Guyana chronicle e paper 12 19 2017

Guyana gets $45M from CDB to strengthen local governance Page 18

No. 105131

TUESDAY DECEMBER 19, 2017

Price: $80 (VAT Inclusive)

ECLAC projects 3.5% growth for Guyana …says positive growth underpinned by improved revenue collections

Page 2

Baby with two heads delivered at NA Hospital Page 7

Be politicallyneutral Page 3

…first batch of graduates from Public Service College urged

Burger King is here

Page 7

Page 11

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan and US Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission, Terry Steers-Gonzalez look on as members of the Corum Group, holder of the Burger King franchise here, and a representative of Burger King applaud the opening up of the first outlet of the United States fast food chain in Guyana. The restaurant is located at Regent and Camp Streets, Georgetown (Delano Williams photo)

CGX to ramp up explorations, drilling …renegotiates oil exploration plan with gov’t

Main suspect of illegal aircraft remanded

Page 16

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

– says positive growth underpinned by improved revenue collections

a significant reduction in transfer payments, as disbursements to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) fell by G$2 billion during the review period.

Further, the overview stated that a combination of procurement planning and capacity constraints, which led to delays in the implementation of projects under PSIP, meant that only 27.9 per cent of budgeted allocations were spent in the first half of 2017. In the real sector, growth in agricultural production slowed to 6.4 per cent in the first half of 2017, from 10 per cent in the same period of the previous year, as adverse weather conditions affected output.

ECLAC projects 3.5% growth for Guyana THE Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) has announced that Guyana’s economy is projected to expand by 3.5 per cent in 2018 as structural reforms begin to take hold and help to boost economic activity and accelerate the implementation of infrastructural projects.

According to the Commission’s Preliminary Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean, favourable international prices and access to new markets are expected to provide impetus for increased rice production; and the output of the gold and services sector will continue to expand.

Government has already made significant strides in the process of stabilising the country’s economic position, especially with a budget of $267.1B for 2018, which was dubbed the largest budget in the country’s history.

During the first half of 2017, the Government focused on quickening the pace of spending under the

Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP) and instituting structural reforms geared towards promoting diversification and greening of the Guyanese economy.

The preliminary overview however indicated that in 2017, given Guyana’s high product specialisation, falling commodity prices continued to negatively impact export performance, while lower private sector investment, coupled with adverse weather conditions, led to declining output in key sectors, such as mining, sugar, forestry, and finance and insurance.

Those factors, although important to economic growth, would not hinder Guyana’s economy from achieving its expected overall growth of 2.9 per cent in 2017, ECLAC stated.

And, according to ECLAC, that growth will be fuelled by increased activity in the manufacturing (primarily rice), construction and other services sectors.

Evidence of the projected growth was the fact that Government generated an overall fiscal surplus of

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan

$8.3B by mid-2017, relative to the G$0.82 billion surplus in the first half of the 2017 year. A fiscal surplus is defined as the amount by which government income exceeds spending.

REVENUE COLLECTIONS This positive outturn was underpinned by improved revenue collections, up 13.1 per cent as increases occurred across almost all

fiscal categories, particularly in income tax from both private corporations and individuals, as well as withholding, value added and excise taxes, ECLAC stated. “This more than offsets a 6.5 per cent expansion in current expenditure owing to increased employment costs and purchases of other goods and services,” outlined the report.

In this regard, ECLAC explained that there was

INCREASED PRODUCTION There was, however, a marked increase of 31.6 per cent in rice production during ECLAC’s review period, as farmers aggressively expanded sown acreage in response to favourable market prices, gains were made in penetrating new markets and the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) progressed in fostering an industry shift towards value

added. ECLAC indicated that the rice industry was the main driver of growth in manufacturing, increasing by 9.9 per cent during 2017.

Sugar remained stagnant since, according to ECLAC, although cane yields in terms of tons per acre were higher than the previous year, falling global prices and mechanical problems at the Skeldon estate meant that domestic sugar output declined 12.4 per cent during the first half of 2017.

The Government of Guyana however expressed its commitment to improving the economic position of Guyana. President David Granger had said at the launch of the inaugural Business Summit early this year that the Government of Guyana is open to dialogue and working with the members of the private sector in Guyana for the growth of the country’s economy even as he noted that the administration is focused on creating a business environment, which promotes investments, innovation and is governed by the appropriate institutional framework.

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Be politically-neutral THE first batch of graduates from the Bertram Collins College of the Public Service was on Monday called upon to serve the public with distinction while being politically neutral.

Senior Executive Director of the College, Col (ret’d) Lawrence Paul reminded the 58 graduates that they are the future of Guyana’s Public Service and “the glue that will hold the expected efficiency of the current administration and future administrations of this country.”

He called on the graduates to dispense their duties without fear or favour, affection or ill-will though it would not be easy as they’d be seen as threats and not agents of change. “The Guyana Public Service needs a fresh breath of energy that will be responsive to the needs of the public… that must be innovated and prepared to take calculated risks to change the archaic systems that are counter-productive and wasting taxpayers’ money,” Col (ret’d) Paul stated.

In his report on the college, Paul said the graduates were trained to assist in developing a public service that must involve the public in the decision-making process, because it is the public that pays the public servants to serve them (the public). “Go there and perform your duties with impartiality, objectivity and uphold your integrity,” he charged as he reminded that while they represent the first batch of trained public servants, every year, another batch will follow suit.

That aside, the Senior Executive Director expressed elation at the fact that the official Act for the College has been ratified by the Ministry of Legal Affairs and will be tabled in Parliament during its first sitting next year. By virtue of the passage of the Act, the College will become an autonomous entity.

In that vein, Paul called upon “budget planners” to

…first batch of graduates from Public Service College urged …to give best technical advice to whichever political party is in power understand that the College is a new institution which in time will be a great cost-saver to the government. “It’s a work-in-progress that must be supported, if its objectives are to be realised as quickly as expected.”

He then announced that the construction of a new college will soon begin as the Government of China has offered a grant of US$10M to build and furnish a modern state-ofthe-art College within the compound located at the old Guyana Sugar Corporation (GUYSUCO) complex at Ogle, East Coast Demerara. “The search for an interim campus was excruciating to say the least and it was not until June 19, 2016 that the staff of the college occupied a building in this compound where it is intended to build the permanent campus at this 21-acre location.”

Additionally, Col. Paul noted that accreditation for the College from the University of Guyana is currently being pursed. He said too that the college is in the process of satisfying the many requirements for the accreditation standards.

Meanwhile, President David Granger like Col. Paul urged graduates of the College to be politically neutral and to provide the best technical advice to whichever political party is in power. He also urged the graduating class to let their training at the College serve as a stepping stone to higher learning while noting Guyana’s development demands a public service that is educated, motivated and organised.

He noted that passing a job interview is not sufficient and his government intends to have public servants that possess intelligence, integrity, impartiality and identity; qualities he said are the hallmark of professionalism. “You cannot become a public servant by

Best Graduating Student of the Bertram Collins College of the Public Service, Ato Vaughn receives one of his many awards from President David Granger Monday (Adrian Narine)

simply walking off the street and passing an interview. That is not enough… there must be a process of becoming a public servant,” he stated.

Stressing the need for an ‘unbribable’ public service, the President said the inaugural graduation of the cadets represents an important landmark in his government’s quest for a professional public service that provides efficient serve to the people of this country.

“The establishment of this College was essential to ensure the efficient delivery of public services such as public education, public health, public infrastructure, public security, public telecommunications and the Public Service, itself… The Public Service is inseparable from the executive; it is the Public Service, which must implement the directives and decisions of the Cabinet and the Government. Graduation

from this College, therefore, is just the commencement of the process to ensure that the public interest is well served,” President Granger told the graduates.

Moreover, the head-ofstate made it clear that Ministers and Heads of agencies must be able to rely on their staff for strong administrative support. As such, knowledge of the Constitution of Guyana and the system of public administration at all three tiers of government; the central, regional and municipal and local levels must be imparted to cadets.

Additionally, an understanding of the country’s diversity and landscape is critical, the president said, while noting that with the establishment of new capital towns and decentralisation of vital public services, high levels of competencies in the public service has

increased. “Providing public services will be impossible unless public servants understand the country in which they live and appreciate the needs of the citizens to whom they must provide services. Public servants must possess an understanding, also, of the values and standards of the Service. These values and standards contribute to the functional competence of the Service, foster teamwork [and] promote leadership,” the President said.

The College, which is the brainchild of President Granger, was named in honour of Dr. Bertram Collins, a Guyanese international scholar and writer in the field of public administration. During the lead up to the May 2015 elections, President Granger promised to improve the state of the country’s public service.

The staff college which is meant to transform the public

service into a professional institution seeks to embrace change perpetually, while becoming a transformative institution that will bring about fundamental improvement in the performance and behaviour of public servants.

The students of the college were exposed to twelve months of training which comprised six months classroom work where seventeen modules of academic study were done, one month of study tours and four months’ work attachment to various ministries and Neighbourhood Democratic Councils.

The modules aided the students in understanding Public Service regulations, especially financial regulations, how the economy works, the law and legal system, the environment, and stress and anger management, to name a few. It should be noted that the administration of the college is in the process of reviewing the curriculum to produce better public servants who will satisfy the needs of the various ministries. It was realised that more emphasis should be placed on protocols, reading, writing, leadership skills and oral presentations.

Ato Vaughn was awarded the Presidential Award for Excellence. He also received a laptop computer, a certificate, a printer, a plaque and a $20,000 book voucher redeemable at Austin’s Book Store. The runner-up best graduating student is William Charles, while Towana Madramootoo received the award for the most improved student and Raoul Ramdayal for exemplary conduct. Minister of Public Service, Dr. Rupert Roopnarine, Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon, Minister of Public Security, Mr. Khemraj Ramjattan, Minister of Public Health, Ms. Volda Lawrence, Minister of Agriculture, Mr. Noel Holder and Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton were all in attendance at the ceremony.

President David Granger stands with the 2017 graduating class of the Bertram Collins College of the Public Service Monday (Adrian Narine)

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

Burger King is here!

-Finance Minister sees it as ‘a trust in Guyana’s growing economy’

By Rawle Toney WITH immediate plans to develop six stores within the next few years, which translates into over 400 direct jobs for Guyanese, Corum Group on Monday evening opened the country’s first Burger King Franchise.

And where else but at the junction of one of Georgetown’s busiest shopping areas: Regent and Camp Streets.

According to Clairmont Cummings, one of the Directors of the Corum Group -- known for having one of the country’s most exquisite night spots and restaurants, and most recently adding the Pizza Hut brand to their repertoire -- the opening of Burger King here represents their continued desire to bring to Guyana a First World experience.

Cummings was candid in his address, highlighting the tireless work done over the last two years in order to be given the greenlight

Finance Minister Winston Jordan at last evening’s opening of Burger King

by the principals of Burger King, a company founded in 1953 as InstaBurger King, a restaurant chain based in Jacksonville, Florida.

He said that Corum is more than happy to add to the over 15,000 Burger King locations worldwide, and promised to bring the same experience and taste to these shores.

It was also announced that the company will, very

soon, be opening another Burger King outlet at the ever-popular Giftland Mall at Turkeyen, on the lower East Coast.

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, who delivered the keynote address, said he’s pleased that such an initiative is coming from a group of young Guyanese who, in spite of the odds and the naysayers, put the proverbial money where their mouth is and invested in our country's development.

Said the Minister: “The Corum Group, perhaps recognising that Guyana is on the cusp of an exciting new phase of development, seems to have embarked on a journey that includes capitalising on the myriad of gaps within the local food industry.

“It dawned upon me that it was only recently that you launched Pizza Hut; now it is Burger King.”

He went on to say that the opening of a Burger King franchise here is testimony to the belief Guyana’s

The newly-opened Burger King outlet at the corner of Camp and Regent Streets (Photos by Delano Williams)

Corum’s Clairmont Cummings

progressive young entrepreneurs have in themselves, and their preparedness to invest in the future of their country.

