Issuu

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

SEE INSIDE

Celebrating with the people of

Rose Hall

– 175 years glorious years of growth and development

From plantation to township – A post-Emancipation success story By Shirley Thomas THE people of Rose Hall Town are in celebration mode as they prepare to come together on August 26, 2017 for a landmark event, this being the observation of the 175th Anniversary since the community, previously known as Number 9 Village, was collectively purchased by 57 former slaves. As is the story, Rose Hall was initially purchased by one Mr Henry John Baird, a European planter, from its original owners who were Dutch. And while no one seems to know what may have gotten into his head, he suddenly decided to sell on August 26, 1842, not to his “mattie” Europeans, mind you, but to 57 former slaves who banded together to put up enough money to make the purchase. And while the Transport of Ownership was duly passed in favour of the 57 shareholders some four months later, on December 27, 1842, it was not until 1905 that Rose Hall was formally recognised as a village. And so, for 63 long years, the affairs of the village were left to one elected head who organised all the others to perform such essential tasks as the digging of drains and canals; and the opening of kokers and cutting of bushes to facilitate housing development and agricultural production. The cultivation of rice and sugarcane would begin around 1912, and by 1957, a drainage pump was installed to help resolve the many drainage problems the village was having at the time. Things would progress from strength to strength for another 28 years, by which time the affairs of the community were now being managed by what was then called a Local Government Board, and Rose Hall was no longer considered a village but a Country District. As such, from 1905 to 1932, the “District” came under the supervision of its first ever Overseer, Mr. D. W. Fingal, while one Dr. Godfrey served as its first Chairman from 1905 to 1907. By 1950, the village had 116 fully occupied house-lots in the central areas, and 114 in what was known as the Swamp Section. TOWNSHIP STATUS Over the years, it would be safe to say that the village would have had many chairmen, and according to the records, the last was Mr. H. P. Benn, whose tenure ended in 1970 when the community was elevated to the status of township. That elevation officially occurred on September 20, 1970, following which Mr. George Trim was elected the new municipality’s first Mayor. So, today, as we celebrate the 175th Anniversary of the purchase of Rose Hall by former slaves, we also celebrate its 47th Anniversary as a Town, enjoying free and unconditional Municipal status. A monument bearing the names of all 57 of those ex-slaves who pooled money to pur-

The Rose Hall Arch

chase Rose Hall is prominently displayed at the junction of Public Road and Independence Avenue, in the shadow of the iconic Rose Hall Independence Arch towering overhead. On the other side of the junction stands the Republic Bank on the very spot where the community’s first ever commercial bank on the Corentyne, the Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), was constructed. It is said that after the RBC closed its doors, a Seventh Day Adventist School was erected on the spot, but was years later demolished to eventually give way to the construction of the prestigious state-of-the art facility that is the Republic Bank’s Rose Hall branch.

A fast-growing and rapidly developing town, Rose Hall is credited with being “one of Berbice’s leading business centres and home of numerous financial institutions and businesses.” Among those businesses and institutions are: Republic Bank, Demerara Bank, New Building Society, Hand in Hand Insurance, Western Union, Bill Express, Digicel, GTT, Lucky Dollar and Gafoors. The town also boasts some important public buildings such as the Town Hall; the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce; the Police and Fire Stations; Post Office; the Health Centre; and the Municipal Market.

The Rose Hall Monument bearing the names of the 57 persons who bought the town

LOCATION Rose Hall is located along the Corentyne Highway in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne). It is bounded on the east by the JC Chandisingh Access Road; on the west by Cloud 9 Dam at Williamsburg; on the north by the Atlantic Ocean; and on the south by the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and other privately-owned cane fields. Williamsburg was integrated into the Township in 1990. The town, which occupies an area of approximately 5.1 sq. miles of land, boasts about 25,000 residents; 1,583 households; 25 places of worship, among them Christian,

Muslim and Hindu; a Municipal Market housing 250 stalls; recreational and entertainment facilities; and a cemetery. It’s first ever church, The Sharon Chapel Congregational Church, is still very much in evidence today, though it has since been renovated many times over. The two organisations making the most impact on the development of youths and sports, and the lives of the people of Rose Hall in general are: The Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, M.S.; and the St. Francis Community Developers, both of which are under the management of Mr. Hilbert Foster. Since being declared a town, Rose Hall has had 11 mayors. The current Mayor is Mr. Vijay Ramoo, while his deputy is Mr Dave Budhu. Town Clerk is Ms Natasha Munroe, and Treasurer, Ms Seromanine Ramdia. ROLL CALL Among the township’s many national celebrities are: ● Dr Godfrey, Rose Hall’s first Chairman when it was still a village. ● Mr. Clarence Hughes, first resident to attain the status of Senior Counsel. ● Attorney at Law, Mr. Nigel Hughes, first resident to become Chairman of a major Political Party, The Alliance for Change (AFC). ● Mr. Jermaine Cort, first resident to attain the rank of Major in the Guyana Defence Force (GDF). ● Mr. David Ramnarine, first resident to attain the rank of Acting Commissioner of Police. ● Mr. Robert Fingal, first Rose Hall Town player to represent Guyana at Youth Cricket. ● Mr. Alec Farley, first resident to become Regional Education Officer. ● Mr. Alim Shah, Patriarch of the town’s oldest established business. ● Mr. Joseph Chamberlain Chandisingh, who have the town its first ever private school. ● Mr. Imran Hamid, first resident to operate a chain of stores in the community. ● Mr. J.A. Mootoo, who gave the town it first photo studio. ● Mr. André Percival, first resident to captain Guyana to a regional cricket title.

No. 105012

TUESDAY AUGUST 22, 2017

Price: $80

‘We stand committed’ Williamsburg Health Centre

(VAT Inclusive)

– President reassures Indigenous community gov’t got its back

Page 3

11 NOC escapees recaptured Page 14

Guyana sizzles at CARIFESTA XIII opening Page 16

President David Granger was joined by Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo, Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs Sydney Allicock and other Indigenous leaders, including NTC chairman, Joel Fredericks for the turning of the sod for the construction of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) headquarters at Sophia, Exhibition site. Also in photo is Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton (Delano Williams photo)

Contractor arrested for mystery plane ■ Page 17

PM knocks opposition ‘hypocrisy’ …says Shadick has a lot to explain Page 2 to Guyanese

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

PM knocks opposition ‘hypocrisy’ …says Shadick has a lot to explain to Guyanese PRIME Minister, Moses Nagamootoo has called out Bibi Shadick for what he described as her hypocrisy as it relates to the amendment to the Broadcasting Act, saying that the former government minister is part of the PPP cabal that has a vested interest and that she has much to explain to the Guyanese people for the unlawful giveaway of strategic radio and television licences to party cronies, friends and family. The PM’s comments come days after Shadick, through former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, said that she does not “back the broadcasting bill” and that her appointment as a member of the Guyana Broadcasting Authority was delayed, during which time the other members were involved in drafting recommendations for regulations to the Broadcast-

ing Act 2011. “I was appointed to the board after a delay of more than two months during which time the other members were involved in drafting recommendations for regulations to the Broadcasting Act 2011; recommendations which the Prime Minister claims he used as the basis for the ‘infamous’ amendments to the Act. Personally, I consider the amendments to be unconstitutional and as a member of the Board, I was not involved in making any recommendations. In fact, it is my belief that my appointment to the Board was deliberately delayed for the period during which the recommendations were being drafted. At Wednesday’s meeting which the Prime Minister attended, the Board was not asked to nor did it express it’s “backing” for the amendments to the Broadcast Bill.”

PROCEDURE However, in reacting to Shadick who is a commissioner of the Guyana Elections Commission, and Pro-Chancellor of the University of Guyana, Prime Minister Nagamootoo said there is a procedure that is outlined for the appointment of members of the board, according to provisions of the 2011 Act wherein the President makes the appointment. The PM said the ‘Jagdeo Act’ (Broadcasting Act 2011) says there shall be one member nominated by the Opposition Leader, who shall be appointed after consultation with the President. According to the Prime Minister, it is the ‘Jagdeo Act’ that reserves only one seat for the opposition. He said when it was time to reconstitute the GNBA, he took a full complement of names to Cabinet for approv-

al and within the complement there was a place reserved for an appointee of the leader of the opposition, which cabinet approved. Having done so, the PM said the Cabinet approved list was gazetted. “The President appointed those names as approved whereby the PM sought the name of the Opposition Leader’s nominee. Having received the name, the Prime Minister was then required to submit same to cabinet for approval. And then the entire list was approved again and published in the Official Gazette.” The Prime Minister explained that Ms Shadick was the nominee of the Leader of the Opposition and her appointment had to go through the step-by-step procedure outlined. “There was no deliberate delaying of her appointment and for her to say that was not truthful or fair,” Mr Nagamootoo, who has portfolio responsibility for Public Information, said. The PM said having been given her instrument of appointment, Ms Shadick became a full member of the GNBA, which she had previously chaired after she had served as a PPP Government Minister. “She would have known that regulations for broadcasting had to be made under the ‘Jagdeo Act’ to give meaning to the provisions of that act as regard classes of licences and related matters. It was under her chairmanship that regulations were made to increase fees… to impose a flat fee of $2.5M for radio and television per year and it was under chairmanship that the act required a licencee to give up ”a certain percentage of broadcasting time to the State.” GIVEAWAY The prime minister also alluded to what he called the ‘giveaway’ of broadcasting frequencies to PPP associates. Bharrat Jagdeo as President of Guyana back in 2011 had awarded 13 channels to E-Networks Incorporated; the most for any single broadcasting entity currently operating in Guyana. This revelation was made by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, in the National Assembly during the debate on the 2011 Broadcast (Amendment) Bill. During his presentation, Minister Harmon examined the distribution of broadcast licences by Jagdeo just prior to him demitting office in 2011. According to the list provided by the minister, in Regions Three and Four, E-Networks secured 10 channels:

Bibi Shadick receiving her instrument of appointment as a GNBA director from Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

36, 37, 43, 44, 45, 47, 48 and 49. In Regions Five and Six, the company was awarded channels 43, 44, 45, 48 and 49 – bringing the total to 13. E-Networks is owned by Vishok Persaud, who is the brother of People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Parliamentarian, Vindhya Persaud, and son of the late PPP stalwart and minister, Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud. Coming in second was the National Communications Network (NCN) with eight channels, spanning seven regions across the country. In relation to radio licences, while NCN was granted the most frequencies of any single entity, Freedom Radio Inc , which is owned by the PPP, was granted the widest broadcast reach in the country. The broadcast area where the party’s station has been able to penetrate includes: Regions Two, Three, Four, Five, Six, Seven, and 10. The only other radio station to compete with Freedom Radio was IRadio Inc., which was owned by then PPP Minister, Robert Persaud. IRadio reached seven of the 10 administrative regions in Guyana. Persaud sold the entity to ANSA McAL after the PPP lost the General Elections in 2015. The Prime Minister said Shadick had not found anything unconstitutional then. “It must baffle the mind of any intelligent person that she would do so now. Ms Shadick as part of the PPP cabal has a vested interest and she has much to explain to the Guyanese people for the unlawful giveaway of strategic radio and television licences to party cronies, friends and family.” According to Nagamootoo, as a former minister and party activist, Shadick and Nandlall bear responsibility for not removing from the Principal Act, anything which they now perceive to be unconstitutional and they cannot shelter under their grave omission to launch an attack on the initiative

of this new government to refine provisions to make the broadcasting landscape better. “Why I am not amused that Ms Shadick sat through an entire meeting of the GNBA last week and did not express opposition then or any time prior to the meeting, to the amendments and she has been specifically invited to offer comment but had none to offer. Her subsequent posture is a reflection of double standards to say the least.” LOOPHOLES The Prime Minister during his meeting with the GNBA last week, stressed that the amendment addresses the loopholes that were in the Principal Act, which states that a certain percentage of broadcast time shall be made available for public broadcasting. “So there was no cap, there was no cap to it. There was no limit to how much that certain percentage would constitute and we thought that any Law should be certain,” he stated. Mr Nagamootoo further stated that Kit Nascimento, in the 1970s, had developed a concept called “Development Support Communication (DSC), which was later integrated into a programme at the University of Guyana to be taught as a subject [course]. “I found it very interesting that the post-Nascimento recommendations were incorporated in the 2011 Act,” he further stated. Prime Minister Nagamootoo identified that there is a difference “between government information and government provided information and party propaganda”. He noted that “no station private or public” should be required or mandated to carry party political propaganda. He said the GNBA needs to assure the Guyanese people that its understanding of public broadcasting content is not synonymous with political party propaganda.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

‘We stand committed’ – President reassures Indigenous community gov’t got its back By Ariana Gordon PRESIDENT David Granger on Monday gave every reassurance that his government is committed to the continued development of the country’s Indigenous Peoples. He was at the time delivering the feature address at the 11th Conference of the National Toshaos Council NTC), being held at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), at Turkeyen, on the lower East Coast of Demerara Themed “Good governance: A brighter future for Guyana’s First Peoples”, the week-long conference will see Indigenous leaders discuss matters of major importance to their well-being and that of their communities. In a short address, the President told the packed-tocapacity audience in the CPCE auditorium, that the NTC is of paramount importance and should not be treated as a talk shop, but as a workshop that will ensure the continued development of Indigenous Peoples. He stressed that the NTC is intended to be a forum that plans and solves problems, while the government’s role is to give whatever support is needed with the aim of advancing the social and economic welfare of the country’s Indigenous Peoples. In fact, the President said the Conference’s theme is most suitable, as the village leaders have gathered to discuss and find solutions. Of major concern to the Indigenous population is their right to traditional lands, which has been a recurring issue.

Meanwhile, the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into land allocation, land management and land titling began on Monday. President Granger reminded his audience that while the Indigenous Peoples do have rights to 14 per cent of the lands here, it is becoming increasingly challenging to define the boundaries of those lands. NO EASY TASK “It is no easy task,” he said, as many of the communities are not only isolated, but also lack proper communication, for the very reason that because they are so far-flung, it’s difficult to access many of them. He acknowledged that while there are a myriad of problems confronting Indigenous communities here, the United Nations (UN) Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples would be meaningless if the State does not pay attention to, and take responsibility for, the quality of life within them. The president reminded his audience, too, that the NTC, under the Amerindian Act, is responsible for promoting good governance, and the preparation, planning and improvement of the quality of life of the Indigenous Peoples and their communities. Noting that the foregoing responsibilities are mandatory, President Granger called on representatives of the NTC to ensure that the social and economic conditions of the Indigenous population are improved. Recalling that he’d proposed back in 2015 a 10-point strategic, holistic plan for Hinterland Development, he reminded those present that

