Guyana Chronicle E-paper 10-19-2019

SATURDAY 19th OCTOBER, 2019

' No.105795

President unveils plans to revive NA

… says New Amsterdam Town Week celebration must trigger efforts at its revival SEE STORY ON PAGE 18

…as a well-laid out, well-drained and wellmanaged municipality

Guyana dominates CAPE, CSEC awards …QC, Anna Regina Multilateral cop top school prizes

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Phillips can’t match President Granger

…says former army chief Gary Best 02 PAGE

Trotman promises major review of Troy Resources operations …receives probe report into Geologist death

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This little boy was eager to greet President David Granger during his visit to New Amsterdam for the opening ceremony of the town's 'Town Week' activities on Friday (Ministry of the Presidency photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Phillips can’t match President Granger

…says former army chief Gary Best EVEN as former Army Chief, Brigadier Mark Phillips has been rumored to be the Peoples’ Progressive Party’s (PPPs) possible Prime Ministerial candidate in the coming elections, People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) Executive Member, (ret’d) Rear Admiral Gary Best, said that Phillips is a “no contest” when compared to the President.

On Friday, at a PNCR Press Conference, Best stated that Phillips had worked under him at Camp Ayanganna and that, under his leadership, he demanded and received integrity from former Army Chief. However, Best said that those were

times past and with Phillips aligning himself with the PPP, he is unable to state whether the same integrity will likewise be demanded of him.

“If you’re asking me to give a personal view and not a party view on if the Brigadier is up against the Commander-in-Chief [President David Granger], I would say it’s no contest. It’s a no contest,” he said.

Best further explained that if one were to compare the score cards of the David Granger-led coalition government with its improvements in all areas, one would not see a “serious competition” between Phillips and the President – both retired

PNCR Executive Member, (ret’d) Rear Admiral Gary Best (Adrian Narine photo)

army men.

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, on Thursday had said that even with the talk of Phillips as the party’s prime ministerial candidate, no decision has been made and there is process which must first be followed. He stated that the person who will be selected will be chosen from the Civic component of the party; will be nominated by members of the Central Executive Committee and this selection is expected to be made sometime in late November.

Jagdeo also said that when he met with the former military leader, he indicated that he would be a welcomed addition to the opposition party while Phillips also indicated his willingness join. “As an officer who worked with me and under

me – because he worked under me – yes, I did find him to have integrity and good leadership, that’s a fact…I was able to demand that,” Best said.

Asked whether he believes Phillips can bring these similar traits to the PPP, Best said further, “That’s up to Mr. Phillips.

Mr. Phillips is a gentleman and he will decide what he wants to do with all his qualities. What I would say, in no uncertain terms, is that when he worked with me he had to display those qualities; I demanded of it; I got those qualities out of him…what he does now is up to him.”

The PPP’s engagement with Phillips to occupy a leading role in the party is a U-turn taken by the TURN TO PAGE

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$232.4M in Presidential Grants for hinterland villages for 2019

A TOTAL of $232.4M in Presidential Grants has been disbursed to 217 hinterland villages thus far for 2019. Projects supported under the Presidential Grant initiative include: Transportation – procure-

ment of boats, engines, buses, tractors and trailers and All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs); Agriculture – cattle and chicken poultry rearing, cash crop farming; Tourism – guesthouses, eco-lodges, benabs; Public Infrastruc-

ture – pavilions, multi-purpose halls, village offices, village shop roads, trails, bridges and revetments.

During a presentation at the recently-concluded 13th annual National Toshaos Council (NTC), Florence

Alexi La Rose, Development Officer at the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, explained that the amount represents a 92 per cent disbursement for the year. La Rose explained that 17 Presidential Grants are still outstanding,

which totals $16M. Six villages in Region One are still to receive their grants. These villages are Barabina, Eclipse Falls, Hobodeia, Powaikuru, Big Creek, Barimanobo.

Akawini in Region Two; Lower Bonosika in Region Three; Kurutuku in Region Seven; Fair View, Mountain Foot, Red Creek in Region Eight; Parabara, Quatata, Semonie in Region Nine and Muritaro in Region 10.

“This is October, reconciliations have to happen. So, when we ask you to submit early, it is to allow the process to happen; so, you can receive your money and complete your project by the end of the year. Now we are both in a position where you are still outstanding and the project is still outstanding so, if you do not hurry, the community will end up losing out of these funds,” La Rose stressed as she called on those villages to submit their projects by the end of this month.

She reminded village leaders of the need for them to properly document their community’s assets and the importance of practising good management and accountability. The Presidential Grant programme is one of the major interventions undertaken by the government to boost

economic and social development for Indigenous People in their respective communities.

Villages and communities receive between $500,000 and $2,000,000 based on the population size.

The allocation of grants commenced in 2007 with communities receiving a mere $150,000,000. Some 139 villages benefitted from the grant during that time.

In 2016, in observance of Guyana’s 50th Independence Anniversary, the Coalition Government approved a total of $280,500,000 in grants for 212 communities to embark on a project of their choice.

In 2017, $215,000,000 was approved for projects 215 villages.

Last week during the NTC, over $34M in Presidential and Capital Grants were presented to Toshaos for ‘green’ sustainable community projects. Communities that benefitted include Hururu, Maikwak, Arakaka, Morawhanna, Hotoquai, Hiawa, Fly Hill, Sand Creek, Monkey Mountain, Quarrie, Santa Curz, Karasabai, Wiruni, Tipuru, Bamboo Creek, Tuseneng, Kokshebai, Kanapang, Kaibarupai, Churikadnau, Pai Pang. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Guyana dominates CAPE, CSEC awards

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…QC, Anna Regina Multilateral cop top school prizes Guyana, once again, has copped the top regional prizes at this year’s Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE) and the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) with the top awards for both areas going to Queens’s College student, Michael Bhopaul for CAPE, and Riana Toney of the Anna Regina Secondary School for CSEC. Outstanding students will be invited to Grenada, where they will receive their awards during the Regional Top Awards Ceremony on Thursday December 5, 2019. Both Queen’s College and Anna Regina Secondary School will also receive the awards for School of the Year 2019 for both CAPE and CSEC respectively.

Meanwhile, in a release, CXC says the dedicated efforts of students across the Region have produced a diverse list of Regional Top Awardees who have been recognised for their outstanding performances at the CAPE examinations. The announcement was made at the meeting of the Sub-Committee of the School Examinations Committee (SUBSEC) held on Wednesday October 16, 2019 at CXC Headquarters in Barbados.

This year, Bhopaul from Queen’s College in Guyana, secured the annual Dennis Irvine Award, for the top overall student at the CAPE level. Michael achieved Grade Ones in all 16 units he wrote this year. These subjects included, Applied Mathematics Units One and Two, Biology Units One and Two, Caribbean Studies, Chemistry Units One and Two, Communication Studies, French Units One and Two, Integrated Mathematics, Physics Units One and Two, Pure Mathematics Units One and Two and Spanish Unit One. This is the third time a Queen’s College student has taken the award. Just last year, Aadilah Ali achieved Grade Ones in 14 CAPE units and a Grade Two in one other.

In addition to copping the top overall award, Bhopaul will also receive the RM Results-sponsored award for Most Outstanding Candidate in Mathematics and the top award for Natural Sciences.

Kameika Robinson of The Queen’s High School, Jamaica, excelled in the field of Humanities and will receive the Most Outstanding Candidate Award, sponsored by Hodder Education. Kameika achieved Grade One in

Michael Bhopaul

Caribbean Studies, Communication Studies, History Units One and Two, Law Units One and Two, and Sociology Units One and Two. Students from Trinidad rounded out the top awards with achievements for Business Studies and Language Studies. Teddy-ann Quamina of Arima Central Secondary School will receive the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants (ACCA) Business Studies award for achieving Grade Ones in a variety of business subjects, inclusive of Accounting Units One and Two, Economics Units One and Two, Entrepreneurship Units One and Two and Management of Business Units One and Two. She also achieved Grade One in Caribbean Studies and Communication Studies. Rayne Affonso of the St Augustine Girls' High School earned herself the Most Outstanding Candidate award for Language Studies, with a mastery of modern languages. She achieved Grade Ones in Caribbean Studies, Communication Studies, French Units One and Two, Literatures in English Units One and Two and Spanish Units One and Two. TOP CSEC STUDENT Meanwhile, the winner of the CSEC Regional Top Award for 2019 is Riana Toney of the Anna Regina Secondary School, in Guyana. Toney won the Overall Outstanding Achievement award with 19 subjects with Grade One in Agricultural Science SA, Biology, Caribbean History, Chemistry,

Nutrition and Health.

This year sees the introduction of the Professor Wilma Bailey Award for Outstanding Performance in CSEC Geography, in honour of the late Wilma Bailey. Professor Bailey was a former CXC Chief Examiner for over two decades, who had a passion for the subject of Geography. Amanda Williams from Trinidad and Tobago is the inaugural winner.

The Best Short Story award was scooped

by Zachary Brown of ASJA Boys’ College, Trinidad and Tobago.

Students from Trinidad and Tobago also copped the top awards for Visual Arts. Renée Blanc of St Joseph’s Convent won the Best Two-Dimensional Visual Arts Award, and Faith Barnett of Bishop Anstey High School received the Best Three-Dimensional Visual Riana Toney of the Anna Regina Secondary Arts Award.

The Association of Chartered Certified School won the Overall CSEC Outstanding Achievement award with 19 subjects Accountants (ACCA) award for the top performer in Principles of Accounts was won by English A, English B, Geography, InforRhea-Simone Lawrence of St Andrew High mation Technology, Integrated Science, School for Girls, Jamaica.

Mathematics, Office Administration, Physics, Angie Matute of the Edward P. Yorke Principles of Business, Religious Education, High School in Belize, won the award for Social Studies, Spanish, Electronic Docu- Outstanding Performance in Technical and ment Preparation and Management, Physical Vocational studies, achieving Grade One in Education and Sport, and Human and Social Agricultural Science SA, Information TechBiology. Riana also scooped the top award nology, Textiles, Clothing and Fashion, Food, for Humanities.

Nutrition and Health, Family and Resource Samuel Haynes from Queen’s College Management, and Technical Drawing. She also won the award for Most Outstanding also achieved Grade I in English A, MathCandidate in Sciences with 18 subjects with ematics, Physical Education and Sport, and Grade Ones in Agricultural Science DA, Spanish, Grade II in Chemistry, Human and Biology, Caribbean History, Chemistry, Eco- Social Biology, Office Administration and nomics, English A, English B, Geography, Social Studies and Grade III in Physics and Information Technology, Integrated Sci- Visual Arts. ence, Mathematics, Physics, Social Studies, Erian Scott of the Albena Lake-Hodge Spanish, Electronic Document Preparation Comprehensive School in Anguilla won and Management, Physical Education and the award for Most Outstanding Female Sport, Human and Social Biology, Additional Performer in the Caribbean Certificate of Mathematics.

Secondary Level Competence (CCSLC®).

Brianna Gopie, also of Queen’s College, Erian achieved grades of Master in Enwon the award for Most Outstanding Candi- glish, Mathematics and Social Studies, a date for Business Education with 16 subjects. grade of Competent in Integrated Science Brianna achieved Grade One in Economics, and Grade One in Technical Drawing.

English A, English B, Geography, Informa- Her counterpart, Most Outstanding Male tion Technology, Integrated Science, Office Performer, Arje Rey of the Washington Administration, Physics, Principles of Ac- Archibald High School in St. Kitts & Nevis, counts, Principles of Business, Social Studies, achieved grades of Master in English and Spanish, Electronic Document Preparation Mathematics, a Grade One in Information and Management, Physical Education and Technology and Grade Three in Economics Sport, Additional Mathematics, and Food, and Office Administration. ◄ From page 02

Phillips can’t match ...

party since the party has heavily criticised the governing APNU+AFC for appointing former military officials in key positions of the public sector. Phillips moved up the ranks to Chief of Command under

the Donald Ramotar presidency. He retired in 2016.

Also, on the road towards elections, several new political parties have sprung up, all hoping to make a difference in what has been dubbed “the moth-

er of all elections”.

One such has been the A New and United Guyana (ANUG) with Presidential Candidate, politician and lawyer, Ralph Ramkarran, and most recently, the Citizenship Initiative

(CI), which plans to work towards a unified Guyana whereby all Guyanese are afforded their basic rights and needs.

Best told the media that the PNCR does not see these parties as challenges

or believe that their formation causes “vote splitting”. He also indicated that newly-formed parties like CI have been built on platforms identical that that of the PNCR. “When you look at what is the platform of the recent CI party, there is nothing in that platform that is not in the core principles of the PNCR. So, they haven’t invented anything new;

they’ve looked at what the PNCR has done over the decades and just made it prime time and prime activities for themselves,” he said.

The Party Executive added, “The best will contend. We feel we have the best candidate, the best team and the best plan to develop Guyana over the next 10 to 20 years.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 19, 2019

Cummings to lie in state in the Capitol

(NYTIMES) WASHINGTON — Representative Elijah E. Cummings, whose death on Thursday left both Republicans and Democrats mourning the loss of a lawmaker they praised as passionate and decent, will lie in state in the Capitol, Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Friday.

Mr. Cummings, a son of sharecroppers who rose to become one of the most powerful Democrats in Congress and a central figure in the investigations into President Trump, will lie in Statuary Hall, the grand, two-story semicircular room between the Rotunda and the House chamber.

A formal ceremony will be

Representative Elijah Cummings of Maryland “was a fighter, he was a leader and, most importantly, he was our friend,” said Representative Kevin McCarthy, the Republican leader.

held there Thursday morning, Ms. Pelosi said, for members of Congress, the Cummings family and “invited guests.” After the memorial, Mr. Cummings’s coffin will be moved just outside the House chamber for a public viewing, a spokesman for Ms. Pelosi said.

For more than two decades, Mr. Cummings was a representative from Maryland; his district included some of the neediest sections of Baltimore.

A former chairman of the Congressional Black Caucus, he led the House Oversight and Reform Committee. That powerful perch gave him wide latitude to investigate the president, and he used his authority expansively.

As recently as last week, he was participating in strategy calls about the House’s impeachment inquiry and signing subpoenas from his hospital bed, those close to him said.

His fellow House members spent Thursday and Friday eulogizing him. Representative Kevin McCarthy of California, the Republican leader, opened a news conference on Friday by paying homage to Mr. Cummings, whom he described as “one of the most important members who’ve walked these halls.”

“Elijah Cummings was beloved by both sides of the aisle,” Mr. McCarthy went on.

“He was a fighter, he was a

leader and, most importantly, he was our friend.”

It is slightly unusual that his body would lie in state in Statuary Hall. Ringed by statues sent by the states, the hall served as the House chamber until 1857. Today, it is often used for formal occasions, including memorial services and luncheons that Congress hosts for newly inaugurated presidents.

Since 1852, with the death of the Kentucky statesman Henry Clay, the Capitol Rotunda has been used as a place to pay tribute to American presidents, lawmakers (mostly senators) and military leaders.

Citizens like the civil rights leader Rosa Parks and the Rev.

Billy Graham have also had that distinction, according to the House historian’s website.

Lawmakers and military leaders “lie in state”; citizens “lie in honor.”

Though complete records of Capitol funeral ceremonies are not available, it appears Mr. Cummings may be the first African-American lawmaker to lie in state in the Capitol. No African-Americans have lain in state in the Rotunda, and only two have lain there in honor: Mrs. Parks in 2005 and Officer Jacob Joseph Chestnut, a Capitol Police officer killed in the line of duty, in 1998.

NASA astronauts in all-women spacewalk (BBC) Nasa astronauts Christina Koch and Jessica Meir have made history by completing the first ever all-female spacewalk.

They spent seven hours outside the International Space Station (ISS) replacing a failed power control unit.

Ms Koch had already carried out four spacewalks but it was the first such mission for Ms Meir, who became the 15th woman to walk in space, Nasa said.US President Donald Trump congratulated them in a video call.

“You are very brave, bril-

The astronauts getting suited up for the spacewalk

liant women,” he told them as they carried out the spacewalk.

