Guyana Chronicle E-Paper 6-15-2019

SATURDAY 15th June, 2019

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No.105669

SOCU clears Patterson

Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson

...finds no evidence of misuse of funds, collusion, crime ...in award of Harbour Bridge study contract 03 PAGE

‘Cuba a good friend of CARICOM’ …CARICOM conference hails Cuba’s contributions to the Region PAGE

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Load-shedding significantly reduced … government pursuing power purchase agreements with Giftland, Banks DIH

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Board of Inquiry to probe dismissal of public service officials

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A motorcycle lays on the ground outside the Botanical Gardens on Vlissengen Road.

Motorcyclist, Mark Sauers (inset), was riding the bike on Friday when he crashed into a Route 40 minibus. (Photo by Adrian Narine) See story on page 10

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

Board of Inquiry to probe dismissal of public service officials RENOWNED Human Resource Consultant, Lance Carberry, will head the Board of Inquiry into allegations of misconduct, corruption and improper behaviour against public servants employed within the Department of Public Service, Ministry of the Presidency.

This is according to Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams, who during a simple ceremony at the Ministry of the Presidency, on Friday, presented the instrument of appointment to Carberry.

Adding that the investigation was spawned against the backdrop of the purported termination of services of certain staff within the Department of the Public Service, the minister said the Board of

Inquiry will advise the State on the veracity of corruption, misconduct and improper behaviour of named staff.

The services of three staff members were terminated by the recently appointed Minister of Public Service, Tabitha Sarabo-Halley, but the dismissal letters were rescinded and the workers were placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the investigation.

The Minister of State said President David Granger directed that a Board of Inquiry be operationalised in the public’s interest.

She explained that the report is expected to be concluded within a week, after the commencement of the inquiry on Monday.

Underscoring the suitability of Carberry, the Minister

Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams, formally presented the instrument of appointment to Lance Carberry at the Ministry of the Presidency

of State said “we are fortunate to engage his expertise, the experience and wisdom of a gentleman with knowledge and insight derived from his years of experience. I can assure the nation of the integrity of this process, we can expect a fair and unbiased report.”

The minister said that the inquiry will be conducted to the highest professional standards; and it is vital that witnesses give their testimonies in an environment that would encourage them to speak the truth without reservation or hesitation.

“I urge all witnesses and everyone to cooperate with the Board of Inquiry, the government will provide resources and will do everything possible to support the work of the inquiry,” the Minister of State assured the public.

Meanwhile, at a post-cabinet press briefing on Friday, Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon said the three employees, who were reportedly fired, were contracted by the government.

Harmon confirmed that the trio was sent on administrative leave pending the outcome of the inquiry.

The alleged dismissal of the officials occurred at a time when there are concerns that the daughter of former Minister of Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. Frank Anthony, will no longer be required to serve Guyana after obtaining a scholarship to study medicine overseas.

Harmon said that was one of the matters likely to form part of the investigation.

Indigenous culture for monthly exhibition

By Vishani Ragobeer IN what is expected to be a monthly feature, scores of persons are touted to be reconnected with the indigenous way of life and heritage as the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MoIPA) works to create spaces for learning and celebration of the fire peoples’ culture.

On Friday, an exhibition on Indigenous Craft opened at the Indigenous Village located at the Sophia Exhibition Centre, the first of a monthly feature.

The exhibition, which runs until Sunday, aims to create a forum where youth can-

not only see indigenous craft items, but actually see how these are made through live demonstrations from village elders.

Speaking at the opening of the event, Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous People’s Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe noted that the exhibition will become a monthly feature, as the ministry hopes to foster spaces for learning, so that young people can proudly connect with their heritage and culture.

Importantly, she highlighted that the exhibition was crafted in light of the TURN TO PAGE

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Representative of the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MoIPA), Ovid Williams, shows a group of Indigenous Youth some of the craft items that are part of their culture [Vishani Ragobeer photos]

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 15, 2019

SOCU clears Patterson ...finds no evidence of misuse of funds, collusion, crime

...in award of Harbour Bridge study contract THE Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU) of the Guyana Police Force, in the aftermath of a probe into the feasibility study for the new Demerara River Bridge, found that there is no evidence of any collusion between Netherlands-based Lievense CSO and the personnel from the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

This was disclosed in a police press release on Friday.

The statement noted “reference to an investigation by SOCU into the Procurement of Consultancy Services for the feasibility study and design of the New Demerara River Bridge, please be informed that legal Aadvice has been obtained to the effect that: There was no misuse of funds; there is no evidence that a criminal offence has been committed and there is no evidence of any collusion between Arie Mol/Lievense CSO and the personnel from the Ministry

of Public Infrastructure.”

Mr. Ariel Mol of Lievense CSO was hired to conduct a feasibility study to build a new Demerara River Bridge although that entity was not among the 22 companies that had expressed interest in doing the job.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure had said it was forced to sole-source a Dutch consultancy company to conduct a feasibility study for the new Demerara River crossing after only one valid bid was submitted but exceeded the US$800,000 budget and concerns were raised about its technical level.

The Opposition People Progressive Party (PPP) had called for a probe into the Netherlands-based LievenseCSO which was awarded the consultancy (US$706,091) although that company was not among the 22 that had submitted expressions of interest.

On Friday, the party, through its member Gail

Teixeira, called on the Public Procurement Commission (PPC) to further investigate the award of the contract to the Dutch firm as it noted that it had “new evidence” to substantiate its claim.

It said that the value of the contract and the sum approved by Cabinet were different while there were different dates given as regards the completion of the study.

The Public Infrastructure Ministry had stated in 2017 that a decision was made to scrap the process in May that year following permission from the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) and the Ministry of Finance.

According to reports, funding for the feasibility study was provided by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). Government acknowledged that 22 firms expressed their interest, 12 of them were shortlisted but only two submitted bids, one

An artist’s impression of the new Demerara Harbour Bridge

of which was valid.

“Nonetheless, MPI continued to seek suitable consultants due to the significance of the project and the need for its realisation.

The ministry actively sought greatly qualified consultants worldwide. It was during engagements with various companies, including those in the Netherlands, the Dutch Risk Reduction (DRR) Team, and

in England, the company, LievenseCSO, was recommended,” the government ministry had stated in a press statement.

After a bid was later received from LievenseCSO, the Public Infrastructure Ministry applied for and received permission to engage the company.

“Upon evaluation of the bid, it was determined that

it was the best out of all that had been submitted, both on the technical level and in relation to price. Cabinet was therefore invited to consider the proposal and subsequently gave its no objection to the award of the contract and the progression of the project,” the ministry stated.

Gov’t will act on oil blocks when SARA presents evidence – Harmon

GOVERNMENT has not received any report from the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA), regarding the nature and extent of the investigation into the award of oil blocks.

According to reports, SARA is currently looking into the questionable award of oil blocks to “junior” companies by the former People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Administration just days before the 2015 Elections.

“We learnt about these reports from the media and that is where they are coming from…

Government cannot jump on a media report, we have to be

guided by evidence which is produced by the agency and they will make a report through the respective government minister, and cabinet will deliberate on it,” said Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, during a post-cabinet press briefing on Friday.

Harmon said when the current administration was voted into office in 2015, it clearly stated that it would respect the sanctity of contracts.

“Unless there is changing circumstances or if an agency such as SARA or any law enforcement agency discov-

ers that in the award of those contracts there was something illegal or there was a fundamental breach of some part of our law, then the government will be prepared to throw its weight behind the agency to ensure that we have an outcome that is in the interest of the people of Guyana…it must be based on the evidence which comes before us,” the Director General said.

Government, he said, is not contending whether the award of contracts was wrong or right but, it will be guided by evidence when it is produced

by SARA or any other law

enforcement agency.

It was reported that Ratio Guyana, which holds 25 per cent in the Kaieteur Block; JHI Associates Inc. (JHI) which holds 17.5 per cent in the Canje Block and Mid Atlantic Oil & Gas Inc. (MOGI) which holds 12.5 per cent in the same, are “inexperienced” in deep water exploration by oil and gas experts.

International news agencies such as Bloomberg and others have individually noted that “rights to drill the area were awarded during the final days of (Donald) Ramotar’s term” and “nine days after the Kaieteur

National footballer jailed for wounding police corporal NATIONAL footballer, Jobe Caesar, has been sentenced to six months imprisonment for wounding a police corporal.

On Friday at the Magistrates’ Court, Magistrate Dylon Bess found Caesar, 20, of Leopold Street, Georgetown, guilty of committing the offence.

On September 3, 2018, while at East Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Caesar unlawfully and maliciously wounded Police Corporal Kerry Joseph.

According to reports, Caesar had a sexual relationship with the police officer's girlfriend.

On the day in question, the victim went to his girlfriend’s, (Jennifer Validen's), Pineapple Street, East Ruimveldt home, and found her in Caesar’s lap in a compromising position.

It is alleged that the victim and his girlfriend had an argument and Caesar intervened.

Caesar attacked the

Jobe Caesar

officer and dealt him a punch to his face. He then allegedly snatched the officer’s service revolver and pointed it at him.

The officer left and reported the matter to the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost, and Caesar was subsequently arrested and charged.

The footballer is also currently before the court for robbing Validen and damaging her $3.5M motor car.

lease was signed, the government announced that Exxon had struck oil in a well called Liza-1.”

Oil and Gas Consultant,

Dr. Jan Mangal, believes that President David Granger should rescind the awards of the Kaieteur and Canje Blocks.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 15, 2019

Gulf of Oman tanker attacks: Trump dismisses Iran denials (BBC) US President Donald Trump has dismissed Iran’s insistence it had no involvement with the attacks on two oil tankers in the Gulf of Oman.

Mr Trump cited footage that Washington says shows Iranian forces in a small boat taking an unexploded mine off the hull of one of the ships.

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres said the truth needed to be “clearly established”.

Russia has warned against drawing “hasty conclusions”.

The blasts came a month after four oil tankers were damaged in an attack off the coast of the United Arab Emirates. The US blamed Iran for that attack, but did not produce evidence. Iran also denied those accusations.

Tensions between the US and Iran have escalated significantly since US President Donald Trump took office in 2017. He abandoned a nuclear deal that was brokered by the Obama administration and significantly tightened sanctions on Iran.

What did Trump say?

Speaking to Fox News, he said Iran “did do it”.

“I guess one of the mines didn’t explode and it’s probably got essentially Iran written all over it. And you saw the boat at night trying to take the mine off and successfully took the mine off the boat, and that was exposed,” he said.

He also said it was unlikely that Iran could close the Strait of Hormuz - a vital shipping lane through which a third of the world’s seaborne oil passes every year - but if it did, the strait would not remain closed “for long”.

Mr Trump’s intervention came after Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the weapons used, the level of expertise needed to carry out the attacks and, recent similar

Iranian attacks on shipping showed Iran was behind it.

US Defence Secretary Patrick Shanahan said the US would be sharing intelligence to try to “build international consensus to this international problem”.

How has Iran responded?

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on Friday accused the US of posing “a serious threat to stability in the Middle East”, without referring directly to the attacks in the Gulf of Oman.

He reiterated a call for international parties to the 2015 nuclear deal to honour their commitments, following a unilateral withdrawal by the Trump administration.

Foreign Minister Javad Zarif on Twitter accused the US of making an allegation “without a shred of factual or circumstantial evidence” and attempting to “sabotage diplomacy”.

The footage released by the US on Thursday is rather more convincing than the circumstantial evidence it had provided earlier.

