Guyana chronicle e paper 07 05 2017

Rupununi farmers in battle to save crops Page 15

No. 104964

Jamal Haynes was a mail clerk at the Republic Bank

Bank robber killed

WEDNESDAY , JULY 5, 2017

Dead: Elton Wray

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

Keron Saunders in police custody

Page 3

‌ two others held after attack on Republic Bank

Dismantle non-tariff barriers

-President Granger urges CARICOM leaders

Page 4

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

More education about CARICOM –– President Granger calls for gov’ts, media to assist

By Ravin Singh in Grenada

OUTGOING chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), President David Granger, shares the view that more needs to be done to educate citizens in the Region about the benefits of CARICOM. The President expressed this view on Tuesday morning at the Maurice Bishop International Airport in Grenada, just after he arrived in the country for the Conference of Heads of Government meeting of CARICOM. The meeting starts today and will conclude tomorrow.

“Yes, we need to do more to educate our citizens,” he said, while acknowledging that a lot has been achieved over the years. CARICOM nationals share mixed views on the role of the regional bloc and its apparent inability to achieve desired outcomes since its formation 44 years ago.

With the Region spanning an area of more than 3000sq km, and two of the

Community’s members geographically located South America, President Granger reasoned that communication has always been a challenge. Communication, he offered, has been one of the reasons CARICOM nationals believe that the regional bloc has not achieved much, nor has it been doing any serious work. He said that it is for this reason, heads of government in the Region are working towards creating a single Information and Communication Technology space.

“Communication has always been a problem and ICT will be on the agenda, because it is through ICT we will seek to bridge this gap,” the outgoing chairman said.

He explained that it is impossible for CARICOM ministers and heads of government to travel the Region and inform nationals about every project or programme the regional body is spearheading or has executed.

Given the leaders’ inability to do this, President Granger suggested that governments and the media play a

more active role in building awareness about CARICOM and its achievements.

Further, he pointed to the fact that regional integration is not as attractive in terms of making the news as compared to a crisis in the Region, which the media would treat with priority.

“When things go bad or there is a crisis, there is a lot of news coverage. But there is a lot of day-to-day work in the Region that does not get reported on; the way we deal with disease, education and functional cooperation. That is not sexy news, but those things have been ongoing,” the outgoing chairman told reporters.

While commenting on his tenure as chairman of the Community, which ended July 1, President Granger was keen to note that over the last six months, there have been significant changes in the international community. Last year, the United Kingdom (UK), in what has been described as a historic and unexpected move, voted to leave the European Union (EU). This lead to several

Outgoing Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), President David Granger is being accompanied by Vice-President and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge and Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Dawn Hastings-Williams to the Conference of Heads of Government meeting of CARICOM in Grenada major developments in the global political economy, including a devaluation of the pound sterling.

Not too soon after, the United States (U.S.) saw the elevation of Donald Trump to presidency – a development which many had feared would have serious impacts on the Region and other parts of the world.

And according to President Granger, “No one could

have anticipated the change in international relations… and the impact they had.”

Notwithstanding CARICOM’s continued efforts to navigate itself through these challenges, the outgoing chairman said that the bloc was able to focus on its primary objective.

“The important thing is that we have been able to put more clearly in focus, the need for the Com-

munity to speak with a single voice. I would say that there was something about crescendo when our Foreign Minister had to meet in Washington with the OAS [Organisation of American States]. We were able to use various devices, particularly faceto-face engagements, to ensure that the entire Region sings from the same song sheet,” he said.

3

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Bank robber killed … two others held after attack on Republic Bank

By Rabindra Rooplall A BANDIT who holds a degree in agronomy was on Tuesday morning shot and killed and two of his accomplices were arrested when they attempted to rob the Republic Bank Water Street branch.

Dead is Elton Wray, 25, of Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD), a China-trained agronomist and former crop extension officer of the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI).

Guard Service (PGS), Sean Kirkpatrick, whose company provides security service for the bank, noted that Tuesday morning three armed men entered the Republic Bank, Water Street Branch before it was open to the public. The perpetrators wore masks, gloves and carried handguns with which they opened fire on the RBL personnel inside the building. PGS security personnel, who were on site, immediately raised an alarm and Armed Response Teams proceeded to the location. Arriving shortly after the alarm

A Republic Bank employee was escorted to a police station for questioning His accomplices have been identified as Jamal Haynes, a Republic Bank staff member of Norton Street, Wortmanville, Georgetown, and Keron Sanders. The police have located Wray’s vehicle, a Nissan Duke PWW 1452 abandoned in the Royal Castle parking lot in South Ruimveldt.

In a statement, Managing-Director of Professional

had been raised, the teams assessed the situation and took up defensive positions.

“The gunmen then opened fire on the teams who returned fire, being mindful of the civilian personnel caught in the exchange.

Thanks to the prompt support of the Guyana Police Force all three attackers were apprehended and the robbery averted,” PGS stated. “Pro-

fessional Guard Services is very proud of all our personnel who through their professionalism and heroism were able to thwart this brazen attack. PGS wishes to commend the personnel of the Guyana Police Force for their outstanding performance and will continue to cooperate with the Guyana Police Force in the ongoing investigation of this incident.”

Police said three firearms, including two 9 MM handguns and one .40 gun were found. The case is being investigated by ranks of the Major Crimes Unit, Criminal Investigation Department.

Reports indicate that around 07:10hrs, the bandits gained entry to the lower flat of the bank by entering the southern Automatic Teller Machine (ATM) which resulted in the bank’s alarm being activated. At that time, they were attempting to open several canisters of cash while the staffers were in another section of the bank.

When the alarm was activated, it prompted Professional Security Guards (PGS) into action and there was an exchange of gunfire as the police promptly responded and continued the shootout.

Many of the vendors and bank staff were seen ducking for cover as the robbery occurred. Reports indicate that Haynes was wearing a dreadlock disguise when he was shot in both of his legs.

Another bandit fled to a nearby snackette in the Vendor’s Mall opposite the bank,where he tried changing his appear-

One of the handguns and gloves retrieved by police over the place like he mad,” came from a proper home er Marlon Chapman said One eyewitness said “He was from how he dress. There one of the bandits was shot performing to scare people was blood oozing from his and died while receiving off and he keep licking shots feet and nose, then I learn he attention at the Georgetown in the middle of the street was a bank employee, police Public Hospital Corporation and then he run back into the later arrested him,” she ex- and others were arrested. He ATM.” plained. also confirmed that a bank The eyewitness furOne woman said she was employee was escorted to a ther said that the men were saddened that the young men police station for questioning. dressed in all over black and dared to carry out such a stuRepublic Bank Water their faces were covered. pid act in the name of greed. Street branch in a press stateShe said the PGS secu- “They really thought they ment Tuesday confirmed the rity guards then respond- could get away with the heist, attempted robbery as staff ed promptly and positioned not when Guyana is so small entered the branch. themselves around the Fogarty’s Department Stores in a professional manner. “I said thank you Jesus when I saw that the police also responded quickly.”

She said one of the bandits then sprinted into the vendor’s mall and fired his gun while a nearby businessman also drew his gun and fired shots in the air to keep him at bay.

She further explained that another bandit held a hostage at gunpoint and walked over with him into the marketThe getaway vehicle

Wray’s vehicle found abandoned in the Royal Castle parking lot in South Ruimveldt

The police marking the areas where there is evidential value

ance into one of a chef when he was arrested by police.

“When I look across at Republic Bank I said wow, the line was really long today especially for the senior citizens, then I hear a noise that sound like a gunshot, then I see one of them come out and start shooting up all

place, when he reached the back of the market at John Fernandes section the hostage was released.

“He then strip off his mask and his Rasta toupee and throw away the gun in the snackette; when I see the young man he look like he

and police is always on the streets, god place your hands on these young people lives, shield them,” one market vendor said.

Traumatised staff members and customers were eventually allowed to leave the bank through a shattered door after police secured the area and conducted their investigations as the crime scene was protected

by Professional Guard Service (PGS) security guards and armed police ranks. The area was cordoned off to the disappointment of curious onlookers. Forensic investigators were seen marking the locations where over two dozen spent shells were seen.

Meanwhile, a car HC 7778 that transported the bandits was detained; its driver had claimed that the vehicle was hijacked, but he was taken into police custody to iron out his alibi.

Divisional Command-

T h e B a n k ’s M a n a g ing-Director, Richard Sammy, said, “All of our staff have been accounted for and, where required, have received medical treatment.

The bandits were unsuccessful in their robbery attempt.

Our greatest concern at this point rests upon the safety and well-being of our staff and customers. We have initiated trauma-assistance processes for staff and shall continue to work with law enforcement officials in their investigations.” The bank extends gratitude to the law enforcement agencies and security personnel for their alert response, which prevented the situation from escalating further.

The bank has closed its Water Street Branch until further notice and advises all customers that their banking business can be conducted at all other branches.

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5, 2017

Dismantle non-tariff barriers -President Granger urges CARICOM leaders

By Ravin Singh in Grenada There is an urgent need in the Caribbean to dismantle non-tariff barriers to trade in agricultural products, since this may solve some of the economic and social ills of the region.

This was according to outgoing Chairman of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), President David Granger, at the opening of the thirty-eight intersessional meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM. The meeting is being held in Grenada. With CARICOM built on a model which seeks to achieve free movement of people and goods in the region, efforts have been made over the last few decades to achieve same.

However, 44 years after its establishment, CAR-

ICOM is still grappling with this issue which had become a widely criticized one in the region. Possessing a total land area of 462, 352 km2, the Community is not short of land, labour, talent or capital to guarantee food security. In fact, President David Granger referenced the fact that CARICOM’s annual food import bill, exceeds US$4B. He reasoned that this “is a notorious indictment” of the regional bloc’s ability to promote investment and stimulate intra-regional trade in agricultural commodities. But while this might be desired outcome, the reality, he said, is that non-tariff barriers continue to constrain trade in food.

Just last year regional giant SM Jaleel and Co Lt had its products taken off shelves in a named CARICOM country after trading issues surfaced.

Given this reality and that of imposed barriers, the outgoing Chairman suggested that the Community must “re-examine how it can dismantle” non-tariff barriers to trade in agricultural products, while generating employment for its citizens.

Unemployment, particularly among youths, is another crucial issue which Heads of Government in the region have invested much time in addressing.

The President reminded regional leaders that commerce remains the lifeblood of the economies of CARICOM countries. He said that small internal markets consign states to high dependence on external trade.

As such, he pointed out that intraregional trade remains important not just to the development of individual countries, but the region as a whole.

Touching on why CARICOM was operationalized,

President Granger was keen to note that it was established to ensure markets for regional production, inter alia. Highlighting the benefits of intraregional trade, the President said that it provides a basis for increasing national production, augmenting investment and generating employment.

Noting that the environment is an “inescapable economic reality,” He offered that the Community possesses unmatched natural assets - both on the mainland states and in the island states. He said that taken as a whole, the CARICOM region is blessed with rich natural capital breathtaking beaches, extensive grasslands, entrancing wetlands, evergreen rainforests, magnificent waterfalls, majestic highlands and unsurpassable biodiversity with some of the world’s rarest species of flora and fauna.

President David Granger addresses the opening of the Caricom summit

And these assets, he reasoned, are the bases of the tourist industry. Therefore, he urged leader to adopt a “green agenda” to help protect

the Community from the threat of environmental hazard and natural disaster and safeguard people’s livelihoods and the industries on which they rely.

Wednesday, July 5th, 2017 - 14:30 hrs Thursday, June 6th, 2017 - 14:30 hrs Friday, June 7th, 2017 - 14:30hrs

DATE: DATE: 26/11/2016 1/07/2017 26/11/2016 04/07/2017

03 14 13 19 26 26 02 01 12 07 18 14 19 N A 11

06 04 13 07

14 12

21 23

24 26

26/11/2016 04/07/2017

04 07

07 07

03 02

26/11/2016 04/07/2017

05 04

04 05

01 08

26/11/2016 04/07/2017 02 01

09 02

10 03

11 05 13 08 14 10

18 21

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5 2017

Jordan urges NBS to innovate $34.5B, not …to ensure appropriate financial products, services delivered The New Building Society (NBS) Limited, on Saturday extended it services to the residents of Upper Corentyne, Berbice, Region Six with the opening of its Corriverton Branch.

The opening ceremony of the $110M structure saw the presence of Minister of Finance Winston Jordan, Mayor of Corriverton Krishnand Jaichand, Chief Executive Officer of NBS Anil Kishun and members of the Board of Directors.

Minister Jordan commended the Chief Executive Officer and Directors of NBS for making such an investment in the town of Corriverton.

The Minister noted that the opening of the branch comes at a time when sugar, one of the main economic activities in the region is in “deep trouble” as there is a steep decline in the premium price in the European Union Market.

