Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 6-13-2019

THURSDAY 13th June, 2019

'

No.105667

GRANGER LEADS IN POLL

…seen as best candidate to manage Guyana’s oil wealth

…commands 94% approval rating over opponents

…Nagamootoo preferred as PM candidate

President David Granger

SEE STORIES ON PAGES 03 & 08►

WPA rails against ethnic fear-mongering

PAGE

12

Ghanaian President wraps up State visit

PAGE

14

State reportedly agrees to pay $28M to Shaquille Grant’s mother

PAGE

02

President David Granger embraces his sorrowing wife, First Lady Sandra Granger at the funeral service of her mother, Mrs Edith Cicely Chan- A- Sue nee Pierre, who died on June 5, 2019, at age 94.

Several ministers and government officials were also present to show their support

2

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday June 13, 2019

State reportedly agrees to pay $28M to Shaquille Grant’s mother THE State on Wednesday arrived at a settlement agreeing to pay $28M to Shonette Adams, the mother of Shaquille Grant, who was shot to death by police back in 2012.

The 17-year-old boy was on September 11, 2012, one among a group of young men who were allegedly “planning a robbery” and were pounced upon by a team of policemen, who fired shots at them; Grant was hit and subsequently died.

The distraught mother, represented by Attorney Nigel Hughes, filed a claim dated November 19th 2014, contending that on the said day, the deceased was negligently shot and killed by members of the Guyana Police Force, namely, Warren Blue, Jamal Lewis and Terrence Wallace, who were acting in their official capacities.

According to court documents seen by this newspaper, the plaintiff stated that the said police officers were not in any imminent danger at the time of the assault and killing of her son, and they

wrongfully denied him of his constitutional right to life.

The matter was brought before Justice Gino Persaud and was heard on several occasions, where witnesses testified to substantiate the case; at several hearings, the state had no representative.

However, Justice Persaud proceeded with the hearing of testimonies, as the witnesses had been attending court.

During the hearing, Amanda Williams Paddy was called to the witness box to testify. The young woman recalled the day of the incident, as she was a resident of a house alongside the shed where the shooting occurred.

Amanda said that she was in the kitchen preparing breakfast when she heard a gunshot. When she looked through the window, she saw a group of armed policemen clad in dark blue clothing.

Upon seeing them, she ran to the bedroom to her daughter who was three years old and that time. While running to the bedroom, she heard another gunshot.

From the bedroom,

Shaquille Grant

Amanda said she could have seen the officers under the shed beside the house, through a crease in the wall.

She saw them, along with five men lying face down under the shed and a police

was standing over Grant.

“I heard the police saying, “you ain’t dead yet?”

“You ain’t dead yet?” And Shaquille was crying out for his belly. I saw the police standing over Shaquille,” the

young mother recalled.

Paddy added that she later saw the police dragging Grant to the police vehicle that was at the front of the yard. In addition to Paddy’s testimony, Nicholas Eastman took the court back to the day his friend died in his presence. He stated that they were hanging out in a yard at Third Street, Agricola, when they saw police officers wearing bulletproof jackets coming from the back of the yard, pointing their guns at them.

One of the officers told them to lie on the ground while two other officers proceeded to search them. Eastman said after the search was conducted they (police) tried to get his friend Romel Bollers from off the ground; Bollers resisted and a scuffle started.

“Thereafter, I heard a gunshot and I froze… I heard another explosion. I closed my eyes and I felt a warm feeling in my stomach. I opened my eyes and I saw blood between myself and Shaquille. Shaquille shouted

‘I get knock! I get knock!’”

Eastman said.

He added that Shaquille tried to get up and a police officer went behind him and kicked him down, and said “you ain’t dead yet?” And shot him again.

Grant and Bollers were taken to the hospital where the former was pronounced dead and the latter injured.

The remaining men were taken into custody and Eastman said they were released a few days after. He told the court that they were never charged, hadn’t any weapons or objects and never attacked any of the officers. “In fact, the officers never announced why they were there,” Eastman said.

The state did not present any argument in defence, but this newspaper was informed that the mother had agreed to the $28M settlement. Although the agreement was made between the parties, the court has not yet made record of the order.

Colombia willing to participate in CARIFESTA

COLOMBIA’S new Ambassador to the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), on Wednesday, said her country will make every effort to participate in the Caribbean mega festival of arts: CARIFESTA XIV, scheduled for August 16-25 in Trinidad and Tobago.

Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, extended the invitation to Her Excellency Martha Pinilla, as he received her credentials at the Georgetown, Guyana Headquarters of the CARICOM Secretariat. Underscoring the importance of people-to-people contact, the Secretary-General said the significant presence of people of CARICOM origin in Colombia, present ideal opportunities to strengthen relations.

In this vein, he told the Ambassador that CARIFESTA XIV is “an excellent opportunity” for Colombia and CARICOM to share their cultural experiences. Ambas-

sador Pinilla said enhancing diplomatic ties with the Region is a foreign policy priority of President Iván Duque’s government, the CARICOM Secretariat said in a release.

The presentation of her credentials, she said, is one of several actions in that regard.

Other actions include visits to eight CARICOM countries by Colombia’s Foreign Minister, His Excellency Carlos Trujillo, and a bilateral meeting with the Secretary-General.

CARICOM and Colombia are expected to resuscitate high-level political dialogue to discuss cooperation in areas of mutual interest on June 29, in Cartagena, at the First Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of CARICOM and Colombia.

Secretary-General LaRocque said his recent discussions with Mr. Trujillo focussed on areas such as trade, technical cooperation, disaster management and security. However, he stressed the importance of reviving trade between

New Colombian Ambassador to CARICOM, HE Martha Pinilla, presents her Letter of Credence to CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque

CARICOM and Colombia in light of data which revealed that total trade exceeded three billion US dollars as of 2013,

but declined to 520 million dollars by 2016.

In this regard, he said the Council for Trade and Eco-

nomic Development (COTED) has agreed to Colombia’s proposal to host the seventh meeting of the Joint Coun-

cil – the main implementing mechanism established under the 1994 Agreement on Trade, Economic and Technical Cooperation between CARICOM and Colombia.

Ambassador Pinilla agreed that the agreement, “is an ideal tool to continue interlacing” CARICOM-Colombia economies. While the agreement addresses economic and technical cooperation, the Secretary-General said human resource development, science and technology, research and development, renewable energy, tourism and agricultural development, and migration are other areas of common interest they can explore.

The SG requested Colombia’s support for CARICOM’s advocacy for international policies that allow for a balanced approach in the provision of financial resources to help Small Island Developing States combat climate change and build their resilience.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday June 13, 2019

GRANGER LEADS IN POLL …seen as best candidate to manage Guyana’s oil wealth …commands 94% approval rating over opponents

WHEN it comes to the big question of which leader is fit to handle Guyana’s new oil wealth, a political opinion poll conducted by a leading Caribbean political research company, shows that President David Granger is the man of choice.

The poll, conducted in February 2019 by the Caribbean Development Research Services (CADRES), shows a majority of Guyana prefer Granger as opposed to People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) Presidential candidate, Irfaan Ali. CADRES conducts political polls and research and has worked with several major political parties and governments in Grenada, Antigua and Barbuda, St. Lucia, Barbados and throughout the Caribbean.

It is led by its Principal Director, Peter Wickham, a political consultant.

According to the organisation, the data collected was done using face-to-face interviews; at one of every third house; on random selection based specific to age and gender and without bias with respect to the type of house or any other factor. Throughout the findings, those interviewed were categorised as A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/ AFC) supporters; PPP/C Supporters; Uncertain Voters and All Guyana.

Under the topic of ‘Leadership’, respondents were asked to select the ‘Leader Preferred to Handle Guyana’s New Wealth’, choosing between President Granger and PPP/C Presidential hopeful, Irfaan Ali. In recent months, the selection of Ali as the party’s frontrunner has been criticised by some of the party’s closest allies, while a number of its supporters were openly outraged. The former minister of housing has been accused of defrauding the State of some $174M in his role in the notorious Pradoville land-sale scandal.

Added to this, it is alleged that he used a fake transcript to pursue a master’s degree programme at an Indian university and was not the holder of a first degree prior to this undertaking.

Leaving it up to the people to decide, 40 per cent of all Guyana voted in favour of President Granger; only 24 per cent voted for Ali; 22 per cent voted for neither and 13 per cent remained unsure or wouldn’t say.

FAR MORE TRUSTWORTHY Meanwhile, 92 per cent of APNU/AFC supporters supported their party leader to manage Guyana’s oil wealth while only 65 per cent of the total PPP/C supporters interviewed put their trust in Ali. A total of 25 per cent of PPP/C supporters and three per cent APNU/ AFC supporters said neither should be managers of the wealth.

Some eight per cent of PPP/C supporters and four per cent of APNU/ AFC supporters remained on the fence or silent.

The party cross over in support of either side to manage the country’s oil wealth was almost insignificant with only one per cent of both groups opting to support the other. The document concluded that President Granger is preferred to handle Guyana’s new wealth by a ratio of almost 2:1.

Presently, former heads of the PPP/C are under scrutiny by the local State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) regarding the awarding of key oil blocks to inexperienced operators in 2015.

The ongoing investigation questions the awarding of the Canje and Kaieteur blocks by former PPP/C President, Donald Ramotar, just days before the 2015 General and Regional Elections.

Meanwhile, on June 18, 2019, the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) is expected to rule on the consolidated appeals, challenging the decision of the Court of Appeal to invalidate the vote of no-confidence against the David Granger Administration.

This will determine whether the government will have to call new General and Regional elections prior to original timeline. In the opinion poll and under the same category of ‘Leadership’, respondents were also asked to state whether they approved or disapproved of President Granger’s leadership.

A total of 50 per cent of the majority of all Guyana voted ‘yes’ in favour of his leadership; total of 36 per cent voted ‘no’ while 14 per cent were unsure or wouldn’t say.

OVERWHELMING SUPPORT When it came to APNU/ AFC supporters, a whopping 94 per cent of responders voted in favour of the President’s leadership while only

two per cent voted against and four per cent were unsure or wouldn’t say.

Favour for the President’s leadership was able to garner a 14 per cent approval from those identifying as PPP/C supporters while 76

be seeking a second term when elections are held.

He has expressed confidence that the coalition government’s track record will act in favour of it being re-elected when the time comes.

PPP/C Presidential candidate, Irfaan Ali

CADRES Principal Director, Peter Wickham

President David Granger

Graph showing CADRES’s findings on a political opinion poll deciding ‘Leader Preferred to Handle Guyana’s New Wealth’

per cent from the party voted against and 10 per cent were unsure or wouldn’t say.

President Granger also won over the majority vote of uncertain voters with 40 per cent voting ‘yes’ to his leadership; 34 per cent voting ‘no’ and 26 per cent ‘unsure/won’t say’.

According to the document: “This section is extensive especially as it appears to be critical for the APNU+AFC and as such, the issue of leadership is analysed from several different perspectives… and it should be noted that, in this regard, respondents would could say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ regardless of their political persuasion since it is possible for a person to approve of President Granger’s leadership and still support the PPP/Civic.”

President Granger will

3

4

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 13, 2019

Uneasy calm in Hong Kong after day of violence over extradition bill

HONG KONG (Reuters) Hong Kong riot police and protesters braced for possible further clashes across the city’s financial district on Thursday after a day of violence over an extradition bill that would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial.

Hundreds of riot police could be seen resting and re-grouping overnight while gaggles of protesters obtained fresh supplies of water, goggles and helmets, Reuters witnesses reported.

Police fired rubber bullets, tear gas and pepper spray in a series of skirmishes on Wednesday to clear demonstrators from the city’s legislature. It was some of the worst violence in Hong Kong since Britain handed it back

to Chinese rule in 1997 with a guarantee of extensive autonomy and freedoms, including a separate legal system and freedom of speech.

The extradition bill has sparked unusually wide concerns, both locally and internationally, that the bill risks further encroachment from Chinese officials and threatens the rule of law that underpins Hong Kong’s international financial status.

As of 10 p.m. on Wednesday evening, 72 people had been hospitalized, including two classed as serious, according to the Hong Kong Hospital Authority.

BEMUSED TOURISTS Several thousand demonstrators remained near the legislature in the Admiralty district, while thousands

more had retreated to the Central business district, overlooked by the towers of some of Asia’s biggest firms and hotel chains, including HSBC and AIA and the Mandarin Oriental.

Tourists looked bemused at the sight of abandoned luxury cars near the Mandarin.

There were barricades over the doors of the Hong Kong Club, one of the city’s oldest social institutions. It was the third night of violence since a protest on Sunday drew what organizers said was more than a million people in the biggest street demonstration since the 1997 handover.

The benchmark Hang Seng Index closed 1.7% lower on Wednesday, having lost as much as 2% in the afternoon, while Chinese companies

in Hong Kong ended down 1.2%. Hong Kong’s China-backed Chief Executive Carrie Lam condemned the violence late on Wednesday and urged a swift restoration of order. While acknowledging the controversy, Lam has refused to postpone or withdraw the bill, which she and her officials say is necessary to plug “loopholes” allowing the city to be a haven for criminals wanted on the mainland.

Advertisement Lam has said the courts would provide human rights safeguards in vetting case-bycase extraditions to mainland China. Opponents, including leading lawyers and rights groups, say China’s justice system is marked by torture and forced confessions, ar-

bitrary detention and poor access to lawyers. U.S. President Donald Trump, who is locked in a trade war with China, said the demonstrations were massive but added that he expected the issue to be resolved. The United States has extensive business interests in Hong Kong and has been struggling to formulate a response to the latest standoff, even as Trump battles Beijing on trade.

“I hope it all works out for China and for Hong Kong,” Trump told reporters at the White House. “I understand the reason for the demonstration but I’m sure they will be able to work it out. I hope they’re going to be able to work it out with China.”

British Prime Minister

Theresa May said extradition rules in Hong Kong had to respect the rights and freedoms set out in the 1984 Sino-British agreement on Hong Kong’s future. Amnesty International joined local rights groups in condemning the use of police force on Wednesday as excessive, while a spokeswoman for the U.N. Human Rights Office in Geneva said it was following the situation closely. “We call on all parties to express their views peacefully and on Hong Kong’s authorities to engage in an inclusive and transparent dialogue over the draft legislation,” the spokeswoman said.

Russian police detain more than 400 at protest over journalist

MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian police detained more than 400 people, including opposition politician Alexei Navalny, at a protest in Moscow on Wednesday calling for punishment for police officers involved in the alleged framing of a journalist.

Police abruptly dropped drug charges a day earlier against investigative journalist Ivan Golunov, a rare U-turn by the authorities in the face of anger from his supporters who said he was targeted over his reporting.

Golunov, 36, known for exposing corruption among Moscow city officials, was detained by police last Thursday and accused of dealing drugs, an allegation he denied. The crude way supporters said Golunov was set up and detained triggered an

Law enforcement officers detain a participant of a rally in support of Russian investigative journalist Ivan Golunov, who was detained by police, accused of drug offences and later freed from house arrest, in Moscow, Russia June 12, 2019. REUTERS/Maxim Shemetov

unusual show of media unity and an uncharacteristically swift reversal from authorities nervous about social unrest at a time when Presi-

dent Vladimir Putin already faces disquiet over living standards.

Advertisement The authorities had hoped

freeing Golunov and promising punishment for those who allegedly framed him would appease his supporters, but they decided to go ahead with

Wednesday June 12, 2019

a protest on Wednesday, a public holiday in Russia, regardless. Reuters witnesses said well over 1,000 people marched through central Moscow, chanting “Russia will be free”, “Russia without Putin” and “Down with the Tsar” as police warned them not to break the law and blocked access to certain streets.

Some of the protesters wore white T-shirts saying “I am/We are Ivan Golunov,” the same slogan as a front page headline carried by Russia’s three leading daily newspapers on Monday.

In an unexpected twist, a young woman wearing such a T-shirt managed to get a front-row seat at a ceremony in the Kremlin at which President Vladimir Putin was handing out state awards, official footage of the event

showed. The ceremony was taking place at the same time as the protest in the city.

OVD-Info, a monitoring group, said police had detained over 400 people.

