Issuu

THURSDAY 30th May, 2019

No.105653

Hundreds tap gov’t services …as 'Meet the people' exercise rolls into Region Two

President David Granger and former Presidents Samuel Hinds, Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar standing in front of the “Gallery of Presidents,” which was unveiled in the Parliament Buildings on Wednesday (Adrian Narine photo)

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Gallery of Presidents unveiled

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President of Ghana for state visit

Relief for Essequibo rice farmers

Oil $$$ to fund GSDS developmental objectives – Min Jordan says strategy will not be relegated to dust bin of history

…NDIA to address D&I issues within two weeks PAGE

SEE STORY ON PAGE 14 ►

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

Gallery of Presidents unveiled at Public Buildings A GALLERY of Presidents was unveiled at the Public Buildings, on Wednesday, in celebration of Guyana’s 53rd Independence Anniversary. President David Granger was joined by former Presidents Samuel Hinds, Bharrat Jagdeo and Donald Ramotar as he witnessed the historic occasion in the presence of the Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland and Clerk of the

Speaker of the National Assembly, Dr. Barton Scotland.

brief remarks, said “the conventional thing” would be to speak about how badly the country has done since gaining independence on May 26, 1966 but he would not share such a view. Hinds said a close examination of the challenges that have faced the nation since 1966 would reveal that the country “has not done too badly.” According to him, Guyana has underestimated itself. “I think that we have

The Gallery of Presidents at the Public Buildings (Photos by Adrian Narine)

National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs. The creation of the Gallery of Presidents is a presentation of the people of Guyana in tribute to President Arthur Raymond Chung, President Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham, President Hugh Desmond Hoyte, President Cheddi Berret Jagan, President Janet Jagan, President Samuel Archibald Anthony Hinds, President Bharrat Jagdeo, President Donald Rabindranauth Ramotar, and President David Arthur Granger. Former Presidents Chung, Burnham, Hoyte, Cheddi Jagan and Janet Jagan are deceased. The initiative is the brainchild of Dr Scotland. He told

the gathering at the unveiling that the creation of the gallery is in deep appreciation for the exceptional and dedicated service offered by the President and former Presidents. “Beyond this observance of the 53rd Independence of our country our fellow Guyanese and others who in the future would visit have much to contemplate through the reality of this Gallery of Presidents,” Dr. Scotland said during the unveiling ceremony. He noted that the idea of a Gallery of Presidents, which now adds adornment and great lustre to the National Assembly, was born out of a number of discussions with his Personal Assistant, Joc-

ette Bacchus, later on with the Clerk and other members of staff. The services of Merlene Ellis, Louis Jordan and Geoffrey La Rose were solicited to make the gallery a reality. “It is with much gratitude and appreciation that we recognise the exceptional work which has been created by Merlene Ellis and Louis Jordan and which is the focus of our attention today,” the Speaker said. The Gallery of Presidents was unveiled by participants of the 4th Annual Youth Parliament, Miracle Miller, the Best Speaker, and Jordan Kellman, the Best Debater. Former President and Prime Minister of Guyana, Samuel Hinds, in offering

been underestimating the challenges facing us, in particularly two areas, in coming together as one people from our different worlds that we lived in, and secondly we have been underestimating the challenge of developing our country,” Hinds reasoned. As the country prepares to be a significant player in the Oil and Gas industry, the former President said he remains hopeful that Guyana would be among countries that would have done well. He also thanked the Speaker for the initiative. To add colour to the ceremony, the Foundation Seven Music School performed “Guyana the Free.”

Some workers in oil industry favour unionisation SOME employees in the oil industry may soon be opting for unionisation following complaints of unequal pay between nationals and non-nationals. This was revealed at a press conference of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) on Wednesday. At the press conference, GCCI President Nicholas Boyer acknowledged that such matters were brought to his attention but he deferred direct comment on the matter regarding unionisation, stating his need for additional information. “Right now, that’s a very tricky question for me to answer because there are some areas in terms of the oil industry and the employment here that are going well and then…there are some complaints of equal pay,” Boyer said. He added: “There have been some discussions that there is not equal pay for people of similar background where the only difference is nationality. That, I have to do more research into before I can pronounce.” He told the media, nonetheless, that the issue is high on his to-do list and the fact that he could not give a definite comment on the matter is not an attempt to avoid discussion. “I want to make sure that I meet with the various agencies, so I have a very firm position and I believe in the position,” he said. For a group of employees at an organisation to become unionised, they first have to approach a union and become members of the union which would then apply to the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board to be recognised as the bargaining agent for the workers. The board would then deliberate on the issue and would later conduct a survey to ascertain whether at least 40 per cent of employees at the organisation is in support

of the union. Should the criteria be met, the union will be certified to represent the workers in question. Questioned whether the GCCI is in favour of unionisation, Boyer stated that this would be on the basis of whether it is proven that persons are being negatively affected. “If everything is going well and my countrymen are being paid fairly and they’re able to not be at a disadvantage, I think there’s no need for unionisation,” he began, adding: “If I feel that my countrymen are being treated unfairly, then I can see the need for corrective bargaining.” Pressed further on why it would not be best to stay one step ahead by opting for unionisation prior to the possible need, the GCCI President responded that the role of the chamber lies with “dispute resolution”. “For us, organised labour is something that we interact with when there’s a dispute,” he explained. Meanwhile, GCCI Executive and former President, Vishnu Doerga, suggested that the question of being proactive may be best placed to unions which may want to consider promoting their services to employees in the industry. However, he added: “What we have found though, is that the condition under which people in that industry work are generally much better than what we have in any other industry in the country.” For decades and all across the world, trade unions have been used as a means to represent the rights of workers with the aim of ensuring their needs are better represented to authorities.

CPGs to be resuscitated in Essequibo –– as more persons signal interest to be part of local groups THE Ministry of Public Security will be resuscitating Community Policing Groups (CPGs) along the Essequibo Coast. With only three functioning groups on the coast, the ministry will be looking to fully restore all CPGs, said National Administrator of CPGs, Dennis Pompey. “Persons were not keen on the way things were going on the Essequibo Coast...

Only today some members approached us to come in and reform some groups,” said Pompey in an invited comment during a ministerial outreach at Damon Square, Anna Regina on Wednesday. He said there need to be twelve functioning groups along the Essequibo Coast. Over the years there have been issues related to CPGs but, the administrator said they are trying to sort things

Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan engaging residents of Essequibo (Samuel Maughn photo)

out. “Very shortly, we will start doing work to bring back these groups up and running,” said Pompey, adding that there is a lot of work to do. According to the administrator, quite a number of persons signalled an interest to be part of CPGs. Although most of the interest was from the older folks, Pompey said youths play an important role in making CPGs a possibility. “We have to try to bring

them in and get the older people to guide them,” said Pompey. Through the groups, there will be various training programmes which will focus on anger management, conflict resolution and so forth. Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan said the ministry is ready to equip CPGs with the necessary assets. The minister said persons enquired about getting vehicles and other equipment TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

Hundreds tap gov’t services …as ‘Meet the people Exercise rolls into Region Two

By Vanessa Braithwaite Residents of Region Two were reminded that Government has their interest at heart, hence the reason the region was chosen for the sixth government outreach exercise aimed at bringing government services to the people. This was the message of Minister of Social Protection and Government's Chief Whip Amna Alley, who addressed the scores of women, men, youths and elderly who flocked Damon's Square, Anna Regina to have their issues solved and concerns voiced. Ally was accompanied by a number of other ministers and top government officials, including Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo, Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson, Minister of Youth Affairs Simona Broomes, Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture Valarie Yearwood, Minister of Telecommunications Catherine Hughes amongst others. Ally in her opening remarks urged the residents to dispel the rhetoric that Essequibo is the opposition's stronghold and that the Government does not care about the region. "Some people say that Essequibo does not belong to this coalition government, but that has changed, Essequibo is all of us," she said. Ally urged residents to take stock of the developmental works in the region all aimed at bringing the good life to all Guyanese. "It is this coalition government that has brought the development to you, my dear people, Essequibo belongs to all of us, Essequibo you are not left out in anyway. This Government truly believes in giving every citizen of this country, a good life," she said. She further urged them to take the opportunity to tap into

Minister of Social Protection Amna Ally addressing the residents of Essequibo at the Government Outreach

Scores of residents waiting for their issues to be addressed by officers of the at CH&PA

the services at their hand reach and not be afraid of letting their voices be heard. Available to the residents for the day were the services of over 20 main government organisations. These include: the Ministries of the Presidency, Agriculture, Telecommunications, Communities, Business, Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI), Nation-

al Insurance Scheme (NIS), Guyana Lands and Survey Commission (GLSC), etc. Ally said that the "Meet the people Exercise", is not just a "put on a show exercise", but a genuine effort to bring relief to Essequibians, so they don't have to travel to Georgetown to receive same. "We are not here to put on this as a show. This is one of the many gov-

CPGs to be ... to conduct the work of their various groups. REFORMING CPGS While the ministry is prepared to provide all the equipment necessary, Minister Ramjattan said CPGs need to be reformed. He believes this is necessary because a number of persons in the groups were too politically inclined. Ram-

jattan said persons in the past focussed more on politics than fighting crime. The minister’s intention is to have objective CPGs which can supplement the work of the Guyana Police Force (GPF). “I want to take the politics out the CPGs and ensure people do a better job in terms of security and patrol,” said Ramjattan.

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Thirty-three-year-old Ryan Caesar, of Anna Regina, said he is prepared to join a CPG. Caesar said by joining one of the groups, he'll be able to assist his community in fighting crime. He also intends on utilising the lessons learnt during the training programmes which are offered through the groups.

ernment outreaches that we are conducting throughout Guyana, we call this activity,

taking the government to the people, we have come to you on this occasion," she said.

today I was able to reach a far way in getting my contributions updated," she related.

GLORIOUS DAY Regional Executive Officer (REO) Denis Jaikaran described the day as a glorious one for the region. He commended the government for genuinely demonstrating care for the residents by bringing the various services to them. "They are providing for us an opportunity, an opportunity that was never given before 2015 and so this morning our ministers are here to give us the services we so desire." After the opening ceremony, the scores of residents reached out to ministers, officials and officers at the various booths. While all had favourable intake, the booths that were flocked the most were Central Housing and Planning Authority; Ministry of Agriculture and the Ministry of Social Protection (MoSP). Several fortunate residents, who waited years for house lots, were allocated same on the spot. One of these was mother of three, Edelle Smith who was allocated a house lot, after waiting since 2012. Mostly the elderly and the differently-abled visited the NIS booth and the MoSP booth concerning public assistance and pensions. Agril Bacchus of Queenstown Village related, "there were some glitches with my years of service. I went to find out about my contributions and they said I am missing services from 1992-1998 and I am ready to receive pension by August, because I am turning 60, so

FARMERS Scores of farmers, particularly rice farmers flocked the Ministry of Agriculture booth concerning drainage and irrigation issues. Chief Executive Officer of the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) Mr. Frederick Flatts committed to bringing solutions to the issues in the next two weeks. In addition, several youths also visited the outreach in search of jobs and submitted their applications to various entities, in hopes of a positive response. Two teenagers related that they completed school last year, and were part of the temporary programme at the RDC, but now that it has been completed, they are desperate for a job. They approached the MoSP booth for advice on the way forward. Minister of Business, Haimraj Rajkumar was elated that the outreach was brought to his home town. "It is not because I am a minister, we really accept and welcome the government to Region Two... this government is a caring government and it is demonstrating its ability and willingness to take care of its people," he said. Wednesday event was the sixth government outreach held in 2019. The next one is expected to be held in Bartica in a matter of weeks.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 30, 2019

Israel to hold fresh election as Netanyahu fails to form coalition (BBC) Israeli lawmakers have voted to dissolve parliament after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu failed to form a coalition government. The decision triggers a fresh election, to be held on 17

September. Mr Netanyahu was unable to reach a deal for a fresh rightwing coalition following last month's election. At the heart of the impasse was a military conscription bill governing exemptions for ul-

tra-Orthodox Jewish seminary students. It is the first time in Israel's history that a prime minister-designate has failed to form a coalition. Parliament voted 74-45 in favour of dissolving itself after

Mr Netanyahu missed a midnight local time (21:00 GMT) deadline on Wednesday. Mr Netanyahu appeared set for a fifth term after his Likud Party won 35 of the Knesset's 120 seats in April's election, but he could not reach

a deal with former Defence Minister Avigdor Lieberman, whose support became vital. Mr Lieberman, from the nationalist Yisrael Beitenu party, had conditioned allying with ultra-Orthodox Jewish parties on changes to their

military draft exemptions. Speaking to reporters after the vote, Mr Netanyahu said: "We'll run a sharp, clear election campaign which will bring us victory. We'll win, we'll win and the public will win."

Robert Mueller: Charging Trump was not an option (BBC) US Special Counsel Robert Mueller has said charging President Donald Trump with a crime was not an option, in his first comments on the Russia inquiry. He reiterated that his re-

port did not exonerate the president and that legal guidelines prevent the indictment of a sitting president. Mr Mueller did not rule out testifying in Congress but said he would not give in-

formation that was not in his report. Reacting to the remarks, Mr Trump said: "The case is closed! Thank you." As special counsel, Mr Mueller was tasked with investigating Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election. His 448-page report said it had not established that the Trump campaign criminally conspired with Russia to influence the election. However, it did detail 10 instances where Mr Trump had

possibly attempted to impede the investigation. What did Mueller say? His statement largely reaffirmed what was in the report released with redactions last month. He said if his team had had confidence that Mr Trump "clearly did not commit a crime, we would have said so". Mr Mueller added that "the Constitution requires a process other than the criminal justice system to formally accuse a sitting president of

wrongdoing," in what was seen as a reference to the ability of Congress to start an impeachment process. The special counsel said he did not believe it was "appropriate to speak further" about the investigation and that he would not provide any information that was not in his team's report. With Democratic lawmakers seeking to have him testify in Congress, Mr Mueller said: "The report is my testimony." He also announced the formal closure of the special counsel office and his resignation from the justice department to return to private life. 'Read my report' Robert Mueller didn't break much new ground in his

Thursday, May 30, 2019 - 02:00 hrs & 14:30 hrs

Saturday25, May, 2019

17, 03, 01, 12, 21

9, 9, 8

9, 4, 6

4, 8, 9, 13, 15

eight-minute statement announcing the official end of the special counsel investigation. Instead, he highlighted in bold what he views as the key points of nearly two years of work. Mr Mueller started and ended by emphasising that America during the 2016 election was under attack by malign foreign actors. He said those allegations deserve the attention of every American. In the portion of his investigation into possible ties between Russia and the Trump campaign, Mr Mueller said there was "insufficient evidence to charge a broader conspiracy" - hardly the complete vindication the president asserts.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

Over 5,000 hinterland students to benefit from quality digital education

MORE than 5,000 students across 28 primary schools in Guyana’s hinterland region are soon to benefit from quality digital education. This development is being made possible through the signing of an agreement between the Ministry of Education (MoE), the Organisation of American states (OAS) and Profuturo Foundation, last Saturday, in the US. Signing on behalf of the MoE was Education Minister, Nicolette Henry, while OAS Secretary General, Luis Almagro and Sofia Ferandez de Mesa, General Director of ProFuturo Foundation, signed on behalf of their respective organisations. Guyana now joins 28 countries of Latin Ameri-

ca, Africa, and Asia where ProFuturo is already developing its digital education programme and is the first of five countries where the programme is expected to be implemented. In the Caribbean, an overall 23,000 students are expected to benefit from the programme, which will also be rolled out in the Bahamas, Barbados, Belize and Jamaica. “The platform will be of benefit to 28 hinterland schools, provide training for 449 teachers and 5,435 hinterland students in primary schools across Guyana,” a release from the MoE said. The release noted that this initiative will bridge the technological gap between the coastal and the hinterland regions of Guyana.