“It is also a relief that we do not have to see our salvation in strangers from lands afar, though we welcome and encourage foreign investment,” Minister Jordan said, adding: “It is right here in our citizens who make a conscious effort to not fall into the trap of perpetuating the negatives

that seem never to be in short supply.”

Noting that “Guyana is open for business,” Minister Jordan told the gathering of media operatives, diplomats and other invitees that the Government of Guyana is willing to work with any investor that is committed to the growth and development of this country.

“We will hold the hands of any citizen who is willing to work to unlock the potential that has long been bandied about,” the outspoken finance minister declared.

“We will partner with you to weather the challenges that may arise in the quest to make Guyana a better country.”

Meanwhile, Terry Steers-Gonzalez, the US Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, noted that the opening of Burger King in Guyana will add to the country’s landscape, while also telling Americans that the country is on the rise and ready for business.

Tuesday, December 19, 2017 - 5:00 hrs Wednesday, December 20, 2017 - 5:00 hrs

DATE: DATE: 26/11/2016 16/12/2017 21 26/11/2016 18/12/2017 06

8 14 2 12 9 18 11 19 16 18 26 28 02 N B 11

13 15

14 20

21 16

24 26

26/11/2016 18/12/2017

04 3

07 5

03 7

26/11/2016 18/12/2017

05 0

04 5

01 1

26/11/2016 18/12/2017 02 3 609 8 10 9 17 11 11 13 12 14

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

5

Gov’t delivers on promise to ‘Parfaite Harmonie’ --courtesy President’s ‘5 Bs’ initiative

Minister of Social Protection, Ms Amna Ally; Minister of Education, Ms Nicolette Henry; and Chief Education Officer (CEO), Mr Marcel Hutson at the ‘5Bs’ commissioning ceremony at Queenstown, on the Essequibo Coast

SCHOOLS at Queenstown, on the Essequibo Coast and La Parfaite Harmonie, on the West Bank of Demerara, are the latest beneficiaries of President David Granger’s Buses, Boats, Bicycles, Books and Breakfast (Five Bs) initiative.

Two (one for each school) 30-seater buses were handed over to the respective regions by Minister of Social Protection, Ms Amna Ally, Monday.

The bus given to La Parfaite Harmonie was donated

by Director of the Institute of Applied Science and Technology (IAST), Dr. Suresh Narine and Komal Singh of GAICO Construction. The other vehicle was donated by a prominent businessman.

During the presentation ceremony at the primary school at La Parfaite Harmonie, Minister Ally reaffirmed the government’s commitment to ensuring equal access to education for all of the country’s children.

“Education is high on the agenda of government’s priorities, and we are fully committed to ensuring that all children throughout Guyana have equal access to education, through the President’s Five B’s programme,” Minister Ally said.

“The president initiated this programme because the administration believes in reducing poverty, reducing inequalities and providing a good life for all,” she added.

The Minister said she recognised the pivotal role education plays in the pursuit of development and social transformation, in that it promotes personal development, strengthens respect for human rights and freedoms, enables individuals to participate effectively in society, and promotes understanding, friendship and acceptance.

“Therefore, the 5Bs programme has thus far been extremely successful,” the minister said. She noted that it is now bridging the gap between the hinterland and the coastal regions by providing increased access to transportation for schoolchildren to get to and from school.

Students are now able to get to school in a timely manner, and parents are no longer burdened with transportation expenses.

Minister Ally said Monday’s commissioning is as a result of a promise made to the people of La Parfaite Harmonie, who requested a bus to transport the children of that area.

Seeing that Region Three

‘Parfaite Harmonie’ children taking a ride on the bus after the commissioning (Photos courtesy DPI)

The bus handed over to the ‘Parfaite Harmonie’ Secondary School

(Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) is already in receipt of a bus, the new one will service the older children attending the West Demerara and Patentia Secondary Schools.

“Today’s commissioning,” Minister Ally said, “is a testimony of good gov-

ernance. Access to education must not be seen as a privilege for some, but as a basic human right for all our children.

“We need every single child or teenage boys and girls to thrive and excel. If we really want our children to become the great inves-

tors and problem-solvers of tomorrow, we must ensure that we become an educated nation and invest in them.”

Meanwhile, Region Three’s Regional Executive Officer (REO), Mr Denis Jaikaran explained that since the 5Bs programme was initiated, the region has seen tremendous improvement in school attendance, and it will further improve with the new addition. He promised that the regional administration will ensure proper management of the bus.

IAST’s Dr. Narine acknowledged the role that teachers play in moulding

the nation’s children, whom he described as the country’s most important resource, while adding that it was imperative that the necessary investment is made in their lives.

President Granger’s Five Bs programme continues to garner support nationwide from members of the private sector and private citizens who are interested in giving back, through the initiative.

The government has thus far commissioned 27 buses across the country, along with nine boats and hundreds of bicycles and books. (DPI)

6

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

Education makes a nation THE truism that education makes a nation still holds sway, and has relevance today. Several hundred graduated recently from both the University of Guyana and the Cyril Potter College of Education.

These figures come at a time when the state of our education system is undergoing review, given its importance to empowerment of citizens, nation building, and development.

Congratulations to the graduates and their families, who have made the sacrifice in pursuit of more and/or higher learning. The society must also devise a way to retain these new skills, since the development of every nation is hinged on its human capital.

As the new graduates are welcomed to the noble vocation of teaching, the exit--through retirement--of those possessing institutional memory and invaluable skills, should not be lost on the society. In today’s world, 55 years is considered relatively young, and many are still in the prime of their lives. It is our belief that those who desire to continue in this profession should be accommodated. Some may be fortunate to continue in the public system on a contractual basis; some will go into the private system; and others will be absorbed by other countries.

That is not to say that new entrants to the profession are not welcomed. Of course they are! For, in addition to wanting to contribute to nation-building through this vocation, they also bring new approaches to doing things, and are imbued with zeal, which augurs well for our children’s growth and development. The nation cannot, in its development pursuit, ignore these juxtaposing realities. And there comes a time when, in a nation’s growth, such can no longer be ignored or swept under the carpet.

Education is community/communal driven, and ac-

cording to the African proverb, “It takes a whole village to raise a child.” The success of education is hinged on the involvement of all. The government conceptualises, develops, and implements policies, programmes and laws by which the private and public school systems are bound.

Teachers/educators play their role in the classroom setting. Parents/relatives partner with the school in ensuring the needs of students are met, and students uphold their obligations. Neighbours look out and over the children’s conduct. Civil society also plays a role through workshops, seminars, donations and other forms of action.

This nation came from a past in which the education policy was driven by a colonial outlook of moulding and nurturing citizens to be in service to the values set by the Crown. With independence came the shift, preparing citizens for an indigenous approach consistent with our needs, growth and development. Guyana transitioned to a country in which reality was shaped and skills and abilities were developed on a local identity; events and requirements for nation-building, inclusive of awareness/knowledge of external events, likewise informed our education system.

As the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) was established, with Guyana being a member, and later with the institutionalisation of the Caribbean Examination Council, there was standardisation of an education model suited to the developmental foci of the Region. As our students participate in the Caribbean examinations, it is being seen that, in the basic areas of competencies, we are lagging. Mastery of the English language is one area that begs for improvement, although English is Guyana’s official language.

It would not be remiss to say that, in a standardised environment, where Caribbean English is built off the British

system, inclusive of spelling, the jostling of American English and British Caribbean English has been challenging for our children. For example, where other Caribbean countries still retain the “s” in spelling the word organisation, in Guyana, the USA “z” is used instead in public documents and media.

As simple as it may seem to some, this undermines standardization, since it poses a challenge for students to identify right spelling from wrong spelling; acceptable usage from unacceptable usage.

As the education system is revisited, the importance of diverse training and education of citizens to play their role in personal development and nation building should be factored in. The education of the academics, professionals, technically-skilled, semi-skilled and unskilled are all important and are deserving of equal attention and respect for their labour and contribution to development. Each has a role to play, and each ought to be given the opportunity to be the best in whatever field is pursued.

Discipline is also an important element in education and development. And while conversations continue on the merits or demerits of corporal punishment in schools, suffice it to say that whatever decision is taken, it cannot be lost sight that discipline plays an important role in human development. A disciplined person is a productive person. Outside of corporal punishment, school sports play a role in instilling discipline, respect for authority, team-spiritedness, determination, and focus to achieve the goals. These influences help students to be responsible and to lead productive lives. Fixing the education system requires a holistic approach, and each must be prepared to play his/ her part.

State lawyers displayed astounding lack of knowledge of the issues relating to the Seafield land case Dear Editor OVER the past few months, H.E. President David Granger’s actions as they relate to lands at Plan Ayr No. 40 and Seafield Villages have been deemed unconstitutional and unlawful (SN 2017-08-10, 2017-1212) by Chief Justice (ag) Honorable Madam Roxanne George. On the surface, the AG Chambers seem unequal to the challenge put up by the former Attorney General Mr Anil Nandlall and his team. But does this

have to be so? Did our current Attorney General have a team of lawyers to defend the actions of the first citizen. It doesn’t seem so.

Somewhere in the Bible it is said, “Who is this that darkens counsel without knowledge?” and again it is said “My people are destroyed because of the lack of knowledge.” Surely, whoever represented the Attorney General’s Chambers at the High Court on the above matter displayed an astounding lack of knowledge of all the issues relating to these

lands and with 1.8 million dollars costs accrued. Consequences should follow for the sheer sloppiness in which the actions of the President were presented and defended.

But why should anyone lack knowledge when the scope for knowing anything on any issue has never been so easy with technology, et al? What is more,the strenuous efforts to legitimise injustice is gaining traction with each failure of the premier legal chambers of the government.

Editor, the lands to which Justice George gave her oral

judgement are lands that have been occupied by two registered Co-operative Societies for over three decades. These Co-op Societies (Seafield Cooperative Land Society Limited Registered No. 1720 and No. 40 Farmers Cooperative Society Limited Registered No. 1513) remain registered and are now members of the recently re-constituted Regional Co-operative Society Union and serve on its executive. These lands have been developed, maintained and paid for over these decades by these societies.

In 2014, the MMA/ADA advertised that unless outstanding arrears owed to the Authority by the Societies are paid, the lands they occupy would be repossessed (SN, March 5, 2014). The societies combined paid in excess of 10 million dollars to the MMA. Realising that their intended objective would not be attained through monetary penalty, the then chairman of MMA plainly said that whether we paid or not, the lands would be repossessed and redistributed to others in

the villages since he is not dealing with Co-ops but with state lands.

All this was done with total disregard for the MMA Act, the Laws of Guyana, chapter 88: 01 and the Constitution of Guyana.

The sheer arbitrariness of MMA’s actions should have been enough evidence to win the Attorney General’s case. But the old adage is applicable here: if you fail to prepare; then prepare to fail. These matters Turn to page 7

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

7

Baby with two heads delivered at NA Hospital

By Jeune Bailey-VanKeric A TWO-headed baby girl was born at the New Amsterdam Hospital on Saturday, creating history in the Ancient County.

The 36-week-old foetus, the first-born for the teenage mother, was delivered via caesarian section by a team of doctors at the Berbice health institution.

It was later confirmed that the child died shortly after delivery.

Asked for a comment, Dr Narine Datt Sooknanand, who is an Obstetrician, as well as a Gynaecologist by profession, said that in his 47 years of practice, it was the very first instance that he has seen what in medical parlance is called a “dicephalus anencephalic feotus with spina bifida”.

Simply put, what the term means, the former Medical Superintendent of the New Amsterdam Hospital said, is that the baby was born with two heads, an undeveloped

brain, skull and scalp, along with an incomplete closing of the backbone.

“There are instances of anencephaly [the absence of a major portion of the brain, skull, and scalp [which] occurs during embryonic development]; there may be one or so a year, but never have I witnessed two connecting heads with this condition,” said Dr Sooknanand from his Coburg Street, New Amsterdam clinic.