It said police had started to release some of them without charge while drawing up charges against others.

Police said earlier they had detained over 200 people.

Advertisement Many of the marchers and those forcefully detained by riot police were prominent Russian journalists and activists. “We came to show the authorities that we have consolidated, that we are united,” said Vsevolod, 24. “We demand that hundreds of thousands of (criminal) cases where people are sitting in prison unfairly now be reviewed.”

3, 6, 10, 12, 14

04 06 12 17 20 21 24

1

Friday June 7, 2019

3, 11, 12, 13, 22

2, 6, 8

3, 5, 6

2

3

7

12 15

5

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 13, 2019

President Moise will not resign PORT AU PRINCE, Haiti, Jun 12, CMC – President Jovenl Moise will not bow to demands of protesters and resign amid allegations of embezzlement of funds linked to the PetroCaribe oil initiative, according to a spokesman for the head of state.

Thousands of people have taken to the streets since Sunday demanding Moise’s resignation but Charlot Jacquelin Junior, one of the

President’s spokespersons he will not resign.

The spokesman said that President Moise had done everything to ensure the investigation into PetroCaribe, an oil alliance of many Caribbean states with Venezuela to purchase oil on conditions of preferential payment. Earlier this week, the state filed a complaint with the Public Prosecutor’s Office of Portau-Prince against those persons implicated in the Petro-

Caribe scandal, based on the report of the Superior Court of Accounts and Administrative Litigation (CSA/CA).

The Port-au-Prince Government Commissioner, Paul Eronce Villard, who received the complaint, said he would need to analyze the file in order to decide what to do next.

The CSC/CA audit found that significant shortcomings have been associated with the planning and implementation of development programmes

and projects funded by the PetroCaribe Fund during the administration of former president Michel Martelly.

The Court made it clear that, overall, relevant documents were missing in most of the projects and contracts

...spokesperson reviewed and as a result it was impossible to conduct a comprehensive audit of several projects.

For example, the 610 page report found that in 2014, for the same project to rehabilitate the Bor-

gne – Petit Bourg de Borgne road section, the State signed two identical contracts worth more than 39 million Gourdes (One Gourde=US$0.01 cents) with two separate companies.

6

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 13, 2019

Advancing bilateral ties

NOT even a wet night or blustery atmosphere could have put a damper on the pomp and ceremony that greeted the Ghanaian President, Nana Danka Akufo Addo, who wrapped up a two-day state visit here yesterday.

His arrival as president, specifically, and accompanied by a 40-man team of ministers and other Ghanaian high state officials, has to be the fulfilment of over three hundred years of a spiritual attachment that had begun under the European Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade in which millions of Africans, especially from West Africa, were brought to this side of the Atlantic.

If this human tragedy did result in the forging of the common bonds of brotherhood, it was to result in the gradual growth and development between those early slaves of the local plantation

system and the descendants of, particularly, the Ghanaian Akan people, of which many Guyanese are.

This spiritual connection was awakened with the coming of Independence to the Gold Coast, afterwards Ghana, in 1957. It had been an announcement that had captured the imagination of the larger world of British colonialism, because of what it meant for the people of those colonies who were the surviving descendants of slaves.

It was an event that had been embraced by the general African masses wherever they were to be found; and Guyana had been no exception. The celebrations were heralded as if they were this then colony finally removing the yoke of colonial rule.

Therefore, apart from the known attributes of Akan culture that has continued to be among the cultural influences of African Guyanese,

one can understand the many efforts by those Afro Guyanese who continued to make mention of the rich Ghanaian culture in their conversations with, especially, their younger family members and even friends, and even at African culture events. Even though the celebration of the traditional Ghana Day celebration had somehow ceased to be an item on the local Afro-Guyanese cultural calendar, the fact that it has since 2011, once again celebrated on the Sunday closest to the actual day of Ghana Independence, underlined that natural urge for a re-kindling of such a spiritual link.

Perhaps, one should also understand the unapologetic efforts, as expressed by the indomitable Africanist sister, Dr Penda Guyan, Chairman of the Ghana Day Committee, when she spoke of her efforts made to both former presidents, Bharrat Jagdeo

and Donald Ramotar, to invite a Ghanaian president to visit Guyana. She was advised that such a visit would not have benefitted Guyana.

Thus, one can understand when she described personal feelings of joy when such a dream had finally been realised, with the visit of President Addo and party.

We see the visit of President Addo of finally fulfilling that decades-old quest for a re-connection and recognition of the very spiritual bond that has always existed between the two countries.

And the fact that the president has been conferred with Guyana’s highest honour-the Order of Excellence-- is testimony not only to Guyana’s recognition of his role of advocacy for developing states, but also for his recognition of that very special relation between the two commonwealth states.

Ghana is one of the many

African states that, today, boast a very strong and resilient economy that is experiencing very significant economic growth. Even more significant is the fact that Ghana is an oil producer, from which experiences it will be glad to share with Guyana that is currently in the process of establishing its oil and gas mechanism for first oil in 2020. Finally, the range of bilateral agreements that have been concluded between the two states, which range from agriculture, culture, energy, environment, investment, petroleum production, tourism, transportation, private sector cooperation, and transportation, illustrate the benefits that can be derived from closer and improved ties. President David Granger was also keen to mention that Ghana has shown great dedication and commitment to not only the Commonwealth of Nations,

but the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) as well. And in conferring President Akufo-Addo with Guyana’s highest honour, President Granger said he was a distinguished statesman who was recognised for his invaluable exertions in promoting economic security and stability on the Continent of Africa, his steadfast dedication to regionalism, and his tireless efforts to promote the interests of developing states.

President Akufo-Addo was told that developing countries are looking forward to his continued leadership and stewardship to protect their gains and secure their future.

Make examples of moles Dear Editor I make reference Guyana Chronicle “Sleepers exist in every ministry - Min. Jordan”, of May 31.

I am glad that Minister Jordan has finally, as a representative of the coalition government, given pronouncement on a matter which the general public has been giving its views for a while. Without any pretence at comfort, this is indeed a very dangerous situation, because of the harm that these clearly subversives can do to the government’s numerous socio-economic programmes; for changing the lives of the Guyanese people; and the challenge of taking the appropriate action against these clear enemies of the State, because of the kind of polarised society in which we live.

But I hasten to add, that it is quite lawful for any government, in any society, irrespective of cultural-political type/situation, to effect condign action against any member of the state’s public service, found to be engaged in activities, inimical to its best interests.

To be specific, any public sector worker found to be in contravention of the trust reposed in him/her, should be dismissed forthwith, and be placed before the courts, since there are provisions in the law for the latter action to be taken. It is standard in every other jurisdiction. In the Private Sector, any member of its work force found to be committing any act(s) that will affect the material well-being, reputation and advancement of whatever entity, is immediately going to suffer the ultimate conse-

quence of dismissal. And it would be correct to do so, particularly if the specific offence is proven.

It is well known that the coalition government has stopped short of removing well-known elements of the opposition, ensconced in what can be described as sensitive positions, because of its magnanimity, and in addition to wanting to re-construct a public service that must be professional in content, and neutral in its service to the public.

This policy is well understood by these political elements that are still in service. However, referencing the minister’s experience as it relates to details of his duty-free concession being posted on a Facebook page, is clear evidence of a response from elements who may have the perception of a govern-

ment that is afraid to take action against them, which I do not think is the case.

About two years ago, a well-known rights activist and political commentator warned about the PPP/C leaving behind, a system that is booby trapped. There was no doubt that he had been referring to party adherents that were still in place within the public service, with the ability to stymie government programmes. It is against this background that the government’s initial complaints about the sloth in implementing Public Service Improvement Projects (PSIPs) can be seen and understood.

It had to take what can be described as the reading of the “riot act” by a very senior government functionary, to senior public officers, and periodical follow–ups for progress reporting, before

an acceptable improvement increase percentage, began to occur.

Notwithstanding government’s magnanimity and intention to create a professional service as Minister Jordan reminded, there is a reality that has to be confronted: a category of public servants, ever since known and identified for their dishonest practices, who are still functioning within the public system; and who still owe their loyalty to the political opposition, rather than to the State in terms of their professional duties. That these persons are part and parcel of a continuous strategy which is aimed against the government; but also, against the people of this country, is well known.

They do not mean well, nor do they have the good of the government at heart.

They are trenchant anti-government, for they see the latter as a governance unit only through the blinkered lens of race. Their daily calendar is underlined on dangerous mischief, for such is the primary function of “sleepers”, ready to do the bidding of their master(s).

“Sleepers” are in effect saboteurs in most instances.

They are where they are, to commit harm, and other acts that are destabilising in nature. One hopes that the Guyana Revenue Authority is able to trace the source of the leaking of Minister Jordan’s details, which are wholly confidential. It is time that very exemplary examples be made of this more than dangerous collective.

Regards Earl Hamilton

7

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 13, 2019

Lincoln Lewis enjoys the confidence of TUC, GB&GWU members Dear Editor, I REFER to letter by Eon Andrews signed as Vice-President of the Guyana Trades Union Congress captioned, “Lincoln Lewis needs to be team player” (GC June 9, 2019).

As a point of correction to Bro. Andrews’ claim, I

was never employed by the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC). If I was not employed how then can I be fired?

I served in various elected capacities on the GTUC Executive Council. It is a pity Bro. Andrews did not appreciate the importance of

presenting accurate information to the public on this and many other issues in his letter. The GTUC’s rules state that affiliation as a member requires a Collective Labour Agreement (CLA) which Bro. Andrews has made several excuses to provide. The Guyana Bauxite & General

Workers Union (GB&GWU) is calling on Bro. Andrews to provide to the GTUC the CLA for the United Minibus Union (UMU).

Note is taken of the ongoing public personal exchanges between Bro. Lincoln Lewis and Freddie Kissoon.

GB&GWU is aware the

GTUC’s Executive Council (ExCo) has taken no official position on these personal exchanges and hence Bro. Andrews’ letter signing off as vice-president would not have been at the approval of the GTUC. Bro. Lincoln Lewis, General Secretary of the GTUC and also GB&G-

WU, enjoys the confidence of the members in the exercise of his right to set the record straight in defence of his name and honour.

Regards Leslie Gonsalves President

PPP no longer represents, reflects the vision, values of Dr. Jagan Dear Editor I wish to preface this letter by noting that I have come to regard with much greater respect, Dr. Cheddi Jagan and his political party, the PPP, after reading up a bit on our history.

As such, I have decided to refer to Jagdeo and his acolytes, versus the PPP as much as possible now and in the future, since by now we recognise that the PPP no longer represents and reflects the vision and values of Dr. Jagan.

We continue to hear about the economic growth that was achieved under the PPP administration from the Jagdeo camp, and this is something we think needs to be placed in context so that

no one is deceived regarding these claims. Everyone knows that a significant amount of narcotics trade was carried out under the leadership of Jagdeo and his acolytes during their last 10 years in office. Around Georgetown alone we saw massive structures running into the hundreds of millions, probably even billions of dollars, going up for which we knew it was impossible for the owners to have accumulated that much money on their regular businesses or incomes.

This along with the massive corruption racket involving hundreds of billions over the years helped finance the economic growth to which you refer. Guyana lost hundreds

of billions of dollars through Jagdeo’s corruption racket, which helped finance a lot of private construction, businesses etc., not to mention the personal mansions and financial wealth of Jagdeo and his acolytes. For example the economic growth referred to include the G$80 billion or so waylaid for the construction of the road to Amaila Falls, which today has come to naught. We maintain that if Guyanese want to escape poverty, racial strife and dishonest government politicians, they have to give up the political parties which have given them poverty, strife and lying public officials. It’s common sense.

Further, PPP supporters,

Minibus fares must be displayed for all to see Dear Editor, On May 29, 2019 I caused a letter to appear in the Letter Column of the Kaieteur News in which I stated, among other things, the absence of the Fare Structure being displayed in the minibuses of Route #21 in Region Two, Pomeroon-Supenaam on the Essequibo Coast, as required by law and for many the most important clause as it pertains to the minibus Code of Conduct.

I was told that there was a minibus and also a hire car association, which may now be defunct or is not functioning effectively, but whether that is so or not, these buses as per the laws must have a fare structure displayed, so the public can be informed of the cost of using this very important means of transportation. The big question is, what

is the police force in this region doing or intend to do about this breach of the law which is only to the benefit of the [minibus] owners, drivers and conductors.

I have been informed by an article in the Stabroek News of Sunday June 9, on page 17, that the Bartica minibus operators donned their uniform recently which is good. The Guyana Police Force, The Ministry of Business, the Road Safety Council, what are they doing as regards this long existing problem in Region Two. The people of this region are renowned for their hospitality and not aggression but sometimes we do say that enough is enough.

Regards Archie W. Cordis

traditionally Indian Guyanese, particularly rice farmers and sugar workers, can only expect more of what they endured under Jagdeo.

This is because Jagdeo sees these people as peasants, citizens of a lower class (who in socialist parlance represent an economic threat because they own land and can generate income for

themselves without reliance on the State), which is why he allowed millers to rob rice farmers and hang them out to dry. He keeps sugar workers for their votes, as everyone should by now have figured out. People employed doing hard labour in cane fields need to ask themselves why after a century or so of the halt of

Indian immigrants to Guyana, after the decades of abuse and underpayment, they still find themselves in the clutches of the sugar industry. Is this what they want for their children?

Regards Craig Sylvester Democratic National Congress

8

Nagamootoo preferred as PM candidate

PRIME Minister Moses Nagamootoo is the preferred prime ministerial candidate in Guyana, according to a political poll conducted by the Caribbean Development Research Services (CADRES) in February 2019.

In the poll, Nagamootoo surpassed other options presented which included Alliance For Change (AFC) Leader, Raphael Trotman; AFC Chairman, Khemraj Ramjattan; Vice-Chair, Cathy Hughes and member, Valerie Garrido-Lowe.

The results of the survey come as AFC delegates head into the party’s biennial conference on Saturday where they will determine the party’s general strategy and elect

new leaders. The delegates will elect the party leader, chairman, vice-chair, general secretary and 12 national executive members.

Motions may be submitted which speak to the issue of an election for prime ministerial candidate. Among those perceived to be the top runners in this regard, and to represent the AFC within the coalition government following new General and Regional Elections are Nagamootoo and Ramjattan.

The data collected by CADRES was done using face-to-face interviews; at one of every third house; on random selection based specific to age and gender and without bias with respect to

Prime Minister, Moses Nagamootoo

Guyana Goldfields Director resigns for health reasons GUYANA Goldfields Inc. on Wednesday announced that one of its directors, Peter Dey has resigned.

The Canadian gold mining firm stated in a press release that it “reluctantly” accepted Dey’s resignation, noting that he resigned for health reasons. Dey, who resigned with immediate effect, joined the Company as an independent director on March 6, 2019 and the Board said that it will initiate a search for a successor to replace him immediately.

René Marion, Non-Executive Chairman, stated, “Although Mr. Dey’s tenure on the Board was brief, he actively participated, among other things, in the refresh-

ment of the Board’s governance system. We would like to thank him for his significant contributions and wish him all the best in the future.”

Guyana Goldfields through its Aurora Gold Mines project has been working to boost its annu-

al gold production here in Guyana.

In April, it was reported that from the third quarter of 2019 to 2021, the company intends to conduct both openpit along with exploration and underground development activities in preparation for production in 2022 and onwards.

The exploration development phase will cost an estimated US$25M with an estimated US$100M to be spent on the production phase.

For a safe transition, during the first year of exploration development, an Underground Development and Mining Methods Training Centre will be established for workers and government stakeholders to be trained in underground mining.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Guyana Goldfields, Scott Caldwell, told media operatives in April that in the next three years, some 300 additional workers will be needed for the functionality of the underground mining area. The company currently has some 700 workers.

He stated that Guyana Goldfields’ staff consists of 96 per cent Guyanese and the company is working to eventually transform into a 100 per cent Guyanese company.

the type of house or any other factor.

CADRES conducts political polls and research and has worked with several major political parties and governments throughout the Caribbean.

Throughout the findings, those interviewed were categorised as A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) supporters: PPP/C supporters; Uncertain Voters; and All Guyana. The data show that 20 per cent of all Guyana are in favour of Nagamootoo.

