Guyana Chronicle E-paper 2-14-2020

SATURDAY 15th February, 2020

’ No.105911

‘This is a contract with you’ … Coalition launches manifesto with provisions for cash transfers, natural gas terminal

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… President says plans ambitious, but attainable

President David Granger and members of his coalition with copies of the manifesto following the launch on Friday. Also in photo from left: APNU, General Secretary and Director General, Joseph Harmon; Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams; Minister of Public Security and Prime Ministerial Candidate of the coalition, Khemraj Ramjattan and Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman (Adrian Narine photo)

Woman who doused CARICOM heads to man with hot oil 29 tackle wide-ranging 02 surrenders to police agenda at

Time for a 10 third force’

Partners and media operatives signing the banner to indicate their commitment to joining the campaign to bring awareness to road safety (Adrian Narine photo) PAGE PAGE

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–– another in a separate incident remanded to prison

Barbados confab

… political newbies advocated at UG elections debate

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

Two small children rescued from burning Sophia house

FIRE Chief Marlon Gentle, on Friday, disclosed that the fire, which completely destroyed a small wooden single-flat house in Sophia, leaving four persons homeless, including two children, was caused by one of the minors.

The children, ages 3 and 6, were rescued from the burning house in ‘D’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown just after 21:00hrs on Thursday. They lived at the small wooden single flat house with their mother and her brother Nicholas Harvey.

The small wooden single flat house was completely destroyed by fire

One of the two fire tenders that responded to the scene

According to the Fire Chief, the children were left unattended at the time of the fire. He said, based on investigation conducted, one of the two boys was playing with matches when articles within the house caught afire. They were rescued by passersby.

Initial reports indicated that the children were left in the care of Harvey, while their mother went to work. Harvey told a police investigator at the scene, that he left home after 18:00hrs for Dennis Street, Sophia. The children, according to him, were asleep.

He said it was around 21:14hrs that he received a call indicating that the building was on fire. It is unclear at what stage the children were removed from the burning building.

However, when Guyana Chronicle arrived at the scene, the first of two fire tenders was

in full operation. A man, while still holding two buckets, said that upon learning that there was a fire, he quickly formed a bucket brigade. He lived close by.

According to the public-spirited citizen, the fire service response was prompt. The fire service managed to contain the fire from spreading to a neighbouring house and an unfinished property.

The Chief Fire Chief said the Guyana Fire Service and the Guyana Police Force are continuing their investigation, and the matter will be soon transferred to the Child Care and Protection Agency.

He said the fact that the children were left unattended is a major cause for concern, particularly for their safety and wellbeing.

CARICOM heads to tackle wide-ranging agenda at Barbados confab CARIBBEAN Community (CARICOM) Heads of Government will meet in Barbados next week to discuss issues ranging from current public health concerns, to strengthening ties with Africa, the secretariat said in a release Friday.

The Heads of Government are also expected to have an exchange of views with the Prime Minister of Canada, Mr. Justin Trudeau. This 31st Inter-Sessional Meeting, under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados, is expected to deliberate on a regional approach to the Coronavirus (Covid-19) as well as the continuing challenges posed by non-communicable diseases (NCDs) Heads are also expected to examine the status of implementation of provisions of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME). In this regard, they are expected to have an engagement with representatives of the Region’s private sector, labour and civil society.

Among other pressing economic development matters, the meeting is expected

to focus on digital transformation in CARICOM and an action plan for the elimination of regional roaming charges.

The need for ongoing advocacy against the challenges of blacklisting, de-risking, and withdrawal of Correspondent Banking Services is also expected to get the Heads’ attention.

The Heads are also expected to discuss a proposed CARICOM African Summit among a number of foreign and community-related matters. They are also expected to address crime, violence and security issues affecting the Region.

The meeting, to be held at the Lloyd Erskine Sandiford Centre (LESC), is scheduled to begin at 09:00hrs with opening remarks from: CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque; Out-going CARICOM Chairman, Prime Minister Allen Chastanet of Saint Lucia and CARICOM Chairman, Prime Minister Mia Mottley of Barbados.

This will be followed by a presentation to the meeting from Prime Minister of Canada, Mr. Justin Trudeau.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday February 15, 2020

‘This is a contract with you’

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Coalition launches manifesto with provisions for cash transfers, range of social programmes …President says plans ambitious, but attainable

By Lisa Hamilton THE A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC), on Friday, unveiled its elections manifesto, which, according to President David Granger, is an “ambitious but attainable” plan which will serve as a contract to the people for the realisation of a ‘good life.’

The launch took place at the coalition’s campaign headquarters, located on Lamaha Street, where members of the media were addressed by President Granger; Prime Ministerial Candidate, Khemraj

addressing the gathering at the launch, said that the manifesto is not an “election promise,” but a document birthed after careful thought and consideration. In fact, the APNU+AFC manifesto builds on the coalition’s core principles, established in September 2019 and with the Cummingsburg Accord, recently reviewed and revised as the binding document of the APNU+AFC. “That took a bit of time because we had to merge the views of the five parties in the APNU with those of the AFC… this paved the way for the Manifesto Commit-

of the APNU+AFC noted that the document is not a “minority manifesto” but is agreeable to the coalition parties which represent the

modern copyright legislation to protect intellectual property; the establishment of a Natural Gas Terminal; modern body-armour,

people to over promise because some of them know they can’t win anyway so you might as well promise.

But we have been very realistic, we have been in government and we’ve brought our experience to

plishments. They are excited about the changes we have made and the changes which we’ll bring about as we move forward.”

Speaking too, Minister Trotman said that the manifesto lays the foundation for Guyana’s democracy to be strengthened and he remains a proud member of the David Granger-led administration. “Our Excellency has led us with dignity and with astounding leadership and we are proud to be able to present this manifesto to the people of Guyana today,” he said.

PROGRESSIVE AND AFFORDABLE Further describing the manifesto, President Granger stamped it as “progressive” as it presents implementable policies and plans for the next first five with the “Decade of development – 2020-2029” vision in mind.

On January 1, 2020 in a message to the nation, the President said that the memorable and momentous date marks the dawn of this decade which will usher in a new era of development and transformation in Guyana.

However, on Friday, he stated that most of all, the contents within the manifesto are “affordable” because the APNU+AFC knows how it will be financed. He stated: “We have made plans for the judicious and prudent use of our revenues to ensure that everything we promised will be funded. It will take a period of time over the next five years – everything will not happen in 2020 – but over the period you will see that funds will be provided and the people of this country will be satisfied.”

President David Granger speaks to the media. Seated beside him is Prime Ministerial Candidate, Khemraj Ramjattan

Minister of Health, Volda Lawrence (first left) and Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, browse through the completed manifesto (Adrian Narine photos)

Ramjattan; AFC Leader, Raphael Trotman; Director General at the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon and Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams.

The public declaration document goes into detail on programmes related to governance, the economy, the environment, energy, education, social issues, security, international relations and technology.

A DELIBERATE PROCESS President Granger, in

tee to continue its work but we had the foresight to embed in the core principles and the Cummingsburg Accord, the elements which would be contained in the manifesto,” President Granger said.

“It was a deliberate process and you’ll see today the culmination of that process. It was not something hasty; not a flash in the pan, but something that we’ve worked on for over six years by six different parties.”

The Guyanese leader and Presidential Candidate

majority of citizens who voted the APNU+AFC into office in 2015. The Head of State thanked those within the six-member team who participated in the crafting of the multi-year plan.

CASH GRANTS The plan includes programmes that many Guyanese have been pushing for, which the party deemed feasible such as Conditional Cash Transfers (CCT); the definite elimination of the custodial sentence for possession of small quantities of marijuana;

tazers, body-cameras and more for the police; the establishment of a National Employment Data Bank; drone technology for farming and much more.

The manifesto was also expected to be publically launched on Friday afternoon at the Stabroek Market Square and the document made available to the public. The President said that the document is not a “huge encyclopedia” but has been crafted in such a manner that the average Guyanese can read and understand for themselves.

AMBITITIOUS BUT ATTAINABLE Assessing the complete document, the President said that it is “very ambitious” but ought not to be mistaken for a “campaign manifesto”. He said that while some parties are often tempted to over promise to woo the public, the APNU+AFC has a strategy for each project put forward, some of which have already commenced.

“It’s attainable. There’s always a temptation for

bear on crafting this manifesto. We will do what we promise to do; we will perform and not merely promise,” the President said.

Meanwhile, Ramjattan referred to the document as “a contract with the people,” which will ensure that revenue streams go to infrastructure, security, health, education and more.

“It’s our contract with the people. Put us back in government and these are the things that we’re going to do and, certainly with the revenue streams, we are going to get it done,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Director General reminded that it was under the APNU+AFC government that Guyana was projected to become the fastest growing economy in the world; the world’s best eco-tourism destination and now an oil-producing nation.

“We are building a movement for all Guyanese to succeed and prosper,” Harmon said. “The people who support us – and it’s really getting to be almost all of Guyana now – are proud of our accom-

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

Coronavirus: Beijing orders 14-day quarantine for returnees

(BBC) Beijing has ordered everyone returning to the city to go into quarantine for 14 days or risk punishment in the latest attempt to contain the deadly new coronavirus, state media report.

Residents were told to “self-quarantine or go to designated venues to quarantine” after returning to the Chinese capital from holidays.

The measure came as

Egypt confirmed the first coronavirus case in Africa.

Over 1,300 people have died from the virus, which originated in Wuhan city.

The notice on Friday from Beijing’s virus prevention working group was issued as residents returned from spending the Lunar New Year in other parts of China.

The holiday was extended this year to help contain the

More than 63,000 people in China have been infected with the coronavirus

outbreak.

More than 20 million people live in Beijing.

In China alone, more than 63,000 people have been infected with the virus, and 1,381 have died.

Outside China, there have been 505 cases in 24 countries, and two deaths.

A World Health Organization (WHO)-led mission

to China will start its outbreak investigation work this weekend, focusing on how the virus is spreading and its severity, director Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

The mission, including international experts, will also look at how and when more than 1,700 health workers contracted the virus.

What is the first case in

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 15, 2020 - 09:00HRS

Africa?

Egypt’s health ministry on Friday confirmed the first case of the coronavirus in Africa.

The ministry described the person as a foreigner, but did not disclose the nationality.

It said it had notified the WHO, and the patient had been placed in isolation in a hospital.

What is the situation with medical workers?

Chinese officials say six health workers have died, and more than 1,700 have been infected since the outbreak began.

Zeng Yixin, vice minister of China’s National Health Commission, said 1,102 medical workers had been infected in Wuhan and another 400 in other parts of Hubei province.

“The duties of medical workers at the front are indeed extremely heavy; their working and resting circumstances are limited, the psychological pressures are great, and the risk of infection is high,” Mr Zeng said, as quoted by Reuters news agency. In China alone, more than 63,000 people have been

infected with the virus, and 1,381 have died.

Outside China, there have been 505 cases in 24 countries, and two deaths.

A World Health Organization (WHO)-led mission to China will start its outbreak investigation work this weekend, focusing on how the virus is spreading and its severity, director Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said.

The mission, including international experts, will also look at how and when more than 1,700 health workers contracted the virus.

What is the first case in Africa? Egypt’s health ministry on Friday confirmed the first case of the coronavirus in Africa.

The ministry described the person as a foreigner, but did not disclose the nationality. It said it had notified the WHO, and the patient had been placed in isolation in a hospital. What is the situation with medical workers?

Chinese officials say six health workers have died, and more than 1,700 have been infected since the outbreak began. Zeng Yixin, vice minister of China’s National Health Commission, said 1,102 medical workers had been infected in Wuhan and another 400 in other parts of Hubei province.

“The duties of medical workers at the front are indeed extremely heavy; their working and resting circumstances are limited, the psychological pressures are great, and the risk of infection is high,” Mr Zeng said, as quoted by Reuters news agency.

Saturday February 8, 2020

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February 14, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

Three hospitalised in Bush Lot accident AN accident on Bush Lot Public Road, East Berbice Corentyne, has left three children hospitalised. Those injured are nine-year-old, Roshnie Mohan of Bush Lot Village and sisters Aliyah and Aneela Mohabir, ages 16 and 14 of Number 46 Village.

The accident occurred just around noon as Mohan, who was heading home from school, attempted to cross the road and was hit down by a black Nissan SUV driven a doctor attached to the Skeldon Hospital.

According to eyewitnesses, the driver was heading East in the Northern lane, reportedly at a fast rate, when he struck Mohan, who was crossing from South to North.

He reportedly pulled to the left, where he then struck down the two sisters who were walking on the road shoulders in the northern lane heading west.

The impact sent the two girls flying some six feet into

Hospitalised: Aliyah Mohabir

Hospitalised: Aneela Mohabir

the air, one landed on the bonnet of the car, while the other struck down a cyclist who was also heading north.

“I was riding when me see the man knock down the lil girl then he dash in the corner and knock down two more and one ah dem pitch and lash me off me bike. The whole thing happen so fast me could’t even move but is a good thing she lash me down cause with that force she would a smash she head

if she fall on the road.” Ramkarran Latchman, a carpenter said.

Latchman suffered minor bruises and cuts about the body while the trio were picked up by public-spirited citizens and rushed to the Port Mourant Hospital.

