Kaieteur News
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Wednesday July 31, 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
The Integrity Commission should apply all penalties available Some senior public servants continue to thumb their noses at the requirements of the Integrity Commission, through failure to file timely asset declarations. Now the Integrity Commission must move with alacrity to initiate the process for levying of the penalties available. In view of the sloth, seeming contempt, with which the demands of the Commission have been treated, this is not an option, but a duty to utilise all available penalties. In Guyana, there is too much talking. It is time to stop that futile exercise, and demonstrate that this is serious business and that the Integrity Commission means business. There are provisions in the law to take care of current resisters, and to send an unambiguous message to those thinking of doing the same in the future. It is one thing for the Integrity Commission to be understanding and accommodating, as circumstances warrant; on the other hand, when that becomes the norm, then the purpose of its presence is defeated, or at least diluted, maybe rendered inconsequential. The time has come to put an end to the continuing kindnesses. The Commission must move to have the acutely tardy imprisoned, as sanctioned by the law. Office and country would get by without them for a year. Those dropping their pants on the Commission must have legal hammers dropped on them. Let there be a stopping to this going around and around like an airport carousel not delivering bags to the waiting. Moreover, any sane citizen has to take issue with those paltry penalties enshrined in the law. They are so meagre, as to be meaningless. Twenty-five thousand dollars (Guyana) is spare change handed over at traffic lights or outside religious houses to the homeless. This means absolutely nothing to public service swindlers. Twenty-five thousand (US), on the other hand, will make people pause and think hard about playing games with the Commission. It is enough of a fraction of their plunder to encourage haste in the timely submission of declarations. The Commission must be willing to stand as gatekeeper and timekeeper, and ethics officer and headmaster of this country. If not taken this seriously and this comprehensively (by the agency itself) and watchfully and fearfully (by the concealing and stonewalling), then it runs the risk of being like a new car on one of those hydraulic lifts in a gas station: admiring and promising, but suspended and unable to help itself get anywhere. For their part, public servants - men and women, senior and supposedly sophisticated - have to set an example, the right one, for others, whether on the job, or further afield. Otherwise, the Commission must fulfill its mandate. It has at its disposal some of the required tools and teeth. It has to make full use of them. Unless it does so, two things are guaranteed to happen. First, this society will keep talking and lamenting about corruption for the next hundred years, while being stuck in the same highly expensive place. That is, where vast amounts of money from the treasury keep finding their criminal way into private pockets. While all this rapaciousness is going on, a largely ignorant populace (a smiling, supporting one) is responsible for paying the accumulated debt burden. It is those tax deductions that leave a huge gap in spending power. It is neither free money being stolen, nor abstractions in textbooks. By willful political nonchalance, citizens are really cheating themselves and families. A second thing is sure to occur, if the Commission continues to be reactive; it has to cease being so passive and sluggish in delivering of its sensitive obligations. If not, there is the increasing risk that this crucial watchdog agency can end up being an example of standup comedy; or a running joke. That would be tragic. It can be a real potent force in the anticorruption fight; but only if its leaders and agents are determined to be aggressive, and scrupulously so.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
Chairman is out! Chairwoman is in! DEAR EDITOR, I draw attention to the article titled, “New GECOM Chairman sworn in – says constitution will guide her” and the underlying picture in another section of the media. I share the following observations. It is said that a picture is worth a thousand words. That does not begin to tell the story of this particular media canvas, as I think it is worth a whole edition by itself. For that colour splash, I heartily congratulate that media house for capturing what should have been a thrilling, groundbreaking moment in full, revealing colour. I think it showed too much leadership décolletage, and what is really behind the masks. And masks they were. MGM would have been proud.It is a grand, sprawling leadership portrait that will go down in history (yes, I am saying it from now), only to be dredged up to remind of the eerie shadow it casts. The brightest splash was the aggressive red slash of the figure on the extreme left.
In America, and specifically where I come from, it is recognized as a power colour. In Guyana, it is dangerous: in choice, in the inferential, and as interpreted (by me). Limited minds may not be as exposed to such nuances. At the same time, all the others are in dark, conservative, dismal hues. I thought that I was looking at the pallbearers at the funeral of a close relation. The utterly solemn, all-too-forced expressions of them all are reminiscent of people compelled to be in the wrong place for the wrong reasons at the wrong time with the wrong people. And here was I thinking (seriously) that this was a truly consensus candidate. I still pray that I have that right, and circumstances will prove to be so.For, upon close examination, each of the severe-looking leadership quartet appeared as if they had just been handed life sentences without parole for a crime in which they aided, but the punishment is way out of proportion. I behold children dug out of bed, pushed through
the rain-stiffly starched and flatly ironed-and now prodded to be on their best behaviour (by putting on their best face) before an expectant public. If those are the best face that these adults could drum up for an occasion like this, please spare me (and this country) those intervals when things go really bad. And they will prior personal optimism and all. I must confess at this early hour, that this is not encouraging in the least. To be clear, I didn’t expect ear-to-ear grins and hugs and kisses, but the very body language of them all-bar none, not onescreamed: “how did I get into this pickle; and “I wish to be anywhere but here.” Mark my words, this is not promising. I am not as enthused as I was before. Too grim! Too blank! Too emotionless and pessimistic! With expressions like those for such an auspicious moment, the four leaders put regular GPL blackouts to shame. They are dreary and miserable. I (Continued on page 28)
Get it right this time, Guyana! DEAR EDITOR, I believe that Guyana has another chance, this time, to deliver its offshore Oil and Gas bounty for the benefit of all of the residents of Guyana. I am a Guyana-born American citizen, long gone from Guyana, but my navel string was buried near the punt trench in Palmyra. And periodically I can still feel its pulse, as I pray for a better life for those still living in Guyana and whenever I visit. In my opinion, Guyana missed the promise that came with Independence; the promise of the elections of 1992; the promise of Bharrat Jagdeo’s youthful presidency; the promise of the Coalition government; and most of the potentialities of gold, bauxite, rice, sugar, forest, fish, falls and freshwater. And now, there is Oil and Gas. In abundance. There is currently a lot of oil in the world’s reserves and a short time to monetise it, because I believe, in about twenty to thirty years, fossil fuels like oil and gas will become obsolete, replaced for the most part by energy derived from wind, water, solar, tidal, hydrogen, landfill, recyclables, biomass and other alternatives less harmful to the environment. If Guyanese are to get the benefit of the likely, (though not guaranteed) oil bonanza, the country’s political leaders need to work
together. The asymmetry in knowledge, skills, resources and confidence between the major oil companies and Guyana’s representatives will always favour the majors. Local divisions and political uncertainties will increasingly handicap G u y a n a ’s n e g o t i a t i n g positions, and while the folks at Exxon and other international oil corporations will invariably be among the kindest, generous and bighearted people you are likely to meet, those characteristics will not be manifested at the table of serious business. Editor, is there any way that the leadership of the two major political parties can work out a plan, before the upcoming elections, to share the governance of the nation and particularly the management and stewardship of the nation’s Oil and Gas stream of income? I can already sense that some already see the triumphalism inbred in the winner takes all platforms of history. In Guyana that will
leave about half the population as losers, if this mindset moves into the oil future. Money, especially big money, often bring out the worst in most people. I have read that both major political parties think that they will win the next elections. One will and one will not. Which and which, I do not know. Nor do I think that either of them knows for sure, bluster apart. The closeness of the elections of 2011 and 2015 should give pause to both of them.I believe that the people of Guyana will be better off, if the two major parties agree beforehand, to something like this: that the two parties will form a joint government; that the winning party will get the Presidency; that the second party will get the Prime Ministership and first pick on a Cabinet position; then the first party get the next two cabinet picks; and then rotating two picks at a time until all the Cabinet positions
are filled with the winning party having in the end, one more Cabinet position than the second party; and that the various commissions and statutory bodies will reflect a similar distribution. I know that this will not be easy on the ego, or on the addictive highs of absolute power and privileges, or the temptations of mucho dinero, or as the preeminent dispenser of favours and rewards; and many other potential difficulties that I cannot foresee. However, if all Guyanese are to have a fair chance of getting an equitable share of the benefits from the Oil and Gas industry, all I can envisage is some sort of shared governance agreement. For sure, there will be legal hurdles, perhaps some constitutional ones as well, but those are for the legal experts to resolve. Guyana, please try to get it right this time. Yours faithfully, Dr. Tulsi Dyal Singh Midland, Texas
In reference to rare gastroenterology technique DEAR EDITOR, I would like to thank Dr. Doobay’s medical centre for informing the public about the advanced procedure known as Endoscopic retrograde cholangio pancreaticography in the Kaieteur News on the 30th of July (also known as ERCP). Further, I would like to inform Dr. Seaton and the general public that we at Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital have been offering this facility by our Consultant
Gastroenterologist Dr. Noa Pedroso (who provides a full time Gastroenterology service at Dr. Balwant Singh’s Hospital including Colonoscopys and Upper Gastrointestinal endoscopic procedures) for more than two years now.Several patients have successfully had this procedure done at Dr. Balwant Singh’s hospital since its introduction. Sincerely, Dr. Balwant Singh
The truth of the matter is games are being played on both sides DEAR EDITOR, As the political debate continues on the legality of the ongoing house-to-house registration, I’ve concluded that Guyanese are being taken for a ride on a rollercoaster of deceit. At a recent press conference hosted by the Leader of the Opposition, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo, he claimed that the order given by the former Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Justice (Retired) James Patterson, was “secretly” gazetted days prior to the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)’s ruling, which declared that the Chairman’s appointment was unconstitutional. The only thing I disagree with is the notion of something being “secretly” gazetted. How does one secretly gazette an order? Did Mr. Jagdeo intend to say that the
order was gazetted and somehow backdated? When an order is gazetted, isn’t it being placed in the public domain? I don’t get that statement, “Secretly gazetted”. Maybe someone can say what that means. Moving on, Mr. Jagdeo says that the ruling “overtook” the order; meaning that the CCJ’s ruling has somehow rendered that order made on June 11, 2019, null and void. He uses that argument as motivation to issue calls for a national boycott of the house-to-house registration. Editor, my problem is not with Mr Jagdeo issuing calls, but rather, his ignorance to the fact of the matter. Regardless of whether the CCJ’s ruling overtook that order or not, the reality is no court has deemed – at the time this letter was being written – the process illegal. Then if it is not
illegal, then it can only be legal, right? In addition, if no court of the land has pronounced on the legality of the process, then why is Mr. Jagdeo calling it illegal and asking people not to participate. Are we looking therefore, at a politician’s call for subversion of law? Moreover, what are the ramifications of such an action? Then his call for the boycott has now resulted in GECOM’s enumerators being subject to hostility by houseto-house objectors. The Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Mr. Keith Lowenfield, just recently stated that enumerators are being endangered. He said that GECOM has received reports of anti-H2H supporters turning their dogs on these workers. I mean, come on! Why are (Continued on page 28)
That bad patch of craters
DEAR EDITOR, COMMUTERS who traverse the Haags Bosch access road are made to endure a bad patch of craters near the southern entrance of the Eccles Industrial Estate. As a result of the slow pace at which one must drive
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Kaieteur News
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or ride to get through the bad spot, traffic is usually backed up between the hours of 7 am and 9 am. Here is one of the photographs I took of the bad spot on Tuesday July 30, 2019. Residents of Herstelling, Eccles, Perseverance, Mocha
and those along the East Bank who divert through the ‘back road’ during the morning hours will appreciate if the authorities can speedily address this matter. Regards, Johann Earle Herstelling Resident
I look forward to having my GECOM arguments confirmed DEAR EDITOR, Having established that the accuracy and integrity of the National Register of Registrants Data Base (NRRDB) is intact and supported by a recent statement by GECOM CEO Keith Lowenfield that it can be used for elections and only needs a ‘claims and objections’ exercise to update it for enfranchisement of all possible electors, the question of the ongoing Houseto-House registration exercise is raised. Why is it being done at such a critical juncture? The answer lies in an examination of Mr. Lowenfield’s statements of 23rd July 2019: Lowenfield, was asked whether the expired list is considered ‘bloated’. He responded, “We have a list that was expired… as of April 30… that was used for our election, for registration, etc. Bloat is not a word I’ll affix to it.” Lowenfield was then asked, “Can the list, if refreshed, be used to conduct a free and fair election?” “That’s correct,” he responded, “Always has and always will.” First, we must understand the difference between the Official List of Voters (OLV) and the NRR; The NRR being a data base of all persons registered in Guyana, a mandatory requirement upon achieving the age of 14, and usually done during a cycle of Continuous registration (Twice per year). The OLV is extracted from the NRR and does not include persons who would not have attained age 18 before an Election date. The OLV is not created until an election date is announced. An OLV expires 6 months after use; hence, the OLV that was used in the 2018 Local Government Elections
expired on 30th April 2019. The NRRDB however, never expires and is available for use in many more elections in the near and distant future, with continuous updating of course. Therefore to create a new OLV, an Election date must first be set, only then can a ‘cut-off’ date be set to ensure all registrants who attain the age of 18 on or before polling day are enfranchised. Mr. Lowenfield also mentioned preparations for General and Regional Elections on or before the constitutionally mandated September 2019, were being done ‘concurrently’. It is here we must ask the question why? If the NRRDB is intact and a list can be extracted and any disenfranchisement issues solved with a brief period of Claims and Objections, then why a House-to-House exercise would be necessitated? The short answer is that it is not. The GECOM Secretariat has two separate but related functions; (1) the Secretariat is responsible for the administration and conduct of elections in Guyana. (2) The Secretariat also performs the tasks of the National Registration Centre under the National Registration Act, Chapter 19:08 and the CEO acts as the National Commissioner
for Registration. The National Registration Centre has responsibility for the registration of electors and maintenance of the registers. Mr. Lowenfield is wearing two hats and has been given two tasks with separate budgets; $3 Billion for General Elections and $3 Billion for House-to-House (HtH). Mr. Lowenfield received a directive for conduct of HtH from then Chairman James Patterson and is executing same. Mr. Lowenfield also seems aware of the responsibilities placed on his shoulders by the Constitution and is ‘concurrently’ spending the other $3B on preparations for General and Regional Elections in September 2019. We have all been led a merry dance complete with smoke, mirrors and no doubt a fair share of pliers and batteries! I have seen no evidence that Mr. Lowenfield intends to disenfranchise the masses by ‘scrapping’ the NRRDB and certainly no move to replace it before 18th September, 2019. I look forward to having my arguments confirmed when Mr. Lowenfield meets with the new Chair and her Commission. Respectfully Robin Singh