This is followed by a tied nine per cent in favour of Ramjattan and Hughes; six per cent in favour of Trotman and four per cent in favour of

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 13, 2019

-- says CADRES poll Garrido-Lowe.

However, this is contrasted with the larger total of 52 per cent of ‘All Guyana’ responders who had either another individual in mind, were unsure or wouldn’t say.

Getting down to the percentages by party group, of the total APNU/ AFC supporters, 38 per cent voted in favour of Nagamootoo; 18 per cent in favour of Hughes; 14 per cent in favour of Trotman; seven per cent in favour of Garrido-Lowe and five per cent in favour of Ramjattan.

A total of 17 per cent of the APNU/ AFC supporters had either another individual in mind; were unsure or wouldn’t say. Then, while 70 per cent of PPP/C Supporters

had either another individual in mind; were unsure or wouldn’t say regarding the same topic, a majority of 17 per cent opted for Ramjattan.

A total of nine per cent of PPP/C supporters voted for Nagamootoo while one per cent voted for Garrido-Lowe, Hughes and Trotman.

Of the uncertain voters who participated, 69 per cent had either another individual in mind, were unsure or wouldn’t say; eight per cent opted for Hughes; six per cent for Ramjattan; four per cent for Trotman; two per cent for Garrido-Lowe and one per cent for Nagamootoo.

Carl Hooper remanded for ‘ganja’ possession CARL Hooper, a 31-yearold mechanic, was on Wednesday remanded to prison by Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty on a drug-trafficking charge.

Hooper, of Howes Street, Charlestown, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court and denied that, on June 7, 2019 at High Street, Georgetown, he had 12 grammes of cannabis in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

The unrepresented man told the court that two months ago he was released from prison after serving an 11-month sentence for robbery under arms.

Prosecutor Cron Blackman told the court

Carl Hooper

that, on the day in question, the police, while on patrol, saw Hooper on High Street acting in a suspicious manner. Upon seeing the police, Blackman said Hooper threw a bulky black plastic bag to the ground and raised his hands, saying, “is a lil

thing officer.” The police searched the bag and found a quantity of seeds, leaves and stems suspected to be cannabis.

Hooper’s next court appearance will be on July 3, 2019.

Two miners remanded for attempted murder TWO miners were, on Wednesday, June 12, 2019, remanded to prison for attempting to murder their drinking partner.

Shameer Mathias, 23, and Leonardo Bennett, 20, both of Henrietta Village, Essequibo, appeared before Acting Chief Magistrate, Sherdel Issacs-Marcus and were not required to plead to the capital offences.

Particulars of the charge read that on June 4, 2019, at Arrangay Backdam, Cuyuni River, they wounded Vickey Williams with intent to commit murder.

According to the facts presented in court by Police Prosecutor, Shellon Daniels, the two defendants and the victim are known to each other.

On the day in question, the duo and Williams were consuming alcohol at Arrangay Backdam when a heat-

Leonardo Bennett (in red) and Shameer Mathias

ed argument ensued among them.

Daniels told the court that one of the defendants armed himself with a broken beer bottle and stabbed Williams about his body; Williams fell to the ground. the two accusted then armed themselves with pieces of wood and began beating the victim.

The victim was then

rushed to the Suddie Hospital but was transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where he is still being treated.

The Acting Chief Magistrate remanded the duo to prison until June 26, 2019, and transferred the matter to the Bartica Magistrates Court.

9

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday June 13, 2019

Ramjattan wants claims of GuySuCo refutes ‘whistle-blowing cop’ investigated KN article on ‘price …Top Cop denies police numbers found in bandits’ phones

By Leroy Smith PUBLIC Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan, on Wednesday, said that he expects the Guyana Police Force to launch a thorough investigation into claims that senior operatives of the force have been protecting junior police ranks known to be involved with criminals and that the numbers of some officers had shown up on the callers’ log of one of the recently-killed bandits in Corentyne.

Although he admitted that he was not briefed by the Commissioner of Police, Leslie James, in relation to the matters which have been reported in the press, Ramjattan said that all the claims being made can be “surmounted by good detective work.”

“I have not been briefed by the commissioner of police. and in the security sector in every country, you would have some complicity sometimes with rogue elements in law enforcement and criminals; if that is the case here, I would not be surprised. I

would want further investigations to verify its truthfulness and authenticity and of course to get those who may be involved criminally prosecuted. It is illegal,” Ramjattan told the media Wednesday morning.

Commissioner James later told the Guyana Chronicle that the phones were sent to the Criminal Investigation Department to be analysed.

He said All of the phones have not been completely analysed but thus far no numbers for policemen have been found in the phones. The matter at hand is the killing of three bandits by the police in an alleged shootout in May in Black Bush Polder.

One day after that shooting, the Guyana Chronicle did receive information that the numbers of police detectives were found in the phone of at least one of the bandits.

At a press conference hosted by the Commissioner of Police on June 02, 2019, the issue was raised but James said then that he would be addressing the issue at a subsequent press conference.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan

While Minister Ramjattan has called for a probe into the claims, the Guyana Chronicle has received confirmed reports that the force has since launched an investigation to determine the identity of the ‘whistle-blower’ so that they ‘can sit and talk’ with that person or persons.

The security minister recalled that in the past, reports against corrupt policemen were investigated and in some cases they were caught and dealt with in accordance with the law and he sees nothing different here if the

reports, which are now coming to light, turn out to be factual. He, however, cautioned that there is nothing wrong with the numbers of policemen and other officers being in the mobile phones of criminal elements. He stressed that what is important is for there to be proof of complicity between the criminal elements and the police personnel.

Ramjattan is confident that with proper police work by detectives, the answers can be forthcoming and the matter addressed.

“The police force is a microcosm of your community and if in our community you have people who do all kinds of rotten things, then we will have this. I have stated before that men and women are not angels and they are going to get involved when the profit motivates his eye and, generally, this complicity with criminals arises out of a profit motive of making some extra money other than their salaries and greed,” Ramjattan noted.

Psychiatric patient dies after choking on food during fight STEPHAN Francis, 28, who was found unresponsive after a fight at Chalet Four, National Psychiatric Hospital on Sunday, died as a result of bronchoaspiration.

This is according to Government Pathologist, Dr Vivikanand Brijmohan, who conducted a post-mortem on the remains of Francis at the New Amsterdam Hospital Mortuary on Tuesday.

The cause of death is as a result of the entry of material such as pharyngeal secretions, food or drink, or stomach contents from the oropharynx or gastrointes-

tinal tract into the larynx (voice box) and lower respiratory tract, the portions of the respiratory system from the trachea (windpipe) to the lungs.

Francis, who was a substance abuse patient at the mental health facility for just over a week, allegedly choked on a piece of food which he had in his mouth at the time of the fight.

Director of Health Services, Jevaughn Stephens, while confirming the incident from his office on Monday, said preliminary findings revealed that the incident occurred just before midnight.

Francis was involved in a fight, during which he fell, hit his head and subsequently died.

While the incident is regrettable, Stephens noted that the relatives of the deceased have since been notified and hospital staffers are working closely with the police as they submit statements.

It is expected that during the investigation, answers will be given as to why such an incident occurred and how it could be prevented in the future.

About 40 per cent of the patients at the hospital are substance abusers.

"All in all, it poses a challenge for we are not just looking at sick patients but those who are substance abusers and those passing through the courts and were given orders to be admitted at the National Psychiatric Hospital. The substance abuse patient has the tendency of becoming violent after a period of time and when that happens, they form gangs and they fight. This is what happened last night. But we regret what happened and we are waiting on the police to give us a thorough report," Stephens said.

Alleged wife abductor remanded DAYS after he allegedly dragged his wife from a neighbour’s house where she had gone to seek refuge, Martin Baker appeared before Magistrate Alex Moore at the Albion Magistrate’s Court, where he faced charges of abduction,

malicious damage to property, common assault and threatening behaviour.

The 50-year-old labourer of Plantation Warren, East Coast Berbice, was not required to plea to the charge of abduction, which stated that he abducted Dhanmattie

Sumara with intent to cause her to be secretly confined.

He pleaded not guilty to the other charges and was refused bail. Baker is expected to reappear at the New Amsterdam Court on July 12 for report and fixture.

Baker ended up in court

after he went to the home of a family friend, Jaipaul Jaimal, where his wife sought refuge from his abuse. He was refused entry into the house and became upset and kicked down the door.

He then proceeded to drag his wife out of the house.

fixing, quotas’

THE Guyana Sugar Corporation said it is disappointed that after presenting “facts” on its operation, the Kaieteur Newspaper continues to mislead the nation.

In its Sunday June 9, 2019 Edition, the Kaieteur Newspaper published an article titled ‘Price fixing racket at GuySuCo… Internal Audit Report recommends Paul Bhim sacked’. Two days later, another article appeared in the same newspapers titled ‘Local sugar quotas…Despite malfeasance and dereliction of duty, GuySuCo failed to take action – Internal Report.’

These articles, GuySuCo said, are regurgitation of old and inaccurate reports.

“Kaieteur news has essentially rewritten the reports from 2018 but on this occasion included a source which it purports to be the ‘Internal Audit’ reports for GuySuCo. The corporation hereby states that there are no ‘Internal Audit’ reports or other such reports which recommend that Paul Bhim, Finance Director, be disciplined or that his services be terminated,” the sugar corporation said.

GuySuCo Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Harold Davis, said there are no reports or recommendations made to him, or the Chairman or the Board of Directors of any malfeasance or dereliction of duty by Paul Bhim.

“As a matter of fact, Mr. Bhim has played an invaluable role during this extremely difficult transition period for the corporation, particularly in the area of fiscal management,” the CEO said.

The GuySuCo said it is again disappointed that the Kaieteur News would continue to participate in what seems to be a tactic to tarnish the reputation of the corporation and its managers.

“Of greater concern to the corporation, however, is that the in

the article published on June 9, 2019, the newspapers recklessly drafted its customers into this senseless scheme by listing the names of international and regional customers. This malicious reporting by Kaieteur News negatively impacted the business in 2018 and continues to affect the Corporation,” the sugar corporation said.

It said the global sugar industry is currently undergoing a transition which includes intense reforms, and GuySuCo along with other sugar producers in the Caribbean Region are challenged to protect the market from extra-regional sugars which are being sold in many instances, at a cheaper price.

“With regard to selling of sugar on the local market, of which there are over 150 customers; the current European price per tonne of sugar on June 11, is US$280, whilst on the local market the price is US$500 per tonne.

Therefore, GuySuCo currently endeavours to sell more sugar on the local market since the price is higher, which would obviously require adjustments based on demand; since it makes better business sense to sell more on the local market than on the European Market, at a price which is about 55 per cent of what it sells for on the local market,” it explained.

The sugar corporation is calling on Kaieteur News and it sources to desist from continuing this “reckless and malicious reporting” about its business and management. The corporation extends an invitation to the media to contact representatives from its Communications Department to seek clarifications, comments or request information on any aspect of its business.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday June 13, 2019

GuySuCo shows proof documents were handed over to NICIL … says NICIL’s tactics placing future of GuySuCo at risk GUYANA Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) has made public a list of records submitted to the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited’s Special Purpose Unit (SPU), amid claims that the lack of critical information from GuySuCo’s Administration

of Association Certificates of Incorporation and Continuation; and Operating statistics for the Enmore Estate actually realized for 2016 and 2017.

The provision of the list of records contradicts both the statements of the Head of the SPU and Pricewater-

(GOG) State Paper on the Future of the Sugar Industry,” the sugar corporation said.

It said NICIL/SPU having been unable to divest the assets in a timely manner, convinced its principals that the Bond was an appropriate alternative as an interim financial arrangement. It not-

tion(s) which were completed or are in progress in relation to its immoveable and moveable assets, including the scrap metals, machinery, plant and equipment. GuySuCo would also like to be informed by NICIL of the extent of the valuation done

Head of the SPU, Colvin Heath-London

PricewaterhouseCoopers (Jamaica) Managing Director Wilfred Bhagaloo

was making it difficult for the four ‘closed’ sugar estates to be evaluated and marketed.

At a press conference on June 3, 2019, Head of the SPU, Colvin Heath-London and PricewaterhouseCoopers (Jamaica) Managing Director Wilfred Bhagaloo bitterly complained about GuySuCo’s slothfulness in the provision of important information on the Skeldon, Rose Hall, East Demerara (Enmore) and Wales Estates.

But GuySuCo, in a strongly worded corporate statement on Wednesday, not only provided a list of documents submitted to NICIL/ SPU, but said the agency’s “slothfulness, less than credible ‘divestment’ tactics’ have now placed at risk the future of the sugar corporation.

The list of records dates back to November 11, 2017 when the first set of documents were sent to NICIL/ SPU, with the last set of documents sent on June 13, 2018. These documents included: Fixed Asset Registers for Enmore, Rose Hall and Skeldon Estates; Financial Statements 20122016; Fixed Asset Registers for Rose Hall, Skeldon, Enmore and Wales Estates; Memorandum and Articles

houseCoopers Managing Director Wilfred Bhagaloo, who had contended that only audited financial statements were submitted to NICIL/ SPU. “The challenges that we have auger primarily around information that we need from GuySuCo, financial information for each of the estate and to date I have not received that. I have received the audited account for GuySuCo, that’s one thing; I need information for each of the estates, the valuators need information on major equipment,” PricewaterhouseCoopers’ Managing Director told reporters. While admitting that PricewaterhouseCoopers never had contact with GuySuCo’s Administration, Baghaloo said he wrote Cabinet seeking an intervention based on complaints from NICIL/SPU. But GuySuCo said Bhagaloo had no ‘business’ addressing issues relating to GuySuCo in the public. It explained that PricewaterhouseCoopers was recruited as the consulting firm by the SPU to conduct the valuation of GuySuCo’s estates, and should have stuck to it responsibilities.

“Mr. Wilfred Bhagaloo was legally contracted as

the ‘lead’ Consultant; as such, it is outside of the remit for Mr. Bhagaloo or PricewaterhouseCoopers to be discussing the Corporation’s business in public, more so in the media, without its permission,” the sugar corporation said.

GuySuCo said since 2018, Bhagaloo has thought it fitting to speak on behalf of the sugar corporation.

“Mr. Bhagaloo and PricewaterhouseCoopers were selected to conduct the valuation based on what was perceived to be the distinguished reputation; relative to professionalism and integrity with which they would have been expected to treat with information to which they have become privy, by their privileged position with companies and organisations. It is alarming, that a reputable firm such as PWC would allow its name to be discredited, judging from its extraordinary enthusiasm to participate in activities along with NICIL-SPU, even though PWC is aware that the core of its business is hinged on its professionalism and the integrity with which it conducts its business,” GuySuCo said.

According to the sugar corporation, Bhagaloo has placed his personal relationships above the professionalism of PricewaterhouseCoopers, in addition to participating in acts which are injurious to GuySuCo and its business.

GuySuCo, in its statement, did not spare NICIL/ SPU. The corporation accused NICIL and the SPU of crossing their boundaries and

interfering in the internal operations of GuySuCo. It said the “confusion” started with SPU and now has consumed NICIL, as to its role.

“NICIL established the SPU to divest the assets of Skeldon, Rose Hall, East Demerara (Enmore) and Wales estates, however, at some point, NICIL indecorously assumed the role of the Ministry of Agriculture, the Government agency with responsibility for GuySuCo; further, in an attempt to legitimise this position, NICIL had even speciously appointed its own Board of Directors in March of 2018, with Mr. Colvin Heath-London as its Chairman. This decision was quashed by the Government, however, NICIL has never abandoned the misconception,” GuySuCo said.

For the record, GuySuCo reminded that it is an independent corporate agency,

by Law, according to the Company’s Act, is neither a department, unit or owned

by NICIL. Turning its attention to the $30B bond, GuySuCo said NICIL’s is misdirected and continues to put the Sugar Industry and the future of the sugar corporation at risk.

“NICIL/SPU’s single role was to divest GuySuCo’s assets from the Skeldon, Rose Hall, East Demerara (Enmore) and Wales estate, however, due to its slothfulness and less than credible ‘divestment’ tactics it has now placed at risk the retooling and restructuring of GuySuCo as it is clearly outlined in the Government of Guyana

GuySuCo Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Harold Davis Jnr.

ed too that the divestment process is now approaching its second year and NICIL/ SPU has not executed one significant investment.

