCACAF and the GFF. In 2018, tournament organizers will have to undergo greater screening prior to being licensed and approved to organize football competitions,” Forde said. Among the chief concerns of the GFF

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is the impact of non-approval on the image of the beautiful game with the potential disrepute that may result, including match fixing and other forms of manipulation. This potentially can ultimately lead to an unsafe environment for players and fans, including loss to life and limb. The GFF looks forward to the complete cooperation from the promoters and coordinators of football in Guyana and will provide all necessary support to ensure full compliance is achieved.

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Ahead of team;s tour of South Africa

India to approach 2018 as the year to shed`poor travellers tag’ NEW DELHI (Reuters) India will approach 2018 as the year to shed their “poor travellers” tag, head coach Ravi Shastri said ahead of the team’s tour of South Africa. India top the test rankings having sealed their record-equalling ninth consecutive series on Wednesday, six of which came at home and only one -- against West Indies in the Caribbean -- outside Asia. Sterner tests await Virat Kohli’s men next year when they also travel to England and Australia, where conditions will not be as conducive to their spinners as it is at home, and the moving

ball will probe their batting technique. “This team is looking good and they have their priorities in place. They’re hungry to prove themselves home and away,” Shastri told the Times of India newspaper. “It’s often been argued that India are poor travellers. We want to be the team that helped change this perception and this is the year to do it.” “Frankly, we’re not too hooked on to this ‘home and away’ thing, where a lot of chatter goes on about conditions that aren’t too familiar,” the former test player added.

Pacer Jasprith Bumrah has been handed a maiden call-up

”For instance, once you’ve played a test match in Kolkata, how long does it take before you play another test there? Two years? Sometimes three? It’s the same as an overseas tour. “So that mindset is quite passé. In this day and age, wherever you go, it’s home. You just got to walk in there and perform.” Starting on Jan. 5, India play three Tests in South Africa -- as well as six oneday and three Twenty20 internationals -- and, for a change, they will be relying more on pace than spin to succeed against the world second-ranked side. India have named five

frontline pacemen in their 17-man squad, handing a maiden call-up to Jasprit Bumrah, whose unorthodox action and ability to bowl yorkers have made him a limited-overs asset. “...he has just worked his way to the top so well. He’s young, hard working, and has a unique action with which he can whip up quite some pace,” Shastri said of the 24-year-old. “Bumrah adds a lot of value to this attack. We have to earn those 20 wickets if we have to make any impact in a test match and we need all the arsenal possible because it’s going to be quite a testing tour.”

Suspended Ben Duckett poured drink over James Anderson’s head ENGLAND coach Trevor Bayliss struggled to hide his anger as another nighttime incident threatened to derail the Ashes tour completely. Ben Duckett, the Lions batsman, was suspended from Saturday’s tour match against a Cricket Australia XI following an incident in The Avenue Bar, Perth, on Thursday – the same venue where the bizarre Jonny Bairstow/Cameron Bancroft ‘headbutt’ incident, on October 29, took place. Duckett is thought to have poured a drink over the head of a senior England player, believed to be Jimmy Anderson, and had to explain himself to Lions coach Andy Flower, who worked with England’s senior side from 2009-13, earlier on Saturday. The players’ midnight curfew, imposed in Brisbane after the Bairstow/Bancroft incident came to light, was lifted for Thursday only. It remains to be seen whether Duckett will stay with the Lions or be sent home. Bayliss said: “I think the incident was fairly trivial but in the current climate it is not acceptable. Everyone has been warned about how small things can be blown

emerged as England were losing the First Test at Brisbane. There is also an ongoing criminal investigation involving all-rounder Ben Stokes. Director of Cricket Andrew Strauss returned home

Ben Duckett is in trouble in Australia

out of proportion and the ECB have been strict to the boys with their message. “They can’t keep making the same mistakes. Most of the guys are fine. Somewhere along the line, some guys have got to pull their heads in. “Am I fed up? Very much so. I am here to coach the team and I end up spending most of my time in front of cameras trying to explain some behaviour that the boys have been warned about.” There were several members of the Test squad out

with the Lions on Thursday, after the Ashes party had taken part in a team quiz at their hotel, shortly after arriving in Perth from Adelaide, where Australia won the Second Test to go 2-0 up in the series. Although the curfew was lifted, both Bayliss and captain Joe Root are thought to have warned the players to behave appropriately when out. They were accompanied by members of the ECB security team. The Bairstow/Bancroft incident, on October 29,

after the Adelaide Test but plans to be back in Australia ahead of the Melbourne Test, which starts on Boxing Day. The ECB board are also aware of the incident and are certain to have taken a dim view of it.

England sources reject the idea that there is a drinking culture within the team, but are concerned that certain individuals continually fail to heed warnings from management about potential pitfalls.

