Kaieteur News

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Driver arrested NEWS for drunk driving dies in police lockups AIETEUR

Tuesday Edition July 02, 2019 - Vol. 12 No. 28

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

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Several police top brass polygraphed Police commence

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180 celebrations with Drumhead Service GWI acquires new drill …to construct scores of back-up wells

Man found dead Residents laud completion of $53M La Parfaite in unfinished Harmonie Police Station house in La Grange - commissioning date soon to be announced CLICO (Guyana) indebtedness...

Liquidator moves to block transfer of over $2billion to T&T companies

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Kaieteur News

Tuesday July 02, 2019

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Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

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

Let’s not waste the next six months Six months have come and gone in 2019. What does Guyana have to show for it? From a hard and honest examination: absolutely nothing. Even more disturbingly, there is neither discomfort nor alarm over how events have not progressed, nor any misgivings as to what that portends.

Looking back, six months is the equivalent of looking back sixty years. The days roll back, and it is almost 1960.

There were physical “disturbances” brewing then; there are ferocious rhetorical stirrings now. The physical looks ominous.

Without daring to jump ahead, the succeeding six months promise such physical disturbances, but only on a more savaging scale. That is, unless people rethink and reposition for the greater good.

Lines are being drawn: inflexible and determined with the finality of the immovable object and compulsive force meeting in jarring collision. Men with ambitions and visions declare themselves willing to travel down a certain road wherever such leads; and it leads to what now appears to be a rising inevitability.

The stakes are high; to the winner, the prize is worth the risks. Lesser gambles have been made and ended up in the same devastating depths. Nobody pays attention.

Nobody remembers the times of yore: of burnings and beatings that are now antiquated, the relics of another era: pedestrian and inconsequential, by modern methods.

Today, things are massively more hi-tech, with the machinery to make mayhem wherever and however it pleases. Since that it is what is wished for, then that it could be.

Since the break of January (perhaps, late December) it has been collective sitting on hands; the convergence of individual and group suspension. Both are committed to the long haul of waiting for the maintenance of the continuum that stagnates commerce; sets in motion the plans of criminals; and keeps the aircraft of state circling at high attitudes. There is no visibility. There is no approaching. There is no communication.

Relative to communication, a slight correction is in order: there is communication between plane and planet. It is just that the languages are different, the interpretations and comprehensions misleading and sucking into vortexes of dangerous descents and of no return.

That has been the readings and realities since January.

Rational citizens would be hard pressed to venture forth and submit otherwise. Things are that precariously perched; that bad, and sickeningly so.

Where to in the next half of what seems already to be a lost and wasted year? What could be possibly salvaged?

Who wants to roll up sleeves, and wear down fingernails to the quick to tear down the stones that trap in the most troubling of places? At the end of the day, it is not those kindly (believed cautious and sagacious) folks from over there in the Caribbean Sea. No! the next six months, starting right now, must see the manmade disaster that is Guyana confronted and addressed by the manly that resides right here. The question is this: does this country have that kind of man? The kind of man (and minds) that mean to move mountains? And then do so?

The next six months will tell, as to who and what Guyanese really are, where they want to go, and how they will go about getting there. Be it so in one piece, as one nation, with one destiny. That is a lot of the same word, with a powerful emphasis: ONE. Somehow and by some grace, that has to be the collective objective. The current political separation of de facto racial partition takes where this society has always been and languished: in the doldrums of 1960 and closer.

Let this much be said: anyone who refuses to acknowledge those truths is unwise. Anyone who rejects movement towards a time and opportunity to overcome that legacy is even more unwise. Beginning today, the next six months will matter than any other time in the history of this country.

This petroleum contract is not worth the paper it is written on DEAR EDITOR, It is my honest opinion that Kaieteur News should be awarded with the highest honour of the land for their continuous reporting on the massively flawed Petroleum Agreement between the Government and the contractors (Esso/Cnooc/ Hess) and by extension Exxon. This petroleum contract, signed by Minister Trotman (his initial RT is on every page of the agreement), is not worth the paper it is written on.

Would the Minister report to the public the names of the negotiators on behalf the Government? It seems to me that these negotiators were grossly incompetent and they were handsomely rewarded for their incompetence. Or it might be that the more qualified we are, the more incompetent we become.

I, and many other more competent individuals, have had cause to write on the parts of the contract where Guyana was taken for a ride.

Finally, the Minister has acknowledged that the absence of “ring fencing” was an error. He has now cast the negotiating team under the bus.

I am asking the Minister to also look at the areas identified by Kaieteur News, Dr. Jan Mangal, Christopher

Ram, Professor Tarron Khemraj, Professor Tom Mitro, and so many others who are all interested in getting the best deal for Guyana.

The many shortfalls in this contract need to be addressed now. I would ask the Minister to relook at the following articles: Article 10 - Annual Licence Rental Charge.

The current contract stipulates an annual rental payment of US$1 million.

Based on my calculation, Guyana should receive an annual rental on a percentage of the annual projected production. With an annual production of 90 million barrels (250,000 barrels daily with a 350 day year), the rental should be 225,000 barrels (1/ 4 of 1%).

Annual rental 225,000 x US$50 per barrel = US$11,250,000 Production is expected to increase to 750,000 barrels per day by 2025. When production reaches this level, the annual rental should be 675,000 barrels of oil.

Annual rental 675,000 x US$50 per barrel = US$33,750,000 Article 15 - Taxation and Royalty The agreement gives the contractor an indefinite tax holiday on their taxable income. This arrangement will

rob Guyana of hundreds of millions of United States dollars in tax revenue. I am appealing to the Minister to correct this anomaly now.

Brazil is receiving up to 10% royalty on their production. Currently, the agreement gives Guyana 2% royalty. With a daily production of 250,000 barrels and one for 750,000 barrels, the following will be the royalty for Guyana: For 250,000 barrels daily annual production will be 90,000,000 barrels Royalty at 2% on 90 million barrels = 1,800,000 barrels = US$90 million Royalty at 10% on 90 million barrels = 9,000,000 barrels = US$450 million For 750,000 barrels daily annual production will be 270,000,000 barrels Royalty at 2% on 270 million barrels = 5,400,000 barrels = US$270 million Royalty at 10% on 270 million barrels =27,000,000 barrels = US$1.35 billion Article 19 - Employment and Training As Kaieteur News has highlighted over the last week, we will be receiving a mere pittance from our oil resource for training. In this contract, Guyanese will receive a handsome amount of US$300,000 annually.

Bearing in mind that we need to train Guyanese in many new fields, this amount is downright shameful.

A decent College in the

United States will cost a student an average of $25,000 per year. If one were to go to a more recognized College, the annual tuition will be over $50,000.

What this contract is telling us is that the oil company will continue to recruit their own people for the next 50 years. If the annual College tuition is US$50,000 per year, we can only send 6 students for four (4) years. When these 6 students return, we will then send another 6. So in fifty (50) years we would have trained seventy two (72) Guyanese, provided, of course, that the annual tuition remains the same (which is impossible).

With an annual production of 270 million barrels of oil, a more realistic training assistance would be at least 1/10 of 1% of the annual production. This formula will allocate 27,000 barrels of oil. With a price of US$50 per barrel, the annual training should be US$1,350,000.

Article 33 - Signature Bonus Guyana received a signin bonus of US$18 million. As argued by many scholars, this sum is an insult to the people of Guyana. With knowledge of a reserve of over 4.5 billion barrels, we got .008 of 1% (which is 8/10,000).

Does the Minister think that this is a good deal?

With hindsight, the (Continued on page 6)

University of Guyana should have high standards DEAR EDITOR, It was a privilege to attend the University of Guyana as a step towards attaining a Bachelor of Laws (LLB), however, my experience in the Department of Law was bittersweet.

The Department facilitates both learning and fun; for recreational purposes students are allowed to take part in Law Week (a week of competitive fun activities) which is planned by the University of Guyana Law Society (UGLS). Another anticipated event in the Department is, the Law Social; which is hosted by the Final Year law students to welcome the first year students and to bid farewell.

These events as well as other class-planned events ease the tension and frustration that come with studying law. Personally, studying law was not a walk in the park, but with the support system of the students, great lecturers and determination, I made it through.

In this letter I’ll like to speak on a few issues that contributed to my bitter

experience in the law department, which goes beyond the Department to the University itself. The University of Guyana being Guyana’s renowned Tertiary Educational Institution should have extremely high standards in terms of facilities, services offered, and professionalism. After all, Guyanese are not the only ones who attend the University.

Law students are paying one of the highest fees at the University of Guyana; looking back at old receipts for my three years in the law department I paid over GY$1.2M. Despite paying this amount of money, law students have to attend classes in the grey and white building located on the Turkeyen Campus with ‘Department of Law’ written on it, that we were told ‘is not our building’; instead, we were just ‘begging a lodge’ so we will have to share the building with others.

Apart from this, the threestorey building has one washroom facility which is used by Department of Law staff only. During class

sessions or in between classes, law students have to be running around campus looking for a clean washroom to use. This was the experience of not only Guyanese law students, but the foreign students as well.

Is this the experience the University of Guyana wants its foreign students to relate to persons when they go back to their country?

Moreover, when I first entered the Law Department the classrooms were hot, there were fans that we couldn’t use (it was alleged that the building had a faulty electricity system), and windows were missing. Over time things progressed; the second floor lecture room was renovated into an air conditioned room with a polished floor. However, to uphold a high standard, more still needs to be done to the other two lecture rooms.

The major issue I have with the University of Guyana is receiving grades late. For the Department of Law, before a grade is released to the student’s profile it has to go through a process (marked by lecturer, sent to Barbados to

be second marked, when returned it has to be accepted before finally being released).

Throughout my three years in the Department, I can’t recall ever receiving all my grades during the holiday, before I started a new semester. Even as I write this letter, I’m still awaiting all my grades from my Third YearSecond Semester, which ended in May 2019. Also, the Second Year students are still awaiting their grade for Real Property 2, which was done since First Semester, in December 2018.

This issue bothers me more now, because, having completed my Final Year, the next step is to attend the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad, and I can only embark on this step if I’m in the Top 25. Every year a list is provided by the University of Guyana Law Department with the Top 25 students. This list is only given when all the grades (normal, supplemental and resits) are released.

This is frustrating because final grades (normal) aren’t released at this point and we’re in the month of (Continued on page 5)

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Supt. McBean’s expertise will be an asset to the GPF DEAR EDITOR, As Carla Mendonca said in her letter of June 29, in the Guyana Chronicle captioned, “No righting of wrong through the dangerous jaundiced eyes of ethnicity” - “It has to be the first time in the known history of the very senior echelons of the Guyana Police Force (GPF), that so senior a rank as a deputy commissioner of police has been sent on leave…”

This pertained to Crime Chief, Lyndon Alves, now being investigated by the Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR).

In the same vein, but for completely different reasons, I have never known of a police rank, of any level, being re-instated after being dismissed for so long a period of ten years; a decision that then Superintendent of Police, Simon McBean, decided to challenge, and which he had overturned, won by way of Appeal Court decision, then for the Police Service Commission to formally reinstate him at his last substantive level.

Editor, it is my honest opinion that Superintendent McBean had been the victim of a well-known tradition of GPF grudge culture, especially taken against young policemen who were ambitious enough for wanting to improve and further their academic worth, for advancement in the GPF. And it is their right to do so,

since such an added attribute weighs very strongly when considering a policeman’s upward mobility.

As an aside, but relevant to the thrust, I do recall, two cases of two very bright young corporals who, in the 1980s, had dreams of careers in law, only to be shot down, each time they requested permission to attend the University of Guyana. They were told afterwards, that only the very senior personnel had been entitled to such a privilege.

This is quite the opposite to what now exists, since 2015, with the coalition government. Under this administration, policemen from all ranks have been attending the University of Guyana, which last graduation of 2018, reported a batch of 29 policemen/ women, inclusive of a few seniors, graduating with first and second degrees, and diplomas in fields that included banking, social work, and public management.

It was a first for the GPF, and it underlined the government’s commitment to not only a professional police organization, but a wise recognition that the latter ethic is best achieved by improved academic learning for ranks, apart from the fact that such enables a better equipped police force for combatting today’s sophisticated crime.

