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No more raiding No. 104829 MONDAY FEBRUARY 20, 2017

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–– small miners urged to form themselves into syndicates

Panorama 2017 rocks

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Members of the National School of Music Steel Orchestra celebrate their win in the final 10-minute showdown at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall on Sunday (Adrian Narine photo)

Lethem farmer beaten to death Page 9

New leadership, but same old Page 13

–– no real change at Anna Regina nearly one year after Local Govt Elections

Incurred liabilities challengeable Page 9

–– lawyers say Parking Meter Project can be revoked with no financial burden to City Hall

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

No more raiding

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

–– small miners urged to form themselves into syndicates

By Ariana Gordon SMALL-scale miners operating in Mahdia and neighbouring communities were on Sunday urged to unite to benefit from concessions being granted by the administration. Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources Simona Broomes and a team of officials from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) visited Mahdia to better inform miners of the benefits to be accrued

miners and work on their own lands. “A syndicate is a group of people coming together for a common good… it is a nice foundation… from my own experience and institutional knowledge you were never offered land… I know of engines being parked, four inch pumps and housing being parked… I made a promise to small miners after the complaints and that promise is now a reality,” she said. The minister, who has been a miner for over 20

Members of the Central Mahdia Mining Association greet Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, on her arrival at Mahdia on Sunday

Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, addressing the small miners on Sunday from forming syndicates. At a mid-day meeting held at the Desert Storm nightclub and organised by the Central Mahdia Mining Association, Minister Broomes made it clear that the opportunity for small miners to work on land collectively through syndicates exists. She told a gathering of miners that small miners can now move away from raiding lands belonging to medium and large-scale

years, told the gathering that forming syndicates would represent progress, and the birth of a new day for small miners whose hard work often go unrecognised. But she cautioned, “the biggest challenge is you”, noting that while Government will provide the land, it is the miners who have to establish the rules that govern the operation of the syndicates, and the boundaries.

Minister Broomes reminded the miners of the importance of paying tax and informed the body of miners that it is their civic duty to give back to the country. “This is not a scandal thing…the land is not for sale, or for kaimoos, or trafficking… it is for you to work. We are committed to helping you; we have delivered. Any problems you have, GGMC will assist, whether it is training in GPS or otherwise.” The minister disclosed that the aim is to have each district establish a syndicate. She explained that because of the geographical set up of Mahdia, Minister of Natural Resources Raphael Trotman has agreed for two syndicates to be formed in Mahdia. Another syndicate has been formed in Konawaruk. EMPOWERMENT “We have to start doing things in an orderly fashion. This good life we speak of comes with order. We are giving

you an opportunity to empower yourselves and put food on the table for your families,” she said while quickly adding that the formation of syndicates is not the only way to acquire lands to mine. “You can still get lands through lottery,” she stated. Minister Broomes made it clear that she understands the miners’ “excitement” at the prospect of being able to mine without interference but noted that “it is about money, not excitement”. She stressed the importance of unity among the miners and noted that safety remains high on the Government’s agenda. “We don’t want any pit cave-ins like we saw a few months ago…we are going to work with you. GGMC is going to assist you with whatever information, guidance you need. This is not something you got to beg us for…we are committed to assisting you,” said Broomes. At the conclusion of her presentation, miners expressed satisfaction. “Nobody never had we interest at heart, don’t let we disappoint she,” one

miner said, while another added: “This is the change we voted for… all the time we were suffering, being exploited and abused but now with this syndicate

we will see we way man.” Meanwhile, the vocal small miner Garfield Wint echoed the sentiments See page 5

Small miner Garfield Wint makes a point during a mining meeting held at Mahdia, Region Eight on Sunday

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

Iraqi troops make headway in Mosul assault Iraqi Government forces have seized several villages as they move towards an assault on the last area held by the so-called Islamic State (IS) in Mosul. Hundreds of military vehicles, backed by air power, rolled across the desert towards IS positions early on Sunday. The progress on Sunday in the south of the city, the second biggest in Iraq, takes them within striking distance of Mosul airport. Fears have been voiced about the safety of many thousands of trapped civilians. The offensive was formally announced by Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi early on Sunday. Army Staff Lieutenant General Abdulamir Yar-

allah said in a statement that elite Rapid Response units captured the villages of Athbah and Al-Lazzagah - two villages south of Mosul airport. Government forces retook the eastern side of the city, the last major IS stronghold in Iraq, last month. But military officials say the western side, with its narrow, winding streets, may prove a bigger challenge. For now, there is no advance from eastern Mosul as all bridges from there to the west of the city, across the Tigris River, have been destroyed. Lieutenant General Stephen Townsend, the commander of the US-led coalition forces, said in a statement on Sunday: “Mosul would be a tough

Iraqi forces bombarded IS positions ahead of the advance

fight for any army in the world.” Special forces units safely detonated a number of IS car bombs as they cleared villages south of Mosul, according to the BBC’s Quentin Sommerville, who is em-

bedded with the troops. As well as primed car bombs, the jihadists left behind SIM cards, clothes, instant coffee and weapons as they retreated. The UN has voiced concern about civilians

Monday , February 20th , 2017 - 13:00 hrs Tuesday , February 21 st , 2017 - 14:00 hrs Wednesday , February 22 nd , 2017 - 14:30 hrs

trapped there, amid reports that they could number up to 650,000. Leaflets warning residents of an imminent offensive were earlier dropped over the west of the city. Charity Save the Children said on Sunday it believed that as many as 350,000 children were trapped. “This is the grim choice for children in western Mosul right now: bombs, crossfire and hunger if they stay; or execution and snipers if they try to run,” said the charity’s Iraq country director, Maurizio Crivallero. Iraqi forces have now all but surrounded the western part of Mosul, while the US-led coalition has been carrying out air strikes on IS targets. Ahead of the launch of the operation, Mr Abadi said in a televised speech: “We announce the start of a new phase in the operation, we are coming to Nineveh to liberate the western side of Mosul.” “Our forces are beginning the liberation of the citizens from the terror

of Daesh [IS],” he added, quoted by AFP news agency. The UN humanitarian co-ordinator for Iraq, Lise Grande, has urged all parties involved to “do absolutely everything they can to ensure that civilians survive the battle, and that they live”. “Absolutely nothing is more important going into the campaign to retake western Mosul,” she told the BBC on Saturday. As the advance got under way, the UN commissioner for human rights called on the Iraqi government to investigate videos shared on social media that appeared to show Iraqi troops brutally abusing and executing IS fighters on the streets of east Mosul late last year. The videos have not been verified at this stage by any government authority or independent group. The Iraqi prime minister’s office said it had launched an investigation. The offensive on the eastern part of the city was launched on 17 October, more than two years after jihadists overran Mosul before seizing control of much of northern and western Iraq. Experts warn that western Mosul, although slightly smaller than the east, is more densely populated and includes districts that are seen as pro-IS. The UN said in late January that almost half of all the casualties in Mosul were civilians. At least 1,096 have been killed and 694 injured across Nineveh province since the start of October. (BBC)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

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made by the minister. He told his colleagues that working together is by far better than being subject of the large-scale miners who allegedly take advantage of small miners.

‘WE NEED UNITY’ Wint spoke of the togetherness that existed in the past among pork knockers. “It grieve me heart now…we need to bring back the bush of 1984…we need unity; the love for the bush gone because of the machinery,” he said. The miner, who is also a member of the Konawaruk Association (syndicate), urged his comrades to join the asso-

ciation with the intention of progressing as a team. He disclosed that the association has a constitution by which all miners must comply and noted that there will be no favouritism. That aside, Wint made it clear that miners must pay royalty to the Government. “You have to give back to society; no country don’t run without tax… it is not going into my pocket, or minister’s pockets but will be for all of us to benefit.” He told the miners gathered that “syndicates are the only way out” and urged them to “don’t run away from the syndicate”. Meanwhile, Wayne Phillips, Secretary to the

Central Mahdia Mining Association which was late last year read a motion which called for a thorough investigation into the GGMC’s Land Management Division, said that department’s manager Donald Singh should be removed. The motion also called for “all lands that are being processed for the GGDMA in the name of small miners be cancelled and instead be processed for syndicates made up of small miners, all lands being processed for the president of the GGDMA in the Karrau area in the name of small miners be cancelled and the land be processed for the Karrau Mining Syndicate.”

A section of the audience at the mining meeting on Sunday

Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, makes a point to miners in Mahdia on Sunday during an informative session on syndicates (Adrian Narine Photos) Additionally, the motion called on the Ministers of Natural Resources to hold consultation with small miners who operate in Region 10 before there is an amendment to the mining laws. “There be an investigation into all the missing geological data from the geological service department. The Government paid for this data and it is alleged that they were taken by staff and being sold to private entities. These persons must be investigated and held accountable for such actions,”

clause 6 of the motion read by Phillips stated. The motion as presented by Phillips received resounding support from the small miners from Mahdia and neighbouring communities and Minister Broomes asked the miners to put the motion to Minister Trotman. Meanwhile, many of the miners took the opportunity to express some of the challenges facing them and Minister Broomes and the GGMC officers committed to investigate the complaints. In an invited comment,

Minister Broomes told Guyana Chronicle that the APNU+AFC coalition Government made several promises to the people of Guyana and is in the process of fulfilling its mandate. “We are in the process of fulfilling our promises and as a former miner I am pleased that small miners can now work together for their benefit.” Broomes said she will continue to educate small miners about syndicates and the benefits that can be accrued from working together.

Editorial Food Security

WHEN food is available and people cannot have access to, or purchase same, it contributes to hunger. Food was and continues to be used as a weapon, resulting in wars, famine, divisions in society, disintegration of values, groups, and other socio-economic and political ills. It is said, ‘He who feeds you controls you by determining your taste and influencing how you think.’ The early pioneers of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) understood this truism and sought to guard against it, given the implication of newly independent societies trying to make their mark in a global economy, and the concern of subjecting the peoples to other forms of colonisation or dependency. It is to Guyana’s credit that during the Forbes Burnham administration -- one of the founders of CARICOM-- the policy of promoting and substituting local products in preference to those that originated outside of CARICOM, was embraced. This was a step in the direction towards strengthening the nation’s independence, security and people’s empowerment. This policy set in train not only employment and economic opportunities, but also created potential for further technological advancement through Research and Development, niche markets for Caribbean foods in the global economy, and boost the Gross Domestic Product, local and regional. The earlier sense of camaraderie in pushing the acquiring of goods and services from within the Region among member-states was considered a necessity. For instance, Guyana took a deliberate decision to purchase soap from the Commonwealth of Dominica at a relatively higher price than what would have obtained in the European market. While on the surface this decision may give rise to questions, it should be not be lost sight of that in the first instance, the money Guyana used to purchase the product remains in the

Region. Consequently, this created opportunities in the Commonwealth for the maintenance and improvement of the company, its product, employment and economic opportunities. Given that CARICOM and institutions of similar nature are built on the desires and aspirations of the member-states and their peoples, it augurs well when decision-making does not lose sight of the collective. As the leaders look for ways to stimulate economic development in the Region, it is expected that uppermost in their plans would be to find a way to cut the ballooning and unsustainable Region’s food-import bill. It is hoped that as a matter of necessity, a programme will be conceptualised and developed to reduce this drastically. Presently, the bill stands at over US$4.5B. Reducing this bill can see the diverting of scarce foreign exchange to other crucial areas that beg for attention, such as education and health services. A 2013 Food and Agriculture Organisation report warned that “A continuation of the current CARICOM food-import bill trends can only lead to further nutritional and economic impoverishment for the people of the Region for generations to come.” What is also disturbing, is that some of the foods imported can be produced here, are processed, over processed, low in nutritional value, and carry health consequences. Non-communicable diseases which are on the rise in the Region are manifested in obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure, which are based on lifestyle choices, including consumption of foods high in saturated fat, sugars and sodium, which are prevalent in processed foods. Longevity is also threatened with sustained patterns of poor nutritional intake. The Region has all the natural resources needed to produce its own foods and also supply the global market with health foods, which is the new crave, given its value to nutrition,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

Editor-In-Chief

Nigel Williams Editor

Godfrey Wray

Editorial: 227-5216; 227-5204 guyanachronicle.com wnigel10@hotmail.com gnnleditorial@gmail.com

Editorial

health and longevity. This Region, notably Guyana, Belize and Suriname, have more than enough land mass, potential and possibilities to carve a niche in the organic foods market. In the increasing global demand for herbal food supplements and medicines, much of the products are grown or can be grown here. What is required are sustained efforts and support to see them enter the market. The responsibility to eliminate hunger, provide appropriate education and health services, the construction of roads, highways and bridges, creating and maintaining equity, equal opportunity, and ensuring an enabling environment for employment and economic opportunities is of that government, not the private sector. Where the view was once held or encouraged that government relinquishes its role to the private sector via neo-liberal policies, such has been the major contributor to the global recession. Since then, governments, more notably in developed countries, have moved to assume their rightful role through laws, policies, programmes, checks and balances, and oversight institutions. Addressing the food-import bill has to be a matter of priority for regional governments if the Region is to develop, compete in the global market place, and if its peoples are to be assured of health and longevity.