The Minister pointed out that the government has to date invested $32B in the sugar industry, in addition to the creation of a white paper which will afford the industry to engage in sustainable sugar production. However, Minister Jordan said that the NBS will have a key role to play in the revitalisation of such an important sector to Guyana’s economy. The Minister stated that, “although your mission is to provide your customers with the best mortgages and savings product, it is expected that at this troubled time, your support to Berbice will involve a great amount of thinking and innovation to ensure that

5

$348.5B given to sugar

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan cutting the ribbon with Annanmika Ramdat

appropriate financial products and services are delivered to the communities.”

The Minister pointed out that, banks such as NBS usually have unique perspectives on the communities they are in, by investing heavily in community development projects and local businesses. It is also important that the NBS promote financial inclusion by providing financial services at affordable costs to vast sections of disadvantaged and low-income groups, Minister Jordan said. “Your task is to ensure appropriate and quality financing is accessible and affordable to low income and other vulnerable groups that are excluded from the formal financial system,” the Minister

explained.

Chairman of NBS, Floyd McDonald in his brief remarks said that, “our Society is committed to the provision of mortgages and related services to the benefit of all Guyanese in particular as it relates to the enhancement of a national housing project.” Additionally, Minister Jordan said that the provision and access to adequate housing is a core element of social, welfare and economic development in any country.

He added that housing is one of the three basic needs for survival, with clothing and food being the other two. “Housing also has the potential to translate into poverty reduction since the acquisition of a home can provide the collateral that is

necessary to access financial products and services from the formal financial institution,” the Minister explained.

The NBS was first established 1940, since its establishment it has opened seven branches across Guyana, four of which are in Berbice.

The others are in Georgetown, Essequibo and Mackenzie, Linden. The NBS’ assets upon establishment was $153,000, today it boasts assets over $61B. In the last three years the bank made a profit of over $1B each year.

(DPI)

The European Union (EU) on Tuesday apologised for mistakenly increasing the amount of support given to the Guyana government for the sugar industry.

At a press conference held on June 29, the Head of the EU Delegation here Jernej Videtiè said some $348.5B was given to Guyana for the sugar industry instead of $34.5B. That amount was immediately rebutted by the former People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPP/C) administration.

The PPPC through former presidents Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar maintained that the EU had only given Guyana $34.5B. Jagdeo had described the statement by the EU as “a total falsehood” the sum initially stated by the EU as compensation for the 36 per cent cut in preferential market for sugar.

“In fact, the total sum paid to Guyana is approximately $30B. Indeed, the final installment of $5.4B was paid to the Coalition government in October last year,” said Jagdeo.

However, on Tuesday the EU said “the figure EURO 166,667, 000 was given as the amount granted by the European Union in budget support to the sugar industry in Guyana between 2006 and 2013. While this is the correct figure, the corresponding amount in Guyana dollars was inadvertently given as $348.5B, when it should have been approximately $34.5B depending on the exchange rate.”

As such, the EU said the amount allocated represented EURO 166,67M or GY$34.85B. “The Delegation of the EU sincerely regrets any confusion caused,” the statement concluded.

6

Editorial

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5, 2017

No room for complacency

THE results of the much anticipated National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) released last Friday, generally reflect good news for the Ministry of Education, but points to the need for much more work to be done.

From the information provided by the media, the results over the years in the core subjects offered at the examinations, namely Mathematics, English, Science and Social Studies have been way below expectations.

The results this year show a positive turn with improvements recorded in all the subject areas due to commendable work from education administrators, teachers and parents in pushing the students to give their all.

The end result of their hard work saw the pass rate of mathematics jumping from 13 per cent in 2016 to 45 per cent this year, the highest overall pass rate ever recorded in this problematic subject area.

Aside from Mathematics, the pass rate in English moved handsomely from 45 per cent last year to 54 per cent this time around and Science leaped from a 27 per cent pass rate in 2016 to 44 per cent this year. Only social studies recorded minimal improvement, an increase of one per cent from last year but still, the overall pass rate of 47 per cent was not that bad.

The overall results in terms of improvement tell a positive story, but it also show that more than 50 per cent of pupils in the primary school system still fail to obtain a pass grade (50 per cent) in Mathematics, Social Studies and

English.

While the marked improvement is a cause to celebrate, it must be tempered, since going forward, in order to keep up the trend of success, there must be no room for complacency.

Parents and teachers must from early motivate their charges to make their best leap forward in next year’s examinations.

From reports in the media, the success at this year’s examinations appears to have stemmed from team work with parents encouraging and supporting their children and teachers improving their quality of delivery in the classroom.

And of course the government had stepped in, engaging the Caribbean Examinations Council to improve the quality of the grade assessments and subsequently launched the Emergency Mathematics Intervention Plan.

Under this well thought-out strategy, teachers were trained in content and methodology and regular cluster meetings were held in each administrative region. Mathematics coordinators and monitors were also recruited, officers and school administrators were trained to supervise the teaching of mathematics and a diagnostic assessment was done on pupils in the hinterland regions.

And bingo! Students’ performance in Mathematics improved by more than 30 per cent, Science about 20 per cent, Social Studies students came close to 50 per cent and English crossed the 50 per cent mark for the second time in a decade.

These results indicate that through collaborative efforts a strategy can work and seem to indicate the need for the Min-

istry of Education to pay greater attention to the National Grade Two and Grade Four Assessments.

There would be no need for quick fixes or interventions as they are commonly called, if teachers in the primary school system use these assessments as diagnostic tools rather than mere exams. The purpose of these assessments is to identify weaknesses in students and correct them before they enter Grade Six, so that they would be able to do well at the National Grade Six Assessment and that there would be minimum failures.

This is a system already in place, and it is now up to the Ministry of Education to make it work the way it was intended when it was crafted about a decade ago.

That said, now that the results are out, there is no time for the ministry to relax as its focus now should be to upgrade as many as possible of the 55 per cent and 44 per cent of students respectively, who fail to grasp basic concepts of literacy and numeracy at this year’s NGSA, to secondary school standards. This approach is necessary if students are to do better in Mathematics and English at the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC), where performance in these two subjects remains dismal.

GuySuCo intends to regain the confidence of financial institutions Dear Editor, THE Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) would like to respond to Mr. Seepaul Narine’s letters which were published in the Stabroek News on 23 June and titled, ‘GAWU is not a service provider to GuySuCo’ and in the Kaieteur News on 24 June, 2017 – ‘GuySuCo is a wolf in sheep’s clothing.’

Firstly, the corporation is not surprised that the union does not see its role as one that involves the provision of a service to our employees and by extension the corporation, hence the very reason the corporation has been indicating that GAWU has lost its way as a workers’ representative organisation.

GuySuCo is of the view that it is within its interest to assist GAWU to situate itself or clearly understand its role

in the partnership with the corporation.

GAWU as a civil society organisation, its core function should be social development and the union should seek to achieve this through any or all of the following: creating opportunities for the individual growth and creativity, providing support and services for those in need or excluded from mainstream society and acting as guardians of the public good. The main attribute should therefore be that it is driven by values; is responsive, vocal, inclusive and imaginative.

GuySuCo on the other hand has elements of both the public and private sectors as a semi-autonomous organisation. This simply means that as a public entity in the GuySuCo context, it provides certain public services to ensure basic needs and rights of its employees

and residents in communities are met, such as health care, management of drainage and irrigation, emergency services, etc. Its private sector components include: involvement in investment and trade by producing sugar and some services for which it recovers cost; it also provides employment opportunities. As a business, the focus of the re-organisation efforts are: to be innovative and re-engineer to derive economic growth and seek to maximise profits for investors, such as cane farmers and the Government, and to ensure further investment so that the corporation can continue to innovate. By virtue of having components of the public and private sectors, its main attribute in not merely profits, even though it is expected to make a profit, be inventive and productive.

Having stated the above, a part of the challenge of

GuySuCo being in a partnership with GAWU, is that the union as a non-business partner, approaches the partnership from the point of view of GuySuCo being solely a public sector entity.

If GuySuCo was entirely a private sector entity essentially driven by profits, the relationship and expectations of the union would be different. For GAWU, as a public sector entity, providing employment and public services are of primary interest or rather the only interest; the private sector aspects, such as efficient management, profits, innovation, economic growth, investment and creating an environment to allow the business to continue to innovate, are not concerns or considerations for the union.

Therein lies a fundamental problem which is evident in Mr. Narine’s letter.

One of the critical flaws in

GAWU’s current approach as a labour-representative organization in the partnership with GuySuCo -- a semi-autonomous entity -- is that the union educate our employees who are members of the union about their rights as employees, but fail to bring a necessary and critical balance, that rights have responsibilities attached to them. As a matter of fact, the union’s view is that the employees have rights and the management and GuySuCo as the employer have the responsibilities. Going forward, the corporation would like the union to widen its perspective to reflect a more balanced approach, particularly when educating as well as in the relationship with our employees in the course of providing labour-representation services.

Its strategies and tactics have to be transformed to

be more relevant, also to enhance and enable GuySuCo’s operations, while at the same time carrying out its role of holding the corporation accountable. GAWU being a non-business partner that is in a partnership with a business -- GuySuCo, the question is, how can the union reform to support the enhancement of the operations of GuySuCo and still ensure accountability? Currently, in its quest to make the corporation accountable, the union has become a major hindrance to the growth and development of the business of sugar. For e.g. in March, during the first crop, the planters at the East Demerara Estate were offered work to harvest canes since the estate’s harvesting turnout was 59%, they were advised by the union not to take up harvesting work, even though their estate had Turm to Page 7

7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5 2017

Several questions over GuySuCo intends to ... handling of Nandlall’s search warrant Dear Editor RECENT reports in the print and electronic media indicate that the Special Organised Crime Unit ( SOCU ) which has been doing an excellent job so far applied to the court for a warrant to search the home of the former Attorney General Anil Nandlall, for among other things, 15 Commonwealth Law Reports. SOCU has alleged that Nandlall is unlawfully keeping those books.

Relative activities after then left me wondering.

Wondering why SOCU applied in open court for the warrant. Wondering why the application for the search warrant was not made in chambers.

Wondering why the chief magistrate took the unprecedented action to

read the warrant in open court.

Wondering why her worship instructed SOCU’s officials to return hours after to uplift the warrant.

Wondering why SOCU did not approach a Justice of the Peace and Commissioner of Oaths to Affidavits to endorse the warrant. Wondering if there a shortage of Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths to Affidavits in Georgetown, as is the case at West Coast Berbice and other locations. Wondering if only a chief magistrate can endorse a warrant for SOCU to search a home for evidence in relation to a crime under investigation.

Wondering if in my policing days, when i used to obtain and execute warrants signed by Justices of the Peace and Commissioners of Oaths

to Affidavits and not the magistrates, my actions were unlawful. Won dering if the law has changed in relation to obtaining a search warrant since I retired from the Guyana Police Force.

Wondering when will someone in authority clear the air in respect of this legal morass. Wondering if somewhere along the line there was an ulterior motive. I am wondering. I am still wondering.

Regards Clinton Conway Assistant Commissioner Of Police (rtd)

not met its target. Then on 22 May, the harvesters at the same estate were informed by management of the estate that the crop was continuing, and again they were encouraged to strike on 23, 24 and 25 May; they resumed duties after being reminded at a meeting with GuySuCo, that the continuation of the crop would result in regular earnings for them for that period.

The cane harvesters and cane transport operators at Wales Estate were encouraged by the union to refuse work at Uitvlugt Estate and to demand that their services be terminated,so that they can be paid severance, even though Uitvlugt Estate needs the additional labour and it will result in sustained employment for them.

On 17 May, GAWU organised a protest in Rose Hall; the employees left the factory to protest, even though there was 242 tonnes of sugar being processed at a value of G$17M. The union later distributed a press release on the same day, proudly stating that ‘the workers militancy brought to

a standstill the operations of the factory.’ These are just a few examples of how the union’s approach to workers’ representation has and still is accelerating the demise of GuySuCo. The union could have at least encouraged a small number of employees to remain in the factory in order to complete processing of the sugar. GuySuCo would like to inform Mr. Narine that the workers have rights, but they also have responsibilities.

On the point of the corporation being a wolf in sheep’s clothing, Mr. Narine is well aware that there is no sheep that can manage GuySuCo and make it successful, as such, it is not apt to describe the corporation as a sheep, neither is it a wolf. However, the management is cognisant of the fact that it has been given the responsibility to manage a significant part of the assets and business of the people of Guyana and it intends to be good stewards.

