Guyana Chronicle Epaper 06 29 2019

SATURDAY 29th June, 2019

No.105683

GUYANA FASTEST 03 GROWING ECONOMY PAGE

NASDAQ projects growth rate of 16.3 per cent from 2018-2021

Land allocations ‘above board’ 02&03 PAGES

… Jagdeo, Ali, PPP officials own thousands of acres … GLSC calls in police on land map leak

GUYOIL 12 slashes prices of gas, gasoil PAGE

Ceres rips 09 Jagdeo PAGE

… accuses him of corruption, racial bias

Gov’t stands firm against corruption CEO of the GLSC, Trevor Benn, shows the court order which was issued in the 1990s (Adrian Narine photo)

–– Minister Cummings tells OAS forum

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Land allocations ‘above board’ …Jagdeo, PPP officials own thousands of acres …Benn says applications for leases to persons named were in system before 2015

By Navendra Seoraj

PERSONS, who Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, would have listed as benefitting from a massive “land grabbing exercise,” had applications in the system of the Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) long before 2015.

“Most of the people, who were named, had applications long before our time…these applications were pending for a long time,” said Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the GLSC, Trevor Benn, in response to allegations from Jagdeo, during a press briefing on Friday.

Jagdeo, at a press briefing on Thursday, had claimed that the GLSC distributed almost 20,000 acres of land to a few persons between last year and now. Jagdeo said the distributions were classic cases of land grabbing.

Among those who Jagdeo claimed benefitted were Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield; Engineer, Charles Ceres; Businesswoman, Muriel Allen; Special Assistant at the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA), Eric Phillips; and a Member of Parliament.

In the case of Phillips, Benn said he had nothing to do with the approval of land for the SARA official and the approval came long before his time. Similarly, he said Lowenfield’s application was part of an application from four persons, which was headed by Ceres.

The application, which was filed with the commission in 2004 for over 1000 acres of land, was approved back then but, the applicants did not receive the title for the land. “I

insisted that it must be issued…nothing was stopping me from issuing the title…but on that specific land we found out that a number of persons were squatting and we have taken steps to cancel that lease for 1000 acres,” said Benn.

In light of the discovery of squatters on the land, Benn said Lowenfield had expressed a desire to be given alternative land and it was granted. “ This should not be strange because we have seen in the past, situations where an individual, who had leased lands, was given alternative creole land for lease land that they never occupied and never paid any money for or during the conversion,” Benn argued.

LAND REVOKED

BY PPP He went on to point out that Allen had acquired 2,912 acres of land in the 1980s but, under the previous administration, the land was taken away from her in the 1990s.

In retaliation, Allen approached the court and the court instructed the then government to return the land to her.

The court order was issued in 1996 but, the government, at that time, refused to honour the court’s order. Benn said Allen visited him in 2016 and spoke about her situation.

After analysing the problem, the GLSC CEO said he insisted that she must get her land.

“We are a law-abiding people at this commission and if the court so orders it must be done,” he said, adding that there was a similar

grabbing,” Benn lamented.

According to Benn, all the persons, who got leases under the current administration, “paid good money for it.”

CEO of the GLSC, Trevor Benn, shows the court order which was issued back in the 1990s (Adrian Narine photo)

case involving the Member of Parliament (MP), who was listed by Jagdeo.

According to the GLSC records, the MP had two parcels of land, one of which was 6,400 acres. The land was taken away by the last government but the Parliamentarian took the then government to court and the court ordered that the land be restored.

The court ordered, in 1997, that the MP should have unhindered access to the land but again the government refused to honour the order. The lease has since been restored and the commission is in the process of restoring the other lease, in conforming to the court’s order.

“So all these individuals were debarred from accessing their land and now we are trying to restore it and it is being called land

ABOVE BOARD Meanwhile, rubbishing claims of corrupt practices at the entity, Benn said operations of the commission remain “above board” and can withstand scrutiny.

He said that the commission exercises zero tolerance for corruption.

He said the commission has issued lands to thousands of people so he was surprised that Jagdeo zeroed in on a few government officials, who for some reason, he (Jagdeo) believes should not have access to land. “I have dealt personally with members of the opposition who came to me for help and they were granted leases but he did not mention them.”

“Public officials have a right to apply and be issued with leases for government land, regardless of which government employee you are,” said Benn, adding that when he was appointed in 2016, he inherited a situation in which a number of people under the previous administration received lands without questions being asked. Among some of the persons who received land from the previous administration was Jagdeo, who Benn said, has thousands of acres of land.

In addition to Jagdeo, Benn said prior to 2015, former ministers of government and several high-ranking government officials also received land.

Technical, fine-tuning works still to be done – on new Bartica power plant

THE brand new 3.3 megawatt power plant built in Bartica by the Guyana Power and Light Inc. (GPL), at a whopping $700M cost, has missed its intended April commissioning.

The Guyana Chronicle understands that while the general construction works have been completed, some technical works are still to be done.

The new engines are ex-

pected to bring better customer service to residents.

“It’s a new plant equipped with three 1.1 megawatt engines. We also have new switch gears, and did some upgrades to the transmission and distribution network,” Project Engineer Julian Reddy explained.

The new location, at Dagg Point, Agatash, has enough space for further expansion hence, GPL has also decided to build a wharf

so as to better facilitate the logistics of trucking fuel to the plant.

Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall, had described this project as the “single most important” one that Bartica would have seen in the last 10 years.

He pointed out how the new plant will also positively affect the housing sector.

“We know that this new power plant will have the capacity to meet those demands. So

it’s an excellent project; one that we are eagerly await the commissioning of, and we know that it will transform the economic landscape of Bartica.”

Over the last decade or two, Bartica has experienced severe load-shedding, thus affecting the town’s business community, health and education sectors. “Almost on a daily basis, we had poor power supply. Now, with this, we have reliable power and will see expansion and greater efficiency in all of these

affected sectors. We will also see more persons coming to invest,” Marshall expressed.

Marshall said the funding is not coming from a direct loan but through taxpayers’ money. “We are very grateful to central government for the investment in the power company,” he said.

Over the years, GPL saw that the existing plant in central Bartica was constantly plagued with maintenance issues, and then decided it was time to replace the old generators with new ones. “We’re

looking to commission the plant in the first quarter of this year, by April,” Reddy had told this publication on site, adding, “We will now have better reliability and low maintenance.”

The current GPL site is said to be heavily polluted.

“We’re talking about land, air and water because a lot of waste oil comes from that old generator that is there and it pollutes the drains, and by extension, the river,” Marshall explained.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Guyana fastest growing economy NASDAQ projects growth rate of 16.3 per cent from 2018-2021

WITH a lucrative oil and gas industry on the horizon for Guyana, the country has been listed as the fastest growing economy in the world, with a projected growth rate of 16.3 per cent from 2018-2021.

Guyana’s economy, with a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of $3.63 billion, a growth rate of 4.1 per cent in 2018 and 4.6 per cent in 2019, is expected to further grow by 33.5 per cent and 22.9 per cent in 2020 and 2021 respectively.

This is according to the NASDAQ Stock Market, which is an American stock exchange. It is the second-largest stock exchange in the world by market capitalisation, behind only the New York Stock Exchange located in the same city.

NASDAQ said, with a per-capita income of $5,194, Guyana is a middle-income country and is covered by dense forest. It is home to fertile agricultural lands and abundant natural resources. Gold, bauxite, sugar, rice, timber and shrimp are among its leading exports.

Back in 2000, the U.S. Geological Survey identified the Guyana-Suriname Basin as

the second highest resource potential among unexplored oil basins in the world.

ExxonMobil (U.S.), Esso (U.S.), Hess, Repsol (Spain), Anadarko (U.S.), Total (France), Tullow Oil (UK), and CGX Energy (Canada) have been a part of exploration and drilling activities over the years.

ExxonMobil Guyana has made 13 discoveries since 2015 and plans to begin producing up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day from the Liza Phase One development in early 2020. Guyana is projected to be among the world’s largest per-capita oil producers by 2025.

Early this year, the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) projected a 4.6 per cent growth rate for Guyana this year even as it updated its growth projections on economic activity for this year for the Region’s countries.

In the updated projections, ECLAC slightly lowers its estimate for the regional average to 1.3 per cent compared with the 1.7 per cent foreseen in December 2018, when the institution released its annual report ‘Preliminary

Overview of the Economies of Latin America and the Caribbean 2018’.

Recently, in an interview with this newspaper, Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, said that, despite the political fallout following the no-confidence motion, there has been no disruption to the economy which grew by 4.1 per cent last year.

Describing the nation’s economic performance as “solid”, Minister Jordan said the sectors responsible for the “better than expected performance” were sugar, livestock, forestry, gold, diamonds and the wholesale and retail trades. The private sector has been saying that due to “uncertainties” economic activities have slowed. It (the private sector) however, has not produced actual data and method used to arrive at the claims.

Last year’s growth came on the heels of a less than three per cent GDP growth rate in 2017 and bettered the 3.4 per cent growth which was initially projected in November of 2018.

The latter was based on figures at hand and projections, explained the minister.

Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan

GLSC calls in police on land map leak –CEO says staff colluding with ‘powerful forces’

THE Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GLSC) will make a formal report to the Guyana Police Force (GPF) for an investigation to be launched into the leakage of unauthorised maps to Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo.

Jagdeo, at a press conference on Thursday, used the maps to make reference to persons, who lands were allocated to.

“There was evidence of the commission’s property being on display at a press conference yesterday (Thursday) without any record in the commission to show payments were made for those properties… this is clear evidence that our staff has been corrupted,” said Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the GLSC, Trevor Benn, during a press briefing on Friday.

Benn has since issued a call to the police to enquire how the documents got into the hands of Jagdeo, since there was no evidence that the documents were paid for at the GLSC. He said it is against the commission’s Human Resources (HR) policy for staff

of the commission to divulge personal information of clients. The commission has a system in place, which allows persons to access or have copies of documents if they visit the GLSC. “No requests were made, I am not aware and none of my officers can attest to any request being made to us,” Benn lamented, adding that if someone receives property which they did not earn or did not formally receive, it can be described as stolen.

In that regard, he said there are clear attempts by “powerful forces” to corrupt staff of the GLSC to do such things. “Some of our staff members are known to be colluding with powerful forces, who intend to take control of all our land…this will not happen under my watch,” said Benn, adding that they know who the individuals are but, they will be dealt with in accordance with advice from the police.

Asked how he intends on ensuring that there is not another breach, Benn said there are policies in place and the GLSC’s HR department will be called upon to guard the policy more zealously.

CEO of the GLSC, Trevor Benn (Adrian Narine photo) As part of their efforts to improve monitoring, the commission will be digitising its records so that they will be able to track every time somebody accesses a file.

In 2016 the commission had no system in place for records, since much of the historical records were destroyed early in the life of the commission. A decision was taken by the then management to disband the registry and records unit.

“Our ability to administer land has been severely affected as a result…without records you cannot properly administer land…we are however taking steps to pre-

serve all the commission’s records by digitising maps, plans, files and financial information,” said Benn.

Evident steps have been taken to improve the standard of the GLSC and as a result, the commission is seeing the bottlenecks that stand in the way of making the commission more accountable.

“As we see them we are taking steps to change them…I therefore challenge anyone to come forward with evidence that will implicate me in any corrupt activities,” said Benn, adding that he can vouch for himself but not all of his staff.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 29, 2019

Trump prepares for 'productive' talks with Xi on trade war

OSAKA (Reuters) - U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday said he hoped for productive talks with Chinese President Xi Jinping on a trade war that is casting a shadow on global growth, but said he had not made any promises about a reprieve from escalating tariffs.

The trade feud and signs of a global slowdown have loomed over a two-day Group of 20 (G20) summit in the Japanese city of Osaka, where Trump and Xi met in passing and prepared for one-on-one talks on Saturday.

To lay the groundwork,

Chinese Vice Premier Liu He met Trump’s treasury secretary, Steven Mnuchin, and Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer at the hotel where the U.S. delegation was staying, a source familiar with the talks said.

Expectations have dimmed that the world’s two biggest economies can ease tension when Trump and Xi meet.

“At a minimum it will be productive. We’ll see what happens and what comes out of it,” Trump told reporters after a series of meetings with leaders where he made clear that his priority was two-way trade deals to boost the U.S. economy.

Asked, however, if he had promised Xi a six-month reprieve on imposing new tariffs on a $300 billion list of Chinese imports, Trump said: “No.” Trump has already imposed tariffs on $250 billion

of Chinese imports and is threatening to extend those to another $300 billion of goods, effectively everything China exports to the United States. China has retaliated with tariffs on U.S. imports.

Asian shares stumbled and gold slipped on Friday, as doubts grew that the highly anticipated meeting between the two leaders would bring progress. Wall Street edged higher.

The best-case scenario for the talks was a resumption of trade negotiations, Marc Short, the chief of staff for U.S. Vice President Mike Pence, told reporters at the White House on Friday.

Talks fell apart in May after the United States accused China of reneging on reform pledges made earlier in negotiations.

In Beijing, foreign ministry spokesman Geng Shuang said he hoped the U.S. side could meet China halfway.

“This accords with the interests of both countries and is what the international community is hoping for,” he told a news briefing.

China has consistently pushed back against criticism from Western countries, especially the United States and the European Union, about things like intellectual property rights and the difficulty of doing business in China.

“China’s promise to expand its opening up is not just a cheque that can’t be cashed,” Xi told German Chancellor Angela Merkel at a side meeting in Osaka.

THREAT TO GLOBAL GROWTH Trump’s administration also has trade feuds with India, Japan and Germany, whose leaders he met on Friday.

Trump said he saw U.S. trade prospects improving, days after criticizing the U.S.-Japan security treaty

and demanding that India withdraw retaliatory tariffs.

“I think we’re going to have some very big things to announce. Very big trade deal,” Trump said before he began talks with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He gave no details.

A White House official said the two leaders had called on their teams to work on mutually beneficial trade solutions.