President David Granger addressing Indigenous leaders on Monday at the opening of the National Toshaos Council Conference

the intention was to propose solutions to the problems facing Indigenous communities. The plan at reference speaks to, inter alia, a Hinterland Education Support Programme; Hinterland Employment and Youth Service; The Hinterland Poverty Reduction Programme; Hinterland Infrastructure Extension Programme; Hinterland Energy Development Programme; Hinterland Happy Household Programme; Hinterland and Indigenous People Lands Commission; Hinterland Public Service Provision Scheme; Hinterland Language, Cultural and Sport Service; and Hinterland Tourism Service. He also reminded those before him of his proposal for the establishment of a National Indigenous Peoples Authority (NIPA), to ensure the faster implementation of the decisions of the NTC and other agencies. “The Ministry of Amerindian People’s Affairs, together with the NTC, has an obligation to work together towards the improvement of the eco-

nomic and social relations of Indigenous Peoples,” he said. THE THREE ‘AS’ The Head-of-State also spoke of what he calls the “Three As”, these being Access, Attendance and Achievement among school-aged children. “Indigenous communities must not be left behind,” he said, adding that it is his intention to ensure that every child across the country has access to, and can attend, a school, and gets an opportunity to achieve. “We have to work together to create jobs for our young people” in their communities, so as to eradicate poverty and unemployment, the President said. He also spoke briefly of the Youth Entrepreneurial Skills Training (YEST) and the Hinterland Employment Youth Service (HEYS) programme as avenues to curb unemployment. Moreover, the President called on the Indigenous Peoples to work with his adminis-

tration to reduce environmental hazards, particularly those related to water contamination and land degradation. He said it is important that all communities be protected from hazards. He also pleaded with Toshaos gathered at the conference to take social ills seriously, saying that there are too many cases of alcoholism, incest, murder, trafficking in

persons, prostitution, substance abuse, teenage pregnancy and suicide occurring within certain Indigenous communities. “We have to take these issues seriously; they cannot be swept under the carpet,” President Granger said, adding, that the NTC must also be able to demonstrate to its people that it is capable of good governance. “I assure the Council of my administration and ministry’s support to provide a good life for all Indigenous Peoples of Guyana,” the President said. Meanwhile, the NTC hierarchy unveiled their building plan for the NTC Secretariat, which is to be constructed within the Sophia Exhibition Site Complex, here in Georgetown. Shortly after the opening of the Conference, President Granger, along with Prime Minister Moses Nagamooto and other government officials and NTC representatives, turned the sod at the location.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Toshaos urge gov’t to consult more …warn against attacks on Indigenous Peoples By Ariana Gordon CHAIRMAN of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), Joel Fredericks, on Monday spared no effort in highlighting the discontentment of some sects of the country’s indigenous population. In an address at the NTC conference, Fredericks thanked the APNU+AFC administration for the assistance provided to the indigenous population over the years and more so, he expressed gratitude to the administration for the allocation of land to the NTC to construct its secretariat. He reminded members of the APNU+AFC coalition government present at the opening of the NTC’s Conference being held at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), Turkeyen, that this year marks 10 years since Guyana has adopted the UN Declaration on the Rights of the Indigenous Peoples. In reflecting, Freder-

icks noted that while no government can solve all the problems facing citizens, the said government must remember that it was elected to serve the people. The NTC chair pointed to Article 2 of the Declaration, which speaks to discrimination of Indigenous peoples. “I must say that I have not personally felt discriminated against based on my Lokono background but my people are asking why are we are being treated sometimes like third class citizens in this land where we are the first peoples of this land?” he said. Fredericks said Indigenous People have the right to self-determination and as such should be able to self-govern. “…the government must respect the governance of the indigenous peoples and that is the NTC,” he said as he cautioned politicians against attacking the leadership of the NTC, especially while in the National Assembly. The NTC chairman said,

the NTC and its constituents have noted the attacks and noted that it does not speak well for good governance. He noted too the fact that the government minister was not chided for his perceived attack on the indigenous population. “Article 8 speaks about protecting the Indigenous Peoples and we see a member working for this administration openly attacking the indigenous people’s identity, integrity and history.” We advise caution… such utterances drive a deep wedge in a nation. We do not want a nation to be divided; we know we have six races of this beautiful land and we need to respect each other and walk together in love and unity,” he continued to a loud applause. Additionally, the Toshao made it clear that the NTC has seen political intervention in indigenous villages and communities and urged the administration “to do better”. But subject Minister, Sydney Allicock, did not take kindly to Frederick’s

utterings and when he spoke after questioned the support given to the NTC head by members during his speech. “I am not certain if we ask what contribution you made to the presentation of the Chairman; if your voice is part of that,” Allicock questioned. The minister in his response made reference to a weak body and said, “I detect the need for a stronger, more unified approach to decision-making at the level of the executive. I urge that we recognise the need for deepening the process of consultation on some critical issues between that body and the wider leadership of the NTC – this means you. Have you been consulted on these things? Do you know what is happening when the twenty executive members make a decision?” asked Allicock. Meanwhile, Fredericks pointed to Article 5 of the Declaration, which speaks to indigenous rights and decision-making. He referenced the government’s

decision to give several communities township status but noted that this was done without consultation. “We have seen townships named with indigenous lands being placed in township such as Lethem, Bartica, Mabaruma and soon to become township of Mahdia. We need to have consultation Mr President. All of these without the Indigenous participation through FPIC (Free Prior and Informed Consent) … this is troubling and needs a redress mechanism.” Nevertheless, Fredericks made it clear that despite what the NTC views as shortfalls, it is willing to discuss, “the way forward with this government.” Additionally, the NTC called for government to work towards the constitution of the Human Rights Commission and the Indigenous Peoples’ Commission as it is felt that the non-functioning of these bodies leaves the Commission “exposed to blows”. “…we need to sit down and consult and let us work together for the betterment of this country. These commissions, had they functioned, would [have] helped the indigenous people to address the land issues, the infringement… such important bodies need to be addressed as we call on the government to make it happen. Let us work together instead of the back and forth; pulling and tugging,” pleaded Fredericks.

He submitted that this year has been a tough one for the indigenous communities, and noted that indigenous lands are vital to their identities, values and spiritualties, while suggesting that if the rights of the Indigenous peoples are not secured, respected and protected it would, “be impossible for the government to deliver on the promises of the Paris Agreement COP 21 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SGDs).” “…we have seen conflicts and infringement on our lands… private persons, also the state Protected Areas Commission (PAC) in the Chenapau area, Kaietuer Falls National Park. From the 1600s to now Mr President, and even after 51 years of independence, we are still in this situation- land issues,” he asserted. Fredericks thanked the President for his commitment to the construction of the NTC Secretariat to be stationed at the Sophia Exhibition Center compound. “…It is a great step forward for the indigenous people…we look forward to that commitment made at the Ministry of the Presidency (MOTP) for the funding to construct the secretariat… The NTC will work with your administration jointly on that project,” the NTC Chairman added. Vice-Chairman of the NTC, Toshao Lenox Shuman, agreed entirely with Fredericks submissions.

Tuesday , August 22nd, 2017 14:30 hrs Wednesday, August 23rd, 2017 05:00 hrs Thursday, August 24th , 2017 05:00hrs

DATE: DATE:19/08/2017 26/11/2016 26/11/2016 21/08/2017

06 11 13 19 26 16 02 02 12 14 18 18 27 N F 11

06 01 13 08

14 12

21 22

24 23

26/11/2016 21/08/2017

04 02

07 00

03 00

26/11/2016 21/08/2017

05 02

04 02

01 09

26/11/2016 21/08/2017 02 09

09 11

10 12 13 11 15 13 18 14

19 18

Be vigilant

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday August 22, 2017

– President calls on Toshaos to guard against agents of trans-national crime

By Ariana Gordon

PRESIDENT David Granger on Monday called upon hinterland leaders to guard against illegal acts that may be occurring in or near their communities. The president’s warning follows the discovery of an abandoned Brazilian-registered Beechcraft Kingair plane on an illegal airstrip some five miles west of the North Rupinuni community of Santa Fé, approximately two weeks ago. At the opening of the National Toshaos Council (NTC), the Head-of-State said, “These are not matters which should be ignored. “We must work together to protect our hinterland and border communities from the threat of trans-national criminal syndicates. “We cannot have a situation in any region where a foreign aircraft lands and deposits contraband substances and no one saw, no one heard, no one knows what occurred.” During his address before Toshaos and other leaders of indigenous communities across the country, President Granger stressed that trans-national cartels are of no use to the communities and the country as a whole. “We have to take responsibility for our security, because these trans-national cartels do not wish us any good; they will destroy households, families, and communities,” the Commander-in-Chief of the Joint Services stated. He made it clear that such

The illegal Brazilian aircraft found on an illegal airstrip at Santa Fé, in the North Rupununi

nefarious activities in which trans-national cartels are involved tend to erode good governance, and can “bring violence and death”. The Brazilian-registered aircraft at reference earlier, was discovered as part of a “due-vigilance exercise” following reports of the frequent sighting of a foreign aircraft over the Santa Fé area. Police in a statement had said that based on additional intelligence, they’d paid a visit to the Santa Fé area, and upon conducting a thorough check found over a dozen ten-gallon jars of fuel in the bushes,and a swathe of land that had been cleared. CIRCLING OVERHEAD Then, as they were about to take leave of the location, the team of police officers observed an aircraft circling overhead some distance away. On returning to the cleared area, three men were spotted running away from the aircraft which had by then landed. The aircraft has been identified by local aviation

sources as a high-performance Beechcraft King Air model, with a load capacity of more than 10,000lbs on take-off. During a thorough check of the aircraft, members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) when they got to the location, found a quantity of dry ration, medical supplies, gents clothing and footwear, two hand-held radios, flashlights, cellular phones and an identification card amongst other items. They were also able to ascertain that the cleared area where the aircraft was landed is over a mile long and about fifty feet wide, and appears to have been recently graded. The Guyana Civil Aviation Authority has since been notified about the discovery, and an investigation is ongoing. At the time of the discovery of the illegal airstrip, the army had also found 12 abandoned camps, several dug-out trenches, one chainsaw, and an undisclosed quantity of fuel. This is not the first time an illegal aircraft has been

seized by the State. Last September, another plane, which originated in Columbia and was being used to transport drugs, was found near the village of Yupukari, in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo). And according to reports reaching the Guyana Chronicle, the aircraft was found in an area that was on the radar for the burgeoning drug-trafficking trade. WORKING ON IT Meanwhile, Minister of State, Joseph Harmon has said the government is working with local and international partners to build capacity and strengthen security. “The government is extremely concerned; we are

concerned that these aircraft are utilising our large gaps in the security coverage in the hinterland areas, but we are looking carefully to see how we can have a proper coverage of those areas,” he was quoted as saying in a release issued by the Ministry of the Presidency. He said, too, that the government has recognised that over a period of years, there are those who have taken advantage of the lack of adequate resources to properly monitor those areas. He said the administration is taking this matter very seriously, and is making every effort to better equip the security forces, and strengthen their capacity to secure Guyana’s territory. According to the release, the GDF, the Guyana Police Force (GPF)’s Criminal Investigations Department (CID), the Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU), the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) and other related agencies on Monday conducted an initial assessment of the twin-engine Beechcraft aircraft. Minister Harmon has, perforce, issued a call on all Guyanese to play their part, and ensure that illegal activi-

President David Granger

ties, regardless of the location in which they take place, are reported to the relevant authorities. “Guyanese are a part of the country’s national security apparatus. We would like to ask them to report any activity they may consider illegal,” Minister Harmon said, adding: “It is illegal for any aircraft to land, or be in Guyana, unless they have the permission of the government and the GCAA. “While we have large expanses of land in the Rupununi that can be used for airstrips, it is illegal to have these airstrips. We should see ourselves playing an important part in our country.”

Editorial Still hope in the Warriors

IF there is any thought that interest in cricket here is on a steep decline, that perception might worth reconsideration, given the massive turnout by local fans to the Guyana leg of the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) matches here last week. It is without doubt that local cricket fans are far from satisfied with the performance of their team and would have expected that at least, with the advantage of playing at home, the Guyana Amazon Warriors would have performed better than they did in their earlier matches. For Guyanese and still the majority of West Indians, cricket is still more than a game, and more at home, disappointment does not mean a loss of interest. There are still a lot of die-hard cricket fans--Amazon Warriors supporters to the bone--even though the team has put them through much stress and anger with a string of poor performances thus far in this year’s tournament. As angry as knowledgeable fans would get, they would be a little sympathetic but not complacent with the team in the way things have gone down for them. Since the inauguration of the tournament in 2013, Guyana was able to do well largely because the team had a few world class starters and finishers in the batting department and spin maestro, Sunil Narine and ‘Slinger’ Lasith Malinga spearheading their bowl-

ing attack. It was a formidable team then, perhaps comparable to the best league teams in the world. Now with no Tillakaratne Dilshan, James Franklin, Mohamed Hafeez, Sunil Narine and Lasith Malinga and clearly, lack of planning and inspiration at the management level of the team, a vulnerability in the Warriors’ armory has been exposed. In the 20/20 version or format of cricket, there is always a winner and loser and the results can go either way, but the way the Amazon Warriors have played so far seems as though they are trying hard to emulate or even better the West Indies when it comes to snatching defeat from the jaws of victory and being consistently inconsistent. Their second match against the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots and their sixth match against the Jamaica Tallawahs in which they had to get only eight runs to win on both occasions, Guyana should have won these matches easily, given that their tailenders were not left to do the job. But much to their fans’ surprise, in the last over of both matches, their capable batters began playing like tailenders, throwing their bats, the proverbial kitchen sink and the swimming pool only to drown before reaching their target, when it was a matter of playing with a level head and focusing on effective strikes. It was pathetic to watch when they do connect, it was either giving their opponent catching practice or playing as

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

some would say, ‘bat up and ketck’ and when the ball was played flat on the ground, they were running like chickens with their heads cut off. These dull and uninspiring exhibitions are far from anything of warrior material, but more of a display of captives or a group of men whose old Morris Oxford ran out of fuel in the middle of the Kalahari Desert. But all is not lost. It was heartening to see the Warriors rose from their slumber to edge the Barbados Tridents in their last match at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, when it appeared that a repeat of the Jamaica Tallawahs and St Kitts and Nevis Patriots experiences were on the horizon. Notwithstanding the disappointments, Guyanese fans still have much hope in their team and are giving them their full backing for the remaining three matches and hopefully they make the play off. Today, we hope the Amazon Warriors play as a more coordinated team and eclipse the St Lucia Star, before moving on to beat the Barbados Tridents again and tame the Jamaica Tallawahs in their final match. Guyana have to win the remaining matches to stay alive in the tournament and we hope that they see these matches as a tournament within a tournament

Why a Global Commission on the Future of Work? By Ameenah Gurib-Fakim (President of the Republic of Mauritius) and Stefan Löfven* (Prime Minister of Sweden) IT IS our belief that work is the foundation for people and societies to grow. With a decent income, work can pave the way for broader social and economic advancement, strengthening individuals, their families and communities. Yet technology, demography, climate change and globalization are transforming work more quickly, more profoundly and on a greater scale than ever

before. These changes have great potential, but we also face many uncertainties about the future of work. The fear that while some may benefit greatly from these sweeping changes, many will not, has become a major concern, not least at a time when so many countries are facing high unemployment. And if too many people worry that they are being left behind and that our societies are no longer capable of delivering positive change, there is a strong chance that disruptive forces will undermine growth and destabilize social and political harmony. Indeed,

the tendency that we are witnessing of a shift towards populist thinking is one of the key challenges of our time. Therefore, we need to support the job-creating potential of the shift to environmental sustainability and a fair and open world trading system, founded on strong values of rights, freedom and solidarity. Globalisation must benefit all. Only people who feel safe in the present can welcome an uncertain future. Rather than adopting a wait-andsee approach, we must think seriously about the future of work that we want and how to get there. The future is

not pre-determined and can be influenced by the societal choices and policies that we make today. To generate ideas and solutions for addressing these fundamental work-related challenges, we have agreed to co-chair the new Global Commission on the Future of Work launched [today] by the International Labour Organization (ILO). This Commission, which is part of the ILO’s Future of Work initiative, brings together eminent thinkers and practitioners from around the world. It will report to the ILO’s member states in 2019. This initiative is, indeed,

a truly global effort - over 100 countries have held national dialogues, with governments, employers and workers, to elaborate on approaches to meet the future challenges in the labour market. The contribution of the Commission will also be an important part of the follow-up to the landmark 2030 Agenda on Sustainable Development. Goal eight, in particular, entails promoting inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment, and decent work for all. For almost a century, the ILO has made a significant contribution to making the world of work

a much better place. It has done this by bringing together representatives of governments, workers and employers to promote social justice. By recognizing that the future of work is ours to create, rather than one imposed by forces which we are powerless to control, we are convinced that the future holds a powerful message of hope. We are committed to leading this Global Commission in that spirit, and to focus on concrete solutions, policy advice and best practises, with the goal of making the future of work, a future that includes everyone.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday August 22, 2017

‘Mabaruma Day’ set for weekend

COME this weekend, the community of Mabaruma in Region One is set to come alive as the Sunrisers group host its inaugural “Mabaruma Day”. The event will run for three days, starting Friday with a day of sports, which will see teams from various communities compete at cricket and football. Later

that day, delegates competing in the Miss Mabaruma Pageant will be sashed. Leomie Willis, one of the organisers, told the Guyana Chronicle that on Saturday, a mini-regatta will be held at the Kumaka Waterfront, followed in the evening by the pageant. An exhibition of arts and craft, as well as agricultural

products billed for Sunday at the Mabaruma Settlement Ground, followed by a “social” later in the day will bring the curtains down on the event. Willis said that the Sunrisers group has received much-needed support from the business community at Mabaruma, which has pledged financial, as well as

Leomie Willis of the Mabaruma Sunrisers group

material support in the form of trophies and equipment. She said that the aim of the event is to ensure that the culture and history of the area is highlighted, as such an event has not taken place in the area in many years. Reports are that the organisers have dispatched letters to the regional ad-

ministration, as well as the relevant government ministry, but no positive word was forthcoming. Willis noted that many in the communities which make up the district, as well as outlying areas, as far as Moruca and Port Kaituma, have indicated that they will grace the event with their presence.

