Kaieteur News

K

AIETEUR NEWS

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Jagdeo rebukes

Saturday Edition

p.

3

December 28, 2019 - Vol. 13 No. 51

Greenidge's 'dogwhistle'

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

Price $80

accusation against K/News

Online readership yesterday 114,680

Hotel owner, worker decomposed bodies found bound in C’tyne hotel

p.

23

Repsol's mud spill exposes EPA's inability to monitor oil sector p.

7

Parliament p.3 dissolves on December 30 Clear conflict of interest if Chairman awarded p.7 10,000 acres of land - Jagdeo Something special brings out a smile The location was Kwebanna. The occasion was a Christmas visit by Minister Valerie Garrido-Lowe.

She distributed cheer, one so special that the smile on the young boy's face tells it all.

Deforestation rate under p.

Coalition 20 the lowest in last decade

Forestry Commission Police beat clamps down on wrong concessions to twin force compliance brother p.

22

p.

22

PAGE 02

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 03

Parliament dissolves on December 30

P

resident David Granger has i s s u e d a proclamation declaring that the National Assembly will be dissolved on December 30, 2019, paving way for the election of its members to occur on March 2, 2020.

The Proclamations were issued today, December 27, 2019. Article 70 (2) of the Constitution of Guyana states that the President, may at any time, by proclamation dissolve Parliament.

It is also provided in Article 61 of the Constitution that an election of members of the National Assembly under Article 60 (2) shall be held on such day within three months after every dissolution of Parliament as the President shall appoint by Proclamation.

The President has also proclaimed that the ten Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) will be dissolved on December 30, 2019, to pave way for their election on March 2, 2020 as well.

Proclamation for dissolution of Parliament

Proclamation for dissolution of RDCs

Jagdeo rebukes Greenidge's 'dogwhistle' accusation against Kaieteur News

O

pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo has come to Kaieteur News's defense after Foreign Secretary Carl Greenidge accused the newspaper of profiling African countries.

In a letter published by Stabroek News, Greenidge made comments about several advertisements that were published in the Kaieteur News on matters of corruption in a list of African nations.

The ex-Foreign M i nister proposed that Kaieteur News rescind the advertisements as he believes that they inform harmful stereotypes about African leaders as corrupt and incompetent, further claiming that the current APNU+AFC government may be victim of those stereotypes as well.

Greenidge called the message corrosive and

dysfunctional, and accused the writer of the advertisement of bias.

In a scathing response, Jagdeo said that Greenidge's accusation is “blowing the dogwhistle on racism”.

He further explained that though there are issues on which he does not toe the line with this newspaper, it was “a stretch” to target the newspaper simply because it published advertisements which listed African countries as examples of corruption.

Jagdeo said that the issues written about may not be unique to Africa, but that Africa's stories tend to go untold.

To G r e e n i d g e , t h e Opposition Leader's instructions are clear – tackle the arguments on their merit.

Publisher's note: Kaieteur News rejects the baseless insinuations, made

by the Foreign Secretary, Carl Greenidge, that this newspaper reflects a mindset which can provide the logic for the opposition of Africanbased parties or governments.

We urge Carl Greenidge to have the courage to face the media so as to provide answers about the oil negotiations with ExxonMobil and not to be sniping at this newspaper from behind the letter columns of other newspapers.

We wish to make it known to Carl Greenidge the entire editorial staff of the Kaieteur News, save and except one senior reporter, is of African descent, and this has been so for some time now.

We also wish to inform him that of the thousands of articles written on the oil and gas industry since May 2015, none was authored by that

one reporter, Leonard Gildarie.

It should also be mentioned that of our

columnists, only one, Mr. Frederick Kissoon, is nonAfrican.

We urge Carl Greenidge

to do the decent thing and withdraw his obnoxious and malicious insinuations against Kaieteur News.

PAGE 4

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana.

Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210

EDITORIAL

What a Christmas it would have been

S

anta is a little light this year, and he didn’t get it right either. What a Christmas present it would have been! Still, a cheer, a hearty round of applause is due for the fellas. Thanks for the effort, the hope springs.

Though there was falling short by a whisker, there is a team now firmly in place that should be able to challenge the bigger boys.

The minnows almost beat the mighty, and in their own backyard, too. That is not easy to accomplish on the tailor-made tracks of the continent, and with a zillion chanting, screaming fans adding to the electricity of an already supercharged playing atmosphere.

At Cuttack, last Sunday, the West Indies made India sweat, even squirm, a bit in the series decider. It was a tight one, and could have gone either way, until a man named Virat Kohli put on the afterburners and shut the door tight.

For its part, the West Indies had Pollard and Pooran, the former the proven veteran, the latter proving himself with every knock that he belongs, that he can contribute and that, in time, he is going to be feared.

There is a pack of young guns in the regional stable of stroke players and, more and more, run accumulators: Hetmyer from Guyana, Hope from Barbados, Lewis from Trinidad, and the previously mentioned Pooran. These players are all on the right side of twenty and in the prime of their run scoring years.

They have been exposed to quality opposition from across the cricketing globe, and keep acquiring experience in different conditions, some very demanding of both temperament and technique.

They will only get better.

There is a nice squadron of fast bowlers, which is notable for its youthful flavour and vigor, and one or two with close to express pace. The Antiguan Alzarri Joseph can generate healthy speeds, if he is able to stay healthy long enough; Jamaican Sheldon Cottrell is forced to bowl smarter, with emphasis more on deception than on raw fear.

And there is skipper Jason Holder, who has blossomed in a genuine all-rounder, and a constantly improving one, too.

There is hope, and that hope soared for many a tantalising hour at Cuttack on Sunday.

A little luck here and a few more runs there, and the outcome could have been different, with the tourists wearing the winners’ smiles. It was a valiant effort that must be recognised, even though it fell agonisingly short.

This team’s day will come and, from all indications, it cannot be that far off. It is due some success now. And it will come.

The West Indies have had a long drought, where it has been embarrassed and humiliated over many a long year. Time for that nonsense to cease; there is too much regional pride on the line.

Let it be faced: cricket is culture, cricket is religion, cricket is our history and our space and our talent and our love.

We will walk again with a swagger, with that swashbuckling arrogance that has been the hallmark of Gary Sobers, Rohan Kanhai, Clive Lloyd, Roy Fredericks, Alvin Kallicharran, and Colin Croft, to name a few of our illustrious sons. It is time for resurgence, time for us to confront and conquer the Kohli(s) and Smith(s) of the world.

We must grow and gain the ascendancy, as we have the nucleus from which we can dominate. There was a time when we were feared, when we were the talk of the cricketing world. That time is now due for a return, for West Indian pride to march in stride with the glory of what was, and what can be.

Let it be. Come on fellas! Make us proud. Make us smile. Make us cheer and dance and make merry wherever we may be. It is overdue. It is now time. It is a good time.

The truth about Houston and Versailles: I cannot allow a pack of lies to stand DEAR EDITOR, I refer to a letter from Charles Sohan in the Dec. 13th 2019 edition of another newspaper captioned “Aquaculture will not return GuySuCo to profitability”.

Contained in the missive Sohan writes, are his statements that the government cannot run anything; that I have no real evidence that aquaculture is much more lucrative than sugar; that I presided over the closure of Versailles and then Houston; that all sugar lands are as valuable as Houston’s land; that my family doesn’t pay its taxes, etc.

I know Sohan, he is a nearly 90-year-old former hydraulics engineer, who incidentally never worked in the sugar industry at any level; whose entire knowledge of sugar was gleaned from me.

He has been living in Brooklyn, but is usually in a mental state when he believes that he is still here. This is the third time that this man has attacked me, and I can’t understand why. My problem is that I cannot allow a pack of lies to stand.

First, I want to address this sentence from Sohan’s letter “Ironically, Mr. Vieira, during his management of the Versailles and Houston sugar estates and subsequent guidance of their closures, never suggested that their sugar lands be converted into aquaculture ponds to return the estates to profitability, but he finds it compelling to propound that GuySuCo should do so now…”

Editor, I never even worked at Houston much less manage it, or close it.

GuySuCo closed the Versailles factory in 1987; this decision had nothing to do

with me. Mr. Harold Davis and the Board of GuySuCo closed it since it belonged to GuySuCo, and they built a waterway between Versailles and Uitvlugt, and it was an economic disaster for Versailles, which was supplying cane to the Uitvlugt factory.

Versailles was forced to sell land to GuySuCo around 1990, because the waterway was such a big disaster that in three years it placed Versailles in a debt, which we literally could not repay. I imagine that the same thing is presently happening to the poor cane farmers at Wales.

So to summarize: 1. GuySuCo closed the Versailles Factory, not the Vieira Family who did not own it.

2. GuySuCo built a waterway between Versailles and Uitvlugt which was a total economic disaster for the owners of the Versailles cane lands and its workers, and 3. We had to sell 800 acres to GuySuCo to pay the 11 million dollars in losses we made between 1987 to 1990 due to the closure of the factory, 800 acres to pay an 11 million Guyana dollars debt, because the Socialist concepts of the Burnham government at the time, was that the government was not going to buy cane lands from private people, even transported land - only the developmental costs.

And the bad way the waterway was run by GuySuCo, it was the ultimate irony that to pay the people who closed the factory, built a waterway which never worked, which caused Versailles to make massive losses, had to give away its land to GuySuCo for losses caused by GuySuCo. After it finally went bank-

rupt, a liquidator, Barcellos & Narine was appointed to dispose of the land. This is the massive profit Freddie Kissoon wrote about - a family selling its land to pay its debts, trying to grow sugar in Guyana. Over time, even at Houston we had to sell land to Banks DIH to finance our losses trying to grow the sugar cane plant under the Guyana political and other conditions, one of my brothers who had established a fishing business, actually guaranteed a 10 million-dollar loan for Houston at Demerara Bank to finance its losses.

Editor, it is unreasonable to believe that GuySuCo has been in serious trouble for several decades and was depending on Government bailouts and loans to survive, but the Vieira’s, using the workers with exactly the same union conditions as GuySuCo, were making big money from it.

So Charlie, the reason why I am suggesting GuySuCo make the conversion to aquaculture and not my family is simple, to do such a conversion you would have to have deep pockets. A company forced to abandon cane growing because it is bankrupt like Versailles and Houston, cannot even think of converting to aquaculture.

It is why the Government of Guyana, faced with the problems it now faces in the sugar industry, and the political problems it represents to the electorate - in this case, nearly 50% - must think very seriously about GuySuCo’s diversification and continuity, since they must dip into the consolidated fund to establish the aquaculture industry, but it is not only economi-

cally feasible, which cane is not, it’s a political imperative that they provide employment to people who have given their lives to that industry; in any event small scale aquaculture operations very rarely succeed.

For it to succeed, you must integrate everything, manufacture the feed, process the fish to fillets, fly it to the US markets as fresh catch within 36 hours of catch packed in ice and not frozen, etc.

Every letter I ever wrote carries one message: if a state-owned enterprise is being badly run, do like Desmond Hoyte and hire competent international management teams to run it. We as a nation already learned this lesson in 1987, why are our public officials not aware of it?

Well, it is my opinion that they are not made to be aware of it, because we don’t make them answerable to us. If we were holding them to account, they would be forced to remember the lessons of the past. And I am stating now that the local management team of GuySuCo is not up to the task to turn GuySuCo around now. NICIL’s managers are also not up to the task and are confusing the situation, because they themselves don’t know what they are doing!

The union officials are right this time, GuySuCo having shed the estates, which were making losses, despite promises to the electorate, are still making losses! We MUST hire an international team to run it. I even made the reference to the fact that Robert Persaud in 2007 removed the Booker Tate (Continued on page 6)

That letter on Walter Rodney was riddled with too many blatant inaccuracies DEAR EDITOR, Kindly permit response to Mr. Rick Dalgetty’s letter “The Archives is being appropriately named after Walter Rodney” (KN: Dec 4, 2019). That letter was riddled with too many blatant inaccuracies and should not have been allowed to pass.

It is important for history to be recorded truthfully, in all its warts and beauty, for others to learn from, analyse and judge. The danger of making truth a lie repeated often enough has done untold harm to society. Herein below represents the rebuttal to Mr. Dalgetty’s inaccuracies:1. When the Timehri International Airport (1969) was renamed the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (1997),

there were public outcries given the non-consultative nature of the re-naming and what was clearly seen as a dismissal of the contributions of our First People in whose honour the airport was renamed during the Forbes Burnham administration. It was formerly called the Atkinson Airfield. Note, it was during the Sam Hinds presidency the airport was renamed, not Bharrat Jagdeo as intimated by Mr. Dalgetty.

2. There was no “renaming of Mckenzie-WismarChristianburg to Linden.”

The town (Local Government Authority) of Linden was established in 1970. McKenzie, Wismar and Christiansburg are part of the town called Linden and are still there. The

only “significant bells ringing here” are the inaccuracies of Mr. Dalgetty’s claim; 3. “Roxanne Burnham Gardens and Melanie Damishana” were new communities built by the Burnham administration and admittedly named after two of Mr. Burnham’s daughters. While Mr. Dalgetty argued it is all about “power”, in decrying the use of that “power” by Messrs.

Burnham and Hinds, he is oblivious to or at ease in the use of this very “power” by Mr. Jagdeo in renaming a legally constituted institution (The National Archives) to a name (The Rodney Archives) that would evidently confuse and undermine its thrust.

Where he wrongly felt

there was no squeak from Guyanese when Timehri was renamed, why should he expect silence from us now repeating what was done with Timehri. Are all things Dr. Walter Rodney immune from such responses or above the law?

4. On the Demerara Harbour Bridge, it should not be ignored that arriving at a name was a matter of public involvement. I was a child, but can still remember when Guyanese were asked to participate in the naming exercise.

It was a hot topic in my home where we were allowed to share our views and justify our responses. There was conversation in school, and I (Continued on page 5)

Saturday December 28, 2019

Prospects for a brighter future continue to provide comfort to an otherwise impoverished people DEAR EDITOR, As the year 2019 comes to an end, there are a number of events that will be etched in the collective memories of Guyanese, and for that matter, peoples all across the globe.

Perhaps the most significant of all was the recent impeachment of US President Donald Trump, who has gone down as the third President of the United States to have been impeached.

Then there is the Brexit saga and the fall and rise of Conservative politics, which culminated in the overwhelming victory of Boris Johnson in recent parliamentary elections.

The year also saw political instability in several parts of the world, more particularly

the Middle East and Latin America. Venezuela continues to be a hotbed of tension as the conflict between the Maduro government and the political opposition continues to wreak havoc on the lives of an untold number of Venezuelans, a significant number of whom fled to neighbouring countries to eke out an existence.

