Guyana chronicle e paper 09 01 2017

300 WCB children receive backpacks Page 17

No. 105022

FRIDAY,SEPTEMBER 1, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

HappyEid -Ul -Adha to all Guyanese

‘Completely unacceptable’

…Pres. Granger chides senior cop’s attitude to alleged assassination plot

Page 3

Drive out corruption’

…AG tells Lindeners at anti-corruption seminar Pag e 4

Bosai commissions water dredge

Page 18

President David Granger receives a copy of the Commission of Inquiry report into the alleged plot to assassinate him from commissioner, Paul Slowe (Asst Police Commissioner Rtd) (Samuel Maughn photo)

US cocaine mule begs for mercy

Page 5

US$31M water treatment project on stream

Page 14

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

School vouchers come in handy B y V a n e s s a Braithwaite

WITH two days left before the new school term begins, the market arena in Linden is crowded with anxious parents and their children trying to pick up the last of their school supplies.

While many vendors, both on the Mackenzie

and Wismar shores are happy with the boost in sales during this time, parents are more happy that to add to their little pennies is the school uniform vouchers worth $2,000 that were granted to each school child from the nursery to secondary school.

During a walk around in the market on Thursday, parents can be seen

bartering the vouchers for their children’s school supplies ranging from school bags, uniform, lunch kits, underwear, socks and stationeries.

Almost all of the stalls in the market have big and bold signs, ‘school vouchers accepted here’. Some very colourfully decorated to catch the eyes of par-

ents.

The vendors also explained that encashing the vouchers is not a fatiguing task.

“Is not no hard process or so like you have to wait long or anything, is just for you to carry it and get through,” one vendor explained to this publication.

Parents also lauded the government for in-

One of the stalls in the Mackenzie Arcade with the school uniform voucher sign

creasing the vouchers by $500 which is a “little but useful freck”.

“A mean people might say is just $500 more but with that $500 you can pick you fine fine thing like ribbon, socks, kerchief, towel, rag and it can really help out,” one single parent mother named Karen said while shopping for her four children.

“Is four of them I get and I don’t work, their father does hardly send something so with the $8, 0000, I thank God for because it really help out a lot for me to be able to send them out to school Monday,” the parents explained while busily purchasing the school supplies.

Another parent, in the Mackenzie Arcade, who was looking for school uniforms for her daughter who is now starting primary school,

said the school voucher at least assisted her with one uniform and she still has change to purchase ribbons and kerchiefs.

“I am grateful for it, yes, because it help to do so much and I know many parents who don’t work were able to send their children off to school… I think it is a good thing the government is doing,” Arletta Plowell said.

One vendor Lucresia Hinds explained that many of the sales are coming from the vouchers and even after school re-opens, people would still use them.

She said all vendors look forward for this time as sales go up. The school vouchers were instituted by the previous administration at a cost of $1,500 but have been increased to $2, 000 by the present administration.

‘Completely unacceptable’

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

…Pres. Granger chides senior cop’s attitude to alleged assassination plot

By Ariana Gordon PRESIDENT David Granger on Thursday said that he found it “completely unacceptable for any public official to deem the allegation of, or intention to plot to assassinate the president of any country, as being inherently incredible.”

He said “that is what I found inherently incredible that a person who is appointed to conduct an investigation, without completing an investigation would come to such a conclusion.”

President Granger made the comments at a small State House function to receive the report into the alleged plot to assassinate him. The report was handed over by Commissioner Paul Slowe.

In March, Grove East Bank Demerara businessman, Adriff Gillard alleged that he was offered $7M to assassinate President Granger back in 2015 shortly after he took office. Gillard, who testified before the Commission, alleged that his former friend Nizam Khan offered him the money to kill the President.

Gillard also accused members of the GPF of covering up and noted that his report to the police was not taken seriously by officers of the Criminal Investigation Department’s Major Crimes Unit, headed

by Crime Chief Wendell Blanhum. He told the Commission that Police Commissioner Seelall Persaud is a good friend of Khan’s brother Imran and it is because of the connection that the matter was not taken seriously.

During his testimony at the CoI Blanhum when asked how did he view the allegation made by Gillard by counsel for the Guyana Police Force, Ian Chang, responded: “It is my humble opinion that the allegation made by Gillard against Khan is inherently incredible.”

The President told the small gathering which comprised members of the Commission of Inquiry (COI), Minister of State, Joseph

President David Granger and Minister of State, Joseph Harmon (center), stand with Commissioner Paul Slowe and team, after the handing over of the report into the alleged plot to kill the head-of-state (Samuel Maughn)

Harmon, and the media, that despite what critics may feel, COIs are important “because they help to uncover the truth”. “…and they help to correct malpractice and abuses within the system so we can have a safer country and have a more secure government.”

The head-of-state said too that he will be reviewing the content of the Paul Slowe report carefully before sharing it with his Cabinet, after which it would be made public. A similar view was expressed by Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, who said the alleged plot to assassinate the head-of-state is one of public interest and noted that it was conducted in accordance with Section 11 of the Commission of Inquiry Act. Harmon said the alleged assassination plot “is not a laughing matter” as many may believe, neither is it one to be treated trivially. He said many believe the officers involved could have been called in and scolded but noted that “this is a very serious matter and the matter is taken very seriously by the administration.’

Meanwhile, when asked by reporters whether he is fearful for his life as a result of the alleged plot to

assassinate him, the President said, “I am fearful for the office of the Presidency, …I think the Office of President is one that should enjoy the protection of the security services and any reports of threats, or risks to the president’s life or life of any immediate relative of the president such as the president’s wife (First Lady), children deserve to be properly and thoroughly investigated. It is not a question of fear; I think it is good practice to ensure the president is safe.”

President Granger made it clear that he has not judged the issue, noting that despite having read what was published in the media, he prefers to review the Commission’s report and form his opinion. “I will make a judgment after reviewing the Commission’s report,” he stated. Asked whether there was a correlation between his decision to ask the Chairman of the Police Service Commission to halt police promotions with the report of the Paul Slowe-led Commission, the President said the issues are “quite separate” but noted that it is good practice to

await the findings of such an inquiry before taking any administrative action.

“I think it is understood on the part of the senior officers of the GPF that once something is being investigated there should be an administrative delay so that the findings are published.

But more importantly, of the information we received, credible information, I had written to the chairman of the police service commission asking to await the outcome of those complaints from the senior officers and other persons who were interested,” President Granger explained.

He made it clear that the complaints made were worthy of asking the chairman of the Commission to delay the promotions. For his part, Slowe told reporters that the inquiry was a very involved and lengthy process which enabled the Commission to gather enough evidence to answer the Terms of Reference (TOR). He described the inquiry as “exhaustive” but stressed that the TORs were fully answered. The retired Assistant Police Commissioner declined to give comment on the composition of the recommendations but noted that

the report would be made available to the public by the government.

TERMS OF REFERENCE The Commission’s Terms of Reference had included investigating and reviewing the full range of the actions and responses of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) to the reports and the extent to which such actions were conducted or executed with due diligence. It was also asked to determine whether any person, and, in particular, officers of the GPF, had information before and after the reports were made of the alleged assassination plot and whether that information was communicated to any superior authority; and report on what official action was taken on information received and if there was due

diligence by GPF officers in the investigation.

Additionally, it was tasked with reviewing all actions taken by the GPF and examining whether there was “failure, neglect or omission to thoroughly and properly investigate” and to determine whether this was intentional.

It is to also determine the “blameworthiness for failure or neglect of officers or persons involved in the investigation” and to recommend action to be taken against anyone found culpable, as well as to recommend steps that can be taken to prevent a recurrence.

President Granger, in November 2016 on the Ministry of the Presidency’s television programme, The Public Interest, said that while the Guyana Police Force had not received the attention it deserved in the past, his administration will work to make it a sound, professional organisation. He had noted that the Government will act as is deemed necessary, and this will entail some changes in the current administration of the GPF, in addition to several other measures. “We reckon that the decision that we took to bring the British Security Sector Reform Programme here is the right one because we cannot proceed in this country with an unreformed Guyana Police Force and some of the actions, which are taking place convince me that reform has to take place and we are going to do that,” he said.

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‘Drive out corruption’

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

…AG tells Lindeners at anti-corruption seminar

ATTORNEY General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, said the corrupt must be exposed and all efforts must be made to weed out the corruption scourge in our society.

Williams made the comments while addressing the opening session of an anti-corruption sensitisation workshop held in Linden on Wednesday. The workshop was aimed at providing an overview of the State Asset Recovery Act, No. 14 of 2017, the Protected Disclosures Bill 2017 and the Witness Protection Bill 2017. The forum was one of several that will be conducted countrywide to educate communities across the country and to engage various stakeholders in discussions so as to understand their peculiar needs. Presentations were made by senior staff within the Parliamenta-

A section of the audience at the anti-corruption sensitisation seminar held in Linden on Wednesday

ry Division on each piece of the legislation.

The State Assets Recovery Act embodies the anti-corruption thrust of the State and is predicated on the United Nations Con-

vention against Corruption 2003, which was ratified by the Government of Guyana in April 2008. It uses a civil-recovery process and is intended to give effect to the non-conviction based

asset recovery recommen-

dations contained in the

Convention.

The Protected Disclosures Bill and the Witness Protection Bill are both intended to buttress the State Asset Recovery Act. The Protected Disclosures Bill, commonly known as the ‘Whistleblowers Bill,’ aims to combat corruption and other wrong doing by encouraging and facilitating persons to make disclosures of improper conduct. The Witness Protection Bill provides for the establishment of a programme to protect certain witnesses and other relevant persons required for trial.

Wednesday’s seminar brought together Regional officials and other stakeholders at the Watooka Guest House and the Attorney General used the forum to warn against the scourge of corruption. Minister Williams pointed out that there is a connection between corruption and poverty, noting that greater the corruption greater the poverty. As such he said it is important to protect the state’s assets. “I know that it is a very important aspect that we protect the state assets, which are your assets, the assets of the people and of the nation.”

Additionally, the Attorney General reiterated that corruption hinders economic growth as it dissuades investors, both local and foreign, and undermines public confidence in the administration. Williams stated that the Government has taken a zero-tolerance

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

US cocaine mule begs for mercy …jailed for four years, fined $3.3M A 48-YEAR-OLD United States citizen who was caught at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport trying to smuggle cocaine in his carryon luggage, was sentenced to four years in prison and fined $3.3 million after he pleaded guilty to the offence.

Warren McKi, father of three, pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him by Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Providence Mag-

istrate’s Court on Thursday.

The charge read that McKi on Wednesday, August 30 had 1.252 kilograms of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor, Konyo Sandiford, told the court that the father of three checked in as a passenger on a Fly Jamaica Airlines flight and was destined for JFK. However, when McKi placed his luggage at the airport

scanner, suspicious images was observed inside. A CANU officer approached him and requested to examine the said luggage. The officer pierced the back of the suitcase with a metal object and two packets of whitish substance was observed. He was also nabbed with US$2,667, which CANU planned to seize.

In court the unrepresented man explained that he was going through financial difficulties and took the chance

‘Drive out corruption’ ... approach to corruption in all its forms.

He warned that if Guyana is to continue on a development path, then it is

imperative that these issues be tackled head on.

“Corruption and corrupt practises by public officials must be eliminated and

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams addressing the audience

Continued from page 4

ill-gotten funds must be recovered through the use of the appropriate state mechanisms. Corruption must be exposed, the corrupt should be pursued and corruption must be driven out wherever it exists,” Williams asserted.

Williams called for the cooperation of all the stakeholders present and encouraged them to support the government in its efforts to prevent corruption. The Attorney General expressed optimism that the seminar would foster a sense of integrity among those in attendance, which included members of the Regional Democratic council, the Chamber of Commerce, the Police Force, the Mayor and City Council, the Linden Electric company Inc and village councillors.

The workshop was also attended by Chief Parlia-

to traffic the drugs. He further stressed that he needed the

drugs money to send his son to college to study Medical

Science. “I moved from Guyana to America fifteen years ago and I’m now an American citizen. Last year my mom die and I used all my life savings for her burial” McKi added as he begged the Magistrate for leniency, since he also have to look after his elderly sister in the US, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.

Magistrate Scarce however sentenced McKi to four years imprisonment along with a fine of $3.3M, which is 3X the market value of the drug.

mentary Counsel; Charles Fung-a-Fatt, Parliamentary Counsel; Ronetta Sargeant, Parliamentary Counsel; Diane Woolford and Senior Parliamentary Counsel; Joann Bond. Also in attendance were: Mayor of Linden; Carwyn Holland and Assistant National Director; Sandra Adams.