From left: General Director of ProFuturo Foundation, Sofia Ferandez de Mesa and Minister of Education, Nicolette Henry, sign the agreement as Secretary General of the OAS, Luis Almagro looks on (OAS photo)

With a mission of globally providing children from vulnerable environments with quality digital education, ProFuturo was launched in 2016 through a partnership between Telefónica Founda-

tion and “La Caixa” Foundation, It seeks to deliver the best education to 10 million children in vulnerable areas by 2020 and to 25 million by 2030, in keeping with the UN

2030 sustainable development agenda goal four which speaks to access to equitable and inclusive quality education for all. Making remarks at the signing, Henry expressed

the government’s gratitude for the technical assistance being provided by the OAS and Profuturo towards the development of education in Guyana “The minister also acknowledged that to achieve equitable education in countries with topographies like Guyana, ICT becomes very relevant in ensuring that the same quality of education is provided in all areas,” the release said. Almagro noted that with Guyana being the first country in the Caribbean region to sign on to the cooperation agreement with Profuturo, the country will serve as the impetus for other Caribbean countries.

Salary increase for Reg. 2 sweeper/cleaners CLAIRE SPELLING, a sweeper/cleaner employed at the CV Nunes Primary School for more than 11 years is returning with great news to her co-workers following the latest ‘Government comes to you’ outreach in the Pomeroon-Supenaam Region at Damon Square, Anna Regina. She approached the Minister of Education, Dr. Nicolette Henry, at the outreach to have the issue of being underpaid addressed. The Education Minister worked in cohesion with the Regional Education Officer (REdO), Nicola Mathews and assured

Spelling that the ministry has been working assiduously to ensure that all persons are adequately paid for their service. Minister Henry announced that sweeper cleaners would soon receive their long-awaited salary increase as the ministry continues to make strides towards ensuring that the needs of all stakeholders in the education sector are met. “I feel happy. [The Minister] say that they’re working on it,” an elated Spelling said after receiving the good news. Minister Henry remarked that “most of the instances,

gional Executive Officer, and I trust that this matter will be resolved soonest.” She further explained that for the increase in salary to be implemented in all schools, some action would be needed at the

Claire Spelling, a Cleaner/ Sweeper at CV Nunes Primary School

the Cabinet decision [to raise the sweeper/cleaner wages] was not implemented [in every school] and so they were not getting their right wages. I was able to talk to the Re-

central government level. “We have to find out, across the country, what people are getting so that we know even before we get there, whether it is being implemented or not,” the Education Minister noted.

The historical outreach is being undertaken by more than 20 Ministries and government agencies and is geared at bringing the government’s services and officers directly to the people. (DPI)

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 30, 2019

Protecting our youths TO GUYANA’S credit, much work has been done on child rights and among the first things done by the President David Granger Government, was bringing a laser beam sort of attention to education. He noted in his Independence address that the country underwent a transformative process when it gained Independence on May 26, 1966, asserting that the transformative experience opened opportunities for everyone but, particularly, for young people. “Independence was transformative. It brought forward-looking changes which improved the living and working conditions for all, including our youth. It laid the foundation for a better life for future generations,” the head of state said. Indeed post-Independence Guyana stood out among her counterparts in the Caribbean and farther afield in early childhood education, which initially began at three years and nine months. More

schools were built, allowing for greater accommodation of children; and at the post-primary level, the then common entrance school examination was used to place students in schools, based on their evaluated intellectual abilities and interests. In recognition of secondary education, the programme was expanded and augmented beyond the known schools – inclusive of the so-called elite that carried only specific curriculum – to include the multilateral and community high schools. The multilateral secondary curriculum allowed for expression and pursuit of academia based on interest and ability, whereas the community high was geared toward the more technically-inclined, with an opportunity presented at the fourth form to sit an examination to enter into the secondary school. The nationalisation of schools allowed all to benefit from a national education programme designed by the government, besides aiding

in eliminating discrimination against a child attending a school based on religious ideology. Prior to the advent of public education, some schools were managed by one or another religious denomination, and there were instances when access to those schools was denied children based on their religion; those children, and sometimes their family members, had to ‘convert’ in order to gain admittance to certain schools. Where newly-independent Guyana embraced religious freedom and pursued universal education as important to nation-building, it would have been engaging in double-standards to continue the practice of accepting a child into, or rejecting that child from, an educational institution based on religious considerations. In the area of economics, some expenses were offset by the State through various measures. The State assumed responsibility for programmes such as free uniform, textbooks, meals, transportation,

and tuition from nursery to university. Taking some financial responsibilities from the family and placing them on the State had two-fold benefits for a young post-colonial society which, at independence, was met with high unemployment and limited economic opportunities. In the sphere of the family, this eliminated economic stressors and served to ensure the child pursues an education. In regard to the State, it ensured creating an educated society equipped with skills and talents needed for development. The tier-ship, or rather discrimination, in the legal system and ‘shame’ in the society that children were subjected to because they were not born in ‘wedlock’, were removed through repealing of the law that referred to such children as ‘bastards’, not entitled to inheritance from their fathers. This labelling would have been applicable to children whose parents did not have a registered marriage, which meant it included all

across the ethnic divide. Examination shows that this holistic multi-prong approach to education was aimed at leaving no child behind. With the child’s psycho-social and economic wellbeing taken care of, education became one of the nation’s greatest equalisers. More importantly, in the area of childhood development, there was this sense of equality and assurance that God-given talent would be allowed to bloom and grow irrespective of a child or family’s socio-economic status; and he or she can be whatever he or she wanted to be. In that some of the economic and supplemental benefits stated above are no longer available, some being aborted during the period of economic downturn, it does not prevent examination of new ways to ensure children are not denied an education in keeping with their ability. Fortunately government, recognising unemployment remains one of

the issues the country continues to grapple with, has resuscitated the Guyana Youth Corps, which gives young people a chance to improve their ‘marketability.’ President Granger has said that the youth corps reflects government’s emphasis on consolidating its youth initiatives so as have a stronger focus on employment and job creation. There could be no denying that our youths have been supported and nurtured by the unstinted support of the Coalition, A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance For Change(APNU+AFC) government, and that they have advanced in the national pantheon of socio-economic development. And nowhere else is there a better example of this determined fact than in the adopted National Youth Policy, which is about the vision for the nation’s youth.

I have never been opposed to an evaluation Dear Editor, I find it necessary again to clarify the record in relation to the article in your May 28, 2019 edition that speaks to the unions at The University of Guyana being vindicated with an evaluation to be conducted before the June 7 council meeting. This is not vindication; it is duplicitous spin and continuation of efforts at character assassination. Here are the facts that the evidence will attest. 1. I have never been opposed to an evaluation. Evaluations are a standard professional best practice in the academy, industry and government, and in my several decades as a scholar and an administrator I have been subject to evaluations and I have conducted them. They are fundamental to continuous improvement, which I embrace and have

espoused at UG. 2. On February 8, 2019, and in keeping with the terms of my contract, I penned a letter to the Pro-Chancellor expressing interest in the renewal of my contract. The letter was shared by the Pro-Chancellor with the council, including Dr. Jewel Thomas who represents to unions on that body. 3. In the final paragraph of the letter I stated the following: “I look forward to working with the appropriate individuals and processes to evaluate my stewardship under the first contract and award a new contract on such terms that may be mutually agreed upon”. 4. Based on this expression of interest, the Pro-Chancellor consulted individuals within UG and at other universities and proposed a multidimensional evaluation process, consonant with what reputable universities in the Caribbean

and elsewhere do in relation to their CEOs. It involved a three-member 360 evaluation panel, a self-assessment guided by an evaluation instrument and an evaluation by the Pro-Chancellor. I accepted the proposed modalities. 5. The Pro-Chancellor set about establishing the panel and getting an appropriate assessment instrument. He secured the agreement of the following panelists: a former foreign-born UG Vice-Chancellor; a reputable management consultant also based abroad; and a distinguished member of the business community in Guyana. I agreed to the panel. The Pro-Chancellor also sent me the draft assessment instrument on which was generally acceptable to me. 6. At its meeting on April 15, the council, however, agreed to an approach that was different to that of the

Pro-Chancellor’s and proceeded to establish a 10-member Performance Evaluation Committee (PEC), which, interestingly, included the very union representative and another individual that has been adamantly and publicly opposed to my contract renewal. 7. A letter to me dated April 18, 2019 conveyed the decision of the council. Among other things, it indicated the following: ‘Finally, it is to be noted that the PEC will use an instrument approved by the council to conduct your evaluation. The instrument will be forwarded to you as soon as it has been finalised by the PRC at its first meeting’. Also noteworthy are the multiple constituencies that were supposed to be part of this evaluation, as detailed in the letter: ‘The PEC will receive evaluations from the following sources: yourself (self-evaluation), Pro-Chancel-

lor, Academic Board, Committee of Deans, UA Staff, UB Staff, University of Guyana staff unions, University of Guyana Student Society Executive, and the Alumni Association (evaluates Alumni matters only).’ Please note that this method is decidedly not standard operating practice at reputable universities. 8. After several meetings the PEC came up with a 14page evaluation instrument with 79 questions that the committee itself could not administer. 9. The PEC reported its impasse to the council on May 23, 2019 and recommended abandonment of the evaluation process it had established. It cited issues of potential bias that I had raised earlier, doubts about how the various groups were going to administer the evaluation, the cumbersomeness of the instrument in being

14 pages long with 79 different questions, the fact that there was no pilot testing of the instrument, the fact that no other Vice-Chancellor had ever been subjected to the type of evaluation being considered, among other things. 10. It was the PEC, with one exception, that recommended that given the factors cited above, the council could not proceed with the proposed evaluation and that ‘the council should in its deliberate judgement decide on the performance of the Vice-Chancellor’. 11. I adhered to the rules set forth by the PEC and the Council by submitting my self-assessment. Again, there has never been any reluctance by me to undergo an evaluation. Any implication to the contrary is patently false and your newspaper continues to TURN TO PAGE

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 30, 2019

UG unions threaten to pull out from GTUC Dear Editor, Comrade Lincoln Lewis’ dispute with Mr. Freddie Kissoon has brought into the public domain some issues which the University of Guyana Unions must comment on. We’d appreciate the opportunity to do so via your newspaper. Please find our views set out below. 1. In the recent past, the University of Guyana’s Unions have benefitted from the counsel and support of the GTUC and Comrade Lincoln Lewis in particular. For these, we remain grateful. However, the text of Comrade Lewis’ two letters to the press reveals that unfortunately, the Guyana Trade Union Congress’ General Secretary no longer has a grasp of the situation at the university, or the nature of the struggle in which the University of Guyana Unions are currently involved. We would have been very willing to explain the situation to the General Secretary if he had asked for clarification. However, he seems content to receive misguided information from other sources. The unions are not only engaged in salaries and wages negotiations with the university’s administration. We are also advocating for an institution-wide commitment and adherence to principles of transparency, accountability and good governance. The latter go to the heart of the proper functioning of the institution in a way that goes far beyond ‘gripes’ or ‘grievances’. The university’s unions, for instance, have been calling for an audit of the institution since

last year. The Audit Office has indicated its intention to conduct a special audit. Though important, we believe however that more is required. It is no secret that the unions are vehemently opposed to the policy priorities of the vice-chancellor and his so-called ‘Cabinet’. In our recent letter to President David Granger (copied to the ministers of education and finance) we therefore also requested a management audit to evaluate the effectiveness of the university’s senior management team and identify both the threats and opportunities confronting our institution so that strategies can be developed to both take advantage of the opportunities and mitigate risks. The advice from Comrade Lewis that we need to submit to industrial relations practice and go to the Department of Labour is consequently completely inappropriate: What use is the Chief Labour Officer in facilitating a management audit of the University? 2. The UG Unions’ dissatisfaction with the GTUC’s representative on the UG council is not a recent occurrence. Since 2015 we’ve informally and formally engaged the General Secretary about the positions adopted by the GTUC’s nominee to the University’s Council. We met formally with Comrade Lewis last year (June 25, 2018) to state our concerns about the stances being adopted by the GTUC’s nominee. Given that a new University Council had just been appointed in March 2018, and the GTUC had once again nominated Mr. English to be their nominee, we wished to

once again state our concerns. It was clear that Comrade Lewis did not wish to discuss Mr. English’s performance on the UG Council, and the university unions therefore decided to engage the GTUC Executive through its President, Ms. Coretta McDonald. While our repeated attempts to contact Ms McDonald were initially unsuccessful, we were finally able to meet with her after submitting a formal letter of complaint on May 17, 2019 that listed some of more shocking instances of Mr. English’s anti-worker stances. That meeting with Ms. McDonald took place on Wednesday May 22, and Comrade Lewis and another member of the GTUC’s Executive were present. We were told that they would try to contact Mr. English and discuss our concerns with him. 3. Notwithstanding our aforementioned engagement with the GTUC, during the council meeting of Thursday May 23, every position adopted by Mr. English on critical issues under deliberation was in opposition to the unions’. He expressed his support for the vice-chancellor being paid in lieu of leave. He also stated his support for the vice-chancellor gaining a new contract without any evaluation. He advised that there should be a mechanism so that “minor irritants” of staff are dealt with and not come to the council to “grind” council down. He also expressed support for the vice-chancellor’s spending; stating that he (English) viewed it from a businessman’s perspective. These views clearly show that Mr. English has an ex-

I have never been ... do a disservice to the Guyanese people by not being vigilant in its pursuit of the truth. Allow me to end this letter, editor, by noting that the very unions’ leaders that platitudinously tout accountability and claim vindication are stridently opposed to accountability and transparency by the unions. It would be a wonderful demonstration of journalistic due diligence if your newspaper could

get the two UG unions to share with you for you to publish the following items that they have refused to provide the University: 1. Their Articles of Association. 2. Their Certificates of Recognition from the Trades Union Recognition and Certification Board. 3. Statements of Income and Expenditure for the years 2012 through 2018. 4. Attestation of their leader-

FROM PAGE 6

ship, with the dates and results of the most recent elections. 5. Last six Annual Returns to the Registrar of Trades Unions and the associated audited statements. I trust this letter serves to enable your readers to garner the facts and not continue to be the beneficiaries of spin. Highest regards Ivelaw Lloyd Griffith