He further opined that the cause for anencephaly is pri-

marily due to a deficiency of folic acid, a supplement which should be used by women before and during pregnancy.

Folic acid or folate can also be found in dark leafy vegetables, as well as in asparagus, broccoli, citrus fruits, and peas and beans.

“The lack of folic acid causes malformation of the brain and spinal cord,” he explained, adding that it is important for pregnant and lactating women to take at least 400 micrograms of the

supplement per day.

“The lack of it will hinder the embryotic development within a month of conception,” he stressed.

Further, the babies do not live long after delivery, and are normally born blind, deaf and unaware of their surroundings due to the underdeveloped brain.

Dr Sooknanand noted that it is usual during the early stages of pregnancy that an alpha fetoprotein (AFP) blood test is done to check its

level in a pregnant woman's blood. AFP is a substance made in the liver of an unborn baby. The amount of AFP in the blood of a pregnant woman could determine whether the baby may have such problems as spina bifida and anencephaly.

He, however, said that while it’s unfortunate that such a test is not done at public clinics here, an ultra sound would have done the trick, as its the cornerstone of an early diagnosis.

GTT wraps up million-dollar-smile ‘promo’ --gives away $4M on final day

WINNERS ROW! The latest GTT millionaires

State lawyers displayed ... were not presented to the Judge.

In the case of Seafield Cooperative Land Society Limited, the Order or Rule Nisi of Certiorari granted on the 15th day of October, 2014, by Honourable Justice Nareshwar Harnanan was made absolute on 20th July, 2016 by the Honourable Madam Justice Diana Insanally; quashing MMA’s decision to reclassify lands belonging to the Society and to allocate them to others,on

the grounds of excess of lack of jurisdiction, arbitrariness, unreasonableness, ultra vires, null and void and in breach of its constitutional right to protect its property. One is now left to ponder the legal ramifications of two distinct rulings by two judges on the same land issue. This is in addition to the ensuing conflicts that will arise amongst villagers. As a layman, one also wonders how one judge tries a case and another

judge, who was not a part of that trial, gives the ruling.

Editor, I cannot go into all the other details that justify H.E. President Granger revoking the leases that were unfairly granted to those who are not members of our Societies ( some of which were published on 21st November, 2017).

MMA could have easily given our fellow villagers lands without causing the

From page 6 conflicts that have arisen as a result of its actions.

Yet, with mountains of evidence to justify the actions of the President, who would want to go before an erudite judge and tell her that the President did what he did because he is the President and he has immunity. This under representation of the President is surely shameful.

Regards Patrick Hamilton

THE Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) on Monday evening wrapped up their monthlong Million Dollar Smile promotion with four persons walking away with a million dollars each in their pocket.

Mark Conway, Charisma Persaud, Sharon Logan and Sarswati Rajkumar were the final winners for the promotion, after their names were drawn at the company’s Christmas Village, where close to 500 children were treated to a mini concert and received gifts, compliments of GTT. The promotion started on November 6 at the Stabroek Market, then headed to Better Hope on November 11, then

Linden on November 17, Bartica on November 24, followed

by Essequibo and Berbice on December 1 and 15 respectively, and back to Georgetown for the grand drawing on December 18.

The GTT Million Dollar Smile campaign made it quite simple for customers to have a chance to win millions. Every customer who either did an electronic top-up of $1,000 or more in a single transaction; purchased a data plan for $1,000 or more; paid any GTT bill in full and on time; signed up for or upgraded a Blaze plan; purchased a GTT handset or a ticket for the Chronixx show, were entered for a chance to win.

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Prison gives new hope to 120 inmates – after months of training in various areas of trade

By Rabindra Rooplall THE Guyana Prison Service (GPS) on Monday made tradesmen of 120 inmates, a staggering 26.5 per cent of the population at the Mazaruni Prison, when they each graduated in various areas of tradesmanship.

The event was held at the Mazaruni facility, located just off Bartica on the Mazaruni River in Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni).

The prisoners were trained in such areas as charcoal burning; landscaping, fishing; tailoring; art and craft; culinary arts; treating chronic illnesses; literacy and numeracy; joinery and block-making; and veterinary science. At the end of the course, they were each awarded certificates, medals and trophies.

Delivering the feature address, Acting Director of Prisons, Mr. Gladwin Samuels said he is pleased that despite the many challenges the GPS has had to overcome during the course of the year, it was still able to meet its responsibility of making offenders better.

“What is remarkable is that out of the 452 inmates at this location, 120, or 26.5 per cent are graduating here with a

skill. I believe this is a great precedent we have set,” he declared.

He went on to not only commend the graduates, but also underscored that the Service is committed to addressing the needs of offenders as it moves to aggressively pursue its mandate of correction and rehabilitation.

He said for that matter, the Service as well as the Ministry of Public Security are always ready and willing to work with anyone or any organization, to ensure the wellbeing of offenders and the general security of the nation. He said he was particularly impressed with the partnership between BK International and the Ministry of Social Protection.

BUILDING DREAMS Noting that education is all about building people’s dreams, Samuels said the future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

“At this Mazaruni location, as at other locations, the GPS has worked at expanding your understanding, improving your skills and helping you to acquire knowledge,” he said.

“With these, you can build your dreams as you equip yourselves to take your

place as productive citizens of society,” he told the gathering of inmates, adding: “For some of you, the challenges were many, as you doubted whether you would be successful. I am sure many of you were laughed at and called all sorts of names by other inmates when you started this journey. But with time, those doubts were soon replaced with confidence, as the staff at Mazaruni provided a very supportive environment.

“The truth is, everyone is somebody by default, and no one can really get lost in the crowd, unless he chooses to become lost.”

Noting that the Sentence Management Unit plays a vital role in identifying the training needs of the inmates, Samuels said that the courses being offered are carefully chosen so as to ensure they were conversant with the subject areas.

He said that in fact, most of the facilitators know the inmates on a personal level, and are not only concerned about their success in prison, but also their success outside in the wider society.

“Your success is the Guyana Prison Service’s success, and by extension, the nation’s success,” Samuels said, adding:“The monies spent on

training are considered monies well spent when you leave here better prepared to serve your community and you do not re-offend.”

He explained that as human beings, there is a natural tendency to dwell on one’s shortcomings rather than the talents with which they are blessed.

“We need to utilise them to the best of our ability, and share them with those around us,” he added.

RIGHT SKILLS, WRONG VALUES “From the range of offences many of you here are imprisoned for, it is clear that you entered prison equipped with the wrong skills, or you had the right skills but the wrong values. These led to your imprisonment,” he told the inmates.

And there is where the GPS comes in, he said, as it is their responsibility to help inmates realise their mistakes and become better persons.

“We want to equip you with skills needed in society; we want to help you to develop the attitudes that will make you employable,” he said.

“We need you to see your incarceration not only as your downfall, but as your opportunity to get right back up; rehabilitate, go through those gates on completion of your

sentence and realise your full potential,” he added.

On that note, Samuels urged the graduates to see the ceremony as a commencement, not a completion, as they will be faced with many challenges.

The fact is, he said, most things are difficult before they become easy, but he however, assured the prisoners that it is not what happens to them that is important, but it is the opportunities they take and make out of life.

“I know your determination, so I urge you to see your certification as your ticket to improve your life and impact positively on all those with whom you come into contact,” he said.

‘YOU CAN DO IT’ “You can do it if you want to. I want to challenge you today to see the best in yourself. See yourself as successful, and do not let your past determine your future. Moreso, share with us ways in which we can further help you to be successful, and we will do all that is humanly and financially possible to assist you. It will not happen overnight, but we have to work together,”Samuels told the inmates.

He explained that the inmates will be able to put their skills to use as the GPS works to develop the prison

enterprise.

The Prison Director told the gathering that the expansion of the Mazaruni Prison will not cater for cells and dormitories only, but that adequate consideration is being given to the rehabilitative needs of offenders.

Therefore, he said, the budget team will continue to seek the required funding for the construction of more trade shops, more classrooms, and increased facilities with the necessary equipment so thatinmates may be meaningfully engaged during their period of rehabilitation.

“You are somebody!

You are unique! You are special! You possess the heart of a champion. Your purpose is greater than your struggles,” Samuels concluded as he charged the inmates to further progress in their endeavours.

In attendance at the exercise were Regional Chairman, Mr Gordon Bradford; Chairman of the Mazaruni Prison’s Visiting Committee, Mr Samuel Dasraj; Officer in Charge of the Mazaruni Prison, Senior Superintendent Alexander Hopkinson; and Officer Commanding Jungle and Amphibious Training School, Captain Castello along with other senior prison officials.

At Monday’s graduation ceremony at the Mazaruni Prison. Seated fourth right is, Acting Director of Prisons, Mr Gladwin Samuels; while at third and fifth right, respectively, are Regional Chairman, Mr Gordon Bradford, and Senior Superintendent, Mr Alexander Hopkinson (Delano Williams Photo)

Visiting Canadian citizen found hanging – mere hours after getting married CANADA-based Rozan Ally, 52, was found hanging from a mango tree aback his brother’s home here, hours after getting married.

Ally, better known as “Yasim” and formerly of East Canefield, East Canje, Berbice returned home two Fridays ago to cement a relationship begun Online with

Subitrie Heeralall, called “Sobi”, of Triumph Village, East Coast Demerara.

Nine days later, the body work machinist got married according to traditional Muslim rites in Berbice, and was expected to travel to Georgetown later this week to uplift his marriage licence, in an effort to legalise the union.

But on Monday morn-

Rozan Ally

ing, he left home around 06:30hrs, after kissing his new bride goodbye.

About two hours later, as his older sibling, Wajidali Wazir, was about to leave home, he saw a large gathering across the street ahead.

As he drew near, he saw that his brother had used a lime green sheet to hang himself with. Police say a suicide note was found in the man’s pocket.

At first, relatives were tight-lipped about what may have led Yasim to take his life, but Wajidali broke the ice, saying that his brother’s death has left them many unanswered questions.

“He showed no sign of depression; he got married yesterday. He should have been happy…” he trailed off, while other mourners shook their heads as much in wonderment as in sorrow.

One female relative, unable to contain her grief, blurted out: “The cake now being iced for the reception.

I want to know what prompted this,” referring to the sudden demise of her uncle.

Ally, who was previously married, has just one child; a daughter. The body is currently at the Arokium Funeral Home in New Amsterdam, awaiting post mortem.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

PM lobbies Qualfon to Bandits pose as customers, set up shop in sugar belt rob chicken vendor UNDER the pretext of buying a large amount of chicken on Monday, two bandits, one of whom was armed, robbed a 70-year-old businesswoman of North Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

Reports indicate that the businesswoman oper-

ates a small chicken business at her address. The two robbers visited her home under the pretext of buying a large amount of chicken and as she was about to sell them, one of the men pulled out a gun and dealt her one lash to her forehead.

The injured woman was then ordered to hand over whatever cash she had and then the men made good their escape in a white car. No shots were fired. The businesswoman had to seek medical attention. Police investigations are continuing.

Bandit grabs woman's bag on Thomas Street

Prime Minister Nagamootoo with Abel Cruz, Qualfon’s Group President and Mr Shem Erskine, Site Director for the Plaisance operations

PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo on Monday received Abel Cruz, Group President for Qualfon, who is in Guyana for a year-end review of the company’s operations during which the PM floated the idea of the firm setting up branches in the sugar belt.

Mr Cruz was accompanied by Mr. Shem Erskine; site Director for the compa-

ny’s Plaisance operations.

Qualfon is the single largest call centre operations in Guyana and, according to Mr. Cruz the company has about 2000 employees at its work offices at Plaisance, East Coast Demerara; Providence, East Bank Demerara and, from Linden. Mr. Cruz informed the Prime Minister that employees were being transported from Linden, Re-

gion 10 to the Plaisance site.

Mr. Cruz said a call centre in the bauxite town is possible in the future.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo raised with Mr. Cruz the possibility of Qualfon’s operations being located in the sugar belt to provide jobs and training for young people, a release by the Department of Public Information stated.