There was no doubt that at that material time, the era

when academic furtherance for policemen/women was never a consideration, much less a priority for the PPP/C regime, there were orchestrated steps to frustrate and deny McBean’s efforts to pursue his postgraduate study. For even if he had been denied his application for study leave, why also veto his request for no pay leave, which would have had no cost on the Force’s payroll, with respect to an officer who was not going to be on active duty. It reeks of that good ole’, wellknown bad mindedness.

The fact that officer McBean has decided to return to Guyana, in deference to being where he would have sojourned, underlines his belief and faith in the ongoing efforts to improve and renew the entire professional ethic of the GPF, inclusive of its administrative culture, taking place under the aegis of the coalition government.

I have never personally met Mr. McBean, nor am I an acquaintance. However, I applaud his determination for self-improvement, and his commitment to his country. At this time, the GPF needs officers of his outlook and dedication. It can only gain from his acquired expertise, so much needed at this time, for combatting the type of modern crime challenges which would have taken root during the former PPP/C administration.

Regards Earl Hamilton

Let United Nations manage elections DEAR EDITOR, It does not appear that the two sides, President Granger and Opposition Leader Jagdeo and APNU+AFC and PPP, will reach any agreement (consensus) on appointing a Gecom Chair or set a firm timeline for elections.

On June 18, the CCJ had urged the two sides to come to agreement by June 24 on orders the court should issue and they failed to meet. On June 24, the court extended the deadline to July 1 (date for written submission of suggestions for consequential orders) and the sides still failed to meet, much less discuss the issues.

The court had stated that they could try until July 12 when the court will issue its orders on what must be done.

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Kaieteur News

The court’s orders are final.

The two sides should try to resolve this political problem.

The ABC countries should put pressure on both sides to meet and honour the constitution.

There is much distrust between the sides. Both sides are fearful of fraudulent elections. My conversations with Guyanese reveal they also fear that election results may not reflect the will of the voters.

Guyana is a very racially polarized nation. Governing Guyana will not be easy unless election results are accepted by both sides. The country will not make progress after elections unless both sides feel the outcome reflects the will of the voters and that every eligible voter’s name is on the list.

Since it has become a

controversial political issue that does not lend itself to an easy solution, may I suggest that both sides meet and work out an agreement for the United Nations (UN) to manage (run) the elections. It will save Guyanese the expense of organizing the elections.

The UN was in charge of holding elections in several polarized societies when the contending parties could not reach an agreement on a way forward. The UN will ensure that free and fair elections are held in Guyana and that no one is denied the right to vote. The UN’s Secretary General and its security forces will make sure a credible election is held and the results accepted.

Yours truly, Vishnu Bisram

Where do we as a nation go from here?

DEAR EDITOR, I use this opportunity to address this most troubling concern that I have no doubt is on the minds of most patriotic Guyanese. And that concern is: Where do we as a nation go from here?

It has been discussed and written about in so many ways and at so many forums, both private and public. Anyone with an undying love for our country understands and appreciates this most glaring fact business as usual, as practised after 1966 is simply not working, and most importantly, will not work.

The only one(s) determined to stay that course are those obsessed with power and being in control at all costs, even to the destruction of our country. A country divided against itself cannot and will not stand.

I have been following the story of the female worker at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport and was itching to address same, as to my mind, and as a former E.E.O investigator at the U.S Department of Labor, I know

that at least on the surface, a tremendous travesty of labor law had occurred in the alleged abuse, and the resultant handling of same by the airport authority.

There are glaring questions not so far addressed or answered by those in authority at the CJIA such as:- (1) What were the results of their so-called investigation? (2) Why were the results not shared, at least with the alleged victim? (3) Why was her security clearance pulled resulting in her being unable to access her work station? (4) Why was she the one escorted by security off the job and not the accused? (5) Why is he back on the job and not she?

(6) What were the conclusions drawn leading up to that decision? And most importantly: (7) What is the message to those victims who may have or are presently subjected to this reprehensible behaviour?

I will return to this very important issue on another occasion, but after reading an absolutely profound Editorial in your July 1 edition, I had to prioritize.

I had to comment on this fine piece of incisive journalism. The writer is so on

University of Guyana...

From page 4 July. At this pace when will the list be released? When will the students get time to prepare for Law School for the new academic year which commences in September?

It is my plea that the students are paying a lot of money, thus the least the University can do is provide efficient, effective services and release the grades early, especially for the final year students.

If it is that lecturers aren’t submitting grades on time, then the penalty agreed by the University in 2016 should be implemented. If it is that persons from the department aren’t attending the meetings

when the grades are back; I plead that you have consideration for the students.

Whatever it is, please try to remedy this. The anxiety that comes when awaiting grades is great.

In summation, the high standards that the University of Guyana should have being a Tertiary Educational Institution should be reflected in its facilities and its services to the students.

The Department of Law is in a degraded state and needs improvements/renovation.

Also, the University of Guyana needs to release grades early.

Anonymous

point, a new thinking is screaming for exposure, for release. As I’ve said previously, business as usual is DOA. I refuse to believe that Guyanese are incapable of boldly exploring new approaches that will benefit all, regardless of ethnicity and narrow party interest.

Those relics still stubbornly holding on to this mindset should and must be relegated to the dustbin of history. These individuals are dangerous persons, and despite their empty and insipid pronouncements, do not and cannot love our country; their only interest is simply the love of power, and the benefits that power will enable them to acquire.

The time is now for our politicians and so-called leaders to abandon their ethnic prejudices and hatred, and work towards an acceptable solution, with the only goal being what will benefit all Guyanese.

Any approach that refuses to include this most important ingredient will result in the destruction of our country, and the exploitation of same by those pernicious forces just waiting to divvy up the spoils. They are at the door, let us as a Nation shut that door in their greedy faces, put on our Big Boys Pants and make it happen.

What a sense of pride on reading that Guyana’s economy is the fastest growing in the whole wide world, our Little Guyana. I received a congratulatory call from my Trini Pastor just last night about this fact. Let’s make it happen Guyana, our survival depends on our working together. The sky is the limit if we do, and we must!

Respectfully, Claudeston Massiah

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Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

GWI acquires new drill …to construct scores of back-up wells The Guyana Water Inc. (GWI) will soon take possession of a drilling rig to boost its capabilities to construct new wells and repair old ones.

According to a report “Justification for the Purchase of a Drilling Rig and Ancillaries for the Coastal Region of Guyana”, water well performance is at the heart of GWI’s operational mandate to provide adequate supply of potable water to the citizens of Guyana.

Over 70 per cent of the coastal population depends on well water to meet their

needs.

With each new well costing about $80M, the acquisition of a drilling rig will reduce cost and bring other positive benefits, the report which was dated in April, said.

“The overall objectives of the design of wells is to create a structurally stable, longlasting efficient well (30-40 years) at a reasonable cost and having enough space to house pumps or other extraction devices, allows ground water to move effortlessly and sediment-free from aquifier into the well at the desired volume and

quality, and prevents bacterial growth and material decay in the well.”

The report proposed that GWI purchase a rig for deep water wells application and to pursue its own drilling programmes for future ones.

It was disclosed that GWI had added a well drilling department to be outfitted with personnel, rigs and ancillary equipment.

Regards the benefits of its own drilling rig, GWI said it owns and operates in excess of 130 water wells along the coast. “These wells are aging and many are over 30 years old thus requiring timely replacements. Moreover, there is a need for individual backup well in each location since only one well exists at most pumping facility locations. “This poses considerable threats in the (Continued on page 24)

Freddie’s” likes” soared on Sunday…we can find common ground despite the politics DEAR EDITOR, I like reading the papers online. It gives you a chance to see how an article resonates with the readers by checking the amount of “likes” an article receives.

As a writer I check the “likes” on my articles whenever they are published.

I guess most writers do too.

Very often after reading an article that impresses or resonates with me, I would scroll down to click on “like” to show appreciation to the writer.

As writers we need that kind of encouragement.

Sometimes I would scroll down after reading some gross, senseless or biased articles, just to check the response from the online r e a d i n g f r a t e r n i t y. F o r these, very often, the” likes” would be zero or one. When it is one, I have this tendency to suspect that the writer gave himself/herself that like.

As writers, we like ourselves too! Thanks to facebook for giving us the opportunity to reward ourselves online with a “like” for writing utter nonsense sometimes.

On Sunday night I read Freddie Kissoon, “Trevor Benn doesn’t impress me” in KN. The article was concise and informative, relating Freddie Kissoon (FK)’s encounters with GLSC c o m m i s s i o n e r, Tr e v o r Benn, and two others that FK found necessary to convey his story. Given the

voluminous and heated response from Benn over the allegations of the opposition l e a d e r ’s revelation - that the Government through GLSC, headed by Benn, was giving out large swaths of lands to people with close connections to the Government - one could have easily been misled to believing that Benn is a paragon of virtue.

After speaking that all his decisions at GLSC are” above board” and that the opposition should shut up or show up at his press c o n f e r e n c e , F r e d d i e ’s article puts B e n n ’s credibility in a state of quandary.

Freddie cited Benn for promising and not responding to a call to stop a rich man from bullying squatters off state lands a n d e r e c t i n g a building which is there as evidence to this date.

When Freddie contacted Benn on this issue, Benn’s response was, in Freddie’s words - “ Benn told me there are wealthy people illegally occupying and building on government reserves, but they ignore the orders of his agency because these people use money to get their way.”

This statement goes

overboard in the public perception.

Freddie reckoned with and mentioned the thousands of house lots applicants and a few named small entrepreneurs whom he had unsuccessfully tried to help to get small parcels of land. Freddie claims that these people are left in limbo while people with close government connection are getting lands. That has been the general perception of the public for both the PPP and the Coalition Government’s distribution of land to the poor by GLSC. It has always been a controversial issue.

After reading and scrolling down to give Freddie a “like”, I was shocked at what I saw.

Freddie Kissoon, the crusading activist for bettering the life of the poor, hated by the diehard supporters of both the Coalition and opposition on account of what they have been taught by their leaders, had just chalked up 130 likes.

I made it 131.

I have never seen Freddie muster more than 10 likes on an article. It goes to show that when the pressing need of the poor (land) comes into focus, we can find common ground and resonate with the truth.

Rudolph Singh

This petroleum contract is not worth the paper...

From page 4 Government must now ask the Contractor for a signature bonus of ½ of 1% of the estimated reserve. With this in mind, the Consolidated Fund should receive an amount of US$1.125 billion.

4,500,000,000 barrels x .005 = 22,500,000 barrels 22,500,000 barrels x US$50 = US$1,125,000,000 With this income, I am suggesting that we cease the

exploration of our gold and forest resources. Currently, our environment is being decimated. Our water resources are polluted. This must end in order to save our rich natural resources. We should build our agricultural sector and give farmers the full support they need to enhance their production and exports of all farm products.

Sincerely, Charles Sugrim, CPA

Tuesday July 02, 2019

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Claims of massive land giveaway

SARA Deputy Head stands ready to give account for lands received State Assets Recovery Agency’s (SARA) Deputy Director, Aubrey Retemyer, is once again refuting the claims of People’s Progressive Party executive which implicates him in the Jagdeo-alleged giveaway of State land by the ruling A Partnership for National UnityAlliance for Change,(APNUAFC) Government. In fact, the SARA official says that he stands ready to defend and give an account for the lands he received.

Last week, Opposition Leader and PPP General Secretary Bharrat Jagdeo claimed that Retemyer was among a list of people to receive lands in the last six month, following the no confidence motion which was passed against the Government.

According to Jagdeo, Retemyer got possession of 10 acres on the Soesdyke-Linden Highway and one acre at Mocha. Retemyer had previously refuted the allegation, claiming instead that he had applied for land in 2014 during the PPP Donald Ramotar’s presidency.

He stressed that the lands were approved in 2017, not in the past six months, as Jagdeo

claimed.

Further to disprove the claims, the Deputy Director pointed to attempts made by Jagdeo and his cabal to discredit Special Organised Crime Unit, (SOCU) and State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA).