Our test cricketers must be properly prepared

Dear Editor

ON Saturday 19th, August 2017, I followed the performance of our West Indies team responding to England’s 1st inning total of 514/8 declared in the first day/night-pink ballTest match ever played in England. The only reason I did not burst out in tears is because I had seen this movie before. Indeed, we were beaten by an inning and 209 runs, in less than three days in a five-day match, after scoring 168 and 137 runs in a total of 89 overs (not even a day of batting) in a performance labeled by one English reporter as spineless, despite the 79 not out by Jermaine

Blackwood in the first inning. The fact that we had eight Barbadians playing and three Guyanese – including one Barbadian born – and our best spinner, Devendra Bishoo sitting in the pavilion, did not make me feel any better. Why have our teams been performing so miserably? My first thoughts are: do we have the talent? Are our players being properly molded, prepared and made ready for Test cricket? I certainly believe that we have the talent, however, I strongly believe that our cricketers are not being properly prepared and made ready. Preparation and readiness must start with our ten-year-old at the grass-root

level. This early investment must be made and maintained throughout their youthful development. Our schools and colleges must have teachers performing as coaches and umpires teaching the game, its laws and its history. Our grounds and facilities must be provided, upgraded and maintained. The County Boards of Essequibo, Demerara, and Berbice, must be provided with funding to organise and play off youth, second, and 1st Division competitions and for administrative expenditure. Most importantly, we must have administrators, coaches, umpires and groundsmen who are devoted and committed in the development of the game, our youths and their

talents, instead of individuals who are only interested in filling their own pockets. The objective must be more cricket, more preparation and exposure for cricketers, not less. It is for these reasons that we are left to wonder, why are we having less cricket in Guyana? Why has the Guyana Cricket Board discontinued the yearly (started in 1954) 3-day Inter-County semi-final and 4 day final since 2014 and the 3 day 1st Division competition played in Berbice and Demerara since 2011? This Inter-County 4 day final was accepted as 1st Class cricket from 1971 to 1988. The 1st Division Competitions in Berbice and Demerara were started since the

turn of the twentieth century after the World War of 1914. These competitions and national trial matches were used as a stepping-stone for players to be selected to our Regional team, from which our Test cricketers are selected to represent the West Indies. Our players are now left with a chasm too wide and too deep to cross, with no preparation for Regional or Test cricket; hence their poor performance. Since 2011, the Guyana Cricket Board has been embroiled in controversy with the Government of Guyana and the Demerara and Berbice Cricket Boards, resulting in about six injunctions being filed in the Guyana High Courts. Said to be receiv-

ing $54,000 U.S. monthly from Cricket West Indies, the Guyana Cricket Board has given no direct funding to these other boards since 2011, while the Berbice and Demerara Boards still bear a major responsibility for the administration, promotion and development of cricket and cricketers in Berbice and Demerara. These issues have festered for too long, and it is time for them to be resolved. It cannot be denied that cricket plays a major role in the development of our youths and the health of our nation. We must move forward. Yours faithfully, Mortimer George

The 2012 agreement with Region 10 Dear Editor: 21st August marked five years since central government signed an Agreement with the Region 10 Regional Democratic Council and it is yet to be honoured. This agreement entails the return of the community television gifted to the people, the return to regional management of the Land Selection Committee as done in other regions, the establishment of an Economic Committee to develop a plan for the development of the region and its people, and establishment of the Technical Committee to look into the electricity situation in Linden. The sealing of this agree-

ment under the Donald Ramator government, which was marked with the lives, blood, sweat and tears of the people, also had parliamentary approval via motion brought by Member of Parliament, Vanessa Kissoon, and approved by the House. What this is saying to us is that in addition to the Executive signing on to the Agreement, the nation’s highest decision-making forum (Parliament) has too given assent. In keeping with the branches and role of government, the Executive who is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the state is duty bound to respect all decisions taken by the nation’s supreme decision-making body. Honouring of the 2012

Agreement was also a campaign rallying call by the APNU+AFC should they get into office. The people of Linden/Region 10 have played a major role on 11th May 2015 to ensure this. The depressed state of this community was acknowledged in the 2001 agreement signed between Leader of the Opposition, Desmond Hoyte and President Bharrat Jagdeo to address such communities. Lindeners in 2012 and 2015 fought to secure this attention. This is Emancipation Month and we are also in the United Nations’ designated International Decade for People of African Descent. President David Granger in addressing the Cuffy250 Committee’s fo-

rum at Critchlow Labour College on Sunday, called on African Guyanese to submit their projects to government for funding. As a citizen of such ancestry, I re-submit today the 2012 Agreement and the commitment given by the David Granger/Moses Nagamootoo government to stop the denial of the rights of workers, who are primarily of African descent, employed in the Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated. The continuous violation of the nation’s sovereignty with the disrespect for the Laws of Guyana and Guyanese by Russian management has been a bitter battle since 2009. The APNU and AFC in opposition condemned the PPP/C government’s refusal

to secure the constitutional rights of this section of Guyanese labour. The group also campaigned on commitment to respect the laws and uphold the rights of every citizen and the nation’s sovereignty. These workers too worked hard and delivered for the administration at the ballot based on the social contract. And whereas I have argued that such violations were supported and inflicted by the PPP government because of who the workers are and their perceived political association, the APNU+AFC has no excuse given its commitment to bring about racial equality and govern by the Rule of Law. Africans have to hold themselves and others accountable for respecting

rights and treating people with dignity and respect. To do otherwise would be acting like compliant slaves and imposing upon ourselves systems of servitude our ancestors valiantly fought against which secured our freedoms and rights to self-determination. And if we proudly fought other races not to treat us with disrespect then we owe it to ourselves not to treat ourselves in like manner or allow any among us to think such treatment is acceptable. Only in this manner can we build on the legacy of our ancestors and holistic development takes place. Regards Lincoln Lewis

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Celebrating with the people of

Rose Hall

– 175 years glorious years of growth and development

The Rose Hall Arch

The Rose Hall Monument bearing the names of the 57 persons who bought the town

Williamsburg Health Centre

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

A Word From The President

“The spirit of enterprise has reverberated in Rose Hall from the time of its purchase to the present day. The town, though the smallest in Guyana by size, is one of the most resourceful and vibrant towns in terms of its bustling economy. “Its size has not constrained its development. Rose Hall Town possesses all the amenities and attributes of a fully functional municipality. It has its own artisan workshops, banks, industries, nursery, primary and secondary schools, police station, postal service, market and religious places of worship. It is home to one of Guyana’s leading sports and youth clubs. It is a major centre for commerce and public services. “Rose Hall Town is sandwiched between two major sugar producing areas – Albion and Port Mourant – and is a lifeline for Central Corentyne, providing educational, financial, business and entertainment services to the communities of the area. “The town, because of its strategic location and importance, must take the lead in the economic resurgence of the Central Corentyne. It can become an educational centre, the central business district, a regional incubator for entrepreneurship, and an academy for sporting excellence. “I look forward to Rose Hall Town continuing the tradition of being an enterprising town.” David Granger President of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana

‘Rose Hall will always be home’ – says Alim Shah, township’s oldest businessman By Nafeeza Yahya-Sakur FROM a small textile store to now a household name for affordable shopping in Guyana, never in his wildest dreams did Mr Alim Shah envisage he would have made it this big when he invested a few hundred dollars in wholesale and retail back in July 1947 in what was then Rose Hall Village. Now 92, he told the Guyana Chronicle two Wednesdays ago that as a lad growing up in Rose Hall, playing football and cricket in the streets, all he’d ever wanted was to make a name for himself. But doing what, he couldn’t tell. All he knew was that he had this “thing” for fine fabrics, so at the age of 21, right after he got married, he decided to venture into the business of importing and reselling quality cloth. Having to earn for himself and intended family, he set up shop just north of the Public Road 70 years ago, which makes his stores the oldest established business presently in Rose Hall Town. Among the few other businesses that were around at the time, he recalled, were Harris’ Bakery that would get the rush on Saturdays after plantation workers received their salaries; the Swamber Drug Store; and the ever popular Apollo Cinema and the Bata Shoe Store. Unfortunately, those people are now long gone. As word spread about the high-quality fabrics with intricate designs imported from around the world being available in Rose Hall, his business just took off.

YOU cannot pass through Rose Hall Town without stopping by Sherwin’s Cake Stand on Arch Road in front of Poonai’s Pharmacy and sampling his famous cheese-andbread roll. Sherwyn Bates, 44, used to work at a bakery, and after the owners migrated, he decided to do his own business, selling pastries and bread. He and his wife get up and start baking at around 06:00hrs Monday to Saturday to take fresh products to sell from 14:30hrs on a roadside stand. He sells Pine Tarts, Blackeye (Chiney cake), Cheese Rolls, Red Bread (Salara), and his signature item, the Cheese Bread, a roll similar to the “Salara”. However, instead of grated and coloured coconut as filling, he uses cheese with other ingredients to make a

He had buyers coming in from Barbados and other regional countries to purchase his textiles wholesale to resell in their respective countries. Business would expand ever more as the demand for his products grew, so he decided to open a branch on Regent Street in the capital, when he moved there to meet the needs

delicious tasting pastry that has you coming back for more. He has been selling at the very spot for over four years; a spot he swears “is the busiest in town”, and uses two small tables with a beach umbrella to ply his trade. Due to the high quality and freshness of his pastries, Sherwyn’s products literally go like hot cakes, causing him be done within a few hours leaving home and some customers to return empty handed. Asked why he does not do more to cater for everyone, he explained that because business tends to fluctuate from day to day, he ensures he does just enough to keep all his regular customers satisfied. That way, he said, he doesn’t have any left-overs, and everyone is happy to have fresh products every day. Though originally from Georgetown,

Sherwyn said he was in the habit of frequenting Rose Hall for holidays as a kid and fell in love with the mannerism and generosity of the people and decided to make it his home. He has since gotten married to Wilhelmina, the love of his life, and together they have two children. And no, he has no immediate plans of either migrating or expanding, since he is very comfortable with where he is in life at the moment.

of the hordes of customers he had in Georgetown so as to avoid them having to travel all the way to Rose Hall to make their purchases. Then when restrictions were imposed on the importation of textiles under the then Burnham regime and most businesses went into a tailspin, Alim Shah took things in his stride and diversified, starting to sell utensils and other household items at affordable prices. Now, years later, while he still deals in textiles as well as ready-to-wear clothing, he has expanded into general merchandising, selling footwear, furniture, electrical appliances, toys, haberdashery and Christmas and other holiday decorations. Even the business in Rose Hall has now expanded to a second building, offering deals on electronic items, bicycles and household furnishing. From the very beginning, Alim Shah’s aim was to make shopping affordable for everyone; something he has achieved and set the bar for others to follow. In his own words, “Rose Hall laid the foundation for everything that I have achieved, and I will continue to invest in Rose Hall, since it is responsible for my success.” Even at his age, the father of five is still actively involved in the day-to-day running of the business, especially at the Georgetown end of things, but would make every effort to get away to the countryside where he grew up. He describes Rose Hall as home; somewhere that gives him a sense of belonging to a community where everyone knows each other and shares in their joys and sorrows. This, he said, is a rare quality that is rapidly disappearing from the world, but still holds true in Rose Hall, despite its having evolved from when he lived there to now.

Sherwyn Bates (in green shirt at extreme left) attending to customers on a regular day

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

‘Cousin Dodsey’ The Grande Dame of Rose Hall By Shirley Thomas AT 94, Dodsey James, popularly called “Cousin Dodsey”, was, until recently, the oldest person vending in the Rose Hall Town Municipal Market, but still is, by extension, the oldest surviving resident of that East Berbice community. Though advanced in age, she lives alone, and still manages to do her own washing and cleaning, but in order to eliminate any risk of a fire, a cousin prepares and delivers her meals each day, so her nutrition is assured. For years, “Cousin Dodsey” had been known as the “go-to woman” when it comes to knitting and dressmaking, as well as for her famous jams and jellies which she made and sold at her market stall. Incredibly, she is still in the habit of boasting that it’s because of her clean, clear vision that she is able to do many of the things she does, like knitting and sewing. And even though she says her left eye has been “running water” of late, she proudly asserts: “But I could read my Bible and even to the newspapers though.” Testament to her keen eyesight is the fact as our cameraman entered her yard late one afternoon last week, she could tell even though he was about 40 feet away from her, what he had in his hand, and began making a fuss. “No! I don’t want that thing! Put it away! Put it away!” she cried. In the end, it would take a lot of cajoling to get her to relax and agree for him to get near enough to take her photograph. TOAST OF THE TOWN To this day, people still talk about her beautifully designed and neat-fitting creations, and the many brides, bridesmaids and flower girls she has “put away” over the years. She was also known for her beautiful knitted doilies and handbags, which she offered for sale. But with giant rival business concerns flooding the local market with imported manufactured goods, small items of craft like

and immediately she perked up, particularly at the memory of the active role she once played in The Sharon Chapel, formerly the Rose Hall Missionary Church, just across the road from where she lives on Mattai Street. Said “Cousin Dodsey”, her face suddenly lighting up: “That has been my Church ever since I was a child, and I am happy to be a part of the congregation, as I continue to serve my God in spirit and truth. “And even though I am now beginning to experience a few pains, I am thankful to Him for being my source; for His guidance, protection and mercies, for, morning by morning, new mercies I see.”

“Cousin Dodsey” and a dear friend and neighbour who constantly looks out for her in Rose Hall Town (Photos by Delano Williams)

hers are quickly being replaced, giving way to imported mass-produced plastic decorations of all kinds. And with only her pension to see her through these days, “Cousin Dodsey” is experiencing unbearable grief, since, having advanced in age, she can no longer stoop to plant up her kitchen garden like she did in the past. For years, also, she was in the habit of trekking the almost two miles daily to and from the market, so she could earn her own money. These days, however, her gait has slowed up considerably; the enthusiasm is no longer there, and so going out to the market has become burdensome. And to compound matters, of late, “Cousin Dodsey” has been complaining about pains in her joints, and recently took a decision to give up selling at the market altogether. “Yes girl! Ah giving up selling in de

market, because when you go, is whole day you deh sitting down. And when the afternoon come, you ain’t have a penny in yuh name! Ah fed up!” she said somewhat resignedly. LOSS OF APPETITE Some feel that perhaps it’s the grief that is slowly taking a toll on her, since she no longer has an appetite for rice nor “provision”, two staples she couldn’t do without in the past. Asked about her blood pressure and sugar levels, she indifferently replied: “Ah can’t tell you what ah have, because every time you check, you got to buy something; and is just a waste of money.” Then, as though as an afterthought, she said: “If I had wings, ah woulda fly.” Asked whereto, she replied: “Anywhere up there,” pointing to the sky. To take her mind off things, we talked a bit about her growing up in Rose Hall,

AN ‘ONLY CHILD’ As the only child for her parents, she has no brothers nor sisters. And even though she was once married, the marriage was unfortunately short-lived, and she bore no children. But that did not prevent her from exerting some influence on the upbringing and instilling of moral values in her cousins and other young people of the community. As was the saying back in the good old days, “It takes a village to bring up a child”, and well-intentioned elders were at liberty to upbraid young people who were stepping out of line in their presence. And that is where she made her mark, “Cousin Dodsey” recalled. She also lived comfortably, but not in opulence. And since she had neither siblings nor children, her parents willed everything they owned to her, so that on their passing, she would be assured of a roof over her head. And so, regardless of what she was going through, she would always ensure that the related bills and taxes were paid, and on time. As Rose Hall’s oldest resident, “Cousin Dodsey” says she is happy that her village is celebrating its 175th Anniversary, and would like to ask God’s continued blessings upon the town, and guidance and direction for its leaders. She would also like to use the opportunity to express her gratitude to those of her neighbours who constantly look out for her, and offer to help her in whatever way possible.