DEMTOCO fetes the less fortunate THE Demerara Tobacco Company, as part of its Christmas Outreach and Community Service Initiative, recently treated the less fortunate to lunch at its Carmichael Street, Georgetown head office.

Noting that it is the company’s way of giving back to society, Managing Director, Ms Maurlaine Argyle-Kirton said:“As a standing corporate citizen, we have decided to extend our love to the less fortunate. And anyone who is less fortunate was invited to come and receive a meal. “Every member of staff has contributed in kind and in using their service.”

A 54-YEAR-OLD American citizen was robbed of her passport, driver’s license, cash and other valuables on Monday at Thomas Street between Middle and New Market Streets, Georgetown.

She was identified as the Vice Chairman of VXL Enterprise, located in Duke Street, Kingston,

Georgetown.

Reports indicate that the American visited a bank on Camp Street to deposit money. She then left the bank heading to a lab on Thomas Street and was carrying her handbag across her shoulder containing valuables when she was confronted by the armed bandit.

The robber pointed a gun at her and snatched off her bag from her shoulder. He then joined a motor car HC 6238 which was parked on the western side of Thomas Street.

The car then drove away south along Thomas Street making good their escape.

Police are continuing their investigations.

Norton denies not getting along with staff Presidential Advisor on Youth Empowerment, Aubrey Norton has denied reports that he does not get along with staff under his supervision.

Norton made the comments in responding to an article in this newspaper last Saturday. The Guyana Chronicle had quoted a top source on condition of anonymity that several complaints had been lodged against Norton by persons with whom he worked as Presidential Advisor on Youth Empowerment. This newspaper understands that he was non-cooperative with workmates, which caused much discomfort. However, Norton has unequivocally denied the reports as mischievous and malicious. He said he has had an excellent relationship with his staff and he has not heard of anyone lodging such complaints.

Norton is one of three presidential who will be assigned advisors functions as President David Granger move to scrap the advisory role they played. Speaking

Presidential Advisor on Youth Empowerment, Aubrey Norton

at a news conference last Friday, the Head-of-State confirmed that he has decided not to renew the contracts of the three advisers: Norton; Rear Admiral Gary Best, Presidential Advisor

on the Environment and Brigadier (ret’d) Edward Collins, Presidential Advisor on National Security. Norton is a long-standing member of the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and has held several positions therein.

Brigadier (ret’d) Collins and Rear Admiral Best are former Chiefs-of-Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). When asked by the Guyana Chronicle about his decision, President Granger said, “Having come into office in May 2015, we sought their advice; and the advisory functions have more or less come to an end and we have asked for them to accept executive functions. So yes, we don’t need them in the role of advisors, but we are likely to appoint them in executive posts and that is being worked out.” The President did not disclose the areas to which the trio is likely to be assigned.

Ex-cop crashes policeman’s car in larceny bid Demtoco’s Ms Maurlaine Argyle-Kirton assisting with the sharing of lunches to the less fortunate

AN ex-policeman ended up crashing the vehicle of a serving policeman Monday morning when he attempted to steal the car in Alberttown, Georgetown.

In a release police said around 10:30hrs a plainclothes police Constable parked his Toyota 212 motorcar at Second Street, Alberttown and ventured into a nearby store -leaving the key in the ignition. On returning

to the vehicle he witnessed a male racing away westward with his vehicle and crashing it into two parked vehicles a short distance away. The suspect was then promptly detained and taken into custody. He has since been identified as an ex-policeman who resides at Red Road, Sophia.

Investigations are in progress, the police release added.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

– Min Allicock tells Chinoweng, Wax Creek residents

finance going into the communities. Over time, the minister said, there has been a high presence of equipment lying on the corners for want of either batteries, or needed parts. “That is not proper management. Things were given to you without a plan.

We would like to correct that because the equipment is expensive and it is taxpayers’ money that we are getting, so it is not easy money”, he told the residents.

However, he emphasised that the government has that responsibility to work closely with residents. He said that is the very reason why the government has employed CDO’s to work closely with the Toshao’s council and the people; to assist in monitoring the development of the community. He said since government took office back in 2015, it has made significant headway towards development in the community of Chinoweng. These include a $1.5 million grant in 2016 for the construction of a multipurpose centre. In 2017, an ATV was also delivered to the community. Government is also working on a village history, which will provide the much-needed information on the community’s heritage.

In 2016, $2 million was allocated for the building of a “rest house” in the community. Fifteen youths from the community were also part of

‘Goodlife mandate still alive’ MINISTER of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock, has promised government’s continued support to Indigenous Guyanese, saying that though the work is demanding at times, the administration’s mandate remains the assurance of “a good life for all.”

He made these remarks during a special visit to the village of Chinoweng, Upper Mazaruni where he, along with Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams, interacted with residents from both there and the neighbouring Wax Creek

Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Sydney Allicock addresses residents of Chinoweng and Wax Creek on Saturday. Seated to his left is Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hastings-Williams

Village.

With more than 80,000

persons from 215 communities and villages of nine indigenous groups across

A section of the residents gathered to hear from Ministers Allicock and Hastings-Williams

Guyana, and with a still growing population, the task can be a little heavy, Minister Allicock said. However, he said the government is not backing down and is working for its people. “We have recognised those things and we have been planning.

The Ministry has employed more community Development Officers (CDO’s) and Community Health Workers (CHW’s). Get your demarcations done. Get your certificate and general everyday work and help the community with their development.”

According to Minister Allicock, the government is investing in the lives of its people. For Chinoweng, he said, even before the administration took office, there have been equipment and

the Hinterland Employment and Youth Service (HEYS).

For 2018, the government intends to provide a $1.5 million funding for the community, Minister Allicock reported.

Over in Wax Creek, government was able to facilitate the construction of a village office at a cost of $1.3 million in 2016. In 2017, $800,000 was allocated for a wooden boat. In the new year, residents will be able to benefit from an $800,000 fund.

Meanwhile, Minister Dawn Hastings told residents of the successful passage of the 2018 National Budget and that programs are in place for the community in the health and education sectors. “We have a policy that wherever we spend money, work must be done to the value of the money. We have had workers before and they were paid even before doing the work. If the government allocates money to this community to build whatever, you have to be our eyes and report to the relevant authority if work is not being done to your satisfaction”.

She further called on residents to be the guardians of the projects when they are completed; also reminding them of their responsibility to take care of their environment. (DPI)

Fined, deported

Giftland to charge $3,000 entrance fee – for entering country illegally MANAGEMENT of the Giftland Mall has announced that a fee of $3,000 will be charged to enter the mall during the holiday season, especially when there is a noticeable amount of loiterers.

The management of the complex had employed a similar strategy last year to reduce the level of loitering in the mall, to allow genuine shoppers to be comfortable and again this is their intention, said Owner of Giftland Mall, Roy Beepat, during a press conference on Monday.

Beepat explained that this decision was taken after customers requested them to institute the system they had last year to handle the shopping situation. Asked why the price was increased from $1,000 last year to the current price, Beepat said the project was successful, so they decided to increase the cost in order to further

decrease the number of loiterers.

Although he said the days when the charge will be instituted is not fixed, persons who pay will be able to use the money to purchase items worth the fee on the same day. Persons who hold VIP cards are expected to be exempted from paying the fee.

In order to ensure that shoppers are safe, they will be working with the Guyana Police Force to have 30 additional officers in the mall and in the parking lot during the holiday season, said Beepat.

“I don’t want people to feel that Giftland is against young people, but we have to do this to ensure that things do not get out of hand,” said the owner of the mall.

He added that they went as far as to ensure that persons get parking at the nearby Aquatic Centre, Arthur Chung Conference Centre and in front of the

Owner of Giftland Mall, Roy Beepat

CARICOM Secretariat.

Guyana Chronicle pitched the idea of the fee to customers who were in the mall on Monday. Although some were in support of the idea, others said it might be challenging for them, since most persons might be inclined to shop on a budget or even use the opportunity to pick a particular item that they intend to buy on another day.

TWO Venezuelan Nationals were on Monday fined and deported after being charged before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for entering Guyana illegally.

Akemii Florez, a 26-yearold law student, and Mariana Duran, a 28-year-old housewife were separately charged and admitted to the offences with the aid of an interpreter.

Florez confessed that on November 15, at Charity, on the Essequibo Coast, she entered Guyana by sea and disembarked without the consent of an immigration officer.

Duran admitted that on November 2, at Eteringbang, in the Cuyuni River, she entered Guyana by sea and disembarked without the consent of an immigration officer.

According to Police Prosecutor, Arwin Moore, on November 2, Duran came into Guyana with a boat via Eter-

Akemii Florez

Mariana Duran

ingbang, while Florez came with a boat to Charity.

Both women, he said, disembarked and came ashore illegally, without presenting themselves to an immigration officer.

On November 15, both women were arrested in a bus while heading to Bartica

after police found that they had no entry stamps in their passports.

The magistrate fined them $15,000 each, or three weeks imprisonment in default. After paying their fines, or serving their sentences, they will be deported to their homeland.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Alleged mastermind in illegal aircraft probe remanded

11

City Hall opens up new areas for Christmas vending THE Mayor and City Council said it has designated special areas for vendors during the festive season, saying that it is happy to be able to provide space to permit street vendors to ply their trade at this time.

However, those who are selling on Council’s pavements, parapets and other thoroughfares have agreed to abide by certain conditions including: to only sell in areas identified by the Council for vending, no selling in or around the Stabroek Market square, provide proper garbage bins to throw away garbage in the right way, keep the area where they are sell-

ing clean and tidy at all times, bringing out small amounts of goods every day, Keeping passage-ways to businesses and other public and private places free from boxes, barrels, carts or any other things, not to sell in front of commercial banks, stores or display their produce and goods on the ground or on roadways, display produce and goods on clean materials three feet (3ft) above ground, use clean water to sprinkle fruits, greens and vegetables offer for sale to the public, not to encroach on public road ways, encourage the person selling next to them to obey the laws and regulations

of the city and to report to the nearest constabulary outpost if they observe persons or known character acting in a suspicious manner in the area, where they are selling.

“The Mayor and City Council is urging all vendors to pay attention to their assigned area and to help the council to keep the city clean,” the M&CC said in a release. Also, the Council stated that activities and events, which characterise this festive season, are no excuse for littering and other forms of indiscipline, which make the city look ugly and affect its image and reputation.

New Nursery School for Perth Village The illegal aircraft

By Clestine Juan AFTER almost four months on the run, the alleged mastermind behind the illegal landing of a Beechcraft King Air aircraft here in August was on Monday remanded to prison.

Hutashan Ramsingh, also called “Seon Singh”, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court and was not required to plead to the indictable charge.

The charge read that between August 10 and 13, at Mandacoro Island Savannah near Santa Fe, Lethem, he conspired with persons known and unknown to facilitate the illegal landing of an aircraft at an unauthorised port of entry.

Ramsingh’s attorney, Jerome Khan told the court that his client has no knowledge of the incident nor the airstrip. According to Khan, his client was taken into police custody on August 25, but was later released on $50,000 station bail.

He said the reason he fled the jurisdiction was because he feared for his life, but that he was rearrested last week by the police.

The magistrate nevertheless remanded Ramsingh on the grounds of his being a flight risk. The matter was transferred to the Lethem

Magistrate’s Court for March 5, 2018.

TWO OTHERS Two other men are currently before the courts on the same matter. On September 15, Wazim King, 37, and Nathan Hamilton, 21, appeared before City Magistrate, Judy Latchman charged with aiding and facilitating the illegal landing of an aircraft suspected to be involved in the trafficking of narcotics and firearms at an illegal port of entry. That matter was also transferred to the Lethem Magistrate’s Court.

Their attorney, too, contended that their clients have no knowledge that the airstrip or airplane was illegal, since they were hired by Ramsingh to construct a road.

Acting Police Commissioner, David Ramnarine had at the time disclosed that five males and one female were initially arrested in connection with the case, and that legal advice had been given to charge two of them. The others were released on bail.