At the local level, the refusal of the Government to abide by the ruling of the Courts following a successful no-confidence motion has taken centre stage. This development, coupled with the delaying tactics employed by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to hold elections within the constitutionally due timeframe, has created a fair measure of anxi-

ety regarding the Commission’s impartiality and its capacity to conduct free and fair elections due on March 2, 2020.

The announcement by Exxon Mobil that the lifting of First Oil has been brought forward from the first quarter of 2020 to December this year has been positively received

by Guyanese, even though concerns were raised by some stakeholders regarding transparency and the method used by the administration on the sale of the initial crude.

The year 2019 had its full share of gloom and doom, but the prospects for a better and brighter future continue to provide some solace and comfort to an otherwise impoverished people.

Hydar Ally

That letter on Walter Rodney was riddled ...

From page 4 remember as a kid, we put our hands up and waited our turn to be called by the teacher to propose a name and give our reason for same.

After national submission, it was decided the name would be the Demerara Harbour Bridge. The elements of consultation and involvement were present.

5. The effort to rename The National Archives, The Walter Rodney Archives followed the pattern of the renaming of the Cheddi Jagan International Airport which Mr. Dalgetty condemned.

How does he justify condemnation for one and support the other when the identical approach was pursued? Please refer here to the Act on this institution: h t t p : / / www.guyaneselawyer.com/ lawsofguyana/Laws/ cap4008.pdf No right-thinking person will dispute Dr. Rodney’s academic and professional achievements, but these do not automatically grant the

right to rename an institution appropriately named The National Archives in his name. I would like to be pointed to any significant democratic nation that names its National Archives after someone.

Naming has denotative and connotative value.

By its present name, it says the body of work stored there is that of the nation and not solely Rodney.

The academics and proponents in the Rodney camp know this, but will ignore it, because it does not fit their intent and desire.

There isn’t opposition to renaming a street after Dr. Rodney or some other fitting place, but The National Archives is taking it a stretch too far.

6. Belabouring the fallacy that Rodney was denied employment at the University of Guyana when it is the right of every University Council - publicly or privately owned - to determine who is employed, for argument sake, it can be said his presence/place has

PAGE 5

Kaieteur News

been secured in the institution, though some may say belatedly when a Chair was named in his honour.

It would be interesting to know what work, if any, his family, comrades and colleagues have done to aid that Chair in bringing better understanding of his scholarship through access, review and critique.

The truth is, there is doubt these persons really care about Dr. Walter Rodney beyond having found a way to cannibalise his death to ensure their relevance and survival.

Minette Bacchus

Guyanese, meet your newest partner…

DEAR EDITOR, They are alleged to have bribed officials and technicians on the rigs to steal billions of barrels of oil from Nigeria. They reportedly did it for many years undetected all it takes is the cooperation of a few people on the rig to allow an extra 20,000 barrels to be pumped into the tanker holds without notice. The wells are always pumping oil into the tanks; a few thousand barrels were never missed when monthly production runs into millions.

It took international cooperation to expose this; the discrepancies between what they took from Nigerian wells and what they declared at US ports made for compelling evidence of theft. They are being sued in London and are facing criminal prosecution in Milan and Amsterdam.

Guyanese, meet your newest partner, Shell Western Supply & Trading Ltd., handpicked after face-to-face meetings.As Guyanese focused on the Christmas festivities, Retired Brigadier David Granger led an ambush on the nation’s psyche and resources. Ever since Bloomberg confirmed suspicions of unusual approaches made to select international oil companies, there was an outcry by anti-corruption, Protransparency persons, groups, and media outlets.

At 10.30 PM, Friday the 20th, David Granger announced that oil was flowing from the Liza1 well-head and Guyana was an oil-producing country; Granger then decreed the 20th would henceforth be known as “National Petroleum Day”. It must be

good to be the King; I know it’s terrible to be a ‘subject’.

The government informed the ‘subjects’ who were chosen to sell Three-Million plus Barrels of oil on our behalf on the 23rd, all the chastising, good advice and dire warnings were ignored, and a known bad actor was engaged as our partner.

The Christmas ambush did not end there, before the end of the day we learned of a Compulsory acquisition order for over one-hundred and twenty-three acres, ostensibly, to facilitate the erection of a high-span bridge over the Demerara River; no plan of the area to be utilized accompanied the order; no feasibility study was quoted, for none has been completed with regards to a high-span bridge. I can only presume the Gods of Gazettes and Acreage have again been at war with the Printer’s devil and have transformed twelve and three tenths (12.3) acres into an area well beyond what would ever possibly be required by way of errant decimal point. However, this is APNU/AFC and there may be imaginary shopping malls at both ends of the bridge or even a small airport complete

with roundabouts and runways designed by the APNU Ministry of Magic.

Our day was not yet done, we had a tragi-comical statement from the Head of the Department of Energy, Dr. Bynoe, who provided information that loans made to Guyana are not subject to our laws, but are in fact, available for use as the lender saw fit.

I can understand this being the case with a grant that would not have to be repaid by our hard work and taxes, but a loan? I would advise Dr. Bynoe to seek legal counsel tout suite.

Editor, given the illogical moves to sell our share of profit oil not to the highest bidder, but to someone who will refine it, tell us how great it is and even sell it at their gas stations, I fully expect to see David Granger cutting a ribbon on a gas pump in Hoboken New Jersey early February, as the ‘first gallon’ of Liza grade gasoline hits the world market.

Elections are on the 2nd of March; let us vote to see the back of Granger and Shell Western. No more rule by decree. Long live the Republic.

Respectfully Robin Singh

PAGE 6

The truth about Houston and Versailles...

From page 4 management team, placed there by Desmond Hoyte, and caused most of the collapse, which we now see going on in the industry. In 2004, the industry with Tate managing it, produced 235,000 tonnes of sugar, it was the last time we produced anywhere close to 200,000 tonnes.

Sohan is wrong, Guyana has the potential to become a world class producer of farmed raised fish. It is now confirmed by a world-class aquaculture expert brought here by GuySuCo in 2015/ 2016. And if I had to choose a place on this planet which at this time is the most unsuitable for the growing of sugar cane today, this country’s coastal plain will be my first choice.

On the other hand, if I were to look worldwide to select a place to establish aqua farming, Guyana would be among the top 5 places which I would pick.

Editor, my family carried on the production of sugar cane for nearly three-fourths of a century at Houston, through world wars, the 60’s disturbances in Guyana when our cane was burnt by arsonists, Aqueducts were bombed, and throughout the past 40 years when, no country I can think of had more strikes by the workers than the Guyana sugar industry and our workers belonged to the same unions MPCA and then GAWU, as Bookers and then GuySuCo. We persevered through the years of uncertain transition to socialism, the failing foreign exchange situation to buy raw materials for the cultivation - some years, we even bought our raw materials at G$20 to US$1, but we were paid at an exchange rate of

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

G$6-US$1 for our produce, until President Hoyte established the cambios.

We weathered the massive upheavals in oil prices of the 70’s, the fluctuating sugar prices worldwide in the 70’s and 80’s, the sugar levy and the local subsidy of sugar, and the withdrawal of the preferential prices for sugar at the EU. GuySuCo can’t have been failing economically for decades, but we did not! That concept flies in the face of reason! And I am giving due notice: I am prepared to handle anyone in court who thinks that we benefited financially from these lands in any significant way over the years and want to victimise us now, it is an illusion.

Guyana benefited much more, since every ounce of sugar produced at Versailles and Houston was sold by the government to replenish the foreign exchange of the country. We owe the fact that we still have this land due to two great men, my grandfather Manoel Vieira who bought it, and my father Joseph Vieira, who was an outstanding Estate Manager, maybe even the best in our history, and it was due to his excellence that we even survived this long.

So Charlie, today the Houston lands are valuable, since with blood in our eyes, we persevered for nearly a three-quarters of a century to hold it.

To do so, we had to sell major parts of it, until today all that is left is some lands at Houston, which now have good real estate potential, which the 100,000 acres of GuySuCo rural lands cannot possibly hold. So in the end, holding on to it with blood in our eyes has finally returned a dividend.

And Freddie, whatever

you may concoct in your column, there is only one fact the Vieira family is very large; my grandfather had 12 children, those of us who advanced like my brothers in the fishing and boat-building businesses were very successful men and had nothing to do with land or the dividends from Houston and Versailles, since over the decades, from the 60’s to now there was very little - a fact it will be my pleasure to explain to the CCJ in time.

Most of us opted to enter other areas, since the sugar growing was for us a disaster. Many live abroad, some do not even own cars, and have to work as teachers, and in stores.

I made nothing in the sugar industry, since I was paid like the other sugar estate managers, and I, in 1992, even abandoned it to develop my Television business, and that was when I finally made a few dollars.

It is an obscenity that the situation can now be distorted as it is by people who do not understand it, to say that this is a massively wealthy family.

Finally, my great grandfather Manoel Vieira came to Guyana as an indentured labourer and worked on the West Coast of Demerara at Blankenburg. His son, my grandfather, went into the gold and diamond fields of Guyana and after 30 years, he emerged around 1926 and commenced buying sugar estate lands.

By that time, slavery was abolished for more than 90 years and even indentureship was stopped since 1917. So my family never brought indentured labourers from anywhere, and we sure as hell did not have slaves.

Tony Vieira

RUSAL resumes stripping operations with skeleton crew

E

mbattled Russianowned Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc. (BCGI/RUSAL) has resumed preparation works at the Aroaima mines in Berbice.

Despite the state of affairs, the company recently resumed stripping operation.

The source told Kaieteur News that the company is currently using excavators and a small number of workers to undertake the exercise.

It was explained that the stripping exercise refers to the clearing of the topsoil using excavators and trucks before the ore is then mined from the soil beneath the surface.

The mining company has been at loggerheads with government over a number of labour and other violations including the sale of duty free

equipment.

The move to resume its stripping operations come about months after it had taken a decision to shut down the operations and had removed equipment from the mines prompting fears of a shut down.

Once the biggest economic activity in the region, the operations at the Aroaima and Berbice River area had been shuttered before the then Government ran it for a short while and then struck a deal with Rusal in the mid-2000s.

According to workers, since September, there has been growing uncertainty growing over the future of the company’s presence in Guyana, there have been moves by the company to take the equipment from the worksite.

A number of the 100-plus tonne trucks that BCGI had imported under duty free waiver arrangements, were taken to the Canje area, Berbice, where officials of the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), on receiving word of the development, ordered them not to be removed.

The tax authority has since demanded several hundred million dollars from the company.

Since setting up operations in Guyana the Russian company has failed to declare a profit but has been shipping out bauxite without fail.

Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, had indicated that he is preparing to meet with the workers who have written to him, complaining of the uncertainty.

Forestry Commission’s chief, James Singh, departing after 21 years For 21 years, he led the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC).

Battling illness and a tough period for the body which regulates the forestry sector, James Singh will be proceeding on medical leave come 2020.

GFC’s chair, Jocelyn Dow, disclosed yesterday that Singh would be missed after overseeing a challenging time for the Commission.

The search will now be on for another commissioner to lead the entity.

Yesterday, the Ministry of Natural Resources made it clear that it “recognises” the excellent work done by Commissioner Singh and the staff of the Guyana Forestry Commission.

“As Commissioner Singh’s long years of service ends and as he proceeds on medical leave at the start of 2020, the MNR takes this opportunity to thank him for his service and wishes him the best, health wise and in his future endeavours.”

A few years ago, Singh and GFC came under pressure for the seeming lack of oversight on especially BaiShanLin, a Chinese investor that was accused of being granted hundreds of thousands of hectares of forestlands through questionable means.The

Departing: GFC’s Commissioner, James Singh subsequent investigations and denials saw the Coalition Government in 2015, months after it came to office, repossessing the forests from BaiShanLin after the investor failed to build a processing facility in keeping its commitments.

GFC was then faced with financial woes after revenues fell and its workload increased from activities relating to the Norway forest deal which called for more monitoring and reporting.

GFC is currently under government scrutiny with a number of reforms recommended.

Saturday December 28, 2019

PAGE 7

Kaieteur News

Repsol mud spill exposes EPAs inability to monitor oil sector

By Kiana Wilburg A mud spill that occurred in the Kanuku Block which is operated by Spanish oil company, Repsol, has exposed just how unprepared the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is for the role of monitoring Guyanas growing oil sector.

During an interview with Kaieteur News yesterday, EPA Head Dr. Vincent Adams, disclosed that the Repsol mud spill took place in November. The official noted that the company reported that only 84 barrels of mud was released into the ocean due to a valve that was open during its efforts to drill a well.

The official was keen to point out that 84 barrels of mud is what the company said was released but the EPA

due to its limited resources is incapable of verifying if this is accurate.

Following the incident, Dr. Adams confirmed that no designated officer is at Repsols offshore operations since he does not have the human resources to ensure same.

Dr. Adams said, “We are hoping to improve this situation where we dont have round the clock, on-site monitoring. We will know based on the budget for 2020, how fast we would be able to get up to speed but as you know, we have elections.

“This would have an effect on allocation for the first part of the year until June I believe. So it would be a late start.”

The EPA Head noted that

EPA Head, Dr. Vincent Adams he is targeting 2021 to have better monitoring conditions and well as trained personnel in place for the oil sector. For the time being, more than 90

Clear conflict of interest if MMA-ADA chairman awarded 10,000 acres

The lease of over 10,000 acres of Mahaica lands to Kelvin Saul, Chairman of the Mahaica-MahaiconyAbary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ ADA), appears to be more than a conflict of interest.

“This cant be just a regular form of conflict. What about the other applications of all the other small farmers?”

This was the question asked by Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, yesterday during his weekly press conference.

In recent days, it was learnt that Saul, the chairman of the authority, would have benefitted from over 10,000 acres via a registered business named Mc Agricultural Trading and Investment Service.

According to Jagdeo, yesterday, if it is indeed established that Saul received those lands while he was a member of the board of the authority, then questions would be raised about the applications for several small farmers who have been wanting lands too.

“What about the land that has been taken away from the smaller farmers? Many of them cant pay the 15,000 per acre fee. These farmers are going bankrupt because they cannot pay for these lands.”

While the MMA-ADA Act does not explicitly speak to situations of board members receiving lands, it does warn about persons who have interest in a transaction, sitting when decisions are being made by the authority.

According to the MMAADA Act, in the Second Schedule, “A member of the Authority shall not take part in or vote on the decision whether at a meeting of the Authority or of a committee on any matter with respect to and transaction between the authority and any person in

-Opposition Leader

Board Chairman, Kelvin Saul whose business the member is pecuniarily interested, whether directly or indirectly…”

Board members are not supposed to be benefitting from lands at the MahaicaMahaicony-Abary Agricultural Development Authority (MMA/ADA).

This was the opinion of Region Five chairman, Vickram Ramphal on Thursday.

Ramphal, who sits on the board, said that he will be re-

viewing his records to determine when the lands were approved by the board and other details.

Saul has not officially made a statement as yet.