Apology Guyana Chronicle wishes to retract a letter that was published in our May 25, 2019 edition headlined: “The Announcement of the Century” The letter wrongly ascribed words to Mrs Priya Manickchand- a Member of Parliament which she did not use and also referred to Mr Romel Roopnarine in derogatory terms. The Guyana Chronicle wishes to retract the letter and also offer its sincere apology to both Mrs Manickchand and Mr Roopnarine.

tremely peculiar perspective on the University of Guyana, and the role of the University’s Council. Like Comrade Lewis, he does not grasp that these are fundamental governance principles for which the unions have been advocating, and moreover what they perceive as ‘minor irritants’ of staff go to the heart of workers’ rights. He does not even appear to understand that the university is experiencing financial difficulties, and that these difficulties are affecting the university’s ability to satisfy its core mandate of educating our students. 4. We note with great interest three points from the General Secretary’s recent letter to the press. The first one states that: “The GTUC sits on the Council as a Social Partner in keeping with its constitutional role. Ours is to bring a working class perspective as to the direction the institution should be going consistent with its mandate in creating an educated populace ready to meet the challenges/needs of national development [our emphasis].” The unions have written to the TUC and outlined in great detail the multiple instances over many years when Mr. English

openly and consistently adopted anti-worker positions. It is ironic that Comrade Lewis persists in his staunch defense of Mr. English whose stance, statements and policy advice contradict the very interests and principles Mr. Lewis notes the TUC ought to represent. 5. The second and third points observe that: “The university unions have a representative on the council. That representative sits there as the voice/counsel of organised labour on the campus” and “… our representative does not just act as an advocate of those employed at the UG and overtime has agreed and disagreed with other stakeholders on the council consistent with interest and principles.” Taken together, these views expressed suggest that the General Secretary of the GTUC does not consider it necessary for the GTUC’s representative on the council to act in solidarity with or to protect the rights and interests of the UG faculty and staff. We find this frankly astonishing and a betrayal of the University of Guyana workers by the GTUC – the main umbrella organisation of labour unions in Guyana and the body to which the University’s

Unions (the UGSSA and the UGWU) are affiliated. The UG Unions never had any expectation that the GTUC’s nominee would endorse every position adopted by the unions – but we did expect that the nominee would not adopt positions that were actively harmful to staff and anti-worker in nature. However, the harms done to workers do not seem to trouble Mr. English or Comrade Lewis. 6. In light of the preceding, the UG Unions have written to the GTUC to indicate that unless there is some change in the umbrella body’s positions in the next week, we shall be taking steps to disaffiliate from the organisation. It would, of course, be a step we undertake with a great deal of regret. However, given the circumstances, we feel we have no other option. Regards Mr. Bruce Haynes and Dr. Jewel Thomas UGWU & UGSSA Executives

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 30, 2019

Oil $$$ to fund GSDS developmental objectives – Min Jordan says strategy will not be relegated to dust bin of history By Svetlana Marshall THE developmental objectives of the ‘Green State Development Strategy: Vision2040’ would be fulfilled through the use of revenues streaming from the Oil and Gas Sector, Minister of Finance Winston Jordan has said. GSDS: Vision2040 promotes three central messages – manage natural resource wealth; support economic resilience; and build human capital and institutional capacity. “The first key message – manage natural resource wealth, in particular, requires my Ministry of Finance to channel revenues from oil and gas into the National Budget to fund the development objectives of the Green State Development Strategy,” Minister Jordan said. At the time he was delivering the keynote address at a cocktail reception held at the Pegasus Hotel on Tuesday to celebrate the completion of Volumes I and II of GSDS: Vision2040. The strategy was presented to President David Granger in the presence of his Cabinet earlier on Tuesday by United Nations (UN) Environment Regional Director of the Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (Panama), Leo Heileman. GSDS: Vision2040 is intended to be a living example of Guyana’s commitment to the planet while ensuring the sustainable growth and economic well-being of its population. It will guide Guyana’s national development policies for the next 20 years. Minister Jordan said President Granger has mandated Cabinet to prioritize the work necessary for the implementation of GSDS: Vision 2040. It was explained that the Natural Resource Fund, Guyana’s version of the Sovereign Wealth Fund, also has three broad objectives, among them use for development purposes. “It is to the third purpose, uses for development purposes, that the GSDS would be guiding the document, and the budget purpose would be the implementation instrument,” Minister Jordan said.

He, however, explained that all resources destined for the Natural Resource Fund would go directly into that fund, and not the Consolidated Fund, in keeping with the Natural Resource Fund Act. “Whatever funds are required to be moved from the Natural Resource Fund, for the purpose of the budget to meet GSDS goals, would be withdrawn from the fund and deposited directly into the Consolidated Fund,” Minister Jordan said while adding that “the appropriation process takes place only after the National Assembly has given its approval.”

ter Jordan said it is incumbent upon leaders, at every level, to demonstrate true partnership and patriotism as the country progresses into a Green State. “Green must not only recall issues in environmental management, it should also connote the sustainable development and management of all of our human resources…Our education system for example, must be responsive to the 21st century developmental challenges. This means that early childhood education must foster creativity; our primary level must be able to stimulate

pleased to have witnessed the completion of Volumes I and II of the strategy after two and a half years of extensive consultation using a “bottom-up approach.” He, like other speakers at the forum, underscored the importance of effective implementation. “We need to have an implementation phase that will make this a household name, in every Guyanese home. Because this strategy came from a bottom up approach, I believe already Guyanese people are aware of it. Already they know what the Green State Development Strategy is because it came

Department of Environment and UN Environment Programme (UNEP) hosted its 11th and final Advisory Committee Meeting, which is a multi-stakeholder committee of the GSDS. The meeting marked the formal conclusion of the process to develop the GSDS: Vision 2040, which would be implemented from 2020. The Advisory Committee comprises senior representatives from several Government and Private Sector entities who serve as chairs and co-chairs of each of the seven thematic expert groups of the GSDS. The meetings

In photo are from left Dr. Marlon Bristol, Head of Project Management Office, Ministry of the Presidency; Adriana Zacarias Farah, Regional Coordinator, Resource Efficiency sub-Programme UN Environment, Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (Panama); Joseph Harmon, Director-General, Ministry of the Presidency; Winston Jordan, Minister of Finance; Leo Heileman, Regional Director, UN Environment, Regional Office for Latin America & the Caribbean (Panama); Sonya Roopnauth, Director of the Office of Budget, Ministry of Finance; Ndibi Schwiers, Head of the Department of Environment, Ministry of the Presidency; Deirdre Shurland, Office Manager GSDS Coordination Office; and Luca Renda, Resident Representative at UNDP. (Photo by Carl Croker)

He assured UN Environment and other critical partners in the process, that the strategy, under the A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) Administration would be effectively implemented. “This Administration does not intend to have this strategy suffer the same fate as others relegated to the dust bin of history or condemned to the shelf in the dusty and molly room,” the Finance Minister said. While alluding to Guyana’s natural wealth, Minis-

innovative thinking, our secondary school system must support original thinking and offer a balanced range of educational opportunities that would mould our young people into lifelong learners who are critical thinkers and promoters of innovation rather than followers,” the Finance Minister implored. Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon, who was among officials present, described the strategy as a “visionary” and “human” document. Harmon said he is

from them,” he posited. Harmon also used the opportunity to applaud the key players behind the crafting of the document. Head of the Department of Environment, Ndibi Schwiers; UN Environment Regional Coordinator, Resource Efficiency Sub-Programme, Adriana Zacarias Farah; and UN Environment Regional Director, Regional Office for Latin America and the Caribbean (Panama), Leo Heileman were among the other officials present. Prior to the reception,

have been held since 2018 with the overall objective of guiding and providing institutional support for the elaboration of the Guyana Government’s commitment to the GSDS Vision: 2040, which was mandated by President Granger. The Committee used the framework of the GSDS in 2017 as a term of reference to develop the GSDS: Vision 2040. “We were cognisant of ensuring that developing the Green State Development Strategy, that it was a document developed by

Guyanese. This document was not developed easily; it required the effort, time and energy of you [the stakeholder] and provide for the development of people and the improvement of the environment and moving forward we want to ensure that our M&E [Monitoring and Evaluation] framework is aligned with Budget 2020,” Schwiers said. Co-Chair of the GSDS Advisory Committee and Director of the Office of the Budget, Ministry of Finance, Sonya Roopnauth said although the meeting serves as an end of the first phase, there is still work to be done to implement the strategy. “[The development of the GSDS] in its totality is the start of a lot of hard work that is going to go into making [it] a reality and this is going to be guiding the input into the National Budget process. So the content of the National Budget will now be driven by the content of the Green State Development Strategy,” she said. Meanwhile, UNEP’s Environment Director - Latin America and the Caribbean, Leo Heileman, underscored the importance of marketing the GSDS. He urged that the financial aspect of the country be aligned with this strategy to advance Guyana’s development further into the 21st Century. “I think that this is a beacon of light for the Caribbean community. What you have here brings the country in a clear direction and it is a remarkable achievement which will ensure the best use of its resources. For us, this is a fundamental document that gives the policy direction other countries not only in the Caribbean, will look into this as a visionary approach… I have had feedback from some countries who have heard a bit about this and there is interest about what is happening in Guyana. They see this as a sort of a pivotal moment in the Caribbean; they see this as something that they need to consider and learn from,” he said. GSDS: Vision 2040 is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNGDG).

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 30, 2019

Family in moves to preserve legacy of Mighty Rebel

THE life and works of the late Calypso icon, Geoffrey Phillips, popularly known as ‘Mighty Rebel’ were fittingly celebrated over the last few days by family members, friends and supporters, with activities in his home village-Wales, as well as Toevlugt-Patentia and Goed Intent, West Bank Demerara to mark his first death anniversary. The Mighty Rebel died on May 31st 2018 at the Georgetown Public Hospital, following a battle with renal (kidney) failure. In his career he was considered the King of Calypso here and the only calypsonian to have won the crown six times. At the behest of his widow, Mrs. Juliete Phillips, and other family members, several activities were held to honour the late great calypsonian. The first activity was a ceremony on Sunday May 26, 2019, at which a Memorial was unveiled in his honour, next door to the Calvary Moravian Church. The ceremony began at 13:30 hours. It was opened with a parade by Pathfinders, Adventurers and Master Guides of the Seventh-Day Adventist Churches in the

Luminous Federation. The setting up and unveiling of the Memorial was the initiative of his daughter Raelene Phillips who gained the support of her mother, siblings and other relatives and friends. Raelene added that the rationale behind laying the memorial is that the Mighty Rebel had devoted over forty years of

thus more attention should be placed in this area by every government of the day,” she said. The family has expressed gratitude to the Toevlugt Neighbourhood Council for its approval of a spot identified in the neighbourhood on which to erect the monument. The memorial is prominently

The memorial in honour of the late calypsonian, Geoffrey ‘Mighty Rebel’ Phillips

his life to the Calypso art form and deserves to be remembered in a special way. “My father believed that there was room for improvement in the Calypso arena. He strongly embraced his opinion that more should be done for calypso in Guyana,

displayed on the sideline dam, next to the Calvary Moravian Church. It is the first structure one beholds immediately on entering Goed Intent Village, West Bank Demerara, where he grew up, as well as served as a Councillor.

Health Awareness Day

The other activities to remember the life and works of the Mighty Rebel were: A Health Awareness Day celebrated on Monday May 27th, 2019. Relatives disclosed that in his most recent years, Geoffrey, like many others, faced the challenge of lifestyle illnesses, for example diabetes and other old-age onset illnesses.

controlling their diet, living sedentary life styles (with insufficient exercise) and failing to have regular health checks. The programme therefore highlighted the need for regular exercise, eating the right types of food and reinforcing the need for regular blood sugar and blood pressure tests, engage in activities that will relieve stress among other things. There was great fun

Relatives of Geoffrey Phillips

Mindful that other persons can fall into the same predicament and not systematically manage their condition, the family thought of holding a Health Awareness Day so as to sensitize and remind others of the risks to which they can be exposed, particularly when not

as the participants played games – from the youngest to the oldest engaged in playing not only bass games, but tug ‘o’ war; skipping; jumping and other activities that will help relieve stress. Some 130 medals and dozens of trophies were

awarded to individuals as well as groups participating and winning competitions. That event on Monday, however, was preceded by a Fitness Walk and Ropad relay at the Wales Centre Ground, commencing at 6:30 hrs. Several memorable activities were engaged in on Tuesday May 28 and the final day, today, promises to be extremely informative and entertaining with a ‘Calypso Explosion’. The activity is slated for Carri’s Bar, Nismes, West Bank Demerara, and will feature veteran calypsonians in the likes of Young Bill Rogers, Mighty Duke, Mighty Smoker, Winfield James and more. Calypso Infants in the likes of Raelene Phillips (only daughter of Mighty Rebel), his son Rawn Phillips, his nephew Clad Bascom, among others, will also be performing. Final appeal from Raelene Phillips to the readership: “I invite you to remember the Mighty Rebel in a fun way, as we attempt to pass on his legacy. I will commit my service to the calypso fraternity in a special, special way so that the art form can live on and be improved.”