Meanwhile, in giving an overview of the State Asset Recovery Act, No.14 of 2017, Fung-a-Fatt posited that the Act is to estab-

lish a State Assets Recovery Agency in consonance with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption 2003, headed by a Director. Under the Act the director will recover through civil proceedings, State property unlawfully acquired by a public official or any other person.

During the seminar Sargeant and Bond explained in depth the aspects of the two bills. The Ministry of Legal Affairs

will be embarking on a countrywide programme of sensitisation and public engagement on the anti-corruption legislation. The sensitisation seminars are aimed at targeting members of the Guyana Police Force, the Chambers of commerce, volunteers and public officials, members of the Regional Democratic council and several others.

The next seminar is scheduled to be held in October in Region Six.

Warren McKi

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Editorial

The message of sacrifice THE holy festival of Eidal-Adha will be celebrated today in Guyana; its message of sacrifice has left an indelible mark on humanity for eternity.

The occasion observed

by Muslims the world over, commemorates the willingness of Ibrahim to follow Allah’s command to sacrifice his own son Ishmael. The Almighty, on recognising the faithfulness of his servant, intervened before Ibrahim could have committed the act and asked that a lamb be sacrificed as an offering instead.

The story of Ibrahim has for centuries served as a reminder to Muslims of the faithfulness they owed to God, and

has inspired many to keep the faith. From the awe-inspiring narration that passed down from generation to generation, several themes stand out in universal support for upliftment of humanity.

But two of them resonate with both believers and non-believers. These are sacrifice and loyalty to the Creator. In life, sacrifices are important and many would agree that a life without God is like a ship in the ocean without a sail. God, the Supreme Being is the embodiment of love, respect, tolerance, brotherhood, peace, unity and all the good qualities that are spiritually pure one can think about in life.

Man on his sojourn on Earth is duty-bound to keep close to his Creator, and in doing so, he has to be a firm embracer of peace, unity and brotherhood -- in short humanity—to remain God conscious. So in loyalty to the Creator, it is important for man to be an upholder of peace, love and unity among his fellow mankind. This is an integral part of the universal message of sacrifice and loyalty to the Creator from the festival Eid-al-Adha, and it strikes a chord when it comes to Guyana.

For years, Guyana has been divided along ethnic lines, fueled by the unsavoury rhetoric of some

politicians who are bent on protecting their narrow self-interests. Guyanese are peaceful and happy people by nature, but for too long there has been distrust among the two major ethic groups. This has not been a healthy situation for the youths of today who want to see all hands on deck, working in the interest of the development of Guyana.

For Guyana to move forward and get to where it envisions to be, it will have to be united, and this would require all to make the sacrifice, putting aside all personal prejudices and collectively put their shoulders to the wheel to build a land that is just and bountiful for all. God

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

wants his people to be united and to live in peace and happiness. But for this to happen, sacrifices would have to be made, and here is where the message of Eid-al-Adha is relevant to Guyana.

No one is asked to kill to prove his obedience to the all-pervading God of love, peace and togetherness, but simply to make the sacrifice in putting their fragile ego aside, embracing commonalities and making a concerted effort to overcome their differences. So as Muslims throughout Guyana and other parts of the world today engage in charitable activities and don new clothes to celebrate

the sacrifice and loyalty of the servant of God Ibrahim, Guyanese, led by their political leaders can take a step towards brotherhood by shaking off the animosity they have for each other and set out on a path for cooperation where all participate equally and meaningfully. And the people, irrespective of their ethnicity, should begin to see each other as their brother’s keeper and as part of the diverse family of the Creator. In this way, all in some way will demonstrate sacrifice and loyalty to the Creator, who is a God of peace, love and unity as the story of Eid-al adha reflects.

Eid ul Adha Messages -

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PNCR recommits to unity in diversity THE People’s National Congress Reform has extended greetings to the Muslim Community in Guyana and, indeed, to all Guyanese, on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha.

On this occasion Muslims recognise the value of self-denial and the sacrifice of the things they love, the party said in a message. According to the PNCR, the act of submission by the Prophet Abraham is an example of genuine surrender to the will of God, which should be emulated by all. The preparedness of the Holy Prophet to

make the supreme sacrifice, as proof of his total commitment to the teachings of Allah, should inspire us all to strive towards the ideals of brotherly love, peace, justice and empathy towards one another. It is only by the personal commitment of each Guyanese citizen to the above stated ideals can our country develop into a Nation characterised by unity, harmony and a sense of decency.

The PNCR said it has always been and will always remain respectful of Guyana’s cultural and

religious believes, “that our diversity has worked and can continue to work to the country’s advantage. In this latter regard, it should be remembered that it was the PNC Government, under its Founder Leader, Forbes Burnham, which paved the way for each of the country’s major religious groups to observe their holy days as National Holidays. Our Party remains committed to ensuring unity in diversity so that our beloved country can experience real development and progress.”

PPP: Let the significance of Eid-ul-Adha be foremost in our mind THE People’s Progressive Party (PPP) said the significance of Eid-ul-Adha should be foremost in the minds of all Guyanese.

In a message to mark the occasion the PPP said a national holiday, Eidul-Adah reminds us all of unbridled humility and the willingness to selflessly make sacrifice in obedience of God. “Its message is seen as pertinent to the spiritual upliftment of all mankind, which redounds in peace and togetherness.

It comes during the annual Holy Pilgrimage to Mecca, The Hajj; a journey that embodies sacrifices in the quest to fulfill religious obligations and which is demonstrative of the teach-

ings of equality.”

According to the party Eid-ul-Adha observance continues to exemplify humane characteristics of generosity, morality and love for others, especially the less fortunate. In a diverse society like Guyana, where religious boundaries are often transcended, these attributes have proven their value not only in catalyzing and strengthening bonds among our people, but which continue to forge better understanding and appreciation of our cultures.

As our Muslim brothers and sisters celebrate in traditional ways, the occasion once again brings into focus the many sacrifices

Guyanese have made over time for self-advancement and nation-building with the common objective of a better life and future for all. The PPP remains mindful of these sacrifices and those that are currently ongoing. “As Guyanese endure in this challenging period, our party is cognizant of their ingrained resilience and resoluteness which is fortified knowing that with sacrifices come rewards.

The PPP urges that the message and significance of Eid-ul-Adah be foremost in the minds of all so that hope flourishes.

Once again the PPP extends best wishes for the occasion. Eid Mubarak!”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Third GECOM list under review-President PRESIDENT David Granger on Thursday said he is currently reviewing the third list of nominees submitted by Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, to be considered for the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) Chairmanship.

Speaking to reporters at State House, the President said, he has since responded to Jagdeo indicating that he is in receipt of the list and is examining same.

Jagdeo submitted a list of six nominees to the President some six days ago after the second list he submitted was rejected on the ground that it was “unacceptable”. “I have examined the Curricula Vitae of the six persons in light of the criteria defined in my letter to you dated 2017.03.14. I have found the list to be ‘unacceptable’ within the meaning of the Constitution and of those criteria,” the President had said back in June when he had refused Jagdeo’s sec-

ond list.

The third list submitted by Jagdeo comprises of former GECOM Chairman Major General (retired) Joseph Singh, Attorneys Teni Housty and Sanjeev Datadin, businesswoman Annette Arjoon-Martins, Pastor Onesi La Fleur and Former Magistrate, Krishendatt Persaud.

President Granger has continuously said that the list submitted by the Opposition Leader must match the criteria set out in keeping with Article 161 (2) of the Constitution for the selection of a ‘fit and proper’ person to fill the post.

On Thursday, the head of state said he is looking at the third list critically and would make his decision based on advice received. “I don’t make these decisions without advice and I will discuss the matter with my colleagues, but certainly not before next cabinet, which is next Tuesday,” said the President.

He could not state when

he would complete his review of the new list but noted that he is not at fault for the delay in the appointment of a GECOM chairman. The

the second list. Earlier this year, businessman Marcel Gaskin approached the High Court to interpret Article 161 (2) of the Constitution of

Gaskin questioned whether the list of persons for appointment as GECOM Chair to be submitted by Jagdeo must include a judge, former

President David Granger engages the media Thursday at State House (Samuel Maughn)

President last consulted with the Opposition Leader in June after the submission of

Guyana, which speaks to the appointment of a chairman for GECOM.

judge or person qualified to be a judge; the President is required under the constitution

to state reasons for deeming each of the six names on the list as unacceptable; the President is obliged to select a person from the six names on the list unless he has determined positively that the persons are unacceptable as fit and proper for appointment and whether a finding of act by the president that one or more persons on the list is not fit and proper renders the entire list as unacceptable.

Justice George ruled that persons nominated to be selected as Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) do not have to be judges, former judges or persons qualified to serve as a judge.

She also ruled that while the President has the ultimate say on who is determined fit and proper to serve in the post, and could also reject the list of nominees, he should provide reasons as to why specific persons are unsuitable.

Eid ul Adha Messages -

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FITUG urges faith, IAC: Time to learn the value of self-denial submission and sacrifice THE Eid-ul-Adha/Azha religious legend is a powerful inspirational story of man’s willingness to submit and sacrifice as commanded by God, the Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) said in a message.

According to the union, the Islamic version that spawned the festival of Eid amongst the Prophet Mohamed’s followers bears a striking similarity to one of sacrifice in the Christian Holy Bible. This, the

union said illustrates the oneness of mankind’s belief in a higher creator whose commands can both test and strengthen the faith of believers.

“Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Ishmail, holds lessons for us ordinary mortals of all faiths. Our love and respect for the God we choose as our spiritual foundation should supersede any earthly authority which beholds us to do their bidding. When we submit to God, he blesses us with endless mercies and gifts just as

he substituted an animal for the son Ibrahim willingly. It also holds advice relevant to giving to others that which we could afford to assuage their stringent needs.

In Guyana at this time, we are all being made to endure some form of economic sacrifice in our daily lives and existence. The Federation of Independent Trade Unions of Guyana (FITUG) hopes that our current hardships and sacrifices will result in early bounty just as Allah granted the dutiful Ibrahim.

GAWU: Sacrifice key in realising our dreams EVEN as mankind is caught up in a continuous life-long efforts to achieve personal and international peace; to acquire material and economic well-being based on general access to education, good health and food and job security, the peoples of the world long ago realised that spiritual development is an indispensable requirement for solace and a bedrock for our very progress, indeed, our very happiness in the future.

World religions provide us guidance that has helped us, in instances, through

generations to cope with life’s many severe challenges. Islam, too, a world-wide faith with a following of hundreds of millions, has given guidance not only to its followers, but its teachings have found world-wide acclaim.

Against those reflections, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) is again pleased to share in the Eid-ul-Adha joy of our Islamic Community as it observes this important activity of the Islamic faith.

The willingness of Ibrahim to obey God’s (Allah’s) command to sacrifice his

dearest “possession” – his only son – must be a spiritual inspiration to all Muslims and a reminder of the importance of sacrifice in our life and especially as we face its vicissitudes.

GAWU greets Guyana’s Muslims on this special day, which has been fittingly recognised by our nation and which significance is highly valued by us all. As we strive to go forward, we all need to recognise the value of sacrifice in realising our dreams and aspirations. A happy Eid-ul-Adha to the Muslim community from GAWU.

THE Indian Action Committee (IAC) wishes to extend greetings to all Guyanese citizens, especially those who are adherents of Islam, on the sacred occasion of Eid-ul-Adha, a national holiday.

The IAC said it recognizes that Eid–ul–Adha is a time for believers to learn the value of self-denial by making a sacrifice of the things they love, to Almighty God. The IAC understands that Prophet Ibrahim’s great act of submission is thus regarded solely as an example of genuine surrender to the will of his creator. The IAC feels that today, more than ever, human beings need to incorporate the lesson of this great sacrifice with humility, thus underlining the importance of the festival in memory of Prophet Ibrahim’s great act of faith, many centuries ago.

The IAC exhorts everyone in the spirit of self-sacrifice to not forget the poor and needy in our community, by sharing the sacrificial offerings with them. The IAC sincerely hopes that this holy observance can bring people of different religious, ethnic and social backgrounds together in a

spirit of national unity. The IAC understands also that the festival of Eid-ul-Adha falls on the third day of Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, which is made by millions of Muslims every year.