GuySuCo is now of the view that the recent press conference held by London was intended to distract the public from the fact that it has not achieved its mandates.

“As a matter of fact, in an attempt to extend the life of the SPU, having been created for the specific purposes above and within a particular timeframe; the agency has now assumed the role and operates as a proprietor and landlord.

This is totally inconsistent with its intended purposes,” the sugar corporation contended.

It reminded that NICIL/ SPU is merely a custodian of the Skeldon, Rose Hall, Enmore and Wales assets of GuySuCo for the specific purpose of facilitating divestments as envisaged in the State Paper on the Future of the Sugar Industry. The proceeds from the sales would be remitted to GuySuCo in order to fund its Strategic Plan, it said while adding that NICIL/SPU ought not to be the beneficiaries.

“GuySuCo is still awaiting a full report from NICILSPU on all and any transac-

by PWC. Were all four estates including cultivations and other assets valuated?”

The $7B provided to GuySuCo by NICIL from the bond was used for its intended purpose, the sugar corporation said while lashing out at NICIL for alleging that the funds were unaccounted for.

“The Corporation is appalled by these statements since NICIL is well aware that GuySuCo has several layers to ensure financial accountability. These include; the procurement process by use of a credible tender process and annual financial statements among others.

NICIL/SPU is once again invited to review the company’s financial records within the legal requirements,” GuySuCo said.

GuySuCo admitted that it has requested duty free concessions to purchase appropriate vehicles to conduct its business but made it clear that there was no request for duty free concessions for SUV’s or luxury vehicles as reported.

It explained that vehicles include; double and single cab pickups for agricultural/farming use.

11

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday June 13, 2019

Rally held in observance of ‘World Day Against Child Labour’

IN observance of World Day against Child Labour, the Department of Labour within the Ministry of Social Protection hosted a rally at D’Urban Park on Wednesday.

Giving remarks at the rally, was Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott, who stated that children should not be working in factories, fields nor offices, “children shouldn’t be working at all.”

“Children should have a smooth and exciting transition from school to the world of work where they can begin to live their dreams.

They can best do so and live rich, rewarding, fulfilling and healthy lives if they acquire a rounded education,” Scott noted.

Scott highlighted that they would have recently developed and launched a National Policy on the issue of Child Labour. The Policy which holds all of the relevant legislation and international instruments, identifies the causes, effects and consequences of child labour.

He said, “within the realm of effects, it is reported that the mental, physical, social and psychological injuries associated with Child Labour can endure for a life time. It is noted in our Na-

Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection, Keith Scott

tional Policy that it creates an effective poverty trap which can be crippling to a child’s education, growth and development.”

“Do not yield to the temptations which are associated with money. Do not believe that it is a good thing to leave school early and enter the world of work before you are an adult. Do not believe in the false notion that you can get rich quick,” Scott urged the students.

Onika Pearson, Senior Welfare Officer at the Ministry of Education noted that Child Labour is a worldwide issue which robs children of the “most fundamental reason for their existence, that is, to acquire a sound education.”

Pearson stated that Child

Labour interferes with children’s schooling, by depriving them of the opportunity to attend school, as such, it obliges them to leave school “prematurely.”

It also requires children to combine school attendance with extremely long and heavy work.

“In its most extreme form, child labour is children being enslaved, separated from their families and exposed to serious hazards and illnesses and/or left to fend for themselves,” Pearson added.

However, she noted, that not all work performed by children should be classified as child labour, as such, children carrying out chores within their homes, that does not affect their

Students of Kingston and Carmel Secondary Schools who participated in the rally (Elvin Croker’s photos)

health and personal development, should be regarded as something positive, since it can contribute to children’s development and the welfare of their families.

Pearson added that it is demanding for all stakeholders to work together towards the achievement of the “Sustainable Development Goal, number 4,” which speaks of inclusive and quality education for all and the promotion of lifelong learning.

“This therefore means, that children must be free to go to school rather than work

200 inmates to be accommodated

-- after completion of first phase of Mazaruni Prison expansion AN additional 200 prisoners will be housed at the Mazaruni Prison after the first phase of the expansion, which is set to be completed by October of this year, acting Director of Prisons, Gladwin Samuels, said.

“The other phase will go into next year but in keeping with the progress meetings we have every third Thursday, things are at the level it should be at this time,” Samuel said.

Trinidadian firm, Kee-Chanona, is partnering with Guyanese company, Nabi Construction Incorporated, to execute the project.

In total, the $4B expansion project will hold 400 prisoners and help with overcrowding at the other prisons across the country.

When finished, there will be a U-shaped, two-storey building that will house cells, offices and a courtyard for the prisoners.

Acting Prisons Director, Gladwin Samuels

Phase Two of the project will be a square-shaped building that will house offices, training centres and accommodation for the prisoners.

A road will also be constructed to link the two prisons.

Public Security Minister, Khemraj Ramjattan, had expressed satisfaction at the pace in which the works are being carried out since there is need for more space to accommodate prisoners.

He said the fires in 2016 and 2017 have placed a strain on the other prisons.

“That is why we have to get the prison estate in Mazaruni up and going and that is happening. I want to commend the contractors, the engineers and the consultants for ensuring that is happening. The important thing is to get prison space for prisoners so that we can shelve what Lusignan is presently and also some of the other prisons outside of Mazaruni, that is, in Georgetown and in Berbice so that the main prison will be at Mazaruni.”

to support their families. In this regard it is essential for us to continue to work on exploring and addressing the links between education and child labour,” she posited.

The rally which was held under the theme, “Children shouldn’t work in fields but on dreams,” saw the attendance of students and teachers of Kingston Secondary and Carmel Secondary School who would have received awards for their participation in the rally.

According to the International Labour Organization

which is celebrating 100 years of advancing social justice and promoting decent work, although child labour occurs in almost every sector, 7 out of every 10 of these children are working in Agriculture.

The International Labour Organization further indicated that the number of children, ages 5-17, who work, has declined by 30% since 2000. However, there are still 168 million child labourers worldwide and more than half of them perform harmful work.

Ministry probes teen's death in Kwakwani backdam THE Ministry of Social Protection (MoSP), Occupational Health and Safety Department is investigating the death of 15year- old Roy Odel Welchman, who died after falling from a skidder at Bisaruni Backdam, Region 10, on Sunday.

According to a senior officer in the department, arrangements are being made to travel to the mining area by Friday. A post mortem examination was completed on Wednesday at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and it was ascertained that the teen died from multiple injuries.

According to police reports, at around 17:30hrs on Sunday, Welchman allegedly slipped off the side of a truck and fell between the wheels of a skidding machine.

He was employed by T Bovell Concessions on a part time basis as a GPS operator and record keeper.

Roy Odel Welchman

At the time of the incident he was allegedly in the company of a driver and a porter. The skidder hit a bump causing the teen, who was reportedly standing on the left side of the machine, to fall. He was rushed to the Kwakwani Hospital, where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The operator of the machine and the porter were released on station bail.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 13, 2019

WPA rails against ethnic fear-mongering …wants gov’t to act on findings of ‘imperfect’ Rodney CoI report

AS it observes the 39th Anniversary of Walter Rodney’s Assassination, the Working People’s Alliance (WPA) said government’s failure to act on the recommendations of the Rodney Commission of Inquiry (CoI), submitted more than three years ago, leaves much to be desired.

“For the WPA, the current government’s non-treatment of the findings and recommendations of the Rodney Commission of Inquiry was short-sighted. Despite the imperfections of the CoI, its findings should have been better engaged,” the WPA said on Wednesday. The WPA is a key member of the government with its chairman being the Minister of Public Service. Besides, some of the party’s leaders had raised suspicions about the PPP-inspired CoI with key players such as Dr. Rupert Roopnaraine refusing to give testimony despite his name featuring heavily during the inquiry.

Dr. Rodney, a Guyanese historian, political activist and academic, was assassinated on June 13, 1980.

In 2015, the CoI headed

by Barbadian Sir Richard Cheltenham, in his report, concluded that the late Gregory Smith was, Dr. Rodney’s assassinator and that he was an agent of the State having been aided and abetted so to do. The report ends with

recommendations to improve the professionalism, speed, efficiency, and thoroughness of the operations of the Guyana Coroner’s Department, Police Force and army in service to the people of Guyana.

According to the WPA, which forms part of the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change (APNU+AFC) Administration, the government missed a great opportunity to demonstrate to the country and the world that it has transcended the crippling politics of old.

As such, it is of the opinion that the issues surrounding the assassination of Dr. Rodney are unfinished business.

“As we remember Walter Rodney, WPA recommits itself to continue the fight for the dismantling of the authoritarian state. As it was forty years ago, so it is today – there can be no genuine democracy and development without a State and a governance praxis that centres respect for dissent and for human dignity,” the WPA said.

In honour of Dr. Rodney’s legacy, WPA draws attention to the need to arrest at all levels, the dangerous descent into “zero-sum ethnic fear mongering.”

It noted that while such an approach may bring shortterm benefits to the perpetrators, the long-term consequences for all ethnicities are devastating.

“As Rodney taught us,

Dr. Walter Rodney

our historic ethnic problems are best engaged when our people struggle together in pursuit of their just rewards.

Unwarranted ethnic hostility is one of the most potent forms of underdevelopment in societies like ours. In this regard, WPA pledges on this Rodney anniversary to expend more energies in the search for national reconciliation,” the alliance said.

It also reiterated its commitment to a Government of National Unity, noting that such is a necessary vehicle for reconciliation. “(WPA) regrets that the government of which we are a junior partner has not been

more forthright in working for its realisation. Our party continues to believe that no single party, regardless of its electoral might, could successfully manage this country. WPA therefore lends its voice again to the clamour for constitutional reform aimed at bringing our political arrangements in line with the needs of the country,” it said.

As the country prepares for another General and Regional Elections, the alliance made it clear it vehemently opposes electoral malpractice as a route to power.

“This is a fundamental principle of our party that is

non-negotiable — WPA will not be part of any overt or covert plan or action to rig elections. To do so, would be a dishonour to the legacy of Walter Rodney and the other stalwarts of our party who gave their lives and sacrifices for free and fair elections that are free from fear. Towards this end our party is vigorously opposed to those in the opposition and other circles who are spreading false alarms about intentions to rig elections. WPA sees or knows of no plans in that regard,” it stated.

Meanwhile, it said Dr. Rodney’s anniversary comes on the heels of the death of another party stalwart, Andaiye Williams, noting that they represent the best of the country’s and region’s radical tradition.

“We remember Walter Rodney on June 13 every year, not just to pay homage to his legacy, but also to remind Guyana of both its transformative and traumatic past. As we navigate our independence journey, it is imperative that memory stands at the very centre of our trajectory. So, on this June 13, we use the opportunity to remind Guyana of Rodney’s place in our recent history and to recommit our party to its founding ideals which were at the core of Rodney’s activism. In remembering Rodney, we also remember other soldiers of the revolution who were cut

down by the vicious hand of the regime of the day. We remember Ohene Koama, Edward Dublin and Fr. Bernard Darke,” it said.

This year also marks the 40th Anniversary of the Civil Rebellion of 1979, when over a period of approximately six months the WPA, with Dr. Rodney at the head, inspired sustained mass demonstrations and other related forms of protests that rocked the foundations of the country’s post-colonial order.

“During his six years of activism, 1974-80, Walter Rodney etched his name in the annals of Guyanese history as an apostle of self-emancipation who exhibited the rare capacity to absorb the revolutionary energies of the masses of people. He gave leadership to the emerging multiracial and multiclass energies and, along with the WPA, channelled them into a decisive movement for change and liberation. That intervention forever changed Guyana as it reintroduced the revolutionary praxis into the mass consciousness,” WPA recalled.

It said Dr. Rodney continues to live in the hearts of those who were touched by his sacrifices and example.

GPF music director receives portrait of predecessor MUSIC has evolved over decades of research, technology, innovation and diversity but the fundamentals of the art form were built on sure foundations and that can never change nor will it die.

This is according to Guyana Police Force (GPF) Director of Music, Senior Superintendent Charmaine Stuart, who, on Wednesday, was presented with a framed portrait of former Director of Music, retired Senior Superintendent, Leon Waddell.

Waddell, who played the Trombone, enlisted as an apprentice in the then British Guyana Militia Band on October

Director of Music, Senior Superintendent Charmaine Stuart, holding the portrait of retired Director of Music, Leon Waddell. Stuart is flanked by the daughters of Waddell and their spouses

18, 1943, and quickly rose through the ranks and served well.

After becoming a bandsman on October 6, 1951, Waddell quickly moved through the ranks, becoming director of music in 1980.

The presentation, which was done by Waddell’s daughters, Sharon and Dalia, to Senior Superintendent Stuart was welcomed with greetings of joy and appreciation, preceded by musical renditions from the Police Military Band.

The director of music, who recently received the Force’s ‘Best Cop’ award, expressed appreciation while acknowledging the contributions of the re-

tired senior superintendent.

Quite visible was the solemn atmosphere the tunes created as the daughters of the now-retired director of music, who were accompanied by their spouses, listened and expressed sentiments reminiscent of a time which most members of the band today may not know.

T h e p o r t r a i t , a d epiction of a younger, uniformed and focused officer, will be placed among other pictures of past directors of music and will be part of a collection of artefacts dating back to the birth of that section of the Force.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

Two-day climate change workshop opens

Seated from left to right are: Facilitators, CfRN’s AFOLU and GHG Inventory Expert, Matt Ramlow; CfRN’s, GHG Inventory Officer on GHG, Luz Milena Nino M. and United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) National Coordinator, Marlon Velloza with other participants of the two-day workshop

THE Office of Climate Change (OCC), in collaboration with the Coalition for Rainforest Nations (CfRN), on Wednesday, commenced a two-day inventory training on reporting Anthropogenic Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions and removals from the Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use (AFOLU) sectors.

The training, which is being conducted at Herdmanston Lodge, is being done under the ‘Reporting for Results – based REDD+ Actions’ project.

It is in keeping with the reporting standards of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) and the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

In a release from the OCC, the office stated that the main goal of the training is to meet with relevant technical officers,

stakeholders, and institutions in charge of collecting and processing data.

It is also aimed at strengthening institutional arrangements, enhancing technical capability to prepare a GHG inventory and increasing the capacity to report on GHG fluxes in the agriculture sector.

Those attending the training are representative of the Bureau of Statistics, Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, Ministry of Agriculture, Guyana Forestry Commission and the University of Guyana.

The sessions are being facilitated by, CfRN, AFOLU, GHG Inventory Expert, Matt Ramlow; GHG Inventory Officer, Luz Milena Nino M. and UNFCCC National Coordinator, Marlon Velloza.

Caribbean media body condemns attacks on journalists in Haiti ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, Jun 12, CMC – The Association of Caribbean Media Workers (ACM) Wednesday said it is “deeply saddened” at the murder of Haitian journalist Pétion Rospid earlier this week as thousands of people protested in the Haitian capital calling for the removal of President Jovenel Moise.

Police confirmed that Pétion, who worked for Radio Sans Fin, was shot to death in the capital on Monday night.

“The ACM is concerned about the safety of journalists, especially during increased tensions and violence throughout the country. We call on the relevant authorities to launch an investigation to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice. On this sad occasion, we share the sorrows of our brothers and sisters on Radio Sans Fince (RSF), where Rospide worked, and the wider Haitian press,” the ACM said in a statement.

It said that Rospide’s death comes on the heels of an attack on National Television of Haiti journalist Richardson Jourdan and a Le Nouvelliste photojournalist who was shot during major anti-corruption protests on the weekend. A local broadcasting outfit had several vehicles burned or damaged by protesters during weekend demonstrations.

“These attacks against the media reflect a deteriorating

security climate across the country. The ACM therefore urges protesters not to compromise the work of journalists, who play a critical role in establishing and maintaining a democratic society,” the regional umbrella body said.