Trump also made a push to discuss U.S. concerns about Chinese telecoms equipment maker Huawei [HWT.UL].

The United States has pressed its allies to shun Huawei in their fifth generation, or 5G, networks on security grounds. Trump has also suggested easing U.S. restrictions on Huawei could be a factor in a trade deal with Xi. “We actually sell Huawei many of its parts,” Trump said at his meeting with

Modi. “So we’re going to be discussing that and also how India fits in. And we’ll be discussing Huawei.”

Several leaders warned that the growing Sino-U.S. trade friction was threatening global growth.

“The trade relations between China and the United States are difficult, they are contributing to the slowdown of the global economy,” European Commission President Jean-Claude Juncker told a news conference.

Xi also warned about the protectionist steps he said some developed countries were taking.

“All this is destroying the global trade order ...

This also impacts common interests of our countries, overshadows peace and stability worldwide,” Xi told a gathering of leaders of the BRICS grouping on the sidelines of the G20.

Friday, June 28, 2019 - 02:30 hrs & 14:30 hrs

Wednesday June 26, 2019

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Friday June 21, 2019

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 29, 2019

Despite start of wet season, Caribbean urged to brace for continued drought

BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Jun 28, CMC – The Barbados-based Caribbean Institute for Meteorology and Hydrology (CIMH) Friday said that drought conditions in the Caribbean will continue in several countries for the July to September this year.

In its latest Caribbean Climate Outlooks publication, the CIMH said that the situation is due in part to a weak El Niño.

It said Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao (ABC Islands) Belize and the Lesser Antilles

will continue to experience drought situations and that “a progressive increase in wet spells are expected throughout the region, however possibly fewer than in most wet seasons.

“The spells may bring some level of drought relief, but also concern for flooding.

Peak heat stress will likely be experienced between August and September, especially during heatwaves. Episodes of Saharan dust incursion are expected,” CIMH reported.

It said that as of June 1, severe, or worse, drought has

developed in northern Belize, eastern extremities of Cuba, coastal French Guiana, the northern Leewards, western parts of Trinidad on the shorter term, and in Barbados, southern Belize, southernmost, Dominican Republic , French Guiana, southwestern Haiti, and Martinique and Trinidad on the long term.

Long term concerns are also evolving in Dominica, French Guiana, Martinique, Sint Maarten and Trinidad, and is possible in Aruba, Bonaire and Curacao. Barbados, most of Belize, northern Do-

Barbados PM says search for missing Americans at sea continues BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Jun 28, CMC – The Barbados government says it will do “all that is humanly possible” to locate two United States visitors who went missing at sea on Monday, after renting a jet ski, for a half-hour ride.

“The police, Coast Guard and the Regional Security System have already been on the job since Monday evening, I am told. In spite of the fact that these searches normally will last 72 hours, I have given instructions for us to go for another 72 hours because we need to literally ensure that we have exhausted every possible

opportunity with respect to finding your relatives,’ Prime Minister Mia Mottley said.

“I can’t imagine what you are going through now, but please know that the prayers as well as the diligent efforts of the Government of Barbados and all of our law enforcement arms as well as the regional ones with whom we are affiliated will be continuing to work in earnest to find them.”The authorities said that Magdalena Devil and Oscar Suarez, had renting the jet ski from an establishment in St. James, north of here, and Prime Minister Mottley said she had been advised that an

approach had been made to the United States government for additional support, namely airplane search and rescue.

“Having had the brief …I am satisfied that we will continue to apply every effort in seeking to find these two visitors. It is regrettable, and at this stage we will continue on the search and rescue,” she stressed.

She thanked those already involved in the search, noting that these circumstances were especially challenging for the family members who would be anxious about the whereabouts of their loved ones.

minican Republic, Grenada, Guyana, St. Lucia, Tobago and the United States Virgin Islands.

CIMH said that in recent months, sea-surface temperature (SSTs) in the tropical Pacific maintained a weak El Niño level with SST anomalies about 0.5-1°C above average and that is expected to be maintained during the forecast period. “”n El Niño tends to tilt the odds to warmer and drier conditions with less shower activity in most parts of the Caribbean. Note, however,

that an El Niño maintaining into December could lessen these impacts during the later part of the season in the northwestern part of the region.”

CIMH said that during the period, October to December, indications are that drought in affected areas may lessen with favourable rains forecasted for the last three months of 2019 in the Caribbean, which may be wetter than usual in the ABC Islands, Belize, Cayman, Hispaniola, and eastern Greater Antilles, but possibly drier

than usual in Suriname and French Guiana.

“Extreme wet spells, whether or not associated with tropical cyclones, are a main feature of this period, with enhanced concern for flash flood potential in any part of the region.

Heat stress will likely decrease after October, while episodes of Saharan dust incursions should be infrequent,” CIMH added.

FBI assisting in the murder investigation of US medical practitioner BELMOPAN, Belize, Jun 28, CMC – Police investigating the murders of two people, including a United States medical practitioner, are receiving assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Police Commissioner Chester Williams has confirmed.

The US Embassy has already issued an advisory warning Americans about the crime situation in the Caribbean country as investigators continue

their probe into the murders of Dr. Gary Swank and his tour guide, Mario Graniel over the last weekend.

The police said that the men were fishing, a mile west of San Pedro Town when a gunman in a separate boat opened fire on them. Graniel was found dead behind the steering wheel of his boat while Dr. Swank was found floating in the lagoon.

Williams, who met with residents of San Pedro ear-

lier this week, said that the FBI is in Belize and providing support to local authorities to solve the murders.“Where the investigation with this double murder is concerned, we have made significant progress. Our investigation is centred on two persons; a male and a female.

“We have also received assistance from the FBI. They are here in San Pedro,’ Williams said, adding “they are looking at some of the evidence that we have collected.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 29, 2019

Fighting inequality THE history of this society where multiracial groups settled is one that saw engagements of relationship built on systems of inequality. Those who ascribed to themselves the notion of superiority set out and ensured systems, including actions, were put in place to keep the designated inferior in “their place”.

Man in his infinite wisdom will fight against any form of oppression, marginalisation and domination, even as some among him would apply the lowest of instinct to deny, dominate and oppress. Such has been the relations of man over time, resulting in conflicts that have been marked with successes in toppling systems of injustices, replacing and fortifying them with systems built on justice, equality and fair play.

Guyanese, particularly Afro-Guyanese, just over a month’s time will join with their fellowmen of Britain

and the British Commonwealth in celebrating Emancipation Day, when chattel slavery through proclamation was ended. This meant that Africans who were once enslaved were now legally free from the yoke of domination/ bondage and being treated and seen no longer as sub-human, inferior.

In a relationship of such nature, in addition to having some impact on economic relations and the sourcing of labour, would have also impacted co-existence among major forces where one was conditioned for centuries to think it had to look down on the other, and the other look up to it. The progress towards equalising relationships in the socio-economic and political spheres between these two groups (Europeans and Africans) was not without several hiccups, conflicts and flareups. It should be said such is not uncharacteristic in human relations, where competing interest and demand for eq-

uity are considered premium.

Where the society has seen the grit and determination of Africans in establishing life after slavery, creating what is known as the Village Movement, which had within a system of self-government, guided by rules, that members of the community were required to adhere, ensured order, equality, and deliberateness in the approach to their development. Conversely, their European counterparts, in the government, plantations/ estates, merchant-class and other areas in the socio-economic and political spheres, had to accept that Africans were equally deserving and must be allowed to participate in development of the wider society.

There can be no pretense that the forging of the new relationship would have been seamless, of which there are several documentations, through the lens of various participants and analysts of

the era that are easily accessible and can verify the claim being made here. Our focus today is to seek to impress upon the society, that having reached this far, such progress was made not only possible from these experiences, but the institutions/systems put in place to protect and advance the gains. With emancipation that came via proclamation it meant non-acceptance of the practice of this abominable system and everything that flows therefrom must come to an end. At a human-relations level, it requires the treating of each other as human beings. As such, the inalienable right to be treated as equal, with dignity and respect, where such was denied, in whatever form, those who fought to ensure its respect were doing so with the protection of the law that they are no longer enslaved or sub-human.

This fight to protect and deepen what emancipation

sought to achieve continues onto today. In tracing the evolution of this nation, it will be seen that groups fought against other systems of oppression such as indentureship and colonisation. Where the African community is credited with establishing a system of local government in the villages, this later guided local government authority nationally, and aided in influencing the fight for internal self-government.

Emancipation means different things to different people. In our society where the concept is associated with the freedom of a people, who for centuries fought against their enslavement, this freedom continues to be defined and refined based on the evolution taking place in society that all are equal and should be treated with dignity and respect. Ensuring the realisation of freedom of the institutions

of State, given that the State is responsible for the sovereignty and protection of the people, must ensure through laws and practices that freedoms of man, which today are guided by universal declarations, charters and conventions are not only ratified, but implemented through laws, policies, programmes and practices. The achievement of emancipation 200 years ago is not an end to itself, but the catalyst of a process to bring about freedom in every form. And until every man, woman and child can have the protection, surety and enjoyment of his or her inalienable right, the principle that informed the struggle and saw this major achievement in 1838 is still relevant and applicable today.

No righting of wrongs through the dangerous jaundiced eyes of ethnicity Dear Editor It has to be the first time in the known history of the very senior echelons of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), that so senior a rank as a deputy commissioner of police has been sent on administrative leave pending investigations into allegations levelled against such a rank.

Indeed, these allegations are very serious, and if at the end of the current inquiry process now underway, it is found that they are credible, and substantive in both substance and proof, then it is expected that the necessary protocols are going to be activated, to have this officer removed from the police force.

However, there is an attribute, always noticeable, and which constantly reared its head in these particular situations, it seems, given Guyana’s polarised society.

One would have noticed the rush of comments from citizens in general, but more so from the East Berbice Corentyne, where this officer had once been based, demanding immediate action, after the whistle blowers’ revelation. The latter category must be commended; but the fact that they spoke out, is testimony to their awareness that there are ongoing efforts to create a new kind of police force, with one of the objectives being to remove corrupt elements from within its precincts.

Editor, it is the right of every law-abiding citizen, who

believes that the law must at all times be upheld, and that those who are its sworn representatives, be seen to carry out this important imperative, be of the highest integrity at all times.

In that regard, none must be faulted in this important demand of their police force, and its administrators.

However, it would seem that this expectation is subjected to ethnic consideration – which side of the latter is the alleged wrongdoer. I say this, without fear or favour, in referring to the case of the former Swat Team Commander who was caught in a vehicle with what was reported to be contraband liquor, in a jurisdiction, at a time when he had not sought permission to be away from his city base.

As far as is known, there were steps taken to investigate this officer who, based on a press reports, seemed to have had enjoyed the benefits of the intervention of former president Ramotar, pertaining to matters of a disciplinary nature. The marked feature of this SWAT Team Commander’s matter was that during the early phase of investigation, there were numerous phone calls to the Minister of Public Security, requesting that “he be given a chance”, as reported by the former in the media. But there was never a voice that sought to question the conduct of that officer, much less to reprimand, despite the very strong evidence that pointed to an offence.

Editor, this is the dilemma of this kind of country where

race is the measuring rod in determining which side of the divide must be excused or not. In fact, in the former SWAT officer’s case, even Anil Nandlall was objecting to the manner of the officer being sent on leave, citing that it was a matter that should have received the attention of the Police Service Commission. If memory serves well, that constitutional body was not in place at that material time.

To those, whose voices were raised, demanding that the allegations against Deputy Commissioner of Police Alves be investigated, they must be commended for their prompt social diligence. But their hypocrisy has been exposed to stifling stinking levels, as a result of their deafening silence in the case of the former Swat Team Commander, and in other matters that involve former senior officials of the PPP/C. No society, irrespective of whatever socio-political stresses prevails, must adjudicate on matters that pertain to the integrity of its national senior decision-makers, through the lens of obvious ethnicity. It is a wholly cockeyed and dangerously jaundiced lens for seeking to correct the wrongs/corrupt practices that still bedevil our society.

Further, it is a recipe for an ugly kind of state that is immoral.

Regards Carla Mendonca

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday June 29, 2019

An open letter to former president Bharrat Jagdeo

Dear Editor,

ON a weekly basis I am the subject of lies fueled by racism and peddled by PPP apologists on Berbice radio stations. The Ethnic Relations Commission is fully aware of this but has taken no action. Each month I am also the subject of death threats and verbal abuse from your apologists.

Recently Dr. Jan Mangal, Former Energy Sector Ad-

viser to the President, has exposed your “Questionable oil deals” which could potentially cause the Guyanese people to be cheated out of what is rightfully theirs.

The fact that you singled out myself and a few other Afro-Guyanese who applied for, paid for and subsequently received ‘cheap & non-prime’ farm lands in the most rural parts of Guyana has again confirmed your racist stance and as the old proverb states,

“A drowning man will clutch at straws”.

The manner in which you obtained my file from the Guyana Lands and Surveys is criminal in nature and a complaint will be filed with the Guyana Police Force. I would be grateful for you to explain how Mr. Boyer, one of your known supporters, received thousands of acres of prime lands at prices significantly below market value while thousands of people were still

awaiting house lots.

You usually spew your unacceptable racist remarks by continually targeting Afro-Guyanese who according to the United Nations Special Rapporteur (McDougall 2008), were marginalised during your tenure.

I applied for land for a commercial venture in 2013.

It is my belief that my application and business plan were purposefully hidden for two years. Due to my persistence,

my document suddenly resurfaced in January 2015. The series of activities pertaining to the land acquisition process is attached for publication and can be found on my Facebook page. It includes letters from the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission, Go-Invest and the former Cabinet Secretary, Roger Luncheon. In addition, it took six years to receive these lands which I firmly believe are a direct result from marginalisation and racism.

I pity you Mr. Jagdeo. In addition to your Dr. of Doom Title, you have now endowed yourself with the title Dr. of Racism and Questionable Deals.