Guyana’s EITI membership a step in right direction THE news that Guyana was closer to joining the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) was well received in Trinidad and Tobago, especially by those of us involved in the energy sector. We learnt that Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo had launched Guyana’s EITI Multi Stakeholder Group (MSG), an important early step in the journey to EITI membership. We of the Trinidad and Tobago Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative Steering Committee welcomed the announcement, because over the past four years we have been assisting Guyana in its preparation for EITI membership. This was done through workshops for selected persons conducted by us in Port of Spain and in

Georgetown and through direct discussions with Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman. The launch of Guyana’s EITI MSG took place a day after U.S. President Donald Trump repealed the U.S. Security Exchange Commission rule that required energy companies registered with the SEC to publish payments in excess of US$100,000.00 made to foreign governments for the exploitation of extractive sectors’ natural resources (oil, gas and mining). I note that some informed persons in Guyana are asking the valid question of what mechanisms are in place to ensure that companies like ExxonMobil, the main player in Guyana’s growing energy sector, make the same level of revenue payments disclo-

sure in Guyana in future as they would have done before the repeal. Clearly, Guyana does not yet have the necessary mechanisms in place to ensure full disclosure by extractive companies, whether in oil, gas or mining, but the government’s decision to apply for membership of the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) is an important step in the right direction. Guyana has to seek early EITI membership so as to begin to enjoy the many benefits that will accrue to government and citizens (www.eiti.org). Today, Trinidad and Tobago would have been asking the same questions about the Trump repeal, but for the fact that it joined the EITI in 2011 and has developed a very transparent reporting system in

which all energy companies voluntarily participate as can be seen in our annual EITI Reports (www.tteiti.org.tt/ eiti-report s). The impact on Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago of President Trump’s action will be somewhat negative, if only because it strikes a blow against our governments’ decision to promote transparency and accountability to the local extractive sectors. However, the blow is not fatal, because the U.S. Dodd-Frank Act 2010 that gave rise to the SEC disclosure rule that now has been repealed, also gave birth to similar legislation and rules in the EU’s 28 countries, Norway and Canada which remain in force. Therefore, the foreign companies that currently operate in Guyana’s and Trinidad and To-

bago’s energy sectors, and others that may come in the future, are or will likely be subject to the disclosure requirements of other international jurisdictions. As companies voluntarily participate in the EITI in other countries, and because it is generally accepted that transparency is good for business, Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago can expect from them no less commitment to transparency and accountability and support for the EITI reporting process in our countries. This practice is already well established in Trinidad and Tobago and will be introduced in Guyana after it achieves EITI membership. Therefore, on balance, we in Trinidad and Tobago are not overly worried about the Trump repeal and Guyana

might note that when considering its own position on the matter. Our Multi-stakeholder Group Steering Committee will continue to lend support to Guyana and share our experiences, so as to ensure that it gains EITI membership in the shortest time possible and begins to reap the benefits of greater transparency and accountability in the extraction and monetizing of the country’s natural resources that are owned by the people and the revenues from which form an important part of their patrimony. Victor Hart, Chair TTEITI MSG Steering Committee, Member EITI International Board

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

Confiscation of private property without due process is unconstitutional

Dear Editor,

THE proposed SARA bill has been presented to the Guyanese people as an attempt to “recover illicitly obtained assets with the primary objective of reducing the consequential damaging effect of corruption on sustainable development.” This is, of course, a noble cause and I wish to affirm my stand in support of the protection of public property, eradicating corruption in government and promoting sustainable development. But the entire SARA story doesn’t add up. It is clouded with policy issues which SARA would not solve, but instead become a burden for taxpayers. This raises questions about the real motive behind SARA and its potential violation of our constitution. In its present form, the SARA bill is designed to allow the executive branch of government to take justice into its own hand and away from the judiciary. This is nothing more than executive over-reach and legislative encroachment. Allowing the government to confiscate private property allegedly acquired illicitly without prosecution is in effect violating the private property clause and the right to due process as outlined in our constitution. These provisions were placed in our constitution for the very reason of checks and balances and preventing the executive from encroaching

on the rights of citizens. Let me be clear, the government has all right to investigate all acts of illicit acquisition of public assets, this is in the best interest of taxpayers. But beyond such investigation, the government must place such persons before the court of law for it to decide whether such assets were in fact acquired illicitly or not. We must have faith and trust in our judiciary in executing its functions in a fair and unbiased manner. Moreover, it is the right of every citizen to due process in which he or she defends himself or herself. If the government is certain that it has a strong case, then it should not be afraid to present its case before the court. In fact, anyone who is guilty of illicitly acquiring public assets should face such charges and penalties as permitted by the law. This is how a democracy functions. Lawmakers would basically be giving the executive licence to seize and confiscate private property under the disguise of asset recovery, without due process. Lawmakers should not support this bill in its current form, but insist that the ultimate arbitrator in any matter involving the seizure and ultimate confiscation of private property is the court of law and not the government.In moments like this, we need lawmakers to put partisan politics aside and stand up to defend our constitution, defend the rights of citizens and ensure executive powers

are kept within established checks and balances. There is no estimate of how much money the economy was and still is losing from the illicit acquisition of public property, the very purpose which SARU’s existence is based on. Instead, SARU’s conceptualization was solely or largely based on claims that Guyana was losing over $300 billion a year under the previous administration. Specifically, $188 billion through the underground economy, between $25-$35 billion through procurement fraud, and $90 billion through the illicit capital flight. While I have serious concerns about these estimates, the methodology used in their calculation and the lack of evidence in supporting any of these claims, the entire story seems like nothing more than a hoax. Let’s examine these claims and see whether the proposed SARA legislation has any bearing on them whatsoever. The first claim is that Guyana was losing between $25-35 billion annually in procurement fraud. Without questioning the integrity of the estimate, this means that the APNU government since acquiring office in 2015, would have been able to increase savings or public expenditures by at least $50$70 billion by simply eradicating the corruption in procurement and without raising a single dollar in taxes and fees. Likewise, the APNU government, since acquiring

office in 2015, would have been able to add $180 billion to the economy by simply stopping illicit capital flight. In short, by simply eradicating procurement fraud and curbing illicit capital flight, the APNU government should have added between $230 - $250 billion of new money to the economy without raising a single dollar in taxes or fees. Where is the evidence of this? In fact, what we have seen is the total opposite of this. We have seen an increase in taxes and fees to the tune of 10,000 percent in some cases and billions of dollars in public debt. Solving the procurement fraud issue requires the establishment of the procurement commission and updating the necessary laws and administrative rules, and curbing illicit capital flight problem requires updating the relevant regulations and enforcement of compliance. None of these commonsense solutions has anything to do with SARU. If the government is serious about these issues it should be putting forward legislation that would solve these problems. To date, no such decisions have been taken, raising the question of whether these claims were based on facts in the first place. The final claim is that Guyana was losing $188 billion through the underground economy. The definition of an ‘underground economy’ is economic transactions not measured by government sta-

tistics and ignoring government regulations and laws. The underground economy is also referred to as the ‘black market’, ‘shadow economy’ and ‘parallel economy.’ Note that these are not illegal transactions, they are legal transactions. To bring the underground economy into the formal economy, therefore, requires broad-based reforms and improvement in enforcement. For example, simplifying and streamlining business registrations, the acquisition of tax identification numbers, making it simple and easy for small and bottom house businesses to get registered and even establishing support systems for such businesses to be encouraged to get on board with government rules and regulations, pay their fair share of taxes and contribute to shared prosperity of Guyanese. And again, the government’s actions are exactly the opposite of what is required to bring the underground economy into the formal economy. For example, the government increased the cost of acquiring tax identification numbers, increased regulations that would make it harder for small businesses, increased the effective tax rates on households and the list goes on. In short, the measures taken by the government would feed the underground economy instead of curb it. Note that none of this has anything to do with SARA yet again. So, the entire justification of

SARA is based on problems which SARA’s existence would not resolve and its real purpose is to empower the executive to take justice into the government’s hand by circumventing the courts. Let me end by saying I do believe that anyone who stole from the public should be charged, placed before the court of law and for judgment and penalties as permitted by our constitution. The SARA bill, which would empower the government to confiscate private property without due process is undemocratic and unconstitutional. Currently, the government has the power to investigate and prosecute anyone who acquired public or private assets illegally, prosecute such individuals and let the court decide their innocence or guilt, without SARA’s existence. Moreover, the entire justification for the SARA bill is based on policy issues for which SARA’s existence would not solve. Instead, it would be an added burden on taxpayers to fund SARA’s operations. Lawmakers should reject this bill until its mandate can be made explicitly clear, sufficient evidence of the problem it seeks to resolve is available, and that its operations would not violate an individual’s right to private property and due process. Dhanraj Singh, Economist

Parking meters project corrupt from beginning Dear Editor,

AS a former deputy mayor,I have been paying attention to the controversy surrounding the parking meters in Georgetown and I can honestly say that the meter arrangements was riddled with corruption from the inception. There were no consultations with stakeholders first to begin with ; every day it stinks more as the media dig deeper into the main people who did the underhand dealings.This is my take as a former mayor/ deputy: there should be no buying of any article as big as the parking meters without the full knowledge of the entire council and the approval by a vote at the statutory meeting.

In the first place, the mayor should have instructed the town clerk to invite the stakeholders and the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce at a specially convened meeting to hear about the arrangements and the implementation of the parking meters and the fees which will be charged.The mayor and town clerk went ahead to implement the meters after confrontation with some, if not the majority of councillors in a statutory meeting.The former Deputy Mayor, Sherod Duncan warned, had warned the mayor and town clerk that there would be serious repercussions by the people who have stores and vehicles, but they paid no heed and went ahead. Shortly afterwards, the stakeholders were provoked to

anger and retaliated against the parking meters.Hence, the people marched against City Hall and on the mayor’s office. The town clerk and his cohorts at City Hall should be blamed for the people flooding the streets and protesting.This has created a security crisis; the stakeholders were provoked to anger and retalitation against the parking meters.Some vehicle owners and businessmen were humiliated,intimidated and harassed every day by the city constables,and their vehicles were clamped and towed away. But instead of removing the meters,an even greater tyranny has been imposed upon the stakeholders.A local elite at City Hall has usurped power by fraud and has now perpetrated itself by impos-

ing unreasonable charges at schools and other places on an even more preposterous scale,backed up by naked smart solutions. Although the court has barred City Hall from collecting money,I read that the mayor will go ahead and implement her decision,which I consider to be contempt of court What needs to be done are recognition of the problem and the implementation of certain reforms. In their struggle, the AFC came on board and condemned the parking meters as others were asking to put the project on hold or reduce the cost for parking as the stakeholders went through unspeakable sufferings. Yet they continued their opposition. Some people felt that the protestors were or-

ganised by the opposition, but the messy truth is, it was called people’s power against a power-drunk, conscienceless clique at City Hall.From the beginning, when fresh elections were held for Mayor/Deputy and councillors,I noticed that the pulling and dragging by the mayor and the deputy and this did not auger well for the council. Deputy Mayor Sherod Duncan can be considered a one-man army fighting against the odds: he stood up for justice for his people and constituency, he has exposed much corruption and underhand dealings in the council and from that day he was called an enemy of the state and council. He brought to light for the

people, the stinking deals with the parking meters and the rampant corruption and for that he was attacked by the mayor at meetings for speaking the truth. This is my understanding about the local government laws 28:01: the mayor has no veto powers to overrule statutory decisions, the town has to work with the full council’s decision which is passed at the statutory meeting, not the mayor’s decisions. Anything else is a violation of the law and the council can move a no-confidence motion against her if she s outside the full council’s decisions and the law. Yours faithfully, Mohamed Khan

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

Peculiar Barbadian stamp for CARIFESTA XIII By Ravin Singh

PLANS are afoot for the staging of the Caribbean Festival of Arts (CARIFESTA) XIII later this year in Barbados, and according to that country’s Prime Minister, Freundel Stuart, it will be characterised by a peculiar Barbadian stamp. The prime minister’s comments were made on Thursday during his stay in Guyana for the 28 Inter-sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM). During the meeting, Prime Minister Stuart provided a progress report to the Community on the preparations for CARIFESTA which will be held from August 17-27, 2017, under the theme “Asserting Our Culture, Celebrating Ourselves”. According to Chairman of the Community, President David Granger, the body acknowledged the importance of the festival to the Caribbean identity and “brand”, urged full participation in the event. “We are a unique people

not only the Ministry, but the Government has been working on getting the infrastructure ready in time for the event.