Retemyer noted, “Last year Anil Nandlall,(PPP Executive) was on the prowl again as he deliberately and recklessly published the salaries earned by all employees at SARA and included their names – a couple of whom have since been the targets of bandits in separate incidents.

“On the 27th June, 2019, Jagdeo and Nandlall went on another reckless rampage, publishing the names of myself and other Afro-Guyanese public servants who are in possession of farms lands. It is only fair that I clarify and set the record straight, to debunk the astonishingly foolish and indeed libelous claims of corruption peddled by Bharrat Jagdeo and Anil Nandlall.”

The SARA Deputy Head said that he obtained a plot of land at Yarowkabra, and built a house on it 41 years ago

Mocha residents worried about electrified fence

The dead goat next to the electrified fence For several months now a resident of Mocha Village, East Bank Demerara (EBD) has had his fence electrified to prevent intruders from accessing his fruit trees in his yard. His actions have since been the main concern of the residents who live close by.

The residents are distressed about the safety of the persons who might not be aware of the fence being elec-

trified, since there is no electrical warning sign placed on the fence.

One of the concerned residents stated that over several months now Mr. Webley Luke, of Cemetery Road, Mocha EBD, had his fence electrified. This fence has since killed three animals.

“He has a lot of fruit trees so thats why he set booby (Continued on page 22)

(1978).

“At that time residents were encouraged to apply for 5-10 acres of land for Agricultural purposes. I made such an application in the early 2000s but apparently this was simply ignored. I applied again for 10 acres in 2013, and again in 2014, but my requests for cheap farm lands were never granted under the PPPC administration.

“My request was finally granted in December 2017 and I obtained 10.14 acres of sand

and jungle in Yarowkabra.

My application for the land at Yarowkabra took so long to process that I applied for an acre of land at Mocha, paid for and hence received same through legal means.”

Retemyer says that he stands ready to give account for all the lands he has received since, according to him, none of it was achieved by stealing or prematurely selling residential land bought from CH&PA at a massive profit.

SARA’s Deputy Director Aubrey Retemyer

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Tuesday July 02, 2019

Tuesday July 02, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Inside, information can make you rich Many years ago, a medical doctor appeared on a local TV talk show and argued that public officials should leave office poorer than when they first entered. What he was saying was that persons who work in public offices should be prohibited from using their positions or status or influence for their personal benefit.

The APNU+AFC is supposed to have a code of conduct for Ministers. That code of conduct however is inoperable.

A few months ago after allegations were made against a Minister, it was stated that it was for her party, not the government, to take action against her. By that ingenious statement, the code was reduced to a worthless document.

A code of conduct is needed

not just for Ministers but also for public servants. Corruption in the public service is rife. Public office can and has been used for personal enrichment and it is incumbent on Governments to enact measures that would help reduce the possibility of public servants and officials using their public offices were their personal benefit.

Public service rules specify that permission is required for any public servants to participate in any other work. This implies any other business. The rules were passed down from the British who understand the dangers of serving two masters and about conflicts of interest.

But conflict of interest became an alien concept to those who see public service as selfservice, as a means to personal

aggrandizement, power and prestige.

Today there are traditional public servants – those who are appointed by the Public Service Commission – and there are contract public servants – including the numerous political appointees who owe their positions not to any competitive system of interviews but to political patronage.

It is this latter group on which restrictions are required to tame the possibility of using their positions for personal enrichment.

They have no security of tenure and therefore there is greater temptation to make hay while the sun still shines.

Public office is prone to abuse. Public officials have access to valuable information.

They know for example where

Dem boys seh ...

Soulja Bai skin up de whole police force Is a long time since dem boys play police and thief. Was a game that li’l boys in de old days use to play a lot when school close. All like how school about to close de whole neighbourhood got nuff noise. To play de game people had to get test to see who is police and who is thief.

Soulja Bai bring back that same testing.

De odda day he test de whole police force top brass. Is a long time now since dem boys know that Soulja Bai fed up wid all this corruption. When de news come that some big one was talking to criminals in Berbice and mekking money, Soulja Bai ask is who. Nobody didn’t answer.

That is when he call Ram Jattan and tell him that since nobody ain’t talking he gun put all of dem pun a lie detector test. That is how dem boys tell him to ask de Deputy Commissioner who get send home.

But when you ask a question and people tek long to answer, then as soon as pressure

mount and dem pointing to one person, you got to realize that all of dem is crooks. That is why Soulja Bai send all of dem to tek de polygraph. Dem boys remember de confusion.

Nuff big ones apply fuh leave. Soulja Bai seh he had all de time in de world and he coulda wait till all of dem comeback from leave.

De bottom line is that he test all of dem.

De results shame everyone. Dem ain’t pass.

De police ain’t release de results because dem shame like everybody else. Was one question de testing people ask.

“Do you take bribe?” Now anybody wid sense would tell de truth but all of dem try to be nice. Dem decide to give de answer dem think would mek dem pass. Dem didn’t figure out that de machine don’t deal wid nice and decent answers.

One thing fuh sure. Soulja Bai know de whole police force crooked.

Talk half and prepare to mek you own police force.

and when major developmental works are likely to take place.

They may know for example that a road or a bridge or an industrial facility is going to be built in a certain area and that this road is likely to increase the value of land in that area. This is called ‘insider information’.

The land then becomes potentially lucrative to whoever can acquire it. In such circumstances, the public official should not be allowed to use that inside information for his or her personal benefit or for that of persons to whom he or she is connected.

This rule also applies in the private sector. Years ago, US business tycoon and TV homemaker personality, Martha Stewart, was accused of insider trading after she dumped thousands of stocks in a pharmaceutical company in which she had an interest.

This sale occurred one day before the Food and Drug Ad-

ministration disapproved the sale of a major product of the company, a decision which forced the price of the shares to collapse, Stewart was charged but was not found guilty of insider trading. Instead she was convicted of obstruction of justice.

Public officials should not be allowed to use information they have obtained in the course of their work, for personal enrichment. They should not be allowed period to enjoy any Government contract even if it is outside of where they work.

The mere fact that they are a public official carries influence which can prejudice, in their favour, the award of a public contract or concession. Once you are a public official you should be prevented from applying for public lands or mining concessions.

Public servants are there to serve the public not themselves.

Therefore there can be no objec-

tion to restrictions being placed on them enjoying access to land and concessions. If a public official wants to be a land owner, miner or contractor, then that person should resign their position.

If the government is serious about ensuring integrity in public office, it would institute and make lawful and enforceable a code of conduct, which should apply to both Ministers and public servants and which outlaws the acquisition of certain types of property (or business interests) during their tenure as public officials.

PAGE 10

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

I don’t feel sorry for Charlie I thought of giving this column, the title, “Why did Charlie do it?” This is in reference to one of the cutest films I saw when I was about 14 years of age. The name is “Charade.” It remains one of the favourite movies for me and my wife.

In the movie, Charlie is a mystery figure. In Guyana, Charlie, too, is a mystery figure. The Charlie I am referring to is Charles Ceres, prominent Guyanese engineer.

Charlie has decided to sue Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo for libel because the way Jagdeo shaped Charlie’s purchase of state land, he made it appear that Charlie’s acquisition was not above the

table. Charlie provided evidence that his thing was legitimate.

The story of the sale of land to certain individuals has invoked the wrath of my friend, David Hinds, who thinks Jagdeo is being mischievous.

At the level of conscience one can be disgusted at how Mr. Jagdeo twisted the land purchase of Charlie, Eric Philips and others but in terms of realpolitik, Jagdeo is not different from any other politician in the world including those in Guyana.

All politicians obfuscate dimensions of their political career and highlight others to win votes. I digress on the

subject of Charlie by giving two recent examples I read a recent column by Henry Jeffrey, one of the founders of the political party, ANUG, that will be contesting the upcoming general elections. Jeffrey said he first saw the blackout dilemma after he returned as government official from a trip to Cuba in 1976. Jeffrey went on to lament the electricity crisis since then.

If you are from another planet and read that piece b y J e ff r e y, y o u w o u l d never know that this same gentleman was a senior minister of government after 1992 for fifteen years. Jeffrey chose not to mention that fact.

The second example relates to Winston Jordan, the Finance Minister. The CCJ decision on the no-confidence vote came at a time when there was a Cabinet outreach in Bartica. Addressing a public meeting, Jordan blurted out, “war break.”

He urged citizens to take to the streets to demand house to house registration so the upcoming elections could be credible. He shouted

out; “Comrades, be on the ready… We will be able to call you out to picket for Houseto-House registration. No registration, no elections…CCJ or no CCJ….”

What Jeffrey left out was deliberate because he has to face the electorate soon. How Jagdeo put the land sale was intentional because he is appealing to his supporters.

What Jordan exclaimed was designed to galvanize the base of the PNC. The question is the impact of what Jagdeo said.

Many persons will feel that in selling land to the individuals named then the Guyana Government in transferring wealth on an ethnic basis.

This is where the question of impact comes in. But the effect could have blunted immediately if there was a body of scholarly material out there by African Guyanese academics and politicians to confront the constant narrative of certain Indian scholars who relentlessly inform the nation there is no way to document ethnic o w n e rship of wealth in Guyana and that since such

ownership is unknown, it has no useful place in the national narrative.

Please see the following columns of mine; Friday, March 29, 2019, “The reason African Guyanese intellectuals are afraid of the ESD topic;” Monday, March 18, 2019, “Only a dishonest academic cannot measure ethnic economic assets;” Monday, March 4, 2019, “Political rejection of African Guyanese entitlement under the guise of scholarship;” Friday, February 22, 2019, “My problem with Indian academics writing about African Guyanese.”

The above are just four items that I have contributed to the ongoing polemic of ethnic ownership of wealth in this country.

There are several columns. Drs. Tarron Khemraj, Ramesh Gampat and Baytoram Ramharack are relentless in the newspapers’ letter section and in their columns that you cannot measure ethnic ownership of wealth in Guyana.

And no one from the other side has even replied with a brief scholarly note. Where was Charlie when these three

Frederick Kissoon economists were giving their viewpoints? Where are the African Guyanese scholars who can be found in many parts of the world? Do they agree with Ramharack, Khemraj and Gampat? If no, then who don’t they write?

I close with a definitive position.

There are thousands of Guyanese East Indians who have substantial wealth. But we have to respect that. It came the old-fashioned way.

Those people work, invested and took risks.

We should not envy them. We should admire that aspect of Guyanese life. But in scientific terms, ethnic ownership of wealth in Guyana can be ascertained.

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

$126M roadworks from White Hill to Issano 90% completed Issano is located some 75 miles from the BarticaPotaro road. The road extends 52 miles to the Issano Landing in Region Seven.

Currently, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure is working around the clock to rehabilitate the section of the Issano road which runs between White Hill and Issano Landing.

Residents living along Issano Road at Mile 14 are already benefitting from Phase 1 of the roadworks, which included the rehabilitation and construction of the Issano road up to White Hill.

Rushell Allicock, who runs a beverage store, told the Department of Public Information (DPI), “During the dry sea s o n , t r a v e l time is really fast... You just pass through easy”.

Located a few houses down the upgraded road is Shafi Ali who transports fuel in the hinterland region. He recalled the deplorable state of the road before the transformative works.

“It was in a terrible condition, man. The white sand alone on the hills. It was hard to

travel. The hills steep, and you would slide back,” Ali said.

Wi t h r e s p e c t t o t h e completed works in 14 Mile, he stated, “It is in better condition. They grade down the hills.

They have made greater turnoffs so you can see other vehicles approaching.”

Ali also said that night travel is much safer since there is a wider view to see headlights of

oncoming vehicles.

Grocery store owner, Sequila Glyne, explained that the road was in a deplorable state for some 16 years. “It was very bad, but now it is better than before.”

Glyne noted that one of the major gains of the upgraded roadway is the hours of reduced travel time.

These residents are merely a subset of those that welcome the works to

complete the entire length of Issano road. With Phase 1 finished, work on Phase 2 is 90% complete.

Hinterland Engineer within the Ministry of Public Infrastructure, Jeffrey Walcott, said that the remaining works from White Hill to Issano Landing include minor base prep and placement of laterite as the finishing touch.

Laterite is hard when dry and is a favoured alternative to many other types of soil in hinterland regions due to its resilience.