The IAC congratulates our brothers and sisters

from home, who have undertaken this journey and extend good wishes for their safe return. The IAC calls upon all Guyanese to ensure that this country remains a peaceful one and in the future, a prosperous nation.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Aircraft body submits shuttle procedures to GCAA …Gouveia blasts suspension order THE National Air Transport Association (NATA) on Thursday presented its Shuttle Procedures to Director-General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Lt. Col. (ret’d) Egbert Fields, even as one of its members, Captain Gerry Gouevia has blasted the body’s decision to suspend interior shuttle service.

NATA’s submission is in keeping with an initial requirement made by the GCAA Director-General three weeks ago for operators to submit their shuttle flight regulations and procedures. Guyana Chronicle was informed that aircraft operators were given up to the end of August to submit the documents. On Wednesday, Fields announced that all shuttle operations have been suspended following the last three plane crashes in the hinterland which claimed the lives of two pilots.

He said the suspension is as a result of a preliminary analysis of the accidents, which indicate that the common thread was the shuttle operations. “As a result of the accidents and the authority’s preliminary analysis, the authority has now taken the decision to suspend all operations until the documented procedures and policies for shuttle operations are submitted, reviewed and approved by the inspectors of this authority,” Fields said, adding that he could not say when the suspension will be lifted.

Fields noted that while shuttle operations are important to the development of the local aviation industry, they come at a risk, as they are completely different to regular passenger

Captain Gerry Gouveia, Managing Director, Roraima Airways

flights. He said, too, that while aircraft operators, with whom he had earlier in the day met, were not pleased with his decision, they were nonetheless committed to submitting their manuals and other documentation, relative to policies and procedures to the GCAA soonest so that the ban could be lifted.

Fields said that once the documentation would have been submitted, the Authority will then cross-reference them with those of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), after which each operation will be subjected to a physical inspection by the entity’s inspectors.

Last Sunday, rescue teams were dispatched to a location some two miles north of Mahdia in search of the Air Services Limited (ASL) Cessna 206 aircraft flown by Khan, after it had failed to land in Mahdia. Khan was laid to rest on Wednesday.

On July 25, Roraima Airways pilot, Colin Martin, died when his Britten-Norman Islander aircraft crashed on landing at Eteringbang, in Region Seven (Cuyuni-

Mazaruni). Two weeks later, a Britten Norman Islander captained by Dominic Waddel also went down in the Eteringbang area, but luckily, the pilot was able to escape with minor injuries. However, the move by the GCAA did not find favour with Managing Director of Roraima Airways, Captain Gerry Gouveia.

Gouveia on his Facebook page said that the move is nothing more than an emotional reaction to the accidents which occurred.

“This is a knee jerk reaction. We have not done any real analysis to come to this conclusion,” he stated, while noting that “Shuttles do not cause accidents. The pilots still have to obey and observe the same rules of flying, same technical operations of the plane, same respect for safety altitudes.”

Gouveia believes that attention needs to be paid to increasing operational control and oversight; monitoring of pilots duty times; accelerating the implementation of the ADSB SYSTEM all across Guyana; establishing a proper search and rescue system equipped with a heavy lift Helicopter; improving the national weather reporting system, the conditions of the hinterland runways and establishing security systems for the runways; organising more national aviation management safety seminars dealing specifically with the rudimentary of flying in Guyana’s Jungle; establishing procedures for stabilising flights and completing the GPS approaches that was started years ago for every runway here.

According to him, shuttle operations were birthed as a result of Guyana’s vast lands

Representatives of NATA submit their shuttle procedures to Director-General GCAA Lt. Col. (ret’d) Egbert Fields on Thursday (Learie Constantine Barclay photo)

space and the fact that major commercial center is located in Georgetown. “In the past to transport supplies to the hinterland communities, the planes were loaded at Ogle and flown one hour into the hinterland then returns empty to ogle and start again. The cost of transporting supplies like that was expensive and slow, very slow.”

Gouveia said that with the expansion of the road network across the country and the rapid development happening in the mining and forestry sectors, “new and improved logistics were developed.”

He said, though the Eugene F. Correia International Airport remains the main hub for all domestic carriers, additional bases were established at specific points in the hinterland just below the mountains.

“The supplies would be driven from the city to those forward bases and the planes would be positioned there; rather than flying one hour with supplies and returning empty to Ogle. The planes were now flying 10 to 15

minutes from the forward base to the villages, interior shops and mining camps spread across the hinterland of Guyana,” said Gouveia, who noted that as a result, the cost of food and other supplies became affordable for those living and working in the hinterland.

This he believes contributed significantly to the massive economic development seen in the hinterland over the years. “The mass of the people living in the hinterland now depend on these flights to support their new way of life,” Gouveia added, as he reminded that the local economy has grown significantly as a result of the expansion of the domestic aviation sector.

Currently, he said there are approximately 100 flights daily domestically, while noting that “Operators invest millions and millions of dollars into the local aviation sector.” The managing director said too that as the economy grew, aviators became creative and created logistical systems aimed at reducing the

cost of living for those living in the hinterland regions.

“These new systems were not developed by [the] Government; it was developed by the Private Sector,” he remarked.

Like Gouveia, Michael McGarrell of Amerindian People’s Association (APA) on his Facebook page said the move by the GCAA to temporarily suspend the shuttle operations will have “immediate impacts on some communities.” “If this is not lifted before the beginning of the new school term it means that teachers and children will not be able to get back to school. Some communities like Chenapou are not included in the domestic routes therefore the only way in and out is through Shuttle services,” the APA representative stated.

Though it is unclear when the temporary ban will be lifted, Fields did acknowledge the economic impact the move would have on not only aviators, but the mining and forestry sectors, as well as inhabitants.

Hospitalised ‘bandit’ was sentenced for armed robbery THE suspected bandit who was shot during a failed attempt to rob an interior flight services supervisor, in the vicinity of Giftland Mall at Liliendaal, East Coast Demerara on Tuesday had been sentenced to two years in absentia by Magistrate Alex Moore at the New Amsterdam Court.

Berbice Divisional Commander, Assistant Commissioner Paul Williams, confirmed to Guyana Chronicle that the injured man Mark Griffith,

now hospitalised at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), was sentenced following a trial for a robbery-under-arms allegation.

Particulars of the charge stated that on September 21, 2016, at Number Two Village, Griffith in company with others, while armed with a gun, robbed Navendra Singh of a cellular phone and other items totalling $460,000.

Initially, bail was denied, but was subsequently granted and was drastically reduced to $30,000. How-

ever, after the sum was posted in February, the defendant never returned for his court hearings.

Consequently, the trial proceeded in his absence, and on May 29 last he was found guilty as charged, and a two-year sentenced was imposed.

Griffith remained off the police radar until Tuesday when he was implicated in the failed robbery.

On that day, a 42-year-old interior flight services supervisor and her security escort, who was armed with a licensed handgun,

Mark Griffith was sentenced to two years in prison

went to Ogle Airport in a motor car, driven by the supervisor and collected several parcels.

Police said as they were returning to Georgetown via the Railway Embankment, in the vicinity of the Giftland Mall Access Road, a dark-coloured motor car suddenly blocked their path and immediately two males, exited the vehicle, brandishing firearms.

During the process, the armed escort drew his firearm and discharged several rounds which struck one of the bandits, who fell.

The security officer then exited the vehicle and discharged his firearm at the other armed accomplice who managed to escape on foot while the vehicle that was transporting them sped away.

The police reported that shortly after, a man suspected to be the accomplice, visited the GPHC with gunshot wounds. Griffith had been implicated in several criminal offences, notably break and enter and larceny and robbery under arms.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

16 State House, other staff complete Grade Two Chef’s Course

SIXTEEN State House and Ministry of the Presidency staff members on Thursday afternoon, completed the Grade Two Chef’s Training Course, which is a collaborative effort between the Office of the First Lady and the Guyana Defence Force (GDF).

The course commenced on June 7, 2017 and was held

at State House.

The course comprised theoretical and practical training in composing a full course meal, table etiquette, hospitality and also included topics such as basic of food and nutrition and digestion and absorption.

Delivering brief remarks to participants, First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger said

she is pleased that the participants have now augmented their knowledge about healthy food choices and preparation.

“Education is a lifelong [process] and I’m very happy that members of staff from throughout State House have not only signed up but have been faithful in completing the assignments

L-R seated: Guyana Defence Force Warrant Officer, Weslyn Boodie-Blades, First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger and Lieutenant Colonel (Ret’d), Yvonne Smith, of the Office of the First Lady at the closing ceremony for the Grade Two Chef’s Course training. The participants are pictured standing

set, because you all know that when you get your certificate… it is a recognised certificate,” she said.

Mrs. Granger further thanked the GDF for facilitating the course, particularly Warrant Officer

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Weslyn Boodie – Blades, who conducted the sessions. (Ministry of Presidency)

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President calls for charity, compassion in Eid message

I EXTEND greetings to all Guyanese, but especially to the Muslim community on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha 2017.

We recall, at this time, the unshakeable faith of the Prophet Abraham, who was willing to sacrifice his only son as an act of obedience to God. The preparedness of the Holy Prophet to make the supreme sacrifice as proof of his total commitment to the teachings of Allah and is today ob-

served in Guyana and all over the world with the sacrifice of an animal, which is divided among family members, friends and neighbours and the remaining third is given to the poor and needy.

This act of charity is an inspiration to all Guyanese and reminds us that it is only by the personal commitment of each citizen to the ideals of empathy and common purpose can our country develop into a Nation characterised by unity, harmony,

prosperity and a sense of decency.

On this most sacred occasion I call on all Guyanese to renew their commitment to the ideals and the spiritual foundation of this nation, as well as the building of an inclusive p o l i t i c a l c u l t u r e . G u yanese, let us learn from the lessons of charity and compassion for our fellow man from our Muslim brothers and sisters and let us work together for development of our country.

Eid Mubarak to all!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Eid-ul-Adha presents opportunity for the coming together- Dr Norton

Muslims in Guyana and across the world today celebrate Eidul-Adha, also known as the “Sacrifice Feast”, in remembrance of the willingness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God. Because of his obedience, Prophet Abraham passed God’s test and his son’s life was spared when God prepared a sheep as a substitute. As a result, on the observance of Eidul-Adha each year, an animal is sacrificed and its meat shared.

The Ministry of Social Cohe-

sion recognises the significance of this day, which is one of the holiest days on the Muslim calendar and extends warm Eid greetings to Muslims across our country.

Eid-ul-Adha symbolises the willingness of Muslims to sacrifice their life and property in the name of God and for the cause of Islam and emphasises their commitment to service and charity to their fellow man.

A large portion of the meat garnered from sacrificed animals is distributed to the less fortunate, demonstrating the care and compassion for their fellow Guyanese.

This symbolic act is an illustration of the types of actions that should be emulated across by all Guyana in the furtherance of maintaining social cohesion. The Ministry

commends the members of the Muslim community for their continued charitable work. Eid-ulAdha also presents an opportunity for the coming together of diverse peoples, who share a common destiny and want to see Guyana prosper.

Eid-ul-Adha is an opportunity to reflect on the maintenance of religious freedom in Guyana, even as we recognise the importance of cooperation in order to achieve national development. We must also commit to sacrificing our time, energies and resources in order to work towards building a society, which is characterised by harmonious relations. The Ministry wishes the Muslim community all the best on this Holy Day. Eid Mubarak to all!

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Linden dumpsite road completed

By Vanessa Braithwaite THE access road leading to Kara Kara dumbsite in Linden has been completed by the Ministry of Communities to the tune of $18M and works are currently ongoing on the land fill site, which when completed, will significantly improve waste management in Linden.

Linden Mayor and Town Council (LMTC) Chairman, Wainwright Betune, told reporters that soon Kara Kara will have a modern land fill site which will eradicate some of the waste disposal issues facing Linden.

He said, however, that the LMTC still does not have the capacity to fully serve the entire Linden as it relates to waste disposal, something that the current Council has inherited and residents have been bemoaning for decades.

This has resulted in Cevon’s Waste Management setting up shop in Linden, catering for most of the homes on both the Mackenzie and Wismar shores.

Cevon’s however has been dumping at the land fill site at Dakoura Creek, an area close to the water shed which provides water to some residents on the Wismar shore.

Residents have complained about the indiscriminate dumping of garbage at the creek’s water shed area which was resulting in leaching into the creek.

Betune revealed that the Council has written to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for them to facilitate a meeting between councillors and the management of Cevon’s to decide on how the two entities will effectively share the dumpsite at Kara Kara.

“Once that meeting is held, dumping will stop at Dakoura,” Betune revealed.

In 2016, however, EPA staff had visited the dumpsite and had ordered that it be closed down since it was described as a terrible environmental hazard.