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 10, 2017

Ronaldo at the double as five-star Real prove too hot for Sevilla By Richard Martin MADRID (Reuters) - Cristiano Ronaldo celebrated his recent Ballon d‘Or award by scoring twice for the first time in a La Liga game this season as champions Real Madrid swept to a stunning 5-0 win over Sevilla on Saturday to go five points behind leaders Barcelona. Real faced a crisis in defence with Raphael Varane, captain Sergio Ramos, Dani Carvajal and holding midfielder Casemiro all unavail-

able but Zinedine Zidane’s side produced a lethal attacking display, scoring all their goals before halftime. Nacho Fernandez cashed in on a woeful attempted clearance from the visitors following a corner to put Real ahead in the third minute. Ronaldo sidefooted home a through ball from Marco Asensio to score the second in the 23rd. Ronaldo, who had paraded his joint-record five Ballon d‘Or trophies on the Santiago Bernabeu pitch before kickoff, then thumped in the third

Ronaldo then bagged Real’s second and third goals after 31 minutes

from the penalty spot, his kick proving too powerful for visiting goalkeeper Sergio Rico. Toni Kroos scored the most impressive goal of the game by charging forward from his own half and playing a wall pass with Lucas Vazquez before stroking the ball beyond Rico, while 18-year-old Achraf Hakimi notched his first goal for Real in the 42nd minute to complete another lethal breakaway. Real go third in the standings on 31 points, level with Valencia who host Celta Vigo

later on Saturday, and five behind Barcelona, who visit Villarreal on Sunday. Sevilla went into the game level on points with Real and after qualifying for the last-16 of the Champions League but they were blown apart and suffered their heaviest defeat of the season in all competitions. Real, meanwhile, head off in confident mood to the United Arab Emirates to try and defend the Club World Cup title and will miss next week’s domestic action.

Seventy-six horses to compete in today’s `Nand Persaud Karibee Sprint Classic’

- Full gate registered for feature event, says organisers By Rajiv Bisnauth WITH seventy-six of the country’s top race-horses confirmed for today’s `Nand Persaud Karibee Sprint Classic’, turfies can expect a truly exciting day of horse racing. Today’s event is billed for the Nand Persaud Group of Companies racing facility at Number 36 Village, Corentyne, Berbice. In an invited comment

yesterday, sources close to the organizing committee confirmed that all systems are in place, adding that a full gate of 12 entries will be lined-up for the feature `D’ and Lower event. Seven races are scheduled for today which will see more than $4M in cash and trophies up for the taking. The feature event over 880 yards will see the winning stable taking home $400 000.

The `H’ and Lower

animals will also battle

Top horse-race action anticipated in today’s `Nand Persaud Karibee Sprint Classic’.

over 880 yards and the winning stable will earn $260 000, while the `I’ Class horses will race for 660 yards for the $200 000 first prize. Horses classified `K’ and Lower will contest 660 yards and will have a first prize purse of $140 000. There will also be three races for `L’ and Lower horses and two of these races will see the horses gallop for 660 yards to win the first prize package of $100 000 each.

The other `L’ Class event will be an 880 yards contest and carries a first prize worth $100 000 also. The champion jockey, the champion trainer and the champion stable will all receive trophies; compliments of Trophy Stall of Bourda Market, Georgetown. Admission to the venue is $1000 for adults while children pay half that amount. Parking and programme cost $500 and $200 respectively. Race time is 12:30hrs.

Kane scores twice as Tottenham hit form to thrash Stoke (REUTERS)-Tottenham Hotspur emerged from their recent slump to demolish Stoke City 5-1 at Wembley in the Premier League on Saturday and continue a run of handsome victories over Mark Hughes’s side. One win in five games had dropped Tottenham out of the title race, and out of the top four, but once Ryan Shawcross’s first-half own goal had given them the lead they proved unstoppable. Tottenham have scored 17 goals and conceded one in their last four meetings with Stoke and are the first English top-flight side to win four consecutive matches against the same club by a four-goal margin. Mauricio Pochettino’s team had found goals hard to come by at their temporary Wembley home in this campaign, especially against teams they brushed aside

with ease last season, but Stoke again proved compliant opposition. Four goals arrived in a flurry after halftime with the impressive Son Heung-min slotting in after 53 minutes and Harry Kane, guilty of missing an earlier sitter, making it 3-0 with a thumping header. Kane side-footed his second in the 65th minute to take his tally to 18 in all competitions this season before Christian Eriksen weighed in with Tottenham’s fifth, following a Son pass. Tottenham Hotspur emerged from their recent slump to demolish Stoke City 5-1 at Wembley in the Premier League on Saturday and continue a run of handsome victories over Mark Hughes’s side. One win in five games had dropped Tottenham out of the title race, and