The small white patrol craft in the video is typical of the type used by Iran’s IRGC (Revolutionary Guards) Navy in the Gulf. In recent years, the IRGC Navy has steadily supplanted Iran’s conventional Navy all along Iran’s Gulf coast, from its border with Kuwait in the north all the way down to Pakistan and the Arabian Sea. Its forces have built up a formidable flotilla of small, high-speed, hard-todetect attack craft armed with mines, missiles, torpedoes and drones.

IRGC commandos regularly practise covert operations and simulated attacks.

Some of their craft have come in close proximity to US Navy warships in the Gulf in recent years and there remains the risk of a clash at sea.

Iran has denied any involvement in Thursday’s

attacks, saying they were carried out by someone looking to derail Iran’s relations with the international community.

There will likely be doubts in Tehran as to whether this video is genuine.

What we know about the explosions According to the US account of events, US naval forces in the region received distress calls from the Norwegian-owned Front Altair at 06:12 (02:12 GMT) and from the Japanese-owned Kokuka Courageous at 07:00, following explosions, and moved towards the area.

It said the USS Bainbridge observed Iranian naval boats operating in the area in the hours after the explosions, and later removing the unexploded mine from the side of the Kokuka Courageous.

The crews of both vessels were evacuated to other ships nearby. Both Iran and the US later released pictures showing rescued crew members on board their vessels.

BSM Ship Management, which manages the Kokuka Courageous, said the ship’s crew abandoned ship after observing a fire and an unexploded mine.

However Yutaka Katada, the president of the ship’s operator, Kokuka Sangyo, said members of the crew had reported “that the ship was attacked by a flying object”.

The Kokuka Courageous was about 30km (20 miles) off the Iranian coast when it sent its emergency call.

The Front Altair was carrying naphtha, a petrol product, from the United Arab Emirates to Taiwan.

The Kokuka Courageous was carrying methanol from Saudi Arabia to Singapore.

According to global satellite monitoring company Iceye, the damage to the Front Altair caused some oil spill in the waters around the ship.

Wednesday June 12, 2019

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Friday June 14, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 15, 2019

Brazil hit by general strike against pension reform Minister Jaipaul Sharma heads (BBC) Protests have been held across Brazil as thousands of public workers take part in a general strike against a government proposal to reform pensions.

The strike, the first since far-right President Jair Bolsonaro took office in January, has affected public transport, schools and banks.

Police used stun grenades on protesters in Rio de Janeiro. In several cities, roads were blocked with burning tyres.

Mr Bolsonaro says the controversial reform will restore public finances.

The plan includes raising the minimum retirement age to 65 for men and 62 for women and workers’ contributions. Critics argue the changes, which have to be approved by both houses of Congress, would penalise the poorest.

The one-day protest called by unions - the second general strike in Brazil in two years - affect-

Protesters blocked this street with burning tyres in São Paulo

ed public transport in São Paulo, the country’s largest city, where subway workers joined the strike.

Transport had also been affected in other major cities, including Salvador, Curitiba and Maceió and the capital, Brasília. Many schools, universities, banks and parts of the state-run oil company Petrobras were also not working.

In dozens of cities across the country, protesters who are also against cuts to the education budget -

held demonstrations and, in some, blocked streets and roads with burning tires.

In the city of Niterói, near Rio, at least two people were injured when a car ran over a group of protesters blocking a street.

The government estimates the current plan for the reform will result in savings of $237bn (£188bn) over the next decade. The changes are seen as crucial to revive the country’s economy, still struggling to recover from the 2015-

2016 recession, the worst in more than a century.

Opponents say the poor would be the most affected, as they are more likely to start working at a young age and would now be required to work longer before being able to collect pension benefits.

Congress is expected to vote on the reform in the next few weeks, and the new rules would phase in over 12 to 14 years.

Speaking to journalists, Mr Bolsonaro said he was confident that Congress would approve the reform.

Later, he is expected to attend the opening ceremony of the Copa America soccer tournament in São Paulo, where a special plan has been implemented for fans to arrive at the Morumbi stadium.

Ex-BAICO workers tell KPMG: We want our monies

(NATIONNEWS) Former employees of failed British American Insurance Company (BAICO) showed their displeasure with its judicial manager, KPMG, with a short peaceful protest in front of the accounting firm’s Hastings, Christ Church office yesterday.

The protest, however, hardly lasted 15 minutes, as KPMG senior management hastily asked to meet with a

few of the protesters to discuss the matter.

Some of the protesters who remained outside spoke to the Weekend Nation about their frustrations.

Subscribe now to our eNATION edition for the full story.For the latest stories and breaking news updates download the Nationnews apps for iOS and Android.

(CA)

The mood was lighter after the meeting as spokesman Henderson Headley (second right) said they had made their point.

(Pictures by Christoff Griffith.)

to Public Infrastructure Ministry

FROM July 1, 2019, Minister Jaipaul Sharma will be taking up his new portfolio as Minister within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure.

Minister Sharma, who currently holds the portfolio as Minister within the Ministry of Finance, will provide support to Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, who confirmed the move.

Patterson stated on his Facebook page that after meeting with Minister Sharma on Friday and after sharing his vision for the country's infrastructure development with him, he is excited to have Sharma as part of the team at the ministry.

He said since 2015, he was supported by Minister Annette Ferguson, “whose performance is one of the main reasons why the ministry has been able to deliver on its mandate.”

Minister within the Ministry of Finance, Jaipaul Sharma

Minister Ferguson, who holds the portfolio of Minister within the Ministry of Communities, is one of several ministers who were shifted this year.

The move was made after several ministers, who hold dual citizenship, resigned from their posts as government honoured the court rulings made after the December 21, 2018 no-confidence motion.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 15, 2019

Improving road safety measures

THERE is no denying that ours is a country where road usage by vehicles is becoming more and more dangerous and catastrophic.

With the advent of an increase in newer vehicles, and recognising that our roads are not up to standard or capable of handling such traffic, there needs to be a regulation of speed based on the condition of the roads, the pedestrian traffic, and the number of residents living there. Conditions can incorporate types of roads, rain, standing water, flood areas, etc.

Every condition, based on the driver’s skill set, should be suitable for all drivers, so that the least capable among us can be safe whilst navigating our roads. For instance, passenger-ferrying vehicles, like minibuses or taxis, tend to drive faster than the average privately-operated vehicle. And what must

be of concern to us is that these drivers/operators, on any given day, behave more recklessly in navigating the roads when they are carrying our citizens.

It is understandable that this particular category of road users has to make a living, and this is respected and encouraged. But, at the same time, the passengers’ safety ought not to be compromised in the pursuit of earning a living. There has to be a more organised way of picking up passengers. Stopping before an intersection to pick up a passenger blocks the view of another driver/operator merging into traffic. Curbing this dangerous practice can be done through the establishment and acceptance of designated pick-up areas, which can lead to a more organised and civilised way of fulfilling the same need of providing a service, and minimising the chances of incurring causal-

ities or injuries.

Signs are important to road safety. They can be posted to warn of trouble spots, such as where there is standing water, possible flood areas, or aggressive corners, and can be made visible from a reasonable distance, in order that drivers can make the necessary adjustment in good time. When moving from an open road to a residential area, where there is more pedestrian traffic, speed needs to be reduced to accommodate changing conditions or environment, such as schoolchildren or elderly persons crossing the road.

Stop signs should be mandatory at schools and day-care centres, catering for our children. The matter of driving under the influence needs to be looked at. It is human nature to think we can manage everything, until something goes wrong. So, the key is to have a standard

of control. If persons are going out with the intent to drink, they should have a designated driver or an alternative mode of transportation. If a person is caught driving above the approved blood-alcohol limit, some penalty ought to apply, and this should be graded to cater for repeat offenders.

There may be need to examine the benefit of establishing a Traffic Safety Board or organisation to go around to the various communities and look into safety needs based on population, geography (residential vs. open; homes on one side of road vs. both sides, proximity of home to road), frequency of accidents or injury, from which assessments can be made on what kind of safety conditions are needed. For example, speed regulation, guard rails, designated crossing areas with stop lights.

While the Police and

Traffic Department are doing a good job of enforcing the laws, there is need to go one step further to understand how to minimise risk by having better safety precautions.

An organisation of this nature, even if it works with the police, has a greater role to implement safety conditions, from the standpoint of the wellbeing of the community, to maximise safety and minimise risk rather than enforcing laws through regulation, as is done by the police.

Safety is also reliant on enforcing laws. Those caught speeding or driving recklessly should be penalised financially, as well as be made to provide community service. The former allows government to raise revenue to implement safety regulations without raising taxes or having to penalise regular citizens for acts of the reckless.

Community service puts the violator into the community

to do something productive.

Rather than be penalised through incarceration, these persons can clean up the community, help the elderly, work with the safety board, or along similar lines. Future road development ought to factor in pedestrians and cyclists. For example, these users should be designated space, rather than be made to operate in the flow of traffic.

Housing development should also factor in distance away from the road in order to minimise the occurrence of accidents with their attendant casualties and property damage.

Road safety is everybody’s business, because the number one concern should be the life of a human being, the most precious and irreplaceable resource. Safety, in general, needs to revolve around people’s safety.

Safety was severely compromised

Dear Editor, THE horrific recent electrocutions give rise to more questions, chief among them: • Were the installation teams being overseen/supervised by the contracted company on site, or were they left

to their own devices?

• Shouldn't electricity have been switched off to the area, thereby allowing work to be carried out in a safe and secure manner?

• Shouldn't companies engaged in this type of work have mandatory workers'

compensation/insurance? The time is opportune to make this requirement mandatory in the award of contracts of this nature.

Further, from all accounts, it was alleged that a crane was mounted on a canter truck to be used in the ex-

ecution of the work. If this is indeed so, then it is a matter of concern as to whether the crane was properly secured for work to be carried out in a safe manner. Also, the allegation that one of the deceased men had wire around his neck is deeply troubling. Ed-

itor, coupled with the above, the allegation that employees were not clad in safety and protective wear/gear gives thought, from all appearances, to the speculation that safety was not paramount and was severely compromised.

It is disheartening that days

after, no statement from the contracted company has been forthcoming. My condolences to the grieving families, and a full and speedy recovery to those injured.

Regards, Shamshun Mohamed

UG lecturers’ performance should be under the microscope Dear Editor, NOW that the noise seems to be quelling from the University of Guyana, there are some things that are now being revealed. As a life student of management with a human resources bias, I cannot help but marvel at the UGSSA's recent letter.

How is it that the members of that union remained silent for so many years without getting the opportunity to elect their

leaders. I am surprised by Dr. Melissa Ifill and Dr. Jewel Thomas’ statement that their union was attempting to hold regular elections since 2011. The workers should not allow this. They must demand that elections be held immediately, and exercise the right to choose their leaders. Presently, there is no democracy in this union. It is difficult to say what Dr. Thomas is saying represents the voice of the staff. The UGSSA is now

saying that their financial records are open for scrutiny. The public would like to know their statements of account for at least the last three years. We look forward to their making this available. The media are asked when the statements are submitted to publish them. It is poor industrial relations to have sent over 100 letters in two years to management and not take it to another level. This is public admission of incompetence and poor perfor-

mance. The union cannot blame the vice-chancellor for this. If the union failed to get management’s attention, didn’t they think about going to the Labour Department? It seems more energy has been directed at management instead of acquaintance with the channels of getting those letters focused on.I have family who are students at the university; they keep complaining about the lecturers not marking their papers on

time. They would want to sign up for new courses, and are not even sure if they have successfully completed the present.

Dr. Thomas can tell those students how the lecturers plan to correct this aspect of their performance. Students are attending classes to get a higher education at great cost and sacrifice. Many times they are not getting their money’s worth. UG lecturers’ performance should be under the microscope. If I were

to do the evaluation, I would rate them poorly.