The LMTC is however striving to increase the number of compactor trucks it has and is actually in the process of procuring one. Councillor Devin Sears also revealed that proceeds garnered from the Linden Town Week 2018 will be used towards acquiring waste management resources.

The Council is in possession of a one tractor and one truck for garbage collection.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Guyana on target to ratify UNCCD GUYANA has advanced its efforts towards achieving Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) Target Setting Programme (TSP), the Department of Public Information said in a release on Thursday.

At a validation workshop on Thursday at Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown, Commissioner of the Guyana Lands and Survey, Trevor Benn, explained that the country has made significant strides towards developing this document.

“I’m happy to report that Guyana is the only other country in the Caribbean that has been able to bring the process to this stage,” Benn pointed out.

The country joins Grenada which was part of the pilot phase of LDN TSP. The LDN TSP is part of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) of which Guyana is a signatory. The GLSC is the national focal point for the implementation of this convention. “So this proj-

ect give us an opportunity to look at the country; to look at the soil statistics of the country and determine where they’re degraded lands, how much of it has been degraded and what steps we need to take to reclaim the healthy soil so that there is a neutral effect in terms of loss of degraded soil,” Benn explained.

There are three indicators which are used to track degradation: land cover, land productivity and soil organic carbon. The

Commissioner of the Guyana Lands and Survey, Trevor Benn, addresses participants at the workshop. Also in photo at head table, is Minister of Public Affairs, Dawn Hasting-Williams

GLSC began the voluntary process of establishing a TSP last year to achieve LDN by 2030. A series of consultations with stakeholders across Guyana has since been completed to help the GLSC understand where problems lie and eventually develop projects to mitigate these.

The LDN TSP document is expected to be submitted to Cabinet before submission to the United Nations later this year.

“This process that we have been through over the last

Participants at the validation workshop on Thursday at Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown

several months not only will help us to understand the status of our lands but it will help us to be able to plan to make sure those coming behind us…would be able to have the benefits of good land,” Benn said.

Already, it has been found that drought, mining activity and flooding are threats to land degradation in Guyana. “We know that there is need for improvement in the way we manage our land…we are about to embark on a sustainable land development and management project,” Benn pointed out.

LND is a new initiative intended to halt ongoing loss of healthy land through degradation by creating target for land degradation management, promoting dual-pronged approach measures to avoid or reduce degradation of land.

Guyana has “a very low level of degradation”, less than 10 percent, compared to other countries, Benn highlighted. (DPI)

Inter-faith service ushers in Indigenous Heritage Month THE Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs on Thursday evening, hosted an interfaith service to usher in Indigenous Heritage Month 2017, which is being celebrated under the theme “Guyana’s First Peoples; Sustaining a rich Cultural Environment.”

The event was hosted at the Indigenous Village, Sophia, Georgetown and was attended by First Lady Sandra

Granger, Minister with the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, representatives of the Diplomatic Corps and a diverse representation of the different religious faiths of Guyana.

This year’s Inter-Faith service was one with a difference with the First Lady and Minister Garrido-Lowe being escorted into the Benab

by the ‘Alleluia Indigenous Group’ as they marched in groups of twos around the building chanting in their indigenous dialect. Alleluia is the only traditional religion in Guyana and is practiced mostly by the people of the Upper Mazaruni and the Pakarimas. Alleluia means a solemn worship to the supreme father in heaven.

Amokokopai, a small village

A section of the gathering at the prayer session

in the Upper Mazaruni hosts the headquarters of the Alleluia church. Branches can also be found in Brazil and Venezuela, and they meet once a year to update records and deliver reports of the churches.

Prayers were also offered in the Arecona, Patamona, Wai-Wai and Makushi dialects, welcoming everyone into the presence of God

and asking the most high for wisdom and understanding.

There were also instrumentals from Dexel and Ronaldo Calistro from Kabakaburi, and songs from Kamarang and Bethany.

Indigenous Heritage Month activities will officially commence tomorrow with the heritage ceremonial launch, where President David Granger will deliver the feature address. There

will a cultural extravaganza from September 01 to 05, where dance, songs, food, craft, and an art exhibition will be displayed at the Heritage Village. Also scheduled is the heritage pageant, sports, a fund-raising event and Reflections on the Life of Stephen Campbell. The National Heritage Village is Pakuri Village - St Cuthbert’s Mission on September 09. (DPI)

First Lady Sandra Granger and Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe being escorted by the Alleluia group at the Inter-Faith Service at the Heritage Village, Sophia

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

US$31M water treatment project on stream --77,000 at Uitvlugt, Diamond and Sheet Anchor to benefit

By Alva Solomon SOME 77,000 persons are expected to benefit from a multi-million dollar water treatment project which is considered to be the largest investment by the government in the sector.

The project, which will be undertaken by a Chinese company, Sinohydro, will see three water treatment plants being built at Uitvlugt, West Coast Demerera; Diamond, East Bank Demerara; and Sheet Anchor in Berbice.

The project is being funded by the Inter-American Development Bank (IBD) and the European Union (EU) to the tune of US$31M. Speaking at the signing ceremony at Guyana Water Inc (GWI) headquarters, Vlissengen Road on Thursday afternoon, Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan, said the project had its origins in October 2014 when a loan agreement was signed by the government with the IDB. He said the contractor, who won the initial contract, was dis-

Sinohydro Project Manager, Hong Zhou, congratulates GWI Managing Director, Dr Richard Van-West Charles, following the signing of the multimillion-dollar project (Samuel Maughn photo)

qualified after there were discrepancies in the information put forward by the company.

Following a re-tendering process, Sinohydro won the bid for the project. He said the project is

one component of government’s plans to deliver on its promises to improve the lives of the citizenry.

Outgoing Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Dawn Hastings-Williams, noted that

Outgoing Minister within the Ministry of Communities, Dawn Hastings-Williams, exchanges salutations with GWI’s Managing Director, Dr Richard Van-West Charles, following Thursday’s event. Minister Hastings-Williams will be assuming the post of Minister of Public Affairs this month (Samuel Maughn photo)

the programme see 6,764 households in Region Three; 9,292 households on the East Bank; and 4,629 households in Region Six benefitting from the project , with a per capita investment in excess

of G$30,000 per household.

She said the project will see 70 kilometers of transmission and distribution mains being replaced and installed.

“The completion of this pro-

gramme will result in the increase of treated water coverage in Guyana,” she said.

She told the Chinese company that the country trusts its expertise in ensuring the project is delivered with the output being healthy for consumption. Minister Hastings-Williams urged the GWI to continue to work hard to bring quality water to the citizenry.

GWI Managing Director, Dr Richard Van-West Charles said the project is important to the company in terms of its focus on water quality. He said that it fits into the mission of GWI. “These new treatment plants will be in addition to the existing 24 treatment plants,” he said, noting that the plants represent one of the modalities that the company is using with respect to water quality in the country.

Also in another few weeks, three new wells will be built at Vergenoegen, Pouderoyen and Westminster.

Sinohydro Project Manager, Hong Zhou, told the gathering that he is confident that the company will deliver the project with the desired results.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Police heighten vigilance on roadways

The traffic ranks practicing hand signals at Traffic Headquarters, Eve Leary, before hitting the road Thursday morning

CAPACITY-building continues in the Guyana Police Force (GPF) as 26 traffic ranks who recently graduated were dispatched to ensure safer roadways.

Press Officer, Superintendent Jairam Ramlakhan, explained that the traffic ranks completed a two-week training programme at traffic headquarters, where they were equipped to deal with various traffic-related matters.

He said drivers can expect improved professionalism as ranks enlisted with the Police Force, often returned to the classrooms for additional training in various areas such as traffic and crime scene management, among other areas.

The first half of 2017 saw 2153 ranks being trained in a number of areas in every division. In Division ‘A’, 282 ranks were trained; 226 in ‘B’ Division; 182 in ‘C’ Division; 164 in ‘D’ Division; 119 in ‘E’ Division; 113 in ‘F’ Division; and 120 in ‘G’ Division.

The Criminal Investigation Department (CID), Tactical Services Unit (TSU), Traffic Department, Finance Department and

the General Office accounted for 947 ranks.

In July last, 183 new police constables graduated from the Guyana Police Force, Felix Austin Police College, at the Tactical Services Unit Drill Square, Police Headquarters, Eve Leary, Georgetown.

Among the graduates were 143 students from the recruit course and a total of 40 students from the conversion course.

Commissioner of Police, Seelall Persaud, who delivered the feature address at the passing out parade, said “the police force that we are embarking on now is one that is service-oriented, where decision-making has been decentralised right down to frontline levels; one that is accountable, not only collectively but individually.”

The commissioner said all officers will now have to make reports on activities on a fortnightly basis; as a result, all will be accountable for every decision made.

No effort will go unnoticed, he said, pointing out that in the future persons will be awarded incentives as promotions, monetary awards and others

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Some 300 West Berbice children receive backpacks

Oslyn Rodriguez with some of the beneficiaries

CLOSE to 300 primary school students from West Berbice are recipients of new backpacks filled with school supplies and personal hygiene items from members of the US-based Charity Backpack International Inc (BP Int. Inc).

“We came to Guyana catering for 250 children and we ended up with 295 or more,” founder member of BP Int. Inc., Oslyn Rodriguez said.

The presentation was made at the end of a Vacation Bible School (VBS) held at the Hope Lutheran Church, Plantation Ross, West Coast Berbice.

The organisers included Rodriguez, who travelled from Auburn Alabama with five other members of her religious non-profit organization, as well as local school teachers and West Berbice church members who volunteered their services.

Rodriguez explained that she is a Guyanese who was born in Linden and lived at Belle Vue Village, West Coast Berbice not far from Planation Ross during her formative years.

She left Guyana to live overseas in 1987 and returned home in 2015 for a family re-union at Ross with her grandparents. She said that it was then she said she felt the need to lend a helping hand to children at Ross and surrounding villages by pro-

viding them with school supplies, educational gifts and toys and schooling them in the basic tenets of Christianity.

“I am a trained school teacher and school administrator. I saw the difference education made in my life. Also Jesus was introduced to me by my grandparents. So Jesus and education were the two things that made a difference in my life and so that is why BP Int Inc was formed. I wanted to be able to provide school supplies such as colouring books, markers, crayons and some of [the other] basic necessities such as hygiene items [and] toys, because when the kids are off from school in summer what are they left to do?

Nothing to do and then they are going to get into trouble so a main goal of BP Inc. is to bridge the gap between school and the church and doing so by a VBS programme and then providing them with backpacks filled with items so they can keep themselves entertained in a constructive way.”

Rodriguez disclosed that this is the second year that BP Int Inc has been active in West Berbice.

“We had one hundred and two children registered last year. This year’s attendance almost tripled that amount. We will, God’s willing, be back again for the kids in West Berbice… soon,” she said.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Bosai commissions water dredge

By Vanessa Braithwaite

THE Bosai Mineral Group Guyana (BMGG) earlier this week commissioned a brand new dredge at the Bosai Wharf in Linden, Region 10.

The water dredge will very soon undergo its first test dredging and aims at dredging the turning areas close to the docks and other parts of the Upper Demerara River. This will allow for easy navigation of vessels coming to the port.

According to the company, the dredge was sent in

parts and was assembled by a technical team from China.

The dredge was described as very unique and modern and is said to be a very powerful equipment.

This water dredge has been commissioned at a time when several sections of the Upper Demerara River have become unnavigable as a result of growing sand banks. The management of Bosai was urged by regional officials in the past to dredge the river since it was done previously by other bauxite companies.

Regional Councillor Charles Sampson had bemoaned the situation, describing the Upper Demerara River as continuously becoming shallow and narrower.

Sampson had claimed that small boats are stuck at the basin of the river close to the bridge compared to years ago when the same basin was used as a turning point for huge ships coming to uplift bauxite from the aluminium plant.

With the current state of the river, even the smaller ships cannot turn since the

The newly commissioned water dredge at Bosai wharf

turning point has become very narrow.

The community of Comacka has been extremely affected by growing sand banks which have made the river unnavigable.

The process of dredging involves the removal of sediments and debris from the bottom of lakes, rivers, harbours and other water bodies. It is a routine necessity in waterways because sedimentation—the natural process of sand and silt washing downstream—gradually fills channels and harbours.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

High court trial for alleged baby killer

A 21-YEAR-OLD former soldier of the Guyana Defence Force was on Thursday committed to stand trial at the High Court for the alleged murder of an eight-month old boy- Romain Seth, back in January this year.