Earlier, President Moise condemned the murder of Rospido, describing it as an “odious act” and the National Association of Haitian Media (ANMH) urged police to protect media workers. Rospide was killed after hosting his radio programme while driving home to join his wife and two children. His body was found close to the National Theater.

Media colleagues have dismissed suggestions that he was in the wrong place at the wrong time, noting that he may have been killed as a result of the editorial line of the RSF which has been reporting extensively on the PetroCaribe probe. Moise in his statement said “I vehemently condemn this villainous crime, which is once again burying the Haitian press.

“I take this opportunity to convey my condolences to the family of the deceased and his former collaborators,” he added. ANMH president, Frantz Duval, urged journalists to be careful describing the murder as “unacceptable’.

RSF has said that it is awaiting the outcome of the police investigation into the murder.

13

Latin America and Caribbean urged to strengthen measures regarding blood donation WASHINGTON, Jun 12, CMC – The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) Wednesday called on Latin America and Caribbean countries (LAC) to strengthen their voluntary, unpaid blood donation systems, noting it is the best way to ensure universal access to an adequate supply of safe blood for transfusions.

In a statement ahead of World Blood Donor Day on Friday, the PAHO noted that in the LAC, voluntary donation accounts for less than half of all blood supplies. “While Latin America and the Caribbean has made significant advances to improve the safety and availability of blood for transfusions, with donations rising to 10.5 million units in 2017, an increase of 13 per cent since 2015, the percentage of voluntary donations remains largely unchanged,” it said.

The theme of this year’s World Blood Donor Day is “Safe blood for all” of which voluntary donation is a vital part.

PAHO said that the theme draws attention to the importance of timely supplies of safe and quality-assured blood and blood components as an integral part of universal health and a key component of effective health systems.

“The region of the Americas has made huge efforts to increase voluntary blood donations in recent years but there are still significant disparities from country to country,” said Dr. Analía Porrás, Unit Chief of Medicines and Health Technologies at PAHO. “Regular, unpaid blood donation is a vital part of ensuring the safety and availability of blood components, so it is important that all countries do more to move towards this model,” she added. PAHO said that as of 2017, voluntary blood donation accounted for five million units or 46.5 per cent of blood for transfusions in Latin America and the Caribbean. “This is a less than one per cent increase from 2015, and far below the 100 per cent goal recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) to ensure a sufficient and safe blood supply for transfusions. Currently, the majority of blood donation comes from so-called “required replacement donation”, followed by autologous donation and paid donation. “ PAHO said the percentage of voluntary donations also varies significantly in the region from country to country, accounting for 90 per cnt of donations in 10 countries, including Aruba, Bermuda, Colombia, the Cayman Islands, Cuba, Curacao, Guyana, Nicaragua, Turks and Caicos Islands and Suriname.

It said voluntary blood donation accounts for 50-90 per cent of donations in five countries, and less than 50 per cent of donations in 22 countries. “Access to safe, quality blood and blood components is a vital element of universal health, particularly in the areas of emergency medicine, maternal and perinatal health and surgery,” said Mauricio Beltran Duran, Regional advisor for Blood and Transplant Services at PAHO. “We know that the availability of these components is indispensable to improve health outcomes and save lives, so it is critical to achieve the 100% WHO goal to ensure that no one gets left behind.”

The PAHO/WHO say they were recommending that countries dedicate the necessary resources and infrastructure to develop and sustain national integrated services for blood donation; ensure the quality and safety of blood and blood components in their systems; strengthen distribution networks so that blood and blood components are available when and where they are needed; and provide high-quality care to blood donors, among other measures.

World Blood Donor Day is celebrated all over the world each year on June 14 and serves to raise awareness of the need for safe blood and blood components and to thank blood donors for their life-saving gift of blood.

14

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

Ghanaian President wraps up State visit …committed to creating direct link between Accra and Georgetown

Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo

Ghanaian President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and President Granger saying their goodbyes

(DPI Photos)

PRESIDENT of Ghana, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo wrapped up his State visit to Guyana with a commitment to creating a direct link between Accra and Georgetown.

The Ghanaian President made this commitment during a meeting with the Ghanaian Diaspora and African organisations at the Guyana Marriott Hotel on Tuesday evening.

“There are other areas of cooperation that we want to undertake-- in education and transportation, a direct link between Accra and Georgetown,” President Akufo-Addo said. Ahead of that engagement, Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Annette Ferguson, and Ghana’s Minister of Aviation, Joseph Kofi Adda, held talks about international air transport between the two nations.

Late last month, the Director General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field and the High Commissioner of Ghana, Professor Abena Pokua Adompim Busia, verbally agreed to explore the creation of sustainable air linkages.

In November 2018, Guyana and Ghana signed an Air Services Agreement at the Third African Diaspora Meeting held at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Under this Agreement, airlines operating from Guyana or Ghana will be able to fly to any destination within both countries as well as provide any number of services between both countries and beyond to any third country,

with no restrictions on capacity, frequency, aircraft type and routing. Further, in December 2018, Guyana also signed a Technical Cooperation Agreement with Ghana for the exchange of knowledge and technical expertise in the area of civil aviation.

President Akufo-Addo and his delegation departed Guyana early Wednesday morning. He was given a military send-off by President David Granger.

During his two-day State visit to Guyana, he was conferred with the Order of Excellence, Guyana’s highest national award, by President David Granger during a luncheon held in his honour.

During a bilateral meeting shortly before the luncheon on Tuesday, Guyana and Ghana agreed, by way of a Memorandum of Understanding, to increase cooperation, collaboration and trade. The agreement also signals the end of the visa requirement to travel between the two countries.

With Ghana experiencing high levels of deforestation, the country has signalled an interest in importing Guyana’s timber. It also has a major interest in Guyana’s Rum industry.

To learn more, President Akufo-Addo and his delegation visited Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) and Banks DIH and participated in a photo exhibition held at the Umana Yana.

His first visit, however, was to the Non-Aligned Monument and the 1763 Monument where he laid floral wreaths.

New TIP Action Plan launched BUILDING on the successes and looking to address limitations of the 2017–2018 Action Plan, the Ministerial Task Force on Trafficking in Persons on Wednesday launched a new plan 2019–2020 at the Ministry of Public Security (MoPS) office, Brickdam.

The MoPS is the lead agency on a list of 15 bodies which make up the task force, which is committed to seeing the reduction in the occurrence of TIP across the country. The Task Force also includes the involvement of the Ministry of Social Protection, Ministry of Communities, Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs and the Director of Public Prosecution’s (DPP) Office.

The plan of action outlines the government’s planned initiatives, measures and activities to enhance the prevention of TIP, protection of victims and the prosecution of suspected offenders through partnership with stakeholders. The 2019– 2020 Action Plan reports a success in tackling the scourge.

“2017– 2018 marked a period of growth regarding Guyana’s institutional response to the crime,” the report noted.

The plan noted that while 2017 marked a decrease in TIP, 2018 saw an unprecedented increase. The increase was attributed to trafficking of foreign nationals, primarily females from Latin America.

“Traffickers in 2018 proved

to be opportunists, taking advantage of difficult situations experienced by these nationals in their home territories through sexual exploitation in Guyana,” the report stated.

into account external factors, including as many relevant stakeholders as possible,” the report noted.

The plan takes into consideration the recommendations

Khemraj Ramjattan; Acting Project Coordinator of the TIP Task Force, Oliver Profitt, and several representatives from the 15 TIP Task Force member agencies. Ramjattan outlined

following plan we’re going to have more investigations, more charges and more convictions.”

Ramjattan noted, while adding that there are limitations in the fight against TIP.

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan (back row, second from right) with representatives from the agencies in the Ministerial Task Force on Trafficking in Persons displaying copies of the 2019 –2020 National Plan of Action for the Prevention and Response to Trafficking in Persons

The plan is crafted on six pillars: prevention, protection, reintegration, investigation, prosecution and partnership.

“The best way to combat TIP is to institute effective measures to prevent occurrences of the crime. For such programmes to be effective they need to be tailored to the specific environment and climate of the area affected and should take

contained in the United States’ State Department TIP Report on Guyana. Since the launching of the first action plan, in the State Departments 2017 TIP report, Guyana moved from being Tier two to Tier one, meaning the country fully met the minimum standards for combating trafficking in person.

Attending the launch was the Minister of Public Security,

the importance of analysing the achievements of the previous Action Plan, and building on it. “Having implemented our previous action plan there were some key achievements. It is not going to be just proper for us to implement, it is also to do an assessment and evaluation of our successes,” Ramjattan noted.

“I am hoping that with this

“We have to train more of our police officers, judicial officers, and frontline responders. That requires resources, but with the resources that we have, we are carrying through with the recommendations. The recommendations out of the US TIP report, include victim services outside the capital for males and children. We seemed bias to our women, so that is

an important recommendation from our TIP report that we want to implement as far as possible. Another area that we will have to work hard on is to vindicate and meet the needs of victims while also preventing future victimisation. Meeting the needs of the victims calls for a lot of resources and of course we are not yet there. But with the oil and gas revenue stream we will get there soon and I’m rather optimistic we will realise the resources necessary,” he said.

Nonetheless, the minister noted that much has been accomplished thanks to the collaboration of the varying agencies.

“We cannot win the battle alone as a law enforcement agency, it never going to work.

There’s going to be limitations in relations to law enforcement, but when we can have a variety of agencies locally and internationally, success will be at hand,” Ramjattan said.

“We achieved inter-agency collaboration for victims; collaboration with anti-trafficking partners, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs and Indigenous Peoples’ Commission. There has been enhanced collaboration with the DPP’s office in providing even more and more increasingly, more legal support and we’re proud of that.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

15

First Lady’s mother laid to rest

President David Granger assists with the removal of the body of Edith Cicely Chan- A-Sue nee Pierre, mother of First Lady, Sandra Granger from the Our Lady of Fatima Roman Catholic Church on Wednesday where her home-going service was held

President David Granger, First Lady, Mrs. Sandra Granger and other relatives on Wednesday afternoon, said their final goodbye to Mrs. Edith Cicely Chan- A- Sue nee Pierre, who died on June 5, 2019 at the age of 94. Several Ministers and representatives of Government were also present to show their support

Region 4 education heads benefit from diversity, inclusion training

By Naomi Marshall FORTY-SEVEN heads of department within the education sector in Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) benefitted from a Diversity Education and Inclusion Workshop on Wednesday at the Racquet Centre, Woolford Avenue, Georgetown.

The workshop was held by the Department of Social Cohesion within the Ministry of the Presidency.

The two-day workshop was the 83rd of its kind to be held in Guyana and its theme was: “Fostering harmonious relationships and building a unified country.”

According to Technical Officer in the Department of Social Cohesion, Pamela Nauth, the workshop aimed at allowing participants to explore the negative internalised attitudes, beliefs and stereotypes that impact the ways in which they perceive them-

selves and others (self-understanding); assisting participants to have a better understanding and appreciation of diversity, particularly beyond ethnicity.

The aim of the workshop was also to help participants learn about the changes and challenges that are associated with our diverse population and to develop opportunities for cross-community dialogue.

It is the hope of the Department of Social Cohesion that at the end of the workshop, participants would have acquired an increased awareness and sensitivity about behaviours that contribute to building better relations between individuals in a community.

Participants of the workshop were educated on topics such as values, understanding biases, being human, understanding diversity, trust-building and nurturing

communities.

According to Nauth, the initiative was established in July of 2018 as a partnership with the Ministry of Education; it was held in all 10 administrative regions with numerous stakeholders such as faith-based organisations,

community leaders, representatives of the discipline forces, Regional Democratic Councils and youth groups, amongst others.

The Department of Social Cohesion will next target Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara).

Technical Officer in the Department of Social Cohesion, Pamela Nauth (Adrian Narine’s photo)

Heads of Department within the education sector in Region Four(Demerara-Mahaica) during Wednesday’s Diversity Education and Inclusion Workshop, held by the Department of Social Cohesion within the Ministry of the Presidency (Adrian Narine’s photo)

Guyana to host Sixth Meeting of CARICOM and Cuban Foreign Ministers THE Sixth Meeting of CARICOM and Cuban Foreign Ministers would be held in Georgetown on Friday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed on Wednesday.

The high-level forum will take place at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre.

Among areas of mutual interest on the agenda are CARICOM-Cuba relations and issues pertinent to the region such as climate change, tourism, and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

Visiting Cuban Foreign Minister, Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, is also expected to meet with his Guyanese counterpart, Karen Cummings, as well as with President David Granger.

Guyana, along with Barbados, Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago, established diplomatic relations with the Republic of Cuba on December 8, 1972.

“Cuba continues to play a key collaborative role in the development of CARICOM member States, particularly in the areas of disaster management, agriculture, and health, among others,” the Foreign Affairs Ministry noted.

It said of note in Guyana is the establishment of a regional centre for the stimulation of development in children, adolescents and young people with special educational needs associated with disabilities. Commissioned in December 2017 in the compound of the Cyril Potter College of Education, Turkeyen, it has facilitated the training of individuals in a number of specialized areas, such as speech therapy and psychology.

16

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday June 13, 2019

Indigenous leaders, stakeholders discuss sustainable forestry

SEVERAL indigenous leaders were on Tuesday reminded of the crucial role they play in the promotion of sustainable forestry in their communities.

This was conveyed at a three-day capacity-building workshop involving several indigenous villages and communities involved in logging activities. The ongoing forum, which was convened by the National Toshao’s Council (NTC) at that body’s secretariat at Hadfield and Cross Street, seeks to move the European Union Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade, Volunteer Partnership Agreement (EU FLEGT VPA) Process forward.

According to the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, the EU FLEGT VPA’s main objective seeks to promote sustainable forestry in indigenous peoples’ communities through capacity-building and direct participation.

The initiative is in partnership with the European Union (EU), the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs and is being hosted at the NTC’s Hadfield and Cross Streets Secretariat.

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, who delivered the feature address, reminded those in attendance of the integral role the indigenous peoples have played and continue to play in preserving Guyana’s most sought-after

resource.

According to the Minister, “logging in Guyana is big business; it is one of our country’s income generating industry. 87% of Guyana is forested and I know that Guyana retained most of its forest because of the indigenous peoples”.

Minister Garrido-Lowe said that the ongoing capaci-

eco-tourism”.

EU Delegation representative, Frederico Suarez, emphasized that the most relevant aspect of the EU FLEGT VPA process is the “comprehensive and participatory approach from the public, private sectors and civil society and indigenous associations and the need to have inclusive dialogue

Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, as she addressed the gathering.

A section of the gathering at the event

ty-building session “is to just bring us back to what we, as indigenous people, are supposed to know a long time ago that was handed down to us from our ancestors, but also teaches us that it is the modern world and we need to keep up with what’s going on”.

She added that “Guyana is now being looked at as one of the saviour countries in the world, with regards to the Green State Development Strategy where we are promoting sustainable forest, a friendly environment and

that reflects the needs and interest of all of the forest management principles”.

He said the NTC “plays a crucial role in getting indigenous peoples interested in the VPA Process, and the fact that it comprises all of the indigenous Toshao’s and leaders from across Guyana makes the NTC a key stakeholder in ensuring good governance over this project, exploitation of the further use of other resources which are [timely] to the subsistence of life of indigenous communities.”

According to the release, FAO’s Country Representative, Dr. Gillian Smith, said her Organization is happy to partner with the EU and the NTC.“The Toshao’s Council earned this and is in a position, and has been in position where they are well organized on behalf of the indigenous peoples and they have every kind of skill set and experience and requirement to take a grant like this and implement it for the advantage of the indigenous people,” she said.

Dr. Smith said the FAO is aware that such projects experience its fair share of challenges “and we want to think of ourselves and we would like you to think of us as partners in these challenges; we all have the same goals and we want to see Guyana thrive and excel and we (FAO/EU) are here as partners to contribute to

the vision of Guyana for Guyana”.

She encouraged leaders to take full advantage of this opportunity where they can gain additional knowledge “since there are hundreds of people who are depending on you to take the most you can out of this and bring it back and make it sustainable”.

According to the ministry, last April, the FAO signed a Letter of Agreement with the NTC to provide financing for the implementation of the project to the tune of approximately $US49,000 which has already seen scoping missions conducted and community support forest officers (young people) from nineteen villages received technical training.