Former Haitian President Michel Martelly hands over the CARIFESTA baton created by acclaimed Haitian Visual Artist Phillipe Dodard, to Barbados Minister of Culture, Sport and Youth, Stephen Lashley and it is important that we showcase the diversity of our people,” he said. Agreeing with the Chairman, Stuart said that while CARIFESTA showcases the diversity of the region, it highlights the unique character of each host country. “Over the years it [CARIFESTA] has change its char-

acter to reflect where it is being held because each host country tries to put its cultural stamp on the festival. Therefore, we expect that while we will be having artistes from all over the region, there will be a peculiar Barbadian stamp on CARIFESTA XIII,” he said, adding that the land of the flying fish hosted the event in 1981, and

as such, it is not virgin territory for them. Touching on preparations briefly, the prime minister explained that the Ministry of Culture, Sport and Youth in Barbados will be leading the charge for the event, and has been very active in preparations. He pointed out too that

SIGNIFICANT INTEREST Meanwhile, he indicated that a “significant number” of persons have already indicated that they will be coming to Barbados and will be participating in the cultural event. “The level of enthusiasm, evident in Barbados and the number of countries that have indicated that they want to participate, satisfies us that we are going to have a successful CARIFESTA,” he said. Eight countries have so far confirmed participation in the event. These countries include; Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Bahamas, Belize, Bermuda, Guyana, Montserrat and St Lucia. Additionally, CARICOM has said that there is interest in the Grand Market and Buyer’s Shopping Mall from as far as the Middle East. The Ministry of Culture,

Sport and Youth in Barbados had earlier announced that a proposed Caribbean shopping centre during CARIFESTA is generating global interest. “…there has been interest shown in the regional showcase from international buyers in Colombia, North America, Europe, the Middle East as well as from other Caribbean islands, which have a special interest in one of the major events for the festival,” the Ministry announced in a statement. Based on these indications, Stuart said that the country is on course and is optimistic that they will host a successful 13th edition of CARIFESTA. Carifesta, which facilitates the gathering of like-minded souls, will run for 10 days with a Grand Market, exhibits, performances, and other cultural orientations dominating this extravaganza. It is expected to be a fair where Caribbean craft rub shoulders with fashion shows, gastronomic palaver, music and other creative art forms.

Form are charged yearly and per subject. For a student paying $100,000 (an average amount, figures may vary) per subject annually, will now have to pay an additional $14,000 due to the imposition of VAT. For a student who is taking classes for three subjects, an additional $42,000 will be added to the already steep yearly fee of $300,000. Nevertheless, these figures are only for the sixth form. There are other levels of private education being offered by this institution and other such private institutions. School of the Nations Director, Dr Brian O’Toole, in a letter to the press, criticised the implementation of VAT on private education. However, he and many other students of the institution realised that there was more work to be done. An ad hoc student council was formed and the students launched a national petition against the imposition of the 14 per cent VAT on private education. Additionally the council has engaged with other

schools (both private and public) and other agencies and organisations to reverse this imposition. The petition was initially an online petition, but now the students have set up a small booth at the Giftland Mall, mostly on weekends, to spread awareness and gain wide public support against VAT on private education. The online petition has been gaining support and thus far it has obtained some 3,645 signatures. Cabinet Secretary and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, on Friday said the petition against the implementation of Value Added Tax (VAT) on education is engaging the attention of Cabinet. Following the removal of the zero-rated items in the 2017 budget, private institutions are now required to pay 14 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) effective from February 1, 2017. However, some private institutions which fall under the category of “Charter Schools” are not required to pay this levy.

Students stand against VAT on education

ILLUSTRATING the power of youths to raise their voices against issues affecting them, students from several private institutions have taken a stand against 14 per cent VAT levied on private education. Advancing the movement against the 14 per cent Value Added Tax (VAT) on private education are students from the School of the Nations, with the support of the school’s management. Speaking to the Guyana Chronicle, student of the Nations’ Sixth Form and active youth protester against this levy Othniel Lewis said VAT on the school fees has caused a “stir” among private school students. Nations’ Sixth Form is known for providing the Cambridge University Examinations- better known as ‘A’ Levels. This is an examination not provided by the sixth forms of Government schools; instead, the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) is offered. The Guyana Chronicle understands that the school fees for the Nations Sixth

Students of School of the Nations Sixth Form at the Giftland Mall seeking to build support against the 14 per cent VAT on private education

Incurred liabilities challengeable

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

–– lawyers say Parking Meter Project can be revoked with no financial burden to City Hall

By Ravin Singh

THERE are options available for termination of the controversial parking meter project by City Hall without the local government body incurring any liabilities as is stated in the contract. This is according to lawyers associated with the Movement Against Parking Meters (MAPM) who addressed a town hall meeting on Saturday at St Stanislaus College. The clauses in the contract between the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) of Georgetown and Smart City Solutions (SCS) – the company contracted by M&CC to manage and operate the metered parking system – has been described as “ominous”. In relation to termination of the contract, one of the clauses stipulates that in the event that both parties wish to terminate the contract, this must be done by written consent. On the other hand, if the City Council wishes to unilaterally terminate the contract, without the written consent of SCS, the local government body shall pay that company a lump sum payment equivalent to the total direct and indirect, hard and soft cost cumulative gross investment of the company in the project. The contract states that

this lump sum is to be added to an amount equal to 25 per cent of the total direct and indirect, hard and soft cost cumulative gross investment of the company in the project. When the value of the 25 per cent is calculated, it is to be further multiplied by the number of years remaining under the agreement. Further, the Council would have to pay the reasonable out-of-pocket and

they say.”

UNENFORCEABLE She reasoned that the contract is “unenforceable” because the council, by Section 3:04 of the Act could enter into agreement, but what has been revealed is that the Council has not even seen the contract. “What we have heard is that the Council has not even seen the contract so how

lors said that they were told by the mayor that they would be able to see the document but would not be able to get a copy, nor would they be able to take photographs of it. “A lot of things are done at City Hall that are not showed to us councillors,” the deputy mayor-elect said. Meanwhile, Chase also submitted that the jurisdiction under the contract is Guyana. Therefore, any

A section of the gathering at Saint Stanislaus College Saturday documented costs and expenses incurred by the company as a direct result of such termination, cancellation, rescinding or voiding. But according to Attorney-at-Law Pauline Chase, “The contract can be rescinded… it’s not difficult and it’s not as onerous as

can we take it that they have entered into an agreement? So it’s unenforceable,” she explained. Deputy Mayor-elect Lionel Jaikaran and two other councillors who were also present at the meeting admitted that they had not seen the contract. The three council-

Lethem farmer beaten to death A LETHEM farmer was beaten to death by a group of men on Saturday while travelling with his brother along an illegal crossing linking Guyana and Brazil. Dead is Lee Antone, 21, a farmer of Kaicumbay Village, North-Central Rupununi, Lethem and Bonfim Brazil. Reports indicate that Antone and his brother, Veto Antone, 20, were at a bar partying in Lethem when they left around 01:45hrs Saturday morning, heading to Bonfim along the Takutu Bridge. There, 14 unidentified males blocked their path and began beating them. Police said some of the perpetrators were

armed with pieces of wood, rocks and other objects. Veto Antone managed to escape leaving his brother behind. He returned at day- break and saw his brother lying on his back motionless with his face covered in blood. The man’s body had several wounds to the face, head, leg and arm. A party of policemen visited the scene and the body was taken to the Lethem Regional Hospital where the injured man was pronounced dead on. The body is at the Lethem Regional Hospital mortuary awaiting a post-mortem. No arrest has been made as yet as an investigation continues.

action to be taken by SCS would be in Guyana, and according to her, “it would be hard-pressed to beat us in our own courts”.

FLUFF The attorney maintained that the talk about incurred liabilities is “really just fluff and [an] excuse that we can’t get out of the contract. We can get out of it quite easily. An attorney worth their salt can get you out of this contract, so the contract can be rescinded quite easily.” Another prominent lawyer associated with MAPM, Nadia Sagar also weighed in, offering that there are several possibilities of having the contract revoked. She said that the force majeure clause in the contract is something which could be explored to get the desired outcome. “It [force majeure clause] talks about events beyond the reasonable control of SCS which delays, interrupts or limits the performance of SCS’s obligations and those

include civil commotion, riot or public disorder, or an injunction issued by a Government authority,” she disclosed. With these possibilities, the attorney offered that what is needed therefore, is continued protests and continued efforts to “starve the meters” for as long as citizens can. MAPM has been supported in their call for revocation of the contract by the Private Sector Commission (PSC), the Guyana Human Rights Association, several other organisations, and thousands of Guyanese who assembled three weeks, consecutively, to participate in peaceful protests. This prompted Central Government to meet with the Mayor and Town Clerk, and they were asked that the “burdensome” rates of $58 for 15 minutes be reduced. However, the MAPM has rejected this proposal for reduction, and is holding strong to their call for a complete revocation of the contract which did not go to tender.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

Your duty of care

IF you have children who are pre-adolescent (10 -13 years old), then you should be aware that they are approaching puberty and their bodies are beginning to develop and change: now is a good time to have a talk with them about what to expect and what puberty means. On the grand scale of things, talking to a child about puberty is not the end of the World. However, some parents are highly embarrassed about such things and dread the day when they will have to broach the subject. How Parents feel about it usually stems from how they were raised. Yet parents owe it to their children to be as open as possible about all things concerning life and their development. Bringing things out into the open and explaining what they mean: discussing them with your children and answering any questions that may arise is the healthy way to prepare your children for their future. This is a holistic approach that fosters a good child/parent relationship Child/parent relationships usually start out reasonably good. Parents are never embarrassed to teach their children simple life skills,such as how to wash and keep themselves clean when they are young. But as children approach adolescence, new parenting skills need to be adopted and later on even adjusted to meet the transitional needs of young people’. Knowing how to speak to young people

about issues that will affect their lives is a useful skill for parents to acquire. It fosters mutual respect and understanding and helps children to feel secure, loved and appreciated. Children need to know that adults ‘have their backs’ and are looking out for them in every respect, every step of the way. Because there is no way to avoid the inevitable and nature will always have her way, parents should not avoid confronting developmental issues or brush them under

the carpet. Children deserve to be given sensible advice and information in a timely manner and the best people to do this are their parents or caregivers. If you are the kind of parent who feels embarrassed to speak to your children about certain issues, here are some tips that you should consider. 1) Tact: If you speak to children tactfully, you will always get the best out of them and they will listen. Choose your words,

choose your moments. Good communication between parents and children should be fostered early on in childhood. 2) Information and advice: Young people can only make informed choices if they are given the correct information and advice. If they are given good, solid advice from the start, they will always appreciate and listen to their parents as they grow. 3) Duty of care: Parents have a duty of care towards their children. Who else is meant to nurture them, show them the right way or teach them life skills? The alternative is leaving children to learn from their ill-advised peers. 4) Embarrassed or clueless? If you need advice on how to approach certain issues with children, call the Childcare and Protection Agency and speak to a Childcare Officer on 227 4082 or go on line and look up the information you need. Children naturally rely on parents (and adults) for advice, discipline, security, nurturing, love and attention. It is your duty not to let them down. Let them know you care. If you are concerned about the welfare of a child,call the CPA helpline on 227 0709, or write to us at childcaregy@gmail. com A MESSAGE FROM THE CHILDCARE AND PROTECTION AGENCY, MINISTRY OF SOCIAL PROTECTION

Cuba, Caricom to agree on tariff concessions

THE importance of an agreement for products and tariff preferences between Cuba and CARICOM was discussed during the recent Inter-sessional Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM at the Marriott Hotel, Georgetown. Cuba’s Ambassador to Guyana, Julio Cesar Gonzalez Marchante, said the Second Additional Protocol of the Trade and Economic Cooperation Agreement, already started by both sides, is a tribute to the economic debate of a CARICOM summit. The agreement includes 349 Caribbean products with free access to the Cuban market, while CARICOM will grant preferences to 86 Cuban products. The Cuban ambassador pointed out that the Cuba-CARICOM agreement will be officialised in March in Havana, during a meeting of Caribbean foreign ministers. At that meeting, CARICOM leaders will analyse

Cuban Ambassador to Guyana, Julio Cesar Gonzalez Marchante regional security and international relations issues. Also in attendance will be representatives of various institutions and international agencies including the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), the Organisation of Eastern Caribbean States, the Caribbean Tourism Organisation, the University of the West Indies, and the Caribbean Development Fund.