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I believe we are in troubled water DEAR EDITOR, I wish to refer to a letter published in the media written by a Rayvonne P Bourne titled, “the Mayor should retract statement, and apologise to Chief Constable’’. The matter relates to a bag containing cash found after several weeks in the vehicle assigned to the Chief Constable. One could not help being impressed by the details contained in the letter. As citizens we are all taken aback- for a bag with M&CC money to be left in a vehicle for weeks, not a few hours or days but weeks is itself outrageous and worrisome. Concerned, I discussed the matter with the Chief Constable and the Mayor - the Town Clerk was at a conference and was not available. It’s not for me to comment on this incident; however, I learnt that this strongly worded letter placed before the public was written by a member of the City Constabulary - amazing but true. How could a Constable be so bold and have the audacity to have published such an
admonition of the Mayor. I have been assured that this misconceived adventure by a Constable will be examined by the administration. Suffice to note, first that we must uphold and cherish the right to speak out against wrong doings. These rights exercised in a variety of ways have shaped the world we live in today. However, these rights and opportunities need to be supported on a foundation of good order - rules accepted by society. In other words, a consensus of what is acceptable to secure the harmony within the nation’s state, if there is not to be bedlam or confusion. These key elements have not always been applied and understood, hence an imperfect world. Last week in a conversation with a group of young persons, they felt that politics was that nasty word. Happily they were good listeners as we exchanged views; I at all times respecting their views happily, agreed that there must be rules and agreed relationships, of every strata of society - in the home or fam-
How did word get out about this advice? DEAR EDITOR, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo publicly stated that GECOM’s lawyer Ms. Excellence Dazzell gave the CEO Mr. Lowenfield advice not to pursue house-to-house registration. My question is how did Mr. Jagdeo become knowledgeable of this? This piece of info was not publicly declared by GECOM or anyone else (only Mr. Jagdeo). So I ask again, how did he know of this advice being given? Sincerely, Trevor Charles
ily, the school, the mosque, the church, the temple, the sports club, the cricket field, etc. This allowed me to remind them that happy revolution by mostly young people constitute the most dramatic and energetic developments in recent world history. During the recent few centuries, we have witnessed swift and powerful change in the socioeconomic life of nation. In every instance, the changes were led by men and women who were disciplined and guided by an ideology of promises. These all have a bearing on our history, successful ideological revolution. I believe that I convinced them that the great universal changes, whether it be Mohamed, Jesus or Bahaullah- were all revolutionaries or politicians in its purest and uncorrupted form. I sighted:- The Netherlands – 1585, England- 164249, USA -1776, British Guiana1763, 1823, 1953. Now the M&CC Constabulary just a few days ago celebrated its anniversary the oldest disciplinary organisation in our country. As such, we must preserve the character and utility of functional authority and not open the floodgates to lawlessness and worst ‘iconoclast’. When a Constable, without going through his superiors, the union and Council, can upbraid the Mayor publicly- I believe we are in troubled water. I expect this young man to retract this gumption on his part. Hamilton Green
Wednesday July 31, 2019
PEOPLE DANCING TO THE ‘CARNIVAL OF POVERTY’ DEAR EDITOR, Finance Minister, Winston Jordan, is quickly surpassing Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo when it comes to spinning yarn. On June 24th, it was reported by the Department of Public Information that Jordan boasted that, ‘every household will benefit from a robust economy…once the economy is growing, the average housewife or worker can expect better payment, and if that economy is growing with low inflation, they can also expect stable prices’. This is just another ‘figment of his imagination’. This illusion was sparked by the IMF Report, which projected that Guyana’s economy will grow by 4.4% in 2019. The Minister also emphasized that the IMF Report also indicated a steady economic growth since 2015. He then concluded that, ‘just a short while back there was the Carnival in Guyana and over that week you did not have a single complaint about money not flowing…the restaurants, the side vendor, the taxi driver, and everyone even the private sector was moved to indicate that indeed things were happening in the economy…’ What Jordan should realise is that in his Budget 2019 speech he had announced that real economic growth is expected to be 4.6% and with the current unstable political climate it is going to get a lot worse. It may even be lower
than the 3.6% growth in 2018. This was emphasised by the Caribbean Development Bank, which warned of such a negative impact and this was echoed by a number of Chambers of Commerce across the country. While the appointment of the GECOM’s Chairperson is a positive move in the right direction, the high level of uncertainty with regards the resignation of Cabinet and the calling of General Elections within the 3-month time frame is creating havoc in the private sector as businesses operate in gripping suspense. The CDB Report had emphatically stated that, ‘Guyana is on the verge of a sharp increase in economic growth, but immediate prospects partly depend on ending political uncertainty’. Will Jordan’s Caretaker Government be able to remove this uncertainty so that Guyanese can finally live their dreams in their homeland? Perhaps he should also take a deep look at the Bank of Guyana Report, which highlights the worsening of the balance of payments and an increase in borrowing to augment the wasteful spending. Moreover, it boggles the mind that according to Jordan, a week of ‘Carnival’ in Guyana can be an indicator that, ‘things were happening in the economy’ when over 30,000 persons are jobless, including 7,000 sugar workers, when increased taxation is sharply cutting the disposal income of employees, when the prices
of food items and fuel are going up (Bank of Guyana Report), youth employment is soaring, the health sector is falling apart, and the poverty gap is widening. This Minister, being an economist should seriously ponder upon the words of Aristotle, ‘One swallow does not a summer make, nor one fine day; similarly, one day or brief time of happiness does not make a person entirely happy’. In addition, the Finance Minister must not lose sight of the fact that even though the Report indicated steady economic since 2015, there has also been a steady decline in the ‘good life’ of the Guyanese masses which resulted in the successful passing of the No Confidence Motion against Jordan’s Government which has now been relegated to caretaker status! I will invite Jordan to visit Region 6 and other rural areas and walk the streets and he will come face to face with the people dancing to the ‘Carnival of poverty’. Whilst there may be economic growth, that has to transform into economic development and that has not been happening due to widespread and escalating corruption, mismanagement and squandering on good life for the ‘boys’. Perhaps the Finance Minister should have looked at the Auditor ’s General Report 2017 wherein it is stated that for the fiscal year 2017 more than $1 billion (Continued on page 28)
Will the corporate state replace the nation state? DEAR EDITOR, The state has the right to exist when individuals are willing to sacrifice their own interests for the community it represents, according to Ernest Renan - a French philosopher. All the government scandal I see in the news re-enforce my hypothesis that the nation state is under threat from a new creature, the corporate state that will be a 21 century reality. The power of money, which more people believe in than in God or other deities
will precipitate this transformation. When people lose faith in the nation due to corruption, crime and other inefficiencies, something has to take its place because nature abhors a vacuum. The belief in the narrative of money is powerful because it solves people’s problems; it’s efficient and makes survival easier.Around 1100 B.C, the Chinese moved from using actual tools and weapons as a medium of exchange to using miniature replicas of the same tools cast in bronze. Nobody wants to reach into his or her pocket and impale their hand on a sharp arrow so, over time, these tiny daggers, spades, and hoes were change to the less prickly shape of a circle, which became some of the first coins. China was the first country to use recognizable coins, but the first minted coins were in Lydia (now western Turkey) in 600 BC. The Chinese started carrying folding paper money during the Tang Dynasty
(A.D. 618-907) — mostly in the form of privately issued bills of credit or exchange notes .In 1971 when the United States dollar the world reserve currency was moved off the gold standard, money became back by nothing but the faith (fiat currency) in governments. In 2009 Bitcoin, a digital currency that used peer-topeer transfer on a network without intermediaries was invented. Facebook will launch the Libra a digital block chain currency similar to Bitcoin in 2020. It is the first time in history that a corporation will have its own money that can be used by so many people globally. The US Senate Banking Committee is concern about the Libra saying, “Monetary policy is properly the province of central Banks”. Facebook has 2.41 billion users, which is 31.3% of the world population. It has more digital citizens than any country. Alphabet (Google
parent company, Amazon, Apple, Facebook and Microsoft deal in data and are the most powerful corporations in the world. These companies are worth about US$ 1 trillion each. Data mining, cyber security and related fields are multitrillion (US$) industries. These data related companies will replace big oil corporations of the industrial revolution as shapers of geopolitics.We are now living in the time of the digital revolution. Data has become more valuable than oil or gold.Malcom X said, “The future belongs to those who prepare for it today”. We need to prepare for a probable future where big tech becomes more powerful than nations and renders the nation state ineffective and obsolete or an instrument for their dominance. This seems like science fiction but so is artificial intelligence, cloning, self-driving car and other technological marvel. Yours truly, Brian Ellis Plummer
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City Hall raises concerns about chemical warehouse at Houston
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he Mayor and City Council of Georgetown is appealing to the proprietor of the proposed Houston Chemical Warehouse, John Fernandes Ltd. to comply with regulations, after it received reports that it may not be honouring a cease work order issued by the Council. During a press conference yesterday, the Chairperson of the City Works Committee, Ekita Edwards, said that after hearing the concerns of residents of Houston Estates and surrounding communities, the council moved a motion on July 22, 2019, issuing a cease order to the proprietor. “We do believe that the petrochemical bond should not be constructed within that area,” Edwards stated. She said that the work being done is unauthorised, as any sort of building construction to happen in the City must be approved by City Hall beforehand. It was revealed during the press brief that the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) also issued a cease order. For the construction of a chemical warehouse, the agency is supposed to conduct an Environmental Impact Assessment. But that has not
John Fernandes Ltd’s Inland Container Yard is the site for the proposed chemical warehouse been completed. Kaieteur News understands that the Central Housing and Planning Authority (CH&PA) is also a stakeholder in this process. Edwards expressed concerns from the council about the proprietor’s compliance with the cease order, or the lack thereof. “We would have received several complaints. Also, our inspectors would have reported accordingly that the bond is still being constructed. And that is why we’re here today.” Nalco Champion, the company John Fernandes Ltd. partnered with for the proposed facility, had announced earlier this month, after concerns were raised by residents, that it would wait
on the EPA’s Environmental Impact Assessment. John Fernandes Limited had made a similar announcement during a recent press conference at the New Guyana School, near the area for the proposed facility. Furthermore, the Deputy Town Clerk (acting) Sherry Jerrick, discussed the fact that the area earmarked by John Fernandes Ltd. for the facility was originally intended to be used for agricultural purposes. The City’s records have the land listed for that purpose, she said. As a result, the City is now looking to determine whether other agencies might have approved the use of the land for another purpose. City Engineer (acting) Kenton Boston said that all
construction works within the City “should be guided by the City Engineer’s department and we’d authorise that before you start”. Boston explained that, sometimes, a contractor may suggest work that causes some infraction. In these cases, the City would have to inspect and ensure that there is no such infraction.
Edwards said it is hoped that “all entities who may want to build and construct” would go through the proper channels. In May, SBM Offshore N.V., a consortium of companies, which provides services to the oil industry, announced that it was contracted by ExxonMobil’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Produc-
tion Guyana Limited (EEPGL) for the next phase of the Liza project in Guyana. Under these contracts, SBM Offshore will construct, install and thereafter lease and operate for up to two years the Liza Unity FPSO.In a notice, Nalco had indicated its intention to work with SBM Offshore/ExxonMobil. (Continued on page 28)
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Miners fail to comply with environmental regulations - GGMC mulls increase of land reclamation fee
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ince 2005, the mining regulations were modified to include provisions which cater for the environmental impacts of mining. According to the amendment, every holder of a mining licence, prospecting permit or mining permit is required to conduct land reclamation—a process of decommissioning a mining operation with the objective of leaving that area in a safe and stable condition. Land reclamation is essen-
tial to repairing any damage done to the environment as a result of mining activities. During the activity, mine operators are essentially cleaning up after themselves by, inter alia, replanting trees and opening blocked waterways to make the land useful again. However miners have so far failed to comply with the regulations, causing the responsibility of clearing the land squarely on the shoulder of the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission
(GGMC). As a result, GGMC has been to mulling over a more aggressive approach to ensuring that the process is complied with. During an address to stakeholders at the Herdmanston Lodge yesterday, Commissioner of the GGMC, Newell Dennison revealed that to intensify the campaign, the Commission is considering raising the bond fee for land reclamation. At present, miners are required to lodge $100,000 as a bond with the GGMC. The sum is to be used by GGMC to clear and redevelop the land if the miners fail to comply with the legal obligation. The GGMC Commissioner admitted that the bond is not enough for the reclamation work. Dennison told stakeholders that in three years, the Commission spent over $100 million to reclaim mining lands. In his overview of the land reclamation process, Senior Environmental Officer of GGMC Geoffrey Scott noted that the Commission has been collecting and compiling data to develop and implement a suitable method of reclaiming
the land for all stakeholders involved. “Retrieving data forms a huge part of what we do. We are still compiling information to build a database from which we can identify, specifically, where miners are not compliant and how we can work with them to help reclaim the lands. We recognize that with restoration across the broad, there is generally a low level of compliance. So, our task is to tabulate data to establish and synchronise the information to assist GGMC and miners in reclaiming the lands.” Meanwhile, GGMC’s legal advisor Kara Duff-Yehudah stressed that mine operators have a legal duty to comply with the amendment of the mines regulations. “Reclamation is an important legal requirement under the laws of Guyana. All holders of mining permits and licences at small-scale, medium-scale and large-scale levels are required to conduct land reclamation.” In fact, she noted that before embarking on mining activity, every operator small, medium or large scale, must first submit a land reclamation
GGMC Commissioner: Newell Dennison work plan for GGMC to approve. Since the introduction of the new regulation, GGMC through the Ministry of Natural Resources has taken a lead role to ensure the mainstreaming of land reclamation within Guyana‘s extractive industries. The GGMC, with the oversight and approval of the Ministry of Natural Resources, has made notable progress in the mainstreaming process. Land reclamation has since been integrated into the agency’s annual work programme. Working jointly, the GGMC, through the reclama-
tion unit, has being keen on pursuing a harmonised and a multi-stakeholder approach towards environmental management, policy development and problem solving pertaining to land reclamation. In advancing this directive, the GGMC through its reclamation unit continues to focus on education as the main building block for stakeholders’ compliance. As such, the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, the oversight body for the local extractive sector has taken a lead role towards ensuring that large, medium and scale miners fulfill their land obligations.