The Technical Training was conducted by the Guyana Forestry Commission in the areas of Forest Management, Forest Law, Informa-

tion Technology Skills and Technology Usage.

Villages participating in the workshop are Kwebanna, Manawarin and Waikrebi from Region 1; Wakapoa, Mashabo and Mainstay in Region 2; Batavia and Karrau in Region 7, Muritaro, Rivers View, Kimbia and Great Falls in Region 10.

The Voluntary Partnership Agreement (VPA) is a central element of the EU’s strategy in tackling illegal logging which forms part of a bilateral trade agreement between the EU and a timberexporting country outside of the EU. The VPA also guarantees that any wood exported from a timber producing country to the EU is legal and within an established framework beneficial to both sides.

17

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday June 13, 2019

GAWU discusses structural changes for sugar industry with IMF MEMBERS of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) have engaged a team from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the structural changes of the sugar industry.

According to a press statement from GAWU, the union met with the IMF team which is in Guyana to conduct its annual “Article IV” consultation.

The main focus of the discussion regarded the structural changes of the sugar industry. The union, on this matter, said it expressed concerns regarding what it termed the two-pronged approach adopted by the Government of Guyana.

The GAWU team explained that one area of concern is the divestment of three of the closed estates which includes Skeldon, Rose Hall and East Demerara Estates; and the other aspect regarded the re-capitalisation of the estates under the control of the Guyana Sugar

Corporation (GuySuCo).

With respect to the divestment approach, GAWU expressed concerns that the process appeared to lack transparency. “We pointed out that the divestment would possibly be the largest in the nation’s history, yet the Guyanese people were none the wiser about the value of the assets being put up for sale.

Moreover, we reminded the IMF that its 2017 Article IV report on Guyana had urged the government to ensure that displaced sugar workers be protected by appropriate safety nets.

“This suggestion we hastened to point out was not considered as apart from the statutory severance payments to workers, which we reminded were illegally withheld and corrected following the intervention of the courts, there is hardly, if any, tangible expression of the State’s assistance to the workers and communities affected,” said GAWU. The union pointed out

Thursday, June 13, 2019 - 2:00 hrs & 14:30hrs

that since the estate closures, the persons affected remain hard pressed and finding themselves in difficult situations.

Turning to the plans to recapitalise the operable estates, GAWU reiterated its concerns about the apparent absence of a plan to guide the bond which was secured.

It was, however, reported that to date, the GuySuCo

has received $7.4B from the $30B bond intended to recapitalise its operations, but it is unclear whether the money is being used for its intended purpose. According to the National Industrial and Commercial Investments Limited (NICIL), the state-owned company that secured the bond on behalf of GuySuCo, the financial information is not forthcoming.

NICIL’s Acting Head, Colvin Heath-London, clarified that while GuySuCo has provided a broad overview of how the monies are intended to be spent, a detailed financial report on each disbursement has not been submitted to date. “We shared that, on several occasions, we asked the GuySuCo about its plan only to receive deafening silence,” said GAWU.

GuySuCo said that it does not have to explain, in detail, to NICIL, its use of the $30B bond, the Sugar Corporation’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Dr. Harold Davis, told the Guyana Chronicle. GuySuCo, however, said funds were used to repair factories and pay wages.

18

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday June 13, 2019

Natural Resources Fund’s success Several arrested in dependent on proactive private sector police operations … says US Ambassador

By Jeune Bailey Van Keric WHILE acknowledging and applauding Guyana’s implementation of the Natural Resources Fund, United States Ambassador, Ms Sarah Ann Lynch, noted that the operation and the successful management of the fund are heavily dependent on a proactive private sector participating in the administration and oversight of the plan.

The disclosure was made during the 87th Anniversary Luncheon of the Berbice Chamber of Commerce and Development Association (BCCDA) held at Club Eclipse, Main and Church Streets, New Amsterdam on Wednesday.

Speaking to an audience which included Regional Chairman, Mr David Armogan; New Amsterdam Mayor Ms Winifred Haywood; Executive members of the various Chambers of Commerce in Berbice, along with scores of entrepreneurs and Deputy Divi-

US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah Ann Lynch

sional Police Commander Mr Paul Azore, the Ambassador informed her listeners that to effectively manage the wealth fund, there must be independent, transparent, inviolable, and non-partisan and not bi partisan principles.

“The law provides that the Public Accounting and Oversight Committee will have representation from private sector bodies including the Bar Association of Guyana, the Guyana Press Association and the Private Sector Commission of Guy-

ana.... I urge you to take the lead in utilizing new and existing mechanisms such as community meetings and workshops to educate the populace to ensure the Fund is implemented in a way that can make all Guyanese proud,” she said.

She said, too, that the BCCDA and its private sector partners can be involved in ensuring transparency in accountability, oversight, and management of the Fund to help ensure that there is no misuse of the Fund and that

all Guyana benefit from its operation.

“In all your efforts for transparency, always remember that you have the support of the international community in these efforts; we all have an interest in seeing the oil revenue lead to the best possible outcome for Guyana and its people,” she said.

The Ambassador noted that advocacy by the BCCDA and its sister private sector agencies must be directed at ensuring that the Natural Resources Fund remains sacrosanct.

Underscoring the need for the Fund to be non-partisan so that Guyanese can benefit not just for today, but for generations to come.

Ambassador Lynch noted the Fund must not be tied to any part of a political machinery.

“This is not about politics. It’s about economics.

You are the representatives of the Private Sector, you must do your part to ensure that the decisions your organisation make are impartial, objective and free from political bias so that they remain focused on economics rather than politics,” she warned.

‘No risk, no reward’

Shawn Bascom

SHAWN Bascom will be spending the next three years behind bars.

Bascom appeared before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday and pleaded guilty to robbery with violence.

Unrepresented by counsel, Bascom admitted that on June 9, 2019, at Falls Gas Station, Land of Canaan, EBD, while being in the

company of another, robbed Zing Ting Fei of $500,000 cash while using personal violence. The unrepresented man told the court that for the past two weeks he had not been getting work and his friend “linked’’ him with the “work.” “I was high and frustrated, he told the court as he explained that prior to carrying out the robbery, he had been consuming alcohol.

Bascom explained further that his father is sick and he

also wanted money to see his four-year-old daughter for Father’s Day. “I wasn’t in my right mind because I was under the influence of alcohol” Bascom said, as he begged the court to be lenient with him.

Police Prosecutor Ceon Blackman explained that on the day in question around 21:05hrs, the victim Zing Fei, a supervisor at Falls Gas Station had the pro-

ceeds of the day’s sales in a bag and was exiting the establishment; however, he was ambushed by Bascom and another man; the other man reportedly choked Fei, while Bascom relieved him of the bag containing the cash. Bascom tried to escape, but was apprehended by a security officer who was on duty at the gas station; his accomplice, however, escaped.

Blackman told the court that Bascom was handed over to the police and during the investigation, the man told the officers, “ No risk, no reward,” when he was questioned about the robbery. The prosecutor asked the magistrate to give Bascom his reward in sentencing, which should deter others from contemplating similar crimes.

The magistrate told Bascom, “ He who takes the benefit, must also take the burden,” as she sentenced him to three years’ imprisonment.

The cannabis wrappers found at the scene

SEVERAL persons were arrested by police for theft and damage to property during a cordon and search operation on Wednesday.

The police targeted areas on the East Coast of Demer-

ara that included the Golden Grove Market, President's College Road, Nabaclis, and Haslington Villages.

Police also found suspected cannabis and wrappers for the narcotics.

Miner jailed for drug trafficking

Alexie Pickett

ACTING Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus on Wednesday sentenced Alexie Pickett to two and a half years’ imprisonment, along with a fine of $50,000 for drug trafficking.

Pickett, 32, a miner of Cane Grove, East Coast Demerara, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to the charge which read that, on June 9,2019 at Iruma Backdam, Mazaruni River,

he trafficked 81 grammes of cannabis.

Police Prosecutor, Adduni Inniss told the court that Pickett was searched by the police and the suspected cannabis was found in a black plastic bag which was in his back pocket. “ I does sell it,” Pickett told the court, as he explained that his employer had given him the drugs to sell.

19

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday June 13, 2019

Youth pleads guilty to three rape charges …judge orders psychiatric evaluation, probation report LEON Jordan, 22, stood before Justice Brassington Reynolds at the High Court on Wednesday and pleaded guilty to three rape charges.

Particulars of the first charge states that on February 2, 2012, in the county of Demerara, Jordan engaged in sexual penetration of a child under the age of 16. The child was seven years old, and Jordan was 15.

The second charge states that on January 13, 2013 in the county of Demerara, Jordan engaged in sexual penetration of a child aged 14 years. He was 16 at that

time.

The third offence was committed on October 25, 2016; the young man allegedly engaged in sexual penetration without consent. He was 19 years old.

With no sign or expression of remorse or resentment, Jordan said “guilty” to all three of the charges. He told the judge that nothing is wrong with him, and it is sometimes good to talk the truth. “Is better to talk the truth before you regret not talking the truth. Prison is not an easy place for people who commit certain offences. It’s hard in the day and in the night. But I just glad

I talk the truth,” Jordan told the judge.

Justice Reynolds told the young man that something is seriously wrong with him. He questioned whether Jordan ever consumed drugs, but Jordan said “only herbs.”

The judge went on to tell him that he can only help serve justice, as that is his capacity, “but you need help way beyond the law, and what I can do. You need a specialised kind of help.

You need to talk to the right people, because something is seriously wrong with you,” Justice Reynolds told the prisoner.

He then ordered defence attorney Maxwell Mckay to have a probation report and plea of mitigation done. Justice Reynolds also ordered that a psychiatric evaluation be conducted on Jordan. The court will return on June 26 to hear the probation report, plea of mitigation, psychiatric report, the summary of facts, and the victims’ impact statements . After hearing these, Justice Reynolds will pass sentence. The state is being represented by Seeta Bishundial and Abigail Gibbs.

GDF cadets excel in jungle warfare training THIRTEEN cadets from the Guyana Defence Force and from the batch that is currently undergoing training on the Standard Officers Course, produced outstanding performances on their jungle warfare training, earning the title of “Jungle Warriors.”

According to a recent Facebook post, the officers were badged at a simple ceremony at Base Camp Stephenson, Timehri, on Friday, June 7 The Jungle Package was of six weeks duration and included training in a number of areas, which included Survival Techniques, River Blockade, Swimming, Navigation and Marksmanship skills in the jungle.

The army’s Chief of Staff offered words of encouragement to the cadets, who are concluding this phase of training before Ensigncy.

Guyana observes Men’s Health Week THE Ministry of Public Health (MoPH) acknowledges the link between gender and health as this week Guyana observes with the rest of the world International Men’s Health Week under the theme, ‘The Impact of Inequality and Deprivation on Men.’ The ministry says that, as a consequence of their gender, men and women have different health needs and dissimilar health outcomes.

Based on this fact, the ministry has created a separate unit in the public health sector that concentrates specifically on our male population.

The interdisciplinary and

multi-sectorial strategy of the Ministry’s Health Vision 2020 is the blueprint to help us address the health needs of our men and boys.

Sadly, our males, generally, have poor health-seeking behaviours. They seek help only when their illnesses have gone too far. Prostate cancer is taking a toll on our men and is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among Guyanese men.

African-Guyanese men are five times more likely to die from cancer of the prostate than other men in our society.

Other cancers are wreaking havoc among our male population too: colorectal cancer

is the second leading cause of death for Guyanese males in Guyana, followed by lung cancer and testicular and other cancers.

Guyanese men are also vulnerable to cardiovascular (heart) diseases and mental illnesses such as depression.

Suicide among men is also high, so are diabetes and obesity. Men are also at increased risk for contracting sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Men living in the remote parts of Guyana (hinterland areas) are more likely to die prematurely, and from causes classified as ‘avoidable’.

Nine of the top 10 determinants of health risk are behavioural, and therefore preventable. These are risks linked to smoking, high body mass index, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, lack of physical exercise, alcohol abuse, use of illicit drugs, and diets low in fruits and vegetables.

Men living in rural communities also have greater difficulty accessing healthcare, although they need it more badly than their coastal counterparts. Sadly, indigenous men will live almost 19 years less than men of other ethnic groups in Guyana because of their poor diet,

Autopsy confirms technician was electrocuted

AN autopsy on the body of 16-year-old technician, Krishna Chan, conducted on Wednesday, confirmed that he died as a result of cardiac arrest due to electrocution.

Chan and Oliver Anton were electrocuted on Tuesday while installing security cameras inside the compound of the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

Chan resided at Lot 98 Lusignan Pasture, East Coast Demerara (ECD). He was an employee of Smart Tech Solution located at Lot 11A Kersaint Park, La Bonne Intention (LBI), ECD. According to reports, Smart Tech Solution employees Chan and Aftab Umrao, 24, hired a motor canter driven

by Buxton resident, Anthon, and porter, Brian Culley, to transport them to the Guyana National Stadium to install se-

curity cameras on the northern side of the compound.

“According to Umrao, Krishna had the wire to do the job wrapped around his neck, whilst Anthon and Culley were holding the metal pole which was attached to a Crane on the canter that was lifting it and Umrao was feeding the wire to Krishna,” the police said.

Krishna and Anton were electrocuted when the top of the pole touched the high voltage lines belonging to the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) Company.

It was noted that Krishna was burnt on the torso, arms and face, rendering him beyond recognition. Anthon’s body showed no visible injuries.Krishna and Anthon were pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics and were later taken to the Lyken Funeral Home. An autopsy on the re-

loss of identity, trauma and depression.

In this regard, Coordinator of Men’s Health Dr Dennis Bassier made the point that the Public Health Ministry is taking steps to mainstream Men’s Health in its programmes to ensure more positive and effective ways to reach and engage men, especially those with the poorest health (generally in hinterland areas), so that they have the best opportunity to reach and maintain optimal health.

Bassier said, “We are on target to establish at least one ‘male friendly’ health facility

in each of the 10 regions by 2020. These will offer comprehensive, demand-driven health services to help satisfy men’s needs.

“We know this is an ambitious plan that will not happen overnight. Getting men to change their health behaviours will not happen in a hurry either. “One, one dutty build dam!” We will persevere though with sensitisation programmes through multi-media programmes, medical outreaches and partnerships with other government and private sector bodies.

Vendor busted with pistol in crotch

A 27-year-old vendor of Freeman Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown, was arrested on Wednesday after police, during a search, found a .32 pistol with live rounds concealed in his crotch.

Dead: Krishna Chan

Dead: Oliver Anton

mains of Anthon is expected to be performed on Friday.

Meanwhile, Culley suffered burns to the palm of his left hand and Umrao sustained minor injuries. They were taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where they were treated and sent away.

The cameras being installed by the men are part of the Smart City Security initiative, which forms part of

the Citizens Security Strengthening Project.

This project is being carried out by Chinese telecommunication equipment company, Huawei.

Local Director of Huawei, Zhou Bo told the Guyana Chronicle that the men were not employed with Huawei, but were sub-contracted to install the cameras.

Reports indicated that the vendor was in the company of a 33-year-old electrician when police swooped down on the men at East La Penitence and found the firearm with eight live rounds in his possession.

Police told the vendor of the offence and he admitted to owning the firearm which he uses to protect himself while selling marijuana.

“The man was robbed before and he decided to get protection,” one resident said.

The vendor is expected to be charged this week and placed before the court.

20

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

21

22

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

23

Raptors forced to regroup after letting NBA title slip from their grasp

By Frank Pingue TORONTO, (Reuters) - Canadian basketball fans did not wake up on Tuesday nursing hangovers from a championship celebration but rather with a mild sense of panic after the Toronto Raptors missed a chance to clinch a maiden NBA title.

The Raptors, with an entire nation hanging on their every shot, had gone into Game Five with a 3-1 advantage and had led the defending champion Golden State Warriors by six points with under three minutes to play on Monday but came away empty-handed as their shooters went cold.

more chances to close out the best-of-seven series, which resumes tonight in Oakland, but if they come away empty-handed will most certainly be haunted by their closing stretch to Game Five for the rest of their lives.

The Raptors trailed by 14 points at one point during the second half but impressively rallied back and led by six points with under three minutes to play to put the Warriors’ bid for a fourth title in five years in serious jeopardy.