Agricola being transformed into model ‘green’ village By Vishani Ragobeer RESIDENTS of Agricola have joined hands to develop the community into a modern ‘green’ village where they can become socially and economically empowered. “The goal is to create a sustainable and economically viable community,” Agricola Development Association (ADA) President, Timothy Blair, told the Guyana Chronicle. “One of our goals is to make Agricola the first ‘green’ community in Georgetown, under the government’s ‘Green’ Agenda,” he said. The ADA was formed in February with the intention of “changing the face of Agricola”, according to Blair. In so doing, the group aims to physically revamp the community and boost the skills of its residents. So far, the group, along with the ‘A sure foundation’, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) of final year University of Guyana (UG) students, has begun the developmental works. “In a ‘green’ community, you need certain facilities – you need proper water, you need proper electricity, you need certain facilities, you need eco-buildings and most

importantly, you need the mindset of the people in the community to be changed to accommodate what a ‘green’ community stands for,” Blair opined. And the process of creating the ‘green community’ is one which is supported by the Ministry of Communities, which has so far donated bins and tools to help with the community’s development.

a clean community. Then we decided that we’re going to make it a yearly campaign so that people could get it in their heads – called the ‘spanking and green community’,” Blair quipped. In this space, a recreational park and a multi-purpose facility for members of the community will be built. Blair indicated that the group is working alongside the leaders of the constituency to facilitate and to potentially develop a community cultural centre as well. This is part of the efforts being made to provide safe spaces, especially for youth, to develop their skills and talents in addition to having a place for their leisure time. At

the ballfield, the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) will be looking to plant fruit trees there as well, to augment the efforts of crafting the safe space. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES On the more social side of transforming Agricola, Blair explained that efforts are being made to create employment opportunities. The concept of the ‘green community’, he said, is not just about physical attributes, but about creating sustainable livelihoods. “Critical to this is education,” the ADA president said. In facilitating education

and training opportunities, Blair shared that classes in entrepreneurship development and community leadership development are being offered to members of the community. Initially, this education programme catered only for 12 persons who were tied directly to the ADA but the merits of exposing more persons in the community to this were seen. “Doing that, gives other members of the community the knowledge that we are going to gather. Once they have that knowledge, these are the people we are going to put in charge to manage the little projects such as the clean-up campaign that we

ADA President, Timothy Blair

There is a large empty lot that has become overgrown with vegetation, just next to the community’s ballfield. The first phase of making Agricola ‘green’ involves clearing this plot of land and cleaning-up the surrounding environment. “We started with the clean-up because in order for you to have a ‘green’ community, you must first have

The clean-up works being done in Agricola in front of the plot of land designated for the recreational park and multipurpose facility (Delano Williams photo)

are doing around the community,” Timothy noted. And the programmes covered include marketing, financial management, time management, community and leadership development, among others, which are all being offered to stimulate the growth of small enterprises in the community, in an attempt to make the community economically viable. “We’re aiming to create jobs and starting companies,” Blair said, adding that ADA is seeking to also network with both local and international mentors so that residents could learn more practically about entrepreneurship. The younger ones in the community are not left out of the mix either, according to Blair, who noted that the transformation must occur at all levels if it is to be sustainable. It is envisioned that other groups like the football group, which is made up of youth primarily, and other established groups of young people, would engage with the ADA and the work being done. “We are going to train them and see that they are changing their mindset too in thinking of Agricola as a ‘green’, clean [and] viable community,” Blair stressed.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 30, 2019

Essequibo residents hail infrastructural work -Ministry promises safer roads, communities

RESIDENTS of Essequibo have been impressed by the level of infrastructural work being done in the region. Monica Bradford, a resident of Anna Regina said she is pleased with the maintenance and construction of roads along the Essequibo Coast. Bradford was among the many residents of Essequibo who raised their concerns and showed their appreciation during a Ministerial outreach at Damon Square, Anna Regina on Wednesday. Bradford said over the years a lot of emphasis has been placed on the maintenance of local infrastructure

such as roads and bridges. There have been improvements to not only the main access road but other streets and roads within Essequibo. Her sentiments were shared by other residents who commended the Ministry of Public Infrastructure for the work it had been doing over the years. Coordinator of the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Geoffrey Vaughn, said the ministry’s focus was on making roads safer for drivers and pedestrians. Vaughn, in an invited comment, said the ministry has realised that road safety plays a key and critical role

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, fielding questions from residents of Essequibo (Samuel Maughn photo)

in road construction. “We are ensuring not only that roads are construct-

ed but they are safer for drivers and pedestrians,” he said, adding that the ministry will

continue to work with the regional administration of Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) to ensure that roads are safer. He said as part of the ongoing effort, the ministry has been installing guard rails along the main access road. In addition to improving safety, the ministry will be improving access in the region. Vaughn said quite a number of roads are to be done in the area. He noted that the ministry has also completed twelve projects along the Essequibo Coast. In addition to roads, he said there are street lighting programmes in villages and along the

main road. He said some of the roads which have been rehabilitated as part of those projects are: Nursery School Road, Back Street, Bamboo Dam and Hospital Road. “In this region there is a lot of focus on the new housing scheme at Charity, Anna Regina and Lima Sands,” said Vaughn, adding that there is continuous maintenance work being done on the main access road. “People just want to know they can have a proper life with roads, lights, sea defences and bridges,” said the coordinator of the ministry.

City engineer flaged over state of manholes

Mayor Ubraj Narine said Tuesday he was fed up of the Engineer’s Department

Councillor Gregory Fraser (first from right) questioned why City Engineer Colvern Venture had no explanations to offer to the Council

By Telesha Ramnarine MAYOR Ubraj Narine has said that he is utterly “fed up” of the manner in which the City Engineer’s Department, headed by Colvern Venture, is operating. The mayor voiced his dissatisfaction during the City Council’s statutory meeting on Tuesday after councillors complained about several manholes around the City which have no covers. As for the manhole at James and La Penitence Streets, Albouystown, Councillor Heston Bostwick reported that three children fell in recently. “Due to our negligence, limbs can be lost,” the councillor posited. Councillor Oscar Clarke also commented that there are several other man-

holes across Georgetown which are bereft of covers. “You know something named fed up? The mayor is fed up of the Engineer’s Department,” Narine responded. When called upon, the City Engineer said Assistant City Engineer, Rasheed Kellman, was advised to attend Tuesday’s statutory meeting so that he could have provided answers to the issue. Kellman was, however, absent. Venture said he was in the process of sending a memo to Kellman, after which he will also forward one to the mayor for advice on the way forward. But Councillor Gregory Fraser questioned why Venture was not in possession of the said information. “The engineer was asked to report on a matter. We expect answers

from him,” Fraser said. He said he found it funny that Venture could not respond to the matter himself, even though another officer was tasked with providing the answers. Senior members of the said department have constantly been criticised for the manner in which they conduct the Council’s business. Previous Mayor Patricia Chase-Green had complained about the lackadaisical attitude with which the Engineer’s officers approach their work, and had said she was “tired” of complaints being brought to the Council about them. “I’m tired of complaints against the Engineer’s Department involving senior building inspectors. You’re dodging the people, hid-

ing from them, telling them to come back over and over. The attitude of those in the Engineer’s Department stinks; their attitude towards citizens is unacceptable,” ChaseGreen had lamented. She said it was high time that some officers from that department go home because they are at work doing absolutely nothing. “You have officers in the yard liming whole day,” she charged, and when they are picked up and taken into the fields, they produce the reports months after; and worse yet, give the excuse that they have to revisit the location before submitting the reports. “These officers are not doing what they’re expected to do,” she said. “I’m tired of hearing the same names over and over again. You have senior officers sitting down doing nothing.” She had also lamented the fact that despite their behaviour, the munic-

Former Mayor Patricia Chase-Green (at centre) had often called out the Engineer’s Department during her tenure as mayor.

ipality has to find money to pay their hefty salaries every month. “It is time the nonsense stops,” she said. With respect to allegations in the past of rampant corruption in

the City Engineer’s Department, Chase-Green once said “The only time you hear about the City Engineer’s Department is when they are taking bribes all over the place.”

City Engineer Colvern Venture

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

Ghana President for state-visit next month A GHANIAN delegation headed by President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo will be here on a State-visit on June 11-12, 2019. This announcement was made by President David Granger during his speech at the accreditation of Ghana’s non-resident High Commissioner, Professor Abena Pokua Adompim Busia, on Wednesday. “We are confident that this visit will result in practical measures aimed at enhancing relations and cooperation between our two states, particularly in the fields of agriculture, culture, energy, environment, investment, petroleum production, private sector cooperation, tourism and transportation,”

the President said. In this regard, President Granger extended a warm welcome to the visiting high-level delegation and private sector delegation from Ghana. “We anticipate that this visit will lay a solid foundation for cooperation between our states. I had the pleasure of meeting His Excellency Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo at the Commonwealth Heads of Government Conference last year and again this year, during his visit to the Republic of Cuba,” President Granger noted. Ambassador Busia said Ghana is the gateway to the West Africa Sub-Region and given its location, the

President David Granger greets Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, who at the time was on a four-day State visit to Cuba

government has put in place policies and initiatives which are all geared to promote Ghana as a business-friendly country. The high commissioner then invited members of the business community to take advantage of the positive environment. “Please, let us exchange trade missions to explore the many other business ventures open to us. In the area of educational exchanges and heritage tourism, I am committed to exploring the potential for our two countries to exchange ideas and share best practices,” she said.

Guyana to be model for Web accessibility programme

From left: Minister Cathy Hughes, MoPT’s Web Services Coordinator, Jaime Skeete and Roxana Widmer-Ilescu, ITU Senior Programme Officer

THE International Telecommunication Union (ITU) intends to use the experiences garnered from training Guyanese trainers in its ‘Internet 4 @LL’ programme. The programme was geared at making web services more accessible to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). The Train-the-Trainers programme ended on Friday, May 24. The main theme of the targeted programme was Internet Accessibility and Inclusivity. According to a release from the Ministry of Public Telecommunications (MoPT), Internet 4 @LL was designed to create public awareness of the many

built-in features in Smartphones and modern computer devices. The course participants, who were all local Information and Communication Technology (ICT) specialists, were also required to design other programmes intended to make it easy for persons with disabilities to access and consume web content. A team of experts attached to the ITU, led by its Senior Programme Officer, Roxana Widmer-Iliescu, facilitated the entire programme. Widmer-Iliescu was loud in praise of the Guyana Government’s commitment to the community of disabled persons, and of the

Minister Cathy Hughes; MoPT’s Web Services Coordinator, Jaime Skeete; and Roxana Widmer-Ilescu, ITU Senior Programme Officer, alongside the trainers

efforts being made to ensure that they are able to access information, facilities and amenities that are available to citizens. The woman, who operates out of ITU’s headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland, said that she is impressed with the all-in approach this government has taken and she intends to use the Guyana experience as a model for ITU. “Widmer-Iliescu made it very clear that the operative word in the whole scenario concerning persons with disabilities (people with hearing, speech, visual and other such impairments) is inclusivity,” the release noted. She also emphasised the

fact that any programme addressing disabilities must include the aging population, people who develop age-related impairments. Subsequent to this fiveday training, all of the participants will continue their tutoring online and will be tested by ITU before they qualify for ITU’s Creation and Remediation of Digital Content certificate. The release also noted that Public Telecommunications Minister, Cathy Hughes, took the opportunity during the Web Accessibility training programme ‘Internet 4 @ll’ to announce that the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) has put into effect the new Tax Exemption policy for Persons

with Disabilities. Earlier in 2018, the MoPT had proposed Customs tax exemptions on retrofitted vehicles and smart phones for people with certain disabilities. This initiative was first announced by Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, in the 2019 Budget. It was noted that the MoPT’s proposals stemmed from concerns expressed by PWDs, in particular, during the ministry’s public outreaches. ICT experts confirmed that there are many unused features and apps already built into smartphones, tablets and other computer devices, so the MoPT began to build public awareness. Among those features are the basic

apps needed by people with impairments. Minister Hughes said she is grateful that the budget team accepted the proposal and is happy that the GRA has completed the mechanisms to activate it. “This is not just talk, this is action,” Minister Hughes stated. She also voiced Guyana’s gratitude to the ITU for responding to MoPT’s request for assistance without any conditions. Widmer-Iliescu presented the minister with a roadmap for public awareness and training in Web Accessibility and Inclusivity to be implemented by MoPT in the immediate future.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

Indonesian ambassador to Guyana accredited

PRESIDENT David Granger has accredited Ambassador of Indonesia to Guyana, Julang Pujianto, on Wednesday at the Ministry of the Presidency. President Granger said the two countries will, this year, celebrate the 20th anniversary of formal diplomatic relations. Indonesia and Guyana established diplomatic relations on August 27, 1999. President Granger noted that the cordial ties that the two nations share are founded on mutual non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, cooperation for mutual benefit, respect for international law and treaties and the maintenance of international peace and security. “Guyana recalls Indo-

nesia’s successful hosting of the historic Asian-African Conference in the City of Bandung in April 1955 and its foundational role in the establishment of the Conference of Heads of State or Government of the Non-Aligned Movement in Belgrade in 1961. Our two Republics, though separated by a distance of 19,000 km, are bound, through friendship and cooperation, in the Non-Aligned Movement, the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) and the United Nations,” he said. The Head of State noted that Guyana was pleased to support Indonesia’s candidature as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and last year’s visit to Guyana, by Retno Marsudi, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Indonesia, has helped to consolidate

the fraternal ties between the two countries. “Guyana and Indonesia are both vulnerable to the adverse effects of climate change. Guyana is in transition to becoming a ‘green state’ which will see increased emphasis on the protection of our environment, the preservation of our biodiversity, the promotion of renewable energy generation and the adoption of practical measures to ensure climate adaptation. Guyana looks forward to working closely with Indonesia at the bilateral and multilateral levels to ensure international peace and security and to encourage increased global efforts to reduce the adverse effects of climate change,” he noted. Ambassador Pujianto, in his remarks, said Indonesia looks forward to strength-

President David Granger; new Ambassador of Indonesia to Guyana, Julang Pujianto and Minister of State, Dawn Hastings-Williams, at the Ministry of the Presidency after the accreditation

ening ties with Guyana, particularly under his tenure. “Since the establishment of diplomatic relations between Indonesia and Guyana, the bilateral relations between the two countries have been developing very well. Valuable and noble efforts have been taken by my predecessors to establish closer ties between our two countries. I wish to assure Your Excellency that I will do my utmost to further promote and strengthen the cordial relations already existing between the two countries. It is my duty as ambassador of Indonesia to promote the bilateral relation between the two countries aimed at achieving the prosperity and well-being of the people of the two nations,” he said.

Guyana participates in key ICAO confab in Korea

Minister Annette Ferguson (third from left) with other delegates

GUYANA was recently placed in the spotlight of the world-stage as the head of Guyana’s delegation to an International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) conference, Minister Annette Ferguson, was asked to deliver the keynote address at the global forum. According to a release from the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) , earlier this month, a delegation from Guyana was invited by the Republic of Korea to participate at the Fourth ICAO Air Transport Symposium and Conference on International Air Transport

Cooperation 2019 (IATS-CIAT 2019), held in Incheon, Republic of Korea, from May 8 to 10, 2019. The ICAO also invited Director-General of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field, and Director for Air Transport Management, Mr. Saheed Sulaman, to join the panel of experts to make presentations at the event. The three-day event brought together aviation stakeholders from around the world, including regulators, airport operators and academia, to discuss ways of enhancing air connectivity

and the benefits of a coherent global regulatory regime through the liberalisation of international air transport. According to the GCAA, the Guyanese delegation delivered presentations and stimulated discussions focused on achieving regulatory convergence; unfair treatment of travellers; compensation and mechanisms for redress; the impact of levies on air transport sustainability; the implications on air connectivity; and a case for liberalisation of air transport for small developing states. Guyana also participated in the Third Seminar on

Strategic Management of Aviation Policy for High-level Administrators, which ran simultaneously with IATS-CIAT 2019. This seminar focused on the country’s policies and the main challenges confronting the industry. The IATS-CIAT 2019 meeting highlighted the importance of states sharing their experiences and best practices on liberalization, so as to encourage and assist other states that are yet to fully embrace liberalisation in their regulatory approaches. At the end of the event, the GCAA said, the partici-

pants agreed on several issues brought to the fore, including the importance of preventing the proliferation of taxes on international air transport and tourism; achieving regional harmonisation in the areas of consumer protection and competition regulations; promoting liberalisation among states; and that “safeguards or reassurances” are required in multilateral agreements on the liberalisation of market access. The GCAA said that the country continues to build on its successful hosting of the Air Transport Meeting, which was held in November

2018 at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre. Complementing the outcome of the meeting last year, the GCAA is currently developing modern regulations to address all areas of air travel, following the passage of a new Civil Aviation Act in the National Assembly in December 2018. Further, Guyana has signed on to a new Multilateral Air Services Agreement (MASA), which seeks to liberalise air transport within the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

Ghanian high commissioner to Guyana accredited -- aims to promote heritage tourism, increase trade and investments GHANA is willing to collaborate with Guyana in the areas of trade and investment, agriculture, education, culture and new approaches to heritage tourism. This is according to High Commissioner of the Republic of Ghana, Professor Abena Pokua Adompim Busia, during her remarks after President David Granger accepted her Letters of Credence on Wednesday. The accreditation ceremony of the non-resident ambassador was held at the Ministry of the Presidency. Professor Abena Pokua Adompim Busia said during her tenure, she hopes to enhance bilateral ties into vibrant economic cooperation with the private sector which is regarded as the engine of growth. “Specifically areas of trade and investment, agriculture, education, culture and new approaches to heritage tourism, to this list, I single out the aspiration we both have to cooperate and support. As comparative newcomers to the global energy market, we have much to learn from each other and I hope to count on the support of all stakeholders to create the enabling environment for the promotion of this sector,” the diplomat said. She said Ghana is a business-friendly country and Guyana’s private sector and business community can benefit in the exchange of trade

missions. She said Ghana can highlight trade-related technical assistance that will assist in capacity-building for economic diversification in improving the supply value chain for small and medium enterprises targeting women and youths. “It is hoped that this could be achieved through a formalised framework, in the areas of education and heritage tourism. I am committed to exploring the potential for our two countries to exchange ideas and shared best practices; this will serve to not only enhance job creation, but more importantly, to transform the world of ideas in order to shape the knowledge we share about each other,” she said. President David Granger conveyed his best wishes to Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, President of the Republic of Ghana, for his personal well-being and for the continued prosperity of the people of that country. “Guyana and Ghana are joined by ties of blood, history and common interests. Guyana joined in heralding Ghana’s Independence in 1957. Some cultural organisations observe, annually, March 6 as Ghana Day,” the President said. The Head of State explained that Guyana and Ghana have enjoyed cordial relations since the establishment of diplomatic ties on May 14, 1979.