The Sharon Chapel– The oldest church in Rose Hall THE history of The Sharon Chapel Congregational Church is not just deeply rooted in the growth of the Congregational Church in the former British Guiana, but more importantly in its growth in the County of Berbice. According to the historians, the establishment of Congregationalism in today’s Guyana began with the arrival on these shores in 1808 of Reverend John Wray and Reverend John Davies a year later. The tradition of service would continue under Reverend John Smith, who came in 1887, and other pastors of the London Missionary Society, and together they played a tremendous role in the propagation of the Christian faith here, firstly in the County of Demerara and later on in Berbice. As the Reverend Hawley Bryant would observe in 1941 when the New Amsterdam Mission Chapel Church turned 100, Congregationalists were not just the first to establish definitive Missionary work in the colony of British Guiana in 1808, but also the first to build a church in the colony under British rule, and the first to start educating people here. And though he’d come since 1808, it wasn’t until 1813 that Reverend John Wray was transferred to Berbice, where he served until his death in 1837, becoming the first Christian

Missionary to be permitted to instruct the enslaved inhabitants in that County. By then, the growth of Congregationalism in Berbice had so quickened that in 1838, two new Congregational Chapels were opened in the County. One was the Feara Chapel, which was opened 16 miles up the Berbice River, while the other was the Orange Chapel, which was opened at Plantation Bleyndal. The Hanover Chapel, at Ithaca, was established in 1834, as were two others at Plantation Mayfield. The Albion Chapel was established in June 1835, while the Brunswick Chapel was opened 30 miles up the Berbice River in 1847. The Sharon Chapel, on the other hand, was first established on July 26, 1850 at Plantation Port Mourant, but relocated in 1855 to where its now at, on Mattai Street, in Rose Hall. Then in 1978, a decision was taken to rebuild on the same plot of land, but in concrete. As a matter of fact, the cornerstone was reportedly laid on Sunday, June 18, 1978 by then Minister of Information and Sport, Shirley Field-Ridley, while the dedication ceremony was held on October 31, 1982, and officiated by then Prime Minister, Dr. Ptolemy Reid.

The Rose Hall Congregational Church, formerly The Sharon Chapel Congregational Church (Photo by Delano Williams)

Prior to that, services were held under the home of the late Mr. and Mrs. Bonds, two dedicated deacons of the Church. The church’s first pastor was sent here by the London Missionary Society. Several others, both local and foreign, were to succeed him over time. Its first female pastor was Reverend Una Matthews, who served from 1982 to 1986. Over the years, there have been many laypersons who have contributed to the success of the church, especially Josephine Foster and Ada Chetram.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday August 22, 2017

André Ricardo Percival

Acclaimed sportsman and proud Rose Hall resident Teams at the senior level. He has also captained the West Indies Under-19, ‘A’ and President’s Eleven teams on numerous occasions, and was even a part of the victorious Guyana team in the Stanford 20/20 tournament. One of his major achievements, he recalls, was winning a major T20 tournament for the RHTYSC. “With the support of

my teammates, in particular Kemraj Mahadeo, we won The Balram Shane T20 competition 2003,” he said, adding: “In the cricketing arena, I was somewhat disappointed at not being able to go on to the highest level,” by which he means Test Cricket. He, however, admitted to being proud of his achievements while playing

for Guyana in the Stanford 20/20 and achieving his goals. Percival was high in praise for Mr. Hilbert Foster of the RHTYSC. “I must give Mr. Foster full credit for cricket, because he’s the one behind everything, particulatly where the development of sports in the Rose Hall area is concerned,” Percival said, adding: “Thanks to him, more

young players are gaining interest in the game of cricket and sports in general.” Currently, Percival is giving back to the game he loves as coach of the Guyana National Female Team. He has also been working with the Albion Cricket Team since 2014, and doing general coaching duties around Berbice as well as countrywide.

André Percival

By Colin Bynoe HE’S easily recognised as the most successful cricket captain in the history of youth cricket in the Caribbean; led the Guyana Under-19 team to championship supremacy at WICB Under-19 tournaments in 1992, 1993 and 1994; and, most notably, successfully led the West Indies Under-19 team to victory over England in

1994. He’s André Ricardo Percival, a proud Berbician and equally proud resident of Rose Hall Town. Born January 5, 1975 in New Amsterdam, Berbice, Percival has represented the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) for many years, as he has done the Port Mourant Cricket Club, and the Berbice Under-15 and 19 Cricket

Coach André Percival (standing second ight) with members of the Berbice Female Cricket Team and other sports officials

‘Crown Spot Lemonade’...

The Crown Jewel of Rose Hall By Nafeeza Yahya-Sakur

IF you’ve never had a chilled Crown Spot Lemonade, you’re certainly not Berbician. A brand that saw its humble beginnings since in the 1930s, Crown Spot has been passed down from generation to generation of Jai Jai Rams to become one of the foremost businesses in Rose Hall Town. Persaud Jai Jai Ram was a huckster, and had spent some time working at GuySuCo but when the owner of Crown Spot decided to close shop, he took whatever little savings he had and offered to purchase the business. This was back in 1950. Close to 20 years later, the business was ready to take off. With equipment that were as old as time itself, and stiff competition from two other lemonade factories, one in New Amsterdam and the other at Letter Kenny, Persaud

took his chances and got the entire family involved. With approximately six persons in their employ, they persevered, and keeping the name “Crown Spot”, began producing about 200 bottles of lemonade per day for distribution within Rose Hall and its environs. Then in 2000, when old man Jai Jai Ram passed away, son Charles took over the business. And when he, too, passed away in 2015, his

The six different flavours of Crown Spot products

Workers attending to the assembly line at the factory

sons, Orvin, 46, and Alvin, 28, took over. And, like their father did when his dad was on his death bed, they promised Charles they would carry on the business as a family, and have since managed to expand from their original signature lemonade to now offering flavoured beverages in Grape, Pineapple, Apple, Fruit Punch and Kola Fruit Champ in three different colours.

With dedication, discipline, hard work and excellent customer service, the Jai Jai Rams have managed to stave off the competitors, and now have 18 full-time staff at the factory producing between 7500 and 9000 bottles per day to remain the only lemonade factory in East Berbice Corentyne. In much the same way the old cinemas died out with the onset and popularity of the television, so, too, did everyone expect that the lemonade factory would die a natural death with the rise of local beverage giants like Banks DIH and DDL. But the Jai Jai Rams refused to buckle and let their family business go under. Instead, they weathered the storm and adapted to the changing times by making good use of new technology, and expanding their distribution to outside of Berbice without compromising qualTurn to Page 12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

The Foster Connection By Shirley Thomas and Colin Bynoe

WHEN the history of the development of Rose Hall will have been written, the names of three brothers, Keith, Alex and Hilbert Foster, will certainly merit a prominent place, by virtue of their involvement in the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, reputed to be

Today, some 27 years on, one can safely say that the RHTYSC has more than lived up to those lofty ideals it set itself, by undertaking a record 300 activities annually in such areas as sports, anti-drug and crime, culture, education, coaching awards/honours, anti-suicide, youth, community and community development; charity and economic development.

Receiving the Guyana Cricket Board Club 2016 Award

the leading such organisation in all of Guyana. Founded in September 1990 by three-time Commonwealth Youth Service Awardee, the St. Francis Community Developers, formerly the St Francis Xavier R.C Youth Club, the idea at the time was to work closely with youth to ensure they have a rounded development, and to make a positive impact on the lives of the elderly and less fortunate as well.

In the area of sports, not only has it excelled at cricket, winning over 50 major tournaments at home in Berbice and three at the national level, but also earned in the process the prestigious Cricket Club of the Year Award in 2004, 2005, 2009 and 2010, and a slew of other awards from such organisations as Rotary International, the International Olympic Committee, and the Berbice Cricket Board. Then, on February 3, 2016,

it did the unthinkable when it became the first Youth and Sports Organisation to be conferred the country’s fifth highest award: The Medal of Service, no less! TEAM SPIRIT Currently, its management team comprises: Mr. Keith Foster: President; Mr. Mark Papannah: Vice-President;

Mr. Shawn Perriera: Club Captain.

Committee Members are: Ms Elizabeth Brusch; Mr Sohan Harry, and Mr Terry Pike. Over 35 Chairman is Mr Neville Beaton. President David Granger is currently the Club’s fifth Official Patron. Past Patrons have been Former President, Mr.

President David Granger handing over a trophy and bicycle to RHTYSC Assistant Secretary, Mr Simon Naidu at a recent function

Mr. Hilbert Foster: Secretary/CEO; Mr. Simon Naidu: Assistant Secretary; Mr. Keith Hicks: Organising Secretary; Mr. Ravindranauth Kissoonlall: Assistant Organising Secretary; Ms. Shemaine Campbelle: Treasurer; Mr. Anil Ramnarine: PRO; and

Hugh Desmond Hoyte; Ms. June Mendes; Mr. Peter Ramsaroop; and Ms. Beverley Harper. For the last 27 years, Hilbert Foster has been the proverbial lynchpin that helps keep the wheel of the organisation turning over like clockwork, organising a wide variety of sporting and youth development activities and mentorship programmes. Besides founding, along

with his brother, Alex, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, Hilbert Foster was instrumental in the restoration of the Lower Corentyne Secondary School, between 1990 and 1992 to the tune of $6M. Work included repairing the roof and library; installing new washroom and water facilities; erecting a new benab, fence and bicycle shed; purchasing new

an internal fence, a “soup kitchen”, sanitary facilities, a storage room, scoreboard and concrete pitch. To date, the Club has produced five West Indies players, among them Assad Fudadin, Royston Crandon, Erva Giddings and Shemaine Campbelle; 16 senior and 52 junior national players; and 101 overall for Berbice cricket at all levels.

Prime Minister Moses Nagamottoo receiving a token of appreciation from RHTYSC President, Mr. Keith Foster

furniture; doing the windows; and rewiring the building. But even before that, it was he who speardeaded the raising of over $25M to transform the Area ‘H’ Ground, on which the Club stands, from the veritable swamp it was into the modern sports facility it is today. That work included, among other things, upgrading and fencing the entire ground, and constructing the facility’s three pavilions, an all-weather court,

In the area of charitable work, the Club has, over the years, distributed over $100M worth of clothing, footwear, sport gear, educational materials and food items all across Berbice. It is also credited with annually hosting one of the country’s biggest award ceremonies, on which it reportedly expends over $3M on trophies, medals and gifts for its membership.

Lower Corentyne Secondary School

THE Lower Corentyne Secondary School, one of the historic buildings in Rose Hall Town, was first known as Belvedere Government Secondary School and housed in the building now known as Belvedere Primary School. Its doors were first opened in September 1963, before a decision was made to move to the manager’s house at Port Mourant in December 1966, to accommodate plans for the Primary School. Then, on January 9, 1967, the year after Guyana gained

independence, the school was reopened under the name, ‘The Lower Corentyne Secondary School’. It was later relocated for a second time to its present location on Fifth Street, Saffron Park, and became government-owned in 1979. The beautiful building you see today was officially handed over, after extensive renovations, by the Social Impact Amelioration Project (SIMAP) in January 1995, replete with all the necessary facilities and amenities. Its catchment area

The Crown Jewel... ity for quantity. “Quality and customer service first” has been the message passed on with the family recipe from the very first generation, and continues to be the message being passed on even as the brothers look to expand. Many Berbicians from the Diaspora on their trip

back home make a stop at the factory, located on Arch and First Streets, south of the Rose Hall Public Road to get their quota of lemonade to take back with them when they’re ready to leave. The demand is so high that the brothers are looking at setting up a business in the US, just so they could

satisfy it. Despite the increasing challenges from other major local aerated companies and imported beverages, the two brothers are continuing toinvest and trying to keep ahead of their competitors, by always seeking newand innovative ways to lower their cost of production and

From Page 11 expanding their customer base. Their plan is to continue the family legacy by raising the bar as their foreparents did, and pass the torch over to their children to keep the family business going.

The Lower Corentyne Secondary at Rose Hall (Photo by Delano Williams)

is from Fyrish to Port Mourant, and at the last count about a year ago, enrollment stood at over 300 students. From its inception and throughout the years, 18 persons, two of them women, have served the school in the capacity of headteacher. The first was Mr William Lalljie, and the present is Mr Paul LaCruz.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday August 22, 2017

Hamid’s: Rose Hall’s first ‘chain store’ By Shirley Thomas WHAT started out 29 years ago as a mere G$2,000 investment in vending in the Rose Hall Market, has, over the years, grown to become the largest and most sought-after variety store in town. So much so that today, its proprietor, Mr Imran Hamid, is also recognised as the first Rose Hall resident to operate a business chain in the township. The three businesses comprising the chain are: Imran and Son’s Variety Store; Imran and Daughter’s Variety Store; and The Family Store, located at Portuguese Quarters, just outside Rose Hall. He’s the first to admit that he’s no overnight success, but rather a man who not only had a vision, but the ability, as well, to think outside the box. And it all began in the 1980s, while he was employed at the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuco) as an allocation attendant. He’d just gotten married, and saw the need to bring in more cash than the job was paying in order to meet family commitments. Around that time, he recalled, people were doing brisk business with stuff like Geera, Masala and Mazola. “And so I tried my hand, went to Corriverton and bought some supplies and sell them while offshift. “And at the end of every day, I would check my profit, and I was shocked to find that the profit I made after selling for fourand-a half to five hours for the first day was G$195, whereas my pay from GuySuCo was $180 per month. So I made equivalent to that whole month’s pay in half-day.” Warming to the topic, he said: “Well, I come from a business family; we had business over in Canje. My uncle is A. Ali and Sons, and my grandparents also had business. “The economic situation at the time was very rough and not of the best, but you had to make it. Basically, having come from business, you had to know what to do to make it, so I tendered my resignation.” But his boss, one Mr J.B. Raghurai, wouldn’t hear of it! “He would not accept it, and tried to show me that there was scope for promotion,” Hamid said. “But my mind was already made up, and so I left the job, and got a stall in the Rose Hall Market and got into vending.” NEW WATERS

Imran and Son’s, reputedly the largest variety store in Rose Hall

By now excited at the prospect of venturing out on his own, Hamid recalled that he was the first to introduce selling such electronic items as televisions, radios, fans and washing machines in the market. And it not only generated excitement, but the re-

now to visit the market, so we started plying between Rose Hall to Port Mourant Market and back, and even went into the streets,” Hamid said. He would spend the next nine years in the Rose Hall Market, but had no intention of giving up just

“Yes, it was a very old, almost dilapidated building, but being a prime business spot, I saw a future in it,” Imran said, adding that even the mayor, at one point, had some misgivings, and asked: “Man, is wha’ you buy there? Firewood?” But he was

he, with the support of his dedicated wife, Saudia, and their children, was able to establish two more variety stores, one of which he shares with his daughter, and the other with his son. ROSE HALL TODAY

Imran and Saudia Hamid and their grandson

sponse heartening. So, with each purchase of goods, he would bring in new electronic items and even furniture. That created quite a buzz in the market, and pretty soon, customers just started gravitating towards his business. “We start to make this market feel lively; people had some reason

yet on his mobile market between Rose Hall and Port Mourant. Then, in 1996, he had the opportunity of buying a rundown building at the corner of Public Road and Independence Avenue. At the time, he recalled, everyone around him thought it was a bad investment.

unmoved; he knew deep in his bones that he was on to a good thing, and was not about to let anyone tell him otherwise. “Despite what people would say, we kept the building, renovated and extended it from time to time, until it became the pride of the corner,” Hamid said. And within record time,

As to how he feels about the way Rose Hall has been transformed over the years, Imran, who is originally from Canje, said: “When I came in Rose Hall, agriculture activity was booming. Rice, cashcrops were always there, and gardening was a way

of life.” But because the sugar industry was rapidly absorbing manual labour for the planting and cutting of cane, cash-crop production was de-emphasised. “It was easier for them to work in the sugar industry than go and plant other crops,” Hamid said, adding that even with the change of fortunes in the sugar industry, he doesn’t foresee them going back to the land anytime soon. “The people dem get so sweet-skin and lazy today, they not planting cash-crop anymore. And if their yard don’t have concrete from front to back, it get bush,” he lamented. He is all for the reintroduction of the days when, at the school level, people were given little incentives to pursue kitchen gardening; even if its only an honourable mention at some level. He was full of praise for the late President Forbes Burnham’s vision and approach to agriculture; his insistence that citizens use whatever yard space they had to grow their own kitchen gardens; and for taking a strong position against praedial larceny, insisting that the police deal with such offenders condignly. He also made it known how pleased he was that all successive governments since the Burnham era have been emphasising the need to grow more food. HIS VISION And now that Rose Hall has become somewhat of a “boom-town”, Hamid is all for seeing his fellow businessmen spending a little money on sprucing up their places of business; giving them a little facelift, so to speak. “Invest in giving your properties a facelift; it’s like you have a car and you don’t wash it, but you want it to bring in money for you,” he said, adding: “I would like to see an upgrade of the business places. Town Council should move away all the unwanted vending structures. If you have to vend, do so in an orderly manner; don’t leave litter around the place at the end of the day. That only makes it look unsightly, and it brings down the image of Rose Hall Town.” In the circumstances, he is calling on the Council to collaborate with persons vending along Independence Avenue to construct decent-looking stands and not shabby open stalls which can be a haven at nights for thieves.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