Additionally, the management is well aware that the corporation has a G$78B debt and an urgent need to regain

From Page 6 and gain the confidence of financial institutions, investors, stakeholders and employees that the corporation can and will become viable and this requires prudent management and strong leadership. Further, GuySuCo would wish to see the union engaging our employees in activities and discourses which focus on the challenges, but also on the opportunities that are available and will emerge for the reorganisation and to encourage them to be more committed to assisting their estates to achieve targets, as well as stimulating their creative and innovative ability.

Finally, GAWU seems to be confused: on the one hand, they are stating that the quality of management needs to improve and now that it is improving, the union is claiming that we are wolves. We have a business to manage Mr. Narine and manage it we will!

Regards Audreyanna Thomas Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo)

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Young bandits had good jobs, degree

THE three bandits involved in Tuesday morning’s attempted robbery at Republic Bank, Water Street branch were all regular men around the city and one of them- Elton Wray who was killed has a degree in Agronomy which he earned at a university in China.

Citizens have expressed outrage at the actions of the men, but many persons have told the Guyana Chronicle that Wray whose father holds a senior rank in the Guyana Police Force was a known robber. “He was involved in a lot of things… he was following friends,” source at Wray’s work place told this newspaper. The source said Wray 25, of Eccles, East Bank Demerara (EBD), a China-trained agronomist and former crop

extension officer of the National Agricultural Research & Extension Institute (NAREI) was only on Friday last involved in a heated argument at NAREI. “He was requesting a transfer from his department since he is known for having problems with authority at work. He had received multiple negative appraisals at NAREI,” the sources said.

His accomplice, Jamal Haynes, is a staff of Republic Bank and it is believed that James was the one who set up of the robbery due to his inside knowledge of the bank’s operations. He was reportedly captured hiding in a stall at the Vendor’s Mall on Water Street. He ran from the scene with injuries and took off his disguise when the gunshots started.

In a statement Republic

Bank lauded law enforcement agencies and security personnel for foiling the robbery.

“The Bank extends gratitude to the law enforcement agencies and security personnel for their alert response, which prevented the situation from escalating further,” Republic Bank said in a statement. The Bank’s Managing Director, Richard Sammy, said, “All of our staff have been accounted for and, where required, have received medical treatment. The bandits were unsuccessful in their robbery attempt. Our greatest concern at this point rests upon the safety and well-being of our staff and customers. We have initiated trauma assistance processes for staff and shall continue to work with law enforcement officials in

their investigations.”

The Bank has closed its Water Street Branch until further notice and advises all customers that their banking business can be conducted at all other branches.

Meanwhile, social media was abuzz with the incident all day with some expressing disappointment at the path chosen by the young men- at least two of whom had good jobs and careers.

Journalist Gordon Moseley in a comment on his facebook page said: ”When all the noise is over, can we get back to talking to our young brothers and sons and friends about the need to be contented. Just this morning on my radio programme, I was talking about young people needing to enjoy life, needing to see the world, if you can’t afford the world, travel around this beautiful country. But do not get caught up in a hype, never believe you have to fit in and always be humble at the level you are at, as you work harder and honestly to achieve more. If you desire

Dead bandit, Elton Wray any of the circumstances above, in this case? Is it no longer fashionable to call simple greed and a desire to make fast money; greed and a desire to make fast money?”

Cultural Policy Advisor

Jamal Haynes was a mail clerk at the Republic Bank more, then be prepared to work more for it. If the one job not paying enough, then get two. But work hard and do it honestly and always remember that life is a sum of our choices.”

Public Relations Consultant, Christopher Chapwanya, also in a comment on his facebook page said “It’s amazing to see some folks playing the depressed youth card, the no jobs card, the poverty card, in a case where, according to reports, most, if not all of the alleged bandits were employed; one with a degree. Can we blame

to the Minister of Education, Ruel Johnson, said “lessons from the robbery today. We live in a society of excess, inequity and impunity. If there is anything we’ve educated young people in over the past decade and a half is that greed is good, the larger you aim for the more you are likely to get away with, and we have a social and criminal justice system that is dysfunctional. For too many of us, the only true way to the good life is via a bad life.

There are more examples of that at work than the old bootstrap bullshit.”

Back in May a US$64M Youth Empowerment Services (YES) Project, funded by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) was launched. The project is aimed at reducing youth involvement in crime and violence. The YES initiative was launched under the Caribbean Basin Security Initiative with the intention of reducing youth involvement in crime and violence in 10 Caribbean countries.

Guyana has been chosen to be one of the three “focus group” countries together with St. Lucia and St. Kitts/ Nevis.

Finance Minister Winston Jordan had explained that here in Guyana, the necessary interventions will be provided to correct the incidence of crime in Corriverton, East La Penitence, Sophia, Lodge and East Ruimveldt. “These communities were selected based on the findings of studies, which show that they have the highest representations of high-risk behaviours such as incarceration, high levels of youth involvement in crime and violence, teenage pregnancy, youth unemployment, high numbers of drop-outs and significant use of drugs, among others,” the Finance Minister explained.

It was noted that this new intervention will build on the achievements made by the Skills for Knowledge and Youth Employment (SKYE) Programme, which assisted significantly in creating alternative opportunities for Guyanese youths who were at risk of becoming involved in a life of crime and violence.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Constitutional reform bill before August

THE Constitutional Reform Bill will be laid in the National Assembly before the August recess, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo announced on Tuesday.

The decision to have the Constitutional Reform and Consultative Bill laid before the House was taken on Tuesday at the level of Cabinet. “The Government of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana remains committed to the process of constitutional reform and has been working steadily to put all

the necessary mechanisms and framework in place,” a statement from the Department of Public Information (DPI) said.

The A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Government, through the Office of the Prime Minister, had set up the Steering Committee on Constitutional Reform (SCCR) led by Nigel Hughes.

Last year, SCCR submitted its report to Prime Minister Nagamootoo and the process of the drafting and review of the bill has

been ongoing over the past months. “The Coalition Government views the laying of the Constitutional Reform and Consultative Bill in the National Assembly as a major advancement in the process towards Constitutional Reform,” DPI said.

During a visit to Guyana in April, a United Nations (UN) delegation had said that the process of constitutional reform creates an opportunity for social cohesion and nation-building. The UN delegation expressed the view while presenting its findings

on the Constitutional Reform process to Prime Minister Nagamootoo.

That report addressed the risks associated with the process of Constitutional Reform on the basis that Guyana has a history of racial division and ethnic-political conflict.

In mid-2015, Prime Minister Nagamootoo had initiated talks with the then UN Resident Coordinator Khadija Musa, with the aim of acquiring support from the UN during this process. Talks had continued with Musa’s successor, Mikiko Tanaka.

Those talks resulted in a Constitutional Assessment Mission being conducted here by a team from the UN in February, 2017, in order to advise the Guyana government and to provide UN decision-makers with context for its support.

The report recommends that a successful constitutional reform process must emphasise meaningful dialogue, negotiation and compromise on the part of government, opposition and citizens. Additionally, it states that the Constitutional

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo Reform Commission (CRC) must be independent, representative and inclusive of civil society, noting that the public at large must be provided with opportunities to participate.

It said too that major attention must be placed on public education in an effort to facilitate effective participation.

M&CC mulls extending Le Repentir Cemetery THE Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is mulling the extension of Le Repentir Cemetery since it has become overcrowded.

According to City Engineer Rawle Eastman, the current Le Repentir is over-

crowded and it has been proposed that the council extend the cemetery farther east, where there is an abundance of unused lands.

The proposal entails that the cemetery will be extended to the unused and densely vegetated land between

Cemetery Road and Mandela Avenue.

The extension is proposed to begin from the area closer to Mandela Avenue and the total dimensions of the extension will be 3000 feet to 600 feet, which will be divided into six plots. A

City engineer Rawle Eastman explains to Mayor Patricia Chase-Green and members of City Council, the proposed layout of the cemetery extension

The proposed area (as seen from Toucan Street) where Le Repentir Cemetery will be extended

number of works must be done to the land, including clearing away the dense vegetation; however, the engineer related that the works should be done in about two – three months.

While viewing the site

and the site maps, Mayor of Georgetown, Patricia Chase-Green, related that the estimated cost for this extension is around $45$47M, but there will be an official tendering process due to the size of the proj-

ect.

The engineer reassured that residents of the area will be notified of the intended works and will be alerted, because the vegetated area is inhabited by bees.

Against The Grain

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

The conflation of sexual agency and objectification

By Akola Thompson

GROWING up, I became accustomed to the little cues society imposed upon me.

There were unwritten but stringent rules that dictated that I should be feminine and sexy, without charting territory that could easily see me descend into something else.

I had dress codes foisted upon me that required up to a certain amount of skin be shown. Then I had clothes bought for me that did not cover me in my entirety because then I could be considered prudish, and no one wants that. I had no agency in the way I developed psychologically.

This, in turn, led to me having no agency in the things that have happened to me, nor in the way I even saw myself. Learning to acknowledge and appreciate my need for sexual agency is something that I still struggle with on some levels.

When people think of sexual agency, they automatically think it deals with the right to participate or decline a sexual activity and having that decision respected.

While that is partially what it entails, there are also other elements to it. Sexual agency is about having the right to define your gender or the freedom to your sexual preferences; the ability to choose what one does with their bodies and lives. For the purpose of this column however, we will focus on sexual agency and how the line between it and sexual objectification is becoming increasingly blurred. Finally, I can say that I have some amount of sexual agency over myself. It was a long, hard process of re-education and it still is not finished. I think this is why I find it so troubling how thinly I believe the line between sexual agency and objectification is. I am slowly making peace with the possibility that there might never be any clear distinction between the two, because, living in capitalistic societies, everything from our empowerment to our activism is branded and capitalised upon.

It is an extremely difficult territory to navigate. Trying to definitively define whether the empowerment we see is sexism repackaged or a true liberation of one’s self is something that is blurred, at best. Often, in an attempt to provide our starved minds for ‘empowering’ images of women, we are given caricatures. We are given caricatures

of womanhood who fight oppression while maintaining their skinny waists- culturally accepted forms of beauty- and doing everything in outfits that show the most skin.

This is where the problem for me lies, because showing skin and being sexy and sensual can be empowering, but commodifying that empowerment just makes it objectification. The only thing that has really changed in this equation is that the rules concerning how, when and why we should be sexual have been slightly redirected to convince us that being objectified is something we should desire. What these messages do is they commodify sexual expression and empowerment. In a sense, what they are doing is pushing the willing objectification off as something akin to sexual ownership and this holds us in a revolving door of patriarchal structures that continue to rework what the term “womanhood” means with little or no insight from women themselves.

It now leads me to question whether some of our desires to look and be sexy have to do with us finally embracing the right to our body’s sovereignty as our own or has this ‘sexy’ view become so projected that we think it is the only way in which we can claim that sexual agency and power?

This makes me wonder whether there is not a growing occurrence of women who consider them to be empowered merely because they believe themselves free to act out. In essence, what this tends to do, is recreate a culture in which the women themselves are actively supporting the subjugation and objectification of women through the focus of our physical appearance and sexual proclivities. At what point do we see ourselves as the ones who continue upholding harmful cultures?

I think it comes down to individual views about self, but we might be wrong to think that larger society does not shape our views of ourselves somehow. There is the dangerous belief that autonomy and objectification is one and the same thing.

Autonomy is active ownership of one’s body and sexuality while objectification is almost self-sacrificial in its passive relenting of control over one’s self. While there is nothing wrong with one relishing in being objectified, it is an entirely different thing to only be thought of in terms of a sexual object.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Duo charged for killing ‘threesome peeper’

TWO men were on Tuesday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan for allegedly beating

to death Kumar Persaud called “Radika” in Bartica last week.

Twenty-one- year- old

Trio remanded for robbery under arms CITY Magistrate Judy Latchman remanded three men to prison on Tuesday after they appeared before her charged with robbery under arms.

Thirty-five-year-old boat operator Winston McKenzie, of New Scheme, Eccles; 29- year- old miner Fayaud Ahmed, who is also a citizen of Canada, of Meadow Bank, Georgetown and Andre Vieira , a taxi driver and fisherman were not required to plead to the charge.

It is alleged that the three men while being armed with handguns robbed Jui Su Chen of one minibus valued $2.3 million, fish glue worth $ 2.7 million $ 260,000 worth of phone cards and $500,000 in cash a total of $28,780,000 at Craig, East Bank Demerara, on May 20, 2017.

The police prosecutor objected to bail based on the nature and gravity of the charge, the amount of cash involved and the fact that dangerous weapons were used. The men were remanded until their next court hearing on July 21.

Man in court for pretending to be cop A MAN who posed as a Police Inspector was remanded to prison on a fraud charge.

ON Tuesday at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court City Magistrate Leron Daly remanded Paul Watson, 40, of Zelugt, West Coast Demerara, who pleaded not guilty to the charge, which stated that between March 2017 and June 12, 2017 with intent to defraud Gouind Sundar, he obtained $ 790,000 by falsely pretending that he was in a position to obtain a firearm license for Sundar.

Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh objected to bail after an application was made by Watson’s lawyer Bernard De Santos. Singh objected to bail on the ground that Watson has a matter of similar nature pending. The matter was adjourned until July 14.

According to the facts of the case, Sundar is a businessman in Georgetown. The businessman had gone to Brickdam Police station and handed over the documents to process his gun license. However, he was later called

by Watson, who identified himself as an Inspector of Police.

Watson later made further contact with Sundar three weeks later and instructed him to meet a police constable at the Parliament Building, where the individual received the cash.

Trio charged for Parfaite Harmony robbery THREE men who were recently arrested at a road block on the western side of the Demerara Harbour Bridge were remanded to prison when they appeared at the Leonora Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday before Magistrate Rochelle Liverpool charged with robbery under arms and possession of firearm and ammunition.

It is alleged that on June 27, 2017 Shawn Welch, 43, of Lot 81 Castillo Housing Scheme , Collin 27, of Lot 169 Middle Street, La Penitence and Alford 25, of Lot 289 Independence Boulivar, Georgetown robbed Thukurdutt Narine of West Minister House Scheme , West Bank Demerara over $1 million in cash and jewellery to which they denied that allegation.

The men also denied that on June 30 they were in possession of one 9mm pistol with a magazine containing 5 live matching rounds.

The men were remanded to prison until the 17 July 2017.

Kumar Persaud called “Radika”

Elton Gibson of Parika and 19-year-old Deon Samuels of Babagie Landing, Cuyuni River, were not required to plea to the indictable charge of murder. It was alleged that on June 26, 2017 at Third Avenue, Bartica, they killed Persuad.

According to reports on the day in question Persuad was beaten to death after it was alleged that he refused

to leave the scene of a sexual act that was being performed by three persons. According to police reports Persuad was on the beach when the three persons were committing the act; the defendants who were involved in a “threesome act,” allegedly gave him a severe beating.

It is reported that a public-spirited citizen, who wit-

nessed the incident, summoned the police who responded promptly and arrested the suspects and escorted Persuad, who was in an unconscious state, to the Bartica Public Hospital, where he succumbed while receiving treatment.

The matter was adjourned to July 21 and transferred to the Bartica Magistrate Court.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Wesleyan Church commissions resource centre at Vreed-en-Hoop

Kent Vincent, CEO of Food for the Poor Guyana Inc., unveils the plaque with Dr. Marlon Hestic, senior pastor for the Vreed-en-Hoop Wesleyan Church last Saturday.

THE Vreed-en-Hoop Wesleyan Church’s Resource Centre was on Saturday, July 1 commissioned at the community’s church, located at New Road, Vreed-enHoop, West Coast Demerara (WCD).

The establishment of the facility is a joint effort between the church and Food for the Poor Guyana Inc., and serves to provide academic and vocational training to individuals in the surrounding environs, with a keen focus on the residents of Plastic City.

Plastic City is an impoverished community whose residents lack access to the educational and vocational training opportunities, thereby preventing them from securing employment and access to tertiary institutions.

Food for the Poor Guyana Inc. in collaboration with its donors financed the completion and partial furnishing of the 30 x 50 feet two -storey concrete building, as well as the construction of a 15ft x 30 feet outdoor shed.

The non-profit organization has also provided the resource centre with 12 desktop computers inclusive of desks and chairs, four

manual, eight electrical, two surgers and two industrial sewing machines, a 32” television, a six- burner gas stove and a 14.0 cubic feet freezer.

In a joint statement to the media, the entities said that the new centre is fully equipped to offer training to persons in the areas of garment construction, information technology and food preparation among others.

Students at the primary and secondary levels will also be tutored in various subject areas and will be allowed to use the entity’s library and information technology centre

to aid in their advancement.

Work will also be done with teens and young adults are also part of the thrust of the institution. Additionally, remedial classes as well as skills training will also be offered to early school- leavers and other disadvantaged individuals, who upon successful completion, would have a better opportunity to be employed.

It is estimated that a minimum of 150 persons will benefit directly from the services of the centre during the first year of its operations.

Members of the Vreed-en-Hoop Wesleyan Church and officials of Food For The Poor Guyana Inc. observe a trainee sewing during the opening of the resource centre.

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Guyanese murder suspect arrested in NY

A MAN wanted for murder in Guyana was located 2,643 miles from the crime scene on Tuesday — in Queens, law enforcement sources said.

Members of the NYPD/U.S. Marshals Joint Fugitive Task Force apprehended suspect Marcus Bisram in the Rockaways at about 1 p.m.

“He was living here in plain view,” the source said.

Bisram is accused of masterminding the killing of carpenter Faiyaz Narinedatt on Oct. 31, 2016. He allegedly got four co-conspirators to kill Narinedatt, who was beaten to death.

After the killing, Bisram moved to the U.S. and lived in Arverne, where he created the Marcus Brian Bisram Foundation, which is focused on “making better, brighter futures.”

Patrice La Fleur new SG of National Commission of UNESCO PATRICE La Fleur has been assigned as Secretary General of the National Commission for the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in Guyana by Cabinet.

This was disclosed by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon. Harmon was speaking at a post- Cabinet briefing last Friday. He explained that La Fleur was recommended by, “A panel of evaluators as the best of five candidates who were interviewed for the position.” La Fleur was previously the Resident Representative for the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).

She is, “A human and social development practitioner with more than 30 years of experience in the area of education, training, youth development, youth entrepreneurship, Patrice La Fleur women and gender development and community development,” Harmon said.

Guyana will be represented at a consultative meeting of the National Commission on UNESCO in the Caribbean

by La Fleur. The meeting will be held in Kingston Jamaica from July 10 to 11, 2017.

The meeting will bring together Secretary Generals of the National Commissions of UNESCO to strengthen collaboration between the cluster office for the Caribbean and National Commissioners. The meeting will focus on the UNESCO’s special initiative for the Caribbean and adopt shared views on key issues affecting the Caribbean.

This meeting is in preparation for the fourth upcoming 39th General Conference of UNESCO to be held in Paris, France on October 30 to November 14 2017.

Narinedatt’s body was found on the 70 Village Public Road in Berbice the next day, officials said.

Georgetown police arrested his attackers, who confessed that Bisram had ordered them to commit the killing.

The suspects admitted that they had beaten Narinedatt to death, then put his body into a car, drove

Caught: Marcus Bisram

him to the village road and then ran his lifeless body over with the car to make it appear that he was the victim of a hit-and-run driver.

He was killed because Narinedatt had slapped another man — believed to be Bisram — during a party, according to the Guyana Chronicle.

Bisram is expected to

be presented in Brooklyn Federal court for arraignment Wednesday.

Guyana, which re-issued a fugitive warrant for Bisram in March, will have to petition for his extradition, authorities said.

It will be the first time in recent memory that the country has made the request. (nydailynews.com)

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Nandlall threatens charges over search warrant

FORMER Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Anil Nandlall, has threatened to institute private criminal charges against anyone who attempts to execute a search warrant on his premises with the intention of retrieving 14 Commonwealth Law Reports (books) he allegedly stole from the state.

Nandall in a letter to Police Commissioner, Seelall Persaud, said the charges would be instituted “against anyone who attempts to execute or executes, or aid and abet the execution of any such illegal, unlawful and contemptuous Search Warrant.”

Nandlall, a practicing attorney is currently before the courts for the larceny

of the law books he said was given to him by former President Donald Ramotar during his tenure in office. The charge alleged that Nandlall fraudulently converted 14 Commonwealth Law Reports valued at $2.3M to his own use, while serving at Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs. He is currently on self-bail.

Nandlall secured a Conservatory Order preventing officers of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) from searching his properties. On July 3, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) in a statement to the media said the 14 Commonwealth Law reports in Nandlall’s possession were not the subject of the Conservatory Order issued by Acting Chief

Justice, Roxanne GeorgeWiltshire.

However, Nandlall described the police statement as “ingenious and perverse contention”. In response to an article published by the Guyana Times Newspaper and headlined “Did SOCU hoodwink Chief Magistrate?”, the police said that on Tuesday, June 27, officers of SOCU were to conduct simultaneous searches of residences controlled by Nandall in an ongoing effort to recover the 14 Law Reports of the Commonwealth which were allegedly stolen prior to him demitting Office in 2015.

“These searches were abandoned after Mr. Nandalall was apprised of the pending searches,” the statement noted. Additionally, the Police said that the Acting Chief Justice had already granted the Conservatory Order restraining the SOCU officers from executing a warrant to search and seize the Law Reports.

“The Force wishes to advise the Public that the publications being sought by the Guyana Police Force are fourteen (14) ‘Law Reports of the Commonwealth’ which were not the subject of the Conservatory Order issued by the Acting Chief Justice and which is the subject of criminal charges against the former Attorney General of Guyana.”

But Nandall in his missive to the Police Commissioner questioned whether the Police Force was trying to do damage control or “an exhibition of manifest incompetence or it is an expression of puerile vendetta, or it is all combined.”

He argues that the Acting Chief Justice’s order states “This court orders that an interim Conservatory Order be and is hereby granted preventing and/or restraining officers and/or agents of the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) and/or the Guyana Police Force of the State of Guyana from seizing and/or detaining fifteen (15) Commonwealth Law Reports

PPP, MP, Anil Nandlall for the years 2012 to May, 2015, in the possession of the Applicant.”

The former Attorney General stressed that as the “owner of these books” and the applicant for the Order, the 14 law books referred to by the police and the 15 law books referred to in the order granted by Justice George are one and the same save and except for the numerical difference.

“In the circumstances, I am to inform you that any attempt to execute the aforesaid Search Warrant or any such similar Search Warrant in respect of the subject Law Reports of the Commonwealth will be a contumacious and aggravated violation of the Order of the Honourable Acting Chief Justice and contempt of court proceedings, constitutional actions and appropriate private criminal charges will be instituted against anyone who attempts to execute or executes, or aid and abet the execution of any such illegal, unlawful and contemptuous Search Warrant.”

Nandall also described the efforts by the government to retrieve the law books as “wastage of public monies, scarce resources, time and energies by the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) in persecuting me, in respect of a contrived charge of larceny in relation to my own property, when the real criminals are at large wreaking havoc against the citizens of this country.”

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Rupununi farmers in battle to save crops

By Ariana Gordon

RUPUNUNI farmers are fighting to salvage whatever crops they can as their farmlands have been inundated for days as a result of heavy rainfall in mountains and savannahs.

Farmers are in the process of reaping cassava, a main staple in Region Nine, to make farine to sustain their families for the remainder of the month.

Michael Williams, a resident of Annai, Region Nine, told the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday that farmers are complaining that their farms are flooded, which means all of their produce will rot.

“There is no problem for food…the farmers are trying to reap their farms to make farine. They will have food for this month, but when the food is finished they have nothing to reap; that will be the problem,” said Williams.

He foresees a food shortage come next month as the

Meanwhile, even as residents of Region Nine continue to experience floods as a result of the overtopping of the Tabatinga Creek, authorities are on the ground conducting assessments of damage caused by the flood.

Allicock told the Guyana Chronicle that the water has receded somewhat in certain areas, while farmlands have remained inundated in some parts of the North, South and Central Rupununi. “The water is receding, even though it was higher this morning,” said Allicock, who noted that while there is evidence of slow withdrawal of the water, there is cause for concern.

“This is the rainy season,” he noted, while adding that the report from neighbouring Brazil is that heavy rainfall is expected. Should the meteorological prediction be accurate, then that will pose tremendous travel for the residents of Region Nine. “…it is a concern because the water is coming from Brazil,

Floodwaters have covered Takutu Drive between the Lethem Power Company and the Magistrate’s Court families would have consumed all of the food they had planted by that time.

“There is persistent rainfall in the farmlands. The river banks and the savannahs are flooded, but we are happy for that but not for the farms that are under threat at the moment. Some of the cassavas are already black as they were under water for quite some time,” the Annai resident stated.

Similarly, several Toshaos have indicated to the Regional Chairman, Brian Allicock, that as many as 18 farms in one community are under water, but notwithstanding that Allicock said, “The situation is under control. We are using all of our resources (regional) available at the moment,” and by month-end he reckons that communities within the region will require a significant amount of rations.

“Some people came out from Parishara…the cassavas are rotting…the residents there have come out as the water is receding.”

Another Rupununi resident, Tony James, told the Guyana Chronicle that 85 per cent of the farms located at Karaundarnao Village in the South Rupununi is inundated.

but we are thanking God that the water in the outskirts is receding,” said the regional chairman, who hopes that the water recedes significantly so the region could return to a state of normalcy.