The management of their union is in shambles.

They seem ignorant of basic industrial relations practices. Important issues like workers’ benefits are not getting the deserving attention. The students continue to be negatively impacted by their poor performance.

Regards, Dev Permaul

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 15, 2019

UG unions look to the future Dear Editor, WEDNESDAY, March 13, 2019, marks the official end of Professor Ivelaw Griffith’s contract with the University of Guyana.

In the wake of his decision to withdraw his letter of consideration for another contract to serve as the Vice-Chancellor of the university, the University Unions (the University of Guyana Senior Staff Association and the University of Guyana Workers’ Union)

wish to make a number of observations. Professor Griffith’s decision is appreciated as one which spares the University from enduring further months of instability and turmoil. The Unions hope that the institution will be able to embark on a period of healing and rebuilding, which will be for the benefit of all, especially staff and students.

While the UG Unions support the Council’s decision to have a management audit,

we also insist on a financial audit. There are extremely important questions that need to be answered as the University moves to do essential institutional strengthening.

We believe that both audits are the best ways to answer these questions. The UG Unions continue to insist that all senior administrators at the University must be subjected to evaluations, as is the case with all other faculty and staff at the University. Some of these

administrators have been in posts for more than five years and have never been evaluated.

The University’s Council must prioritise this exercise so that it can be completed before the commencement of the new semester. The UG Unions also insist on the reapplication of transparent hiring procedures that were violated over the past three years, and the reapplication of salary and remuneration in conformity with UG’s Act and Statutes. All staff, except

those appointed by the University Council, must fall within UG’s salary bands.

The practice of selected and favoured individuals being offered super-salaried packages must cease. Since ensuring improved conditions for staff and students has always been the highest priority for the Unions, we have asked for urgent meetings with the Transitional Management Team.

These meetings are intended to address matters that have been

neglected over the last few years, including the resumption of negotiations to facilitate the signature of a collective labour agreement.

We look forward to fruitful and rewarding engagement and partnership with the Transitional Management Team to improve the conditions across the University in time for the new academic year.

Regards, UGWU and UGSSA

Dear Editor, RESPONSE is being made to a letter dated June 9, 2019, captioned, “Lincoln Lewis needs to be a team player”, which was signed by Eon Andrews in his capacity as Vice-President of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC). I hope he does not feel discriminated against by this late response, or he was not getting the due attention he sought when he entered this discussion at the behest of Fred-

die Kissoon’s demand.

In his satellite role, he has added to the potpourri of public mischief and distortion.

On June 2, Kissoon wrote “UG unions have a moral obligation to debunk Lewis’s statement on my involvement,” and stated “Eon Andrews, Vice-President of the TUC, contacted me with a promise to expose Lewis.” His so-called exposure is hereunder attended to: “The General Secretary is a

one-man show at the GTUC.” As General Secretary, I am the day-to-day manager of the GTUC; the Chief Executive Officer. Vested in that position is the right and understanding that I speak for and on behalf of the GTUC. On issues of major national import or policy changes, the consensus of the GTUC’s executive is duly sought. Outside of giving voice on behalf of the GTUC, I also write in my private capacity on any issue that I see fit to so do.

The distinction of these writings are discerned whether the signature carries a title or not.

The question is being posed to Andrews, who authorised

him in the capacity as GTUC Vice-President to pen a letter to the media. There are only three principal officers of the GTUC: The President, General Secre-

tary and Treasurer. Anybody else who speaks on behalf of the organisation requires authorisation to so do.

A potpourri of public mischief and distortion

UMU COLLECTIVE LABOUR AGREEMENT

The Constitution of GTUC clearly stipulates that affiliates should have a Collective Labour Agreement (CLA). Andrews is fully aware of this, and has been asked time and time again to provide a CLA. He has failed to do so, even as he continues to enjoy the privileges of membership, and is now displaying disgruntlement, comparing his relationship with that of other unions with long-term established bonafide, whose CLA have lapsed and can easily be renewed. Any ref-

erence to the absence of this is only made to represent the fact that yours truly did offer relevant trade union advice.

Andrews states that I am either unaware or conveniently ignoring, “that the International Labour Organisation (ILO), recognising…self-employed workers has added to its Constitution ‘Recommendation 202’ to accommodate, capture and retain these types of workers.” This statement is not even relevant to the extant discussion or any matter pertinent to the UMU and its relationship with GTUC.

However, Andrews notably uses this to suggest that the GTUC (moreso Lincoln Lewis) is in violation of the rights of the UMU. For the benefit of he and readers, the ILO recommendation he speaks of has to do with “Recognition of Social Security as a human Right.” It has nothing to do with trade union recognition, which is outside the purview of the ILO. Andrews is advised to become more familiar with issues that he speaks about.

Regards, Lincoln Lewis

SUBVENTION/GRANTS GTUC and CLC suffered the withdrawal of the subvention under the PPP in a vindictive manoeuvre. Both entities survived nevertheless. The Coalition Government returned same at a far lesser rate, which I made public. Each of these actions serve as lessons as to how successive governments are prepared to treat with the independence of the GTUC, and influence our compliance and role in demanding social justice and an industrial environment conducive to workers’ development and rights. This should not be a point of gloating, or be used as an indictment by

someone who claims to be a trade unionist.

The vital role and services provided by CLC to offer workers and citizens an education, a second chance, certification to enter the workforce and pursue higher learning should not be the target of governmental vindictiveness. The response to these actions were addressed ad nauseam, and can be googled by those with an interest in the factors surrounding these.

MEDIA STATEMENTS ON MATTERS OF NATIONAL IMPORT GTUC’s present position

on sugar, which includes the management of the industry and treatment of worker and their unions, started since the closure of Diamond Estate during the Bharrat Jagdeo/PPP administration. GTUC’s interest and position on GuySuCo has not changed with the change in government. This position was publicly articulated. What Andrews wants now is a change in position, based on partisan politics. GTUC stands firm on the principles that decision affecting GuySuCo must respect the rights and welfare of the workers who are represented by their unions.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

‘Cuba a good friend of CARICOM’

…CARICOM conference hails Cuba’s contributions to the Region

By Svetlana Marshall THE Sixth Meeting of the Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Caribbean Community and the Republic of Cuba opened here on Friday with CARICOM taking stock of Cuba’s contributions to the Region, and a commitment to foster enhanced relations.

Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings, in her address, said for almost 50 years, the Caribbean Community and Cuba have collaborated and cooperated at various levels due to their close bond.

“As we gather here to-

day, we are reminded of, and signalled, the unreserved and direct alliance that connects CARICOM and Cuba, and exemplifies South-South Cooperation and which continues to foster peaceful and productive dialogue and engagement. Cooperation has been achieved through our frequent interactions and collaboration in the regional and international community,” Minister Cummings told her counterparts.

She said Cuba continues to play a significant role in the development of the Region, particularly, in human resources, which is essential for advancement and eco-

CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque (second from right); Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings (third from right), Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla (fourth from right); and Minister of Foreign Affairs and Labour of Grenada and Chairman of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), Peter David (fourth from left) standing beside other Foreign Affairs Ministers of the Region (Photo by Adrian Narine)

nomic development. “Shining examples of this are the scholarships offered in the scientific and medical fields and the recent establishment of the Regional Centre for Stimulating the Development of Children, Adolescents and Young People with Special Educational Needs Associated with Disabilities, which seeks to ensure all-inclusive societies,” Minister Cummings pointed out.

CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, said a successful meeting will no doubt contribute to the further strengthening of the already close ties between CARICOM and Cuba.

Like Minister Cummings, Ambassador LaRocque said over the years, the Caribbean Community and Cuba have forged a deep and meaningful relationship based on solidarity and cooperation. “Cuba’s contribution to the Community’s human resource development, its health sector, agriculture and in the area of sport and culture has been of major significance to our member states,” he posited.

The CARICOM Secretary-General said proof of this meaningful bond includes the celebration of CARICOM-Cuba Day on December 8, commemorating the historic establishment of CARICOM and Cuba’s relations and the commitment to meet every three years. “Today’s session maintains the institutionalised arrangement of foreign ministers meeting eighteen months prior to the summit, while the CARICOM-Cuba Joint Commission provides yet another avenue of engagement,” Ambassador LaRocque explained. Friday’s session also presented an opportunity for the foreign ministers to deliberate on matters of mutual importance, including climate change, the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the impact

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen Cummings

of natural disasters on the development process, developments in the hemisphere, and security.

Minister of Foreign Affairs and Labour of Grenada and Chairman of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), Peter David, said the meeting served to strengthen the solidarity and friendship which symbolise and underpins CARICOM’s relationship with Cuba — a relationship now in its 47th year.

“CARICOM prizes highly the links it has built with Cuba over the years through technical cooperation at bilateral and regional levels, trade and economic ties, the mutuality of interests and concerns in regional, hemispheric and international fora, and the fraternal spirit that comes to the fore in times of disaster,” the Grenadian Minister said. He said the meeting was designed to bolster the strong commitment and the great value that both CARICOM and Cuba attach to their very important relationship.

Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, said Cuba stands committed to the CARICOM, noting that his country feels a permanent debt of gratitude with CARICOM for the historical and fraternal support given.

He pointed out that a few weeks ago, Cuba commissioned a monument in remembrance of the Ca-

ribbean National Heroes in downtown Havana as a symbol of the friendship shared between Cuba and CARICOM. “That monument reflects the feelings of Commander in Chief, Fidel Castro Ruz, for what he considered to be his closest friends, for he asserted and I quote: ‘No circumstances will ever change the interest and willingness of Cuba to strengthen the bonds of friendship and cooperation with the sister nations of the Caribbean. We will spare no effort to achieve regional integration and the unity of our peoples,’” the Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister told his counterparts.

Minister Rodriguez Parrilla said he is pleased with the achievements of the Regional Centre to Encourage the Development of Children, Teenagers and Youths with Special Education Needs associated with Physical Disabilities.

“Cuban and Guyanese professionals have offered physical and occupational therapy to 103 persons; speech therapy to 158 persons; and have taught 98 pedagogy and 16 psycho-pedagogy training courses. A total of 56 pedagogical guidance sessions were conducted with teachers and directors,” he detailed.

However, he expressed disappointment that the Regional School of Caribbean Arts based in Jamaica has not opened to date. The Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister said Cuba has done its part by designing the study programme and curricula but lack of a building to house the school is stalling major progress.

However, he is pleased with the news from the Jamaican Government that it will purchase a plot of land and contribute to the construction of the school.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

CARICOM renews call for end to U.S embargo against Cuba Noting that the Helms-Burton Act is arbitrary, Minister Rodriguez Parrilla said it is an insult to the sovereignty of Cuba and of third States. He assured his counterparts that the attempts to suffocate the Cuban economy will fail.

“We recognise your resolute

Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla (Photos by Adrian Narine)

THE Caribbean Community (CARICOM) reiterated its call for an immediate and unconditional end to the economic, commercial and financial embargo imposed by the Government of the United States of America against Cuba, when the Sixth Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Caribbean Community and the Republic of Cuba opened in Guyana on Friday.

CARICOM Secretary-General, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, said the Caribbean Community also rejects the unilateral and extraterritorial nature of the actions taken by the U.S. He said recent and ongoing developments at the regional and hemispheric levels have had significant impact on not only Cuba, but CARICOM Member States as well.

“CARICOM and Cuba both support the importance of multilateralism in the conduct of international affairs.