Regards Mr. Eric Phillips (BSc Chemical Engineering, MSc Telecommunications Engineering, MBA Marketing and International Business)

Picking a foreigner to head GECOM should be a last resort Dear Editor THE Working Peoples Alliance (WPA) notes the apparent uncertainty over the procedure to be used in selecting a new chairperson of GECOM. It is critical for the deliberations by the parties to be guided by the court’s apparent embrace of consensus as the preferred mode of behavior. The WPA has already opined that the CCJ seems inclined to have the two sides come to a consensus rather than the court becoming unnecessarily entangled in the country’s

politics via the issuing of consequential orders. It is our party’s view that the court may be cognisant of the risk of over-reach that accompanies consequential orders. Courts generally have been very reluctant to issue such orders given the risk of breaching the wall that separates the branches of government as part of the doctrine of separation of powers.

It is against this background that the WPA reads the CCJ’s advice in relation to the appointment of the GECOM

chair. Our understanding is that the CCJ has proposed a modification of the current formulae by requiring the two leaders to jointly participate in the compilation of a list of six nominees from which the President would eventually choose the chairperson in keeping with his constitutional mandate. WPA views this as a more acceptable approach since it greatly reduces, if not eliminate, the scope for unilateralism by both the President and the opposition leader.

But, the success of this approach assumes good faith

on the part of the leaders. It requires them to find ways to subordinate their hardcore partisan interests to the greater good of the country. This is ultimately the true test of statesmanship. WPA, therefore, again urges the leaders to rise to the occasion – there must be some degree of give-and-take.

Failure to arrive at a consensus could further hold up the preparations for elections, heighten existing tensions or force the court to intervene in a manner that could be interpreted as judicial over-reach.

For the WPA, another key

to the workability of the formulae is avoidance of the temptation to “pack” the list with candidates that are overtly aligned to the political parties or are openly hostile to them.

This would be a non-starter.

Although WPA prefers the leaders to jointly agree to all six candidates, it would have no objection to them each nominating three.

Finally, WPA notes the opposition leader’s suggestion that non-Guyanese Commonwealth citizens be considered for the position.

While it is an attractive pro-

posal, WPA thinks it should be a last resort. We should exhaust all options at home before looking abroad. If the suggestion is embraced as a first resort, it would send the wrong message to Guyanese about our leaders’ confidence in their ability to be impartial and just. Ultimately, it is the will of the political leaders that is being tested.

Regards Working Peoples Alliance

Ramotar’s attempt to silence the media troubling Dear Editor, ON June 27, it was reported by the Kaieteur news that former president, Donald Ramotar, has moved to the courts in an attempt to silence that newspaper with regard to reports of the granting of oil licences. Editor, such ac-

tions are unacceptable.

Former President Ramotar, while in office, had given licences to two companies – JHI and Mid Atlantic to operate in the Canjie oil block in March 2015. Incredibly, neither of the two companies has any demonstrated experience in any sort of oil extraction processes,

let alone the massive technical matter of deep-water oil operations.

The Kaieteur News simply reported the facts. Therefore, for a former president to attempt to use legal force to muzzle an independent media entity is absolutely repugnant.

Of course, the anti-democratic

nature of the PPP is well established; one need only remember the prorogation and suspension of parliamentary democracy under the Donald Ramotar regime.

The fact is that the matter reported by Kaieteur News is of massive national interest.

The issues reported, also,

call into question the judgement of past and current PPP leaders, and call at issue their concern for the welfare and wellbeing of ordinary Guyanese. The entire matter, from the granting of the licences to the attempt to gag an independent newspaper, brings to the fore the questions of

whether or not the PPP can ever be trusted to govern Guyana again? After all, if one is honest, does one need to try to fight an independent newspaper?

Regards Mark DaCosta

Gov’t recognises need for skills, job readiness for youths – Ramjattan

- 55 youths graduate with entrepreneurial skills GOVERNMENT has recognised the need for skills and job readiness training to open economic opportunities for youths while lessening their vulnerability to the allure of criminality, according to Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan.

The Public Security Minister made this remark during his address on Friday at the Citizen Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP) graduation and award ceremony for 55 youths who completed an entrepreneurial skills training course. The nine-month course concluded with a simple ceremony held at the Police Officers’ Training Centre, Camp Road, Georgetown.

Minister Ramjattan noted that the youths were selected from nine communities namely: Albouystown, South and North Ruimveldt, West Ruimveldt, Mocha, Sophia, Haslington, Enmore and Buxton.

The youths, he said, were trained in masonry, business, information technology, welding, plumbing and sheet metal, Air Conditioning and refrigeration, and catering.

He noted that there is a direct correlation between illiteracy, unemployment and crime.

Ramjattan emphasised that the CSSP is focused on mobilising communities to support youths by reducing the factors which contribute to criminal behaviour while strengthening

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan presents the best graduating student award to valedictorian, Joel Primo (Adrian Narine photo)

the protective factors.

“Most concerting is the fact that the faces of crime and violence in a substantial way are those of adolescence and youths who are both perpetrators and victims who should be in school or otherwise gainfully occupied,” Ramjattan said.

Best graduating trainee and valedictorian, Joel Primo, in his remarks, said the ninemonths course was a challenge but it was worth it, since the instructors made the course exceptional.

“I promise we will use the knowledge that we gained over the past nine months to encourage and educate other youths on the benefits of the programme as we aim to have more positive youths in our society,” the valedictorian said.

Primo also thanked all the

ministers and Ministry of Public Security for providing the opportunity for the batch to evolve in their skillsets.

The minister also noted that under the community component of the CSSP, 1200 at-risk youths were drawn from 20 communities in regions Three, Four, Five, Six and 10.

The youths, he said, will be supported through vocational skills training to increase their options for employment or entrepreneurship. He further explained that throughout the duration of the programme, the youths also benefitted from other forms of support including literacy, psychosocial, parenting, conflict resolution, job readiness and entrepreneurial training and capacity building.

8

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

More US firms expressing interest in investing in Guyana –– says US Ambassador

OVER the past three years, the US embassy has recorded an increase in enquiries by companies at various stages of the foreign investment process, who are interested in working in

telecommunications, infrastructure, air transportation and information technology and so forth. “With all this commercial interest in Guyana, the US embassy does its best to assist both US and

form how interested companies approach investment in Guyana. Ambassador Lynch said the embassy also helps create partnership linkages between US and local companies. Internationally minded

both directions. “I encourage businesses interested in being added to this database to reach out to our economic/ commercial staff,” she said.

While Guyana’s business climate is good, with even greater prospects for the future, it is not without its challenges. The ambassador made reference to the World Bank’s 2018 report on Ease of Doing Business, which reflected a drop in Guyana’s ranking from number 126 in 2017 to 134 in 2018, out of 190 countries.

Some of the contributing issues highlighted in the report include taxation, energy, infrastructure, intellectual property rights, bureaucracy, and lack of transparency, corruption and citizen security. Ann-Lynch believes that Guyana’s complex tax structure often leads to companies paying higher tax rates than they would in other countries.

In addition, she said the duties imposed on many imported items can be substantial, driving costs up beyond competitiveness. Other deficiencies, which she pointed out, included the power grid system, which she said is antiquated, resulting in regular power outages, forcing companies to install their own power generation systems to cope with blackouts.

“Other infrastructure gaps include lack of transitional

road network and a deep-water port which, if addressed, would decrease the time and cost of transporting goods,” she said, noting that as with many governments around the world, the bureaucracy here could also benefit from streamlining and modernisation.

Ann-Lynch said corruption also continues to be a perennial concern, but Guyana has made significant strides on this front and she is sure it will continue to do so.

Changes to the financial sector, combined with creation of the Financial Intelligence Unit, resulted in the International Monetary Fund (IMF) officially removing Guyana from the European Commission’s list of countries deemed deficient in anti-laundering frameworks, in February.

“These issues are raised not to scare away investment, but to show that each one can be resolved over time and with the proper resources,” she said. The ambassador believes that the PSC is strategically positioned to offer the guidance needed to shape the legislation needed to move Guyana forward.

The PSC sub-committees can utilise their expertise by reviewing policies put forth by the government and recommending constructive changes.

The new PVC pipelines which are being installed along Sheriff Street in Georgetown

Geographic Information System (GIS) technologies to map all of the assets, including gate valves and pipelines so that the company has precise information on their location for future use and access. An essential aspect of pipeline rehabilitation is the maintenance of the integrity of water quality during and following completion of the works. During the excavation and laying of pipelines, there is the possibility of an open end through which contaminants may enter.

Also, during the actual placement of the lines this may also occur. However, there are approaches to ridding the lines of whatever contamination may have entered.

Flushing of the pipelines is commonly employed as a means of expulsion of sand and clays. Shock Chlorination (disinfection at high dosages) is also done to target microbial contamination. This entails filling the lines with heavily chlorinated water for a period of eight (8) to twenty four (24) hours. This is then flushed out

Stakeholders who were present at the PSC’s AGM on Friday (Delano Williams photo) Guyana.

This is according to US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah Ann-Lynch, during her remarks at the Private Sector Commission (PSC)’s 2018 Annual General Meeting at Marriott on Friday.

She said those companies are not just in the oil and gas sector. The embassy has noted companies working in engineering, healthcare,

Guyanese companies,” said Lynch.

This assistance comes in a variety of forms. Every year, the embassy releases a country commercial guide, including an updated Investment Climate Statement.

These documents are freely available and provided to US companies. They outline how the business climate is evolving and help to in-

THE Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) said it has been working to upgrade the aged pipe infrastructure in the capital city of Georgetown in an attempt to improve further, the level of service and quality of water customers receive.

GWI has been speaking to the issue for the past two-and-ahalf years and has been working to incrementally replace the pipelines in the Georgetown network, the state-owned water company said in a release.

According to GWI, the cast iron and asbestos cement pipes which are being replaced have become encrusted over decades and have exceeded their lifespan. Many of the pipelines are over 100 years old, and due to this, there is also a high iron content being released, thereby compromising water quality.

These GWI said are being replaced with Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and High-density Polyethylene (HDPE) pipes which present a much lesser chance of encrustation. To this end, GWI is assuring customers that upon completion of works in

respective areas, there will be an improved level of service and water quality. As further work is executed in adjacent communities, the full benefits will be experienced in the entire area.

According to the release, pipelines are being replaced on Sheriff Street, forming part of the ongoing road expansion works. Some 500 meters have been installed thus far and upon completion, the pipelines from the junction of Sheriff Street and the East Coast Demerara Public Road to Cross Street, Alexander Village have been replaced. The Albouystown community is also one which has old asbestos mains which are porous and tuberculated. Tuberculation is the development of small mounds of corrosion products on the inside of iron pipes. GWI has installed new pipelines on James Street from Saffon Street to the clinic in the area and a new phase of the project is scheduled to commence on July 9, 2019. Works for the new phase entails the installation of pipelines along the remainder of James Street

companies understand that having the US embassy as an asset on the ground greatly increases the chances of their business success.

To help build the bridge between US and Guyanese companies, the embassy maintains an active database.

When companies inquire about partnering opportunities, the embassy can help make the connections, in

US Ambassador to Guyana, Sarah Ann-Lynch (Delano Williams photo) Chairman of the PSC, Desmond Sears, said the PSC intends on continuing its effort to improve the business climate in Guyana. In 2018, the PSC met with President David Granger and expressed its commitment to working closely with the government.

At the meeting, some of the key matters which were discussed included the participation of the PSC in the development of the ‘Green State Development Strategy’ and the inclusion of the committee members on government boards and bodies across the country.

GWI addressing aged pipe infrastructure in Central Georgetown

and the cross streets.

Meanwhile, works are ongoing to improve the level of service to customers through the installation of new transmission mains and replacement of distribution mains in a number of areas between Lamaha Street and GWI’s head office located on Vlissengen Road. GWI is also working to replace transmission mains on Church Street, a project which is in its planning stage and will entail the installation of some 2000 metres of pipelines.

During the interconnection of the pipelines, customers of Central Georgetown will experience a reduced level of service for a short period in order to facilitate these works. The replacement of the pipelines allows GWI to place the new lines closer to the fence line as opposed to under roadways, making them more accessible for repairs in the future. Upon completion of the installation of the pipelines in the various areas, GWI will be utilising

until a free chlorine residual of one milligram per litre is achieved and a sample taken to assess the microbial quality.

Once there is no indication of contamination, the laboratory approves the interconnections to the existing network.

The aged infrastructure in the city has been the cause of numerous breakages within recent years, costing GWI millions of dollars. When these breakages occur, there are lengthy disruptions to the water supply since the successful repairs require the Shelterbelt Water Treatment Plant to be shut down during that period.

Further to water supply, breakages can also compromise water pressure and water quality.

As the water production is increased in the city, the way is paved for the water pressure to be increased, which can cause breakages as well.

Thus far for 2019, there have been 34 major breakages in Central Georgetown, 19 of which can be attributed to the aged infrastructure and 15 due to external parties.

9

Ceres rips Jagdeo

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

…debunks claims of land grabbing …accuses him of corruption, racial bias

WELL-KNOWN Geotechnical Engineer and Groundwater Hydrologist, Charles Ceres, on Friday debunked claims that he had benefitted from land ‘giveaway’ by the APNU+AFC administration, even as he tore into Leader of the Opposition (LOO), Bharrat Jagdeo, accusing him of racial bias and corruption.

Ceres said Jagdeo was a visionless politician who has long past his time. Ceres’ sharp response came on the heels of Jagdeo accusing him and several others of benefitting from state lands ‘giveaway’ – a claim Ceres debunked while providing evidence to counter the LOO’s allegations. Ceres was also backed up by Chief Executive Officer of the Guyana Lands and Survey Commission, Trevor Benn, who at a separate news briefing rubbished Jagdeo’s claims as misleading. (See other story) Meanwhile, Ceres who is known for his bluntness clarified in a lengthy press release that two leases were granted to him – one as Charles Ceres et al. for 1297 acres of land in the Canje Creek area under the Jagdeo administration and the second was granted to GSEC, a company he and his children own for 4.5 acres of land in 2017. Ceres took time to note that several others were granted land in Liliendaal including Jagdeo’s friend and owner of National Hardware, Ed Boyer, for the Demerara Estates Development – an Indian University located east of GSEC’s location. Ceres said GSEC paid approximately $4,000,000 per acre with a yearly leasing fee of $900,000.00 for the land at Liliendaal. “I, Charles Ceres was never granted lease(s) for any other lands,” he stated.