Tottenham’s Harry Kane scores their fourth goal REUTERS/Toby Melville

out of the top four, but once Ryan Shawcross’s first-half own goal had given them the lead they proved unstoppable. Tottenham have scored 17 goals and conceded one in their last four meetings with Stoke and are the first English top-flight side to win four consecutive matches against the same club by a

four-goal margin. Mauricio Pochettino’s team had found goals hard to come by at their temporary Wembley home in this campaign, especially against teams they brushed aside with ease last season, but Stoke again proved compliant opposition. Four goals arrived in a flurry after halftime with the

impressive Son Heung-min slotting in after 53 minutes and Harry Kane, guilty of missing an earlier sitter, making it 3-0 with a thumping header. Kane side-footed his second in the 65th minute to take his tally to 18 in all competitions this season before Christian Eriksen weighed in with Tottenham’s fifth, following a Son pass. Kane has now scored 33 Premier League goals in the calendar year with four games left, three short of the record set by Alan Shearer in 1995. Shawcross managed to score at the right end to give Stoke a consolation goal but it could not disguise a feeble effort. “The most important thing today was the victory, that we get what we deserved,” Pochettino said. “The performance was

very good, a very great performance from the team, and it is not easy to score five. But I am not surprised by the performance, it was like against Watford and West Bromwich. Always you need a bit of luck to open up games.” Tottenham, who will return to a brand new stadium next to their old White Hart Lane ground next season, are still 15 points adrift of leaders Manchester City who play on Sunday. While a title challenge looks beyond them, Pochettino said a return to the free-scoring football of last season can help them in their bid for a top-four finish. “That is how we need to play from now. Consistency between now and the end of the season is so important if we want to finish in the top four. The team showed their true quality.”

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 10, 2017

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Stephney bats to safeguard the legacy of Essequibo’s cricket By Elroy Stephney I WAS invited along with other former cricketers and distinguished guests to attend an awards ceremony and dinner at the Regional State House recently in celebration of Essequibo’s senior cricketers’ historical achievement of winning the 3 day GCB Franchise League tournament. It was the first time in the history of Essequibo’s cricket that the county won a senior national competition. I indeed felt a sense of pride knowing of the legacy that the players would have cemented; a monumental feat that had eluded past players, including myself. Having witnessed the joy on the faces of our champions that evening, I instantly knew that something special was made of them. The

modern game has evolved tremendously and with the advent of technology, competition among teams has been even fiercer in many instances. Players’ technique and training dynamics have also taken a transformational latitude. It is in this context therefore that I am impressed with the dynamism, commitment and passion by which the current crop of Essequibo senior players have emerged. I recalled that during our activism, especially on the inter-county circuit, that despite the love and passion for the game, we were not progressing either individually or as a team. In fact there was a fundamental vacuum which had negated the prospect of advancing, much less winning against either Demerara or Berbice. Players were naturally gifted, similar to our present set-up, but the institution to test our resolve and patience was ignominiously dysfunctional; and the key of which were not having strong and functioning clubs as well as mentors. I was always intrigued whenever we

bordered to Georgetown or Berbice to play, because the environment was systematically conducive for anyone to perform. Clubs including GCC, DCC, Albion and Port Mourant remain sound institutions that have set high standards. Players emerging therein took practice seriously; hence the energy which they channeled into

Keemo Paul

Victory Valley Royals book semi-final berth Defending champs Colts marching on

HAROLD Adams has emerged as one of the most efficient players in this year’s GABF National Club Championship, and behind yet another all-round performance, he led the Victory Valley Royals to a semi-final berth, following the club’s 67 – 58 win over Retrieve Raiders when the tournament continued on Friday, at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall. In the other game of the evening, defending Champions Bounty Colts picked up their second win of the round-robin Group stage, with a 15 points blow-out of the Amelia’s Ward Jets (65 – 50). It was also the Jets’ second defeat. Playing in the second game of the double-header, Adams had a team-high 18 points and grabbed seven rebounds, along with two steals and two blocks to lead Royals to the third win of the tournament and become the first team to book a spot in the semi-finals, which will be played on December 22. Orlan Glasgow (13) and Trevor Profit (10) were the other top players for the Victory Valley-based team who led from tip-

off and never trailed the Raiders in the game. Neil Marks shot a game-high 21 points for the Raiders, while Keon Cameron and Delon Montrose each had 11 in the loss. The Retrieve Raiders, last year’s finalist, will play the Plaisance Guardians tonight with the hope of winning their first game. Meanwhile, Stanton Rose, considered one of the best ‘back court’ players in Guyana, led all scorers with 19 points in the Colts win over the Jets. Rose was also supported by centre, Shane Webster who netted 14, and hauled in 15 rebounds and Adrian Webster had 14 points for the Jets to go along with his 14 rebounds. Joel Webster was the Jets’ next best scorer with 11. The tournament will continue today with a triple-header, starting from 17:00 hours, bringing together the undefeated Pacesetters and the winless Kobras, followed by an interesting matchup between Ravens and Half Mile Bulls at 19:00 hrs. Raiders and Guardians, two teams who are yet to secure a win, will play at 21:00 hours.