It is being reported that some 50,000 persons have been registered by the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) during houseto-house registration. This works out to just around 25,000 persons per week and assuming an estimated 500,000 persons are to be registered, we are looking at a five-month exercise. To that must be added a claims and objections period and then other verification exercises, and we are looking at least seven months before elections can be held. This would take us past January, which is way beyond the Sep-
tember 18, 2019 deadline. House-to-house registration may be the best way to produce a clean voters’ list, but it is also the best way to de-register those who have migrated or are studying abroad or have gone on a holiday. What those who are urging house-to house registration are not pointing out is just how fraudulent elections can result if the existing voters’ list is sanitised via a claims and objections period. How is someone going to vote for another person who is not around? First, they would have to obtain the
person’s identification card. Second, if per chance they obtain that card, they would have to look exactly like that person to get past the polling agents and all the party scrutineers that are in the polling station. How can there be multiple voting? How can someone vote for someone on the list who has either migrated or is temporarily out of the country? It would mean that they would have to remove the indelible ink which is used to stain their fingers – any voter knows that this ink stays visible for more than a month sometimes.
DEM BOYS SEH
Dem unions don’t file tax returns De news come out dat nuff unions and organisations refuse to file dem tax returns. De list mek dem boys feel shame cause was from de biggest union like GAWU and GPSU to de smallest like dem wha got two and three members. Some of these unions use to collect more than $10 million a month but because de workers hardly use strike suh de unions rarely had to provide strike relief. De money use to sit down inside de union to pay de leaders. Dat is why nuff of dem use to fight to lead de union and get on de executive. Dem was so busy dat dem couldn’t write up dem re-
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Wednesday July 31, 2019
turns fuh de people in de union umbrella organisation. Dis thing go on fuh so long dat even de people who start de union collection dead and go long dem way. De tax man never even write and tell dem. Dis go on fuh years; tax chief come and go and none of dem even write one line to tell these people wha fuh do. Statia come and even he didn’t even tell de people fuh submit dem returns. Dem boys know dat ordinary people who miss one year gon get a letter from de Guyana Revenue Authority telling dem how dem late wid dem filing. Uncle Adam was late by two days. He get a phone call
from GRA. He thought was joke, suh he didn’t tek it serious. De next thing he know is he get a notice fuh pay two percent as a late fee and dat fee does increase. He had to pay and now he preparing fuh see Statia pull he file because when dem boys talk people does get vex. Khurshid do de same to Freddie when he was sitting in Statia chair. Dem boys believe dat all dem politicians who link demself to de unions should be in jail. Dem is de people who is part and parcel of de tax returns problem. Talk half and wait fuh de tax man tek action.
All these excuses have been made in the past to delay the holding of elections. And as has been pointed out, it is difficult for fraud to take place during the casting of the ballot. Even after the ballots have been counted there are systems of checks and balances which have worked for elections since 2001. House-to-house registration has started and no one knows whether those persons who are being registered have had to produce their identification cards or birth certificates or marriage certificates as the case may be. GECOM is not announcing to the public what documents are required. All they are saying is that there have been cases where their staff is being chased out. Well, if the public does not know who is doing the registration; if the opposition party scrutineers
are not present, then there is going to be little confidence in the process. What is there in place to guard against foreign nationals and underage persons being registered unlawfully? House-to-house registration is going to take Guyana into a greater constitutional crisis. The country is already in a crisis, because even though the government has been resigned by operation of law, the government is not admitting whether Cabinet has been meeting, and if it is meeting, it means that any decision emanating from it is unlawful. Public officers are going to find themselves in a quandary if they have to carry out a Cabinet directive. Cabinet is not supposed to be meeting. And anything coming out of Cabinet is illegal. House-to-house registration will also most definitely
put Guyana outside of the September 18 2018 deadline by which elections are likely to be held. And since the opposition is not going to extend the life of the government which should have expired since March 21, 2019, there is a real possibility now that come September 18, 2019, the government will be illegal. House-to-house registration may produce a clean list, but it will not make the government or GECOM in compliance with the constitution. Guyana is headed into deep trouble! (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
Forms of degeneracy after 2015 that killed Guyana’s future Gerhard Ramsaroop, after a long absence from polemics and discourses in the political realm, has analysed recent political trends in a large letter to both KN and SN last Sunday. But in as much as his dissertation is welcomed, it lacks context and introduced an irrelevant juxtaposition between the AFC and PNC. In terms of context, the evaluation does not embrace a holistic approach to the dialectical connection between the last ten years of PPP’s rule and the post-2015 deterioration of governance. Interconnected with the omission of context is the unnecessary juxtaposition of the performance of the AFC and PNC. A holistic perspective renders such a methodology unnecessary. In analysing the type of governance Guyana has since 2015, three types of degeneracy repulsed the Guyanese nation. I will list them in order of importance. The first, as Gerhard
pointedly emphasised was the dissolution of the AFC’s transformative physiology (my way of putting it and not Gerhard’s). The AFC destroyed the seminal value of multi-racial, third force politics that was so vitally needed. Secondly, the nation’s curiosity about the newness David Granger would bring to Guyana was shattered when he proved that he lacked even small quantities of leadership qualities. Finally, the atrophy of the WPA from a Rodneyite, revolutionary, multi-racial party, to a racial outfit, catering to the interests of African Guyanese only. Space would not allow for a polemical outlay of these three degenerations. One can dispense with the WPA quickly. If you look at the known political entities at the moment, the WPA lacks a multi-racial face compared to Lenox Shuman’s Liberal and Justice Party, ANUG, the PNC and the PPP.
The Rodney family should seek an injunction against the use of Walter Rodney’s name for the WPA’s television programme, “Walter Rodney Groundings.” The current WPA appears as an exclusive African party, speaking to African Guyanese only. In terms of the selfdestruction of the AFC, there isn’t much to add that political observers and academics do not know. Gerhard is correct that it squandered the priceless opportunity Guyanese offered it. It would be a caricature unparalleled in Guyanese history, for such a declining organism to be given the prime minister position, seven Cabinet posts and twelve parliamentary seats in 2019. Only a fool will bet that the AFC will get those same numbers if APNU+AFC wins the upcoming elections. The crucial flaw in Gerhard’s adumbration is any mention of the PNC’s impure politics and selfish hogging of power since 2015.
One is tempted to be harsh on Gerhard to say that he could be accused either of brazen support for the PNC or intellectual limitation. Not only the AFC and WPA declined after 2015, so did the PNC and its new guy who came without baggage – David Granger. No one - scholar, political observer, editor, the independent mind- can gloss over the failure of the PNC in power since 2015 to bring higher, purer forms of governance. On the contrary, there have been disturbing regressions. One can start with the man Granger, himself. I taught Gerhard at UG and always credited him with an analytical mind. But his elevation of Granger in his letter is unpalatable. I honestly (and I stress, the adverb because I sincerely feel so) cannot see what positive leadership Granger has brought to Guyana in the context of what went on before 2015. This is
why at the beginning of this articulation here, I referred to context. Guyana’s had witnessed the emergence of forms of semi-fascism under both Jagdeo and Ramotar. There was political, cultural, social and societal debasement under these two presidents. I saw and wrote about a creeping fascistisation under Jagdeo. In the context of this Faustian insanity, David Granger was chosen and was accepted because he was new and the PNC was new; going under the name of APNU. Both the novelty of Granger and APNU fizzed out like a damp squib. Gerhard’s letter comes at a time when Granger may be exhibiting Freudian desires. After all, he is a strong admirer of Forbes Burnham and this takes the form of four foundations he has set up in Burnham’s name at his former private residence. It is my contestation that since he departed from the
Frederick Kissoon Carter formula in selecting a GECOM chairman, Granger began to show his colours (no pun intended, though I hold the opinion that there are ethnic preferences and racial patronage under his presidency). Since the no-confidence vote, Granger has displayed attitudes that in the opinion of this columnist appear that he will not walk in the direction that Hoyte took. Sorry to say Gerhard, but to me, your guy is not the democrat you claim he is. (The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)
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Killing at Seeta’s Bar…
CCTV footage allegedly shows ex-cop gun-butt, shoot peacemaker Police are questioning the female night club patron whose argument with a cleaner ended with Kurt Anthony Duncan, a father of six, being gunned down at Seeta’s Bar on Monday. Kaieteur News understands that investigators have viewed CCTV footage which allegedly shows the suspect Keon David, a former policeman, gun-butting and fatally shooting Duncan. Police are reportedly trying to ascertain whether the woman is a friend of the ex-cop, who is still at large. According to sources, the footage shows David occasionally touching the woman in a manner that suggested that they were close friends. The woman was still being questioned up to late yesterday evening. Kaieteur News understands that the CCTV footage showed the woman
MURDERED: Kurt Anthony Duncan arguing with a male cleaner at the night club, after he accidentally spilled some water on her. Duncan - who was nearby - intervened in an apparent attempt to make peace. It was then that Keon David, the former policeman, allegedly walked up to Duncan and
The unbelieving man can have no peace, and how can there be happiness for one who lacks peace of mind.
Police arrest three suspects following Brazil Gold Heist
Rio Times – The Civil Police on Monday morning arrested a third man suspected of taking part in the robbery of 718.9 kilos of gold from the Guarulhos International Airport last Thursday. He was arrested in the act, according to the police, with a rifle and ammunition. According to the State Department of Criminal Investigations, he allegedly provided logistical support to move the stolen cargo from cars used in the robbery to other vehicles. Two other suspects were arrested over the weekend. Among them is Petterson Patrício, the airport official who was supposedly taken hostage and forced to help the criminals. According to lawyer Ricardo Sampaio
Gonçalves, defending him, he rejects any participation in the robbery. According to the police, at least ten people were involved in the crime. The group arrived at the airport around 2:30pm on Thursday, in two cars disguised as vehicles of the Federal Police. Heavily armed, they overpowered the cargo handlers and forced them to transfer the gold into one of the vans. The thieves’ access was aided by the logistics supervisor who claims to have been relieved the night before. The gold, split into 31 suitcases, was originally bound for New York, in the United States, and Toronto, in Canada.
WANTED: Keon David shoved him. He reportedly is then seen shooting Duncan in the stomach, then striking him with his firearm. The 32-year-old suspect of Sophia, Greater Georgetown, was reportedly seen fleeing the scene. Duncan, of 192 North Sophia, was pronounced dead at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. He is survived by his 32year-old wife, Rebecca Duncan, and six children ages 13, 12, nine, six, five and one.
The fake Federal Police cars used to steal the gold.
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Wednesday July 31, 2019
City Council ready to remove vendors from city wharf Mayor of Georgetown Ubraj Narine and his department are ready to remove vendors who are still operating on the Georgetown Wharf, even though they
have been issued several warnings to relocate to the brand new stalls erected for them adjacent to the Guyana Fire Service headquarters at Stabroek Market Square.
In a brief interview yesterday, the Mayor explained that despite several attempts to get vendors to relocate, they have firmly refused, even though the
wharf they presently occupy is cited for repairs in the not too distant future. He explained that just yesterday his department met at a statutory meeting at
The view from aback of the brand new stalls which several issues were tabled for the council’s immediate attention - among them the relocation of the vendors and measures that may have to be put in place to ensure they cooperate. He said that while the new stalls have been erected for several months now, they are still unoccupied by vendors who have maintained a firm stand in their refusal to move. In late 2018, vendors of the Stabroek Market Wharf who were expected to be relocated to Russell Square by the Mayor and City Council had indicated that they are still awaiting word on the move and complained of delays on the part of the council. At that time, the vendors were reportedly expected to meet with the council’s administration to sign a Memorandum of Understanding before they
could proceed with the construction of stalls at the identified area. But according to the Mayor, now that the stalls have been completed, the vendors have showed much reluctance to be located as intended. To date, only a few stalls are actually occupied and operational. Meanwhile, the area where the stalls are erected is being used as ready-made latrines by persons operating small rum shops around the Stabroek area without toilet facilities. Persons have been reportedly throwing garbage in between spaces around the newly erected stalls. Commenting on this issue, the Mayor noted that he will soon engage the Public Health Department of the Council to look into such claims and prepare an ‘action sheet’ with detailed measures on how such prevailing issues will be tackled.