At present, the rainy season presents a considerable challenge to the completion of the road, but the Public Infrastructure Ministry is committed to ensuring the success of the project.

MMC Incorporated has been contracted to execute the works for Phase 2 of Issano Road from White Hill to Issano Landing.

The cost of the hinterland project totals $126M. Once finished, the road will provide improved access to r e s i d e n t s , m i ners and loggers between Regions Seven and Eight.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday July 02, 2019

PAGE 13

Driver arrested for drunk driving dies in police lockups

T

he sudden death of a 39-year-old taxi driver, who died in the Suddie Police Station lockup last Sunday night, has raised quite a number of questions amongst the residents of the Marias Lodge community.

Based on reports reaching this publication, the now dead man has been identified as Lallbachan Bachan, from lot 21 Marias Lodge, Essequibo Coast.

This publication understands that Bachan was taken into police custody last Friday, after two arrest warrants were served on him for driving under the influence of alcohol.

- family appeals for probe The man's lifeless body was discovered in the Suddie Police Station lockups about 06:10h yesterday. It was certified dead on arrival at the Suddie Public Hospital.

This publication understands that there appears to be two conflicting reports given by close family members of the deceased, and police.

According to police, the body bore no marks of violence. It is presently at the hospital's mortuary awaiting a post mortem.

Family members are claiming, however, that

Family members claim that they had no contact with Bachan since the day of his arrest, apart from Sunday.

The deceased: Lallbachan Bachan there were marks of violence on the body of the deceased.

Seed paddy to be produced on E'bo Coast for rice farmers

A

number of farmers on the Essequibo Coast will now be cultivating rice for the purpose of producing seed paddy, in a number of varieties. This publication understands that intuitive is now being reintroduced by the Guyana Rice Development Board, after some 30 years.

According to the president of the Essequibo Paddy Farmers association, Naith Ram, 32 acres of rice land will be cultivated for seed paddy. Commenting on the varieties' being produced, Naith Ram added, “GRDB has contracted farmers to grow and produce

Suddie Police Station

Naith Ram seed paddy varieties such as the Rustic, 135, 22-4, 196 and GRDB 14 a total of 32 acres.”

Naith Ram, being a board member on the GRDB board, explained that the recommendations to have the seed paddy produced locally, were made on the basis of their being a shortage in the seed paddy.

This publication understands the seed paddy varieties, are usually transported from Region Six, at a cost that is relatively higher than paddy produced locally.

Commenting on the quality of the paddies being produced, Naith Ram pointed out that the 135, GRDB 14, 196 AND 22-4 are all varieties that are blast resistant.

His mother, Maharanie Bachan noted that her son cried out from the lockups last Friday, that he was

feeling unwell, but by last Sunday he was fine. “When we go to take he food we (continued on page 22)

PAGE 14

Kaieteur News

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

Tuesday July 02, 2019

PAGE 15

Several police top brass polygraphed

S

everal top officers of the Guyana Police Force have been polygraphed. The results are likely to be discussed at the Government's National Security Committee.

A number of government and police officials confirmed that polygraph tests were conducted recently. The tests were ordered on a number of senior police officials who are in sensitive positions.

Kaieteur News was also told yesterday, that not all Deputy Commissioner/ police top brass were given t h e t e s t s w h i c h w e r e Crime Chief, Lyndon Alves conducted by foreign the moment with Alves on experts.

However, three persons a d m i n i s t r a t i v e l e a v e who took the tests were pending an internal probe of identified as Crime Chief, corruption.

With regards to the tests, Lyndon Alves, Deputy C o m m i s s i o n e r P a u l they are by no means cheap.

Williams, and head of the Equipment has to be brought police Special Organised in and questions tailored for Crime Unit (SOCU), Sydney the specific situation.

Reportedly, the government James.

Other SOCU officials has been liaising with the US and a number of deputy Embassy for the polygraph commissioners were among tests.

Minister of Public those who were asked to take the tests. While the details of S e c u r i t y , K h e m r a j the tests are not out yet, it Ramjattan, and Government would be viewed with lots of have been moving to have the tests done as part of the interest.

The police force is vetting process for being in currently under scrutiny at the force.

CSSP to continue via Govt funding - Ramjattan

T

he Citizen S e c u r i t y Strengthening Programme (CSSP) is a Ministry of Public Security initiative, funded by the Inter Development Bank (IDB).

It is a programme that has three arms and it was designed to address crime and violence with focuses firstly on the community, secondly the police and the prison system.

CSSP is focused on mobilizing communities to be able to support their youth by reducing the factors which may have a hand in contributing to criminal behaviour, while at the same time strengthening the protective factors.

The term for funding from the IDB is approximately four and a half years. According to Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, the government has seen that this initiative is necessary and provision will be made for it.

During his remarks at the second graduation ceremony of the CSSP on Friday, at the Police Training Centre Eve Leary, Minister Ramjattan

Vice President and Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan said that the government will make provisions for the programme after the funding term from IDB is over. “You would not know how privileged and honoured I am to be here with the graduands of this programme‌where you had wanted to make the best use of the young people so that we can avoid them being distracted with [the] negatives.â€? He went on to (continued on page 20)

Polygraphs have been used at the Guyana Energy Agency and other state entities to vet staffers who are performing duties in sensitive positions.

The report of the tests will now be submitted to the NSC. The police force, and government by extension, is under pressure for an independent probe after a series of allegations by whistle-blowing cops which pointed to criminal activities in the force.

The allegations came from ranks in Berbice who claimed that colleagues were working closely with criminals. The phone numbers of policemen were in the phone of a dead bandit who was killed in Berbice weeks ago during a confrontation.

There were other accusations which allege that ranks with knowledge of superiors would even lend protection to drug smugglers.

One rank even collected money to execute one of his colleagues who was a witness in a drug case.

Last week, it was reported that the Crime Chief, a former commander in Berbice, and who would perform duties of the police commissioner when he is out of the jurisdiction, was placed on administration leave.

Alves has a few months remaining before he turns 55 and retire. He was one of

SOCU head, Sydney James four deputies appointed last August as part of reform process for the police force.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 16

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Police commence 180th celebrations with Drumhead Service

Scenes from the service

T

he Guyana Police Force is celebrating its 180th anniversary. Yesterday, it 'kicked' things off with a Drumhead service at the Police Officers Mess Hall at Eve Leary.

The event attracted President

David Granger, Vice President and Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan, Chairman of the Police Service Commission Guyana, Director of the Guyana Prison Service, Fire Chief, a Commissioner of the Surinamese

Police Force, Assistant Commissioner from the St. Kitts Police Force, Ranks of the Force performed their ceremonial duties of piling their drums and also presenting the flags of both the country and the force to the Deputy Commissioner Paul Williams.

Williams then took each flag and braced the poles on either side of the drums draping the flags around them so that they would not touch the ground.

Female Immigration ranks performed an inspirational dance piece. Dressed in sky blue and white, bare footed and hair pulled back in sleek buns, they gracefully

showed off their form and poise to 'Not By Might' by gospel singer Tasha Cobbs.

There was then the worship and gospel singing featuring 'If You Want to See the Glory of the Lord', 'Jesus How I Love You,' 'Jehovah

You I Trust', 'So Long Bye Bye' and 'Give Thanks'.

The almost hour long sermon was followed by even more singing. All those in attendance could say that they were truly blessed.

Kaieteur News

Tuesday July 02, 2019

PAGE 17

ISG takes road show to Parika …gives away one Honda 110 motorcycle

Raymond Jones and his family with ISG officials to receive his motorcycle

A biker conducting a stunt along the Parika road

F

or the third time Industrial Supply of Guyana Inc., (ISG) gave away a Honda 110 motorcycle as part of its Oil N' Go six-month promotion to one lucky customer by means of a draw.

ISG, in collaboration with National Petroleum, is promoting a new motorcycle lubricant 'Ultra Lubricant' by

giving away six motorcycles to customers who would have purchased the new product. On Sunday, the road show was taken to Parika. A parade of bikers from Sonic Bikers Club and Piranha Bikers Club led the way to L. Bukhan General Store where the draw was done.

Three stops were made at retailers of ISG products as the parade made its way to

the Parika destination. The bikers put on a show for spectators as they did a few stunts along the roadway while under the supervision of a police traffic rank.

As the team cruised into the parking lot of the General store the event commenced, hosted by Seenauth Sooka.

The first two winners on the previous draws were identified as Adrian Adams

and Raymond Jones. Jones received his motorcycle during the recent hosting.

He related how happy he was. “To be honest, I have never really won anything in my life and to win something this expensive, I am by far overjoyed.”

An icebreaker was then done for the gathering as questions were asked and five lucky persons received

some small prizes.

With much anxiety and anticipation the draw was done. The winner was declared as V. Ramdial. The winner will receive his motorcycle at the next drawing.

Ultra Motorcycle Oil is used to reduce engine corrosion, improve engine response, remove wet clutch slippage resulting in greater

power and fuel economy; also it extends the life of the engine.

Customers who purchased the oil from any of the ISG retailers can be eligible to be a part of the draw to be able to win a motor cycle valued at $260,000. One retailer will also be able to win a weekend trip for two all expense paid to Barbados.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Police Service Commission reinstates Supt Simon McBean

T

he Police Service Commission has made the long awaited decision to reinstate wrongfully dismissed Police Superintendent Simon McBean after 10 years of being out of the force.

McBean who was a Superintendant under the then Commissioner of Police, Henry Greene, had received a letter of dismissal from the secretary of the Police Service Commission.

The letter stated that

McBean was dismissed with effect from December 25, 2007, for what the PSC described as his unauthorised participation in a Master's Degree course in Global Security and Policing at the University of Leicester in the United Kingdom.

It further stated that he breached proceedings and regulations but did not stipulate what proceedings and regulations were breached.

McBean had applied to

the Guyana Police Force Administration for study leave but got no response. He then applied for no-pay leave and also got no response.

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

He used his annual leave to travel to England. During his time there, he got ill and submitted sick leave. He claimed was unable to return to Guyana at the end of his annual leave. He was able to

complete his Master's Degree.

McBean took his dismissal to court and on April 6 2018, won his appeal at the Appeal Court that his dismissal from the GPF was unlawful.

Legal action was taken against a decision by former Acting Chief Justice Ian Chang to dismiss a civil suit brought against the Police Service Commission (PSC) and the Attorney General over the dismissal.

The matter was recently reviewed by the PSC and the decision was made to have

him reinstated with immediate effect. After living abroad for some time, he returned to Guyana and had expressed his interest in being a part of the force once again to share his knowledge garnered over the years he was robbed of being a policeman.

When McBean was dismissed he had served only 17 years in the GPF, it has been ten years since he was wrongfully dismissed. He will return as a Superintendant but according to the PSC, he will receive all promotions and

Simon McBean benefits that would have accrued to him over the years.

Sub Division wins 'B' Division 2019 Duck Curry Competition

Assistant Commissioner Paul Langevine second left and Senior Suprientendent Phillip Azore leading the Officers and Inspectors team

T

he 'B' Division of the Guyana Police Force under the leadership of Assistant Commissioner Paul Langevine, held its annual Divisional Duck Curry Cooking Competition for ranks in Berbice, recently.

The competition which was held at the Central Police Station compound saw six teams competing against each other.

The teams were Team Officers and Inspectors, Subdivision No1 (New Amsterdam, Canje, East Bank and East Coast Berbice), Subdivision No 2 (Corentyne and Corentyne

River), Subdivision No3 (West Berbice), Team CID and Team Traffic.

The judging was done by three Food and Nutrition teachers from S e c o n d a r y S c h ools in Berbice.

The rules and regulations were set out for the cook off before the actual cooking began.

At the end of the decorating, preparations, cooking, and tasting, it was decided that Sub Division No1, led by Station Sergeant Philbert Wilburg, of the Central Police Station, was the winner.

In second position was Te a m O f f i c e r s a n d

Inspectors led by Assistant Commission Paul Langevine with Team Traffic l e d b y D e p u t y Superintendent Timothy Williams copping third.

A c c o r d i n g t o Commander Langevine the main reason for the activity is to show the other side of policing.