those sessions was as if they were into an actual match. Unfortunately, such a scenario was the opposite by which Essequibo players found their niche. Overtime conditions generally got worse as clubs became disintegrated, players lost their venom and the Administrators became complacent. Notwithstanding, there were outstanding cricketers that had defied the odds to make a name for themselves, including Alfred Maycock, John Floy, Trenton Peters, Dinesh Joseph, Rayon Thomas, Mark Stephney, Rovendra Mandolall, Ramcharran Singh, Ramesh Narine, Jaimini Singh and Norman Fredericks among others. It is to their credit that cricket remains alive in Essequibo. Encouragingly, the current generation has now provided a glimmer of hope to revive the fortunes of the county. With the meteoric rise of Ransford Beaton, Keemo Paul, Kevon Boodie, Anthony Adams, Kemol Savory, Ricardo Adams, who have been featuring prominently, the stage is right for the

Essequibo Cricket Board and stakeholders to heavily invest in their future. The Government is investing in the development of grounds across the Region and it is up to the clubs to take ownership and fully utilise and maintain them. Sports organisers are being recruited to guide the process and legitimise sporting bodies that can

Ransford Beaton

benefit from the allocation of resources, including equipment. I am convinced therefore that this era is the best opportunity for Essequibo’s cricket to rise above the ashes of the past and become quite a formidable force in all formats of the game. The historical achievement of the senior team must form as a catalyst for institutional, technical, practical and decisive changes that will transform the manner in which cricket is administered in Essequibo. While I have been critical in the past, I am optimistic that the future remains blooming and I am prepared to bat again for the county; this time to ensure that Essequibo consistently win titles and having more players featuring in national and international colours. It is still a long journey, but from what I have seen recently, it is obvious that our players are beginning to exhibit signs of resilience, character, self-belief and chemistry; ingredients that for too long were missing from the armory of the Cinderella County.

EBFA Ralph Green Under-11 football

Agricola, Samatta Point/Kaneville & Diamond Upsetters join Grove in semis DEFENDING champions Agricola Red Triangle, Diamond Upsetters and Samatta Point/Kaneville have now joined Grove Hi Tech as the semi finalists in the second annual Ralph Green-sponsored East Bank Football Association Under-11 League, following the final round-robin matches yesterday at the Grove Playfield. Agricola stormed to a come-from-behind 2-1 win over Diamond United while also gathering full points from Friendship, which did not show up for their clash. With the six points, Agricola ended the round-robin stage with 12 points from their 7-matches. Diamond United took the lead through a Ronaldo Adams 8th minute goal and enjoyed the advantage until Agricola’s leading goal scorer, Jonathan Andries took matters into his own hands with back-to-back goals. Andries drew his side level in the 13th minute and fired in the sealer one minute later, much to the delight of his teammates and coaching staff. The winning goal sealed their final four place and a date with Diamond Upsetters, who also ended on 12 points. Diamond Upsetters, competing in their first competition under the EBFA umbrella, also won via the walk over route from Friendship and then battled to an exciting 0-0 tie with

Diamond United to bring an end to the round-robin stage of the competition. The draw for the Upsetters was their third of the tournament, adding to their three wins and only defeat which was by walk-over to another debutant club, Samatta Point/Kaneville, who also qualified for the semis and will face Grove Hi Tech in the first match on Saturday from 09:30hrs at the same venue. Saturday’s matches will have much at stake with the respective winners set to meet in the final, while the losers will clash in the third and fourth place match.

The top four teams have already secured for themselves participatory medals, whilst the top five individual players will be rewarded with backpacks and trophies. These five individual players to be rewarded are the Highest Goal Scorer, Best Goalkeeper, Most Valuable Player, Most Disciplined Player and Most Promising Player. Each player in the competition received branded tee shorts as well as the coaching staff of each team. Branded balls (EBFA logo) have also been used in each match while a special match ball would be used in the final.

Points Table at end of round-robin stage; top four into semi-finals Pos Team P W L D GF GA 1. Grove Hi Tech 7 4 1 2 19 5 2. Agricola 7 4 3 0 17 7 3. Diamond Upsetters 7 3 1 3 8 3 4. Samatta Point/Kane. 7 3 2 2 4 8 5. Mocha Champs 7 2 2 3 10 10 6. Herstelling Raiders 7 3 4 0 9 14 7. Diamond United 7 2 4 1 6 11 8. Friendship 7 1 5 1 3 15

GD Points +14 14 +10 12 +5 12 -4 11 0 9 -5 9 -5 7 -12 4

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SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 10, 2017