The Opposition is contending that there are other cases of what it describes as land grabbing, ahead of the March 2nd general elections.

Opposition parliamentarian, Harry Gill, said that the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) is gathering evidence.

The MMA/ADA is a semi-autonomous agency under the Ministry of Agriculture, governed by a Board of Directors. The Board is responsible for the formulation of policies for the efficient functioning and operations of the MMA/ADA. It has thousands of acres of farmlands it is responsible for.

The authority was formed as the executing agency for the construction of all drainage and irrigation works in Region Five.

The agency is also responsible for the allocation of state lands between the Berbice and Mahaica Rivers.

percent of the burden rests on his shoulders.

MUD SPILL INCIDENT The EPA Head said that Repsol contracted Valaris, an offshore drilling contractor headquartered in London, United Kingdom, to drill an exploratory well in the Kanuku Block. Up to July 19, last, Valaris was known as Ensco Rowan.

The following month, it suffered a well blowout offshore Indonesia which led to an oil spill. The spill pumped an estimated 3,000 barrels of oil a day into the sea since it began, according to the Indonesian Forum for the Environment (Walhi), the countrys

biggest green Non-Governmental Organization.

Dr. Adams said it is obvious that the operation in the Kanuku Block was not conducted in conformity with rigid safety procedures or else a valve would not have been left open which resulted in mud spilling into the ocean.

The official said, “I was on vacation when I learnt of the incident and I was shocked because while I know the mud is not an environmental hazard, the fact that this happened meant that safety procedures were not followed and I knew that I had to get to the bottom of this. I was deeply concerned about what caused this.”

Dr. Adams said he subsequently sent a three-person team, which included one official from the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), at the end of November to conduct several interviews.

He said that inquiries revealed that there was, as he suspected, no PROPER procedures in place. “If they did, they would have known the position of every valve. This is a matter of adhering to safety procedures. It could have been worse...,” added the EPA Head.

He further noted that all

oil companies were summoned to a “serious discussion” about what is expected of them.

Dr. Adams said, “I brought in all the companies and I told them this would not be tolerated. I also had a separate discussion with Repsol where I told them that any further application using Valaris would be placed under serious scrutiny.”

PENALTY Dr. Adams told Kaieteur News that he is enraged at the fact that all he can do at this point is institute a fine of $1,066,000. “This is not even a slap on the wrist. But that is all I am allowed to do by law. I have since asked my lawyers to do an urgent review of the law,” he said.

Going forward, the EPA head said that the agency would be checking the safety procedures for all the oil companies.

“But again, my only problem is the number of people I need to help me. It is not easy because in the Repsol s case, I even had to tell my people what questions to ask. So while I intend to do this, it is not something I would be in a position to do steady. I desperately need resources for this job,” the concerned EPA head noted.

PAGE 8

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Guyana ranked No. 1 for highest bribery rate in Caribbean Graph showing Guyana with the highest number of people who paid bribes to access a public service

Percentage of citizens who paid a bribe in the Caribbean, by a type of service (IDB study) Guyana has been placed on the forefront for a number of years as it relates to bribery scandals where persons have had to pay to access Government services that should’ve been free.

The Inter-American Development Bank has now placed Guyana at the top spot in the Caribbean as the country with the highest bribery rate. The IDB in a report published earlier this month also outlined that Guyana takes the longest to conduct business with the average time being more than five hours.

Entitled ‘Wait No More: Citizens, Red Tape and Digital Government’, the report stated that “Government transactions are a hotbed of corruption”.

The report cited manual government transactions, face-to-face interactions and the lack of standardised processes as the direct reasons for transactions being vulnerable to dishonest behaviour.

The IDB made reference to the 2019 Transparency International survey which showed that of the proportion of people in the five Caribbean countries surveyed; paying a bribe to access a public service was 18 percent.

“Corruption is everywhere: 29 percent of Latin Americans report having paid a bribe in the context of a public service in

2016…Data from this same survey shows that the percentage of people who pay bribes in exchange for services varies throughout the region: in Guyana, 27 percent of those surveyed said they had to pay a bribe to access a public service, the highest proportion in the region,” the report said.

According to the IDB, Guyana is followed by The Bahamas with a 20 percent bribery rate and 17 percent in both Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago.

Barbados registered the lowest rate, with only nine percent of the surveyed reporting having paid a bribe to receive a public service.

The report further explained that these rates also vary according to the service being requested. Transparency International (2019) found that in the Caribbean, utilities recorded the highest rate of bribes. Nineteen percent of citizens reported having paid a bribe to access a service.

Fifteen percent of people paid a bribe to obtain an identity document, whereas for police services, this figure reached 18 percent.

Saturday December 28, 2019

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Oil companies and the underdevelopment of Africa

I

n June 1995, the oil gi ant, Dutch Royal Shell, was implicated in the murder of Ken Saro-Wiwa, an environmental activist who was from Ogoniland in Nigeria. Saro-Wiwa had been leading a campaign against the environmental destruction caused by on-shore oil production.

He was arrested, placed in front of a military tribunal and executed. His death so outraged international public opinion that Nigeria was suspended from the Commonwealth for three years.

Amnesty International led the charge against Shell, accusing the oil giant of being involved in actions which led to Saro-Wiwa’s execution.

It found that a top official of Shell had at least three meetings with General Sani Abacha and that Saro-Wiwa and his environmental movement were part of the subject of those discussions.

Amnesty International also found that Shell knew about the environmental destruction which was taking place but tried to downplay it.

The human rights watch-

dog group was of the opinion that Shell was more interested in continuing its operations than addressing the concerns over the environmental destruction which it activities were causing.

There was a big fall-out after the execution of Ken Saro-Wiwa.

In fact, an action was filed in US courts against the oil company. It settled out of court for a reported US$15.5M but did not accept culpability.

It said its payment was in the interest of reconciliation.

Shell’s image, however, took a big hit after that incident.

Walter Rodney in his acclaimed book, “How Europe Underdeveloped Africa” advanced the proposition that African development could only be achieved by a radical break with western capitalism which he said was the principal agency for the underdevelopment of Africa.

Forty years after his assassination, Rodney’s conclusion, about the exploitative role of western companies in the underdevelopment of Africa, is being supported by the find-

ings of a study undertaken by a coalition of African and British social justice organisations.

The study is titled, “Honest Account 2017: How the world profits from Africa’s wealth.”

The study found that western companies were pillaging Africa to the tune of US$41B per annum.

The study calculated that inflows to Africa in 2015 were US$161B but that western companies removed US$203B from the continent in that year.

Western oil companies have political clout and can use that clout to pressure governments in other countries.

Charles Taylor was President of Liberia for six years between 1997 and 2203.

He reportedly refused an offer of US 5 cents for every $100 worth of oil. The offer was made by an American firm.

Not long after, he was pushed into exile and later prosecuted, with support from the United States, for war and human rights crimes. He was sentenced to 50 years imprisonment by a special court in Sierra Leone.

Oil companies have a way

Dem boys seh ...

Jagdeo lie down pon Ram Jattan Soulja Bai call to meet wid GECOM because he want to mek sure dat GECOM ready to hold credible elections. Dem had some problems wid names.

Some people names couldn’t be found. Anyhow, dem manage to straighten out de list.

But de meeting nearly cause a commotion. Two of de opposition members seh dem wasn’t going to meet wid Granger because he illegal. Somehow, dem change dem mouth and go to de meeting. Dat is how Bruck up Benn ask him when Parliament gon dissolve and when he people gon resign.

Soulja Bai seh Parliament gon dissolve de day before Old Year’s Day. Dem boys seh de opposition really

want to see Soulja Bai move out from State House. Things reach de stage wheh Jagdeo mekking up stories and blaming Soulja Bai. He announce dat Ram Jattan got some bank account in Capital One Bank in New York and he shovel US$5 million in dis account.

Dem boys know how Jagdeo does lie but people like to hear lie. One group even call Ram Jattan to find out if is true and when he didn’t answer, dem seh how Ram Jattan refuse to confirm and deny. Dis time is Jagdeo lie pon Ram Jattan.

Anybody wid sense know dat in dis day of money laundering, you can’t pas dem kind of money into any bank account unless you name Jagdeo. If you transfer

US$10,000 from one bank to somebody account is nuff question and explaining.

Yesterday after de mischief done, Jagdeo seh he wrong and he sorry.

He seh if Soulja Bai did hire people to check all who got foreign bank account, he woulda never mek such a statement bout Ram Jattan.

He seh Soulja Bai got to tek de blame.

Dis is de same man who seh Soulja Bai tek state funds and build a big house pon de East Bank. Dis time, de man only tek over he brudda house.

Jagdeo done planning de next lie and Bruck up Benn planning de next question fuh Soulja Bai. Talk half and don’t sorry fuh de politicians.

of getting their way.

They also have their way with oil-rich developing states.

There is no controversy about the involvement of oil companies in the underdevelopment of Africa.

The oil-rich Niger Delta is one example of oil companies extracting billions of dollars in oil wealth while being oblivious to the abject poverty in the areas in which they operate.

Africa is being underdeveloped by western and Chinese oil companies. Africa has now a hotspot for oil and gas investments. There is an oil

rush taking hold in Africa.

Both western and Chinese companies are scrambling to exploit the continent’s oil reserves.

This oil rush has intensified since the start of the new century.

Oil exploration or production is believed to be taking place in more than 51 of the continent’s 54 countries, according to the United States Army War College.

The massive investments made in Africa’s oil industry however show little prospects of altering the traditional exploitative relationship – in which more is taken

out of Africa than is left behind.

In other words, the more investment that goes in, the greater the share that is being taken out – a sure recipe for underdevelopment.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

PAGE 10

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===Fre

Ugly Christmas gift APNU+AFC gave Guyana

T

here will be more discoveries of oil in huge quantities as the months and years pass on and there will be more documents drawn up by foreign companies that are lopsided and our rulers will sign and one for reason essentially.

These foreign business executives have no respect and admiration for Guyana’s rulers because they see how unintelligent our politicians are.

Life has lessons that have to be internalised. If a teacher is always late and the headmaster refuses to intervene,

disrespect is born and other teachers will come late too.

If a manager doesn’t stop a store employee from constantly texting while customers are in the store, disrespect will be born and other employees will start texting too. That is life.

That is human nature.

If foreign investors see incompetence, mediocrity, aridity and banality in how politicians govern, they will thrust all kinds of nonsensical documents in front of them to sign because they feel that they can manipulate leaders that they see as fools.

In the Christmas Day edition of the newspapers, there were two photographs. One was David Granger and Khemraj Ramjattan shaking hands after signing the renewed Cummingsburg Accord.

The other was a photo shoot after the signing, of all the representatives of the parties that make up APNU plus representatives of the AFC. A picture paints a billion words and those two pictures paint a trillion words of silly leadership and the wasteland that Guyana is.

Make no mistake; your imagination can lead you into thinking things that are simply weird.

The night before I saw that image of Granger and Ramjattan shaking hands in the Christmas Day newspapers, I was absorbed in the quarrel between the Russian President and the EU Parliament over the significance of the 1939-Non-Agression Pact between Nazi Germany and the USSR that resulted in the two countries taking over many European countries.

The controversy was all over the global media in the days leading up to Christmas and one newspaper carried a photo of Germany’s foreign minister Ribbentrop and his Russian counterpart, Molotov, shaking hands after the signing.

When I looked at that Granger-Ramjattan image, they just look like Ribbentrop and Molotov. It was an uncanny resemblance of ambiences.

The more important of the two pictures was the one in which the big wigs of the APNU constituents are lined up with broad smiles.

When you look at that photo, nothing in life in any

part of the world could be more of a lie.

A picture can tell a billion words and that picture in the newspapers on Christmas Day paints a story of a tragic wasteland that will never emerge in the modern world.

The question is – are there sane, rational Guyanese who believe what they looked at?

APNU is a nasty, sick joke that no modern nation should accept.

Let’s start with Keith Scott’s party. I don’t know its name nor care to, 99.99 percent of the people of this country do not know about a party that is led by a minister named Keith Scott. I say in all seriousness, that party will not get two votes if it contests by itself.

Who in Guyana knows about the Guyana Action Party? Where are its leaders?

Where is it located? Who or what is the Justice For All Party?

Do people out there believe Mr. CN Sharma can contest the 2020 election and win fifty votes?

Then there is the biggest masquerade band, the WPA. There was no Clive Thomas or Rupert Roopnaraine in the lineup. WPA was represented

Frederick Kissoon

by Minister Sarabo.

The Guyana Action Party, Justice For All outfit and the thing of Keith Scott do not go around Guyana proclaiming their viability and behave as if they are major players in politics.

The WPA does? Yet no one knows who their leaders are if they have a quota of leaders at all.

I honestly believe if it goes alone in the 2020 poll, the WPA cannot get 50 votes.

I don’t believe that these fictional formations that call themselves APNU have any members at all.

Of course, I am not referring to the PNC. I believe none of these fictional formations can secure a list of nominees if they should contest by themselves. They probably cannot find resources to campaign in Georgetown much less in Region Four or even in three other Regions.

Finally, two other ugly dimensions of the affair. Why was the signing done at a State House and not the offices of either the PNC or AFC? It was a political party event not a governmental act.

And why sign an accord and not announce the details?

There is no other messed up country like Guyana.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

PAGE 13

Demerara October Assizes closes with 49 cases disposed of

T

he chamber of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has reported that 49 cases were disposed of at the October 2019 session of the Demerara Criminal Assizes, which commenced on October 1, at the High Court in Georgetown.

During this time, Madam Justice Jo-Ann Barlow, Madam Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall and Justice Sandil Kissoon were rostered to sit. Of the 322 cases listed to be heard at this session, 49 were completed, 36 received attention in the High Court of Demerara while 12 were nolle prosequi by the DPP. Of these 36 cases presented, 20 were for murder and 16 for sexual offences. There were 13 guilty pleas, nine guilty verdicts by jury, three not guilty verdicts, six formal verdicts of not guilty, two hung juries and three aborted trials.

For these 36 cases, State Counsel Shawnette Austin and Sarah Martin completed 10 cases for the offence of Murder before Madam Justice Jo-Ann Barlow.

In one case, the accused pleaded guilty to the offence of Murder and was sentenced to life imprisonment with the possibility of parole after serving 20 years. Six others pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of Manslaughter.

In one of these six cases, the accused who was indicted for Murder and an alternative count of

Felonious Wounding was sentenced to 30 years on the first count and eight years on the alternative count. His sentences are to run concurrently.

Of the five others, two were sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment each while the other three were sentenced to 25 years, 18 years and 12 years respectively..

In another three cases, one accused was sentenced to l5 years' imprisonment after the jury found him guilty of the lesser offence of Manslaughter. The other two accused were acquitted.

State Counsel Tuanna Hardy, Teriq Mohammed and Nafeeza Baig presented 16 Sexual Offence cases before Madam Justice Simone Ramlall.