Thus far there are 38 persons in the shelters located at the Culvert City Nursery School and the Arapaima Primary school. Allicock said he received a call from a resident in another community who indicated that her family of nine is in need of assistance and that woman was scheduled to meet with him.

A health team along with regional officials following a meeting Tuesday morning was divided up into several groups and they met with those affected by the floodwaters.

Deputy Director of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), Major Kester Craig, told the Guyana Chronicle that the situation is being monitored by the CDC and regional officials. He confirmed that there was an increase in water in the Lethem area, but in other areas the water level remained stable.

“The Regional Emergency Operations met at 8am and three teams were sent out to Culvert City,

Tabatinga, and St. Ignatius and a medical team has been sent to North Rupununi,” said Major Craig.

The CDC Deputy Director noted too that assessments are currently being made to ensure that residents are safe.

POTABLE WATER Additionally, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) has mobilised to provide potable water to residents in light of the flood situation in affected See page 17

A partially covered road in Region Nine (Daniel Gajie photos)

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Police probing GRDB missing $100M … lawsuit being contemplated

By Zena Henry

THE matter involving the Rice Producers’ Association’s (RPA) failure to repay $100m it borrowed from the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) is currently This was disclosed by GRDB’s General Manager, Allison Peters, when an update on the matter was

sought during an outreach to flood –affected rice and other farmers in Region Six last Wednesday.

Peters told the Guyana Chronicle too that separate legal action could come against the former board members responsible for the loan. The GM said much could not be said about the ongoing investigation, but mentioned that

the missing $100m is outside of the more than $300m the former GRDB members is currently accused of defrauding the organisation.

Six former GRDB members were placed on half a million dollars bail each last month when they were charged with defrauding the corporation of some $362m from its Republic Bank ac-

count. The board members represented several rice stakeholder agencies, including members of the RPA. General Secretary of the Rice Producers Association (RPA) and People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament, Dharamkumar Seeraj, who was also a GRDB board member at the time, was said to be part of the decision to lend the RPA the money, and had signed a promissory note to have the

loan repaid in three months.

In Parliament, when pressured about the unpaid sum, Seeraj hinted that government asked the RPA for the money since it was the agency that borrowed it and not him personally.

Peters noted however that every effort would be made to recover the unpaid money.

“Once money is not where it is supposed to be we have to recover it,” she told the newspaper. The GM indicated that a response was received from the RPA about the loan, but again related that that information is with the police.

“I don’t want to disclose too much, but I can say that it is in the hands of the police…” Peters agreed however that given the outcome of the investigation it is possible that a separate action could be brought against the former GRDB members.

Agriculture Minister Noel Holder confirmed just days ago that “not a cent” of the borrowed money was repaid by the RPA. He suggested that the GRDB should consider suing the organisation to reclaim its funds. The government had ordered an audit into the affairs of the GRDB, which is tasked with the total development of the local rice industry.

It was found that the former

GRDB members failed to make proper financial records of loans and other transactions which are contrary to the agency’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

The GRDB is run by a Board of Directors (BOD) and a General Manager. The BoD is appointed by the Minister of Agriculture and must have representatives such as farmers, rice millers, a consumer representative, other Stakeholders of the Industry.

Those before the court on fraud charges are former General Manager of the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB), Jagnarine Singh; former Deputy General Manager of the GRDB, Madanlall Ramraj; Seeraj; former Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Amerindian Affairs, and PPP Member of Parliament, Nigel Dharamlall; former General Manager of the Guyana Oil Company, Badrie Persaud, and the Deputy Permanent Secretary Finance, Ministry of Agriculture, Prema Roopnarine. Peter Ramcharran, who was GRDB’s accountant was jointly charged with the six officials.

He was nabbed in Canada just over a week ago. He is expected to fight extradition to Guyana.

Man charged for $2M robbery

A MAN was on Tuesday remanded to prison by Magistrate Leron Daly on a charge of robbery under arms.

It is alleged that Shamar Peters robbed two men of over $2 million.

According to police on June 27, 2017, at South Ruimveldt Gardens, armed with a gun, Peters robbed Basil Aladin of $2.1 million cash. That same day he also robbed Adrian Duncan of one cell phone valuing $20,000.

Peters pleaded not guilty to the two charges although he was positively identified by the victims.

Peters has been remanded to prison until July 14, 2017.

Guard charged for wounding

A 62-YEAR-OLD Timehri man was on Tuesday charged with assault, causing actual bodily harm.

Sukdeo Mahadeo, of Hyde Park Timehri, appeared before Magistrate Sunil Scarce for causing bodily harm to Anil Khan.

It is alleged that on June 25, 2017 at Timehri, East Bank Demerara, Mahadeo unlawfully and maliciously wounded Khan. The 62-year-old was represented by Attorney-at-law Paul Fung-A-Fat and pleaded not guilty to the charge.

He was placed on 70,000 bail and is expected to return to court on July 11, 2017.

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Postman pleads guilty to manslaughter –– at trial for murder of four-year-old stepson

FORMER postman, Rawle Samuels, on Tuesday pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter for the February 6, 2013 murder of his stepson, four-year-old Jamal Nedd.

His plea was accepted by Justice Nareshwar Harnanan in the Georgetown High Court through his attorney, Maxwell McKay, after which the panel of jurors was discharged and expected to return on July 11, 2017.

Samuels, whose face was

devoid of any expression throughout the proceedings, will return before the said judge for a probation report and sentencing on July 18, 2017 in Court 9.

According to state prosecutor, Siand Dhurjon, on the day in question the accused had a problem with his common-law wife, Neisha Naranjan, who is the mother of the deceased four-year-old.

Naranjan reportedly ended the relationship with Samuels over an argument involving

From page 15 parts of Region Nine and the entity has established water distribution access points at the Tabatinga Pump Station and the New Culvert City Pump Station, respectively.

“We will be monitoring the quality of water distributed to residents. Water-quality testing will be done at each pump station and at strategic points in the distribution network. Testing of private wells will also be facilitated upon request,” a statement from GWI said. The water utility company will be assisting in the data collection to build a database for the affected areas, as well as assisting the Regional Democratic Council, CDC and the Neighbourhood Democratic Council in supplying the necessary pipe fittings required for the distribution of potable water.

GWI will also start the distribution of Life Saver filters and Jerry Cans to the region so as to ensure adequate mechanisms are in place to treat water and maintain access to quality water for affected residents. The Old Culvert City Pump station has been affected by floodwaters however, a physical inspection done has found that the well there has not been compromised. The situation is being monitored, but all pump stations are fully operable.

On Monday, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, and Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan along with other officials travelled to Region Nine to have a first-hand assessment of the floods. Several items were handed over to the regional administration to assist those in need.

It was not a rainy day in Region Nine, but it is clear that because of the closeness to Brazil and the connectivity of the varying rivers, it does not have to rain in Region Nine for the region to be flooded. Lethem sits on the bank of the Takutu River and lots of the water come from the Mountains – the Pakaraimas and Kanuku. It means therefore that the water enters

from two locations, through the Rupununi or it backs up from the Brazilian rivers, Rio Branco and Rio Negro. Water from the Kanuku Mountains and the Central Rupununi drain into the Takutu River which flows into the Rio Branco and ends up into the Rio Negro and then to the Amazon and into the Atlantic.

On the other hand, the water from the South and North Rupununi is drained into the Essequibo River.

It is because of heavy rainfall in the Amazon and Boa Vista and that the water coming from the mountains and the Amazon is backed up into Guyana, given the connectivity of the rivers.

Businessman Daniel Gajie told the Guyana Chronicle Tuesday that the “water is ponding” and is spreading to low areas. He explained that in his opinion, there was no rise in the water levels but the water is spreading across the land. “We are just part of this whole situation… if rain falls to the north in the Pakaraima mountain, by tomorrow water will back and we will see water rising again,” he said, noting that “things have stabilised”. St. Ignatius Village is currently only accessible by boats or high vehicles such as trucks and 4 by 4s.

Derrick Walter Mentis, also known as “Mr Walker,” said the flooding of the Rupununi is a norm and residents ought to be accustomed to the situation by now. He has been living in the Rupununi for approximately 42 years.

“It not too alarming… this is the normal Rupununi floods,” said Mentis, who noted that he lives close to the Tabatinga Creek and is able to monitor the creek in the rainy season. He believes that many of the persons badly affected are those squatting along the Tabatinga Creek which has swollen and caused flooding.

“The old folks explained to them why they shouldn’t build there but they still went there…but it is nothing alarming from yesterday to now,” he added.

Rupununi farmers in battle ...

The deceased child, Jamal Nedd her 17-year-old sister, who, at the urging of her nephew,

managed to elude the accused who was chasing her.

At the time, the court heard, Samuels was chasing the teen, and upon hearing the four-year-old encouraging her to run as fast as she could, became so enraged that he turned the knife he was carrying on the child, stabbing him five times about his body.

The incident reportedly occurred at Buck Hill Foot, Wismar, which is just a few yards from the Wismar Police

The accused, Rawle Samuels Station.

The murder weapon was eventually recovered from the child’s back, where it was stuck, during the post-mortem.

The court further heard that the argument had to do with the child returning home from school earlier than expected and finding Samuels and his aunt in a compromising position.

Samuels reportedly confessed to committing the crime by way of a caution statement, and the State is also in receipt of an eyewitness’s report.

The State is being represented by Prosecutors Siand Dhurjon, Shawnette Austin and Lisa Cave, and the defendant by Attorney at Law, Maxwell McKay.

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Improved NGSA performance vindicates Roopnaraine-WPA

President, David Granger

THE remarkable improvement recorded in the 2017 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) has vindicated Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine, who was removed from his post as Education

Minister, the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) said even as it called on President David Granger to acknowledge what they deem an “injustice” committed against the WPA leader.

At a news conference at Rodney House on Tuesday, WPA Executive Members Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, Dr. David Hinds and Tacuma Ogunseye applauded the primary players in this year’s National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA). “While we feel that much more must be done to return our education system to its once high standards, this significant movement must be cause for optimism. After years of agonising, we appear to

need for much more institutional support, positing that improved wages and habitable working conditions are areas ought to be addressed as matters of priority. That aside, Sarabo-Halley said it would be remiss of WPA not to draw attention to the linkage between the improved results and the reassignment of Dr. Roopnaraine “for unsatisfactory performance.”

“If performance is measured by tangible outcomes, Dr. Roopnaraine clearly did

Former Education Minister, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine be turning the proverbial corner. The challenge now is to maintain this forward trajectory,” Sarabo-Halley told reporters.

She noted that the improvement in the mathematic results is particularly heartening. “This is a subject area in which our results had reached an all-time low. The steep rise this year speaks volumes about investment in people as a matter of policy,” Sarabo-Halley added.

For the WPA, the marked improvement is evidence of the government’s proactive response to the crisis in education in general and mathematics in particular.

But the sacrifices made by the students, teachers, and parents have not gone unnoticed, she posited.

“But at the end of the day, it is the students, their parents and their teachers who must receive the ultimate commendations. Because our children are the future, it gives us hope when enough of them at such young ages could muster the discipline needed for and the commitment to their personal success,” the WPA Executive stated.

Even as she singled out the teachers, Sarabo-Halley said WPA is cognizant of the

not perform too badly,” she stated while placing on record WPA’s deep appreciation for the efforts undertaken by the former Education Minister.

“These improved results seem to suggest that the president may have acted pre-maturely in removing him from that ministry. Perhaps some public acknowledgement of an error in judgment would go a long way towards repairing what borders on a questioning of Dr. Roopnaraine’s competence,” Sarabo-Halley stated.

Asked whether the WPA would wish to see Dr. Roopnaraine reappointed to the post of Education Minister, Dr. Hinds responded in the negative but said a public acknowledgement by President Granger that the WPA Executive was wrongfully removed would suffice. According to Dr. Hinds, it is now public knowledge that Dr. Roopnaraine was removed over allegations of poor performance.

He, however, said a closer examination of the projects and programmes rolled out under his leadership over a period of two years would tell a different story.

“When you look at what See page 19

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

WPA assails $500,000 minister rent

By Svetlana Marshall

THE Working People’s Alliance (WPA) said it is alarmed over what it describes as the exorbitant rent being paid to house Ministers of Government, saying that such privilege should be removed entirely

of the present government,” WPA Executive Member Sarabo-Halley said.

NO SUPER SALARIES While the WPA does not object to government ministers being compensated at levels befitting their office, Sarabo-Halley said the al-

our government’s attention that at a time when we bemoan the huge gap between the rich and the poor, it is inexcusable for us to be paying a monthly rent for ministers that amount to approximately six times that of the monthly salary of the average public servant,” she stated.

WPA executives: Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, Dr. David Hinds and Tacuma Ogunseye or reduced significantly.