Nigel Dodson, of Fourth Field, Kaneville, is on remand for the murder of Seth, who was burnt to death, after fire was set

to his parent’s home at Fourth Field, Kaneville, East Bank Demerara January 23, 2017. The Preliminary Inquiry concluded before City Magistrate Judy Latchman, who ruled that there is enough evidence for Dodson to face a judge and jury.

According in reports, on the day in question the blaze started around 02:30hrs after the neighbour and his friends threw

“fire balls” into the house in which the infant and his family were sleeping. According to information, the neighbour reportedly accused the toddler’s grandmother of ‘snitching’ on him and his gang to the police, which resulted in lawmen raiding the neighbourhood frequently for guns and drugs.

The baby’s grandmother, Michelle Menezes

Nigel Dodson

believes that the fire was indeed as a result of a report she made to the police after finding a gun stashed in a tree in her backyard, allegedly by the youth. The suspect along with other villagers used her yard as a short cut to get to another street. Menezes said that after she reported the matter, the police started raiding the place and eventually she started getting threats

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from the young man and his gang.

Meanwhile, the Police had issued a wanted bulletin for two other men for questioning in connection with the fire.

Keon Ashby and Waynie (only name given) both of Kaneville and were reportedly part of the gang that set the house on fire by hurling an explosive device through a window.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Region 5 NDCs subventions being expedited THE Region Five administration is in the tender process for construction works and procuring of materials and items for Central Government subventions provided to eight of 10 Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs).

The eight NDCs are to benefit from subventions provided by Central Government to the tune of $4M each.

Ministry of Communities Principal Regional Development Officer, Surendra Khayyan, disclosed that two outstanding NDCs in the region are yet to receive their subventions. These are the Bel Air/Woodlands and Woodlands/Farm NDCs. “These two were asked to do a resubmission of their budget; we’re working with them to revise their work programme because it was more of a current than a capital and the government subvention is capital in nature,” Khayyan said.

Regional Executive Officer of Region Five, Ovid

Morrison, disclosed last week that some of the NDCs will be using their subvention to purchase items such as drainage tubes and equipment such as slashers and these are being expedited.

“On the other hand, the major construction works which require qualified contractors are being re-tendered,” he said, adding that “Works to be done at this level include upgrading of internal roads, environmental sanitation facilities, maintenance issues including landscaping of playgrounds and other civil works such as construction of footbridges with rails, market fences, koker doors and installation of speed humps on their roadways, among others.”

Morrison noted that the re-tendering process will be completed as quickly as possible so that all the NDCs can execute needed developmental projects within their communities via the use of the subventions

CARICOM hails T&T on 55th Independence Anniversary

THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) has congratulated its Member State, Trinidad and Tobago, on attaining fifty-five years of Independence, praising both its progress at the national level, and its significant contribution to promoting regional integration.

CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, in his congratulatory message to Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley, said the people’s creativity and resilience has ensured that the country maintains a dynamism that has secured for it a place of prominence in many fields, including culture, sports, academia and diplomacy.

At the same time, he credits Trinidad and Tobago, as a founding Member of the Community with providing significant promotion of regional integration, particularly in the areas of Energy and Security, for which it plays a lead role on the Quasi-Cabinet, which was established by CARICOM Heads of Government.

Full text of the message reads: “Prime Minister Rowley, it is my distinct honour, on behalf of the Caribbean Community, to convey congratulations to you, the Government and

the People of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago on attaining the milestone of fifty-five years of Independence.

Prime Minister, at the national level, your country has enjoyed great economic progress over the years, which has contributed to the social and economic development of the Region, as a whole. The creativity and resilience of its people has ensured that the country maintains a dynamism that has secured for Trinidad and Tobago a place of prominence in many fields including culture, sports, academia and diplomacy. As a founding member of the Community, Trinidad and Tobago continues to make significant contributions to the promotion of regional integration, which has been demonstrated by its active role within CARICOM, particularly in the areas of Energy and Security.

Further, the Community places great significance in Trinidad and Tobago’s dedication towards the advancement of its objectives and stands ready to assist the country in its thrust towards continued development. Once again, please accept, Honourable Prime Minister, sincere congratulations on this significant day of celebration.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

US cocaine mule begs for mercy …jailed for four years, fined $3.3M A 48-YEAR-OLD United States citizen who was caught at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport trying to smuggle cocaine in his carryon luggage, was sentenced to four years in prison and fined $3.3 million after he pleaded guilty to the offence.

Warren McKi, father of three, pleaded guilty to the charge when it was read to him by Magistrate Sunil Scarce at the Providence Mag-

istrate’s Court on Thursday.

The charge read that McKi on Wednesday, August 30 had 1.252 kilograms of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) Prosecutor, Konyo Sandiford, told the court that the father of three checked in as a passenger on a Fly Jamaica Airlines flight and was destined for JFK. However, when McKi placed his luggage at the airport

scanner, suspicious images was observed inside. A CANU officer approached him and requested to examine the said luggage. The officer pierced the back of the suitcase with a metal object and two packets of whitish substance was observed. He was also nabbed with US$2,667, which CANU planned to seize.

In court the unrepresented man explained that he was going through financial difficulties and took the chance

‘Drive out corruption’ ... approach to corruption in all its forms.

He warned that if Guyana is to continue on a development path, then it is

imperative that these issues be tackled head on.

“Corruption and corrupt practises by public officials must be eliminated and

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams addressing the audience

Continued from page 4

ill-gotten funds must be recovered through the use of the appropriate state mechanisms. Corruption must be exposed, the corrupt should be pursued and corruption must be driven out wherever it exists,” Williams asserted.

Williams called for the cooperation of all the stakeholders present and encouraged them to support the government in its efforts to prevent corruption. The Attorney General expressed optimism that the seminar would foster a sense of integrity among those in attendance, which included members of the Regional Democratic council, the Chamber of Commerce, the Police Force, the Mayor and City Council, the Linden Electric company Inc and village councillors.

The workshop was also attended by Chief Parlia-

to traffic the drugs. He further stressed that he needed the

drugs money to send his son to college to study Medical

Science. “I moved from Guyana to America fifteen years ago and I’m now an American citizen. Last year my mom die and I used all my life savings for her burial” McKi added as he begged the Magistrate for leniency, since he also have to look after his elderly sister in the US, who suffers from Alzheimer’s disease.

Magistrate Scarce however sentenced McKi to four years imprisonment along with a fine of $3.3M, which is 3X the market value of the drug.

mentary Counsel; Charles Fung-a-Fatt, Parliamentary Counsel; Ronetta Sargeant, Parliamentary Counsel; Diane Woolford and Senior Parliamentary Counsel; Joann Bond. Also in attendance were: Mayor of Linden; Carwyn Holland and Assistant National Director; Sandra Adams.

Meanwhile, in giving an overview of the State Asset Recovery Act, No.14 of 2017, Fung-a-Fatt posited that the Act is to estab-

lish a State Assets Recovery Agency in consonance with the United Nations Convention Against Corruption 2003, headed by a Director. Under the Act the director will recover through civil proceedings, State property unlawfully acquired by a public official or any other person.

During the seminar Sargeant and Bond explained in depth the aspects of the two bills. The Ministry of Legal Affairs

will be embarking on a countrywide programme of sensitisation and public engagement on the anti-corruption legislation. The sensitisation seminars are aimed at targeting members of the Guyana Police Force, the Chambers of commerce, volunteers and public officials, members of the Regional Democratic council and several others.

The next seminar is scheduled to be held in October in Region Six.

Warren McKi

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Heralding then, the scientific age --that inspires us today

THE world’s first submarine came to life in the narratives of Jules Verne’s novel, ‘Twenty Thousand Leagues Under the Sea’ in 1870. The ship of Captain Nemo would grip the imagination of readers and movie goers since its first publication.

By WWI, 1914/18 the submarine was a reality. To-

day, the nuclear submarine will test the imagination of any world citizen who has not failed to pay attention to

this formidable masterpiece of naval armament. We humans have always displayed the complex indication to ascend, through tribal association and methods of collaboration, to survive and strive beyond other denizens of the mammal and known reptilian worlds, navigating heavenly bodies for seafaring and as omens for things

mystical.

The relationship with the Gods and the sacred symbolic language [whether you

subscribe to the argument that we created the ‘Gods’ or that they created us] and the incredible epics separating Good and Evil from different extreme perspectives that suited our survival, and our creative relationship with the world of matter that led the ancient Africans of Khemet to experiment with Alchemy, and share

its philosophy and methods throughout the ancient world as the foundations of Chemistry and the agreed,

initial consciousness of organised scientific thinking.

To challenge the unknown, however, seems ingrained in our genetic makeup. That the manifestation of scientific expression differed on geographic locations is not surprising. On one side is the mystical architecture of Khemet; its astronomy/ astrology, their medical

knowledge of botanicals and healing methods, while their military armoury did not climb sufficiently be-

yond their nomadic and other neighbours. This more likely has to do with the early agrarian advances made by some cultures, enabling them to divert time for other developments.

SCIENCE OF THE ANCIENTS The science of the ancients was fuelled by the symbolic language of the sacred of that age. The emerging confidence in self and efforts by some proponents of science to dismiss the very existence of the mystical as irrelevant was countered, possibly not intentionally [not sure] by the creative world of Science Fiction and the duel adventure worlds of the sciences captured in comic books for the young in the early 20th Century to the present.

Colonisation did impact on the sciences, creating space for pseudo doctrines with parallel mystical and biblical twists that were the impetus of the movement that enveloped science in a racist cocoon. This was the era of Darwin, Galton, Eugen Fischer and numerous other leading and supporting minds of the ‘Eugenics Creed’ that led to a culmination in WWII. Though we cannot elaborate on that era, it is mentioned as a reference to the fact that Art and Cartoons also played an important role in illustrating the ideas of inequality among humans, as a justification for enslavement and mass murder. The comic book also played its role to defuse the massive indoctrination of over 200 years that launched the dogmas of WWII that endured in the following years after.

The responsible graphic novel-comic book writer and illustrator is subject to lead the reader into a balanced world. Every sensitive topic has to be explored; his/her renditions have to be well considered, because that visual creative field of communication, much older than the written/ typed page, is executed.

Graphic storytelling has been used as an effective

propaganda weapon in Guyana and across the world.

Eusi Kwayana had seriously objected to an illustrated booklet edited by Mrs Janet Jagan on the pre-independence ‘Disturbances’, where scandalised ethnic misrepresentations were presented in the accompanying artwork.

The booklet was subsequently redone.

PRECEDENTS IN OUR ERA We have to look at the precedents in our era as to how were the science infused in the imagination of the young and not so young of the nations that spiralled the scientific breakthroughs in the past 75 years.

With no great search, we will find that popular culture, from movies to illustrated books, toys and comic books, saturated those western nations, and that they reached us, but conveyed in many of us that this was not our thing. We never saw ourselves in the backdrop, storyline or the locations of the adventures that gripped our attention but isolated us at the same time. While at home, those levels of friendly adventure propaganda were not in the discourse of neither the artists nor of the educators.

Nor were the subject matter of even the discussion of what Einstein’s theory represented even at a simplified level introduced into the curriculum. Nor was added in our geography class the element of special clays, and how they are applied to industry, To widen the awareness to primary students of the varied applications locally possible in the fields of science, this should have been possible in Region Ten at a start.

Look carefully. Industry and probable science have always played an important part in drama over the last thirty years.

The comic books your children read today, if you can get them to buy, is not the same thing you read 40 years ago.

Today, have your dictionary close by.

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Remy Ma, Cardi B talking ‘collabo’

REMY Ma knew Cardi B was going to be something special when she saw the “Bodak Yellow” rapper performing in a talent show at seventeen.

Now, the two ladies are looking to collaborate with one another.

In a clip from VH1.com’s Facebook live, KendallKyndall sat down with OG Remy Ma and her stylist, Love & Hip Hop Hollywood newbie Zell Swag to talk all things VMAs. Of course, Cardi B is the topic of discussion (she’s washhh pappinnnn) and Remy speaks on potentially

working with this breakout star.

The two boogie-down-Bronxters apparently had talks when Cardi fake-pressed Remy at the show to get in the studio together.

She’s dope, and been dope, so to Remy that’s no question.

The “All the Way Up” rapper won’t work with just anyone though. When Cardi first stepped on the scene, Remy first assumed she was another fat a– with a mic, claiming rap.

In watching a throwback video of a 17-year-old Belca-

lis, Remy knew Cardi was serious about this life, which is why she brought her out on the Summer Jam stage.

New York radio isn’t exactly the kindest to their native artists, and after some arguing, Remy was able to give this regular schmegular girl her shot to shut down that stage.

Good thing she did, because it was super litty.