RELINQUISH Ceres et al. later relinquished the lease to the 1297 acres of land at Canje since, according to him, several partners were unable to afford the development costs, and “I was unwilling to absorb those costs while others benefitted. Failure to develop the land is a contravention of the terms of the lease and the land was relinquished.”

Ceres pointed out that the PPP, under Jagdeo and Don-

Ground Structures Engineering Consultants Inc. proprietor, Charles Ceres (second right), and his two sons Abdel and Assad look on, as his daughter Chidimma cuts the ceremonial ribbon to officially open the company’s Liliendaal office back in March 2018. Also in photo is then Minister of Foreign Affairs, Carl Greenidge (third left)

ald Ramotar, granted land to China Paper for $50.00 per acre per year, whereas he paid $1000.00 per acre per year for the land in Canje Creek up to the time of relinquishment. “I continued to pay $200,000 per acre per year for the land at Liliendaal, which is being beneficially utilised as dictated by the terms of the lease.”

Ceres who delivered a copy of the Liliendaal land lease at Jagdeo’s office on Friday morning, stressed that he paid more per acre for land at Liliendaal, which was reclaimed from the swamp that Jagdeo and his cabal paid for lands developed at the expense of taxpayers for their lands in Pradoville One and Two. “If I recall correctly Jagdeo sold his land and house in Pradoville One to Ernie Ross, the Guyana Consul to Trinidad for $120,000,000” Ceres reminded.

He noted that he has converted the swamp at Liliendaal into a modern engineering office and continue to pay the yearly lease agreed to with GLSC, while Jagdeo and his “cabal” have, however, contravened their agreement with the Central Housing and Planning Authority and have sold the lands developed at the expense of the Guyanese taxpayers for healthy profits.”

GO PUBLIC Additionally, Ceres challenged Jagdeo, Eddie Boyer and the Indian University to make public the agreements for the lands acquired by them at Liliendaal. Further, he challenged Jagdeo to release the agreements he had with BK International, BaiShan Lin, China Paper and others to the public. “He must also identify which member of his cabal was granted gold lands which were subsequently sold to Sun and Sand of India for US $10,000. Jagdeo ’s silence on the offshore oil blocks granted to members of his cabal is deafening. His comfort with those allocations, none to African Guyanese, is affirmation of his belief that African Guyanese have no rights to anything in Guyana,” Ceres declared.

According to Ceres, the land he is leasing at Liliendaal is beneficially occupied and its development commenced one day after the lease was granted to GSEC. “GSEC currently provides employment for 40 young Guyanese including nine young people who are provided with allowances of US $110,000 per month to attend the University of Guyana. I am not aware that any of the

individuals to whom Jagdeo and his cabal, including of course Jagdeo and his Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali, provided land and other resources providing similar opportunities for anyone.

Most of the lands provided by them are not beneficially occupied in accordance with the terms of the lease,” Ceres said.

DEDICATION TO GUYANA Extolling his love for Guyana, Ceres said he had returned to this country as a young man “since I owe everything I have to Guyana.

My dedication to Guyana and to its development is evidenced by free services I provided to the Jagdeo-led government during the great flood of 2005. He can contradict this claim by providing evidence of any payment made to me for the services provided. I continued to provide services to the Granger administration similarly, free of cost. The reason the Granger government was unable to provide a salary in response to a question asked by Gail Teixeira about payments to Ministerial Adviser, Charles Ceres, because I never requested payment for my services.”

Additionally, Ceres said he will provide to the Guya-

nese public evidence of every cent he has earned and spent in Guyana since January 2000, the year Jagdeo entered office, provided that Jagdeo performs a similar feat. Ceres also said he will also authorise his bank, if requested to provide validation of all his financial transactions, if the costs to generate those statements are paid by the person(s) requesting the information. “Jagdeo, I am contented and well educated, I do not need to steal to acquire wealth. I can be successful anywhere in the world because of the education provided to me by the people of Guyana. I challenge you Jagdeo to prove that you are equal to me by demonstrating equivalent levels of absence of corruption and ability to succeed without access to the taxpayers’ resources. The new Mercedes Benzes driven by my wife and me were bought with my money; the evidence is there in the accounts. I will make public when you make yours public. The Land Rover and BMW driven by me and wife were paid for with my money. All duties and taxes, except that for the Mercedes Benz driven by my wife were paid by me. My wife exercised her right as a lowly paid employee of the people of Guyana to accept the duty free concession.”

DENIED WORK Saying that he is flattered that Jagdeo considers him worthy of his attention, Ceres said the LOO should explain to the Guyanese public the reasons why GSEC has never been qualified enough to work for his and/or the Ramotar administration “while we have provided quality engineering services to practically all international private sector companies working in and out of Guyana. While at that task, I challenge him to identify one of the companies, his and Ramotar led administration have nurtured, which has the wide ranging project portfolio of GSEC.” Ceres observed that Jagdeo sees no difficulties awarding land at ‘peppercorn rates’ to people who are neither Guyanese such as China Paper and BaiShanLin of China and Sun and Sand and a non-functional University of India. “He has no difficulty awarding land to BK International and the Ogle Airport Owners Group since none of them are African Guyanese. Mr. Jagdeo, Guyana is my birthright. It was developed by my enslaved fore-parents.

My African fore-parents were chained, whipped, tarred and feathered to develop the Guyana which you are intent on ensuring provides no access to African Guyanese. Your home in Pradoville Two is protected by sea defences initially built by my African fore-parents who were chained, whipped, tarred and feathered.” “Jagdeo, your ranting and raving is affirmation of your racism and racist mentality. I suspect you are intent on validating Cheddi Jagan’s statement that “black people are at the bottom of the ladder”. I assure you and others in the PPP that me and my descendants respect the memories of our enslaved ancestors and will never fit the PPP mold and definition of African Guyanese and Africans in general,” Ceres stated.

Ceres called on the LOO to take an example from the path his company has blazed “and use your vast resources to provide education opportunities for the less privileged Guyanese young people. I need not defend your false accusations. The evidence is in the records I have provided,” the engineer stated.

10

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Dr Garvin Cummings confirmed as Chief Hydromet Officer DR Garvin Cummings has been confirmed as the Chief Hydrometeorological Officer (CHO) with effect from May 23, 2019.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture, Dr Cummings’ confirmation comes after being appointed Deputy CHO in July, 2011 and serving as acting CHO since 2015.

Dr Cummings holds the distinction of being one of the first staff members of the Hydromet Service to attain a doctoral degree.

Regarding his appointment, Dr Cummings said that he remains committed to providing outstanding service to the people of Guyana through the Hydromet Department.

“I’m indeed humbled by this opportunity to serve the people of Guyana through the Hydrometeorological Service. It is a responsibility that I take very seriously, especially given Guyana’s vulnerability to hydrometeorological hazards. I look forward to continue working with the team here at Hydromet and our partners to advance Guyana’s thrust towards climate resilience and disaster risk reduction; while ensuring that the service adequately responds to demands for high-quality climate services,” Dr Cummings said.

The ministry said that day-to-day operations of Dr. Cummings joined the the Hydrometeorological Hydrometeorological SerService. vice in 1997 as a HydroOver the years, the logical Technician within ministry noted that Dr the Water Resources SecCummings has also tion. It was noted that his worked with many local outstanding performance and international agenin the field and constant cies and stakeholders to academic advancements further build and develop made way for him to soon the Hydromet Departbe promoted to several sument’s research, monipervisory and managerial toring and regional and positions. international network While serving as the development capacities. acting CHO, Dr. CumThe new CHO is the mings successfully atholder of a Doctoral Detended and represented gree (Ph.D.) from the Guyana at a number of University of Genoa, national and international Italy; a Master of SciDr Garvin Cummings weather, water, climate ence Degree in Natural and ozone-related conResource and Environferences including the 30th Meeting of the mental Management (Water Resources Parties of the Montreal Protocol and the re- Management) from The University of West cently-concluded 18th World Meteorological Indies; a Master of Business Administration Congress – all while effectively managing the (MBA) from the University of South Wales,

United Kingdom and Bachelor of Engineering Degree (Civil), University of Guyana.

He has also attended several weather, water and climate related professional training exercises in Germany, Costa Rica, Switzerland, Jamaica and Thailand, to name a few.

Dr Cummings currently sits on several National and International policy development boards and committees, while also serving as the current Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Guyana Water Inc. (GWI).

He has also functioned as the Chairman of the Environmental Assessment Board of the Environmental Protection Agency.

Dr. Cummings also worked as a lecturer at the Guyana School of Agriculture in 2007 to 2008 and 2010 to 2011 and the University of Genoa in 2014. Additionally, Dr. Cummings has also co-authored several publications in peer-reviewed journals in the areas of flood nowcasting, remote sensing, flood risk management and weather research and forecasting.

50 children with disabilities to receive school support THE Guyana Council of Organisations for Persons with Disabilities (GCOPD) is aiming to equip at least 50 children with disabilities, in the low-income bracket, with school kits to facilitate their return to school in September.

The GCOPD is partnering with Young Voices Guyana and Access Guyana on the initiative and is calling on the public to support the “2019 Back-to-School Drive.”

Support is being solicited through the donation of any items that might assist with this

venture. The list includes, but is not limited to, school bags (all age groups), notebooks, pens, pencils, water bottles, erasers, pencil cases, crayons, sharpeners, socks, vests, among other school items.

“Your kind donation will be highly appreciated as we

partner to ensure that 50 children with disabilities and children of persons with disabilities are fully prepared and equipped to return to school in September,” a statement from GCOPD said.

Persons who wish to donate can contact Ganesh Singh

on 1-592-652-8975 or ganeshyvg@gmail.com.

The GCOPD is a collaborative forum which was established in January 2008 and is made up of representatives of different organisations for persons with disabilities. Its members meet regularly to support

each other with the objective of building a stronger disability movement in Guyana.

Meanwhile, Young Voices Guyana promotes that every person with a disability deserves the right to a meaningful education and independent life.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

GDF Skyvans arrive

THE two Short Skyvans which the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) purchased last year touched down at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) on Friday.

The British-made aircraft, bearing registrations 8R-GBW and 8R-GWJ, received a ‘warm welcome’ by the GDF Air Corps staff on Friday.

The Short SC7 Skyvan is a British 19-seat twin-turboprop aircraft. The high wing, twin-engine carrier has always been pegged as an ideal craft for Guyana given its STOL– Short Takeoff and Landing abilities –which will suit the country’s short interior air-

One of the newly acquired Skyvans. (Guyanese pilots photo) strips.

The GDF had been operating two helicopters–the GDF One and GDF Two– while problems led to the grounding of its Bell 412 helicopter. The GDF’s fleet

had also included another 1960s British-made Skyvan , 8R-GGK, with several years of operation.

A Chinese, Harbin Y-12 aircraft and a single-engine Cessna 206 seized during a

Crew members stand in front of the two aircraft on Friday. (Guyanese pilots photo)

drug raid were also in the mix. The army also received two Britten-Norman Islanders model aircraft in August 2018 but mechanical issues have left them grounded.

The army is in the process of acquiring the necessary parts to fix the two planes.

11

Man struck down at Mc Doom succumbs

A Senior who was employed by the Ministry of Natural Resources, died on Wednesday after a car driven by a policeman crashed into him while he was crossing the road at Mc Doom, East Bank Demerara (EBD) on Monday.

Dead is Colin Crawford, 61, of Covent Garden EBD. He succumbed to his injuries at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

A post-mortem done on Friday revealed that he died as a result of multiple injuries to the body.

Reports indicate that on Monday, the three lane arrangement was active on the roadway when the driver of PLL 9532 was proceeding south along the eastern side of the western carriageway. The car then crashed into Crawford when he jumped over the median and tried to cross the roadway.

Crawford fell onto the front windscreen of the car and landed on the road way. He sustained injuries to his head and other parts of his body and he was picked up by the policeman who was driving the car. Assistance of public spirited citizens and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation.

Police conducted a breathalyser test on the driver and found no trace of alcohol in his system.

The driver is expected to be charged in the new week.

12

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Gov’t stands firm against corruption

–– Minister Cummings tells OAS forum THE Government of Guyana has remained committed to combating the scourge of corruption and has made important strides as local monitoring systems ensure that checks and balances are observed.

This was disclosed by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Karen Cummings, during her presentation at the Organ-

isation of American States (OAS) Summit Implementation Review Group Meeting in Medellin, Colombia recently.

Some of the systems aiding Guyana in its strides were listed as the Integrity Commission, the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) and the Special Organised Crime Unit (SOCU).

At the forum, Minister Cummings acknowledged that in April 2018, Heads of Government adopted the Lima Commitment ‘Democratic Governance against Corruption’ as a commitment to tackling corruption.

They agreed that through stronger regional cooperation and the strengthening of their institutions, combatting cor-

Minister of Foreign Affairs, Dr Karen Cummings during her address at the OAS Summit

ruption would in turn further the principles of democracy and the achievement of the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

In recognising such, Minister Cummings said that Guyana has received support from agencies such as the Integrity Commission, which has been critical in monitoring the integrity of public officials and civil servants.

“This commission, apart from analysing any information provided, has begun to publish names of officials who fail to comply with requests for additional information and is penalising errant officials,” Dr. Cummings said.

Furthermore, she told the meeting that SARA continues to support government ministries and agencies in its efforts to increase transparency and to retrieve national

patrimony stolen by corrupt officials.

“This agency is also providing training to several other agencies with the aim of sensitising them as to what might constitute corruption within their respective fields in the public service,” she said.