NOC escapees all recaptured City Hall to charge for collection of commercial, industrial waste THE Mayor and City Council has announced effective from September 1, 2017 it will begin charging a nominal fee for the collection and disposal of commercial and industrial waste, generated within the City of Georgetown. The decision was taken by Council after extensive consultations and discussions with different stakeholders, including members of the local private sector and non-governmental organisations and community based groups, the M&CC said in a release on Monday. It was agreed that the fees will be charged within three (3) categories – Small businesses ($5,000 per month), Medium businesses ($8,000 per month), and Large businesses ($12,000 per month). In addition, a special arrangement will be put in place for private contractors who haul industrial and commercial waste through the City to compensate citizens, by paying a percentage of the cost charged against businesses. The release noted that over the last three years, some 2,232,235 tons of garbage was collected and disposed of at a cost of $1.4B. And, for this year, the Council has budgeted $1.2 billion for waste collection. According to the M&CC, the Council must expend in

excess of $50M per month to dispose of the city’s waste. “In reality the council is subsidising the collection and disposal of the city’s waste. However, the council could no longer sustain this on its current very narrow revenue base, it has to broaden its revenue base.” It was noted that while solid waste management is vital to the good health and well-being of citizens and their local neighbourhoods, the Council is not prepared to compromise this aspect of its statutory responsibility even in the face of financial and other shortages. “In the circumstances, the council is happy to report that all areas of the city continue to receive garbage clearance by the council. Additionally, there have been some delays due to mechanical and other short comings and the fact that, some of our staff are not very familiar with some of the inner streets in some local communities. But these have been remedied and over the coming weeks council will approve this service to citizens.” Additionally, the Council said it is grateful for the cooperation and understanding it has been receiving from residents. Nevertheless, it is the collective view of council that community leaders and their groups could do more

to improve environmental health in their communities, by ensuring that all residents have proper garbage receptacles to store and dispose of garbage, encourage residents to take responsibility for the physical condition of their communities and continue to raise awareness about the importance about a clean and healthy environment to good health and life. Over the next two weeks, the council will put in the streets of Georgetown patrols armed with cameras and other things to persuade litter bugs to desist from hurting the environment and to contribute to the sustainable development of the City of Georgetown. Also, the council will be moving apace to seek the support of the competent authorities to introduce the ticketing system against litter and the indiscriminate dumping of garbage in the City, the release added. “Once again, the council wishes to thank all of its citizens for their cooperation to its effort to clean up Georgetown and to keep it clean in this difficult time when it is experiencing certain shortages to manage effectively and efficiently all of its responsibilities to all communities,” the release concluded.

Former magistrate charged with DUI FORMER Magistrate, Chandra Sohan, on Monday appeared before Her Worship Renita Singh at the Albion Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) as charged. He was released on his own recognisance and the matter was postponed to September 15, 2017 for trial. The former magistrate, now an attorney, was involved in a serious accident at around 19:40hrs on August 18 on the Williamsburg Public Road, Corentyne, Berbice, following which his blood alcohol level, when tested, was

Former Magistrate, Chandra Sohan

found to be way above the legal limit. Investigations have revealed that the 51-year-old lawyer, of Palmyra Village,

East Coast Berbice, who was driving motor van PJJ 6060, was proceeding west along the southern driveway when a male pedestrian crossed the road from south to north into the path of the vehicle and collided. The pedestrain, who is yet to be identified, was picked up in an unconscious state and taken to the Port Mourant Public Hospital, where he was treated before being transferred to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital and later the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and admitted in a serious, but stable condition. Several years ago, Sohan had presided over the Traffic Court in the Georgetown Magisterial District.

THE police have confirmed that the 11 juveniles who escaped from the New Opportunity Corps (NOC) on Sunday were all recaptured on Monday morning. Reports are that the six females and five males made their escape bid from the juvenile offenders’ holding facility at Onderneeming, on the Essequibo Coast at

around 17:15hrs on Sunday. Two of the six females were reportedly recaptured shortly thereafter, while the remaining nine escapees were recaptured around 06:00hrs on Monday morning not far from the facility. The NOC has been having their fair share of problems of late, where as recent as last February two juveniles

serving time there broke free from the facility. Then in 2012, a female dormitory was set on fire and there was a mass escape. Reports indicate that from all appearances, that breakout was well planned, as the inmates, who were in six separate dormitories, simultaneously began freeing themselves.

The entrance to the NOC

Gov’t concerned about gold – says porous borders could smuggling be leaking minerals MINISTER of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, has expressed concerns about Guyana’s porous borders, which he said makes it easy for illegal aircraft and other types of transport to move our minerals out of the country without the requisite royalty been paid to the State. Trotman made the comments while addressing the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission Annual Awards Celebration, Mining Week 2017 on Sunday at the Tower Suites. The minister said that he saw media reports of the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners’ Association (GGDMA) predicting a million ozs declaration in the future and he was in total agreement. “I believe if we can curtail the illegal transactions then our declarations are going to be much higher than it presently is,” Trotman said. Over recent months, two illegal airstrips were discovered in the Rupununi as well as an abandoned aircraft. Also to be complemented is the increased efforts by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission that are showing improved declarations in sand and stone. “Your stalwart service has been noted and I believe you will agree with me when I say you have been amply rewarded. You have received an increase in salary and increase in allowances, plus your cry for more office space was heard

Minister of Natural resources, Raphael Trotman

and addressed, with the new office space in Subryanville, although there does appear to be some difficulties with the residents, I am sure it will be resolved soon to your benefit.” TAX RELIEF To the miners the minister said: “I know you have worked hard and you have been saying that the government is not doing enough for you. I know you have been asking for tax relief on equipment and fuel, and we have been working to have these addressed.” On the issue of lands for miners who do not have, Trotman said government is committed to a level playing field, and to this end during 2016, the administration made lands available to 238 miners who did not have any lands, and this year they are working with the syndicate groups.

“This is all in the effort to reduce the instances of small miners crying foul when the lands that they would have rented from other miners proved fruitful and they get put off. Now owning your own mining lands, it is hoped that the government will see the returns in improved declarations. In addition, it is hoped that with the syndicates, miners will come together and work as a team, expensive equipment (bulldozers, excavators, etc) should not be idle; join together and help each other to move ahead,” the Natural Resources Minister declared. Trotman singled out the awardee for environmental stewardship. “We are a developing nation, and in order to grow, all of us need a shoulder to stand on, so thanks for being that shoulder. So, to all the hard working, dedicated members of the mining fraternity in Guyana, I salute you. Do not be influenced by the few bad examples amongst you. Rather, influence them to do good deeds and thereby lift the standard of the Industry to new heights.” Mining Week 2017 is being observed under the banner of this year’s theme: “Mining Clean; Living Green”. This year’s celebrations will culminate with Pork Knockers Day next weekend. Trotman said it is being held against a bigger backdrop surrounding two issues.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

New 1823 Memorial for Parade Ground – President declares August 20, Demerara Martyrs’ Day PRESIDENT David Granger on Sunday committed to ensuring that a Memorial is erected at the Independence Park in 2018 to commemorate the 195th anniversary of the 1823 Demerara Slave Revolt, even as he announced that August 20, will from henceforth be recognised as ‘Demerara Martyrs’ Day. President Granger, who made the announcement at the commemorative ceremony to mark the 194th anniversary of the 1823 Demerara Revolt, which was held at the site of the Monument on Atlantic Avenue, said that while the event is modestly commemorated in Bachelors’ Adventure on the East Coast of Demerara (ECD), he will ensure that the Memorial is erected at the Park where the history is buried. The former administration, against the wishes of the African communities and several cultural organisations, went ahead with its plan to have the monument constructed on Atlantic Avenue. “The Demerara Revolt is remembered in the village of Bachelors’ Adventure where the massacre occurred. The villagers built their own modest memorial to the Martyrs. I have published a Presidential order declaring 20th August ‘Demerara Martyrs’ Day’ and I have promised to erect a Memorial at Independence Park to commemorate the massacre on its 195th anniversary in August 2018,” he said. Reflecting on the Demerara Revolt, President Granger said the massacre was a turning point in Guyanese and colonial history. “We are assembled to pay homage to the more than 200 martyrs, who were killed on a single morning and to the uncounted others, who were summarily executed in the succeeding days. The massacre took place at Plantation Bachelor’s Adventure, where the main body of troops commanded by Lieutenant Colonel, John Thomas Leahy, confronted over 2,000 rebels. Martial Law was proclaimed and, after some talk, the troops were ordered to attack,” he said. The Head- of-State noted that the Revolt’s role in the passage of the Act by the British Parliament a decade later is undisputed. That Act was entitled: ‘An Act for the Abolition of Slavery throughout the British Colonies; for promoting the Industry of the manumitted Slaves; and compensating the Persons hitherto entitled to the Services of such Slaves. (1833).’

Ms. Desiree Nurse, an attendee, in an invited comment said that she is grateful that a day has been set aside by this administration to honour the fallen slaves, as she noted, that it is through their sacrifices indeed that Guyana was born. “I think we Africans should really begin to acknowledge this day because our ancestors have done a lot, so this is very nice and appreciated. I am happy that I was here to observe this and I would like to see more people, particularly the young Afro-Guyanese more involved in their history and events like this,” she said. Ms. Audrey Hinds, in echoing those sentiments,

President David Granger places a wreath at the 1823 Demerara Revolt Monument at Atlantic Avenue (Ministry of the Presidency)

Describing the events of that day, President Granger spoke passionately about the horror of the brutal killings. “According to one account “the soldiers poured in volley after volley. The slaves returned fire but soon began to run, leaping over the trenches into which many tumbled lifeless. Many were shot down on the road and in the cotton fields. By noon, the roadside was littered with dead bodies. About 200 slaves had been killed.” The troops then proceeded from plantation to plantation. They pursued fugitives, holding summary ‘drum-head’ trials each lasting only a few minutes and reached hasty verdicts based on hearsay evidence. The accused were found guilty, tied to trees and shot, immediately. Their corpses were laid side by side on the ground, decapitated and their heads placed on poles on the public roads in front of the plantations,” the President told those gathered. While a formal Court Martial was convened in Georgetown on August 25, 1823 under Lieutenant Colonel, Stephen Arthur Goodman, public executions took place on the Militia Parade Ground, now known as Independence Park in Cummingsburg. The rebels’ corpses were hung on chains along the public roads or were decapitated and the heads stuck on poles. The Head-of-State noted that it is important that all Guyanese commemorate this event, so that future generations will not forget that

their freedom was bought at the high price of the martyrdom of hundreds of enslaved Africans. Meanwhile, Mr. Aaron Blackman, a Cultural Activist, in his remarks, said that the freedom Guyanese, particularly Afro-Guyanese enjoy, is due to the struggles and sacrifices of their ancestors, who paid the ultimate price. The younger generation, therefore, he said should not take their sacrifices lightly or for granted but use it as a motivation to move the country forward. “Our ancestors laid down their lives fighting for the emancipation and liberation of this generation and to lay the foundation for our nation. It is through the laying down of their lives that Emancipation came in 1834. Let not their struggle be in vain. Let us kindle the spirit of the early African Village movement, which was founded on cooperation,” he said.

Dancers of the Free Souls Dance Theatre paying tribute to the Demerara Martyrs through a musical requiem, on Sunday at the commemorative ceremony (Ministry of the Presidency)

noted that while the ancestors would have laid the foundation, it is now up to the young people to recognise their sacrifices and make the best out of their freedoms. “My foreparents did so much but as a descendant, I feel really uplifted

being here. My message to young people now is to make the President of this country proud; get educated, get an education, be qualified to do what they have to do and to remember from where they came,” she said. (Ministry of the Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Guyana in dazzling display as CARIFESTA XIII opens AFTER having to be rescheduled from Friday due to the passage of Tropical Storm Harvey, the official opening ceremony for CARIFESTA XIII took place on Sunday, with Barbados’ Minister of Culture, Stephen Lashley, declaring the festival open. The ceremony at the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown was attended by Barbados’ Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. Freundel Stuart; Secretary-General of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), Ambassador Irwin

LaRocque; local and regional Ministers of Government, CARICOM Secretariat officials and CARIFESTA delegations from the Caribbean Community and CARIFESTA observer countries. The ceremony was preceded by a colourful parade of participating countries showcasing their cultural traditions and wearing their national colours and costumes. In his remarks at the opening, Minister Lashley said the hosting of CARIFESTA XIII will be remembered as a turning point in

the Region’s quest to further economic diversity and a time for deepening cultural ties within the Region, while establishing cultural industries as key to the economic transformation of CARICOM economies. “We chose from the outset to place the development of our cultural industries at the core of the festival.” Minister Lashley said. He also announced that Barbados has appointed two new Cultural Ambassadors in ‘soca queen’ Allison Hinds and veteran calypsonian Stedson Wiltshire, also

The Guyanese contingent was part of thousands who turned out to the Carifesta XIII Parade, which stretched from Queen’s Park to the Kensington Oval in Bridgetown, the island’s capital (Photo credit :Department of Public Information)

known as Red Plastic Bag. The CARICOM Secretary General told the opening ceremony that the arts are a cornerstone of the regional integration movement, and a force that binds and inspires us, and defines CARICOM in a unique way. Ambassador LaRocque said Barbados’ hosting of CARIFESTA XIII demonstrated in a tangible way, the country’s recognition of the significant contribution that culture and

the creative industries can make to economic and social development of Member States. He said it reaffirms the country’s commitment to CARICOM and to regional integration. “This year, we celebrate forty-four years as a Caribbean Community, and CARIFESTA has been with us from the beginning. As the cultural flagship, CARIFESTA is a highly-valued CARICOM event that is near and dear to our hearts. Since its inception in 1972 in Guyana, it has given us a regional platform where we can share and exchange, showcase our talents and, in essence, “Assert Our Culture and Celebrate Ourselves” the Secretary-General said. CARIFESTA XIII runs from 17-27 August and is being held under the theme ‘Asserting our culture, celebrating ourselves”. This is the second time that this mega cultural

festival is being hosted in the land of flying fish as Barbados also took on the festivities for CARIFESTA IV in 1981. Meanwhile, a Ministry of Education culture report stated that the signature parade of the nations was hosted on Sunday and featured more than 1500 participants representing Caricom countries, as well as Canada and Venezuela, parading through the streets from the Queens Park Oval in St Michael to the Kensington Oval about three miles away. “It was a true Caribbean, colour-filled showcase of high energy, prancing and dancing. On Monday the Grand Market opens yet again at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Center, with much to offer from almost twenty islands and countries. Festival Director, Ms Andrea Welch, welcomed all to the Island in the sun.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Scenes from the opening of the NTC conference

First Lady, Mrs Sandra Granger embraces Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Ms Valerie Garrido-Lowe Monday upon arrival at the CPCE for the NTC Conference while President David Granger greets Minister of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Mr Sydney Allicock (Delano Williams)

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo greets NTC Chairman, Joel Fredericks ahead of the start of the NTC Conference being held at the CPCE. Also in photo are NTC Vice- Chairman, Lenox Shuman (second right) and Toshao Nicolas Fredericks (Delano Williams)

Part of the audience at Monday’s opening of the week-long NTC Conference now on at the CPCE, Turkeyen (Delano Williams)

Contractor arrested for mystery plane A POPULAR Lethem contractor has been taken into custody in connection with the illegal Beechcraft mystery plane which was abandoned by persons unknown in the Rupununi two Sundays ago. The man, who has carried out several projects in the region, was held along with four other persons by the police as they investigate the incident. Reports from Lethem are that the contractor’s equipment was also seized by the lawmen. The man carried out works at Yupukari in 2016, where his company undertook works to a sanitary facility in the village. In September last year, another aircraft was left abandoned at Yupukari by unknown persons. The CESSNA aircraft bore a false registration. Persons in the area noted that the contractor has close Brazilian affiliations. The Beechcraft luxury plane, bearing registration PT-IMG, was secured by the police after several men were seen running away from the scene two Sundays ago. It is said to be registered to Brazilian investment bank Banco Bradesco. The aircraft was sold by a Riobased company to a private entity and the Brazilian bank is handling its sale. It was flown to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) by the army a week ago.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