Ms Koch, an electrical engineer, and Ms Meir, who has a doctorate in marine biology, stepped outside in their Nasa spacesuits at 11:38 GMT (07:38 EDT) on Friday. They made their way to a location called the Port 6 truss structure to replace the battery charge-discharge unit (BCDU). They then returned to the airlock with the failed part which will subse-

quently be loaded on to the next SpaceX Dragon resupply ship for inspection on Earth.

Back on Earth, Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris tweeted that the spacewalk was “more than historic”.

Nasa had announced in March that Ms Koch would take part in the first all-female “extra-vehicular activity” (EVA) with colleague Anne McClain. But the spacewalk was called off because a medium-sized suit wasn’t available in the near-term for McClain.

The first woman to spacewalk was the Russian Svetlana Savitskaya, who went outside the USSR’s Salyut 7 space station for three hours, 35 minutes on 25 July 1984.

The first person in history to spacewalk was Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov, who died earlier this month aged 85.

On Tuesday, Nasa unveiled a prototype for a new spacesuit that might be worn by the next astronauts on the Moon. It said the new Moon suit, known formally as the Exploration Extravehicular Mobility Unit (xEMU), is designed to give the wearer a customised fit whatever their shape or size.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 19, 2019

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Police 'did right' to free El Chapo’s son (BBC) Mexico’s president has defended freeing drug kingpin Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán’s son soon after his arrest.

When Ovidio Guzmán López was seized at a house on a judge’s warrant in the city of Culiacán, cartel gunmen fought street battles with security forces.

At least eight people were reportedly killed and 21 wounded, with vehicles left burning in the streets.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador said the decision to cancel the arrest had saved lives.

Senior security officials had decided on his release, the president said at a news conference. “The officials who took

--Mexican President says

Armed men were seen in several areas of Culiacán on Thursday

this decision did well,” he said.

“The capture of a criminal is not worth more than people’s lives.”

As the gun battles raged, a lawyer for the Guzmán family

told the Associated Press, “Ovidio is alive and free.”

Mr López Obrador was elected on a platform of cracking down on Mexico’s drug cartels, and has tasked the Na-

tional Guard, a new security force, with fighting the dealers.

Under El Chapo’s leadership, the Sinaloa cartel was the biggest supplier of drugs to the US, officials say.

The kingpin was jailed earlier this year, and Ovidio Guzmán Lopez is one of several brothers with a hand in running the cartel.

Thought to be in his twenties, he is accused of drug trafficking in the US. What happened in Culiacán?

A patrol of National Guard militarised police came under intense fire from a house, Security Minister Alfonso Durazo said.

The security forces fought back and found Mr Guzmán,

but were then surrounded by gunmen and forced to retreat.

Defence Minister Luis Cresencio Sandoval told reporters the operation had been “badly planned”. A National Guard policeman was among the dead, he said.

Fighters also attacked security forces in other parts of Culiacán and bodies were seen on the streets.

Witnesses described scenes of panic in the city, a stronghold of the Sinaloa cartel, as families with small children fled from gunfire.

Footage on social media showed a pick-up truck with a machine gun mounted on the back, in scenes reminiscent of a war zone.

Other footage showed fam-

ilies scrambling to take cover under cars and in shops as bullets flew. In one video, a girl asked her father: “Why are they shooting bullets?”

A purported mugshot taken of Mr Guzmán while he was detained by police was shared widely on social media.

As fighting brought the city to a standstill, the Sinaloa state government said an unknown number of inmates had escaped from the Aguaruto prison.

It said it was “working to restore calm and order” and called on residents to “remain calm, stay off the streets and be very attentive to official advisories on the evolving situation”.

New York jury finds Honduran President’s brother guilty of drug smuggling Juan Antonio “Tony” Hernández, 41, was arrested in November 2018 in Miami.

Prosecutors said the former Congressman had used his government connections to smuggle cocaine through Honduras to the US. Dismissing the verdict as “inconsistent with the truth”, his attorney said they would appeal against the ruling.

On Friday, supporters of Hernández were met with protesters as they left the courthouse, US media report.

Some chanted “Fuera JOH,” meaning “Out with JOH”, referring to the initials of the Honduran president.

What was he found guilty of?

A former Honduran congressman, Tony Hernández, 41, was convicted on four separate charges, including drug conspiracy to import cocaine into the US and weapons offences.

Assistant US Attorney Jason Richman said during the trial that he was part of a “state-sponsored organisation” that distributed cocaine in the US for years, and that corrupt “mayors, congressmen, military generals (and) police chiefs protected” him.

Some of the cocaine he transported was said to have been labelled with his initials “TH”.

He was also found guilty of providing heavily-armed security for the drug shipments.

Tony’ Hernandez is said to have transported cocaine labelled with his initials

The drug smuggling network is said to have operated in Colombia, Honduras and Mexico using planes, speedboats and a submarine.

US Attorney Geoffrey S Berman said “Mr Hernández arranged machine gun-toting security for cocaine shipments, bribed law enforcement officials for sensitive information to protect drug shipments, and solicited large bribes from major drug traffickers”.

US prosecutors also said jailed Mexican drug lord Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán gave Tony Hernández $1m (£810,000) as a bribe that was meant to reach the president.

The 50-year-old president was not charged in the case and has consistently disputed the charges against his brother.

On Friday, he took to Twitter, writing the ruling brought him “great sadness”, and based on the testimonies of “confessed murderers” referring to the testimonies of several Honduran drug traffickers who are now in

US custody.

What’s the background?

President Hernández is facing growing calls to step down following the release of a court document linked to his brother’s case. It alleged that his 2013 presidential campaign had been financed by drug money, and labelled him as a co-conspirator.

He denies the claims. The president was re-elected to a

second term in 2017 in polls which his opponents said were fraudulent.

Honduras is a major transit route for cocaine smuggled from Colombia and other South American nations to the US. Thousands of Hondurans have left the country in recent years, mainly for the US, because of violence and poverty.

19 October, 2019 08:30hrs ~ 10:00hrs

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 19, 2019

Breast cancer awareness ACTIVITIES to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month (BCAM) 2019 continue. BCAM was founded and first observed in 1985. BCAM, an international observance from October 1 to 31 each year, was intended primarily to increase awareness of that non-communicable disease, thereby promoting vigilance, as early detection, diagnosis, and treatment significantly increases one’s chances of curing the illness.

As the month comes to a close this year, Guyanese should bear in mind that although the many activities held during the month, including walk-a-thons, workshops, seminars, vigils, and lectures, will come to an end, watchfulness against breast cancer should be a year-round activity, as the common, frequently-fatal disease can strike at any time

of the year.

Breast cancer is cancer that develops from breast tissue. Symptoms of the disease include a lump in the breast, dimpling of the skin or other changes in the appearance of the breast area. Breast cancer, left untreated, usually spreads to other areas of the body, and is typically fatal. Fortunately though, if it is found early and treated, it can be completely cured.

Breast cancer can affect both men and women, because everyone has breast tissue. However, because of physiological factors, it is more prevalent in women.

In fact, it is the most common cancer in women. According to statistics, some persons are at higher risk of getting breast cancer than others. High-risk factors include obesity, family history of breast cancer, early

onset of puberty, and in females, not having children.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), some 1.38 million persons are diagnosed worldwide each year with new cases of the disease.

In Guyana, the Ministry of Public Health has reported that about 150 persons die of breast cancer annually. The ministry reports, too, that 17 per cent of all cancers in Guyana are breast cancers, and 27 per cent of all cancers in Guyanese women begin in the breast. Evidently, this disease is a significant local health problem. Unfortunately, the majority of persons who get breast cancer in Guyana die because they do not detect the disease early enough and seek medical attention. Many times, too, according to officials, women notice the symptoms, but being fearful of the diagnosis,

they delay seeking medical attention. The obvious solution is vigilance, and, if a problem is observed, the immediate pursuit of medical attention.

Chief oncologist at the Cancer Institute of Guyana, Dr. Sayan Chakraborty is on record as saying that all types of cancer-related detection and treatment, including diagnosis, chemotherapy, surgery, and radiotherapy, can be done in Guyana. And he emphasises, “Know cancer, no cancer.”

According to the WHO, every person should be aware of changes in their bodies; any change in the feel or appearance of breast tissue should be considered suspect, unless cancer is ruled out by a competent doctor. In Guyana, the treatment of cancer, including breast cancer, is available free of cost. However, before

any medical intervention can begin, there must be a diagnosis; and the onus is on all individuals to be self-aware and watchful, and seek medical attention at the first sign of any symptoms of disease, as early detection, rapid action, and immediate medical intervention frequently results in a complete cure. As Guyana and the rest of the world continue to observe Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2019, we are reminded that breast cancer is the most common cancer in Guyanese women. And, as we remember and pay our respects to the many Guyanese who have succumbed to the disease, and acknowledge too, the many who have survived, let us remain alert, observant, and proactive in the interest of our own health.

Making millions from the emotional pains of innocent poor people Dear Editor, ON Tuesday, October 15, I sat down at my desk to take in the news. Everything was going swimmingly well until I saw the front page of Kaieteur News. Mr. Editor, as a doctor, I am trained to deal with and manage most things. Frankly, I do not think there is much more in life for me to see, in terms of patients’ injuries.

I am not easily shocked; most doctors are not easily shocked.

Anyway, what I saw in the Kaieteur News was quite grotesque, graphic, shocking and uncalled for. Apparently, over the weekend, a gentleman was strangled and beaten to an unidentifiable pulp on Middle Street. Apparently the man’s identity was unknown.

Kaieteur News, always ready to maximise sales, decided to place the graphic photo of the dead gentleman, with blood

and likely cerebrospinal fluid oozing from his nostrils and ears. The other injuries are too graphic to describe for the reading public.

Mr. Editor, I would argue that this was not necessary.

We are in the 21st Century; a time of computers, biometric passports, retinal scanners, etc. I am no computer specialist, but I am quite sure that they should have a few in Guyana. As a matter of fact, I do not believe what I am about to suggest requires complex computer skills, since it may just be a software. I am alluding to an Electronic Facial Identification Technique (E-fit); that is what is used in the 21st Century. A computer- generated image of the person in question, minus the grotesque images, if public assistance is required to identify the deceased.

And that was not all. A soldier was shot in Tucville

a few days ago. Initial reports suggested that he might have been a bandit who tried to rob a gold miner. This turned out not to be true. Kaieteur News, in the business of shock and awe, had the dead man’s image plastered on their pages; blood pouring from his chest, and his eyes half- open.

This is shocking in the 21st Century. Sorry, these are not the days of Jack the Ripper, where the masses desperate for entertainment but no television or radios to provide such would look forward to a daily diet of death and blood in their tabloid newspapers. Glenn Lall and Adam Harris, were those graphic photos necessary!

How would you feel if you were to open the papers and see your loved ones dead and plastered on the front pages with graphic injuries!

Mr. Editor, death is terminal; there is no coming back from death. Don’t believe

Benny Hinn. As doctors, we have to break the news to relatives when their loved ones die. This process can take up to an hour. In preparation for the bad news, they are sat in a quiet room with relatives and a nurse to support them; they are offered a drink. Then the bad news is gradually given in a sensitive, empathetic and caring way. The bad news is broken slowly. If it is too much for them to take, then we pause and support them.

That’s why it takes up to an hour.

Mind you, we are just breaking the news, and they have not seen their loved one as yet. Despite the compassion shown on informing them of the death of the loved ones, the relatives would be devastated. Now, having read that, try to imagine how Grandma Jane would react if she were to open the Kaieteur News, with no support at home, and then see her

youngest grandson, Alan’s dead body with grotesque injuries plastered on the front page?

Let me say this, this is a pattern of behaviour by the Kaieteur News that has been happening for years; the undignified treatment of the dead to maximise sales.

When I worked in Guyana and an alleged bandit was shot, Kaieteur News gets the image of the dead bandit, by whatever means, as he lay in ER. This image would find its way on the front page for maximum effect, and send the masses tumbling over each other to get a copy of the newspaper to take in the graphic images as they sip on their bush tea. In contrast, Glenn Lall, happy with the day’s work and day’s earnings, would enjoy a sumptuous dinner with his family as he sips on his Remy Martin Louis wine, as the families of the deceased, devastated

by the images of their mutilated loved ones, sit on the steps of their shack, painfully grieving and crying their eyes out. Is this acceptable in a civilised 21st Century society?

What I saw this week was the straw that broke the camel’s back. We are judged as a people by the way we treat the elderly and the deceased. Glenn Lall, you should hold your head in shame! Making millions from the emotional pain of innocent poor people!

Regards, Dr. Mark Devonish, MBBS MSc Med. Ed FRCP (Edin) FRCP(UK) Consultant Acute Medicine Nottingham University Hospital UK

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 19, 2019

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Can’t wait to say ‘adiós’ --to Jagdeo and his amigos

Dear Editor, THE Guyana Times (Thursday, October 17) carried a headline, ‘Coalition Preparing Ground to set aside, rig 2020 elections’.

I didn’t need to read the article to know that the Jagdeoites are a deep nightmare of horrors!

The PPP was defeated twice in 2011 when it lost its majority in Parliament, and in

2015 when it lost the government. On both occasions, the Coalition of parties opposed to the PPP won majority support.

There is every reason to believe that the Coalition

will win the March 2020 elections. This is why it is strange and baffling that the Times, as mouth-organ of the PPP, should suggest that the Coalition will “set aside” the elections, or “rig” it.

It is the PPP that is now running scared that it phantoms on the voters list would be removed, and it would be defeated. The margin of its loss this time will widen, just as the rift inside the party

which has lost its leading Jaganites, and more capable leaders.

I can’t wait to say ‘Adios’ to Jagdeo and his gang.

Regards, Indawattie Hardatt

Are we awaiting another US Senator’s advice on the PLE Dear Editor, US Senator Edward Kennedy joined the elections postponement lobby and is appealing to the President Desmond Hoyte to delay the polls until the voter’s list is revised above reproach. The list is clearly flawed, and few believed

that an election based on it can be viewed as fair, Kennedy said in a statement faxed to Stabroek News.

Kennedy’s appeal came as former US President Jimmy Carter awaited a response from then Elections Commission Chairman Dr. Rudy Collins to a letter they sent

PPP should not protest GIPEX Dear Editor, I WRITE to urge the PPP/C not to protest at the GIPEX event. There is a time and place for everything.

Instead, the Opposition should seek a speaking role at the event, so as to outline its position on the oil-and-gas sector should it form the government following the next elections.

Investors and potential investors like to know what a possible change in government is likely to bring.

You don’t invite guests to your home and engage in a family fight while they are there. Of course, anyone and everyone enjoys the right to protest, but the public image of the country is important, and scenes such as those we have seen recently with police and protestors should be avoided when we have guests who do, or are looking to do business with the country.

Yes, there are protests in other countries when hosting events, but most of these countries are not negatively impacted, and if they are, they could afford it. Guyana, in my view, cannot.

Someone asked me in a Facebook post whether I think the PPP/C considers itself part of the Guyanese family. I don’t see how the PPP/C and every other political party could consider themselves anything other than part of the Guyanese family. But even if they don’t, it is not how the political parties see themselves as far as GIPEX is concerned; it is how the outside world sees us as a collective: A Nation.

Regards, Wesley Kirton

last week following Collins insistence that he can correct the seriously flawed list in time for Elections Day. Collins claimed that the PCD Alliance had made non-negotiable demands for cleaning up the list.

Some of the Alliance’s recommendations required Constitution changes. Senator Kennedy said

developments over the last years 1990 and 1991 have made Hoyte’s intentions unclear, at best. He has made some progress, but problems remain, the Massachusetts Senator said. Just like 1992, the list is a matter of contention again. We saw the aftermath of the 1992 elections.

Are we waiting on a next US Sena-

tor’s advice.

Senator Kennedy died in 2009.

Commissioner Vincent Alexander’s call is correct. Clean up the list and verify every voter.

Regards, George Williams

The culture of lateness contributing to road accidents Dear Editor,

ceeds the speed limit.

THE culture of lateness is what is leading to lawlessness and intolerableness, and people are paying the price with their lives and damage to their valuable property, sometimes through no fault of theirs.