CARICOM is one of the longest surviving integration movements among developing countries. The original Treaty of Chaguaramas was signed on July 4, 1973, in honour of the birthday of Norman Washington Manley, a leading advocate of the West Indies Federation and one of Jamaica’s national heroes. The treaty and its annex (setting out the details of the Common Market Arrangements) came into effect on August 1, 1973. Since 2001, the Community has been functioning within the framework of the Revised Treaty of Chaguaramas including the establishment of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). CARICOM has made strides, particularly through functional cooperation in education, health, culture and security. Despite some challenges, the single market still functions and remains a respected voice in international affairs.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

Pleasurable Flavours –– the story of an enterprising Linden woman

PARENTS always want to make sure their children have everything that they did not have, especially when it comes to education. Sometimes circumstances that are often described as beyond people’s control motivate and propel them to use these as stepping stones to greater things. The entrepreneurial story of Dianna Plowell from Ameila’s Ward, Linden, Region 10, is centred on sacrifice and

in her house and even does embroidery. She was always making different items for , including plantain chips, chicken foot, pepper sauce, and achar. On February 23, 2012, while many were in Georgetown enjoying the Mashramani celebrations, Diana remembered that she had a “big gallon bottle” of pepper sauce, and it then “clicked that I have a bunch of small vodka bottles that my father use.” She proceeded to wash,

Diana Plowell preparing to make cucumber pepper sauce the love of a mother for her children. Diana told the Government Information Agency (GINA) that one of her daughters had received a scholarship and she could not afford to send her to pursue her studies due to financial constraints. She described how distraught she was, crying and wondering how she could make her family’s life better and improve their standard of living. She related that amidst the tears and hopelessness, one day she heard a voice saying, “What do you have in your hands? Use that!” She described the voice as that of ‘Almighty God’, speaking to her. Diana is good with her hands; she makes everything

take off the labels and fill the vodka bottles with the pepper sauce. At the end of that process, she had 25 bottles which she then took right into her community of Amelia’s Ward and sold them for $200 each. That was the birth of her trade mark ‘Pleasurable Flavours.’ With the money that she made from selling those 25 bottles of pepper sauce, the next day Diana went to the market and bought more pepper to make pepper sauce, and the small bottles of pepper sauce kept increasing from there. Diana then realised that there is more than one flavour that can be mixed with the pepper to create lovely sauces. Her business has been in operation for five years and ‘Pleasurable Fla-

vours’ now has variety to its name. You can get green seasoning, cucumber, pawpaw, corilla and souree pepper sauce, an all-purpose seasoning, sweet pepper relish and mango hot sauce. VERY POPULAR Diana said that her pepper sauces are very popular; her all-purpose seasoning can be used as dipping sauce for fish, chicken tenders and even used to season meat. Her sweet pepper relish is one that is growing in popularity. Diana described this product as one that caters for the person that is not “a fan of the heat (pepper) but always wants a little kick or a different taste while eating.” Each of her products has a shelf life of one year. Dianna told GINA that it has been five years that she has “gotten out of bed” and started making this (pepper sauce) for resale and to improve her family’s life. She expressed pride in what she has achieved thus far, even though she did not get to send her daughter to Canada, because it is “a process of making the money.” However, the experience has taught her that she can do anything with her hands, because God has blessed her. Diana plans on improving the company, noting that the “sky is the limit.” She pointed out that there will be new products under the brand of ‘Pleasurable Flavours.’ Diana also makes fudge with and without coconuts, plantain chips, and sugar cake among other Guyanese sweet meats. Describing the local response to her products, Diana said that it is amazing how the local market takes local products. She said that some persons see local products as “not good.” However, at first when she approached stores and supermarkets, her packaging was not up to standard, but she understood them being cautious in taking products. Diana, with a bright smile on her face, related to GINA that her products are reaching international standards, “… right now if you hold up one of my products and a product

from overseas you would not be able to tell which one is local or which one is from overseas.” Diana has two small export markets, Suriname and Trinidad and Tobago. Diana is confident that when “all the stores and supermarkets get a hold of Pleasurable Flavours’ products, they will not have enough to supply the demand.” You might be wondering

how the name ‘Pleasurable Flavours” came about. Diana explained enthusiastically that, it was a process where she threw out the challenge to her friends in Amelia’s Ward and asked them to come up with a name to brand her products. She approached four persons for a name for her company. She said she loved Pleasurable Flavours’, because it complements the vision of the prod-

ucts that she produces which is: “You must enjoy eating your food while incorporating a pleasurable flavor.” February 23, marks the fifth anniversary of the Pleasurable Flavours line of products, which can be found at the Guyana Shop, Robb and Alexander Streets and at many supermarkets. Diana can also be contacted on 6814810 or 442-4317 for orders.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

Panorama 2017 rocks

THE heat was on Sunday at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall as the Panorama competition culminated with several large steel pan groups, vying to be champion in the band category. In the small youth band category, the Queen’s College Steel Orchestra edged past the Dolphin and Lodge Secondary to claim first place. Dolphin and Lodge Secondary claimed second and third respectively. However, in the large youth band category, crowd favourite, the GBTI Buxton Pride Steel Orchestra copped the first position after an entertaining

performance that had the crowd moving in their seats. Buxton Pride was followed by Pan Wave academy and the North Ruimveldt Secondary Steel Orchestra. In the final category in which each band played a 10-minute original piece, the National School of Music emerged victorious while the Guyana Police Force Steel Orchestra and the Park Side Steel Orchestra trailed with second and third respectively. This year’s Panorama was sponsored by Republic Bank which has been doing so for the past nine year.

The GBTI Buxton Pride Steel Orchestra after their performance

The Pan Wave Academy in action

The Guyana Police Force Steel Orchestra enthralled the gathering at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (Adrian Narine Photos)

Ogle-Diamond road project to recommence in April CONSULTANCY services for construction of the road between the East Coast Demerara (ECD) and East Bank Demerara (EBD) are being sought before construction commences, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson has said. Guyana and India in March 2016 inked a US$50M loan agreement for the road project. Minister Patterson said the Exim Bank loan caters for US$1M to be set aside for the consultancy services. The road would bypass Georgetown which has suffered from increasing traffic congestion over the years. It will run between Ogle on the East Coast of Demerara to Diamond on the East Bank of Demerara. The road is expected to have four lanes with two of the lanes fully paved. Minister Patterson had pointed out that the project was a long-awaited one and can positively impact different sectors. He emphasised the relief to users of the current EBD highway in having an alternative, as

currently it is highly congested during rush hours. The minister explained that the signing was only the first phase of the project and very soon the design and contracts and implementation processes will begin. As part of the loan agreement, the contractor will come from India, though Patterson said it opens the door for the creation of local jobs that would see services provided by locals in every sphere, from sub-contractors for the building of the road, to labourers. The mobilisation payment has been made, and the second phase of the stalled East Coast Demerara road-widening project is expected to begin in April. “The contractor is mobilising. They had said to us that they would be on site by the beginning of May. We said that that’s too late, so we’re asking them to be here, the latest, April 1, to start the work,” Patterson said. The US$46M project was awarded to China Railway First Group Limited. The first phase of the project, which was the

Minister of Public Infrastructure,David Patterson

preparatory works, had been completed since 2015 at the cost of some $500M. While the commencement of the second half of the project was on hold, sand and other materials used in preparation of the expansion had been washing onto the existing road, leading many to believe that it was just a waste of tax dollars.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

New leadership, but same old

-- no real change at Anna Regina nearly one year after Local Govt Elections

APNU+AFC Councillor, Mark McLean

JUST under a year since Local Government Elections (LGE) were held here after a 21-year hiatus, heralding hopes for better management at the community level, evidence of this is yet to materialise in the township of Anna Regina. The only town in Region Two, Essequibo Coast, spans 18 villages, beginning at Three Friends in the south and ending at Walton Hall in the north and has a population of over 15,000, the majority of whom are farmers. All 16 seats on the municipality are occupied by representatives of the two major political forces in Guyana, the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) and the A Partnership for National

Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) coalition. Prior to Local Government Elections, the township was managed by an Interim Management Committee (IMC), which was installed due to the absence of a duly elected body by the people. Following the LGE in March 18 last year, the township, traditionally a PPP/C stronghold, maintained its voting pattern, allowing the PPP/C to command 14 of the 16 seats on the Town Council. Villages in Anna Regina, like others on the Essequibo Coast, heavily depend on rice to stay afloat, and the last LGE was held at a time when the industry there was experiencing a decline. Anna Regina Mayor,

Rabindranauth Mohan, told the Guyana Chronicle that the standstill or lack of progress in the township is due to the Council being severely cash-strapped, a situation he said he inherited and is working to change. Properties in the township were last evaluated some 25 years ago, and since then, the landscape of the township has been significantly transformed. In 2006, a property evaluation was done, but it was rejected by residents who cried out that the proposed rates were too high. Since then, there has been no re-valuation, and all new buildings, including businesses and expansive private property, still pay the old rates and taxes. These range from $80 to $6,000 annually for residential properties and $6,000 to $15,000 annually for commercial properties. According to Mayor Mohan, several requests were made to the former administration for a re-valuation of properties in the township,but to no avail and now to the new administration, and it is yet to receive a positive response. This situation, he said, has contributed to the town being starved of much-needed funds to pay staff and to carry out critical work programmes, pointing out that municipal workers received

their December salaries in January this year. GOOD NEWS APNU+AFC Councillor Mark McLean agreed with the mayor that there is need for a new evaluation of properties in the township, and pointed out that an evaluator recently visited the region and is expected to commence work soon. According to McLean, based on the information he has received, “only big buildings” will be targeted in the first phase of evaluation, and hopefully, eventually, all buildings in the township will be covered. He also pointed out that while a re-valuation will mean more money in rates and taxes for the Council, the Council will also have to do better in improving its revenue collection, which currently stands at 30 per cent. Aside from the low rates and taxes and its woeful collection rate, the Council no longer receives rates for Drainage and Irrigation services, which is now under control of the Water Users Associations (WUAs). In the past, the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs) used to collect this rate and disburse 17 per cent of the collection to the Town Council, until the WUAs came into being. “The WUAs operating

Anna Regina Mayor Rabindranauth Mohan

and providing a service in the township will have to make a payment to the Council and we will be moving in this regard,” Mr Mohan said, noting that the Council needs the money to provide a better service to the residents of Anna Regina. The Council receives an annual $15M subvention from central Government, and according to the mayor, this sum while handy, does not allow for any major works. A mini-excavator owned

by the Council has been sitting idle in the Council’s compound, and according to the mayor, there is no money to buy fuel and pay an operator to work it. STILL THE SAME A resident who gave his name as Dharampaul, said prior to the LGE, cloggedup drains and weed-infested canals in the township were evident, and it still continues to happen. Turn to Page 17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

Embracing diversification -- large-scale Essequibo Coast farmers adapting to downturn in rice industry LONG before the downturn in the rice industry, the Sankar family, who were at one time the largest rice producers on the Essequibo Coast, made a decision to diversify into other areas of agriculture. Today, they no longer are into rice cultivation, but still operate their rice mill and are into coconut oil production,

goat-rearing and aquaculture and cattle-rearing, as well as poultry on a smaller scale. These are done mainly on lands once used for rice cultivation on their sprawling, beautiful estate outfitted with an airstrip at Hampton Court. Rajesh Ramnauth, the nephew of industry captain Kayman Sankar, said the Sankar family moved away from

rice due to shifting dynamics in the rice industry among “other” factors, and have not regretted the move to diversify. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, perhaps inherited from his famous uncle, Ramnauth, 40, a decade ago diverted his energy towards livestock and aquaculture. Starting with 50 goats, today he has a herd of 50 of

A coconut plantation owned by Roopan Ramotar at Caledonia in the Pomeroon River

One of several aquaculture ponds on the Kayman Sankar estate, Hampton Court, Essequibo Coast

mixed Boer stock, as well as some 25 acres of tambaqui and tilapia, all of which he manages with the help of a farmhand. Some of the fish are reared in rows of artificial aquaculture ponds. Originally, he began with sheep, but gradually phased out to goats, since the latter litter every six months as opposed to the former, which lamb once

every year. On Ramnauth’s farm, all the animals are tagged and breeders, recently mothers and lambs and goats that have reached the age of maturity, are separated and duly cared for. Since they are not pure bred, their growth rate and weight are below that of the original Boers, but Ramnauth has been making efforts to im-

prove the genetics of his stock. He told the Guyana Chronicle that he has applied to the Guyana Livestock Development Authority to artificially inseminate his stock to improve their genetic quality, but is yet to receive a response, even though the authority has been given several reminders.

animals. And while the prices for tilapias and tambaqui have been fluctuating, there is a demand from residents, restaurants and dealers in the fish business. Unlike tilapias, tambaqui, a Brazilian fish, is not popular with Essequibo Coast residents, but is a delicacy among Brazilian miners in the interior

regions of Guyana. According to Ramnauth, the fish is not a popular dish among Essequibians because of how it is prepared. NOT FOR CURRY “People on the Essequibo Coast and other parts of Guyana are accustomed to curry fish, but is not a fish that will

stand out in a fish curry, but will be quite different if it is grilled and that is how it should be prepared,” he said. At $400 on a flat day, and $800 on a good day for a pound of tilapia and tambaqui, and with 25 acres of ponds under cultivation with an average of 2000 fish per pond, Ramnauth, though an ambitious business-