He added that the activity was in preparation of the Force Annual Duck Curry Competition to be held in Georgetown.

Trophies and cash prizes were presented to the winning team and outstanding persons by Assistant Commissioner Langevine.

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 19

Tuesday July 02, 2019

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Region Four pupils sensitised to help safeguard the environment A number of pupils are better positioned to help safeguard their environment having participated in a competition which focused on environment protection.

The inaugural competition, which targeted Region Four pupils, was spearheaded by the Environmental Unit of the Region Four Democratic Council [RDC’s] Health Services Department.

The competition saw East Coast Demerara schools competing among themselves and those on the East Bank competed as a separate group. Securing first, second and third places for the East Coast corridor were Mahaica Primary, Virgina Primary and Swami Puranandan Primary respectively, while St Mary’ Primary, New Diamond/Grove Primary and Grove Primary were the first, second and third winners for East Bank.

On Friday the outstanding schools, several staffers of the Environmental Department were recognised for their efforts.

According to Regional Environmental Officer [REO], Ms. Trevon Limerick, the competition was held with the view of sensitizing and educating the pupils on issues regarding the environment. She said that with the increased challenges being faced in relation to environmental issues, it was felt that sensitizing and educating the various schools on the issues would aid in bringing about awareness and by extension needed change.

She expressed the view that if more children were involved in playing a meaningful role in understanding the importance of key environmental issues and are educated about roles they can play, then addressing several longstanding and burning environmental issues would be better addressed.

“It is our firm view that with increased education and awareness pupils would be in a much better position to play a more positive role in addressing a number of

A section of the audience at the awards ceremony environmental related issues,” she said.

Limerick noted that a decision was made to get the schools involved in the environmental competition. A move in this direction, she said, was geared at increasing awareness with a competitive spirit.

The response, she said, was overwhelming, stressing that there was significant interest and excitement by the respective schools’ pupils to compete in the competition.

This, she added, is an indication that education and awareness can play a meaningful role in achieving set objectives.

“We were pleasantly surprised by the response and interest that were shown by the schools towards the competition as several of the schools were very excited and eager to compete as it was evident that their interest was there,” she said.

The Regional Environmental Officer on Friday committed her department to holding other such competitions, even as she noted that they will continue their task of aggressively and consistently sensitizing the pupils on environmental

related issues.

“It’s evident that once the pupils are sensitized and educated then it’s easier to reach out to parents and guardians and this is what we’re seeking to achieve which is, increased interest,” Limerick said.

Limerick, in congratulating the various schools, said that they all played a meaningful role. She pointed out that with the move to educate the pupils, they are poised to cultivate more environmentally friendly habits.

Commenting on the creativity and innovation of several of the schools, the Regional Environmental Officer said that she was very impressed with the efforts of the pupils. According to her, it was clear that significant thought and efforts were invested.

With the interest shown, Limerick hinted to the possibility of the competition becoming an annual feature.

She told the gathering of pupils, teachers, environmental staff and regional officials at the awards ceremony that the Environmental department under her leadership will continue to be aggressive,

innovative and active in getting the messages across to the public.

“I would like to express congratulations to all the

schools that took part because it demonstrates your genuine interest in addressing environmental related issues. However, while

everyone cannot be a winner, I would also like to wish all the winners continued success and to remind you (Continued on page 22)

PAGE 22

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

Mocha residents worried...

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DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL CALL: 225-7126 & 2263693 -DOLLYS AUTO 1 Honda CRV. includes TV, RENTAL @ YAHOO.COM/ music system, alarm, reverse W W W . D O L L Y camera, sproiler, crash bar, SAUTORENTAL.COM Low mileage. PTT Series (First Owner) Contact #649- PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM 0956 Allion, primo, spacio, allex, $4000 & UP, SUV’sPER noah, RZ pitbull bus, mazda DAY- CALL: 656-0087 / 643axela, bluebird, 192 fielder 5 1 2 2 , E M A I L : P R O _ A U T O R E N T A L wagon. 650-7501 @YAHOO.COM Old model Ford Pickup, price AIDAN’S CAR $500,000 neg. Call: 684-1247 RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 1-Toyota Tundra 4 wheel SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD drive $2.2M, 1-BMW 318 FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY $1.6M, 1 Audi convertible OUTINGS, CHEAPEST $2.9M, 1-Honda S2000 $2.5M RATE . Call: 698-7807 Contact#650-0402/603-1402 PROPERTY FOR SALE Honda CRV, Low mileage, PWW series, year 2012, House for sale, Eccles Housexcellent condition, price $5.8 ing Scheme. 7 bedrooms, 3 toilets and bathrooms enneg. Contact# 638-5828 closed. $28.5M. Call 642For Sale- (1) 2005 Extra cab 0391/ 001447587233657/ manual Toyota Tacoma, (1) yasharabhola4@gmail.com 2005 BMW mini cooper, prices negotiable. Contact Roxanne Burnham $20M, #673-3988 North $18M, Norton $17M, Durban $16M, Parfaite $7M, TO LET Russle $22M, Thomas $240M Office space to let.74 GME #231-2199/618-7483 Brickdam opposite GT&T, 2 Floors fully Air conditioned, Buy,Rent or Sell House or Generator, parking Land, Advertise for freeavailable.Call:226-6771/226- guyanarealestateservices.com or contact# 614-2128 4537.

Experience Goldsmith needed at Jacob’s Jewellery and Pawnshop. Address 16 Pike St, Kitty Georgetown.

Tel#227-8748/622-4970 Female cleaner office & home.

Call: 642-9823 Vacancies @ Nirva Superstore for Cashiers/Supermarket helpers, Apply in person with written application @ 49 Sheriff & Craig St. Tel#2275771 Vacancy exist for the following: 1 esthetician, 1 Masseuse, 1 nail technician, 1 tutor for a 3 yrs & a 5 yr old. Tel#603-2590

German shepherd pups. Call 630-1556, 665-4747

CAR RENTAL VEHICLE FOR SALE

FOR RENT

Driver with minibus license living in G/town to work with company. Call: 646-8748 Experienced Cashier, Waiters, Waitress, Counter Server, Apply with written application, 5 commerce St. 1 Experienced cook to work in a bar. Contact Tel#679-2612 Welder/Fabricator for interior location. Applicants must experienced. For further information. Call: 618-2020 1 Live-in domestic. Salary : $65,000 monthly Call: 695-1229 Wanted experienced hire car drivers at Ramada Georgetown Princess Hotel. Contact 6165419, 265-7075 1-house & land (4300 sq ft) with 4 master bedroom, gated community located @ Schoonord WBD. Contact #650-0402/603-1402 LAND FOR SALE Farm road front E.B.D. Behind Park Vue hotel. High income land. Tel#669-5781, 696-7777 Friendship $30M Sarah Johanna, Supply $35 M (River), Loo creek 35 acres, Canaan $9M US (River), South 100 x 100 GME #2312199/618-7483

LABOURERS- Honest and hardworking. Telles Steel, 74 Hadfield St. 226-6771 LORRY DRIVER/porter, basic education, honest.

Telles Steel, 74 Hadfield St. 226-6771 Looking for a job & educational services?

Contact The Job Centre 43 Croal & Alexander Street or call 502-4002/600-8457 Industrial Sales Representative, 5 Subject CXC Age 25+ Experience in Sales, must own vehicle, email r e s u m e : vacancy@josarltd.com One live-in Domestic to work on resort in Mahaicony River. #225-6571/649-3783 Vacancy for Female cleaner, Apply at Alabama Trading, 65 Robb St, Bourda Vacancy for experience tractor/ lorry driver, Apply at Alabama Trading, 65 Robb St, Bourda General Domestic to cook & clean for East Bank. Call: 6144358 ASSISTANT SUPERVISORDELIVERIES, sound education, honest. Telles Steel, 74 Hadfield St. #2266771 General domestic. 3 Days work. Must know to cook.

Apply with 2 references.

KeyFood McDoom village

From page 7 trap. Little children does be playing on the road in the afternoon. If a ball happen to go there, someone can lose their life,” the resident said.

In November 2018, a cow was electrocuted by the same fence. The owner of the cow stated that the matter was reported to the Mocha Police Outpost. “To date nothing has come out of the story, and he needs answer to why the police havent done anything concerning his report.”

Another resident explained that about 17:30 hrs on Sunday, last, while she was carrying her goats home two of her goats strayed and went into a yard near to the electrified fence. “The yard where the house building stands is not fenced. That yard is close to Mr. Lukes fence. Anyone unaware of the danger can go there and get electrocuted. It is sad that he doesnt think about the innocent lives that can be lost.”

She added that when she went back for her goats, they were at the fence. “All I see is one of my goats shake up and fall down. I then went and re-

ported the matter to the station.”

When the Mocha Police Outpost was contacted by a Kaieteur News reporter, the rank stated that Mr. Luke was arrested but has since been released on station bail.

The rank added that they have the statements and they would take further action soon, but investigations are ongoing. According to information received the Guyana Power and Light went into the area on Sunday afternoon. However, they were prevented from entering Mr. Lukes yard because the gate was locked.

The police were then called in and it was then that GPL was able to enter the yard and disconnected the current.

But by the time GPL left, residents said that Mr. Luke arranged for someone to reattach the wire and he then setup back his electrical fence.

Residents of Mocha are patiently waiting further actions before the matter gets worst and someone loses their life.

E'bo taxi driver...

From page 13 never get to see he. The police only come and they collect the food and they take it to him. We don't get to see he.”

His mother went on to say, “The only time we get to see he was Sunday, and only for five minutes because he said he had to come out the cell so they could clean the toilet…During that time everything de alright with he.”

After being reported dead, family members visited the Suddie mortuary, where they reportedly observed

Bachan's lifeless body. According to the dead man's sister, there appeared to have been a bump on Bachan's forehead.

Family members also claim there were minor injuries on his arms and feet.

There is a call by family members that an independent investigation into the matter be conducted, since they believe, “things aren't adding up.”

Region Four Pupils...

From page 11 that we are very proud of your achievements,” Limerick added.

She pointed out that her department will continue to forge a mutually beneficial relationship with the respective schools.

Regional Health Officer [RHO], Dr. Quincy Jones, in commending the winners urged the pupils to build on what they have achieved thus far, even as he stressed the need for them to continue to aggressively support environmental matters.

“I congratulate all of you and wish you well, and let me say that Health Services Region Four stands firmly in support of activities like these and together with the Environmental Health department, we would be lending whatever support and assistance that is needed in continuing to champion the work of the environmental department,” Dr. Jones assured.

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Residents laud completion of $53M La Parfaite Police Station

- commissioning date soon to be announced

The now La Parfaite Harmony Police Station will soon be commissioned according to Divisional Commander, Edmond Cooper Residents of La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, and other immediate villages are elated now that the long awaited Police Station has been completed.

Works on the multimillion-dollar two storeyed facility began in 2017 during the spate of a heightened criminal activity in the areas of La Parfaite Harmonie, Diary, Onderneeming and other locations.

The police station comes at an opportune time when residents are earnestly seeking sustained police presence and intervention in many West Demerara District areas plagued by criminal elements. The spanking new facility multi-million-dollar building has an administrative area, registry, lockups for prisoners and even living quarters for ranks who may have to remain on site for extended periods.

In a brief interview yesterday, ‘D’ Division Commander, Edmond Cooper, expressed his pleasure that the structure has been finally completed.

He said that his

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department will now be better able to fight crime in the West Demerara District now that the police station has been completed.

While he noted that a commissioning date has to be set for the facility, he emphasized that his department will take the fight to the street against crime and criminal elements.

Minister of Public Security Khemraj Ramjattan had said in a prior interview that the prolonged delay for completion of the structure was based on a contractor missing several deadlines, and also because of inaccuracy in measurements and problems with materials.

The construction of the outpost was awarded to A. Ograsein and Son for $ 5 3 . 0 9 M .

Meanwhile residents are extremely pleased that the police station has been completed in the area which is often riddled with crimes.

Over time several sections of the media have been reporting the security battles being fought by the residents of La Parfaite Harmonie. Break and enter cases in that area

have for years caught the attention of the Guyana Police Force as well.