The Foreign Affairs Minister also noted that SOCU, which operates under the Guyana Police Force (GPF), was created to deal with a range of crimes associated with money laundering, fraud, trafficking in persons and organised crime.

“This unit has been supportive. The unit works very closely with the attorney general in fulfilling the requirements and deadlines imposed by the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force.

Complementing this unit is the role of the Financial Intel-

ligence Unit which provides ongoing records and data on suspicious financial transactions by Guyanese,” she said.

In addition to increasing its technical capacity to deal with corruption, Minister Cumming said Guyana, as a signatory to several international conventions, has been making serious efforts to improve its abilities.

“I am pleased to inform that my government has observed that several international indices indicate that Guyana has been moving in the right direction,” the Foreign Affairs Minister underscored, adding: “I look forward and take this opportunity to reaffirm the Government of Guyana’s commitment to continued cooperation with the OAS and all Member States in this ongoing global fight against corruption.

GUYOIL slashes prices of gas, gasoil THE Guyana Oil Company (GUYOIL) has announced a reduction in gas prices which the company said is as a result of lower acquisition costs.

According to a release from GUYOIL, gasoline has been reduced by $10.00 per litre while Gasoil (LSD) has been reduced by $14.00 per litre.

The retail prices for Super95 gasoline has dropped from $224 to $214 per liter while Gasoil (LSD) has dropped from $217 to $203 per litre.

For wholesale customers, the Super95 gasoline has dropped from $214 to $204 per liter while Gasoil (LSD) has dropped from $207 to $193 per liter.

"GUYOIL is always cognisant of its role in the Guyana economy and continuously strive to ensure that quality petroleum products are provided at excellent prices. Our vast network of Service Stations will continue to ensure that our quality products are made available

to you our valued customers along the entire coastland all the way to Lethem," the company said.

The company said that it looks forward the public's continued support even as it continues to pursue its motto of “Excellence in Service.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Bel Air Lions donates bins to National Parks Commission AS part of the continued thrust by the Lions Club of Bel Air towards maintaining a clean and healthy environment, the club donated 12 garbage bins to the National Parks Commission on June 13, 2019. In photo at right, President of the Lions Club of Bel Air, Mark Persaud (fifth from right) presents the garbage bins to Rhonda Brotherson, Occupational Safety and Health Officer, Protected Areas Commission, National Park (fifth from left). Witnessing the presentation are other members of the Lions Club of Bel Air and other stakeholders.

New 1000-foot bridge for Kaburi Village

The contract was signed recently by regional officials in the office of the Regional Executive Officer

A new Kaburi Bridge will significantly benefit residents, especially school children

RESIDENTS of Kaburi Village, 72 Miles, Bartica-Potaro Road, will soon benefit from the construction of a brand new 1000foot wooden pedestrian bridge, to be built across one of their main waterways and its swampy surroundings.

The contract, valued approximately $27M, has been awarded by the National Tender Administration Board to International Imports and Supplies, and was signed in the office of the Regional Ex-

ecutive Officer (REO) of the Cuyuni-Mazaruni Region.

Present were the contractor, Parmeshwar Jagmohan; REO Kerwin Ward; Regional Chairman, Gordon Bradford, and other regional officials.

The works to be carried out on the bridge includes site preparation, dismantling of the old structure and construction of the new bridge, with an estimated threemonth period to completion.

“The new bridge will benefit residents of the vil-

lage, especially school children who, otherwise, would walk three miles by way of an alternative route to get to school,” the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) stated.

The RDC has said that while the contractor’s mobilisation for the project has already started, construction is expected to start in two weeks’ time.

Kaburi Village is an Amerindian settlement of approximately 550 residents.

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Justice was served

GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

… Ramjattan hails reinstatement of McBean

MINISTER of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, said justice was served with the reinstatement of Superintendent Simon McBean by the Police Service Commission (PSC).

When asked about the gap and need for promotion, Ramjattan said that issue is not under his ministerial pur-

view, but falls under the PSC. “They would have to make that decision, that decision is not ministerial,” Ramjattan said.

The PSC on Thursday reinstated Simon McBean.

He was dismissed without a hearing in 2009 for unauthorised participation in an overseas course.

His course had finished on September 14, 2008, and McBean returned to Guyana with merit in Masters of Science Degree in Global Security and Policing. In 2009, McBean received a letter of dismissal from the secretary of the then PSC. The letter stated that McBean was dismissed with effect

from December 25, 2007, for what the PSC described as his unauthorised participation in a master’s degree course in Global Security and Policing at the University of Leicester, UK. It further stated that he breached proceedings and regulations but did not stipulate what proceedings and regulations were breached.

McBean had applied to the Guyana Police Force Administration for study leave but received no response.

He then applied for no-pay leave and also received no response.

McBean then applied for annual leave, which was in excess of 100 days and was granted same.

McBean used his annual leave to travel to England; during his time there, he got ill and submitted sick leave and was unable to return to Guyana at the end of his annual leave. He was able to complete his master’s degree. Prior to his dismissal, McBean served 17 years in the Guyana Police Force.

In 2018, Appellate Court judges Rishi Persaud, Arif Bulkan and Rafiq Khan unanimously agreed that it was undisputed that McBean

had no hearing, notwithstanding the procedures laid out in the PSC Rules and the Police Disciplinary Act. In those circumstances, the court allowed his appeal and remitted the matter to the High Court for assessment on quantum of damages and superannuation benefits, which would have accrued; having declared that he had been wrongfully dismissed.

No costs were awarded by the court.

Representing McBean were Attorneys Patrice Henry and R. Satram who argued that the dismissal letter was a nullity since the appellant had no hearing despite expressed legislation that outlines the proceedings to be used under the Police Disciplinarily Act, Chapter 17:01.

Representing the PSC and the Attorney General’s Chambers was state Attorney, Judy Stuart-Adonis, who argued that the genesis of Mc Bean’s case is that he would have been a beneficiary of a scholarship in London. Adonis further argued that when McBean left the jurisdiction he had effectively terminated his employ-

Superintendent Simon McBean ment. However, the court unanimously agreed that it was undisputed that he had no hearing and even if he had intended to terminate his employment, it was not consistent with his conduct which showed that he had returned to Guyana and resumed duties with the GPF. The court held that, even if that was his thinking, the respondent would have affirmed or waived the repudiation of his contract of employment.

In the end, it was unanimously agreed by the court that McBean’s dismissal was unlawful.

Caribbean rum bottles to have graphic warning labels … as producers join against NCDs, traffic accidents

RUM producers from around the Region met in Barbados this week to discuss how to promote responsible drinking, and to reduce the harmful effect of alcohol, and have agreed to upgrade the labels on rum bottles with graphic warning signs of the harmful effect of alcohol.

The harmful effect of alcohol has been recognised as a contributing factor to Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) and in recognition, the industry set up a task force in 2018 to see how best the industry could support the efforts of the regulatory agencies and health sector to encourage responsible drinking as part of a balanced, active, and healthy lifestyle.

Coming out of that meeting, they have announced a major initiative to introduce new labels in domestic and regional markets that contain visual guides against drinking and driving, underage consumption and drinking during pregnancy, all areas of concern both for producers and for the health sector, the body said.

Announced by Raphael Grisoni, who is the Managing Director for Mount Gay Distilleries and the Barbados Director for the West Indies Rum & Spirits Producers’ Association (WIRSPA), the new provisions will also provide responsible drinking messages and calorie per serving information to assist consumers in making the right choices about how they drink.

In addition to the regional initiative on labelling, the producers also announced the

adoption of a new code of practice for the advertising and marketing of their products. This comprehensive revamp of their existing 10-year-old code sees major new guidance on the responsible use of social media channels such as Facebook and Instagram that correspond to international best practices. “It gives me great pleasure to make this announcement” said Mr. Grisoni.

“We have worked hard over the past year to achieve these commitments, which, while already in place for some companies, will see an across-the-board upgrade in the way we communicate these issues to consumers.” He added, “We are also intensifying our collaboration with other producers and distributors of alcoholic beverages and hope these initiatives can be adopted by the entire sector, as this is the only way we will achieve the full impact.”

Commenting on the initiative, Chairman of WIRSPA and head of the Guyana conglomerate Demerara Distillers, Mr. Komal Samaroo, stated “As indigenous brands firmly rooted in the communities in which we serve, we have a responsibility to do the best we can in ensuring persons consume our products responsibly. This initiative goes some way towards that.”

He further added, “as we work to implement these commitments over the next 24 months, we hope that we can continue to work in partnership with our governments to reduce harmful drinking and its impact on society.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Local artists celebrated, recognised at 2019 GVACE

Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton looks at a painting exhibited at the Castellani House as part of this year’s Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition

Local photographers and art enthusiasts marvel at the second best photograph, entitled ‘Let’s Play Phagwah’, of this year’s Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition (seen at left). This photograph was taken by Chronicle's own Senior Photographer, Samuel Maughn [Delano Williams photos]

Chairman of the GVACE, Alim Hosein, however related that the GVACE committee has recognised that more must be done to boost the local art sector. It is for this reason that the committee decided to engage in workshops

Winner of the Painting Category, Dominique Hunter receives her award from Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton

By Vishani Ragobeer SCORES of local artists were recognised and celebrated as part of the activities organised for the 2019 Guyana Visual Arts Competition and Exhibition (GVACE), which got underway Thursday night.

Speaking at the awards ceremony held at the National Cultural Centre (NCC) on Thursday, Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton, noted that all of the entries- over 200 in number- serve as “tangible representations of the country's heritage”.

He noted the ability of the artists to project their emotions and feelings onto visual medium and create captivating pieces. These, he said, presented a spectacular display of the talent encompassed in Guyana.

Importantly, he expressed his delight that quite a number of the pieces came from either past or present students of the E.R. Burrowes School of Art and said, “I hope that

[this] will motivate more persons to pursue their creative potential.”

The numerous artists were awarded in six categories- painting, sculpting, ceramics, drawing, photography and fine craft. “It is my hope that you will continue to be representations of our country's creativity,” Minister Norton said to those winners and all participants.

On his own, Minister Norton also indicated that he had always been a supporter of the arts- particularly in his ministerial portfolio- and underscored that look to advance these efforts, particularly in the area of advocacy, to augment the development of the creative sector in Guyana.

The winners in each category were: Dominique Hunter, Painting; Courtney Douglas, Drawing; Stephen McKenzie, Sculpture; Dawn Isaacs McKenzie, Ceramics; Kamalita Hiralall, Fine Craft; and in photography, Yancey Heywood.

Chronicle's own Senior Photographer, Samuel

Maughn walked away with the second place prize in the photography category.

Winners of the Promise Award, an award given to young and upcoming artists who show great potential, were Tammie Walker and Roberto Teekah.

All entries are on display at the National Art Gallery, Castellani House. In fact, the artworks take up the entirety of the building and allow for one to be fully immersed in local art.

The GVACE was launched in July, 2012 as a biennial competition for Guyanese 16 years and older.

“The aim of the competition and exhibition was to provide a forum to recognise and support the creative work of Guyanese in the Visual Arts, and to provide a source of inspiration to Guyanese artists, thereby stimulating the development of the finest expressions of the Visual Imagination among Guyanese,” GVACE Committee Member, Vanda Radzik explained.

and public lectures.

Additionally, he noted that the committee has decided to offer GVACE Education bursaries, as tangible support to persons to study art to make it their career.

These bursaries, he

said, were selected on a competitive basis and were awarded to Final Year student of the University of Guyana, Chelsea Ramotar and student of the E.R. Burrowes School of Art, Latiana Williams.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Two die in apparent murder/suicide at Eteringbang

Reports from the border village of Eteringbang in the CuyuniMazaruni region are that a Guyanese businessman and his wife were found dead with gunshot injuries on Friday in what is being treated as a murder/suicide.

Dead is Munishwar Ramkellawan called ‘Harry’, a 36-year-old businessman of Eteringbang Landing Cuyuni River and his reputed wife Marianny Martinez ,26 ,a Venezuelan.

Police said the incident occurred between 03:00 hours and 17:15 hours on Friday at Eteringbang Landing.

Investigations revealed that the couple were in a common- law relationship and operated a fuel business from the premises where they lived on Eteringbang Landing.

According to eyewitnesses, about 15:00 hrs on Thursday, the

duo was seen imbibing at their residence; they continued the activity into the wee hours of Friday morning when they were seen engaged in a heated argument.

They later reportedly entered their premises and sometime thereafter two gunshots were heard.

Police said around 17:50 hrs on Friday, an employee of the couple discovered their bodies on their bed.

Ramkellawan bore a single suspected gunshot wound to the right side of his head whilst Martinez bore a single suspected wound to the left side of her head.

A 9mm Taurus pistol, along with eight live rounds, was found on the bed between the two bodies and two spent shells were found in the room.

Police investigations are ongoing.

Duo walks free from cannabis charges

A gun, with matching rounds, which was recovered from the scene

Court hears man attempted to steal from woman’s handbag

A 24-year-old fish vendor was, on Friday, June 28, 2019 remanded to prison

by Magistrate Clive Nurse at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for attempting to steal from a woman’s handbag while in Georgetown.

It is alleged that Franklyn Wilson of South Sophia, on June 28, 2019, attempted to commit larceny from person.

Wilson, a father of three, was unrepresented and plead-

Franklyn Wilson

ed not guilty to the charge.

According to Prosecutor David Goodman, on June 28, 2019, a city officer on patrol duties observed Wilson as he was walking closely behind persons and acting in a suspicious manner. He was seen walking behind a woman and he was observed as he unzipped her handbag and pushed his hands inside.

The City Officer promptly arrested Wilson.

Goodman told the court

that on Thursday, June 27, 2019, Wilson was charged before the same court for larceny from person and was placed on a one year bond.

The prosecutor objected to the defendant being released on bail, since he committed the crime while being on a bond and has a pending robbery matter in another court.

Magistrate Nurse remanded Wilson to prison until July 22, 2019.