NOT ADEQUATE

Goats on ‘high ground’ on Rajesh Ramnauth’s farm, Hampton Court, Essequibo Coast

A small duck farm managed by Rajesh Ramnauth

With a stock of 250, the young businessman said he does not have an adequate number to “hold down” a market and would usually sell to supermarkets, shops and restaurants when stocks are available. “I also supply households and wedding houses and look forward to expanding, but important in all of this is improving the quality of breed of my animals in terms of weight and

size,” he said, as he glanced over to his livestock from his verandah. The largest goat herder on the Essequibo Coast, Ramnauth said the industry has great potential but needs attention from Government in terms of veterinary services and expert advice, to move forward. Since the industry is small, he said it is important that farmers form themselves into cluster

groups, as this will help them to maintain markets secured, pointing out that they will not be able to do so individually. The shift from rice to goat-rearing after all might not be a bad move. On average, a rice farmer earns about $80,000 per acre after much work, but with goat meat at $600 per pond wholesale, a herder makes that money from the sale of three 40-pound plus

man, looks a man at ease. Beni Sankar of the Sankar family is also now into the coconut industry and is a wellknown producer of Virgin Coconut Oil on the Essequibo Coast. The coconut industry also has great potential. One acre of coconut produces around 7000 nuts per annum, and at $50 per nut, a coconut farmer easily earns $350,000 a year, more than double the amount of money a rice farmer earns annually per acre of rice. Some of the best coconuts are found in the Pomeroon and there alone, there are about some 20,000 acres of land that can be cultivated. If placed under cultivation, it will produce an estimated yield of 140 million nuts per

year, and at $50 per nut, it is a $7B enterprise waiting to be tapped. The value-added products of coconut, which includes coconut oil, craft, and coconut water, is also worth about $7B, President of the Essequibo Chambers of Commerce and seasoned businessman Dileep Singh told the Guyana Chronicle. Low prices, lack of markets and unfavourable weather also have pushed another prominent Essequibo Coast businessman and rice farmer Roopan Ramotar into diversification. He is still into rice cultivation, but is now giving much of his attention to coconut cultivation and is the producer of the popular Rooster brand of coconut water, some of which are exported to Trinidad and

Tobago. Aside from coconut, Ramotar is also into banana and plantain cultivation, cattle- rearing and aquaculture. A farmer for more than 20 years, he related that soon after the low price for rice began to bite, he changed course and adopted a new approach to rice-farming. Ramotar no longer cultivates 500 acres of rice twice per year as he used to; instead, he now divides his rice land between cattle-rearing and rice cultivation. ROTATION Some 250 acres are devoted to rice one crop and the remaining acres are for cattle. These areas are switched Turn to Page 16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

An under-promoted paradise

-- Essequibo Chamber on mission to sell PomeroonSupenaam as major tourism destination IT is an area that includes a 60-mile coast that was once a sugar and cotton plantation and is now a sprawling area of rice cultivation with beautiful countryside, majestic lakes, enchanting creeks and a rich colonial history. It is also home to reportedly the best coconuts in the world, Indigenous tribes and hospitable people, pristine forests and one of the deepest rivers in Guyana, the mighty Pomeroon River. This is not an area in the interior, nor Berbice, nor the East or West Coast of Demerara; it was the first

era on the Essequibo Coast, still towers in the sky. The picturesque lake communities of Mainstay/ Whyaka, Tapacuma and Capoey are also found in the township of Anna Regina. At Lake Mainstay lies one of the best resorts in Guyana, the Lake Mainstay Resort, while Tapacuma is the largest of the lakes on the Essequibo Coast. There, the Dawa Pump Station, which provides irrigation water to a vast number of farmers on the Essequibo Coast, is stationed. SCENES TO BEHOLD

At Capoey, fresh plants, towering mango trees, neatly laid-out benabs,a lush, surrounding savannah and the melodious sounds of singing birds greet visitors to the indigenous settlement. The community can be accessed by road, but there are those who prefer to get there by means of the scenic, tranquil and mesmerising body of black water called the Capoey Lake. This cool freshwater lake, whose water tastes like that from the artesian wells, is a scene to behold, and is among the natural wonders of the Essequibo county.

The landing leading to the beautiful Amerindian village of Capoey

place in Guyana to be settled by the European colonisers and is called Pomeroon/ Supenaam. Nestled in the county of Essequibo, the 60-mile long coast before it got its current name Essequibo Coast was known as Dutch Guiana, and as time evolved, it became known as the Moroccan Coast and at one time, the Arabian Coast. The Essequibo Coast today is home to the beautiful town of Anna Regina, which boasts malls, supermarkets, bazaars, health centres, government offices, entertainment spots and historic monuments. The statue of slave leader Damon with cutlass in hand, situated next to the elegant Mayor and Town Council building in the heart of Anna Regina, stands out as a reminder of the resistance against slavery and oppression. In the street leading to the Regional Democratic Council’s office, a chimney built at the height of the sugar industry during the Dutch

Further north of Anna Regina is the emerging town of Charity. It is home to a hospital, market, supermarkets, television station, modern malls and playgrounds. The area is also a hub for fishing and boating. At the tip of the community flows the Pomeroon River and along the river is the huge riverine community,The Pomeroon. The Pomeroon was first occupied by the Cariwanna tribes some 3000 years ago. They came into contact with the Spaniards in about the year 1420. About 100 years after, some Jews who were thrown out of Brazil took up residence here, and settled in the Pomeroon. Then the Dutch came in 1620, and they not only settled in the Pomeroon, but also established settlements on the Essequibo Coast. It was the first colony in Guyana. South of the town is the quiet village of Suddie. Once the administrative centre of the Essequibo Coast, it has a history that dates back

to the Dutch occupation of Essequibo. Today, a prominent feature of the village is the Suddie Hospital, the main hospital on the Essequibo Coast. The sprawling hospital complex, which houses a public health building, a health centre and a rehabilitation centre, was built around 1840. Prior to becoming a health centre, it used to house a huge building that overlooked the mighty Essequibo River. In those days, the building served as a fraternising club for the major estate owners, and they would usually meet there every month-end to chit chat, drink intoxicants or sip coffee. MISSION These are just a few of the wonderful sites and stories of Region Two. With these at its disposal, the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce has this year planned to market the region as a major tourism destination. Chamber President, Dileep Singh, told the Guy-

ana Chronicle that significant attention will be placed on working with the Ministry of Tourism to train those involved in the hospitality business, including bus drivers, taxi drivers and boat operators. “We want tourists, both local and overseas, to get a good impression of the region when they visit and for them to tell the lovely story of Essequibo to their friends and their family and to everyone they come into contact with,” he said. Singh, a seasoned businessman and the owner of a hotel and mall, pointed out that if every overseas tourist spends US$1000 on their visit, it will do a great lot for the economy of the region. The region has been affected by a downturn in the rice industry. Being an agricultural region, he said strong attention will be placed on agro-tourism which will entail tours of rice fields and mills, coconut plantations, and aquaculture stations. The regional administration has also been building several parks at strategic areas in the region and these too will be promoted as health areas for family gatherings and relaxation. Aside from these, the chamber also intends to collaborate with the regional administration to promote sport among young people and more concerts and cultural events to liven up the lives of both the young and not so young. LOCAL CULTURE Arnold Grandville, the owner of Grandville Hotel, Restaurant and Bar at Henrietta, one of 18 hotels on the Essequibo Coast, said not

President of the Essequibo Chamber of Commerce, Dileep Singh much is told about the culture and folklore of the Essequibo Coast and the Pomeroon. “At Kabacaburi in the Pomeroon River, there is a big iron chain tied to a big tree and the chain leads to the middle of the river. At the bottom, I heard, is a Dutch ship that sank many years ago. And below I also heard stories of there being chests laden with gold coins, diamonds and bullions. I don’t think these stories have ever been verified, even though it has passed down from several generations. What we can do in the region is revive this great story and organise tours to the site. We also need to promote our culture and dance. Tourists come here to enjoy themselves and we must be able to show them the different Guyanese dances, including the cent, five cent, ten cent and dollar wine,” said Granville, who returned to invest in Guyana after working in The Bahamas for many years. Another remigrant, but

from Canada, Gossai Rambarran said reputable hotels on the Essequibo Coast should be promoted in local tourism magazines distributed overseas. He has been promoting his establishment, Caribbean Health on facebook and used the opportunity of the interview with the Guyana Chronicle to encourage visitors, both local and overseas, to visit his hotel, restaurant and bar. “At Caribbean Health, you can get the best of creole foods --from labba to deer meat to dhal and rice and coconut choka to bhara and biganne, we make it. And if you don’t want that we will get you cookup, metemgee and Spanish rice. You don’t have to look far; we also have the finest beverages to wash it down, but we always caution persons not to get drunk because with that happens, it is time to leave. No bad behaviour,” he warned with a smile.

A bridge over the Itiribisi Lake, connecting a trail from Huist T’ Dieren to Mashabo, Essequibo Coast

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

AT the ripe age of 104, Mohamed Ramjohn Khan of Aurora village on the Essequibo Coast still walks unaided and remembers life in his earlier days. Born on August 16, 1912, to Indian indentured servants who came to work on the Aurora Estate in 1898, Khan has spent practically this entire life in the village, except for a brief period when he migrated to Canada to live with his children there. At father of 12 children, seven sons and five daughters, Khan told the Guyana Chron-

Chronicle that he managed to survive only Katie who bore him two children, for three years, before calling quits on their relationship. Form his account, his first wife soon after separation remarried, this time “legally” and moved to live at Wakenaam. And he too, not intentionally matching pace with Katie, found another beautiful girl named Betty and they also cemented their marriage by registering it and it was a bond that lasted a lifetime. It was only a few years ago after Betty had died in Canada that Khan, who was close to 100, decided to return to his homeland to celebrate his 100th birthday and to die in his village. But after the passage of more than five years and Khan has eased past a 100 and has not died, he told the Guyana Chronicle that since he still has the energy to recite verses of the Koran, eats, showers, fixes his bed and walks by himself, Allah the Merciful could grant him another 10 years. The centenarian suffers from no major illness and credits his longevity to the physical work he did in his younger days on his farm, no smoking

Khan still going strong at 104 icle that in his young days he was a farmer and from time to time worked on a number of Government sea defence projects in the region. “I really worked hard when I was young,” he said, recounting that he was the first person to own a cottage in the village where Indians lived in logies. Being a hardworking young man and the owner of a respectable home at a young age, the former rice farmer said many young ladies in and out of the village used to go to great lengths to be his companion.

But of the multitude, he said with laughter, only two of them captured his attention. Khan, who is cared for by three of his sons, all of whom reside in Aurora, related that he was first “married” at age 22 to a beautiful girl named Katie, but the marriage was not registered. He was not certain if that was on omen, because Katie was quarrelsome, verbally abusive and used to threatened him “physically.” Notwithstanding being a man of “peace”, “love” and “tolerance”, he told the Guyana

Mohamed Ramjohn Khan

and drinking, eating less meat and more ground provisions, faith in Allah the Merciful and a good night’s rest. At age 78, he gave up farming as the effects of old age began to step in. At that age, he used to walk two miles to the backdam twice every day to tend to his cattle and his cash crop farm. Apart from his experience with Katie, Khan said his only other regret was his named was wrongly spelt when his mother went to register his birth. He related that he was told that his mother told the “English” registration officials that his middle name was Ramzan, an Arabic name, but they wrote Ramjohn, and since it was not immediately corrected, it remained Ramjohn to this day. Khan served the Aurora Masjid for 48 years in the capacity of deputy Imaam and subsequently Imaam. He has outlived both of his wives and his eldest son. None of his sons fell by the wayside and have taken up careers in farming, accountancy, teaching, law and management. They have all contributed to making Khan the happy old soul he is today.