We have, over the decades, embraced the culture of lateness that is consuming all of us.

One has to agree that most of the fatal, serious or damage accidents are being caused by speeding by one driver or at times both.

With the minibuses very rarely you’d find a passenger telling the driver to slow it down, due to the fact that some of the passengers are late, so it is in those persons interest that the driver ex-

I am asking that we take some time off to make an observation of the amount of workers that have to be on the job at 08:00 and 08:15hrs. They are still in a minibus or may be driving their own vehicle on their way to work, This pattern of behaviour is most prevalent in the public sector, and this includes the Joint Services, particularly the Guyana Police Force. I was unfortunate to be at the Charity Police Station on three consecutive Monday mornings, driving from a distance of about 36 miles away and at 08:30hrs.

The Sergeant in Charge of the Charity Police Station did not report for duty for that day, and it was a Monday.

And while most of you may

not know the village and where this Station is located, Charity on Monday mornings, more precisely, during a given time, is one of the busiest places in the country.

Persons travelling from up and down the Pomeroon River and as far as from Region One, for various reasons, not forgetting the people from neighbouring Venezuela and other South American Countries.

We have embraced the culture of being late, some of us all the time, and others most times. We may have perfected the art of making excuses for our lateness, and this happens from top to bottom, look at the numerous times that our Senior and Junior Government Officials, would have us waiting for them to arrive at the vari-

ous functions, when these persons are slated to make presentations on many topic and issues or to deliver the feature address.

Those of us who are old enough would know when disciplinary action used to be taken for lateness in the Military Services, but sad to say I am not sure if those actions are still taken, but if not whey not.

In concluding, I would like to quote a line from the song of that famous Soul Singer, Ray C. Those days are gone, long gone.

Regards, Archie W. Cordis

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Morphine must be administered based on established standards – CMO CHIEF Medical Officer (CMO), Dr. Shamdeo Persaud, said the oral morphine must be administered based internationally established standards and regulations, as he responded to claims that cancer patients were suffering as a result of a lack of access to oral morphine.

In a Stabroek News article headlined, “Cancer Patients suffering due to lack of access to oral morphine – Beacon Foundation head,” published on October 15 2019, it was stated that the organisation's inability to access oral morphine through the Ministry of Public Health has resulted in many of its cancer patients suffering pain.

But the CMO said the article and claims therein are a misrepresentation of the facts.

“The ministry, as a part of

its free public health program, provides care and treatment to all cancer patients throughout Guyana at Public Health Facilities in accordance to the norms, standards and regulations governing healthcare services. Under these conditions the ministry and the public health facilities routinely provide all the diagnostic and chemotherapy services needed by persons affected by cancers. The ministry, in addition, partners with the Cancer Institute of Guyana, private hospitals, private practitioners, and to some extent, the Beacon Foundation, in facilitation of radiation treatment and some aspects of palliative and home care for patients with cancers,” the CMO said in a statement on Thursday.

He noted that there is an arrangement in place for the

provision of available narcotics substances (including all forms of Morphine) and other pain management medication based on the established regulation of these controlled substances. As such, he made it clear, that as CMO, he will provide these medications based on the existence of the correct conditions for safe and efficacious administration of all narcotic substances.

“Guyana, on July 15, 2002, became a signatory of to the Single Convention on Narcotics Drugs, 1961 and as such, falls within the regulatory framework of the convention. As a party to the convention, Guyana assesses all necessary narcotic medication based on an assigned quota. The obligation by the Government of Cooperative Republic of Guyana, represented by the Ministry of

Public Health, requires that an approved system for importation, storage, sale, use in manufacturing and as treatment of all accessed narcotic drugs must be regulated,” Dr. Persaud stated.

He noted too that all narcotic drugs must be prescribed by a fully-registered medical practitioner, dispensed by a registered pharmacist and administered by a registered nurse.

The CMO further pointed out that in the “Yellow List” of Narcotic Drugs Under International Control, all pills containing morphine (morpheridine, morphine, morphine methobromide, morphine-n-oxides and all other derivatives of morphine and codeine) are controlled drugs.

“It is therefore clear that all morphine preparations are governed by these provisions.

The ministry is cognisant of the fact that prescription medicine abuse is a growing problem and like with other regulated medicines that are availably freely on the market like antibiotics, misuse can lead to dangerous resistance and in the case of narcotics, devastating addictions,” the CMO explained.

On the matter of short supplies, he informed that the ministry, due to the expanded range of clinical services including more advanced surgical procedures and palliative care throughout Guyana, submitted an application in 2018 to the International Narcotic Control Board for an increase in the annual quota of narcotics for Guyana and to expand the range of such items both in chemical compound and formulation (injectable, tablets, liquid and other forms).

“The ministry…concerned by the statements of the Beacon Foundation which erroneously gives the impression that oral morphine can be given without the necessary control measures in place, in violation of the obligation of the state,” Dr. Persaud said.

On behalf of the ministry, the CMO is seeking a retraction of the damaging public statements. “The ministry assures members of the public, including persons affected by cancers, that it will do all that is necessary and essential to ensuring that there is access to high-quality healthcare which is safe and free from any risk or complication to the society,” he said.

UWI climbs to top 4% of universities

VICE-CHANCELLOR of the University of the West Indies (The UWI) Professor Sir Hilary Beckles has announced that the regional University had climbed the Times Higher Education (THE) rankings, following its debut last year.

The UWI appears in the World University Rankings 2020 which includes almost 1,400 universities across 92 countries and is still the only Caribbean University on the prestigious list, UWI said in a release. In 2016, The UWI rolled out its five-year strategic plan (2017-2022) built upon three pillars—Access to tertiary education, Alignment with partners and stakeholders, and Agility in effort.

Themed Revitalizing Caribbean Development, this plan mobilizes the University to “rekindle and sustain Caribbean Development.” Vice-Chancellor, Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, in conceiving and rolling out this plan, which is known as the “Triple A Strategy”, declared an immediate objective to “radically upgrade and globalize the university’s performance reputation, and enhance its international visibility and competitiveness.”

To achieve this strategic objective, The UWI system prepared for its first exposure and participation in comparative international rankings, last year. It chose professional engagement with Times Higher Education (THE), the most prestigious ranking agency

The University of the West Indies

and moved with agility to become fully conversant with THE’s scientific methodology — pillars of assessments, criteria for categorizing performance, and the tabulation of scores. Critically, it called for a purposeful effort to strengthen areas of weakness and enhance traditional strengths.

The UWI’s debut THE ranking results showcased the tremendous accumulated success of the University as a legacy institution. With over 200 registered universities in the Caribbean region, The UWI was ranked number one. Among more than 2000 registered universities in Latin America and the Caribbean, it ranked in the top 3%; and in the top 5% among the 28,000 registered universities globally.

With these excellent results in last year’s ranking scheme, The UWI did not rest on its laurels or muse upon its legacy. Rather, it moved to strengthen its competitive position in key areas, particularly in enhancing the international recognition of its published research. This achievement is reflected in recognized global research citation indices. The evidence of The UWI’s enhanced global visibility is found in key areas such as its leadership and participation in international projects. Additionally, its concerted efforts to expand and deepen Industry-Academic partnerships were noted.

Collectively, these outputs showed that the University had made significant strategic strides, with enhanced excel-

lence, reflected in a surge in reputation recognition.

Within the context of these developments, the just released THE 2020 results are even more impressive. The enhanced respect the University gained for its academic output and its alignment of effort with the development objectives of the region was rewarded.

Not only has The UWI retained its position as the number one ranked university in the region, in the Latin America and Caribbean region, it moved from the top 3% to the top 2%. The scores for its global rankings show that it moved from the top 5% to the top 4% of ranked universities.

“This upward trajectory into the top 4% of the world’s

best universities reflects the extraordinary effort of the management team and The UWI family to honour the pledge within the strategic plan to be an excellent global university rooted in the Caribbean”, says Vice-Chancellor Beckles. Specifically, the Vice-Chancellor added, “it is the intention of the University to be located in the top 3% of ranked universities by the end of the current strategic planning cycle in 2023.”

Vice-Chancellor Beckles concluded, “The University has experienced a considerable rise in self-confidence since participating in these global rankings.” The UWI has an excellent Executive Management Team, and is focused on sustaining its reputation revolution, while demonstrating daily proof of greater efficiency and public accountability.” He expressed special gratitude to project leader, Pro Vice-Chancellor Densil Williams and his technical team, and all members of community who actively participated in the data gathering, focused on implementation schedules, and framed the dialogue associated with rankings as a tool of performance measurement.

Describing the ranking process, Pro Vice-Chancellor Williams made the comparison that for the 2019 World University Rankings, there were 1,258 universities on the list, (The UWI placed at 591), while for the 2020 World University Rankings

1,397 universities made the list (The UWI came in at 571). “The UWI has moved significantly up the trajectory,” he said. He further noted that The UWI has seen significant movement in all THE’s criteria of teaching, research, citations, industry income and international outlook. Importantly, the regional university which is much smaller and less resourced than many of its competitors on the list, received very high scores for ‘citations’ and ‘international outlook’ placing it among the top 75 percentile of universities across the globe in those criteria. “I am very confident,” he stated, “that going forward The UWI will see better days.

And given what we now know about our global university, and the quality of work that we have been doing, I expect us to continue to rise in the near future.”

Recently appointed University Registrar, Dr. Maurice Smith, who served as Chair of the media conference, commented that the THE’s rankings have “placed us alongside the wealthiest and the best in some of the biggest countries across the globe”. He added, “The rankings show how we have been aligning ourselves with our strategic mission to radically transform and improve The UWI’s regional and international academic standing as an excellent global university that is rooted in the Caribbean.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

New political party launched

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… promises constitutional reform, campaign financing laws

By Tamica Garnett THE Citizenship Initiative (TCI), yet another new political party pushing for greater citizen and youth involvement, the legalisation of marijuana, and constitutional reform, among other things, was officially launched last Thursday evening at the Herdmanston Lodge.

Other points noted by the party during the night’s session was campaign financing reform, tax reform, liberalisation of the ICT sector, less business regulations, which they say were stifling small businesses. The party is being headed by author and Cultural Policy Advisor, Ruel Johnson, Shazam Ally, a website developer, and former supporter of the opposition PPP/C and governing APNU/AFC party; school teacher Rhonda-Ann Lam, and businessman Alfonso De Armas.

The party is looking to contest the March, 2020 elections, and hopes to gain at least one seat in Guyana’s 65-seat parliament. The party has six pillars for development: Participatory citizenship, enhanced governance and public accountability; economic security, diversification and growth; infrastructure for the future; education and human resources development; social cohesion, security and equity; and international leadership.

Four of the core members of "The Citizenship Initiative" political party, from left are: Author, Ruel Johnson; businessman Alfonso De Armas; and Web developer, Shazam Ally

The launch saw the party giving an eye-catching presentation, and included an interactive session with those in attendance, which included Private Sector Commission Chairman Gerry Gouveia, and prominent businesswoman Annette Arjoon-Martins. The party members were questioned on, and were able to give their stance, on a number of issues.

The party is the fourth local political party to be birthed this year, since talks of early elections became a front-burner issue following the December 21 no- confidence motion against the government.

In January 2019, Liberty and Justice Party (LJP), led by former Vice Chairman of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Lenox Shuman, was the first party to be launched.

Later that month a group of Berbice lawyers launched the Federal United Party (FEDUP), which was quickly followed by the launch of A New and United Guyana (ANUG), led by former PPP executive, Ralph Ramkarran.

Lam shared that it was earlier this year that the group of young professionals, who would become TCI’s core, were discussing the need for change in several political areas, and then decided to develop their own party. “It was at the beginning of this year that the serious conversation really started. One day I don’t even remember who it was that said we should really stop complaining and do something, so we launched into this discussion of what we would change and how we would change it and it just kind

of snowballed from there and we said ok we’re going to go forward. We had about 20 or 30 persons,” Lam explained.

The party has not yet formed an executive or talked about possibility of a presidential candidate. Lam said in the coming weeks the party will hold a members’ meeting for nominations and selection of persons for the executive.

The party, like many others, said it was tired of the politics of Guyana’s two major political parties: the opposition People’s Progressive Party Civic (PPPC), which ruled Guyana for 23 years and the current governing coalition party, APNU-AFC. “On the 26 May 1966 our country gained independence from Great Britain and was finally allowed to manage its own affairs. We have been

marred by ethnic divisions, limited opportunities for holistic economic development and questionable leadership since then,” said Ally, a former supporter of the PPP then APNU/AFC. “As a nation we have put the reigns in the hands of two major groups who have shared power for 53 plus years, but yet we are still faced with many of the struggles. Today, even as we stand on the cusp of tremendous financial wealth, we are suffering more than ever from a poverty of ideas in the political realm.” Johnson accused the two major parties of not doing enough to utilize youth ideas.

“Young people in existing parties are being treated like they don’t have ideas and they don’t have plans,” Johnson said. Johnson took firm stances on the party’s plans to never coalesce with any of the two major political parties; and the party’s plans to disclose its financiers as it pushes for campaign financing reform for the entire political environment. He is advocating for the publication of the names of all donors giving US$10,000 or more to parties.

“Coalition is not an option, we don’t intend to. From a very practical perspective you can’t say there are goals, you have to change the status quo and then you go and join the status quo,” Johnson said.

There’s also a broad futuristic plan for revolutionizing the country’s infrastructure using the financial resources from Guyana’s emerging oil and gas industry. A PowerPoint presentation with a 3D layout gave attendees a look at how they hope transformation of the country to look like.

The party had the backing and blessings of Trinidadian political activist Nikoli Edwards, who was a guest speaker at the launch. He commended the group for what they were doing and shared testimonials of his own tales to a career in politics. Now that the party has launched, Lam said following the putting in place of the party’s executive, the plans are to begin campaigning by going into the communities and speaking with the people directly.

“We’re hitting the road and we’re going into communities and hear what they have to tell us. What are the problems affecting them?

We don’t live in those communities so it’s hard for us to make decisions and policies for people who we have never spoken to, we are viewing from bird’s eye view at best.

So we’re hitting the road, getting into communities and ultimately moving our initiatives forward with the input of the citizenship,” Lam said.

Trotman promises major review of operations of Troy Resources …receives probe report into Geologist death

By Tamica Garnett MINISTER of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, on Thursday, confirmed that he had received the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission’s (GGMC’s) report on its investigation into the October 8 death of Geologist, Ryan Taylor, at the Troy Resources Inc Karouni Gold Mine. He also promised that there will be a thorough review of the company’s operations.

Trotman said that he had only recently received the report so had not yet gone through it, but planned to do so as soon as possible, noting also that when the company’s operations resumes he plans to visit the Region Seven gold mining operation. “I got the report a few hours ago and I will be going through it,” Trotman said, on Thursday afternoon.

Trotman noted that, like many, he was eager to get down to the bottom of the cause behind Taylor’s death.

“Mr. Taylor is dead and that is regrettable and we have to try to find the reason and cause.

I don’t believe at this stage we can actually say with any degree of specificity of definition we know exactly what lead to it, but I can say that the GGMC report is in and I am in the process of studying that,” Trotman said.

Taylor died at Troy Resources Inc’s “Hicks One Extension” pit while on duty, after he was buried beneath the rubble of part of the mining pit which had collapsed. Taylor was laid to rest on Thursday.

Minister Trotman extended sympathy to Taylor’s work colleagues and assured that everything will be done to ensure that worker safety is paramount.

“They lost a colleague and understandably they are very concerned. They have a right to demand that before full resumption takes place that they feel a level of safety beyond a reasonable doubt. They must feel safe. It is one thing for the company to say that it is safe, it is one thing for the GGMC to say that it is safe, but it is for them who are working in the pits to feel that level of safety and comfort. So I would say

to them I hear their concerns, and have all assurances we are working overtime to address them,” Trotman said.

Trotman assured that while the incident occurred only at the company’s “Hicks One Extension” pit, all of the company’s operation will be thoroughly investigated for safety.

The company has three pits, the other two being the “Larkin” and “Smarts Three” pits.