Executive Members of the WPA, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, Dr. David Hinds and Tacuma Ogunseye made the call on Tuesday during a press conference at Rodney House in Queenstown, Georgetown.

The call comes on the heels of public disclosure that the Parliament Office had rented a house for the Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, for $500, 000 per month. The Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs, has recently disclosed that $500, 000 has been set as the ceiling for the renting of houses for Government Ministers, but according to the WPA, the figure is simply “outrageous.”

“The issue of lavish spending on government functionaries is one that dogged the previous government and which was correctly condemned by the then opposition parties.

It is therefore a matter of grave concern when similar practices seem to be creeping into the behaviour

liance is up in arms against super-salaries and other compensation that seem to have become the norm in Guyana.

“WPA cannot in all conscience defend and support government payment of half a million dollars rent for ministers. When one places this fact against the 50 per cent rise in salary that was given to them in 2015, it borders on government splurging of taxpayers’ money. If ministers are being paid healthy salaries, enjoy the usual perks that come with the office and get their rent paid at 500,000 per month, then that amounts to enrichment at the expense of government. It was wrong under the PPP and it cannot be correct now,” she stated.

The WPA executive member contended that the time has come for the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Government to distinguish itself from the People’s Progressive Party on matters pertaining to the management of state resources.

“WPA wishes to draw to

ment Ministers, it is believed that the figure should be a “reasonable one.”

Asked whether the advice reportedly given by the Finance Minister Winston Jordan to have the ceiling reduced to $300,000 is “reasonable,” both Ogunseye and Dr. Hinds responded in the negative.

“That is still too high,” Dr. Hinds exclaimed. For him, if the regular citizen from Berbice or Linden is made to find his or her own accommodation upon securing employment in the city, the same should be for ministers who reside outside of Region Four.

“This is a matter of morality. How can you as governors say to the rest of the population we can’t give you 10 per cent, we can only afford a 5 per cent, and then turn around and pay a rent of 500,000.

These are ministers with big salaries and then you turn around and pay their rents. It is unconscionable,” Dr. Hinds

need for houses to be rented, then such should be done at a reasonable cost.

MINERS FOR BROOMES But even as the WPA is calling for a review of the ceiling on rents being paid for Government Ministers, several miners are calling for an end to the “attacks” on Minister Broomes.

On Tuesday morning, more than 20 miners and supporters of the Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources gathered at Duke Lodge to show their solidarity.

One of the supporters, Nadezhda Stephens, who described herself as a staunch PPP supporter, said politicians are “too petty” to be picking on a minister’s housing arrangement while critical issues are to be addressed.

“Minister Broomes… this is somebody that I have watched growing up. This is the one woman who inspired

minister owns her own home.

“What she has, she worked for it. She didn’t come in Parliament to earn what she earns, she is a woman with a home, not a house,” Dharnraj posited.

A miner, Leon Moses, who hails from Parika, said his support is very deep- seated. “She represents us, she advocates for us and she advocates for the less fortunate, and in every area she was placed, she made a positive impact. Always working for the good of the working class,” Moses said.

Commenting briefly on the issue, Minister Broomes said she is not responsible for the renting of the house.

“I am not renting a place from no body, I am not even a witness to the contract. It is a building that Government has provided for me to live in,” she said. According to her, it is a common practice for Governments to provide accommodation for

Minister within the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, interacting with her supporters who came out in their numbers to call for an end to the attacks on her While the WPA believes that the $25,000 housing allowance for ministers may be inadequate, it strongly believes that $500,000 is far beyond reasonable.

Commenting on the issue, Ogunseye told reporters that while the alliance has not worked out a figure for the rental of houses for Govern-

lamented. He questioned why there should be separate standards for Government Ministers and the regular man on the street. Dr. Hinds said if ministers cannot find their own accommodation, the Government houses should be made available to them.

The WPA executive emphasised that if there is a

me and make me believe that I am capable of doing what I am today. I am a successful small miner,” Stephens said.

According to her, Minister Broomes is a champion for young women, women miners, and the regular man in the street.

Sandra Dharnraj, another supporter, pointed out that the

their ministers, particularly those residing out of town.

Currently, houses are being rented for Minister Broomes and Minister within the Ministry of Communities with responsibility for Housing, Valerie Adams-Patterson, both of whom hail from Bartica and Linden respectively.

Improved NGSA performance ...

From page 18 has been done in the ministry, one can hardly call that poor performance. And so we feel that the President should acknowledge publicly that Dr. Roopnaraine performed creditably and should acknowledge that

the recent results bear that out,” Dr. Hinds contended.

In June, 2017, Dr. Roopnaraine was reassigned to the Ministry of the Presidency with responsibility for Public Service. Asked whether the former Education Minister has taken up his new post within the Ministry of Public

Service, Dr. Hinds contended that no proper preparation was made to facilitate the transition.

“To the best of our knowledge, there is no actual Ministry of Public Service. There is no staff. We understand that there is a building but no prepa-

rations were made for Dr. Roopnaraine to begin his job. That is as far as we know,” Dr. Hinds told reporters.

with the governing A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) coalition to which it is a party of.

CLEAR GUIDELINES Going forward, Dr. Hinds said WPA wants to establish clear guidelines

“We want clear guidelines as to what the Ministry is expected to do, what is the relationship between

the Minister and his party WPA. What role the WPA is expected to play in helping to make that Ministry a success.” Currently, Dr. Roopnaraine is out of the jurisdiction attending to personal matters. He was expected to take up his new post from June 15.

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Transport Advisory Council resuscitated THE Transport Advisory Council has been resuscitated with the swearing in on Tuesday of a seven-member panel almost 19 years since it last sat.

The council aim is to provide a comprehensive approach to the management of the Transport and Harbours Department (T&HD). The council, which will serve for two years, comprises of Basil Blackman – Chairman; Marclene Merchant – Deputy Chair; Ayesha Edwards; Leon Castello; Louise Williams; Sandra Jones; and Saheed Sulaman. The council was inducted at a meeting on at the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Kingston.

Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, said the council must be able to function independently and provide directives for the management and functions of the T&HD. “Once you have the competent people on the Advisory Council, they will be in the position to give us the necessary guidance and direction so as to make

Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, and some of the newly inducted members of the Transport and Harbours Advisory Council. [L-R: Sandra Jones; Deputy Chair, Marclene Merchant; Chairman, Basil Blackman; Minister Ferguson; Ayesha Edwards; Leon Castello. Absent from photo are Louise Williams and Saheed Sulaman] (Samuel Maughn Photo) informed policies to charter this particular organisation forward,” Minister Ferguson said.

The new council is tasked with addressing the staffing and administration of the T&HD; the operations and services offered by the department; enhancing services

offered to the public and recommending policies and regulations to improve efficiencies in the T&HD. Additionally, the minister herself identified few areas which the council can address and thereby foster improvements. The modernisation of the T&HD,

especially replacing the ticketing system for ferry-goers with an online system; the enhancement of safety procedures and reduction of travel times on T&HD vessels were areas identified.

Minister Ferguson emphasised that the council was resuscitated due to the need

for a more comprehensive approach to the management of the Transport and Harbours Department. This resuscitation is also encompassed in the Government’s mandate of transparency and accountability. Section Five of the Transport and Harbours Act makes provision

for an advisory council, thus establishing this council is a legitimate way of providing additional guidance to the department. Moreover, the Minster has identified certain deficiencies within the department and related that it “really needs the assistance.”

“This council has the right mixture of skills and experience, inclusive of that of legal, economic and transport backgrounds to provide the necessary advice to the minister to improve the functioning of the T&HD,” Minister Ferguson noted.

Speaking of behalf of the council, Chairman Basil Blackman expressed gratitude to the Ministry for recognising the need for the resuscitation of the Transport Advisory Council. During the two year tenure, the Chairman asserted that the council will seek to fulfil their mandate effectively and efficiently. The department, according to the Minister, is one of Guyana’s oldest river transport agencies.

The council has been defunct since July 1998, 19 years ago.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

Bandit stabbed by accomplice during ECD robbery THE police are investigating a robbery under arms committed on a 66-year-old businessman Monday night at Vigilance, East Coast Demerara.

The robbery occurred around 23:15hrs and resulted in the victim losing $70,000 stolen by two males, one of whom is under police guard at a public medical institution. He is nursing a stab wound to his abdomen, which was allegedly inflicted by his accomplice.

Police said investigations have revealed that the victim, who operates a shop in front of his premises, was in the process of closing his business when he was pounced upon by the bandits, one armed with a handgun and the other with a two-bladed cutlass.

They relieved the victim of the cash mentioned and the one with the cutlass lunged his weapon at the victim who instinctively moved aside, resulting in his (suspect) accomplice becoming the target as he was stabbed to his lower abdomen. They then hurriedly fled in a silver-grey motor car. Acting on information, the police traced the wounded bandit to the medical facility where he underwent emergency surgery. His condition is listed as stable.

The police are in search of his accomplice.

Man held for swallowing cocaine A 35-YEARS-OLD man of Triumph East Coast Demerara was arrested as he was about to board a scheduled flight to Barbados on Monday.

The suspect was on Monday morning intercepted by ranks of the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU) at the Eugene F Correia International Airport Ogle, ECD after he was suspected of swallowing cocaine pellets.

The suspect was escorted to a city hospital, medically examined and up until 12:00pm he had excreted several suspected cocaine filled pellets.

The suspected is still hospitalised. He is expected to appear before the court. CANU is conducting further investigations.

Man in court for armed robbery, larceny A MAN was on Tuesday remanded to prison on two counts of armed robbery and one count of break and enter and larceny.

Delmar Booker found himself before Magistrate Leron Daly on the three charges; two being armed robbery and the third one being break and enter and larceny.

According to police on February 18, 2016 Delmar Booker armed with a gun, robbed both Kishawn Shaw and Bryan Griffith of their cell phones valued $5000 each. On February 19, 2016 Booker again broke into the Lodge Secondary School, carting off 10 Dell Desktops valued at $1.6 million and nine batteries valuing $285,000, property of Ministry of Education.

Prosecutor Sanjra Singh objected to bail based on the nature and gravity of the offence.

The matter is currently pending before the court, while Booker has been remanded to prison until July 14, 2017.

21

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

23

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

25

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

27

28

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

29

30

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday July 5, 2017

31

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5 2017

Wiltshire, Fernandes take individual titles

By Tamica Garnett

IN her final year at the Junior Caribbean Squash Championships, Guyana’s Taylor Fernandes ensured she did not come away empty-handed. She collected her first Caribbean junior title after overpowering four-time junior Caribbean champion Amanda Haywood in the Girls’ Under-19 finals at the courts of the Georgetown Club.

As the individual category of the Digicel Junior Caribbean Squash Championships came to an end yesterday, Fernandes, and Shomari Wiltshire, who clinched his first Boys Under-15 title, were the only Guyanese title-winners.

Guyana had made it into six of the ten finals yesterday, with a particularly intense final going down between Guyana’s Benjamin Mekdeci and Barbados Josiah Griffith, as they battled for the Boys’ Under-19 title.

G r i f f i t h , a n o v e rseas-based Guyanese, was searching for his fourth consecutive title, while Mekdeci, who has not won a title since 2013, was hoping to break his bad luck and finally grab another.

Griffith was a player that Mekdeci had his eye on since the tournament commenced last Sunday, and let it be known that he was hopeful of meeting Griffith in the final. How-

ever, fate was not in his favour, and in a reiteration of the 2015 Boys’ Under-17 final, Mekdeci went under in a four-set loss, in the last match of the day.

Despite spending the last few months upping his game training at Drexel University, Mekdeci still was not ready for the level of play that Griffith brought, though he by no means went out without a fight.

Mekdeci let it be known early on that he meant business and dealt the first blow, of the first game. He allowed Griffit only four points for the game. But it was Griffith who came out charging for the second game, and landed three points before Mekdeci could get one in.

Mekdeci retaliated with force and the two traded points, until it was 6-all, before Griffith created a three-point lead.

Mekdeci scored only two more points before Griffith claimed the win.

For the next two games, Griffith restricted Mekdeci to six and four points, respectively, before he claimed the ultimate win.

In the penultimate match of the day, Fernandes denied Haywood a fifth Caribbean junior title, as the two pulled out all the stops in a fierce fivegame fight - the only final to go five games.

Each player dug deep into their years of experience, as the pair trad-

ed games, and Taylor emerged the winner 11-8, 8-11, 12-10, 5-11, 11-8.

Earlier that morning Wiltshire gave the home crowd something to celebrate, as he took his first Boys’ Under-15 title, defeating Trinidad’s Christopher Anthony 11-1, 9-11, 11-1, 11-2.

In the Girls Under-13 final, for the fourth consecutive year Kirsten Gomes was stopped in her tracks by Barbados’ Sumaira Suleman, in her hunt her first title.