Embracing... From Page 14 around the next crop. “In this way, I have been able to cut back on the money I spent on fertiliser, because the cows grazing on the land have contributed significantly in keeping the land fertile. This also, in turn, has resulted in a higher quality and yield of paddy. This is how I managed to be still producing rice. With farmers getting low prices for their paddy, it cannot be business as usual. Farmers will have to think outside the box if they want to stay in business, and it is very important that they embrace diversification,” Ramotar, who is also a contractor and miller, said. According to him, Guyana, in recent years, has been overproducing rice and this needs to stop, and more emphasis placed on controlled production, to avoid stockpiling and minimise farmers’ suffering from losses. “Planting less and producing high-quality paddy will improve demand; and with this happening, the price for rice will go up and farmers will get more money. And this will be supplemented by the incomes they earn from their cattle, sheep, or fish farms,” he contended. Samad Baksh, 63, who is

also a well-known businessman on the Essequibo Coast, has been calling on rice farmers to diversify and to give attention to the dairy industry. According to him, on the Essequibo Coast alone, there is an industry worth $18B annually that is untapped. “The consumption of local milk is very small. On the Essequibo Coast, it is probably less than five per cent. There are about 50,000 people on the Essequibo Coast, and let us say on average they would need at least a pint of milk per day, which can be sold at $100 per pint, that’s $18B a year. At present, the Essequibo Coast does not have the capacity to serve that volume of milk, but it has land and the ability to develop capacity,” said Baksh, who operates a supermarket, a rice mill, a poultry farm, and a chowmein factory. With a staff of 250, he is among the largest employers on the Essequibo Coast. Like these established businessmen, the Sankar family has embraced diversification, and was the first to do so, as they say it as a necessary step to stay in business and keep afloat.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

New leadership... “When it rains, the town is flooded and mind you, this only started happening about 10 years ago. Before, the rain had to fall really heavy for the town to flood. It never used to flood this easily,” the resident said. Mayor Mohan acknowledged that key drainage channels have to be kept clear and has requested that Regional Executive Officer Rupert Hopkinson lend the town an excavator to assist in carrying out these critical works. Most of the drains in the township are cleaned through the Community Infrastructure Improvement Project, which is funded by Government. In a bid to raise revenues, the Council has also rented the bottom flat of the Council building to the Guyana Power and Light Company (GPL) and has made a proposal to Government to assume ownership of the not so recently constructed cereal factory in the town. The factory is expected to commence operations soon. “Monies from the factory will be invested into the development of the town. We will manage the factory and take on the tasks of finding producers and finding markets for them. We believe that this venture will be of much help in terms of improving the financial status of the town,” Mayor Mohan said. McLean said the coalition fully supports the factory being under the ownership of the Council, but said due attention must be given to proper management of it. Mayor Mohan also disclosed that the Council has agreed to build a daycare centre in the town to provide a service for differently-abled children and senior citizens at a reasonable cost. The land to house the centre, which will be built through a Government of Japan grant, has already been identified, Mohan said. McLean, who lamented that there has been a lack of income- generating ideas and projects from the Finance Committee of the Council, praised the Council for approving the construction of the centre, saying it is a project long overdue. ANNA REGINA MARKET While there is agreement on this project, it is the opposite when it comes to roadside vending at the Anna Regina market. Recently, media reports indicate that an agreement

was reached at the Council to remove the roadside vendors, but Mohan said this is not true. “The Council has not given permission to remove the vendors. The matter was in- deed discussed at the Council and a decision was taken to look into the matter. This cannot be equated to removing them. I know that they are vending illegally, but they have been for years. I have no intention of putting anyone out of bread, especially in a case where there are about 40 single-parent mothers trying to eke out a living amid economic hardship due to the slump in the rice industry, the mainstay of the economy of Region Two,” the mayor said. He added: “This is not an easy decision to make, but we will look at it with the aim to sensibly address the situation. There will be no sudden or overnight breaking down of vendors’ stalls. They will be moved after wide consultation and after a suitable, alternative location is identified for them. Look, even in the U.S. there is roadside vending. For now, we will ensure they do not encroach on the roadway and all of them have collapsible stalls as we do not want a shanty town on the roadside of the market.” But Mclean differs, contending that the minutes of several Council meets indicate that the Council has repeatedly agreed to stop roadside vending, but the decision was never implemented. “I have nothing personal against the roadside vendors, but like all, they must abide by the law. They provide unfair competition to vendors in the market who pay a tax to sell in the market,” said the APNU+AFC councilor, who owns a stall in the Anna Regina market. The roadside vendors pay an environment tax of $500 per day to the Anna Regina Market Committee. They say there is no space in the market for them to vend, but McLean said there is plenty of space at the Bush Lot Market. Some of the roadside vendors at the Anna Regina Market also own stalls at the Bush Lot market. They contend that Anna Regina being the centre of commercial activities in the township, persons hardly visit the Bush Lot market, which was established a few years ago to eliminate roadside vending at the Anna Region market. This aside, they pointed out that persons do not go in to shop at the Bush Lot mar-

ket, but McLean stressed that if the vendors were made to sell inside the markets, shoppers will have no choice but to go inside to make their purchases. Mayor Mohan said the situation at hand is a “ticklish one” and the need to have a single market in the township will be examined. The market matter aside, he said the Council will be looking to repair the dilapidated Anna Regina Community Ground which hosts all major activities in the region and establish two new dump-

From Page 13 sites in the township. The ground, the mayor said, is an important revenue generator and the dumpsites will be new revenue streams. GARBAGE DISPOSAL Resident of the township, Mohamed Khan, lamented that garbage disposal is managed by Puran Brothers, a private company, and residents are required to pay $1560 per month per barrel of waste disposed. “Those who cannot afford dump the garbage on the reserves and in the canals

and it becomes an eyesore,” he said, but Mohan noted with the establishment of the new dump sites, the town will be providing this service at a reduced cost. He said the Council has a tractor and bins, but has to pay to dump on the site managed by Puran Brothers, and at this time, it does not have money to do so. Many of the persons who spoke to this publication did so under the condition of anonymity and pointed out that councillors of the town need to be more in the communities listening to, and addressing the concerns of the people. Almost every resident

who spoke with the Guyana Chronicle had not known, heard of or seen the councillor of their community. Some even suggested that had the Council been dominated by non-political persons, the situation would have been different, contending that the representatives of the two major political parties act in their party’s interest. “It is the same old under new leadership; nothing has changed but there is hope,” one resident who asked not to be named, said. The next LGE is due in 2018.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

By Mohamed Khan

plantations. They were mainly the headmen from the four sugar estates. Shortly after Mr Daniel sold his land, he requested of the new owners to rename the plantation Danielstown in his honour. This was done. He donated his own money to help develop Danielstown for the free Africans slaves so they could live a happy and comfortable life. Economic circumstances had forced Mr Daniel decided to sell his estates because they became unprofitable after slavery came to an end in 1831. Many sugar, coffee and cotton plantations in particular, faced competition with cheap labour in the USA by other slaves and the owner could not survive in such a situation. Many of the estates were left abandoned. Mr Daniel, the owner of these four amalgamated estates of Lima, Coffee Grove, Fear Not and Sparta decided to sell Danielstown. By this time many other planters realized that many Africans had accumulated considerably savings, so they immediately raised their land prices. In the same manner they sold the front lands of plantation Aberdeen and divided it among Africans who established the village of Williamston. The Africans were of the view that they had no economic future if they continued to reside on the sugar plantations. They were seeing other Africans buying up abandon cotton and sugar plantations, and these group of Africans from the four estates felt that they too must acquire their own land. Strikes and reduction in wages, forced more and more Africans on the Essequibo Coast to abandon the sugar estates. Some of them moved to existing villages while others who had no savings squatted on Crown lands where they build houses and settle down with their families. In 1880 the Africans who bought the village built an Anglican church where they worshipped and made it into a school for their children. This building was named St Agnes Anglican and it is still standing as a monument.

Danielstown was named after an Englishman

IMMEDIATELY after emancipation Mr Daniel an Englishman and the owner of plantation Sparta, Fear Not, Coffee Grove and Lima decided to sell his lands to free African slaves on the Essequibo Coast .A group of African free slaves seeing their brothers buying up abandon estates to live on, pooled their money and bought Danielstown for $ 2000 British pounds in 1840. These Africans like many others Africans, had saved money that they earned over time by working on the sugar, coffee and cotton

The St Agnes Anglican Church in Danielstown, Essequibo Coast

PEACEFUL CO-EXISTENCE Indian immigrants from the neighbouring estates purchased lands in Daniel-

stown from their African brothers and settle among them; they were the first to mix with the African freed slaves on the Essequibo Coast. The Indian immigrants set up businesses of all kinds. One such person was Sadar Mohamed whose father came from Bihar, India, on the first ship with immigrants which landed at Anna Regina. When his mother and father died, he was left alone in the village. He later set up a business which was popular and well stocked; selling Raliegh and Humber bicycles from England and grocery. People from all over the Essequibo would go there to do their shopping because his items were cheap. He was also the Imaam for Lima Masjid. Another popular Portuguese businessman in the village was Mr IG Rebeiro. Sonny Teerie, Omar Khan, Zeen and the popular radio announcer Mr Ayube Hamid, Omar Khan, had the first aerated factory and a bus service for Essequibians which would commute passengers from Charity to Adventure to board the ferry. The village was blessed with a post office since the colonial days and it is still standing there servicing the people. It also had a community centre, a pure water supply well; which used to service the residents from Danielstown to Anna Regina and Walton Hall, a Primary and a Kinder Garden school, and an abattoir where animals were being slaughter by butchers. It has a population of 4,000 with all the races living together as one. As a little boy I attended the St Agnes Anglican school until age 15, when the new Primary school was built at Sparta. The children from this school moved to the new school. The building is now being used fulltime as a church by the community. Danielstown today has a population of about 5000 people of all races. It remains a typical village like Queenstown, Dartmouth and Good Hope which were bought by free African slaves booming with business and agriculture. However, Danielstown is one of the most successful village communities.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday February 20, 2017

Holder praises Pride bowling unit for lifting Super 50 title ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Captain Jason Holder has praised the Barbados Pride bowling unit, after they played a key role in helping the side lift the Regional Super50 title here Saturday night. Defending 272 at the Coolidge Cricket Ground, Pride held Jamaica Scorpions to 212 all out in the 45th over, to come away with a strong 59-run victory. Left-arm spinner Sulieman Benn spearheaded the attack with three for

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33 from his 10 overs while seamers Holder (2-28), Carlos Brathwaite (2-43) and Kemar Roach (2-54) all claimed two wickets each. Off-spinner Ashley Nurse, who finished as the tournament’s leading wicket-taker with 26 scalps, managed just one wicket but was instrumental throughout. “Our bowlers were outstanding all tournament long, led by Ashley, I thought he was outstanding,” Holder said. He wasn’t at his best today but that’s what a good team does – they pick up the slack when one of the other teammates are down. I thought Sulieman had an outstanding game and bowled extremely well. He got three crucial wickets for us and that’s what he was in the team to do – take wickets. “Credit must be given to the entire bowling department and also our fielders. I thought we held our catches and out in a clinical effort.” Holder produced a superb attacking innings in helping

to set up Pride’s win, hammering an explosive 47-ball 69 to propel his side to 271 for nine off their 50 overs. He put on a 127-run, sixth wicket stand with Shai Hope who carved out 101 from 98 deliveries, to post his second straight hundred following his 125 in the semi-final against Leeward Islands Hurricanes last Thursday. Pride were languishing at 138 for five in the 35th over when Holder and Hope joined forces, and the West Indies Test and one-day skipper said the partnership had been a crucial one in reviving the innings. “When I went in to bat with Shai, I thought it was important for us to get a partnership and I just needed to be positive as well,” he explained. “There was no point me going out there and trying to soak up balls and put pressure back on us. It was a period where I had to consolidate a bit but still had to remain positive and it was important that I kept

instilling confidence in Shai and made it easier for him by rotating the strike. “I was able to do that and I was also able to launch. But again, Shai Hope was absolutely outstanding and must be given credit for the way he’s played in the this tournament. He didn’t have the best of starts but he finished the back end – the most important part of the tournament – really well.” Hope finished with 482 runs, Test opener Kraigg Brathwaite scored 484 while Holder gathered 213 runs and also picked up 18 wickets. Holder said Pride had been the best side throughout the tournament and deserved the success. “I thought the guys were very, very consistent all tournament long, we put in the performance needed to win this final and I don’t think a better team could have come up and won this final so congrats to the Barbados Pride team and everyone who would have contributed to this.”

GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre session up and running PROMISING youth footballers from Georgetown took part in the city’s first GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre session last Friday, with the Under-17 boys training at the Tucville ground. Technical Development Officer of the Guyana Football Federation Inc.(GFF), Sampson Gilbert, who is in charge of scouting and developing the best talent in the Georgetown Football Association region, and GFF Youth Development

Coach, Challous McKinnon, put the group through a range of structured drills and mini-games on Friday evening. The nation-wide weekly sessions cater for boys and girls between the ages of 5 and 17, and are designed to promote participation and more effectively prepare young players for elite- level football and the national squads, as part of the national football philosophy and development plans of the GFF.

