Guyana Chronicle Epaper 20 07 2017

Vessels in Moruca fatal collision were unlicensed Page 9

No. 104979

THURSDAY JULY 20, 2017

Price: $80

(VAT Inclusive)

US$17.5M to upgrade hospitals Page 3

New justices sworn in Page 8

Page 15

Dr Roopnaraine tenders resignation Page 11

Linden protest broke the back of the PPP – AG From left: Justice Gino Persaud, Justice Sandil Kissoon, Justice Simone Ramlall, President David Granger, Justice Damone Younge and Justice Rishi Persaud following the swearing-in ceremony on Wednesday at State House (Photo by Delano Williams)

$85M in cocaine seized in Pomeroon River Page 13

Region 10 MP charged with obstructing peace Page 13

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Joint Services on trail of prison – mother, son arrested escapee in Berbice for aiding convict A mother and her son and three other persons are in police custody assisting with investigations after it is believed that they aided prison escape, Stafrei Hopkenson Alexander called “Mad dog,” who has been hiding in the East Berbice area.

The mother and son from Babu John, Port Mourant East Berbice Corentyne are believed to have been supplying food to the wanted man, who was reportedly holed up in the Port Mourant Backlands. Unconfirmed reports suggest that Alexander was in the area since Sunday, where he has been receiving food and water from the mother and her 19-year-old.

Meanwhile, as the Joint Services ranks intensify their search in the backlands for the prison escapee, Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan is confident that the authorities are closing in

The tree under which wanted man Stafrei Alexander reportedly slept. A hammock and several food boxes were seen under the tree by the Joint Services on Wednesday

on the wanted men.

“They have split up, these are smart people but we are onto them…through a variety of ways, technologically and through human intelligence. They are in rough spots because people are not giving them the support, so

their state of nutrition and a number of other things are taking a toll on them,” Ramjattan said at State House on Wednesday morning.

Alexander, along with Cobena Stephens aka “OJ,” Mark Royden Williams and Uree Varswyk are wanted by

the police for escaping from the Georgetown Prison on July 9, during a fire which gutted sections of the prison.

Ramjattan said that the Joint Services are onto “a lot of information” regarding the men, some of which he said is genuine. Reports from Berbice are that the lawmen are hot on the heels of Alexander, who was spotted in the Ancient County this week. The efforts of the ranks led them to an area aback of Dispensary Dam, Ankerville in Port Mourant.

Acting on information, the Joint Services conduct-

ed an operation Tuesday evening at Port Mourant and which continued early Wednesday morning. Alexander reportedly slept in a hammock which was tied to a tree aback the area.

However, despite the efforts of the Joint Services, the wanted man managed to remain elusive. There are unconfirmed reports that Alexander may have been injured since police saw blood in the area and bullet holes in the hammock in which he was sleeping. Several food boxes were found close to the tree where the man was spotted.

Since last Friday night, the police nabbed two of the six men for whom wanted bulletins were issued following the Camp Street fire.

Desmond James and Trinidadian convict Cornelius Thomas were nabbed during separate operations recently.

The Georgetown Prison fire resulted in the over 1000 prisoners being shifted from Camp Street to share a space with the inmates at the Lusignan prison. Efforts are now underway to improve the conditions at the East Coast Demerara facility.

Accused cellphone thief gets bail A TWENTY-two-year-old man was on Wednesday placed on $50,000 bail by Magistrate Sunil Scarce on a charge of robbery.

It is alleged that on July 16, 2017, Jamal Henry of Diamond, East Bank Demerara, robbed Anil Ganie of one cellular phone valued $13,000.

Henry who had a prior matter in court, pleaded not guilty to the offence. Police Prosecutor Adoni Innis objected to bail due to the prevalence of the offence and requested that Henry be remanded into police

custody.

The accused stated, “me aint steal nothing, me and me friends dem been making joke and I took away he (Ganie) phone.”

Henry also indicated that he had given the phone back to the victim’s family later on.

According to the Prosecutor, Ganie was at the game shop when Henry held on to his collar and started shaking him up, then proceeded to take his phone away which he handed to someone else. The accused man is expected to make his next court appearance on July 28, 2017.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

US$17.5M to upgrade three hospitals

By Ariana Gordon GOVERNMENT on Wednesday signed a Line of Credit (LoC) agreement with the Export-Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank of India) totalling US$17.5M for the modernisation of three regional hospitals.

The LoC agreement between EXIM Bank of India and the government was signed by Finance Minister, Winston Jordan and EXIM Bank’s resident representative, Sailesh Prashad, at a simple ceremony held at the Ministry of Finance, Main Street.

The concessional LoC was approved by the bank following a request by the government and is being extended at an interest rate of 1.75 per cent per annum with a repayment of 20 years, including a moratorium period of five years.

The money will be used to modernise the country’s primary health care systems specifically the West Demerara, Bartica and Suddie Regional hospitals, said Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence.

Minister Lawrence expressed much gratitude to the Government of India and the Exim Bank for approving the LoC, noting that “it is our intent to ameliorate our services at the health centres and clinics since these facilities play a critical role in a population’s health.”

She said the Public Health Ministry would now be in a better position to fulfill its mandate to enhance the delivery of primary health-care here.

“It is my belief that this is the most important level of health care and it is

Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, hands over the signed agreement to Public Health Minister, Volda Lawrence

incumbent on the health centres to interact with our people to ensure that we deliver comprehensive services, including prevention, promotion, rehabilitation…” the minister said.

TREMENDOUS IMPACT Additionally, in keeping

with the Public Health Ministry’s 2020 vision which characterises a working and comprehensive primary health care programme, the minister said the modernisation will have a tremendous impact on the sector.

“The Ministry wants to ensure that the service reaches all of our people and that

we cater adequately for their needs,” Minister Lawrence added.

Similarly, Minister Jordan thanked the Government of Indian and the EXIM Bank of India for approving the LoC. He said in addition to the physical upgrades to the three hospitals, medical equipment would also be purchased.

“The resources would be used to refurbish existing facilities and construct new buildings at the Suddie Regional Hospital, West Demerara Hospital and Bartica Hospital. Additionally, medical equipment will be procured to furnish the new and renovated facilities,” the Finance Minister said.

He said, upon completion, residents in neighbouring and surrounding communities can expect improved health care delivery and service.

The provision of quality health care remains the primary objective of his government, said Jordan.

“An effective public health system is essential to provide care for the sick, for instituting measures that prevent diseases and pro-

EXIM Bank’s resident representative, Sailesh Prashad (right) hands over signed copies of the LoC agreement to Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, in the presence of Guyana’s Ambassador to India, Dr David Pollard

mote the general well-being of the Guyanese populace,” he noted.

EASE BURDEN Jordan said too that the upgrade of the aforementioned facilities will ease the burden currently placed on the budget of the Public Health Ministry, since the Ministry is responsible for evacuating hinterland patients to GPHC for highly specialised care during emergencies.

“As observed for years, many residents of the outlying regions prefer to seek medical attention at the GPHC believing that the services provided there are superior to that at regional health care facilities. This intervention is expected to change that perception while allaying fears about the quality of the regional health systems and facilities,” the finance minister added.

Government signed a similar agreement with EXIM Bank of India in Washington for the acquisition of fixed and mobile drainage and irrigation pumps to service Georgetown and its environs in February.

India has been supporting Guyana’s socio-economic development since the two countries established diplomatic relations in 1966.

Over the years, bilateral relations by way of LoC includes US $50M for the East Coast-East Bank Demerara Link Road Project; US $18 for Ocean Ferry Vessel, which includes a grant component of US $8M, and US$4M for procuring mobile and fixed pumps.

Tenders for the ferry are currently being advertised by the Government of India and

construction of the vessel which will ply the Georgetown, Port Kaituma route will begin as soon as the successful bidder is identified.

Additionally, the government of India is providing US$1M grant for Guyana to establish a Centre for Excellence in Information and Communications Technology (CEIT) which will be located at the University of Guyana (UG).

Guyana is also receiving support in the agricultural sector with the provision of gears and institutional strengthening for staff of the Ministry of Agriculture.

Another area includes the provision of renewable energy equipment and continued training in related field.

Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Venkatachalam Mahalingham, in brief remarks apologised for the delay in the road project but noted that due to circumstances beyond their control, new companies had to be selected for the project.

He said the Government of Indian wanted to ensure that the infrastructure is of high quality but unfortunately the companies identified were major companies that cannot come to Guyana for such a project.

Notwithstanding that, the Indian High Commissioner noted that efforts are being made to ensure that a company is selected soonest so that headway can be made on the project.

Also present at the signing ceremony were Guyana’s Ambassador to India, Dr. David Pollard; Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma and several senior staff of the Finance Ministry.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Obamacare repeal ‘axes insurance for 32M’ [BBC] - Thirty-two million Americans would lose health coverage under a Republican plan to repeal Obamacare, the Congressional Budget Office (CBO) has forecast.

The non-partisan office’s analysis found the cost of a medical insurance policy would increase 25% next year and double by 2026. The repeal bill would also cut the federal deficit by $473bn (£363bn), predicted the CBO. The Republican-controlled Senate has twice

failed to pass a healthcare bill. Its members plan to vote next week on a plan to repeal President Barack Obama’s 2010 health law with a two-year delay. But the CBO estimates the number of uninsured would rise by 17 million next year alone if the Affordable Care Act, known as Obamacare, were to be overturned.

President Donald Trump earlier called on his party to postpone their summer holiday until they have repealed Obamacare and replaced it with the Republican plan.

Mr Trump told 49 Republican senators at the White House: “We should hammer this out and get it done.”

In the last two days he has switched position sev-

ised the American people that you would repeal Obamacare.

“People are hurting. Inaction is not an option. And frankly I don’t think we

Donald Trump eral times, urging the repeal and replace of Obamacare, just repealing it, allowing it to fail, before reverting to repeal and replace on Wednesday.

Mr Trump said: “For seven years you prom-

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nell, whose reputation as a master tactician has been dented by the imbroglio.

“So we should send it to him.” With Democrats united in opposition, Mr McConnell can only lose two votes from his 52-48 majority in the 100-seat Senate to pass the bill.

Senators Susan Collins of Maine, Lisa Murkowski of Alaska and Shelley Moore Capito of West Virginia are opposed to repeal.

Overturning Obamacare was a top campaign pledge for Mr Trump and congressional Republicans, who view the law as a costly intrusion into the healthcare system.

The party’s proposed alternative includes steep cuts to Medicaid, a healthcare programme for the poor and disabled. It would also remove Obamacare’s individual mandate, which requires all Americans to have health insurance or pay a tax penalty.

And there would be a six-month ban on obtaining new medical coverage for anyone who lets their previous policy lapse for more than two months.

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should leave town unless we have a health insurance plan.” Mr Trump warned a senator who was seated next to him that he could lose his job if he did not toe the party line.

A ripple of uncomfort-

able laughter was heard in the room as the president said of Nevada’s Dean Heller: “And he wants to remain a senator, doesn’t he? OK.” Mr Heller, who was one of the earliest senators to oppose the first version of the Republican health bill, is up for re-election next year. Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell has scheduled a vote early next week on a straight-up repeal of Obamacare.

However, it looks likely to fail after the defections on Tuesday of at least three of the party’s senators.

Mr McConnell pointed out it was the same legislation that all but one Republican senator voted to send to President Barack Obama in 2015, safe in the knowledge he would veto it. But now the party controls the White House and both chambers of Congress, some rank-and-file Republicans seem wary of enacting legislation that would eliminate medical insurance for millions of Americans.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Chile moves towards legalising abortion

Venezuela denounces US sanctions threat

[BBC] - The Venezuelan government says it will hold elections for a controversial constituent assembly despite the threat of US sanctions.

The assembly would have the power to rewrite the constitution and to bypass the opposition-controlled legislature.

On Monday, US President Donald Trump said he would take “economic actions” if the constituent assembly went ahead. Mr Trump also called President Maduro “a bad leader who dreams of becoming a

may be. Mr Trump’s warning came hours after the opposition said that 7.6 million people had voted against the constituent assembly in an unofficial referendum on Sunday.

The Venezuelan government disputed the figure given by the opposition and called it a “gigantic fraud”.Calls within Venezuela and abroad have been mounting since the results of the referendum were announced.

Opposition politicians say Mr Maduro wants to use it to

and increasing confrontation”.