Palmer completes maiden century as Scorpions take upper hand KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC) – Jamaica Scorpions captain Paul Palmer completed his maiden first-class hundred, but he was upstaged by newcomer Odean Smith, whose sensational, boundary-studded half-century put their side in an impregnable position against Trinidad & Tobago Red Force in the Regional 4-Day Championship on Saturday. Palmer became the second century-maker for his side, gathering a resolute 136, to follow John Campbell’s 156 on the previous day, but it was Smith that captured the headlines, as the Scorpions were bowled out for 535, replying to the Red Force’s first innings total of 243, around an hour before the scheduled close on the third day of their sixth-round match at Sabina Park. Smith, a former West Indies Under-19 World Cup-winning fast bowler, smashed one four along with an incredible seven sixes in 54 from just 27 balls in just under half-hour to dominate the last two stands of the innings and further frustrate the visitors. Left-arm fast-medium bowler Daniel St Clair was the most

seems to have things under control after the Scorpions resumed from their overnight total of 318 for four – and the pressure seemed to have taken a toll on Fabian Allen and he fell to Khan for 16 in the 11th over of the day. This brought Aldaine Thomas to the crease and he accompanied Palmer to his landmark in between indulging himself. They added 91 for the sixth wicket either side of lunch

the Scorpions, and Palmer and the remaining batsmen carried on merrily, as the Red Force bowlers grew weary from the onslaught. Derval Green made 25 and with Palmer took the Scorpions past the 450 mark before they were dismissed within five deliveries of each other to leave the home team 476 for eight. Smith came to the crease and erased any thoughts of a declaration with his big hitting,

Odean Smith smashed an incredible 54 from just 27 balls

successful Red Force bowler, poached 4-68 from 19 overs, veteran leg-spinner Imran Khan had easily his most forgettable spell in R4Day matches, but still ended with 3-180 from 37 overs, and left-arm spinner Khary Pierre scalped 2-83 from 26 overs. The Scorpions tightened their grip on the match, when fast bowler Reynard Leveridge had left-handed opener Amir Jangoo caught by Smith in the deep for nine, as the Red Force reached 21 for one when stumps were drawn, still 271 in arrears. The Red Force bowlers

Paul Palmer gather a resolute 136.

before the Scorpions’ wicketkeeper/batsman was lbw to St Clair for a purposeful 49. This ran into happy hour for

as the Scorpions got 59 from their last two batting partnerships thanks to him before St Clair came to the Red Force’s

SCOREBOARD RED FORCE 1st Innings 243 Scorpions 1st Innings (overnight 318 for four) J Campbell c Webster b Khan 156 T Griffith c Ramdin b St Clair 4 A Fudadin lbw b St Clair 0 B King c Ramdin b Pierre 63 *P Palmer b Charles 136 F Allen c Ramdin b Khan 16 +A Thomas lbw b St Clair 49 D Green c Ramdin b Pierre 25 D Jacobs b Khan 5 O Smith b St Clair 54 R Leveridge not out 0 Extras (b2, lb9, w2, nb14) 27 TOTAL (all out, 126 overs) 535 Fall of wickets: 1-32, 2-36, 3-193, 4-282, 5-347, 6-438, 7-476, 8-476, 9-515 Bowling: Primus 15-2-78-0 (nb7, w2); St Clair 19-5-67-4 (nb6); Charles 25-4-93-1; Khan 37-3-180-3; Webster 4-0-23-0 (nb1); Pierre 26-2-83-2 RED FORCE 2nd Innings +A Jangoo c Smith b Leveridge 9 J Solozano not out 8 Y Cariah not out 0 Extras (b4) 4 TOTAL (1 wkt, 8 overs) 21 Fall of wickets: 1-21 Bowling: Green 4-0-13-0; Leveridge 4-3-4-1 Position: Red Force trail by 271 with nine second innings wickets standing

rescue and bowled him to bring the innings to a close. Scorpions – starting the match in third on 55 points – have gained all five batting points after reaching 432 for five at the 110-over threshold, in addition to three bowling points and 1.0 pace bowling point. Red Force – entering the match second on 61.8 points – have earned just one batting point, one bowling point and 0.8 pace bowling points.

Walsh claims career-best six for 48 to put Pride in command BASSETERRE, St. Kitts, (CMC) – Hayden Walsh, Jr became the embodiment of the biblical passage about the stone the builder rejected being used for a greater purpose, when he claimed a first-class career-best bowling spell that put Barbados Pride in charge against Leeward Islands Hurricanes in the Regional 4-Day Championship on Saturday. The 25-year-old leg-spinner grabbed 6-48 from 20 overs, as the Hurricanes were bowled out for 246, replying to the Pride’s first innings total of 394, about half-hour before tea on the third day of their sixth-round match at Warner Park. All-rounder Kevin Stoute snared 4-58 from 18.3 overs to help complete the demolition of the Hurricanes’ batting, as they slumped from the relative comfort of 188 for three to lose their last seven wickets for 58. West Indies “A” Team opener Montcin Hodge hit the top score of 82 for the Hurricanes, Akeem Saunders

made 31, Devon Thomas got 26, and Nkrumah Bonner and skipper Rahkeem Cornwall added 23 apiece. Batting a second time, Pride recovered from a shaky start, but lost two key wickets in the final hour, taking a bit of polish off their performance, as they reached 110 for four in their second innings when stumps were drawn, for an overall lead of 258. Pride stumbled to 37 for two, when they lost Anthony Alleyne in the fifth over caught at slip for 13 off Gavin Tonge and fellow left-handed opener, first-innings century-maker Shayne Moseley caught behind for 16 chasing a wide delivery off Devon Thomas in the 14th over. Their captain Shamarh Brooks and Jonathan Carter eased a bit of tension in the 45 minutes they spent together, putting on 33 for the third wicket. But Brooks fell for 29, giving a return catch to Jeremiah Louis and Carter fell lbw