President David Granger accepts the Letters of Credence from the new High Commissioner of Ghana to Guyana, Professor Abena Pokua Adompim Busia, at the Ministry of the Presidency on Wednesday (Adrian Narine Photo)

“Our relations are founded on mutual, non-interference in each other’s internal affairs, mutual respect for each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty, cooperation for mutual benefit, respect for international law and treaties and the maintenance of international peace and security,” he said. President Granger said the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two states, this year, is a propitious time for deepening and strengthening cooperation between the two countries. He said Guyana is in transition towards the establishment of a ‘green state’ which will see more em-

‘Awara’ on the run after Stabroek Market robbery POLICE arrested a man minutes after he and an accomplice, who goes by the alias “Awara”, robbed three vendors at the Stabroek Market. The man arrested was identified as a 24-year-old resident of Plantain Walk, West Bank Demerara. According to police, the two men relieved the vendors of cash and other items outside of the Stabroek Market around 02:10hrs Wednesday. One of the men was armed with a handgun. Police ranks, under the command of a corporal, who

The silver .38 revolver handgun with four matching rounds that was retrieved from the bandit

were patrolling the area at the time, responded and after a brief pursuit, the lawmen apprehended one of the suspects who had an unlicensed .38 revolver with four matching rounds. According to the police, stringent efforts are being made to apprehend the other suspect who managed to elude them. The police noted that an increased and concentrated presence by ranks in and around the Stabroek Market block recently, has resulted in a decrease in reported incidents of crime in that area.

phasis being placed on the protection of the environment, the preservation of biodiversity, the promotion of renewable energy generation, and practical measures to ensure climate adaptation. Guyana’s ‘Green State’, he said, will allow the country to respond more effectively to the challenges posed by climate change. “Climate change represents a threat to both of our countries’ economy and environment. We look forward to sharing experiences in building climate-resilient economic sectors,” President Granger said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

WWF boosts identification of key marine species

WORLD Wildlife Fund (WWF) Guianas handed over 140 booklets on identification of key marine species to the Ministry of Agriculture Fisheries Department, and the Guyana Association of Trawler Owners and Seafood Processors (GATOSP). The booklets, titled “Onboard Guide for Identification of Marine Endangered, Threatened and Protected (ETP) and Other Key Species, were handed over at a simple ceremony last week. Present at the ceremony were President of the Guyana Association of Trawler Owners and Seafood Processors(GATOSP), Reuben Charles; members and staff of the Fisheries Department and the Seabob Working Group; and staff and captains from the various industrial companies: Pritipaul Singh Investments; Noble House Seafoods and Gopie Investments Inc. Marine Conservation Officer, WWF Guianas - Guyana Office Sopheia Edghill, provided a brief insight on the guide that was handed over to the Fisheries Department and the GATOSP. She stated that the on-board guide will help the fishermen and regulatory officers to easily and accurately

Members and staff of the Fisheries Department and the Seabob Working Group, and staff and captains from the various industrial companies (Pritipaul Singh Investment, Noble House Seafoods and Gopie Investment Inc.) and WWF staff

identify ETP and other key marine species. The guide contains 43 ETP species that are known to interact with the marine fisheries in the Guianas, including sharks, rays, sea turtles and marine mammals. Edghill further stated that the species were selected on the basis of their relevance to the commercial fisheries and their life history characteristics. While the on-board

guide does not provide detailed information on the biology, behaviour, or ecology of the species, she said it consists of detailed information that would easily allow for accurate identification of the species. The guide also has illustrations of the species identifying characteristics, similar species, habitat, size, conservation status and handling practices of the specie if they are caught.

Haslington man remanded for allegedly robbing police officer PRINCIPAL Magistrate Faith McGusty on Wednesday remanded to prison Jafar Carter, for allegedly robbing a female police officer. Carter, of Haslington Housing Scheme, East Coast Demerara, appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded not guilty to the charge. The charge read that on May 25,2019, at Shell Gas Station, Regent Street, while being armed with a pair of scissors, Carter robbed Shamain Timmerman of a $5,000 bag and a

$26,000 cellphone, along with $5,000 in cash. According to particulars of the offence presented by Police Prosecutor Ceon Blackman, Timmerman is a serving member of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) and on the day in question was walking along Regent and King Streets, Georgetown, with her colleague. Carter reportedly emerged from an alleyway and held onto the victim’s colleague, while Timmerman tried to seek refuge at the gas station nearby. Carter however

pursued and caught her, held the pair of scissors to her and took away her handbag with the items inside. The matter was reported to the Brickdam Police Station and Carter was later arrested. Prosecutor Blackman, during his objection to bail for Carter, told the court that the defendant was positively identified by the victim and her colleague. Magistrate McGusty then remanded Carter to prison until June 19, 2019.

18-yr-old ‘look out man’ gets 18 months

ACTING Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus on Wednesday sentenced 18-year-old labourer Mark Sampson to 18 months imprisonment for break and enter and larceny. Sampson appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to the charge, which read that during the month of April, 2019, at Kumaka Stretch, North West District, he broke and entered the home of Rayon Raymond and stole

a $75,000 gold ring, along with a Guess watch worth $35,000. Police Prosecutor Adduni Inniss told the court that Sampson was recently released from prison after serving a nine-month jail sentence for similar offences. Sampson told the court that he executed the crime with another man, but he was only the “look out man,” while the other person went inside the house. “The man tell me guard

the house and see who coming,” the teen told the court; he explained that moments later the man came out from the house with the items and said, “we done cannon leh we make a spin.” Sampson told the magistrate that he received $10,000 from the man for his part. After sentencing Sampson the magistrate told him, “what you did was wrong,” as she reminded him that he is a repeat offender.

Principal Fisheries Officer Ingrid Peters, expressed gratitude to the WWF Guianas team for developing the on-board guide. She highlighted that over the years WWF has been partnering with the Fisheries Department and by extension the sector, to host training sessions and workshops. Peters also mentioned the WWF’s support to the Observer Programme in

which that data was used by the assessors for the Guyana Seabob Marine stewardship Council Certification. She further thanked WWF Guianas for playing a critical role in development of the department and the association’s members. Country Manager, Guyana, WWF Guianas Aiesha Williams, expressed gratitude to be partnering with the fisheries sector and emphasised

that the guide book is to help fishermen and regulatory officers collect data to easily and accurately identify ETP and other marine species during their work. “We see this as an important part of our work, as part of the oceans programme specifically marine turtle conservations and sustainable fisheries,” Williams said. She stated that the guide will help the species to be kept in their natural habitats to balance ecosystems services. “This will ensure the existence for both economic and ecological purposes.” Williams further noted that the guide was printed on waterproof material and WWF Guianas welcomes any feedback on the booklet. The printing of the onboard guide was done with the support from WWF Netherlands, IUCN, while WWF Guianas was responsible for the content development. She closed by highlighting May 23 World Turtle Day and marine turtles are one of the ETP species in the booklet. Williams encouraged the fishermen to share their knowledge with others.

Relief for Essequibo rice farmers …NDIA to address D&I issues within two weeks THE National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) will put all hands on deck to bring relief to the scores of Essequibo farmers, particularly those who visited the Ministry of Agriculture's booth at the Government Outreach at Damon's Square, Anna Regina, to voice their frustration over the plethora of drainage and irrigation issues, significantly affecting their rice production. The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the NDIA, Federick Flatts, said that in a matter of two weeks, additional works will be done to tackle the areas and specific locations related by farmers. "We have our normal working programme and we will continue to carry out our programme, based on what the farmers have said, there are some works that are needed outside of our current work programme and we are planning to visit the areas within two weeks and, based on those visits, we will seek to execute additional programmes," Flatts said. Speaking to the Guyana

Chronicle were a group of rice farmers, who stressed that the situation is costing them severely. They related that the canals are currently clogged and are in need of urgent cleaning; non-working kokers is another issue. Minister within the Ministry of Agriculture, Valerie Yearwood, said that the booth was flooded with farmers and she was happy that all of the necessary agencies, including the Guyana Livestock and Development Authority (GLDA), the Guyana Rice Development Board (GRDB) and the Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) were there to assist with the various concerns. She, too, related that the main concern was that of drainage and irrigation for rice farmers. Yearwood related that as she prepares to take office on Monday, she has compiled a schedule of visits between June and July, which will enable her to visit the various agencies and organizations that will provide the needed assistance such as funding and training to women, youths and farmers in rural communities. Some

agencies that will be visited are the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA), The Guyana Meteorological Unit, the Hope Coconut Estate and the Guyana Marketing Shop. "Essequibo will not be left out, I will be coming and meet with youth groups and women organisations here, but I don't just want to meet with them to hear their issues, I want to be in a position when I hear their issues to bring solutions....so that when I meet with them I can be able to say where I can get grants, where I can get loans and technical advice, because that is what will empower them; many of them need funding and they need training and so on." She has also met with Minister of Agriculture Noel Holder and all programme heads, so her transition will be smooth. She will also be prioritising on marketing of products for farmers, whether processed or in their raw state.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 30, 2019

Fuel shortage in Venezuela spills over to Barima-Waini district THE price of gasoline in Region One (Barima-Waini) has reportedly increased as a result of a shortage of gasoline there due to the ongoing socio-economic crisis in Venezuela. The Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) said though it has not received a formal notification of a fuel shortage in Region One, it is aware that there is a shortage. “Reports received have suggested that there is a shortage of gasoline in Venezuela, from where most of the fuel in Region One originates. This has naturally led to a reduction in gasoline imported into the region; the supply of diesel has been unaffected,” GEA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Mahender Sharma, told this newspaper. In the Barima-Waini district, residents and business operators depend heavily on fuel imported from Venezuela. The imported fuel is checked at the port of Morawhanna; the authorities usually add a tax to the fuel when it arrives there before it is distributed by tradesmen to other parts of the region. However, due to the ongoing economic crisis in Venezuela, the authorities there have reportedly clamped

down on the trade of fuel across the border – a move which is directly impacting the economy of Region One with locals being forced to pay higher taxi and minibus fares, which have risen by 100 per cent. Regional Chairman Brentnol Ashley in an interview with the Guyana Chronicle on Tuesday, said the Barima-Waini district has been experiencing a shortage of gasoline for the past five weeks; however, the situation has worsened in recent days. The shortage, he said, has resulted in an increase in prices. He explained that residents in Mabaruma and Moruca are left with no other choice than to pay between $8,000 to 10,000 for five gallons of gasoline, while over in the Matarkai sub-district, residents are being charged between $12,000 and $15,000. In the not-so-distant past, residents were paying between $2000 and $2,500 for five gallons of gasoline, according to the regional chairman To cushion the impact, the regional chairman has recommended that government consider relaxing the $5,000 GRA tax on every barrel that

is coming in until such time that we could have a smooth flow of fuel in the region, and that through GUYOIL, if they have a tanker to come to the region and sell to business persons, so that the prices could drop. The GEA said it will keep track of the situation in the Barima-Waini district. “The GEA will monitor the gasoline situation in Region One and work with the regional administration, Guyana Revenue Authority and other stakeholders to address the situation. GEA is so far advised that the availability of gasoline remains at normal levels in the other regions,” Dr Sharma told the Guyana Chronicle. In response to the claim of the “illegal” sale of fuel beyond Region One, Dr Sharma said: “The GEA seeks to maintain fair and reasonable competition in the energy sector. Once taxes have been paid on fuel imported, the GEA will not restrict the area within which an importer can sell his fuel, save and except for fuel imported specifically for use in Region One, which benefits from

Gov’t ready to part ways with ancestral lands in Queenstown …urges residents to organise

GOVERNMENT will soon decide on how to distribute ancestral lands to residents of the community of Queenstown, Essequibo Coast. “We have to decide who do we hand the land to...do you hand it to the NDC, a community...it is an issue of ownership,” said Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon in response to questions on ancestral lands at a community meeting in Queenstown on Wednesday. He said lands which are not transported and titled currently belong to the state but, it should be returned to the community. Harmon said the direction in which they choose to go is outlined in a report which was

compiled after the completion of the Commission of Inquiry (COI) into ancestral lands. At the end of the COI a report was compiled with over 500 recommendations. President David Granger in March 2017 had established a CoI under the Commission of Inquiry Act, to examine and make recommendations to resolve all issues, and uncertainties surrounding the claims of Amerindian land titling, the individual, joint or communal ownership of lands acquired by freed Africans and any matters relating to land titling in Guyana. A resident of Queenstown, Cornell Beaton said there was a case on behalf of Queenstown for lands which residents wish to

Some of the residents who turned out to raise their concerns (Samuel Maughn photo)

Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon addressing residents of Queenstown

(Samuel Maughn photo)

extend and use to create a housing scheme. “We have a plot of land over the high bridge...there is 500 acres of land which we want to dedicate for housing in Queenstown,” said Beaton. Harmon in reply said Government would love to return the land to the community but they have to decide how to disburse it. “I would love to see you have it...you are the heirs to the land,” said the director general. He urged the people of Queenstown to come together and determine in their own way how to address the matter. Harmon maintained that Government wants the land to be moved from the state to the community.

a lower tax rate.” In view of the reports, the GEA has committed to deploying its teams to the region to inves-

tigate the situation. Finance Minister Winston Jordan, when approached on the issue on Tuesday, said he

was unable to confirm that there is a shortage. He said that government, however, will look into the reports.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

GDF contingent in Tradewinds 2019

FIFTEEN members of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) have left Guyana to participate in Exercise Tradewinds 2019 which will be held consecutively in two phases in the Dominican Republic and St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The team is led by Lieutenant Colonel Denzil Carmichael who will hold the post of Task Force Commander on the exercise. According to the GDF, Lieutenant Colonel Sheldon Howell will also holdÂ a significant appointment as he will lead the Regional Observer and Assessment Team. The officers are accompanied by eight others and five soldiers.