281 square miles of lands set aside for syndicates GOVERNMENT has set aside some 281 square miles of lands for syndicates, despite recent protests by this loosely organised grouping of small miners. Speaking at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission Annual Awards Celebration, Mining Week 2017 on Sunday at the Tower Suites, Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman, told the gathering that the administration is unveiling carefully and methodically, the Syndicates initiative that is being spearheaded by Minister Simona Broomes. He explained that through this initiative, hundreds of Guyanese men and women who were either denied access to lands or came under the harsh conditions of a “landlord” can now band together in a cooperative way and access lands and the synergies and economies that evolve from working together. Trotman said so far 15 syndicates will be given in the first instance, 12,000 acres of land each to have a combined area of green Guyana land of 180,000 acres of land. “To put this into context, we are speaking of 281 square miles. Barbados, a place we are all familiar with, is just 170 square miles. So again, with some momentary surprise, I wonder at the agitation of the syndicates for more land when they have not yet begun to mine any lands. I am assured that GGMC is working assiduously to ensure that by the end of the month the lands will be available for distribution and I am awaiting the opportunity to sign

the “special order” to this effect.” PROTESTS Members of the various syndicates had staged a protest recently in Georgetown, clamouring for more lands. However, Trotman said struggle is good as it is out of the dialectics of struggle that positive change comes, but struggle must be purposeful and well directed. He said struggle for the sake of struggle is without a lasting foundation. “Once we are satisfied that the syndicates have been good stewards then we are prepared to entertain applications for additional lands,” the minister asserted. Trotman also acknowledged that there is agitation and restlessness in the sector with some bemoaning the state of mining and government’s response to their concerns. Also he said government has embarked on a quest to make Guyana a green land in both the figurative and literal senses. “To this end, the Government appreciates that there are some changes that are taking place in the mining industry – some changes we recognise as being organic by nature and some others will have to be influenced if the industry is to remain vibrant, well into the 21st century.” The minister said there was a time, for many centuries in fact, when sugar production dominated the political economy of Guyana. It defined us as a nation, and then, in the 1970’s and beyond, as we took hold of our newly found republican

status, and forged a path of self-reliance, bauxite mining and production took centre stage. “Later came gold and gold remains Guyana’s primary foreign exchange earner and is singularly responsible for the direct and indirect employment of tens of thousands of Guyanese; though agriculture and bauxite remain viable industries in their own right.” Trotman told the miners that the coming petroleum production will undoubtedly change the face of Guyana, and the mining industry as we know it, will be impacted. However, he said gold is too important to the culture, psyche and economy of Guyana to be displaced and as the saying goes, it is “too big to fail”. “Many of the fears and concerns that I hear expressed about government’s lack of appreciation for the industry are therefore unfounded. This government, as I have said on countless occasions in the past, has no desire to see the industry fail. However, we all have agreed in private meetings, and in public outings elsewhere, that there has to be change and adjustments on all sides. The status quo cannot remain. For Government’s part, we are, as of necessity, having to streamline the collection of taxes and curtail what was obviously an abuse of the tax concessions that were given.” Similarly, he said the administration is introducing reforms at the Guyana Gold Board and at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission. One such reform

Man almost faints – when hears bail set at $60,000 A 43-year-old man on Monday appeared before City Magistrate, Judy Latchman, charged with wounding his reputed wife with a knife. Shawn Charles, denied that on August 18, at the East La Penitence Squatting Area, he unlawfully assaulted, Alexis Welcome, causing her actual bodily harm. Charles, who was unrepresented by an attorney,

told the court that the woman broke into his home and attacked him. However, according to the facts read in court by Police Prosecutor, Adonis Innis, the accused and the woman are reputed husband and wife, and that on the day in question, they were involved in an argument when the incident occurred. Innis said that during the argument, Charles re-

portedly took up a knife and “lashed” Welcome about the body, causing her to receive minor lacerations. After hearing from the prosecutor, the magistrate announced that she was putting Charles on $60,000 bail, which caused him to almost faint and drop to his knees while in the docks. But despite his pleas, the magistrate maintained her bail and adjourned the matter until August 23.

is the charging of a processing fee of $2,500 for every ounce of gold processed at the Gold Board only. “I was surprised, and momentarily taken aback, to see statements deriding this fee when it was agreed between the Ministry, the GGB and the GGDMA. I suppose this is the way business is done in some places.” Trotman said the Guyana Geology & Mines Commission must be congratulated for its sterling and steadfast course in these challenging economic waters. “This is the achievement at a period in our country’s history when the known main drivers of

economic activities are all recording sub-optimal performance. Rice and sugar, our main agricultural bases are struggling to keep their heads above water, and the other stream of the Natural Resource sector, Forestry, is now regaining its strength. In contrast, the Mining Industry is the driving force for economic prosperity.” The minister said the Commission, as the regulator of these sectors, has over the last few years shown that it is able to hold a steady course and at the same time improve its performance through improved declarations in

minerals. “Gold declarations have shown a steady increase within the last two years, and following on last year’s record breaking declaration, at the end of July this year, declaration was 368,000 ozs, with small and medium scale gold mining accounting for 244,000. It is more than likely that we will reach and surpass our declaration target for this year, this is in spite of the poor weather conditions and the problems in the backdam with rogue elements ambushing mining camps and raiding lands lawfully held by others,” Trotman stated.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Examine your stewardship – Allicock tells NTC executives By Ariana Gordon MINISTER of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock, on Monday called for unity and partnerships to enhance the development of the indigenous population. He told the representatives of the 215 indigenous communities gathered at the opening of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference, being held at the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE), that during this the final year of the Council, it is important that work be done to ensure a good legacy is left behind. “I challenge you, therefore, to examine your own stewardship. Identify your successes, confront your shortcomings and work in the remaining months of this term to ensure that the legacy you leave behind will be celebrated by the generations to come. Remember that if we made no mistakes, it means that we did nothing; but if we make the same mistake twice, we never learnt from the first one,” Allicock stated. He said the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs

has been partnering and will continue to work with indigenous communities across the country and pointed to the Amerindian Development Fund (ADF) with its Community Development Projects (CDPs), which he said continues to impact positively on the sustainable livelihood of all Indigenous Peoples. He dispelled rumors that the Amerindian Land Titling Project (ALT) is not up and running. “The committed team of the ALT on which a number of State Agencies are represented, continues to push relentlessly towards the fulfillment of the project’s objectives.” He said the ALT’s latest mission was conducted between August 16 and 17 in Santa Rosa and Little Kannabali, Region One. “The NTC representative was regrettably absent,” Allicock noted. Moreover, the Minister, like President Granger, pointed to the success of the HEYS Programme which he said continues to change lives and build village economies. The Paramakatoi Sun-dried Tomato project in Region Eight was one such example highlighted.

Minister of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Sydney Allicock (Delano Williams)

“There is indeed much to celebrate and to build upon. The momentum must not be lost. The momentum must not be sacrificed on the altar of selfish or partisan political expedience. On the contrary, the momentum must be heightened and centred upon the best interest of all the Indigenous Peoples of Guyana,” the Minister stated. He called on Indigenous Leaders to work hand-inhand with government to build stronger families, villages and regions and ultimately, a stronger Guyana. Allicock told Village Leaders that it is important that they demonstrate high levels of

maturity and professionalism while accounting for the resources available to them. He said employing an accounting officer is by far better than electing a treasurer. “Consider the employment of this officer as one with security of tenure. This can militate against the challenges of constant replacement of the treasurer and the absence of institutional memory and continuity. Such an arrangement brings with it many benefits including long term benefits from structured training and proper succession planning for sustainable resource management,” he added. Allicock suggested too that there is need for the establishment and implementation of rules governing the operation of Indigenous Villages. He said times are changing while noting that unwritten rules passed down from generation to generation are in limbo. “The oral tradition is faltering and the younger people among us no longer have the benefit of the wisdom of our elders as they did in my time,” the Minister said while stressing “Rules which are not known cannot be respected.” ECONOMIC EMPOWERMENT Meanwhile, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe re-

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People's Affairs, Valeria Garrido- Lowe (Delano Williams)

assured her government’s commitment to providing economic empowerment, and restoring the dignity of the Indigenous peoples. She said the APNU+AFC coalition government is not partial to any sect of citizens and noted that “It has only been a few months since two years in office and the amount of work that each Ministry and each Minister has done is deserving of recognition. Don’t worry, we are not asking for it, we are just happy that we are getting things done for your benefit.” “All may not be to your liking or what you are accustomed to, but it does not mean that it is wrong, it simply means that some things were not right and we have begun fixing them,” Gar-

rido-Lowe continued. She outlined a few of the challenges facing the Indigenous population, including the recent floods which caused tremendous loss and distress to residents of Regions Seven, Eight and Nine. She thanked those who rendered assistance to the affected during the “troubling time”. But notwithstanding the rough patches, the Minister said the Indigenous population have much to be thankful for, much to celebrate as government has committed to ensuring the continued enhancement of communities through economic activities. She pointed to community-based tourism as a core focus of her government, while noting the Indigenous people are the “keepers of the forest” and have tremendous knowledge. “What has to be done now is to develop an eco-tourism product so that tourists can come and enjoy our greenness. We want to see our Indigenous peoples leading in the tourism sector in this country, which is the second highest revenue earner for our country,” suggested the Minister. “Unless you operate a community-based tourism business, you will not be able to earn as you should,” Minister Garrido-Lowe continued, as leaders were urged to focus more on agriculture.

‘Worth every penny’ GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

– No greater investment than in children, their education – President says at commissioning of G/town leg of ‘5 Bs’ programme PRESIDENT David Granger is convinced that there is no greater investment in this world than an investment in children and their education. He made the observation on Monday evening as he commissioned three spanking new 35-seater buses, which will serve schoolchildren in the north and south of Georgetown under the ‘Boats, Buses, Bicycles plus Breakfast and Books’ or Five ‘Bs’ programme. The President, who commissioned the buses at a cer-

emony held at D’Urban Park, said that the buses will be at the disposal of Guyana’s future engineers, entrepreneurs and pioneers. An emotional President Granger told those gathered at the venue that the government is committed to ensuring that every Guyanese child has access to an education, as it is only through that means can they gain employment and become empowered, thereby contributing to the growth and development of Guyana. “We see education as the

President David Granger symbolically commissions one of the buses, as First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger and Minister of Social Protection, Ms. Amna Ally look on

President David Granger and First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger greeting schoolchildren and residents of Georgetown at the D’Urban Park, where they had assembled for the commissioning of the three school buses (Photos by Ministry of the Presidency)

gateway to the good life; we see that by providing these buses, boats and bicycles that we will improve access to schools,” the President said, adding: “We will improve attendance, and in so doing, we see improved achievement. We want to see ‘A’ students; and those are the ‘A’s we are working towards today [Access, Attendance and Achievement]. “We have made transportation easier for children, and we want to create a more equal society, so that children in Mabaruma, Jawalla

and Aishalton would have an equal opportunity to education as the children in Sophia, Industry or Cummings Lodge.” The President noted that investment in a child’s education is an investment in a nation, and that it is up to the government and all other stakeholders to ensure that they are equipped and provided with the relevant opportunities to help them create a brighter future for themselves, their families and their country. LEADERS OF

TOMORROW Noting that the buses will not just be transporting schoolchildren, but the leaders of tomorrow, President Granger said: “You don’t need to bring foreigners to process your bauxite; you don’t need to bring in foreigners to manufacture products from timber or gold; you can have the education to do it yourself in due course. “Gradually, year after year, I want to see more Guyanese doing the same things that the foreigners have been doing for the last 100 years. “It is the children who will be going to school in these buses who are going to be controlling our petroleum industry 10 and 20 years from now. I want to see a nation of owners; not a nation of observers; owners of our resources. “The owners will be the educated people that we will be sending to school in these buses. I want to see rich Guyanese; not poor Guyanese. I want to see independent thinkers; not dependent workers.” Noting the challenges in the sector, the President said that his administration will not be deterred from its mission until every Guyanese Turn to page 22 ►

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

‘Worth every... child is in school and stays in school. “Let us keep on keeping on until every Guyanese child can get to school. An education nation will also grow empowered people. We are not demanding anything from the citizens but we are giving them something; educating them, employing them and empowering them. This is not political and partisan, it is a national service. You have elected us to serve and we are serving you. When you go into these buses, you will be travelling the highway to education, the highway to employment and highway to empowerment. These buses will not only take us to school but on the road to full employment. We have transformed this country from an ethnic consensus to a platform for empowerment,” President Granger said. He that it is for the foregoing reasons that he established the National Endowment for Science and Technology (NEST) programme, which provides funding to schools to support Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) initiatives. Guyana, he said, must begin to produce empowered young people who are versed in the areas at reference, and can positively develop the rich potential of this nation into real benefits for the citizens. NOT ABOUT RACE Said he: “I give money to schools which have science facilities and laboratories; and I don’t care about race. I don’t care about location; I don’t care about religion. “Hindu schools, Muslim schools, Christian schools have all gotten money, and as long as you are teaching Guyanese children, you will get money for science and technology. “Guyanese, you are living in the largest CARICOM state: The most beautiful; the most bountiful, but yet the largest region in Guyana. The Rupununi does not have a proper highway; our rivers do not have proper stellings. Some of the aerodromes need repairing and refurbishing. Who will do it? Foreigners? No! We have to train a generation of Guyanese engineers and mathematicians; children who will be going in these buses will, 10 or 20 years from now, become our engineers.” President Granger expressed gratitude to the donors, noting that it is heartening to see so many persons becoming involved in the mission to educate every Guyanese child. “I would like to thank the donors because these bus-

From page 21

es did not come from state funds. These buses came from citizens with a conscience; private citizens who want to see the best for Guyana’s children,” he said. Social Protection Minister, Ms. Amna Ally, who has been coordinating the ‘Five Bs’ programme, said its implementation is testimony to a caring Government with a vision to take Guyana to new and greater heights. She noted that the Government is responsive and proactive to the needs of the people and will through every means necessary, seek to address social ills and inequality issues, specifically issues that impede children and young people from reaching their full potential in life. “We have a President that believes in reducing poverty, reducing inequalities and providing a good life for allm” she said, adding: “This administration will invest, because education is a key cultural and social right, and plays an important role in reducing poverty as well as promoting democracy. “We will invest because we recognise that education is both a human right in itself, and an essential means of realising other human rights.” ONLY THROUGH EDUCATION She said, too, that it is only through education that children will be safeguarded from exploitative and hazardous labour and sexual exploitation and infringement on their human rights. “This programme has become extremely successful, because now we are bridging the education gap between hinterland and coastal regions by providing improved access to transportation for schoolchildren to get to and from school,” Minister Ally said. “Students are now able to get to school on time and parents are no longer burdened with transportation expenses. No longer will education be a distant dream for your children because they reside in rural or hinterland areas or because you cannot afford transportation cost. Under the David Granger ‘Five Bs’ programme, we will ensure that all our children continue to have access to transportation,” she added. Minister Ally said that access to education must not be seen as a privilege for some but as a basic human right for all Guyanese children and every child or teenage boy or girl must be able to thrive in order to support the future of high productivity, innovation and

economic growth. “I want to assure you that we are deeply committed to building a nation where all children, regardless of their gender, socio economic background or circumstances, have access to free, compulsory, equitable and quality education. We will not permit the unique talents of our young people to fall by the way side. We will and intend to provide safe learning environments, text books, support for parents and transportation for our children to attend school as is evident today with the commissioning of these three school buses. Georgetown, this is one of a number of investments that our Government will make within your region there will be many more to come, especially in the area of education,” the Minister said. ‘I’M OVERJOYED’ Ms. Tonya Albert, a student from the South Ruimveldt Secondary School, expressed gratitude to the President and Government as she noted that she is proud to witness the donation of the buses as it shows a strong commitment on the part of the Government towards the development of its young people. “I am overjoyed, because the nation’s children are part of this government’s plan. This is a huge investment in our education; this action of yours will support student development and stimulate their desire to contribute to the growth and prosperity of Guyana,” she told the President. “As we travel to school for the new school term, we will be committed, determined and focused in our pursuit of excellence. “On behalf of the nation’s children, I stand here to say thanks to you and all other stakeholders involved in making this dream a reality. Thank you for investing in our education, and ensuring that we can get to school,” the youngster added. The event was hosted by Minister of Public Health, Ms. Volda Lawrence, and attended by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo; First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger; Minister of State, Mr. Joseph Harmon; Attorney-General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr. Basil Williams; other Ministers of the Government; members of the diplomatic corps, the executive and other members of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) and scores of residents from Georgetown. (Ministry of the Presidency)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday August 22, 2017

Amazon Warriors, Digicel spread CPL cheer with Diamond Special Needs School CHILDREN from the Diamond Special Needs School were in awe today, thanks to Digicel, after spending some quality time with the players and staff of the Guyana Amazon Warriors cricket franchise. “This event is not new. We’ve been doing this throughout the Caribbean and wherever Digicel markets are and where cricket is being played,” said Digicel manager Vidya Sanichara. At the Marriott Hotel, the Amazon Warriors took time to interact, sign autographs and also engaged in a friendly game of cricket with the children of the Diamond Special Needs School. “Some of them have

never been to the Marriott, some of them have never been to cricket or met the players. So today we’re bringing Digicel and the players a little closer to them,” Sanichara told reporters. She further explained that Digicel has been “partnering with Special Needs for a number of years, and that’s something very close to our hearts. We also worked with the Diamond Special Needs School in the past”. Rayad Emrit, the Amazon Warriors’ right-arm fast-medium bowler expressed his delight, and that of his teammates, at being able to bring smiles to their fans, calling it a “special moment” for them as a team.