Hayden Walsh, Jr: captured six wickets for Barbados Pride with his leg-spinners.

to Cornwall for 22, leaving Kevin Stoute, not out on 14, and Kenroy Williams, not out

on 15, to bat through the final half-hour before the close. St. Croix by birth, but An-

tiguan raised, Walsh, whose late father was a gritty opener for the Hurricanes in the 1990s, came through the ranks of the Leewards, but he has failed to find favour with the selectors of the sub-regional grouping in recent seasons. As such, he has become a beneficiary of the Professional Cricket League franchise system that is now in its fourth season and the Pride have provided him with a periodic outlet to put his talent to good use, as he did to undermine his Leewards contemporaries. Starting the day on 61 for one, Hodge, whose knock included 12 fours from 192 balls in a shade over four hours, and Nkrumah Bonner gave the Hurricanes a quiet start to the day. Bonner fell in the day’s ninth over, when he became the first of four batsmen to offer catches to Carter to leave the Hurricanes 92 for two. Thomas came to the crease and ushered Hodge to his 50 in a stand of 43 for the third wicket before he fell to

Stoute, leaving Hodge and Akeem Saunders to carry the Hurricanes to lunch on 177 for three. In the first half-hour after the interval, things started to quickly unravel for the home team, as Saunders fell for 31, becoming the first scalp of Walsh, who poached the prized scalp of Hodge lbw two overs later before adding Jahmar Hamilton for one. Hurricanes were 200 for six, and though there was a bit of resistance from their captain Rahkeem Cornwall, the Pride tightened their grip thanks to their Leewards import. Pride entered the match in fifth position on 48 points. They have so far earned two batting points after reaching 265 for seven at the 110-over threshold in their first innings, three bowling points and 0.8 pace bowling points. Hurricanes started the match in fourth on 49.6 points. They have so far gained one batting point, two bowling points and 1.4 pace bowling points.

SUNDAY CHRONICLE, December 10, 2017

27

Windies fight back to share honours on opening day

HAMILTON, New Zealand, (CMC) – West Indies twice fought their way back into the second Test against New Zealand, to steal a share of the honours on the opening day at Seddon Park here Saturday. Opting to bowl first, the Caribbean side managed to limit the Black Caps to 286 for seven, ensuring that none of their top batsmen surived long enough to inflict irreparable damage. Left-handed opener Jeet Raval top-scored with 84 and the in-form Colin de Grandhomme slammed an aggressive 58 while captain Kane Williamson got 43. A couple other batsmen got starts but the Windies snuffed them out before they flourished. Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel recovered from a poor start to end with three for 79 while Miguel Cummins picked up two for 37. Raval ensured the Kiwis had a strong start anchoring 65 for the first wicket with Tom Latham who made 22 and a further 89 for the sec-

ond wicket with Williamson. With the Windies seamers too full in length, Raval and Latham played positively and had gathered 47 runs in the first hour with ease. However, West Indies finally got the breakthrough half-hour before the interval when Latham entangled himself with an attempted pull at a short one from Cummins and edged a catch behind to wicketkeeper Shane Dowrich. Raval, unbeaten on 44, and Williamson saw New Zealand to lunch on 87 for one, before extending their partnership following the resumption to put West Indies on the back foot. The left-handed Raval faced 157 balls and struck 15 boundaries while Williamson counted five fours off 96 deliveries. They kept West Indies without success in the first hour and were threatening to end the session without being separated when the visitors struck twice in quick succession. The right-handed Wil-

Pacer Shannon Gabriel recovered from a poor start to end the day with three for 79.

liamson tried to turn an innocuous leg-side delivery from Cummins and was taken by Dowrich, 25 minutes before tea. And Raval followed three overs later, caught low down by Dowrich, nicking one that Gabriel got to shape away. Left with the task of rebuilding at 173 for three at tea, New Zealand were dealt another blow in the third over following the resumption when Ross Taylor (16) attempted to cut one too close to him from pacer Kemar Roach, and top-edged a catch to Dowrich who pouched it on the second attempt. When left-hander Henry Nicholls

(13) was lbw three overs later, missing one angled in, to give debutant left-arm seamer Raymon Reifer his first Test wicket, New Zealand were slumping 189 for five. However, de Grandhomme arrived to repair the damage for the Kiwis, fuelling a 76-run, sixth wicket stand with Mitchell Santner who scored 24. The right-handed de Grandhomme, coming off a maiden hundred in the first Test in Wellinglast week, continued where he left off as he dominated the Windies bowling. He belted five fours and four sixes, including two off Roston Chase in the

CWI/PCL 4-day tournament….