For the third consecutive year the pair battled for the title, but again it was Suleman who prevailed as the stronger of the two registering 11-3, 11-4, 11-2 over Gomes.

Guyana missed out on another title, when Abosaide Cadogan, was overpowered by Barbados’ Chelsie Samuel, in a swift three-game ending 11-2, 11-5, 11-2.

Mohryan Baksh just didn’t have the skills to match Trinidad’s Seth Thong and he lost 0-11, 2-11, 9-11 in the Boys Under-11 final.

Fernandes, Mekdeci, and Wiltshire among others, will now forge forward towards Guyana’s hunt for a 13th consecutive team title, when the team competition of the Championships starts today at the courts of the Georgetown Club and National Racquet Centre.

Guyana cop two gold ...

The debut lifters Gonsalves and Chan however made Guyana proud by breaking PanAmerican records each. Gonsalves broke the Squat, Deadlift and Total Pan American Records in the 59kg Junior Classic.

Chan managed to cop a silver medal after breaking the Bench Press junior record in the 74kgclass with his140Kg benchpress.

South Africa Racing Tips Scottsville 08:50 hrs Sitia 09:25 hrs New Fort 10:05 hrs Clifton Sunset 10:40 hrs The Big Chill English Racing Tips Thirsk 09:00 hrs Elysee Star 09:30 hrs Raven’s Raft 10:00 hrs Give Em A Clump 10:30 hrs Laughton 11:00 hrs Dark Forest 11:30 hrs Commander 12:00 hrs Tribal Conquest

The 15 member Team representing Guyana at the championships are in high spirits as the competition continues today.

The classic/ raw category of thecompetition concludes today as the females in the 72-84+ Kg classes and males in the 93-120+ Kg classes compete.

The equipped competi-

Continued from back page

tions will begin tomorrow July 6, as the females in the 43-63Kg classes and the males in the 53-83Kg classes compete.

On Friday, July 7 females in the 72-84+ Kg classes and the males in the 93-105Kg classes will compete. Finally, on Saturday July 8, the males in the 120-120+ Kg classes will compete.

12:30 hrs Robbie Roo Roo Perth 09:10 hrs Penny Jane 09:40 hrs Welcome Ben 10:10 hrs Cadore 10:40 hrs Always On The Run 11:10 hrs Barkis 12:10 hrs An Fear Ciuin

Fairyhouse 12:50 hrs Burn The Boats 13:20 hrs New Terms 13:50 hrs Rehana 14:20 hrs SankarI Royale 14:50 hrs Count Of Carabass 15:20 hrs Lovemenot 15:50 hrs Ben Rumson

Worcester 09:20 hrs Murray Mount 09:50 hrs Clubs Are Trumps 10:20 hrs Spice Girl 10:50 hrs Barman 11:20 hrs Gibson Park 11:50 hrs Faction 12:20 hrs Poetic Lady

American Racing Tips Delware Park Race 1 Silver Trophy Race 2 Rock Solid Golfer Race 3 Trickizar Race 4 Shipwreck Cove Race 5 Ask Me I Might Race 6 Shangroyal Race 7 Fillupcohensapiker Race 8 Madgicall

Irish Racing Tips

32

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5 2017

England start era with Root the new master of Lord’s (REUTERS) - The waiting ends for England’s new Test captain Joe Root tomorrow when he leads his side out for the start of a four-match series against South Africa at Lord’s, nearly four months after his appointment.

For all the positivity surrounding his coronation in February, when he was hailed as the only credible candidate to succeed Alastair Cook, Root’s first squad has received a mixed reception, with doubts over whether it will deliver the “bold and brave” brand of cricket demanded by the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB).

Although the sport is on a high after the recent announcement of a £1.1 billion ($1.4 billion), five-year TV deal, the five-day game faces a fight to retain the interest of an increasingly diverted public and would relish a champagne summer.

Instead, Root risks uncorking what some predict may be a rather a dull vintage by insisting on the recall of his Yorkshire team-mate Gary Ballance, who has been twice discarded as sub-standard, instead of Middlesex’s Dawid Malan or the promising Surrey opener Mark Stoneman.

With England threatening to field a five-man pace attack for the first time since 1993, the team lacks the fizz normally associated with a new era.

The captain can at least rely on the complete support of his new team. Senior players were counselled on who should succeed Cook and were unanimous in suggesting Root. “Yes (England coach) Trevor Bayliss spoke to me and others,” said seamer Stuart Broad on Skysports yesterday.

“Joe was the natural successor to Alastair. He has learnt

his game at the top level and will thrive on the extra responsibility.”

miliated 4-0 last winter by India and looking to use a seven-Test summer - a three-

Joe Root Ready to Captain England

Root is less experienced than any of his 79 predecessors in the job, however, and tomorrow will be only the fifth time he has captained a first-class side.

He takes over a team hu-

match series against West Indies follows South Africa - to build towards an Ashes winter.

Besides winning both this summer’s series, Root will be desperate to ensure that he

continues to score the runs that have been his hallmark since bursting into the team in 2012.

In five years, no batsman has scored more than his 4 594 Test runs and only India captain Virat Kohli betters him in all forms of the international game.

“What will make Joe’s life easiest of all is if he’s doing well himself,” wrote former England captain Nasser Hussain in the Daily Mail. “My first England coach Duncan Fletcher used to tell the press when I was struggling that I was one of the team’s all-rounders. I knew it was rubbish.”

Root looks set to move himself one place down the order to four, with Ballance in at three.

Cook remains in the team as opener, while Middlesex seamer Toby Roland-Jones looks likely to make his debut on his home ground in the absence of the

injured Chris Woakes and Jake Ball. Spinner Liam Dawson is another option in the 12.

Although South Africa are ranked two places above England at two in the world, they have been depleted by the loss of captain Faf du Plessis, who has stayed at home to be with his wife after the birth of their first child. Dean Elgar takes over as skipper.

Theunis de Bruyn, who played his only Test in New Zealand in March, is likely to replace Du Plessis in an inexperienced line up which also features Heino Kuhn on debut at the top of the order.

With Dale Steyn a longterm absentee with a shoulder injury, the tourists will hope that Vernon Philander has fully recovered from the ankle injury that caused him to sit out the warm-up fixture against England Lions with an ankle injury.

33

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5 2017

Sarfraz named Pakistan Test captain (REUTERS) - Sarfraz Ahmed has been announced as the new captain of Pakistan’s Test side, meaning he will lead the team in all three formats.

The role became available following the retirement of veteran Misbah-ulHaq after the series against West Indies in May. Sarfraz, who is already Pakistan’s Twenty20 and one-day international skipper, was quickly touted as the name to take over, and Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Shahryar Khan made the announcement at a ceremony to honour Pakistan’s successful ICC Champions Trophy campaign, which culminated in them routing rivals India in the final.

“I take this opportunity to announce Ahmed as our Test captain in addi-

tion to one-day and Twenty20 captain,” Khan said.

“I and chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq had decided already and I think this is the right time to declare it.”

stood down as ODI captain in February.

The 30-year-old has played 36 Tests for his country, scoring 2 089 runs at average of 40.96.

On the appointment,

Sarfraz Ahmed

It marks a steady rise to being captain across all formats for Sarfraz, who replaced Shahid Afridi as T20 skipper following an early exit at the World T20 in 2016, while Azhar Ali

Sarfraz said: “I am honoured to be appointed Test captain. I will do my best to lift the team in all three formats and will not rest on Champions Trophy laurels.” (Omnisport)

More records for Federer but no match point glory

By Pritha Sarkar | LONDON, England (Reuters) – There were plenty of records for Roger Federer to savour yesterday as he began his pursuit of a record eighth Wimbledon title, but he was denied a chance to celebrate them in style as his first round match ended abruptly midway the second set.

Trailing 3-6, 0-3, 30-30, Alexandr Dolgopolov drew a chorus of dejected sighs on Centre Court as he walked up to the net to shake hands with Federer.

It was the second successive anticlimactic ending on tennis’s most famous stage after Novak Djokovic’s opponent, Martin Klizan also called it quits midway their second set.

Federer’s encounter against Ukrainian Dolgopolov lasted a mere 43 minutes.

Fans who had poured in

Roger Federer

to see the Swiss master in action witnessed him fire down a 10,000th career ace and chalk up a record 85th win at Wimbledon, surpassing the benchmark he had shared with Jimmy Connors.

By simply playing the first point, Federer also drew level with Fabrice Santoro’s professional era record of playing in

a 70th grand slam tournament.

While it is always nice to reach such landmarks, yesterday’s result is likely to mean only one thing for the 18-time grand slam champion - he is now only six wins away from becoming the first man to hoist the Challenge Cup for an eighth time.

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5 2017

Extend MoU a year to break impasse - Clarke

Ex-captain Michael Clarke and current skipper Steve Smith at Adelaide last summer // Getty

(REUTERS) - Australia’s cricketers and board should extend their previous agreement by 12 months while they attempt to find a solution to a bitter pay dispute, former captain Michael Clarke said yesterday.

The previous Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) expired at midnight on Friday with no sign of a deal in place, leaving around 230 leading cricketers without contracts and the fate of future tours in limbo.

Once the deadline passed, Australia’s players threatened to boycott an ‘A’ team tour of South Africa later this month unless a new agreement was

struck with Cricket Australia beforehand.

“What needs to happen is keep the current MoU for the next 12 months and allow the players to get back to what they do best,” Clarke told reporters at Nine Network’s marketing launch for the Ashes.

“Cricket Australia, the ACA (Australian Cricketers’ Association), please go behind closed doors and sort this in private.

“The players want to play ... let’s allow them to play while this stuff gets sorted out in the background.”

At the heart of the acrimonious dispute is Cricket Australia’s (CA) insistence

Uncertainty over Kirani James competing at World Championships

THERE is mounting uncertainty over whether 2015 World Championship bronze medallist Kirani James will compete at the World Championships in London this summer.

Kirani James

James has not competed since the Drake Relays in April when he finished sixth in the 400 metres.

After that performance, Harvey Glance, coach of the 2014 Commonwealth Games champion, said he was shutting down James’ competitive season while he recovers from illness.

SportsMax.tv was informed by a source that the 24-year-old Grenadian was suffering from a respiratory

illness.

James’ management subsequently revealed that the athlete had returned to training and was recovering nicely from his illness. However, on Monday when SportsMax.tv spoke with Seth Katz of AMG Property Sports Incorporated, the agency that represents the 2012 Olympic champion, he said he had nothing to add to his previous response, which was that James was ‘recovering nicely’.

“His is recovering nicely and resuming his conditioning and that’s where we stand on it,” he said in response to queries from SportsMax.tv Monday.

He was unable to say whether James was in line to participate at the World Championships which begins on August 4.

Sources also indicate that the Grenada Athletics Association (GAA) is not optimistic about the athlete representing them in London this summer.

However, SportsMx.tv was not successful in its attempts to get a comment from any member of the GAA executive.

that the two-decade-old model, under which players get a fixed percentage of revenue, should be jettisoned.

CA believes the revenue-share model is unfit for modern times and is starving grass-roots cricket of funding, while players say it has underpinned the game’s growth and prosperity over the past 20 years.

“I don’t want the Australian players to be unprepared because they have been concentrating on something else; give them 12 months and let them concentrate on the cricket,” Clarke said. “I don’t want to see any cricket missed.

“There will be a compro-

mise. The ACA and Cricket Australia will find a way to make this work.”

The ACA has called on CA chief executive James Sutherland to come to the negotiating table but he has remained silent since emailing players in May, informing them they would be unemployed if they failed to agree to a new MoU by the June 30 deadline.

“It does seem very strange.

You’ve got to wonder what the hell is going on,” former Australia captain Ian Chappell said.

“They’ve done a few strange things and Sutherland not being involved is one of them.

“I don’t see a really good reason for him not to be.”

Further tournaments, including a two-Test tour of Bangladesh and a one-day international series in India also remain in doubt if the dispute continues to linger on.

“I can’t believe they (CA) will want to upset India, so I would have thought that something will happen before,” he said.

“Because they won’t want to cancel that. If they get something done then, people will have probably forgotten by (the time the Ashes start in) November.”

Simmons joins race for India coach: Reports

MUMBAI, India (CMC) – Media reports here say former West Indies coach Phil Simmons has applied for the hotly contested position of India head coach.

The 54-year-old, who has in recent months served as a coaching consultant to Afghanistan, joins the likes of Indians Ravi Shastri and Virender Sehwag, along with Australian Tom Moody and Cricket West Indies’ former director of cricket, Englishman Richard Pybus in the race for the highly regarded position.

Simmons applied during the second round of applications which was initiated by the sudden resignation of incumbent Anil Kumble.