Two of these cases were for rape, nine for the offence of Rape of a Child under the age of 16 and one each for Sexual Activity with a Child under 16 years, Sexual Activity with a Child Family Member, Carnal Knowledge of a girl under 15 years, Incest by a Male, Buggery and Indecently Assaulting another Male.

In five of these matters, the accused were found unanimously guilty by jury verdicts. Three of them were respectively sentenced to five years, 20 years and 18 years' imprisonment.

Another one who was indicted on two counts for Rape of Child under the age of 16 and Sexual Activity with a Child under the age of 16 was sentenced to 15 years on the first count and seven

years on the second count.

His sentences will run concurrently.

The one other who was indicted on four counts for Sexual Activity with A Child Family Member was found unanimously guilty on all counts and was sentenced to a total of 85 years' imprisonment.

In two other separate matters, the juries failed to reach a verdict and returned hung. While in another two, the accused were acquitted by jury verdicts of not guilty.

In four separate cases, the complainants failed to attend Court and the Trial Judge directed the juries to return formal verdicts of not guilty. Three cases were aborted.

State Counsel Abigail Gibbs and Mandel Moore presented l0 matters for the offence of Murder before Justice Sandil Kissoon.

In six of these cases, there were nine accused persons. Seven pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of Manslaughter; four of them were sentenced to life imprisonment while the three others were sentenced to 20 years, 17 years, and five years' imprisonment respectively.

The other two accused were further remanded to prison to await new trials.

Of the four other matters, three accused were found guilty by unanimous jury verdicts. One accused was sentenced to death and the two others were each sentenced to life imprisonment.

Another bundle of joy arrives at Christmas

O

n Christmas night, another mother was blessed with her very own bundle of joy. Ms. Deniescia Joseph, a 21-year-old gave birth to a baby girl at the Mahdia Hospital at 20:56 hrs.

She came through with a safe delivery by midwife, Malinda Haramotoo who was assisted by Medex Siland.

The mother of the child was presented with a hamper, adorned with “Christmas babies�. Christmas Day deliveries are usually glorified for their grand entrance on Christmas Day. The delighted mother will welcome the new year with her new arrival in her very arms.

The two will become eligible for parole after serving 40 years and 32 years' imprisonment respectively. In the other one case, the accused was acquitted after the Trial Judge upheld a no case submission and directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty.

Twelve cases were Nolle Prosequi by the DPP. These l2 cases were for Sexual Offences. In five of the Sexual offences cases, the

complainants indicated in written statements that they did not wish to proceed with their matters. Another seven complainants could not be located.

During this time, the Berbice Criminal Assizes opened October 15, 2019 and remains in progress until February 3, 2020.

State Prosecutor Seeta Bishundial presented six matters before Justice Brassington Reynolds. Of these six matters, three were

for the offence of Murder, two for the offence of Rape of a Child under the age of 16 and one for Attempt to Commit Murder.

Of the three murder cases, two accused pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of Manslaughter and were sentenced to 19 years and 17 years' imprisonment respectively. The other accused was acquitted by the jury.

In one of the two matters (continued on page 23)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Saturday December 28, 2019

Details of Guyana's Crude oil Saudi oil giant is world's sales will be made most valuable company, while public - Energy Dept. paying 10 times royalty Guyana charges ExxonMobil I

n an effort to ensure there is transparency and accountability in Guyana's oil sector, the Energy Department has announced that it will be taking steps to ensure citizens are able to access records on the sale of the nation's oil.

According to the department, the records will explain how, when, and for how much the country's crude oil is being sold. It also stated that it will be collaborating with the Guyana Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative Secretariat regarding the mechanisms to allow public access to this information.

O n Tu e s d a y, t h e department would have informed the nation that the first three lifts of Guyana's oil from the Stabroek Block will be sold to Shell Western Supply and Trading Limited.

This subsidiary of Shell, the third largest oil company in the world, is based in Barbados. The three lifts which are due in February 2020, will amount to three million barrels of Liza Crude.

Furthermore, the Energy Department's decision to

make details of the oil sales public would be in keeping with a key recommendation from the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Kaieteur News would have reported last week that from 2015 to now, the IMF has played a key advisory role to the Government, particularly on oil-related matters and just recently, impressed upon the government, the need to carefully monitor every aspect of the process to sell Guyana's oil, as significant revenue is at stake.

The IMF stressed that the sale of the Stabroek Block oil will require significant decisions to be made based on technical experience and expertise. But in all its dealings, the Fund categorically stated that all decisions and activities regarding the sale of Guyana's oil must be “transparent” and “undertaken in the public's interest.” Its advice in this regard was outlined in a special report prepared mere months ago.

In that document seen by this newspaper, the IMF's Fiscal Affairs Department said that since the sale of crude could bring significant

Hasbah field (Saudi Aramco)

Energy Department Head, Dr. Mark Bynoe revenue, establishing an optimal selling price is key. It noted, however, that this requires professional expertise, careful understanding of the process, and oversight.

Expounding further, the Fund's Department said that crude oil sales are made through a network of buyers who are known to the trader.

The trader then reaches out to potential buyers whom they have identified and are familiar with.

The Fund was keen to note that the government must be vigilant and monitor as well as control the selection of buyers, terms of sale, and the transfer of revenues to ensure that those decisions and activities are transparent.

S

audi Aramco, the State owned oil company of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, is the most valuable company in the world, according to a Reuters report published earlier this month.

The company's public offering pricing of its shares indicates that it is worth US$1.7 trillion, easily overtaking Apple as the most valuable company in the world.

Many would link an oil company's success to favourable terms from Governments for which it operates but information published by the New Yorkbased publication, Bloomberg indicate that Saudi Arabia has been squeezing the company for revenue, and the company is still thriving. For years, the company has been paying a flat royalty of 20 percent, up until early 2017, when the Saudi Government introduced a sliding scale, Bloomberg reported.

The system charges a minimum royalty of 20 percent of revenue for oil prices up to $70 a barrel, 40 percent between $70 and $100, and 50 percent when the crude price exceeds $100 a barrel.

Furthermore, Bloomberg reported that Saudi Arabia raised royalties on its oil

company by switching the benchmark to calculate the royalties to Brent oil. The New York publication stated that changing the benchmark to Brent would mean that the Saudi government could get a higher royalty total from Aramco than before, due to the fact that Brent is more expensive than Saudi oil.

All that expense and Saudi Aramco still managed to make itself the most valuable company in the world. The revelation gives new life to arguments for an increase in the industry low two percent royalty that Guyana is charging ExxonMobil for its operations on the Stabroek Block. Critics have argued that the rate is not enough for a Government who has given Exxon a deal that will make it very rich.

Saudi Aramco is paying a royalty that is 10 times higher than what Guyana charges ExxonMobil.

Proponents of a higher royalty have long faced arguments that higher royalties could threaten the sustainability of the local operations of a company like ExxonMobil. But Saudi Aramco, whose oil is more expensive to extract than Guyana's Liza crude, is thriving.

Bloomberg reported that the major income streams

from the oil industry for Saudi Arabia are royalties and taxes. But in Guyana's case, the deal it has with Exxon is a Production Sharing Agreement that splits profits down the middle after Exxon recovers its costs.

The key differences in the fiscal regimes of the two countries, to extract economic benefits from the sector, provide a clear view that Guyana's regime is less favourable to it than Saudi Arabia's.

In Guyana's case, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has projected in its Article IV consultation that Guyana will only get about 14 percent of the value from the Liza-1 and Liza-2 projects, considering royalties and other revenue streams.

But in Saudi Arabia's case, a minimum rate of 20 percent guarantees the Kingdom at least 20 percent of the value of every barrel on royalty alone. That doesn't even count in the taxes the Kingdom also has to collect from Saudi Aramco. This all means that through its fiscal regime, which includes a high royalty, Saudi Arabia gets a higher portion of the value of its reserves than Guyana is getting from ExxonMobil for its Liza crude.

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 15

Kaieteur News

PAGE 16

Saturday December 28, 2019

Fruit suppliers to get higher prices from TOPCO

S

ome 40 farmers who currently supply fruit to Demerara Distillers Limited's (DDL) TOPCO juice operations are eager to increase their cultivation.

The increased cultivation is to meet the company's ability to in turn increase its supply of a range of juices for local consumption and for export.

This would come as TOPCO has embarked on a multi-billion-dollar expansion project which would initially require over two million pounds of fruit annually.

The farmers met on Friday with officials of DDL and representatives of a number of agencies including the Ministry of Agriculture, the National

Agriculture Research and Extension Institute (NAREI), the Guyana School of Agriculture (GSA) and the Institute of Private Enterprise Development (IPED) to discuss issues which would help ensure that they successfully expand their cultivation.

This included assistance with the provision of agriculture extension

Fruit farmers meeting with DDL and other officials recently.

services which would deal with cultivation best practices, soil testing, treatment of infestation and advice on measures to reduce post -harvest losses.

According to DDL, the issue of pricing for their fruit was also raised. DDL chairman, Komal Samaroo, informed the farmers that another price increase will be effective in February 2020, one year after the last price increase.

Samaroo also advised the farmers that arrangements would be put in place to ensure they are paid within three days of their supply of fruit. He said that payments

w o u l d b e m a d e electronically to farmers' bank accounts. “This is a serious partnership between TOPCO and you the farmers.

Arrangements are for the guaranteed purchase of your fruit at a guaranteed price.

So, when the market price goes down, you will still be receiving the price upon which we agreed.

This is a contract between you and us. We need each other and must address all the issues that will make this partnership mutually successful,� Samaroo told the farmers at the meeting held at Diamond.

Farmers from as far as the Pomeroon were among those participating in the meeting and tour of the expansion project.

The farmers also heard presentations by Rebecca

Rampher-Adams, TOPCO Plant Manager, Benjamin Frank of NAREI and Kaimlall Chattergoon of IPED. Rampher-Adams in her presentation emphasized the critical importance of quality, pointing out that the fruit supplied must be ripe, must be free of any pests, worms and insects that could cause contamination, must be free of dirt and animal dung and the crates, bags and containers used to transport the fruit must be clean.

She also advised that a number of agencies will provide technical advice and assistance to help ensure these standards are met.

The farmers identified the need for specific assistance in dealing with the carambola fruit fly which according to some farmers, (continued on page 19)

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 17

PAGE 18

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 19

$360,000 disbursement for Santa Cruz fruit farmers

T

welve farmers from Santa Cruz who will be supplying the soon to be established Fruit Factory there received $30,000 each to commence land clearing, preparation and planting.

This is in preparation to make the village, which is located in Moruca subdistrict, Barima/Waini, Region One become one of the most industrious fruit juice, jelly and marmalade producing villages in Guyana.

The 12 farmers received the financial support from Minister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples' Affairs, Valerie GarridoLowe, during a recent visit to the Region.

Before making the presentation, Minister Garrido-Lowe said, “We are investing $3M in the first phase for twelve farmers so that they can plant fruit trees and build a processing factory. This will be your very own business.” “ Yo u r G o v e r n m e n t believes in you as a person and as a village, so we are going to help you and to support you and come next year, we will have more money for the processing factory because it will be

done in three phases (a threeyear project).

“We know you will excel because you are hardworking, strong and an enterprising people,” the Minister assured.

Several farmers have already commenced land clearing and preparation.

Minister Garrido-Lowe emphasized that the Government is focused on

working together with the Indigenous people all across Guyana .

“For a long time, for many, many years, we have been the same way. That's why we must be careful when we are choosing our leaders.”

“The President wants Indigenous peoples to be respected by all,” Minister Garrido-Lowe assured

residents. “ We d o n o t w a n t progress to stop and our people must not be afraid but to continue to enjoy a better standard of living. There are lots more to do and we have proven to you in four years that we can do just that. Look at the Moruca Bridge and lots of other projects we have done.”

Among the plantlets

soon to be planted are cherry, orange, tangerine, lime, papaw, golden apple, guava, soursop, pineapple and banana.

It is estimated that the fruits will be ready for harvesting between 18 months and three years by which time a factory will be constructed, furnished and fully operable.

Production will be done

in keeping with international standards. During a visit to the village last October, Minister Garrido-Lowe underscored Government's commitment to making available the necessary support needed to ensure the project is sustained.

It will also ensure that villagers are gainfully employed, physical and infrastructural development realized and the goal of ensuring food security achieved.

The Fruit Farm will complement Kwebanna's Cassava Processing Facility, the Santa Rosa Ground Coffee Project, both in the Moruca sub-district and the Smith Creek Fish and Crab Processing Facility in the Mabaruma sub-district.

These are all viable economic projects.

Santa Cruz is home to more than 400 residents who are involved in farming and fishing as their main economic activities.

Meanwhile, scores of children who turned out to the meeting received toys for the holidays bringing the total number of toys distributed in Cabora, Mora, Kwebanna, Santa Cruz and Four Miles to in excess of five hundred.

40 nurses at GPHC now fluent in French and Spanish

D

ue to the collaboration between the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) and the Guyana Language Institute, 40 nurses attached to the city hospital are now certified

Spanish and French Speakers. This is according to Keith Alonzo, Director of Nursing at the city hospital.

The language programme lasted for six months and after the programme, the trainees were presented with a

certificate.

In a recent interview with this publication, Alonzo stated that nurses working in different departments at the city hospital were selected last July, to embark on the language programme with the aim of lessening the language barrier with the foreigners using the medical facility.

According to Alonzo, the language programme was deemed a necessity because medical staff at the city hospital has been encountering difficulties when attempting to solicit the necessary particulars of patients to facilitate treatment, and to also gather vital information that can assist them with the proper and correct diagnosis due to the language barrier.

“The Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) is mandated to deliver free and fair services to everyone, whether you are a citizen of Guyana or not.

However, hundreds of foreigners that speak different languages are now accessing health care at the city hospital.”

“Four nurses that have been trained to speak the

different languages will be place in the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department attached to the hospital. The A&E is the most used department at the city hospital.

“Everyday foreigners use the medical facility and as medical personnel, we have to be prepared for that. The four nurses that will be placed in the department will assist with translation, so that everyone accessing the medical facility will be correctly diagnosed,” he continued.

However, with nurses now trained to speak different languages information will be

better translate at the medical facility. As indicated by top officials at the hospital, as of recent, the institute has seen a great influx of Haitians, Brazilians, Cubans and Ve n e z u e l a n s n a t i o n a l s seeking medical services.

Alonzo further stated that after receiving their certificates, the nurses are expected to teach other nurses working in their respective department the new languages.

As of recent, the Board of Directors at the city hospital introduced several new programmes into the hospital curriculum with the aim of offering professional health

Keith Alonzo, Director of Nursing care services to those using the medical facility.

Fruit suppliers to get higher prices...

From page 16 the solution implemented by NAREI has not been effective.