Exercise Tradewinds is a U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM)-sponsored maritime security and disaster response exercise executed annually to strengthen the security of the Caribbean Region.Â It will attract over 350 military, police and civilian personnel from several Caribbean islands, as well as the US, Canada, France, Mexico, the Netherlands, and the United Kingdom. The focus this year is on maritime security, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief and field training. Guyana is slated to host Exercise Tradewinds in 2020.

The 15-member GDF team that left Guyana for Exercise Tradewinds 2019

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

Kristian Jeffrey’s alleged shooter held

IN the wee hours of Sunday morning, police have arrested a suspect in the robbery and shooting of local motor racer and squash player, Kristian Jeffrey. The suspect was arrested on Tuesday during a cordon and search operation at Agricola, East Bank Demerara (EBD), the same village where Jeffery was attacked. The perpetrator was identified as a 20-year-old of Water Street, Agricola, EBD. Jeffrey was robbed and shot in his right ear early Sunday morning as he was making his way home after

Kristian Jeffrey

the Buju Banton concert held on Saturday last at the Prov-

idence National Stadium tarmac. Jeffrey detailed that he and a friend attended the concert and at the conclusion of the show, they called a taxi to pick them up from the stadium and take them home. However, owing to the heavy traffic present, Jeffrey noted that they decided to walk to meet the car. “In the vicinity of Agricola, we were accosted by individuals with guns who proceeded to rob us of our possessions, including jewellery, phone, wallet,” Jeffrey said, adding: “During

Ecuadorian jailed for forgery, cocaine trafficking A CHEF from Ecuador, South America, who is suspected to be the mastermind behind a fake United States (U.S.) visa scam in Guyana, was on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, jailed for four years for conspiracy to commit forgery and cocaine trafficking. Julio Herreira, 36, made his appearance before Acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court and pleaded guilty to the two charges. Particulars of the first charge alleged that, between May 1, 2019, and May 23, 2019, at Georgetown, Herreira conspired with persons known and unknown to commit forgery. Particulars of the second charge alleged that, on May 27, 2019, at Charlotte Street, Georgetown, Herreira had 0.6 grammes of cocaine in

Julio Herreira

his possession for the purpose of trafficking. Police Prosecutor Shellon Daniels told the court that, on May 23, 2019, Herreira was intercepted by detectives from the Criminal Investigation Department (CID) Headquarters at DHL, Fifth Street, Alberttown, with two fake U.S. visas in his possession. Herreira then took the

ranks to a Charlotte Street, Georgetown home, where he was staying and a search was conducted; the suspected cocaine was found in a cigarette pack. In court, Herreira apologised and explained that he did not know that the fake visa was a serious offence in Guyana. “I’m sorry, I had no intention of scamming anybody,” the defendant said, as he explained that he purchased the cocaine while he was intoxicated, but did not get to use it. The acting chief magistrate sentenced Herreira to three years imprisonment for the conspiracy to commit forgery and one year imprisonment with a fine of $20,000 for the cocaine charge.

‘Divorce’ fraudster snared in ‘sting’ operation SHERWIN Prince, 44, of Prince William Street, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara, was on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, arraigned before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court for obtaining money by false pretence. Prince is accused of impersonating a police officer and swindling a man of $75,000 by claiming that he could have assisted him in getting his divorce case dismissed at the High Court. Prince denied that be-

tween May 22, 2019, and May 23, 2019, at Georgetown, with intent to defraud, he obtained the sum of $75,000 from Ewart Mathill, by pretending that he was in a position to have a divorce matter dismissed. According to reports, Mathill is before the High Court involved in a divorce matter. It is alleged that the victim was approached by Prince, who pretended to be a police officer and claimed that he could have the matter dismissed for $100,000. The victim paid $75,000 to

Prince and promised to pay the remainder later. However, Mathill enquiried about Prince and learnt that the man was not a police officer, but a known fraudster. The matter was reported to the police and Prince was arrested during a “sting” operation. Prince was unrepresented by counsel and was granted $60,000 bail by Magistrate McGusty. The matter was adjourned until June 19, 2019.

a confrontation I was shot to the right ear.” After the incident, the local sportsman was taken to the Balwant Singh Hospital

where he received stitches and further treatment before being discharged. “I would like to thank the doctors who treated me

immediately, and family, friends and well-wishers for their support during this time,” he said.

GUYANA CHRONICLE, Thursday May 30, 2019

Security at Albouystown Health Centre under scrutiny

AFTER raising the issue of no security presence at the Albouystown Health Centre more than a month ago, Councillor Heston Bostwick again called for action to be taken in this regard. On Tuesday, when city councillors met for their fortnightly statutory meeting at City Hall, Bostwick offered that he is still concerned about security at the facility. He informed that around 10:30hrs last Monday night, he observed that a security guard turned up, but that there was no one he was taking over from. As such, he said there is no ‘take over’ system in place. He has since called for those officers to be held accountable; those who are responsible for guarding the facility. He reported that on some nights, he is out on the streets as late as 03:00hrs,

The statutory meeting in full swing last Tuesday when Councillor Heston Bostwick raised the issue of a lack of security at the Albouystown facility

but sees no security guard turning up for duty. The councillor has argued that the Council must have a system in place to account

for the time officers spend on duty. They are being paid and must be held accountable, he said. Deputy Chief Constable,

North-West miners charged with murdering drinking partner TWO miners from the North West District (NWD) were on Wednesday, May 29, 2019, charged for the gruesome murder of their drinking partner, Darvin David, whose lifeless body was discovered in a pit latrine days after his disappearance. Leroy McKentire, 41 and Rayon Robert, 18, appeared before the Acting Chief Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus at the Georgetown Magistrates' Court and were not required to plead to the capital offence. Particulars of the charge alleged that between May 17, 2019, and May 22, 2019, at Tassawini, NWD, they murdered the 25-year-old David. According to the facts presented in court by police Prosecutor Shellon Daniels, all the parties are known to each other and on the day in question, were in a shop in Tassawini consuming alcohol together. Daniels explained that there was an argument between the three men and McKentire and Roberts attempted to beat David. The shopkeeper intervened and

Leroy McKentire and Rayon Robert

the three men left the shop. However, David was never seen again and villagers in the area launched a search party and found his decomposed body in a pit latrine. The police, during their investigation, arrested McKentire and Robert. The men allegedly confessed to confronting David while he was walking along the Tassawini “backdam” from the shop and stabbed him about his body. The duo reportedly told

investigators that they threw David’s body into a nearby creek, then later fished his body out and dumped it into the latrine. Prosecutor Daniels told the court that the police are currently on the hunt for a third suspect, who played a role in David’s murder. The duo was remanded to prison until July 2, 2019, and the case was transferred to the Acquero Magistrate's Court.

Laurel Gittens, had responded that the security guards usually turn up for duty at the City Constabulary before heading off to the various

locations. However, there is a belief that these officers show up at the constabulary but do not actually proceed to the required locations.

Gittens said the officers’ supervisors are also expected to visit the locations to check on the attendance of the guards. As for when they do not show up for duty, she said they are often sent warning letters. The Albouystown Health Centre was re-opened to the public two years ago at the corner of Bel Air and James Streets. For approximately one year, the centre had been out of operation with the Mayor and City Council (M&CC) often citing a lack of finances to have it fixed. The facility has been rendering services to this community since 1970 when former mayor, Hamilton Green, was Minister of Health. The clinic also extends services to the residents of the Dharm Shala, located one street away, at King Edward Street.

Jaguar released ––Wildlife Commission

A jaguar, which was captured by residents of Lima Sands on the Essequibo Coast, has been released into its natural habitat after being in the care of the Guyana Wildlife Conservation and Management Commission. The animal was captured last week and Lima Sands resident Marvin Calvan was taking care of it in a trap he had set to cage the animal which was preying on other mammals such as dogs and also on poultry in the village. According to the commission, a team from the body and another from the Ministry of Natural Resources partnered in the exercise to retrieve the animal. officials from the two entities met Calvan and his sister on Thursday, May 23, 2019 at Lima Sands and the animal was placed in a cage while the trap used to catch it was destroyed. The commission offered no reason for the latter move. A blood test was performed on the animal before it was released. The commission is reminding the public that the

The jaguar which was caught at Lima Sands on the Essequibo Coast.

jaguar, the nation’s national animal, is a protected species and, under the Wildlife Conservation and Management Act, it is deemed an offence for one to have such an animal in one’s possession or to have the animal on display for public viewing without the necessary authorization. A fine between $750,000 to $2M and a jail term of 3 years are the penalties for anyone who breaks the law regarding the animal.

The commission is calling on communities which have wildlife –related issues to report same to the body to ensure mutual existence between animals and residents in affected areas. The body said it does not recommend trapping of big cats in conflict situations and it was noted that, if a big cat is killed, a report should be made to the nearest police station or the commission.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday May 30, 2019

‘Success’, ‘overwhelming’, ‘mind-blowing’

-- local delegation in high praise of Houston oil & gas conference By Lisa Hamilton THE Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has adjudged Guyana’s participation at the world’s largest Offshore Technology Conference (OTC) in Houston, Texas earlier in May, a resounding success. On Wednesday, the Chamber of Commerce hosted a press briefing to speak

Seated from left at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) head office are: GCCI executive member, Vishnu Doerga; GCCI member Charles Ramson Jr; and GCCI President, Nicholas Boyer (Adrian Narine photo)

on the matter which was attended by GCCI President, Nicholas Boyer; GCCI executive member, Vishnu Doerga and member, Charles Ramson Jr., among others. Boyer described the experience, which ran from May 6-9, 2019 at the NRG Park, as a “success” while Ramson summarised it as “overwhelming” and “mind-blowing”. The Guyanese trade mission, comprised over 20 businesses, set up a 600 square-foot Guyanese booth which had the potential to be visited by the over 60,000 business owners or investors present. The mission focused on two primary activities. There were the booth for business-to-business (B2B) meetings and a Guyana Night for Information-Sharing and Business Networking. It was made possible through a collaboration between GCCI and the Guyana Office for Investment (GO-Invest). On just the first day, the agencies reported high traffic at Guyana’s booths; healthy levels of interaction and information-sharing. At the Guyana Evening, in a presentation from Boyer, the international business community was invited to “take the plunge” in investing in Guyana while other presenters dubbed the country as an easy place to invest. There was also information shared on local policies and regulatory frameworks which assured attendees that the country’s laws are being revamped to cater for the smooth flow of investments. VEHICLE TO SUCCESS Speaking to the media on Wednesday, Ramson described the OTC as a “vehicle” through which the possibility for deeper engagement between businesses can be explored. “What the conference does and what the trade mission does is that it opens the door for similar types of business that can create those alliances or joint ventures,” Ramson said. He added: “We would have had many persons en-

gaging already in advance of the conference and that gave them a good opportunity to sit and meet and discuss, because forming alliance or entering into a partnership is not just saying ‘oh, I like this company’; there are actually commercial terms for which you’ve got to make sure that you get the devil of the details correct so that it becomes a neat fit.” He added that while Guyana may not yet be an oil producing country, businesses are competent enough to know they need to prepare themselves from now to fit into the supply chain of the future. “If we are going to become serious businesses in oil and gas, we have to facilitate that transfer of both expertise and technology as well as machinery. So, we can either sit here and say ‘you guys come to us’ or we can be proactive about going and trying to get our business up to speed because there is a direct, vested interest in making that leap,” Ramson said. Meanwhile, Doerga, the former chamber’s president, underscored the importance of ensuring that businesses under the GCCI are well educated on the direct and indirect benefits available through the oil and gas sector. He noted that the chamber has completed missions in Canada and Scotland with the OTC now representing its third participation in such opportunistic trade shows. “All of these missions were with the intent to better educate ourselves and to also understand who are the players in the market currently,” Doerga said. Boyer told the media that based on the response witnessed at the OTC, the chamber is organising the participation of local businesses at another trade mission. The mission, SPE Offshore Europe Conference and Exhibition, will take place in Aberdeen, Scotland, from September 3-6, 2019 and is expected to attract over 36,000 attendees.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 30, 2019

World Cup win for hosts could have huge impact on English cricket, says Morgan By Julian Guyer

LONDON, England (AFP) - England captain Eoin Morgan says winning a home World Cup could do wonders for cricket in the sport’s birthplace as he prepares to lead his team in their tournament opener against South Africa. England are top of the one-day international rankings and favourites to lift a

trophy they have never yet won in its 44-year-history a far cry from their woeful first-round exit at the 2015 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Television coverage of cricket in Britain has been largely hidden behind a paywall since England won the 2005 Ashes but Morgan believes a World Cup win would break through to a new audience. “It would mean a huge amount. The World Cup alone raises the profile of the game and is a platform for every young kid in this country to have a hero or have the inspiration to pick up a ball or a bat,” Morgan told reporters at the Oval yesterday. “To go on and win it, I couldn’t imagine what that would do,” the former Ireland batsman added. BRILLIANT’ SOUTHGATE The England cricket squad and backroom staff have spent time with England football manager Gareth Southgate, whose side

revitalised interest and affection in the national team on their way to the semi-finals of last year’s soccer World Cup in Russia. “We did do a session with Gareth, it was brilliant,” recalled Morgan. “He got up and talked about his journey with the team in and around the World Cup, but in the buildup, as well, and how they built bigger expectations and came together more as a group. “I think everybody within the room listening who has been involved with our team over the last four years recognised that -- we started exactly where they did. Recognised what had happened in the past, drawn a line under it, tried to do things differently and move forward and enjoyed the challenge of that.” But the expectations surrounding England’s men’s football and cricket teams are wide apart, with Morgan saying his side had received a very different reaction when they were beaten by

Pakistan in the 2017 semi-finals of the one-day Champions Trophy in Cardiff. “ I t ’s a m a z i n g . H e (Southgate) did brilliantly. Got to the semi-final and everybody says it’s great. We got knocked out of the Champions Trophy semi-final, and we’re crap,” added Morgan to laughter from the assembled media. England may have suffered several injury scares in recent weeks, including his own dislocated finger, but Morgan said all of his 15-man squad were available to face the Proteas at the Oval. “We’ve no injury concerns and we have a full bill of health for tomorrow,” he

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England captain Eoin Morgan (AFP photo/Andrew Boyers)

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GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 30, 2019

Lennox Braithwaite to captain WIFBSC team to 150th Imperial Meeting AFTER an impressive debut at the World Shooting Championships at Camp Perry, Ohio, USA, in August 2015, West Indies Fullbore Shooting Council (WIFBSC) has named a competitive-looking 10-member team that will represent the Caribbean at the 150th Imperial Meeting of the National Rifle Association (United Kingdom) in Bisley, this July. While many West Indian marksmen and women have been competing at the Imperial Meeting over the years, president of the WIFBSC, Major (ret’d) D. John. Nelson JP of Jamaica has indicated that the Caribbean would be fielding a strong team at this historical competition.