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FOR RENT
WANTED
VACANCY
Outdoor & Inside Sales Rep & Admin assistants. Email applications to demerara.parts.service @gmail.com or 222-1315 for more info
Diesel Mechanics, Caterpillar experience an asset, Apply to: MMC 95-99 Commercial Blvd, Happy Acres, ECD. #220-5416
SERVICES
FOR SALE
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, GRADUATION, W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620
30x48 Sash windows, black & white (Regular size) casement and awning windows. $12,000 each. Tel#679-3325
Two bedroom fully furnished apartment for rent in Eccles, five minutes from Texila. Call: 665-6406/624-1218
Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040; 265-4535. ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included. Skylines ArchitectureTel#647-1500- we offer house plans, interior & exterior designs, construction drawings and much more.
450-Honda ATV, Cat 215 Excavator, Cat 215- Excavator spares, Cat 428 Back-hoe #683-7225/275-0367 Double steel wheeled 8-tons roller, 9 wheel pneumatic roller. Mack concrete Mixer truck- 8 cu. Yds, 650-Gals spray kettel. #683-7225/275-0367 Pure bred German Shepherd for sale. Contact#697-1141/ 612-6672
1 Honda CRV. includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crash bar, Low mileage. PTT Series (First Owner) Contact #6490956 New model Sylphy, driven by lady. #614-9742 Pick up Truck from Canada extra cab, 2005 Tacoma $1.8M, Ford F150 Sport $1.3M, Ford Ranger sport $1.1M, 6825230/615-4414. Tractor Massey Ferguson (foreign used) MF165$1.5M, MF135 $1.1M, MF265 $1.8M, MF165 Loader tractor $2.2M Vreed-en-hoop.Call:682-5230/ 615-4414.
Lot 4633 Rasville, Roxanne Burnham Gardens, for further information. Contact Wayne on #618-5305/223-5050
CAR RENTAL
DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL CALL: 225-7126 & 2263693 -DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL @ YAHOO.COM/ W W W . D O L L Y SAUTORENTAL.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FORAIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807
PEN PAL Male seeking female companion. Tel#638-9806. Sunday-Anytime, Weekdays12pm-12am
1 Salesgirl from EBD, ECD, WBD. Apply with written application $16,000 weekly #223-9677 One Truck Driver. Tel#2271717 Female Domestic wanted for light housekeeping $3000 daily. Male skilled Labourer $4000 daily Vreed-En-Hoop 682-5230/615-4414 Taxi Drivers, Minibus drivers for route 42. #664-0802
One heavy duty mechanic to work in the interior, must have drivers licence. Contact# 6802702
STEWART’S ACADEMIC INSTITUTE- SUMMER PROGRAMME: 22nd JULY16th AUGUST 2019) For more information, Contact Mr. Stewart Cell# 697-3801 Care for elderly, care for children. First Aid & CPR. #227-4881
Clerical assistance domestic worker, live-in accomodation for Berbicians and Essequibians. Call between 8:15-4:15 pm. #219-5354 VACANCY Waitress & Cook, preferably carnegie trained & Cashier/ Waitress #225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff St
PROPERTY FOR SALE
Cook to work in Charity. Contact#654-7162
House for sale, Eccles Housing Scheme. 7 bedrooms, 3 toilets and bathrooms enclosed. $28.5M. Call 642-0391/ 001447587233657/ yasharabhola4@gmail.com
Vacancy for waiter/waitress to work at Aagman Restaurant on Sheriff Street. Contact #219-0158
House and land available at Parfaite, Tuschen, Diamond etc. Contact Pacific Development Inc. 223-6035/ 604-4909 (1) 3 bedroom house located at Stewartville. Tel#625-3299/ 268-3129
Vacancy for housekeeper to work at Aagman Restaurant on Sheriff Street. Contact #219-0158 Vacancy for a seamstress, 2 years experience, must be able to work on East Coast. #6994563
TO LET
General Domestic, must be able to prepare Vegetarian meals. Apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb St, Bourda
1 bedroom apartment for working couple/single person $35,000 monthly. Light & Water included. Lodge. Call#623-0076
Sales clerk to sell bicycle spare parts, must have previous experience . Apply at Alabama Trading
HEALTH HERBAL REMEDIES: DIABETES, INFERTILITY, MENSTRUAL DISORDERS, ENLARGED PROSTATE, KIDNEY, GALL STONES & SKIN DISORDERS ETC. CALL SPARMAN #676-5924
One live-in Domestic. Salary $60,000. Call: 665-7416
Cow hands to work at Houston Estate Cattle Farm. for further information call: 227-5468/624-2920
EDUCATION
LEARN TO DRIVE N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package. Call: 644-5166/6912561
1-One bedroom apartment to rent, back bottom flat. Contact #643-9286
Short base supercustom bus without engine nor gearbox for parts. #646-8748
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 VEHICLE FOR SALE
2 & 3 bedroom fully furnished luxury apartments to rent, Long and Short Term. Tel#666-7028/691-1432
2015 F150 loaded 4x4, 2015 CBR 300R, 2011 250 Ninja Kawasaki. #610-5370
Installation, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing Machine, Stove etc. Call Nick 630-1600, 6273206 Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezerCall: 610-5846 or 661-8158
Wednesday July 31, 2019
Kaieteur News
LAND FOR SALE 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
Vacancy exist for a Spanish Teacher- must be able to teach (2 & 7) years old. Call: 600-6887 for more information Surveyor. Contact#223-5273/ 223-5274
Cat 740 Truck Drivers for interior. Tel#223-7165 Exc/Bulldozer operators for interior. Tel#223-7165 Accounts Clerk with payroll experience. Tel#223-7165 Security for interior & GT location Tel#223-7165 Chief Security Personnel. Tel#223-7165 1 Bin repair technician, 1 tyre repair technician. Call #2271717 Vacancy exist for a Full time/ Part time teacher, must be able to teach (2 & 7) years old. Call: 600-6887 for more information Industrial Sales Representative, 5 Subject CXC Age 25+ Experience in Sales, must own vehicle, email r e s u m e : vacancy@josarltd.com 1 experienced driver, must have license for car/van/ minibus & motorbus, residing in G/town between ages 2450 yrs old. #225-1429/641-5075 Accounts Clerk. Contact#2235273/223-5274 Receptionist. Contact#2235273/223-5274 Driver/Salesman, Apply to Manager Sol Gas Distribution with written application. 9 Dowding St, Kitty, G/town #216-3152/622-5922 Driver, Factory worker, must have a sound secondary education, for more information. Please call: 2230090
Wednesday July 31, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Border Patrol Detained a 9-Year-Old American Girl on Her Way to School for 32 Hours Last Monday, the Dallas Morning News broke the story of Francisco Erwin Galicia, an 18-year-old U.S. citizen who was detained by Customs and Border Protection (CPB), transferred to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and held in custody for nearly three weeks. ICE held Galicia even though he had documents on him that proved he was born in Texas. But by Tuesday afternoon, a little over 24 hours after the Morning News’s story came out, Galicia went free. As the Morning News reports, Galicia’s detention “ap-
pears to have been a bureaucratic mix up,” caused by an application for a Mexican visa to visit the U.S. filled out in his name. Galicia told the paper that he was held with 60 other men and not allowed to shower for the 23 days he was held, and by the time he was released he had lost 26 pounds. “It was inhumane how they treated us,” he said. “It got to the point where I was ready to sign a deportation paper just to not be suffering there anymore. I just needed to get out of there.” The broad strokes of Galicia’s story, a U.S. citizen held by immigration authori-
ties and threatened with deportation because of paperwork, is shockingly common. Peter Sean Brown, a Philadelphia man with the same name as an immigrant, was held for weeks and nearly deported to Jamaica. Officials weren’t swayed by his state-issued IDs that are only available to people with social security numbers. And in March of this year, 9-year-old Julia Medina was detained by CBP for 32 hours despite her being a U.S. citizen. Though she’s an American, Medina’s family lives in Tijuana, and they cross the border each morning to get to
school. On a Monday morning, CBP detained her and her 14-year-old brother, Oscar,
The truth of the matter is games are being ... From page 5 we, ordinary Guyanese allowing politicians to distort our humanity? If you’re against the registration process, why don’t you indicate and let the people move on to someone who wants to participate? Also, if Mr Jagdeo is arguing that the CCJ’s ruling “overtook” that order, then isn’t it logical to assume that other orders issued by the unconstitutionally-appointed Patterson prior to that ruling, are also null and void? Why is Mr. Jagdeo only focusing on that operationalisation order? Someone needs to look at the other orders that Patterson made and see if there exists some clue to answering that question.
Editor, another troubling utterance was recently made by the President himself. The Head of State, a former media man, claims that the list is bloated. His use of a specific number has baffled me quite a bit. Mr Granger is an academic and formidable researcher and I’ve read his books and many of his speeches. But how could he utter numbers when he cannot support that claim? The voters’ list is a statistical representation of the people who are eligible to be part of a democratic right, which has been guaranteed to us by the Constitution of Guyana, and to make assertions of statistics that are not grounded in fact, I find to be
very troubling. Mr. Lowenfied has said that the President might not have been accurate in his assertions, and that he (Lowenfield) is yet to discuss with the president, the “numbers game”. Just days after, Mr. Lowenfield revealed this to the media, the Finance Minister, Mr. Winston Jordan said, (and editor, you can confirm this with your journalist Mr. Kemol King) that Mr. Lowenfield has communicated that he might have been “misquoted”. Really? Is this really happening? I find it hard to belief that Mr. Lowenfield was misquoted. This is the same
Chairman is out! Chairwoman is ... From page 4 invite all to take a look: an honest and frank one.I am not done yet. I think that the media house in question has to get with the programme and the late 19th century (not even with the 20th). For exhibit A, I direct to the caption: “New GECOM Chairman…” with emphasis on chairman. What’s up with that, editors? Surely, that newspaper doesn’t need a dumb repatriate like me to point out the need for gender/subject alignment. Or is that gender object matching? Chairman is out! Chairwoman is in! And
if that is asking too much, I will settle for the more neutral (and accurate) chairperson, or at least chair. I am sure that Chairwoman Justice Claudette Singh would appreciate the courtesy and bow to the march of women. To close on a very concerned note, I admit to being one of the cheerleaders of this latest GECOM development. Now foreboding comes. With faces like that, forgive me, please. Looks like the real politick of Guyana still at work. Sincerely, GHK Lall
People dancing to the ‘Carnival... From page 6 taxpayers’ dollars has been lost in overpayments to contractors, payments of goods and services without any vouchers, and payments for good that were not delivered. This does not include the billions loss through substandard works which resulted from kickbacks to Government officials. It must be realised that financial resources are borrowed in order to supplement the budget and this means additional burden to the taxpayers. Furthermore, it is sickening to note that many recommendations in the Audit
Report are not implemented to put a halt to this daylight robbery. Perhaps, he should also look closely at some projects such as the CJIA and the Durban Park fiasco. Since 2017, the situation has deteriorated and gotten worse. It is now clear that taxpayers are paying more for less! Finally, the Guyanese people can no longer tolerate the abysmal failure of the Coalition and the total destruction of the economy. Let the Election be called and the electorate decide. Once was enough! Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf
Lowenfield who responded to the Private Sector Commission (PSC) for making claims that he was deliberately eluding their requests to meet with him. He jumped at the PSC for commenting on his professionalism but has not come out to say that he was misquoted for debunking the President? So, in nutshell: We have a politician who – without any backing of the court – deems a constitutional process illegal; a President who erroneously quotes statistics; an official who debunks the Head of State for doing so; and a Minister of government who says that the debunker was misquoted. This is a circus! The truth of the matter is: games are being played on both sides. It is as clear as day. Meanwhile, party supporters are in engaging in flame wars on social media; and exhibiting hostility towards enumerators who trying to earn some money in these difficult times. This degrading and bashing of each other and making racist remarks and posting modified picture of each other in compromising positions on social media, needs to stop. While we continue to fight amongst ourselves, others are taking chunks of our patrimony behind our noses. Our passion for arguing on matters that are political in nature, are sometimes misplaced. The more we fight, the more dust is created. This dust is a cloak for others to pass undetected. Stay awake Guyana, and be strong. We will make it together, eventually. Yours truly, Marcus Hope
saying she didn’t look like the photo in her passport, according to NBC San Diego. CBP said the elementary student, who was questioned without her parents present, “provided inconsistent information during her inspection.” The agency reportedly had no explanation for why it took 32 hours to confirm her citizenship and release her, though in that time they accused her brother, who is also a U.S. citizen, of human smuggling and tried to have him sign a document saying his sister was his cousin. Medina was finally
released after her mother pleaded with the Mexican consulate to contact U.S. immigration authorities. In all of these cases, Galicia, Brown, and Medina had paperwork on them that proved they were U.S. citizens when they were apprehended. But clearly that wasn’t enough to prevent detention by an administration that views non-white people as suspicious. If a passport isn’t enough to prove citizenship, it’s not clear what people can do to avoid getting detained by ICE or CBP.
North Korea fires multiple projectiles - S Korean media North Korea has fired multiple unidentified projectiles off its east coast, South Korea’s military is quoted as saying by Yonhap news agency. The launch was made from the Hodo peninsula on Wednesday morning local time, South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) says, according to Yohnap. It was not clear what type of projectiles they were. North Korea has so far made no comments on the issue. Last week, North Korea fired two short-range missiles, according to the JCS. Both missiles reportedly travelled about 430km (267 miles), reaching an altitude of 50km, before falling into the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea. Pyongyang has voiced anger over planned military exercises between South Korea and the US, an annual event. The North warned they could affect the resumption of denuclearisation talks.