The twin-engine aircraft, bearing registration PR-IMG was discovered by the security forces in mid-August.

No one has come forward to claim ownership of it, and to date, the Brazilian companies with which its registration is affiliated have not reported it as stolen.

On August 13, police

Hutashan Ramsingh, called “Seon Singh”

ranks were in Santa Fe, Rupununi conducting a search when they stumbled upon over a dozen 10-gallon jars hidden in the bushes. The party of policemen also observed that a long strip of land had been cleared to make what looked like an airstrip.

As the ranks were leaving, they saw an aircraft circling the cleared area. When they returned, they observed three men running from the plane after it had landed. The men managed to escape, but the aircraft was secured.

The lawmen, upon searching the aircraft, found a quantity of dry ration, medical supplies, gents clothing and footwear, two hand-held radios, flashlights, cellular phones and an identification card, amongst other items. The discovery was made a mere week after soldiers had found another illegal airstrip, a chain saw, aviation fuel, 12 abandoned camps and several dugout trenches in the same area.

THE community of Perth Village in Mahaicony, Region 5 (Mahaica/Berbice), will soon benefit from a spanking new nursery school.

The existing nursery school is currently being housed in the lower flat of the Perth Burial Society building and the pupils and staff have been enduring inconveniences at this location especially in the aftermath of social events held in the upper flat of the building.

The new school is being built in its own compound at another part of the village. Regional Executive Officer (REO), Mr. Ovid Morrison disclosed that the new nursery school will accommodate approximately 60 children and staff. Funds to the tune of $25M for the construction of the new building to be executed by Memorex Enterprises will be provided by Central Government. The building will have a number of school- friendly

features such as a restroom, head teacher’s office, wash rooms, staff room among other amenities.

Morrison disclosed that the Regional Administration has already installed a culvert at the entrance of the site which is to be fenced. The contractor, he disclosed, is in the process of mobilising materials and work should begin before year-end. The work has a three-month deadline.

City Hall commences payment to staff THE Mayor and City Council has commenced paying its staff in time for the Christmas holidays, acting Treasurer, John Douglas has said.

Douglas disclosed at a media briefing on Monday that the Council has commenced payments to all staff and will complete the process by Wednesday, December 20. He highlighted payment to pensioners will also be completed during the week. “I have finished signing some cheques and the payroll team is currently working feverishly to ensure that each employee would have a good Christmas”, Douglas stated.

He further highlighted that the Council has extended its one-month amnesty to defaulting rate payers.

The extension’s deadline will end on December 31, 2017. “We have decided to do this based on the fact… that some individuals were unable to meet council in time”, said Douglas. He explained that following the amnesty offer in No-

Acting Treasurer, John Douglas

vember, the Council has since received approximately $100M. Douglas noted over $250M was waived as a result of the offer.

As it relates to new projects, Douglas pointed out that the M&CC has reviewed its revenue collections operation, and will implement a new process in 2018. He opined that the new system will allow for better accountability within the council. “…In 2018 we

would start having booth locations…strategically located in Georgetown. So, there will no longer be anyone coming to uplift council’s fund, but rather you will have to go and pay what is due to the council”, Douglas said.

Additionally, in 2018, the M&CC will conduct a re-evaluation of properties within the environs of Georgetown. To this end, the council is calling on citizens to make all tax payments in 2017, since it will acquire an added interest rate in the new year.

However, despite the removal of interest, Douglas said that persons are still struggling to meet the demands. He explained, “We have come up with a plan for rates and taxpayers… if you come now during the amnesty period, we would give you a hundred percent interest-free.” According to the Acting Treasurer, a down-payment plan of six months can also be negotiated for persons to pay taxes owed. (DPI)

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

Unemployment rose for the third consecutive year in Caribbean - ILO UNEMPLOYMENT in Latin America and the Caribbean increased for the third consecutive year and affected more than 26 million persons in 2017, according to an International Labour Organisation (ILO) report released on Monday.

The report however said despite the worrisome reality,

it is noted that there are some positive signs in the labour market and a more positive evolution of the indicators is expected next year. “The labour market in the region appears to be going through a change of cycle after a period of generalised deterioration of labour and social indicators, but improvements will

depend on achieving greater economic growth”, warned the ILO Regional Director for Latin America and the Caribbean, José Manuel Salazar-Xirinachs.

The annual Labour Overview of Latin America and the Caribbean 2017 report, presented today at the headquarters of the Regional Of-

fice in Lima, highlighted the fact that there was a mixed performance of the main variables linked to the world of work.

The average performance rate of Latin America and the Caribbean rose from 7.9 per cent in 2016 to 8.4 per cent at the end of 2017, an increase of 0.5 percentage

points. The total number of persons seeking employment without finding work rose by two million persons, to 26.4 million. The ILO report underscored, however, that the average was strongly influenced by the situation in Brazil, where almost 40 per cent of the region’s work force is located and where the rate of unemployment stood at around 13.1 per cent in the third trimester of 2017.

One of the other factors is that while there was a slight recovery in economic growth after a period of deceleration and contraction, this was not strong enough to change the tendency of a labour market that “has a delayed effect when there is recovery”.

Instead in 2018, when according to the recent forecasts the average economic growth of the region will hover around 2 per cent, “it is hoped that the economic upturn would be more visible in the labour markets” and that the rate of unemployment would decrease for the first time in three years, to 8.1 per cent. The ILO report says that at the end of 2017 there is a slight improvement in the employment rate which augurs well for a positive evolution next year however it warns that for now, the improvement is still “mild and fragile”.

In the sub-regional analysis, the report highlights that unemployment increased in the South Cone where the inter-annual variation in the third trimester went from 10.7 per cent to 11.9 per cent. In the Andean countries there was a moderate reduction from 6.9 per cent to 6.8 per cent, in Central America and Mexico it decreased from 4.5 per cent to 4 per cent, and in the Caribbean it decreased from 7.8 per cent to 7.4 per cent.

In 2017 unemployment increased in nine of the 19 countries with data from the third trimester, this also is a positive evolution compared with 2016 when the increase was noted in 13 countries.

“The main change in this Labour Overview is that, generally speaking, there is a glimpse of the end of the widespread deterioration of the labour markets registered over the last two years and the start of an acceleration in

the expected growth in 2018 which should materialize, and trigger a new phase of improvement”, said Salazar.

Nonetheless, he reminded that unemployment is merely the most visible part of the functioning of the labour markets. “There are other dimensions of employment which must be taken into account in the countries of the region, such as persistent gender inequality, the lack of employment for youth and issues associated with the quality of employment which contribute to perpetuating informality”, he underscored.

In the case of women, the good news is that for the first time since the Labour Overview survey is conducted, the participation of women in in the labour market exceeds 50 per cent, standing at 50.2 per cent to be precise. This means that more than 100 million women form part of the economically active population.

However, in spite of this positive change the gender gap persists. Participation rates and employment rates of women are less than that of men by more than 20 percentage points. Furthermore, the unemployment rate for women, of 10.4 per cent in the third trimester, continues to be 1.4 times that of men.

“The labour markets of the region continue to be highly segregated”, commented Salazar. On the other hand, the average rate of youth unemployment rose from 18.9 per cent to 19.5 per cent in 2017, which means that one in every five youths in the work force cannot access work. It is estimated that this situation affects some 10 million youths. With regard to the quality of jobs, the ILO report indicates that job creation in the formal and salaried sector has remained weak, while there has been more growth in the creation of self-employment, usually associated with formal working conditions.

In the case of jobs by sector, there was an increase of 1.9 per cent in employment in the manufacturing sector, normally associated with formal working conditions.

With regard to wages, in a context of moderate growth and especially due to less inflation, in seven of the nine countries with available inTurn to page 18 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

13

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

15

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

CGX to ramp up explorations, drilling …renegotiate oil exploration plan with gov’t CGX Energy Inc has announced that it has successfully renegotiated its work commitments for the Demerara, Corentyne and Berbice Petroleum Prospecting Licences with the Government of Guyana and unveiled a plan to ramp up exploration and drilling activities in the next five years.

In a statement, the company said as part of the rene-

gotiation, it has also agreed to relinquish 25% of the acreage of both the Corentyne and Demerara blocks to the Government of Guyana.

The new work commitments are: to drill an exploration well at Corentyne Block

by November 27, 2019; acquire additional seismic or conduct seismic reprocessing

by November 27, 2020; drill an exploration well by November 27, 2022 in the De-

merara Block; complete any additional data processing and planning, and secure all regulatory approvals for the drilling of an exploration well

by February 12, 2020; drill an exploration well by February 12, 2021 and another by February 12, 2023 in the Berbice Block; complete a geochemical survey of a minimum area of 120 square kilometers and commence a seismic program defined by the aforemen-

tioned geochemical survey

by February 12, 2020; complete the seismic programme and complete all processing and interpretation of data by August 12, 2021 and drill an exploration well by February 12, 2023.

Professor Suresh Narine, Chairman and Executive Director (Guyana) commented: “CGX Energy thanks the Government of Guyana for its continued partnership and support.

We as a company are eager to pursue the new work

Professor Suresh Narine, Chairman and Executive Director of CGX

commitments in this exciting Guyana basin, and in so doing continue our unbroken commitment to the basin, the Guyanese people and its Government

for more than 18 years.”

CGX Energy is a Canadian-based oil and gas exploration company, focused on the exploration of oil in the Guyana-Suriname Basin.

Elderly man caught up in land dispute CARLTON King, an 82-year-old resident of 845 3rd Street ‘A’ Field, South-West Cummings Lodge, believes that some police officers are in collusion with other residents of the area over a land dispute, after an “unnecessary invasion”.

Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle, King explained that on Thursday, December 14, a police officer dressed in a black uniform, stealthily got into his house as he was eating in his bedroom. He was armed with a gun while another in plainclothes searched the rest of his home.

He said that the officers related that his neighbours complained about a stench emanating from his residence and they feared he was dead. He bemoaned that this was an “unnecessary invasion” the entrance to his house.

Numerous villagers were waiting outside his yard to see if the police had discovered him dead and he had recognized some of these people as persons he is currently at loggerheads with.

King further explained that he manages a plot of land in the area owned by a friend who was unable to build any structure on the land due to financial constraints, but

retains it as an asset. The elderly man related that he sought to help his unnamed friend and erected a structure on the land and took responsibility for taking care of it.

Recently, however, persons who King alleged were troublemakers and sought to acquire lands not their own, decided to take control of this plot of land. There has been a back-and-forth resulting in the other party burning the structure that King erected, so as to erect their own structure.

“The policemen are connected to the people trying to invade the plot,” the elderly man posited despite contending that they were very courteous. He also mentioned that he feels threatened by these actions, since the land was entrusted to him. Moreover, he said he visited the Turkeyen Police Station where he was informed that there is no information regarding the deployment of officers for this matter.

King is appealing to the relevant authorities to look into the matter, as he believes that he may be threatened again. He stressed too, “I’m not going to rest on this issue…

I will resort to the higher political power.”

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017

GO-Invest pegs investments at $6.5B for 2017 …processing 120 investment agreements, created 2000 jobs BOASTING the realization of nearly $6.5B in investments this year, the Guyana Office for Investments (GO-Invest) said that it is satisfied with its performances and despite its many challenges, it intends to establish a Service Provider Database for investors and numerous other initiatives to help push this country’s development.

Expressions of Interest (EoI) have been placed on the entity’s website and in the press for the development of the facility. That aside, GO-Invest will be hosting GIPEX2018, the Guyana International Petroleum Business Summit and Exhibition.

The exhibition will allow for key stakeholders within Guyana’s Petroleum Sector including ministries, government organizations, associations, experts, national and international oil companies, to interact and showcase what they have to offer.

The forum is deemed important in the promotion of the country’s petroleum sector. According to the GIPEX website, “The event will lay the foundation to establish a dynamic relationship between the Ministry of Natural Resources, Guyana and the private sector, with full co-operation from other government departments; all working to make Guyana a favourable and pro-business destination, a pre-requisite for boosting economic activities and achieving development objectives.”