Aliyah was in an unconscious state and blood was seen oozing from her head, mouth and from a cut to the face.

The sisters were transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital where, up to press time, Aliyah was being prepared to be transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) as her condition is listed as critical.

Her younger sister, Aneela’s condition is listed as serious. She suffered a broken leg while Mohan’s condition is said to be stable. Mohan remains a patient at the Port Mourant Hospital.

At the scene, angry residents from the neighbouring villages were seen making

The worried parents of Aliyah and Aneela Mohabir at the New Amsterdam Hospital

threats to burn the vehicle and beat the driver, but the police arrived and promptly brought the situation under control.

The driver exited his vehicle to render assistance but was in a state of shock and just remained there staring blankly.

Meanwhile, speaking with this publication at the hospital, Munil Mohabir, 39, was very worried as he ex-

plained that his older daughter and her sister, a student of Central Corentyne Secondary School, were on their way to bid farewell to a friend in Bush Lot, who was migrating later in the day.

Up to press time, the doctor was still in custody assisting police with their investigations.

Honduras violence: Gunmen storm court building to free MS-13 leader (BBC) Heavily armed men dressed in military fatigues and police uniforms stormed a court building in north-west Honduras and freed a senior leader of the powerful MS-13 gang, officials say.

Alexander Mendoza, known as “El Porky”, had just arrived for a trial hearing in El Progreso, escorted by security forces, when the attack took place.

At least four officers were killed and three others were wounded.

MS-13 is one of the most violent criminal groups in Central America.

President Juan Orlando Hernández offered a reward of 2 million lempiras (£62,000; $80,000) for information that leads to Mendoza’s recapture.

Police said at least 20 gunmen took part in the operation on Thursday afternoon in El Progreso, around 30km (18 miles) east of Honduras’ second city, San Pedro Sula. One of the suspects also died in the attack.

Alexander Mendoza seen in picture released by the Honduran police

A video said to be from the court’s CCTV, and aired by Honduras’ HCH broadcaster, shows a handcuffed man wearing a white tank top, believed to be Mendoza, being carried into the building by security forces.

Moments later, armed men wearing similar uniforms arrive and force people into rooms.

After a few minutes, the man in the white tank top reappears, without the handcuffs

and carrying what appears to be a machine gun and a pistol, trying to leave the building with a group of gunmen. A shootout between them and security forces, who were outside, unfolds.

The footage ends showing 11 men and the person believed to be Mendoza fleeing.

It was not clear how the operation to free Mendoza, who was reportedly on the second floor awaiting the start of the hearing, unfolded inside the building. Police officers and other authorities have previous-

ly been accused of involvement with criminals.

Separate footage broadcast by local media showed the men climbing into several vehicles and escaping.

Deputy Minister of Security Luis Suazo said: “We’re going to recapture this man and arrest those who helped him escape.”

Local media reported the group then abandoned their vehicles and weapons in a nearby neighbourhood. The body of the group member who died was left in a red van.

Mendoza, considered one

of the most important of the gang’s leaders, had been captured in 2015 and sentenced to 20 years in jail in 2018, for illicit association and money laundering. He was awaiting trial for several murders.

MS-13, or Mara Salvatrucha, was created in the 1980s in Los Angeles by poor mostly illegal immigrants who had escaped from the civil war in El Salvador.

When the conflict ended, with a peace treaty signed in 1992, many of those who were

already in jail were expelled and deported to their country, or their parents’ country in many cases.

They took LA’s gang culture back to Central America, and the group spread to El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala. In recent years, thousands of people have fled those countries, many of them trying to reach the US, saying they were victims of violence and persecution.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

Mashramani and Guyana’s 50th Republican Anniversary

GUYANA is days away from celebrating its 50th Republic Anniversary as well as Mashramani – the colourful festival which means ‘celebration after hard work.’

Mashramani is derived from our Amerindian community. This celebration marks centuries of struggle to break the yoke of domination. This struggle began with the first rebellion of the enslaved people, including the Berbice Slave Rebellion led by our national hero Cuffy, which began on February 23, 1763 and had its high point when, as a people, we achieved Republican status in 1970 on the date that marked the 207th Anniversary of that rebellion.

The actual street revelry was first held by the Jaycees in Linden. Then Prime Minister, Forbes Burnham, in his vision, and facing the challenge of building and moulding a nation, borrowed from the Linden cel-

ebration and created a national event that has since become a significant part of our national and cultural fabric. This is evident in making our six peoples and diverse cultures a tolerant, multiracial society in which all will see themselves as One People, living in One Nation, and with One Destiny to mould. Since it has come to be seen as part of our ‘culture’, this national event has not been spared negative pedalling, in which political forces and successive regimes have sadly made efforts to downplay this aspect of our culture on misinformation that it is intended to celebrate one group or individual, as against it being national in nature. Thankfully, those efforts have been unsuccessful.

Mash has truly become a national event that drives our economy, and Guyanese at home and abroad look forward to participating in its celebration. Mash is about all groups

which have played a part in this nation’s evolution and development. While, in the annals of history, one group had enslaved, indentured and colonised others, members of every ethnic group have been represented in the struggles for Independence and Republican status. This new government must therefore ensure that Mashramani and all national events are put in their rightful perspective of pride, honour and dignity for all, and eliminate the remnants of partisan thinking about things that are at the centre of nation building or social cohesion.

Nation building is not only about roads and infrastructure, but about building a culture; and especially in our diverse society, one in which every group can feel part of and will be allowed expression and protection to celebrate their unique heritage in a national way.

Clearly, on the multicultural

foundation on which this nation stands, President Burnham’s struggle was not only to use Mashramani to build a culture, but also to foster social cohesion, wherein diverse groups can have expression and be appreciated.

Mashramani exemplifies a period of much cultural expression: calypso and chutney competition, steel pan, children’s costume parade, and so forth. This is a period used for deepening our national pride and seeing the blossoming of Guyanese abilities and talents.

Here is where we see our costume designers, musicians, children and teachers at their most creative.

It would not be unreasonable to ask the responsible ministry to examine the need to encourage such talent. It may be possible to offer separate incentives for those using local materials, bands playing local artistes, and increasing the

artistes’ frequency on air time.

These persons are bringing us their creativity through intellectual work, and at times at great sacrifice, and thus should be rewarded. This, too, is another approach to improving our arts and entertainment industry.

Mash has become an integral part of what it means to be Guyanese, and is here to stay. Outside of its economic benefit through employment and economic opportunities for those within, it places Guyana on the map as a tourist destination. And it needs to be said that while Guyana is competing with other bigger global festivities, we do not necessarily need to take it down the road of nudity; we can maintain our cultural identity and uniqueness by being conservative in dress.

We can also encourage more talent of diverse music, expanding the range of calypso and chutney to include music with an Amerindian flavor, etc.

Though the event is named in honour of our Amerindian brothers and sisters, there is not much outside the name that points uniquely to the Amerindian community. As with human beings, there is still need for growth.

Where ‘Mash’ was once celebrated in all regions before there was a lull, there is need for a resurgence, to return the celebration to all the regions. Although this year there will be no float parade, Mashramani is still Guyana’s greatest national party and street picnic. It is not only an event for revelry and an opportunity to showcase our talents, but one in which friends and friendships are formed. Let us keep it this way for generations to come, growing from strength to strength each year.

Urgent need for an aggressive environmental and awareness programme at the primary level, and in our local communities “Environmental bona fides and development aspirations” (Editorial, Stabroek)

Dear Editor, News issue of Tuesday February 11, 2020) captured two key elements of the environmental challenge we face as a country: lack of “… culture of respect for and serious adherence to environmental laws…”.

The article, as a whole, gives a favourable impression of the candour of its author.

Needless to say, our society can certainly do with many more editorials, and media reports on the natural ecology and the environment. This would assist us, as a nation, to find greater moral environmental clarity.

Considering the editorial more specifically, I would note that it is timely and relevant, particularly in circumstances where we continue to discover an abundance of oil and gas bestowed on this nation by nature itself. It is also important in the context of good environmental stewardship and His Excellency, President David Granger’s Green Econ-

omy Vision, which I boldly embraced and shared during my tenure as Town Clerk of the Georgetown Municipality, and which I will continue to do going forward in other areas of public service to my beloved country. The benefits of the President’s vision of a ‘green’ economy (which includes a ‘Modern Green Capital City’) needs no recitation. However, it is important to remind citizens of this alternative path outlined

by His Excellency, to good environmental governance and stewardship as against the unsustainable one that continues to increase global temperatures and attendant consequences at an alarming rate.

Nevertheless, the editorial underlines the need to put in place approaches, systems and facilities to initiate respect for and compliance with environmental laws. I would say that, in order to reverse this situation and to promote behavioral change towards the natural environment, there are three fundamental things which we

must do as a nation: educate, empower, enforce.

First, there is urgent need for an aggressive environmental and awareness programme at the primary level, and in our local communities.

At the primary level because it is at this entry point of our education system that we need to begin to mould the minds of the nation’s children.

For as much as they are taught the basic concepts in mathematics, language and art, so too must they be taught the importance of the natural environment. Not in a casual way; it should be officially part of the curriculum at that level. This is an important point because unless we did that, then the negative environmental situation would persist because today’s children are tomorrow’s men and women. If we fail to influence their view and perception of the environment in a positive way, then degradation of our environment will continue.

Also, the relevant authorities should take environmental

education to all communities.

Local communities are social units situated in geographic or virtual spaces. These places allow cultural expressions and practices, which impact on the health and wellbeing of the environment. Therefore, local communities could be used as platforms for environmental behavioral change and this change can be facilitated by an environmental education programme thoughtfully tailored to meet the needs of different communities. The cultural values of each community would impact at different levels on the integrity of the environment. Again, this could be done through partnerships with community and cultural institutions, organisations and groups.

An environmental education and awareness programme would provide information, knowledge and contribute to empowering residents to consider the impact of their actions on the environment. In this way, enforcement of compliance with environmental laws would

become less of a challenge to the authorities.

That, notwithstanding, enforcement remains a fundamental aspect of good environmental stewardship. I hold the view that one of the ways we can enhance enforcement of environmental laws is by legislating specific annual environmental audits of corporations, particularly, those operating in the extractive, and manufacturing industries, [oil and gas, mining, logging; foods, beverages, furniture and fixtures, pharmaceuticals] and governmental and other agencies. This is vital because the extractive and manufacturing industries have huge capacity to drive economic growth and reduce poverty.

But if they are not compliant with environmental laws then, in the long term, they could have the inverse effect (unsustainable economic growth and heavy increase in real poverty, particularly in poor and vulnerable communities). Basically, an environmental audit is a management tool used to carry

out measurements of impacts of certain activities on the natural environment against specific standards and protocols. If this is considered by the authorities, then it would allow for more transparency and accountability in those industries. In fact, with such audits, the environmental performance of public and private corporations could then be properly scrutinised by shareholders and stakeholders. Naturally, environmental audits require a corps of environmental auditors who possess the relevant competencies and appropriate technologies to do the work.

Also, this should be supported by the establishment of an environmental court or a court appointed to deal with environmental matters with dispatch.

Regards, Royston King

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

Oil Revenues Could Avert The Greatest Threat Facing Guyana!

Dear Editor,

EVEN in developed countries, critical infrastructure no longer enjoys protection by the military or the oceans.

In the twenty-first century, threats to critical infrastructure occur in various forms – industrial espionage, terrorism, information warfare, insiders, and natural events.

On January 28, a powerful earthquake in the Caribbean led the Pacific Tsunami Warning Centre to issue a tsunami threat for Belize, Cuba, Honduras, Mexico, the Cayman Islands, and Jamaica, with waves of up to three feet. Would a tsunami with waves of three feet breach the seawall in Guyana? The recent tsunami warning is a ‘wakeup call’ to Guyana that raises timely questions: What critical infrastructure assurances (CIA) exist in Guyana?

What is the level of critical infrastructure protection (CIP)

in place in Guyana in the event of a natural disaster?

Scientists agree that rising sea levels pose a significant threat to infrastructure and cities, especially in low-lying areas around the world, including Guyana, which is located some six feet below sea level at high tide. A seawall defends the Capital city, Georgetown, and much of the coastline. The seawall was built in 1892 and stretches 285 miles, but is considered fragile infrastructure.

Fragility exacerbates the propensity for failure and is evident in the existing seawall along the coast. Most of Guyana’s critical infrastrucure is in Georgetown and, in the path of a tsunami or rising sea level, could breach the seawall along the coast.

Such a natural disaster in Guyana would result in flooding from Georgetown to Soesdyke on the East Bank Demerara and Mahaica on the East Coast, as well as parts of

West Bank Demerara, covering hundreds of square acres. The disaster would disrupt transportation, communications, energy (electric), defence, postal and shipping, public health and healthcare, water and waste, and all government agencies.

All of Guyana’s critical infrastructure would be severely damaged if not destroyed, including the capital, Georgetown.

MOVE THE CAPITAL USING OIL REVENUES. Climate-change scientists warned that rising sea levels are already affecting coastal communities and small islands.

Many cities could be ‘eliminated’ by 2050 and Georgetown could ‘disappear’ long before 2050.