In response to the farmers' request, Benjamin Frank of NAREI indicated that the problem might be with the application of the material provided to deal with the problem and it was agreed that this issue will be immediately followed up to ensure a successful solution.

IPED's Kaimlall Chattergoon outlined the services from which farmers could benefit which include the development of business plans, financial management and loans, which are not subject to the credit ratings of the farmers.

Friday's meeting and tour of the expansion works followed one by representatives of a number of related government

agencies recently and a meeting last week with Finance Minister Winston Jordan who was updated on the progress of the project, which will include the production of pasteurised milk.

The new TOPCO plant is e x p e c t e d t o b e commissioned in July 2020.

DDL is the maker of the world-renowned El Dorado rums.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 20

Saturday December 28, 2019

We intend to make money out of farming

M

inister within the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples Affairs, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, has assured residents, particularly farmers in Kwebanna Village, Moruca sub-district, Barima/Waini, Region One, that the Government will continue to invest heavily in Agriculture production.

Kwebanna, which is known for its Agriculture exploits, will soon be operating a Cassava Flour Processing Facility to supply local, regional and international markets.

Some two dozen farmers are currently cultivating 30 acres of cassava to supply the factory.

Minster Garrido-Lowe told residents, “The farmers in this world are the most

- Minister Garrido-Lowe to Kwebanna residents important people because they give us the subsistence.

They (farmers) are the richest people in the world and that is what the people of Kwebanna are going to be.

“We intend to make money out of our farming now, not five dollars here and there. We are putting those days behind us.”

Kwebanna recently hosted a mini “Cassava Festival”, which saw the Farmers Group along with the Hand-in-Hand Women's Group with support from Catering facilitator in the Ministry, Margaret Cornette, produce appetising indigenous foods from the

cassava and according to Minister Garrido-Lowe, it “exceeded expectations”.

She said, “All this delicious tasting food is just an introduction to show the people how we can use the cassava flour and who better to show them than you, you will produce the flour and you will show them how to use it, and we are going to have a “National Cassava Festival” when that building (cassava factory) opens. So let us be big, and your government will respect that and continue to invest in you.”

Minister Garrido-Lowe warned, “Do not let anybody

stop progress. They had 23 years to give you anything they wanted to give you, 23

years to give you roads, internet, cassava factory and they did not. So when they coming now and say we will give you roads, we will give you this, we will give you that, or this was our idea do not believe them.

“We are here for only four years and we did it.”

Minister GarridoLowe assured that free education, i m p r o v e d infrastructure, communication, health, empowering women, children and youth will be realised.

This will be another promise of a “Good Life” delivered by President David Granger, she said.

Kwebanna, which has a growing population, is on the cusp of realising real development, and according to the Minister, much more will be realised from Guyana's oil revenues.

She challenged villagers to capitalise on the many opportunities, which will become available and use them for economic and social empowerment.

Meanwhile, the Minister also took the opportunity to share in the spirit of the festive season by putting smiles on the faces of scores of children who attended the day's activity when she presented them with gifts.

They were overjoyed and thanked the Minister for her kind gesture. She also wished the families present a Joyous Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

Deforestation rate under Coalition the lowest in decade

A

s Guyana seeks another forest deal, possible with Norway, the country is boasting that deforestation rates has remained the lowest in that last decades.

Between 2015-2018, the rate of deforestation has hovered between 0.0048 and 0.0051 percent.

The rate is one of the main benchmarks for Guyana to collect the cash payments which under historic 2009 deal with Norway.

The deal was supposed to last for five years with the possibilities of the country collecting up to US$250M to preserve its forests.

Guyana lost about US$20M for being unable to meet a few conditions.

About US$45M was recently handed over to the World Bank which is handling trust account.

Yesterday, the Ministry of Natural Resources said it

is pleased to note the announcement of the final release of remaining payments under the Guyana/Norway Agreement to a total of $9.1B. “The basis of the Guyana Norway Agreement rests on keeping Guyana's forest cover maintained at a high level, and concurrently, deforestation rates at a low level.

“The work associated with managing forest cover and monitoring and reporting on performance on an annual basis, essentially that which forms the performance reporting system, has been undertaken by the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) since the inception of the agreement in 2010.”

The Ministry lauded the GFC, which it said fulfilled a large part of the work.

“Specifically during the period 2015 to 2018, Guyana has seen lower deforestation

rates than the previous years of the nine-year reporting period to date. The MNR is especially pleased about these results as these speak to the commendable stewardship of Guyana's forest.”

Throughout the entire period, forest cover in Guyana has been maintained at over 99%: The Ministry pointed out that whilst reporting on forest area and deforestation rates has been a key focus for the GFC, the commission has also advanced work in the area of governance, particularly EU Forest Law Enforcement Governance and Trade (EUFLEGT) and Independent Forest Monitoring (IFM).

According to the Ministry, this period has also seen an expansion of the GFC's Community Forestry Programme that has resulted in over 500,000 hectares issued to Community

Forestry Associations, which directly employ close to 3,000 persons.

“Over the past nine years, several aspects of the reporting commitments under the Guyana Norway agreement, including those described above, have seen close to 30% of GFC staff time and budget allocated to these areas.

“The GFC looks forward to a new round of the Norway Guyana agreement that will directly resource the Commission for its role.”

The Ministry said that it has recognise that the reduction in production and accompanying log exports have negatively affected the financial situation of the GFC. “This has resulted recently in delayed payments to staff especially given the lack of a reserve.

The MNR would like to thank all GFC staff for their patience at this time.

Year Number

Year

Deforestation Percent

1

Year 2010

0.056

2

Year 2011

0.054

3

Year 2012

0.079

4

Year 2013

0.068

5

Year 2014

0.065

6 and 7

Year 2015/2016 0.050

8

Year 2017

0.048

9

Year 2018

0.051

10

Year 2019

In process

Guyana's forests are its most pristine asset. The MNR has been pleased to support the successful implementation of the Guyana Norway Agreement and the joint commitment regarding

forests.

“We look forward to a continued strong collaboration with the Government of the Kingdom of Norway in the future,” the statement said yesterday.

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 21

PAGE 22

Police beat wrong identical twin brother

FOR RENT 2 bedroom Apartment for rent-Semi furnished in Herstelling.Contact#6839487/675-8572.

SERVICES Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040 ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar Installation, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing Machine, Stove etc. Call Nick 630-1600, 6273206 EDUCATION First Aid/CPR and home Nursing classes.Tel#2259082.St.John Association 110 Cowan St.Kingston for more info.

LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/6912561/681-2808

VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV. includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crash bar, Low mileage. PTT Series (First Owner) Contact #6490956 Nissan Bluebird (Sliver) PXX Series for sale.Contact#6839487/675-8572.

07 BMW MSport Edition, less than 87,000km, drives great, 2.9M neg, for more information call: 648-6567/ Facebook.com/AriaImports

PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL: 656-0087 / 6435122 ,EMAIL:PRO_ A U T O R E N T A L @YAHOO.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 1 Bedroom semi-furnished apartment in Campbellville, suitable for students/persons working in G/Town for more info.Call#666-3213/668-0450.

925 Block 111 Providence, E.B.D.1-2 Bedroom flat house, Tenant with transportation preferable $50,000.Monthly 1/ 1/2020 Call#669-4301.Tank Available.

LAND FOR SALE TO LET

Transported land 11.6 acres, Lot 15 Public road #2 Village W.C. B/ce 5 mins from B/ce Bridge. Contact# 686-4818/ 648-7109

Newly constructed, 2 bedroom apt in a safe and healthy environment. Call: 698-6496/622-6512

Transported land for sale in Rose Hall Town.Call#6031441.

Rooms tolet, 1 bedroomworking people: $30,000, $32,000,$35,000, $40,000 monthly, 2 month security.

Call: 623-0076

PROPERTY FOR SALE Lot 89 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown. Next door to Mike’s Pharmacy.Land size3431.25 Sq.ft. Phone: 617-5323, 666-8052

One Bedroom apartment, bath & living room included.Preferably UG Student.Contact#222-0401

Plot 8 O Tract Zeelugt, East Bank Essequibo, Ram #6926153 / 917- 698- 9824, Kumar #660-6410/269-0569 One 3 Story building at 97 Sugar Cane St, S/Rveldt Gdns. $125,000,000. Tel#674-9905/ 695-1356/225-2971

CAR RENTAL DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL CALL: 225-7126 & 2263693 -DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL @ YAHOO.COM/ W W W . D O L L Y SAUTORENTAL.COM

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

WANTED Drivers- with tractor, motor bus, minibus, must have all three licenses, preferably living around Georgetown.

Tel# 641-5075/225-1429/6241147 Wanted experienced hire car taxi drivers at Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel.

Contact # 616-5419/265-7076

VACANCY Vacancy exist for Experienced Pharmacy assistants to work @ reputable pharmacy in G/ town. Interested persons call #696-5098 between 8am-4pm Office Assistant- Applications with CV & References to Guyana Legal Aid Clinic, Maraj Building, Charlotte & King St, G/town- by 3 Jan, 2020 Experienced Salesgirls with 2 yrs experience. Apply @ Christine’s Variety, Lombard St. Contact: 227-8529 Employment workshops- free of charge, now till January 5th.

Contact# 233-6997/622-1957 Ages 16-36

Puri cooks , Kitchen Assistants.Apply@Shantas 225 Camp Street, G/town.

Housekeeper- day shift at Aagman Restaurant, Sheriff St. TIN, NIS & Police Clearance mandatory. Call: 219-0158

Live in maid wanted between the age of 45-55.Bourda area.Call#658-0618.

Two Domestic maids required one should know cooking too.Call#618-1853

Samuel Giddings, 32, of B Field Sophia is pleading with police officers to know their suspects. He was severely beaten by ranks yesterday morning around 06:00hrs.

Kaieteur News understands that Giddings, who was mistaken for his identical twin brother, received a sound beating from five police officers reportedly station at the Brickdam Police Station for a matter he knows nothing of.

As a result of the beating, the man sustained a broken left arm, lacerations and bruises to other parts of his body.

According to sources, Giddings works as a mason while is brother is a known chain snatcher.

Speaking with the injured man yesterday from his bedside at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation

(GPHC) where he remains a patient, Mr. Giddings stated that yesterday morning, he was in the comfort of his home that he shares with his brother and mother when he heard a rapping on the front door.

However, upon opening the door to see who was on the other side, he was roughly snatched and beaten by police ranks who kept asking him, “if he aint gon stop thief”.

“Is my neighbour had to tell the police officers to stop beating me because he [Sammy Giddings] is not the man they are looking for.”

Mr. Giddings said that after the police ranks realised that he was not the suspect, the ranks left him on the ground bleeding from his wounds.

“Is my neighbour had to take me to the hospital, be-

cause after the neighbour keep telling the policeman that is two of us that look exactly alike. The police ranks stop beating me and left the area.”

A police source told Kaieteur News that last Monday, a woman lodged a report at a police station stating that she was robbed by Samuel Giddings.

It was then that police working on information approached the given address to arrest the suspect, not knowing that they are identical twins.

Mr. Giddings stated that after being transported to the city hospital, he received a call from someone who identified himself to be a police rank, apologising for the inconvenience.

The suspect is still at large.

GFC clamps down on concessions to force compliance

T

he Guyana For estry Commission (GFC) has taken a decision to re-examine concessions allotted to companies, to ensure compliance with their contractual obligations.

According to a “Fact Sheet” on Guyanas forests, released by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the Forestry Commissions Board has undertaken a comprehensive effort to scrutinise concessions granted whilst “providing support to ensure that concessionaires are fulfilling contractual obligation.”

The Commission, in an effort to clamp down on concessions and refute claims that a significant percent of the large concessions were given to foreigners, had begun to examine the operations of multiple large concession holders to ensure that they are adhering to regulations and that commitments made in contractual VACANCY Vacancies exists for Truck Drivers and Loader Operator.

Contact - 621-5282 1 Secretary 28-45 yrs old. #2310655/683-8734 Canter Drivers.Must be able to read & write and assist sales.Reps on Canter.

Call#617-1809.

Merchandisers.Previous experience required.Call#6171809 General domestic. 3 Days work. Must know to cook.

Apply with 2 references.

KeyFood McDoom village

agreements are being honoured.

However, just a few weeks ago, GFC awarded two new concessions to the Ituni Small Loggers Association (ISLA).

Commissioner of Forestry, James Singh, had previously stated that to ensure transparency in the distribution of forestry lands, concessions are advertised one month before the opening of interest. Concurrently, the Commissions forestry production has remained under 400,000m3 for three consecutive years.

The lowest production was recorded in 2016 (353,500m3), followed by 2017 (377,100m3) and 2018 (385,700m3).

GFC blamed the lower production volume on the fact that a significant amount of forest hectares belonging to Barama Company Ltd had been restored to unallocated state forest.

Recently, some two million hectares of forest area were restored to unallocated state forests, including that of the Barama Company Ltd which voluntarily relinquished its concessions.

The Malaysian-owned company, which had been operating in Guyana for over 25 years had announced plans to cut back operations and has reportedly given up its 1.6 million hectares.

The company, in a paid

advertisement, announced that it will not be seeking the renewal or extension of its Forest Concession Agreement with Government.

Following the scandal involving Chinese investor, BaiShanLin, which received large tracts of state forests but failed to open processing facilities in keeping with its contractual agreements, there has been a tightening up of systems.

Through transactions called “joint ventures”, BaiShanLin acquired Puruni Woods- 107,671 hectares; Kwebanna Wood Products Inc.-87,361 hectares; Sherwood Forest Inc. 167,075 hectares; Woods Association Industries Co Limited- 26,076 hectares and other concessions- all totally over 600,000 hectares.

The Ministry indicated that it remains steadfast in its commitment that has been underscored in the revised National Forest Policy 2018.GFC is the regulatory body charged with overseeing the forestry sector; however, in recent years, there have been criticisms concerning the management that of the industry with little or no enforcement to ensure compliance to investment agreements by the companies. Some of the compliance includes the construction of value-added processing to create local jobs.

Saturday December 28, 2019

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

Hotel owner ,worker decomposed bodies found bound in C’tyne hotel The decomposed bodies of an Upper Corentyne businessman and his worker were yesterday afternoon discovered by police ranks in an advanced state of decomposition.

The bodies were found in the building, a former hotel and bar owned by the businessman at a location in No. 62 Village overlooking the beach.

Dead is the owner of the Sunside Hotel and Bar Vivekanand Narpatty, called “Viko”, 71, and his workman only known as “Diamond” and “Guana-man”.

According to reports, a friend of the Narpatty family ventured to the facility where the owner stays but when he entered the yard and was

making his way inside the building which was open, a pungent scent assailed his nose.

He also noticed the place ransacked in the lower flat.