“We are not looking at the specific location we are looking at overall safety throughout the camp. Engineers from GGMC and engineers from the company are working on it, and if GGMC sees anything that warrants attention it will be addressed,” Trotman assured.

Trotman said that, prior to the incident, GGMC, over the years, has been carrying out regular quarterly inspections at the company’s mines, as well as periodic visits, and during that time nothing untoward was observed at the operations.

“They do quarterly investigations but apart from the quarterly they do intermittent investigations, on the very

day that this accident took place a visit was scheduled.

From the reports I’ve received before nothing was observed that would have led to them putting a halt on mining at the company. From time to time areas of concern would’ve come up and they would have been pointed out and corrected but nothing would’ve jumped out as being something that required urgent immediate attention such that you needed to shut operations down. That is the information I’ve received,” Trotman said.

Executives of the union representing the workers, the People’s United and General Workers Union (PUGWU), believe that Taylor’s death was avoidable. PUGWU President, Lincoln Lewis, noted that the Union had been receiving complaints from workers since last year on issues of safety.

Trotman said it was the Union’s job to be aggressive about defending the safety of its members, but denied that enough was not done to address initial reports of safety concerns.

“People will always tell

you why it happen and what should have happened before.

I would be quite surprised if the Union didn’t make a comment to say that, it is part of what the Union does. They must protect the workers and stick up for them. I am satisfied from the GGMC angle that we did all that we reasonably could. No one prepares or expects an accident. It happens. We are going to review our systems to see if there is any area of improvement that is needed but as I said there is nothing that stood out that pointed to any imminent threat or occurrence of an accident,” Trotman maintains.

Meanwhile, Trotman is confident that the company will resume operations shortly, following Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, Tuesday, October 15, reversal of a work cessation order that was issued last week. “They do have a mining permit and they were mining up to the time of this accident. So it is in their interest and our interest to see a resumption of normal operations. We want to ensure that before we have a full scale resumption that there are no issues of safety. I think the company wants that,

the workers expect that and the government would expect that too. We all have to work in tandem with each other to ensure that we bring the operations back to full scale,” Trotman related.

Troy Resources had issued a memo last Saturday, October 12, informing employees that they were being laid off after Junior Minister responsible for labour, Keith Scott, had written the company, the previous Friday, October 11, directing that they ceased operations at all three of their mining pits.

Minister Ally has since reversed this decision and is expected to meet with the company shortly on the way forward. The MoSP Occupational Health and Safety Department is also carrying out its own investigation into the incident. The company is now expected to resume operations shortly. “I do plan to visit the area soon when resumption start to meet with the workers and to hear from them and to inspect for myself what is happening, so that visit will take place when the mining resumes,” Trotman noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Lightown villagers breathe sigh of relief

-- after more than 25 years of poor drainage

By Jeune Bailey Van Keric FARMERS of Lightown Village, East Bank Berbice, who, for the past 25 years saw their crops being destroyed by flooding, are optimistic that works to the tune of $8.3M to clear 11,132 square metres of crown canals, will being an end to their plight.

During a visit to the community which is approximately 20 miles from the New Amsterdam township, Member of Parliament, Barbara Pilgrim, who was in the area, met with scores of residents.

Faye Chisolm, a neighbourhood democratic councilor, was in high praise of the Regional Democratic Council which carried out the work.

“Over 25 years, the 160 residents have been pleading but no one cared or heard... we are so happy. We can now extend our farming plots,” Chisolm said.

Currently persons have commenced clearing some 800 acres of land in the backlands so as to increase cash, ground provisions and permanent crops.

Cattle and citrus farmer, Indar Seeram, agreed that the community was neglected for years and as a result, especially in the dry weather, his cattle and crops suffered because of insufficient water.

“We experienced so many losses that I lost count.

I love the land. I try not to get ‘bruk mind’ despite the constant flooding during the rainfall. Sometimes after putting all effort into planting and just before harvest the rain come and because of poor drainage, there is flooding and we lose everything,” he said.

Another farmer, Carlos Chisolm, had always been vocal about the need of having the crown canal cleared.

He opined that with the clearance, the water would recede

A cleared canal at Lightown Village, East Bank Berbice

faster and the crops would not be destroyed.

According to him, two years ago, a contractor was assigned to clear the canals, but “he was an inexperienced person who rented machin-

ery. Further, three machines were sent but none were operational... as a result, the work was halted. But the current contractor, Peter Lewis of Associated Construction Service, is doing an excellent

An Associated Construction Service hymac clearing aback Lightown Village, East Bank Berbice

job. He is adhering to the bill of quantities and we are pleased,” he said.

Further, with the cutting and removal of vegetation, both large and small from side slopes,

embarkment and canals, the dams have also been reconstructed, giving persons easier access to the 800 acres backlands for further cultivation and cattle rearing.

Nephew who decapitated uncle After four years of waiting for response from Boat Association to know fate November 14 FORMER Guyana Defence Force soldier, Dwayne Tappin, was, on Friday, October 18, 2019, found guilty by a mixed 12-member jury for the 2017 murder of his 51-year-old uncle.

Tappin, 29, was tried by Justice Sandil Kissoon at the Demerara High Court for the capital offence.

On Friday, the jury returned a unanimous verdict and found Tappin guilty of killing 51-year-old Randolph Seenauth on August 6, 2017, at Lot 125 South Better Hope, East Coast Demerara.

Evidence in the case was led by state prosecutors Mandel Moore and Abigail Gibbs, while Tappin was represented by attorney-at-law Gwendolyn Bristol.

Bristol asked the court to have probation reports prepared on his client before sentencing is passed. In that regard, Justice Kissoon adjourned the matter until November 14, 2019, to pass sentence on Tappin.

According to reports, Seenauth and his nephew lived in separate apartments on the plot of land.

However, the family had a dispute over the plot of land which the dead man’s mother had occupied before she died. On August 6, 2017, around 04:30 hours, neighbours heard a loud ‘commotion’ coming from one of the apartments, but then there was silence for a few minutes which led them to suspect something was amiss.

Neighbours called out for Seenauth but got no response and later contacted the Sparendaam Police Station.

Police ranks arrived shortly after,

Dwayne Tappin

and, upon pushing the front door to Seenauth’s apartment, found his head lying in a passageway between the living room and kitchen.

Further checks were made in the apartment and the rest of the man’s body was discovered on a mattress in the bedroom. The murder weapon was not recovered despite searches in both apartments. Tappin, hours after the murder, turned himself over to ranks at the Sparendaam Police Station.

During the trial, Government Pathologist, Nehaul Singh had testified on carrying out the post mortem examination on Seenauth in 2017.

According to the witness, Seenauth’s clothing had blood strains and his head was wrapped in a cloth.

Seenauth’s head was severed from his body and had a laceration under his ears. The back of his hands had cuts which Singh deemed as defensive wounds.

The pathologist explained that the cause of Seenauth’s death was decapitation, which was caused by a sharp

weapon- a cutlass.

Police Detective Sergeant, Kevin Martin, had testified during the trial and gave detailed account of what transpired between himself and Tappin at the Sparendaam Police Station, on August 6, 2017.

On that day, about 09:55hours, the detective said that he put the murder allegation to Tappin and cautioned him in accordance with the judge’s rule.

After administering the caution, the witness said, Tappin told him “Offisah me guh tell yuh the truth of this story what happen.”

This response caused the Detective to enquire of Tappin if he would like to give a statement and he (Tappin) said yes and asked him (Martin) to write the statement.

Detective Martin said that, in the presence of his colleague and Tappin’s sister, the statement was taken.

In reading the statement to the court, the witness said that the murder accused told him, “Sir this is what happen. Me guh at me uncle at Lot 125 South Better Hope where me mother use to live, but me mother move out and I get a key for the house.

Every time I go there he (Seenauth) always attacking me when I go there. When I go there this morning he attack me with a cutlass after I open the door with me key. I suspect he was drunk so I tek way the cutlass from he and fire three chops. I then throw way the cutlass in the cane field at the back of Better Hope.”

…speedboat operators turn to MoPI for intervention

AFTER more than four years of waiting for an approval from the Boat Association to work the Parika-Supenaam and Parika – turn route system, three speedboat operators asked Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Jaipaul Sharma, to intervene.

Roger Anderson, a captain and speedboat operator for 12 years; Curtley Charles, a captain and speedboat operator for 13 years; and Mark Smith, a boat captain for over three years, met with Minister Sharma recently to express their frustration, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure said in a statement on Thursday.

During the meeting, the operators indicated that they had written the association almost four years ago but never received a response.

Due to the extensive delays in the processing of applications, the operators proposed that the Maritime Administration Department (MARAD) take up the re-

sponsibility of approving boat owners to be a part of the Turn System.

Additionally, they suggested that MARAD representative(s) be present at the stellings on a daily basis to observe the operations of the Boat Associations procedures.

It was noted that members of the association, particularly those who operate multiple boats, are given priority in the turn system and as a result, leave little or no opportunity for non-members to get a turn to be given a space on the stelling. According to the gentlemen, this is unfair and it interferes with their livelihood on a day-today basis.

In response, Minister Sharma said MARAD will be asked to conduct an assessment on the availability of space in the boat system to determine whether or not more boats can be added to the system.

“As the operators shared their plights with the minister, it was stated by the oper-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

First Lady commends Bishops’ Alumni for hosting student conference FIRST Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger, Wednesday evening, commended the Bishops’ High School Alumni Association, New York Tri-State Chapter, for hosting its second biennial Student Conference, which will provide career guidance to the school’s fifth and sixth form students.

Mrs. Granger, who was the guest speaker at a welcome reception held at Herdmanston Lodge, Queentown, Georgetown, suggested that the conference be expanded

to focus on a range of other areas, including soft skills, such as comportment and telephone etiquette, which will help to prepare the students for the world of work.

“The organisers may also wish to consider including in the next Student Conference, careers in agriculture and agro-processing; tourism and hospitality, manufacturing and a range of services which will be expanding areas of opportunity in our growing economy,” she said during brief remarks.

Meanwhile, Minister of

Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry, remarked that it is an honour to see Guyanese in the diaspora committed to the development of Guyana. She said that similar organisations could play a critical role in the development of the education sector. “It takes the efforts of all of us to move the education sector forward and for this reason Alumni networks, whether for fund raising or working with and supporting students, is very important to the education agenda…We have to

(From Left) First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger; President, Bishops’ High School Alumni Association, New York Tri-State Chapter, Mr. Wayne Knight; Head Mistress of the Bishops’ High School, Ms. Marilyn Gibson and Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry at last night’s welcome reception

continually put the effort into rekindling ties with Alumni,” Minister Henry said. The two-day Student

Conference began earlier in the day at the Bishops’ High School with a career fair, which included a sec-

tion dedicated to the oil and gas industry. (Ministry of the Presidency)

First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger (fourth left); President, Bishops’ High School Alumni Association, New York Tri-State Chapter, Mr. Wayne Knight (fifth left); Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry (sixth left) and Head Mistress of the Bishops’ High School, Ms. Marilyn Gibson (first left) are pictured with the Association’s Executive Members at the welcome reception

Courts Optical opens Richmond branch

By Indrawattie Natram

COURTS Optical Guyana Inc., on Friday, opened its newest branch at Richmond, Region Two. The branch boasts the most fashionable pieces in eyewear and will bring quality optometry and exceptional services directly to the region.

During the simple opening ceremony, Director of Logistics and Distribution, Arvinash Mahabirsingh, said Courts Guyana Optical is the largest and fastest-growing optical chain in the Caribbean with the latest brands of frames and high quality of lenses.

“We have a range of quality lenses that allows our customers to get the best lens for their needs, make sure to ask for Freeform lenses which is a new technology

and we have glasses starting from as low as $14,999,” the director of logistics said.

Regional Executive Officer, Denis Jaikarran, thanked the company for extending its services to Pomeroon-Supenaam.

Courts Director of Logistics and Distribution, Arvinash Mahabirsingh speaking at the opening of the new store

He said due to the massive developments in the region, there is greater investors’ confidence in the region.

Jaikarran added that most of the services offered in Georgetown can now be accessed in Region Two. He

also negotiated for special discounts for government staff and also senior citizens. At the end of the programme, those who attended took a tour of the eyewear section of the store and received free eye testing.

Region 2 Regional Executive Officer, Denis Jaikarran addressing the launch

and is available at Courts Optical. These lenses are uniquely designed and personalised for each of its users and their individual frames,” Mahabirsingh said.

He said Courts Optical also offers lenses with anti-reflective and Blubloc coating with lens to suit everyone, whether for protection against harmful blue light, glare, UVA and UVB rays. He added that Courts Optical will definitely bring quality optometry to the Region Two community.

“We have credit plans for spectacles purchases where especially for emergency situations you can come in and pay nothing down on your glasses and get from 6-24 months to pay

Courts Optical opens Richmond Branch, Region Two

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

CDB, EU Bank sign pact for greater access to climate financing THE European Investment Bank (EIB) and the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) have signed a new agreement to deliver better support for climate resilient projects across the Region.

The new Procurement Procedural Framework will help the EIB and CDB to improve project implementation and monitoring, leading to more efficient financing for a range of climate-focused investments in the Caribbean, CDB said in a release Friday. The initiative aligns with the continuous efforts of both banks to promote harmonisation and aid effectiveness, as well as their commitment to supporting mutual reliance, streamlining procurement activities for promoters and recipients and increasing the resource efficiency of multilateral development banks’ (MDBs) procurement monitoring.

The new Framework was signed during a bilateral meeting between EIB

CDB President, Dr. William Warren Smith and EIB Vice-President, Emma Navarro sign the new Procurement Procedural Framework

Vice-President, Emma Navarro, and CDB President, Dr. William Warren Smith, on the margins of the World Bank/IMF meetings in Washington. Speaking at the signature event in Washington,

EIB Vice-President, Emma Navarro said, “Small island states are particularly vulnerable to the effects of climate change and access to finance to support public sector initiatives in this area is critical.

The new agreement today will help the EIB and CDB to improve project implementation and monitoring, leading to more efficient support for climate adaptation and resilience projects in the Ca-

ribbean. This new step in the long-term partnership with CDB confirms our commitment to delivering efficient finance for projects in the region.”

CDB President, Dr. William Warren Smith said, “Reaching agreement on a common procurement approach is one of the most common challenges we face when we co-finance projects with other institutions. This agreement removes this risk for projects being jointly financed by CDB and EIB, and will provide for more efficient project appraisal and project execution. The agreement is also timely, coming on the eve of the rollout, by CDB of a new procurement policy and procedures. With effect from November 2019, the new policy and procedures will be applied to new projects being financed by CDB.” This approach not only allows for a better division of labour between financiers, it also increases coherence and

development impact of jointly co-financed operations, whilst avoiding the parallel application of EIB and CDB rules and inconsistencies when working on a common project.

This agreement will allow the two institutions to delegate to each other procurement arrangements and monitoring in relation with jointly co-financed projects, therefore reducing the costs on promoters and strengthening partnerships. The EIB has supported development and economic activity in the Caribbean with loans and equity investment worth EUR 1.8B. Since 2011, it has provided EUR 170M of concessional funding to CDB to support climate action projects in the Region. Investments financed include energy efficiency, solar power, security of water supply, flood prevention and post-hurricane reconstruction projects.

PPC holds Open Day for procurement practitioners THE Public Procurement Commission (PPC), on October 10, 2019, held an Open-Day event at its office building at lot 262 New Garden Street, Queenstown, marking the end of activities in observance of its inaugural annual Procurement Week.

A press release from the PPC said this year’s Procurement Week theme was ‘‘Working towards greater transparency in public procurement’’.

The release said the open day offered procurement practitioners the opportunity to engage in discussions with representatives of the PPC, including its commissioners, the Chief Executive Officer, Heads of Departments and other specialist staff.

“Table topics included recent legislative reform initiatives, explanations of the public procurement process and the procedure to address irregularities in public procurement, as well as requirements for the submission of procurement plans and quarterly procurement expenditure reports from procuring entities,” the release said.

The PPC said that the event was well attended and was deemed to be informative, successful and fruitful by the participants.