GIPEX 2018 is a global initiative which provides an excellent networking platform for existing petroleum companies, service providers, equipment companies and investors through which interested parties will be informed about opportunities and developments in this sector and industry, the website stated. The exhibition will be held from February 7 to 9, 2018. The Guyana Trade and Investment Exposition will be held from April 28 to 30, 2018, while Guyana will participate in the Trinidad Chamber of Commerce Trade Mission (partnership with GCCI) January 29th 2018, Inward Trade Mission – Brazilians Mid-January 2018.

Other ventures include participation in the Barbados Trade Mission to Guyana from February 11 to 14, Outward Trade and Investment Mission, Jamaica, which will be held from mid-February to the end of February and the Prospectors and Developers Association of Canada (PDAC) to be held from March 4 to 7, 2018. But while the prospects for 2018

look bright, 2017 was a challenging year for GO-Invest.

According to a statement issued to the media Monday, the entity said the challenges were “Too many, but will keep focusing on the positives; we have to address all our challenges.”

GO-Invest said there is a need to enhance staff capabilities, something which has stated. Strengthening marketing capacity is also an area of focus. Additionally, significant time and resources have been spent on due diligence and processing, while proposals and applications received require significant enhancing, the statement said.

Meanwhile, Chief Executive Officer of the entity, Owen Verwey, during a year-end press conference, told reporters that the entity’s board of directors has expressed satisfaction with the agency’s accomplishments for 2017. “We had a board meeting last Friday and that was expressed by the members, and it was asked to be put on record. For myself, I set high standards and I drive towards it…I am satisfied. Could there have been more? Possibly yes. This is an interactive process and an evolving process and also it is a government entity”, he stated. According to Verwey, some of the accomplishments included 120 investment agreements being processed; 2,000 jobs created, and nearly $6.5B in investments; over 46 agricultural applications were processed with 500 plus jobs created; participation in several Regional Agriculture and Commercial Expositions (RACE); over 40 local businesses facilitated through foreign exhibitions and missions, approved or agreed in principle with several Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) with the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, the Guyana Revenue Authority and the Central Planning and Processioning Authority, among others, to facilitate and process investment incentives.

Meanwhile, Chairman of Go-Invest Board of Directors, Patricia Bacchus, disclosed that the Board is satisfied with the agency’s efforts for the year and predicted that 2018 will be better. GO-Invest was established under the Public Corporations Act in 1994 as a semi-autonomous body and comes under the direct purview of the Office of the President. The CEO answers to a Board of Directors which is composed of representatives from both the private and public sectors.

GO-Invest is divided

into two divisions: one responsible for Investment Facilitation and Promotion

and the other for export promotion. With these divisions, the agency offers

a full complement of services to local and foreign investors, and exporters.

Its mission is to contribute to Guyana’s economic development by promoting

and facilitating local and foreign private-sector investment and exports in accordance with the country’s approved investment and export strategies.

18

Guyana gets $45M from CDB to strengthen local governance

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, December 19, 2017 THE Board of Directors of the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) has approved a grant of US$ 218,020 (GYD$45,000,042) to the Government of Guyana (GoG) to build capacity in key areas of local government.

The loan will also seek to facilitate decentralisation of public service delivery and greater local involvement in social and economic development, consistent with the sustainable development goals.

In a release, the CDB said the project will assist the Government of Guyana in building the capacity of the Ministry of Communities to better support the process of reform in local government; as well as capacity building of the Guyana Association of Municipalities (GAM), and an institutional assessment of five municipalities, to help these entities improve performance and results delivery.

Daniel Best, Director, Projects Department, CDB said: “The project will provide a clear roadmap for local government reform, which will help reinvigorate local democracy and provide persons in communities with

a greater understanding of the process and a greater voice in service delivery and local taxation decision making.”

To better support local government reform efforts, the project will aim to achieve key results, including: attaining greater clarity on the resource needs of the Ministry of Communities, GAM and the municipalities; identifying areas for cooperation and potential synergies to reduce and eliminate wasteful public expenditure; and identifying the needs of the vulnerable groups who are likely to be socially and economically excluded.

According to the CDB, the project is consistent with the Bank’s strategic commitment to further good governance in the Region. It is also consistent with the Bank’s Gender Equality Policy and Operational Strategy and the Special Development Fund Ninth Cycle (SDF 9) themes of supporting the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 16 which seeks to promote strong institutions, which are effective, accountable and transparent at all levels.

Unemployment rose for the third...

From page 12

formation, the real salaries in the registered or formal sector increased between the third trimester of 2016 and the third trimester of 2017.

The increase was more noticeable in the case of real minimum wages, with an average increase of 4.3 per cent in the third trimester of 2017, above the 2.3 per cent which was registered one year before. A special theme included in this Labour Overview addresses the “Evolution of wages in Latin America and the Caribbean 2005-2015”.

The research highlights among other data that during this decade: real wages in Latin America increased by 19.8 per cent, or 1.8 per cent annually; on average, the real minimum wage increased by 42 per cent in Latin America; in Latin America public salaried workers represent 18 per cent of the total of salaried workers in 2015, domestic work represented 8 per cent and private sector employment represented 74 per cent.

The Labour Overview of Latin America and the

Caribbean 2017 warns that the future prospects depend on maintaining a more stable international economic environment. Nevertheless, Salazar underscored that “although 1.2 per cent or 2 per cent growth is better than the recent rates, this “new normal” includes some bad news, because these levels of growth are insufficient to speedily reduce poverty, and to satisfy and finance the demands of the middle classes and to have really transformative impacts on the social and labour market indicators.”

For this “the countries of the region must grow to 5 or 6 per cent and this will only be achieved by bridging the gaps in productivity and the lack of productive development and diversification, as well as in education and vocational training and infrastructure.” “Only in this way can we advance more sustained, inclusive and sustainable growth with more and better jobs”, said the Regional Director of the ILO.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

19

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

21

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

23

NCN inks deal with DIRECTV for official broadcast rights

By Rawle Toney

THE National Communications Network (NCN) yesterday inked a deal with DIRECTV to become the official broadcast rights holder for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, set for Russia, from June 14 to July 15.

Lennox Cornette, NCN’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and Bernard Pantin, DIRECTV’s Caribbean and Latin America Director, placed their ‘John Hancock’ on the document to solidify the deal at NCN’s Homestretch Avenue studios.

At the signing, which was broadcast live on NCN’s

Channel 11, Cornette said the 2018 World Cup, the world’s largest sporting event (behind the Olympic Games), will be viewed by more Guyanese than ever before, with the company (NCN) expanding their reach to the hinterland and other outlying regions.

According to Cornette, the investment is a testimony to NCN truly being Guyana’s largest broadcasting company, and affording all Guyanese the right to proper programming and the world’s biggest events.

Meanwhile, Pantin said regional broadcasters, over the years, have been weary

of pirated events and have been reluctant to invest.

However, this time around, he added DIRECTV has ensured that those rights holders will be protected and lauded NCN for the deal.

Pantin pointed out that with the FIFA World Cup being one of the events for which the world over is excited, Guyanese will, for the first time, be guaranteed seeing the 32-team tournament in its entirety.

Next year’s tournament will be the 21st FIFA World Cup. The tournament, which will be hosted by Russia, will be the first World Cup held in Europe since 2006;

all but one of the stadium venues are in European Russia, west of the Ural Mountains to keep travel time manageable.

Of the 32 teams, 20 will be making back-to-back appearances following the last edition of the tournament in 2014, including defending champions Germany, while Iceland and Panama will both be making their first appearance at a FIFA World Cup. A total of 64 matches will be played at 12 venues located in 11 cities. The final will take place on July 15 in Moscow at the Luzhniki Stadium.

Missigher outruns Thomas for King Medas 5K Title GUYANA’S Winston Missigher continues to make strides as Guyana’s top distance man, prevailing over Cleveland Thomas and Devaun Barrington, respectively, to claim the men’s category of the 7th Annual King-Medas/Pansy/ Adonis 5K Classic, where Collia Rowe championed the women’s category, when the event concluded last Sunday at the Buxton Community Centre ground.

Larry Josiah outclassed Orin Josiah to take the Men’s masters category, while the ever-fit Alicia Fortune won the Women’s masters cate-

gory.

South American Junior Championships bronze medallist, Anfernee Headecker picked up the win in the Boys’ 17-20 category after getting past Matthew McKenzie. Also in this category was Nationals 10km road race champion Ricky Williams who finished third.

The Girls’ 17-20 win went to Leyanna Charles, who finished in front of Delicia Tinnis. Leoni Adams finished in third place.

There was also a 5km Teachers’ race, which Jonathan Fagundes won.

Times were not available

Windies looking to ... their chances against New Zealand, especially with a side that boasts the likes of experienced left-hander Chris Gayle.

In their last 20 meetings in bilateral series, New Zealand have won nine and the Windies eight. The last series on New Zealand soil ended in a 2-2 draw, after one game was abandoned.

West Indies have had a disappointing run of recent in ODIs, however, losing 13 of

From page 26

their 20 outings this year, while winning just three.

Their 4-0 defeat to England in a five-match series last September saw them miss out on automatic qualification for the 2019 World Cup, as they finished outside of the top eight

for these events.

Sunday’s 5km races marked the climax of four days of activities in the Classic which began last Thursday. Over 300 athletes participated in the various categories of the Classic.

Following their achievements the respective winners received their prizes. Laptops and desktops were part of the over $3M in prizes distributed.

Present at Sunday’s presentation ceremony was Director of Sport Christopher Jones, who said he hopes to see the life of the event continue, and come back even bigger and better

next year. Plans are afoot to have the event shifted to August as of next year, to encourage more participation from the schools.

Organiser of the event Andy King-Medas extended heartfelt thanks to all the participants for their support and urged the athletes to remain steadfast in their training and to find the right balance with their academics, since next year he will attempt to fund scholarships to the University of Guyana.

King-Medas was also extremely appreciative of Banks DIH under their Rainforest Waters and Powerade brands.

in the rankings.

Hosts England, along with the next seven nations in the rankings, achieved automatic qualification.

West Indies will now contest a 10-team qualifier next March in Zimbabwe to bid for one of the two remaining spots at the World Cup. They will clash with the

likes of minnows Afghanistan, Ireland and Zimbabwe, along with the Netherlands, Scotland, Papua New Guinea and Hong Kong from the World Cricket League Championship, and two yet-to-be determined sides from the ICC World Cricket League Division Two. South Africa head the current ODI standings.

American Racing Tips

11:15 hrs Spring Man

11:20 hrs Return Ticket

Mahoning Valley

Turffontein

Southwell

Race 1 Stronghammer

09:10 hrs Tumbling Stream

08:30 hrs Optimickstickhill

Race 2 Pinchpenny

09:45 hrs Chinchilla

09:00 hrs Mach One

Race 3 Offlee Sinister

10:20 hrs Party Beat

09:30 hrs Ladies First

Race 4 Tiz Cold

10:55 hrs Keep It Hot

10:00 hrs Mujassam

Race 5 Coquetona

11:35 hrs Big Bang Theory

10:30 hrs Every Chance

Race 6 Hoosier Zip

11:10 hrs Unrehearsed

11:00 hrs Big Amigo

Race 7 Ohio Rose

11:45 hrs Okavango Delta

11:30 hrs Pearl Acclaim

Race 8 Planned Escape

13:10 hrs Takaduma

Fakenham

South Africa Racing Tips

English Racing Tips

08:40 hrs Dory

Kenilworth

Catterick

09:10 hrs Pennywell

08:15 hrs Rubyana

08:20 hrs Permission Granted

09:40 hrs Creep Desbois

08:50 hrs The Great One

08:50 hrs Beach Break

10:10 hrs Aza Run

09:25 hrs Favola

09:50 hrs Lough Salt

10:40 hrs Mullaghboy

10:05 hrs Jabu

10:20 hrs Espoir De Teillee

11:10 hrs William Hunter

10:40 hrs Still I Rise

10:50 hrs Halcyon Days

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

Ruthless Australia regain the Ashes

By Ian Ransom

PERTH, Australia (Reuters) - Australia thrashed England by an innings and 41 runs in the third Test in Perth yesterday to reclaim the Ashes with two matches to spare and condemn Joe Root’s team to a period of gloomy introspection.