We both adhere to the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter, including non-interference and non-intervention in the internal affairs of states, prohibition of the threat and use of force, respect for sovereignty, adherence to the rule of law, respect for the constitutional framework and democracy, and the right of people to self-determination,” Ambassador LaRocque said. He said for both CARICOM and Cuba, it is important that the Caribbean Region remains a zone of peace.

Grenada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Labour, and Chairman of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), Peter David, condemned the actions of the U.S. “We denounce the imposition of unilateral, coercive measures and the application of new

Grenada’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Labour, and Chairman of the Council for Foreign and Community Relations (COFCOR), Peter David

CARICOM SecretaryGeneral, Ambassador Irwin LaRocque

more onerous ones under Title III of the Helms-Burton Act whose extra-territorial measures violate international law. We condemn in the strongest terms this tightening of the unjust US economic, financial and commercial embargo against Cuba,” the Grenadian minister said.

He noted the actions of the U.S run counter to the strongly-held view that economic development and stability contribute to international peace and security.

“These developments in our Region have the potential to affect our continuous efforts at sustained development of our countries,” he posited.

The Grenadian Foreign Affairs Minister said the Sixth Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of CARICOM and Cuba provides another opportunity for dialogue and the exchange of views on ways and means to maintain a course that would lead to a better future for both Cuba and CARICOM Member States.

Cuba’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Bruno Rodriguez Parrilla, while underscoring the importance of maintaining a zone of peace,

said that peace is being threatened; and both Cuba and CARICOM have a duty to reaffirm their commitment with Latin America and the Caribbean as a zone of peace as stated in the proclamation at the Second Summit of the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States.

He maintained that only in a climate of mutual respect and confidence can the Region prosper.

“Peace admits no ambiguities. It cannot be said that all options are on the table, when one of them, the one that is most needed, has been rejected; and that is dialogue,” the Cuban Foreign Minister told his CARICOM counterparts.

Minister Rodriguez Parrilla said Cuba welcomes CARICOM’s decision, in wake of the threat of use of force and foreign interference, to ratify its stand and defend the validity of the principles and purposes of the UN Charter and International Law. He also directed the Region’s attention to the attempts at re-establishing the implementation of the Munroe Doctrine, a complete opposite to the Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace.

“I would like to reiterate to you our gratitude for your firmness in denouncing the US government’s authorisation to activate Title III of the Helms-Burton Act so that lawsuits can be filed at the courts of that country against Cuban or foreign entities that legally engage in commercial business or investments in properties that were once nationalised in Cuba in full adherence to national and international laws, as was recognised by the US Supreme Court ruling on the Sabatino case,” the Cuban Foreign Affairs Minister said.

and irrevocable decision to join us in rejecting the genocidal economic, commercial and financial blockage imposed by the United States against our country and the fair claim to put an end to it,” he said.

Guyana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr. Karen

Cummings, was among foreign ministers who at attended the Sixth Meeting of Ministers of Foreign Affairs of the Caribbean Community and the Republic of Cuba the Arthur Chung Convention Centre.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

CARICOM, Cuba Foreign Ministers tour regional centre for special education needs

–– coordinator says centre has been growing and improving FOREIGN Affairs Ministers from across the Caribbean, who are here for the Sixth Meeting of Foreign Ministers of CARICOM and Cuba, had an opportunity to tour the Regional Centre for Stimulating Children, Youth and Adolescents with Special Education Needs.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Adele Clarke, said the project idea was birthed at the fourth CARICOM-Cuba summit, with the aim of strengthening cooperation between CARICOM and Cuba.

This was then solidified at the fifth CARICOM-Cuba summit, where Guyana was

selected as the country to take the lead role in its implementation.

At the local level, the Ministry of Public Health was tasked with the construction of the edifice which was completed in 2017, while the Ministry of Education was given the mandate for managing the operations.

“It should be noted, however, that although the centre is housed in Guyana, there is a regional focus in that CARICOM Member states would have access to training that will aid in improving the services offered by member states to persons with Special Education Needs,” said Clarke prior to the tour.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Adele Clarke (Adrian Narine photo)

Ministers touring the facility on Friday

Coordinator of the Project, Keon Cheong, said the initiative of having a centre is a bold step in both helping to create the concept of the “ideal Caribbean person” as approved by CAIRCOM Heads of Government in 1997 and at the same time to address social justice issues.

“The centre has a number of objectives…these combined, outlines the passion and vision of improving the quality of life of persons with special education needs associated with disabilities in Guyana and the Region,” said Cheong.

Children, youth and adolescents are provided with evaluations that commences with observations, followed by in-depth interviews.

All of these actions aim to ensure that the assessment instruments selected are aligned with the individuals’ experience, culture and current circumstances in order to yield results that are both valid and reliable.

“But [the] process does not stop here at the centre, but transitions to the classroom and home where the concept of assessment drives instruction and intervention

takes life and form,” said Cheong.

Parents and teachers participate in training, goal setting and identifying a time for achieving the identified goals.

Nationally and regionally, this facility provides the necessary data to chart the course of informing practices and policies.

In Guyana, Cheong said, they have started with the students in special schools to ensure that each one has an official diagnosis and identified support services.

Motorcyclist killed in gruesome accident in front of Botanical Gardens MOTORCYCLIST, Mark Sauers, died after colliding with a Route 40 minibus in front of the Botanical Gardens on Friday.

Driver of the minibus, Mark Pancham, said he was travelling along Vlissingen road, turning into Regent Street when Sauers, who was travelling along the opposite side of Vlissingen Road, smashed into the side of his bus.

Pancham claimed that the motorcyclist, who had a pillion rider, was speeding and even overtook another vehicle before crashing into

Dead: Mark Sauers

the bus.

Sauers reportedly died on the spot, while the pillion rider was rushed the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

According to eyewitnesses Sauers’ body was almost severed in two while one of his arms was left inside the minibus.

Eyewitnesses also claimed that Sauers was travelling at a fast rate along Vlissingen Road, without a helmet. Police investigations into the matter are ongoing.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

'Duncan remains dismissed' ...Harmon, PM say new board will look into issue of reinstatement ...cabinet to discuss matter next Tuesday

Sherod Duncan

Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon

THE issues surrounding Sherod Duncan, whose service was terminated by the Board of Directors of the Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) in April last, and was rescinded by a directive of the subject minister resulting in four board members’ resignation, will engage cabinet at its next meeting scheduled for Tuesday.

Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, made the disclosure during a post cabinet press briefing on Friday at the Ministry of the Presidency.

Harmon said Duncan will remain off the job, and it will take a new Board to determine if he can find employment at the company again.

“Government respects the independence of Boards once they are appointed, and my understanding is that the Board took a decision with respect to the termination of Mr. Duncan,” the Director General said. “Government’s position is that Mr. Duncan is off the job,” he said while fielding questions from reporters.

The Board of Directors of the Guyana Chronicle had taken a majority decision to dismiss Duncan in April after an audit report found over 20 transactions that did not follow financial regulations.

Approximately two weeks ago, Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo ordered the board to reinstate Duncan.

Prime Minister Nagamootoo reiterated his position on Friday evening.In a statement, it was noted by the Prime Minister that his directive to the former Chairman of the Board of the Guyana National Newspapers Ltd is for the decision to dismiss Duncan to be rescinded.

However, the Board has not done so and the Chairperson and three members have since resigned."Prime Minister Nagamootoo is in the

process of reconstituting the Board, after which the matter concerning the status of Mr. Duncan will be considered by the newly constituted Board," the statement read.

The Prime Minister said he remains firmly of the view that the issue of the reinstatement of Duncan has to be the subject of a decision based on due process and procedural fairness. Such a decision must be based on the matter being put to a vote, which was not the case when Mr. Duncan was deemed to have been dismissed.

Nagamootoo said he fully supports the explanations given by Harmon on Friday and added that and these in no way negativise or override the his directive.

In response to the prime minister’s instruction on the matter recently, the Chairman of the Board, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, and three other members – Mervyn Williams, Hilbert Foster and Dr. Arron Fraser –tendered their resignation.

A copy of the prime minister’s letter dated the May 31, 2019 to the Chairman of the Board, Attorney-at-Law, Geeta Chandan-Edmond, stated, “I have received information from Directors of GNNL, that there was no vote put to the meeting by the Chair, and any statement to the contrary is wholly false.”

Prime Minister Nagamootoo, in his letter, contended that there was a glaring irregularity in arriving at the decision to terminate the services of Duncan. “It must be clear that asking members of the Board their views on a situation does not amount to a vote,” he said.

The prime minister said that Duncan was unilaterally terminated and it was arbitrary, capricious, unlawful and in excess of the jurisdiction of the Board.

“I am concerned that you have misled the office of the prime minister with the erroneous claim that the Board

of Directors came to this decision. It is clear that you deliberately sought to terminate Mr. Duncan which did not accord with due process and procedural fairness, and I instruct that that decision be rescinded,” the prime minister stated in his letter.

Meanwhile, Chandan-Edmond in her response to the prime minister, dated June 4, 2019, said, “when I accepted the position of Chair of the Board of Directors of GNNL, it was with the understanding that my professionalism and integrity would not be unfairly assailed. I find that your letter not only calls into question my professionalism, but the professionalism of fellow members of the Board of GNNL. In light of this, I hereby submit my resignation as Chairman of the Board of Directors, with immediate effect…”

Further, Chandan-Edmond stated that on the special statutory meeting, which was held on the April 2, 2019, following a call of vote on the matter of termination of Duncan’s services, three directors voted against the termination of services and three directors in favour of termination, which were TURN TO PAGE 13 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

Duo charged with bread vendor’s murder will know fate next week SHAQUILLE Grant called ‘Soldier Man’ and Neville Forde will know their fate on Monday, as a 12-member jury is expected to return a verdict from their week-long trial.

The two were jointly charged for murder in the course or furtherance of a robbery.

The indictment read to the court, before Justice Navindra Singh, states that on May 5, 2017, in the County of Demerara, the duo murdered Andre Melroy Alexander in the course or furtherance of a robbery.

Reports are that on the said date, Alexander was at his bread stand at Dennis

Street, Sophia, when the two men rode up on a motorcycle.

The pillion rider requested three loaves of bread and paid with a $5000 note.

While Alexander was in the process of making the change, the same pillion rider whipped out a gun and demanded cash. When the man put up a fight, the robber discharged two rounds, one of which struck him in the stomach. The duo relieved Alexander of his cash and also escaped with the three loaves of bread. Alexander died the very night during surgery at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

The wife of the deceased, Beverly Alexander, was pres-

Neville Forde

ent at the bread stand when the incident occurred. She said that after the shots were fired, she ran for her life.

Both Grant and Forde pleaded not-guilty to the charge and the trial ended on Friday with defence attorneys Nigel Hughes and Adrian Thompson, and State

Shaquille Grant called ‘Soldier man’

prosecutors Tuanna Hardy, Sarah Martin and Teriq Mohamed making their closing addresses.

During the trial, several witnesses testified including the wife of the deceased.

Beverly was one of the State’s main witnesses, and she nar-

rated the events of the night in question. However, during cross-examination from the defence, Beverly said that the man she saw shot her husband wasn’t any of the two accused sitting on the bench in court.

There was another witness, however, Colwin Greaves, who said he was not too far away from the bread stand when the shooting occurred. In fact, Greeves said that the same motorcycle passed where he was standing, and he identified Shaquille Grant as the pillion rider.

However, under cross-examination from the defence, attorney Nigel Hughes pointed out several discrepancies in his testimony. Hughes alluded

that Greaves was also one of the young men from Sophia who was picked up by the police for profiling. He suggested that Greaves may have told that story to pin Grant to the charge so that he can go free.

But the witness maintained that it was Grant he saw on the motorcycle, and he witnessed the shooting that was carried out by the same pillion rider that passed in front of him just a few minutes before.