West Indies players to attend camps ST JOHN’S, Antigua – West Indies male and female players will be involved in several camps in Antigua in the coming weeks as they prepare for various international assignments. Starting Thursday, February 23, the West Indies Men’s team will be in camp under the guidance of new Head Coach Stuart Law as they prepare for the three-match One-Day International Series against England. These matches will be played at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua (March 3 and 5) and Kensington Oval, Barbados

(March 9). The West Indies Women’s squad of 20 players will have a camp from March 7 to 20, under the guidance of Head Coach Vasbert Drakes. This is part of their preparation for the ICC Women’s World Cup in England later this year. Later this year, West Indies Women will have a two-week camp in England to get them ready for the tournament. The Windies are the most improved team in women’s cricket and will look to add the 50-over title to the ICC World T20 title they won in India last year. They were runners-up

to Australia when the 50-over World Cup was played in India four years ago. Following the Women’s camp, the West Indies Under-19 players will arrive on the island for an assessment camp from April 1 to 10, under Head Coach Graeme West. The Under-19s are preparing for the ICC Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand in January, 2018. West Indies are the defending champion. Later in the year they will travel to South Africa for a five-match 50-over series. The matches will be played in Durban from June 30 to July 27.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

Gunaratne epic steals T20 series for Sri Lanka

(REUTERS)-All-rounder Asela Gunaratne struck a superb 84 off 46 balls to inspire Sri Lanka to a dramatic two-wicket victory over Australia in the second Twenty20 International in South Geelong, Victoria yesterday. The touring side needed 48 runs off the last three overs to clinch the series and Gunaratne, who smashed five sixes and six fours, led them home. Australia got off to a flying start, hitting

60 runs in the first six overs, and although medium-pacer Nuwan Kulasekara took four wickets, Moises Henriques made an unbeaten 56 off 37 balls to lift the hosts to a decent total of 173. Sri Lanka stumbled early as their top order collapsed, losing five wickets for 41 runs in the first five overs. A spirited 52-run partnership between Gunaratne and Chamara Kapugedera steadied the innings, however, before

the 31-year-old Gunaratne took charge to guide his side to an unlikely victory. “Asela’s was an amazing innings,” Sri Lanka captain Upul Tharanga said. “ We l o s t t o o m a n y wickets early but Asela finished the game for us. Winning in Australia is a huge achievement. This is Asela’s first tour to Australia and we are happy.” Australia are fielding a depleted side with their full-strength test squad

Asela Gunaratne jumps in joy after hitting the winning runs for Sri Lanka in Geelong.

Afghanistan put Zimbabwe in a spin AFGHANISTAN’s spinners shared eight wickets in Harare as Asghar Stanikzai’s men beat Zimbabwe by 54 runs to move 2-0 up in their

five-match one-day international series. The tourists, who prevailed by 12 runs in a rain-affected opener, posted 238-9

yesterday, thanks largely to handy innings from Mohammad Shahzad (64), Rahmat Shah (53) and Najibullah Zadran (45).

Mohammad Nabi also chipped in with a run-a-ball 33 for Afghanistan and the veteran all-rounder then picked up 3-38 to help dis-

miss Zimbabwe for 184. Fellow slow bowlers Rashid Khan (3-25) and Amir Hamza (2-40) also enjoyed success, with the

currently in India. The third and final match of the series will be played on Wednesday in Adelaide. “That was one hell of an innings,” Australia captain Aaron Finch said. “When you have a good player in good form, they hurt you. “Sri Lanka played very well there. Take nothing away from them. The series is gone, but hopefully we can salvage something in Adelaide.” other wickets falling to the medium pace of Gulbadin Naib (2-38). Zimbabwe were handily placed at 139-3 in the 32nd over following a half-century from Solomon Mire, but collapsed alarmingly thereafter and must now avoid defeat in tomorrow’s third ODI to keep the series alive.

Starc to miss IPL, Smith succeeds Dhoni ITCHELL Starc will not play for Royal Challengers Bangalore(RCB) in the 2017 Indian Premier League, while his Australia team-mate Steve Smith has replaced MS Dhoni as the captain of Rising Pune Supergiants. RCB announced yesterday that Starc and the franchise “have mutually decided to discontinue their association”. After a busy period for Australia and with a Test tour of India coming up, Starc - who missed the previous IPL season through injury - will also sit out this year’s lucrative Twenty20 competition, although the 27-year-old fast bowler claimed he hopes to play for RCB again in the future. “At this point in time after a long summer and with a big tour of India still ahead I think it is in my best interests, both physically and mentally, for me to have a break, spend time with my family and take the opportunity to work on getting back to full fitness,” Starc said in a statement released by Cricket Australia.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time with Bangalore and I certainly hope to be back playing for them in the future and wish them all the best in this year’s IPL.” Pat Howard, Cricket Australia’s executive general manager of high performance, added: “Following discussions with both Mitch, Royal Challengers Bangalore and our own medical staff, it has been agreed that Mitch would benefit considerably from a break in cricket to allow him to fully rehabilitate and strengthen his body

ahead of the Champions Trophy.” Former India captain Dhoni, meanwhile, will give up Pune’s leadership role to Australia skipper Smith. “I have the highest regard for MS Dhoni as a leader and a person,” Sanjiv Goenka, owner of the Pune franchise, said in a statement. “Dhoni will continue to be an important part of our team. “He is supportive of the decision keeping the franchisee’s best interests in mind.

Mitchell Starc celebrating with Steven Smith

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

Infantino calls unprecedented African summit meeting

By Mark Gleeson

J O H A N N E S BURG,(Reuters)-FIFA President Gianni Infantino will meet more than 50 presidents of African football associations in an unprecedented summit in Johannesburg this week, officials said yesterday. Each of the continent’s 54 member countries has been invited to a day-long executive summit with Infantino, called to discuss general issues in the game and explain FIFA’s plans to expand the World Cup and changes to its development structures. The association presidents will be divided into two groups with some 25 meeting Infantino and

other FIFA officials on Tuesday and the rest repeating the exercise the next day, organisers told Reuters. It is the first time such a summit has been held at which FIFA deals directly with all the leaders of African football. Infantino, however, did meet about 20 association presidents in Nigeria last July in a gathering that pointedly snubbed long-standing Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Issa Hayatou and members of his executive committee. Usually the only time all association presidents get together is for annual FIFA and CAF Congresses.

The meetings, which are being held behind closed doors, will be followed by a trip by Infantino to Harare on Thursday to join birthday celebrations for the Zimbabwe Football Association President Philip Chiyangwa, a vocal critical of Hayatou who is backing his opponent in next month’s CAF president election.

Hayatou, 70, is seeking to extend his tenure in office into a third decade but faces a strong challenge from Ahmad of Madagascar, a former government minister who uses just one name. The CAF elections are to be held in Addis Ababa on March 16. Chiyangwa has invited

a wide array of African football administrators to travel from Johannesburg to Harare as he seeks to galvanise support for Ahmad. In an exchange of letters published by local media last week, Hayatou threatened Chiyangwa with sanctions if he went ahead with the meeting, saying he had no right to call such a gathering. But Chiyangwa, a wealthy businessman who has used his own money to fund the bankrupt Zimbabwe Football Association, responded by saying it was a celebration of his birthday and his election as President of the Council of Southern Africa Football Associations, a regional

body made up of 14 countries. Infantino’s presence in Harare is seen as a tacit sign of support for the anti-Hayatou camp. Hayatou and CAF last

year formally endorsed the candidacy of Bahrain’s Sheikh Salman bin Ebrahim al Khalifa who Infantino beat in the FIFA presidential elections.

23 balls, including smashing 38 runs from Morris’s final 12 deliveries to blow out his figures to 4-62 from seven overs. Bit of a shame really. We got ourselves into a good position

but credit to South Africa, they adapted really well,” said New Zealand captain Kane Williamson, who top-scored for his side with 59. “We weren’t perfect with

the bat but we felt that 5-1/2 a half an over would be tough to get on that surface and we had enough to make life difficult.” The second match is in Christchurch on Wednesday.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino speaks to the media in Doha, Qatar February 16, 2017. REUTERS/Naseem Zeitoon

Calm De Villiers guides Proteas to win over New Zealand (REUTERS)-South Africa captain AB de Villiers calmly guided his side to a tense four-wicket victory over New Zealand with one ball to spare in a rain-affected first one-day international in Hamilton yesterday. De Villiers scored 37 not out and ensured number eight batsman Andile Phehlukwayo (29) kept a cool head as the pair put on 54 to reach their 208-run victory target and earn a 1-0 lead in the five-match series. The visitors, who had looked to be cruising to victory at 117-1 with 14 overs remaining courtesy of Quinton de Kock’s 69, lost four wickets in 14 balls to slump to 126-5 before Chris Morris helped his captain in a 30-run partnership. South Africa needed 22 runs from the final two overs and scored 10 from Trent Boult in the penultimate one which included a six from Phehlukwayo, who repeated the feat against Tim Southee in the final over. De Villiers belted Southee for four off the penultimate ball to clinch the victory. New Zealand made 207-7 after heavy rain over the past three days had forced a delay of more than three hours and reduced the match to 34-overs-a-side. “It was really tough out there,” De Villiers said. “The wicket turned so much in the evening. I thought it would skid on and get a bit flatter. “From past experience this

AB de Villiers looks to set off for a run in his unbeaten 37.

becomes a good batting track in the evening and this was far from it. “I’ve never seen a wicket turn so much in my life.” New Zealand struggled for much of their innings particularly up front against tight bowling from Morris, who took the first four wickets as the hosts slumped to 82-4 in the 16th over. But Morris, who had figures of 4-24 from his first five overs, was then taken apart by Colin de Grandhomme (34 not out) and Southee (24 not out) in his final two. De Grandhomme and Southee blasted 51 runs from

NEW ZEALAND Innings D. Brownlie c Behardien b Morris 31 T. Latham lbw b Morris 0 K. Williamson b Shamsi 59 R. Taylor c&b Morris 1 N. Broom c Behardien b Morris 2 J. Neesham c de Kock b Rabada 29 M. Santner c de Kock b Rabada 17 C. de Grandhomme not out 34 T. Southee not out 24 Extras: (b-1 w-9) 10 Total: (for 7 wickets, 34 overs) 207 Fall of wickets: 1-19 T. Latham, 2-69 D. Brownlie, 3-72 R. Taylor, 4-82 N. Broom, 5-108 K. Williamson, 6-136 M. Santner, 7-156 J. Neesham. Did not bat: I. Sodhi, T. Boult Bowling: K. Rabada 7-1-31- 2 (w-3), C. Morris 7-0-62-4 (w-1), A. Phehlukwayo 5-0-28-0 (w-1), I. Tahir 7-0-42-0, T. Shamsi 7-139-1, J. Duminy 1-0-4-0.

SOUTH AFRICA Innings (D/L Target: 208 off 34) Q. de Kock c Taylor b Boult 69 H. Amla c&b Williamson 35 F. du Plessis lbw b Sodhi 14 A. de Villiers not out 37 J. Duminy c&b Southee 1 F. Behardien b Southee 0 C. Morris c Boult b Santner 16 A. Phehlukwayo not out 29 Extras: (b-2 lb-3 w-4) 9 Total: (for 6 wickets, 33.5 overs) 210 Fall of wickets: 1-88 H. Amla, 2-117 F. du Plessis, 3-125 Q. de Kock, 4-126 J. Duminy, 5-126 F. Behardien, 6-156 C. Morris Did not bat: T. Shamsi, K. Rabada, I. Tahir Bowling: M. Santner 7-0-33-1, T. Boult 7-0-45-1, T. Southee 6.5-0 -47-2 (w-2), C. de Grandhomme 4-0-27-0, I. Sodhi 7-0-36-1, K. Williamson 2-0-17-1 (w-1).

SCOREBOARD

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

Lincoln could meet Sutton, Chelsea host United in FA Cup By Ian Chadband

LONDON, (Reuters)-Lincoln City, the first minor league team to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals in 103 years, were handed a tie at either 12-time winners Arsenal or fellow National League club Sutton United in Sunday’s sixth round draw. The glamour fixture sees Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho returning to Stamford Bridge with the holders and 12-time FA Cup winners to face his old club Chelsea, the Premier League leaders. Lincoln, who play in the fifth tier of the English game, could feature in a unique last-eight tie as a reward for their sensational 1-0 win at Premier League Burnley on Saturday. Should the two National League clubs meet it would

guarantee the outlandish feat of a minor league club making it to the semi-finals at Wembley Stadium for the first time. First, Sutton have the monumental task of winning their own dream tie at home to Arsenal in the fifth round today. Lincoln manager Danny Cowley, who watched the draw at the club’s Sincil Bank ground surrounded by cheering fans, called it a “win-win” draw for the team who top the National League. “It’s great. We wish Sutton all the best tomorrow - I genuinely hope they can do it. If they can, then fantastic,” he said. “For us, it’s a win-win, we either play Sutton for a place in the semi-final or we have a fantastic tie away at Arsenal. “It’s completely surreal. I

feel like we’re going to wake up at any moment.” Sutton are 17th in the National League, 104 places below Arsenal in English football’s league pyramid. Lincoln face the prospect of a visit to either Sutton’s ramshackle 5,000-cap a c i t y G a n d e r G re e n Lane ground or Arsenal’s 60,000-seater citadel, the Emirates Stadium. When Chelsea’s most successful manager Mourinho, who won the Cup with the Londoners 10 years ago, went back there in October he suffered the most humiliating defeat of his United reign as Antonio Conte’s men won 4-0 but that was their last league loss. After United won a hard-fought contest 2-1 at Blackburn Rovers yesterday, Mourinho could look on a resurgence that has seen his side carve out the

Lincoln’s Alan Power, Terry Hawkridge and Jonathan Jack Muldoon celebrate after the match Reuters / Phil Noble

longest unbeaten league sequence -- 16 matches -in any of Europe’s top five leagues this season. Tottenham Hotspur, who eased their way into the last eight with a Harry Kane hat-trick seeing off Fulham 3-0 at Craven Cottage, next

Latapy warns players to let game do the talking TRINIDAD and Tobago Under-15 coach Russell Latapy cautioned young national players to let their games do the talking following the recent controversy surrounding goalkeeper Jan-Michael Williams. Last Friday Williams was critical of the minister of sport Darryl Williams for not acknowledging the achievements of Central FC in claiming a second consecutive Pro League last year. Despite Williams seeming to back track on the comments over the weekend, Latapy, the former national player was far from amused.