Jaguars 61 runs short of victory target By Rajiv Bisnauth OPENER Devon Smith fell agonisingly short of his 33rd first-class century, but despite his effort, the advantage is still with the Guyana Jaguars, as the hosts closes in on victory against the Windward Islands Volcanoes at the end of the penultimate day yesterday at the National Stadium, Providence. The tourists could only set a modest total of 165 for the hosts to chase, and at stumps on day three of the sixth round Cricket West Indies (CWI) Professional Cricket League (PCL) Four-day encounter, the title-holders were 104-4, 61 runs short of the victory target. For the Volcanoes there was little to be positive about, although Smith did at least offer some resistance in their second innings, battling to 95, but it was generally another disappointed batting display, as they were bowled out for 241. When the hosts chase began, they lost Tagenarine Chanderpaul off the sixth ball into the innings without scoring, before the demise of skipper Leon Johnson (12), Chanderpaul Hemraj (19) and Shivnarine Chanderpaul (11) during the final session of play, but any further hope the visitors had of making the Jaguars uncomfortable was withdrawn by Vishaul Singh and Anthony Bramble. Singh remained unbeaten on 48 while Bramble is on ten. Earlier, rain delayed the start of play by 45 minutes, with the tourists, batting a second time, resumed on 127-6, an overall lead of 50 runs.

Veerasammy Permaul bowled unchanged from the media centre end for the entire first session yesterday. (Adrian Narine photo)

Smith, who resumed on 49, immediately brought up his fifty with a boundary off left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul. The 36-year-old was joined by his nephew Dennis Smith at the start of the day’s play, and together they showed no signs of nerves, as they frustrated the home side for most of the session. As the partnership flourished, both batsmen played freely, mixing caution with aggression before Permaul (2-79) brought an end to the 68-run stand when he had Dennis Smith trapped leg before wicket for a 74-ball 28, at 196-7. Soon after, Smith was bowled between bat/pad by Gudakesh Motie (2-46), an innings which spanned 271 minutes, 185 balls, with seven fours and a six. However, Shane Shillingford and Delorn Johnson survived until lunch at 214-8,

with the visitors leading by 137. After the interval, Keemo Paul (2-56) removed Johnson with the first delivery of the second new ball before rain intervened. Soon after the resumption, pacer Keon Joseph (2-29) claimed the final wicket of Shillingford for 26. Medium pacer Sherefane Rutherford (2-19) was the other successful bowler for the Jaguars. After losing the 21-year-old Chanderpaul, leg before wicket to Johnson, Hemraj and Johnson took the hosts to tea at 23-1, but the Jaguars skipper was bowled by Johnson soon after the interval before Hemraj was trapped in front to Kyle Mayers. However, both Chanderpaul and Singh were given chances, with the 43-year-old dropped on eight while Singh was put down when he was on 30 and 41, as the visitors bowlers bowled in the right areas and trou-

SCOREBOARD NEW ZEALAND 1st innings J. Raval c Dowrich b Gabriel 84 T. Latham c Dowrich b Cummins 22 K. Williamson c Dowrich b Cummins 43 R. Taylor c Dowrich b Roach 16 H. Nicholls lbw b Reifer 13 M. Santner b Gabriel 24 C. de Grandhomme b Gabriel 58 T. Blundell not out 12 N. Wagner not out 1 Extras (nb-10 w-3) 13 Total (for 7 wickets, 87 overs) 286 Fall of wickets: 1-65 T. Latham,2-154 K. Williamson,3-159 J. Raval,4-186 R. Taylor,5-189 H. Nicholls,6-265 M. Santner,7-275 C. de Grandhomme To bat: T. Southee, T. Boult Bowling: S. Gabriel 20 - 3 - 83 - 3(nb-5 w-1),K. Roach 19 - 7 - 45 - 1(nb-1),M. Cummins 16 - 4 - 33 - 2(nb-4 w-2), R. Chase 12 - 1 - 78 – 0, R. Reifer 17 - 8 36 – 1,K. Brathwaite 3 - 0 - 11 – 0.

part-time off-spinner’s 12th over which leaked 19 runs. De Grandhomme raised his half-century off exactly 50 balls when he clobbered stand-in captain Kraigg Brathwaite over the ropes at backward square in the final hour. The Black Caps were romping towards the finish at 265 without further loss when Gabriel struck twice in quick succession, to engineer yet another Windies fight back. Firstly, he bowled Santner middle stump with the second delivery with the second new ball, about half-hour before the close, before claiming the prized wicket of de Grandhomme – bowled with a full length delivery.