The case will be summed up on Monday and the jury will deliberate and return with a verdict for the two accused.

Security guard to stand trial for attempted murder A SECURITY guard, on Friday, was committed to stand trial at the Demerara High Court for the capital offence of attempted murder.

Rondell Mitchell, 31, of Friendship, East Bank Demerara [E.B.D], was committed by Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the Georgetown Magistrates’ court.

According to the charge, on October 28, 2018, Mitchell discharged a loaded firearm at Aquacie Harvey with intent to commit murder while at the Meadow Bank fishery wharf.

On Friday, the Preliminary Inquiry (PI) concluded, and Magistrate Bess found that a case was made out for Mitchell to be tried at the High Court for the offence before a judge and jury.

Mitchell was released on $250,000 bail pending his hearing at the High Court. At around 9:30hrs on the day in question, Harvey was at the wharf when the accused took his cellphone and flashed a

Rondel Mitchell

picture of him.

Harvey became annoyed and asked the accused why he did that, and as such, a heated argument ensued between the men.

The accused reportedly armed himself with a 9mm pistol and shot Harvey in his abdomen. The victim was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he underwent surgery.

Freeman St. man remanded on gun, ammo charge A 27-year-old shopkeeper was remanded to prison by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly on gun and ammunition charges.

Colwin Mercurius, of Freeman Street, East La Penitence, was arraigned before the Georgetown Magistrates' Court, and pleaded not guilty to the two charges.

According to the particulars of the first charge, Mercurius, while at TURN TO PAGE

14 ►

Colwin Mercurius

13

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

Regma student succumbs to head injuries

By Vanessa Braithwaite TEN-YEAR-OLD June Alexander, on Friday afternoon, succumbed to her head injuries following a fall at the Regma Primary School in Linden last Monday.

Her aunt, Gail Hamilton, related that the family is seeking justice, as she strongly believes that her niece was pushed, contrary to statements from eye-witnesses which stated that she collapsed and fell.

June's death came hours after the Ministry of Education related to this publication that the entity conducted

an investigation into the incident which revealed from a neurologist report at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), where the child succumbed, that she suffered from a brain condition and that she experienced severe headaches.

This was given as the circumstances which led to her death. Reports are that the child's mother revealed that the child indeed had a brain condition.

The incident reportedly occurred after 14:00hrs on Monday when school was dismissed. According to eye witnesses, the child had complained that she was feeling

unwell and said she wanted to go to the washroom. She then attempted to do so but her peers saw her staggering and then she eventually fell.

Her aunt, however, strongly denied such a claim, saying that her niece was a healthy child who had no brain condition and that her sister never relayed that information to the family. "My niece was a healthy child, they are trying to cover up, that child never had no brain condition. If that was the case, we woulda deh running hospital with her steady steady. You could check the hospital and see how much time that child does go hos-

Timehri woman charged with stealing $5.1M in jewellery A 38-year-old domestic worker, accused of stealing over $5.1M worth in gold and diamond jewellery from her employer, has been charged with simple larceny.

Suehanie Singh, of Timehri, East Bank Demerara (EBD), appeared before Senior Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court on Friday, and pleaded not guilty to the charge.

It is alleged that between May 1, 2019 and June 11, 2019, Singh stole a quantity of gold and diamond jewellery valued $5.1M from Deomattie Singh’s Houston, EBD residence.

Suehanie Singh

Attorney-at-law Paula DaSantos, in representing the defendant, told the court that the woman was the sole breadwinner of four children. According to the law-

yer, the stolen jewellery was not recovered in Suehanie Singh's possession. It was pointed out too that all of Deomattie Singh’s employees are subjected to checks when entering and leaving the premises.

Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh made no objection to bail but requested that conditions be granted if the woman is given her pre-trial liberty. Singh was released on $250,000 bail and ordered to report to the Ruimveldt Police Station every Monday until the completion of the matter.

The matter will be recalled on July 26, 2019.

17-year-old gets bail for attempting to smuggle cigarette lighter in food box A 17-year-old girl has been placed on bail for attempting to smuggle a cigarette lighter into the holding area of the East Ruimveldt Police Station, where a prisoner was being held.

When she appeared before Senior Magistrate, Leron Daly, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court on Friday, Charmaine Lamazon pleaded not guilty to the charge which stated that she attempted to smuggle contraband into a holding cell of a police station. The teen resides in Tucville, Georgetown.

It is alleged that on June

Charmaine Lamazon

5, 2019, while at the East Ruimveldt Police Station, Lamazon brought a prohibited article – a lighter – for Daniel Boutrin, who was a prisoner at the time.

'Duncan remains ... proven in the minutes of the meeting.

“I exercised my right to execute a casting vote, in keeping with provision 94 as was recorded in and verified in the minutes of the proceedings. Additionally, I wish to state that I rely on my report to you into

The teen was released on $40,000 bail and the matter was adjourned until July 18, 2019.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that Lamazon and Boutrin are in a common-law relationship and have a child together.

It is alleged that on the day in question, Lamazon brought a box of food for her child's father, Boutrin, who was in police custody for several criminal offences. Police at the station, upon checking the food, found a lighter stashed inside. The teen was arrested and placed before the court.

FROM PAGE 11

this matter and reiterate, that the process was fair and transparent, there was due process and all principles of natural justice were adhered to,” the former magistrate and chairperson stated in her letter.

June Alexander

pital. If anything is for a little cold, nothing else. I am looking for justice for my niece," Hamilton related.

She said the x-ray illustrated that her niece was bleeding from her brain and she noted that this only consistent with a high fall. After the fall, the child reportedly suffered from a seizure. She was then rushed to the Linden Hospital Complex and subsequently transferred to the GPHC. Commander of ‘E’ Division of the Guyana Police

Force, Linden Lord, said that police are investigating the incident and information from statements received thus far, related that the child fell and hit herself. “We received statements from students, teachers, cleaners and we are presently putting a file together to send to the DPP,” Lord said.

June leaves to mourn seven other siblings, her parents and other relatives.

She was described as a quiet and well-behaved child.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

Load-shedding significantly reduced –– government pursuing power purchase agreements with Giftland, Banks DIH THE Government, based on initiatives taken thus far, has been able to significantly reduce load-shedding activities, and intends on further reducing power outages by entering into power purchase agreements with Giftland Mall and Banks DIH Ltd. Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, made these pronouncements during a post cabinet press briefing at the Ministry of the Presidency on Friday.

Several areas in Georgetown, East Bank Demerara, West Coast and West Bank of Demerara and Berbice are experiencing hours-long blackouts as the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) de-energised the submarine cable which links the Kingston and Vreed-enHoop stations.

In a notice, the power company said, the submarine cable which links the Kingston and Vreed-en-Hoop stations developed a suspected fault along sections located approximately 0.5 km offshore from its Kingston operations.

According to Harmon, there was a fault on the LS6 submarine cable, which links GPL’s Vreed-en-Hoop and Kingston substations.

“Cabinet was informed that on June 2 at around 21:00hrs there was fault on the submarine cable linking the two sub stations, resulting in a loss of 14 megawatts of

Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon

electrical power that will be transferred from Vreed-enHoop to the Eastern Section of the Demerara-Berbice interconnected system,” he said.

Government has since been engaging the cable manufacturers, who were tasked with inspecting and conducting repairs at the shortest possible time.

In the meantime, there have been other interventions such as returning two caterpillar units from Anna Regina, Essequibo to the Demerara-Berbice interconnected system. They were returned and are operating out of the Onverwagt Power Station.

GPL has also been transferring six megawatts of power from the Vreed-enHoop power plant directly to a feeder at Kingston via a 13.8 kilovolt submarine cable.

“It was successfully installed across the Demerara

River and was tested and energised on Wednesday June 12… it is supplying about five megawatts of power from Vreed-en-Hoop to eastern Demerara-Berbice interconnect system,” Harmon explained.

Government, through the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, has also taken other measures to remedy the situation and restore full power to the affected areas.

Part of those efforts include pursuing power purchase agreements with Giftland Mall and Banks DIH Ltd for five megawatts each, during peak hours.

Harmon said the agreement with Giftland was finalised and will be submitted to the board of GPL for approval on Monday June 17, while discussions have commenced with Banks DIH but, excess capacity may not be available at this time from that entity.

“With all the recent efforts there was very little load shedding on Wednesday June 12 and none since Thursday June 13,” said Harmon, while noting that due to the reduced load on the Vreed-en-Hoop system, which is now isolated, it is less stable and there have been unplanned outages in areas along the West Coast and West Bank of Demerara.

FROM PAGE 12

Freeman St. man ...

East La Penitence on June 12, 2019, reportedly had a .32 Taurus pistol in his possession when he was not a licensed firearm holder. The second charge alleged that on the same day in question, Mercurius had eight live rounds of .32 ammunition in his possession when he was not a licensed firearm holder.

His attorney, George Thomas, made an application for bail. On behalf of his client, Thomas told the court that the firearm was found at the back of a yard where several men were present at the time. However, Police Prosecutor Sanj Singh refuted the attorney’s claim, and told the court that the firearm was found in Mercurius’ crotch.

Singh objected to bail being granted to Mercurius, and informed the court the same firearm was stolen from a man during a robbery on April 6, 2019.

Magistrate Daly remanded Mercurius to prison until July 19, 2019.

15

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019 FROM PAGE 02

Indigenous culture ... attention being given to Indigenous people internationally, through the United Nations (UN) declared ‘International Year for Indigenous Languages.’

“We are lucky in Guyana that our indigenous peoples still speak our language-- at least nine languages,” Garrido-Lowe said.

Reflecting on the colonial days of Guyana’s history, she reminded that indigenous people were made to feel inferior, highlighting: “ we were made to feel a bit ashamed of our languages, ashamed of our cassava bread, ashamed of our roast fish [and] ashamed of our tuma pot.”

But this is no longer the case, according to her. Nowadays, efforts are being made to preserve and celebrate the indigenous way of life and the minister said that young people must no longer feel ashamed to speak their native languages, or in the wider sense, of their culture.

She reminded the gathering that currently, efforts are being directed by the Ministry of Education to revive the Wapichan language. It is

being taught in three schools in the Rupununi as a pilot programme But for those who are not in the Rupununi and who are interested in learning the languages, she highlighted that the MoIPA is willing to create classes and learning spaces. To this end, she asked that young people visit the ministry’s website or Facebook page and state what languages they would like to learn.

“If you need more classes we can always talk about that,” she said, adding: “We have to be proud of who we are [because] it's time we bring that kind of recognition, awareness and we promote indigenous languages,” she added.

In seeking to promote languages in an even more appealing way, the minister disclosed that there will be a singing competition during Indigenous Heritage month (September), where young people are encouraged to write and sing songs in their Indigenous languages.

The competition will first be carried out in the regions, before the top three singers

Saturday, June 15, 2019 - 3:30hrs & 14:30hrs

in each region compete for grand monetary prizes and a chance to become a recording artiste in Georgetown.

“I would encourage our young people especially to make more indigenous music,” she said.

“Get busy and don't think that the world is too slow for you and that opportunities don't exist for you.”

An Indigenous elder shows the youth how to weave in the traditional Indigenous way

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

Guyanese fisherman feared dead following fight in Suriname waters

By Nafeeza Yahya A 25-year-old fisherman remains missing and feared dead after he was allegedly thrown overboard by another fisherman after a fight in Suriname waters.

The incident occurred on Thursday, just hours after the five-member crew set sail in the Marowinje River, Suriname, an area close to the French Guiana border.