Remy is happy to see Cardi reach the success she has thus far. Don’t get it twisted, Remy is no bandwagon hopper or a hater.

Cardi is winning and Remy is loving it.

Beenie to return to Zimbabwe --in spite of bad press

DESPITE reports that his performance on Saturday at the Harare’s Alex Sports Club in Zimbabwe was below standard, dancehall icon Beenie Man has been invited to return to the country in September, according to his manager, Rohan Smith.

“The Zimbabwe government, through the Ministry of Tourism, has booked Beenie to return for their National Carnival next month (September).

“Beenie Man will return to Jamaica this weekend to complete back-to-school preparations for his children, and will head back to Zimbabwe shortly after,” he said.

When THE STAR spoke to the entertainer’s girlfriend, Krystal Tomlinson, who made contact with his team, she said, “Documents for his return to the country were being prepared to finalise the arrangements.”

For the past month, dancehall recording artiste Beenie Man has been touring Europe, and was also booked for a few shows throughout African states.

Last Saturday, the ac-

claimed ‘King of the dancehall’ took to the stage for the Zimdancehall event, which combines reggae and dancehall, infused with traditional Zimbabwean music.

But a Daily News article said Beenie Man did not impress the numerous fans. It was stated that the musician delivered a ‘lukewarm’ performance, which had many of the patrons prematurely exiting venue.

However, Kudzai Matondo, promoter of 2 Kings Entertainment, the event hosts, said it was a great show, and that “Beenie Man proved to be the king of the dancehall

... setting the stage on fire.”

Beenie Man is scheduled to perform at the 2017 edition of the Harare International Carnival. The event will run under the theme,

‘One Love, Our Unity, Our Pride’, and is expected to have representatives from the entertainment industry of over 25 countries.

The ‘Who Am I’ artiste was not the only Jamaican dancehall musician performing in Zimbabwe, as Demarco was also booked for an event scheduled for the same date at the neighbouring Long Cheng Plaza.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Taylor Swift, Mariah Carey fans join forces --to dethrone ‘Despacito’

IF you haven’t already heard, “Despacito” by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee featuring Justin Bieber now ties Mariah Carey and Boyz II Men’s 1995 smash hit “One Sweet Day” as the longest running No. 1 song on the charts at 16 weeks.

The Spanish-language track has been topping charts and breaking records, such as most watched video on YouTube, all summer long.

But now, people are calling for the “Despacito” frenzy to end.

If the song makes it just one more week at the top of the Hot 100 chart, it will take the throne as the longest-running song at No. 1 of all time, and Mariah Carey fans are not happy.

They are subsequently rooting for Taylor Swift’s newest song, “Look What You Made Me Do” to reach the top of the charts to end the “Despacito” streak.

Fans of Carey anxiously awaited the release of T. Swift’s “LWYMMD”, and since it dropped, they’ve urged people to stream the song as much as possible.

“All fandoms must unite to stop Despacito from breaking Mariah’s record by buying and streaming Taylor Swift’s new song,” tweeted one user.

Swift’s song is already breaking records, garnering the most YouTube global streams in a span of 24 hours, according

to Billboard.

The music video received over 30,000 views a minute on its first day.

It also set records on Spotify’s for its first 24 hours, and according to Nielson, it was the mostplayed song on U.S. radio last Friday with 4,228 plays.

Kartel drops new singles --disses Alkaline again

VYBZ Kartel has unleashed two new singles on dancehall airwaves in one day and they are both fire.

On one of the singles, he once again disses Alkaline.

On Wednesday, the incarcerated deejay drop a solo single, “So Easy” and another collaboration with Ishawna, “How Can You”. Both singles have been getting rave reviews from Kartel’s massive dancehall fan-base.

“Song ya is pure fire big up Worl’Boss the GOAT, so easy,” one fan wrote on DHH

IG page.

Kartel is also getting some attention for a line on the single, “So Easy” where he disses dancehall artists who are copying his style.

“Every man in a me style; a so the p**** them stay,” Kartel deejayed.

Some Gazanation fans are already pointing fingers to Alkaline being the artist that Vybz Kartel is referring to.

While the “Dancehall Hero” deejay didn’t call any names, Alkaline has been

getting scrutinised for what some people say is a blatant rip-off of Kartel’s image and style.

“Alka a live in a Addi style from day one,” sources inside the Gaza told DHH. “A Kartel style buss him, and a it get him to where he is right now.

“At this moment, he should just come out and admit that Kartel is his idol. His friend Kasanova already said it, and I think he should just come out and say it.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

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D’Banj Sacks Producer

THE summer vacation is coming to a close, and Banks wants to close it off with a bang. So, Guyanese have been pretty hyped up ever since the announcement that Machel Montana is to end things off!

Well, the weekend is finally here. And so, of course, the biggest show of the weekend is going to be the “Soca in Mah Heart” at the Stadium on Saturday!

The concert doesn’t go down until Saturday, but 704 is offering you the chance to start warming up from tonight!

Also on tonight will be the Corona Invitation Football quarter-finals, with two matches tonight, and the other two matches on Sunday night!

Meanwhile, as Marvelous Sundays continue at Club Monaco, this weekend’s edition will see the addition of some dancers straight out of Jamaica.

TODAY Heading to the Soca In Meh Heart Machel show tomorrow? Then warm up tonight! We warming up early, as Club 704 presents the “Machel Warm Up Party”!

Get a chance to win tickets and tons of other giveaways!

Quarterfinals action in the Corona Invitational Tournament continues this Friday and Sunday at the GFC Ground, Bourda from 19:00 hours!

It’s the showdown of the best as the top eight teams in GT match skills, and battle for championships honours!

Alana and Onasha present “No Stress, Ever Bless” in the sky party at Hicksville Hotel! The vibes are going to be lit! Stereo Sonic is going to be there, alongside DJ Magnum! Party starts from 22:00hrs sharp!

TOMORROW RockZone is back! And it’s going to be one epic night as they present “Rock Mania” at The Other Place on Waterloo Street!

This is one you can’t miss! So come out in your numbers and raise your hands! Let the body hit the floor, and bang to the drums of heavy metal all night long! Tickets: $1000.

Guyana, get ready! It’s the final fete of the summer! The biggest soca fete of the year! Banks Beer presents “Soca In Mah Heart” with Mr. Fete himself, Machel Montano, live at the Guyana National Stadium!

We doing it like a boss this year! Tickets: $4000 (regular), $25,000 VIP! SUNDAY Marvelous Sundays at Club Monaco is going to be turnt up this weekend with the Magnum Tonic Wine Dancers out of Jamaica live in the building!

Music by Determined and Stereo Sonic! Ladies free before 23:00hrs!

Miley, Beyoncé join Harvey storm relief effort

‘EMERGENCY’ crooner, D’Banj, seems not to be happy with his music producer, Divine Austin, better known as Deevee, after a disappointing four-year working relationship.

Although the motive for both parties parting ways is yet to be known, Deevee has disclosed that he does not regret working with the singer for the past four years.

It has been a long time since fans got to hear a hit track from D’Banj, and with the sack of his manager, fans will be hoping to see who he gets as a replacement, and how his career will blossom.

He recently released his new song, titled ‘Emergency’, which was produced

by P Loops, and has been doing fine, and it is hoped that he will have a fol-

low-up song to that, now he seems to have time for his music.

It will be recalled that the same producer, in late 2015, had called out rapper, Olamide for stealing D’Banj’s song.

DeeVee, confirming the breakup, wrote, “4 years after, end of an era.

Moving on, LeeTemple was fun, let’s conquer again.”

POP star Miley Cyrus and Oscar-winning actors Sandra Bullock and Leonardo DiCaprio have pledged funds to help victims of storm Harvey, while Beyoncé on Thursday said she was sending a team to her Houston, Texas home-town to help with relief efforts.

A donation drive organised by Houston Texans NFL star, J.J. Watt had reached $10M in pledges from celebrities and ordinary people

by Thursday, and singer Solange Knowles, Beyoncé’s sister, announced benefit concerts in Boston and New York for September and October.

A tearful Cyrus, 24, announced a $500,000 contribution in an emotional appearance on “The Ellen DeGeneres Show”.

“It just really makes me just really upset... I go home to my seven dogs, and if I didn’t have that anymore, it

would just be really hard. So I am really happy to help in any way I can. And I hope people understand and can put themselves in those people’s shoes,” Cyrus said.

Some 779,000 Texans have been ordered to evacuate their homes, and another 980,000 fled voluntarily amid concerns on Thursday that swollen reservoirs and rivers could bring new flooding.

Harvey roared ashore late last week as the most powerful hurricane to hit Texas in a half-century, but has now been downgraded to a tropical depression.

“Gravity” star Bullock, and DiCaprio’s foundation said this week they will each contribute $1M to organisations helping people recover from the devastating floods.

Beyoncé, one of Houston’s best-known celebrities, launched BeyGOOD Houston on her website. A

statement said a team from her BeyGOOD philanthropic foundation was headed to the city to help with relief efforts, and the website asked fans to make donations to two local groups working there.

The “Lemonade” singer, who now lives in Los Angeles, has not said whether she is making a personal donation, but her pastor, Rudy Rasmus, said she tends to keep her charitable efforts quiet.

“Beyonce is extremely private, and has done a lot that she has requested we don’t announce and publicise over the years,” Rasmus told celebrity website TMZ.com in an interview this week.

“She has really stepped up, and it has been a big blessing for us,” added Rasmus, who launched the non-profit, Bread for Life in Houston in 1992 to feed homeless people. (Reuters)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

South Africa Racing Tips Fairview 08:25 hrs Reverend 09:00 hrs Inviting Lily 09:35 hrs Olympic Power 10:10 hrs Jet Explorer 10:45 hrs Coastal Spell 11:15 hrs Leia Organa English Racing Tips Sandown 08:40 hrs The Golden Cue 09:10 hrs Gnaad 09:45 hrs Emraaty 10:20 hrs Bathsheba Bay 10:55 hrs Elucidation 11:25 hrs Here’s Two 12:00 hrs Rising Thirsk 08:50 hrs Breathable 09:20 hrs Ann Without An E 09:55 hrs Mr Strutter 10:30 hrs Noble Behest 11:05 hrs Full Intention 11:40 hrs Mango Chutney 12:10 hrs Golden Guest Bangor 09:00 hrs Anton Dolin 09:35 hrs Royal Marskell 10:10 hrs Valleyofmilan 10:45 hrs Raleagh Mountain 11:50 hrs Ritasun Irish Racing Tips Down Royal 11:35 hrs Thomas O Malley 12:05 hrs Court Artist 12:40 hrs Boyonrath 13:10 hrs Thermistocles 13:40 hrs Rashaan 14:10 hrs Bronco Bill 14:40 hrs True Self American Racing Tips Saratoga Race 1 Augie Coming Race 2 Brattata Race 3 Buddy Anthony Race 4 Draxhall Woods Race 5 Divine Interventio Race 6 Honor Way Race 7 Whatstotalkabout Race 8 Zap Zap Zap Race 9 Frosty Lady

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Kohli, Sharma hit tons as Strong Windies squad named for one-off India bulldoze Sri Lanka again COLOMBO, Sri Lanka (Reuters) - India bulldozed Sri Lanka by 168 runs in the fourth one-day international yesterday after skipper Virat Kohli and opener Rohit Sharma smashed blistering hundreds to put the tourists 4-0 up in the five-match series.

The result was Sri Lanka’s biggest ODI defeat on home soil in terms of runs and leaves them unable to claim the two victories they needed in the series to ensure automatic qualification for the 2019 World Cup. Sri Lanka were also whitewashed 3-0 by India in the preceding Test series, prompting the entire selection panel to resign.

With the ODI series already in the bag, India amassed 375-5 after electing to bat and had looked on course for a 400-plus total while Kohli and Sharma were at the crease.

Not that it really mattered as Sri Lanka collapsed to 207 in 42.4 overs in reply, with only Angelo Mathews offering any real resistance with a fighting 70.

India lost opener Shikhar Dhawan cheaply but Kohli and Sharma dominated Sri Lanka’s toothless attack during their 219-run stand for the second wicket.

Kohli was in sublime form and, having set the tone with a hat-trick of fours against Vishwa

Fernando early on, needed only 76 balls to bring up his 29th ODI century.

Lasith Malinga ended the batting onslaught by dismissing Kohli for 131, the paceman’s 300th ODI wicket. Kohli’s 96ball knock included 17 boundaries and two sixes.