Disaster preparedness and critical infrastructure protection in Guyana require bold, visionary leadership. The ability to envision that it is not a matter of “if” but “when”

the seawall along Guyana’s northern coast will no longer withstand the forces of nature, leading to a massive loss of life and the destruction of critical infrastructure along depths of the coastline is crucial for the nation’s survival. Relocating the capital to higher ground inland is a sure way of averting impending doom. Brazil and Belize recognised these vulnerabilities and have moved their Capital inland decades ago.

PREPARE TO ACT NOW Infrastructure provides the underpinning of the economy.

Economic recovery plans require significant upgrades and protection to mitigate disaster.

National security and the way of life depend on the reliable functioning of a vast array of assets, according to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security; they include physical and virtual assets such as water, food, transportation, banking

and finance, and energy. Infrastructure is an asset or system whose disruption or destruction could negatively affect the performance of the economic and social functions of the state. For businesses to operate effectively and efficiently, it is critical to have assurances and preparedness plans in the event of a disruption.

CRITICAL INFRASTRUCTURE PROTECTION Guyana must develop a robust system to defend against threats and vulnerabilities. The U.S provides a solid example.

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) National Infrastructure Protection Plan (NIPP) established the framework for critical infrastructure protection by identifying and mitigating vulnerabilities to ensure resilience. Resilience is the ability to resist absorb and recover or successfully adapt

to adversity or disruption as well as prepare for and respond to a crisis, and reconstitute a system. Protecting and ensuring resilience is a shared responsibility between the private and public sectors. Cybersecurity in critical infrastructure aroused the interest and concern of energy utilities, government agencies, and consumer’s research institutions. Preparing for and defending against external threats is critical for business continuity.

It would be prudent to mitigate disaster by using oil revenues today to build a new capital city, rather than to use sovereign wealth funds in the future to rebuild and reconstitute critical infrastructure and a capital lost to the sea.

Regards, Wayne Forde

GAWU does not share Lincoln’s views Dear Editor,

The GAWU has seen and considered Mr. Lincoln Lewis’ letter titled “Good sense prevailed in the sugar workers’ struggle for better wages,” which appeared in the February 13, Guyana Chronicle.

Contrary to Mr. Lewis’ postulations, we are not discomfited by Mr. Jagdeo’s advocacy on behalf of the sugar workers. We believe that the leader of the opposition has indeed recognised the plight of the workers and has spoken out, on several occasions, in their defence. While Lincoln may believe that Mr. Jagdeo could have done more, that is his opinion and one which he is entitled to but one we cannot

see eye-to-eye with him at the same time. Mr. Lewis says that Mr. Jagdeo did not, in his view, address the industry’s long-term sustainability. Again we must differ with Lincoln. We have pointed out before to the many tangible expressions of initiatives to engender the industry’s well-being. While indeed some did not turn out as expected, we cannot throw the baby out with the bathwater and argue that nothing was done.

Lincoln speaks again about the EU monies for sugar. Previously, we had shared with him that how those monies were utilised and it appears he has ignored what was said.

We don’t believe we need to repeat this again. Reference is also made to the closure of an estate during the tenure of

President Jagdeo. We surmise Lincoln may be speaking about Diamond, though again we demonstrated that this estate was closed long before Mr. Jagdeo ascended to the Presidency.

Both bleating repetitions have been answered and clarified before, yet they appear over and over un-meritoriously in our view.

We find it disturbing that Lincoln would seek to invoke that our responses to his missives are somehow politically motivated. One could argue that his missives are similarly inclined, though we do not believe this is the case. While we may not agree on issues, we want to advise Lincoln that we have no political motivations and rather all we seek to do is offer clarity and put matters

into perspective. He, of course, is free to disagree as he is now.

While, of course, we have the right to consider or not consider what the World Bank said regarding Skeldon, at the same time, should we have ignored the promising potential as was demonstrated by the empirical evidence. Regarding the bond, isn’t wages one of the issues which comprise the day-to-day operations of the industry?

While we are not saying that wages should be exclusively met from bond proceeds, at the same time, the bond is intended for investment, isn’t investment in the workers also worthwhile? But putting aside day-to-day operations for the time being, Lincoln, quoting ostensibly the Trust Deed, says that the proceeds are intend-

Smaller parties need better news coverage Dear Editor,

ticians to tone down their rhetoric. That is quite in orONCE we Guyanese have der. So let us look for example saying a third choice turned our hostile, tense soparty, or a third voice party, ciety for a more accommo- instead of saying ‘our choice dating culture, particularly is a Third Force party’. That during the ‘silly season’, being said, there is this questhere will be room for more tion of accommodative polgive and take politics, more itics, too, which must be room for cordial exchanges. demonstrated, not only in Because of the tension, theory, but in practice. it is already advised that it There has been a perwould be better for poli- ceived attempt to quiet, or to

discommode, as it were leading up to this year’s elections which will not add one iota to the popularity of the mainstream politicians, or political parties. The bigger brothers’ strategy of condescension or avoidance of the small parties as a motive to win support will never aid to the former’s cause. It is like adding salt or vinegar to a wound.

Once some party or politician sense there is some

measure of threat, especially that which is coming from the new and smaller parties, the combative mode kicks in and that is quite natural.

But some level of maturity should accompany combative and competitive politics, which is sadly lacking in Guyana.

So far we could be doing well, to a certain degree, but in a democratic Guyana would not Guyanese, as a

ed to finance “…the Guyana Sugar Corporation’s long-term project and capital expenditure to acquire two co-generation plants to upgrade existing factories to produce plantation white sugar, to build storage and packing facilities…”. Well, we are approaching the halfway point of the bond and not one of the projects referred to has broken ground but interest and principal costs are accruing while the bond proceeds lie idle somewhere. The point is even the investment contemplated, which expectedly will bring about betterment for the industry and the workers appear nowhere on the horizon.

Should the workers continue to languish?

We also wish to inform Lincoln that he was misin-

formed. Our union and the GuySuCo have not reached an agreement regarding pay rises. What has happened is almost on the eve of General and Regional Elections, the corporation has made a proposal regarding pay rise which our union and the workers are examining. We endorse Lincoln sentiments when he says “…persistency and proof that nothing is given to workers, they have to struggle to achieve better conditions of work…”. Indeed this is a case in point as it is the workers’ struggle that have borne fruit.

Regards, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

whole, love to have better coverage of news of not only the major parties, but a wider coverage that will include that of ‘smaller’ parties?

Are we afraid that if these so called ‘smaller’ parties are given coverage this could eventuate in a wider range of representation at the level of Parliament? Guyanese by their ballot, since 2011, have given an ominous sign that the dominance of two political parties is not a recipe for a healthy growth

and prosperity in Guyana.

When there is such a boast of inclusivity, one would hope that for a better future for all of us, there must be room to encourage, accommodate, resonate with, at the parliamentary level, a third choice or a third voice. Sorry, but not a third ‘force’.

Regards, Joseph C. Atkinson

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

All around, I can see progress Dear Editor,

Springer, of Region Nine had this to say after the completion of the $473M Barack Retreat Corridor.

“It is a big relief for the residents of Lethem, especially shop owners that have their businesses alongside the road.

Before, when you visit the shop, everything in the shop was red, and now it is a total difference; the whole atmosphere has changed. You are not seeing the redness, the shops are clean.”

I am quite sure the government would have thanked Mr. Springer for his kind words. As the author of this letter, what Mr. Springer has said brought tears to my eyes and I must say how happy I am to see the massive difference this road made to your community. Utility and Natural Resources also had their slice of the pie. They had at least twelve completed projects for the year of 2019 at a cost of over $5B. Some of these projects were life changing for many. 141 persons received mining blocks and 22,173 received logging concessions for Ituni. One resident, Cornell St. Romain of Port Kaituma, who was one of the recipients of the mining blocks had this to say, “It’s great for the community...A lot of people doing mining and don’t have their own mining lands, so it is good that the government and the Guyana Geology and Mines came up with this idea.”

Well said Mr. Romain. I am glad to hear this government has transformed you and many others’ lives from being employees to being employers.

Another resident, Deonarine Bhukhan, a 79-year-old pensioner of Hubu, a village of East Bank Essequibo, had this to say about the water station completed by this government.

“We nah ah get watta steady, now Abe ah get watta steady.”

Mr. Bhukhan you deserve it. For decades you served your country and now it is only fair that your country now serves you. Projects were

also completed in the legal and communication sectors which covered a total of over 10 completed projects at a cost of over $500M. These include a sexual offence court in Suddie which means that residents no longer need to travel to Georgetown.

A La Parfaite Harmonie Police station to augment security; a magistrate’s court in Bartica for easier access to justice for the residents, and a New Mahdia Magistrate’s Court, –bringing justice and security to the people. From a communication perspective, Orealla is now online for the first time after six Internet hotspots were commissioned across the community. The residents of North Rupununi are also enjoying first-time Internet access for free. These are massive developments where the government is clearly working towards the UN declaration of Internet access for you. For those who may not be aware, the United Nations recently declared that the access to Internet is a human right. In essence this places an obligation on governments to ensure that all its citizens have access to the Internet. I am not aware of a timeline being set for this. I am confident that the UN recognises that this will take time and will not occur overnight. It was only this week that I saw an ill-informed toddler level politician, a candidate of TCI, who clearly wanted to undermine what the government is doing by stating that the UN declaration states everyone should have free Internet. It is shocking that this was an interview she would have prepared for, yet she got this, among other issues, spectacularly wrong. The only conclusion I can arrive at is that apart from the APNU-AFC, the standards are ankle-level low for the other parties.

Now back to completed projects in 2019. Linden, after being fed a bland diet of one PPP channel for 23 years, now have their own Linden Broadcasting Network, and with that

comes the freedom of choice in choosing television channels.

The social sector had in excess of 15 completed projects for the year 2019 at a total cost of $500M. This includes the building of a women’s shelter in Linden and two community centres at Blueberry Hill and Amelia’s ward. This also includes the refurbishing of the Kwakwani Workers Club. In conclusion, it is without doubt that under this government, the citizens as a whole have seen more infrastructure development in less than five years than they have seen under a PPP government for 23 years.

The reason development was limited under PPP was multifactorial with lack of vision and corruption being top of the list. Our President has articulated a vision of “a decade of development” after the elections. This transformation of Guyana can only come to fruition if the APNU+AFC is rightfully elected. The PPP has shown, and painfully I must say, what they are capable of doing during their 23 years of misrule. Unless they acknowledge their mistakes, which are many, and prepare to reform the party starting from the leadership, then they should not be given another chance to destroy our country. Guyana should never become the laughing stock of the world with a President with 19 criminal charges, facing credible allegations of academic fraud and persona non grata in Canada.

We have too many potentially-gifted leaders to be scraping the bottom of the leadership pot for “bun bun.”

Elect a man who stand head and shoulders above all. Who is beyond reproach. Who is relatable to the people. Who has started Guyana on a positive trajectory of growth.

The ‘creme de la crème’. H.E. President Granger.

Scrutinise claims by international “experts”

dentials. Jonathan Gant, the author of the Global Witness report, describes himself only as a “Senior Campaigner” and doesn’t provide any educational background or energy expertise. Johnny West, OpenOil’s founder, is a journalist who worked as a Reuters correspondent in Egypt in the 1990s and for other smaller publications in Central Asia. His background is in Classics and Contemporary Arab Studies, with a limited 13-month stint as a UN adviser.

This may explain why despite having a range of “experts” arrayed before us, Guyana is bombarded with contradictory findings. I fear that this will continue to be the new status quo, as international interest will only increase and Guyana is likely to be viewed as a case study or a pawn

for the ambitions of international organisations. It is on Guyanese to ask whether these “experts” have real experience and knowledge. Even more importantly, it is on us to ask what the purveyors of such reports are hoping to accomplish with their work. Do they truly have the best interests of Guyanese in mind?

I believe it is the civic duty of every Guyanese to ask these critical questions and to seek to educate themselves on the industry that will surely shape our future for generations to come. It is inexcusable to allow ourselves to be led astray – we must be wary of all and be thoughtful and critical when accepting or rejecting the guidance of others.

THE APNU+AFC has a record that they are not only proud of, but they are prepared to stand by, like Valentine’s Day lovers. On the contrary, PPP has a 23year record that they have a mortal fear of, which is evident by it being locked away in quarantine during this election campaign, as if it has a severe case of the Coronavirus infection. The fact is that the developments in Guyana over the past five years are so extensive and numerous, that any attempt to enumerate and briefly describe them would have taken at least six months. As a result when I ventured into sharing with you, the reader, the APNU+AFC record over the past five years, I had to limit myself to projects completed in the year 2019. As I outlined these completed projects, it would have been remiss of me if I hadn’t had one eye on the imminent March elections.

As a result, over the past five weeks, I provided a voluminous crash course, for want of a better description, of these completed projects but today will provide a more digestible summary.

As I placed these projects under the proverbial microscope, the image that stood out under the objective minimally magnifying lenses was the cross sectional distribution, with each of the 10 regions receiving equitable share of the pie.

Quite reassuringly and uncharacteristic of Guyana’s 23-years’ nightmare, regions were not divided by political colours; namely red regions, green region or yellow regions.