Public procurement practitioners undergoing the training on October 10

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Hunters, farmers alerted on African Swine Fever

GUYANA is free of the recent outbreak of African Swine Fever (ASF) in Europe and more recently, Asia, which has taken a toll on the swine industries, particularly small holders, in these regions of the world.

This is according to Dr. Dwight Walrond, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA).

He said Guyana’s free status against the disease must be preserved. However, a lack of precautions by professionals, hunters, travellers, farmers, or anyone unaware of its transmission pathways could result in the emergence of ASF. Dr. Walrond said that, given the gravity of the situation, and following the request of its Member Countries at the General Session in May, the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) launched a global initiative for the control of ASF. According to the deputy chief executive officer, the objective is to control the disease, strengthen countries’ prevention and preparation efforts, and minimise the adverse effects on animal health, animal welfare and

international trade.

“Preventing its introduction in the Region, and, if ever it happens, being prepared to contain its spread and devastating consequences are of the utmost importance,” Dr. Walrond said.

He explained that at the 10th meeting of the Global Framework for the Progressive Control of Transboundary Animal Diseases (GFTADs) Steering Committee of the Americas, 15 OIE delegates and senior authorities, alongside regional organisations, representing North,

In addition to the analysis of the regional situation, he said the discussions led to the creation of a Standing Group of Experts on African Swine Fever (SGE-ASF) for Americas under the umbrella of GF-TADs, taking the SGE ASF created in the European Region in 2014 as a model.

Indeed, he said developing measures specific and adaptable to the Region are essential to prevent the entry of the disease, thanks to the definition of priority actions oriented to local needs and complementary of the global

Pigs infected with ASF can display skin redness and blue areas (tip of ears, below the knees, tail, perianal area, chest and abdomen)

Central and South America were present.

initiative.

He noted that interna-

GLDA Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Dwight Walrond

tionally-recognised ASF or swine disease experts with experience working in Europe or Asia will be included in the group on an ad hoc basis on agreement of the SGE-ASF. Dr. Walrond noted that the group will gain knowledge from experts from Europe or Asia experienced in ASF, joining the group on an ad hoc basis.

“The presence of representatives of the pig industry is to be noted. This is a good example of how Private-Public Partner-

ships (PPPs) can reinforce the effectiveness of veterinary service activities and support implementation of global programme for the control and the eradication of animal diseases.

Strong collaboration by the regional and international community, as well as good communication are essential to minimise the effects of ASF,” he noted.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

GAWU up in arms against GuySuCo reemploying laid-off worker …calls out workers on week-long strike action DESPITE being on a crusade against the decision to downsize the Guyana Sugar Corporation, which resulted in the laying off of some workers, the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) is up in arms against the company for re-employing of the laid off workers.

Earlier this week, the Guyana Chronicle reported that workers of Blairmont

Estate held a picketing exercise outside of the Estate’s Administrative office to demand from the Guyana Sugar Corporation Inc. (GuySuCo) a pay rise and fair treatment.

According to a press release from GAWU, the workers have been on strike since October 14. They are said to be protesting the corporation’s alleged promotion of one worker over others, whom the workers felt were more

deserving. The release said that the protesting workers feel slighted “as some of them had applied to be tested and yet they were not given the opportunity.”

“The GAWU has always encouraged workers to seek promotion once they are able and capable,” the release said.

However, in a statement on Friday, GuySuCo said the strike is against a deci-

sion made by management to re-employ a former Rose Hall Estate employee as a skilled tradesman and upon his confirmation, was appointed to a Class One in the factory. The striking employees are claiming there are other employees who were overlooked for the position.

According to GuySuCo’s statement, management requested from the union a list of the names of those who

Sugar workers at the Blairmont Estate backed by the GAWU have been protesting the re-employment of a staff who was previously laid off during the restructuring of the industry

claimed to be overlooked.

“So far, at all the meetings with management, the Union Officer and Shop Stewards have failed to identify any of the persons who claimed to have applied for reclassification in adherence to the Corporation’s Regrading and Reclassification Scheme and were denied.”

In fact, GuySuCo said the estate’s records indicated that no employee applied through the scheme to be upgraded in 2017 and only three electricians applied in 2018.

GAWU DOUBLE STANDARDS “The GAWU which have been vocal through picketing and strikes against the sugar workers losing their jobs due to closure of the estates, is now supporting a counteraction on re-engaging a former employee from Rose Hall Estate at Blairmont.

They are making calls for the re-engaged employee’s appointment to be rescinded immediately,” GuySUCO said.

The sugar corporation said GAWU will have to decide which side of the fence it wants to stand, noting that their current action and support for the striking workers against a colleague within the same bargaining unit will only serve to divide the workforce. “The corporation is of the view that the current actions by the Blairmont factory employees are unwarranted, and that if the employees had concerns, then the extant Recognition and Avoidance of Disputes Agreement between the parties should have guided the process to have such concerns addressed. Unfortunately, in this instance, that mechanism was not followed by the local union representatives and striking employees.”

GuySuCo said it should be noted that just a few weeks ago, the GAWU, in a press release, criticised the corporation for not achieving its second crop sugar production targets. The ongoing strike will now compound the situation as critical opportunity time to complete the second crop is being lost.

The corporation said that from the onset of this strike, the estate management has been engaging the union’s local field officer along with the shop stewards, listening to their concerns and providing clarifications where necessary. Those engagements however, have so far proved futile, since the employees continue to withhold their labour.

Officers from the corporation’s head office have also gotten involved and on October 16, 2019, the officers informed their counterparts from the union that once normalcy resumes at the estate, the parties would have met on October 17, 2019 to discuss the employees’ concerns.

However, as of Thursday morning, the GAWU central officials were present on the ground and rather than encouraging the employees to resume duty, they were actively participating in a picketing exercise which prevented the scheduled meeting.

As a result of the strike, the routine factory maintenance that is normally done on Monday’s has been delayed until the employees resume work.

According to GuySuCo currently, there are approximately 329 punts of canes harvested and are in the Mill Dock waiting to be processed. There are also an additional 347 punts of burnt canes in the fields waiting to be loaded. Some of those canes were burnt since Sunday October 13, and are deteriorating in quality and the corporation will be unable to recover the sucrose (sugar).

Further, while some of their colleague cane harvesters were “not required” during the week, all 857 of the cane harvesters on roll were “not required” yesterday October 17, 2019 due to the unavailability of empty punts to be sent to the fields. The strike continues to have a devastating effect on the corporation’s output and financial position when it is already in a critical state with limited finance to pay wages and salaries.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Wanted man threatens teacher

A MAN who was sentenced in absentia to two years imprisonment returned on police radar when he threatened to kill a mother of six, who is a nursery school teacher.

The perpetrator was identified as taxi driver, Stravo Evans, who had many brushes with the law, and was even charged along with a group of men accused of carrying out a multi-million-dollar robbery at the Bourda Post Office in 2015.

Evans was also previously investigated in cases that involved armed robbery, abduction and murder.

Police said he operates a taxi, a silver grey Toyota 212 car with registration HC 5463 in the vicinity of Middle Road La Penitence, Georgetown. “Anyone knowing the whereabouts of the accused is asked to contact the nearest police station,� Police said.

The school teacher became a prisoner in her school compound when Evans

Petrified teacher, Michelle Nieuenkerk

showed up at the school on Thursday to harm her.

The petrified woman related that on Thursday, she contacted the police and explained what had occurred. A mobile patrol was sent to the school and she was escorted to the Police Station where she gave a statement.

The teacher was subsequently escorted to her home by the police who reportedly searched her house and surroundings to ensure that the perpetrator was not on the premises.

However, on Friday

Wanted: Stravo Evans

morning, she received messages from Evans where he displayed a firearm and sent a voice note on WhatsApp threatening to end her life.

She noted that threats were also made against her children. On Friday, acting Crime Chief, Michael Kingston contacted the divisional detective to address the matter and to arrest Evans.

The police were also provided with all the evidence that the teacher possessed pertaining to the threats against her life.

Woman among four arrested with illegal gun A WOMAN is among four persons arrested after police intercepted their car on Princess Street, Wortmanville, Georgetown and found an unlicensed .380 pistol with six live matching rounds, concealed in their vehicle on Thursday.

The suspects have all been detained and are assisting police with their investigation.

The seized weapon and ammunition

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370 students attend traffic lecture

A TOTAL of 370 students, along with 21 teachers from School of the Nations, recently benefitted from a traffic awareness lecture.

The lecture was conducted by police constables Carl Pedro and Carlos Britton, who are both attached to the Brickdam Traffic Department.

The attentive students

were educated on road safety practices such as road safety rules, safety rules for pedal cyclist, pedestrian crossing and curb drill.

They were also advised to wear bright coloured clothing at nights, walk two abreast and utilise the sidewalks, among others.

Additionally, the ranks gave a lesson on discipline,

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

peer pressure, consequences of good and bad decision-making, having good role model characters and consequences of loitering on the roadways during and after school hours.

The teachers commended the ranks for they timely presentation.

Students listen to the police during the lecture

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

NAMILCO, ‘Morning Glory’ cereal win big at National Quality Awards – GNBS hosts biennial awards ceremony to honour local companies LOCALLY made ‘Morning Glory’ Rice Cereal was among top prize winners following the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) Biennial National Quality Awards ceremony held on Thursday evening.

The event was the highlight of National Quality Week 2019, which was held as an opportunity to acknowledge the efforts of local companies that operate using the highest standards to provide quality output. Minister of Business, Hon. Haimraj Rajkumar, applauded the companies for their sterling performance and standards.

He urged them to continue providing high-quality goods and services to the Guyanese people. “The hosting of the National Quality Awards by GNBS is a welcome initiative by the government of Guyana, more especially for us at

the Ministry of Business. We are happy to recognise those members of our private sector who have demonstrated time and again, commitment to superior quality,” Minister Rajkumar said.

All awardees have a track record of demonstrated commitment to maintaining high standards and producing quality goods and services.

Rowen Willabus, Chairman of the National Standards Council, explained the importance of celebrating local companies that are up to par with the set standards.

“For us, quality must exist in every local organisation, every business, big or small, every industry and sector of our country’s economy.”

21 companies competed for awards under five categories including Green Initiatives, Agro-Processing, Small Business Services,

CDB, Canada support energy stakeholders’ push for resiliency solutions FINDING innovative ways to spur investment in making electricity infrastructure climate resilient took centre-stage recently, as Caribbean energy stakeholders participated in the Island Resiliency Action Challenge.

The event was part of the Caribbean Renewable Energy Forum 2019 (CREF) which was held in Miami, Florida and which was co-sponsored by the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) with the support of the Government of Canada through the Canadian Support to the Energy Sector in the Caribbean Fund.

The reality of the intense hurricanes which the Region has faced in recent years loomed large as participants brainstormed resilience-building solutions. The focus was on overcoming barriers to building climate resilient power systems.

“Extreme weather events linked to climate change are becoming the new normal,” CDB Vice-President, Operations, Monica La Bennett informed participants as she opened the session.

She cautioned that, “incorporating resilience features into all infrastructure projects is no longer an option, but a necessity.”

The cost of doing just that occupied the minds of the participants as they presented strategies to improve

resilience, and mobilise financing for climate resilient electricity infrastructure cost effectively to enhance export competitiveness.

The winning proposal for a regional blended finance instrument incorporating equity, impact investment, mezzanine and debt, as well as a risk mitigation window, will be worked on, over the next year, by a task force selected from the winning team.

La Bennett also urged the gathering to consider ways of using digital technology to support resilience building and to encourage private sector involvement in generating and implementing innovative resilience building solutions.

“There may be opportunities for more indigenous resilience solutions, which could also possibly engage private practitioners/small businesses, our universities and research centres. This could potentially enhance business opportunities and growth while improving resilience,” said La Bennett.

CREF is the largest gathering of the Caribbean’s energy market. Over 500 representatives from governments, utilities, multilateral institutions, renewable energy firms and academia are attending this year’s event.

Manufacturing and Services.

There were also customer-focus awards, continuous improvement awards and health and safety awards.

Among the night’s big winners were, IAST, the makers of Morning Glory

Minister of Business, Hon. Haimraj Rajkumar [seated third left], Director of Manufacturing and Marketing of the Ministry of Business, Dominic Gaskin [third right, back row] and Chairman of the National Standards Council, Rowen Willabus [second right, back row] along with the prize winners

Rice Cereal; Rupununi Essence and Pakaraima Flavours, NAMILCO Inc.,

Quest Medical Centre, Woodlands Limited, Massy Distribution Guyana Inc.,

Assuria Insurance and Eureka Medical Laboratories Incorporated. (DPI)

18

President unveils plans to revive New Amsterdam

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 19, 2019

Scenes at the o

… says Town Week celebrations must trigger efforts at its revival …as a well-laid out, well-drained and well-managed municipality

PRESIDENT David Granger, on Friday, attended the opening ceremony of the New Amsterdam Town Week 2019 activities, where he proposed a five-point, New Amsterdam Plan of Action (NAPA) for Urban Revival.

The five components of the plan are to ensure the town becomes a centre of educational excellence, offering top-class nursery, primary, secondary and technical vocational education; becomes the region’s commercial capital; becomes clean and ‘green’; and have transformed infrastructure and expanded public services.

The President reminded those present that Guyana is in transition to become a ‘green state’, noting that the Green State Development Strategy: Vision 2040 is the country’s roadmap towards that goal.

“The ‘green state’ will place emphasis on the protection of the environment, the preservation of its biodiversity, the promotion of renewable energy, the development of low carbon economic sectors and the adoption of practical measures to ensure climate adaptation,” the President said.

The Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) will be implemented during the Decade of Development: 2020-2029, the Head of State said, adding that New Amsterdam could be a place where the GSDS is seen to be implemented more widely and purposefully during the Decade.

President Granger said New Amsterdam, Guyana’s oldest town, can become a model ‘green’ town and its Plan of Action for Urban Revival can coincide, step-by-step, with national growth and the implementation of the GSDS over the next 10 years. “New Amsterdam Town Week is a time to celebrate the town’s rich history and heritage. New Amsterdam, in its early years, was described as a splendid town, renowned for its beauty, its cleanliness, its orderliness and for its ornate buildings. I challenge you to reclaim the town’s proud, picturesque and cultural heritage,” the President said.

The Head of State said too that New Amsterdam Town Week is also a time to celebrate the town’s outstanding sons and daughters. He said New Amsterdam has produced some of the country’s finest businessmen, doctors, educators, lawyers, parliamentarians and other professionals.

“It has given birth to legal luminaries such as the former Chancellor of the Judiciary, J.O.F. Haynes, and Sir Lionel Luckhoo; Secretary General of the Commonwealth, Sir Sridath Ramphal; the outstanding composer of national songs, Valerie Rodway and a literary genius, Edgar Mittelholzer,” the President said.

President Granger said not-

withstanding its history, New Amsterdam Town Week 2019 must be different from previous town weeks.

“This celebration must trigger greater efforts at urban revival of the town as a well-laid out, well-drained and well-managed municipality. It can become a thriving commercial and administrative centre, providing efficient commercial, governmental, municipal and regional services.

It must ensure ‘green’ spaces and greater emphasis in renewable energy generation,” President Granger posited.

The President told residents of New Amsterdam that the town has the potential to become an eco-tourist destination, given that it encompasses four of the country’s national geographic zones – coastland, grasssland, forested highland and hilly sand and clay zone.

“The region is rich in wildlife including the Giant River Otter, the Manatee and the famous Canje Pheasant – Guyana’s National Bird,” he said. Further, the Head of State said New Amsterdam’s heritage tourism product is breath-taking, while positing that the town’s heritage sites can form the basis of an attractive and lucrative urban tourism sector.

“It can lead in the promotion of eco-tourism and heritage tourism.

Both of these sub-sectors can make an impactful contribution to the Region’s economic revival. The economic revival of such a large and rich region will not happen by accident. It needs a ‘turbine’. It needs first-class administrative services to catalyse investments, to develop a strong human resource base, to expand the services sector and to develop an agro-industrial sector,” President Granger said, noting that New Amsterdam is that ‘turbine’.