Some persons have been reporting going to bed with the fear of waking up to discover their doors open and hoses empty.

While police did estimate an average of five reported cases of break and enter daily, the unreported cases also account for a figure that is believed to be much higher.

Suspected murder/suicide at Eteringbang

Post mortem to be conducted tomorrow A post mortem examination is expected to be conducted on one of the bodies of the couple who were found dead in their home, victims of a suspected murder/suicide in Eteringbang Landing, Cuyuni River on Friday.

Dead are 36-year-old businessman Munishwar Ramkellawan and his common-law Venezuelan wife, 26-year-old Marianny Martinez.

The body of Ramkellawan was delivered to the Lykens Funeral home on Saturday last and a post mortem examination is expected to be conducted tomorrow.

According to reports, the incident allegedly occurred between 03:00 hours and 17:15 hours.

The two deceased was last seen around 15:00 hours on Thursday last at their home where they operated a fuel business.

They were seen imbibing alcohol at their premises and continued into the wee hours of the morning.

An eyewitness recounted that the couple was seen and heard having a heated argument with each other.

Further reports indicate that Ramkellawan and his wife went into their home and two gunshots were later heard. The following

Dead Munishwar Ramkellawan and wife, Marianny Martinez. day around 17:50 hours, an employee of the couple went to their home and made the shocking discovery.

Their bodies were found in their bed.

The business man had a single suspected gunshot wound to the right side of his head while his wife bore a single sus-

pected wound to the left side of her head.

Police have said that they found a 9mm Taurus pistol along with eight matching live rounds on the bed between the two bodies.

Two spent shells were also found in the room. Investigations are ongoing into the matter.

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Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

Two gang members charged in East Man found dead in Bank break-in identified as robbers unfinished house in La Grange

Two men, who were among a quartet charged Friday with burglarizing a Plantation Providence home of a lawyer, have been fingered in a Grove robbery also, police said.

The case is being investigated with other persons expected to come f o r w a r d .

The group of men, including a shopkeeper from Craig, East Bank Demerara, was arrested and charged. Police believe that they have busted a gang that has been breaking into new homes on the East Bank of Demerara.

The men ended up at the Providence Court on Friday and were placed on $200,000 bail each after allegedly breaking into the Providence home of a lawyer.

More charges are expected.

Charged were Nigel Clarke, 50, a security guard

residing at Plantation Providence; Shawn Chung, 36, a taxi driver of Herstelling; Avinash Wright, 25, a labourer of Herstelling, and Raul Poulis, 40, a shopkeeper of Craig Village. They were all arrested last Tuesday.

They were slapped with break and enter charges committed on the home of Laurian Bancroft, FN, 38, a lawyer of Plantation Providence.

They are accused of stealing 20 sacks of Mortar Skill Sets worth $40,000 and three toilet bowl sets worth $180,000.

They are also accused of stealing one welding plant valued $20,000; a cone drill press valued $100,000 and one chop saw valued $50,000, property of Roy Singh, a contractor of Craig Street, Campbellville.

The break-in was said to have occurred between

09:00hrs on 2019-06-20 and 09:30hrs on 2019-06-24.

The men all appeared at Providence Magistrate Court 2 before Magistrate Sunil Scarce on Friday.

The case was adjourned until July 30th.

Following the publication of the case on Sunday by Kaieteur News, police said they were contacted by a family in Grove, another East Bank Demerara village, who said they recognized two of the men who robbed them.

There have been a growing number of complaints by new home owners who said they are losing heavily from break-ins.

With many taking mortgages, the added responsibility of hiring a security is out of their reach.

Cement, tools, and materials, including windows are special favorites for the burglars.

GWI acquires new drill

GWI is expected to collect a new drill rig by next month.

From page 6 event that the single well goes out of operation due to structural, electrical or other problems inclusive of routine maintenance.”

GWI made it clear that there is an urgent need for redundant wells in all existing pumping areas.

“The installation of redundant wells would represent a huge financial investment and it is envisaged that a significant cost savings could be derived if GWI purchase and operates its own drilling rig for drilling the backup wells.”

GWI said the rig will help to re-sleeve and replace 18 carbon steel wells and even be used to explore for fresh

water resource to help reduce problems of high iron content.

The use of a rig would also held in efficiency and swift deployment, the company explained.

GWI said it received quotations from GEFCOUSA; Prominas- Brazil; Fox Services and Trade- Brazil and EPIROC from Sweden/India/ Panam.

The report recommended that the GWI engage Fox Services and Trade to supply a drill rig with ancillaries and two trucks via direct procurement for $160M. GWI said it wants to start drilling new wells this year.

It said that it will be approaching the National

Procurement and Tender Administration Board to engage Fox Services from Brazil.

Managing-Director Dr. Richard Van-West Charles was reported earlier this year as saying that the rig will arrive next month.

“We still have gaps, but we are acquiring a rig by the end of August… We know that we have to drill a well, for example, in Farm (East Bank Demerara); we have to replace one in Fyrish (Corentyne), and we’ve just finished a new well in Port Mourant; and we are now making efforts to have the well at Rose Hall rehabilitated,” he said in a report in the Guyana Chronicle.

Scene where the dead man was found Shocking news rippled through the village of La Grange, West Bank Demerara (WBD), when a man was found in an unfinished house in the village.

Dead is 36-year-old Rajkumar Salchan of 84 Unity Street WBD. Asheana Persaud, a

cousin of the dead man, related to this newscast that Salchan left their home around 5:00AM yesterday; he did not say where he was headed.

Around 9:00AM yesterday his body was discovered in the bottom half of the house by some chil-

dren from the village who had ventured into the unfinished building.

A bruise was found on the dead mans head, which seemed as though it was caused by a blunt object.

Salchan was also known to the villagers as a frequent drinker.

North Korea upbeat on Trump-Kim surprise meeting as a chance to push nuclear talks SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and U.S. President Donald Trump agreed at their meeting on Sunday to push forward dialogue for making a new breakthrough in the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula, North Korean state media said yesterday.

Trump became the first sitting U.S. president to set foot in North Korea on Sunday when he met Kim in the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between the two Koreas and agreed to resume stalled nuclear talks.

“The top leaders of the two countries agreed to keep in close touch in the future, too, and resume and push forward productive dialogues for making a new breakthrough in the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula and in the bilateral relations,” KCNA news agency said.

The meeting, initiated by a tweet by Trump that Kim said took him by surprise, displayed the rapport between the two, but analysts said they were no closer to narrowing the gap between their positions since they walked away from their summit in February in Vietnam.

U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo told reporters shortly before departing South Korea that a new round of talks would likely happen “sometime in July ... probably in the next two or three weeks” and North Korea’s negotiators would be foreign ministry diplomats.

In a photo released by KCNA on Monday, North

U.S. President Donald Trump shakes hands with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un as they meet at the demilitarized zone separating the two Koreas, in Panmunjom, South Korea, June 30, 2019. KCNA via REUTERS Korean Foreign Minister Ri Yong Ho and Pompeo are shown sitting next to Kim and Trump respectively in Freedom House, the building in which the two leaders had their one-on-one talks.

KCNA said that during the chat between Trump and

Kim, the two leaders explained “issues of easing tensions on the Korean peninsula,” “issues of mutual concern and interest which become a stumbling block in solving those issues,” and “voiced full understanding and sympathy.”

Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Govt. endorses integrated payment Hong Kong police fire tear gas in running battles after protesters trash legislature platform created in Trinidad KINGSTON, Jamaica - CMC – The Jamaica government has endorsed the newly introduced technologydriven integrated payment processing platform, WiPay, which was created in Trinidad and To b a g o i n 2 0 1 6 .

T h e p l a t f orm for ecommerce, facilitates online payment for goods and services at access points globally. It enables users to utilize apps for cashless transfers using mobile devices such as smartphones.

Industry, Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheri e s M i n i s t e r, A u d l e y Shaw, as well as Science, Energy and Technology M i n i s t e r, F a y v a l Wi l l iams, welcomed the f a c i l i t y ’s i n t r o d u c t i o n which was launched here late last week.

Shaw said the technology’s addition to

the growing suite of online facilities now available in Jamaica will make payments for goods and services much easier and efficient for users.

He noted that WiPay will be particularly pivotal in linking farmers with buyers across the world and facilitating seamless payments for produce supplied. “ We h a v e t o c a t c h up [with the advancements globally] and technology is part of the process by which we catch up… and we must catch up fast,” he said.

Wi l l i a m s d e s c r i b e d WiPay as the spark of a new revolution in Jamaica, especially for persons not having access to online b a n k i n g s e r vices, adding “once you begin to make online easier for people, they will begin

to adopt it”.

T h e Wi P a y p l a t f o r m can be utilized in four w a y s : Wi P a y We b s i t e Plug, which can be downloaded through via the w e b s i t e ; a W i PAy I n voice System which can be sent by account holders with a ZWILLO app on smartphones; a WiPay account where users can upload cash for p a y m e n t s and a To p U p Vo u c h e r System.

I n J u l y, Wi P a y w i l l expand its ZWILLO app t o enable customers to create their own estimates and invoices to send to clients via email and social media platforms such as Whatsapp, Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

It said this facilitate a recipient system which allows persons to pay with credit cards, WiPay cash vou c h e r , o r f r o m p e r sonal bank accounts.

HONG KONG (Reuters) Hong Kong police fired tear gas early today to disperse hundreds of defiant protesters, some of whom had stormed and ransacked the city’s legislature hours earlier on the anniversary of the city’s 1997 return to Chinese rule. Police arrived in a convoy of buses near midnight as about 1,000 protesters, furious at a proposed law that would allow extraditions to China, were gathered around the council building in the former British colony’s financial district in a direct challenge to authorities in Beijing.

Earlier, protesters wearing hard hats, masks and black shirts had used a metal trolley, poles and scaffolding to charge again and again at the compound’s reinforced glass doors, which eventually gave. Scores of them poured into the building.

Police fired several rounds of tear gas as protesters held up umbrellas to pro-

tect themselves, trying to block their advance. Plumes of smoke billowed across major thoroughfares and between some of the world’s tallest skyscrapers.

The extraordinary violence marked an escalation in the weeks-long movement against the extradition law, which the city’s leader, Carrie Lam, had argued was necessary but suspended in midJune after protest marches that drew hundreds of thousands of people onto the streets. Lam called a news conference at 4 a.m. (2000 GMT) to condemn what were some of the most violent protests to rock the city in decades. It was not clear if any arrests were made. Umbrellas, metal barriers, hard hats, water bottles and other debris lay strewn across major roads near the legislative council, known as Legco. Police and work crews removed metal barriers and other blockades from some thoroughfares in a bid to clear them ahead of businesses reopening on Tuesday. Inside Legco, protesters smashed computers and spray-painted “anti-extradition” and slurs against the police and the government on chamber walls. Other graffiti called for Lam, Hong Kong’s chief executive, to step down, while pictures of some lawmakers were defaced.

“HK Is Not China” was painted in black on a white pillar. The government called for an immediate end to the violence, saying it had stopped work on amendments to the suspended extradition bill and that the legislation would automatically lapse in July next year.

“This kind of violent behavior affects the core value of the rule of law, and I felt angry and upset about this, and need to seriously condemn it,” Lam later told the

media.

“I believe the citizens feel the same.”

PROTESTERS RAM LEGISLATURE On Monday - a public holiday - the protesters, some with cling film wrapped around their arms to protect them from pepper spray and tear gas, again paralyzed parts of the Asian financial hub as they occupied roads near the government. Riot police in helmets and carrying batons earlier fired pepper spray.

Banners hanging over flyovers at the protest site read: “Free Hong Kong.”

Lam has stopped short of protesters’ demands to scrap the extradition bill, although she has said the suspension would effectively kill the proposal because of the lawmaking schedule.

The Beijing-backed leader is now clinging to her job at a time of an unprecedented backlash against the government that poses the greatest popular challenge to Chinese leader Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012.

News of the protests in Hong Kong has been heavily censored in the mainland.

“The kind of deafness that I see in the government this time around despite these protests is really worrying.

The complete disregard for the will of the people is what alarms me,” said Steve, a British lawyer who has worked in Hong Kong for 30 years and declined to give his last name.