All regions were rightfully seen as part of the five-coloured Golden Arrowhead hence, meritorious of government support.

To exemplify this government’s colour blind approach, I will share with you a neoteric experience. A few weeks ago, (precise date evades my waning

Dear Editor, THE recent report released

by Global Witness shows the urgent need for Guyanese to consider claims made by international “experts” with greater scrutiny. The report received great interest across Guyana, and many readers have been willing to take its conclusions as gospel. Yet at the same time, a great many experts and officials have rejected the report.

As widely reported, Global Witness accuses the government of shoddy negotiations in 2016, causing some $55B in lost revenue for the people of Guyana. They also rec-

memory), I saw a video on social media which was centred on a newly-resurfaced road in Uitvlugt. For 23 years the PPP government, busied with infrastructure development in their exclusive Pradoville localities, overlooked this stretch of road and many other roads in Guyana. In 2015, the APNU-AFC government came into power, power being a misnomer since one can’t have power yet serve and immediately went about assiduously repairing the damaged infrastructure left by the PPP. On its completion, an over enthusiastic resident with no affiliation to the government, decided to conduct a smartphone recorded feedback on the newly-resurfaced road. One of the residents, relishing the newly-found freedom of speech which was painfully absent under PPP, said she felt good that this government used ‘Bharrat Jagdeo’s money’ to repair the roads. I clearly do not agree with the resident’s position but she is entitled to her opinion and political affiliation. Many, under the elected dictatorship of PPP government, were denied that basic right and I am pleased to see that this government has restored the confidence in the masses where they feel free to express themselves. If I may, I can say this with much confidence that this resident of Uitvlugt can rest assured that when APNU+AFC wins the upcoming elections, they will continue to develop her community with ‘Bharrat Jagdeo’s money’.

As I epitomise these projects, what was remarkable is the diversity in both sectors and regions. In the areas of education and health there were in excess of 33 projects at a cost of over $2.5B. Projects completed included the purchase of water ambulances for the transfer of medical emergencies and the purchase of boats that can transport Hinterland children to school. These may appear inconsequential but they are invaluable to those commu-

ommended that Guyana stop offshore exploration, cancel already-allocated licences and not award any new ones, limiting our energy production to the few wells in Stabroek that are already being developed.

Global Witness drew the $55B figure from an OpenOil analysis, comparing what Guyana could make with the global average profit without acknowledging the differences between Guyana’s fiscal regime and other more “frontier” oil-producing countries. Yet almost immediately after its publication, a chorus of voices arose against the study. Articles from Forbes, a globally respected business publication, and

nities in many regards, being the difference between life and death or the difference between school dropout and university graduate. Another of the projects completed in the sector of health is the building of a 24/7 laboratory at the Mahaicony Hospital. Again it is easy to dismiss this as trivial but when one considers that before this laboratory was constructed, residents of Region Five had to travel to Georgetown to have these investigatory test done. Think of the money they would have spent on transport, the time away from work and the inconvenience of having to leave their kids with relatives. Spare a thought for Mrs. Persaud, the pensioner who struggles to walk and has poor vision. How would she have gotten to Georgetown? Having the laboratory closer to home is not only humane, but is also does what is best for the patient. This is medicine of the 21st century. This is known as patient-centred care where the patient is rightfully placed at the centre or focal point of the health service.

PPP was more concerned with their oligarchs, rich business associates, friends, families and of course themselves that they neglected both infrastructure and housing hence leaving this government a mammoth task. As a result, over 30 projects were completed in 2019, with much more to do, at a cost of over $3.55B. This covered a distribution of over 10,000 house lots where many applicants waited for years under the PPP administration. The sad reality is that while average Jane and Joe waited all these years, PPP was busy distributing lands to themselves and associates hence, it took a caring government to right this wrong. Infrastructure works were also part of the completed projects. These included the building of bridges, the building of an airstrip in the interior, the building of pumps and sluices.

One of the residents, Junior

Valerie Marcel, former leader of energy research at think tank Chatham House, attacked the findings for being inaccurate and fallacious. OpenOil even had to release a statement to defend their analysis.

Even other analysts have found issues. Rystad Energy, whose raw data OpenOil used in its analysis, announced that it felt that the contract will earn Guyana a 60 per cent take.

Shockingly, Rystad also reported that they believe our contract to be favorable compared to our peer group countries, where they calculate government take to be in the range of 50 to 65 per cent.

The brain behind Rys-

tad’s report is Sonya Boodoo, Vice-President of Upstream Research, who has an extensive background in oil and gas in the Caribbean. According to her LinkedIn profile, she worked as a geologist for the Petroleum Company of Trinidad and Tobago from 2007-2011 and has both a Master of Science in energy studies with a specialisation in oil and gas economics and a Bachelor of Science degree in petroleum geoscience.

Rystad’s staff also includes an impressive number of geologists, petroleum engineers and market research analysts.

On the other hand, Global Witness and OpenOil do not boast many industry cre-

Regards, Dr. Mark Devonish

Regards, Donald Singh

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday February 15, 2020

President, First Lady fete seniors at Republic Jubilee Luncheon

9

PRESIDENT David Granger turous applause when President agreement, lead to the formation important to us as Guyanese. remember that pride and to share on Friday, February 14, pop- Granger disclosed that he and the of the longest-lasting coalition He reiterated that he wanted the that pride with future generaularly celebrated as St Valen- First Lady were married in 1970, in politics in the history of this seniors, those of us who were tions,” President Granger added, tine’s Day, fulfilled a promise and that this year they too are country,” he remarked. adults at that time, on February as he thanked the seniors for he had made to senior citizens celebrating their 50th Wedding He also told the gathering 23, 1970, to remember the magic, being present. at a function hosted by First Anniversary, that yesterday, February 14, the magic of being members of As he concluded, “next year Lady Sandra Granger last DeAlluding to what he likened 2020, the coalition also launched an elite state, being citizens of a February let’s meet again,” the cember 2019, at its manifesto, sovereign state. He reminded that audience rethe Baridi Bensponded with a ab, State House. loud “Yes” and On that occacheers. sion, the President Earlier, the had promised to First Lady was again host the seherself in a witnior citizens at a ty mood when Republic Jubilee she jocularly inLuncheon at the troduced Presisame venue. Guydent Granger to ana’s 50th Golden speak briefly to Jubilee Republic the audience, as Anniversary will “My Valentine.” be celebrated on As a token February 23. of appreciation, With a beau- President David Granger addresses senior citizens at a Republic Jubilee Luncheon hosteach senior was First Lady Sandra Granger welcomes senior citizens and introduces the President ed for them at the Baridi Benab, State House, on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2020 tifully decorated presented with a backdrop of balgift bag containloons representing memorable ing the colours of items. the national flag, A d d i n g `The Golden Armuch fillip to rowhead’, behind the occasion him, the Head of was a beautiful State yesterday reand emotionminded the attendal interpretive ees, all of whom dance to the looked resplendent spiritual song, in their attire, that ‘The Battle is he wanted them not yours, it to reminisce how is the Lord’s,’ they felt 50 years

by Ms BerMs Bernice Brutus of Newtown Assemblies of God Church executes an nice Brutus of ago, and feel a part A section of the gathering at the event emotional, and inspiring dance routine, dedicated to the Head of State t h e N e w t o w n of the national celebration which is of Assemblies of great political significance. as another celebration, President which will relate to elections to [members] of the army no longer God Church. As she danced On that occasion, February Granger recalled that on February be held on March 2, 2020. “So wore crowns, we [ the people] got gracefully, it was obvious that 23, 1970, he recalled that Guyana 14, 2015, five years ago, the party today, February 14, lots of things permission for the first time, we the piece was particularly for severed the final ties with the which he leads and the partner- happened apart from falling in no longer regarded ourselves as President Granger. Ras Camo United Kingdom and therefore ship of which he is the chairman, love,” the Head of State quipped, British citizens. also entertained with recorded no longer had any allegiance to the A Partnership of National again to loud applause.

“So for us who were young national and spiritual songs the British country, unlike some Unity (APNU) signed an accord According to him, coming at that time, it was a moment of other countries. with the Alliance For Change together at a time of this im- tremendous pride and today we The audience broke into rap- (AFC). “That signature, that portant republic anniversary is have asked you to come here to

Former Jamaican PM to head OAS mission here OAS Secretary-General, Luis Almagro, has pledged full support of the OAS General Secretariat for the electoral process in Guyana and announced that former Jamaican Prime Minister, Bruce Golding, would head an OAS mission here.

Guyana Ambassador to the US, Riyad Insanally has signed an agreement between the Government of Guyana and the General Secretariat of the Organisation of American States (OAS), regarding the privileges and immunities that will be enjoyed

by members of the OAS Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) for the General and Regional Elections on March 2, 2020.

In expressing the Government’s appreciation to the OAS for accepting the invitation to observe the

elections, Ambassador Insanally, on Thursday, gave the assurance that the government and the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) are committed to ensuring that the elections are free, fair, transparent and credible.

Ambassador Insanally signs an agreement between the Government of Guyana and the General Secretariat of the OAS, regarding privileges and immunities that will be enjoyed by members of the OAS Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) for upcoming elections

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

‘Time for a third force’

By Svetlana Marshall FIVE of the new political parties that sprung up after the December 2018 No-Confidence Motion, on Thursday, made a passionate call for the electorate to throw their support behind a third force in the March 2 General and Regional Elections – arguing that it was time to bring an end to “54-years of old politics.”

The parties – A New and United Guyana (ANUG), Change Guyana, The Citizenship Initiative (TCI), The New Movement (TNM) and Liberty and Justice Party (LJP) – championed the cause during a political debate organised by the University of Guyana Unions, and Move on Guyana Inc. In addressing a small group of persons seated in the University of Guyana Education Lecture Theatre, ANUG Presidential Candidate Ralph Ramkarran said the time is ripe for the insertion of third parties in Guyana’s political realm. He said already, there is a growing interest in the small parties that have emerged in recent months. “That is so because people are tired of a situation of political stalemate where it has been known for a very long time to the Guyanese people that a political solution is necessary; and we in A New and United Guyana are offering Guyanese a political solution to the problems of Guyana,” Ramkarran said.

He said should ANUG be elected to the National Assembly, it would push for Constitutional Reform to, among other things, pave way for shared governance –a system through which the main political parties share power equally. “To achieve that, we are campaigning for the people of Guyana to return the two major political parties without either one having an absolute majority,” the ANUG Presidential

…political newbies advocated at UG elections debate

ANUG Presidential Candidate Ralph Ramkarran

LJP Presidential Candidate Lenox Shuman

Candidate said. As such, he said it is important for new parties like ANUG to receive sufficient votes to secure seats in the 65-Member National Assembly. With a third party in the House, the two major parties will be forced to accede to the will of the people of Guyana to change and transform the political system in the country. Ramkarran, a former Speaker of the National Assembly, had been a member of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) for decades.

TNM Presidential Candidate, Dr. Asha Kissoon, in echoing similar sentiments as that of Ramkarran, said Guyanese are simply fed-up.

“Everyone here has a common goal, and that common goal is that we need to get rid of 54 years of old politics.

We tired of it and we sit here together, saying that we had enough,” Dr. Kissoon told

TNM Presidential Candidate, Dr. Asha Kissoon

Change Guyana Presidential Candidate, Robert Badal

TCI Presidential Candidate Rondha-Ann Lam Photos by Delano Williams

the small gathering. For her, it is important to break down the political barriers and “old ways of thinking” that continue to stymie the country’s development, and divide its people. Guyanese, she posited, must be the change they want to see.

TNM, Dr, Kissoon, said

was birthed out of a need for greater youth involvement at the decision-making table and in national development, and if elected, it would be a breath of fresh air in the country’s political arena.

Lenox Shuman, LJP Presidential Candidate, in agreeing with Ramkarran and

Dr. Asha, said the management of the country by the PPP/C, the People’s National Congress/Reform (PNC/R), and the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) leaves much to be desired as he referenced to the ailing Sugar Industry among other critical areas. “If you look at what happened to the Sugar Industry, it is both the PPP and the PNC that have to be blamed. If you look at the continuous existence of poverty in Guyana, it is both of these political parties that have to be blamed, because both of them covered Guyana for 54 years,” the LJP Presidential Candidate said. He said at this stage, Guyana is desperately in need of a new paradigm shift in the political arena. Shuman submitted that the five new political parties differ from the old ideologies of the PPP/C and the PNC,

which now forms part of the APNU. Change Guyana Presidential Candidate, Robert Badal, in his remarks, contended that the two major political parties have not done enough to address poverty, joblessness, and the poor supply of electricity that have plagued Guyana for far too long, among other burning issues.

According to him, there is a “tale of broken promises and mismanagement throughout post Independent Guyana,” because the system has failed the people. He said it is time Guyanese take a stand to arrest the situation by bringing about new leadership. “The leaderships of PPP and PNC have failed us significantly, in the management of our resources, [and] in the management of state corporations…,” Badal contended.