The Guyanese duo of Lennox Braithwaite and USA-based Sigmund Douglas have been named captain and adjutant (manag-

er) respectively, based on a missive sent to CEO of the National Rifle Association (United Kingdom), Andrew Mercer.

Two marksmen, Anderson Perry and Rev. Olsen Daniels, both of Antigua and Barbuda, would be making their debuts in England

… Sigmund Douglas appointed adjutant while the other members of the team are GuyanaNRA vice-captain Dylan Fields, Jon Fraser (USA-based Guyanese), Norris Gomez (Trin-

Flashback! West Indies competitors in the World Long Range Fullbore Championships in Ohio, USA, August 2015

idad and Tobago), Caroline Gomez (Trinidad and Tobago), Justine Lall (Trinidad and Tobago) and Chalky White (UK-based, St. Kitts & Nevis). Individually, each team member will be pursuing his own sponsorship with Braithwaite already securing full sponsorship, compliments of Secure Innovations and Concepts Inc., through Managing Director, Harold ‘Top Gun’ Hopkinson. Team West Indies would be seeking sponsorship according to Braithwaite and Douglas to procure Team Jackets. The 150th Imperial Meeting of the National Rifle Association (United Kingdom) in Bisley is set for July 17-28.

England begin bid to win tournament for first time THE Cricket World Cup begins today, with hosts England opening their bid to win the tournament for the first time. Eoin Morgan’s team, the world number one and favourites, take on South Africa led by Faf du Plessis at The Oval (10:30 BST). Defending champions Australia, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and West Indies also make up the 10-team competition. They will all play each other once in 50-over matches across 11 venues in England and Wales. The top four teams from the group stage advance to the semi-finals before the final at Lord’s on July 14. There will be full commentary on every game on Test Match Special and the BBC Sport website will show in-play highlights. Organisers say that 95% of 800 000 available

tickets have been sold, adding it is believed a third of these ticket holders will be new to cricket. In addition, 150 000 tickets are held by women and children, while some 250 000 have been purchased by south-east Asian fans. Entering as the best team in the world is a remarkable turnaround for an England side, knocked out in the first round four years ago. Their rise has largely been built on a powerful batting line-up - they have twice broken the record for the highest total made by a team in an ODI. “The favourites tag is there for a reason,” Morgan told BBC Sport. “The level of performances that we’ve produced, particularly at home over the last two years in particular, probably lends itself to us being favourites. “That might change throughout the tournament; we’ll more than likely come

GBA calls for Allicock’s ... attitude, with even award-winning boxing coach Sebert Black making a complaint and Cuban coach Francisco Roldan supporting. “We (GBA) had then warned the Caribbean bantamweight champion that his attitude towards training needed to drastically improve. This has not happened and his attendance has gotten worse. In fact, Mr Allicock failed to even attend a medical exam-

ination provided by the GOA and offered the excuse of “not feeling well” as the reason for his absence,” Ninvalle wrote. “All of this comes against the backdrop of Mr Allicock coming in at over six pounds over the bantamweight limit for his last fight in Guyana. On Saturday, May 25, 2019 at another meeting chaired by you (Yassin), Mr Allicock could offer no reason for his absence from training.

up against some difficult challenges and difficult games that we’ll lose and might have to come back from, but going into the tournament, it certainly sits fine with us.” England’s dismal showing four years ago was in keeping with a miserable recent World Cup record. They reached the semi-finals in each of the first five tournaments and were runners-up on three occasions, but they have not won a single knockout game since their last final appearance in 1992. In 1999, the last of the four previous World Cups to be held in the UK, they were knocked out in the first round. But, in perhaps the biggest cricketing summer this country has ever known, England will bid to regain the Ashes from Australia after the conclusion of the World Cup, with Morgan saying he was mindful of FROM BACK PAGE

Being concerned about his approach to training and preparation for such an important international engagement, GBA recommends to you that his imminent trip to Cuba be put on hold. We also recommend that GOA immediately put on hold all stipends paid to Mr Allicock until the GBA signals that there has been an improvement in his attitude towards training.”

the opportunity to grow the sport. He referred to the success of the England women, who won their version on home soil two years ago. “Cricket here is thriving, the women’s game is thriving,” said Dublin-born Morgan. “The impact of that World Cup was amazing. “This World Cup won’t have as big an impact unless we go a long way, but it will still have an impact. “We got knocked out early in 1999, but I still remember it like it was yesterday.” WHO MIGHT STOP ENGLAND? The schedule of the tournament is a revival of the format used in 1992, when nine teams all played each other before the semis and final. The 10 participants make it the smallest competition in terms of teams taking part since 1992, and the decision

to contract from a 14-team tournament four years ago was criticised for excluding some of cricket’s smaller nations. Ireland are not playing in a World Cup for the first time since 2003, while Scotland missed out after a controversial defeat by West Indies in the qualifying competition. However, the 10-team format does mean that most of the teams entering arrive with some prospect of lifting the trophy. Australia have won four of the past five World Cups and are improving after a turbulent year which saw Steve Smith and David Warner banned for ball-tampering. Both batsmen have returned in time for this tournament. India are ranked as the second best side in the world and in captain Virat Kohli have perhaps the greatest one-day batsman of all-time. Their fierce rivals Pa-

No replica of ... sale during Guyana’s Nations League qualifier. The new kit design didn’t find favour with many fans, with some stating that the design was lazy and had zero reflection of Guyana. Meanwhile, Forde said the new kit deal will be made public by the end of next week, since the GFF is still tying up the legal end of the agreement. Upon the release of the new kit, Forde told reporters that he believes the GFF was

“able to establish a remarkable working relationship with Capelli. At the heart of our discussion has been where we are as a federation and the support we need to grow the sport from the grassroots level, straight up to the senior team,” Forde said. Guyana will open their 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup campaign against defending champions USA on June 18 at the Allianz Field in Minneapolis. Golden Jaguars were drawn

kistan were beaten 4-0 by England in the series prior to the World Cup, but they won the Champions Trophy in the UK in 2017 and often peak in tournaments. West Indies have the ability to post huge totals, and both South Africa and New Zealand, neither of whom have ever won the World Cup, have enough quality to take the title after a number of near misses. Indeed, of all the teams taking part, it is perhaps only difficult to make a strong case for Bangladesh, Sri Lanka or Afghanistan being the eventual champions. “It will be exciting,” said former England captain Michael Vaughan. “There are so many star quality players across all the teams. “The batsmen will try to smack the ball to all parts and the only way that bowlers can respond is by being aggressive.” FROM BACK PAGE

in Group D of the 16-team tournament, with the defending champions (USA), Panama and Trinidad and Tobago. Following their June 18 opener, coach Michael Johnson and his squad will travel to Cleveland to take on Panama on June 22 at the FirstEnergy Stadium then play their final group game against regional rivals, Trinidad and Tobago, on June 26 at the Children’s Mercy Park in Kansas.

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 30, 2019

No sweat for Nadal, Federer; Bertens pulls out By Martyn Herman

PARIS, France (Reuters) Defending champion Rafael Nadal continued to chomp his way through the French Open draw yesterday and Roger Federer also maintained his smooth progress into the third round. It felt like a case of deja vu for Spaniard Nadal, the second seed, as for the second match running he dispatched a German qualifier named Yannick in brutal fashion.

Paiwomak Warriors FC are now favourites for the female title

Defending female champs knocked out of Rupununi FA Champions League NEW female champions would be crowned in the 2019 version of the Rupununi Football Association Champions League after the defending champions, Gladiators Football Club, suffered an exit in the quarterfinals. In the latest round of the competition over the holiday weekend, Paiwomak Warriors edged out the Gladiators 3-2 in the return leg of a final-eight battle to win on an aggregate score of 5-3. When the rivals battled in the opening leg of the quarterfinal, Warriors emerged with a 2-1 win. Flash FC also advanced to the female semi-finals after defeating Kanuku Harpies in their home-and-away battle. In the second leg of the male quarterfinals, Romario Jose and Frankie Parks

Frankie Parks (left) and Romario Jose scored for Guyana Rush Saints in their latest clash

found the back of the net in the 28th and 87th minutes respectively to carry Guyana Rush Saints to a 2-0 win over Strikers FC. The two teams had battled to a 2-2 draw in the first leg of their clash. Meanwhile Jaguars Football Club won their return leg clash (2-1), but not by a big enough margin, which resulted their exit from the competition. The Kanuku Harpies males had won their opening leg by a score of 4-2, which left the aggregate score after both games at 5-4 in the favour of Harpies. Guyana Rush Saints (females), Strikers FC (females), Paiwomak Warriors (males) and defending male champions Tabatinga FC had qualified for the semi-finals, the weekend before.

Rafael Nadal

After beating Yannick Hanfmann for the loss off six games in round one, he conceded seven against Yannick Maden in a 6-1, 6-2, 6-4 win on Court Suzanne Lenglen, crunching 43 winners in the process. Things might get more tricky next, when he faces Belgium’s David Goffin but the 11-time champion is already on a roll. “We know that he’s at home at the French Open. He’s the king,” 27th seed Goffin said. Third seed Federer also played an obscure German, 25-year-old lucky loser Oscar Otte, ranked 144th in the world. Federer, wearing pale brown shorts, turned the screw just enough, breaking serve at a juncture of each set for a clinical, yet eye-catching 6-4, 6-3, 6-4 victory. After missing the last three French Opens he has found the groove straightaway

with six near-perfect sets. “I must say I feel really good, you know, considering I haven’t played here in that long,” the 37-year-old said. The women’s draw lost another big name as Kiki Bertens, the Dutch fourth seed, was forced to retire early on against Viktoria Kuzmova, saying she had been up all night vomiting. She joined fifth seed Angelique Kerber and 13th seed Caroline Wozniacki and 2017 champion Jelena Ostapenko through the exit door. There were no alarms for 2016 champion Garbine Muguruza who beat Johanna Larsson to set up a clash with ninth seed Elina Svitolina, who enjoyed a walkover against Kateryna Kozlova. Last year ’s runner-up Sloane Stephens also reached the third round, beating Sara Sorribes Tormo 6-1, 7-6(3). Marin Cilic’s hopes of completing his set of Grand Slam finals came to an abrupt end as the 11th seed lost a four-hour 23-minute five-setter against Bulgaria’s Grigor Dimitrov. That was one of two matches that in previous years would have graced the latter stages of a Grand Slam, the other one seeing Japan’s Kei Nishikori beat home favourite Jo-Wilfried Tsonga after losing the opening set. Former world number three Dimitrov, unseeded this year, will have to be at his best again in the third round when he faces 2015 champion Stan Wawrinka. The Swiss 24th seed was in scintillating form to beat Chile’s Cristian Garin, second on the list for claycourt wins this year, 6-1, 6-4, 6-0. Greek sixth seed Stefanos Tsitsipas, tipped as the man most likely to provide a breakthrough for the next generation this fortnight, battled past Bolivian Hugo Dellien.

Durant’s legacy secure even if Warriors win without him, say pundits By Frank Pingue

TORONTO (Reuters) - The Golden State Warriors have not missed a beat since Kevin Durant’s injury but suggestions that his legacy will be tarnished if they win this year’s NBA championship without him are absurd, television pundits said on Tuesday. Durant was the best player in the post-season when he went down with a calf injury but the two-time defending champions Warriors have played much looser without him over a 6-0 run to reach the NBA Finals, where they face the Toronto Raptors. Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson, who are part of the ABC/ESPN broadcast team for the NBA Finals that start today in Toronto, dismissed the idea that Durant’s legacy would suffer should the Warriors triumph without him.

“I think we are in a time and place where we are absolutely dying to pick people apart and to negate their greatness,” former NBA coach Van Gundy said in a conference call on Tuesday. “Durant’s great. I don’t know if he’s going to play in this series, if they are going to win or lose, but there is no doubt to me that he is great. “Do they play a little different, with a little bit more movement when he’s not there? Yes. That gives them their best chance to win when he is not there.” Before Durant was injured during Game Five of the Western Conference semi-finals nearly three weeks ago, he was in the midst of yet another dominant post-season run, averaging 34.2 points per game in 11 contests. EXCEPTIONAL WARRIORS While most NBA teams

would likely crumble if their top player was out of the lineup,

Warriors have proved to be an exception to that rule, which

Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) dunks the basketball against the Houston Rockets during the first half in game five of the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. (Mandatory Credit: Ezra

Shaw/Pool Photo via USA TODAY Sports)

former NBA coach and player Jackson said should not be a strike against Durant. “The guy is an all-time great, absolutely all-time great basketball player,” said Jackson. “There is no nitpicking. They can win it, they might win it, they might lose, it doesn’t matter. It doesn’t matter to his greatness.” The Warriors were already an offensive juggernaut before Durant joined the team, having won a championship in 2015 and then going on a record-setting 73-9 run the next season before squandering a 3-1 NBA Finals lead to the Cleveland Cavaliers. Less than a month later Durant, in search of an elusive NBA championship, joined Warriors and bolstered a lineup that already included Stephen Curry, who at the time was the league’s two-time

reigning MVP, and sharpshooter Klay Thompson. The Warriors beat the Cavaliers in the next two NBA Finals and Durant was named MVP of the championship series both years, but the standout forward will not play in Game One this time around and his status beyond that is unclear. Van Gundy said that even though Warriors are rolling along and playing solid basketball without Durant that does not mean they are better off should he be sidelined throughout the best-of-seven NBA Finals. “He wasn’t part of the group that lost to the Cavs, he was the one that beat them twice,” said Van Gundy. “So I am not really sure why we are trying to, as a basketball community, nitpick him instead of just saying the guy is a great, great player. Great. All-time great.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 30, 2019

Matthews’ hundred fires Windies to clean T20 sweep

DUBLIN, Ireland (CMC) – Hayley Matthews’ maiden Twenty20 International hundred lifted West Indies Women to their second highest-ever total in the shortest format, paving the way for a 72-run crushing of Ireland Women and a clean sweep of the threematch series here yesterday. Sent in at Sydney Parade, West Indies amassed 188 for one off their 20 overs with the right-handed Matthews stroking an unbeaten 107 off just 62 deliveries. She struck seven fours and nine sixes to dominate the Irish bowling in an unbroken 162-run, second-wicket stand with Chedean Nation who carved out an unbeaten 63 off 46 balls. The total was just short of the West Indies Women’s all-time best of 191 recorded nine years ago against The Netherlands in Potchefstroom. Ireland, in reply, never challenged the difficult

target and finished on 116 for three off their 20 overs, despite an unbeaten 55 from opener Mary Waldron. Captain Kim Garth followed up her half-century in Tuesday’s second game with a knock of 45, sharing a 94-run, second-wicket stand with Waldron.

over to undertake the Irish bowling with relish, reaching her half-century off 41 deliveries with the first of three successive sixes off leg-spinner Celeste Raack in the 15th over which went for 22 runs. She then brought up her hundred at the start of the fi-

Opener Hayley Matthews strikes her maiden T20 International hundred

It was the 21-year-old Matthews, however, who took centre stage. She overcame the loss of opening partner Britney Cooper for 10 in in the fifth

nal over off 59 deliveries by lifting seamer Lara Maritz to the wide long-on boundary. Nation, meanwhile, produced a career-best performance with her second T20I

half-century, following up her maiden one against Pakistan in Karachi last January. She raised her landmark in the 17th over off just 37 balls en route to counting six fours and two sixes. The target was always out of Ireland’s reach but they ensured there was no embarrassment by batting out the overs. Left-armer Stacy-Ann King claimed Gaby Lewis cheaply for eight in the fourth over, with 17 runs on the board but Waldron and Garth then defied the West Indies’ attack. Waldron faced 62 balls and struck four boundaries while Garth hit five fours off 46 deliveries before falling to the first ball of the final over, holing out to long-off off captain Stafanie Taylor’s off-spin. Ta y l o r a l s o s t r u c k again with the final ball of the match to finish with two for 19, when she bowled 19-year-old Rebecca Stokell for four.