The Head of State said New Amsterdam is experiencing a renewal.

“New life has been injected into the town, over the past four years. This town, like all others, was a victim of administrative inertia and financial amnesia. Your government has halted, and begun to reverse, this neglect and to prepare the town to become an engine of urban revival.”

The President said local democracy was restored through the holding of Local Government Elections in 2016 and in 2018, allowing citizens of New Amsterdam a greater say in its affairs. “Local democracy, combined with our policy of regionalisation, has devolved greater responsibilities to local democratic organs. This town has gained from the ‘democratic dividend’ which has spurred renewal and revitalisation in regions, towns and neighbourhoods.

New Amsterdam is leading the process of urban revival,” President Granger said.

He said urban revival is about

ensuring the modernisation of the country’s 10 towns and is aimed at ensuring that the towns become engines of economic growth; improve the quality of public and municipal services offered to residents and ensure the orderly development of their commercial, industrial, recreational and residential zones. The President, who has travelled to the East Berbice-Corentyne Region eleven times in five months, assured that NAPA for Urban Revival aims at making the town a leader in education; modernising its infrastructure; improving municipal services; creating a better environment and ensuring a stronger business sector.

President Granger said New Amsterdam, as the capital town of Region Six, can stimulate the development of agro-industries. He said the town must aim to become an agro-industrial centre and an exporter of processed food. The President believes that the agro-industry – that is, the production, processing and packaging of food using modern equipment and methods on a largescale – can help the region to add value to its primary products.

“It can make this region rich,” he stated, noting that New Amsterdam has seen measurable progress over the past four years.

“I place this plan before the town. I see a bright and prosperous future for New Amsterdam.

The Mayor and City Council and the residents can be assured of the support of my government in the implementation of this plan,” the President assured.

Similarly, Minister of Communities, Mr. Ronald Bulkan, said government is committed to the process of local government restoration, rehabilitation and creating an enabling environment for local leaders to succeed in their mandate to serve their communities. “We want to see your town council deliver efficient services to you to make your life better and you are assured of the continued support of this administration to develop and modernise this town,” Minister Bulkan said.

The minister disclosed that on Monday, a contract valued $26M was awarded for the operation of the recently-upgraded and rehabilitated Esplanade dumpsite.

Another contract valued at $55M was also awarded this week for the construction of an access road to the Belle Vue landfill site, even as efforts are being made to design a modern landfill site there. Mayor of New Amsterdam, Ms. Winifred Haywood, also spoke of the progress made in the town since 2015.

(Ministry of the Presidency)

Hugs!!!!!!! This little girl was elated to see President D She greeted the Head of State w

President David Grang

Another section of the gathering

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday October 19, 2019

19

opening of New Amsterdam Town Week 2019

Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan makes his presentation

President David Granger takes the salute at the opening ceremony of the New Amsterdam Town Week 2019

David Granger Friday afternoon. with a hug

ger interacts with a resident of New Amsterdam

President David Granger addressing the gathering at the opening of the event

Members of the audience applaud as President Granger makes his presentation

A section of the crowd at the event

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Tracy Smith wins National Costume Award at Miss Global International

Guyanese beautify queen secures ‘Top 10’

G

uyana’s representative at Miss Global International 2019, Tracy Smith had returned home and has done her country proud.

The Miss Global International Pageant began in 2004 and to date it is the first and only international beauty competition to be hosted in Jamaica.

The young queen, spent a few days on the island, networking and promoting herself and country, and did so the best of her ability.

Smith told ‘The Buzz’ that her experience in Jamaica was worthwhile. “All the training and persons I’ve have had a chance to meet was quite the pleasure. I’d always encourage young ladies to participate in pageantry for the right reasons and always ensure that they are mentally ready to compete. Be brave and always be yourself,” she She ended the competition in top 30 confirmed candidates, and also national costume award. The costume was designed by Guyana’s own fashion Madray, and was named “Rodeo of the It was a heavily embellished cosing one of the most exciting celebrations the indigenous people of Guyana, “Rodeo brings a rush, an adrenaof dangerous excitement that has been men women and young people of the Intewore a leathery bodysuit with natural fiber heavily embellish boots and accessories. beautiful feathery back piece symbolic of beauty of Savannah life,” Tracy described Additional, the young woman was shortfive for talent. “I performed “this is me” showman movie. It was choreographed by of Unique Arts Guyana, and I was trained in tion and pageant preparation by Alicia Bess. gifts a 3D art painting by local artist Conanother a signed cricket bat by the NaGuyana Amazon Warriors,” Smith shared.

The experience overall she said was exreally grateful to have been afforded to opher home country.

Smith is currently enrolled at the UniIndies – St. Augustine Campus pursuing

said.

10 out of won the she wore icon Randy Rupununi”. tume celebratand sports of Rodeo. line in the face mastered by both rior Savannahs. I trims paired with The costume has a the traditions and the costume as. listed in the top from the greatest Kelton Jennings modeling, articulaI had two national rad Meertins and tional Cricket team, hilarating, and she is portunity to represent versity of the West a Master’s degree in

Business Administration with a Specialization in Oil, Gas, and Energy Management.

She’s a former student of St Rose’s High School, the University of Guyana and KDI School of Public Policy in South Korea where she received her degree in Public Policy (Regional, International and Sustainable Development).

Presently, Smith works as a Project Analyst at the United Nations Development Programme, Japan Caribbean Climate Change Partnership (JCCCP) Guyana.

Smith was also a contestant in the Miss World Guyana 2018 competition where she placed first runner up and emerged as the Beauty with a Purpose winner.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Miss Berbice 2019 Pageant

launch and Sashing Ceremony set for tonight

T

FLASHBACK! Devi Jairam called “Sonia” was crowned Miss Berbice “I am Big a Deal” 2018

HE most anticipated pageant in the ancient county, Miss Berbice/I’m a BIG deal beauty and empowerment Pageant, returns for its 3rd edition this year and promises to be bigger and better.

The Miss Berbice Pageant is more than the beauty, glitz, and glam, it is about women empowerment and using the stage to confront and change the issues that continue to plague Berbicans in their day to day lives.

The 2019 delegates are undergoing training, under the watchful eyes of professional pageant trainer, Shenelly Kendall, as they prepare for the sashing ceremony set for tonight, at the Main Hall of the Albion Sports Complex ground on the Corentyne.

This year’s pageant will be held in four-segments, starting with the sashing ceremony, followed by the swimwear, then costume com-

Baptist youths hosting road march and rally

T

HE annual Baptist Convention and Youth Rally is set for today at the National Cultural Center (NCC) and the youths are excited.

Hundreds of young people from across the country will be coming together for this event which aims to provide fun and uplifting activities that will keep them connected and grounded.

The road march kicks off at the 1 PM from the Baptist convention center on Brickdam proceeding to the NCC where a massive gospel rally will be held immediately after the march has concluded.

One of the coordinators of the event, Gifford Marshall told ‘The Buzz’ that the National Steel Orchestra, Samuel Medas, Nicasey Gordon and much more talented young people will be performing.

Exciting cannot adequately describe what is in store for the young people, he said.

Marshall explained that the activity will see participants from different churches from the East Coast Linden, Berbice, Bartica and other regions in Guyana. He said that over 30 churches will be sending representatives to participate.

Additionally, this annual activity is geared towards building their capacity to host one of the grandest event in 2022.

“Guyana will be hosting the Baptist Caribbean Youth Festival in 2022.

The Caribbean Youth Festival, all the Baptist churches in the Caribbean send young people for fellowship and other activities. So this Convention and rally is helping us build momentum for 2022,” Marshall said.

All young people’s attendance are being sought, as the activity is not only for Baptist youths.

petition, the home and public impression of delegates to the organizers and trainers and the main event which will focus on the delegates, talent, evening gowns, and intelligence, according to pageant coordinator Tracey Khan.

As part of the mandate of the pageant, the delegates would have to be involved in community projects to raise awareness on their platform.

The platforms chosen are topical and include issues like Crime, Suicide, Domestic Violence, Drug abuse, Teenage Pregnancy among others.

After the sashing, the young ladies will prepare for the Swimsuit and Costume Competition on November 23 and the curtains will come down with the crowning of a new Queen on Saturday November 30 at the Albion Sports Complex ground.

Over $500,000 in cash and prices will be up for grabs.

The event is promoted by Royston Drakes Production.

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Selector Face

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Selector Face returns to the Mighty Stereo Sonic!

A

house-hold name in the ‘sound system’ industry in Guyana, Serettee McAllister, more popularly known as ‘Selector Face’ announced today that, as of November 1, he will be returning to the ‘Mighty Stereo Sonic’ – one Guyana’s, and probably the Caribbean ‘wickedest’ sounds.

“I’ve been on the outside watching on for a number of years and I think I can be more valuable to my fans and the industry on the sound system that moulded me into the person I am and to me it makes for a more stable career in the dancehall arena,” Selector Face told ‘The Buzz’ in interview.

Born Serettee McAllister on February 19, 1979, Selector Face is the third of six siblings, and started to play music when he was just 15 years old.

“I worked with Artical Professional Sound from 1995 to 1999, when I was recruited by stereo sonic sound which I played for 11 years. During that time I toured several Caribbean countries,” said the ‘DJ’ with a unique voice.

In September of 2010, due to s fallout, Selector Face parted ways with the Mighty Stereo Sonic sound And went on to work with another popular and polarizing sound system, Slingerz family, where he toured the UK, the US and some other Caribbean islands.

After few years with the Vergenoegen-based Slingerz Family Sound, Selector Face started his own brand as a DJ, which saw him gaining strides in Canada as well spreading his wings in the UK moving to Ireland and several other countries in Europe.

However, in 2019 after several rounds of talks with the management of the Mighty Stereo Sonic sound system, Selector Face is about to make his return as the prodigal son!

With an aim of continuing where he left off as a dominant figure on the sound system, Selector Face is already sounding the alarm to other DJs, that play time is over and he’s coming back to take over.

FLASH BACK! Selector Face (first from right) along with other DJ’s ‘back in the day’ representing Stereo Sonic

Selector Face (right) and owner of Stereo Sonic Roger Gilgeous

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

After more than a decade…

Nothing to Laugh About

goes to Bartica T HE organisers and cast of Nothing to Laugh About (NTLA), the biggest and most loved comedy show in Guyana at the moment, achieved everything they wanted to when they took the show to Bartica recently.

A huge downpour affected the attendance somewhat, but the facility still managed to attract a jam-packed audience that didn’t see the show in Bartica for more than a decade.

Director and producer of the show Lyndon ‘Jumbie’ Jones told the Buzz on Thursday that the team wanted to achieve a ‘Cultural Center’ look and hence made every effort to transport all necessary equipment, though costly, to achieve that look and feel.

The crowd, according to Jones, seemed to be thoroughly satisfied at the performance owing to the feedback that the team received, and even Mayor Gifford Marshall’s request for

the team to return before the end of the year.

Because of the enormous expenses involved in pulling off the show outside of Georgetown, the team will not be able to put it on until next year. The organisers aim to take the show to Berbice, Linden, and Essequibo once a year.

Jones expressed that at times he feels as if the team is working too hard for too little.

The profit margins, he said, do not compensate adequately

for the amount of hard work that goes into organizing the show. But he said they persist because they love their fans and always try to ensure that they give them the best quality of entertainment. In fact, there were about 30 cast and crew members that helped to pull off the Bartica show.

Meanwhile, earlier this year, the twelfth edition of the show was staged at the National Cultural Centre where the crowd was left in “stitches,” a NTLA representative said in a statement to the press.

Signature Productions subsequently decided to select the best skits from the twelve years

that they have been in the business and staged the production at the Bartica Community Centre Ground.

The show featured performances from renowned local actors such as ‘Jumbie’ himself, Mark ‘Chinee Man’ Kazim, Michael ‘Credit’ Ignatius, Kirwyn Mars, Clemencio Goddette, Leza ‘Radica’ Singh, Simone Persaud, Zoya Moore, Gerard Gilkes, Mark-Luke Edwards and Jermaine Grimmond.

The show comprised of satirical slapstick skits and stand-up comedy by some of the most seasoned actors in Guyana. “NTLA is dubbed one of the best in theatrical pre-

sentations and has only gotten better in the past years. From politics to religion to trending topics, NTLA has it all! No one is spared,” the statement said.

Jones said he is extremely grateful to the sponsors of the show and all who helped to make it a success. These include Banks DIH Limited, Urban Life, Dino’s Enterprise, Pandit Service Station, Auto Spares and Electrical Workshop, Aruwai White H2O Resort, Scott’s Service Station, Ricky, Mayor and Town Councillors, the Regional Chairman, and the Regional Executive Officer, among others.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Rawle Toney 3x3 Basketball Classic Rampersaud leads J.C. Chandisingh to bring ‘short version’ excitement BCB/RHTY&SC/GBTI Inter-Secondary School tourney

to championship trophy

The winning JCCSS team pose with GBTI representatives

NATIONAL junior cricketer Jonathan Rampersaud, who was surprisingly left out of the 2019 Guyana Under-17 team, continued his fine form by scoring a mature 50 to lead his school, J.C. Chandisingh Secondary (JCCSS), to championship honours in the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club (RHTY&SC)/Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) Under-19 Inter-Secondary School tournament.

Seventeen schools from Region Six were involved in the tournament which was held under the RHTY&SC highly successful, Say No/ Say Yes Campaign. The Port Mourant branch of GBTI sponsored the tournament.

Playing in front of a large crowd consisting mainly of students from both schools along with parents and teachers, JCCSS won the toss and elected to bat first in the T20 final.

Rampersaud and Reyad Mohabir added 27 for the first wicket before medium pacer Nicholas Lawson had Mohabir caught for 12.

Surendra Ramcharitar (07) and Lucas Arthur were both run-out but Jeremy Sandia (13), Kevin Ramnaraine (13) and Davendra Balkar-

ran (11) all supported their captain as JCCSS ended on 128 for 8 at the end of their 20 overs.

Under-15 off-spinner Afraz Budhoo took 4 for 23 while Devin Harripersaud took 2 for 20 and Nicholas Lawson 1 for 19.

Needing to score 129 from 120 balls to lift the title, Port Mourant Secondary School (PMSS) batted solidly but were unable to score at a fast rate, as the JCCSS bowling attack of Jeremy Sandia, Lucas Arthur, Jonathan Rampersaud, Shamar Seechun, Surendra Ramcharitar and Christopher Deroop was tight.

sounding success and one in which numerous talented players were unearthed.

Noting that he was very worried about the attitude and behaviour of youths in Berbice, Foster urged the young players to develop a culture of discipline, respect, hard work and a strong desire for success.

The veteran administrator also urged the youths to Say No to drugs, crime, suicide, alcohol and tobacco. He expressed gratitude to the Board of Directors, Management and Staff of GBTI for continued investment into Berbice cricket and youths.

Man-of-the-final Jonathan Rampersaud receives his Award from GBTI’s Mohamad Azim

West Indies U-15 player Rampertab Ramnauth led the PMSS effort with a solid 40 (4×4) but his younger brother Rampersaud struggled to get the ball away, scoring just 13 off 30 balls.

Naresh Veerasammy struck a six and four in an attractive 21 but the run rate was too high for the PMSS team, having scored just 34 runs in the first ten overs.

Berbice U-15 all-rounder Christopher Deroop took 2-9 from three overs as PMSS ended up on 97 for 5 from their 20 overs. Jeremy Sandia, Jonathan Rampersaud and Surendra Ramcharitar took a wicket apiece.

BCB president and RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster informed that the tournament was a re-

GBTI Port Mourant Branch Manager Mohamad Azim congratulated the JCCSS team on winning the tournament and urged the players to follow the advice they received from the BCB president.

GBTI, he stated, as a responsible corporate entity would continue to invest in sports and education. Azim handed over prizes to the two teams including trophies, water pitchers, anti-suicide posters and educational materials for each player.

Rampersaud was named man-of-the-final.

Afraz Budhoo was presented with a pair of batting pads by BCB president who was very impressed with his attitude and performance with the ball.