Female prison officer remanded for cannabis possession A FEMALE prison officer attached to the Camp Street Prison was on Friday, June 28, 2019, remanded to prison after she was nabbed by her colleagues with $150,000 worth cannabis, which was intended for a prisoner.

Shondell Watson of ‘C’ Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown, appeared before Principal Magistrate, Faith McGusty, at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

Particulars of the charge read that on June 27, 2019, at the Camp Street Prison, Georgetown, she had 314 grams of cannabis in her possession for the purpose of trafficking.

The mother of three, who was overcome with emotion, was barely able to say “not guilty” when asked to plead by the magistrate.

Police prosecutor, Ceon Blackman, told the court that, on the day in question, at about 08:20hrs, Watson was on duty and was observed by the Principal Prison Officer acting in a suspicious manner at a portable toilet in the prison.

Watson, Blackman told the court, was observed taking

“something” for a prisoner and was contacted by the Principal Prison Officer and searched.

According to the prosecutor, Watson was searched and a parcel, which was wrapped in brown tape, was found stashed in her waist. The parcel was opened in her presence and a quantity of leaves, seeds and stems suspected to be cannabis were found inside.

Shondell Watson

Blackman told the court that a further search was done on Watson and her handbag was searched. The court was told the more cannabis was found inside of a yellow food bowl, which was in her handbag.

The unrepresented woman told the court that she was being set up by other prison officers and on the day in question, she was searched by the police at the prison and she also said that she had left her handbag to go into the washroom.

However, when she returned, she was told to “brace the wall” and was searched by the Principal Prison Officer.

Watson explained that no narcotics were found in her skirt waist, but on the floor nearby.

“I told them y’all ain’t find nothing on me, so don’t pin nothing me,” the woman told the court as she explained that she was strip-searched also.

Watson explained that she was shocked when they claimed to have found a yellow bowl with cannabis in her handbag.

“I didn’t come to work with no yellow bowl… I buy macaroni in a box,” the wom-

an told the magistrate.

Prosecutor Blackman objected to Watson being granted her pretrial liberty on the grounds that the defendant had knowledge and control of the cannabis since it was found in her skirt waist and lunch bowl.

Magistrate McGusty ruled in the prosecutor’s favor and remanded Watson to prison until July 2, 2019, when the matter will be recalled before the Chief Magistrate, Ann McLennan.

Several prison officers have found themselves on the other side of the law in recent times as the authorities clamp down on suspected collusion between the officers and prisoners.

On June 19,2019 Prison Officer, Keon Webster, was charged and remanded to prison for attempting to smuggle 120 grams of cannabis into the Camp Street Prison.

Webster was nabbed with the cannabis inside of his haversack, which was intended to be smuggled to a prisoner at the prison. He appeared before Magistrate McGusty and was remanded to prison until July 10, 2019.

A MECHANIC and a mortician, who were charged jointly with the illegal possession of half a pound of cannabis, were on Thursday, June 27, 2019 freed by Magistrate Rhondel Weaver at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court.

David Lynch, 41 and Oslyn Richards, 39, were on trial for trafficking cannabis on December 5, 2018 at Lot 157 Curtis Street, Albouystown. The duo was represented by attorney-at-law, Damien DaSilva.

The prosecution’s case is that that the drugs were found in a washing machine under a stairway and both defendants lived and had access to the home.

The defence contended that David Lynch is not an occupant of the premises at Albouystown where the narcotics were found, but rather, he operates a motorbike shop across the road from the premises.

Meanwhile, it was noted that Richards occupied an upstairs apartment on the premises and that they were other apartments with other occupants. All of the occupants of the apartment had access to the washing machine apartment.

Magistrate Weaver found both Lynch and Richards not guilty. The magistrate found that the prosecution failed to satisfy the court that Richards and Lynch had knowledge and custody of the cannabis.

The prosecution also failed to establish that Lynch lived at the premises.

Man gets one year for stealing vendor’s cart SENIOR Magistrate Leron Daly, on Friday, June 28, 2019, sentenced a 48-year-old labourer to serve one year imprisonment after he confessed to a simple larceny charge.

Devon Williams, of Industry, East Coast Demerara appeared before the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and admitted that on June 17, 2019, at Water and Robb Streets, Georgetown, he stole a vendor’s cart, which had a quantity of alcoholic beverages, confectionery, cigarettes, and lighters – totalling $90,400, property of Delon Barker.

According to reports, Barker left his cart at Water and Robb Street, Georgetown and it was removed by Williams.

However, it is alleged that when Barker confronted Williams, he made good his escape. The matter was reported to the police and Williams was arrested.

South Ruimveldt man remanded for stealing from cousin

A 29-year-old unemployed man was, on Friday, remanded to prison for breaking into his cousin’s home and stealing $2.3M worth in items.

Akeem Prince of Sugar Cane Street, South Ruimveldt appeared before Principal Magistrate, Faith McGusty, on Friday, June 28, 2019 at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Particulars of the charge alleged that between June 1, 2019, and June 25, 2019, at Sugar Cane Street, Prince broke and enter the dwelling place of Romario ForbesPrince and stole 112 car tires and a quantity of household appliances amounting to $2.3M. Prosecutor, Ceon Blackman, objected to bail being granted to Prince citing the fact that he was left in the home by the victim and he took advantage his trust and stole from him.

“I don’t know if he feels that he work at courts,” Blackman told the court as he explained that none of the items was recovered.

Magistrate McGusty remanded Prince to prison until July 19, 2019.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Ground-breaking brain aneurysm surgery at GPHC offers advancements in neurological procedures ...First world medical treatment done locally for a fraction of the cost

By Nafeeza Yahya NEUROSURGEON Dr. Amarnauth Dukhi has successfully pioneered an endovascular brain aneurysm surgery in Guyana with the use of cutting-edge technology that minimises neurological risk and reduced recovery time.

ruptures it can cause bleeding in the brain called subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), a life-threatening type of stroke. “For neurosurgeons, it is what we call a ticking time bomb. If it ruptures or when it does rupture, 40 per cent of our patients die; 15 per cent of which before they actually reach the hospital for the first

because she could not have been medevac out of Guyana because of her condition”.

Through the support of GPHC, CHI and the Ministry of Public Heath, Dr Dukhi was able to bring international renowned radiologist, Dr Tharois Yorkis, who assisted the team. In explaining how the procedure is done, Dr

(From left) Neurosurgeon Dr. Amarnauth Dukhi, Paula Sampson and her son share a light moment

The surgery was performed on Wednesday last at the Caribbean Heart Institute (CHI), located at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). The surgery was performed using a minimally invasive technique that does not involve opening the skull and can get to the aneurysm without even touching the brain.

Speaking to the media on Friday at a press conference at the GPHC Administration Building, Dr. Dukhi, who heads the Neurosurgery Department, explained that an aneurysm is a weakened spot in a blood vessel wall and if the aneurysm enlarges or

rupture, while 60 per cent of the patients who survive have some sort of neurological deficit”.

He related that the patient, Paula Sampson 56, of Georgetown is recovering positively despite suffering a rupture six weeks ago which was treated conservatively and resolved. However, Sampson unfortunately developed a second bleed. The Neurosurgeon highlighted that in cases of the second bleed from a brain aneurysm, 78-80 per cent of patients die.

“For this particular patient she made it through the second bleed, through conservative management and pre-care

Dukhi said during endovascular coiling, a catheter is passed through the thigh area through the femoral artery and then guided through the heart and other vessels into the artery containing the aneurysm, the coil in released thereby blocking blood flow to the aneurysm.

“This entails getting to the aneurysm, localising it and coiling it which simply means placing a metallic structure that coils the defect”.

He explained, during the procedure a closed vessel was discovered in the brain, as such a stent needed to be placed. The overall surgical procedure lasted for two and

a half hours. Generally a surgery of this nature would cost in the region of US$200,000 but was done locally for a fraction of the cost.

Meanwhile, he noted one of the challenges faced

of rupture during surgery.

Currently, first world countries have moved towards the minimally

Neurosurgeon Dr. Amarnauth Dukhi

Recovering well! Paula Sampson gives a thumbs up

in treating a brain aneurysm in a less invasive way is access to the equipment since it is quite expensive. A procedure of this nature being offered in Guyana paves the way for advancements in neurological procedures done on local shores which ultimately reduces the risk of a stroke and fatality in patients.

He noted also, the other method of treating an aneurysm through surgical intervention involves opening and taking out piece of the skull, getting to the bottom of the brain and putting a metal clip on the aneurysm. This procedure is extremely risky as it entails the possibility

invasive treatment which has fewer complications. “This is something fantastic for our country simply because we are on par with what’s happening internationally. We may be the third country in the Caribbean doing this other than Trinidad and Jamaica and we want to say we have successfully treated the first brain aneurysm in Guyana”.

Dr. Dukhi has expressed gratitude to the Ministry of Public Health for lending support to this new development in the health sector, even as he stressed the danger of a potential rupture.

“We are happy to announce another new development

nationally and we would like to look forward to patients with brain aneurysm that they no longer have to be medevac out of Guyana. We have created a partnership with Dr. Thoris and he is willing to come when the need arises”.

Meanwhile, Medical Director of the GPHC, Dr. Fawcett Jeffery, commended the advancements made by the local surgeon and the team of specialists. He said it is testimony to the strides made at the premier public institution. “This is fantastic.

This is the way to go for minimally invasive surgery at the highest level and we have that in Guyana. We can continue raising the bar for medical attention. It is something over the years we have seen progression, we started off doing little things and we have so many different specialties doing fantastic jobs for the Guyanese population and this is just one of the many examples of what happens in this institution.”

When the Guyana Chronicle visited Ms. Sampson she was in high spirits as she exchanged greetings in the recovery room, she anticipated being discharged today (Saturday). Dr. Dukhi posited the patient is expected to recover fully and will be able to move forward leading a normal life.

In March 2018, Dr. Dukhi created history in Guyana by becoming the first country in South America to perform, successfully, a Vault C Anterior Discectomy and Fusion System (ACDF) implant surgery restoring motor functions to two patients who were partially paralysed.

Overtime he has spearheaded major advancements in neurosurgery locally, placing Guyana on the forefront of leading medical treatment.

Draft ‘Vision 2030’ Education Sector Plan being reviewed THE Ministry of Education on Friday commenced reviewing the first Education Sector Plan (ESP) before its implementation.

The first draft of the ESP was presented at a forum for the Education Ministry’s development partners and stakeholders. The goal of the sector plan is to contribute to employability and reduction of poverty by increasing performance at all levels and reducing disparities that exist particularly between the hinterland and the coast.

Minister of Education, Dr. Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry addressDr. Nicolette Henry, said ing officials present at the’ that the strategy will stimu- Vision 2030 – Education late quality, equitable, lifeSector Plan’ forum

long learning and educational growth. “Our country is on the doorstep of major changes… In keeping with all the changes and adjustments required, it has become imperative that the education sector prepare learners for this change, equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure that they are capable, efficient and adequately prepared. If not, they would not be able to cope and master the changes.”

She cited this transformational step as the threshold to major changes within the sector. The new education sector plan is mandated to address systems that will

ensure the education sector successfully addresses all weaknesses. According to the Chief Education Officer (CEO), Marcel Hutson, this first draft of the ESP 20192023 is a move in the right direction. “People matter; and the belief that the investment in people whoever they are and wherever they might be is key to the success of what we do,” Hutson said. Hutson added, “We are all very elated to reach this point as a team.”

UNICEF Representative to Guyana and Suriname, Sylvie Fouet, in her remarks, congratulated the ministry for its commitment to ensuring that students

across the board receive a quality equitable education.

Fouet highlighted the “commitment, the ownership and the openness to ensuring that the project meets the learning needs of schoolaged children, beginning at the nursery level and continuing through to secondary with the skills for employment.”

The plan will entirely transform the delivery of education in Guyana. It serves as another step in the consultation process which began a year ago involving a variety of stakeholders all over Guyana – inclusive of teachers, education officials,

parents and students.

Present at the forum were partners and stakeholders from UNICEF, PAHO, IADB, FAO, UNESCO, UNDP, Harvard University, UNFPA, CARICOM, EU, and bilateral partners from China, Cuba, Brazil, Chile, Canada, Argentina, India and Mexico.

In 2018, the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) hosted a one-week policy formulation workshop to draft the Education Sector Plan for 2019-2030.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

$33M nursery school at Calcutta commissioned

Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry, formally opening the new nursery school (DPI photo)

MORE learners across Guyana have access to an improved learning environment as the Education Ministry continues to upgrade educational facilities nationwide.

Just recently, Education Minister, Dr. Nicolette Henry, commissioned a new $33M Nursery School in Calcutta, Region Five.

The school was constructed with the needs of the learners in mind and provides a conducive learning environment which is a significant step-up from the previous facility where the children were housed Headteacher of Calcutta Nursery, Candace Griffith, said that the school was previously housed in the bottom flat of the

Minister Henry stressed.

Additionally, she explained that having an appropriate classroom and learning environment is paramount to the improved delivery of education and as such, her ministry continues to make strides in this regard. “[This building] certainly is an upgrade from what you previously operated in. It is an appropriate facility for learning to take place,” she reiterated.

The minister further encouraged the teachers, parents and education officers to “change lives and we will transform minds”.

She also applauded the teachers and education officers for their stewardship and commitment to the improvement of the sector.

The education sector has remained the most heavily-funded sector under the coalition government, Minister Henry explained.

“We believe that, through education, we can contribute in large ways to the development of our people. In fact, it is a mandate

of the education sector and we take that very seriously,” she said.

It remains the vision of the government to bridge any disparities existing within the education sector to ensure that every child is afforded a quality education.

Over the last few weeks, more than $128M was expended to improve the quality of education in Regions 5 and 6.

The education sector has been allocated a total of $52.2B for 2019. In his Budget presentation, Finance Minister Winston Jordan said of that amount $5.4B has been allocated for the construction, rehabilitation, extension and maintenance of educational facilities across the country.