“If this bill is not completely scrapped, I will have no choice but to leave my home, Hong Kong.”

Opponents of the extradition bill, which would allow people to be sent to mainland China for trial in courts controlled by the Communist Party, fear it is a threat to Hong Kong’s much-cherished rule of law.

UNC responds to NACTA poll NEWSDAY - The Opposition UNC has dismissed a recent North American Caribbean Teachers Association (NACTA) poll which shows the ruling PNM winning all five marginal constituencies in the next general election.

In a telephone interview yesterday, UNC chairman Peter Kanhai said polls are a “snapshot of the opinion of some segment of the public at a point in time,” but observed that NACTA did not identify the cross-section of the population which was polled.

While he said the party had “taken note of the findings,” Kanhai nonetheless pointed out that the poll had incorrectly predicted the outcome

of the 2018 by-election for Barataria, predicting a PNM victory.

The UNC subsequently won the seat. “It is the same NACTA poll when in 2018 we had the by-election for the local government seat in Barataria, that is the same NACTA poll that concluded there was no way the UNC could wrest that seat away from the PNM,” Kanhai said.

“The NACTA poll – like any other poll, we look at it, we take note of it. But we don’t share that view. We have been working the ground in all those marginal seats and we have our own information as to what’s happening in those marginal seats as well as the rest of the country.

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CWI names 13 committees...

From page 27 Commercial Affairs; Cricket; Disciplinary Tribunal; Ethics; Executive Performance Review; Finance; Human Resources Development; International Fixtures; Medical Advisory; No Objection Certificate (NOC) and Umpires and Match Referees.

CWI president Ricky Skerritt has confirmed that the committee compositions include a wide variety of stakeholder interests.

Over 50 per cent of the total committee membership is independent of the traditional

cricket fraternity, originating from 11 different Caribbean territories.

The total number of women on CWI committees has increased, with a few of the committees actually having a female member for the first time. Skerritt also confirmed that there remains one more task force to be assembled later this year.

The “High Performance Implementation System” Task Force will be charged with designing a more modernized and effective system of partnership-based player development/intervention initiatives.

Wimbledon 2019: Qualifier Cori...

From page 27 “She did everything well today. She put the ball in the court, which was much better than I did. She served well, moved well. It was a great match for her.” Elsewhere, second seed Naomi Osaka was dumped out of Wimbledon in the first round, losing 7-6 (7-4) 6-2 to Yulia Putintseva of Kazakhstan. Japan’s Osaka, the US and Australian Open champion, has suffered a dip in form in recent months and

struggled throughout her match on Centre Court. Osaka told journalists she felt like she was “about to cry” after the match. Osaka, became the first top-two seed to lose in the opening round at Wimbledon in the women’s singles since Martina Hingis in 2001.

Putintseva also defeated Osaka at the grass-court event in Birmingham in June and the former world number one said that played on her mind.

Tuesday July 02, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) It would be fair to say that you love being recognized.

Today will enable you to show off your leadership skills.

You will organize the day.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) You have a dynamic personality, Taurus. With today's celestial energy, you should try to avoid expending your energy on pointless conversations. Try to be a little more pragmatic.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Today you could learn a lot from other people who are similar to you, Gemini. They have the ability to get involved easily and go straight to the heart of any problem.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) The stars will compel you to clarify your position within the collective, Cancer. You have a lot of power when you're part of a group, but you're sometimes clumsy about communication.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You've always wanted to change the world, and you'd like to share your dreams with your friends, Leo. But today you don't have enough enthusiasm to fulfill these dreams.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) You have the tendency to plan everything. You need to feel in charge of things. Today you should try to listen to others around you. Let yourself go for a while, even though you aren't used to it.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You're attracted to eccentric individuals with very strong personalities. But realize that behind this attraction lies a very strong need for freedom, Libra.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today will destabilize you.

You're trying to rebuild your life on new foundations.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You have a tendency to get very involved in your projects. Today the stars will compel you to clarify your situation. It's already clear that you aren't afraid to work long hours to ensure that your projects end in success.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Today the stars advise you to get back into the swing of things, Capricorn. You will forget your past frame of mind and be able to prepare for a new adventure.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) There's a certain quality in your personal relationships that motivates you in life, Aquarius. This is one of the reasons why your emotions play an important role in the scheme of things.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) This period is full of difficulties and you will tend to question yourself, especially today. You will start thinking about your personality. Your ego risks bruising, and you will have the greatest difficulty turning your intention into real action.

Alpha Harrison cops gold in...

From page 30 Track 32.00 7 Girar Callins Jr Pompano Xpress Track Club 32.50 Boys 400m Dash 8 & Under Division - Finals 1 Delan Rodgers Jr Cobb Pal 1:08.19 2 Alpha Harrison 06Unattached 1:08.37 PR 3 Elijah Lewis Panthers Track Club - Cs21 1:10.22 4 Truth Caesar Carolina Allstars Track & Fi 1:10.28 5 Clin Jean-Pierre Miami Northwest Express Trac 1:13.44 6 Justyce Moore Velocity Track 1:13.68 7 Noble Beasley Bull City Express 1:18.00 8 Abel Pendergrass Rolesville Lightning 1:18.58 Boys 100m Dash 13-14 Division - Finals Reginald Love II Carolina Elite Track & Field 11.25 2 Andrew Johnson Miami Police Athletic League 11.55 3 Curtis Coleman 45Unattached 11.79 4 Benton Goodwin 34Unattached 11.86 5 Jamaun Brown Eyt Spartans 11.93 6 Kyle Dargie 02Unattached 11.96 PR 7 Jeremiah Harrison 06Unattached 12.10 8 Xavier Donaldson Jaguar Track 12.19

Marian Academy...

From page 31 losers. Mackenzie High beat Chase’s Academic Foundation 48-39. Shemar Savour top scored for the victors with 16 points while Stephen DeLeon netted a game-high 20 points for the losing team.

The Bishops’ High School edged Bartica Secondary 5552 after extra time with Shemar Greave netting 18 points, Lamon Friday 12 and Royden Glasgow 11 for the victors.

Emmanuel Atherley scored 15 points for Bartica.

Berbice’ New Amsterdam Technical Institute (NATI) got past Linden’s Christianburg/Wismar Multilateral 50-47 spearheaded by Kadeem Dover’s a game high 30 points to go along with his eight rebounds. Kwakwani Secondary and St. Joseph’s High School each earned walk over victories.

The NSBF is sponsored

by Edward B. Beharry and Company Ltd, the National Sports Commission (NSC), Banks DIH, ExxonMobil and Bounty Ltd.

ECCC/Nevil Ramotar Memorial knock-out T20 postponed The East Coast Cricket Committee/Nevil Ramotar Memorial T20 competition which was set to conclude yesterday has been postponed due to heavy rainfall which left the Enmore and Lusignan grounds waterlogged.

This competition which is being played in memory of the late Nevil Ramotar, a former Enmore resident, commenced in April last

and featured 18 teams with matches played on a knockout basis.

Strathavon ‘B’, Ogle CC, Lusignan East, Enmore CC, Fairfield SC and Enterprise Busta SC are the teams that remain in the competition. A release from the East Coast Cricket Committee stated that the dates for the remaining fixtures will be announced as soon as the weather improves.

Ryan Crawford Turf Club Horse Race Meet rescheduled to August 1 Rain had the final say in postponing yesterday’s Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club (RCMTC) CARICOM Day Horse Race Meet. The event was slated for the club’s facility at Alness Village, Corentyne, Berbice; the new date is August1, next.

According to the organisers six races are still slated for the day with the feature being for 3-Year-Old animals over 1300 meters for a winning purse of $240,000 and trophy.

Sponsors are on board are Banks DIH Limited, Collin Elcock of Delmur Shipping and Attorney-at-Law Rajendra Poonai SC.

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Kaieteur News

Novak Djokovic starts Wimbledon 2019 title defence by beating Philipp Kohlschreiber BBC Sport - Top seed Novak Djokovic started his defence of the Wimbledon men’s title by beating Germany’s Philipp Kohlschreiber in straight sets as the pair opened up the tournament on Centre Court.

Inside the 15,000-seater arena, the 32-year-old Serb was never in serious trouble during a 6-3 7-5 6-3 win.

Djokovic is aiming for a fifth Wimbledon title and a 16th Grand Slam. The world number one will play American Denis Kudla, who beat Tunisian Malek Jaziri, in the second round.

Tradition dictates the defending men’s champion opens up the play on Centre Court on Monday, with fourtime champion Djokovic earning that honour again after beating South Africa’s Kevin Anderson on the same court 12 months ago.

As usual, anticipation crackled in the Centre Court air during the final moments before the players arrived, as those fortunate enough to have tickets for one of the nation’s greatest sporting events - and sit in the

pleasant SW19 sunshine waited in excitement.

The noise ramped up to another level when Djokovic and Kohlschreiber strode out, followed by titters of amazement when the Serb opened with a double fault.

That led to Djokovic dropping his serve, accompanied by more gasps and murmurs, only for him to immediately break back and take control of the opening set.

With Goran Ivanisevic, a surprise new addition to Djokovic’s coaching team, watching him alongside main coach Marian Vajda, the second set followed a similar pattern.

The 15-time major champion saw his opening serve taken as he trailed 2-0, instantly breaking back and restoring parity as Kohlschreiber, who beat Djokovic in Indian Wells earlier this year, offered more resistance in a tighter set.

Meanwhile, Sixth seed Alexander Zverev and seventh seed Stefanos Tsitsipas were surprise casualties at Wimbledon as Jiri Vesely and Thomas

Fabbiano progressed.

German Zverev, 22, and Greek Tsitsipas, 20, have both been tipped as future Grand Slam champions but both went out in the space of half an hour.

Czech qualifier and world number 124 Vesely lost the first set but recovered to beat Zverev 4-6 6-3 6-2 7-5. Italy’s Fabbiano then claimed a 6-4 3-6 6-4 6-7 (6-8) 6-3 win over Tsitsipas. Australian Open semi-finalist Tsitsipas saved two match points in the fourth-set tie-break but was scathing of his own performance.

Elsewhere, fourth seed Kevin Anderson won 63 6-4 6-2 against Frenchman Pierre-Hugues Herbert, who will partner Andy Murray in the men’s doubles later this week.

Anderson only returned to action at Queen’s after a three-month lay-off with an elbow injury, but eased past Herbert, who said afterwards he has been managing a thigh injury.

Canadian 19th seed Felix Auger-Aliassime became the first man born in the 2000s to win a Grand Slam main draw singles match with a four-set victory against his compatriot Vasek Pospisil. The 18-year-

The world No 1 dives after a shot on his first match here since winning the 2018 title. old 19th seed AugerAliassime dropped the first set but recovered to win 5-7 6-2 6-4 6-3.

Another Canadian, 15th seed and 2016 finalist Milos Raonic, eased through in straight sets, beating India’s Prajnesh Gunneswaran 7-6 (71) 6-4 6-2. Switzerland’s threetime Grand Slam

c h a m p i o n S t a n Wawrinka also eased through in straight sets, winning 6-3 6-2 6-2 against Belgium’s Ruben Bemelmans, while Russian 10th seed Karen Khachanov beat South Korea’s Kwon Soon-woo 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 4-6 7-5.

Q u e e n ’ s champion Feliciano

Lopez, 37, continued his fine form on the grass with a 6-4 6-3 6-4 win over American Marcos Giron.

Ugo Humbert went through by virtue of his opponent retiring, with fellow Frenchman Gael Monfils, the 16th seed, pulling out with the score at 6-7 (6-8) 3-6 6-4 7-5 30.

Concacaf Gold Cup Durant chooses to go his own way with move to Nets USA to take on Jamaica in semifinal in Nashville’s Reuters - With his decision to join the Brooklyn Nets, Kevin Durant ended an era in Golden State while advancing a trend of the NBA’s elite players forging their own paths with new teams.

Durant will now team up with fellowAll Star Kyrie Irving, who will depart Boston after just two seasons, leaving behind a Warriors franchise he helped lead to three consecutive NBA Finals.