India were still scoring briskly but

piled 50 not out as he and Mahendra Singh Dhoni put on 101 in an unbroken sixth-wicket partnership, with former captain Dhoni undefeated on 49 in his 300th ODI. With the home side’s regular ODI captain Upul Tharanga serving a suspension for the team’s slow over rate and stand-in skipper

Chamara Kapugedera nursing a back injury, Malinga led a Sri Lanka side that now face a second successive series whitewash going into tomorrow’s final match.

SCOREBOARD

INDIA innings Ro. Sharma c Dickwella b Mathews 104 S. Dhawan c Pushpakumara b V. Fernando 4 V. Kohli c Munaweera b Malinga 131 H. Pandya c Hasaranga b Mathews 19 L. Rahul c Hasaranga b Dananjaya 7 M. Pandey not out 50 M. Dhoni not out 49 Extras: (lb-5, w-6) 11 Total: (for 5 wickets, 50 overs) 375 Fall of wickets: 1-6, 2-225, 3-262, 4-262, 5-274.

Bowling: Lasith Malinga 10-082-1 (w-6), Vishwa Fernando 8-1-76-1, Angelo Mathews 6-224-2, Malinda Pushpakumara 9-0-65-0, Akila Dananjaya 10-068-1, Wanidu Hasaranga 2-0-190, Milinda Siriwardana 5-0-36-0.

SRI LANKA innings Niroshan Dickwella c Dhoni b Thakur 14 Dilshan Munaweera c Dhoni b Bumrah 11 Kusal Mendis run-out 1 Lahiru Thirimanne c S. Dhawan b H. Pandya 18 Angelo Mathews c Thakur b A. Patel 70 Milinda Siriwardana c Dhoni b H. Pandya 39 Wanidu Hasaranga -out 22 Akila Dananjaya not out 11 Malinda Pushpakumara c H. Pandya b Bumrah 3 Vishwa Fernando c & b K. Yadav 5 Lasith Malinga b K. Yadav 0 Extras: (lb-1, w-12) 13 Total: (all out, 42.4 overs) 207

Fall of wickets: 1-22, 2-26, 3-37, 4-68, 5-141, 6-177, 7-190, 8-196, 9-207.

Bowling: S. Thakur 7-0-26-1 (w2), J. Bumrah 7-0-32-2 (w-5), H. Pandya 8-0-50-2 (w-4), V. Kohli 2-0-12-0, K. Yadav 8.4-1-31-2, A. Patel 10-0-55-1 (w-1).

Skipper Virat Kohli sustained momentum to bring up his 29th ODI ton off just 76 deliveries.

Mathews dismissed Hardik Pandya and Sharma off successive balls to put a brake on the scoring rate.

Sharma’s 104 - his second successive ton - came off 88 balls including three sixes and 11 fours.

Manish Pandey com-

GCA cricket continues this weekend

PLAY in the Georgetown Cricket Association’s cricket season will continue this weekend, with one first division T20 game and two second division games.

In the Carib Beer T20 first division tournament, Transport Sports Club will play University of Guyana at Malteenoes from 13:00hrs.

Meanwhile, in the Noble House Seafoods second division two-day tournament, Demerara Cricket Club will host Everest Cricket Club and Sophia Cricket Club will play Ace Warriors at GYO. Game-time is 10:30hrs daily.

British High Commission to face Quantum Leap Security in T20 match IN an effort to provide monetary support for local charities, the British High Commission will face Quantum Leap Security in a T20 cricket game, billed for tomorrow at the Everest Cricket Club ground.

According to a release from the British High Commission, while they cannot guarantee the same standard of cricket seen on display in the current Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 tournament, they are aiming to ensure that the match offers entertainment and fun for spectators and players alike.

“We have inside infor-

mation on the composition of the Quantum Leap Security team. However we are confident that the Diplomatic team, comprising talented players from the British High Commission, Indian High Commission, the EU and others will be victorious.

“Whatever the result, local charities will be the winners and we hope that you can show your support by coming to watch what promises to be an interesting spectacle,” the release concluded.

Game-time is 13:00hrs with no entrance fee being charged.

T20I against England ST JOHN’S, Antigua ( C M C ) - We s t I n d i e s will fly a power-packed, 13-member squad to England for their one-off Twenty20 International with the home team next month.

Cricket West Indies announced yesterday that Chris Gayle, Kieron Pollard and Sunil Narine, three of the most recognisable names on the Twenty20 franchise circuit, will be part of Carlos Brathwaite’s squad for the contest on September 16 at the Riverside Stadium in Durham.

The sport’s regional governing body said that key leg-spinner Samuel Badree will however miss the trip, due to a prior commitment.

“We have a good mix of experience and youth that should adapt to English conditions quickly,” said selection panel chairman Courtney Browne.

“Coming off the win against India in July in the Caribbean, our expectations are to see the team play a highly competitive game and bring that T20 Caribbean

atmosphere to England.”

All of the players, except off-spinner Ashley Nurse, who takes Badree’s place, played in the one-off T20I against India on July 4 at Sabina Park in Jamaica which West Indies won handsomely by nine wickets, following an explosive second T20I hundred from left-hander opener Evin Lewis.

Gayle, Walton, Fletcher and Lewis are among eight batsmen who have compiled more than 250 runs in the ongoing Caribbean Premier League in which Williams is the tournament-leading bowler with 15 wickets and the only member of the squad to crack 10 wickets.

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

Armed police Continued from back page called ... ground, though they are threatened in this way. If it unsure as to whether the bolt was fired deliberately or whether it was targeted at The Oval. They have, at this stage, stated that the incident is not being treated as terrorism-related.

Richard Gould, Surrey’s chief executive, speaking after play was officially called off, said: “It had a pointed end and stuck in the turf when it crossed the outfield and landed.

“We are investigating reports that there was a noise on the roof of the OCS Stand but we haven’t been able to get up there to investigate whether it was the projectile ricocheting off the roof or a separate projectile. It is the sort of thing that could easily have been fired some distance from outside the ground if it came from a crossbow.

It could very easily have killed someone.

“We may never find out if it was a deliberate act, but in these heightened times these sorts of acts are wholly irresponsible.

“People should not feel

is more than mischief-making then we need to find the perpetrators. We will review our security arrangements but threats can be so wide-ranging.

“There is probably no way of securing against this type of incident if it was fired from outside. We always try and provide the safest type of environment but it can be very difficult to stop this kind of act.”

Surrey captain Gareth Batty, who was fielding 25 yards away from where the arrow landed, said: “It was a pretty tasty arrow with a proper metal end. I did archery as a kid and that was not a normal archery arrow. The umpires dealt with it very well. There were no questions asked we went off very quickly.

“Someone saw it in flight, there was a noise when it landed but it happened so quickly. It is a deadly weapon for sure. If it had hit someone it would have caused some serious damage. It just shows the world we live in.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Sangakarra, Thomas and Santokie propel Tallawahs into CPL playoffs KINGSTON, Jamaica (CMC) - Krishmar Santokie and rookie fellow-fast bowler Oshane Thomas followed up Sri Lanka legend Kumar Sangakkara’s third straight half-century with incisive bowling to lead Jamaica Tallawahs to a 41-run victory over St Kitts & Nevis Patriots on Wednesday night and into a place in the Caribbean Premier League playoffs.

Santokie grabbed 3-10 from 3.5 overs and Thomas snared 3-31 from his allotted four overs to earn the Player-of-the-Match award, as the Patriots were bowled out for 116 in 17.5 overs in pursuit of a victory target of 158 in the 26th match of the tournament at Sabina Park.

Sangakkara had con-

bowled to Mohammad Sami, another Pakistani star, for the top score of 40 off the last ball of the sixth over and this triggered a steady decline for the Patriots, as they reached

Oshane Thomas celebrates taking one of his three wickets with teammates.

(CPL T20 photo)

tinued his rich vein of form after the Tallawahs were sent in to bat, smashing four fours and three sixes in 69 from 55 balls to be the rock upon which his side built their total of 157 for five from their allocation of 20 overs.

Thomas then rocked the

English officials wish Gibson well as departure nears LONDON, England (CMC) - Senior officials have hailed the work of England bowling coach Ottis Gibson, as he prepares to leave to become the South Africa head coach.

The England & Wales Cricket Board confirmed on Wednesday that the 48-year-old Gibson, a former Barbados and West Indies all-rounder, has penned a two-year contract with Cricket South Africa to become head coach of their senior men’s national side.

Senior England officials have praised Ottis Gibson’s work with the national team’s bowling attack.

“I would like to place on record my thanks to Ottis for his services to English cricket,”said ECB Director of Cricket Andrew Strauss.

“Ottis has been an integral part of the England team in his two stints as bowling coach. His experience, tactical awareness and understanding of bowling in all conditions have benefited our approach and have helped our bowling unit develop greatly across all formats of the game.

80 for four at the halfway point.

Hafeez made 21 and Devon Thomas was the only other double-figure contributor with 14, as the visitors lost their last six wickets for

“He is an ambitious man and when this opportunity presented itself it was difficult for him to turn it down. On behalf of the ECB, I would like to wish him every success in the next chapter of his career.”

Gibson is currently the England bowling coach, but he will be released from his duties following the end of the ongoing three-Test series against West Indies.

He took up the role for the second time last year after previously serving in the position between 2007 and 2010.

Gibson also served as West Indies head coach for four years, leading them to the capture of the 2012 Twenty20 World Cup before being axed in 2014.

“Ottis has played a vital role in our progress over the past few years,”said England head coach Trevor Bayliss.

“His knowledge of the international game and the way he has supported all our bowlers in their development has been immeasurable.

“He will no doubt relish the challenge of becoming a head coach once again and, coupled with his strong affinity with South African cricket, he will look to take them forward.”

Gibson played first-class cricket for a number of years in South Africa for Border (1992-1995), Griqualand West (1998-2000) and Gauteng (2000-2001).

Patriots, when he trapped Jamaica-born talisman Chris Gayle lbw for a thirdball duck in the first over, but West Indies opener Evin Lewis and Pakistan star Mohammad Hafeez got them moving with a stand of 43 for the second wicket.

Lewis fell caught-and-

Kumar Sangakkara hits over the top during his 69 for Jamaica Tallawahs.

(CPL T20 photo)

30 in the space of 44 balls.

Earlier, Sangakkara eased the concerns of the Tallawahs, after opener Lendl Simmons was bowled for a duck with the first ball of the match from left-arm fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell.

Sangakkara shared 81 for the second wicket with Phillips that provided the base for the innings and added a further 54 with West Indies all-rounder Rovman Powell for the fourth wicket before he was caught at fine leg in the penultimate over off former Australia fast bowler ben Hilfenhaus.

Phillips made 31 from 32 balls and Powell led the late charge with 43 from 26 balls that included two fours and three sixes.

Australia facing 29-year rankings low STEVE Smith’s men are just one defeat away from becoming the lowest-ranked Australian Test team in almost three decades.

Australia’s nail-biting loss to Bangladesh in Dhaka has seen them nominally slip from fourth to fifth in the International Cricket Council’s Test rankings, which are officially updated at the end of each series.

And another loss to a spirited home side in the second Test next week will see the Aussies drop to sixth, their lowest ranking since 1988.

That 1988 side led by Allan Border is considered one of the weakest in Australian Test history and was labelled as such by the English media when they arrived in the UK for the 1989 Ashes tour, which ultimately turned their fortunes around.

In July 1988, when the Aussies were last ranked sixth, they had won just eight of 43 Tests in the preceding five years, during which time they had lost series at both home and away to England, New Zealand and the West Indies.

They moved up to fifth in August of that year after England were thrashed 4-0 at home by the Windies and their famous Ashes triumph 12 months later started a rapid rise to the top of world cricket in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Smith conceded his young side still had “a long way to go” before they would rise up the rankings again.

“I don’t know if we’re better than that at the moment, that’s a difficult question,” Smith said of Australia’s current ranking.

“I think we’re still a young team, obviously some new players have come in only last year in the summer and some guys are still trying to find their way. We’re a young team and we’re a team that hopefully is going to continue to improve.

duce a swift change in their ranking with victory in the Magellan Ashes against England this summer.

The Aussies were last ranked fifth in the world following their 2013 Ashes defeat in the UK, after they had gone nine successive Tests without a win. But their subsequent Ashes whitewash on home soil and 2-1 series win in South Africa saw them jump to top spot in May the following year.

And the at-times fickle nature of the ICC’s rankings is underlined by the fact the

Australia cricketers

“We’ve still got a long way to go to rise up in the rankings and hopefully as a group we can continue to improve and get better.”

While Australia risk sliding to an uncommon low in Bangladesh, they will retain fifth spot with either a win or a draw in Chittagong next week.