City Hall raises concerns ... From page 7 The company, Nalco Champion, provides services to the upstream and midstream oil and gas industry, refineries and petrochemical operations. In a notice from the EPA, the company’s intention to construct the plant was published. It has proposed that chemicals be transported from that terminal to the John Fernandes Water Street port for transfer to the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels offshore Guyana. Hence, the facility is intended for filtration, storage and warehousing of oilfield chemicals, which are to be supplied to the FPSO vessels. It is estimated, if the proposal is approved, that 1,493,000 kgs of specialty and commodity chemicals would be imported and stored onsite, and that it will occupy 5,000 square metres with the intension of extending to 20,000 square metres as oil production increases. Further, the company intends to construct office spaces and a laboratory; store mechanical equipment and parts, and transport chemicals.
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Kaieteur News
Police Force to receive infrastructural boost
The Guyana Police Force will soon benefit from an infrastructural boost, as the Ministry of Public Security, under whose purview it falls, will be rolling out a number of projects in this regard shortly. Bids were opened yesterday at the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) for eight projects in total to construct divisional headquarters for the Force in Mabaruma, Region 1; Fort Wellington, Region 5: Mahdia, Region 8; Anna Regina Region 2 and Diamond, Region 4. All of the bids for these projects ranged in excess of 200 million and 300 million dollars, while all engineer’s estimates were in excess of 200M. Those earmarked for rehabilitation saw bids ranging from 40 to 70 million dollars and the engineer’s estimates were in excess of $50M. Other notable projects were University of Guyana (Delivery of Two 15-Seater Minibuses), Ministry of Public Infrastructure - HECI Supply of LED Street Lamps for Lethem Power Co. Inc and Supply and Commissioning of One New 825 KW Generator for Kwakwani Utilities. Ministry of Public Security Construction of Divisional Headquarters, Mabaruma, Region 1
Rehabilitation of Brickdam Police Station
Rehabilitation of Cove and John Police Station, Region 4
Rehabilitation of Leonora Police Station, Region 3
Construction of Divisional Headquarters, Diamond, Region 4 Construction of Divisional Headquarters, Fort Wellington, Region 5
University of Guyana - Delivery of Two 15-Seater Minibuses Construction of Divisional Headquarters, Mahdia, Region 8
Ministry of Public Infrastructure-HECI Supply of LED Street Lamps for Lethem Power Co. Inc
Construction of Divisional Headquarters, Anna Regina, Region 2
>>>> Continued on page 31 <<<<
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Kaieteur News
Wednesday July 31, 2019
Region Five PPP/C Councillors, Regional Official’s protest budget meeting convened by REO
C
ouncillors of the P e o p l e ’ s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) in Region 5, NDC members, Regional
Chairman Vickchand Ramphal and the Vice Chairman Rion Peters yesterday picketed outside the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council
(RDC) yesterday morning and boycotted a special budget meeting convened by the Regional Executive Officer Ovid Morrison.
The protest outside the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council, Region Five, yesterday morning The group of protestors brandishing placards emphasised that the meeting was illegal and they are against the actions by the REO. Chairman Ramphal told reporters that he did not summon a special meeting, but instead recieved a letter from the REO inviting him and other councillors “to a special meeting” about the 2020 budget. “I have not summoned a special meeting, what I have observed is that the REO wrote to me and councillors inviting us to a special meeting at the RDC to discuss the 2020 budget. Let me make it clear, any special meeting must be convened or summoned by the Regional Chairman, anything out of that will be illegal. This meeting by the REO is illegal, he is acting outside of the laws that govern the RDC”, Ramphal asserted. Vice Chairman Peters
explained that a decision was made to execute a picketing exercise “to show that we are against the recent action of the REO to summon a meeting to craft the 2020 budget. We believe that any meeting by the council should be called by the head of the council which is the Regional Chairman”. He argued that the REO has no legal authority to instruct the council. “We all know that in his capacity of clerk of the council, he is an advisor, and not in any way has the authority to instruct the council. This move to craft budget 2020 is illegal, because the government is a caretaker government and their only responsibility is to hold elections.” Peters opined that the regional budget will be biased, and if the council is not fully constituted, then it can’t be passed or approved.
“What we have are the elected people of Region 5 coming out today to say no to this act by Ovid Morrison and the APNU/AFC government. We cannot move forward like this,” he charged. Opposition Councillors, the Regional Chairman and the Vice Chairman also boycotted Region Six’s “special budget meeting”. At that meeting, the REO, Kim Stephens, told the government councillors and engineers from the engineering department that the activity was merely a discussion on the regional budget 2020, but asked the councillors “All in favour?” after listing each project and the councillors responded with an “Aye”. Voting is done when both opposition and government councillors are present, however only APNU/AFC councillors were at the meeting.
Wednesday July 31, 2019
Kaieteur News
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Police Force to receive infrastructural ... From page 11 Supply and Commissioning of One New 825 KW Generator for Kwakwani Utilities
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Wednesday July 31, 2019
Wednesday July 31, 2019
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Semenya to miss Doha worlds after Swiss court ruling AFP - Caster Semenya will not defend her world 800m title in Doha in September after a Swiss judge overruled a temporary suspension on the IAAF’s controversial testosterone-curbing rules, her representatives said yesterday. The ruling means the 28-year-old can no longer compete in events between the 400m and mile, as she did in June and July. The World Championships are scheduled between September 28-October 6 in the Qatari capital. “I am very disappointed
to be kept from defending my hard-earned title, but this will not deter me from continuing my fight for the human rights of all of the female athletes concerned,” said the South African who is also a two-time Olympic gold medallist. S e m e n y a ’ s representatives said in a statement that, on Monday, “a single judge of the Swiss Federal Supreme Court reversed prior rulings that had temporarily suspended the IAAF regulations pending the outcome of Caster ’s appeal against the CAS award”. “In this latest decision,
the Supreme Court emphasised the strict requirements and high thresholds for the interim suspension of CAS awards and found that these were not fulfilled.” Dorothee Schramm, the lawyer leading Semenya’s appeal, added that the judge had made a “procedural decision” that has no impact on the appeal itself. “We will continue to pursue Caster’s appeal and fight for her fundamental human rights. A race is always decided at the finish line.” Semenya is locked in a
Wednesday July 31, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You tend to keep to yourself, Aries, but today you could be inspired to join a group activity. Perhaps some friends have invited you to come out for drinks. TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Technology is highlighted for you today. It could be that you install a new phone or computer system, which will make life just a bit easier. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You're a social creature, Gemini, and today you can expect to attract a lot of attention. You're feeling good and looking even better - and don't think that people don't notice! Make it a point to get out and mingle with others. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You have a romantic soul, Cancer. Today your thoughts are on love and romance. You may be thinking of that special someone in your life, grateful that you've found each other. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Something big could be occurring close to home today, Leo. It would be advisable to stay inside, if possible, or at least not stray too far. Traffic may be gridlocked and the sidewalks crowded with pedestrians anxious for a closer look. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You have hidden talents that may be revealed to you today. Perhaps collaboration with someone new has you doing things you never thought you could. Perhaps you discover a talent for writing, graphic design, or money management.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You're a kind, caring individual, Libra. Today your concern for others may be so strong that you take steps to do something concrete to save, if not the world, at least a few of the individuals in it. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today you may develop a deeper understanding of what's really important to you. You may be surprised by what you discover. The material means far less to you than the spiritual. SAGIT (Nov. 22–Dec. 21) Your life is likely to enlarge today, Sagittarius, either through a new group affiliation or people you meet. You may be invited to a party where a whole world of new and exciting events opens up to you. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Sometimes it's better to be lucky than smart. You'll learn this today as good fortune puts you in the right place at the right time. AQUARIUS (Jan. 20–Feb. 18) Be open to any invitations that come your way or any new people you meet. Change is in the air for you, Aquarius, and you need only be receptive in order for it to come about. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today you may wake up and realize that there is serious room for improvement, Pisces. If decorating isn't your strong suit, why not call in the professionals?In the meantime, there's a lot you can do by simply clearing away the clutter and reorganizing your bookcases
bitter dispute with the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), which should be settled by a final ruling from Switzerland’s Supreme Court on Semenya’s appeal against the regulations. The IAAF released a brief, non-committal, statement yesterday evening. “ We u n d e r s t a n d t h e Swiss Federal Tribunal will be issuing its full decision on this order tomorrow and the IAAF will comment once the tribunal makes its reasoning public,” it said. Semenya is classified as a woman, was raised as a woman and races as a woman. But for the IAAF, women like Semenya, with certain masculine attributes due to differences of sexual development (DSD), are classified, biologically, as men. It is a position hotly contested by South African officials. The IAAF, seeking “to ensure fair competition for all women”, argues that DSD athletes, like Semenya, born with the “46 XY” chromosome rather than the XX chromosome most females have, would have an advantage in all events based on their levels of testosterone that are in the male range. “Caster Semenya remains steadfast in her defiance of the highly controversial IAAF regulations that require female athletes with naturally elevated testosterone levels to undergo hormonal drug intervention in order to compete in internationa l competitions,” the athlete’s representatives said.
Cricket West Indies concludes... From page 38 August 2017, is trying to help CWI build the coaching talent pool in the Caribbean. In the past, CWI has had partnerships with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) & Cricket Australia (CA) regarding them doing certification courses across region. Whilst this support is not always readily available to CWI, UWI has stepped in to play this role in terms of developing this programme. It’s a very comprehensive programme, which entailed us doing a comparative analysis with the English and Australian coaching certificate programs. Based on this research, UWI was able to come up with program that sat perfectly in the Level Two coaching development pathway.” The programme began on Friday last.
Amazon Warriors home matches will take place in Guyana at Hero CPL 2019 It has been confirmed that the Guyana Amazon Warriors home matches for the 2019 Hero Caribbean Premier League will be taking place in Guyana. The matches will take place in two blocks, with three games at the beginning of September and two matches at the start of October. The Amazon Warriors will get their campaign underway when they take on St Lucia Stars on 5 September before facing St Kitts & Nevis on 7 September. The Guyana franchise will then face the Barbados Tridents in the third match of their home leg on 8 September. The team will then travel around the region for five away matches before returning to Guyana to face Jamaica Tallawahs on 3 October. The final group match for the Amazon Warriors will be a repeat of last year’s final with the home team taking on the current champions, Trinbago Knight Riders on 4 October. Pete Russell, the COO of
Hero CPL, said: “Visiting Guyana is such a big part of Hero CPL and something we look forward to every year. The fans there are truly amazing and the passion they have for cricket and the support they give their team really is second to none. We are very pleased to be able to confirm that Amazon Warriors fans can watch five home matches during this year’s tournament.” Guyana Amazon Warriors home fixtures Thursday 5 Sep Guyana Amazon Warriors v St Lucia Stars, Guyana Saturday 7 Sep Guyana Amazon Warriors v St Kitts & Nevis Patriots, Guyana Sunday 8 Sep Guyana Amazon Warriors v Barbados Tridents, Guyana Thursday 3 Oct Guyana Amazon Warriors v Jamaica Tallawahs, Guyana Friday 4 Oct Guyana Amazon Warriors v Trinbago Knight Riders, Guyana
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Wednesday July 31, 2019
Cricket West Indies concludes first Level Two Coaching Course in eight years Georgetown, Guyana The first Level Two Coaching course delivered by Cricket West Indies (CWI) in eight years, in collaboration with the University of the West Indies (UWI), Faculty of Sport, concluded on Monday in Guyana. All CWI member countries and ICC Americas members have access to this course, with another Level Two course scheduled to follow in Barbados next month. This course is part of CWI’s strategic plan to strengthen and develop the regional coaching talent pool, considering the vital
importance coaches have in developing cricketers’ skills at an early age. A total 27 participants took part in the four-day course and included current and former Guyana and West Indies players such as Ramnaresh Sarwan, Leon Johnson, Travis Dowlin, Andre Percival, Tremayne Smartt, Veerasammy Permaul, Vishal Singh, Anthony Adams and Steven Jacobs. A notable former beneficiary of this previous level two course in 2008 is former Jamaican Fast bowler Andrew Richardson, who has roles with Caribbean Premier League side Jamaica Tallawahs and the current West Indies A team as an assistant coach.