The man has been identified as Shawn Orlando Sewchand called 'Bakes' of Nigg Village, East Berbice Corentyne.

According to information received, Sewchand, who has been working in Suriname for the past four years, was on the fishing vessel with four other crew members when a fight ensued with another man identified as 'Vinod' or 'Booka'.

It is still unclear how the fight started. However, during the incident, the suspect allegedly pushed Sewchand off the boat.

Reports reaching the Guyana Chronicle are that Sewchand could not swim and, as such, another crew member jumped overboard in

Shawn Sewchand

an effort to rescue him but he (Sewchand) had already disappeared under the rough waters.

The other crew members subsequently tied and secured

the suspect and returned the boat to shore, where they contacted the police. The suspect was then handed over to law enforcement officials and remains in custody pending an investigation.

Meanwhile, in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle, sister of the missing man, Sarah Sewchand, recalled speaking to her brother on Tuesday last as he was making preparations for the trip on Thursday. She said the family is devastated.

She described her brother as a kind-hearted and hardworking individual.

The vessel on which the victim and assailant worked

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Saturday June 15, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 15, 2019

Four new schools commi

–Over $128M expended to improve quality o

AS government maintains its commitment to providing education for all Guyanese, the Ministry of Education on Friday commissioned four new schools in Regions Five and Six. According to the Ministry of Education, Minister of Education, Dr. the Hon. Nicolette Henry and the De-

partments of Education of the two regions commissioned the schools which included the Perth Nursery School, Calcutta Nursery School and Champagne Primary School.

Further up the coastland, the No. 36 Primary School was commissioned in East Berbice-Corentyne.

An information technol-

ogy laboratory at the Courtland-Gibralter Primary was also commissioned.

Deputy Regional Executive Officer (DREO) of the Region Five (Demerara-Mahaica) administration, Sherwin Wellington, related that the cost to construct the Perth Nursery School was $40M, the Calcutta Nursery $33M

and the Champagne Primary School at $13M. At the commissioning ceremonies Minister Henry reiterated the commitment of the government and the Ministry of Education to providing education for all Guyanese.

She noted that all children in Guyana must have access to quality education whether

they live in the city or in rural communities.

She said that the construction of the new schools is in keeping with the Ministry’s vision and goal to reduce the disparity that exists between the coastal communities and rural communities. This point was of great importance particularly at the commissioning of the Champagne Primary School.

ment of Education and the Regional Administration for their great work to improve the quality of education in the region.

She said that education is important since it can take a nation and its people from poverty to prosperity.

According to the Regional Education Officer (REdO), Ms. Deon Lyn Lewis-Clarke, modern facilities not only

Minister Henry and pupils of Champagne Primary School cutting the ceremonial ribbon to commission the new building. (MOE photo)

According to Minister Henry, “each and every child in the school system must have access to quality education.”

She expressed her happiness that the schools meet the standards recognised by the Education Ministry and added that she is confident that great things will happen within the walls of the new schools.

Minister Henry applauded the officers within the Depart-

improve the physical environment but also the learning culture.

Head teacher of the Perth Nursery School, Ms. Patricia Rutherford, said that over the years, teachers and children were accustomed to a building owned by the Perth Burial Society which was most uncomfortable.

As she expressed appreciation to the authorities , she made a commitment that the

Timehri house A FIRE of unknown origin, on Friday night, gutted a house at the Timehri Base Road, East Bank Demerara, leaving several persons homeless.

Reports are that at some time around 19:00hrs, smoke was seen emanating from the building, owned by the Lumileno family, and within minutes the entire building was engulfed in flames. Eyewitnesses reported that members of the Guyana Fire Service arrived in time to save two nearby structures from the blaze.

A man identified as ‘Vinu’ and his family members, including two children and two senior citizens, lived at the house.

A wash-bay and a shop are housed in the yard and reports are the shop was partially damaged by the flames.

There were no reports of anyone being injured. The cause of the fire remains unknown.

The ho

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 15, 2019

issioned

of education building will be used to mould the minds of the children in Perth Village.

Ms. Candace Griffith, Head teacher of Calcutta Nursery, said that today was a happy day in Calcutta Village.

She said that the school was previously housed in the bottom flat of the Primary School which she also described as uncomfortable.

She said that now, her

ment in people is an investment in the country. She said that notwithstanding the new building, there is still a lot of work that has to be done.

She said that the new building represents progress and growth and thanked the regional officials for their contribution to the project.

According to the Regional Executive Officer of Region Six, Ms. Kim Williams-Ste-

Minister of Education, Dr. the Hon. Nicolette Henry interacting with children of Calcutta Nursery School.(MOE photo)

teachers are able to deliver the curriculum in an environment that is conducive.

The head teacher of the Champagne Primary School, Ms. Suzette Dubisette thanked the government and the Regional Administration for providing the new edifice for the teachers and pupils to ensure that quality education can be accessed.

At that ceremony, Minister Henry said that an invest-

phen, the construction of the No. 36 Primary School was made possible through collaboration between the government and the private sector.

She explained that the land on which the two-storey school sits was donated by the Nand Persaud Group of Companies. She said that the project started in October 2016 and was completed in March 2018 at a total cost of $42.642M.

e gutted by fire

ouse on fire (Credit: Roxanne Sutton)

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The new building which houses the Calcutta Nursery School.(MOE photo)

Moreover, the IT Lab that was commissioned at the Courtland/Gibraltar Primary School was another example of collaboration.

The computers were donated by a former student of the school and resident of the community, Ms. Merlyn Crandon.

Delivering remarks on

behalf of Ms. Crandon was Rev. Ingrid Peters who said that the new IT Lab marks the beginning of a journey for the children.

The children were encouraged to seek out every opportunity and “go for it.�

Rev. Peters noted that computers are a wonderful tool to reach horizons that are

available to others in schools that are better equipped.

The Education Minister highlighted again the importance of partnerships. She said that computer learning is very important for 21st Century education.

Head teacher of the school Ms. Melanie Thomas said that the IT Lab will

enable pupils to reach their full potential. She said that the computers will help to break the passive learning model that the children are exposed to daily.

Ms. Thomas added that the pupils and teachers of her school embrace the opportunity as they strive to make a positive difference.

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Rose sets Clubhouse lead at US Open

Justin Rose finished a solid second round with five consecutive pars

(BBC) - ENGLAND’S Justin Rose set the clubhouse lead at the US Open by carding a one under 70 in round two at Pebble Beach.

Overnight leader Rose, the winner in 2013, had three birdies and two bogeys and leads by two on seven under.

American Brooks Koepka, who is chasing a third successive US Open title, carded a 69 to finish on four under, while Tiger Woods bogeyed his last two holes to drop back to level par.

Northern Ireland’s Rory McIlroy is among the later starters.

The 2011 US Open champion shot a three under 68 on day one.

American Aaron Wise concluded his round with consecutive birdies to post a level-par 71 to be Rose’s nearest challenger on five under.

Fellow Americans Rickie Fowler and Xander Schauffele and Louis Oosthuizen of South Africa all start their second round on five-under par.

Despite making five birdies, England’s Ian Poulter, looks set to miss the cut for the third time in his last five majors after finishing on four over par.

The 43-year-old’s hopes of making the weekend were torpedoed by a quadruple bogey eight on the third hole.

Italy beat Jamaica to move into WWC round of sixteen (BBC) - CRISTIANA Girelli's hat-trick and Aurora Galli's stunning strike helped Italy book their place in the World Cup last 16 with victory over Jamaica.

Italy qualified for the last 16 of the Women's World Cup as Girelli's three goals paced a 5-0 win against Jamaica

(Yahoosport photo) Juventus' Girelli made it 1-0 with a retaken penalty, after goalkeeper Sydney Schneider had saved the initial spot-kick but was then punished for prematurely moving off her line.

Girelli grabbed her second from close range and headed in Italy's third.

Substitute Galli added two more with a thunderous shot and composed finish.

Those late goals came after a period of pressure from

the lowest-ranked team in the competition, although their best effort came in the first half when Mireya Grey's 20-yard strike flew two feet wide.

As for the Azzurre, they march on with both Girelli and fellow Juve forward Barbara Bonansea, who scored twice in the 2-1 win over Australia, in sparkling form.

Bonansea won the firsthalf penalty after a VAR check declared Allyson Swaby's tackle was illegal. Girelli's strike was saved but referee Anna-Marie Keighley ordered a retake and booked Schneider for moving off her line.

VAR gives both a penalty and a retake after Girelli misses her first attempt Girelli scored her second with an effort that came off her thigh after Jamaica's defence went to sleep at a corner.

And she completed her hattrick shortly after the restart when she beat Schneider to a right-wing cross.

Galli, who was relegated to the bench for this game, produced the goal of the contest six minutes after coming with an unstoppable drive from 25 yards. The Juventus player then kept her cool as she took a throughball around Schneider to slot in Italy's fifth.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 15, 2019

Toronto Raptors down Golden State to take NBA finals (BBC) - THE Toronto Raptors beat defending champions Golden State Warriors 114-110 to win their first NBA title.

Kawhi Leonard was named the NBA Finals Most Valuable Player, av-

eraging 28.5 points, as the Raptors won the best-ofseven series 4-2.

“It was a heck of a 12 months,” Toronto head coach Nick Nurse said after his side became the only Canadian franchise

to win the NBA. “This is why I play basketball; this is what I work hard for,” added Leonard.

The Warriors, who headed into the finals with back-to-back wins and had won three of

Toronto Raptors team victorious with Larry O’Brien trophy after winning game vs Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena. Game 6, Oakland, Thursday night (CREDIT:

John W. McDonough (Photo by John W. McDonough /Sports Illustrated/Getty Images) the past four NBA titles, were without the injured Kevin Durant and lost Klay Thompson to cruciate knee ligament damage in the third quarter.

Steph Curry had a chance to tie the series with a missed three-pointer when the Warriors trailed 110-111, before Leonard sealed the victory for the visitors.

The Raptors are the first Canadian club side to win a major North American sports title since the Toronto Blue Jays captured Major League Baseball’s World Series in 1993.

The NBA was expanded to Canada in 1995 when it incorporated the newly

formed Raptors and Vancouver Grizzlies - who later relocated and became the Memphis Grizzlies.

Leonard - Raptors’ leading scorer in his debut season - joined Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and LeBron James as the only players to be named the NBA Finals’ Most Valuable Player (MVP) with two different teams.

The forward, MVP with the San Antonio Spurs in their championship-winning 2014 season, is the only player in history to receive the accolade in both the Eastern and Western Conferences.

N u r s e ’s t r i u m p h came one day short of the first anniversary of

his appointment as head coach.

The 51-year-old, from Iowa, had been the team’s assistant coach since 2013, before being promoted on June 14 last year.

Nurse has coached extensively in the British Basketball League, with stints at Derby Storm, Birmingham Bullets, Manchester Giants, London To w e r s a n d B r i g h t o n Bears.

He led the Bullets and Giants to the league title and twice won the BBL coach-of-the-year award, working on a £100 000 budget - in contrast to the $150M (£120M) he has to spend at the Raptors.

GCA coaches workshop takes place today THE Cricket Development Committee of the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) has scheduled a Cricket Coaches Workshop today.

The workshop takes place due to the current suspension of the cricket season and begins at 09:00hrs at the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO), Woolford Avenue, Thomas Lands, Georgetown.

The workshop will run from 09:00hrs. to 13:00hrs.

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

The objectives are to provide coaches and captains with practice and preparation structures as well as plans to improve their players.

The programme will include fitness guidelines, nets options, remedial and skills development, batting, bowling, fielding, wicket-keeping, mental and tactical aspects.