“For a long time I’ve stood by and listened to some of the younger players voice their opinions regarding the game of football. I would like to share my thoughts, especially, at this time when a player, namely, Jan-Michael Williams, in his lack of wisdom and understanding, can boldly make statements about the Honourable Minister of Sport and the Sports Ministry,” Latapy said. “Firstly, acknowledgement comes with achievement. The type of achievement required to be successful in football is playing at a high

Russell Latapy-former T&T captain and current Under-15 coach

level, motivating other players, and building team spirit and camaraderie for your team and country while work-

ing tirelessly to be at the top of the CFU and CONCACAF. It is also taking responsibility for your actions and not blaming others,” he added. “Secondly, if you want acknowledgement you do not need to ask for it. Acknowledgement involves playing professionally for an extended period in a league that is considered a top professional league and not just for a few months.” “So kid, my advice to you is: talk less, defend more and I look forward to you being part of a successful national team.” (Sportsmax).

Shreyas Iyer smashes sparkling double century in drawn game SHREYAS Iyer struck a career-best double century as India ‘A’ gave Australia solid fight on the third and final day of their tour game at Mumbai’s Brabourne Stadium yesterday. Riding on Iyer’s fine unbeaten knock of 202, India ‘A’ made 403 in reply to Austra-

lia’s first innings total of 469/7 declared. Iyer, who came to the crease on Saturday with the score reading 19, remained unbeaten after a marathon innings that saw him stay put at the crease for just over six hours. He dominated the Aus-

Shreyas Iyer’s unbeaten 202 helps India A Draw warm-up Game against the Aussies.

tralian bowling to better his previous best of 200 made in October 2015 in the Ranji game against Punjab. His 210ball knock included 27 fours and seven sixes. Resuming on his overnight score of 85, Iyer raced to his 100 with a flurry of fours off speedster Jackson Bird. He did not vile away time as the double century milestone approached. He galloped from 184 to 202 with the help of four fours in one over off left arm spinner Stephen O’Keefe. Iyer has been one India’s brightest young talents and was the highest run-scorer in the 2015-16 season with 1321 runs. Despite the numbers, he still awaits a call-up to the senior team. On Sunday, he gave a good accord of his ability by dominating the Australian bowlers- both spinners and pacers.

He was well supported by Krishnappa Gowtham (74 off 68 balls). The duo shared a 138-run partnership for the seventh wicket. Holding a lead of 66, Australia lost opener Matt Renshaw and Glenn Maxwell, who was promoted up the order just before Tea with 59 on the board. The visitors lost vice-captain David Warner on 35 immediately after play resumed on final session. Peter Handscomb (37) soon followed suit, before the Australians meandered to a draw with 110/4 on the board. Brief scores: Australians 469/7 & 110/4 (David Warner 35, Peter Handscomb 37) drew with India 403 (Shreyas Iyer 202*, Krishnappa Gowtham 74; Nathan Lyon 4/162, Steve O’Keefe 3/101)

host third-tier Millwall, who knocked out Premier League champions Leicester City on Saturday. Spurs fans looking for a happy omen quickly latched on to the fact that when they won the Cup in 1966-67, they beat Millwall in the third

round on the way to picking up the trophy. Middlesbrough could host an all-Premier League tie against Manchester City if Pep Guardiola’s side, as expected, beat Huddersfield Town at the second time of asking following Saturday’s goalless draw at Kirklees Stadium. Two years ago, City were knocked out 2-0 by then second-tier Middlesbrough at the Etihad Stadium in the fourth round. Sixth-round Draw (Premier League unless stated) Chelsea v Manchester United Middlesbrough v Huddersfield Town (II)/Manchester City Tottenham Hotspur v Millwall (III) Sutton United (NL)/Arsenal v Lincoln City (NL) Ties will be played from March 10-13.

GFSCA sending two teams to take part in Florida Cup

THE Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association ( GFSCA) will be sending two teams to the USA to take part in this year’s Florida Cup in Broward County , Florida. The matches are set for Friday, February 24th, Saturday 25th, and the finals for both categories ,Open -- and Masters – are to be played on Sunday, February 26, at the Fort Lauderdale Cricket Stadium. Both finals will be streamed live on ESPN 3 and YouTube. Last year for the first time, Floodlights won the Masters title. This time around they are confident of defending their title despite not having with them Ramesh Narine Deonarine, their best player and the best softball master cricketer in the country. The two teams, Floodlights and Floodlights Legends are as follows. Floodlights : Ricky Deonarain Capt., Ramo Malone v/ capt., Uniss Mohamed Yusuf, Jagdish Persaud, Lloyd Ruplall, Wayne Jones, Mahesh Lutchman, Vishwanauth Lutchman, Tulsi Lutchman, Imtiaz Mohamed Saffie, Clive Canterbury, Kamran Sumair, Pooran Singh,

Ricky Deonarain Jaipaul Singh, Narsingh Roy and Hubern Evans is the coach. Floodlights Legends: Lalta Gainda - Capt., Lakhram Singh v/capt.,Dennis Mangru, Nadir Baksh, Surendra Nauth, Arjune Badal, Anil Beharry, Jailall Deodass, Pithamber Maharaj, Rabindra Singh, Steve Naraine, Mohan Sukhu, Ajay Jha, Vivakanand Ramsaywack This tournament is hosted by the South Florida Softball Cricket League. The following weekend March 3rd, 4th and 5th ,Floodlights will travel to Orlando , where they will take part in OPL1, another softball cricket tournament hosted by the Orlando Premier League for the first time.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Monday February 20, 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) Guyana: 4 wins; 4 losses (2) Windwards: 3 wins; 5 losses Today’s Quiz: (1) Which wicketkeeper effected most dismissals in the prelimi nary round of CWI/Nagicor Super 50, 2017? (2) Who struck most sixes in the preliminary round? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

GUYANA CHRONICLE Monday, February 20, 2017

Bright, Caesar and Phillips perform well at National Age Group Championships By Tamica Garnett DESPITE literally no competition, Youth Athlete of the Year, Chintoba Bright, did well in her long jump and triple jumps at the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG) Age Group Championships last Saturday, where Linden’s Compton Caesar and Guyana Defence Force’s Kenisha Phillips picked up

sprint doubles, at the Leonora National Track and Field Centre. Bright, a CARIFTA Games double bronze medallist, continued in fine form to clear 5.84m in the girls 15 – 17 long jump. The South American Youth Championship bronze medallist also went on to clear 11.79m in the triple jump event. Phillips sprinted away

with the sprint double in the girls’ 15 – 17 category. Phillips had the best female 100m and 200m timings for the days, cutting across the finishing line in just 12.23 seconds in the 100m, beating out Christianburg’s Onasha Rogers (12.29s) and Super Upcoming Runner’s Cassie Small (12.30s) The Schools Nationals record holder had a time of

Kenisha Phillips winning the girls’ 15 - 17 100m dash

Haiti maul St. Kitts 5-1 in CONCACAF Under-20 opener

SAN JOSE, Costa Rica, (CMC) – St Kitts and Nevis suffered a heavy defeat in their opening game of the CONCACAF Under-20 Championship here Saturday when they crashed to a 5-1 defeat to Haiti here Saturday. Competing in Group B of the competition, the Kittitians conceded two goals in the first half and despite hitting back in the second half, they failed to muster any significant challenge in the end. The defeat left St Kitts bottom of the group without a point with Haiti top with three points, ahead on goal difference of Panama who edged United States 1-0 in the other game. St Kitts were behind as early as the fourth minute courtesy of a defensive error when Xavier French bungled a clearance, allowing Jimmy-Shammar Sanon to finish from close range. Bryan Chevreuil doubled the lead in the 24th minute with a brilliant solo

effort and a clinical volley from just inside the 18-yard box, a goal that gave Haiti a 2-0 lead at half-time. There was no relenting after the break as Alessandro Campoy added a third in the 49th minute but St Kitts then halted the flood of goals with one of their own when Javier Sutton headed home five minutes later. However, it proved only a temporary reprieve as Jonel Desire tucked in the fourth in the 86th minute before Ronaldo Damus added an injury time goal, to cap an emphatic win.

Jimmy-Shammar Sanon … scored the first goal for Haiti.

Linden’s Compton Caesar winning his 100m ahead of Kevin Abbensetts 24.73 seconds in the 200m, onds to clinch the boys’ 18 seconds and took another gold in which Skeete picked up a and over 100m win, just in the high jump, where he second-place finish in a time ahead of the 10.92 seconds cleared 1.90m. Dummett won from the Guyana Police the boys’ 18 and over 400m in of 25.08 seconds. Skeete got her time to Force’s Kevin Abbensetts. 50.02 seconds. In the 200m, it was GPF’s shine in the 400m, which she In the middle distance, completed in 59.39 seconds for Winston Dummett who had to Anfernee Headecker picked the win. Joanna Archer picked settle for second place behind up the boys’ 18 and over gold up the 800m win in a time Caesar. Caesar clocked 21.65 with a time of 1:55.70s,while of 2:25.10s, and was shortly seconds to Dummett’s 22.33 Samuel Lynch took third in followed by Kezra Murray seconds. 2:02.50s. South American Youth (2:26.40s). Running Brave’s Men’s javelin national Claudrice McKoy took the Championship silver medal- record holder, Leslain Baird, list, Daniel Williams, ruled the took the men’s javelin win 1500m win in 4:50.52s. Caesar took 10.52 sec- boys’ 15 – 17 400m in 50.41 with 66.30m.

New coach Law heartened by Super50 performances

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – The outstanding performances in this year Regional Super50 have not gone unnoticed by new West Indies head coach Stuart Law. He was on hand here Saturday to witness right-hander Shai Hope’s excellent century in the final between Barbados Pride and Jamaica Scorpions, and said it was great to see players performing at high levels. Law singled out Hope, Jason Holder and Kieran Powell as players who had caught his attention. “As a coach and as a player, you like to see people getting hundreds with the bat and five-fers with the ball,” the Australian said. “Shai Hope got another hundred today, got a hundred in the semi-finals, Jason Holder the skipper of the West Indies chipping in with a good 60 as well so, so far so good. Kieran Powell has also done well in the tournament too with three hundreds in five bats so there’s plenty of runs being scored, plenty wickets being taken and plenty of talent on show.” Powell finished the tournament with 513 runs at an average of 64 while Hope, with his second hundred in

as many outings, moved to 482 runs. Holder struck a half-century on Saturday to pass 200 runs for the tournament and has also been one of the leading wicket-takers with 16 wickets. Law said with the plethora of young, exciting players around, he was entering West Indies cricket at a key

juncture. “To be involved now, there have been some exciting times,” the former Test player noted. “There are some really good young players coming through and the word here is they have a great work ethic, they really want to play great cricket, they want to play for each other and to be part of it

New head coach singled out Shai Hope as one of the players that caught his attention

will be something special.” West Indies cricket has been in decline for over a decade and that has been reflected in their lowly rankings in the Test and one-day formats. They missed out on the ICC Champions Trophy in England in June because they were ranked outside in the top eight in the world. Law said there was still a lot of support globally for West Indies cricket and he was highly motivated to help the Caribbean side return to the pinnacle. “I’ve got a lot of friends back home who’ve said ‘we’re very excited by the opportunity you’ve been given by the West Indies Cricket Board, make them great again because we all really want to see the West Indies play really well’,” Law said. “That’s a nice compliment for the West Indies cricket team that they have a lot of support outside the West Indies as well as inside. If we can get together, get our heads together, play some decent cricket hopefully we can put on great shows wherever we go.” Law’s first assignment will be a three-match ODI series against England here in the Caribbean next month.

Bright, Caesar and Phillips perform well at National Age Group Championships See story on page 27

Holder praises Pride bowling unit for lifting Super 50 title

Barbados Pride celebrate their capture of the Regional Super50 title on Saturday night. (Photo courtesy WICB Media)

See story on page 23

GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre session up and running

See story on page 23

An Under-17 player attempts a long pass forward at the first GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre session for the Georgetown Football Association region at the Tucville ground.

Under-17 players practise dribbling skills at the first GFF-Scotiabank Academy Training Centre session for the Georgetown Football Association region at the Tucville ground.Â

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MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20, 2017