Windies, Pakistan for T20I series in late November ST JOHN’S, Antigua – Cricket West Indies and the Pakistan Cricket Board are advancing discussions that will see the Windies team playing three Twenty20 matches with the Pakistan cricket team in Lahore in late November

2017. The tour would be subject to the safe conclusion of the ICC World XI team’s three match series in Lahore in September and affirmation of manageable security by the ICC sponsored international security company overseeing the security arrangements of the World XI in September. This follows discussions between CWI President, Dave Cameron and Pakistan Cricket Board Chairman Najam Sethi. Both sides expressed a desire to facilitate the return of international cricket to Pakistan.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

Legends bemoan Windies’ woes as ‘a cricketing tragedy’ LONDON, England (Reuters) - The gradual decline of West Indian cricket is hardly a new phenomenon but the latest capitulation of a once-dominant Test match power has brought genuine expressions of sadness throughout the sport. The defeat by an innings and 209 runs in the first daynight Test in England at Edgbaston at the weekend left both Caribbean legends and old international foes alike bemoaning what they saw as Windies cricket crashing to rock bottom. With a callow visiting team looking helpless in the absence of their best players and losing 19 wickets in one woeful day on Saturday, the overwhelming feeling was summed up by former England captain Michael Vaughan, who worries about yet more humiliation for the visitors. “I really fear that this series could be one of the saddest for Test cricket,” Vaughan told the BBC, before the second Test that starts in Leeds on Friday. According to another former captain Geoff Boycott in the Daily Telegraph newspaper, there could be no room for English gloating because the Windies surrender at Edgbaston had been so “painful to watch”.

does hurt. And it has reached a point where it is very embarrassing. “For now, I’m just hoping West Indies can compete at Headingley and Lord’s (in the third Test) because what we have seen so far has been pathetic.”

Legendary West Indies fast bowler Curtly Ambrose

“This West Indies lot are the worst Test match team I have seen in more than 50 years of watching, playing and commentating on cricket,” Boycott wrote. “They can’t bat and can’t bowl. I take no pleasure out of saying this as I played against some of the greatest players the world has ever seen wearing the maroon cap of the West Indies. “It is a cricketing tragedy to see the West Indies like this .... It is just sad to see a once-proud cricket Test team lower than any I have ever seen before.” The sadness was felt much closer to home, too, with the great Antiguan fast bowler Curtly Ambrose telling the Daily Mail newspaper: “It

INTERNAL PROBLEMS It is now 17 years since a West Indies side won a Test in England and, as Vaughan suggested, “every time they have arrived here, they seem to have got worse.” The halcyon days of those thrilling 1980s and early 1990s teams, when Ambrose and his fellow pace demons inspired fear and batting blasters like Viv Richards looked so imperious on English tours, have never felt more like pre-history. The problems that have beset the sport in the Caribbean for so long were highlighted brutally in the Edgbaston debacle. The West Indies may be the Twenty20 world champions but the mainstays of that triumph - like Chris Gayle, Marlon Samuels, Dwayne Bravo and Darren Sammy - now play lucrative T20 tournaments around the world rather than represent the West Indies after constant pay disputes with Cricket West Indies.

The world T20 win and the Under-19 team’s world championship victory last year tell of talent and potential that can still be harnessed in the Caribbean game. Yet at Test level, the internal conflicts have led to serial under-performing with the Windies having not won a Test series away from home, other than against the ‘minnows’ Bangladesh and Zimbabwe, for 22 years. Without senior players to guide them, it was the way the young team folded so meekly at Edgbaston that upset Ambrose. “I talked with Sir Viv Richards and Sir Andy Roberts at length before and during the Test about how we used to dominate world cricket, about our pride and passion. That’s what’s lacking,” wrote Ambrose. “What concerns me is that I do not think these players know what West Indies cricket means to West Indians and followers of the global game. People feel sad for us and that’s just not right. Ambrose was desperate to see an improvement at Headingley. “Come back with aggression, confidence and commitment,” he commanded the class of 2017. “Our history and the pride we once had in our cricket demands it.”

Gabba curator Mitchell to pull up stumps after Ashes MELBOURNE, Australia (Reuters) - Long-serving Gabba curator Kevin Mitchell, who has prepared pitches at the Australian cricket fortress for over 30 years, has said he will step down after the series-opening Ashes Test. The Brisbane venue has long been acclaimed for the quality of its pitches, which invariably offer pace and bounce for fast bowlers, turn for spinners and the possibility of big totals for batting sides. “I’d taken a step back from the physical side of work and engaged in more of a guidance role with the team to see out my contract while helping to recruit my successor,” Mitchell told Brisbane’s Courier Mail. “I want to thank the grounds team for their con-

Kevin Mitchell

tinual efforts to meet the high standards required and maintaining the culture of having great pride in producing quality playing surfaces.” Queensland sports minister Mick de Brenni paid tribute to Mitchell for laying the foundation for some of

Australia’s most dominant performances. “Kevin truly is an icon, and to have kept producing an absolute world-class deck on a ground that’s used all year round has taken a particular talent. So, absolutely, very, very big shoes to fill,” he said. Mitchell learned under the wing of his father and former head groundsman Kevin Mitchell Sr, who tended the grounds from 1975 to 89 before being succeeded by his son. “The great West Indies side were out in those days with the four big quicks and Clive Lloyd, Viv Richards and the like ... and I just thought, ‘what a great place to work,’” Mitchell said in comments published by state broadcaster ABC. “The Gabba is a famous,

iconic, historic stadium, and you feel that responsibility to create something that Queenslanders are proud of. You have to love the job -it’s a big part of your life.” Australia have not lost a Test at the Gabba since 1988, when they were beaten by West Indies, and only two of the last 13 matches have been draws. Australia play the Ashes series opener on November 23, four years after thrashing England at the same venue by 381 runs when left-arm seamer Mitchell Johnson took nine wickets. England opening batsman Jonathan Trott’s struggles against the short ball at the Gabba saw him promptly exit the tour with a stress-related illness and Australia went on to whitewash England 5-0.

Upbeat Warriors aim to end CPL home leg on a high From Back Page

team table with virtually no chance of making the playoffs. Stars lost the curtain-raiser to current leaders Trinbago Knight Riders by nine wickets before also going down to TKR in the return game in Port of Spain. They then shockingly lost their remaining four home games at the Darren Sammy Cricket Ground, showing little of the form that took them to the playoffs last year. However, new skipper Shane Watson admitted that while the results are not what they expected, the players remain motivated ahead of the Warriors’ clash. “Everyone is very motivated because we still have a lot to play for… yea we know the final is out of reach, but we certainly have a lot to play for as a team, collectively and also individually as well we want to put

out our best performances as well, so everyone has a lot of pride in his own performances,” Watson disclosed yesterday during a pre-match press conference. Watson, who replaced Darren Sammy, acknowledged that it has been a difficult season for the Stars, adding that a number of factors have contributed to the poor performances. “A lot of different things have happened, be it injury, where it’s about availability and there is also the human nature of the game of cricket as well … sometimes it doesn’t go exactly to the plan for the individual and team as well, and unfortunately this year just hasn’t gone as planned for us,” the Australian said. Watson pointed out that for the Stars to be competitive tonight, they must better the Warriors’ team combination and execution.

South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:40 hrs Just As I Said 09:20 hrs Only To Win 09:55 hrs Martha’s Vine-

Yarmouth 11:40 hrs Orchid Lily 12:10 hrs Sakurajima 12:40 hrs Issue 13:10 hrs Miami Sunset 13:40 hrs Green Howard 14;10 hrs Multicultural 14:40 hrs Hamish Mc Go-

yard

10:35 hrs Hot Curry 11:10 hrs Inn A Million English Racing Tips Brighton 09:00 hrs Taajub 09:30 hrs Tiny Tempest 10:00 hrs Gunner Moyne 10:30 hrs Ididitforyoooo 11:00 hrs Buxted Dream 11:30 hrs T he B ear C an Fly 12:00 hrs Buzz Lightyere Kempton 09:15 hrs Grand Acclaim 09:45 hrs Sicario 10:15 hrs Ambrosia 10:45 hrs Ibazz 11:15 hrs Sir Titan 11;45 hrs Hackney Road 12:15 hrs W olfcatcher jack

nagain

Irish Racing Tips Sligo 12:20 hrs Shanning 12:50 h r s B r o u g h t o n s Star 13:20 hrs Darkest Flyer 13:50 hrs S parky S tow away

14:20 hrs Ancient Empire 14:50 hrs Market’s Field 15:20 hrs Boris Grishenko American Racing Tips Indiana Grand Race 1 Officer Griffin race 2 On a Mission Race 3 Chasing Sunsets Race 4 Pass and Go race 5 Restless Rambler Race 6 Vida Leva Eu Race 7 Chargingonby Race 8 Opportunity Cost

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday August 22, 2017

Mini Cadet champion Krystian Sahadeo qualifies for ITTF Continental World Hopes FOLLOWING outstanding performances at the recently concluded ITTF Caribbean Hopes Table Tennis Training and Selection Camp, national Boys 11-and-under player Krystian Sahadeo has been selected to participate at the Continental Latin American World Hopes Training and Selection Camp, which will be held from September 18 to 23 in Asuncion, Paraguay. Sahadeo is one of two Guyanese who participated at the Caribbean event, the other being Jonathan Van Lange. The Caribbean level of the training camp, which was held from August 14 to 19, was a first for the Caribbean region, and was conducted under the auspices of the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF), Latin American Table Tennis Union and the Jamaica Table Tennis Association for the 11 years-and-under participants. The camp was held prior to the 2017 Caribbean Mini and Pre Cadet Table Tennis championships, and saw only the top two boys and girls from the participating countries being selected to move on to participate in the continental level of the camp. The training will see the youngsters compete with the best players from South America, Central America and the Caribbean for possible qualification to the prestigious ITTF World Hopes Week & Challenge. The Hopes Programme is one of many ITTF development initiatives which target

Krystian Sahadeo

the global reach and overall growth of table tennis. The number one goal is to encourage National Associations to run talent identification programmes and also to promote and work with young talented players for future success and growth. Training and selection camps are held at the national, regional and continental levels before moving to the world edition. The ITTF and Latin America Table Tennis Federation have now brought the Caribbean in line with the rest of the world in terms of the format used to select World Hopes players. This was done in line with ITTF’s new philosophy of developing the athlete with overall attitude, potential for growth and not just talent. So performance at the camp selection competition ranked 65% of the marks, while talent, attitude, discipline, potential for growth, technical ability, among other attributes, accounted for

35 percent in the assessment of the players. Sahadeo’s selection will now see him follow in the footsteps of his countryman, 2016 Caribbean 11 yearsand-under Boys champion Kaysan Ninvalle, who qualified last year for the ITTF Latin Hopes camp in Peru, and went on to win a bronze medal, as well as national Women’s champion Chelsea Edghill who was selected in 2012. Special mention was made of Krystian’s accompanying teammate at the camp, young debutant Jonathan Van Lange, who also played well, putting up a good run. He came up against the more experienced players from the Dominican Republic. Kenard Sahadeo, father of Krystian who accompanied the team to the camp, said he was very pleased with how the players adapted and performed at the camp. He felt, though, lack of experience hampered Jonathan. The rest of Guyana’s national Mini and Pre cadet members, who departed Guyana on Sunday morning on a Fly Jamaica flight en route to Jamaica, arrived safely and had their practice session which went well, according to national coach Linden Johnson. The championships commenced yesterday with the Guyana 13 years-andunder Boys team of Kaysan Ninvalle, Isaiah Layne, and Jonathan Van Lange, being grouped with Jamaica A, St Vincent and St Lucia in the group stages for a place into the semifinals.

Pollard declines a Mankad in CPL thriller THE culprit in a highly-controversial Mankad incident at the 2016 Under-19 World Cup very nearly saw his batting partner dismissed in the same fashion in the Caribbean Premier League match at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence on Sunday night. West Indian Keemo Paul was criticised by the likes of David Warner and Stephen Fleming last year when he took the final wicket of the match against Zimbabwe by running out the non-striker as he was about to bowl. Such a dismissal is legal under the laws of the cricket but it’s deemed by some to be against the spirit of the game, and Paul was widely criticised by past and present players. And 18 months later, Paul’s batting partner Assad Fudadin was almost dismissed in the very same way during Guyana’s tense win over Barbados in the CPL. With Guyana needing eight runs to win with seven wickets remaining, Paul faced up to Barbados skipper Kieron Pollard partway through the 19th over. As Pollard was about to bowl, he noticed non-striker Fudadin had advanced out of his crease so the bowler stopped next to the stumps and indicated that he could remove the bails and run Fudadin out. While completing such a move would have been a perfectly legal dismissal, Pollard decided against taking the wicket and instead simply warned Fudadin to stay in his crease until the ball was bowled. Fudadin did just that from the next ball as Paul was caught at long-on, but Guyana held on to claim a four-wicket win with five balls to spare. The term ‘Mankad’ was first coined in 1947 when great Indian all-rounder Vinoo Mankad ran out Australia’s Bill Brown at the non-striker’s end during a Test match at the SCG.

Kieron Pollard makes his point.

Last year, the MCC moved to eradicate such controversy by extending the point at which a bowler can attempt the runout and also changing the name of the law to “put the onus on the non-striker to remain in his/ her ground”. “It is often the bowler who is criticised for attempting such a run-out but it is the batsman who is attempting to gain an advantage,” the MCC said of changes to Law 41.16, which is now called ‘Non-striker leaving his/her ground early’ having previously been called ‘Bowler attempting to run-out non-striker before delivery’. “The message to the non-striker is very clear – if you do not want to risk being runout, stay within your ground until the bowler has released the ball.” The MCC’s changes, which will come into effect next month, are in line with the thoughts of former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar, who recently called for the term ‘Mankad’ to be eradicated from the game’s unofficial terminology as it’s disrespectful to the great Indian all-rounder, and Sir Donald Bradman, Australia’s captain during the original incident in 1947. Brown always took full responsibility for his famous dismissal in that match, while

Bradman was incredulous that the blame had been directed at the Indian player. “For the life of me, I can’t understand why (the press) questioned his sportsmanship,” Bradman wrote in his autobiography Farewell to Cricket. “The laws of cricket make it quite clear that the non-striker must keep within his ground until the ball has been delivered. “If not, why is the provision there which enables the bowler to run him out? By backing up too far or too early, the non-striker is very obviously gaining an unfair advantage.” In April, Gavaskar said he agreed that the batsman should be responsible for remaining in his or her crease and applauded the MCC for the change. “There’s no debate as far as I’m concerned,” he said. “If the batsman is trying to take an unfair advantage by leaving the crease before the ball has been delivered, I think the bowler has every right to remove the bails. Even without warning him. “The Laws are very, very clear and I think now that the MCC has come up with accepting that, I think a lot of people will start to understand that it’s the batsman who is being unfair, not the bowler.”