Meanwhile, TCI Presidential Candidate Rondha-Ann Lam said it was important to hold the Government’s feet to the fire, and TCI as a third force, will do just that if it makes its way to the National Assembly. Lam said it was important for Guyanese to benefit from the resources and services of the country, and TCI will ensure that the major political parties are held accountable. The debate was moderated by Director of the Centre for Communication Studies (CCS) at the University of Guyana, Nelsonia Persaud-Budhram, and Veterinarian and UG Lecturer, Dr. Randy Domer. It was noted that all political parties contesting the General and Regional Elections were approached to participate in the debate, but a response from the PPP/C and the APNU+AFC have not been forthcoming.

Headteacher robbed over $2M in valuables A HEADTEACHER attached to the Kildonan Primary School, East Berbice Corentyne, was relieved of over $2M in valuables and cash after two men armed with a gun and cutlass, confronted her while she was about to get up after

hearing a strange noise.

The men then proceeded to demand from her, cash and jewellery. She complied and handed over a bag containing a quantity of jewellery that belonged to her family, as well as her late husband.

Her entire house was

also ransacked as the men searched for more valuables.

According to information, the jewellery amounted to $2.3M. In addition, the bandits carted off some $100,000 in cash, one tablet device and one cell phone valued at $100,000.

The incident occurred at around 04:45hrs, on Thursday, at the home of Shereen Ali, 48, of Lot 764 Lancaster Village.

The woman recalled that she was awoken by a loud noise coming from the lower flat of her house and mo-

ments after she got up to check, she was confronted by the masked men, one of whom placed the gun to her neck and threatened to shoot her if she attempted to scream.

During the ordeal, her children, ages 21 and 16,

were asleep in their bedrooms. The men gained entry to the house by removing several louvers from a window in the lower flat.

Police are investigating the incident.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday February 15, 2020

Coalition commits to preserving jobs of 10,000 sugar workers -President says coalition inherited a moribund industry, working to restructure it

By Navendra Seoraj THE A Partnership for National Unity and Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) on Friday has committed to securing the livelihood of the 10,000 sugar workers still employed by GuySuCo as it continues its programme of restructuring the industry.

The local sugar industry has been in turmoil for years, failing to recover its cost of production and even failing to make a profit, but President of Guyana and Presidential Candidate of APNU+AFC, David Granger, has said that his government is restructuring the industry to save the jobs of 10,000 persons. “We inherited a moribund industry and we are restructuring it to ensure that the jobs of those 10,000 people will be preserved…we will produce or create an industry based on 147,000 tonnes of sugar and save the jobs of the majority of the sugar workers,” said President Granger during the launch of the coalition’s manifesto, on Friday.

The APNU+AFC coalition, after being elected to office in 2015, had conducted a Commission of Inquiry (COI) into the sugar industry and had published a “white paper” based on the recom-

mendations. Subsequent to the COI, the government had sat down, “face-to-face,” with the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) and made a “serious” decision, and according to President Granger, through that decision, the government was able to save the jobs of 10,000 persons.

In 2017, the APNU+AFC Administration took a decision to consolidate cultivation at the Albion, Blairmont and Uitvlugt Estates, all in an attempt to reduce losses and increase profitability within sugar industry. The government had announced the closure of several sugar estates; initially the Wales sugar estate was named as the first to be closed one year after it was announced for closure.

The move by the government triggered protests led by pro-People’s Progressive Party (PPP) leaders who joined ranks with GAWU leaders on the West Demerara and later in the city. Later several other estates in the Berbice belt were closed and these were also cited as being too costly to run. The opposition protested the move once more although the government made it clear that annual multi-billion dollar bailouts to the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) were hurting

Linden man dies in tractor accident

A 43-year-old man of Coomacka Mines, Linden, died on Thursday, after he fell off of a tractor at Malali backdam, Demerara River.

Dead is Keith Simmons Giles, a chainsaw operator of Coomacka Mines.

Reports are that, around 13:00hrs, on Thursday, the man was standing on the front bar of a moving tractor at the Malali backdam, when he fell off of the vehicle. One of the wheels ran over him and he was picked-up in an unconscious state and taken to the Linden Hospital Complex with severe chest injuries.

The man died while receiving medical attention.

The body is presently lying at the hospital mortu-

Keith Simmons Giles

ary awaiting a post-mortem examination.

The driver of the tractor was taken into custody, as police investigate the accident.

President David Granger

the economy.

But the move by the coalition government was an undertaking which was forecast and made known to the PPP-government way back in 1996 when the “gloomy future” of the sugar industry was written in black and white. According to the draft National Development Strategy (NDS) of 1996, steps were urgently needed to be put into action and downsizing of the industry was suggested so that its sales could have been made profitable.

“Driving past the East Bank you will see, what used to be cane is now housing and it was the PPP who shut down production in much of East Demerara…GAWU even had to take the corporation to court to get severance pay from Diamond,” said President Granger, noting that the shutting down of the sugar industry started comprehen-

sively under the PPP, but certain parts of the industry can be saved. And, the coalition government, over the past four and a half years, has taken certain measures to ensure that the sugar industry does not sink.

“If anyone went into the Albion sugar factory, you would understand what we took over; it is not easy, and I admire the staff and workers and cane harvesters who had to work under those conditions…we are the ones who started the restructuring,” said President Granger.

The president believes that the APNU+AFC government has done ‘far more’ in terms of the “rational restructuring” of the industry than the previous administration and has not been taken to court by GAWU. Speaking about the government’s work in the industry, the president said:

“We established a strong East Berbice, West Demerara and West Berbice sugar industry…three mega estates are working and the jobs of about 10,000 harvesters have been preserved.”

Additionally, many persons, whose jobs were terminated when the estates were closed, were re-employed at other estates. “Many people in Wales have found jobs at Uitvlugt and many of them from East Canjie are working at Albion…there are jobs but the turnout is about 56 per cent,” said President Granger, adding that government will continue to ensure that sugar workers are gainfully employed or have the means to sustain their own livelihood.

One such measure is the potential establishment of a State Land Resettlement Commission which will enable former sugar workers to access land for agriculture and housing. Former sugar workers from Wales have already started to access land at the former Wales Sugar Estate.

Guyana Chronicle had reported that President Granger assured thousands of Berbicians that the coalition government will return the once ailing sugar industry to profitability, if re-elected for a second term in office. “I know the pain the sugar workers feel, but the sugar industry the PPP gave us could not be sustained,” he said.

His Administration, he assured the residents, will do everything in its power to protect and preserve the industry

by keeping estates such as Albion fully functional. President Granger had said, while his Administration is investing in the three remaining estates, the Skeldon Factory – one of the largest projects to have been executed by the previous administration – cannot be salvaged. He said to invest in that factory would be to “waste” taxpayers’ money.

“The sugar industry was in difficulties, even when we were in opposition, the APNU+AFC were helping to bail out the sugar industry but unfortunately that blue monument at Skeldon cannot be bailed out, it scrapped,” President Granger said.

To cushion the impact, he said his Administration has been and will continue to work with sugar workers and those who would have been displaced. “The East-Berbice Corentyne sugar estate based at Albion will be preserved and protected by the APNU+AFC Administration,” he iterated.

“The APNU+AFC coalition is going to protect the livelihoods of the people now living in the squatter settlements and it will protect the livelihoods of the workers who are no longer working in the sugar industry to make sure they can get gainful employment by working for themselves or working for other people on those abandoned sugar cane lands, this is what we are doing for the people to help workers and households in the East Berbice-Corentyne,” he said to loud rounds of applause.

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Coalition invested heavily in Hinterland Development -Minister Bulkan tells residents of Mahdia THE coalition APNU+AFC has invested billions of dollars post-2015 in Hinterland development and the government will continue to expend monies on bridging the Hinterland with the coastland.

This is according to Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan who also told residents of the Potaro-Siparuni region on Wednesday night, at Mahdia, that the coalition has restored local governance all across the country.

Bulkan was addressing hundreds of residents who gathered at the Mahdia Oval for Wednesday’s rally where President David Granger gave the feature address to a mammoth crowd of supporters.

The Minister of Communities told the gathering that the March 2, 2020 elections will be about the populace and its future. ”It is about whether we wish to return to pre-2015 when Mahdia and this region was on a fast track to nowhere,” he said.

He said no one will forget what the roads looked like at Mahdia pre-2015, noting that persons had to navigate between the craters in the roads there. He said the transformation of the town under the APNU+AFC started with the completion of a $1B road network at the mining town.

Bulkan said many would recall Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo’s visit to Mahdia in November 2018 where he said instead of building roads, government should

have built houses. Bulkan asked whether this made sense since the network was needed to cater for development of the town.

He said other opposition members have noted that the APNU+AFC government built the concrete roads with money that the People Progressive Party (PPP) left in the coffers, a notion he said was disrespectful to the region, noting that the PPP never had a plan for the region. ”But David Granger has a plan for our regions and it is that none must be left behind,”Bulkan said, adding that the President has said in the past that investment must be made to bridge the Hinterland with the Coastland.

As he elaborated on investments made by the government In the Hinter-

Minister of Communities, Ronald Bulkan as he addressed the gathering on Wednesday night.(DPI photo)

A section of the gathering at the rally.

land, Bulkan mentioned the $114M Kumaka-San Jose bridge at Moruca, the $100M investment on the new technical institute at Bina Hill in the North Rupununi which provides skills training for hinterland youths.

He said upgrade of the water system at the Salbora Falls at Mahdia and the drilling of new wells in the area as well as installation of Information Communication Technology (ICT) hubs with free Wifi at hinterland areas are testimony of government’s commitment to developing the regions.

He also noted that the upgrades to many airstrips are among the long list of ‘transformative investments’ made In hinterland development by the APNU+AFC. Bulkan said not only the roads at Mahdia have been upgraded but he noted that one can join a car and travel to Pamela Landing in 15 to 20 minutes instead of an hour long drive. ”And to Moruwa you can now get there in two to two and a half hours,” he said as he noted that the road and bridges have been upgraded along the route.

Bulkan also listed the Bartica-Potaro Road which connects the two towns.

”My friends none of this is any ‘gyaff’; we have the evidence,” he said, noting it was not an empty promise to create 50,000 jobs.

Bulkan informed the crowd that budgetary allocations under the APNU+AFC to the hinterland regions have been high, adding that $40.8B was expended in this regard in 2019, an increase by over 70% since the government assumed office in 2015. He said the increased budgets have allowed for investments in education, as he noted that the improvements have seen better pass rates at various national and regional examinations.

The minister said that he visited the North Pakaraimas recently and persons there mentioned that the PPP has accused the government of not focusing on villages which did not support the APNU+AFC in 2015. He said that this was far from the truth, noting that the coalition does not practise discrimination.

Bulkan told the crowd that Mahdia has joined Guyanese across the country who have joined “the winning team” and according to him, the PPP was in Mahdia two weeks ago, searching for a crowd.

He said that the opposition will know its place in

two weeks. ”They had their time and they have outlived their usefulness,” he said of the PPP. Bulkan said that the choice for Guyanese is simple and straightforward, noting that it is an unequal contest which cannot be underestimated, given the nature of the PPP. The region is on the move, Bulkan added, noting that this was the reason why Regional Chairman, Bonaventure Fredericks crossed the floor from the PPP and joined the coalition.

He said all the regions are moving forward, adding that other PPP officials are abandoning that party and have joined the coalition. “We have restored governance all across Guyana,” he noted, as he told the gathering that the coalition has allowed communities to elect their own leaders.

Bulkan said President Granger’s plans for Guyana are based on strong regions and he noted that the President has said that each citizen must have access to quality public services. He told the gathering that President Granger is the leader who will see oil and gas revenues benefit everyone, adding that after this year’s elections, the Head of State will continue to develop the Potaro-Siparuni region.

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Local Content Policy stresses priority for Guyanese …demands fair, adequate access to employment opportunities

GUYANA’S recently released Local Content Policy demands that Guyanese citizens and suppliers be given first preference and “fair and adequate access to employment and supplier opportunities” coming from the petroleum sector.

The document, marked as completed on Monday, has now been made available to the public and to operators and contractors for their knowledge.

It defines Local Content as “the active participation and development of Guyanese labour and suppliers in the petroleum sector and the benefits that arise from expenditure in the sector on labour, goods and services for Guyanese industry, the economy and wider society”.

As a part of a Local Content Report, it states that a Local Content Plan must be submitted yearly by an Operator to the Minister Responsible for Petroleum within 60 days prior to the beginning of each year and updated annually.

It should describe forward-looking local content objectives, related activities and programmes covering the Operator’s petroleum-related work and activities in the block.

The plan will include details on the estimated utilisation of Guyanese persons, suppliers and sub-contractors for a specific project as well as the training of Guyanese persons, the capacity building of Guyanese suppliers and other capacity building initiatives to support the sector.

The policy’s scope details matters on the promotion of education, inclusion and advancement of Guyanese persons with the expertise and experience required to participate in the petroleum industry; localised supply chains in procuring goods and services that support the petroleum industry; growing the competencies of Guyanese oil and gas professionals and goods and services companies; expenditures on local labour, goods and services; investment in physical utilities, infrastructure and facilities that develop the petroleum sector; the partnership of firms for effective capacity building, transfer of knowledge and technology and more.

Recognising that whilst

access to employment and supplier opportunities” for Guyanese persons and suppliers.