Reports are that the friend contacted the police who accompanied him back to the hotel. While they were searching the premises and making their way to the upper flat of the building, the stench became even more evident.

There, the bound and decomposed bodies of the two men were found. Police immediately began investigating and the Regional Commander Calvin Brutus made his way to the location.

Kaieteur News understands that the hotel was not in operation since Narpatty’s

wife, children and himself migrated overseas. He returned often and would normally rent homes to stay.

He however made the decision to revamp the facility and return it to its former glory, so he opted to stay at

DPP recommends charges against Opposition MP for sexual misconduct with boy After an extensive, fourmonth police investigation, an Opposition Member of Parliament (MP) is likely to appear in court, shortly, on alleged sexual misconduct with a teenage boy.

The investigation has reportedly also ensnared at least three police ranks, who are accused of attempting to influence the outcome of the investigation.

They are said to be among several individuals for whom the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP) has recommended charges.

Crime Chief Michael Kingston told Kaieteur News that Commissioner of Police Leslie James has the report.

Police started the investigation last August, after the allegations of sexual impropriety were leveled against the MP. He was detained briefly

-cops implicated in cover-up to also face charges before being placed on station bail.

But the probe took a disturbing turn, with allegations that some individuals were attempting to suppress evidence.According to reports, the perpetrator met the teenager at a birthday party that was held for one of the MPs young relatives.

It was alleged that the MP first made advances toward the teen at the party and later accompanied the teen to a nearby bar, where they were imbibing.

It was during this time that he allegedly made a second proposal to the teen.

In an interview, the ac-

cused MP had refuted the allegation, while suggesting that attempts were afoot to tarnish his character.

The man confirmed, nonetheless, that a group of teenagers had attended his relatives 16th birthday party.

The MP said that he was shocked to learn that there was a social media post, the next day, which implicated him as having indulged in sexual misconduct with one of the teens.

According to the MP, he met the alleged victim for the first time at the birthday party.

He said he later learned that some of the teens bought alcohol at a shop.

Demerara October Assizes closes with...

From page 13 for Rape of a Child under the age of 16, the accused was found unanimously guilty by a jury verdict. He will be sentenced on December 30, 2019.

The complainant in the other case gave sworn testimony that she did not wish to proceed with her matter and trial judge directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty.

The accused in the one case for Attempt to commit Murder, pleaded guilty to the alternative charge of Felonious Wounding. He too will be sentenced on December 30, 2019.

Meanwhile, the Essequibo Criminal Assizes commenced on October 22, 2019 with Justice Gino Persaud and remains

in progress. Sixty-three matters have been listed. State Counsel Lisa Cave has presented seven matters so far.

Of these seven matters, two were for the offence of Murder, two for Attempt to Commit Murder with an alternative count of Wounding with intent and three for Sexual Offences.

In one of the two Murder matters, the accused pleaded guilty to the lesser offence of Manslaughter and was sentence to 14 years imprisonment. The other matter remains in progress.

In one of the two matters for Attempt to Commit Murder with an alternative count of Wounding with intent, the complainant testified that she did not wish to proceed with

the trial and as a result, the trial judge directed the jury to return a formal verdict of not guilty.

The accused in the other case was taken to Court but did not enter a plea. The trial judge ordered that he undergo a mental evaluation to ascertain if he was fit to stand trial. The accused subsequently died.

In one of the three matters for Sexual Offences, the accused was acquitted by the jury while in the other two matters, the complainants testified in Court that they did not wish to proceed with their cases and the trial judge directed the juries to return formal verdicts of not guilty.

The Essequibo Criminal Sessions remains in progress.

the building with his watchman whenever he was in the country.

His sister, Krishna Boodram, told reporters that the last time she saw her brother was on December 19, 2019 when he visited her. She said that they ate dinner together but “like he did not want to intrude and stay because I had my in-laws over.

“He said he will go back to the hotel and sleep because he has two friends that will also go with him.”

Boodram said at no point did she see who the friends Krishna Dead Hotel were and so she is still unaware who exactly were the the police and they go in and two persons that kept his find them. When we go, the police didn’t want us to go in company that night.

She added that her because they were investigatbrother would regularly ing”, she said.

Boodram said that it was speak with his daughter and wife when they are overseas always a dream of her brother but after he left her home that to have a hotel by the beach day, his daughters were not and he made it a reality many hearing from him. They then years ago but after they midecided to send a male friend grated, the business dwindled from the village to check on away. He was making moves to have the business back up him.

“After the boy went to and running.

Meanwhile, police sources check on him, the scent didn’t make him go in the building have since indicated that the and he go out back and get men appeared to have been

Boodram-sister

owner sister

dead for more than four days.

After speaking to residents within the area, they only knew the owner from his “coming and going” but they heard or saw nothing.

Kaieteur News was also informed that Narpatty had made several reports that he was robbed in the past but there was no progress with those reports after it was made.

The daughters and wife are expected to return to Guyana today. Investigations are in progress.

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Jagdeo admits making unfounded allegations against Ramjattan

Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan “For me, the information is credible and I would like to get it verified.

But I support the fact that allegations must be verified before carried and I am prepared to say that I am wrong.”

These are the words of the Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, as he admitted that the allegation he made against the Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, was not verified.

On Christmas Eve Day, the Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) released a statement on its Facebook page that raised serious questions about the Minister.

The statement claimed that Ramjattan is the owner of a Capital One Bank account in Stream Valley New York.

It was also mentioned that the account was established in 2016 and to date some US$5M had passed through it.

The PPP then called on

Opposition leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

the Financial Investigation Unit (FIU) and relative state agencies to investigate the origin of this sum of money.

However, at yesterdays PPP press conference, Jagdeo revealed that he had received this information from a credible source and it had not been verified.

In fact, no report was made to the FIU but Jagdeo went ahead to authorise the publication.

Jagdeo said that if necessary, he can write a request or make the report but he is very sure that everyone reads, including President David Granger and the FIU. The opposition implied that if they had seen the publication, they can commence an investigation without a formal request or report.

In an attempt to defend his decision to publish an unverified allegation, Jagdeo explained that he had suggested to President Granger to trace all foreign assets held

by former and current Government ministers.

He said that he had told Granger to hire an international firm to do the job but his suggestion was not taken into consideration.

Had this been done, said Jagdeo, “we would not have been this situation now.”

However, Jagdeo is of the idea that that Ramjattan can step forward and deny the claims by allowing the FIU to investigate.

If proven wrong, Jagdeo said that he is willing to accept defeat and will do better next time.

Commentators made it clear that Jagdeo is known for making allegations without fact checking.

Almost at every press conference, he would make allegations without verifying them.

Making false allegations, they said, can seriously tarnish someones public image and character.

PAGE 25

PAGE 26

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

Saturday December 28, 2019

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

FIFA clears way for sanctions against players and officials Organisation of football tournaments outside the control of the GFF Georgetown - The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) has officially written the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) reiterating that the GFF has the responsibility for organising and supervising all football within the confines of Guyana.

The response was sent to the GFF after the Federation wrote FIFA to inform them of a recent phenomenon where a number of small-sided football games are organised and hosted at the National Gymnasium and elsewhere without the permission of the GFF. This trend, with its disregard for the GFF Tournament Schedule, GFF Constitution and FIFA’s

regulations prompted the GFF to seek FIFA’s guidance and direction on the matter as the Federation seeks to protect the product of football.

The GFF had also written to the Minister of Social Cohesion, Ministry of Youth, Sports and Culture, Hon. George Norton, pointing out to him its concerns that permission was recently granted for use of the National Gymnasium for a football event dubbed “Rio Futsol.”

Among the other recently unsanctioned tournaments were the 592 Beer Inter-Village Football Festival, the Dragon Stout Street-Ball Community Cup and the “Beat Dem Bad” competition.

These unregulated tournaments also involve players of the GFF Elite League, whose clubs are Members of the GFF, and FIFA was clear in its observations and recommendations.

The Federation informed the Minister that these events were not sanctioned by the GFF and therefore the participation of its players and officials would not have been permitted. The GFF sought the support of Dr. Norton in ensuring that only competitions sanctioned and regulated by the GFF are played at facilities controlled by the Government of Guyana while pointing out the Federation’s role in the regulation and sanctioning of

Saturday December 28, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Take some emotional time off today if you feel you deserve it. You're getting so wrapped up in other people's dramas that you're feeling drained when it comes to your own concerns.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You might need to adopt a stern attitude today in order to be as effective as you'd like to be. When dealing with others, don't make assumptions for which you don't have solid backing.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You may get more emotional than usual when it comes to work. Do your best to keep your emotional life separate from daily responsibilities.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You may not feel like your engine is working today. For some reason, it seems like you're using the wrong fuel.

Don't be surprised if it's a bit harder to get in touch with your emotional state.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) People are hesitant to deal with deep emotional issues today. They're erecting protective barriers so the things they hear, see, and feel don't hurt them.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You're having a difficult time getting started today. Don't get discouraged if things don't seem to be working.

Your expectations may be too high, and your perfectionism is making it difficult for anyone to live up to your standards.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Be polite and try your best not to impose on other people today. It's important to behave civilly in all circumstances.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Don't blame everything on others today. It's important to be adult enough to take responsibility for your actions. Understand that things aren't always going to happen the way you want.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You might find your emotions stifled today. You have a great deal to say, but for some reason there's a bit of hesitation when it comes to saying it.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) You might not feel especially motivated today. Nonetheless, whether you want to or not, it's important that you attack the mountain of tasks.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) You may be very busy today.

This is a good time to get things done. There's a feeling of discipline that's helping you stay focused. Emotions are stifled, which may work to your advantage.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You're having a difficult time connecting with your emotions today. Things will run more smoothly if you don't try to force yourself to act cheerful if you aren't.

football.

The World Governing Body, in its letter sent by FIFA Head of Member Associations Governance Services, Mr. Luca Nicola stated that according to Art. 11 par. 1 of the FIFA Statutes, the GFF must be responsible for organising and supervising football in all of its forms in its country.

Furthermore, Art. 72 par. 1 of the FIFA Statutes establishes that “Players and teams affiliated to member associations or provisional members or the confederations may not play matches or make sporting contact with players or teams that are not affiliated to member associations or provisional members of the confederations without the approval of FIFA”.

In this context, we further take note that Art. 13 par. 1 let. c) and h) of the GFF Constitution specifically stipulates that the GFF Members must “take part in competitions (if applicable) or

CWI inks three-year...

From page 26 and cricket lovers around the world,” said Dominic Warne, CWI’s commercial and marketing director.

“We believe Castore are going to be a great partner to design technically superior kit that enhances our teams’ performance, that fans will be excited to wear and that sports fans around the world will be able to find more easily than before.

“We anticipate this being a strong partnership between the West Indies with our incredible history and cricket talent, and a modern, innovative partner in Castore who are making exciting steps in the development of sports clothing.”

Castore’s co-founder, Tom Beahon, said he also anticipated a successful partnership with CWI. “Cricket has a phenomenal heritage in the West Indies and the team has some of the most passionate fans in the world,” he said.

“We look forward to using Castore’s product innovation and commitment to performance enhancement to support the team as they defend their T20 World Champions title next year.”

Castore, who already boasts a brand partnership with tennis star Andy Murray, will hold the global rights for replica West Indies kit merchandise.

other sporting activities organised/approved by the Federation” and are not allowed “to maintain any relations of a sporting nature with entities (e.g. clubs, leagues) that are not Members or Affiliates” of the GFF. Finally, art. 13 par. 2 of the GFF Constitution provides for the possibility to sanction, as provided for in the Constitution, any Member who violates any of the aforementioned obligations.

The GFF is reminding all that it is the only Constitutional Body, recognised by CFU, Concacaf, and FIFA for the control of Football in all its forms in the jurisdiction of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana; in accordance of Article 1:1 of the GFF Statutes. Articles 13:c and 13:h of the GFF’s constitution is clear on this issue also.

The roles of the GFF in the regulation and sanctioning of football are: a. To ensure that the competition is played in accordance with the Laws of the game. b. To ensure that the competition is organised in a manner that places the highest priority on the safety

and well being of the players, officials and the general public. c. To ensure that “MATCH FIXING” does not occur. d. To ensure that individuals involved in the organisation of the competition are in good standing with the Federation and have not been convicted of any crime. e. To reduce to potential of money laundering, illegal gambling and other illicit financial activities. f. To ensure that all conflicts arising from a competition are adjudicated through the GFF Constitutional processes. g. To protect the image of the Football.

The GFF wishes to once again reiterate in the strongest possible terms that it would be enforcing the Constitution in this regard.

The GFF wishes to assure all Stakeholders that it welcomes the heightened interest in the organisation of football competitions but must insist that this is done in accordance with the Constitution of the Guyana Football Federation. pic - Luca Nicola, FIFA Head of Member Associations Governance Services

PAGE 28

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

England fight back after relentless South African bowling display AFP - Vernon Philander led a relentless South African bowling performance before England fought back on the second day of the first Test at Centurion’s SuperSport Park yesterday.

Philander took four for 16 in 14.2 overs as South Africa appeared to have taken control by bowling out England for 181, a first innings lead of 103.

But England struck hard at the start of the second innings. South Africa were 72 for four at the close, an overall lead of 175 on a pitch which has proved difficult for batsmen throughout.

Philander, 34, who has announced he will retire from international cricket at the end of the four-Test series, produced a master class of control to complement the strike power of fast bowlers Kagiso Rabada (three for 68) and Anrich Nortje (two for 47).

Wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock equalled the South African Test record by holding six catches, a feat which had been accomplished six times before – on four occasions by new head coach Mark Boucher.

Joe Denly hit a half-

century for England after a shaky start. He shared in partnerships of 55 for the third wicket with captain Joe Root (29) and 72 for the fourth wicket with Ben Stokes (35).

Denly was dropped on nought and took 28 balls to score his first run as Philander had an opening spell of one wicket for no runs in five overs.

But Denly survived the initial fast bowling storm and gradually asserted himself to make 50 off 111 balls with nine fours.

England collapsed, however, after Denly was caught behind off an inside edge to give all-rounder Dwaine Pretorius his first Test wicket.

Fast bowler Anrich Nortje bowled Jonny Bairstow for one in the next over and then claimed the key wicket of Stokes when he switched to bowling around the wicket and induced a loose drive which presented wicketkeeper Quinton de Kock with his fifth catch of the innings.

- Fired up Nortje bowled at high pace, with a top speed of 149kmh.

From a promising position at 142 for three, England lost

England celebrate after the dismissal of South Africa captain Faf du Plessis. (AFP / Marco Longari) their last seven wickets for 39 runs.

But wickets continued to fall when South Africa batted again. James Anderson, who dismissed Dean Elgar with the first ball of the match on Thursday, again claimed a wicket in his first over when Aiden Markram played around his pads and was leg before wicket.