The legendary former Indian leg-spinner’s one-year contract was up for renewal but he was favoured to retain the position based on a recommendation by the Indian Cricket Board’s (BCCI) cricket committee.

In a sudden turn of events just prior to the start of India’s ongoing tour of the Caribbean, Kumble stood down citing an “un-

tenable” relationship with captain Virat Kohli.

Following Kumble’s shock decision, the BCCI extended the application deadline to July 9.

Former West Indies coach Phil Simmons

Simmons spent just over a year in charge of West Indies, during that time leading them to the Twenty20 World Cup title in India.

However, he was abruptly axed by CWI for what the board termed “differences in culture and strategic approach”.

Prior to his Caribbean stint, the Trinidadian also spent several years overseeing the Ireland side and Zimbabwe.

Simmons played 26 Tests and 143 One-Day Internationals for West Indies between 1987 and 1999.

Marlon Williams

P&P Insurance Brokers 11-race race cycle programme on Saturday THE 17th annual P&P Insurance Brokers’ 11-race cycle programme is scheduled for Saturday and will be contested around the inner circuit of the National Park commencing at 09:00hrs.

The feature event is open to Schoolboys, Novices and Invitational cyclists and is a 35-lap race which will see Team Evolution’s Marlon Williams try to defend his title which he won last year with a winning time of one hour 17 minutes 54 seconds.

Williams is not expected to have a roller-coaster ride as he is expected to get keen but friendly competition from Jamal John, Michael Anthony, Orville Hinds, Raul Leal and Briton John among others.

There will also be a 10-lap race for Juveniles with defending champion Nigel Duguid hoping to make a successful defence of the title he won last year

in a time of 26 minutes 29 seconds.

T h e Ve t e r a n s U n der-45 years of age fivelap will also be an entertaining event as Jaikaran Sukhai, the defending champion, will be tested by the likes of Ian `Dumb Boy’ Jackson, Warren McKay and Leer Nunes and others.

Nicholas Alphonso is the defending champion of the five-lap Mountain Bike race, while Adelie Hodge will try to successfully defend his Boys-and-Girls’ 12-14 years three-lap race title.

Other races on the day’s card include two-lap races for BMX Boys 6-9 years old as well as a three-lap race for BMX Boys 9-12 years old.

The event is being coordinated by cycle coach Hassan Mohamed.

Representatives of P&P Insurance Brokers will present the prizes to the respective winners.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (WEDNESDAY JULY 05, 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) 17 World Cup matches (2) Merissa Aguilleira-17 Today’s Quiz: (1) Who top-scored for the WI in the third ODI of the current WI/

IND series?

(2) Who top-scored for WI Women in their match against India

in the current World Cup? ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Wednesday, July 5 2017

Gayle set for West Indies T20 return ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Superstar opener Chris Gayle has been named in a West Indies 13-man squad to face India in the one-off Twenty20 International at Sabina Park on Sunday.

The 37-year-old, the region’s most experienced player in the shortest format, has not suited up for West Indies since helping them to capture the T20 World Cup in India in April last year.

He was picked in a squad to face the Indians in a twomatch T20 series in Fort Lauderdale last August but never played because of fitness issues.

Chief selector Courtney Browne said Gayle would further strengthen West Indies for the encounter.

“We welcome Chris back to the T20 squad. He is the most prolific batsman in this format and will add value to our team at the top of the order,” Browne said.

“He will get the chance to play on his home ground and against a top-quality Indian team.”

Gayle has played 295 T20s and recently became the first batsman to crest 10 000 runs in the format.

His form during the recent Indian Premier League was

worrying, however, as he managed a mere 200 runs with a single half-century.

hander will join fellow T20 superstars Kieron Pollard, Marlon Samuels

Chris Gayle last played for the West Indies in the T20 World Cup.

For West Indies, he has plundered two centuries, the last coming during the T20 World Cup in the opening match against England.

The big-hitting left-

and Sunil Narine in the squad which will be again led by all-rounder Carlos Brathwaite.

Gayle is the only change to the squad that swept Af-

ghanistan last month, replacing Lendl Simmons who had scores of six, 17 and 15 in the three-match series.

Test and one-day captain Jason Holder remains rested with the heavy workload of the England tour on the horizon while all-rounder Dwayne Bravo has not been included.

“This squad has a good mix – experience within the batting and bowling – it is a well-balanced squad,” Browne said.

“Again, this is an opportunity for the young players to showcase their talent and for the experienced players to perform and help nurture the young players.”

The last time the two teams met in a T20, West Indies won a nail-biter in Fort Lauderdale by one run.

However, the Windies have had a poor run of results in recent months with just four wins in their last 10 outings.

SQUAD – Carlos Brathwaite (captain), Samuel Badree, Ronsford Beaton, Chris Gayle, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Sunil Narine, Kieron Pollard, Rovman Powell, Marlon Samuels, Jerome Taylor, Chadwick Walton, Kesrick Williams.

Sagan kicked out of Tour de France, injured Cavendish withdraws

By Julien Pretot VITTEL, France (Reuters) - World champion Peter Sagan was kicked out of the Tour de France yesterday after sending Mark Cavendish crashing to the ground in a hectic finale to the fourth stage, sending shockwaves through the three-week cycling extravaganza.

Cavendish broke his shoulder blade in the crash and has withdrawn from the Tour, his Dimension Data team told Reuters.

Sagan’s German team Bora-Hansgrohe has appealed against the decision of the race jury to throw the Slovak out of the Tour.

French champion Arnaud Demare won the stage, a 207.5-km ride from Mondorf-les-Bains, Luxembourg, but all the drama took place just behind him in the final stretch of the race.

Sagan appeared to knock Cavendish off balance with an extended elbow as the Briton was trying to force his way between him and the safety barrier, and Cavendish was sent crashing heavily to the ground.

The Briton went to hospital for checks on his wrist and collarbone. Despite the fracture, the team doctor said no surgery was required and there was no nerve damage.

Race jury president Philippe Marien had earlier told reporters Sagan would play no further part in the Tour.

“Peter Sagan is disqualified from the 2017 Tour de France after today’s tumultuous sprint in Vittel,” he said.

NSBF’s 12th edition bounces off with wins for Marian Academy, MHS

THE 12th edition of the National Schools Basketball Festival (NSBF) bounced off over the weekend with a series of games at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH).

The opening game saw Marian Academy girls beat the New Amsterdam Multilateral 19-9 with Jada Mohan leading the charge for the city side.

She scored 11 points, three assists, seven rebounds and six steals while Kellian Sauers pitched in with four points and Renuka Ramcharran added two points and three steals for Marian.

Tashika Arthur was the lead person for the ladies from Berbice, with a team-high 5 points to go along with 6 rebounds.

Meanwhile Under-14 defending champions Mackenzie High School (MHS) sent an early warning to the rest of the group, making light work of President’s College 29 to 21 points.

Damarcus Adams topscored with 10 points and five rebounds while Cy Walker added four points and seven rebounds while Joshua Bacchus chipped in with seven rebounds.

Gabriel Lin was the high man for PC with nine points and four rebounds while Joshua Butts had five points.

It was not all smooth sailing for other teams as the Georgetown/East Coast Under-16 Re-

Dimension Data rider Mark Cavendish of Britain gets medical assistance after his crash next to the finish line during Stage 4 from Mondorf-les-Bains, Luxembourg to Vittel, France. (REUTERS/Stephane Mantey/Pool)

Jada Mohan goes in for a lay-up for the Marian Academy team.

gional champions St Rose’s were edged by a motivated Bishops’ High School 37-36.

Royden Glasgow led for BHS with nine points and six rebounds while Tarik Robinson and Stefan Hamilton added eight and seven points respectively.

In their loss, Kwesi Roberts added 12 points and 14 rebounds while Anthony Yansen scored 11 points and 14 rebounds.

In the night’s U-19 fixture, Mackenzie High overwhelmed New Amsterdam Multilateral 41-24 with Veshon Trim adding six points with Yannick Tappin and Shemar Henry contributing five points each.

Garfield Benjamin was

led New Amsterdam with nine points.

In the final game for the evening, Georgetown/East Coast Regional champions Marian Academy proved too strong for the School of the Nations, producing a 72-8 blow-out.

Timothy Thompson had a big game with 35 points, 18 rebounds, 4 steals. Jahleel Young added 12 points, 14 rebounds, and Josiah Daniels 9 points, 5 rebounds for Marian.

Kareem Boyle and Corey Graham scored 5 and 3 points respectively.

The Championships tipped off after remarks and the symbolic jump ball by the Director of Sport Christopher Jones.

Jones, in his remarks, congratulated YBG for its work in the field and encouraged the participating teams to keep improving since they have other levels of competition on the horizon, such as the Inter-Guiana Games which will be played in Suriname this year.

The Festival (National Championships) is sponsored by the Edward B. Beharry Group of Companies Ltd, National Sports Commission, John Fernandes Ltd and Sterling Product Ltd. Games will continue throughout this week starting from 15:30hrs every day, with the finals in all divisions set for this Sunday.

Marien cited Article 12 of the International Cycling Union (UCI) rules, which says any rider making a wilful obstruction “against one of the 1st 10 riders placed” faces elimination.

But Sagan’s outfit want him reinstated, saying: “The team disagrees with the decision and protested it officially.

“Peter Sagan rejected to have caused, or in any way intended to cause, the crash of Mark Cavendish on the final 200m of the stage. Peter stayed on his line in the sprint and could not see Cavendish on the right side.

“The team applied for a redress of Peter Sagan’s result in stage 4.”

THE ELBOW After the race Cavendish, wearing a sling, said: “I get on with Peter well... if he came across it’s one thing, but the elbow... I’m not a fan of him putting his elbow in me like that.”

Sagan, who went to Cavendish’s team bus to apologise, later said in a team statement: “In the sprint I didn’t know that Mark Cavendish was behind me. He was coming from the right side, and I was trying to go on (Alexander) Kristoff’s wheel.

“Mark was coming really fast from the back and I just didn’t have time to react and to go left. He came into me and he went into the fence.”

German John Degenkolb, the 2016 Paris-Roubaix champion, also crashed as he ran into Cavendish on the ground.

Cavendish eventually got back on his bike and crossed the line after being attended to by race medics.

After pulling out of the race Cavendish said in a team statement: “I’m obviously massively disappointed to get this news about the fracture.

See Page 31

Shomari Wiltshire Guyana’s Benjamin Mekdeci (left) and Joshua Griffith during the Boys’ Under-19 final.

Guyana’s Taylor Fernandes goes after a drop shot in the Girls’ Under-19 final against Amanda Haywood.

DIGICEL Caribbean Junior Squash championships

Wiltshire, Fernandes take individual titles Guyana cop two gold, silver medals on Gayle set for West day one of powerlifting championships Indies T20 return See Page 35

Gold medalist Britny Mack after receiving her medal in Orlando.

Romario Gonsalves poses with the Golden Arrowhead after collecting his gold medal

TEAM Guyana picked up gold and silver medals during the first day of the16th North American Powerlifting Federation (NAPF) and 32nd South American Powerlifting Federation (FESUPO) Championships being contested in Orlando Florida.

In the female classic/ raw category, 17-year-old local power lifters Britny Mack and Tineisha Toney picked up gold and silver medals respectively,..

Mack picked up gold in the 45Kg sub junior raw classic after putting down a 120kg squat, 45kg bench press and 115 deadlift for a total of 280kg.

Toney on the other hand picked up silver in the 57Kg class after a squat of160kg, a deadlift of 55 and a bench press of 150 for a combined total of 365kg. The winner was Emily Gardner (USA).

RomarioGonsalves and Demetri Chan from the Guyanese team, also contested yesterday in the 59Kg and 74Kg male classic/ raw classes respectively and were awaiting their spaces up to press time.

Turn to page 31

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

Former footballer jailed for sex offences found dead in cell HAMILTON, Bermuda, (CMC) – One of Bermuda’s leading former footballers, jailed for 11 years last month for a raft of historic sex offences against three young boys, has been found dead in his prison cell, police confirmed on Tuesday.

Wendell Baxter – commonly known by his nickname Woolly – received his sentence in Supreme Court after earlier admitting a string of indecent assaults on his victims back in the 1970s and 1980s.

The 59-year-old paedophile was found in an unresponsive state at Westgate Correctional Facily on Saturday evening and later pronounced dead, despite life-saving efforts, according to a spokesman for Bermuda Police Service.

“A police-led investigation continues regarding the circumstances of Mr Baxter’s death,” the spokesman said, adding that BPS extended condolences to Baxter’s family.

Baxter led North Village to the triple crown of league, Friendship Trophy and FA Cup when the club dominated local football in the late 1970s and went on to become a popular and respected coach.

In March, Baxter pleaded guilty to a total of 18 separate charges of molesting three young boys.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 5, 2017