In response, Mr Maduro called her “insolent” and said that Venezuela was not a colony of the EU. Venezuela also banned five former Latin American presidents from entering the country.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Samuel Moncada said that Mexico’s Vicente Fox, Bolivia’s Jorge Quiroga, Colombia’s Andrés Pastrana and Costa Rica’s former presidents Laura Chinchilla and Miguel Ángel Rodríguez had been declared

Senators debated into the early hours of the morning

[BBC] - Senators in Chile have voted in favour of a proposal which would end the country’s total ban on abortions.

The measure would allow abortion in cases of rape, if the mother’s life was at risk or if the foetus would not survive the pregnancy.

Currently, women can be prosecuted if they have an abortion.

The bill, which has the backing of President Michelle Bachelet, will now go back to the Chamber of Deputies for approval. The proposal was first introduced two and a half years ago and has faced by stiff opposition from the Catholic Church and socially conservative groups.

Senators voted separately on each of the three cases

in which women would be allowed to have an abortion: The vote in favour of allowing abortion in cases in which the mother’s life is at risk was 20 in favour and 14 opposed; that of allowing a termination in cases where the foetus is unviable was 18 to 14; the closest result was for the vote on whether to allow abortions in cases of rape. Eighteen senators voted in favour and 16 against.

The voting went late into the night and was further delayed when police had to remove abortion opponents who had interrupted proceedings with their chanting and shouts. But on Twitter, a hashtag backing the bill was trending. Supporters of the bill hope the Chamber of Deputies will now swiftly approve the document with-

out further changes so it can be sent to President Bachelet for signing.

Changing Chile’s strict abortion laws has been one of the president’s main goals.

“I believe that women should have legally the possibility of making their own choices,” she told the BBC in an interview last year.

“In this country until now this is criminalised - if you interrupt your pregnancy, you will go to jail. And I believe this is not fair.”

But opposition to the move has been considerable and the debate surrounding it at times bitter. Abortion in limited cases was legal in Chile until 1989, when it was completely banned under the rule of Gen Augusto Pinochet.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Samuel Moncada said the constituent assembly would go ahead

dictator”.

Venezuelan Foreign Minister Samuel Moncada denounced Mr Trump’s words as an “insolent threat”.Mr Trump had warned that “if the Maduro regime imposes its constituent assembly on July 30, the United States will take strong and swift economic actions”.

But he did not give any details as to what those actions

entrench himself in power, while Mr Maduro argues a new constitution will promote dialogue in the polarised country.

Colombia, France, Spain and the European Union have also demanded that the Venezuelan government drop its plan for the assembly. European Union foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini warned it “risks further polarising the country

personae non gratae.

The former leaders had been part of a delegation who agreed to monitor Sunday’s unofficial referendum organised by the Venezuelan opposition. Opposition leaders said they would step up their campaign against the constituent assembly. They are planning a general strike for Thursday.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Editorial r

IT REMAINS unfortunate that Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, can only see political gains to be had by preying on the sugar workers’ concerns.

On Sunday he held a rally at Adelphi Village, East Berbice, where he said to those in attendance that the Government must conduct a feasibility, diversification and social impact study before proceeding with taking any decision on sugar.

According to Mr. Jagdeo the APNU+AFC Government “will not do that study because if they did, it will disprove all that they are saying that sugar is not profitable.” During the PPP/C Government, Mr. Jagdeo held positions as junior and senior Minister of Finance and President. These are strategic and powerful portfolios that would have allowed first-hand knowledge and authority to shape GuySuCo.

The study that the Leader of the Opposition considers worthy to be done, not that it may not be so, but where for more than two decades decisions were being taken on sugar and its future known, it needs to be known if any study was done by the PPP/C. If no such study was done, Mr. Jagdeo may find it worthwhile advising why this was the approach.

GuySuCo had a Diversification Programme which started in the 1970s, but was totally dismantled under the PPP/C Government, though it was never advised if a study was done to prove the feasibility for doing so.

Diamond Estate, which had prime lands in the industry and produced the highest yields in sugar was closed by the PPP/C under similar fate. Those lands were later sold, not to sugar workers, but to aligned investors who resold them at prices above market value, putting it be-

Dr. Roopnaraine will stand as one of the more educated, intelligent and articulate politicians of our time Dear Editor: THIS is truly a difficult one. My memories of Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine go back to him on the campaign trails in earlier elections. I remember him being very energized and reaching into his soul during his deliveries, convinced that common sense would prevail at the polls. I remember him during the 2015 elections, with less steam, less enthusiastic about the outcome, convinced that racism would triumph again. I am sure that he was more than overjoyed that the country had overcome that hurdle this time. So had the country, Dr. Roopnaraine, so had the country.

Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine will undoubtedly stand as one of the more educated, intelligent and articulate politicians of our time. Dr. Roopnaraine, please accept my respect and humble tribute to your seeming lifetime efforts at righting Guyana’s political and economic problems.

I sincerely hope that you continue to make a difference behind the scenes. And may the Guyanese who followed your work take up the mantle you just passed to them and carry on the struggle for a better and more prosperous Guyana.

Regards CRAIG SYLVESTER

yond the reach of the estate workers. When Diamond was closed those workers were initially denied their redundancy benefits. Then President Jagdeo did not meet with them or advise that they protest his government or the GuySuCo as he presently advises. Instead, sugar workers were ordered to go to the La Bonne Intention Estate and work, an estate which was later closed by the PPP/C government.

The $300M redundancy payment were only made to Diamond sugar workers after they took GuySuCo to court, represented by Attorney- at-Law, Khemraj Ramjatttan, who is now Minister of Public Security.

Only after this action then President Jagdeo ordered Minister of Finance, Ashni Singh to find the money to pay the workers. At the 17th May 2011 meeting held at Diamond Secondary School with sugar workers, they were told his government

took a decision to pay out the money and end a court battle that could have taken years, taking a swipe also at Mr. Ramjattan for his representation of the workers. .

Sugar historically has been one of political agitations and implications.

But where Mr. Jagdeo continues, in this critical moment of crisis, not to provide solutions and come up with alternative(s) to save the industry and protect the economic wellbeing of those who are likely to be affected, he is not helping the situation. His approach lends more to internecine conflicts and political divisions where in our society, since such carry racial undertone, is unhelpful.

Politically, whipping up frenzy about sugar’s future may play well for the PPP/C but sugar workers and those likely to be affected through any economic decision on GuySuCo’s future, one way or the other, cannot survive

on this. This fact Mr. Jagdeo is seemingly unaware of and deservedly it is not unfair to question whether this is his sole motive.

The society could be better served should Mr. Jagdeo make public what impact study his government undertook when decisions were taken on sugar and GuySuCo. If any such study was done it may help this government and the current management of GuySuCo as they proceed.

If then President Jagdeo took decisions on sugar or allowed GuySuCo to do so without any study, his gov-

ernment must take responsibility for making decisions in the dark and putting in train actions that hurt sugar workers, their families, and those who create economic and employment opportunities on their earnings.

In all of this, the welfare of sugar workers must be placed front and centre.

Doing this requires making decisions informed by data, constructive conversations and engagements with stakeholders. This approach not only makes political sense but brings benefit to forging a nation of unity.

Region 10 teachers need more support Dear Editor: KINDLY permit me some space in your column to publish this letter in which I concur with my fellow teachers in Region Number 10.

This region has been in continuous decline over the past four years as it relates to professionalism, deportment, moral values, equity, academic performance, and the list goes on. Whatever our results at National Assessments are, all the praise and all the glory must be given to our hardworking teachers, since the Department of Education has absolutely nothing to do with it. We received no guidance from the Department of Education, but lots of criticisms and threats.

Gone are the days when our schools received supplies in a timely manner. The books are submitted for signature, which takes more than two months to be signed. My school and several others have not received any stocks since last year. Some ‘special’ schools are allowed to: * Host as much fund-raising activities per term, while others have limited conces-

sions. * Have teachers attending classes at UG daily, but are always absent from school, even when classes are suspended and UG is closed. When it comes to deportment and moral values, much is left to be desired.

There is no such thing as leadership by demonstration emanating from the Department of Education in Region Number 10.

Some head teachers must think twice if they must mete out disciplinary measures to any teacher who is, as it is termed in our region “a crony” of these officers. As I browsed the Minister of Education Facebook page, I noticed that recently, two additional education officers were appointed to Region Number 10. I became very worried to see that the Regional Education Office has more education officers, but yet an individual who has spent less than three months at the school to which she was appointed head teacher and has left it in total chaos, is currently acting in the position of district education officer – Nursery. What is even more upsetting is that

this individual is of questionable character. She was even placed before the courts for larceny. Here in Linden, we are fully aware that she is in such a position because she is a crony of the senior education officials in the region.

Mr. Editor, what is most astonishing is that several complaints have been made and everyone in authority turns a blind eye. I remember vividly the support that was sought from the administrators of the Regional Democratic Council.

Assurances were given for investigations and action to be taken. Lo and behold, for some reasons unknown to us, all efforts were thwarted.

These “Men of God” who were appointed to lead our community in the right direction have become very passive. It was observed that the education officers made use of social media in an instance to threaten to expose a distasteful recording of one politician, and the regional administration withdrew its position on the issues at hand.

Last but not least, important papers such as the two latest National Assess-

ments were being delivered to us at schools by any “Tom or Mary.” Those destined for the river schools, particularly Sub-Region Number Two, arrived on a public bus minus an education officer.

We have suffered enough in the education sector in Region Number 10-- four long years. This situation is untenable. Our sufferings are synonymous with that which the teachers and pupils of Region Number Eight endured when the current regional education officer of Region Number 10 was in charge of education in that region. Do we need to see pictures of children fetching firewood on their heads or teachers living in uninhabitable conditions to investigate an entire Department of Education?

We are desperately crying out for help. All those that have vested interest in education and the development of Region 10, more importantly our newly-appointed chief education officer, please take immediate action.

Regards FRUSTRATED TEACHER

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Nandlall has many questions to answer Dear Editor: IN his letter (17/7/2017) Mr. Anil Nandlall baffled over “how did certain prisoners got (sic) access to firearm so quickly”? If Mr. Nandlall was paying attention to what has been reported repeatedly, prisoners attacked prison warden Wickham, stabbed him several times, and then relieved him of his weapon. He was shot and died later.

The focus should have been on the bravery and heroism of Odinga Wickham, but Nandlall looks the other way, and sees the crime being the possession by the murderers of a firearm and not the cold-

blooded murder of a prison official, who blocked the gate in his failed attempt to stop dangerous criminals from escaping on July 9, 2017.

Mr. Nandlall must come out of his slumber of bafflement and answer how the drug lord who was a friend of his regime had an arsenal of weapons during the “troubles”. He was detained with his guns at Cove and John, then released with his bag of guns. He must explain how 14 AK-47 disappeared from the army headquarters and, how a known criminal had his gun upgraded just after he killed a food vendor in cold blood over $20 Guyana dollars.

I bet Mr. Nandlall would be baffled when told that at the time he left office as Attorney General, there was severe over-crowding of the Camp Street Prison. There were over 1,000 prisoners at the facility that was made for 600. That was “an accident waiting to happen”.

The prison was left in a state compared to an open air bazaar. Prisoners were supplied with phones, drugs and perhaps, guns! It would take more than two years to clear that mess left by Nandlall and company!

THE reports coming from the authorities clearly show that there are some real bad hombres among the prisoners, especially at the Lusignan “holding” area. I have followed these reports which include the slaughtering of animals and open- air bar-b que, the attempt to burn down the Lusignan Prison and the violence of

gangs against each other.

It is easy to say that crimes are caused by economic circumstances, but the crimes INSIDE prisons are calculated and planned to bring destruction and death. It is a miracle that not one prisoner died in the inferno at the Camp Street jail and the fire that razed the officers’ club.

That 1000 plus prisoners emerged alive is a credit to our prison and security

MINISTER of Finance, Winston Jordan has said that for the last 23 years, the manufacturing sector has not progressed beyond its current contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), under the previous administration.

The Minister, while speaking with the Department of Public Information (DPI), was re-

Jagdeo that the government is not supporting the manufacturing sector.

The Finance Minister responded that, the Opposition leader should focus on the “dead projects,” from the previous administration, which are contributing to the economy’s contraction. He pointed out that the government is now plagued with debts including those of the Marriott Ho-

Regards EARL HAMILTON

Time to isolate the “Bad Johns” in the prison system Dear Editor:

Manufacturing sector saw no growth in 23 years – Min Jordan

personnel, who need our encouragement and appreciation.

I suggest that the authorities quickly separate the ‘Bad Johns’ from the rest of the prison population and isolate them. The entire nation needs to support Minister Ramjattan, the Police Commissioner, thePrison chief and others now!