As the government advances these infrastructural works across the country learners are benefitting from improved physical conditions and additional classroom space. (DPI)

primary school which she also described as ‘uncomfortable’. She said that with the construction of the new building her teachers can deliver the curriculum in an environment that is favourable to learning.

Minister Henry is confident that the school will improve the delivery of education for young children. She pointed out that the school’s construction was in keeping with the government’s commitment to providing quality education for all.

“Whether they live in Georgetown or whether they live outside of Georgetown, education should happen in an environment that is appropriate and conducive for learning,”

The recently constructed $33M Calcutta Nursery School (DPI photo)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

south Africa thump Sri Lanka

Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis take a single (Getty Images)

(ESPNCRICINFO) SOUTH Africa, already out of semi-final calculations, restricted Sri Lanka to mediocrity with the bat and then formed a single definitive partnership to run down the target with 11.4 overs to spare at a sundrenched Chester-le-Street.

There was ruefulness as well as proficiency about the 175-run union between captain Faf du Plessis and the senior pro Hashim Amla, for their class and composure served not only to leave Sri Lanka with only the merest chances of semi-final qualification but also demonstrated that with South Africa will go an awful lot of quality out of this World Cup. At the same time Sri Lanka’s many limitations were re-exposed, once the threat of Lasith Malinga had been neutralised.

He had fewer runs to play with due to a superb spell from the recalled Dwaine Pretorius, with patchy support from Kagiso Rabada, Chris Morris and Imran Tahir. But even so, he was countered by a combination of positive intent and solid defence that will leave Eoin Morgan’s men wondering how they had managed to fall short.

For Sri Lanka, qualification would now require two wins from their remaining games plus a collective collapse from England, Pakistan

and Bangladesh ahead of them.

For South Africa, there will only be regret that a display of this sort could not have been conjured earlier on when it truly mattered.

It would be easy to suggest that Rabada’s firstball dismissal of Dimuth Karunaratne, who seemed not to pick up a rising, cramping delivery that he flinched at and fended off the glove to an exultant du Plessis in the slips, set the tone for the day.

But that would be to undersell how well South Africa pulled things back from the subsequent stand of 67 between Kusal Perera and the highly promising Avishka Fernando.

Together they made the most of some loose bowling with ebullient strokeplay, allowing Sri Lanka to place a third entry into the 10 most productive Powerplays of the tournament.

South Africa appeared for a moment to be facing a chase well in excess of 300, before Pretorius set out on the spell of medium-fast seam, disciplined in the best traditions of Craig Matthews among others, that was to define the match.

Pretorius did not start well, and had gone for three boundaries in seven balls when Avishka flicked him insouciantly over straight midwicket to the boundary.

But Avishka’s desire to carry on at a rising rate was to cost him, when he tried to go down the ground and succeeded only in skying to du Plessis at mid-off.

From that ball to the finish of his spell, Pretorius’ figures read 7.2-2-8-3, underlining his success in choking up the remainder of the Sri Lankan innings.

The defeat of Kusal, cramped for room and dragging onto the stumps, was vital in pushing Angelo Mathews and Kusal Mendis into their shells, and both perished when they attempted, at last to break out.

Take out the pair of 30s for Kusal and Avishka, in fact, and the rest of the innings was tepid stuff.

Sixty-seven for 2 from the first 10 overs gave way to a mere 136 for 8 from the remaining 39.3 until Sri Lanka were bowled out.

Over the course of those overs Rabada and Morris did well to pull back from early expense, while Tahir bowled tidily without giving Chester-le-Street the chance to glimpse one of his vaudevillian wicket celebrations.

The only spin victim, Dhananjaya de Silva, premeditating a reverse sweep so poorly as to be comical, fell to JP Duminy. Like Tahir, he is set to make his exit from the South African side at the conclusion of the tournament.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Fundamentals key to Warriors’ success in Commonwealth Cricket League

Rajin Rahaman (right) copped the latest man-of-the-match award

THE WEST Coast Warriors Cricket Club are sticking with the fundamentals, which have propelled them to a dominant start in the Commonwealth Cricket League currently underway in New York.

The Guyanese side sit comfortably on top of the 24-team points table with 12 points (six wins from six games). Tomorrow they will play the Pacban Cricket Club (a team made up of players from Pakistan and

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Saturday June 29, 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) 15 matches (1975) (2) 14 teams (2015) TODAY’S QUIZ: (1) Who is the first Pakistani to be declared Man of the Match in World Cup 2019?

(2) Who were the two captains involved in the 1996 World Cup final?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

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Bangladesh).

Pacban have won two of their three games so far.

Player/coach of the Warriors, Yutesh Avi Dhanpaul, who has been instrumental with bat and ball in several of the victories, said that the players have stayed humble in their executions during the early games.

“Our players just stick to the basic and they adapted really fast to these type of wickets. The wicket here is more bouncy and it plays faster.”

In their most recent victory, last Sunday against Spring Valley CC, the Warriors (made up of both local and overseas-based Guyanese) romped to a nine-wicket win.

Balbinder Shivpersaud, exploded again.

The Zeeburg Sports Club cricketer has been in dominant form, having scored four consecutive half-centuries. It was, however, skipper Rajin Rahaman with his medium pace bowling, who won the

man-of-the-match award.

Spring Valley won the toss, but could only muster 133-7 from their 30 overs as Rahaman nabbed 4-20 from six overs. Anil Sookdeo supported with 2-21. Jay Masspeht led the batting side with 52.

In reply, Shivpersaud blasted another quick-fire half-century. His unbeaten 58 propelled the Warriors to victory in 18.3 overs. R. Khan supported with 33, while Dhanpaul added 29 unbeaten runs.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Three teams undefeated in GHB Goals Galore hockey

THREE teams remain unbeaten after Thursday evening’s matches of the 2019 Noble House Goals Galore Indoor Hockey Championships.

Hikers continue to dominate the men’s division, as Hikers Generals and PEPSI Hikers secured their third victories while in the female division, Bingo Spartans managed to upstage Saints to keep their perfect record intact.

The highly anticipated Bingo Spartans versus Saints match featured a number of the country’s top junior players and saw both teams start dead even with 5-goal handicaps.

The sound of the opening whistle had hardly subsided when speedy striker Abosaide Cadogan received

a penetrating pass from left back Makeda Harding on the right side and flicked a hard shot into the Saints net.

The game saw good moments from each side but the depth of Spartans side tipped the balance of possession in their favour.

Three minutes before the half, midfielder Madison Fernandes converted a Spartans penalty corner to take her team into the halftime break up by 7-5.

The second half saw a few close chances wasted but mostly it became a midfield battle for dominance.

With the clock winding down, Fernandes pounced on a loose ball in the Saints circle and surprised the Saints defence with her shot into the low right hand corner.

The match ended on an 8-5 score line for Bingo Spartans who rose to the top of the points table as

a result.

G B T I G C C Ti g e r s upstaged their clubmates GBTI GCC Spice by 4-3.

5-goal handicap, Wolves scored four goals through Cassie Campbell, MinSodia Culpepper, Jasmine

Vintage midfielder Alan Fernandes was a rock for his side against the Hikers (Photos compliments of Zaheer Mohamed)

Spice had the task of coming from three goals down as Tigers enjoyed a 3-goal handicap to the Spice’s 0.

Spice began to reel in Tigers as they scored their first two goals by the 7th minute through Gabriella Xavier and Ashley DeGroot.

Tigers, however, held firm for the rest of the match and against the run of play. They went one up eight minutes after resumption through a Marzana Fiedtkou penalty corner to go up 4-2.

Xavier scored again with a last-minute penalty corner but could not prevent Tigers’ 4-3 victory.

YMCA OFHC Wolves similarly faced off against clubmates YMCA OFHC Bellatrix.

Bellatrix 9-goal handicap to Wolves’ 5, proved enough to give Bellatrix their first point of the competition, as the game finished on a score of 9-9.

In addition to their

Assanah and Romichelle Brumell.

Hikers Generals, with a 9-goal handicap, faced off against Bounty GCC with 3 goals in the men’s competition.

Despite the Generals composition of aging players including a few former nationals, Bounty GCC found it difficult to penetrate their well-organised defence.

In the 14th minute of play, however, substitute Lennox Carrol turned the tide almost as soon as he took the floor with an opening goal for GCC which was immediately followed by a second from teammate Steven Xavier.

After a halftime score of 5-9, GCC made further inroads through Xavier and Mark Sargeant before Generals stalwart Devin Munroe netted the first for his team.

With Generals still up by 10-7, GCC pressed hard in the closing minutes and managed to pull within one

through Kevin Spencer and Meshach Sargeant but could not catch Generals in time, leaving them to enjoy a 10-9 victory.

PEPSI Hikers were all business as they took the court against GCC Vintage. With GCC enjoying a 5-goal handicap, they seemed intent on defending their advantage and packed their defensive area.

The Hikers managed to chip in three goals by the half to GCC’s one and added another four in the second half to come out with a 7-6 victory, thereby retaining their position atop Pool A. YMCA OFHC Champs (12) managed to hold off SHC Slick Sticks (8) to emerge with a final score of 14-13 for the Champs.

Baraka Garnett was the leading scorer of the match with a hat-trick for the Slick Sticks but it was not enough to overcome the Champs.

Pepsi Hikers lead Pool A of the men’s division with 9 points while Vintage GCC and YMCA OFHC Champs share the second spot with 6 points each.

YMCA OFHC Pacesetters are third with 3 points while the SHC Slick Sticks are yet to earn points.

Hikers Generals with 9 points sit on top of Pool B, SHC Splinters are in second position with 3 points while Bounty GCC and YMCA OFHC Top Form each have one point.

In the women’s competition, GBTI GCC Tigers lead the single pool with 9 points with Bingo Spartans in second place on 7 points.

GBTI GCC Spice and Saints are tied for third with 4 points each followed by the YMCA OFHC Wolves with 2 and YMCA OFHC Bellatrix 1.

Mackenzie Sports Club AGM and Elections set for tomorrow THE Mackenzie Sports Club will tomorrow stage its Annual General Meeting and Elections from 17:00hrs at the MSC Lounge.

Incumbents, president Avery Trim and general secretary Marlon Pearson are expected to deliver their reports to the membership while there will be no financial report in the absence of the treasurer John Trim who is overseas.

The MSC remains the oldest club to be serving the community of Linden, since it was established in 1956 at the present location on Greenheart Street, Mackenzie.

Membership of this club has dwindled due to the fortunes of the bauxite industry over the years but there is hope that this once live-wire centre for sports in Linden would again become the eye for sports in the mining town.

Over the past two months the club’s Committee of Management has been clamouring for the members to pay up their monthly subscription dues, to ensure they are eligible for participation in the business of the meeting but the response has been slow.

However, it is expected that the members will get involved. The important elections will take place after the meeting tomorrow.

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Brathwaite Gayle backs Pooran to become world record beater fined again (CMC) – ALL-ROUND- national match”.

ER Carlos Brathwaite will There was no need part with 15 per cent of for a formal hearing after his match fee after being Brathwaite admitted to the found guilty of breaching breach and accepted the the ICC Code of Conduct sanction. during West Indies’ defeat Brathwaite was also to India here Thursday. slapped with one demerit It is the second time point, adding to the othBrathwaite has found him- er one received earlier self in trouble with umpires this month in the England in the tournament following match. a similar violation in West Indies went down the England match by 125 runs to India at Old earlier this month.

Trafford to see their World While bowling Cup dreams vanish. the 42nd over of the Brathwaite had India innings, the a match to for30-year-old protestget, leaking ed a wide called 33 runs from by the umpire, three overs of in violation of medium pace Article 2.8 of before makthe ICC Players ing just one, code relating to as West Indies “showing discollapsed for sent at an um143 in pursuit pire’s decision West Indies all-rounder o f 2 6 9 f o r during an intervictory.

Carlos Brathwaite

(CMC) – VETERAN opener Chris Gayle has backed rookie Nicholas Pooran to become the next West Indies “world record beater” and has identified Shai Hope as a future captain.

The 39-year-old Gayle, who will call time on his illustrious career shortly, praised Pooran’s work ethic and said it was a sign of things to come from the free-scoring lefthander.

“Pooran, his work ethic – I must commend Pooran’s work ethic,” Gayle told a media conference here.

“It’s fantastic for a youngster (who has) actually just come into the team. And he’s going to be a world record beater.

“Nicholas Pooran is going to be a savage youngster, trust me on that one.”

He added: “And like I said, (Darren) Bravo has been around for some time. And Shai Hope as well. Hope will definitely have a big part to play in West Indies cricket.

He’s a guy who actually may be a future captain as well.

“So he’s got a start, I think, going down that line as well. So it’s something

West Indies plummet in ODI rankings (CMC) – WEST Indies have slipped to number nine in the ICC One-Day International rankings, compounding their misery of being eliminated from the ongoing World Cup in England.

In the latest rankings released Thursday, West Indies lost three ratings points to slip to 77 points, below Sri Lanka who regained eighth spot with 78 points.

The drop comes on the heels of a poor showing by the Windies at the World Cup where they have lost five of their seven games and won just once.

They lie eighth in the 10-team standings on three points. Their 125-run defeat to India on Thursday at Old Trafford ruled out any

chance of them reaching the semi-finals.

India have, meanwhile, returned to the top of the standings with 123 points following their unbeaten run at the World Cup while previous number ones, England, have slipped to second on 122, after losing three matches in the tournament.

West Indies had last month finally moved out of ninth place in the ICC rankings, following their impressive 2-2 draw in the five-match series against world number one England in the Caribbean.

They had previously spent several years at number nine, causing them to play a qualifying tournament in Zimbabwe last year March, with the likes of

Nepal, Papua New Guinea and United Arab Emirates, in order to qualify for the World Cup. Hosts England and the remaining top seven teams in the rankings at September, 2017, gained automatic qualification.

West Indies have two remaining matches at the World Cup against Sri Lanka and Afghanistan.