The instructors are Roger Harper, Mark Harper and Clyde Butts.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 15, 2019

Pestano excited over maiden CPL stint

By Rajiv Bisnauth

THE Guyana Amazon Warriors have been one of the consistent franchises in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL), but are yet to win a title, despite reaching the final on four occasions.

However, in a bid to turn their fortunes around, during the seventh edition of the tournament, they have let go of a number of players from their 2018 squad, which included Sohail Tanvir, Chadwick Walton, Cameron Delport, Rayad Emrit, Imran Tahir, Jason Mohammed, Luke Ronchi, Roshon Primus Devendra Bishoo and Gajanand Singh.

Moreover, they also have traded South African leg-spinner Tahir for Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan, who was their most expensive player for this

season.

While the tournament draft attracted some of the biggest names in international cricket, the Warriors management unit decided to give local players the opportunity to showcase their talents.

One such player is fast-rising bowling all-rounder, Clinton Pestano, who earned his maiden call-up, and is one of eight Guyanese in the 17-man squad.

The 26-year-old Rose Hall Town resident is anxiously awaiting the seventh edition of the League and sees it as yet another chance for him to continue his swift rise to recognition.

He expressed delight at being snapped up by the local franchise, adding that while he is extremely excited to be a part of this year’s

tournament, he is equally excited to make it count.

“For me it’s a big step up, something which I always wanted to do - play for my home franchise. I’m hoping to represent them well and hopefully we can win the final.

Definitely I am very excited to be on board,” he said.

The all-rounder further pointed out that he is even more excited to rub shoulders with the foreign players and gain from their experiences.

Pestano was rewarded for being equally effective with both bat and ball in his stint with the Guyana Jaguars during the last regional fourday and Super50 tournaments, where he filled one of the all-rounder’s positions with absolute permanency.

This year’s tournament runs from September 4 to

FROM PAGE 35

Tabatinga FC feels ...

Clinton Pestano

October 12.

Guyana Amazon Warriors: Shadab Khan (Pakistan), Nicholas Pooran (Trinidad and Tobago), Shoaib Malik (Pakistan), Shimron Hetmyer (Guyana), Ben Laughlin (Australia), Chris Green (Australia), Keemo Paul (Guyana), Sherfane Rutherford (Guyana), Brandon King (Jamaica), Romario Shepherd (Guyana), Odean Smith (Jamaica), Keagan Simmons (Trinidad and Tobago), Chandrapaul Hemraj (Guyana), Veerasammy Permaul (Guyana), Anthony Bramble (Guyana), Clinton Pestano (Guyana) and Saurab Netravalkar (ICC Americas) Former Guyana Amazon Warriors players Christopher Barnwell (St Lucia Stars) and Steven Jacobs (Jamaica Tallawahs) were the other Guyanese bought at the Draft.

THRASHED!

England clobber West Indies by eight wickets (CMC) – BARBADIAN fast-bowling sensation Jofra Archer sparkled for England but West Indies fluffed their lines in an ordinary performance, as they slumped to a chastening eight-wicket defeat here yesterday, to suffer another blow to their top four chances at the World Cup. Sent in at the Rose Bowl in a highly anticipated encounter, West Indies looked in decent shape at 54 for one in the 13th over but crumbled for 212 in the 45th over, despite a composed top score of 63 from rookie Nicholas Pooran.

Fellow left-hander Shimron Hetmyer chipped in with 39 and veteran opener Chris Gayle got 36 but no other batsman showed the enterprise and discipline required to get West Indies up to a competitive score.

They were blown away by the hostile Archer who lived up to his high billing by taking three for 30 from eight overs, returning to haunt some of his former teammates, with whom he played six years ago as a member of the Windies Under-19 side.

Fellow speedster Mark Wood claimed three for 18 while Joe Root picked up two for 27, as West Indies lost their last seven wickets for 68 runs after they were wellplaced on 144 for three in the 30th over.

In reply, England made light work of the modest target to get home in the 34th over, with Root unbeaten on exactly 100 – his second hundred of the World Cup and 16th of his career.

Opening partner Jonny Bairstow struck 45 from 46 deliveries while Chris Woakes, promoted to number three, stroked 40 off 54 balls, cashing in on a Windies attack lacking its usual verve on a flat deck.

Fast bowler Shannon Gabriel, on his World Cup debut, took the two wickets to fall in his seven-over spell that cost 49 runs.

West Indies now have just one win in four matches after beating Pakistan in their opener in Nottingham, and lie sixth in the 10-team standings on three points, while England moved into second spot on six points with their third victory.

Needing a strong start, the Windies got anything but, when left-handed opener Evin Lewis played around a full-length delivery from seamer Chris Woakes in the third over and had his stumps rattled for two with four runs on the board.

Gayle then dominated a 50-run stand with Shai Hope

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(11) crunching five fours and a six in a 41-ball knock to help weather the early new ball pace barrage from Archer.

Dropped on 15 in the seventh over at third man off Woakes, Gayle made little of the reprieve, holing out to deep mid-wicket in the 13th over off pacer Liam Plunkett.

And West Indies were in deeper trouble in the next over, when Hope was hit in front and given out lbw courtesy of DRS, ending his 30-ball toil.

Labouring at 55 for three, Pooran and Hetmyer came to their side’s rescue in a sensible 89-run, fourth-wicket stand which repaired the innings.

Pooran faced 78 balls and counted three fours and a six while Hetmyer struck four fours in a 48-ball knock, the pair pushing West Indies up to 118 without further loss at the half-way stage of the innings.

Root’s introduction broke the stand when he claimed Hetmyer caught-and-bowled in his second over, and captain Jason Holder lasted 10 balls for his nine before falling in identical fashion in the Test captain’s next over.

At 156 for five at the end of the 32nd over, West Indies needed the injury-plagued Andre Russell to hang around, especially after being dropped on three by Woakes in the deep off leg-spinner Adil Rashid.

Instead, he smashed a pair of sixes in a 16-ball 21, adding 32 for the sixth wicket with Pooran before irresponsibly top-edging a heave at a short one from Wood, and skying to Woakes at mid-wicket in the 37th over.

Archer found himself on a hat-trick when he got Pooran to glove a lifter behind in the 40th over before trapping Sheldon Cottrell lbw next ball but Oshane Thomas blocked the crucial delivery.

Any hopes of a comeback quickly faded when Root put on a dashing 95 for the first wicket with Bairstow, before adding a further 104 for the second wicket with Woakes.

Asked to open in the absence of Jason Roy who was injured while fielding, Root stroked 11 fours in a 94-ball knock, reaching triple figures in the penultimate over of the innings.

England’s only casualties were Bairstow who upper-cut Gabriel to Carlos Brathwaite at third man in the 15th over and Woakes, who top-edged a pull to substitute Fabien Allen at long leg in the 32nd over, with just 14 required for victory.

played for a team called Juventus in the municipality of Bonfim in Brazil (which borders Guyana).

The constitution dictates that players are not supposed to play in unsanctioned competitions, especially outside of their jurisdiction.

The club said that the ban was wrongly directed, since senior members claimed the ban should have been directed to the players who travelled and competed without the knowledge of the executives of Tabatinga FC, and not to the club as a whole.

President of the FC, Lowrenzo Sampson, said that the RFA acted on emotions and not by the rules that are in place to deal with disciplinary action against clubs.

“Our club officials were never given a chance to defend our club. The RFA claims they did an investigation in the matter at hand to which no one from our club was asked any question(s) on the situation ... they did not call us to a hearing, they did not even respond to our letter seeking a hearing ... the RFA has a disciplinary committee and the matter never went to the committee.”

According to information from the club, they were the ones who brought the infraction to the attention of the FA and sought clarity on the way forward.

Captain of the club, Emerick Williams, told Chronicle Sport that he was in Brazil at the competition when he saw four Tabatinga FC players in action. He said that as a former member of Juventus, he was invited to be in a team photo and he accepted, but did not play any game.

He said that upon returning to Guyana he informed the club’s executives, who attempted to

deal with the issue.

“We kept a meeting and then wrote the RFA to inform them what had transpired and asked them about the penalties for these players who played in Bonfim unknown to the club. After we did not get a response, we kept another meeting to sanction the players. We banned them from club activities for the rest of the year and fined them.”

Williams said that the club then received a letter from the FA indicating that the club as a whole had been banned. The club captain said that the banned stemmed from assumptions and not facts, since according to the letter, seen by Chronicle Sport, he was also listed as having played for Juventus in the recent tournament - an accusation he has vehemently denied.

In the letter sent to Sampson, the FA indicated that the club had knowledge of the transgressions of the players. “… after proper investigative methods were carried out, it was concluded that your club Tabatinga FC had full knowledge of some of your senior male players being part of another club…,” both the president and club captain have denied these claims.

Sampson added that: “Our club should have had a chance to defend ourselves...the RFA handed out a declaration form to each club to have their players complete and return so to protect the club, but yet when the players infringe they punish the club.

This is very wrong. I don’t think the RFA is being led the way it should be.”

When asked for a comment, the RFA declined the Guyana Chronicle’s request, indicating a comment will not be made on the matter at this time.

Pre-Fathers’ Day Golf Classic on at LGC today FOLLOWING on the heels of the MACORP Golf Extravaganza of June 9, Lusignan Golf Club will today see competition in a Pre-Fathers’ Day Classic.

Tee-off is scheduled for 12:30hrs and the format is Medal Play in 3 Flights, with prizes being awarded by the Survival Supermarket, for 1st and 2nd best Net in each Flight, along with Nearest the Pin and Longest Drive.

The public is invited to witness this event free of cost, and to even begin to learn about the game of golf while there.

For more information on the LGC, on how to become a member, how to learn the basics of golfing free of charge, how to contribute to the Club, or how to use the facilities, please visit the LGC’s Facebook page at lusignangolfclub or call 220-5660 or 668-7419.

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday June 15, 2019)

COMPLIMENTS OF THE TROPHY STALL- Bourda Market & The City Mall (Tel: 225-9230) CUMMINGS ELECTRICAL COMPANY LTD- 83 Garnett Street, Campbellville, Georgetown (Tel: 225-6158) ANSWERS TO YESTERDAY’S QUIZ: (1) Kapil Dev-175* (vs ZIM, Tunbridge, Wells, 1983) (2) Kenya/Netherlands/Canada TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Which two have never scored a World Cup century for the West Indies: Shiv Chanderpaul, Ramnaresh Sarwan, Collis King, Lendl Simmons, Devon Smith (2) NZ have played seven semi-final World Cup games to date. Which two teams have they played TWICE?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 15, 2019

KFC Senior National Squash lighting up Georgetown Club

THE Georgetown Club Ltd squash courts was a hive of activity on Thursday as the 2019 KFC Senior National Squash Championships continued.

The four semifinalists in the Ladies Open were decided as all the tops seeded players won in straight sets.

The most competitive of the quarterfinals was the match between national Under-17 & U-19 Junior champion Abosaide Cadogan and her former junior teammate Sarah Lewis.

The first two games were really close with Abosaide eventually winning the match 11-8, 11-9, 11-5.

No 1 seed Ashley Khalil easily disposed of Lydia Fraser 11-2, 11-1, 11-3 while her Pan Am Games teammate No. 2 seed Taylor Fernandes had a slightly tougher time but defeated Madison Fernandes 11-2, 11-8, 11-2.

In the last quarter-final match former junior player Gabby Fraser outplayed national Under-15 junior champion Kirsten Gomes 11-5, 11-5, 11 0.

In the Men’s Open round of 16 they were no upsets as all the seeded players progressed to the quarter-finals.