Overall, the policy takes note that Guyana’s history has made its people cautious of the opportunities which can be lost through the export of raw, unprocessed commodities due to the capacity

Guyana’s completed Local Content Policy

many provisions can be delivered immediately, others may need prior capacity building, study or more detailed policy guidance, the Minister may elect to phase implementation of parts of this policy over time.

FIT FOR PURPOSE At the moment, the policy is limited to the upstream petroleum sector and does not as yet directly address mid and down-stream petroleum sector opportunities, the upstream petroleum sector and other petroleum-related national issues.

“This policy framework therefore precedes an overall petroleum sector policy for Local Content, and shall be updated from time to time to be aligned with a maturing petroleum sector and with evolving national development strategies and goals,” the document states.

To ensure that the policy is implemented in full, the government is considering codification of the policy through regulation, underpinned by the necessary legal framework, consistent with international trade obligations, including those under CARICOM. CONSIDERATION FOR STANDARDS

Understanding that the sector requires a significant input of highly-specialised skills and services, materials, products and equipment ---- many of which are unlikely to be competitively sourced or manufactured in Guyana --- the policy takes this into consideration until these capabilities have been developed.

It points out: “The presence of international petroleum sector service providers and manufacturers in Guyana provides a unique opportunity for Guyanese suppliers and government to learn from these foreign contractors, with local businesses working alongside and for them, and the authorities developing capabilities in governance to international standards to ensure Guyanese persons and suppliers adhere to good industry practice.”

Even so, the Government insists that operators, primary contractors and sub-contractors cooperate to deliver the policy in both “letter and spirit” as the document urges that operators “find ways to give first consideration to capable and competitive Guyanese persons and suppliers”.

The document also demands “fair and adequate

limitations of its institutions, businesses, capital markets and more.

Therefore, the document gives attention to both opportunities and the risks such as the resource curse, thereby insisting: “Implementation of this policy cannot be left to chance and shall therefore

take the steady and deliberate efforts of the Government, the Operators in the industry, the private sector and civil society - all working together, and with unity of purpose, to ensure the attainment of the Local Content objectives of this policy.”

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LMTC prepares to launch operation ‘Linden Pride’ -as township Linden moves to upgrade to city status

IN a few days, the Linden Mayor and Town Council (LMTC), will launch operation “Linden Pride”, which is a campaign that will kick start transformative mechanisms seeking to upgrade Linden’s status from town to city. This year, Linden will be celebrating 50 years as a township and the vision of the LMTC is to drive development even further, in recognition of this jubilee status.

In a state-of-the-town address, Linden’s Mayor, Waneka Arrindell, encapsulated what this means for the township and its transformative future. The Council she said, has been fully tuned to the transformative and visionary Green State Development Strategy of the Government of Guyana and is more enthused by President David Granger’s Decade of Development and his vision for the evolution of strong and sustainable municipalities.

The campaign seeks to collaborate with civil society, network with stake holders and consolidate with the constituencies, to implement mechanisms and enforce stronger policies to ensure the town becomes an economic zone and the municipality gains economic stability.

“These measures, I assure you are there to protect you and to improve the services offered to you fellow Lindeners. Therefore, all hands will

be called to deck, as we seek to re-imagine, restructure and reposition our township to take its rightful place in our new and emerging oil economy,” Arrindell said in her address.

First on the agenda is to formalize a request to Central Government for the declaration of Linden as Guyana’s second city, as part of the Republican Jubilee activities. “To ensure quick and dynamic movement in the status quo, we will commission the drawing up of a

Linden Mayor Waneka Arrindell

modern Urban Development Plan, befitting a new city, in full consultation with you the residents. The plan will of necessity, be synchronized as a companion to the already formulated RDC Plan of Action for Regional Development.”

The LMTC will spearhead a drive to sustainably transform the township into a clean, litter free and aesthetically-pleasing space. This will be followed by a rebranding of the town with its own signature Tag Line and patriotic song; a proliferation of community welcome signs; the revitalization of the Band Stand Park, the expansion of the municipal boundaries, upgrading of infrastructure, capacity enhancement and expansion of the Municipality, amongst other projects.

For these projects to materialize, it is necessary that the council becomes financially viable since it is presently cash-strapped. Arrindell is therefore calling for all hands to come on deck to ensure this status is realized. Efforts are being made to update rates and taxes since they are currently being paid under an outdated law, with payments at just around $2,000 per year per household. Approximately 60% of residents do not fulfill this obligation and millions of dollars are owed to the Council. In addition 60 per cent of Linden’s residential space is not under the Council’s remit and residents are not paying rates and taxes. LMTC is currently working along with the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CHPA), to have these areas regularized, so that more monies will be raked in.

The target will not only be on the residents but the economic zones as well. Hotels and restaurants will soon be graded to reflect their levels of services, and a stringent campaign on health code violations will be introduced to protect citizens; business in Linden will now be mandated to become regularized and must have their compliances if they

are to function in the township; unauthorized extensions will be re-evaluated, to reflect the true tax; a feasibility study for the toll booth relocation to Bamia will be done and its findings addressed accordingly and toll booth and building by-laws will be revised.

The LMTC will go further to establish a municipal court to support the constabulary, with enforcement and penalties for violation of the municipal by-laws. “We are calling out to each of you, to your inner core, to embrace the vision with us, partner with us, and work with us to change Linden together, forever,” Arrindell said.

When more monies are raked it, the municipality will kick start projects to ensure Linden becomes an economic zone. In the pipeline, is the development of a municipal airport; establishing an industrial zone on the Linden to Lethem corridor; opening up of new frontier lands for investment; the decentralization of services such as a gold board and the re-routing of the Lethem and Mahdia busses; construction of a state-of-the-art Mckenzie Market and transforming the Wismar Market into a wholesale depot.

“Fellow Lindeners, in this audacious and transformative raising envisioned for our town, we have placed our pride, revolutionary and innovative nature as a bauxite people, front and center,” Arrindell said.

In a few days, LMTC will be inviting all of Civil Society including the religious, sporting and corporate community, non-governmental organizations and regional stake holders, to consult on the plans for the town’s status upgrade, which will be followed by a written contractual partnership with the council.

Linden will officially be celebrating its jubilee year in April under the theme, ‘Fifty for Fifty.’

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Coalition to set up natural gas terminal … sees range of employment opportunities, reduction of energy costs

By Lisa Hamilton THE coalition government has plans for the establishment of a Natural Gas Terminal which it envisions will create opportunities for employment for many Guyanese, while significantly reducing energy costs.

This plan is embedded in the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change’s (APNU+AFC) manifesto launched on Friday. The manifesto, along with its track record, are the positives being put forward by the administration in a bid for re-election.

A natural gas terminal is a structure for the storage of liquefied natural gas which can comprise of special tanks, ships, building

reserves needed in the system.

While the international convention demands 10-15 per cent of reserves that function in cases of emergencies, GPL stands at 8 per cent. With a new power plant in operation, it is expected to produce a surmountable amount of energy unlike any existing power plant in Guyana. It will also result in astronomical savings for the country since power generation costs will decrease.

Currently, approximately 18 per cent of the country’s primary energy supply is derived from renewable energy – predominantly in the form of bagasse, firewood and solar PV --- while the remaining 82 per cent of primary energy supply is sourced from imported fossil

An artist’s impression of a Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) terminal in Singapore, a country for which 95 per cent of its electricity is currently generated using natural gas structures, port infrastructures and pipelines.

In its most recent find, ExxonMobil increased its estimated recoverable resource base for oil and gas in Guyana to more than 8 billion barrels. Director of the Department of Energy, Dr. Mark Bynoe, has stated that of this 8 billion, some 2 billion is estimated to be gas.

Natural gas is well recognized as one of the cleanest energy alternative and the Department of Energy has been making preparations to get natural gas on shore by 2023.

With the possibilities already laid out, the department has started to examine potential sites where a “gas pipeline” can land, hoping to land the same by 2023 and 2024.

Meanwhile, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, has also put forward the plan in 2019 for the establishment of a power plant through which the country can see its energy needs being met. “What we are doing is building out the architecture. It comes in by pipeline and we will have a 188 megawatt power plant,” Patterson said in August 2019.

“The money that you save that would have previously used to buy diesel and fossil fuel to run GPL, you can put that back into the economy.” On another occasion he told Kaieteur News that ExxonMobil is capable of providing 30 to 50 million cubic feet of natural gas from the Liza Phase One Project alone for electricity generation.

He said that this is enough to power the entire country for over 15 years and is enough to provide Guyana with four times the quantity of cooking gas that is used per day.

MEETING ENERGY NEEDS At present, the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL) falls short of the total

fuel – primarily diesel, heavy fuel oil and gasoline. On average, approximately 1,836,300 barrels of fossil fuel are used to generate electricity annually, according to the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA)’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Mahender Sharma.

This translates to an estimated US$139.30 million on a yearly basis, based on the average consumption from 2015 to 2018. “With the emergent oil and gas sector, there is also an opportunity to utiltise the associated gas from the oil production for electricity generation. As such, a combination of renewable energy and natural gas can be the primary energy sources to accommodate Guyana’s energy needs,” Dr. Sharma said in 2019.

He posited that future studies will provide more details on specific quantities to be used; however, the majority of needs would be met via natural gas and hydropower with smaller installation of solar PV farms, wind farms, cogeneration plants and gasifiers. The initiative would also comply with the Government’s Green State Development Strategy (GSDS) Vision 2040, which seeks to ensure oil extraction in association with natural gas production is done most beneficially.

Natural gas is said to be a mixture of gases which are rich in hydrocarbons. All these gases (methane, nitrogen, carbon dioxide) are naturally found in the atmosphere. Natural gas reserves are deep inside the earth near other solid and liquid hydrocarbon beds like coal and crude oil. Natural gas is not used in its pure form; it is processed and converted into cleaner fuel for consumption.

Many by-products are extracted while processing natural gas like propane, ethane, butane, carbon dioxide, nitrogen and so forth, which can be further used.

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A&E Unit at Bartica Regional Hospital operating 24 hrs

THE Accident and Emergency (A&E) Unit at the Bartica Regional Hospital is now expanded and fully equipped to deliver 24-hour service to the township.

Previously, the unit functioned only eight hours per day.

The unit has been expanded from a previous one-bed unit to a four-bed unit with a separate area for quarantine and monitoring of special patients who might have ingested poison.

The expansion cost $5.6M including equipment to support the functions of the A&E Unit. Also, included in the cost was the refurbishment of the outpatient, pharmacy and paediatric spaces Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, was accompanied by Permanent Secretary, Colette Adams; Deputy Permanent Secretary, Shellon Bess; Director of Regional and Clinical Health Services, Dr. Kay Shako and others at the commissioning.

Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence, assists a student of the St. John the Baptist Primary School and Senior Nurse, Carrol Samuels, to cut the ribbon to officially reopen the expanded A&E Unit at the Bartica Hospital (DPI photo)

The CT Scan machine installed to support the A&E Unit (DPI photo)

Minister Lawrence noted that the expansion was a small but significant development.

“Now that you have an Accident and Emergency Unit functioning on a 24-hr basis, irrespective of where you come from in Bartica, our staff here will be able to take care of you,” the minister said.

The minister made special mention of the CT Scan Unit which was recently operationalized, allowing doctors to better diagnose internal injuries and prescribe or recommend the best treatment for recovery.

Regional Health Officer, Dr. Edward Sagala, said the implementation of the 24-hr service was crucial. “An emergency doesn’t

choose what time it will happen; an accident just happens so the expansion and reopening of the A&E Unit means a lot for Bartica.”

Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall, noted that the most recent development was another major step towards narrowing gaps and ensuring Barticians have access to adequate healthcare, through the provision of facilities.

“We are expected to provide essential services to the people of this region… The developments at the Bartica Regional Hospital are testimony of government’s continued support to municipalities and the vision of the establishment of capital towns,” Mayor Marshall said. (DPI)

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UNEP accepting application for Young Champions of the Earth prize

THE United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has officially started accepting applications for the 2020 Young Champions of the Earth prize.

The global competition is one of the UN’s most prestigious prizes for young environmental entrepreneurs who have big ideas to solve the planet’s most pressing environmental challenges.

Winners selected from seven regions spanning the globe will receive seed money to invest in their projects, as well as mentorship and the opportunity to attend high-level UN meetings to share their innovations with the world. UNEP will follow them on their journeys and provide updates on their progress as they implement their big ideas.

“This programme can really open doors for you,” said Arpit Dhupar, 2018 winner for the Asia and the Pacific region, for his novel technique to control emissions from diesel generators. “If you’re young and you’re passionate about the project you’re working on, the Young Champions of the Earth programme can help you get there and spread

your message to as many people as possible.”

With climate change threatening the existence of our natural ecosystems and societies, UNEP seeks to support young visionaries who recognize the scale of the global environmental crisis and have the courage to find innovative solutions – many of which use nature itself – to build a healthier

planet.

“Young people are at the forefront of climate advocacy, challenging their governments, businesses and decision-makers to step up action to ensure they can have a healthy future in a sustainable world,” said Inger Andersen, Executive Director of UNEP. “It is deeply inspiring to see young people also innovating and finding solutions to the environmental challenges around them; I have great respect for the winners, and all the competitors, of the Young Champions of the Earth prize for their work towards a greener, cleaner planet.”