EARL HAMILTON

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan

sponding to reports which surfaced in the media recently, which published claims made by Opposition Leader Bharrat

tel, National Insurance Scheme (NIS), Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion and the Amaila Falls

Road. Minister Jordan said that during the 1970s and 1980s the manufacturing sector performed excellently.

“So why did the manufacturing sector not meet the heights it met in that dark 1970s and 1980s, where more commodities were manufactured than today? The amount of concessions given to the manufacturing sector for the past 23 years outstripped any other time in history of this country, so why after that, today the manufacturing contribution is still small?” Minister Jordan questioned.

However, the Minister expressed confidence that the government is capable of growing the economy. He said, “Our government will succeed because the economy is being prudently managed, and is managed in a way that will not allow you and your children to have to think about the taxes, they will have to pay to finance many of these debts left for us to pay”.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

‘It’s an honour to serve’ – Guyana’s youngest judge recommits to fairness

By Alva Solomon JUSTICE Gino Persaud, who was appointed to his current post on Wednesday

by President David Granger, is said to be the youngest judge in the judiciary.

Following his appointment, the 38-year-old told the Guyana Chronicle that it is a great honour to dispense justice. “I feel privileged.

Throughout my life I have always been pre-occupied with fairness, ensuring fair play and seeing that anything I was entrusted with was done in a fair and just way. In fact, I’ve tried to live my life by those principles,” Justice Persaud told this newspaper.

He pledged to work hard and make a contribution to the judiciary and the persons who it serves by ensuring justice is served in a timely manner with the highest standards of fairness, impartiality and integrity.

Justice Persaud expressed appreciation to his parents [both deceased], as he acknowledged their influence in his formative years grow-

ing up and being an active member of the Catholic Church.

He acknowledged “stellar role models” such as Sr. Beatrice Fernandes and Fr.

as a Jesuit Scholar, having read for a Bachelor of Laws Degree at the University of Guyana, graduating in 1999.

He went on to study at the Hugh Wooding Law School

“I feel privileged. Throughout my life I have always been pre-occupied with fairness, ensuring fair play and seeing that anything I was entrusted with was done in a fair and just way. In fact, I’ve tried to live my life by those principles” - Justice Persaud John Persaud among others.

“This proved to pave the way I was molded by those exemplary influences and I remain grateful and indebted to them for shaping me into the person I am today,” he said.

Justice Persaud was admitted to the bar in October 2001. The British Chevening Scholar, who holds a Masters in Public International Law from the University of Bristol, is a founding member and Past President of Transparency International Guyana.

He started his law studies

in Trinidad and Tobago from where he obtained his Legal Education Certificate in 2001.

The former St Roses High School student held several top posts prior to Wednesday’s appointment. He served as Secretary to the Disciplined Forces Commission, prosecutor for Tax and Customs matters at the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), Chairman of Catholic Justice and Peace Commission and he was also Chairman of Lifeline Counselling Ser-

Justice Gino Persaud takes the oath of office while being sworn in as a judge on Wednesday by President David Granger

vices.

Justice Persaud functioned as Interim CEO for Credit Info (Guyana) CIG, overseeing the set-up of the entity and making it operational. His lengthy CV also includes independent consultancies which he undertook in the area of human rights, HIV and human rights, rights of Amerindians, access to

justice and establishing a paralegal system under Inter-American Bank (IDB) and European Union projects.

Justice Persaud is a founding Director of the Justice Institute of Guyana - an independent and impartial legal institute dedicated to upholding the rule of law and improving access to social justice and environmental

justice. During 2008-2011, he along with a co-founder oversaw major projects for the institute.

He also worked extensively on reform of the old Amerindian Act. He was a member of the government technical team that held nationwide consultations with 110 Amerindian communities in over 45 villages across the country. During this time he prepared legal advice based on consultation on the Amerindian Bill including conservation and management of natural resources on indigenous lands and the impact of mining, forestry among other issues on communities.

Currently, he sits on the Constitutional Reform Steering Committee established by Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo. He also sits on the Income Tax Board of Review as well as the Customs Tariff Tribunal. Until his most recent appointment, Justice Persaud has been attached to DE CAIRES, FITZPATRICK & KARRAN, Attorneys-at-Law.

New justices sworn in

By Alva Solomon PRESIDENT David Granger has said that the Executive branch of Government will remain independent of the Judiciary.

The President gave the assurance on Wednesday morning at State House where four new Puisne judges were sworn in. Justice Rishi Persaud was also sworn

in as a Justice of Appeal.

The four new judges are Justice Simone Ramlall, Justice Sandil Kissoon, Justice Damone Younge and Justice Gino Persaud. Persaud is said to be one of the youngest to be appointed to the post of judge.

The President said the independence of the Judiciary is necessary to ensure the upkeep of the rule of law and

pointed out that the Constitution provides for judicial independence.

“Let me assure you that the Executive branch of Government stays unreservedly to promoting, to protecting and to preserving judicial independence,” Granger said.

He said it is the desire of the government to ensure the Judiciary remains “unbiased”, “unblemished” and

President David Granger flanked by the judges and members of the government following the swearing-in ceremony

“unbridled”.

Article 122A(1) of the Constitution says, “All courts and all persons presiding over the courts shall exercise their functions independently of the control and direction of any other person or authority, and shall be free and independent from political, executive, and any other form of direction and control.”

Meanwhile, President Granger told reporters following the swearing-in that nominees for the posts of Chancellor of the Judiciary and Chief Justice have been interviewed, and the candidates can be named as early as August.

The President would be consulting the Leader of Opposition on these appointments. In May, President Granger swore in acting Chief Justice Roxanne

George-Wiltshire and High Court Judge Justice Dawn Gregory as Appeal Court judges. During that ceremony at State House, the Head-ofState said the swearing–in of the judges represents a fulfillment of a commitment he had made.

“This installation ceremony of judges is an affirmation of the government’s commitment to ensuring a judicial system that reflects the values of independence, impartiality and integrity,” the President had said at the time.

President Granger noted too that the Executive has taken steps to ensure the Judiciary does not feel beholden to the Government and the enactment of the Fiscal Management and Accountability (Amendment) Act of 2015 provides for the first time financial autonomy of the

Judiciary in accordance with the Constitution being one such step.

Government, he said will continue to respect the authority and dignity of the Judiciary whose efficiency relies on there being a full complement of judges and magistrates. Additionally, the President said continued support would be given to the efforts of the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to ensure all vacancies are filled. Also present at Wednesday’s ceremony were Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo; Attorney General, Basil Williams; Minister of State, Joseph Harmon; Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan; acting Chancellor, Justice Yonette Cummings-Edwards and acting Chief Justice George-Wiltshire.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

President reacts to CJ ruling:

‘I’ll appoint a fit and proper chairperson’

By Alva Solomon President David Granger has reiterated his position that he will appoint a “fit and proper” Chairperson to head the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

While speaking to reporters following a ceremony at State House on Wednesday, the Guyanese Head of State acknowledged the recent ruling of Chief Justice (ag), Roxanne George-Wiltshire.

The case was brought to the courts by businessman, Marcel Gaskin who had approached the High Court to interpret Article 161 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana.

Justice George-Wiltshire ruled that persons nominated to be selected as Chairman of GECOM do not have to be judges, former judges or

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

On Wednesday, the President said that the Chief Justice gave her judgment based on her perception of the law.

He said he will continue to act based on his perception of the Constitution of Guyana. He said he will not do what the constitution does not require him to do.

Asked whether he believed someone with a judicial background should be appointed to the post of GECOM Chair, the President said he does not believe what the Chief Justice said in her ruling “has diminished my

regard for the word and spirit of the Constitution.” He maintained that the person must be independent and impartial.

In his application, Gaskin had questioned whether the list of persons for appointment as GECOM Chair to be submitted by Jagdeo must include a judge, former judge or person qualified to be a judge; the President is required under the constitution to state reasons for deeming each of the six names on the list as unacceptable; the President is obliged to select a person from the six names on the list unless he has determined positively that the persons are unacceptable as fit and proper for appointment and whether a finding of act by the president that one or more persons on the list is

President David Granger being interviewed by members of the media

not fit and proper renders the entire list as unacceptable.

The Government argued that the Chief Justice vindicated its position that it is the President who must determine whether the list of nominees submitted by the Opposition Leader is acceptable. The Chief Justice also confirmed in her ruling that it is the President, acting in his own deliberate judgment, who must determine whether a person is ‘fit and proper.’

Justice George-Wiltshire, in her ruling, advised that there is no legal requirement for the President to state

reasons for rejecting a list, though it is her belief that in the furtherance of democracy and good governance, he should, since Article 161 (2) speaks to the need for dialogue and compromise.

In a statement, the government said that the President has made consultation and dialogue priorities by meeting with the Opposition Leader and other members of the Opposition as recent as June 12, 2017. They had previously met on March 8, 2017.

“After the first list had been rejected on Constitu-

tional grounds, the Head of State and Mr. Jagdeo engaged in a period of consultations, with legal representatives from the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) meeting with the Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Mr. Basil Williams, to ensure that there was a clear understanding of the requirements as stated in the Constitution,” the statement noted.

Subsequent to the ruling, Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo told the media that he is likely to appeal in part, the decision of Justice George-Wilshire on the interpretation of Article 161 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana relative to the selection of a Chairman. The Opposition Leader was a named party to the case brought by city businessman Marcel Gaskin, who has also indicated that he instructed his lawyers to file a Notice of Appeal on Justice George’s decision.

Vessels in Moruca fatal Poultry farmer on fraud charge collision were unlicensed A PRELIMINARY investigation into the recent Moruca River boat collision in the involving a 40HP and 75HP powered wooden vessels, has revealed that the operators of both vessels were unlicensed.

The collision has so far claimed the life of one passenger, a second man who is believed to have perished also is yet to be found and search continue for him.

A statement from Maritime Administration (MARAD) on Wednesday noted that the vessels were not equipped with navigational lights. George Piper, a Pomeroon River farmer and his son Ravin Piper, 18, along with another man identified only as ‘Wood’ were tossed out of a vessel in which they were travelling late Friday night at the mouth of the Moruca River near the Atlantic Coast.

The 18-year-old’s body was discovered on Sunday while his father is yet to be found. Relatives of the duo

called on authorities to conduct a thorough investigation as something seemed amidst.

According to a relative, the men were returning to the Farm Beach area where they reside when the two vessels collided. The relative said ‘Wood’ told them that he was operating the vessel’s light while Ravin Piper was operating the engine; his father was asleep at the time of the collision.

‘Wood’ told the Piper family that he looked up while operating the light and saw a larger vessel, which was operated by the Kumaka District Hospital at Moruca, in their path. As a result, he jumped out of the boat but the elder Piper was asleep and his son was hit in the face by the impact.

Meanwhile, MARAD said passenger vessels are allowed by the Administration to operate after sunset whenever there is an emergency case involving the transporting of sick persons to the nearest hospital; however some operators are

non-compliant in this regard.

“MARAD will continue in its effort to ensure that the river safety rules are maintained on the country’s waterways,” the statement noted.

It is in this light that MARAD has collaborated with the Guyana Defence Force’s (GDF) Coast Guard to conduct marine exercises within riverain areas of the country. The exercised commenced on Monday in the Parika-Supenaam area.

“The marine exercises will be ongoing, and involves joint patrols, comprising of MARAD Officers, Fisheries Officers, and the Coast Guard who will check the certification and registration of vessels and boat operators, and also ensuring that the operators comply with all river safety rules,” the statement noted.

Targeted areas include Bartica, Mazaruni, Charity, Pomeroon, Moruca Mabaruma, Morawhanna, Port Kaituma, and Berbice.

A TWENTY-two-year-old resident of Independent Street, La Grange, West Bank Demerara was on Wednesday placed on $100,000 bail on a charge of fraud.

It is alleged that Mohammad Khan on June 26, 2017, in Georgetown, being entrusted by Steven Roger with $500,000 in order to deposit the money into Roger’s account, fraudulently converted the money to his own

use and benefit.

The accused man who did not had a lawyer pleaded not guilty to the offence.

Police Prosecutor, Simone Payne, did not object to bail and stated that the file is incomplete. The poultry farmer was placed on $100,000 bail and is expected to make his next court appearance on August 2, 2017.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

City Hall awaits response from AG – as Parking Meter consultations continue

By Telesha Ramnarine CHAIRMAN of the committee renegotiating the parking meter deal, Councillor Malcolm Ferreira said the team is now looking forward to meet Attorney General (AG) Basil Williams, who is one of the main persons that must be consulted.

Ferreira told the Chronicle on Wednesday that Williams was written to and all letters regarding consultations were sent out.