Dr Shallow elected Windward Islands Board president ST JOHN’S, Antigua (CMC) – Dr Kishore Shallow has been elected president of the Windward Islands Cricket Board of Control, (WICBC) further consolidating his standing in the Caribbean cricket fraternity, two months after assuming the reins as Cricket West Indies vice-president. The 35-year-old was elected unopposed after Dominican Emmanuel Nanthan, the former CWI vice-president, chose not to seek re-election. Nanthan and former CWI president Dave Cameron were defeated by Shallow and Ricky Skerritt at CWI elections last March.

Shallow, a director of WICBC for five years and a CWI director for two years, said he was looking forward to serving in his wider role. “My love for this game is immeasurable, and I am

CWI vice-president Dr Kishore Shallow

CRICKET QUIZ CORNER (Thursday May 30, 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) 1987 (2) Dennis Amiss-1975 (1) (2)

tremendously honoured to be given the opportunity to serve cricket across the region and to be in a leadership role to advance Caribbean cricket,” said Shallow, also president of the St Vincent

TODAY’S QUIZ: Who are the current defending World Cup champions? Who were the losing finalist of the last World Cup?

ANSWERS IN TOMORROW’S ISSUE

and the Grenadines Cricket Association. An information technology and business consultant Shallow said the sub-region was rich in potential and he hoped to maximise this with the resources available. “There is a lot of potential. We just need to harmonise our resources a little better and obviously this is a challenge,” Shallow said in a media interview with the Searchlight newspaper. “I am really a strong

advocate of regional integration and that is how I am going to be approaching this position; very similar to Cricket West Indies where we don’t represent an island but a region.” St Lucian Julian Charles will continue as vice- president of the WICBC and will be joined by Grenadian Dwain Gill as the Windward Islands directors on the CWI board. Gill, the president of the Grenada Cricket Association and who has served as West Indies A team manager and Windies Under-19 manager, said his latest appointment was another chance to make an impact in Caribbean cricket. “The appointment is another opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to the overall development of West Indies cricket,” said Gill. “I am humbled and honoured and will continue to devote time and attention to West Indies cricket as I’ve done all my life.” Vi n c e n t i a n K e z ro n Walters was also elected as the new WICBC secretary under the constitutional requirement that the president and secretary come from the same island.

Batsman Hope backs West Indies to get 500 in ODIs

Shai Hope

LONDON, England (Reuters) - West Indies have the firepower to post the first 500 total in one-day internationals, top order batsman Shai Hope has said ahead of the Cricket World Cup. England boast the top ODI score of 481-6 that they posted against Australia last year in Nottingham, while Australia’s 417–6 against Afghanistan in 2015 is the highest total in the history of World Cup. Wicketkeeper-batsman Hope smashed 101 off 86 balls and Andre Russell lived up to his big-hitting reputation with a breezy 25-ball 54 as the Caribbean side amassed 421 in Tuesday’s warm-up match against New Zealand before being all out in the final over. “It is definitely a goal we can try to achieve at some point,” Hope said after West Indies won the match by 91 runs. “Definitely, it would be great to be the first team to cross that 500 mark, and I

am sure we have the batting firepower to do it.” Besides all-rounder Russell, West Indies also have formidable power-hitters in Chris Gayle, Shimron Hetmyer and all-rounders Jason Holder and Carlos Brathwaite. “If you are asking me if we are capable of it, definitely we are,” Brathwaite said. Russell, 31, was at his destructive best with the bat in the last edition of the Indian Premier League Twenty20 tournament, smashing 52 sixes and scoring at a strike rate of more than 200 for the Kolkata franchise, both best in the league. “He is just incredible - a freak of nature really,” Hope said. “I don’t really know what to say about Russ, he just hits it and once he hits it, it goes for six. “It is a pleasure to be on the same team as he, I can tell you that. If you are on the field you are not sure what you are going to bowl at him. It is just nice to enjoy from the inside.”

Real Madrid unseat Man United as most valuable soccer team - Forbes

(REUTERS) - Real Madrid unseated Manchester United as the world’s most valuable soccer club, according to the annual list published by business magazine Forbes yesterday. Real Madrid, who in 2018 won the Champions League for a third consecutive year, were valued at $4.24 billion (£3.36 billion), up 9% from a year ago, Forbes said. Barcelona were second on the list with a value of $4 billion while Manchester United, who held top spot in the last two years, were third with a value of $3.8 billion. Bayern Munich ($3 billion) and Manchester City ($2.69 billion) rounded out the top five. The 20 most valuable soccer clubs this year are worth an average of $1.75 billion, up 34% from last year, a jump Forbes attributes to sponsors paying more money to attach themselves to these teams. “Soccer team values are increasing because companies continue to increase the amount of money they pay teams for shirt and kit rights, and sponsorships,” said Michael Ozanian, assistant managing editor at Forbes. “Soccer is the most popular team sport in the world and soccer players are running billboards for brands.”

GUYANA CHRONICLE Thursday, May 30, 2019

Foster dedicates national award to his ailing mother

MAY 24 last would always be remembered as a special day in the professional life of Hilbert Foster, since he was awarded the Medal of Service by President David Granger in front of a packed audience at the National Cultural Centre. Foster described it as one of the proudest moment of his life. A very humbled Foster dedicated the award to his mother Claudette, who is ailing, his wife Sylvia, daughter Marissa, brothers Keith and Alex, and all other relatives of the Foster’s household who have supported him over the decades of unselfish service to humanity. He also acknowledged the support of all members of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS, and noted that without their support, it would have been impossible to have achieved so much success. Foster noted that the club is a family who stands by each other. He also shared the award with sponsors of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, members of the media who have assisted to promote the outstanding work of the club over the last three decades. Special mention was made of Rajiv Ganga, Larry Wills, Bert Sukhai, Onai Vasconcellos, Jennifer Cipriani, Michael George, Avia Lindie, Robert Selman, Oscar Ramjeet, Patrick De Groot, Frankie Wilson,

Claude David, Angela Haniff, Leon Horatio, Gregory Rambarran, Rajiv Bisnauth, Avenash Ramzan among others. An emotional Foster also noted the contribution of his late grandmother Josephine, his late dad Hilbert Spence, Father Harold Wong and his mentor the late President Hugh Desmond Hoyte.

Hoyte was Foster’s mentor for over 20 years and provided invaluable advice until his sudden death in 2002. Father Wong, the late Catholic priest also played a major role in shaping Foster’s spiritual belief in making a positive difference. The vibrant Berbice Cricket Board president since his election has

man of the BCB Special Events Committee. As Secretary/CEO of the club, Foster has successfully spearheaded the completion of over 9 000 activities under a wide range of sub-headings such as sports, education, anti-drugs, religious, anti-crime, community development, youth development, social, cultural and anti-al-

By William Schomberg, Peter Hall BAKU (Reuters) - Eden Hazard scored twice and created a third to steer Chelsea to a 4-1 victory over London rivals Arsenal in the Europa League final in what looks likely to be the Belgium winger’s final game for the Blues. Chelsea destroyed Arsenal with four second-half goals that handed coach Maurizio Sarri his first major trophy at the age of 60, although that might not be enough to silence the speculation that he could also be leaving Stamford Bridge imminently. Former Arsenal hero Olivier Giroud and Spain attacker Pedro each got a goal to give Chelsea their third European title in seven years, with the Champions League triumph in 2012 followed by their first Europa League victory in 2013. Hazard, who joined Chelsea in 2012, looked emotional

Chelsea’s Eden Hazard celebrates scoring their third goal with Cesar Azpilicueta and team mates at Baku Olympic Stadium, Azerbaijan - May 29, 2019

Hilbert Foster receives his Medal of Service Award from President David Granger

He stated that he and elder brother Alex inherited their passion to assist others from their dad, who was a Minister in the Forbes Burnham Government. The late Hugh Desmond

personally raised close to $17M cash and kind, launched 43 tournaments, organised dozens of developmental programmes and, during the period 2008 to 2014, raised over $20M for Berbice Cricket as Chair-

cohol. Foster, a household name in Berbice, has also spearheaded the restoration of the Area ‘H’ Ground at the cost of over $29M among other major projects.

F1 stars attend Mass for late racing legend Niki Lauda in Austria THOUSANDS of people, including Formula 1 stars, have paid their last respects to racing legend Niki Lauda, whose body lay in state in Vienna, Austria. His coffin, topped with his red helmet, was carried into St Stephen’s Cathedral in heavy rain yesterday morning. A Mass was then held before a private funeral. Lauda died last week aged 70 in Switzerland, where he was treated for kidney problems. The Austrian driver won Formula 1 championships in 1975, 1977 and 1984. He almost died following a crash in the 1976 German Grand Prix at the Nürburgring.

Hazard scores twice as Chelsea thrash Arsenal to win Europa League

Niki Lauda’s crash helmet was put on the driver’s coffin.

(AFP/Getty Images) Despite suffering severe art and Nico Rosberg were burns and inhaling toxic among those who came to fumes, he resumed racing 40 Vienna to bid their farewells to Lauda. days later. Austrian actor-turned-polC u r re n t F o r m u l a 1 world champion Lewis itician Arnold SchwarzenegHamilton, former drivers ger and Austrian President Alain Prost, Sir Jackie Stew- Alexander Van der Bellen

were also among those who attended the Mass in Vienna’s famous cathedral. After winning the Monaco Grand Prix last Sunday, Hamilton paid tribute to Lauda. “That was for you, Niki. Your fighting spirit was right there with me every step of the way,” the British driver wrote in a post on Twitter. “I know you are looking down and taking your hat off to us. I miss you, we truly miss you and I hope we did you proud today, legend.” As non-executive chairman of Mercedes, Lauda helped them win both the drivers’ and constructors’ titles in each of the past five seasons. (BBC Sport)

(REUTERS/Amr Abdallah Dalsh) when he was substituted in the final minutes and held his hands over his eyes to an ovation in Baku’s cavernous Olympic Stadium. The Belgium winger has signalled he wants to move to Real Madrid in the close season. “My dream was to play in the Premier League and I did it for seven years,” Hazard told a television reporter shortly after the final whistle. “Maybe I think it is time to say goodbye. “We will decide in a few days and the only target in my mind was to win this final. I have made my decision already and now I’m waiting on both clubs. I think it is a goodbye, but in football you never know.” After a tepid first half, Giroud put Chelsea ahead in the 49th minute with an angled header. The Blues doubled their lead 10 minutes later when Pedro diverted a cross from Hazard beyond former Chelsea keeper Petr Cech, who was making his last appearance before retiring as a player. With Arsenal on the ropes, defender Ainsley Maitland-Niles collided with Giroud to concede a penalty that Hazard stroked home after 65 minutes. Alex Iwobi clawed a goal back for Arsenal but Chelsea restored their three-goal cushion in the 72nd minute when Hazard swapped passes with Giroud to score his second. Arsenal have lost five of their six major European finals, with their only victory coming in the 1994 Cup Winners’ Cup against Parma. The defeat in the early hours of today - the final in the Azerbaijan capital kicked off at 23:00hrs local time to coincide with peak viewing time in England - also deprives Arsenal of their last chance to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Chelsea had already made sure of their place in Europe’s elite competition by finishing third in the Premier League. But Arsenal coach Unai Emery is on more solid ground than Chelsea’s Sarri who, after one stop-start season at Stamford Bridge, has reportedly been targeted by Juventus back in his native Italy. “Sarri is a great guy, a great coach and he deserves this,” Chelsea defender David Luiz said. “The manager did amazing for this club. I don’t know about speculation, now is the time to talk about the title.”

England begin bid to win tournament 24 for first time

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England captain Eoin Morgan (left) and South Africa captain Faf du Plessis

The 10 captains met the Queen before today’s opening match

GBA calls for Allicock’s trip to Cuba, No replica of Gold Cup GOA stipends to be put on hold uniform available for sale − Ninvalle complains to GOA about boxer’s lackadaisical attitude

GOA president KA Juman-Yassin with Keevin Allicock (centre) and GBA president Steve Ninvalle

By Rawle Toney STEVE Ninvalle, president of Guyana Boxing Association (GBA), has written to the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA), recommending that they “put on hold” the country’s leading amateur fighter Keevin Allicock’s trip to Cuba to prepare him for the Pan Am Games. “Upon careful investigation it was uncovered that Mr Allicock has been delin-

quent in regards to attending training sessions locally and his attitude towards the task at hand is nothing short of lackadaisical,” Ninvalle wrote in a letter penned to GOA boss Juman Yassin on May 26. According to Ninvalle, from May 1 to 23, Allicock attended just 12 of 30 training sessions held by Cuban coach Francisco Roldan, despite the pleadings from several persons. “Less than 50 percent at-

tendance at training leading up to any competition is unacceptable - barring illness. Our conclusion is that if Mr Allicock is unconcerned about his training in Guyana and treats it as unimportant then it is only logical that the same will happen in Cuba,” Ninvalle reasoned. Ninvalle reminded Yassin of a force meeting between GBA and GOA regarding Allicock’s apaTURN TO PAGE 24

These recently unveiled uniforms will be worn by Guyana during the 2019 CONCACAF Gold Cup. (Samuel Maughn photo)

By Rawle Toney SOME disappointing news for fans of Guyana’s senior men’s national team – no replica of the new kits will be sold for the Gold Cup. Sportswear manufacturer Capelli Sports was unveiled on May 14 as the Golden Jaguars’ kit supplier for the June 15 – July 7 CONCACAF

Gold Cup and fans both local and overseas were eager to put their hands on the replica in order to show support for the team at their first outing at the Confederation’s marquee tournament. Speaking exclusively to Chronicle Sport yesterday, Wayne Forde, president of the Guyana Football Federation (GFF), explained that the

uniforms that the team will wear at the Gold Cup were made specifically for that tournament, but after (the Gold Cup), Capelli Sports will reveal the kit which will be worn going forward. Forde said that fans can, however, purchase the ‘fan gear’ that the GFF had for

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