SCOREBOARD Windward Islands first innings 117; Guyana Jaguars first innings 184 Windward Islands Volcanoes 2nd innings (O/N 127-6) D. Smith b Motie 95 T. Theophile c wk Bramble b Joseph 16 T. Gabriel b Rutherford 9 M. Bascombe lbw b Rutherford 9 R. Cato lbw b Motie 4 D. Hector lbw b Permaul 20 K. Mayers b Paul 11 Dennis Smith lbw b Permaul 28 S. Shillingford c Paul b Joseph 26 D. Johnson c Rutherford b Paul 6 S. Lewis not out 0 Extras: (nb-3, b-9, lb-3) Total: (all out; 84.1 overs) 241 Fall of wickets: 1-27, 2-45, 3-56, 4-71, 5-102, 6-127, 7-196, 8-206, 9-236, 10-241 Bowling: Joseph 12.1-3-29-2, 18-3-56-2, Permaul 30-4-79-2, Rutherford 6-0-19-2, Motie 18-2-46-2 GUYANA JAGUARS 2nd innings T. Chanderpaul lbw b Johnson 0 C. Hemraj lbw b Mayers 19 L. Johnson b Johnson 12 V. Singh not out 48 S. Chanderpaul c Devon Smith b Shillingford 11 A. Bramble not out 10 Extras: (nb-3, b-1) 4 Total: (four wickets; 32.4 overs) 104 Fall of wickets: 1-0, 2-28, 3-51, 4-88 Bowling: Johnson 7-1-24-2, Lewis 8-1-300, Mayers 7-3-20-1, Shillingford 10-0-25-1, Theophile .4-0-4-0

bled the left-handed pair constantly. But, the ever-reliable Chanderpaul was taken at first slip off Shillingford just before the close. Singh and Bramble then continued their defiance till the end. Play resumes today at 09:00hrs.

Jaguars 61 runs short of victory target

Page 27

GFF partners with Corona Beer for ‘Supper 16 Year-End Classic’ Tournament to kick-off December 15 in Linden

HAVING partnered with Top Brandz under their Corona Beer product, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will on December 15 at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground in Linden, kick-off their inaugural ‘Super 16 YearEnd Classic’, featuring 16 teams. The knockout-formatted tournament was launched on Saturday at the GFF’s Headquarters, Section ‘K’ Campbellville where it was also announced that Jamaican Dancehall Artiste ‘Popcaan’ will be on show after the finals on January 1, at the Guyana National Stadium. The participating

Turn to page 22

Top Brandz Distributors’ Marketing Manager Marvin Wray makes the presentation of the sponsor’s cheque to GFF president Wayne Forde, while some members of the participating teams look on. (Delano Williams photo)

GFF moves to South Ruimveldt to face regularise football St. Angela’s in MoPH organised by promoters Smalta Girls U-11 final

GFF president Wayne Forde

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is seeking to regulate football played in the country and has thus engaged the support of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to ensure permits for tournaments are only granted following the GFF’s approval of a given tournament. This entails a promoter getting an approval letter from the GFF, which is given to the police in the respective division in which the tournament is being held, before the police authorises the said tournament. According to the GFF, this initiative follows the actions of some who coordinate tournaments without the secured prize money and other logistical arrangements in place and without the clear guideline and opportunity to play as much football as possible, these events must take place in a regulated environment.” Turn to page 22

Page 22

One of the many goals scored during the semi finals of the MoPH Smalta girls U-11 football tournament( Adrian Narine Photo)

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

SUNDAY, DECEMBER, 10, 2017

Jaguars 61 runs short of victory target

Page 27

GFF partners with Corona Beer for ‘Supper 16 Year-End Classic’ Tournament to kick-off December 15 in Linden HAVING partnered with Top Brandz under their Corona Beer product, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) will on December 15 at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground in Linden, kick-off their inaugural ‘Super 16 YearEnd Classic’, featuring 16 teams. The knockout-formatted tournament was launched on Saturday at the GFF’s Headquarters, Section ‘K’ Campbellville where it was also announced that Jamaican Dancehall Artiste ‘Popcaan’ will be on show after the finals on January 1, at the Guyana National Stadium. The participating

Turn to page 22

Top Brandz Distributors’ Marketing Manager Marvin Wray makes the presentation of the sponsor’s cheque to GFF president Wayne Forde, while some members of the participating teams look on. (Delano Williams photo)

GFF moves to South Ruimveldt to face regularise football St. Angela’s in MoPH organised by promoters Smalta Girls U-11 final

GFF president Wayne Forde

THE Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is seeking to regulate football played in the country and has thus engaged the support of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to ensure permits for tournaments are only granted following the GFF’s approval of a given tournament. This entails a promoter getting an approval letter from the GFF, which is given to the police in the respective division in which the tournament is being held, before the police authorises the said tournament. According to the GFF, this initiative follows the actions of some who coordinate tournaments without the secured prize money and other logistical arrangements in place and without the clear guideline and opportunity to play as much football as possible, these events must take place in a regulated environment.” Turn to page 22

Page 22

One of the many goals scored during the semi finals of the MoPH Smalta girls U-11 football tournament( Adrian Narine Photo)

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

SUNDAY, DECEMBER, 10, 2017