Jimmy Adams, CWI Director of Cricket, commented on why the programme has been absent for eight years: “After a period of about eight years, it is fantastic to have finally been able to get a level two course delivered. One of the additional positive factors is that it is now a CWI course. It’s taken almost two years in collaboration with UWI to put the content and structure together and I’m very proud of that fact. The response in Guyana was very positive and I’m hoping that the course will continue to grow and evolve and get to the point where its 100% meeting the needs of Caribbean coaches. It also highlights our commitment to coaching development within
the region. The level two is an integral part of the coaching pathway, so it’s nice to finally get the gap plugged.” Adams added: “We have had a lot of help to get to this point and I’m sure the course will evolve over time. To the people at UWI and all the coaches around region whose input went into creating the course, I would like to use this opportunity to pay credit to them as well. The next big picture aim is to further develop our coaching pathway so that one-day we will also have a level three CWI course as well.” Leon Johnson, Guyana Captain, shared his player perspective on the Level Two course: “I’m very passionate
about the game and everything it entails and coaching is part of that. I’ve always enjoyed teaching people and imparting knowledge that I’ve gained throughout my career and considering I believe I have a future in coaching currently while playing and when I’m finished, that got me involved in the program. The course was very insightful. Some things I already knew were reinforced, while I learnt a lot of new stuff. So overall it was great cricket educational experience. Now that I’m still playing it will be very beneficial to have the
knowledge gained over the last four days to implement in my game and hopefully take me to another level.” Daren Ganga, UWI Projects officer, on the University’s role in the Level 2 certification said: “The roots for this course is in the MOU signed between CWI/ UWI, which has paved the way for UWI to develop certification courses for CWI. This starts with this first Level Two course, which was just rolled out in Guyana. Secondly, the UWI Faculty of Sport that is relatively new, having been established in (Continued on page 31)
New Era Entertainment / Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal Court’s supports C’bean Schoolboys & Juniors C/Ships continues tonight at MSC - GBA head does not think ‘conspiracy’ played a part in Allicock’s Pam AM Games defeat
Yesterday, at a simple handing over Ceremony at the Courts main branch on Main Street Georgetown, Courts Brand Manager Odette Aaron handed over a cheque to President of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Steve Ninvalle as continued support for the fourth annual Caribbean Schoolboys and Juniors Boxing Championships. Guyana are the threetimes defending Champions and this year’s Championships is scheduled for August 16-18 and for the first time will be hosted at the Cliff Anderson Sport Hall (CASH) after the three
previous year’s Championships were staged at National Gymnasium. A Squad of 22 Boxers, under the watchful eyes of Coaches Lennox Daniels, Clifton Moore, Clive Atwell and Sebert Blake, have been encamped every weekend at the Gymnasium from June 14 and last Sunday did some Glove work at Andrew ‘Six Heads’ Lewis Boxing Gym in the heart of Albouystown as preparations for this Event intensified. Aaron disclosed that while Boxing has not attracted many Companies as sponsors, she said that Boxing is not only a sport but
provides Health benefits. “When you are stressed out, one of the ways to relieve stress is to box a punching bag. We will continue to contribute to this as long as it’s held,” said Aaron. Ninvalle thanked Courts for their contribution and not only for this tournament but all their Boxing events including the Friday nights fights. Ninvalle said he was fairly satisfied with preparations of the Boxers and administratively for the biggest Event for Schoolboys and Girls Boxing in the Caribbean. Ninvalle said that there are female bouts in every Championship, adding that Venezuela should be sending a Girl. Talking about Keevin Allicock’s performance at the Pan American Games in Peru where the 20-year-old
Forgotten Youth Foundation pugilist missed out on a bronze Medal after a highly controversial loss in his first fight on Monday night, Ninvalle said, “As a boxing fan and President of the GBA I am disappointed with the result but satisfied that Allicock, who had the best preparation possible, had given his best effort.” He thanked the GOA for sending Allicock to train in Cuba before he departed for Lima, but when asked by a journali st if he thought conspiracy was involved since Allicock also lost controversially at the Commonwealth Games, Ninvalle said that he was not a Referee or a Judge but looking at the Video of the fight as a layman he felt that the Guyanese had easily won but said he did not think any conspiracy was involved. (Sean Devers)
- Bakewell again on board The sixth annual New Era Entertainment (NEE)/ Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal tournament continues tonight at the Mackenzie Sports Club (MSC) basketball hard court and Bakewell Bakery, who has supported this tournament for the last five years, is again on board. The competition continues this evening at the MSC ground; at 19:20 hrs Higher Level plays Red Line, at 20:15hrs German’s United face Achieves, at 21:00hrs North East oppose West Side Ballers, at 21:45hrs Capitol Storm battle Dave and Celina’s all stars, at 22:30 hrs LA Ballers come up against Mines all Stars while the action concludes at 23:20hrs when NK Ballers and Quiet Storm do battle. Over $2million in cash and prizes will be up for grabs by the respective top performers
and the tournament that has three teams invited from region four will follow a group round-robin/knockout format. There are a total of four groups with the top two teams from each group advancing to the quarterfinals. The curtains will fall on the event on August 17th when the winning team will pocket $600,000, second place $250,000 and teams finishing third and fourth will take home $100,000 and $55,000 respectively. Aubrey Major Jr. expressed gratitude for Bakewell’s support and vowed that he would always encourage persons to support the business. Among other sponsors of the event are Bumper to Bumper Services and Ansa Mcal through their Heineken Brand.
Wednesday July 31, 2019
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Pan Am Games 2019
Guyanese Deion Nurse and Joanne Lowe selected to officiate at Weightlifting and Swimming Whilst the Golden Arrowhead is being flown high in the competition arena be it boxing, squash, badminton or rugby, Guyanese would be happy to know that two of its officials have been selected to perform duties equally prestigious as the athletes. Former weightlifting athlete, administrator, coach and now Class Two Referee, Deion Nurse is officiating as a Time Keeper at the Pan Am Games currently underway in Peru. What makes Nurse’ appointment more noteworthy is the fact that it was over 45-years ago that a Guyanese would have been selected to officiate at this level. Speaking with Kaieteur Sport, the experienced Nurse noted that a number of factors would have been responsible for officials note being able to attend these games, top of the list being finances. Earlier this year, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) had financed Nurses’ participation at the Pan Am Senior Championship in Guatemala City where he performed duties as a Referee. The Guyana Amateur Weightlifing Association (GAWA) subsequently
Joanne Lowe submitted Nurse’ name to the Pan Am Federation for consideration for the current games and he was selected. Nurse became a Referee since 2000 and is one of five (5) Guyanese so qualified, the others being Althea Mayers, Subrena Pestano, Colin McKoy and Sean Cozier; overseas based Aubrey Smith is the lone Class One Referee to date. All the above named officials with the exception of Cozier would have officiated at various international events. Nurse stated that appointments such as this one assists in helping one to perform at a very high level of competence and professionalism that is expected of the position as an ambassador of Guyana. “It is also my aim to help promote the sport in my
Deion Nurse (3rd right, back row) with other officials in Peru. country by networking with the other countries I come into contact with and ultimately grow the sport home, by being an example of what’s possible.” Like Nurse, dedicated swimming official Joanne Lowe who last officiated at the Pan Am Games in Toronto, Canada some four years ago has once again been selected to perform duties
as an International Technical Official. Noting that she has always strived to do her best in all aspects of the sport that she has been challenged with, Lowe would be performing duties at these games for the third time; a huge accomplishment. The long serving Lowe informed that in 2018 a memo
was sent out to all nations under the UANA umbrella requesting applications and she was successful in being selected to perform duties as an International Technical Official. “I will be performing duties as Starter and Turn Stroke Judge of the competition from August 611. I feel exceedingly happy
to be once again selected and do try my best to perform duties on deck at the locally held competitions. Last year I was selected to perform duties at the CONSANAT South American Swimming Championship in Tejullia, Peru. As everyone’s hope is to be at the Olympics next year that would be mine also.” (Franklin Wilson)
Holder keen on Test Championship, hopes Windies can excel BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, CMC – West Indies captain Jason Holder has thrown his support behind the newlylaunched ICC Te s t Championship, stressing that the longest format of the game remained the ultimate test of character and expressing a desire to see West Indies build on their success against England earlier this year. The ICC, cricket’s world g o v e r n i n g b o d y, o n Monday launched the championship which will see West Indies along with Australia, Bangladesh, England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa and Sri Lanka do battle in 71 matches across 27 series over a two-year span. The two top teams will clash in a final to determine the world Test champions. “Going through five intense days of cricket and then the last session, getting the ultimate results – that’s the beauty of the game,” Holder said. “When you’re on the
w i n n i n g e n d o f a Te s t match, after fighting so hard, that actually makes you feel like you have done something significant… “I cherish those moments and every Test win because they stand out significantly. Being put under pressure for five days – the mental struggle, the mental grind – and then to be able to win is what it’s all about. “We recall the win at Leeds against England back in 2017, when we played so hard and gave it everything to come away with that kind of victory was truly remarkable and quite memorable.” We s t I n d i e s h a v e struggled in Tests for the best part of the last two decades and currently languish in eighth spot in the ICC rankings, only above Bangladesh and Zimbabwe. H o w e v e r, t h e y b e a t world number ones England 2-1 in a threematch series back in February to claim their first series win over a higher-
ranked side in seven years and reclaim the coveted Wisden Trophy for the first time in a decade. The Caribbean side’s first assignment in the Test Championship is a twomatch series against India starting next month. “Hopefully our group will continue to build and face the challenges ahead and win a few more Test matches,” Holder said looking forward to the rubber. “It should be a really good battle when we start against India in a few weeks. Both teams are at a stage where we have some really good players and we have to build on what we started earlier this year.” He continued: “Beating England at home was t r e m e n d o u s f o r u s . We played some excellent cricket in all three departments and it was great for this young team to recapture the Wisden trophy after so long and also capture the
imagination of the fans again. “It showed us that once we play well, we can beat the best teams. On home turf, we are looking to make sure we can beat India at home as well.” The Test Championship will see each team play three home and three away series, with each series counting for 120 points. Designed to breathe n e w l i f e i n t o t h e Te s t
format especially in the wake of the success of the Twenty20 game, Holder backed the initiative to take flight. “It brings a different dynamic to Test cricket. It’s the format that the true cricket fan really loves and adores,” said the leading all-rounder. “Having something more to play for now, with points and an overall winner at the end of the two
years and to decide who is the best Test team in the world is great.” He added: “Having numbers and names at the back of the shirts also adds a bit of flavor to the game as well. This should add a bit more colour to Test cricket, having the numbers and names gives a clear indication of who is who.” Holder has chosen number eight.
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Wednesday July 31, 2019
India teen star Shaw India’s ‘lame duck’ selectors under fire over Windies series suspended for doping violation AFP - Indian cricketing greats slammed the national selectors for making too many changes and accused them of bowing down to skipper Virat Kohli, with Sunil Gavaskar calling them “lame ducks” ahead of the West Indies series. Pressure has mounted since India lost their World Cup semi-final against New Zealand, with former captains Gavaskar and Sourav Ganguly leading the onslaught. India have brought in a host of younger players for their three Twenty20 internationals, three one-day matches and two Tests starting on Saturday. Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Shikhar Dhawan, K.L. Rahul, Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja are the only players selected in all three formats for the tour, while rising stars Manish Pandey and Shreyas Iyer are in the limited-overs team. “I’m opposed to too many players being moved around. I’m for stability, not a stopstart type of an environment,” Ganguly told The Print news website. “We haven’t won a global tournament since the 2013 Champions Trophy. “We have to find a way to
move beyond the last-four stage. Look at what England did in the recent World Cup. Learning from 2015, they transformed themselves into world beaters.” Ganguly said there had to be “clear” communications between the selectors, team management and players. “We don’t need cameos only, we need match-winning innings or spells. Learn from Virat, Rohit (Sharma) and (Jasprit) Bumrah... Mohammed Shami too.” - ‘Bypassing procedure’ Gavaskar launched his “lame ducks” attack because Kohli’s appointment as skipper for the West Indies did not go through the normal protocol. He said the selection committee did not meet to reappoint Kohli as captain. “That they selected the team for West Indies without first having a meeting to select the captain brings up the question of whether Virat Kohli is the captain of the team at his or the selection committee’s pleasure,” Gavaskar wrote in the MidDay newspaper. “To the best of our knowledge his appointment was till the World Cup. After that, it was incumbent on the selectors to meet even if it was
for five minutes for his reappointment.” He added: “By bypassing the procedure, the message that goes out is that while the players like Kedar Jadhav, Dinesh Karthik get dropped after below expectations performance, the captain continues despite much below par expectations where the team did not even reach the final.” Selectors’ chairman M.S.K. Prasad rejected the criticism, telling the Press Trust of India news agency that pundits’ jibes only make the selectors “stronger”. Prasad, who played just six Tests and 17 ODI between 1998 and 2000, said selecting a side is specialised job and experience as a player alone does not guarantee success. “If international experience is the case, then many ex-cricketers, who have played a lot of first-class matches can never ever dream to become India selectors,” said Prasad. “We have utmost respect for the legendary cricketers,” he insisted. “In fact, more than getting hurt by this kind of comments, it only makes this selection committee stronger, committed and united.”
AFP - Prithvi Shaw was yesterday suspended for eight months by India’s governing body for a doping violation, with the teenage batting sensation saying he was shaken by the news and would return to the game “faster and stronger”. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) ruled that the 19-year-old “inadvertently ingested a prohibited substance, which can commonly be found in cough syrups”. The suspension was backdated to mid-March, meaning Shaw will be eligible for selection after November 15. The BCCI added in its statement that Shaw’s urine sample collected on February 22 in Indore was “found to contain terbutaline”. “Terbutaline, a specified substance, is prohibited both in and out of competition in the WADA Prohibited List of Substances,” it added. The governing body added that it was satisfied Shaw had taken the substance to treat a respiratory infection and not as a performance-enhancing drug. Shaw said in a statement on Twitter that “the news has really shaken me”.
Rising Indian batting star Prithvi Shaw has been suspended for a doping violation. (AFP/File/William West) “I accept my fate with all sincerity,” he said, adding that the suspension was a reminder of the risk for professional athletes of taking medicine for illnesses. “Cricket is my life and there is no bigger pride for me than playing for India and
Mumbai and I will come out of this faster and stronger,” he said. Shaw — often compared to the legendary Sachin Tendulkar — is nursing a hip injury and was not picked for India’s tour to the West Indies in August.
‘Linsanity’ star Jeremy Lin in Gayle hits whirlwind hundred to notch 22nd in T20s tears as he hits ‘rock bottom’ TORONTO, Canada, CMC – Veteran opener Chris Gayle slammed his 22nd Twenty20 hundred but rain had the final say as the Global T20 Canada contest between Vancouver Knights and Montreal Tigers ended in a no-result here Monday night. Sent in at the CAA Centre, Knights piled up a record 276 for three off their 20 overs – the highest-ever franchise T20 total and the second highest T20 total overall. The left-handed Gayle was the catalyst with a breathtaking unbeaten 122 off 54 deliveries with seven fours and a dozen sixes. South African Rassie van der Dussen struck 56 from 25 deliveries while Dutchman Tobias Visee blasted a 19-ball 51, as Knights embarked on an astonishing run-spree. Facing a record run chase, rain during the break then prevented Tigers from facing a single delivery, as the match was eventually called off due to bad weather. By then, however, Gayle had treated spectators to a storm of his own. The 39-yearold started slowly and it was
West Indies batting star Chris Gayle. Visee who dominated the opening stand of 63 off 27 deliveries, lashing 11 fours and a six. When Visee perished in the fifth over, Gayle had managed just 11 runs from eight deliveries but he quickly took charge of the innings in a stunning display of power-hitting. He raced to his halfcentury off 27 balls, reaching his landmark by clearing the ropes at mid-wicket with offspinner Nikhil Dutta in the 12th over.