Although the team has gotten no word from him as yet, some amount of success was garnered elsewhere.

He noted that Minister of Communities Ronald Bulkan responded almost immediately after receiving his letter. “As it is now, we look forward to hearing from him

(Williams),” said Ferreira.

Ferreira and team were supposed to have already wrapped up work on the negotiations, but the Council last month voted to give them an extension to the end of July.

In providing an update to the Council on the consultations last month, Ferreira had said that some quarters of society were not cooperating in coming forward to voice their concerns.

One single resident from the parking meter zone had turned up for consultations on the day that was set aside by the team, he recalled.

Minibus and taxi drivers, too, have not cooperated as much as they should have when consultations were planned with them.

Even after a poor turnout from this group, the commit-

tee sought to set up a tent at the Stabroek Market Square and went around to personally to invite persons to share their concerns.

“The taxi drivers responded, and I am left to conclude that most minibus drivers are so busy with the hustle that they can’t take a few minutes to make a contribution, or they simply don’t care,” Ferreira said, adding, “The response from drivers was nothing near the amount that should have been present, given the fact that traffic management directly affects their livelihood.”

According to him, the committee went even further by producing a questionnaire and went to speak with operators at the bus and car parks.

TRAFFIC CONTROL “The vast majority is of

Councillor, Malcolm Ferreira

the opinion that something has to be done to correct the current traffic situation in Georgetown,” he noted.

The committee also conducted two house-to-house evening consultations with residents in the metered zones.

CoI into jail break will start when escapees are caught

“We completed 345 questionnaires,” Ferreira said. “A little over 50 per cent of the taxi and bus drivers we spoke to do not live in Georgetown and 35 per cent do not own their own vehicles.

“It is sad but true that the public transportation system seems to be running on its own, more so than being controlled. It is up to us now to fix the whole system of transportation arrangements and allocation, as the simple truth is that there are more buses and cars than space is available on the parks. Hot plate is a major issue.”

He had said the committee plans to finish its houseto-house consultations, have a two-day business walkabout, and to consult with representatives of differently-abled organisations, as well as the Council’s legal team.

Meanwhile, Minister Bulkan had communicat-

ed Cabinet’s decision for a 90-day suspension of the metered parking system, but the Town Clerk had opted for legal advice to challenge the minister’s order, resulting in a majority vote by City councillors to put the order on hold.

Minister Bulkan was subsequently directed by Cabinet to immediately suspend the by-laws which govern the project.

The City Council thereafter approved a seven-member team to negotiate a revised parking meter contract with Smart City Solutions, the company to which City Hall granted the concession to install meters in the City.

Councillor Ferreira was elected chairman of the team that comprises Councillors Noelle ChowChee, Carlyle Goring, Tricia Richards, Ivelaw Henry, Roopnarine Persaud and Heston Bostwick.

Top NGSA student from Den Amstel visits President

– some Lusignan prisoners transferred, trouble makers kept in pasture

By Navendra Seoraj THERE will be no Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the recent fire at the Georgetown Prison until all the escapees are caught, according to Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan.

He told the Guyana Chronicle that the main focus is to capture the four escapees, Stafrei Alexander, Cobena Stephens aka “OJ”, Mark Royden Williams and Uree Varswyk, who are still on the run.

“We will not start or convene a CoI until these prisoners are caught,” said Ramjattan. He explained, however, that there will be additional opportunities to examine the responses of the disciplined forces during the investigation.

The fire and riot on July 9, caused the destruction of most of the facilities at the prison, leaving approximately 1000 prisoners to share a space with the inmates at the Lusignan prison, East Coast Demerara. And, according to the Minister, the issue of having the prisoners housed properly is also of paramount importance to the administration.

Officials of the Ministry and other stakeholders have so far managed to control

President David Granger presenting Ms. Tyra Walks with a laptop computer and a gift voucher for books

A bird’s eye view of the pasture and the newly-constructed concreted facility where the prisoners are being shifted

the congestion at Lusignan, by transferring some of the prisoners to other prisons and shifting those who were housed in a pasture to a newly built tarmacked facility next to the pasture.

Minister Ramjattan said they have transferred over 400 prisoners to the new facility, while over 100 prisoners who are “bad-behaved” will remain in the pasture.

“We are keeping them there to ensure that they do not contaminate the new facility with their ignorance… we are however doing some

remedial (work) to the pasture by getting some sand and more permanent tents in there to make the area a bit more pleasant,” he said.

In addition, the Minister pointed out that work on the rehabilitation of the Georgetown Prison is moving slowly because they need to acquire more money to repair the administrative and kitchen area among others.

When it is completed, he said, it will be able to house 250 prisoners. Another facility is also being developed and when it is completed it will be able

to house another 100-odd prisoners. In the meantime, prisoners who are remanded will be sent to the fenced area at the Lusignan Prison.

A number of prisoners who had almost reached the time for their release have been sent home or granted bail so as to reduce the congestion at the prisons.

It was outlined that the objectives of the current plan are to ensure security of the prisoners, security of the prisons, to recapture the other four escapees and to restore order in the prisons.

PRESIDENT David Granger on Wednesday met with little Ms. Tyra Walks from Den Amstel Village, West Coast Demerara (WCD), who topped her school at the recent National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA) with 501 marks, securing a place at St. Rose’s High School. She was accompanied to State House by her mother, Ms. Candacy Walks and sister, Ms. Capreace Walks.

The Head of State first met Ms. Walks in 2013 during one of his community meetings as Opposition Leader at Den Amstel. At that meeting, she had a conversation with the President who impressed upon her the importance of education in improving her life. Ms. Walks said that engagement left her inspired and motivated to pursue her education with greater determination and her efforts paid off with her outstanding NGSA performance.

After receiving her ex-

amination results, she wrote to the President requesting a meeting, to which he readily agreed. During their conversation, President Granger asked Ms. Walks what field she would like to have a career in, to which she answered, “I want to be a paediatrician and hopefully one day own my own hospital”.

The President congratulated her and encouraged her to keep studying so that she can pursue her dreams of becoming a doctor. He also presented her with a laptop computer and a gift voucher redeemable at Austin’s Book Services. The President, as a matter of policy, continues to ensure that education is placed on the front burner of his development agenda. His relentless push to have ‘every child in school’ has seen the implementation of several programmes and considerable investment poured into the sector. (Ministry of the Presidency)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Linden protest broke the back of PPP – AG tells candlelight memorial

By Vanessa Braithwaite LINDEN 2012 protest contributed greatly to the APNU+AFC victory at the 2015 general elections, Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Basil Williams has acknowledged, saying that the attempts by the previous administration to hike electricity rates in the town resulting in a 36- day protest in July 2012, is one of the main reasons the coalition won the 2015 elections.

Williams acknowledged also that Linden voted solidly for the coalition party.

Williams was at the time addressing the candlelight vigil held in commemoration of the three Linden martyrs; Ron Sommerset, Shemroy Bouyea and Allan Lewis, who were shot dead, during a bloody and fiery protest

which took place on July 18, 2012.

The vigil saw a reasonable turn out, of mostly regional political figures, family members and close friends of the martyrs. Minister Williams who gave the feature address, said that one of the major successes of the protest, in addition to the continuation of subsidised electricity for the town, is the removal of the PPP from power and this would not have been possible if Lindeners, who were marginalised by the party for 23 years, did not vote as they did in 2015.

It is for this reason that the three martyrs should always be remembered and their names should live on.

“We believe, five years ago, that the events contributed greatly to the removal of the last government from

Minister of Legal Affairs and Attorney General, Basil Williams, lights his candle with Municipality Councillor, Loma Moseley, at the candle light vigil held on Tuesday evening

power, there is no question about that, people had enough of the PPP and so Shemroy, Ron and Allan, they could rest comfortably

Residents of Linden form the initials of the three martyrs with the lit candles at the site where they were shot on July 18th 2012

where they are, to know that they contributed to the advent of the APNU- AFC coalition,” Williams said.

The Attorney General affirmed that as a result of the one seat majority that the Opposition achieved at the 2011 elections, the PPP then attempted to bully the people of Linden into submission by means of the electricity hike but they did not succeed.

“And, so they know that their end was near after the 2011 election and so it was no surprise that they attempted to retaliate against Linden,” he said.

As a result of this great sacrifice, Williams in responding to a request made

by Regional Chairman, Renis Morian, said that he will make representation for a monument to be built in memory of the three martyrs, as well as, to add the commemoration events to the calendar of national events since they were the catalyst for change. Five years later,

Williams said that change is evident in Linden and the people are now breathing comfortably but posited that justice is still out there for martyrs.

Former Regional Chairman, Sharma Solomon, who played a pivotal role in the protest, in a short address, said that the main focus of the commemoration should be the three martyrs, as well as, those who were seriously injured. He urged Lindeners to continue to support their families, not only on July 18th, but regularly.

“They need our support…even in terms of our prayers…our strength, in terms of the support we give, we have people who are severely injured and still carrying their injuries.”

Solomon said that the aim of the protest has been met since Lindeners continue to benefit from subsidised electricity.

“Five years, on, the electricity bill and subsidies that came out of Linden, is almost $3 B…five years the subsidies are more than what it cost to take care of this entire region, five years, it is $15B cash,” Solomon said while adding that cost would have been placed on the backs of every Lindener.

Councillor, Charles Sampson urged the government to consider strategies that will lower the consumption of electricity in the town, such as the purchasing of energy saving bulbs and the use of alternative energies such as a wind turbine.

CONTINUED SUPPORT Member of Parliament, Audwin Rutherford who represented the AFC, said that the party will continue to support Lindeners in any

protest against injustice, as was done in 2012. He added that the welfare of the relatives of those that lost their lives will now be embraced by the AFC, even more than was done in the past.

Member of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira described July 18 as a date that has scarred his memory since he lost two friends and a neighbour, but also remembers that time as one where Lindeners demonstrated unity for a unified cause.

“The people’s struggle as it was called, really demonstrated the envious bond of our community, and we will continue to exhibit such unity for the development of our people and community whenever and if necessary.”

The candle light vigil was held at the spot where the three Lindeners were shot while the wreaths were laid on their graves at the Bamia Cemetery. The candles were lit and placed in the form of the martyrs’ initials.

In June 2012, Lindeners took to the streets to protest the increase cost for electricity from $5 per Kilowatt to $65 that was being proposed by the then Government. The protest actions escalated and the entire town was shut down while main roads became impassable. A Commission of Inquiry (CoI) found that the martyrs were shot by law enforcement officers.

Many public buildings and vehicles were burnt while public structures were destroyed. The period of events was described as the Linden struggle. Presently, Lindeners continue to enjoy the subsidised payment of electricity of $5 per kilowatt per hour.

Processing fee approved Cellphone thief tells court he was high on ganja for gold sold to GGB AFTER two rounds of consultations with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), which also involved representatives of the Ministry of Natural Resources and members of the Board of Directors of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), and based on an acceptance that cost recovery measures were necessary at the GGB, a processing fee of $2,500 per ounce has been finalised and will be charged on all gold sold to the GGB, effective September 1, 2017.

The fee will not be charged by the licensed gold dealers, the Ministry of Natural Resources said in a statement. According to the ministry, the processing fee will enable the GGB to embark upon a structured and targeted programme to better manage some of its present and future annual operational expenses.

Minister Trotman thanked the executives of the GGDMA for its responsible partnering in addressing this thorny longstanding issue.

The minister also shared that currently all areas of GGB

operations are under review with a view to enhancements and greater financial prudence.

Chairman GHK Lall, speaking for the directors of the GGB, thanked the minister for his timely intervention. He also applauded the executives of the GGDMA for their understanding of the situation, and for participating in a process characterised by frank and practical exchanges, and which has led to what must be regarded as a positive outcome all around.

A TEENAGE boy was remanded to prison when he appeared at the Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday before Magistrate Fabayo Azore charged for allegedly robbing two men of their smartphones.

It is alleged that on Thursday 6 July, 2017 at Lot 52 North Road, Bourda, Mawali Clarke, armed with a knife, robbed Saheed Khan of one S5 Samsung cellphone valued $120,000 and Joel Ramsuran of one S4 Samsung cellphone valued $45,000.

An unrepresented Clarke of lot 564 Section ‘D’ Turkeyen, pleaded guilty to the charge. He

Mowally Clarke [News Source photo]

attributed his actions to being under the influence of marijuana and offered an apology to both his victims and the court.

Police Prosecutor Simone Payne stated that after the matter was reported to the police

by the victims, CCTV footage was obtained showing the crime and the suspect. Mawali Clarke was later arrested and charged. Clarke, in a final statement before being remanded, said that the phones were returned and again apologized to the court for his actions.