But Toronto combined for 1-for-6 shooting the rest of the way in a game that came down to the final possession where

Toronto Raptors centre Marc Gasol (33) shoots the ball against Golden State Warriors centre DeMarcus Cousins (0) in game five of the 2019 NBA Finals at Scotiabank Arena (Gregory Shamus, Reuters via USA TODAY Sports)

“We didn’t play well enough. We didn’t execute enough down the stretch and that stings a little bit, but there’s a lot more basketball left to play,” said Raptors guard Fred VanVleet.

“We came into this series expecting a long series and we put ourselves in a good position. Now it’s time to look at the film and see how we can get better.”

Toronto still have two

Kyle Lowry’s last-second shot came up short, after Warriors forward Draymond Green got a piece of the ball as it travelled through the air.

“It felt great out of my hand,” Lowry said of his three-point shot attempt that had it gone in would have marked the first time a Canadian team have won an NBA championship.

“He got a piece of it, that’s what great defenders do. He got a piece of it and we’ll continue to look at it and see how we can be better for the next game.”

The Raptors will surely like their chances going forward as they have already won both games played on Golden State’s home court this series and are facing Warriors who, due to injury, are the thinnest during their dynastic run.

Kevin Durant, the centrepiece of the Golden State’s potent offence, started Game Five after missing over a month with a strained right calf but went down suddenly in the second quarter with an Achilles injury.

Despite the injury to Durant, who was named the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player in each of the last two years, Raptors forward Kawhi Leonard is approaching Game Six with the same sense of urgency.

“They’re dangerous,” said Leonard. “Obviously KD makes them a different team; they have been here before ... I’m just focussing on our team and what we got to do next game.

“But they played great tonight in the last three quarters after KD exited.”

24

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

Holding blasts ICC ‘censorship’ attempts … won’t back down on umpire criticism

WINDIES fast bowling legend Michael Holding has hit out at what he terms attempts at ‘censorship’ from the International Cricket Council (ICC), after formal re-

quests made by the cricket body to cut down on criticism of umpires on air.

The former West Indies paceman was heavily critical of the umpiring during the West Indies vs Australia

last week. He was, however, far from the only one as the game featured several high-profile errors.

West Indies opener Chris Gayle was given out twice, while facing an over

from Mitchell Starc, with both calls later overturned via the decisions review system.

The batsman was dismissed lbw in the next over from Starc but re-

plays showed the previous delivery had been a huge no-ball. The ball that dismissed the West Indian should, therefore, have been a free hit.

Later, two more on-field decisions were overturned.

The first was reviewed by Jason Holder after he was initially sent back to the pavilion lbw, sweeping to Glenn Maxwell, the ball just pitching outside leg.

Holder then successfully reviewed once more, attempting to sweep Adam Zampa, with ball-tracker showing the ball would have comfortably missed leg stump.

Holding, who called the umpiring ‘atrocious’, expressed the belief that the officials were being pressured by strong appeals from the players.

In response, the ICC in an email to Holding and other commentators pointed out “the importance of maintaining the highest standards and upholding the game’s best values and spirit while covering the tournament”.

Never one to hold back on his opinions, the player-turned-pundit claimed commentators were being increasingly “compromised by controlling organisations to the point of censorship”.

“If those umpires were FIFA officials, they would have been told to pack their bags and head home.

They would not have been given another World Cup game to officiate. As a former cricketer, I think cricket should be held to a higher standard. Is the objective to protect the umpires even when they do a bad job?” Holding said, in a reply accessed and published by The Times of India newspaper.

“I am sorry, but I am not going to be part of that. Please let me know if I should be heading back to my home in Newmarket instead of heading to Cardiff because I don’t agree with what is being suggested here and happy not being part of it.”

(Sportsnmax.Com)

Tour itinerary West India vs India ST JOHN’S, Antigua, (CMC) – Following is the itinerary for India’s tour of West Indies announced Wednesday

by Cricket West Indies (CWI): ITINERARY: ● Sat, Aug 3: 1st Twenty20 International – Central Broward Regional Park, United States (10:30 am start) ● Sun, Aug 4: 2nd Twenty20 International – Central Broward Regional Park (10:30 am) ● Tue, Aug 6: 3rd Twenty20 International – Guyana National Stadium, Guyana (10:30 am) ● Thu, Aug 8: 1st One-day International – Guyana National Stadium (9:30 am) ● Sun, Aug 11: 2nd One-day International – Queen’s Park Oval, Trinidad (9:30 am) ● Wed, Aug 14: 3rd One-day International – Queen’s Park Oval (9:30 am) ● Sat, Aug 17-19: Tour Match – Coolidge Cricket Ground, Antigua (9:30 am daily) ● Thu, Aug 22-26: 1st Test – Vivian Richards Cricket Ground, Antigua (9:30 am daily) ● Fri, Aug 30 – Tue, Sep 3: 2nd Test – Sabina Park, Jamaica (9:30 am daily)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

25

Sentinel Security Inc. renews sponsorship with RHTY&SC

POPULAR security company, Sentinel Security Inc., has renewed its sponsorship of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club/Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Award for the sixth consecutive year.

The sponsorship worth $120 000 would assist the club in hosting the prestigious award in memory of the late Gregory Gaskin, who died in a motorcycle accident.

Gaskin was the Chief Executive Officer of Cops Security Company before his untimely death.

Assistant Secretary/ CEO Simon Naidu stated that under the 2019 award scheme, five awards would be shared out. They are Berbice Sportsman-ofthe-Year 2018, Berbice Sportswoman-of-the-Year 2018, Sport Personality-of-the-Year 2018, Association-of-the-Year 2018 and Lifetime Achievement Award.

The club is encouraging members of the public, Berbice sports associations, members of the Berbice media, schools, and NGOs to submit recommendations to the club’s office in writing or via email at foster_hilbert@yahoo.com.

A special committee, headed by veteran television News Editor and Sports Administrator, Gregory Rambarran, would select the awardees

bicians who excel in the sporting arena, to provide positive role models to youths, to encourage persons involved in sports to always strive for excellence

outstanding work.

Naidu urged the Berbice public to submit nominations for persons who they feel have made outstanding contributions. The deadline

Sentinel’s Berbice manager Priya Rampersaud hands over sponsorship to RHTY&SC Assistant Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu

based on their performances during 2018 in their respective disciplines and role model status.

The objectives of the award are to recognise and honour outstanding Ber-

and to promote the Say Yes to Sports Message to youths in Berbice.

Noreen Gaskin stated that she and Sentinel are very supportive of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, due to its

for the nomination process is July 10.

Each awardee would receive a trophy, medal, framed certificate, a collection of prizes, and would be treated to a special luncheon.

Le Sommer penalty puts France on brink of Women’s World Cup last 16 NICE, France (Reuters) - France took a big step towards the last 16 of the Women’s World Cup after Eugenie Le Sommer’s penalty earned the tournament hosts a 2-1 victory against Norway yesterday.

Le Sommer struck from the spot after Wendie Renard’s own goal had cancelled out Valerie Gauvin’s opener for France at the start of the second half.

The victory put Corinne Diacre’s team top of Group A with a maximum six points.

Norway, the 1995 champions, are second on three points, ahead of Nigeria on goal difference after the African champions won 2-0 against South Korea, who are bottom with no points.

Norway play South Korea in their final encounter while France need a draw against Nigeria in their last group game to advance as group winners.

Norway were on the back foot early on before stepping up a gear after 10 minutes, threatening on

the break while the French defence showed signs of nerves.

Norway had a clear chance in the 14th minute when Ingrid Engen’s header from a corner was deflected over the bar by Amel Majri.

Les Bleues enjoyed more possession and were

France’s Eugenie Le Sommer

rewarded for their efforts a minute into the second half when Gauvin, who had started the opening game on the bench, tapped home from Majri’s cross.

Yet eight minutes later, Renard deflected Isabell Herlovsen’s cross into her own net.

It was all forgotten in the 72nd minute however, as France were awarded a penalty following a VAR review after Marion Torrent was kicked in the area by Engen.

Le Sommer coolly converted the spot kick to send the Allianz Riviera stadium into raptures, netting her fifth World Cup goal to equal Marie-Laure Delie as France’s all-time top scorer in the tournament.

Froome out of Tour de France after crash in Criterium (REUTERS) - Britain’s four-tims Tour de France winner Chris Froome will not start next month’s race after sustaining a “bad fracture”, following a heavy crash in the Criterium du Dauphine yesterday, Team Ineos manager Dave Brailsford said.

Froome, 34, was taken to a local hospital after hitting a wall at high speed during a course reconnaissance of the 26.1 km individual time trial around Roanne in central France, with Brailsford suspecting he might have broken his thigh bone.

“It’s a very serious accident. Clearly, he won’t be at the start of the Tour de France. It’ll take quite a long time before he races again,” Brailsford told French television.

“He’s badly injured ... it sounds like a fracture of the femur. We’re trying to manage that and make sure he gets the best care. The next hour, hour and a half is crucial.

“He crashed in the downhill section of the course at high speed. He hit a wall. The ambulance came quickly; he’s been taken care of and

is waiting for a helicopter to be transferred to Lyon or Saint-Etienne.”

Froome’s wife Michelle later tweeted from her husband’s account that he was on his way to hospital and his injuries were yet to be confirmed.

Four-time Tour de France winner Chris Froome

“I am awaiting information and transport to get to where he is and as soon as we have any information we will update you.”

Six-time Grand Tour winner Froome was competing in the Criterium du Dauphine to prepare for the Tour de France, which begins on July 6.

GCA to host coaches’ workshop on Saturday

DUE to the current seasonal rainfall and the suspension of the cricket season by the Competitions Committee of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA), the Cricket Development Committee of GCA has scheduled a Cricket Coaches Workshop on Saturday at the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO), Woolford Avenue, Thomas Lands, Georgetown.

The workshop will commence at 09:00hrs and conclude at 13:00hrs.

All cricket coaches and captains from member clubs of the GCA are invited to attend.

Participants are asked to attire in white or Polo shirts, track pants and sneakers.

All participants are required to be at the venue by 08:45hrs.

11:55 hrs Birdcage Walk 12:25 hrs Break The Silence American Racing Tips Belmont Race 1 Bourbon Did It Race 2 Kerry’s Ring Race 3 Mo Soul Race 4 Style Icon Race 5 Harkness Race 6 Crypto Gold South Africa Racing Tips Vaal 08:20 hrs Dromedaris 08:55 hrs Pretty Border 09:35 hrs Ex’s ‘N Oh’s 10:10 hrs Winter Watch 10:45 hrs Sleepinseattle English Racing Tips Nottingham 08:40 hrs Upstate New York 09:10 hrs Maydanny 09:40 hrs Maid In Manhattan 10:15 hrs Royal Residence 10:45 hrs Bayards Cove 11:20 hrs Cent Flying

Newbury 09:00 hrs Gold Souk 09:30 hrs Narak 10:00 hrs Terebellum 10:35 hrs Vixen 11:10 hrs Urban Highway 11:40 hrs Admirals Bay 12:15 hrs Amaretto Haydock 13:00 hrs It’s Been Noted 13:30 hrs Jabbarockie 14:00 hrs Godfather 14:30 hrs Masham Star 15:00 hrs Existential 15:30 hrs Robert L’Echelle Irish Racing Tips Leopardstown 12:35 hrs Armory 13:10 hrs Morpho Blue 13:40 hrs Balefire 14:10 hrs Red Striker 14:40 hrs Flight Risk 15:10 hrs Nobel Joshua 15:40 hrs Royal Illusion

26

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

Aussies overcome battling Pakistan after Warner’s 15th ODI ton TAUNTON, England (Reuters) - David Warner scored his first century since returning from a ban as holders Australia ran out 41-run winners over Pakistan in an exciting World Cup clash at Taunton yesterday.

After losing to India on Sunday, Australia needed a response and Warner, back from serving a 12-month suspension for his part in last year’s ball-tampering scandal, struck a classy 107 in his side’s 307 all out in 49 overs.

Warner and skipper Aaron Finch shared a 146-run opening partnership, Australia’s largest in ODIs in England since 1975, but Pakistan hit back with Mohammad Amir taking five wickets.

When Pakistan reached 136-2 in reply and then launched a late counter-attack through Hasan Ali, captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and Wahab Riaz, a stunning win looked possible before Mitchell Starc restored order to seal a third victory in four games for Australia.

Despite beating hosts England, Pakistan have lost two of their four matches and have work to do to reach the semi-finals.

Warner, who notched his 15th ODI century, said Australia’s lower-than-expected total had left the game in the balance.

“We should have been around 340-50, but credit to Pakistan, their second spells were fantastic and made it hard

for us to hit down the ground,” he said.

“Our bowlers bowled fantastic, they probably got closer than we expected but it was a great game.”

got starts but we’ve got to convert them and go long,” said Sarfaraz, whose team face India next. “If you want to win the match your top four must score runs.”

Australia’s David Warner celebrates his century ay the County Ground, Taunton, Britain (Action Images via Reuters/Andrew Couldridge)

A game of fluctuating fortunes was tipping Pakistan’s way when Sarfaraz and Riaz began swinging the bat.

With six overs and three wickets in hand, Riaz had scored 45 in 39 balls with Sarfaraz well set as Pakistan reached 264-7. But Starc had Riaz caught behind off the thinnest of edges and bowled Amir before Sarfaraz was brilliantly run-out for 40 by Glenn Maxwell’s direct hit to end the match.

“We made some runs and

GREY SKIES His day began badly when he won the toss and opted to field under grey skies. It looked a poor decision as Finch and Warner clattered the ball around - helped by poor fielding.

Finch was dropped twice and survived a tight lbw review before falling for 82, skying Amir to Mohammad Hafeez.

Warner, who had made two pedestrian 50s in the tournament, looked much more like his old self, al-

though Steve Smith, also back from a ban, lasted only 13 balls before slicing to extra cover off Hafeez for 10.

Shaheen Afridi bowled Maxwell for 20 before Warner reached his century with a big outside edge, celebrating wildly.

Pakistan’s Mohammad Amir bagged five for 30 from his 10 overs

Warner was somehow dropped at third man by Asif Ali in the next over but he tried to launch Afridi and was caught by Imam-ul-Haq. At 242-2 in the 38th over Australia still looked set for a score in the mid-300s but Pakistan hit back.

Amir removed Shaun Marsh, Usman Khawaja and Alex Carey as Australia’s innings stalled, then wrapped up the innings by having Starc caught on the boundary to end with five for 30.

Pakistan lost Fakhar Zaman to Pat Cummins for a duck and Babar Azam for a breezy 30

New Zealand to reap left-right benefit against India - Taylor

By Amlan Chakraborty NOTTINGHAM, England (Reuters) - New Zealand’s steady supply of left-handed batsmen will come in handy in today’s World Cup match against an Indian team without that variety in their top order, senior Kiwi batsman Ross Taylor said on the eve of the match.

Opener Shikhar Dhawan’s injury has not only robbed India of a left-right pair at the top of their order but has also left the two-time champions without a southpaw in the top half of their batting.

In contrast, New Zealand have three left-handers in their top six, including opener Colin Munro.

“Obviously Shikhar is a big loss to India,” Taylor told reporters at Trent Bridge yesterday.

“He and Rohit Sharma have a very good partnership, and I think they complement each other well because they’re right- and left-handed.

“I think we’ve had a similar balanced side for a long time, and when you do have a right-left hand combination, it does put pressure in different ways on the bowling opposition.”

Left-right combination forces bowlers to alter line and length while the fielding captain is also compelled to tinker with field settings every time the batsmen change ends.

Taylor said such variety

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday June 13, 2019)

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL- Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158)

(1) (2)

Answers to yesterday’s quiz: (1) Aravinda da Silva (2) 1996 (12); 2007 (16) Today’s Quiz: Name the teams that have played in every World Cup tournament but are yet to win a World Cup title?

When and where was the first time two players made centuries in the same World Cup innings?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

in the batting lineup was necessary to make the most of the World Cup grounds.

“A lot of these grounds in the UK have a short boundary to one side, and if you’ve got two right-handers or two lefthanders, you can’t exploit it as much.

a little bit more defensive, but with the weather around and so much uncertainty, we’ll just have to wait and see,” he said.