No.2 seed, former national champion Nyron Joseph

defeated Samuel Ince-Carvalhal 11-4, 11-6, 11-7 while both 3/4 seeds, former national champion Regan Pollard and current national Junior Under-17 & U-19 champion Shomari Wiltshire advanced easily.

Regan defeated national junior Under-15 champion Michael Alphonso 11-2, 11-4, 11-6 while Shomari beat Adam Alves 11-3, 11-3, 11-5.

Former national junior player Damien Da Silva beat Ian Mekdeci 11-8, 11-3, 11-7 while former national player Robert Fernandes disposed of national Junior Under-13 champion Mohyryan Baksh 11-7, 11-6, 11-2.

Nicholas Narain and Javed Ali had an intense battle with the second game proving to be the crucial game in the match. Nicholas easily won the first game 11-3 but had to pull out all the stops before eventually winning the second game 13-11.

Nicholas then won the third game 11-6. In the final match played, Peter Michael De Groot used all of his experience to withstand the challenge of promising junior player Nicholas Verwey.

Peter Michael easily won the first game 11-2 but Nicholas came out with a different game plan in the second game and won it 11-5. The third game was

Four Guyanese for CWI High Performance Training Camp GUYANA Jaguars pair of all-rounders. Sherfane Rutherford and pacer Romario Shepherd, along with openers Tagenarine Chanderpaul and Chandrapaul Hemraj, are among 15 players chosen to attend a Cricket West Indies (CWI) High Performance training camp, starting Monday, June 17, aimed at enhancing their red-ball cricket skills.

as Barbados Pride fast bowler Chemar Holder, a member of the West Indies Under-19 World Cup-winning squad of 2016.

This follows a similar training camp for emerging white-ball players which ended on June 12 at the same venue. Four of the players from that camp will also take part in this High Performance (HP) training camp.

over the last five years.”

“Seven of the fast bowlers who attended last year’s Fast Bowling programme will be involved, all of whom have made significant strides forward since their attendance with Shermon Lewis, the stand-out, having made his Test debut against India last October.

“Four of the players selected also participated in

across a range of areas, including personal development, involvement in community projects, media training, nutritional guidance and further training in physical and mental components.”

“It will be great to have five players with full international caps to their name attending, enabling them to pass on some of their experiences to the younger

crucial but Peter Michael prevailed with a 12-10 win.

Peter Michael would finally close out the match with a 11-6 fourth game win. Top-seeded Jason Ray Khalil did not have to break a sweat as his opponent Josh Abdool gave him a walkover.

There were two matches in the veterans Over-50. Joe Mekdeci defeated Tony Farnum 11-2, 11-7, 11-7 while Garfield Wiltshire beat Medhi Ramdhani 11-3, 11-4, 11-8.

Play continued yesterday evening with two more Over-50 Men’s matches, one Men’s Over-40 match, Men’s Open quarter-finals and Plate matches in both the Men’s and Women’s Open.

West Indies sticking with Russell (CMC) – CAPTAIN Jason Holder said yesterday West Indies had no intention of ditching Andre Russell, even though the injury-plagued all-rounder yet again failed to complete a game at the World Cup here.

Russell appeared in discomfort during his 16-ball 21 and two overs of seam during the England run chase, and eventually left the field as the hosts and tournament favourites cruised to a comfortable eight-wicket win at the Rose Bowl.

“It’s been difficult so far for him. We have been trying our best to keep him on the park, but it is proving difficult,” Holder told reporters afterwards.

All-rounder Andre Russell sends down a delivery during his two-over spell against England yesterday

Sherfane Rutherford

The training camp forms part of preparation ahead of the West Indies ‘A’ upcoming home series against India ‘A’ next month.

Test fast bowler Shermon Lewis and recovering international all-rounder Rovman Powell head the list of players attending the training camp, which runs until the end of the month at the West Indies High Performance Centre (WIHPC), Coolidge Cricket Ground, Antigua.

The other players are rookie Jamaica Scorpions pair of off-spinner Akim Fraser and batsman Brandon King, Trinidad and Tobago Red Force pair of left-arm spinner Khary Pierre and left-handed opener Jeremy Solozano, as well

Chandrapaul Hemraj

Programme Manager of the WIHPC, Graeme West, said the HP training camp was all part of CWI’s ongoing investment into player-development to fortify the pool of talent available, which is a key aspect of the CWI strategic plan. It also follows new policies outlined by new president Ricky Skerritt and vice-president Kishore Shallow.

“This camp is another opportunity for the CWI selectors to recognise and reward players that have impressed in regional cricket,” he said. “Many of the players selected have come through the CWI talent pathway and have benefitted from our investment in Youth, Under-19, High Performance and ‘A’ Team programmes

Tagenarine Chanderpaul

Romario Shepherd

the recent Emerging Players camp which focused primarily on their white-ball skill development, but this camp will focus on red-ball skills with every player involved having produced performances of great quality in the West Indies Championship.”

West said that following the outstanding series win by the senior West Indies team against England earlier in the year, this is an opportunity to increase the depth of talent that will look to sustain the recent successes in the long term.

“The preparation and development of the players does not stop at just their playing skills,” he said.

“There is a comprehensive programme designed to deliver

players in the squad who have only just been introduced to the first-class arena in the Caribbean.”

SQUAD: Keacy Carty*, Tagenarine Chanderpaul, Dominic Drakes*, Akim Fraser^, Keon Harding*, Chandrapaul Hemraj, Kavem Hodge, Chemar Holder*^, Brandon King^, Shermon Lewis^, Marquino Mindley, Khary Pierre^, Rovman Powell^, Sherfane Rutherford^, Romario Shepherd^ and Jeremy Solozano^. *Players who participated in recently-concluded Emerging Players white-ball camp. ^Players selected for West Indies ‘A’ squads against India ‘A’ (commencing July 11)

“Going forward, we have to persist. He is here for a reason. We think he can be a match-winner for us. We have just got to cope with him. Got to do everything we possibly can with him to keep him on the park.”

Russell suffers with a chronic knee problem and arrived at the World Cup with question marks over his fitness, especially after he was ruled out of the limited overs series against England in the Caribbean earlier this year.

He shone in the Indian Premier League (IPL) prompting his inclusion for the World Cup but has so far taken just four wickets from 13 overs and scored 36 runs, from his three outings.

Questioned on if Russell was worth the risk despite the impact his lack of fitness was having on his performances, Holder responded tersely: “Yes.” West Indies were once again let down by their batsmen as they tasted defeat for the second time in four outings.

Sent in, they crumbled for an inadequate 212 in the 45th over, which England chased down with ease with nearly 17 overs remaining.

Worryingly for West Indies, the much vaunted pace attack seemed muted as Joe Root dominated with exactly 100 not out, but Holder put the performance down to “just one of those days”.

“It’s just one of those days. I felt the sun came out in the second half and the wicket flattened out,” he explained.

“We just didn’t get new-ball wickets today and it is one out of four games that we have played and we haven’t got new-ball wickets so it is just one of those days.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 15, 2019

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Spectator safety paramount for second round of Drag Racing

Flashback! Workers rehabilitating the fence along the drag strip at the South Dakota Circuit (GTRidez photo)

THE added emphasis of safety will underline the second round of the 2019 National Drag Racing championship.

Billed for the South Dakota Drag Strip, Timehri on June 23 and organised by the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC), the event will feature more safety for fans, marshals and competitors.

According to GMR&SC

vice-president Hansraj Singh, this comes as the committee is realising that the machines are getting faster and faster.

“We would have extended the strip to a full quarter-mile and what we saw in round one, we are expecting to have faster cars to participate because they can have more power generated because of the lengthened track and better breaking and with the

installation of the launch pad, better starts,” Singh shared.

As the sport grows and Hansraj believes it will benefit Guyana greatly, GMR&SC, he pledged, will maintain their safety standards. “Once the cars are going faster, then definitely safety becomes a bigger issue. Safety is of utmost paramountcy at this time and we are constantly upgrading the facility (South

Dakota) to make it safe for everyone including the fans, racers and marshals.

Meanwhile, last week, president of the GMR&SC, Rameez Mohamed, confirmed via correspondence to the media that Team Mohamed’s newly acquired white Nissan GT-R is set to finally make its competitive debut at the event after missing out in March due to transmission issues.

Over 100 competitors are expected to register for the event which will see the driver with the fastest reaction win $20 000.

More importantly, Del Ice Co has sponsored cash prizes for the fastest 10-second ($200 000), 11-second ($150 000) and 12-second ($100 000) cars.

Sponsors for the event include Platinum Car Show, KFC, Supreme Bets, R. Kissoon Contracting Services, Deryck Jaisingh Trucking Service and Machinery Rentals, Del Ice Co., Mohamed’s

ExxonMobil U-14 begins today ACTION in the 2019 edition of the Exxon Mobil Schools football tournament begins today at the Ministry of Education ground, Carifesta Avenue.

The male segment of the tournament opens with a March Past at 10:00hrs with matches set for 12:00hrs.

Christ Church Secondary will play Lodge Secondary in the opening game with Plaisance Orphanage going up against North Ruimveldt Multilateral on the adjacent pitch.

St Mary and Annandale Secondary clash at 12:50hrs on pitch one while New Campbellville meet Ann’s Grove on pitch two.

Carmel Secondary School will also be in action from 13:40hrs against Uitvlugt Secondary with pitch

two featuring President’s College and Marian Academy.

Bishops’ High will play Golden Grove on pitch one from 14:30hrs while Kingstown will lock horns with St John’s College on pitch two.

Tutorial play East Riumveldt and Queenstown Secondary take on St Stanislaus College on pitches one and two respectively, from 15:20hrs while the day’s proceedings will close when Dolphin Secondary and Tucville clash on pitch one at 16:10hrs. Brickdam Secondary will oppose Charlestown Secondary on pitch two.

The tournament is also sponsored by Demerara Distillers Limited under the Pepsi brand and the Ministry of Public Health under the Chronic Diseases unit.

Tabatinga FC feel that Rupununi FA ban was harsh and unwarranted THE 2018 Rupununi Football Association (RFA) Champions League (CL) winners, Tabatinga Football Club, were favourites to defend their title this year before they were banned and they feel that they were harshly penalised by the Rupununi FA. The RFA had banned the club’s senior male team late last month prior to the semi-finals of the CL for the reminder of that competition (scheduled to conclude today) and for two subsequent competitions.

Although the FA did not officially disclose the reason for the ban, Chronicle Sport was informed via a letter to the club that the ban was the result after several of the Tabatinga FC members had

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Tabatinga FC were banned for the reminder of the Champions League, expected to conclude today, and for two subsequent RFA-sanctioned tournaments

Enterprise, B.M. SOAT Auto Sales, Prem’s Electrical, E-Networks, Motor Trend, Nexus Machine Shop, Power Line, Jumbo Jet Auto Sales, Wind Jammer Hotel, Cyril’s Taxi, A&R Jiwanram Printery, Blue Spring Water,

Choke Gas Station, Miracle Optical, Special Auto, First Class Auto Spares and Sales, GT Tuners, West Coast Customs Washbay and Imran Autoworks Tickets for adults cost $1 000 and children $500.

THRASHED! England clobber West Indies by eight wickets

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Evin Lewis is bowled by Chris Woakes (Getty Images)

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ExxonMobil U-14 begins today

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Pestano excited over maiden CPL stint Guyana Jaguars captain Leon Johnson congratulates Clinton Pestano during a Regional game

ExxonMobil U-14 Schools Football tournament commences today at the Ministry of Education ground

Tabatinga FC feel that Rupununi FA ban was harsh and unwarranted 35

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SATURDAY, JUNE 15, 2019