Clarke, who also stated that he lives with his unemployed mother, is however no stranger to the court, as in 2016 he pleaded guilty to a similar charge and was sentenced to 18 months in prison. The defendant was remanded to prison until August 2, 2017 when he will be sentenced.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

No rush to repossess houselots – new housing schemes to be developed at Fort Ordinance, New Amsterdam THE Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) is in no rush to repossess houselots, its Chief Executive Officer, Lelon Saul said.

There are no available house lots in any part of the country and the CH&PA is looking for ways to create spaces to address the backlog of about 25,000 applications.

Saul told the Guyana Chronicle that although they are not repossessing any house lots for now, 28,000 unoccupied houselots, owned by persons across the country, are being scrutinised “It is an ongoing exercise, but we have not repossessed any land… our

biggest problem right now is why people are not building,” he said.

They are nonetheless looking at new areas to develop housing schemes.

The authority has so far identified lands at Perseverance, East Bank Demerara; Fort Ordinance, Canje Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne); and an area in New Amsterdam, Region Six. Saul said the aim is to provide adequate housing to all by making major investments in the housing sector, developing green spaces and promoting squatter relocation.

The CH&PA held a housing expo last May to improve

solutions for low and moderate-income houses for all Guyanese.

“This will be done through a partnership with

private sector and civil society, so that we will have an integrated and comprehensive approach to the regularisation of squatting

areas,” Minister within the Ministry of Communities with responsibility for Housing Valerie Patterson said.

Processing fee approved for gold sold to GGB CH&PA Chief Executive Office Lelon Saul

the housing-delivery system in the country, by pursuing a range of settlement developments which include construction of various housing

AFTER two rounds of consultations with the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), which also involved representatives of the Ministry of Natural Resources and members of the Board of Directors of the Guyana Gold Board (GGB), and based on an acceptance that cost recovery measures were necessary at the GGB, a processing fee of $2,500 per ounce has been finalised and will be charged on all gold sold to the GGB, effective September 1, 2017.

The fee will not be charged by the licensed gold dealers, the Ministry of Natural Resources said in a statement. According to the ministry, the processing fee will enable the GGB to embark upon a structured and targeted programme to better manage some

of its present and future annual operational expenses.

Minister Trotman thanked the executives of the GGDMA for its responsible partnering in addressing this thorny longstanding issue.

The minister also shared that currently all areas of GGB operations are under review with a view to enhancements and greater financial prudence.

Chairman GHK Lall, speaking for the directors of the GGB, thanked the minister for his timely intervention. He also applauded the executives of the GGDMA for their understanding of the situation, and for participating in a process characterised by frank and practical exchanges, and which has led to what must be regarded as a positive outcome all around.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Cocaine valued $85M seized in Pomeroon River

THE Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard on Monday intercepted a speedboat with 94.954 kilograms of cocaine, which carries a local street value of about $85M, in the Pomeroon River.

According to a brief statement from the Customs Anti-Narcotic Unit (CANU), two male occupants identified as John DaSilva called “Martin” of Grant Strong Hope, Pomeroon River, Essequibo Coast and Kevin Fitz Gordon of Jib Housing Scheme, also on the Essequibo, were heading to Georgetown but when they saw the Coast Guard vessel, they decided to turn around and tried to escape.

However, the two Guyanese men were intercepted by the Coast Guards and arrested after the discovery was made. They were intercepted about four miles off the mouth of the Pomeroon River. The men, vessel and

cocaine for the purpose of trafficking. He was acquitted on the charge but in June 2017 he was arrested by CANU ranks for possession of a large quantity of US currency and handed over to SOCU. It is reported that a large quantity of similarly packaged cocaine were seized in Suriname earlier this month.

The vessel in which the suspected cocaine was found

The suspected cocaine that was found

by GDF Coast Guard in the speedboat

suspected narcotics were handed over to CANU officers.

CANU ranks have begun processing the vessel and its contents. The two male occupants of the vessel remain in custody. Both suspects are expected to be presented before a city Magistrate this week.

Gordon was previously charged and placed before the court in 2015 for the possession of 1.0854 kg of

Region 10 MP charged Murder accused fit to with obstructing peace stand trial – psychiatric evaluation finds MEMBER of Parliament, Jermaine Figueira, was on Wednesday charged with the offence of playing music without first obtaining a licence from the Magistrate of the district.

He appeared at the Linden Magistrate’s Court and pleaded not guilty before Magistrate Clive Nurse.

Figueira was then released on his own recognisance.

According to the circumstances surrounding the case, on June 24, Figueira held a Stag promotion event, which was deemed public, at Figgy’s Grocery Mart, Wismar Linden, without obtaining the necessary licence from the court and permission from the police.

According to the police,

Region 10 MP, Jermaine Figueira

he was warned to desist from holding the event but he continued, hence he was charged and placed before the court.

Also appearing before the

magistrate was ‘DJ’ Kevin Primus, who was charged with disturbing the public peace. It is alleged that he was instructed by Figueira to continue playing the music although a licence or permit was not granted by the police.

Figueira, in an invited comment to the Guyana Chronicle, said that he has the greatest respect for the law and law enforcement officers and would not engage in anything that is unlawful.

“It is my belief that there is a clear case that the charge was misdirected and as you are aware, the matter is before the court, so I would not want to give any further comment in this regard,” he said.

AFTER facing the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for almost two years for the murder of his 83– year – old bedridden father, Ali Mohammed was recently deemed fit to stand trial following a psychiatric report.

Since January 2015, 40-year-old Mohammed made his first court appearance and was remanded for allegedly killing Mohamed Suleiman on January 13, 2015 at their Providence Public Road, East Bank Demerara home.

During his first arraignment, former Chief Magistrate, Priya Sewnarine-Beharry, had ordered that Mohammed undergo a psychiatric evaluation, after his attorney stated that he was not competent to stand trial.

The matter was then trans-

ferred to City Magistrate Fabayo Azore, who in 2016 ordered that Mohammed undergo another psychiatric evaluation.

Recently, the psychiatric report, done by Dr. Bhairo Harry, deemed Mohammed mentally fit to stand trial.

The Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the murder has since commenced before Magistrate Azore and a police witness has so far testified.

The PI has been adjourned until July 25.

According to reports, on the day in question, Mohammed armed himself with a piece of wood and dealt his sister several lashes causing her to run out of the house. The accused went into the bedroom where his father, who was bedridden since suffering a stroke, was and dealt

Ali Mohammed

the elderly man several lashes with the wood. The man was rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where he was referred to the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPH). He subsequently died.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Jagdeo supports CoI into ‘troubled times’ during his Presidency

By Ravin Singh

CONFRONTED with tales of his legacy, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has said that he is supportive of a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into “troubled times” which unfolded during his presidency (1999-2011). “…we are opened to it.

The President can name whatever CoI he wants to. He has been doing this liberally. I don’t know what’s preventing him from doing this, because he has full discretion,” Jagdeo said at a Wednesday afternoon press conference.

The Opposition Leader reminded reporters of a promised CoI into what President David Granger described as “troubled times,” and shared that it would be “interesting” if the President actually pursues this promise.

“We’ve heard him promise the CoI and it would interesting because, maybe he should pursue it if he really wants to know the truth,” the Opposition Leader charged.

During his address to Par-

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

liament in October of last year, the President told Members of Parliament (MPs) of the descent of this country during the Bharrat Jagdeo era, describing it as the “darkest hour” that was characterised by drug-driven chaos and bloodshed.

During Jagdeo’s 12-year rule, there were three bloody massacres: at Lusignan where 11 people were killed; Bar-

tica, where another 12 were killed; and Lindo Creek where seven miners were ruthlessly slaughtered. In addition to that, there were countless extra-judicial killings - with some activists estimating that around 400 Afro Guyanese males were gunned down and many still missing.

Between 2003 and 2006, it is believed that convicted drug-trafficker, Shaheed Rog-

er Khan, had set up a criminal network which included active policemen and a number of former ranks, ostensibly to go after criminals, while protecting his narco-trafficking interests.

He was nabbed in neighbouring Suriname in 2006 while fleeing local police, and was later handed over to U.S. authorities. Although the PPP government had sought to distance itself from Khan, the drug-trafficker had stated publicly in an advertisement in local newspapers that he had been fighting crime on behalf of the Jagdeo-led government.

And according to the President in his October address: “The most unforgettable experiences and most frightening evidence of our descent into chaos were the bloody, drug-driven, decade-long ‘troubles’.”

He offered that “the troubles” will be remembered as the “darkest hour in our history”. He told the MPs that during the first “deadly decade,” there were 1,317

murders and 7, 865 armed robberies.

A few months after assuming office in May 2015, President Granger shared his government’s intention to probe the large number of persons who died during that period. In 2012, as the then Leader of the Opposition, Granger drafted a motion which sought to investigate, among other things, the killing of Agriculture Minister Satyadeow Sawh and the massacres at Lusignan, Bartica and Lindo Creek. The PPP and the other opposition party, the Alliance for Change (AFC) had called for an extension of the time period referenced in the motion which caused it to be deferred.

But the President has said that he remains committed to pursuing a thorough probe of the activities during those years. Earlier this year, the Head of State noted that government was in the process of gathering evidence to conduct the probe, but that there was some amount of difficulty in that area.

“We are working on the evidence…It is still a commitment to the mothers of the children who either disappeared or died. We are collecting information, not in a formal way but some information has to be collected from various sources because many of the actual eyewitnesses have been killed during the troubles.”

And while Jagdeo welcomes the move, he hopes that it would not be “shut down” as was the case with the CoI into the death of Dr. Walter Rodney.

“We’ve heard him [the President] promise the CoI and it would interesting because, maybe he should pursue it if he really wants to know the truth; and that it would not be shut down like the Walter Rodney one when there’s an adverse findings about the role of many people in Parliament now; many of our current leaders in government played in the troubled times,” the Opposition Leader said.

GSMA launches agro-processors exhibition

By Vishani Ragobeer THE GUYANA Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) has launched “Uncapped”, an agro-processors exhibition, market and food festival geared to boost the marketing capacity of local agro-processors.

The event which will be held on October 27- 29, is expected to feature some

80- 100 local exhibitors who will be given the chance to showcase and market local products.

GMSA President, Shyam Nokta, speaking at the launch at the Sophia Exhibition Complex said the initiative was conceptualised due to the challenges being faced by local producers and processors.

“While there are chal-

lenges which we would like to see addressed, the GMSA has recognised the need to showcase what manufacturers and agro-processors are already doing,” he related.

Emphasis will be placed on marketing small and medium scale processors and helping them synergise with organisations such as The Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED).

Patrons at the launch view some of the locally produced sauces that will be showcased at the upcoming agro-processors’ exhibition, market and food festival [Samuel Maughn Photos]

The GMSA president related that the exhibition is not a “one-off” something but the beginning of a series of similar exhibitions showcasing locally manufactured produce.

According to Business Minister Dominic Gaskin, who also addressed the launch, Guyanese are pressuring themselves by importing foods that can be

produced here.

According to him, Guyana has abundant resources to establish a productive sector that can not only cater for the needs of locals but also the global market.

And, he said, the launch presents a unique opportunity for local businesses to network and market their products.

Local producers and pro-

cessors would also be able to share ideas and strategies to assist in the overall development of the sector.

The Ministry of Business is looking at several initiatives to help industries which require some assistance to become viable and sustainable.

The launch was part of a wider initiative to boost the local production and manufacturing sectors.

Business Minister Dominic Gaskin samples the locally produced Plantain Fries

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Dr. Roopnaraine tenders resignation – WPA supports decision

Minister of Public Service, Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine

By Ravin Singh JUST one month after being transferred from the Education Ministry to the Ministry of Public Service, Dr. Roopnaraine has tendered his resignation from that post.

This was confirmed by the Working Peoples’ Alliance (WPA) – the party which Dr. Roopnaraine represents in the coalition government. The WPA executive submitted his resignation letter to President David Granger on Sunday. When questioned about the matter on Wednesday, the President confirmed that he was in receipt of a letter from Dr. Roopnaraine but that he was not in a position to disclose its contents.

“I received a letter from Dr. Roopnaraine, the contents of which I will not disclose. But he cannot resign until I have accepted his resignation. And, as far as I’m concerned I have not done so,” President Granger told reporters.

Asked if he would be accepting the resignation letter, the President offered that: “I have to meet with Dr. Roopnaraine to discuss certain matters with him and when those discussions have ended, if he wishes to speak with the media, he [can] speak with the media. But right now Dr. Roopnaraine remains a member of the Cabinet.”