The 2015 finalists have made a perfect start in their quest for a maiden World Cup title, winning their first three matches before the tourna-

New Zealand batsman Colin Munro

“It’s traditionally a short boundary here. If that is the case, then hopefully we can exploit it with the right- and left-handers.”

A lot will depend on how New Zealand fare against the wrist-spin of Yuzvendra Chahal and Kuldeep Yadav, but the 35-year-old Taylor reckoned the duo might bowl slightly more defensively at Trent Bridge.

“Shorter boundaries can sometimes play in the minds of the spinners, one might spin

ment was hit by poor weather, which has already resulted in three matches being either called off or abandoned.

“I said at the start of the tournament that luck is going to play a part,” Taylor said.

“England is a beautiful place, but it’s not famous for good weather. In saying that, there’s still a long way to go in this tournament.

I’m sure there’s going to be rained out games that could have freaked us along the way.”

but Imam-ul-Haq and Hafeez brought the 100 up in 18.3 overs.

Imam was out for 53, edging a wide Cummins delivery

behind to Carey and when Hafeez went in the next over Pakistan were sliding before Hasan blazed 32 in 15 balls to start the fightback.

SCORECARD

AUSTRALIA innings A. Finch c Mohammad Hafeez b Mohammad Amir 82 D. Warner c Imam-ul-Haq b Shaheen Shah Afridi 107 S. Smith c Asif Ali b Mohammad Hafeez

10 G. Maxwell b Shaheen Shah Afridi

20 S. Marsh c Shoaib Malik b Mohammad Amir 23 U. Khawaja c Wahab Riaz b Mohammad Amir 18 A. Carey lbw b Mohammad Amir

20 N. Coulter-Nile c Sarfaraz Ahmed b Wahab Riaz 2 P. Cummins c Sarfaraz Ahmed b Hasan Ali

2 M. Starc c Shoaib Malik b Mohammad Amir

3 K. Richardson not out

1 EXTRAS: (lb-10, nb-3, w-6)

19 TOTAL: (all out; 49 overs)

307 Fall of wickets: 1-146, 2-189, 3-223, 4-242, 5-277, 6-288, 7-299, 8-302, 9-304.

Bowling: Mohammad Amir 10-2-30-5, Shaheen Shah Afridi 100-70-2, Hasan Ali 10-0-67-1, Wahab Riaz 8-0-44-1, Mohammad Hafeez 7-0-60-1, Shoaib Malik 4-0-26-0.

PAKISTAN innings Imam-ul-Haq c Carey b Cummins

53 Fakhar Zaman c Richardson b Cummins

0 Babar Azam c Richardson b Coulter-Nile

30 Mohammad Hafeez c Starc b Finch

46 Sarfaraz Ahmed run-out (Maxwell)

40 Shoaib Malik c Carey b Cummins

0 Asif Ali c Carey b Richardson

5 Hasan Ali c Khawaja b Richardson

32 Wahab Riaz c Carey b Starc

45 Mohammad Amir b Starc

0 Shaheen Shah Afridi not out

1 EXTRAS: (lb-4, nb-1, w-9)

14 TOTAL: (all out, 45.4 overs)

266 Fall of wickets: 1-2, 2-56, 3-136, 4-146, 5-147, 6-160, 7-200, 8-264, 9-265.

Bowling: P.. Cummins 10-0-33-3, M. Starc 9-1-43-2, K. Richardson 8.4-0-62-2, N. Coulter-Nile 9-0-53-1, G.. Maxwell 7-0-58-0, A. Finch 2-0-13-1.

Kenyan banned after positive test for rat poison substance

By Isaac Omulo

NAIROBI, Kenya (Reuters) - Kenyan marathon runner Felix Kirwa has been suspended for nine months after testing positive for strychnine, a substance sometimes used as rat poison.

The Athletics Integrity Unit (AIU) said Kirwa would be banned until November 14 and was disqualified from his second-place finish at the Singapore marathon last December.

Kirwa, who won the Singapore marathon in 2016, said he had been taking herbal medicines that included the banned substance and the AIU said the presence of strychnine in his sample was consistent with that explanation.

Strychnine is on the World Anti-Doping Agency’s banned list because it is a stimulant. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries it was used in small doses as an athletic performance enhancer and recreational stimulant.

Kenya, known for its middle and long-distance running pedigree, has suffered serious damage to its reputation due to a number of doping violations in recent years.

In the past five years, about 50 Kenyan athletes have been sanctioned, including former Boston and Chicago Marathon winner Rita Jeptoo and 2016 Olympic marathon champion Jemima Sumgong.

Three-time world 1 500 metres champion and 2008 Olympic gold medallist Asbel Kiprop was banned for four years in April for failing a doping test in November, 2017.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, June 13, 2019

27

Crawford turning in creditable performances in New York YOUNG Guyanese cyclist Romello Crawford continues to make a name for himself with a couple of creditable performances on the USA circuit.

Crawford, who hails from the Ancient County, has so far lined up in four overseas meets for the year and has impressed with two podium finishes.

Crawford has so far lit up ‘The Tour of Somerville’ in the Category 2 event.

Over 50 U.S. Cycling Hall of Fame inductees have raced in Somerville, including Tour de France champions. The event has become known as ‘The Kentucky Derby of Cycling’, and draws international Olympians and top cyclists from around the world.

The 20-year-old turned in a strong performance throughout the 30-miler (criterium racing) to come out on top over an estimated 200 starters, winning the Men’s Open Cat-

Guyanese Romello Crawford competed in ‘I will Foundation Tuesday Night Race Series’ in Brooklyn, NY on the June 4 Romello Crawford has stood on the podium twice this year in New York

egory 2 contest in a time of 49:29:00.

Just recently Crawford secured another podium finish in the ‘I will Foundation

Tuesday Night Race Series’ in Brooklyn, NY on June 4.

He finished second behind 2018 winner Edwin Morel in the 21-mile tussle.

Crawford told this publication “My experience was frightening at first because I had to compete in crits racing - criterium is a bike race consisting of several laps around a closed circuit - which is a different type from what I’m used

Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’

Three nights of thrilling action expected in Bartica this weekend THE Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Championship will invade the community of Bartica tomorrow when the 3rd edition of the Street Football competition commences at the Bartica Community Centre.

The zone will feature 16 teams battling for the coveted title and a place in the grand finale on June 16. The opening night features elimination matches, with the respective winners advancing to the group stage pegged for June 15.

The top two finishers from the two groups will progress to the semi-final round. The subsequent winners will then progress to the final, with the losers facing off in the thirdplace playoff.

Similarly, the four teams that fail to make the semi-final stage will battle in the Guinness Plate Championship.

This will be played on the final night.

The eight teams who have earned berths to the opening night are defending champions Disconnection Crew, Goal Raiders, Almanac Kings, former champions Rivers View, Jones Avenue, Falmouth, Potaro Strikers and Mighty Ruler.

According to coordinator Alden Marslowe, “All systems are in place for a wonderful tournament. The teams have really caught on with the street football and everyone has really gotten into it. This is the third year and we have seen tremendous growth. We have had three privately-run street football tournaments earlier and the teams are definitely catching onto the format.”

He further disclosed that the tournament has witnessed a record number of entries which supports the belief that the tournament is growing in popularity and overall interest.

Streets’ Championship.

He anticipates three nights of exciting action, as teams battle for bragging rights and the chance to represent their zone at the coveted National

will receive $60 000.

Up to press time, several play-off round matches were underway. The other major sponsor of the event is Colours Boutique.

Flashback: Scenes from the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Bartica Championship at the Bartica Community Centre tarmac. Hundreds are expected to descend on the venue to witness the enthralling action

“We have had more teams enter than in previous editions especially from the outlying communities - which is great for the event. The anticipation is there from the public, Bartica is a football community and I expect another great tournament with quality action”, he added.

Similarly, Lee Baptiste, Guinness Brand Executive stated that everything is geared and ready for another great edition to the phenomenon that is the Guinness ‘Greatest of the

Championship.

The winner of the championship will pocket $400 000 and the winners’ trophy.

They will also earn the right to represent the Zone at the National Championship.

On the other hand, the runners-up will collect $150 000 and a trophy. Meanwhile, the third- and fourth-place finishers will walk away with $100 000 and $75 000 respectively and the corresponding accolade. Winners of the Guinness Plate Championship

PLAY-OFF ROUND FIXTURES: » Makouria vs Itaballi » Agatash vs Prison Officers » Courtney Benn Boys vs Potaro United » Walking Boys vs Bad Company » Beacons vs Banks Boys » Ballers vs Karrau » Police vs Skill Kings » Lotto Blast vs Man United

to. The races were difficult because of the presence of strong teams and many pros turned out for the races, but I always believed in myself to come out on top”.

Notably for his eye-catching efforts Crawford just this week was awarded a Cer-

tificate of Appreciation by Mayor Ted R. Green of East Orange, NY. Crawford will continue to put “pedal to metal” with his next race assignment scheduled for this weekend in Harlem, NY. (Colin Bynoe)

CONCACAF expansion moves into high gear at Gold Cup

By Andrew Downie (REUTERS) - The Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) will be fervently hoping that its new expanded Gold Cup can provide a boost for soccer in the region after a difficult few years.

CONCACAF was at the centre of the FIFA corruption scandal, with two former presidents found guilty and other top-level officials banned from football.

Now under new management the association has introduced a Nations League designed to give its smaller members more competitive games and has expanded the Gold Cup, its blue riband tournament, which kicks off on June 15, to 16 teams.

“This Gold Cup is a statement on the growth of our Confederation,” president Victor Montagliani told Concacaf.com.

“In a very short time not only have we expanded the tournament to 16 teams, based on the quality that a lot of our countries have shown in the last few years, but also we’re taking it outside of North America for the first time to Costa Rica and to Jamaica. Those are significant steps.”

The strategy has been welcomed by smaller nations in the 41-member confederation, who now have more competitive games as well as a greater chance of qualifying for the Gold Cup finals.

But questions remain, particularly about the confederation’s lack of transparency.

CONCACAF announced the groups for the Gold Cup finals rather than draw them in the traditional style, and the expanded tournament is expected to produce more mismatches, prompting potential questions about its credibility.

One of the Gold Cup groups contains Martinique, a nation that is not even a member of FIFA. Another has four teams, none of which makes the world’s top 50.

Nevertheless, for the top sides this Gold Cup offers a chance of redemption.

Host nation the United States failed to qualify for last year’s World Cup; the first time they had missed out since 1986, and will be desperate to add another Gold Cup to the six already in their trophy cabinet.

Mexico also have something to prove under new coach Gerardo Martino, especially with a young side missing many of their top names.

Canada will want to show they deserve the honour of being co-host of the 2026 World Cup, while Jamaica and Costa Rica, who also host Gold Cup games as the tournament expands to a co-hosting model for the first time, have their home fans to keep happy.

“It’s also a big commitment to take the Gold Cup outside of North America, so we can be closer to our fans in Central America, taking games to Costa Rica, to the Caribbean in Jamaica,” CONCACAF General Secretary Philippe Moggio said.

“So overall we think it’s going to be a very successful event.”

Windies and India to kick off World Test Championship T

…Guyana to host India/WI T20 and ODI matches on August 6 and 8 WEST Indies will begin their bid to become World Test champions during the India Tour of the Caribbean, which starts in August and will be sponsored by MyTeam11 and co-powered by Skoda a n d Kamla Pasand.

The West Indies and India will play two Tests – from August 22 to 26 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium in Antigua and from August 30 to September 3 at Sabina Park in Jamaica – during the five-week Tour, which also includes three Twenty20 and three One-day Internationals.

Guyana will host the final Twenty20 on August 6 and the first ODI on August 8 at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence. These matches will see the India cricket team return to Guyana for the first time since 2002.

The two Tests open the new ICC World Test Championship, which will be played over the next two years and has been introduced to give greater context and competition in the “Ultimate Test” of the game, combining strategy, skill and endurance.

“The West Indies and India have a long and colourful rivalry, and the MyTeam11 Series will bring more thrilling competition across every format of the game,” said Cricket West Indies Chief Executive Officer Johnny Grave.

“We’ll be seeing some of the World’s best players go head-to-head in T20Is, ODIs and then in the new World Test Championship. West Indies fans, young and old, will have the opportunity to see some incredible cricket.”

The MyTeam11 Series starts with three T20Is. The first two matches will be contested back-to-back on the weekend of August 3 and 4 at the Broward County

Windies captain Jason Holder

Holding blasts ICC ‘censorship’ attempts … won’t back down on umpire criticism Page

24

Former Windies bowling legend Michael Holding

Stadium in the city of Lauderhill in the American state of Florida.

Only one of the two T20Is produced a result when the two sides played at this venue three years ago before sell-out crowds, with the second match ending in a no-result, due to a rain and technical delay.

In the first match of the series, India’s K.L. Rahul scored the second-fastest T20I century off only 46 balls, eventually finishing on 110 not out for the highest international score in the venue’s history.

The two teams also posted the highest international innings totals in the venue’s history for a World record of 489 runs, with the West Indies winning by one run, thanks to an even hundred off 49 balls from left-handed opener Evin Lewis.

“We’re excited to bring two more T20Is to Florida, giving the West Indies diaspora in North America the opportunity to watch the team play ‘live’ and in person,” said CWI Commercial, Marketing and Communications Director, Dominic Warne.

“This continues our plans of growing our audience and the game’s appeal in North America to increase participation and investment back into the West Indies. The MyTeam11 Series will provide a chance for a growing audience in the United States, who follow the West Indies, to experience the fastpaced action of the T20 format.”

The last of the three T20Is in the MyTeam11 Series will be played on August 6 at the Guyana National Stadium, where the series also transitions to the 50 overs-a-side format. The first ODI takes place on August 8, the first time in three decades the two sides will contest an ODI in the South American nation.

The MyTeam11 ODI series concludes with matches on August 11 and 14 at the Queen’s Park Oval in Trinidad.

[SEE TOUR SCHEDULE ON PAGE 24]

Head coach Bayliss says England unfazed by Windies pace battery SOUTHAMPTON, England (CMC) – Hosts England are not having any sleepless nights over West Indies’ pace attack.

In fact, head coach Trevor Bayliss said yesterday the tournament favourites were quite capable of handling the hostility from the likes of Oshane Thomas and Sheldon Cottrell, when the two teams clash at the Rose Bowl tomorrow.

“We can handle anything that is thrown at us,” he said.

“I have not seen too many with express pace here just yet but we have a couple of good ones too so I expect it to be tit for tat.”

Thomas, Cottrell and all-rounder Andre Russell have all bowled aggressively in the World Cup with good effect, and have given West Indies excellent starts in their three games so far.

In their opener, they blasted out Pakistan for 105, reduced Australia to 38 for four in their second game and had South Africa on the run at 29 for two in their third outing before rain forced an abandonment of the fixture.

However, England also boast the likes of Mark Wood and Barbadian Jofra Archer, both of whom have consistently topped speeds of 95 miles per hour.

Bayliss said he expected a heated contest, especially after the 2-2 draw in the five-match series in the Caribbean earlier this year.

“We will have to play at our best to come away with a win. In the Caribbean, we were a little bit up and down. They bowled fast but then Mark Wood made a few of their guys jump up and down,” he pointed out.

“The wicket here is reasonably flat and it has been in the past. There have been a few more wickets in the World Cup than there has been in the last few years, so I expect the fast bowlers are rubbing their hands together.”

West Indies lie sixth in the 10-team standings on three points following a win, a defeat and a no-result in their three matches.

England, meanwhile, are second on four points after pulling off two wins and tasting defeat to Pakistan in three outings.

Fast bowler Sheldon Cottrell celebrates after taking a wicket during the ongoing World Cup

CONCACAF expansion moves into high gear at Gold Cup Printed and Published by Guyana National Newspapers Limi ted, Lama Avenue, Bel Air Park, Georgetown. Telephone 2 2 6- 3243-9 (General); Editorial: 2 2 7- 5204, 2 2 7- 5216. Fax:2 2 7- 5208

Page

27

THURSDAY, JUNE 13, 2019