Seamer Josh Hazlewood finished with a five-wicket haul as England were bowled out for 218 before tea on a rain-hit final day at the WACA. Four years after Alastair Cook’s side meekly surrendered the Ashes at the same venue, Root’s England were condemned to hand back the urn with the same humiliating 3-0 scoreline.

Australia quick Pat Cummins wrapped up the match, dismissing Chris Woakes (22) behind the wicket, triggering a round of bear-hugs with whooping team mates in the middle.

His captain Steve Smith was named Man-of-theMatch for a second time in the series, his brilliant 239 having left England with an improbable second-innings

mountain to climb.

“It’s been an amazing couple of weeks, I’ve really enjoyed every moment of it,” the beaming skipper told reporters.

“To know everything has worked out and we’ve been able to get that urn back, all the emotions came out at once.”

Smith’s dominant series has put his counterpart in the shade, with Root struggling with the bat and let down badly by his senior players across the three defeats at the WACA, Adelaide Oval and in Brisbane.

“It’s bitterly disappointing,” Root told reporters. ”One of the most frustrating things is we haven’t been blown away. ”In all three games there have been period where we’ve matched and outplayed Australia.

“I’m sure the next day or so will be pretty tough but we’ve got a bit of time to get ready for Melbourne ... and show the character of the group we have.”

Heavy overnight showers leaked rainwater onto the pitch in an embarrassment

ENGLAND 1st innings 403 (D. Malan 140, J. Bairstow 119, M. Stoneman 56; M. Starc 4-91) AUSTRALIA 1st innings 662 for 9 decl. (S. Smith 239, M. Marsh 181, U. Khawaja 50; J. Anderson 4-116) ENGLAND 2nd innings (o/n 218-10) A. Cook c & b Hazlewood 14 M. Stoneman c Paine b Hazlewood 3 J. Vince b Starc 55 J. Root c Smith b Lyon 14 D. Malan c Paine b Hazlewood 54 J. Bairstow b Hazlewood 14 M. Ali lbw b Lyon 11 C. Woakes c Paine b Cummins 22 C. Overton c Khawaja b Hazlewood 12 S. Broad c Paine b Cummins 0 J. Anderson not out 1 Extras: (b-6, lb-11, nb-1) 18 Total: (all out, 72.5 overs) 218 Fall of wickets: 1-4, 2-29, 3-60, 4-100, 5-133, 6-172, 7-196, 8-210, 9-211.

Bowling: M. Starc 17-5-44-1, J. Hazlewood 186-48-5, M. Marsh 3-1-14-0, P. Cummins 19.5-453-2 (nb-1), N. Lyon 15-4-42-2.

Pacer Josh Hazlewood eventually removes Malan to a catch down the slips. leg side and completes a five-wicket haul shortly after. (Getty Images) He was unable to

for the WACA ground staff and rain squalls further delayed the resumption of play.

But even with some 28 overs and some three hours lost to the weather, it was far from enough to save the tourists, who lost their last six wickets for 85 runs.

They resumed in peril on 132 for four, still 127 runs short of making Australia bat again, on a pitch with cracks snaking at both ends of the wicket.

Dawid Malan and Jonny Bair-

stow, who combined for a gallant 237-run partnership in the first innings, were tasked with the rescue mission but the England wicketkeeper was bowled for 14 on the first delivery he faced. from Hazlewood that skidded low off a crack and clattered into offstump, in a portent of a miserable afternoon for the tourists.

Incoming batsman Moeen Ali was very nearly out four balls later, when he edged the same bowler just short of Smith in the

Swann critical of England’s senior players after Ashes defeat (REUTERS) - Former England spinner Graeme Swann was critical of England’s senior players who have done “next to nothing” as Australia regained the Ashes in Perth yesterday.

Australia strolled to victory in the third Test at the WACA, winning by an innings and 41 runs to take an unassailable 3-0 lead in the five-match Ashes series, with England’s batting line-up again putting up meagre resistance as they were bowled out for 218 in their second innings.

While rookie Dawid Malan has made 302 runs in the series, former captain Alastair Cook has struggled with the bat in Australia, as has Moeen Ali, and Swann believes that England’s troubles are down to these underperforming senior players and the absence of one key batsman in particular.

“England do have a settled side if Ben Stokes is around but when he’s not, this team came over very weak,” Swann told the BBC. “The senior guys who you expect to stand up and outshine the rookies have done the exact opposite. Joe Root and Alastair Cook have done next to nothing. The shining lights have been Rocky (Mark) Stoneman

SCOREBOARD

Alistair Cook is dejected after being dismissed on day three of the third Ashes Test

and Dawid Malan.

“I‘m proud of the way some of the guys have played. Dawid Malan was sensational; James Vince was only

dismissed by the best ball I’ve ever seen in a game. There are positives.

I expected to be 3-0 down after three games once Stokes wasn’t coming.”

Stokes was omitted from England’s touring party following his arrest on suspicion of causing actual bodily harm in an incident outside a Bristol nightclub in September.

He remains suspended by the England and Wales Cricket Board pending the result of a police investigation.

Michael Vaughan also questioned the longevity of certain members of the England squad, with the former England opener believing the next Ashes series in England may come too soon for some.

“England have three legends of the game in Alastair Cook, Stuart Broad and Jimmy Anderson,” Vaughan added.

“It depends how they manage their retirements. It’s coming sooner rather than later. I do think they can all play a part in the series of 2019 but you don’t see many fairytales in sport.

“England have to manage the senior core of the side and make sure that if they are all to go together in 2019 they are playing well enough to be in the team.”

capitalise on his reprieve, falling leg-before for 11, with fellow off-spinner Nathan Lyon snaring his wicket for the fifth time in the series.

Malan backed up his first-innings hundred with a half-century when he pulled Cummins to the fence.

But he was caught behind for 54 trying to pull Hazlewood after being well worked over

by the tall seamer.

England’s tail had proved hopelessly brittle against Australia’s bouncers throughout the series, and it duly fell over, with Hazlewood claiming his fifth victim when Craig Overton was caught in the gully for 12.

Cummins wrapped up the match by having Stuart Broad (zero) and Woakes nick behind, prompting celebrations in the modest day five crowd of 8 082.

ESPN President Skipper resigns to deal with substance addiction (REUTERS) - Walt Disney Co’s John Skipper resigned yesterday as president of ESPN, the company’s most important network, due to a problem with addiction.

“I have struggled for many years with a substance addiction,” Skipper, who was also Disney Media Networks co-chairman,” said in a statement. “I have decided that the most important thing I can do right now is to take care of my problem.”

George Bodenheimer will be the sports network’s acting chairman for the next 90 days, ESPN said in a statement. He had been its president from 1998 to 2011 and executive chairman until May 2014.

An ESPN spokeswoman declined to comment on who may be considered as Skipper’s successor.

Skipper’s departure comes within a few days after Disney struck a deal to buy film, television and international businesses from Rupert Murdoch’s Twenty-First Century Fox Inc for $52.4 billion.

Skipper, who became ESPN

John Skipper

president in 2012, has led the network to a series of long-term distribution agreements with major rights holders, including the National Basketball Association and Major League Baseball.

But ESPN has also struggled with subscriber losses and ratings declines. Last month, it said it would lay off about 150 employees.

Disney Chief Executive Officer Bob Iger, who extended his stay at the company through 2021 to oversee integration of Fox’s businesses, lauded Skipper’s candour and backed his decision.

Disney shares were down 0.2 percent at $111.09 yesterday afternoon.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

25

Botofago bang past HI Stars 4-1, Amelia’s Ward Panthers and Rockers in 2-2 stalemate

By Joe Chapman BOTOFAGO got their act off to a winning note with a 4-1 brushing aside of Hi Stars, while Net Rockers ended the quest of Amelia’s Ward Panthers for a berth into the next stage with a 2-2 result, as this year’s Upper Demerara Football Association’s (UDFA) 5th GT Beer Christmas football championship continued on Sunday night at the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.

The night began with Botofago facing Hi Stars who were handed a loss for their abandoned game when they were trailing with six minutes left in their game against Eagles United when a scrimmage had broken

16-team Inter-village football tournament starts tonight at Victoria A 16-team Inter-village football tournament will kick off tonight at the Victoria Community Centre ground from 18:00 hrs with a double-header.

The tournament, which will see the winning team take away $800 000. Tiger Bay will face Liliendaal in the opening game, while Eastville and Mocha will collide in the second fixture at 20:00hrs.

Legacy Promotional group is the body responsible for hosting the event, and Banks DIH, under their Banks Beer brand, is the primary sponsor.

Matches will be played on December 21, 23, 25 26, 28 with the final set for December 30. Apart from the winners’ purse of $800 000, the second-placed side will pocket $400 000, third-placers $200 000 and fourth-place finishers $100 000.

Botofago goalscorers from left Jashawn Moore, Jamal Haynes and Lamar Jones.

out.

That loss and now Botofago’s hammering out a 4-1 victory behind goals from Jashwan Moore, who netted early in the 11th minute and Jamal Haynes’ 31-minute strike sending them into a 2-0 half-time lead, were early warnings of how the game would end.

But two minutes after play resumed, Hi Stars found the back of the net in the 47th minute through Jason Monah. The lead was increased, however, when Botofago’s Jamal Haynes connected again in the 60th minute making it 3-1.

Then Haynes club mate Amar Jones pushed Botofago to a 4-1 lead in the 80th minute, as they shut down the hopes of Hi Stars. and now await their other group

match against Eagles United to decide which club will advance to the semifinals from that group.

In the other game Ward Panthers, after losing out in their first game to Blueberry Hill, were hoping for a positive result to make it to the next round, but they were unable to get the necessary win.

In fact, Denzil Pryce first sent Net Rockers into the lead in the 31st minute but the Panthers were able to square things through a 37th minute goal by Matthew Whyte before the first half ended 1-1.

But Clarence Huggins again gave the Rockers the edge when he scored in the 52nd minute. It seemed that the Panthers were down and out but Omalli Webb

EBFA/RHTY&SC Female 5-A-Side

Pink Queens emerge champs, Lizzann Lavroux is MVP

The respective Green and Pink Queens display their medals and trophies following the presentation ceremony in the presence of coaches Devnon Winter (right) and Owan Wills

THE East Bank Football Association (EBFA) in association with the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club last Sunday held a one-day Female 5-a-side football competition to encourage the development of the game in the association.

Emerging as champs in the two best-of-three matches were Pink Queens who blew away Green Queens, two matches to nil. Led by hat-tricks from sisters Latifah and Lizzann Lavroux, the Green Queens hammered Pink Queens 8-3 in the first match at the

Kuru Kururu ground.

Also scoring for the winners were Candace Fraser and Ronetta Grant. Pink Team scorers were Aalliyah Thomas, Shaniya Edwards and Nikita Winter.

The second match saw the Pink Team take first strike through a Nikita Winter goal but that advantage was eventually cancelled out in the second half through goals from Aaliyah David and Candace Fraser as the Green Team stormed to their second success to win the competition.

Both teams were presented with trophies while

each participating player received a medal. Emerging as the Most Valuable Player-of-the-Day was Lizzann Lavroux who was presented with a brand new cycle, compliments of the day’s sponsor, Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC).

The EBFA is expressing thanks to the RHTY&SC for its partnership in supporting the development of women’s football also to all the players who participated as well as the parents and coaches.

MVP Lizzann Lavroux (left) receives her cycle from EBFA Assistant Secretary/Treasurer Abigale Scott.

was able to convert from close range after a relentless offensive play bore fruit in the 83rd minute and raised hopes of the Panthers.