Meanwhile, the WPA said that Dr. Roopnaraine consulted with the party before tendering his resignation on Sunday, and that the party

“fully supports” the decision.

“Dr. Roopnaraine consulted with the WPA prior to him submitting his resignation letter and he gave us his reasons and we are in full agreement. The decision is his and we fully support him,” WPA executive member, Dr David Hinds told the Guyana Chronicle, on behalf of the party.

When asked what the reasons cited by Dr. Roopnaraine were, Dr. Hinds declined to answer. He said that it would be premature for him to make a pronouncement on it, given the fact that President Granger is expected to meet with Dr. Roopnaraine to discuss the matter.

Based on an agreement between the six parties which form the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU), each party is entitled to a ministerial post. Those parties are: the Guyana Action Party (GAP), the Justice for All Party (JFAP), the National Front Alliance (NFA), the National Democratic Front (NDF), the Peoples’ National Congress (PNC), and the Working Peoples’ Alliance (WPA).

Should Dr. Roopnaraine be relieved of his duties, it means that he would have to be replaced by another WPA member whose name appeared on the National Top Up List for the 2015 general and regional elections. The only other three WPA members whose names are on the list are: Chairperson of the party, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, and executive members, Desmond Trotman and Rishi

Thakur.

Asked who from the three was likely to replace Dr. Roopnaraine should the post become vacant, Dr. Hinds said that he could not say at this point in time.

He offered that persons are under consideration and the party has an idea of where it wants to go.

At a WPA press conference in June, both Trotman and Thakur indicated that they were not interested in a ministerial post should one be offered. This disclosure was made subsequent to Dr. Roopnaraine being reassigned from the Education Ministry to the Department of Public Service. How-

ever, Dr. Hinds shared on Wednesday that since that press conference, there have been discussions at the executive level of the party and the positions advanced by Trotman and Thakur were reconsidered.

He maintained that the party has a sense of where it wants to go and is work-

ing towards achieving that.

It has been speculated that poor health was the reason Dr. Roopnaraine was transferred from the Education Ministry. Similar sentiments have since been expressed regarding his resignation which is to be considered by the President.

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Gafoors receives big payout from P&P BUSINESS magnate Sattaur Gafoor has lauded the services of local business P&P Insurance Brokers

which recently settled a multi-billion dollar claim following two fires which gutted parts of the Gafoors

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Houston Complex last year.

Said to be Guyana’s single largest ever fire claim, P&P was tasked with han-

Firefighters battling the blaze during Gafoors’ first fire (file photo)

dling the claim which was made after conflagrations gutted the business in May and in October last year.

Losses were estimated at more than G$12B. At a specially arranged luncheon hosted by the Gafoors Group of Companies recently, business magazine Guyana Inc reported recently that Gafoor recognised the services of the insurance company and expressed appreciation to persons and organisations that assisted in the aftermath of the fires.

In brief remarks, Gafoor acknowledged the good that

financial institutions can do despite the conventional wisdom that often defame such institutions.

Insurance companies are key contributors to human welfare and the businessman said he was honoured to be a client of P& P Insurance, who stepped up to the plate following the fire.

P&P Chief Executive Officer, Bishwa Panday, expressed appreciation to Gafoor for the kind remarks.

Panday said it was challenging to have Guyana’s single largest ever fire claim followed shortly by another

claim. However, P&P met the challenges and was able to successfully negotiate both sets of claims to the satisfaction of the client.

At the time of the second fire, Gafoor said “not even during the tumultuous years of the 1980s; our first fire was on the 9, May 2016 — basically 64 years after we started business”.

Explaining the cause of the first fire, Gafoor said there was no electricity within the bond where the fire started, neither electrical wire but combustible items were inside.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Simmons, Yadram inspire Young Windies to dramatic series win DURBAN, South Africa (CMC) – Off-spinner Bhaskar Yadram held his nerve to bowl a brilliant last over as West Indies Under-19s snatched a dramatic two-run victory over South Africa Under-19s to seal a 3-2 win in the five-match Youth One-Day International series here yesterday.

Set 245 to win at Chatsworth Oval, the hosts entered the final over requiring eight runs but Yadram conceded just five runs to restrict them to 242 for seven off their 50 overs.

In fact, the Young Proteas were in pole position to take victory with just three required from the last two deliveries but Yadram kept Kenan Smith scoreless off both, to complete a phenomenal spell.

All told, the Guyanese ended with three for 37 – including two wickets in the 44th over which blew the game wide open after South Africa U-19s seemed to be cruising to

victory.

Left-arm spinner Jeavor Royal was again among the wickets with two for 31 from his 10 overs.

The result was heartbreaking for opener Matthew Breetzke who struck exactly 100 – his second century of the series – while partner Jiveshan Pillay got 44 and Gerald Coetzee, 33.

Earlier, West Indies U-19s rode on the back of opener Keagan Simmon’s unbeaten 107 as they gathered 244 for five off their 50 overs, after being sent in.

Opener Joshua Persaud, in only his second match of the series, struck 46 while Alick Athanaze extended his decent form with 40.

Seamer Thando Ntini, the son of legendary South Africa Test fast bowler Makhaya Ntini, claimed two for 38.

Simmons took the Manof-the-Match honour while Yadram was adjudged Man-of-the-Series for his

205 runs – including two half-centuries – along with his five wickets.

The Young Windies were handed a great start

by Simmons and Persaud who put on 83 for the first wicket to frustrate the South Africans.

While the left-handed Simmons faced 152 deliveries and counted 14 fours, wicketkeeper Persaud struck eight fours in his 62ball innings.

When Persaud perished in the 21st over, Simmons put on a further 39 for the second wicket with Yadram whose 21 came from 32 balls.

But Yadram fell in the 32nd over at 122 and captain Emmanuel Stewart suffered the indignity of a first-ball duck in the next over with no runs added, to leave the Windies stumbling.

However, Simmons remained solid and found an ally in Athanaze who produced a busy innings containing four fours off

just 45 balls, as the pair added a critical 93 for the fourth wicket.

Trinidadian Simmons raised his half-century off 101 balls in the 34th over before stepping on the gas to gather his second fifty off just 46 deliveries.

Right-hander Breetzke then put South Africa in the driver’s seat, anchoring a first-wicket stand of 112 with Pillay and a further 70 for the second wicket with Coetzee, as the hosts marched to 182 for one in the 39th over.

But Royal struck key blows, accounting for Pillay in the 21st over before returning to claim Coetzee, sparking a collapse where six wickets tumbled for 55 runs.

The turning point came when Breetzke, who faced 114 balls and struck seven fours and three sixes, was one of two wickets to fall in successive deliveries to Yadram, as the contest opened up in the 44th over.

Moore takes Guyana’s first win at the Commonwealth Youth Games

YOUNG boxer Christopher Moore won his 60kg bout against Cyprus’s Dimitris Christofi yesterday afternoon in Guyana’s first silver lining, at the Commonwealth Youth Games ongoing in the Bahamas.

Boxing continues for Guyana tomorrow when Keevin Allicock takes on North Ireland’s Kian Bittles in the 52kg category, while Guyana’s bid in the athletics competition begins today when Kenisha

Phillips and Onasha Rogers step out in the Girls’ 100m heats.

In tomorrow’s athletics Guyana will have Tremaine Browne in the Boys’ long jump. While Phillips and Rogers will be out again for the Girls’ 200m heats, Daniel Melville will be in the Boys’ 800m heats.

Earlier yesterday, swimmers Patrice Mahaica and Daniel Scott were in the pool representing Guyana, but did not move into the finals

of their respective events.

This followed Joshua Buchanan’s performance in Judo on Monday, where he lost 00 – 11 to Barbados’ Khalil Jessamy in a repechage match.

In the pool, Guyana’s Mahaica finished eighth in heat three of four with a time of 32.83 seconds in the Girls’ 50m butterfly.

The heat was won by England’s Alicia Wilson who clocked 27.68 seconds, the second fastest tie in a heats.

In the Boys’ 200m freestyle Scott finished third in his heats, stopping the clock at 2:09.90s. The fastest heat’s time of 1:51.06s, was made by South Africa’s Jarryd Baxter.

Scott was also in the Boys’ 50m butterfly, where his time of 28.31 seconds placed him fifth in heat two of five.

Guyana is being represented in four of the nine sport disciplines being contested at the Games.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Last Sri Lanka tour changed India’s mindset, says Kohli

By Sudipto Ganguly MUMBAI, India (Reuters) The odds were against India the last time they toured Sri Lanka in 2015, but Virat Kohli led the inexperienced side to a comeback win in the Test series which changed the team’s mindset, the captain said yesterday.

“That tour for us was a landmark tour,” Kohli told reporters before India’s departure for the island country, where the team will play three Tests, five one-day internationals and a one-off Twenty20 match.

“If you look at the average age of that team a couple of years back ... obviously the players have matured from there on.”

India lost the first of the three-Test series against their South Asian neighbours but won the next two matches.

They have since gone on to beat West Indies away and registered home victories against South Africa, New Zealand, England, Bangladesh and Australia. Kohli’s men are currently ranked number one in the world.

“That tour for us was the start of the belief that we can win, win away from home and we have the side to win away from home.”

India arrived in Sri Lanka in 2015 having lost Test series in South Africa, New Zealand, England and Australia, during which long-term captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni retired from the format, handing over the reins to Kohli.

The 28-year-old couldn’t lead India to a win in a oneoff Test against Bangladesh, and criticism of the team reached its nadir after the loss in the first Test against Sri Lanka.

“We showed more belief in our abilities and that we could win from any situation,” Kohli said, referring to the victories in the second and third Tests.

“That really turned our mindset around. From then on you can see the results.”

India’s preparation has been less than ideal this time, too, with head coach Anil Kumble stepping down last month citing a breakdown in his relationship with skipper Kohli.

Former all-rounder Ravi Shastri was named as head coach last week, while Bharat Arun was appointed bowling coach and Sanjay Bangar was named assistant coach, following Shastri’s recommendations.

Shastri said he will approach his role with a fresh mind.

“Mine will be a refresh

Froome in control as Aru slips down the rankings S E R R E - C H E VA L I E R , France (Reuters) - Chris Froome kept control of his rivals in a gruelling Alpine ride to move a step closer to a fourth Tour de France title yesterday, retaining the leader’s yellow jersey after the 17th stage, won by Slovenia’s Primoz Roglic.

The defending champion was attacked by last year’s runner-up Romain Bardet and Ireland’s Dan Martin in the lung-busting ascent to the Col du Galibier but he stayed calm and covered every offensive move.

Bardet and Martin’s accelerations, however, were damaging for Fabio Aru as the Italian lost 31 seconds and slipped from second to fourth place overall.

Froome leads Colombian Rigoberto Uran and Bardet by 27 seconds each, while Aru is now 53 seconds off the pace.

“It is not a massive margin but it’s a margin that I’m relaxed and happy with if I can go into the time trial in Marseille with the same marSouth Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:30 hrs Surf’s Up 09:05 hrs Forest Fox 09:40 hrs Bold Coast 10:15 hrs Babuska Story 10:55 hrs Mrs Bader Irish Racing Tips Killarney 08:35 hrs Le Richebourg 09:05 hrs Nulife 09:35 hrs Double Speak 10:10 hrs Swamp Fox 10:40 hrs Our Dougal 11:15 hrs Dark Outsider 11:45 hrs Clondaw Warrior 12:20 hrs Special Ted

gin I’ll be pretty confident,” said Froome.

“My teammates rode out of their skin today. I am certainly feeling a lot better than I did in the Pyrenees which is a great sign and hopefully

tador victory as the two-time champion, too far down in the general classification to threaten Froome, threw caution to the wind with a long-range attack shortly before French President Emmanuel Macron

Chris Froome

I’ll have good legs again tomorrow.”

“I was surprised by Aru dropping time today. I expected him to go on the attack but it’s the third week of a Grand Tour that tests everyone and there is no hiding place if you’re having a bad day in the third week.”

Cycling enthusiasts had anticipated an Alberto ConEnglish Racing Tips Chepstow 08:50 hrs Demons Rock 09:20 hrs Ragstone View 09:55 hrs Fantasy Queen 10:25 hrs Magic Journey 11:00 hrs Farleigh Mac 11:30 hrs Lucky Clover 12:05 hrs Challow 12:35 hrs Tobouggaloo Hamilton 09:00 hrs Albert Street 09:30 hrs Picks Pinta 10:05 hrs Metisan 10:35 hrs Tor 11:10 hrs X Rted 11:40 hrs Somnambulist 12:15 hrs Cline

went into Tour director Christian Prudhomme’s car to follow the stage until the finish.