Previous Young Champions of the Earth winners have spearheaded bold, brave ideas to address critical environmental issues and the Sustainable Development Goals through highand low-tech innovations.

Last year’s winners included an Angolan ethno-conservatist working with communities to conserve the Okavango, one of the world’s last remaining wild spaces, a Nepalese software engineer who aims to make electric public transportation a quality alternative to private vehicles, and a Lebanese industrial engineer who works

with students and refugees to reuse and recycle unwanted clothes.

Applications for the Young Champions of the Earth will be subjected to a global jury tasked to select seven winners from Africa, Asia-Pacific, Europe, Latin America and the Caribbean, North America and West Asia.

Young Champions of the Earth is a forward-looking prize designed to breathe life into the ambitions of brilliant young environmentalists. It celebrates young people who have a big idea to protect or restore the environment, a vision for a more sustainable future and a strong track record of instigating change.

UNEP is the leading global voice on the environment. It provides leadership and encourages partnership in caring for the environment by inspiring, informing and enabling nations and people to improve their quality of life without compromising that of future generations.

UNEP works with governments, the private sector, the civil society and with other UN entities and international organizations across the world.

Mason sentenced to two years in prison for illegal gun and ammunition A 20-year-old mason of Perry Street, Tucville, was, on Friday, February 14, 2020, sentenced to four years in prison on a gun and ammunition charge.

Darrell Kennedy who was on trial before Magistrate Annette Singh was found him guilty at the end of the trial. The court heard that sufficient evidence was found against him.

Hence, he was sentenced to two years on each charge, however, the sentences will run concurrently, Kennedy will only be spending two years in prison.

Kennedy, on his first appearance at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court, pleaded not guilty to the Darrell Kennedy charge.

Particulars of the first charge were that, on November 21, 2019, at Aubrey Barker Road, he had in his possession one .32 pistol without being the holder of a firearm licence.

The second charge stated that, on the same day and at the same place he had two live rounds of .32 ammunition, without being the holder of a firearm licence.

According to information, on the day in question, Kennedy was in a yard when police ranks, who were on patrol, approached him and conducted a search on his person and the gun and ammunition were found in his crotch.

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Woman who doused man with hot oil surrenders to police –– another in a separate incident remanded to prison

THE wife of Devon Thomas has surrendered to police in the company of attorney, Mursaline Bacchus, after being on the run for dousing her husband with hot oil.

The woman who committed the act on the New Amsterdam Technical Institute Lecturer visited the Central Police Station, in New Amsterdam, Berbice and was placed on $50,000 bail, pending advice from the Director of Public Prosecutions.

Thomas has been discharged from the New Amsterdam Hospital where he was treated for burns to his upper torso and face. Although the physical wounds are healing, Thomas said the psychological and emotional wounds which cannot be seen, are yet to heal.

Three days before the incident, Thomas had divorce papers served on his wife due to irreconcilable differences.

put the pan on the stove but thought she was preparing to cook a meal.

Thomas explained that he married the divorcee four years ago but, last month, he discovered that his wife was having an intimate relationship with a friend.

Initially, he refused to believe the rumours but things

Burnt: Devon Thomas During their four-year marriage, she travelled overseas on three occasions, spending over four months on each occasion.

On the fateful day, Thomas, 38, had just exited the bathroom with his bath towel wrapped around his lower body when his wife approached him with the pan of hot oil and threw it on him.

Earlier, he had seen her

Mason charged for murder of ‘Overdose’ ONE year after a lifeless body, with suspected stab wounds, was found on Hadfield Street, a 47-year-old mason was, on Friday, charged for the offence.

Gary Blackmon called “Nick-Knock” of Stevedore Housing Scheme appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and was not required to plead to the indictable charge.

It is alleged that, on December 21, 2018, at Hadfield and Breda Streets, Georgetown, he murdered Darren Edwards called “Overdose”.

The court heard that the men were known to each other.

Police prosecutor told the court that, on the day in question, around 23:30 hours, Edwards was at a female’s home when Blackmon arrived at the said home to visit the female.

He added that Blackmon Gary Blackmon found Edwards and the female in a compromising position, and an argument arose, leading to a fight.

Blackmon then pulled out an icepick from his waist and dealt Edwards several stabs about his body. Edwards attempted to escape but Blackmon gave chase behind him and dealt him more stabs about his body, before making good his escape.

Edwards was then picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

An investigation was launched and Blackmon, after months of hiding, was arrested on February 11, 2020, and taken to the Ruimveldt Police Station.

The matter was adjourned until February 20, 2020.

changed when he saw text messages from her phone confirming the acts of infidelity.

As a result, he informed her that the relationship cannot continue and proceeded to legally terminate the marriage. He also asked her to leave the home.

But the woman did not

move. Instead, she begged for forgiveness. Just after 07:00 hours on Thursday morning, she burnt him before going into hiding.

The injured man was taken to the nearby New Amsterdam Regional Hospital where he was admitted.

Meanwhile, on January 9 last, Danny Vannooten, 50,

called “Danavan”, of Leopold Street, Georgetown, had to be rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital after hot oil was thrown on him, allegedly by his partner, Latoya Angel.

Angel has been since remanded to prison and is facing an indictable charge of attempted murder.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday February 15, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday February 15, 2020

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GUYANA CHRONICLE saturDay, februaRY 15, 2020

AMERICAN RACING TIPS AQUEDUCT Race 1 Twelth Man Race 2 Inclunation Race 3 Freddymo Factor Race 4 Sharp Starr Race 5 Becca Takes Charge Race 6 Hawaiian Noises Race 7 Bronx Bomber Race 8 Cash Offer SOUTH AFRICA RACING TIPS TURFFONTEIN 08:25 hrs Chijmes 09:00 hrs Return Flight 09:35 hrs Matador Man 10:10 hrs Donny G 10:45 hrs Our Man In Havana 11:25 hrs Super Duper IRISH RACING TIPS GOWAN PARK 09:10 hrs Saint D’Oroux 09:44 hrs Cilaos Emery 10:19 hrs Miss Cognac 10:54 hrs Real Steel 11:29 hrs Voix Des Tiep 12:04 hrs The Long Mile 12:30 hrs Queens Brook ENGLISH RACING TIPS LINGFIELD 09:25 hrs Al Daiha 10:00 hrs Dublin Pharaoh 10:35 hrs Kachy 11:10 hrs Reflektor 11:45 hrs El Ghazwani 12:20 hrs Bad Attitude HAYDOCK 09:30 hrs The Big Bite 10:05 hrs The Worlds End 10:40 hrs Sir Psycho 11:15 hrs Yala Enki 11:50 hrs Portrush Ted 12:25 hrs Ramses De Teillee ASCOT 09:50 hrs Sam Brown 10:25 hrs Valtor 11:00 hrs Eden Du Houx 12:10 hrs Easyrun De Vassy 12:45 hrs Pure Bliss

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

Wins for Georgetown, East Coast in DCB U-17 Inter-Association 2020 THE DCB Under-17 Inter-Association Cricket Competition 2020 bowled off yesterday with matches at Everest and Lusignan grounds.

Georgetown thrashed East Bank by 6 wickets at Everest Cricket Club (ECC) ground, while West Demerara crumbled against East Coast by 92 runs.

At Everest, Georgetown won the toss and elected to field, bowling out the East Bank side for a meagre 67 all out in 24.4 overs of their allotted 50 overs.

National Under-15 batsman Mavendra Dindyal topscored with 26 while national Under-15 spin bowler Zachary Jodah chipped in with 13.

Ezekiel Wilson was in a most destructive mood grabbing 4 for 11 while Yohance Anjoy, Alvin Mohabir and Inderjeetr Nanan collected 2 for 15, 0 and 3 respectively.

In response, Georgetown raced to their victory target of 68 for 4 in 20.4 overs.

Jayden Campbell topscored with 23, while support came from Nana 15, Mohabir 14 and Tamthesh Shivrattan 12.

Krsna Singh was the most instrumental bowler claiming 3 for 8 while Dorrius Andrews took 1 for 12.

Georgetown won by 6 wickets.

Meanwhile at Lusignan, West Demerara won the toss and chose to bowl first, after rain affected the start and reduced their overs to 33.

East Coast managed to score a well-composed 141 for 3 from their allotted 33 overs.

Openers Ajay Gainda and Anthony Khan started off well before Khan was run-out for 27 and Gainda went on to top-score with 31.

Romel Datterdeen scored 20 while Rudranauth Kisson and Chandrapaul Ramraj were the not-out batsmen on 20 and 17 respectively.

Bowling for West Demerara, Jeremiah Singh and Nityanand Mathura took one wicket apiece.

In reply, West Demerara struggled as they fell for 49 for 7 from their allotted 33 overs.

Renoldo Hussain topscored with an unbeaten 11 while Sachin Balgobin chipped in with 8.

The wickets were shared

by Kisson, Ramraj and Dowlatram who collected 2 each for 10, 4 and 11 respectively.

Daniel Gulab took one wicket for no run. East Coast won by 92 runs.

All matches start at 09:00hrs.

Two matches were played in the second round of the DCB Under-17 Inter-Association Cricket Competition - East Coast against Georgetown at Lusignan and East Bank against West Demerara at Everest.

In the Lusignan encounter, Georgetown stamped their authority and proved that they were the better side, winning the match by 5 wickets, while at Everest, West Demerara struggled as the East Bank team took control of the game early with the ball and afterwards with the bat as they marched on to victory by 9 wickets.

At Lusignan Community Centre ground, East Coast won the toss and elected to bat as they struggled to score, managing 146 for 6 from their allotted 50 overs. Romel Datterdeen was the star for East Coast as he top-scored with 45 while Chandrapaul Ramraj and Rudranauth Kisson contributed 23 and 28 respectively. Inderjeet Nanan claimed 3 for 18 and Navin Permaul, Avinash Ramsaroop and Takesh Shivrattan collected one wicket apiece.

In reply, Georgetown wasted no time as they raced to their target of 148 for 5 from 42.5 overs, Shamar Yearwood finished with an unbeaten 61, Jaden Campbell added 45 and Ezekiel Wilson chipped in with 18 not out. Bowling for East Coast, Saeed Sookram took 2 for 39.

Meanwhile, over at Everest Cricket Club ground, West Demerara fought their way but only managed a meagre 93 all out from 28.3 overs.

Sachin Balgobin topscored with 40 and Nityanand Mathura chipped in with 25.

Thaddus Lovell and Krsna Singh destroyed West Demerara as they each grabbed 4 for 22 and 12 respectively.

In response, East Bank opener Zachary Johad scored a well-composed 38 not out and National Under-15 batsman Mavendra Dindyal scored a brilliant 45 as they took East Bank to victory in 18.5 overs and finished on 94 for 1. Deo Singh was the lone wicket-taker Matches continued yesterday.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday February 15, 2020)

COMPLIMENTS OF XTRA ENERGY DRINK – STABROEK BAZAAR (Tel683-9500) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) 121-Bryce Parsons (SA vs Canada) (2) 6/15-Shafiquallah Ghafari (AFG vs SA)

TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Who are the defending ICC Women’s World T20 Champions?

(2) Which two teams will contest the opening game of the Women’s T20 World Cup 2020?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

Professional Cricket League fifth round …

Johnson half century keeps Guyana in the fight CMC – Guyana Jaguars skipper Leon Johnson made a welcome return to form with a half-century which pulled the five-time reigning champions out of trouble on Friday’s second day of their fifth round contest against Windward Islands Volcanoes.

With his side struggling on 25 for two in reply to the hosts’ first innings of 318 at the National Stadium here, Johnson struck a composed unbeaten 65 to steer the innings to the relative safety of 145 for three at the close.

The 32-year-old, who made a half-century in his first innings of the season only

to gather a mere 77 runs from his last six outings, has struck 11 fours in a knock spanning 122 balls and a shade over 2-½ hours.

Crucially, he put on 74 for the third wicket with Test let-hander Shimron Hetmyer who made 32 in his second regional first class appearance in two seasons before gifting his wicket, before adding a further 46 in an unbroken fourth wicket stand with all-rounder Chris Barnwell (28 not out).

Keron Cottoy (56) and Shane Shillingford (53) had earlier struck half-centuries as Volcanoes flourished after

resuming the day on 212 for six.

Unbeaten overnight on 37, Cottoy stretched his seventh wicket stand with Shillingford to 36, hitting 10 fours off 85 balls in just over 1-¾ hours in posting his maiden first class half-century.

Once Cottoy perished, Shillingford took responsibility for the innings by anchoring a 57-run, eighth wicket partnership with Sherman Lewis who made 24.

All told, Shillingford faced 86 balls in two hours and counted four fours and a six.

Left-arm spinner Veerasammy Permaul led Jaguars’ attack with four for 59 while leg-spinner Devendra Bishoo supported

with three for 73.

Left-arm seamer Preston McSween (2-43) gave the hosts an excellent start when he removed Chandrapaul Hemraj without scoring with a single run on the board in the fifth over.

And when new-ball partner Ray Jordan dislodged Tagenarine Chanderpaul for 11 to a catch at the wicket, Jaguars were collapsing yet again.

But Johnson steadied the innings, combining with Hetmyer who lashed four fours in a 39-ball knock before top-edging a pull at McSween and was caught at short mid-wicket.