Zubayr Hamza was caught by wicketkeeper Jos Buttler down the leg side before Elgar was caught behind for 22 off Jofra Archer ’s second ball to reduce South Africa to 29 for three.

Rassie van der Dussen appeared to have been caught by Ben Stokes at second slip off Sam Curran when he had five but an

umpire’s review showed the ball had bounced just before it reached a diving Stokes.

Van der Dussen helped captain Faf du Plessis add 33 for the fourth wicket before Du Plessis, who had hooked a fired-up Archer for six, was caught at long leg when he played another hook shot.

Van der Dussen survived to the close on 17 not out, with

nightwatchman Anrich Nortje. Archer was spoken to by the umpires in the penultimate over of the day after bowling two high full tosses while attempting to bowl slower deliveries. The first was no-balled.

Scores: South Africa 72 for 4 (Archer 2-37) and 284 lead England 181 (Denly 50, Philander 4-16) by 175 runs.

South Africa incensed Lloyd, Greenidge honoured with Knighthoods as Jofra Archer escapes beamer suspension ESPNcricinfo - Vernon Philander has called on the umpires to “stand your ground” and withdraw Jofra Archer from the attack in the first Test in Centurion.

Archer, the England fast bowler, appeared to be called for a second no-ball by the square-leg umpire Paul Reiffel after ending his day with a pair of beamers. While there is no doubt both deliveries were unintentional - replays suggested Archer had attempted to bowl two successive knuckle-balls clause 41.7 of the ICC’s Test playing conditions dictate that any bowler who has delivered two such balls should be suspended from bowling for the rest of the innings.

But the umpires also appeared to rescind the noball call on the basis that the second delivery was dipping towards the stumps and should be considered more of a full-toss than a beamer.

That left the South Africa camp incensed. The captain and coach, Faf du Plessis and Mark Boucher respectively, could both be seen seeking clarification from officials the

moment play ended - the incident occurred in the penultimate over of the day and Philander, the South Africa all-rounder, suggested the umpires should be “setting an example” in order to maintain standards in “the purest format” of the game.

“If you’re at square-leg and you call no-ball you’ve got to stand your ground,” Philander said. “At no time did they actually cancel it.

“For me it’s plain and simple: we’re playing a game and we’re setting an example for the rest of the people coming into this game.

You’ve got to make the right call.

“That’s why it’s called the purest format. Are we going to tolerate it at another game or are we going to put a stop to it right here? It’s in the hands of the umpires.”

Unsurprisingly, Joe Denly, the England batsman, saw the incident quite differently. While he accepted the first delivery was indeed a beamer, he insisted the second passed just over the stumps as the batsmen ducked and was nothing more than a full-toss.

LONDON - Legendary former West Indies cricketers, Clive Lloyd and Gordon Greenidge, have been awarded Knighthoods in the Queen’s New Year Honours list.

Lloyd, the 75-year-old Guyanese who captained West Indies to World Cup triumphs in 1975 and 1979, was honoured for his services to cricket.

Greenidge, meanwhile, a 68-year-old former opening batsman, has been conferred with the Order of St Michael and St George Knight Commander for “services to cricket and to the development of sport” on the overseas list.

Conde Riley, the Barbados Cricket Association president and Cricket West Indies director, has also been honoured for “services in the field of sport and in particular cricket administration”.

Lloyd, the forerunner of today’s modern power batsmen and brilliant fielders, hit a superb century as the West Indies beat Australia in the inaugural 1975 World Cup final at Lord’s.

As captain, the Guyanese also played a key role in transforming the West Indies into the dominant side in Test cricket during the 1970s and

Steve Waugh, Clive Lloyd and Brian Lara pose before the big game, England v New Zealand, World Cup 2019, Lord’s, July 14, 2019 © Getty Images 1980s.

- Knott before time Lloyd starred for Lancashire as well and the 75year-old remained based in Manchester, home to the county’s Old Trafford ground, long after he became a cricket official when his playing days had ended.

His knighthood means Lloyd will be officially known as ‘Sir Clive’.

Opening batsman Greenidge, a key figure in

Lloyd’s all-conquering team, has been knighted on the recommendation of the government of his native Barbados, with certain Caribbean nations conferring their own honours.

Greenidge spent part of his childhood in England against whom he gave many of his best Test performances, including two hundreds at Old Trafford in 1976 and a match-winning unbeaten double century at Lord’s in

1984.

He was also a Hampshire stalwart and helped the southern side win English cricket’s first-class County Championship in 1973.

Lloyd and Greenidge often found themselves playing against England’s Alan Knott, one of the best wicketkeepers cricket has known, who received a MBE some four decades after he played the last of his 95 Tests.

(CMC, Yahoo Sports)

Saturday December 28, 2019

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

Super50 cricket review (part 2)

Guyana extends 50-over title drought to 15 years

By Sean Devers When Guyana Jaguars contest next year’s tournament it will be 15 years without a Regional 50-over title since last winning at Bourda in the 2005 KFC Cup when Neil McGarrell hit Suleiman Benn for six.

Shiv Chanderpaul was then Captain as Ramnaresh Sarwan scored two centuries in Barbados and another in the semis at Bourda and still owns the record for most centuries in a single tournament.

Guyana has won the title nine times (twice shared) since the late Roy Fredricks scored a century in 1980 final in Antigua when Timour Mohammed, who made Guyana’s first 50-over hundred, scored the most runs in that tournament.

Guyana reached 15 finals between 1973, when Clive Lloyd’s team lost to Barbados in the inaugural final and last October last when they lost to CCC in the last final after Skipper Leon Johnson scored his maiden century against Jamaica in the semis.

Guyana has qualified for nine semi-finals and three finals including in the last tournament, since 2005.

But this year, ultracautious batting from the top order, inconstant bowling, poor selections, adverse weather, not so smart cricket and the unavalibity of key players at critical times resulted in Guyana not qualifying for the semis.

In last year ’s final Tagenarine Chanderpaul made 56 from 95 balls, but selected ahead Trevon Griffith, who scored an attacking century in the CGI

50 overs League and is Guyana’s best fielder.

Chanderpaul, more suited for ‘Red Ball’cricket, made 139 from five matches with a top score of 64 but his strike rate of 48.60 and his selection indicated that the selectors did not pick horses for courses.

Chanderpaul Hemraj scored Guyana’s only century in the tournament; joining Clayton Lambert, Sewnarine Chattergoon (2) and Sarwan (3) as the batsmen from Guyana with more than one ton, but his next seven innings produced just 102 runs and his low strike rate was surprising from such an attacking batsman.

Johnson managed 147 runs from eight innings but threw his wicket attempting big shots when looking set for a big score and his strike rate was not very flattering.

Debutant Kemol Savory, who kept in the first three games, scored an unbeaten 71 from 146 balls in the first game but only managed 14 in his next four innings as the top consistently failed to fire.

Against the Windwards, Chanderpaul and Hemraj broke the 142-run Guyana record opening partnership set by Assad Fudadin and Shimron Hetymer in 2016 in Barbados when they put together 171. However, in the next game their ‘turtle paced’ batting returned.

Anthony Bramble opened the batting in the last match and was run out for 38 from 41 balls after missing the first three games due to injury.

The batting of Chris Barnwell and Jonathon Foo were the bright spots for Guyana.

Chris Barnwell’s 351 runs were the most for the Jaguars & the 6th highest in the Tournament.

Barnwell’s 351 included three fifties to follow-up his 99 last year and he was the six highest runs scorer before the semi-finals stage.

Foo, back in the team in almost two years, made 334 runs and two half-centuries including an unbeaten 97 against the Trinis. He averaged 55.66 and was among the top 10 batsmen in the tournament.

The bowling was also inconsistent with left-arm pacer Raymon Reifer picking up the only 5-wicket haul for Guyana but his departure for his wedding in Barbados left Guyana without their best allrounder against T&T when they lost.

Left-arm spinner

Veerasammy Permaul was Guyana’s leading wickettaker with 11 from 10 matches, while Reifer had 10 wickets from seven games and scored 172 runs.

Off-spinner Ramaal Lewis also had 10 scalps and showed potential with the bat.

Debutants Nail Smith and Renaldo Ali Mohammed proved expensive with the ball as their inexperience showed.

Raymon Refier got 10 wickets and made 172 runs.

Ali-Mohammed’s bowling was way below the standard required at Senior Regional.

The banning of Ronsford Beaton hurt Guyana since he was their quickest and most experienced fast bowler.

Rain caused Guyana not to have any turf practice for their first two games and any in their must win game against the USA. The last over of their final match demonstrated the lack of game awareness and shot

selection that plagued them throughout a tournament in which they faced the most dots balls of all the teams.

The tournament was staged in the middle of the rainy season here and persistent showers, which resulted in one game being washed out and the overs being reduced in several others, also left the outfields sluggish with batsmen not getting true value for their shots.

CWI inks three-year deal with UK sports apparel company

Castore will become the official team kit partner for all representative West Indies teams.

Jonathon Foo scored 334 runs for the Jaguars.

ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC – England-based sportswear company Castore will become the official team kit partner for all representative West Indies teams after signing a three-

year deal with Cricket West Indies.

The brand partnership will make its debut next May when West Indies Women take on South Africa in a OneDay International series, and

will mark Castore’s first-ever foray in cricket apparel and first deal in team sports.

“The West Indies maroon and gold shirt is iconic for both our own fans (Continued on page 25)

PAGE 30

Berbice Nigel Hinds Financial Basketball tourney continues today and tomorrow First Division Basketball action continues today, December 28th under the auspices of the Berbice Basketball Association in the 2019 Berbice Mecca Classic Championships and sponsored by Nigel Hinds Financial.

Fyrish Black Sharks will play Rose Hall Town Jammers from 7:00 PM at the Vryman’s Irvin, New Amsterdam Basketball Court in East Berbice.

Then on Sunday (tomorrow), December 29th in West Berbice at Hopetown

Basketball Court, Canje Knights will challenge Hopetown Stealers, game time 4:00 PM. The competing teams are seeking to win the $100,000 1st Prize in the Tournament is sponsored

by Nigel Hinds Financial Services.

Fyrish Black Sharks will be led by: Carl Logan, Lemuel Simpson, Deon Cummings and Allandro Hercules.

Hopetown Steelers will look to: Kebon Mare, Teron Lucas and Devon Nedd.

Charles, Russell shine but suffer contrasting fates

Johnson Charles … scored his second half-century.

C H AT T O G R A M , Bangladesh, CMC – Johnson Charles continued to press for a West Indies recall with another half-century in the Bangladesh Premier League as his Sylhet Thunder went down by eight wickets to Dhaka Platoon.

Playing on Christmas Eve at the Zahur Ahmed Chowdhury Stadium, the 30year-old St Lucian smashed 73 off 45 balls as Thunder raised 174 for four after choosing to bat first.

He belted three fours and eight sixes to notch his second straight half-century of the campaign following his 90 against Khulna Tigers five days ago.

Charles, who has not represented West Indies in three years, dominated a 51run second wicket stand with Abdul Mazid (8) after West Indies star Andre Fletcher fell to the first delivery of the match.

The right-hander added a further 42 for the second wicket with Mohammad Mithun (49 not out) before perishing in the 11th over.

Mithun, who belted a four and four sixes off 31 balls, then anchored an unbroken 65-run, fifth wicket stand with West Indies all-rounder

Saturday December 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Sherfane Rutherford who lashed three fours and a six in a 28-ball unbeaten 38.

In reply, Rutherford and former West Indies seamer Krishmar Santokie went wicket-less as Platoon got home with nine balls to spare, with Tamim Iqbal (60 not out) and Mahedi Hasan (56) gathering half-centuries.

In the other game of the doubleheader, Andre Russell continued to display his return to full fitness as his Rajshahi Royals beat Comilla Royals by seven wickets with 13 balls to spare.

Russell claimed two for 26 with his right-arm pace as Warriors reached 170 for eight thanks to Englishman Dawid Malan’s unbeaten 100 off 54 deliveries.

The 31-year-old Jamaican, given the task for leading the Royals, then smashed three fours and a six in a seven-ball unbeaten 20 to help see his side over the line.

He put on 39 in an unbroken fourth wicket stand with Ravi Bopara who struck an unbeaten 41 from 23 balls.

Afif Hossain had earlier blasted 76 off 53 deliveries in a 60-run opening stand with Liton Das (27) before adding a further 62 for the third wicket with Bopara.

Atkinson Brothers 5-aside Football

Atkinson Brothers FC claim Female, U-17 & Senior titles; Rising Sons take U-15

Rising Sons’ Travis Jarvis receives the winning U-15 trophy form Barry Atkinson.

Atkinson Brothers Football Club walked away with three of the four tournaments which were contested as part of the ninth edition of the Atkinson Brothers 5-Aside Football Tournament that concluded on Boxing Night at the Moruca Sports Ground.

The only trophy that eluded the organizers was the Under-15 which was won by Raising Sons which defeated Atkinson Brothers FC in the final 2-1 in extra time. Both goals for the champs were

scored by Clenzy Joseph; they also collected $10,000 in cash apart from the trophy.

In the Under-17 final, Atkinson Brothers FC turned back the challenge of Raising Sons via kicks from the penalty mark; goalkeeper Henry ‘Chuchy’ Phillips, who also stands between the uprights for the senior team, pulled off two remarkable saves that sealed the win for them, 3-2.

The winners also received a $10,000 cash prize.

In the female competition,

ABFC’s Henry ‘Chuchy’ Phillips is rewarded with the U17 trophy by Barry Atkinson U17.

ABFC easily took care of business agains t K y r i e Flames who they whipped, 2 - 0 , A n n a l i s a Vi n c e n t netting both goals to secure the top prize of $100,000 and trophy.

And in the men’s competition, defending champions Atkinson Brothers successfully defended their title by trouncing Jungle Warriors 41 compliments of a hat-trick from Dion Narine, Renaldo Rodriguez scoring the other.

They pocketed the top prize

of $200,000.

There was an exhibition match which saw Taxi man edging Atkinson Brothers FC Over-40, 1-0.

Sponsors contributing to the success of the tournament were Atkinson Brothers, Punt Speed Boat Service, Troy Abraham and Family, Aubrey Edward’s and Family, Santa Rosa Village Council, Moruca Sports Council and Ivor Domingo to whom the organizers have expressed gratitude.

Williams guides Lusignan B to fourwicket win with attacking century

The winning Lusignan B team.

Opener Robin Williams struck an attacking century to guide Lusignan B to a fourwicket victory over Lusignan A when the teams collided in a T20 softball fixture on Boxing Day at the Lusignan Community Centre ground,

East Coast Demerara.

Batting first, Lusignan A managed 257-8. Vishnu Ramjeet hammered three fours and 10 sixes in a fine 106, while Gewan Persaud made 51 with three fours and four sixes and Naven Persaud

43 including six sixes.

Sakichan Jhagdeo claimed 4-15 and Azad Mohamed 2-16.