And recent history suggests the Aussies could pro-

Aussies were handed the official Test mace as world No.1 a little more than 12 months ago. Their rise to No.1 last year was followed by five successive defeats (to Sri Lanka and South Africa), five straight wins (against South Africa, Pakistan and India) and now three losses and a draw from their past four Tests (against India and

Bangladesh).

But despite the ever-changing nature of the official rankings, the Aussies have repeatedly stated their desire to be the No.1 team in the world.

“We want to be No.1 in all three formats across men’s and women’s cricket,” Pat Howard, Cricket Australia’s Executive General Manager of High Performance, said earlier this year when he signed a new two-year contract.

Australia’s men’s team are currently ranked second in one-day internationals and sixth in T20s, while the women’s team hold down the No.1 spot in the women’s rankings, which incorporate Test, ODI and T20 cricket.

The result in Dhaka has also given Bangladesh a massive rankings boost, handing them 10 rankings points and ensuring they stay just ahead of the West Indies, following the Caribbean side’s shock victory against England at Headingley.

CURRENT ICC TEST RANKINGS (official rankings will be updated at the end of the series) 1) India – 125 2) South Africa – 110 3) England – 102 4) New Zealand – 97 5) Australia – 94 6) Pakistan – 93 7) Sri Lanka – 90 8) Bangladesh – 79 9) West Indies – 79

34

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

One of the best-ever cricket tournaments, says winning captain Roy Jaferally “IN my 21 years as a softball player, this tournament is without doubt one of the best ever, while the organising skills of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club (RHTYSC) is simply unmatched.”

Those were words of winning captain Roy Jaferally at the presentation ceremony of the historic RHTYSC/ Kares Engineering Patron’s Green Economy Tournament last Sunday at the Area ‘H’ Ground.

Jaferally led his team, Grill Master of Canje, to a commanding 130-run win over Prophecy Boys of Port Mourant after they batted first and piled up 272.

Jaferally, who copped the Man-of-the-Final award, noted that the tournament was a total success while each of the 18 teams felt comfortable playing in the tournament. He stated

that it was the first time that he witnessed no form of indiscipline during an entire competition.

as such cooperated to make the tournament successful.

The main objectives of the Patron’s Tournament

Roy Jaferally receives his Man-of-the-Final trophy from Mahadeo Panchu of KSM Investment.

Jaferally said that each team respected the RHTYSC, its outstanding work and

were to honour President David Granger on his 72nd birth anniversary, to educate

Perez sets eyes on 2018 Youth World Cup

By Rajiv Bisnauth

OPENER Raymond Perez is another young Guyanese batsman who seems to have a great future.

The 18-year-old was part of the National Under-19

Raymond Perez

Berbicians on the impact of Climate Change, to promote the Green Economy effort and the RHTYSC’s Say No/

squad, who won both the three-day and 50-over tournaments, at the just concluded Cricket West Indies Regional Youth championships, played in St Kitts and Nevis.

With a generation of stars who brought unprecedented success for Guyana over the years, Perez’s performance with the bat has put him in the spotlight, and no doubt he is quickly emerging as one of the most talented youngsters locally.

Despite a horrible outing in his debut Regional Under-19 season in St Vincent in 2016, his name has been floating around among those of the brightest young batting prospects in the country for some time now.

He finished as this year’s MVP and leading run-scorer in the limited-overs version of the tournament. The

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday September 01, 2017)

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) 5 ducks (2) 4-1-3-5 Today’s Quiz: (1) Who bowled the first ball of the first Hero CPL

game this season?

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

Match Award twice in Hero CPL 2017?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

right-handed opener recorded 348 runs from a total of six matches at a healthy average of 116. He also counted four half-centuries, with a top score of 77 in his final outing against Windward Islands.

The Demerara Cricket Club player also made an impact for his team in the three-day version of the tournament with returns of 243 runs at an average over 30.

Meanwhile, Perez disclosed that he is pleased with his performance, adding that his eyes are now set on finding a place on the West Indies squad for the ICC Youth World Cup in New Zealand in 2018.

Further, national Under-19 coach Julian Moore rated Perez’s performance as definitely one of Guyana’s standout players during the tournaments, adding that Perez did exceptionally well.

“I always knew his ability and talent but I think to go out there and get the most runs, and not just get the most runs in the one-day version, I thought he was very consistent throughout the three-day format as well.

“His performance is attributed to his hard work and determination he really showcased since inter-county, camp and then in the tournament, and I am pretty much pleased for him,” Moore said upon his return to Guyana on Tuesday.

Say Yes Campaign.

Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster spearheaded

the organising of the Green Economy tournament with vice-president Mark Papannah and assistant secretary Simon Naidu.

The RHTYSC, Foster disclosed, hopes to make the event an annual one. Over $1.5M worth of cash prizes and trophies were shared out to the top teams.

As part of the tournament, the RHTYSC and its eight cricket teams distributed $1M worth of school bags and 25 bicycles to less fortunate students and close to $1M worth of cricket balls to cricket clubs across Berbice.

The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club would like to express gratitude to the following sponsors for making the cricket tournament and the donations possible; Kares Engineering Inc., B.K. International,

S. Jagmohan Hardware, V Net Communication, Peter Lewis, KSM Investment, Bakewell, National Sports Commission, Rossignol Butchery, Bissan Trading, Mohamed Raffik, A. Hamilton, Fyuse Hussain, Fazal Habibulla, J.B. Brothers, Ministry of the Presidency, Farfan & Mendes, Mines Service Ltd, F & H Printery, 4R Bearings, John Fernandes Ltd, Lennox Cush, Ronald Williams, Apex Insurance Brokers, Jumbo Jet, A. Ally & Sons, Amerally Sawmills, Claude Raphael, Ricks & Sari Agro Industries, Regal Enterprise, New India Insurance, J.R Engineering Solutions, Annirud Ramcharitar, Trans Pacific Motor Spares, Greenidge Fridge Repairs, Radesh Rameshwar, Safraz Sheriffudeen and Mahadeo Panchu.

Seventeen students benefit from Kendall’s Union Sports Club

The students and members of the Kendall’s Union Sports Club after the presentation ceremony

SEVENTEEN students from the Bohemia Primary School, located at Number 19 Village on the East Coast Berbice, were recently beneficiaries from the Kendall’s Union Sports Club.

The club, which continues to show that they are not only interested in sports but the all-round welfare of the residents in the area, especially youths and their education, donated haversacks and other school supplies to the 17 students, who wrote the

recent National Grade Six Assessment.

The club, which is one of the leading second-division clubs in Berbice recently made a presentation, and according to president Albert Budhoo, the club is excited to be of such assistance.

He said that the club has embarked on a number of community-related activities, and will continue in its quest to become, not only a successful sports club, but a successful NGO.

Budhoo and other executives encouraged the students to be disciplined, and to dedicate their time to their studies, put God in their lives and get involved in activities of the club, which will be beneficial to themselves and the community in a positive way.

The club would like to thank S. Baichan (Amar), Metro Office and Computer Supplies, F. Ahamad and R. Guyanand for sponsoring the event.

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Friday, September 1, 2017

Second Ralph Green/EBFA U-11 League to kick off today WITH a break in the rainy weather which has allowed the East Bank Football Association (EBFA), in conjunction with the Grove/ Diamond NDC, to carry out remedial works to the Grove playfield, the association is set to get active once again with the commencement of the 2nd annual Ralph Green-sponsored Under-11 League.

Consistent rain over the past three months or so curtailed all on-field action which left players and administrators very uneasy as they waited patiently for a break in the weather, which has finally come.

six teams competed.

Each team would be allowed to register 16 players with matches lasting 30 minutes - two 15-minute segments. The top four teams would each receive 16 medals, gold, silver, bronze and participatory medals for the 4th-placed team.

The winning team would receive the Lien Trophy while there would be individual prizes for the Most Valuable Player (Trophy and backpack), Best Goalkeeper (Trophy and backpack), Highest Goal Scorer (Trophy and backpack), Most Promising Player (Trophy

Ralph Green

The EBFA is very grateful to NDC Chairman Mr Bharrat Narine and his workers for the continued support they have been giving the body with regard to getting the game restarted on the East Bank.

Ten teams including defending champions Agricola Red Triangle will be contesting this second edition of the league which will be bigger and better than the inaugural competition last year when

and backpack) and Most Disciplined Player (Trophy and backpack).

For the first time in any EBFA competition, customized balls would be used bearing the EBFA logo. Only players born on or after January 1, 2006 will be eligible to participate in the tournament.

Each player from every team would also receive one t-shirt as well as the respective coaches.

2016 champions Agricola and nine other teams to contest.

Second Ralph Green/EBFA U-11 League to kick off today See Page 35

Armed police called to The Oval after arrow fired onto outfield ARMED police were called to the final day of Surrey versus Middlesex in the County Championship after a crossbow bolt was fired onto the field, abandoning play on the afternoon of the fourth day.

Police believe the 12inch long metal-tipped bolt travelled around 800 metres before coming to ground about ten yards from the pitch. The incident took place at 16.20hrs, during the 69th over of Middlesex’s second innings.

The players alerted the

umpires, Michael Gough and Paul Baldwin, who acted quickly to take the players off the field - a number of them sprinting towards the changing room.

Fifteen minutes later, the Metropolitan police had been made aware of the incident, at which point officers, including firearm officers, made their way to the Kia Oval.

It was at this point that an announcement was made across the PA system at the ground for

spectators and those in the open to “find cover”.

Another announcement followed, urging people to move inside.

A full search of the ground was carried out by police and around 30 security staff. The game was abandoned at 17:05hrs by which time around 1000 spectators had been informed that they could leave.

The Metropolitan Police believe the bolt was fired from outside the

Turn to page 32

Quarter-finals on tonight in Corona Invitational football

Umpire Paul Baldwin holds the arrow.

Strong Windies squad named for one-off T20I against England See Page 32

Pacer Ronsford Beaton is the lone Guyanese named in the T20 squad.

THE quarter-finals of the much-anticipated Corona Invitational Football tournament, organised by the Petra Organisation, will take place this evening.

In the first of the double-header at the GFC ground Bourda, Camptown FC will have a torrid task as they play the ever-improving Northern Rangers.

The Rangers, who were the surprise side in the tournament, have been touted by many as the underdogs and they have gladly accepted that.

Meanwhile, their oppo-

nents Camptown FC have not played to their full potential thus far and, according to inside sources, they are one match away from that.

Whether it’s the clinical Camptown side that turns up tonight or the one that has suffered mixed results throughout this tournament, one thing is certain; Northern Rangers are ready for both.

The second bout of the night will pit the dominant Western Tigers against Pele with both sides looking to draw first blood.

While many favour the Western side to advance, Pele boasts a band of merry youngsters who are by no means pushovers.

Their enthusiasm and spirit got them this far and they are looking to possibly climb the next three steps.

Nonetheless, the Western Tigers have been brutal and they will make no exception of this youth team when they meet at 21:00hrs.

The second semi-final on Sunday will pit Santos against Police and GFC against Riddim Squad.

Athletes performed exactly how we expected them to perform – coach Quinse Clarke DESPITE a team filled with newcomers, and competing on a difficult track, Guyana still defended their title in the track and field competition at the Inter-Guiana Games, performing exactly how they were expected to perform, says team coach Quinse Clarke.

For yet another year Guyana dominated in IGG athletics, both boys and girls, grabbing gold medals in all but one event for the girls team, and conceding just three losses on the boys side, ending with 24 gold, 14 silver and 8 bronze medals.

Clarke showered praise on the various coaches of the athletes, commending them for the work that they put in to get them ready.

“The team performed excellently. I must give thanks to the individual coaches for the preparation. They were well prepared, they had their

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mind set, so that there wasn’t much work for me to do but direct them,” Clarke told Chronicle Sport.

IGG Athletics team coach Quinse Clarke The Guyana side easily picked up most of the wins, with hardly any resistance from the Suriname athletes,

despite slow times from many of the Guyanese.

Nonetheless, it was not all smooth sailing for the team, with many of the athletes complaining of the grass track at the Andre Kamperveen Stadium being “slow”. There were also continuous complaints about the food being served by the organisers.

“The food wasn’t all that good like back home, but we managed. Everything else was awesome,” said firsttime athlete, Tortque Boyce, who competed in the boys high jump and was able to make a new 2-metre personal best standard in the event.

However, the athletes did shower praise on the accommodation and the hospitality of the Surinamese people. The Guyana team stayed at the Courtyard Marriott Hotel, in Paramaribo, Suriname.

FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 1, 2017