ICC ODI RANKINGS 1. India 123 2. England 122 3. New Zealand 114 4. Australia 112 5. South Africa 109 6. Pakistan 96 7. Bangladesh 92 8. Sri Lanka 78 9. West Indies 77 10. Afghanistan 60

Ryan Crawford Turf Club horse race meet set for Monday

DESPITE the inclement weather, connections of the Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club (RCMTC) will go ahead with the planned one-day horse race meet set for Monday, at the club’s facility Alness Village, Corentyne, Berbice.

Six races are carded for the day with the feature event being the Three-Year-Old animals over 1300 metres for a winning purse of $240 000 and trophy.

The animals classified J and Lower are set to race over a distance of 1000m for a first prize of $200 000 and trophy.

The winner of the 900m race for Two-Year-Old horses will take home $150 000 and trophy.

There is the L1 and Lower 1000m contest for pole position takings of $100 000 and trophy.

The L2 and Lower race is another 1000m affair for a winner’s take of $80 000.

A L3 Unclassified event for animals over 1200m carries a first prize of $60 000 and trophy.

A number of sponsors are on board including Banks DIH Limited, Colin Elcock and Attorney-at-Law Rajendra Poonai SC. Entries will close today and interested person can still contact Marcel Crawford Jr on 678-5342 or 696-9009.

everyone has to rely on each other, to be honest with you.”

Pooran has been among the leading run-scorers for West Indies with 191 runs at an average of 38. His lone half-century was a polished 63 against England in Southampton but he has been guilty of getting starts and not carrying on.

Fellow left-hander Shimron Hetmyer has also not

West Indies Nicholas Pooran

converted his starts into big scores, scoring two half-centuries in an aggregate of 192 runs at an average of 37.

Gayle, a veteran of 296 One-Day Internationals, said he had repeatedly underscored to younger batsmen in the team the importance of capitalising on good starts.

“The likes of Hetmyer, Nicholas Pooran, those guys got some starts, and I keep on pressing in the areas that when they get these starts against opponents, you have to build on it because it doesn’t come easy,” Gayle pointed out.

“And you’re going to find a difficult time in your cricketing career where you’re going to be struggling for runs. So when you get those starts, you have to convert these 50s into 100s and be consistent as much as possible as well.”

West Indies have endured a dismal World Cup campaign, losing five of

their seven outings to be eliminated from semi-final contention with two games remaining.

The performance has come against the backdrop of a poor ODI record in recent times that has seen Windies without a single series victory for the last five years.

Despite this, Gayle insisted West Indies possessed the players to make the turnaround.

“Definitely the future is bright for West Indies cricket, without a doubt. The likes of Nicholas Pooran and Hetmyer – his name has been calling in all forms of the game so far,” Gayle said.

“For these guys to actually believe and build on these things (will make it good for them). And the cricket, they can learn as a youngster. Trust me; it will be much, much better for them in their career going forward.”

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Frank discussions to halt a worrying slump – Windies coach Reifer (CMC) - HEAD COACH Floyd Reifer hopes a 90-minute lowing their impressive seven-wicket victory over Pakistan clear-the-air team meeting following the heavy defeat in Nottingham on May 31. to India, can help West Indies halt a worrying slump in However, the Jason Holder-led side have not won form and end their ICC World Cup campaign strongly. since and the most recent defeat to India saw their alThe Caribbean side suffered their fifth defeat of the ready razor-slim chances of a semi-final spot evaporate. tournament when they went down to India by 125 runs at West Indies bowled well to limit India to 268 for seven Old Trafford on Thursday, to record their third largest loss at Old Trafford but the batting then collapsed dramatically at a World Cup. to be all out for 143 in the 35th over.

“We had some frank discussions about the World Sunil Ambris, who top-scored with 31 after only Cup that we’ve had, and we’ll try to finish the arriving on Tuesday as an injury replacement for tournament as a strong unit now,” he said.

Andre Russell, said the manner of defeat was “We are still playing for pride, we know especially disheartening. that (the millions of) people back home in “It was a very disappointing game for us. the Caribbean are backing us and we are We should have got that score if we’d batted representing them here. properly,” said Ambris who was making his “This is about our journey, there is World Cup debut. cricket after this World Cup and we need “We were happy with the way we bowled; to find that winning formula and culture we’d have taken their total at the beginning again.” of their innings.

He continued: “We’ve not done too well “It was rough losing Chris (Gayle) so early in the World Cup, we can see improvements because we know how important he is for but we need to put together a complete game. our team. Shai (Hope) is the guy in form “The guys bowled well against India too which made it very difficult.” and the fielding was much improved We s t I n d i e s ’ re m a i n i n g but it’s about getting all three matches are against Sri Landepartments working together ka on Monday at Chesto win cricket games.” ter-le-Street and against West Indies’ campaign Afghanistan next Thursday West Indies head coach Floyd Reifer started with much promise folat Leeds.

Santos vs Fruta to highlight GFF/KFC U-20 Independence Cup semi-final clashes today TWO exciting matches will kick off today to decide the finalists of the GFF/KFC National U-20 ‘Independence Cup’ when Dynamic FC clash with Botofago FC at 13:00hrs.

However, fans will be abuzz and are expecting a thriller when Fruta Conquerors FC face Georgetown rivals Santos FC at 15:30hrs. Both matches will be played at the GFF National Training Centre, Providence.

The semifinalists were decided following last weekend’s quarterfinals with the respective teams triumphing over their opponents from respective Regional Member Association including Strikers FC from the Rupununi Football Association.

Each team will be looking for glory as they had comfortable victories in their quarterfinals matches; Fruta Conquerors

prevailed 5-3 in extra time over Buxton United and Santos FC eased to a 3-1 win over Strikers FC. Meanwhile, it was all one way traffic for East Coast outfit Dynamic, who beat New Amsterdam United 3-0 with Botofago eventually edging out Timehri Panthers 3-2.

The winning team will capture $500 000, a trophy and medals while the runners-up will pocket $300 000, a trophy and medals.

Third-place winners will walk away with $200 000, a trophy and medals and while fourth place will get a trophy and medals.

The third-place and finals are set for Monday (July 1) at the GFF National Training Centre, Providence.

India’s national 110m hurdles record-holder to compete at AP Invitational

Siddhanth Thingalaya

INDIA’S national record-holder at the 110m hurdles, Siddhanth Thingalaya, has been confirmed for the Aliann Pompey Invitational set for July 6 at the National Track and Field Centre, Leonora, West Coast Demerara.

Thingalaya, who hails from Mumbai, holds India’s national 110m hurdles record at 13.48s; a record that he set in 2017.

The hurdler has represented his nation at the Commonwealth Games twice (in 2010 and 2014) and has participated at the World Championships in 2017.

The 28-year-old is also an Asian junior silver medallist (2010) in the 110m hurdles event and competed at the World Junior Championships as well.

Founder of the AP Invitational, Aliann Pompey is extremely happy to have Thingalaya compete at the event which she revealed will surely add more quality to the championships.

Guyana set to host IKD Caribbean Cup late August

… Several Caribbean islands; South American nations expected GUYANA is expected to host several Caribbean Islands and neighbouring South American countries this August at the International Karate Daigaku (IKD) Caribbean Cup. Organisers, the Guyana Karate College (c/o Shuseki Shihan Frank Woon-A-Tai 9th Dan) are already putting systems in place for the event, which is scheduled to be held from August 23 to 25 at the

Cliff Anderson Sports Hall.

Caribbean teams that are expected to participate include Antigua, Barbados, Grenada, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, St Kitts and the Grenadines, St Lucia, St Vincent and Trinidad and Tobago and the host nation, Suriname, French Guiana and Venezuela from South America.

The tournament, which was first hosted in Trinidad and Tobago in 1976 then in Guyana two years later, was recently

hosted by Jamaica (2016) and Barbados (2018).

PACKED SCHEDULE Over the three days, a total of 196 events, inclusive of the finals will be held. Guyana is expected to field a large team, given that the age of participants ranges from eight to 50 years old.

Karatekas will compete in individual kata and kumite, team kata, kumite and embu.

A number of youths are currently training to represent Guyana at the event. At the recent National Junior Karate Championships YMCA dojo’s Shamar Francis (right) finished first in the 12-14 kata competition, while Jamar Pile finished second in the kumite

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Saturday, June 29, 2019

Things are shaping up nicely, track consultant assures Minister Norton MINISTER of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton, last Thursday, received a status update on works being executed on both sites of the Synthetic Tracks Project.

The primary updates were provided during a meeting with the project’s external supervising consultant and engineer from BSW Regupol, Mr Patrick Heinen, who recently conducted the third of four scheduled inspection visits.

The meeting, hosted at Minister Norton’s Main Street, Georgetown office, included Permanent Secretary, Ms Melissa Tucker; Assistant Director of Sport and project manager, Ms Melissa Dow-Richardson; the Ministry’s maintenance inspector, Mr Oswin Crawford; along with local consultants from AquaSun Designs – Mr Orin Boyce and Mr Jason Baptiste.

The engagement followed a series of inspections and evaluations carried out by the project management team, consultants and engineers, over the past week.

According to Mr Hein-

en, the Linden aspect of the project is “shaping up nicely”, but there have been some minor glitches at the Berbice site.

“We looked at works that have already been done, works that are ongoing, as well as works that are projected to be done,” Heinen informed the meeting.

He explained that works

being executed by Builders Hardware in Linden are on par with the projected timeline of the project.

Heinen estimates that the Region 10 track will be ready for the laying of asphalt materials within the next two months.

“That part of the project will take approximately 20 days, so it should be

completed by September,” Heinen pointed out.

The engineer noted that the asphalt would require two weeks to cure, after which, the facility would be ready for the installation of synthetic material, thereby completing the track.

“Other works will still continue during the asphalt curing phase,” Hein-

Minister Norton inspects works being executed at the Berbice site of the Synthetic Track Project, during an unplanned visit to the facility last Wednesday

Exxon U-14 football continues this weekend

FOOTBALL action continues this weekend at the U-14 level with the ExxonMobil-sponsored tournament.

Round two of the Girls’ segment will take place with organiser, the Petra Organisation, confirming the addition of four female teams to make it a 12-team competition.

The male segment also moves into its third round.

The Ministry of Health will be rewarding the player-ofthe-week boys and girls with a haversack and six books as part of encouragement to indulge in physical activities toward a healthier life.

The tournament is also sponsored by the Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) under the PEPSI brand.

FULL FIXTURES: Girls Fixtures 10:00hrs Ann’s Grove vs Richard Ishmael 10:00hrs Annandale vs Dolphin 10:50hrs Uitvlugt vs New Campbellville

10:50hrs Lodge vs Tucville 11:40hrs East Ruimveldt vs Charlestown Secondary 11:40hrs St Mary vs St Stanislaus 12:30hrs Ann’s Grove vs Dolphin 12:30hrs Annandale vs Richard Ishmael Boys Fixtures 12:00hrs St Mary vs Plaisance Orphanage

12:00hrs Richard Ishmael vs New Campbellville 12:50hrs North Ruimveldt Multi vs Annandale Secondary 12:50hrs Cummings Lodge vs Brickdam Secondary 13:40hrs Ann’s Grove vs Lodge Secondary 13:40hrs Tucville vs St Stanislaus College 14:30hrs Carmel Secondary School vs President’s Col-

lege 14:30hrs Marian Academy vs Uitvlugt Secondary 15:20hrs Charlestown Secondary vs Golden Grove 15:20hrs East Ruimveldt vs St John’s 16:10hrs Kingston vs Tutorial 16:10hrs Queenstown Secondary vs Dolphin Secondary.

Action in the ExxonMobil U-14 boys and girls football tournament is back this weekend

Ticket prices confirmed for Guyana leg of WI/India series … available from July 22

TICKETS for the two international fixtures here between hosts West Indies and India will go on sale from July 22 at various locations countrywide.

The now famous Guyana National Stadium will host the last of the three T20Is in the MyTeam11 Series on August 6, while the first ODI will play on August 8 - the first time in three decades the two sides will contest an ODI in the South American nation.

However, Chronicle Sport was reliably informed that ticket prices for the South West Stand (Green Stand) and North West Stand (Red Stand) cost $5 000 each; South Stand (Orange Stand) – $4 000 and Grass Mound/Party Stand $2

000 each.

Tickets for children aged 12 and under are free with the purchase of an adult ticket for all matches. Senior citizens – aged 60-plus – on presentation of a form of national photo identification at local box offices are also eligible for free tickets, while stocks last for all matches, except the two MyTeam11 Twenty20 Internationals in the United States.

The Windies and India will play two Tests – from August 22 to 26 at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground in Antigua and from August 30 to September 3 at Sabina Park in Jamaica – during the five-week tour, which also includes three Twenty20 and three One-day Internationals. (Rajiv Bisnauth)

en said.

In the meantime, the team is working to address some of the minor challenges tied to the project, so as to ensure that the year-end timeline remains intact.

Prior to the meeting, Minister Norton paid a impromptu visit to the construction site in New Amsterdam, Berbice to inspect the works completed so far.

Dr Norton remains hope-

ful that both sites of the Synthetic Tracks Project would be finished before 2020.

The Minister remains committed to providing local athletes with stateof-the-art facilities that can not only be used for adequate practice, but also for the hosting of prestigious meets such as the Carifta Games, as well.

The next edition of the Carifta Games is set for 2021, right here in Guyana.

Ticket prices confirmed for Guyana leg of WI/India series T‌ available from July 22

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Ticket prices confirmed for Guyana leg of WEST Indies/India series

Three teams undefeated in GHB Goals Galore hockey Page

28

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Ashley DeGroot of GBTI GCC Spice tries to evade a crowd of Tigers

Action in the quarter-final stage of the GFF/KFC U-20 Independence Cup at the GFF National Training Centre, Providence (Adrian Narine photo)

Santos vs Fruta to highlight GFF/KFC U-20 Independence Cup semi-final clashes today

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SATURDAY, JUNE 29, 2019