CAS upholds life bans of three officials England paceman Broad sets sights on 2019 Ashes THREE athletics officials have had their life bans over an alleged doping cover-up upheld by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. (CAS) Papa Massata Diack, son of ex-IAAF president Lamine Diack, and Russians Valentin Balakhnichev and Alexei Melnikov had their appeals dismissed. They were charged in December with multiple breaches of anti-doping rules relating to Russia’s Liliya Shobukhova. CAS are yet to publish the grounds for upholding the

sanctions. A statement released yesterday said: “The panel concluded that on the evidence adduced, the charges were established beyond reasonable doubt and that the sanctions imposed should be upheld. “The full award with grounds will be published as soon as possible.” In a 170-page report, the independent International Association of Athletics Federations ethics commission panel ruled Diack, Balakhnichev and Melnikov

conspired to “blackmail” Shobukhova to cover up her doping violations by her paying them “bribes” of about £435 000. Diack and Balakhnichev, a former president of the Russian athletics federation and IAAF treasurer, were fined £17 000 while Russian coach Melnikov was fined £10 000. In December, Diack told the BBC he “totally rejects” the blackmail allegations, saying: “There was no extortion of funds from any athlete.” (BBC Sport)

(REUTERS) - England’s Stuart Broad wants to play in the home Ashes series against Australia in 2019. The paceman has said thus after passing Ian Botham to take second place on the country’s all-time list of Test wicket-takers. The 31-year-old Broad went past Botham’s haul of 383 wickets during England’s first-Test win over West Indies by an innings and 209 runs at Edgbaston on Saturday. Broad, who has 107 caps, bowled Shane Dowrich to claim his 384th dismissal

and finish with five for 81 in the match. “I have a lot of cricket left in me,” Broad told reporters. “I’m really enjoying being a part of this team and hopefully have a few more miles in the tank. “I’ll be 33 in 2019. I certainly hope that my performances will keep improving so that I’m part of that 2019 Ashes.” England, who hold the Ashes, visit Australia for a five-Test series in November. The two sides meet again in England in 2019. Broad is keen on main-

taining his fitness levels ahead of their trip down under but insists he would not want to be rested for the remaining two Tests against the Caribbean side. “This winter is a hugely exciting one,” he added. “The two teams are very similar so it should be a belter. “I will politely be suggesting that I will be having sufficient rest in September and October to be available for the next two Tests against West Indies.” England’s second Test against West Indies begins on Friday at Headingley.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday, August 22, 2017

GCF selects quartet for Pan American Track Championships THE Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF) has selected four cyclists to represent Guyana at the 2017 Pan American Cycling Championships scheduled for Trinidad and Tobago’s National Cycling Centre in Balmain, Couva from August 30 to September 3. According to information received, Romello Crawford, Geron Williams, Scott Savory and Daryl Rogers will make up the Guyanese team and they will be managed by Joseph Britton, while former Guyana Olympian James Joseph will be the team’s coach. This will be the second time that Guyana will be a part of this Elite Championships, having

been represented last year when the event was held in Mexico where Guyana was represented by Joseph and GCF president Horace Burrowes. Joseph represented Guyana at the 1980 Moscow Olympics as well as the 1984 Los Angles Games. Crawford, who hails from the Ancient County of Berbice, represented Guyana at last year’s Junior Pan American Track Championships held in Trinidad and Tobago last year and he is expected to give a good account of himself at this year’s Elite Championships in the Twin Island Republic. Williams and Savory are the two most experienced members of the four-

Romello Crawford

man team and have both been campaigning on a regular basis on the United States cycling circuit with

Geron Williams

very good results. They are both capable of medalling come August 30. However, little is known

about Rogers, who, according to information received, will be making his debut at this level. He is

based in the United States. Team manager Britton, along with Crawford and Rogers, will depart Guyana tomorrow when training will commence for the two cyclists at the competition’s facility. Savory, due to work commitments, will join his colleagues on August 27. Joseph and Burrowes will join the local cyclists on August 28. This year’s championships will showcase Olympic medallists and reigning world champions and is being organised by the Pan American Cycling Federation in collaboration with the Trinidad and Tobago Cycling Federation.

We had nothing to lose - Walton By Stephan Sookram

THE Guyana Amazon Warriors rode the wave of the Chadwick Walton Show on Sunday evening when they picked up their second win in this year’s Hero Caribbean Premier League. Chasing down an ominous 160 for victory, the Warriors opted for a switch in the batting, a switch

which they ensured they were ahead of the curve at the end of the powerplay. The chief in that effort was Jamaican-born Walton, who slammed a match-winning 92 before departing. He contended that there was a do-or-die mentality. “Our back was against the wall and we needed a win and so we just came out focused and went at

it. We had nothing to lose,” he told reporters following the match. The Warriors seemed to return to the form that they are known for with a shakeup in the batting as Sohail Tanvir opened alongside Walton. According to the wicketkeeper-batsman, the option to produce the switch was not one make unilaterally.

“It was a team effort. I mean the coaches decided that they will have to make a change because if you do the same thing over and over and you expect different results then it’s pointless.” Looking ahead, Walton predicted a tough task to qualify for the playoffs but remained optimistic that the side had what it takes to make it there.

Essequibo table tennis sub-association hosts successful championship Chadwick Walton

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER

COMPLIMENTS OF: THE TROPHY STALL Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & AUDREY’S TASTY SNACKETTE 176 Charlotte Street, Georgetown (Tel: 226-4512) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1)Warriors & Red Steel (Knight Riders) (2)Chris Gayle & Sunil Narine Today’s Quiz: (1)What are the best bowling figures in a CPL final

to date?

(2) Who is the first player to win Man of the

Match Awards twice in Hero CPL 2017? Answers in tomorrow’s issue

APPROXIMATELY 25 racquet-wielders converged on the Anna Regina Secondary School’s auditorium on Friday, August 18, to participate in the Essequibo Sub-Association’s table tennis competition, which was held for the first time in almost 20 years, according to one of the organisers. The event proved to be quite exciting with a number of thrilling finishes as the players enjoyed the atmosphere and vocal fans. Among the winners of the various categories were Under-13 – 1st Timothy Theophil and 2nd Royden Morris; Under-15 - 1st Jean Marc, 2nd Timothy Theophil and 3rd Emanuel Jeffrey; Under-17 – 1st Emanuel Jeffrey,

2nd Marc Mahase and 3rd John Applewhite-Hercules; Under-21 - 1st Emanuel Jeffrey, 2nd Navindra Sorujlall and 3rd Romario Persaud. Meanwhile in the open category, former national Under-19 cricketer Nathan Persaud proved too domi-

nant, relegating Romario to second place and Sephron Dyal third. The winners were all presented with trophies which were donated by well-wishers including the Department of Youth. The organisers

were Region 2 Sports Officers Debra Daniels and Nathan Persaud. More competitions are scheduled for other venues as the Association seeks to develop, sustain and promote the sport in Region 2. (Errol Stephney)

Winners of the various categories pose with their trophies. Organisers Debra Daniels at left and Nathan Persaud (centre)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Tuesday August 22, 2017

Gayle, Samuels selected for England ODIs ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Talismanic opener Chris Gayle is poised to play his first One-Day International in 29 months after being named yesterday in a 15-man squad for the fivematch tour of England next month. The 37-year-old will be joined by fellow Jamaican Marlon Samuels who has also been kept out of the squad in recent times by Cricket West Indies’ controversial eligibility rule, which required players to make themselves available for the domestic format in which they wish to play internationally. However, CWI last month announced a “temporary player amnesty” paving the way for the return of several of the region’s previously marginalised stars. The left-handed Gayle, with over 9 000 runs and 22 hundreds from 269 ODIs, will be a massive boost to a young squad who have found life difficult on the international circuit and have slumped to ninth in the ICC rankings. He last featured in ODIs during the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Samuels, meanwhile, has not played ODIs since the Pakistan series last October but his over 5 000 runs and 10 hundreds will also add to the experience of the unit.

Marlon Samuels (l) and Chris Gayle (r) are included in the squad in a CWI strategy designed to ‘improve player relations’.

“The panel welcomes back Chris Gayle and Marlon Samuels, who will both add value to our batting and help with the nurturing of the young batsmen in the team,” chief selector Courtney Browne said. Seasoned fast bowler Jerome Taylor has also been recalled for the first time in a year, adding further experience to the squad. The Bravo brothers, Dwayne and Darren, along with Sunil Narine have opted out of selection for the tour, however. Darren Bravo, exiled by CWI for nearly nine months over a controversial tweet, has indicated his unavailability for the tour. CMC

Sports understands the stylish left-hander is keen on first regaining his form in the upcoming first class season for Trinidad and Tobago Red Force before returning to international cricket. Likewise, Narine and Bravo have both timetabled their return for next year “Both Sunil Narine and Darren Bravo have declined to be considered for ODIs in England,” Browne said. “Narine has, however, confirmed his desire to play 50-over cricket again but has asked to play in our Regional Super50 before he is considered and Darren said he was not available for selection.

“Dwayne Bravo said he is still not 100 per fit, but is looking at a possible return to international cricket next year.” Narine played as recently as the Pakistan series last October while Dwayne Bravo has been controversially overlooked since his role in the abandoned one-day tour of England three years ago. Meanwhile, uncapped Windward Islands batsman Sunil Ambris has been retained in the touring party. He was called up in the recent series against India but failed to play a match. Test batsman Roston Chase, who made his debut against Afghanistan in June but has mustered a mere 68 runs in six innings, has been dropped. As expected, Jason Holder will lead the squad and will have Jason Mohammed as his deputy. West Indies open the tour with a match against Ireland in Belfast on September 13 before facing England from September 19-29. SQUAD – Jason Holder (captain), Sunil Ambris, Devendra Bishoo, Miguel Cummins, Chris Gayle, Kyle Hope, Shai Hope, Alzarri Joseph, Evin Lewis, Jason Mohammed, Ashley Nurse, Rovman Powell, Marlon Samuels, Jerome Taylor, Kesrick Williams.

Rooney joins the 200 club and shows he isn’t done yet By Simon Evans MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - Wayne Rooney scored his 200th Premier League goal in Everton’s 1-1 draw at Manchester City on Monday and gave another display which showed his career is far from over. Rooney’s 35th minute goal looked to have earned Everton a surprise victory at the Etihad Stadium before substitute Raheem Sterling volleyed in an 82nd minute equaliser. Although he did not end as the match-winning hero, Rooney was able to savour the moment he became just the second player to reach 200 Premier League goals. Former Newcastle and England striker Alan Shearer, who ended his career with 260 goals, welcomed Rooney to the exclusive club by tweeting: “It’s been lonely in this @premierleague 200 club. Welcome and congrat-

Everton’s Wayne Rooney celebrates scoring their first goal Action Images via Reuters/Carl Recine

ulations @WayneRooney”. “It was nice. To do it today in such an important game for us, with tough games coming up, it was a sweet moment and I am sure the red half of Manchester will have enjoyed it as well,” said Rooney who scored 183 of his

goals in the red shirt of United. Rooney’s move last month back to the club he has supported since his youth and where he made his professional debut, was questioned by some critics who wondered whether he might have run out of steam.

But the 31-year-old, who scored on his home debut against Stoke City last week, gave another display of clever passing and positioning as well as his trademark finishing. “It is not bad for someone who is not fit anymore and can’t get about the pitch! I have always put a shift in for the team and tonight is no different,” he said. “The manager has made it clear he wants to play me in the attacking positions. I have done that throughout my career and the thing for me is to play. I didn’t play as much last year and if you don’t play you don’t get that match fitness,” he said. Rooney’s revival in blue has raised the issue of whether he could earn a recall to Gareth Southgate’s England squad ahead of next month’s internationals. “I am focusing on Everton. I am sure I will speak to Gareth Southgate over the next few days and we will see what happens,” said the forward.

Can the real Amazon Warriors continue to stand up? By Stephan Sookram THE Guyana Amazon Warriors, the real Warriors turned up Sunday evening for the first time in six games and that was the unit that Guyanese wanted to see. So the question is: where were they all this time? One educated guess suggested that they may have been locked away in the freezers of a popular Georgetown ‘court’ but that remains just speculation. However, there are some key points that have come out of Sunday’s win against the Tridents that are not to be overstated. THE OLD SWITCHEROO Not sure if Roger and Co. read my article a couple of days earlier but it seems someone in their camp did and relayed the information. Or maybe that’s me blowing my own trumpet. Regardless, the message got over. Guptill wasn’t scratching and they needed to do something fast. Sending Sohail Tanvir up the order was a masterclass and kudos to the brainbox behind that as it surely caught Pollard and Company by surprise. Tanvir did a wonderful job atop the order, freeing his hands and clobbering anything even remotely wayward. HURRICANE WALTON You’ve got to admit that with the pressure of having to pick up after a misfiring Guptill gone, Chadwick Walton was freer as he let loose on the Barbados Tridents and it was like watching Picasso transform a blank canvas. He got a life off a blunder at deep mid-wicket and he made Barbados pay for it. His shots were precise, his footwork confident and his attitude positive as he dispatched like a conductor directing a symphony. That’s the sort of positivity that the Warriors need to flow through the side if they are to have any chance of making the playoffs. He and Guptill worked well in the middle stages, Guptill setting the stage by turning over the strike and Walton unleashing the willow. Make no mistake, this was – in the context of the situation - the best game plan, but somehow Guptill either lost focus or saw a way to end it early. This cost him dearly. He departed and then Walton followed in almost carbon-copy manner immediately after. One overzealous pull to long on off a slower Kieron Pollard delivery ended a beautiful innings short of what should have been triple figures. THE IN-EXPERIENCE What followed, honestly, was embarrassing. Needing 14 from 15 deliveries, the Amazon Warriors batsmen seemed to feel it would be better to end the game quickly and the Tridents skipper Pollard seemed to be all too willing to let them go after him. First it was Jason Mohammed, a standout player for GAW this season thus far but on this occasion, too feisty. One would have expected him to settle, take the situation in hand and bring the game home minus the drama. He didn’t, and only dispatched Pollard to long on for Tion Webster to take an absolute stunner. Up came his replacement Keemo Paul; only to try the same and be dismissed. Were the Warriors trying to lose on purpose? It sure seemed so. However, what was clear was those batsmen got caught in the moment – Inexperience. FUDADIN, THE UNSUNG HERO His place has been questioned in the T20 squad but Assad Fudadin showed his worth on Sunday evening; and I hope the WICB Selectors were watching. He thinks before playing. He could have easily looked to deposit Pollard in the stands but he didn’t. He understood that wickets were falling around him and that the slogging approach of those before him was not the route to go. Instead, he employed patience in the face of haste and got the ultimate reward. He told me yesterday, “What it called for was a bit of patience, I analysed the situation and understood that we could have won it comfortably with singles,” and win it he did. He lasted out the danger-man Pollard while rotating the strike and then forced the skipper to bring the field in to stop the singles in the final over. BRAINPOWER A simple punch over the head of mid-on and the stadium erupted. All it took was brainpower. Don’t get me wrong, the Warriors have won an all-important game and let’s hope they keep that momentum going when they face the St Lucia Stars this evening. But their real win would be to learn from those mistakes made the night before and do not repeat them.

Gayle, Samuels selected for England ODIs Page 31

Upbeat Warriors aim to end CPL home leg on a high … Stars gunning to spoil party, says Watson

St Lucia Stars captain Shane Watson (left) and coach Stuart Williams during yesterday’s pre-match press conference. (Photo: Adrian Narine)

By Rajiv Bisnauth

THE Guyana Amazon Warriors will aim to sign off their home leg of the Hero Caribbean Premier League campaign on a high by clinching the fourth and final game this evening against a beleaguered St Lucia Stars. The contest is billed for an 18:00hrs start at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. The Warriors have not played to their full potential, at least for the first six games. Their below-par performances have left them for the second time in three days, in a must-win game today to stay in the hunt for a semifinal spot. The equation now, which looks simple on paper, is that the Warriors need to win the remaining three games and hope for other results to pan out in their favour. The Warriors lost five of their seven games, three overseas and the first two at home, but bounced back in style on Sunday evening with a comprehensive win over the Barbados Tridents. The men in green, red and yellow scripted their turnaround, with opener Chadwick Walton playing a match-winning hand, hitting 92 off 57 balls in the Warriors run chase of 160 for victory. In that light, perhaps it is good news that the Warriors top-order batting has restored some pride, something they failed to deliver consistently for the first six games of the tournament. The bowling held up well for the first six games but couldn’t stand up to the Tridents. However, that should not be too much of an issue for the Warriors, since home advantage always plays that key role. On the other hand, the Stars have lost their first six matches of the campaign to be bottom of the sixTurn to Page 28

Amazon Warriors, Digicel spread CPL cheer with Diamond Special Needs School

Page 27 Wicketkeeper-batsman Chadwick Walton shares a ‘selfie’ moment with a few children from the Diamond Special Needs School. Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

TUESDAY, AUGUST, 22 , 2017