Gayle then required only another 20 deliveries to reach triple figures, again bringing up the achievement in style when he deposited West Indies teammate, off-spinner Sunil Narine, over long on for six in the 17th over. Along the way, Gayle added 67 for the second wicket with fellow Jamaican and Windies batsman, Chadwick Walton (29) and a further 139 for the third wicket with van der Dussen whose innings required three fours and five sixes.
AFP - Basketball star Jeremy Lin broke down in tears during an emotional appearance in Taiwan when he described hitting “rock bottom” and feeling abandoned by the NBA as he languishes as a free agent. Lin — the first AsianAmerican to win an NBA title — was part of the Toronto Raptors team that won the championship last season but he was often benched during the playoffs as he struggled with his form. The man behind the ‘Linsanity’ hysteria of 2012 became an unrestricted free agent this summer and is still without a team as the new season approaches. Lin wept as he recounted his recent career trajectory while on stage at a church in Taiwan, from where his parents emigrated to the United States. “Free agency has been tough because I feel like in some ways the NBA has kind of given up on me,” he
told the crowd in a heartfelt interview. He said he had waited years to play for the Raptors but felt his time with the team was his “worst shooting of his entire career”. Lin averaged only 3.4 minutes in the play-offs and one minute on the court during the championship finals. Free agency was “the last straw that broke the camel’s back”, he said, after which he hung his head and cried. “Every year it gets harder,” Lin added after he managed to compose himself. “In English there’s a saying, it says once you hit rock bottom, the only way is up but rock bottom just seems to keep getting more and more rock bottom for me.” Lin, a devout Christian, was speaking at a New Taipei City Sunday church event which was also broadcast on the religious channel Good TV. Lin has struggled with injuries and inconsistency
since he sparked ‘Linsanity’ for the New Yorks Knicks in 2012 when he led them to a sevengame win streak to level their record at 15-15. That season elevated his stardom far beyond the US to Asia, where basketball has a huge following even though there has long been a shortage in Asian NBA players. In 2017, Lin suffered a serious knee injury while playing for the Brooklyn Nets. “I’m here to just tell you don’t give up,” Lin told the 2,000 fans and congregation members who turned up to hear him speak. The Harvard graduate point guard started his professional career in 2010 with his hometown Golden State Warriors. He has played for eight teams in his nine-year professional career including the Knicks, Houston Rockets, L.A. Lakers and Charlotte Hornets.
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Kaieteur News
Everest Masters begin new season Cricket West Indies to honour “Reds” Perreira against West Dem Mavericks commentary career
Preparation is underway at the Everest Cricket Club ground ahead of the new cricket season. The prolonged May/ June rainy season seems to be behind us which means that the new cricket season in Georgetown will soon bowl off. The Everest Cricket Club (ECC) arguably has the best draining outfield in the city and is ready to host their first match of the
second half of the year with Everest Masters hosting West Demerara Mavericks on Emancipation Day. After mixed fortunes in the first half of the year, the hosts are prepared to begin the new season on a winning note with the inclusion of Guyana and
GFF’s Draft Prevention Of Sexual Harassment Policy
Public invited to provide feedback The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) is inviting all stakeholders and the public to provide feedback to the draft Prevention of Sexual Harassment Policy developed for the institution, which has been drafted by a consultant and, once finalized and approved, will become part of the Standing Operating Procedure of the GFF. The draft policy seeks to ensure a “harassment-free environment where all persons involved in Football are treated with respect and dignity and all athletes, coaches and officials can contribute and participate fully.” Wayne Forde, GFF’s President, said accountability is key and so is the public’s participation in this activity: “The GFF firmly believes that fans, civic society, corporate Guyana and the general public are important stakeholders. It is therefore necessary to give them an opportunity to contribute to
the crafting of a policy that sets out to protect, educate and hold accountable, members of the fraternity.” The draft policy can be found on the GFF’s website, via link https:// w w w. g f f o n l i n e . c o m / gffssexual-harassmentpolicy_draft/ and submissions should be sent to gff@networksgy.com or 17 Dadanawa Street, Section K, Campbelville labelled “Feedback: Draft Sexual Harassment Policy.” Deadline for submission is Friday, August 17, 2019.
West Indies cricket legend Shivnarine Chanderpaul who is expected to shoulder the batting like he did most of his career. Everest Masters will also look to the likes of Azeemul Haniff, Sahadeo H a r d a i o w, Safraz Sheriffudeen, Hemraj Garbarran and Saheed Mohamed to support Chanderpaul for a good total against the Mavericks, while Ucil Armstrong, Basil Persaud, Anwar Rahaman and Ronald Jaisingh are expected to hold their own with the ball. Meanwhile, the visitors will rely on their experienced Sham Persaud, Sudesh Persaud and Mark Gittens to get them over the line. The 25 overs per side match is slated to begin at 12:00hrs and will be played with the pink ball with all players in full coloured uniforms. Teams; West Demerara
Mavericks; Sham Persaud, Mark Gittens, Sudesh Persaud, Balram Aron, Prahalad Singh, Eon Williams, Ganesh Persaud, Deoram Persaud, Abid Haniff, Seenarine Mathura, Rajendra Tulsie, Richard Sookdeo and Dereck Mangar. Everest Masters; Rajesh Singh, Sahadeo H a r d a i o w, Saheed Mohamed, Hemraj Garbarran, Shiv Chanderpaul, Basil Persaud, Azeemul Hanif, Ronald Jaisingh, Imtiaz Sadik, Anwar Rahaman, Robin Bharat, Ucil Armstrong, Safraz Sheriffudeen, John Ramsingh, Satyendra Khemraj, Nadir Baksh and Ravi Narayan. The winning trophy is sponsored by the Rockaway Group of Companies from Queens New York, while Trophy Stall of Bourda Market has sponsored the Man of the Match trophy.
Cricket West Indies is set to honour renowned cricket commentator Joseph “Reds” Perreira for his work in broadcasting the game for close to six decades. The upcoming second MyTeam11 Test between West Indies and India – which is co-sponsored by Skoda and Fena – starting on Friday, August 30, at Sabina Park in Jamaica will be Reds’ 150th Test Match that he has attended. It will also be the 250th Test Match that the West Indies have played on home soil. “We would like to congratulate ‘Reds’ for his outstanding commentary on the over the last 60 years,” said CWI President, Ricky Skerritt. “He has been an exemplary broadcaster on both regional and international levels for many years and is deserving of this recognition as one of the most notable voices of West Indies cricket.” Perreira’s first “live” cricket broadcast too place 1961 in a first-class match between his native Guyana and longstanding rivals Trinidad & Tobago at Rose Hall. Ten years later, he covered his first Test between West Indies and India at Bourda Oval. Perreira has also worked on 250 One-day Internationals, including attending the half of the dozen ICC Cricket World Cups to be staged – 1975, 1979, 1983, 1992, 2003, 2007. “One of the enduring legacies of ‘Reds’ is his tenacity,
Reds Perriera coming from humble beginnings to rise to the top of broadcasting on the game from the far-flung arenas around the World,” said Skerritt. “He has set an example of professional excellence and determination that should inspire many young broadcasters around the Caribbean to vigorously pursue the highest standards in their craft.” Skerritt added: “I, like many West Indians of a past era, can well remember all hours of the day and night being glued to our radios, which was the only way to follow the game for many years. The game was brought to life, as we listened to ‘Reds’ and the late, great Tony Cozier fly the flag of West Indian excellence in the commentary booths around the world.” A special presentation will be made to Perreira during the tea interval on the third day of the Second Test on Sunday, September 1 at Sabina Park, Jamaica.
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Kaieteur News
K. Rampat Cricket Academy Guyana tour
Opening game washed out at Enmore The K. Rampat Cricket Academy (KRCA) began its tour to Guyana in an inauspicious fashion as their 40-over game at the Enmore Ground against the Enmore under-14 team was washed out without a ball being bowled due to overnight and mid morning rain on the East Coast of Demerara, although the sun returned in all its glory after Lunch yesterday. The objectives of this tour are two-fold.
Firstly the aim is to give the young players an opportunity to expand and develop their cricketing and social skills and secondly to gain a sense of geography of a neighboring country. The Trinis face-off today at Everest before playing Enmore at Lusignan tomorrow, while they return to Everest on Friday before concluding on Saturday on the East Bank of Essequibo when they battle Parika.
Although the sun came out in all it glory after Lunch the matches was washed out without a ball being bowled yesterday at Enmore.
ICC names two new umpires in Elite Panel for 2019-20 The International Cricket Council (ICC) has named Michael Gough of England and Joel Wilson of the West Indies in the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires for the season 201920 following the annual review and selection process. Gough and Wilson have been elevated from the Emirates ICC International Panel of Umpires by the selection panel consisting of ICC General Manager - Cricket, Geoff Allardice (Chairman), former player and commentator Sanjay Manjrekar, and match referees Ranjan Madugalle and David Boon. Both these umpires have gained significant experience at the international level with Gough having officiated in nine Tests, 59 ODIs and 14 T20Is and Wilson having stood in 13 Tests, 63 ODIs and 26 T20Is. They replace retired umpire Ian Gould and Ravi Sundaram who were part of the previous panel. Adrian Griffith, ICC Senior Manager – Umpires and Referees: “Being an elite official is an extremely challenging job. Every decision is scrutinized by millions of fans and each match official is subject to rigorous ongoing performance assessments throughout the year. “We are fortunate to have some fantastic officials who are able to withstand the pressures of the job and deliver consistently on the international stage. Michael and Joel are deserving additions to the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires and I wish them all the best for the coming season and for the future.”
Joel Wilson The other members of the Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Umpires are Aleem Dar, Kumar Dharmasena, Marais Erasmus, Chris Gaffaney, Richard Illingworth, Richard Kettleborough, Nigel Llong, Bruce Oxenford, Paul Reiffel and Rod Tucker. The Emirates ICC Elite Panel of Match Referees remains unchanged with David Boon, Chris Broad, Jeff Crowe, Ranjan Madugalle, Andy Pycroft, Richie Richardson and Javagal Srinath the seven officials on that list.
G. Bacchus and Sons supports Champion of Champions dominoes G. Bacchus and Sons of Hadfield Street, Werk-enRust has supported the Champion of Champions dominoes competition which is set for August 4 at Turning Point. The entity’s CEO Nick Rahaman presented a cheque to organiser Dion Carter yesterday. Rahaman said he is happy to be associated with the tournament and is looking forward to a successful and exciting one. Carter expressed gratitude for the backing. Senior Organising Secretary of the Georgetown Dominoes Association Mark Wiltshire said the competition
will be played in three rounds of aggregate clash followed by sudden death. He informed that entrance fee is $15,000 and the winning team will take home a trophy and $200,000, runner up a trophy and $100,000, third place a trophy and $50,000 and fourth place $20,000. The most valuable player will receive $10,000 and a cellular phone while the best female player will take home $20,000 and a voucher. The qualifying teams are Gold is Money, Spartans, Mix Up, Phantom, All Season’s Angels, Providence, All
Season’s Racing Service, All Season’s Punters, TNT, Players, Lions, Masters, Gangsters, Big Boss Girls, Fresh Cash, C7, Cody Girls, Royal Kings, OPKO and Turning Point. Among other sponsors are Stag, RRT Enterprise, Bet Supreme, Industrial Safety Supplies Inc, Hilary Davidson Designs and Technologies, Dave’s Barber Shop and Salon, New Nigel’s Supermarket and Mc Beth, Magnum. Teams can contact Wiltshire on 659-8672 for registration.
Dion Carter (right) accepts the cheque from Nick Rahaman in the presence of Mark Wiltshire.
Kaieteur News
Wednesday July 31, 2019
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Karran Ramsammy re-elected as President of Whim National CC as new Executives sworn in
Karran Ramsammy was easily re-elected as President of the Whim National Cricket Club when the members of the organisation held their elections in the upper flat of their pavilion. Ramsammy obtained 70% of the votes casted to defeat Peppy Charran. Charran was elected as the lone Vice President and would assist Ramsammy to administer the affairs of the Club for the next two years. In the elections conducted by Asst Secretary of the Berbice Cricket Board, Ameer Rahaman and witnesses by a representation of the Whim Hindu Mandir, several other executives were elected. Tony Dookraj would s e r v e a s S e c r e t a r y, Tameshwar Harrinarine as Treasurer, while Deven Ve n k i a h a s t h e A s s t Secretary/Treasurer. The Committee Members elected were Dennis Sookshine, Kundal Deonarine and Ravi
Executives of the Whim National Cricket Club pose after their election. President Karran Ramsammy and his deputy Peppy Charran are seated in front Lawrence. Newly re-elected President Karran Ramsammy stated that he was prepared to lead by example to make Whim one of the best Cricket Clubs in Berbice. He unveiled several programmes that he has in
mind including attracting new membership, repairs to the Club’s pavilion, a massive fundraising drive and the opening of a Bank Account for the Club. Ramsammy hailed the efforts of Berbice Cricket Board President Hilbert
Foster in resolving several issues affecting the Club and for restoring unity among members. The Whim President also announced that the BCB President had fulfilled all of his commitment to the Club. Foster, the Berbice Cricket
Board and the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS has assisted the Whim National Cricket Club with cricket balls, scorebook, trophies for a cricket tournament, a five gallon water pitcher, school bags with educational materials, while two Whim youth cricketers received a bicycle and pair of batting gloves respectively. President Ramsammy described Foster as a man of his words as all of his commitments were fulfilled within days and he praised the BCB President for his concern towards the development of youths across Berbice. Foster in remarks after the Returning Officer announced the official results, hailed the discipline and calm atmosphere the elected was conducted in. He congratulated Ramsammy and his team on their election and committed himself to
work along with them in every possible way. He stated that he would be available at any time to meet with the Clubs to resolve problems, to provide assistance and to offer advice. Foster promised a financial contribution from the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS to kick start the Club’s fundraising drive. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club would also assist the Club with trophies to host its first ever Awards Ceremony on the 24th August, 2019. The Berbice Cricket Board would also provide coaches to the Whim National Cricket Club for several training sessions. Foster spoke at length on the importance of Club unity, discipline and the need for hard work to achieve success on the cricket field. The newly elected Executives would meet shortly to plan the Club’s Agenda for the rest of the year.