Today’s stage, a 179.5km ride from Briancon to the 2,360m Col d’Izoard, is likely to be the last-chance saloon for Bardet and Uran to unseat Froome ahead of Saturday’s final time trial, which is expected to favour the Briton.

Leicester 09:10 hrs Warm Oasis 09:45 hrs Supreme Power 10:50 hrs Parlance 11:20 hrs Ventura Knight 11:55 hrs Dove Mountain 12:30 hrs One Too many American Racing Tips Gulfstream Park Race 1 Lilokoi Race 2 Pink Mama Race 3 Mighty Mini Race 4 Abtaal Race 5 Awesome Mass Race 6 Catholic Boy Race 7 Sea Cookie Race 8 Wildcat wave Race 9

India’s cricket team captain Virat Kohli and head coach Ravi Shastri listen to a question during a news conference in Mumbai, India yesterday. (Danish Siddiqui)

button that will be pushed and I will carry on from where I left (off). I don’t come with any baggage,” the 55-year-old said.

“The team have done exceedingly well over three years and they are the people who deserve the credit more than anybody else.

These Ravi Shastris and Anil Kumbles will come and go.

The fabric of Indian cricket will remain.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Meet Guyana’s Centrobasket U17 Championship team

By Rawle Toney Guyana, will for the first time, participate in the FIBA Centrobasket U17 tournament, set for the Dominican Republic from July 26 – 30.

Guyana is placed in Group ‘A’ of the tournament that features Bahamas, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Jamaica, Mexico, Panama, Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands.

The Guyanese side will open their campaign against the Bahamas on July 26, followed by a clash with Puerto Rico on Thursday, July 27, and then close off their groupplay against Mexico on July 28.

Name: Kevon Wiggins Age: 16 School: Evander Childs Campus High School Position: Point Guard

Name: Andrew Johnson Age: 17 School: Plaisance Secondary Position: Point Guard

Name: Kelmar Carmichael Age: 16 School: Shooting Guard

Position: New Amsterdam Multilateral

Coach: Lugard Mohan

Name: Shemar France Age: 16 School: Berbice Educational Institute Position: Shooting Guard

Asst. Coach: Kenneth Avent

Physical Trainer: Jonas Anestal

Name: Anthony Yansen Age: 15 School: St Roses Position: Small Forward

Manager: Junior Hercules

Name: Akeem Crandon Age: 17 School: President’s College Position: Centre

Name: Jahleel Young Age: 16 School: Marian Academy Position: Power Forward

Name: Jermaine King Age: 16 School: Canjie Secondary Position: Centre

Name: Jether Harris Age: 14 School: Marian Academy Position: Point Guard

Name: Kwesi Roberts Age: 16 School: St Roses Position: Forward

Name: Nigel Bowen Age: 17 School: Plaisance Secondary Position: Shooting Guard

Name: Roydon Glasgow Age: 15 School: Bishops High Position: Point Guard

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Trojan Cycling Club - one of the leading … the focus is on the all-round aspects clubs in the country of our cyclists, says Steve Ramsuchit

By Colin Bynoe THE Trojan Cycling Club Perfection Service Ltd (PSL) was formed on October 10, 2010. Two years later the club became affiliated to the Guyana Cycling Federation

The club was established to provide equal opportunity to its members irrespective of gender, ethnicity, religion, political affiliation, economic or related backgrounds without discrimination, biases or prejudice.

Trojan PSL riders in (blue & black) at the TT Classics in October 2016

(GCF) Five years on, the club has made its name as one of the leading cycling clubs in the country.

Located Lot 28, Kent Street New Amsterdam, Team Trojan is governed by its constitution; in addition the executive body has a fundamental role within the club.

Cycling in Guyana has grown. The club aims to promote fair play and true sportsmanship, which are of utmost importance in the sporting world.

It’s clear to say that our cycling clubs need to foster disciplined individuals. The Trojan Cycling Club (PSL) seeks to promote friendship amongst

sportsmen, to encourage, nurture and create a healthy lifestyle for its followers.

Club president Mr Steve Ramsuchit reiterated the goals of Team Trojan: to redefine the sport, encourage team spirit and be a club second to none.

At present they are 19 registered cyclists with two veterans over 45. They are Archibald Williams and Steve Ramsuchit, Michael Hintzen,.

Everal Mundy, Shurland Sue Hang. Seniors, Jeban Crawford, Samuel Mootoo. Juniors: Romello Crawford, Curtis Dey, Jason Cameron. Females: Deance Welch, Christeen Matheson, Rosheika Crawford. Juvenile: Kenwin Collins, Robin McCullum. 12-14 Age Group: Jamar Heligar, Jonathan Ramsuchit. BMX; Shay Sue Hang, Raul Crawford.

Ramsuchit said the club is in need of sponsorship for all cyclists, who will have the opportunity to represent the club and Guyana at overseas events.

Financial assistance will aid in upgrading equipment, so performances will improve naturally through healthy living, he said.

“At present some of the

Guyana Under-19s looking to do well despite absence of turf practice ... depart for St Kitts tomorrow

By Rajiv Bisnauth DUE to the current rainy season, the two one-day practice games, part of the National Under-19 squad’s preparation ahead of Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional Tournament, were called off by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB).

The games were scheduled for Tuesday and yesterday at the Everest Cricket Club ground, but according to the Guyana Cricket Board’s Territorial Development Officer Colin Stuart, playing conditions at the venue were not suitable for cricket.

However, despite the absence of turf practice, the squad utilised the Chetram Singh Centre of Excellence at the LBI Community Centre on the East Coast of Demerara, and, according to coach Julian Moore, the technical aspect of each player was one area he focused on.

“Ideally we would have liked some turf sessions, but the inclement weather is

beyond our control,” Moore said.

He added, “Apart from utilising the LBI facility, we had two days of net sessions at Everest, along with additional

Guyana Under-19 coach Julian Moore

training at the National Park, so “yes” the weather affected us somewhat, but we utilised the LBI facility to its fullest.”

The CWI Under-19 Regional Tournament is scheduled to be played in St Kitts July-August.

Guyana will depart for St Kitts tomorrow. The Regional Under-19 tournament will return to a full slate of match-

es, following a few years of truncated competition.

The region’s leading youth players will get a chance to mix it up in five rounds of three-day matches, as well as seven rounds of Super50 one-day matches that also will include a composite side from ICC Americas.

The National Under-19 squad: Ronaldo Ali Mohamed (captain), Raymond Perez, Kevin Sinclair, Javed Karim, Kevlon Anderson, Ramnarine Chatura, Adrian Sukhwa, Alex Algoo, Richie Looknauth, Kheshram Seyhodan, Ashmead Nedd, Karan Arjpaul, Sylus Tyndall, Joshua Jones, Gavin Boodwa, Mark Jeffers, Joel Fortune, Stephon Campbell, Julian Moore (coach), Andy Ramnarine (manager/assistant coach).

Meanwhile, Bhaskar Yadram and Joshua Persaud will be joining the team upon their return from the West Indies Under-19 tour to South Africa.

cyclists are earmarked to represent Guyana in a number of overseas events.

Curtis Dey has been selected for the Caribbean Junior Championships in Mexico (Jjuly 29-August 6), Jason Cameron and Ms Deance Welch for the Inter-Guiana Games in Suriname, Romello Crawford will participate in the Pan Am Track championships in Trinidad and Tobago.

For the Tobago Clas-

For us to fully achieve our objectives and goals we need the support of the people who genuinely want to see the sport develop and become a success story for Guyana.

With that in mind, anyone desirous of showing their support can make contact with the following persons; Steve 624-2139, 333-2640, Everal 625-3229.

Team Trojan PSL cyclists after the Tampco 60-mile race in Berbice.

sics, set for September this year, Team Trojan will have participants in the entire category.

MILESTONES 2017 Time trial junior winner 2017 - Curtis Dey

Juvenile national championship 2017 – 2nd Jonathan Ramsuchit Veterans Under-45 - 3rd Steve Ramsuchit Rose Memorial 2017 race in Linden - 1st Juvenile Jonathan Ramsuchit, 1st Junior Curtis Dey Veteran Under-45, 3rd Everal Mundy.

2014

2014 Road Race Championships Andrew Hicks 2014 Road Race winner.

Romello Crawford - 2014 Road Race 3rd place Christal Lambert 2014 Female 3rd place Everal Mundy - 2014 RR with 3rd place in the Under-45 Veteran category 2014 Champions Romello Crawford - 2014 Juvenile Time Trials Winner.

Andrew Hicks - 2014 Juvenile Time Trials second-place winner.

Christal Lambert - 2014 Female Time Trials thirdplace winner.

2013 2013 juvenile champions.

Corporate Guyana makes donation to RHTYSC

GUYANA’S leading sports club, the Rose Hall Town Yo u t h & S p o r t s C l u b (RHTYSC), MS, last Saturday received a major boost, with Trans Pacific Auto Sales, KSM Investment, Bissan Trading, Apex Insurance, Raphael Real Estate, Ronald Williams and Survival Supermarket contributing towards the club’s “Say No/Say Yes Campaign and the Patron’s Community Programme”.

Trans Pacific Auto Sales donated a carton of trophies value at the cost of $50 000, KSM Investment handed over 52 coloured Polo T/shirts valued $120 000, Bissan Trading contributed $60 000, while Apex Insurance, Raphael Real Estate, Ronald Williams and Survival Supermarket donated a combined $100 000.

The Club Secretary/ CEO Hilbert Foster is very pleased to receive the donation, as it would enable the club to fulfil its mandate of making a positive difference.

He expressed gratitude to all of the donors for their as-

sistance. Meanwhile, the donation of cricket balls would be handed over to clubs on Friday during a ceremony at the St Francis Community Developers Training Centre.

Foster noted that while the club is proud of its high-

ly impressive record on the cricket field, it is a concern regarding the ability of other clubs to fulfill their mandates to youths.

The donation of cricket balls is the third such assistance to clubs for the year.

RHTYSC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster collects the Polo T/shirts from KSM Assistant Accountant Vickram Sukhai.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

Ticket prizes confirmed for CPL Guyana leg

… Amazon Warriors to begin one week next Tuesday

By Rajiv Bisnauth TICKET sales for the Guyana leg of the 2017 Hero Caribbean Premier League have been confirmed and will be available shortly at the CPL Guyana Office located at 238 Camp and Quamina Streets, Georgetown.

Chronicle Sport confirmed yesterday from a source close to the Guyana Amazon Warriors unit, that tickets are expected to cost $5 000 for the Red and Green Stands; $3 000 for the Orange Stand and $2 500 for the Grass Mound.

Four exciting and high quality matches are set to be played in Guyana, with the host team (Guyana Amazon Warriors) taking on the Jamaica Tallawahs on August 17 from 20:00hrs; Trinba-

go Knight Riders on August 19 from 12:00hrs; Barbados Tridents on August 20 from 18:00hrs and St Lucia Stars on August 22 from 18:00hrs.

This year the organisers have put in place many security features to prevent counterfeiting and unlike some other venues, tickets for the Guyana National Stadium are numbered to match the seat numbers which will eliminate the possibility of overcrowding.

For further information on ticketing contact can be made to the CPL Guyana office on 231-5344, 231-2035 or 2255840 and by e-mail – cplguyana@gmail.com.

Meanwhile, the Warriors unit will assemble for a oneweek training camp next Tuesday before getting down to

Digicel 2017 Senior National Squash Championships

Rahaman, Alves take first Men’s Open wins

ADAM Alves and Javed Rahaman gave a temperate start to the Men’s Open, as they registered the competition’s first wins when the Digicel Senior National Squash Championships commenced yesterday at the courts of the Georgetown Club, on Camp Street.

Men’s veteran Joe Mekdeci easily overthrew Medhi Ramdhani in a slow start, but things picked up as an energetic Allan Downes tried to outmanoeuvre the more skilled Khalil Alli, but came up short. David Fernandes was also in winners’ row after he had a fun time in his match against Guyana Squash Association (GSA) president Robin Low. Alves began his competition against Douglas DeGroot, and DeGroot let him know early on that he meant business.

He took the first point in every single game that played out to be a four-game battle.

For the first game, the pair rallied and traded points, with DeGroot getting in eight before Alves closed off the game. The second game had another 11-8 margin, but this time in DeGroot’s favour.

Alves seized the next two games, both ending with 11-6 margins.

It was another four-game match when Rahaman took on Steven Xavier winning 12-10, 4-11, 11-6, 11-9.