THERE’S T20 cricket, there’s Futsal and now there’s 3x3 Basketball.

The short version of the sport is set to excite on November 9-10 when Sport Journalist Rawle Toney stages his inaugural 3x3 Basketball Classic at Burnham Court on Independence Square, Middle Street, Georgetown.

A former player himself, Toney said this event has long been in the planning stage, and he is now very enthused that it’s time for execution.

He described the launch yesterday at the FireSide and Grill on Garnett Street as “a very proud moment for me”.

“This is something I actually wanted to do for a very long time and I think with all that’s happening right now in Guyana in terms of sports, I felt as though basketball is being left out,” Toney stated.

“If you look at every discipline that is being played locally, the shortened version or the shortened format of that sport is really being utilised by the federation and private promoters to really push it. For example, T20 cricket is really about entertainment and partying while still focussing on those who still love the sport – 3x3 Basketball is no different.”

Toney made reference

to the BIG3 that is being played in the USA, noting that “Guyana is being really left behind so I capitalised on that and reached out to ANSA McAL, FireSide and Grill and a couple of other sponsors who bought into it right away.”

Those other partners are the Guyana Lottery C omp an y’s Let’s Bet Sport, ‘STUFF’, Slingerz Family Entertainment, the National Sports Commission and Trophy Stall.

Meaningful exposure for players is also a major component of the event as, according to Toney, the tournament will be registered on Planet 3x3 on FIBA, the world governing body for the sport.

“And that in itself will put the tournament in an international spectrum.

So let’s say the Federation has to select a national team in a month or right after this tournament, they would turn to Rawle Toney Classic to select those players to represent Guyana going forward, which is huge in itself,” he explained.

Toney stressed that this format lends to entertainment and fast-paced action, as the games are only 10 minutes long, played in running time.

Meanwhile, there has been overwhelming support in terms of players/ teams interest, Toney

pointed out, adding that players stand to benefit handsomely through the cash incentives on offer.

The winning team will pocket $300 000, while second will take home $100 000 and third $50 000. The Most Valuable Player in the final will receive one basketball sneakers of his choice.

Junior Hercules, representing Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF), said the world governing body FIBA boasts of the 3x3 format being “the fastest growing outdoor sport in the world.”

“It’s not as big as we would like it to be in this part of the world, but this (competition) is one of many we hope future promoters can engage in. By extension as well the Federation would like to commit to a three-point shootout as part of the tournament and the winner of that threepoint shootout will earn $25 000,” Hercules commented.

ANSA McAL Non-Alcoholic Brand Manager Fharis Mohamed and Mackeson Brand Manager Keon Persaud both expressed their company’s delight to be part of the initiative through Mackeson Stout and the Rush Energy Drink.

The tournament will employ a round-robin/ knockout format.

(Newsroom)

Surinamese arrive ahead of 1320 Heat rematch

THE first and second batches of Surinamese competitors arrived ahead of this weekend’s 1320 Heat drag race event.

According to information, three cars came on the first ship from Suriname on Thursday with four more arriving yesterday morning.

The club is still awaiting the third set which should have arrived late yesterday afternoon.

GMR&SC vice-president Hansraj Singh confirmed the

Surinamese made their way to Guyana between Thursday and Friday saying, “We had noticed that some drivers were coming.”

“A few of them checked in with our offices to get event information and the remaining set should arrive this evening (Friday). After tonight, we will be better able to give you a count of how many participating drivers we have.”

Meanwhile just over 30 local competitors had signed

onto the event up to press time last evening.

According to the club, these registered drivers do not yet include the Surinamese as they intend to register as a group.

Registration, the GMR&SC vice-president noted will close this evening as there will be none done on the day.

Admission to tomorrow’s event stands at $1 000 for adults and $500 for children.

Race-time is 10:00hrs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Almost $200 000 up for grabs at Cycleton 2019 … Proceeds will go to Cancer Institute

ALMOST $200 000 will be up for grabs tomorrow morning when the Contemporary Event Planning and Décor, in collaboration with Rotaract Club of New Amsterdam and Trojan Cycling Club, hosts Cycleton 2019 in Berbice.

There will be four categories for cash prizes along with a special ‘Bring a Bike and Ride’ race for first-, second- and thirdplace trophies.

The Open race is the feature event, with riders competing for a top prize of $50 000.

Second-place would receive $25 000, while third-place would collect $18 000, fourthplace $12 000, fifth-place $9 000 and sixth-place $5 000.

Over the last few days, organisers have decided to increase the prize money in the Juniors and Veterans categories.

Instead of $10 000, both winners will now receive $15 000 with the second-place finishers col-

Berbice cyclist Ajay Gopilall has been in good form recently. Here he collects the 17th Victor Macedo Memorial Cycle Road Race Junior winner’s prize money. Gopilall and several other big names are set to compete tomorrow

lecting $10, 00 and third-placers $7 000.

The Juveniles will race for prizes of $8 000, $5 000 and $3 000.

Registration closes at 08:30hrs on race day.

The 30-lap feature race will start at New Street, in front of Lizzy’s Fish Shop with cyclists going around New Amsterdam before ending at the starting point.

Entrance fee for the feature events is $2 000 per rider, while for the ‘Bring a Bike and Ride’ race it will be $500.

Amzad Khan, SD&L, Republic Bank, Full House Furniture, A. Ally and Sons, East Dragon Trading, A&R Enterprise, Candy Shop and Automotive Paint Station and General Supplies are the event sponsors.

All proceeds from the race will go towards to Guyana Cancer Institute.

Lima United, Walton Hall to battle in North Essequibo final tomorrow A KEEN contest is anticipated between defending champions Walton Hall and Lima United when they clash tomorrow in the North Essequibo T20 Final, scheduled for the Walton Hall ground from 14:00hrs.

Both teams fancy their chances at the coveted title with Walton Hall seeking to gain home advantage.

Their batting line-up will rely heavily on the explosive former Essequibo senior inter-county batting all-rounder Basil Persaud who has been in fine form this season with both bat and ball.

He will garner support from the versatile Vishwanauth Lall, Navin Ba-

hudur, Navindra Balgobin and Suresh Persaud who scored the lone century in the preliminary stages

Former Essequibo all-rounder Basil Persaud

of the competition. Former Essequibo Under-19 off-spinner Uvindra Balgobin, who has the most wickets in the tournament, will spearhead the bowling department on a pitch that will offer considerable bounce and turn.

Surprise finalists Lima United have been the team on a mission, following their reintroduction into active cricket. Consistent batting at the top from the exploits from Renzo Ghani and Abdool Salim has given the team ideal starts for eventual big scores.

The strong middle order, comprising Fazeer Khan, Faizal Karim and Kevin

Maneychand, will also seek to capitalise against their opposition given that their bowling strength is limited.

Meanwhile, the thirdplace playoff will be between Gunners and Devonshire Castle at 10:00hrs.

The officiating umpires are Deva Dass and Shannon Crawford.

Monetary prizes and trophies will be at stake and among the officials to be present will be president of North Essequibo Cricket Committee Prince Holder, ECB secretary Autto Christiani and coordinator Ajodia Lall and special guests.

(Elroy Stephney)

Bulgaria coach Balakov resigns following racism fallout (REUTERS) - Bulgaria coach Krasimir Balakov stepped down from his role on Friday, four days after home fans subjected England’s black players with racist abuse during a Euro 2020 qualifier in Sofia.

The 53-year-old was in charge of the team in the 6-0 defeat by England on Monday when some of the supporters taunted the visitors with Nazi salutes and monkey chants, prompting match officials to halt the game twice.

The Bulgarian Football Union (BFU), however, said in a statement bfunion.bg/

news/46463/0 Balakov had resigned due to the team’s recent run of unsatisfactory performances and that the executive committee had accepted it.

“My decision to step down has nothing to do with Prime Minister (Boyko) Borissov asking for my resignation the day after the game against England. My

Bulgaria coach Krasimir Balakov before the match.

(REUTERS/Stevo Vasiljevic)

patience is over,” Balakov was quoted as saying by Sky Sports.

“We did what we had to do regarding the security during the game against England. Bulgaria is not a racist country.”

Balakov had said after the game he had not heard any racist abuse from the stands but apologised to the England team for the fans’ behaviour in an email to reporters late on Tuesday.

BFU president Borislav Mihaylov has also resigned and police in the country have made 12 arrests so far.

Barcelona-Real Madrid clash postponed amidst Catalan crisis BARCELONA, Spain (Reuters) - Barcelona’s rescheduled La Liga game at home to Real Madrid is set to take place on December 18 as both clubs came to an agreement after the match, due to be played on October 26, was postponed amidst violent political demonstrations in Catalonia.

Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane

Following huge protests over the jailing of nine Catalan separatist leaders, the league’s organising body made an official request to the RFEF this week for the ‘Clasico’ to be rearranged, which was approved yesterday.

The federation ordered the two clubs to arrange a new date before a deadline of October 21, and the two sides said later yesterday they wanted the game to take place on December 18.

“In light of the ruling which postpones the match between Barcelona and Real Madrid and states the clubs must agree a new date, Real Madrid wishes to communicate that the date proposed by both clubs is December 18,” said Real’s statement.

In a separate statement, Barca said they had argued in favour of the game still taking place on October 26 and had

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opposed La Liga’s plan to move it from the Camp Nou to Real’s Santiago Bernabeu.

Barca added that they had “utmost confidence in the civic and pacific attitude of its fans and members”, also apologising to supporters who were inconvenienced by the decision and saying tickets purchased would be refunded.

Real coach Zinedine Zidane said he and his players would accept any new date for the fixture, also calling the images of violence in Catalonia “difficult”.

Hundreds of thousands of demonstrators waving pro-independence flags and chanting “freedom for political prisoners” joined marches across Catalonia yesterday, the fifth day of protests.

Barcelona town hall said 700 garbage containers were set ablaze since protests began on Monday and estimated that the city had suffered damage totalling more than 1.5 million euros.

An official from Barcelona town hall said around 10 trees were set on fire on Thursday. Regional police said 16 people were arrested across Catalonia on Thursday, while health officials said medical aid was provided to 42 people.

Manchester City coach Pep Guardiola, a former Barcelona player and their most successful ever manager, called on European countries to try to resolve the crisis.

“The international community must help us to solve the conflict of Catalonia and Spain and we need a mediator from outside to sit in and talk,” he said in a news conference ahead of his side’s visit to Crystal Palace in the Premier League.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

India can emulate world-beating sides of past, says Lara MUMBAI, India (Reuters) - While traditionally formidable on home soil, India’s cricket teams have been known to struggle on their travels, but West Indies batting great Brian Lara has said the current side are a force to be reckoned with anywhere in the world.

India completed their 11th consecutive Test series win at home last week when they took an unassailable 2-0 lead in the ongoing threematch series against South Africa.

They are also the only unbeaten team in the recently launched World Test Championship with four wins from as many matches - two of them coming in the West Indies in their previous Test series.

Lara, who once held the record for most runs in Test cricket before being overtaken by Sachin Tendulkar, said Virat Kohli’s men would have to show a level of consistency for them to be considered in the same league as the world-beating sides of West Indies and Australia of the past.

“We all know the Indian team were not the most respected when they travelled.

They were very respected at home but now India on a world stage anywhere they play are a force to be reck-

oned with,” Lara told reporters at an event in Mumbai on Thursday.

“Well, those teams dominated world cricket ... the West Indies in the ’70s and ’80s, the Australians in the ‘90s and the early part of the 21st century. India have that capability.

dominating all teams, to be considered. But they are definitely a top cricketing nation at the moment.”

India have occupied top spot in the world Test rankings since late 2016 and a lot of that credit, according to pundits, goes to their fast bowlers.

“The Indian outfit - batting, bowling and fielding - is exceptional,” the 50-year-old said. “I thought their fast bowlers were sometimes unplayable (against West Indies).

“I saw (India) in the West Indies and I must say what I was accustomed to in the past

EBFA/Ralph Green U-11 League semi-finals lineup to be confirmed today

THE semi-finals lineup for the 4th edition of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-11 League, sponsored by USA-based Guyanese Ralph Green, will be confirmed today, following the final set of group matches at the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), National Training Centre, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Twelve teams are contesting, but only four - the top two from Groups A and B - will continue the quest to be crowned 2019 champions, but they must first be victorious at next Saturday’s semis.

Defending champions Timehri Panthers and newcomers Vurlon Mills Academy are through from Group A with Mills Academy still to play their final match today. They are leading the group with a perfect four out of four and can make it five today.

Riddim Squad are at the helm of Group B and are assured of a place in the final four having completed their five matches, winning three and drawing two and are still undefeated. Agricola Red Triangle at the moment are in second place on nine points but can be overtaken for the second place in Group B. With a chance to sneak in are Kuru Kururu Warriors who have seven points and a final match today against Swan Football Club, their immediate neighbours on the Linden Soesdyke Highway.

Swan secured their first win of the league last week Saturday and would be keen to end the competition on a high; but will find that the Warriors with two wins, a loss and a draw. will be going all out for their third win which will see them clinch a final-four spot ahead of Agricola.

More fireworks set for round 4 as crunch time approaches Brian Lara, Jonty Rhodes and Sachin Tendulkar at an event in India to promote the Road Safety World Series T20 cricket league. (AFP)

“They’re now travelling well, they’re playing abroad and beating oppositions, which is great. World cricket is a lot more competitive now - Australia, South Africa and England.

“So India will have to do it over a period of time,

Lara, who scored 11 953 runs from 131 Tests and still holds the record for the highest score of 400 not out in an innings, said India batting mainstay Kohli was the “ultimate captain” and the side’s fast bowlers were “unbelievable”.

... this is pretty special.

“And the guys that you have on the sidelines, it reminds me a little bit of what the West Indies had back in the ’80s and ’90s ... the reserve strength is very important in assessing a team’s ability.”

FOLLOWING three rounds of excitement, coupled with some mixed cricket by a few teams, round 4 of the SBF Petroleum/GGI Jaguars one-day League is expected to be even more crucial for the woeful as the tournament nears its end.

Eagles FC edge Uitvlugt Warriors as the game makes a welcome return to ground ROUND two of the GFF/ NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power U-17 Intra-Association League in the West Demerara Football Association (WDFA) kicked off last Saturday at the Uitvlugt Community Centre ground after an absence of a number of years.

WDFA president Orin

Ferrier disclosed that the association were able to gain access to the ground, following a series of meetings with the management of Uitvlugt Estate, part of the GUYSUCO family.

Eagles celebrated the return of the game to this once popular venue which would have also hosted

international matches with an exciting victory over neighbours, Uitvlugt Warriors 3-2.

Eagles FC of Stewartville have continued their winnings ways and are the only unbeaten team, following the first round of this league. Their first round encounter against Uitvlugt

From left: Charles Benn, Romel Medas and Telbert Baptiste

also ended 3-2 in their favour.

Charles Benn in the 41st minute, Telbert Baptiste in the 46th and Romel Medas in the 60th minute were the players rocking the back of the net for Eagles, as they stormed back in style to erase a two-goal deficit in the first half and snatch full points.

Home team Uitvlugt backed by their fans had felt that they were somewhat comfortable after running away 2-0 leaders through goals from Malcolm Dainty in the 2nd minute and Travis Fraser in the 14th minute.

The first-half comfort for the Warriors was however cut short on 41 minutes, when Eagles fired in the first of three unanswered goals.

Hurry-ATE won the first match of this second phase via walkover from Pouderoyen FC who failed to show up. Matches will continue next week.

Lower Corentyne pacer Niall Smith

In today’s action across Guyana, defending champions Essequibo will be looking to retain their title. Unfortunately the renowned powerhouse team, Georgetown, have been mopped around in all three rounds.

Georgetown will be desperate for a turnaround, come today, when they battle Upper Corentyne at Port Mourant ground. The Berbice side have welcomed back national players Clinton Pestano and Anthony Bramble, who could severely hurt the already wounded visitors.

Upper Corentyne could capitalise on the wounded Georgetown team but will be

looking to ensure that the big guns, such as Leon Johnson, Chris Barnwell, Steven Jacobs and Robin Bacchus, remain cold.