South Africa opt out of Pakistan City banned from tour citing player workload European club competition (ESPNCRICINFO) - SOUTH Africa have withdrawn their interest in touring Pakistan for three T20Is in March, citing players’ workload following the India tour next month as the reason.

The planned tour will be rescheduled after the two boards find a new window.

South Africa’s tour to Pakistan did face logistical challenges, and CSA was planning to send a security delegation to Pakistan next month during the PSL to assess the situation.

South Africa will play three ODIs, the last of which is on March 18, and PCB had intended to make them stay in Dubai - with the PSL ending on March 22 - and then fly them directly to Pakistan for the three T20Is in Rawalpindi.

South Africa are currently hosting England for a T20I series, which was preceded by four Tests and three ODIs. Within five days of the last game against England, they will host Australia for three T20Is and as many ODIs, stretching the last game to March 7. They have to then fly to India.

With the IPL expected to begin on March 28, fitting in three more white-ball games in Pakistan in a span of two weeks would have made it hectic for the players.

As such, South Africa have not been the busiest team since the 50-over World Cup last year. They have played 13 matches across formats since then, tenth

on the list among teams that play the three formats.

The PCB struck a sympathetic tone in their reaction, with PCB CEO Wasim Khan accepting that “managing player workload is a top priority” and said the PCB respected CSA’s decision. He was keen to emphasise CSA’s decision to skip the tour in March did not mean these internationals would not take place, and expressed the PCB’s willingness to organise a window for them as soon as possible.

“We are pleased that the CSA remains committed to rescheduling this short series as soon as is practically possible, Wasim Khan said. “As there is a strong willingness and commitment, both the boards are now exploring their FTPs to find gaps so that we can agree on the dates.”

CSA’s acting chief executive Jacques Faul said: “This has purely been done because of the heavy workload and international schedule our players are facing in the immediate future. I have assured my counterpart at the PCB, Wasim Khan, that the tour remains very much on our international schedule.

“I would also like to stress that security was not an issue in asking the PCB for this postponement. We will now work together to find an appropriate window in the international cricket calendar.”

(BBC) - MANCHESTER City have been banned from European club competition in 2020/21 and 2021/22 after being found to have committed “serious breaches” of UEFA’S club licensing and financial fair play regulations. The reigning Premier League champions have also been fined 30m euros (£25M).

The decision is subject to appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS).

Manchester City say they are “disappointed but not surprised” by the “prejudicial” decision and will appeal.

The independent Adjudicatory Chamber of the Club Financial Control Body (CFCB) said City had broken the rules by “overstating its sponsorship revenue in its accounts and in the break-even information submitted to UEFA between 2012 and 2016”, adding that the club “failed to cooperate in the investigation”.

Manchester City said in a statement: “The club has always anticipated the ultimate need to seek out an independent body and process to impartially consider the comprehensive body of irrefutable evidence in support of its position.

“In December 2018, the UEFA chief investigator publicly previewed the outcome and sanction he intended to be delivered to Manchester City, before any investigation had even begun.

“The subsequent flawed and consistently leaked UEFA process he oversaw

has meant that there was little doubt in the result that he would deliver. The club has formally complained to the UEFA disciplinary body, a complaint which was validated by a CAS ruling.

“Simply put, this is a case initiated by UEFA, prosecuted by UEFA and judged

by UEFA. With this prejudicial process now over, the club will pursue an impartial judgment as quickly as possible and will therefore, in the first instance, commence proceedings with the Court of Arbitration for Sport at the earliest opportunity.”

City have been drawn to face Real Madrid in the last 16 of this season’s Champions League, with the first leg to be played on February 26 at the Bernabeu.

WHAT ARE CITY ALLEGED TO HAVE DONE? UEFA launched an investigation after German newspaper Der Spiegel published leaked documents in November 2018 alleging City had inflated the value of a sponsorship deal, misleading European football’s governing body.

Reports alleged City - who have always denied wrongdoing - deliberately misled UEFA so they could meet FFP rules requiring clubs to break even.

City were fined £49M in 2014 for a previous breach of regulations.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

All to play for, as 2020 Milo Schools Football kicks off today THE 2020 edition of the Milo Schools Football tournament will kick off this weekend with three matches each today and tomorrow.

In the first of the three matches, President’s College will play Queenstown Secondary at noon after which Marian Academy face St Joseph High from 13:45hrs.

East Ruimveldt take on St Stanislaus College from 15:30hrs as the last match of

the afternoon.

Tomorrow, Bishops’ High open the day with a battle against Cummings Lodge with Christianburg Secondary meeting Golden Grove ad 13:45hrs.

Lodge Secondary and Ann’s Grove will play the last game of the afternoon.

MINISTRY OF PUBLIC HEALTH SUPPORT MoPH’s Lauren Bancroft, Cilandell Glen and Kewana Carrington are flanked by Petra’s Mark Alleyne and Troy Mendonca.

The 2020 Milo Schools Football kicks off at the Ministry of Education ground at noon.

The Ministry of Public Health has once again joined the tournament under its ‘Stop Gender-Based Violence’ Campaign.

During a press conference on Thursday, the importance of this campaign was underscored by Senior Health Promotion Officer, Lauren Bancroft.

“We have seen, in our society a surge of violence and we need to encourage young persons about the importance of having a healthy home, a healthy family environment because overall this will promote a healthier nation. So the message of remembering that we’re all human and we all have a purpose in life and

must cherish life, we need to encourage not only the young men, but the young women.”

Petra’s co-Director Troy Mendonca believes that the tournament has the right basis to give the campaign much needed light.

“But I think now, with what we’ve seen over the past couple of months and maybe a year, I think we should broaden it to stop violence in the whole.

“I’m happy that the Petra Organisation tournament is able to provide a platform for the ministry to join with us to eradicate a social ill that we’re faced with, especially at the school level,” Mendonca stated.

Bounty Farm Ltd Handicap Squash Tournament

Lengthy rallies underscore night three ON the third night of the Bounty Farm Ltd Handicap Squash tournament the top seeds took to the court for some extremely long rallies as they improved their negative handicap scores to secure their places in the next round of the competition.

Dynamo Deje Dias (-10) gave a thrilling performance against Jonathan Antczak (6) in a three-game battle. Antczak was on match ball in the second game, 14-8, when Dias did what he does best in almost impossible positions.

Patience, determination, will and skill kicked in as he pulled out crosscourt drop shots that cleared the tin by millimetres, and trickle boasts that left Antczak and the spectators speechless. After claiming the second game, Dias came out dominant in the 3rd and despite Antczak running down many of the balls he was only able to pick up 4 points ending in a 15-10 defeat. Dias was triumphant 11-15. 15-14, 15-10.

Alex Arjoon worked his way from a hefty -22 handicap against Ian Mekdeci (5) in a skilful match to secure a 15-12, 15-11 win and Regan Pollard (-14) fought much improved youngster Samuel Ince-Carvalhal (3) to a 15-14, 15-8 victory.

Ince-Carvalhal played hard, shot for shot in the first game and edged ahead early in the game, but the experienced Pollard powered home with a run of 11 straight points to even out at 13-13.

Despite Ince-Carvalhal holding game ball in his hand at 14-13, Pollard bought it home to win 15-14. Pollard dominated the 2nd game for a well-earned victory.

Steven Xavier (-10) took on David Fernandes (10) in a three-game victory and Ingram Edwards (8) defeated newcomer Wayne Alphonso (11) in two straight games. Ashley Khalil and Damein DaSilva continued their winning streaks and will go on to compete in the next round tomorrow night.

In Category A the contenders for the plate stepped up after previous night’s defeats to make their bid for the consolation title. Notable performances came from Louis DaSilva, Arvin Seelall, Abhinav Singh and Aishani Persaud.

Play for both categories and Open plate continued last evening at the Georgetown Club.

OPEN CATEGORY Ingram Edwards (8) beat Wayne Alphonso (11) 15-9, 15-7.

Alex Arjoon (-22) defeated Ian Mekdeci (5) 15-12, 15-11.

Damien Da Silva (-6) got the better of Taylor Fernandes (-6) 15-6, 15-13.

Ashley Khalil (-6) overcame Tony Farnum (10) 15-10, 7-15, 15-12.

Deje Dias (-10) bettered Jonathan Antczak (6) 11-15, 15-14, 15-10.

Steven Xavier (-10) got past David Fernandes (10) 11-15, 15-13, 15-11.

Regan Pollard (-14) upstaged Samuel Ince-Carvalhal (3) 15-14, 15-8.

CATEGORY A Joshua Verwey (11) beat Beau Fernades (11) 15/5, 15/5 Ethan Jonas (-4) beat Dhiren Persaud (11) 15/13, 15/13 Aishani Persaud (11) beat Grant Fernandes (13) 15/12, 15/6 Mohryan Baksh (-3) beat Lucas Persaud (11) 15/11, 15/11 Louis Da Silva (7 ) beat Kaden Pynaendy (13 ) 15/10, 15/10 Teija Edwards (11) beat Matthew Daby (14) 15/11, 15/8 Arvin Seelall (12) beat Abhinav Singh (14) 13/15, 15/4, 15/7

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, February 15, 2020

One-day outdoor hockey competition billed for National stadium today

Former FIFA referees retire after decades of service FORMER FIFA referees Venton Mars and Sherwin Moore have retired from the beautiful game of football, having served a combined total in excess of 21 years.

Mars, who served as a FIFA and National assistant referee, and Moore, a referee, both went into retirement over the January–February period.

Both match officials have officiated in matches across the Caribbean Football Union, CONCACAF and FIFA regions.

Mars began his FIFA career in 2004 while Moore began in 2013.

In an invited comment, Chairman of the Referees Committee and Executive Committee Member Dion Inniss said the institutional memory of the technical per-

A number of the young GCC Spartans, who won the Solo Beverage Girls’ U-20 Outdoor Development Hockey League, last September, should be in action today.

SEVEN male teams and five female sides will battle from this morning in a one-day outdoor hockey competition at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence.

Twenty-five games will be played simultaneously on two pitches in the Bounty and Antonio’s Grille-sponsored event.

GCC will field three teams: GBTI GCC Tigers, GBTI GCC Spice and GBTI GCC Spartans.

The other female sides expected to compete are Saints and YMCA

Old Fort.

In the male competition, GCC, Saints and YMCA will all have two teams, while the Hikers will field one.

The men’s group is split into two groups. Group A includes: Bounty GCC The Sequel, Saints Splinters, YMCA Old Fort Warriors and Pepsi Hikers, while Group B will have Bounty GCC Pitbulls, Saints Savages and YMCA Old Fort Carriers.

The day’s action bullies off with

the Old Fort Warriors tackling the Saints Splinters at 11:30hrs, before the females take to the field 25 minutes later with the GCC Spice tackling Saints on pitch one and Spartans meeting Old Fort on pitch two.

The teams (both males and females) will continue battling throughout the afternoon until they play the semi-finals from 15:40hrs.

The men’s final is scheduled for 16:30hrs, while the female final is scheduled for 16:55hrs.

Former FIFA Referees Sherwin Moore (left) and Venton Mars sonnel should be preserved: “Sherwin and Venton are the true embodiments of service to the game. Now that they are no longer active officials, we look forward to them using their experience and knowledge gained over the years to mentor future match officials.”

First National Race of Champions scrutineering begins today WITH the clock rapidly counting down to the much anticipated first National Race of Champions, competitors are being asked to inspect their machines today.

According to reports, the team of scrutineers will be available to process and certify as safe all cars expected to race tomorrow.

According to Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) Committee Member Motilall Deodass, this move is to

ensure as little trouble as possible moving into tomorrow’s opener.

“We want to have as many cars as possible scrutineered today to allow us to have a smoother race meeting on Sunday. If we can get at least 70-80% of the cars completed, then we think that it would make the team’s work a lot easier on Sunday.”

The committee member added, “We expect a large turnout of competitors come Sunday based on the feedback that

the committee has been receiving.”

NEWBIES CAN HAVE A CHANCE Meanwhile the club has also confirmed that in a bid to get even more persons involved in the sport, they will have several classes of street car races.

According to reports, the five-lap races will have the specific aim of allowing those who participate in the other forms of racing like drag and endurance to make

their debuts in the small circuit sphere of things.

The GMR&SC had piloted the programme with the bikes, calling it the street-class bikes which allowed novice riders, once in possession of all their gear, to participate in a circuit race event.

Meanwhile the club has also confirmed that entry for spectators to the event will be free of cost with action expected in the Groups 2 to four as well as street and sport tuner and bikes.

MoPH’s Lauren Bancroft, Cilandell Glen and Kewana Carrington are flanked by Petra’s Mark Alleyne and Troy Mendonca.

All to play for, as 2020 Milo Schools Football kicks off today See story on page 50

The 2020 Milo Schools Football kicks off at the Ministry of Education ground at noon.

Guyana Jaguars skipper Leon Johnson made a welcome return to form with a half-century

Professional Cricket League fifth round …

Johnson half See story century keeps on page 49 Guyana in the fight

Scrutineering for GMR&SC’s race meet is set for today.

(GTRidez photo)

First National Race of Champions See story scrutineering begins today on page 51

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

See story on page 49

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 15, 2020