Mekdeci bettered Ramdhani 11-1, 11-8, 11-5 in a quick match. However, in the second match of the night, Downes almost sent his match against Khalil to a four-set clash.

Khalil had the upper hand in skills, but a spirited Downes pushed him hard. Khalil eventually won the match 11-6, 11-6, 11-9, just as things were getting a little more than he could handle.

In the lone veterans Men’s Over-50 match Fernandes showed better court coverage in his 11-9, 11-6, 11-6 win over Low. The tournament continued last night with the round of sixteen matches in the Men’s Open, first-round matches in the Women’s Open and more round-robin matches in the veterans categories. The tournament ends on Saturday.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday July 20, 2017) COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL-Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) & CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD-83 Garnett Street, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) Answers to Tuesday’s quiz: (1) Tuesday, July 18 (2) Lord’s, London (Sunday July 23) Today’s Quiz: (1) What was the result of the recent one-off Test between Sri

Lanka & Zimbabwe?

(2) What was the result of the just-concluded second Test

between England & South Africa?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

serious business the day after.

The encampment period will run until August 1.

Thereafter, the squad will depart for Fort Lauderdale, Florida on August 2. During the Florida leg, the Warriors will play St Kitts & Nevis Patriots in two games before returning to the Caribbean.

The South American-based franchise have been one of the most consistent sides since the tournament’s inception, reaching the final in 2013, 2014 and 2016. In 2015, the Guyana Amazon Warriors reached the semifinals phase.

The fifth edition of Hero Caribbean Premier League opens on August 4 in St Lucia and the final is set for September 9 in Trinidad and Tobago.

The Guyana leg of CPL always attracts huge support and this year is expected to be no different.

Stuart confident of National U-15s success … Squad departs on Monday for Barbados

By Rajiv Bisnauth COACH of the National Under-15 cricket team, Colin Stuart, expressed confidence that the young recruits could do Guyana proud during the 2017 Regional Tournament, which will be held in Barbados from July 25 to August 3.

Guyana won the first of their four titles in 1998 before becoming back-to-back champions in 2014 and 2015. They were runners-up last year.

However, Stuart, the former West Indies fast bowler, who was given the mandate to oversee the squad, expressed optimism over his team’s chances.

“The team had a good

build-up ahead of this tournament. We participated in the Inter-County Under-17 tournament recently and also did some work at the Chetram Singh Centre of Excellence at the LBI Community Centre on the East Coast of Demerara,” Stuart said.

He added, “Yes, the weather affected us somewhat, but based on the 20-man squad announced, I feel we have players capable of producing, players I am confident will do us proud”.

Meanwhile, the 20-man squad, which was announced previously, will be trimmed to 14 members who will depart on Monday.

The U-15 tournament – in

Colin Stuart

its 21st year – will be contested under a round-robin format, featuring five rounds of matches with the team accumulating the most points being declared champions.

For the Regional Under-15 Tournament, this will be the first time that it will be played

in Barbados and teams can look forward to playing matches at a number of picturesque, rural venues, especially the KMV Oval at Lakes in the north-eastern parish of St Andrew.

The 20-man squad, which will be trimmed to 14 players reads: Shoaib Shaw, Ricardo Ramdeholl, Daniel Dharamdat, Marvan Prashad, Sheldon Charles, Andre Seepersaud, Saif Omai, Mark Ramanand, Akash Heerlall, Gaurav Ramesh, Shamar Yearwood, Romel Retemiah, Devendra Kamraj, Trevor Charles, Anthony Williams, Movindra Dindyal, Chanderpaul Ramjat, Abdul Ramsammy, Ranaldo Mohamed and Daniel Mootoo.

Veteran Bolt eyeing winning farewell in Monaco MONTE-CARLO, Monaco (CMC) – Sprint superstar Usain Bolt is confident he can brush off his early-season malaise and shine at the final Diamond League meet of his career in Monaco here tomorrow.

Speaking at a press briefing yesterday, the 30-year-old said he was slowly working his way into shape but would not be intimidated by his opposition as he continued his build-up to the London World Championships next month.

“I’m feeling good, the season started off slow for me. I had a setback after my friend Germaine (Mason)

passed away,” Bolt said in reference to the Jamaica-born British high jumper who died in a motorcycle crash in Jamaica last April.

“I’ve been a little behind schedule, but I am training well. I’m feeling much better over the past couple of days because I went to see my doctor in Germany; I’ve been training good, so that’s a good sign.”

Bolt will enter the World Championships with question marks over his form after battling injury and poor times that have seen him fail to break the 10-second barrier in two races this year.

Tomorrow, he will run the 100m in Monaco and all eyes will be on the Jamaican to gauge his form.

He will be up against South African Akani Simbine and American Chris Belcher – two of the fastest men in the world this year.

Bolt also confirmed he would sign off on his glittering career at the World Championships with the 100 metres and 4x100m relay but would not compete in the half lap.

He will be the main attraction at the August 4-13 showpiece at the Olympic Stadium as he bids farewell

to a sport he has dominated for the last decade.

“My main aim is just to win. I just want to retire on a winning note,” he stressed.

Bolt has traditionally raced in all three sprints, sweeping the marquee events at the last three Olympiads and four World Championships – barring in Daegu when he was disqualified in the 100 metres for a false start.

The 100m final is scheduled for the second day at the Olympic final while the sprint relay final comes off a week later on the penultimate day of the event.

27

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, July 20, 2017

‘Green Machine’ preparation hampered … Gonsalves calls for suppor t ah ead of clash against USA by weather

By Rawle Toney CAPTAIN of Guyana’s National Rugby team, Ryan Gonsalves, believes that despite the team’s preparation being hampered by the weather, the ‘Green Machine’ will be ready to run riot against the USA (South) when the two countries collide on July 29 in the final of the Rugby Americas North (RAN) 15s championship.

As it stands, the National Park Rugby Field is listed as the venue for the historic clash - the second between the two sides - with the St Stanislaus College ground on Carifesta Avenue as the alternative venue.

“We’re not getting to train as we want to because of the weather, the ground is very bad and we don’t really have a proper venue right now. But we’re doing our best to ensure that we’re properly prepared for this big game,” Gonsalves told Chronicle Sport in an exclusive interview yesterday.

Gonsalves has elevated himself to become one the Caribbean’s finest rugby players, earning the respect of the other regional territories for his marksman-like aim when taking conversions.

In fact, it was Gonsalves heroics that led to Guyana’s

famous win against the USA in Atlanta on July 28, 2014.

Gonsalves was hailed a hero after his penalty kick, scored in sudden-death, saw

15s title, after being known around the world as the Caribbean’s most dominant 7s team.

“This game means a lot to us,” Gonsalves said, “the guys

playing at home, we haven’t been able to get a game since then. But the guys have been working hard to stay fit and being committed to achieving

Lack of proper funding, government and corporate support, as well as players not being given time-off by employers for training, are just a handful of the issues the team face, but like true warriors, they persevere.

“We want people to come out and support us because this is the first time we will be playing such a huge game at home,” Gonsalves told Chron-

onship at home and I think now would be the best time to come out and support us. So we want everyone to come out on game day and show us that support.

This team have been performing at a high level for years and it would please us to play infront of a packed venue.”

The Guyana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has been working hard to ensure that the National Park Rugby field

Guyana Chronicle’s Delano Williams was at the National Park yesterday and captured the ‘Green Machine’ in action, as they prepare to host USA on July 29 in the RAN 15s final.

Guyana defeat defending champions USA South to win the North American and Caribbean Rugby Association (NACRA) 30-27 in Atlanta, Georgia.

The Guyanese were down 24-8 against the Americans when they played for the first time at the Life University Rugby Complex, but Vallon Adams and Claudius Butts carried out a relentless attack on the Americans’ defence, to put Gonsalves in a position to win the game for the team.

It was Guyana’s first-ever

are committed, determined and we are finally getting a chance to play at home - something we always wanted to do - since it would give us the advantage in so many ways.”

Gonsalves explained that since their 24-7 win on June 9 over Trinidad and Tobago, where they retained their RAN South Zone title, they are yet to play a competitive game.

“The lack of practice games is usually a problem for us. We would usually play some games if we travel and so on, but now,

the goal of winning this title at home,” Gonsalves said.

CROWD SUPPORT The visit by USA will be their second in the Caribbean after travelling to Trinidad and Tobago in 2013 where they left with the RAN 15s title; winning 26-18.

The Green Machine skipper is calling on all of Guyana to rally around the team. The National Rugby side is considered by many as country’s most successful sports team.

Guyana captain Ryan Gonsalves

icle Sport.

The team’s captain further noted, “A lot of people never really saw us play for a champi-

is ready for the international engagement, but is also hoping that the weather will be favourable.

Pele FC, GFC receive footballs as part of GFF’s reintegration process … Clubs will use balls for youth development

TO aid the reintegration process into active association football, president of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) Wayne Forde presented footballs to representatives of the Guyana Football Club (GFC) and Pele Football Club respectively.

This presentation was made in the Boardroom of the GFF on Tuesday to Jafar Gibbons and Alexander Best.

Prior to presentation, Forde expressed the GFF’s commitment to the reintegration of the clubs in question to mainstream football: “We will do our part in repairing the bridge and rebuilding this relationship that has been an extraordinary relationship over the years.

“The legacy of the clubs was one where they both have been dominant forces on the field and we hope that the leadership of the

clubs will reposition their priorities and objectives over the coming months to reassert themselves as strong bodies.” he said.

Alexander Best, first vice-p resident of Pele Football Club, in an invited comment following the presentation, expressed gratitude for the balls and his pleasure at being active in football: “We are excited to be back on the field … it’s very nice to be back with the GFF and we will accept these balls as a part of the grooming process for the team.

“We will mostly wish to use the balls for the practice games as we normally train with the local balls.

Since we are concentrating on the youth, we would want to provide them the exposure of playing with the FIFA balls so they can get a feel of them.”

Like Best, team manager

of GFC, Jafar Gibbons, said the balls will also be useful

to enable their youth footballers to become familiar with

President Forde (centre) with GFC’s Jabar Gibbons (left) and Pele’s Alexander Best .

game balls: “It’s a great step by the GFF.

“You can make a field anywhere, you can make a goal out of anything but at the end of the day the most important thing in football is the actual ball because you can’t play without a ball.”

Gibbons continued, “It will be great if we practise and play with game balls as all of the leagues use the balls. If we train with a different ball, mistakes are usually made in the games when kicking a ball one is not familiar with; so I think it is a great step forward especially since we have a very active youth programmme. It will be a great thing to enhance what we already have.”

This initiative is part of a continuous effort by the Executive Committee to ensure active football in Guyana especially at the senior level.

‘Green Machine’ preparation hampered by weather See Page 27

Simmons, Yadram inspire Young Windies to dramatic series win See Page 22

Man-of-the-Series Bhaskar Yadram claims three wickets with his off-spin to seal victory for Windies Under-19s.

Windies Under-19s celebrate with their one-day trophy.

Moore takes Guyana’s first win at the Commonwealth Youth Games

Bolt to run 100m, 4x100m at World Championships

See Page 22 Usain Bolt won his final race on home soil in front of a sell-out stadium in Jamaica in June.

Christopher Moore

USAIN Bolt has confirmed he will run the 100m and 4x100m relay at the World Championships in London in August, his final event before retiring.

Bolt, an eight-time Olympic gold medallist and an icon of world sport, has led one of the most illustrious careers in the history of athletics.

“My aim is to win in London. I want to retire on a winning note,” the Jamaican

30-year-old said yesterday.

The World Championships take place from August 4-13.

The men’s 100m final is due to place on Saturday, August 5 while the men’s 4x100m relay race - which will mark the end of Bolt’s career - takes place the following Saturday.

Bolt has won the 100m, 200m and 4x100m gold at the past three Olympic Games - Beijing 2008, Lon-

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don 2012 and Rio 2016.

However, his unprecedented ‘triple triple’ of nine gold medals was downgraded to eight after Jamaican team-mate Nesta Carter, who was part of the quartet that won the 4x100m in Beijing, tested positive for a banned substance. Carter has appealed against the decision.

Nevertheless, Bolt’s exploits remain unprecedented and he also holds the world

record in the 100m (9.58) and 200m (19.19).

In June he raced for the final time on home soil, clocking 10.03 seconds to win the ‘Salute a Legend’ 100m race before taking a lap of honour in front of a sell-out Kingston crowd of 30 000.

Before London, he will also compete in the 100m at the Diamond League event in Monaco tomorrow. (BBC Sport) THURSDAY, JULY 20, 2017