Over at Young Warriors ground, pacer Niall Smith, fresh off a 6-for 41, will be seeking to continue his phenomenal bowling form against a strong West Berbice unit.

Smith helped Lower Corentyne blow away Georgetown for a paltry 104.

With skipper Veerasammy Permaul, in-form Johnathan Foo, Kevlon Anderson and others clicking, West Berbice could be in for a match.

Ex-Windies U-19 ’keeper Tevin Imlach will want some runs for West Demerara when they battle Essequibo at the GCC ground, Bourda.

Essequibo remain unbeaten, even pulling off a heist in the last round to keep their streak alive, with MVP skipper Anthony Adams coming into some form.

Their encounter could see Essequibo retain their title should they win outright; adding to their tally of points.

A struggling East Coast team will then battle the likes of Trevon Griffith, Ronaldo Alimohamed, Sachin Singh and others of East Bank in their match at the Enmore ground.

Amir Khan and Robin Williams were the shining stars for East Coast in a losing cause but could be gunning for revenge today when round 4 bowls off at 09:30hrs across all venues, weather permitting.

(Clifton Ross)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

Bounty GCC Vintage into Over-35 final of GTT National Indoor Hockey Championships

BOUNTY GCC Vintage stormed into the Over-35 final of the GTT National Indoor Hockey Championships, which is billed for tomorrow afternoon at Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

To advance, Vintage first stopped Antonio’s Hickers (9-4) on Monday, then got the better of YMCA Old Fort Hot Shotz by a 5-4 margin on Tuesday, before they defeated Hickers (5-2) on Thursday night.

Although the side had one last preliminary round clash against Hot Shotz last night, it was an inconsequential battle on their part.

Hot Shotz are favourites to join GCC Vintage in the final, but a last match between Hickers this afternoon would most likely decide the outcome. Both sides were tied on one point each after a drawn clash. Hot Shotz,

though, had a better goal average and up to press time, still had to play Vintage.

In Vintage’s win on Thursday, Kevin Spencer exploded with four goals.

SECOND DIVISION Meanwhile, YMCA Old Fort Top Form will battle against YMCA Old Fort Hard Ball from 12:55hrs today in the first quarter-final clash of the Men’s Second Division competition.

The second quarter-final clash is set for 17:30hrs today while the semi-finals will be played tomorrow morning with the final set for 17:00hrs (tomorrow).

WOMEN’S BATTLE Up to Thursday evening, GBTI GCC Tigers were the only unbeaten female first division side remaining in the Championships.

Tigers and GBTI GCC Spice are ahead in terms of points, and are almost locked in on semi-final spots, barring unpredictable results in the remaining clashes.

Both GCC teams have nine points. Tigers have been flawless in their first three games, while Spice, who lost to Tigers 0-7 on Thursday evening, are on nine points from four games.

In that game, Marzana Fiedtkou and Gabriella Xavier scored three goals each.

Defending champions, Woodpecker Hikers (six points, two wins) are also in the mix, but their last two remaining games will be against Tigers and Spice. Added to that, they have to rebound from a 4-0 defeat by GBTI GCC Spartans, who had lost their two opening games. In

Irish PM to skip UK Brexit debate for Rugby World Cup clash BRUSSELS (Reuters) While British lawmakers agonise in parliament today over whether to approve a last-minute European Union divorce deal, one interested onlooker

will be watching a different television channel.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar, who played a key role in striking the Brexit agreement this week, said he will instead

Ireland’s Prime Minister (Taoiseach) Leo Varadkar

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Friday, October 18, 2019)

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) Jonathan Carter-50* (2) Brandon King-43 TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) The Tridents have now won the CPL title twice. When?

(2) The Warriors have now lost five CPL finals. When?(2) Who top-scored for the Warriors in the CPL 2019 final?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

be glued to Ireland’s Rugby World Cup quarter-final against New Zealand in Japan.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson will address lawmakers at 0830 GMT today to kick off an extraordinary Saturday sitting, the first since 1982, with the teams set to take the field at Tokyo Stadium at 1015 GMT. “My plans for tomorrow are to watch the rugby match,” Varadkar, a keen Ireland and Leinster fan who has togged out for the Irish parliament’s rugby team, told a news conference in Brussels.

“Hopefully that will be successful for Ireland and then we’ll see what happens in the House of Commons,” he said.

Varadkar moved a televised address to his Fine Gael party’s annual conference away from its regular prime time spot last year because it clashed with live coverage of Ireland’s last Test match against world champions New Zealand.

Ireland beat the All Blacks 16-9 that day, just their second victory in 31 attempts, as their prime minister watched via a big screen at the conference.

Marzana Fiedtkou netted another three goals on Thursday night

that clash on Thursday night, Abosaide Cadogan exploded with four successful strikes.

Winless YMCA Old Fort Bloods and Saints will look to gain a footing to make the final four, but those two sides will have to be flawless in their last remaining clashes (Bloods have three and Saints two) and hope that the teams ahead make mistakes.

The female semifinals will be played midday tomorrow while the final is billed for tomorrow evening.

The male first division teams have it easier and their remaining games will just be for placement for tomorrow afternoon’s semis.

Pepsi Hikers and YMCA Old Fort Delta Force have been the top teams - a final preliminary battle between them last night was, however, expected to decide who will finish on top.

For Bounty GCC and Saints, their last battle was expected to dictate thirdplace preliminary finishers.

After tomorrow’s semi-finals, the top two teams will feature in the last final of the evening.

Hooper braced for World Cup quarter-final battle AUSTRALIA’s Michael Hooper says he is prepared for England flankers Tom Curry and Sam Underhill to try usurp him and David Pocock at the breakdown in today’s World Cup quarter-final.

Curry and Underhill said on Thursday it would be “surreal” to face two players they idolised growing up.

“It’s going to be a good battle,” said Australia captain Hooper.

“We’ve done our work on them. I think they’re great players. They are a top-tier international back row.”

Pocock, 31, has announced he will retire from international rugby at the end of his third World Cup campaign, while Hooper, 27, will be playing his 99th Test when he takes on England in Oita.

Underhill, 23, and Curry, 21, have only 28 caps between them and will be starting together for just the fourth time.

to have experience but also being youthful is of benefit.

I have been in their shoes before, being wide-eyed, ready to attack things.

Australia’s Michael Hooper

However, Hooper said that his and Pocock’s experience is not necessarily an advantage.

He added: “It’s great

“The ruck is a great part of the game. It’s going to be, as always, a huge part of the Test match.”

(BBC Sport)

35

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, October 19, 2019

One more year until the Men’s World T20 in Australia … Defending champions will require smart cricket to topple the best teams - Pollard

WITH a year to go to the ICC Twenty20 World Cup in Australia, West Indies are fancying their chances as repeating as champions.

New T20 captain Kieron Pollard said it will require smart cricket to topple the best teams in the world when they meet Down Under.

West Indies are the defending champions. They won in 2016 under the leadership of captain Darren Sammy and coach Phil Simmons.

On April 3, 2016, West Indies beat England to win the trophy – thanks to some amazing power-hitting from Carlos Brathwaite in the final over, and a superb match-winning knock from Marlon Samuels in a titanic grand finale at Eden Gardens in Kolkata.

Fast forward to 2019 and Pollard is the man at the helm as the World Champions begin the countdown to one of the most eagerly anticipated events in the game’s history – The 20/20 in 2020!

“It’s an honour and truly wonderful feeling to lead West Indies in a major international tournament. The pressure is going to be on, being the defending champions, but we have to play well as a team in order to be competitive. We will be looking

forward to it,” Pollard told CWI Media.

Speaking from Trinidad, the 32-year-old identified the keys to successfully defending the title. The powerfully-built six-footer knows what it’s like to win on the big stage. He was a member of the team when West Indies beat Sri Lanka in Sri Lanka in 2012 to lift the trophy for the first time.

our strengths – one of which is our six-hitting ability – but also mixing that sort of aggression and that awesome power with smart, intelligent cricket as well. I think these will be keys – the grounds will be big and you will have to be smart to get over the line and win the ICC T20 World Cup for a third time.”

Ground October 28: vs Australia – Perth Stadium October 30: vs Qualifier B2 – Perth Stadium November 3: vs Pakistan – Adelaide Oval November 7: vs Qualifier A1 – Melbourne Cricket Ground November 11: Semifinal 1 – Sydney Cricket Ground

A couple keys to defending the title are playing well and playing consistently. We are a confident team; we back

West Indies ICC T20 World Cup Match Schedule: October 25: vs New Zealand – Melbourne Cricket

November 12: Semifinal 2 – Adelaide Oval November 15: FINAL – Melbourne Cricket Ground

PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CMC) – Captain Kieron Pollard has pointed to inconsistency as the main reason behind Trinbago Knight Riders’ disappointing performance in the just concluded Caribbean Premier League (CPL).

TKR entered the T20 domestic tournament as two-time reigning champions but missed out on a place in the final after enduring a run of poor form at the back end of the preliminary phase, heading into the playoffs.

They won their first four matches but then shockingly lost five of their last six games in a winless streak.

“I thought our performance in the last game really summed up our tournament. It was a bit up-and-down, for us a bit of inconsistencies in all aspects of our cricket (in the) three departments and I don’t think we deserved to be in the final,” Pollard told i95FM Sports here.

At the end of the day, you can’t fault the effort of the

guys, in terms of training and preparation but some things are just not meant to be and I think that getting those three titles was one of them.

and Nevis Patriots in the first eliminator to advance to the semi-final.

However, they failed to chase down a modest 161 set by eventual champions Barbados Tridents in the semi-final in front of their home crowd at Brian Lara Stadium to lose by 12 runs, and miss out on a place in the final against unbeaten Guyana Amazon Warriors.

Pollard conceded that TKR had failed to put together the complete game in that crucial fixture.

“We can look at aspects of our bowling at the back end, we can look at the soft dismissals that we had,” the newly-appointed West Indies white-ball skipper explained.

“There are a lot of things that compromise an entire game of T20 cricket, not just one incident, and it was a perfect example of us not being consistent enough and … not being able to execute at the back end which caused our demise. As I said before,

dropping easy catches in a semi-final is also not on.”

Labelled pre-tournament favourites, TKR suffered a major setback before the start of their campaign when they lost influential captain Dwayne Bravo to injury.

Pollard, who replaced him, said his quality and experience were definitely missed throughout.

“He’s been getting a lot of flak (in the past) for bowling in the death but it goes to show the type of impact and magnitude he can have in any team,” Pollard pointed out.

“He has done it all over the world and we, as a TKR franchise, certainly missed his expertise in the back (end) there and his expertise throughout the entire tournament.

“We need to continue to believe in players when we have them on the park rather than just sort of ridicule them when things don’t go right.”

New selection policy sign of ‘tremendous progress’, says Shallow BRIDGETOWN, Barbados (CMC) – Cricket West Indies (CWI) vice-president Dr Kishore Shallow believes the new administration headed by president Ricky Skerritt has made “tremendous progress” in its first seven months in charge, and has pointed to the new selection policy as proof of the robust work being undertaken.

Shallow and Skerritt toppled three-term incumbent Dave Cameron in CWI elections last March, and have since then embarked on sweeping changes in an effort to institute their Cricket First Plan on which they campaigned.

One of the major changes has come in the area of selection, where separate selection panels for the men, women and youth teams have been constituted and Shallow said this, along with a new policy to guide the selection of those squads, was a reflection of the enterprise of the administration.

“(It is important) to have a selection policy where players will now have confidence that if they perform, they will be selected … they don’t have to perform two, three or four years,” Shallow pointed out. “(If) You come out with an outstanding performance over a period in a tournament you should be given an opportunity while you’re in form. We think that these things are remarkable achievements in our first six months in office.”

He added: “There can be someone who has tremendous potential but doesn’t achieve it; and we have seen that over the years in our cricket, persons who have been performing have been sidelined, because this individual (or) this player who we believe have remarkable talent, has to be given an opportunity.

“What we are saying now with this system (is that it will) reward performance and both (lead

FLASHBACK: West Indies celebrate World T20 Cup win against England

‘Up-and-down’ performances behind failed TKR season - Pollard

TKR skipper Kieron Pollard

“All in all, I think guys would have taken a lot from this campaign and hopefully come the next campaign, try to right the wrongs that actually took place.”

TKR finished fourth in the standings on nine points to qualify for the playoffs and defeated third-placed St Kitts

Selector Miles Bascombe

“It has been challenging but it was all anticipated,” said Shallow, who recently chaired a CWI Task Force which reviewed regional selection policy.

“I think that we have made tremendous progress, particularly in establishing a selection policy which we’ve never had in the past – now having different panels covering our cricket.

“One of the complaints we’ve heard over the last few years was that the females were not priorities and selectors were not observing female cricket. So we’re happy that we’re in a place where all our players feel as if they are priority and that they will be observed.”

Shallow said one of the key components of the new selection policy was ensuring there was transparency in the process.

He also said that selection needed to be driven by performance, based on data, in an effort to bring a more strategic approach to the building of Windies representative teams.

Lead selector Roger Harper

selector) Roger Harper and Miles Bascombe demonstrated their full understanding of that.”

Harper, former Windward Islands batsman Bascombe and newly-appointed head coach, Phil Simmons, will comprise the men’s senior panel while Anne Browne-John, former Windies batsman Travis Dowlin and West Indies legend Gus Logie, will constitute the women’s panel.

The sweeping changes of selectors and coaching staff have drawn some criticism from various quarters but Shallow said the overhaul had been done strategically and managed professionally.

“I think the decisions made so far have been backed by research and have been very calculated,” he stressed.

“I can’t think of anything we could have changed or done differently. I’m just happy with the progress and the professionalism. The management team is working tremendously hard.”

From left: Junior Hercules, Fharis Mohamed, Rawle Toney, Keon Persaud and Treiston Joseph at the launch yesterday. (Photo: Avenash Ramzan)

Rawle Toney 3x3 Basketball Classic to bring ‘short version’ excitement 31 Page

Surinamese arrive ahead of 1320 Heat rematch Page

31

Michael Namchand’s Global RX7 is one of the Surinamese competitors billed

USA Cricket hails Walsh Jr selection to Windies ODI team

BRIDGETOWN, Barba- lose him, but we are glad that dos (CMC) – USA Cricket USA Cricket was able to prohas hailed Hayden Walsh vide an international platform Jr’s selection to the West for him at an important point Indies limited overs side, in his career, and everyone branding the leg-spinner involved with USA Cricket an “all-round talent” and a understands and fully supports “world-class” fielder whom his decision, and we wish they expected to excel at the him all the best for his future highest level. career with CWI.” The 27-year-old Walsh Walsh, who has played was this week named in the first class cricket for Leeward Windies One-Day Internation- Islands and Barbados, failed al and Twenty20 Internation- to really make an impression al squads for the upcoming for the USA in his internaseries against Afghanistan in tional outings, making 27 in India from November 4 to 17. the ODI against Papua New Walsh, who was born in Guinea and picking up six the US Virgin Islands and wickets at an average of 20 in grew up in Antigua, has al- the T20s. ready represented ICC AssociHowever, he soared to ates United States in one ODI prominence recently during and eight T20 Internationals the Caribbean Premier League – all coming earlier this year. (CPL) when he snapped up a “Hayden has been nothing Man-of-the-Series 22 wickets short of outstanding on and for eventual champions Baroff the field for USA since his bados Tridents. first selection in 2018,” said Wa l s h c r e d i t e d U S A Iain Higgins, chief executive Cricket for laying the platform of USA Cricket. for his international career.

“His all-round talent “ I want to say with bat and a special ball, allied thanks to with his everyone at world-class USA Cricket fielding, and the teamwere crumates in the cial factors USA team who in the USA made me feel team gainwelcome while ing ODI I played there,” status for said Walsh. the first “It was a good time earlier eye-opener to what this year. it’s like on the interna“Of course, tional stage and it’s an we are very experience I will Leg-spinner disappointed to Hayden Walsh Jr cherish.”

New selection policy sign of ‘tremendous progress’, says Shallow 35 Page

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SATURDAY, OCTOBER 19, 2019