However, a non-call for handle ball that went against Panthers as they were on the look-out for that winning goal in the dying moments of the game did not help the Panthers’ cause and they had to settle for a draw which eradicated any hope of reaching the next round.

On Friday, other matches are set for the tournament venue - the MSC ground - where Kwakwani Strikers meet Silver Shattas, the defending champions, and the other match pits Botofago against Eagles United in key encounters.

Jaguars Franchise League oneday tournament resumes today ROUND five of the one-day version of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Jaguars Franchise League tournament is set to resume today with four matches being playing simultaneously countrywide.

In those matches, West Berbice will face Lower Corentyne at Albion, East Bank will tackle East Coast at Everest, Georgetown clash with Upper Corentyne at Port Mourant and West Demerara face Essequibo at Tuschen.

All matches are expected to start at 09:30hrs.

Round six and seven will be contested on December 21 and 23 respectively with the playoff between the second and third finishers set for December 28.

The winner of the playoff will face the team with the most points after the preliminary rounds.

Currently Lower Corentyne lead the points standing, with 27 points, followed by Essequibo (25), West Demerara (20), Georgetown (17), Upper Corentyne (12), West Berbice (8), East Bank (3), and East Coast Demerara (0).

The League will be streamlined to feed into the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional Super50 tournament.

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

Tappin drops 44, MHS lift YBG’s Titan Bowl … Jada Mohan fails to take Marian Academy over President’s College

President’s College team captain and MVP, Annalisa Barclay, collects the women’s winning trophy from YBG Director Rayad Boyce.

YANNICK Tappin, the Mackenzie High School (MHS) point guard, was a ‘man amongst boys’, as he poured in a tournament-high 44 points, to lead his team to a 91-76 points victory over the Linden Technical Institute (LTI).

As a result his team won this year’s Youth Basketball

Guyana (YBG) Titan Bowl, which wrapped up on Sunday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

In the Girls’ final, despite a game-high 19 points by basketball protégé Jada Mohan, Marian Academy lost 23-24 to President’s College (PC) in an entertaining encounter.

Meanwhile, Tappin, after

Windies looking to close gap in ODI rankings LONDON, England (CMC) – West Indies can close the gap on eighthranked Sri Lanka, when they face New Zealand in a three-match OneDay International series bowling off in Whangarei tomorrow.

In the latest rankings released yesterday by the International Cricket Council (ICC) , the Windies were ninth on 77 points, seven ratings points adrift of the Sri Lankans.

If West Indies sweep

the series against the fifthranked Black Caps, they will move up six points to 83, just one point behind Sri Lanka. A 2-1 series win would hand them three points and see them jump to 80 points.

However, if the Windies lose 2-1 they will gain a single ratings point and drop a point if they lose the series 3-0.

The Caribbean side will fancy Turn to page 23

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Tuesday December 19, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 2-0 (in favour of NZ) (2) Ross Taylor Today’s Quiz: (1) Who scored most runs for the WI in the recent Test series against NZ? (2) Who scored most runs for NZ? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

showing off his skills and the reason he’s probably one of the top High School ‘ballers’ in Guyana, the eventual Most Valuable Player (MVP) awardee saved his best performance for last, unleashing an all-round performance unlike any other in the tournament this year.

He dished out six assists, picking up eight steals and

grabbing six rebounds to go along with his 44 points.

The Linden Technical Institute had no answer for Tappin, who was supported

by Kevlon Cadogan (14 points, seven rebounds) and Leon Benjamin (13 points, 11 rebounds).

Jamal Gilkes had a huge game on both ends of the floor for LTI, scoring 18 points and hauling in 15 rebounds. He had the support of Dillon Pellew (14 points, 10 rebounds) and George Yearwood (13 points).

In the female final, Mohan, known as the best female player in Guyana, did all she could but her great performance was not good enough to stop Marian Academy from falling to President’s College (23-24).

Mohan, along with her 19 points, had six steals and seven rebounds, but it was PC’s Roschelle Campbell’s

six points, 15 rebounds and three steals that made the difference.

Annalisa Barclay also turned in a good performance for ‘PC’ netting seven points, and grabbing five

rebounds.

This year’s ‘Titan Bowl’ was the seventh edition of the YBG showpiece, which marks the end of their school’s basketball season.

Tournament MVP Yannick Tappin goes hard to basket during his sensational 44-point performance in the final of the YBG Titan Bowl against LTI.

Deosammy – lone player with Guyanese roots in Canada Under-19 World Cup side

By Frederick Halley TORONTO, Canada When the International Cricket Council (ICC) Under-19 World Cup bowls off in New Zealand next month, one player with Guyanese roots will be part of the Canadian squad vying for supremacy in the prestigious tournament.

Sixteen-year-old Ashtan Deosammy, who was born in Canada to Guyanese parents, Vengasammy and Dropattie Deosammy, has been making a name for himself at the youth level since representing his club Qasra Cricket Academy in Under-13 competitions and according to his coach Sheriff Bodhoo, Deosammy lives and breathes cricket.

Boodhoo, himself a Guyanese who hails from Vergenoegen, East Bank, Essequibo, pointed out that Deosammy has been one of his brightest prospects in his academy which has a reputation for producing quality players over the years.

Apart from representing the academy, Deosammy also plays for Transac Sports Club in the Toronto & District Cricket Association at both the senior and junior competitions, namely the Under-16, Under-18, Second and Elite divisions.

An all-rounder who bats right-hand and also bowls off-spin, Deosammy is credited with almost single-handedly winning the Under-13 title for his team, blasting an undefeated 142 not out against Malton Sports Club in the 2013 final while he also hit a top-score of 81 versus Australasia Cricket Academy in this year’s Under-18 semifinals. His team were primed to compete in the final versus Oakville but unfortunately the game was rained out, forcing the teams to share the winners’ trophy.

Deosammy was also part of the Canadian Under-19 side which captured the ICC Americas Under-19 title, competed for against the USA and Bermuda earlier this year. They also

Ashtan Deosammy

participated in the one-day version of Cricket West Indies Under-19 tournament in the Caribbean.

Canada will compete alongside Bangladesh, England and Namibia in Group C while in what is the 11th edition of the tournament and the third to be held in New Zealand.

The top two sides from each group will advance to the Super League while the remaining eight teams will figure in the plate championship. The

quarterfinals, semifinals and final of the Super League will be among the 20 matches to be broadcast live.

The final will be played at Bay Oval in Tauranga on February 3 while both semi-finals will be played at Hagley Oval in Christchurch on January 29 and 30.

The plate tournament will run simultaneously but end with the final at the Bert Sutcliffe Oval in Christchurch January 28.

Canada squad: Arslan Khan (captain), Akash Gill (vice-captain), Ashtan Deosammy Emanuel Khokhar, Kavian Naress, Kevin Singh, Pranav Sharma, Randhir Sandhu, Krishen Samuel, Faisal Jamkhandi, Arshdeep Dhaliwal, Rishiv Joshi, Aran Pathmanathan, Pieter Pretorius, Rommel Shazad. Reserves: Prabal Sharma, Abaan Khan, Raqib Shamsudeen.

Staff - Manager Wijay Senathirajah, Coach Farouk Kirmani, Assistant coach Zubin Surkari, Analyst Kulbir Jaswal, Physio Mohin Vadiwala.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Tuesday December 19, 2017

27

Consistency, leadership and total team effort, key to Jaguars’ success, says Griffith … Jaguars break tournament with huge points advantage

By Rajiv Bisnauth THE Guyana Jaguars romped to their fifth win in seven outings in the Regional Four-Day Championship when they crushed Leeward Islands Hurricanes by 10 wickets on Saturday night.

The victory bolstered the team’s position at the top of the points table, with the three-time defending champions yet to lose a match this season after drawing with Hurricanes last month and tying with Windward Islands Volcanoes last week.

However, manager/ assistant coach Rayon Griffith feels that the Jaguars’ stupendous success as the most consistent team this season should be attributed to consistency, total team effort and the leadership skills demonstrated by captain Leon Johnson.

“We played consistent cricket … we batted better in the first innings this year, but having said that it was a total team effort … the younger players in the squad also played a big part,” Griffith, the former national and West Indies B

Anthony Bramble

Ramdhani finishes second in men’s open, champions ladies’ singles

The winners show off their prizes.

PAN American, Caribbean and National badminton champion Priyanna Ramdhani showed that she can romp with the boys equally after finishing second place in the Men’s open singles of Banks DIH Aqua Mist/ Powerade Christmas Badminton tournament, where she also ruled in the Ladies’ open singles and Girls’ Under-17 singles.

According to the Guyana Badminton Association (GBA), Ramdhani was allowed to play in the Men’s singles due to lack of competition in the Ladies’ singles of the three competitions, which concluded last Sunday at the National Gymnasium.

Ramdhani really showed skills in her semi-finals matchup against Jonathan Mangra, but found herself cut down by Ronald Chang Yuen in the final.

Mangra was able to

strike first blood, winning the first game 21-9. However, in the second game Priyanna came back with superb and skilful play to win 21-11.

Obviously not at his best level of fitness, Mangra was feeling the pressure and picked up only 5 points by the time Priyanna amassed her 21, clearing the way for her to the final.

Yuen picked up the other final spot after taking out Marlon Chung in straight sets: 21-14, 21-17.

When things got down to the final, Ramdhani wasted no time taking the first game 21-10, while Yuen won the second game by the same margin.

Despite trying to continue her aggressive style in the decider game, she was not good enough to overcome Yuen, who took the game 21-19 to stop Ramdhani just short of

her third title.

Ramdhani, however, still had her Ladies’ singles title to celebrate. She claimed the title after defeating Shivannie Persaud: 21-6, 21-8 and had already pocketed the Girls’ Under-17 singles title since Saturday when she outclassed Sacha Parmanand: 21-3, 21-1.

A small presentation ceremony followed Sunday’s conclusion of the tournament, where the winners were presented with their prizes - trophies and haversacks - by Banks DIH Powerade Brand Manager Mr Errol Nelson.

The GBA expressed its sincere gratitude and heartfelt delight to Banks DIH for coming on board to make the tournament possible, for yet another year. Appreciation was also extended to Mr Carlton Joao and all who supported the association.

team fast bowler said.

He added, “Yes, we played consistent cricket, yes, it was a total team effort, yes the younger players played their part, but the leadership skills of Johnson (Leon) also played a major part in our success. Johnson is a leader in the actual sense of the word. It is very evident from his body language and his constant interaction with the players. It is his confidence in the players’ ability which is helping them perform to their full potential and this is what gives them the belief.”

Further, the 38-year-old Griffith believes that the support received from the local governing body also played a pivotal role in the team’s success.

With three rounds remaining, the Jaguars are definitely on course for a fourth consecutive

Veerasammy Permaul

Leon Johnson

title.

Looking at the individual performances, Bramble is Guyana’s leading run-scorer so far with 481 runs after scoring three fifties and one century.

He is behind Trinidad and Tobago Red Force captain Denesh Ramdin (564) and Windward Islands Volcanoes opener Devon Smith, who is leading with 873 runs.

In the bowling department, Veerasammy

Permaul is the leading bowler so far with 41 wickets.

The tournament will resume on January 4.

After seven rounds of action, the Jaguars have accumulated 118 points, followed by Barbados Pride (75.2), Trinidad and Tobago Red Force (71.6), Jamaica Scorpions (71.4), Leeward Islands Hurricanes (61) and Windward Islands Volcanoes (52.2).

Consistency, leadership and total team effort, key to Jaguars’ success, says Griffith

Page 27

FIFA World Cup 2018

NCN inks deal with DIRECTV for official broadcast rights Page 23

It’s a done deal! Bernard Pantin, DIRECTV’s Caribbean and Latin America Director (left) and NCN’s CEO Lennox Cornette, signing the agreement to make NCN the Official Broadcast Rights Holder for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. (Adrian Narine photo)

Missigher outruns Thomas for King Medas 5K Title

Page 23

Winners pose with their trophies alongside representatives from Banks DIH and the organisers.

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

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2017