Ketley win Girls Windball Cricket title
K
etley beat rivals Sophia to win their first major title as the curtains came down in the A. Munroe organised AL Sport & Tour Promotions National Sports Commission 22nd Annual End of School Year Edward Cobenna Memorial Windball Cricket Champions Trophy. In what was a keenly contested game which was played with a Pink ball, Sophia was sent in to batted first and score 63–2, with Kiazianna Thompson 20 from 14 balls, Latifa Sanford 14 and Annessa Hussain 10 not out. N. Fraser 1-18, Tia Fowler 1-9. Ketley’s turn in the middle did not disappoint the screaming parents and players in and around the stands which included the head teacher as they reached their target 64-0 with 5 balls remaining, the winning runs came off of wide. Player of the tournament Tia Fowler hit 36 (4s-6) and Ommianna Vanderhyden 23 (4s-4). Enterprise ended in 3rd place, Saint Pius 4th place.
Ketley with ASTP Officials, parents and supporters enjoy the moment as captain Naquisha Fraser collects the trophy from Clanise Cobenna.
Ketley also won the Best Uniformed Team award. Gemacy Gittens of Enterprise received the most promising player prize donated by ASTP – David Wren. “We will like to thank our Special guests, NSC Board Member Ryan Belgrave, Region 4 Education Office, former Ast DoS
Brian Smith, head Teacher Winfer Garden, Clanise Cobenna, Hutton Mars, Kwabenna Wright, Head teacher Ketkey, Francina Nichols also all the parents and children present. I must thank all the parents of the children from the various schools who ensured their
children came out and competed in this programme; Also the staff of National Gymnasium. For those who also supported, including His Worship the Mayor of Bartica Gifford Marshall, Christopher A. Jones DOS NSC, Marlyn Amanda Hope and AL Sport & Tour Promotions. Not
forgetting the sixty six (66) teams that competed in this year’s programme drawn from Regions 3, 4 and Georgetown. I would also like to thanks the First Aid Official who worked during the tournament, Michael Trotman,” a release from the organiser A. Munroe informed.
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Wednesday July 31, 2019
RHTYSC, MS and Panthera Solution launch Youth Information Booklet The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS and one of its sponsors Panthera Solution on Friday last, officially launched the latest edition of the Club’s Youth Information Booklet. The Booklet was launched at a simple ceremony at the Providence, East Bank, Demerara, based Head Office of Farfan & Mendes Ltd. Panthera Solution is joint venture Company of Farfan & Mendes Ltd and the Canadian owned Crosbie Group Ltd. Club Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster hailed the Booklet launching as another red letter day in the remarkable history of Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation. The 40page booklet was published at the F & H Printery in Georgetown and form part of an expanded Say No/Say Yes Campaign. The highly successful
RHTYSC Secretary/CEO and Editor of the Booklet Hilbert Foster hands over a copy to Panthera General Manager Andrew Dinsdale. campaign is organised by the ten cricket teams of the Club and targets about 70,000 youths in Region Six under the Campaign, the Club strives to get youths to say
No to Suicide, Drugs, Pre Marital Sex, Alcohol, Liquor, Crime and Yes to Education, Life, Sports, Culture and Religion. Foster disclosed that the booklets
GMR&SC International drag championship
Imran Auto Works sponsors fastest reaction time prize The driver with the best reaction time during the Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC)’s International Drag Race will benefit from $100 USD. West Coast business Imran Auto Works has put up the prize for the person with the fastest reaction time to the port-a-tree system. A statement from the club indicated that “Imran Auto Works has joined our sponsorship team for the upcoming international drag race event on August 25.” “The company will sponsor USD $100 for the driver or rider with the best reaction time across all time brackets for the event,” the statement continued. “We at the Guyana Motor
Racing and Sports Club (GMR&SC) wishes to thank Imran Auto Works for their support in this venture as well as looking forward to future partnerships.” Meanwhile, the August 25 event is already gaining traction with competitors from Suriname and Trinidad indicating their interest in being a part of the quartermile run. As many as six cars are in talks with the GMR&SC over shipping logistics for the event, while Suriname has not indicated how many cars would be willing to make the voyage. Admission to the event for spectators has not been set with the club expected to release more details in the
coming week. However, several local giants are expected to take the strip including the team M ohamed’s Enterpris e GTRs Godzilla and Goliath, Sean Persaud’s Toyota Caldina and the Transpacific Toyota Alteeza and Peter Daby’s Mazda RX7 (second generation). Other sponsors include R. Kission Contracting, Deryck Jaisingh Trucking Service and Machinery R e n t a l s , M o h a m e d ’s Enterprise, BM Soat, Prem Electrical, E-Networks, Trans-Pacific Auto Sales, Cyril’s Taxi, Blue Spring Water, Choke Gas Station, Miracle Optical, Tropical shipping, DEL ICE CO and Hand in Hand.
would be distributed free of cost across Berbice to students, sports organisations, teachers, the University of Guyana, churches, libraries, NGOs and schools. Foster, who is also the President of the Berbice Cricket Board stated that the main objective of the Booklet is to get youths to follow the narrow path to success.
The Booklet covers over twenty five topics of importance to youths along with an official message from RHTYSC Asst Secretary/CEO Simon Naidu, Profile of the Official Sponsor and the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club. Among the topics in the booklet are Drug Abuse, Importance of Education, HIV/AIDS, Peer Pressure, Suicide, Basic Public Manners, Public Speaking, Teenage Pregnancy, Pre Marital Sex, Importance of Religion, Choosing Friends, Respect to Elders, Personal Hygiene, Table Manner, Manners in the Classroom, Importance of Reading and Research, How to handle Job Interview among others. Photos of several RHTYSC personnel are also included in an effort to get youths to emulate positive role models. The 2019 Medal of Service Awardee stated that the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club during the course of 2019 has expanded the programme to target more youths. Over the last month, the Club has donated over $2M worth of bicycles, school
bags, educational materials and sports gears under the Say No/Say Yes Campaign with funding from the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS Patron Fund. The Club would also shortly be distributing thousands of Anti Suicide Posters, Youths Information Booklets and more bicycles, cricket balls and gears across Berbice. Foster expressed gratitude to the Management and Staff of Panthera Solution, Mr. Andrew Dinsdale, Onai Vasconcellos and Andrew Mendes for making the Booklet a success. Dinsdale stated that his Company was delighted to be associated with the Booklet and Guyana’s leading youth organisation. He committed the Company to working along with the Club as he was very impressed with the high standard of its work, Distribution of the Booklet has already started across Berbice and persons interested in obtaining a copy can call 337-4562, email the Club at foster_hilbert@yahoo.com or visit the RHTYSC Area ‘H’ Ground.
Racehorses line up for PMTC Centenary meet tomorrow The organisers of the Port Mourant Turf Club (PMTC) Centenary horserace meet have indicated that a large field of top local horses has entered for the event. The 4-Horse Man Promotion Group in collaboration with the Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club (RCMTC) organised event is set for the PMTC, Big yard, Corentyne, Berbice on Emancipation Day, August 1st (tomorrow) and the action promises to be keen. Apart for being staged in observance of the historic milestone, it is also being held in memory of the achievements of the late Attorney at Law and Senior Counsel, Marcel Crawford for the enormous amount of work he did at the PMTC during his lifetime. A total of seven races are slated to be contested with over $5M in cash and trophies and other incentives up for grabs. The racetrack is said to be in excellent shape. Over 50 horses have been entered for the once in a life time event. Among
them are: Caribbean Boy, Cherish Me, Perfection, TP 360, Cat Ruler, Mahaica Star, Song Bird, Pikachu, Delilah, Royal Progressive, Princess Celine, Stolen Diamond, Broke Gun, Release the Heat, Perfection, Touch Down, He’s in control, Desert Storm, Dutty Dance, Osana, Not dis Time, Campador, Kentucky Woman, Silver and Things, Red Rocket, Catch a Glimpse, Village Prince, Princess Emma, Princess, Jean, Up rising star, Justify the Heat, Joyful Love, City of Love, Sunday Silence, Up top Boss, Land Star, Awesome Bandit, Catholic Boy, Easter Far, Wonder Girl, Red Woman and Body Guard. Sponsors such as Banks DIH Limited, Dequan Trading, Attorney at Law Senior Counsel Rajendra Poonai, Sankar Auto Works, Cumming E l e c t r i c a l C o m p a n y, Valvoline, Just Water, Colin Elcock Delmur Company Limited, Toolsie Persaud and Habibulla Meat Center are on board so far. Banks DIH will have a well
stocked bar at the event. There are three feature events on the programme with the 1300M race for animals classified 3 years old Guyana-bred racing for a winning purse of $300,000 and trophy the main race. The H3 and lower race over 1300M for a winning take of $220,000 and trophy a n d t h e t w o - y e a r- o l d Guyana-bred animals 1000M for a winning take of $220,000 and a trophy are the others. The other events are for horses classified J and lower, K2 and Lower, L class open and L1 and lower. The races will be run under the Guyana Horse Racing Rules and no late entries will be accepted. Any information on the event contact can be made with Bobby Vaughn on 6246788, 223-5097 or 2277061, Marcel Crawford Jr on 678-5342 or 600-7690, Fazal Habibullah on 6577010, Compton Sancho on 6 9 1 - 11 7 4 o r L o r e s a Mohabir on 624-0453. Veteran horse race stalwart Colin Elcock is the Coordinator.
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Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ National Championship moves to Jubilee Park Tarmac In effort to make the tournament more accessible to spectators, the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ National Championship will now be staged at the Jubilee Park Tarmac. This was disclosed by Lee Baptiste, Guinness Brand Manager. Baptiste stated that the venue, which will make its maiden appearance, was selected due to its playing surface, size and overall accessibility to the general public. He affirmed, “We anticipate a large crowd for the final and the venue has readily available parking and is accessible to various environs. It is very centralized and public transportation utilize routes that are accessible to its location so it’s an overall good choice for staging of the national championship. The surface is also ideal for the players.” The national championship will be staged on August 9th and 10th respectively. It will be contested in a knockout format. The venue will also be utilised for the Georgetown Championship final on Saturday. Meanwhile, the quarterfinal and semi-final round of the Georgetown championship will commence on Friday August 2nd at the National Cultural Center Tarmac. The initial date of July 26th for the quarterfinal and semifinal was rescheduled after persistent rainfall rendered the playing area unfit for players and spectators. According to an official correspondence f r o m tournament coordinator Three Peat Promotions, “All systems are in place for a thrilling night of action. We anticipate a large crowd because of the quality of the teams that will be competing for a place in the finale. Six
of the eight quarter-finalists have already lifted the coveted title, which adds to the quality that will be on show.” The matches will remain in the original order, with Broad Street opposing Leopold Street at 19:00hrs and Albouystown-B battling Back Circle from 19:45hrs. In the third and fourth quarterfinal fixtures, Sparta Boss tackle Sophia at 20:30hrs and defending champion Gold is Money face-off with Tiger Bay from 21:45hrs.Victors of the aforesaid contests will advance to the semi-final round which will occur later in the evening. The final is scheduled for the Jubilee Park Tarmac on August 3rd. Winner of the event will collect $500,000 and the championship trophy, as well as automatic place in the National Championship. The second, third and fourth place finisher will collect $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively and the corresponding trophy. Meanwhile, the National Championship starts on August 9th at the Pouderoyen Tarmac. The two day event, which features 15 teams, will end on August 10 at Jubilee Park. The teams that have sealed automatic berths to the event are Gold is Money [National Champion], Beacons [Bartica Champion], Melanie-B [East Coast Demerara winner], Brothers United [West Demerara/East Bank Demerara winner], Trafalgar [Berbice champion] and High Rollers [Linden champion] have sealed automatic berths. Below features the quarterfinal fixtures. Quarterfinal Matchups (1)Broad St vs. Leopold St19:00hrs (2)Albouystown-B vs. Back
Circle-19:45hrs (3)Sparta Boss vs. Sophia20:30hrs (4)Gold is Money vs. Tiger Bay-21:15hrs Semifinal Matchups Winner (1) vs. Winner (4) Winner (2) vs. Winner (3)
Action in the earlier group stage of the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Georgetown Championship.
New Era Court’s supports C’bean ort p S Entertainment/ Schoolboys & Juniors C/Ships Mohamed’s Enterprise Futsal continues tonight at MSC
Court’s Brand Manager Odetta Aaron presents the cheque the GBA’s President Steve Ninvalle at their Main Street Head Office.
GBA head does not think ‘ conspiracy’ played a part in Allicock’s Pam AM Games defeat
CWI Cricket Director Jimmy Adams (2nd from left, third row), Keith Tomlins Senior Coach Development manager-England and Wales Cricket Board and CWI Coaching Education Consultant (left, front row) with facilitators and participants following the course at the National Stadium.
Aubrey Major Jr. (left) receives the sponsorship from Rajindranauth Ganga- General Manager, while Rashanie Clabiram -Administrative Assistant looks on.
Cricket West Indies concludes first Level Two Coaching Course in eight years
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