Williams then led the successful run chase with a top score of 143.

He stroked two fours and 21 sixes, while Alex Sital and

Roy Seebaran made 25 each; Sital hit three sixes and Seebaran four sixes.

Lusignan B ended on 260-4 in 17.5 overs.

Rajendra Naikbaran took 2-35. Williams was named man-of-the-match.

Saturday December 28, 2019

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

GFF Super 16 Cup - Semi Final Dye Cast

Santos downs def. champs Den Amstel; GDF edge Buxton; Police arrest Western Tigers Six of the eight days into the 2019/2020 edition of the GFF Super 16 Cup and we now know the teams who would be contesting the semi finals tomorrow night at the GFC Ground, Bourda.

We also know that a new champion would be crowned following the exit of defending champions, Den Amstel at the hands of Santos Football Club in clinical fashion, 3-0. Netting the final goal was Kester ‘Shoes’ Jacobs who had won the 2018/2019 championship with Den Amstel; for that matter, Santos’ current Captain and Central Defender, Kevin Dundas also won the tournament with Den Amstel.

The match-ups on boxing night were anticipated to be exciting, the young Buxton United did take the fight to the Guyana Defence Force but were guilty of spilling at least three chances in the first half which, and as has been the case ever so often, not capitalising came back to haunt them as the Soldiers nailed them in the end.

Santos ensured that they handed themselves a chance to challenge for the top prize by eliminating the defending champions, West Demerara’s Den Amstel compliments of a solid 3-0 win, while the match that continued from Christmas Night between the Guyana Police Force and

Western Tigers saw the Lawmen putting the Tigers away very early, Trayon Bobb scoring on the first run down (111th minute) of the ten (10) minute affair.

The match, which was the feature affair on Christmas Night, had to be continued on Boxing Night due to the lights at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary shutting down. At that juncture, the score was tied at 1-1 and the game was in the second half of extra time.

Daniel Wilson had sent the Police ahead in the 50th minute but Western Tigers found the neutralising goal on the stroke of full time (89th minute) via the penalty route, Andrew Murray nailing the shot.

Fast track to Boxing Night, when the whistle was sounded to signal the start of the final ten minutes at GFC, the man starting the ball, Bobb in combo with Wilson and Pernel Shultz and teammates showed the energy and focus to score straightaway even as the Tigers were still getting warm.

Western, somehow did not seem to en-armored to give it their all given the fact that it was all but ten minutes remaining and having had almost 24-hours to recover. Their lack of capitalizing on the moment cost them in the end.

Police have now

Benjamin Opara (right) and Sherwin Caesar - Guyana Defence Force. advanced to the last four and have earned a date with the Guyana Defence Force in a match that certainly has all the ingredients for an explosive combat.

The Army was held under duress for sometime against the young and exciting Buxton United but the Buxtonians can only blame themselves for letting their opponents off the hook. With the first half ending 0-0, it was Buxton which took the lead in the 61st minute, Omari Glasgow finally being able to find the target after a few misses, one of those, mere minutes before he beat GDF

Custodian, Enoch Carmichael.

But Buxton’s goal only woke up the GDF side as they responded in like manner four minutes later, Benjamin Opara leveling things up in the 65th minute, and his fourth goal of the tournament, the same as Fruta Conquerors’ Delon Lanferman.

That goal changed the momentum of the match and the GDF eventually sealed the deal with a Sherwin Caesar goal in the 90th minute.

Santos, even though they were reduced to 10-men in the 69th minute were still able to

Daniel Wilson (right) and Trayon Bobb - Guyana Police Force FC send Den Amstel packing.

Ryan October ’s second yellow card in the 69th minute having received the first in the 6th minute did not really matter as by then, Santos were already up 2-0.

The battle was real as neither team were prepared to give up any real estate in the final third which made it difficult for chances to be had.

But Santos eventually found the opening in the 43rd minute, Orin Yarde pouncing on the chance with glee to hammer his shot past goalkeeper Ryan Hunte.

Stephon Reynolds doubled the advantage for

Santos two minutes into the second half and by then it was all over bar the shouting for Den Amstel. The sealer, which more or less rubbed salt into the wounds of the Den Amstel team, came off the boot of one of their own, Kester Jacobs in the 90+2 minute.

Santos have earned a date with Fruta Conquerors in the first semi final tomorrow night at the GFC Ground, the second semi would be a battle of the armed forces when the Guyana Defence Force throws down the gauntlet to their counterparts from the Guyana Police Force.

Up Set are Trophy Stall Boxing Day dominoes champs in Wakenaam

Siddiq Mohamed (right) accepts the man-of-the-match prize from Nazeer Mohamed.

Up Set emerged champions of the Trophy Stall dominoes competition which was contested on Boxing Day at Carlosh Sports bar in Good Success, Wakenaam.

Up Set chalked up 80

games to beat Set Up with 75 games and Up Rising on 70 games in the final.

Up Set took an early lead with Khemraj Surujpaul and Mohamed Kalam making six games each as they finished the first sitting on 15 games,

The victorious Up Set team. while Set Up finished the sitting with 12 games with Siddiq Mohamed making six and Vijay Persaud four; Up Rising ended the round on 10 games with Fidel Birbal scoring five. The second and third sitting saw Up Set

maintaining the lead, but Set Up managed to close the gap in the fourth and fifth sittings.

Up Set commenced the final sitting with a narrow threegame lead, but Tom Singh with six games ensured that they prevailed. Surujpaul and

Kalam made 17 games each, while Singh got 16 for the winners.

Siddiq Mohamed made the maximum 18 games for Set Up, while Nazeer Mohamed marked 16 and Vijay Persaud 12. Birbal chalked 16 games

for Up Rising, while Aslam and Heera Sukram contributed 15 each.

Nazeer Mohamed expressed gratitude to Trophy Stall CEO Ramesh Sunich and congratulated the winners.

PAGE 32

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

Paradise, Friendship secure semi-final berths in 592 Beer Inter-Village Football Festival Paradise and Friendship secured semi-final berths in the 592 Beer Inter-Village Football Festival on Christmas Day, defeating Buxton and Mahaica via penalty kicks at the Buxton Community Center ground.

Paradise will now match skills with Friendship in the semi-final round tomorrow at the same venue. The second semi-final will pit Golden Grove against Beterverwagting [BV].

Tournament coordinator Eon Havercome during a post-match comment said, “The quarterfinal section has certainly exceeded expectations. All four matches were decided by the lottery known as penalty kicks which highlights the competitive nature of the tournament, which is very rare in local football. The fans were once again treated to a drama filled night and were on the edge of their seats throughout the evening. We now head into the semi-final round which will certainly not disappoint

given the standard of the previous rounds. Once again I would like to commend the players and fans for their unwavering support in making the tournament a success. This tournament has the potential to be the main staple of the East Coast Demerara region in the foreseeable future.”

Paradise defeated Buxton 4-3 on penalty kicks, after normal time ended 2-2. Buxton commenced the shoot-out and stumbled, failing from the mark as the goalkeeper completed a save.

Paradise seized the opportunity to take the lead as they scored. Both teams then scored in the second round, as Paradise maintained their one goal lead at 2-1. The third round mirrored the second, with both teams netting from the distance to take the score to 3-2. The fourth section continued the trend of the previous two rounds, as both teams scored to push the score to 4-3. However, Buxton

sealed their own exit, as they blasted over the crossbar in the fifth round.

Prior to their exit, Buxton opened the scoring in the sixth minute as Derrick Weekes lashed his effort into the lower right side.

The lead quickly ballooned to 20, with Esan Hamer rifling his attempt into the right corner from the left side.

This lead was maintained heading into the halftime interval. However, Paradise pulled one back in the 70th minute through Teshawn Gordon, who blasted into the roof of the net. The score was then levelled in the 88th minute as Quincy Adams slotted home inside the left of the box.

Meanwhile, Friendship bested Mahaica 5-4 on sudden death penalty kicks, after regulation time ended 33. For Friendship, Dillon Wright copped a double in the 10th and 27th minutes, while Clive Andries added a goal in the 62nd minute.

For Mahaica, Travis Adams fashioned a brace in

the 15th and 41st minutes, while Shamar McPherson tallied an 80th minute strike.

The eventual champion of the event will pocket $500,000 and the championship trophy. On the other hand, the second, third and fourth place finisher will receive $200,000, $150,000 and $100,000 respectively and the corresponding trophy.

Similarly, individual prizes will also be awarded for the Most Valuable Player [MVP] of the tournament, the MVP of the finale, the Best Goalkeeper of the tournament and the Best Goalkeeper of the final.

Some of the major sponsors of the tournament include Bakewell Guyana Incorporated, ExxonMobil, the NSC, Flavours Boss and the Colin Talbot Construction Services.

Complete Results Game-1 Friendship-3 vs Mahaica3 Friendship won 5-4 on sudden death penalty kicks

Exciting Food Town Restaurant end-of-year Golf Tournament set for today Food Town Restaurant & Distribution Outlet of 266 Newton Street, Enmore, East Coast, Demerara is a partner with the Lusignan Golf Club and this weekend hosts the year-end tournament today December 28, at 12:00 noon.

Golfers and fans will be pleased to note that sponsorships continue unabated despite the usual busyness of this Christmas Holiday season. Thanks to

the Foodtown Restaurant, the Tournament for today with regular tee-off time at 12:00 noon, will also accommodate earlier play as long as there is a group to play.

Instead of Flights, the tournament will be played on the straight Medal Play system, with prizes and bragging rights being awarded for 1st to 5th Best Net scores, as well as Best Gross.

With the supportive weather, the Tournament augurs to be an exciting one.

Food Town Restaurant, 668-7419 or 644-3118, allows all licensed food vendors to order from a wide ranging menu, as much as they feel they will be able to sell on a daily basis, and simply have it delivered to their location.

No shopping for ingredients, no, early morning cooking or transportation costs, simply

show up and sell at your location.

The public is invited to spectate free of charge, as the golfers vie to be crowned year-end Champion. All members of the public are also invited to learn more about the game of golf by visiting the Lusignan Golf Club, or by getting more information via us on Facebook lusignangolfclub or calling 220-5660.

Paradise regulation time scorers from left to right-Quincy Adams and Teshawn Gordon.

Friendship Scorers Dillon Wright-10th and 27th Clive Andries-62nd Mahaica Scorers Travis Adams-15th and 41st Shamar McPherson-80th Game-2

Paradise-2 vs Buxton-2 Paradise won 4-3 on penalty kicks Paradise Scorers Teshawn Gordon-70th Quincy Adams-88th Buxton Scorers Derrick Weekes-6th Esan Hamer-13th

Dragon Stout Community Cup

Could Sparta Boss end the year on a high?

The question on everyone lips is whether Guyana’s most dominant team in the street and indoor formats could end the year with another title.

The answer to this question will be known this evening when the semi-finals and final of the inaugural Dragon Stout Community Cup concludes, at the National Gymnasium.

Sparta Boss has undoubtedly been the leading team not only this year but for a number of years and fans will be flooding the Mecca for indoor football to see whether their rein of success will continue.

They face a resurgent Leopold Street in the second semi-final in what is anticipated to be a scorching engagement.

Once again players the quality of Sheldon Shepherd, Gregory ‘Jackie Chan’ Richardson, Eusi ‘Boneyman’ Phillips and Ryan ‘Bum Bum’ Hackett are expected to lead their quest for another title.

The one worry for them is whether outstanding goalkeeper Devon ‘Worm’ Charles, who suffered an injury on the preceding game will be fit enough to take his place between the uprights.

The return of Leopold Street talisman Omallo Williams has brought a huge ray of hope to their chances of lifting a title and with support from the likes of Darren Benjamin, Eon Alleyne and Okanie Fraser

they could make it real tough for the in-form Sparta Boss side.

In the opening semi-final, dark-horse Rio All Stars tackle the star-studded Bent Street and this clash is another anticipated humdinger.

Andrew Murray, Jermin Junor, Solomon Austin and Job Caesar will lead their attack and ambition for a place in the final.

On the other hand, Bent Street should be motivated by the fact that a win could setup a possible return clash against Sparta Boss should the latter secure victory against Leopold Street.

They had lost to them in the preceding tournament and would definitely relish another skirmish against the shorter version juggernauts.

Players the caliber of Daniel Wilson, Pernel Schultz, Clive Nobrega, goalkeeper Akel Clarke and Colin Nelson have all donned national colours, making them the most formidable unit on paper.

However, a potential matchup against Sparta Boss is a different kettle of fish and should this showdown materialize then fans could be in for a real Christmas treat to end another successful year in the format.

A massive outpouring is anticipated to close the door, but next year promises to be even bigger and better in what has become the most popular format of the sport locally.

Kaieteur News

Saturday December 28, 2019

4 x 4 Basketball C/Ship semifinals on tonight - Royals top group play as Kings, Kwakwani A and B reach final four

Nichola Jacobs

T

he inaugural 4 x 4 U n d e r 1 8 basketball championship, which is organized by the Kings Basketball Club in association with the Linden Amateur Basketball Association, will be decided tonight when the semifinals and final will be played at the Mackenzie sports Club hard court.

After qualifying as the

Shakeila Sampson

Hosea Conway

Emmanuel LaRose

top seed, national under-18 3 x 3 champions Victory Valley Royals comprising Kobe Tappin, Emmanuel LaRose, Omar Green, Delroy Belle and female players Cliffanna Hunter and Resheba Carroll are favoured to get past their Kings opponents which has in their lineup former national top player Nichola Jacobs and Andrea Smith and male players Lemuel

Wilson, Ming Wong, Neil marks (Jr.) and Jaden Rose.

The other semifinal brings together the Kwakwani A which will feature former national players Shakila Sampson and Kennesha Leacock as their females to choose from with the male players inclusive of Hosea Conway, who was voted the Most Valuable Player in the recent Youth Basketball Guyana’s

year ending Titan Bowl Under-16 championship team.

He along with Elijah David, Hansel John, and Huon Bethune to choose from should get past their B side which has the female players Shania Sears and Attala Rose to choose from along with male players Tyrese Conway, Matthew David, Trevor Garraway and Travis Lewis.

PAGE 33

rt

Spo Santos and Den Amstel in combat on Boxing Night at the GFC Ground, Bourda.

GFF Super 16 Cup - Semi Final Dye Cast

Pernel Schultz (#10) on the go for the Guyana Police Force against Western Tigers on Boxing Night.

Santos downs def. champs Den Amstel; GDF edge Buxton; Police arrest Western Tigers

Lloyd, Greenidge honoured with Knighthoods Atkinson Brothers 5-aside Football

Atkinson Brothers Football Club Senior Team made a successful defence of their title.

Atkinson Brothers Football Club Female Team

Atkinson Brothers FC claim Female, U-17 & Senior titles; Rising Sons take U-15 Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.