Durant, 30, is expected to miss most if not all of next season while recuperating from a ruptured Achilles suffered during this month’s NBA Finals defeat by Toronto. On paper, Golden State had more to offer Durant than any other team.

The Warriors could have rewarded Durant with a fiveyear, $221 million super max contract – far more than the $164 million he will receive from the Nets. They also provided the stability of a championship pedigree as Durant rehabs his injury.

Golden State have played in the last five Finals and the presence of Stephen Curry and exceptional coaching and ownership offers promise of a competitive future. None of those factors were apparently more valuable than Durant’s freedom to choose his own path.

And in that regard he is following something of a trend.

LeBron James helped pioneer the way by leaving Cleveland to form a super team with Miami, returning to the Cavaliers following a four-year run with the Heat, before settling with the Los Angeles Lakers this past year.

James’ new running mate, Anthony Davis, forced his way from the New Orleans Pelicans in order to join the Lakers. Even reigning NBA Finals MVP Kawhi Leonard could soon be choosing a fresh destination over Toronto. Durant previously made a splash in free agency by moving from Oklahoma City to the Warriors three years ago.

The decision will perhaps leave the Warriors with a question mark hanging over them as they enter the 2019-20 season. In response to Durant’s move, the team on Sunday acquired All Star guard D’Angelo Russell in a signand-trade deal with the Nets that will send championship stalwart Andre Iguodala packing.

With shooting guard Klay Thompson also missing considerable time with a knee injury, for the first time in a long time the Warriors may not be calling the shots in the new season.

Nissan Stadium tomorrow Miami – The Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (Concacaf) confirmed the second semifinal matchup of the 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup, to be played this Wednesday, July 3, in the Nissan Stadium in Nashville, Tennessee. USA will take on Jamaica, both of whom won their Quarterfinal matches against Curacao and Panama, respectively, in Philadelphia’s Lincoln Financial Field on June 30.

The winner of the match in Nashville will book their place

in the Final of the tournament, to be played in Chicago on July 7.

Additionally, Mexico will take on Haiti in the semifinal match to take place in Phoenix, today, after winning their Quarterfinal matches in Houston. Tickets for the two semifinal matches in Phoenix and Nashville are available. Fans are encouraged to purchase tickets early to ensure the best seats.

Tickets for remaining Gold Cup matches are available at www.GoldCup.org.

The championship match is scheduled for Sunday, July 7 at 8

p.m. CT/9 p.m. ET, at the legendary Soldier Field in Chicago. A limited amount of tickets are still available for the Gold Cup Final.

The 2019 Concacaf Gold Cup is sponsored by Allstate Insurance Company, Aquafina, Camarena Tequila, Cerveza Modelo, Chick-fil-A, Gatorade, Nike, Scotiabank, Sprint, Toyota, and Valvoline. The tournament will be broadcast nationally on the Univision and FOX family of networks and transmitted on radio in Spanish by Fútbol de Primera Radio Network, and broadcast by television partners in over 180 countries around the world. Fans are encouraged to attend Gold Cup Futbol Fiesta,

presented by Toyota, the official fan destination that takes place at each Gold Cup stadiums hours prior to the games.

GOLD CUP 2019 – KNOCKOUTROUND SCHEDULE Semifinals Tuesday, July 2, 2019 Match #29: 10:00 pm ET Haiti v Mexico – State Farm Stadium, Phoenix, AZ Wednesday, July 3, 2019 Match #30: 9:00 pm ET Jamaica v USA – Nissan Stadium, Nashville, TN Final Sunday, July 7, 2019 Match #31: 9:00 pm ET W29 v W30 – Soldier Field, Chicago, IL

Some of the Golden Jaguars players take time out for a Kodak moment with Guyanese fans following their 1-1 draw with Trinidad and Tobago at the Children’s Mercy Park, Kansas City, USA.

Tuesday July 02, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Wimbledon 2019: Qualifier Cori Gauff, History beckons for England and USA 15, beats Venus Williams in huge upset FIFA Women’s World Cup

Julie Ertz – USA © Getty Images

Lucy Bronze - England © Getty Images

FIFA - The first of the France 2019 semifinals pits USA against yet another pretender to their throne, and this test could well be the holders’ stiffest yet. England have improved with each passing game in this FIFA Women’s World Cup™ and, having drawn with the Americans en route to winning the SheBelieves Cup in March, will not be intimidated or overawed.

All the same, no-one questions that the US - three-time champions who have won their last ten matches at this tournament - start as favourites to reach a record fifth Final.

Formidable as the Lionesses are, Jill Ellis’s side have a habit of rising to the big occasion.

If England are to make history of their own by reaching the decider for the first time, they will almost certainly need to put in the performance of their lives. The Lionesses know this is their biggest test yet at France 2019, with danger posed by USA in all areas of the field. Phil Neville’s 4-2-3-1 system will no doubt provide the basis for England’s game plan, with Millie Bright and Steph Houghton drilled on handling Alex Morgan’s pace, and Lucy Bronze and Nikita Parris tasked with containing the American’s dangerous leftsided pairing of Megan Rapinoe and Crystal Dunn.

Bronze will also be instructed not to hesitate if she has a chance to drive forward,

as she did so successfully against Norway.

Game management and being prepared for any eventuality will be key for England.

Parris has been practising penalties, while set-play rehearsals have been high on the agenda in training. The Lionesses know they will need to be fearless and ruthless to come out on top in this one.

Although the match against France was one for the ages, that victory at the Parc des Princes has already been consigned to the past by USA. Head coach Jill Ellis said that, while they took a moment to celebrate right after the match, soon it was back to the regular recovery plan - with the focus shifted immediately to England.

With a dangerous Lionesses attack coming at them, the US will need their defence - marshalled by goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher and veteran centre-half Becky Sauerbrunn - to emulate the performance they produced against France. This semi-final pits together two attack-minded teams, so it should be another fun battle between the two extremely talented squads.

European champions the Netherlands face Sweden in Wednesday’s (tomorrow) other semi-final, with the winners from the two matches meeting in the final in Lyon on Sunday. The losers will play in Saturday’s third-place play-off in Nice.

CWI names 13 committees, two new Task Forces St John’s, Antigua, CMC – Along with the establishment of 13 committees, Cricket West Indies (CWI) has also announced the formation of a Governance Task Force and a Selection Task Force to help in its reform.

The five-member Governance Task Force and the six-member Selection Task Force have been appointed to review and implement reform of the organization’s governance, and the outdated system of team selections.

Jamaican businessman and Senator Don Wehby has been selected to chair the Governance Task Force, which also includes Professor Sir Hilary Beckles, Vice-Chancellor of UWI; Charles Wilkin Queen’s Counsel of St. Kitts & Nevis; Jamaican entrepreneur OK

Cori Gauff looks stunned after sealing her victory over Venus Williams BBC Sport - Fifteen-yearold American qualifier Cori Gauff caused a stunning upset by defeating five-time Wimbledon champion Venus Williams in the first round.

World number 313 Gauff beat Williams - 24 years her senior at 39 - 6-4 6-4.

Fellow American Williams had won four Grand Slam titles - including two at Wimbledon - before Gauff was born. “It’s the first time I have ever cried after winning a match,” said Gauff, who previously said Venus and sister Serena were her “idols”.

“I don’t know how to explain how I feel.

“I definitely had to tell myself to stay calm, I had to remind myself that the lines are the same lines, the courts are the same size and after every point I told myself ‘stay calm’.” Gauff will play Slovakia’s Magdalena Rybarikova - 15 years her senior - in the second round.

Williams turned professional 10 years before her opponent was born, with Gauff being the youngest

player to qualify for the main Wimbledon draw since the Open era began in 1968. She previously said the Williams sisters inspired her to first pick up a tennis racquet.

“Venus told me congratulations and keep going, she said good luck and I told her thanks for everything she did,” Gauff added. “I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for her - I told her she was so inspiring and I’ve always wanted to tell her that but I’ve never had the guts to before.

“My parents will be super happy, my dad was jumping up every time I won a point.

I’m so happy they spent all their time on me and my brothers and making sure we’re successful. “I never thought this would happen.

I’m literally living my dream right now.

“I’m really happy Wimbledon gave me the chance to play, I never thought I would get this far.”

In a sharp introduction to the Wimbledon stage, Gauff initially struggled to return

Williams’ serve but she soon impressed with big serves of her own.

Gauff, who won the French Open junior title last year, went a break up on Williams for 3-2 in the first set, proving a solid wall that her veteran opponent simply couldn’t break down, hitting only two unforced errors throughout the set.

After sealing the set in 35 minutes, she went a break up in the second after Williams double-faulted, only to do the same herself on her own serve as Williams looked to claw back. She went on to scupper three match points before Williams created a break point, but she failed to capitalise on the chance as Gauff clinched a memorable win on the fourth time of asking.

It marks only the second time Williams has been beaten in the first round at Wimbledon since her 1997 debut. Asked about Gauff’s future, Williams said: “I think the sky’s the limit, it really is.

(Continued on page 25)

Ramnaresh Sarwan Melhado, and former Trinidad and West Indies cricketer, Deryck Murray.

The Selection Task Force is chaired by CWI Vice President Dr Kishore Shallow and includes former West Indian cricketers Ramnaresh Sarwan, Philo Wallace, and Miles Bascombe; Jimmy

Adams, CWI Director of Cricket, and Enoch Lewis, CWI Chairman of the Cricket Committee.

The 13 committees will preside over Audit, Risk and Compliance; Chief E x e c u t i v e s ; Communications & (Continued on page 25)

Gauff made just eight unforced errors during her first main draw match at a Grand Slam.

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Tuesday July 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

Sparkling Pooran hundred fails to save Windies from sixth defeat Chester-Le-Street, England, CMC – Lefthander Nicholas Pooran slammed a maiden international hundred but was outshone by a similar feat by Avishka Fernando as West Indies once again squandered a matchwinning position, to slump to a 23-run defeat to Sri Lanka and their sixth loss of the ICC World Cup here Monday.

Cheered on by Barbadian global pop s u p e r s t a r, R i h a n n a , i n pursuit of a challenging 339 a t t h e R i v e r s i d e , We s t Indies recovered from 199 for six in the 35th over to reach 282 for seven in the 45th over, courtesy of a flamboyant 118 from Pooran and a blistering career-best 51 from Fabian Allen – the pair posting 83 for the seventh wicket.

However, with 57 runs required from 36 deliveries, We s t I n d i e s s u ff e r e d a catastrophic blow when Allen was run out with the momentum of the match having shifted from Sri Lanka. He turned a delivery to short fine leg, belatedly accepted a call for the quick single with Pooran already bearing down on him, and was run out by nearly half-length of the pitch.

His dismissal proved the turning point and the Wi n d i e s d e m i s e w a s confirmed when Pooran was caught at the wicket in the 48th over, flashing at medium pacer Angelo M a t h e w s ’s f i r s t b a l l i n one-dayers in a year-anda-half. All told, Pooran belted 11 fours and four sixes off 103 balls.

Barbadian superstar Rihanna got into the spirit of the game as she cheered on West Indies Veteran opener Chris Gayle helped carry West Indies early on with a patient 35 while Shimron Hetmyer chipped in with 29, and captain Jason Holder, 26, reviving their side after speedster Lasith Malinga (3-55) had reduced the innings to 22 for two in the fifth over.

None carried on, h o w e v e r, l e a v i n g We s t Indies short on 315 for nine off their 50 overs, and with their fifth straight defeat in as many games – their worst ever showing at a World Cup. Fernando had earlier put Sri Lanka in control of the encounter, gathering 104 from 103 balls as the Asians ended on 338 for six off 50 overs – their highest ever ODI total against the Caribbean

side.

Kusal Perera stroked 64 and Lahiru Thirimanne struck 45 while Kusal Mendis (39) and captain Dimuth Karunaratne (32) chipped in with vital knocks. Sent in, Perera and Karunaratne gave Sri Lanka a splendid start when they capitalised on loose bowling to put on 93 off 92 deliveries for the first wicket.

Perera’s knock was a breezy one, striking eight fours off 51 deliveries while Karunaratne counted four fours in a 48-ball knock before slashing at a wide one from Holder and edging to wicketkeeper Shai Hope in the 16th over.

Three overs later, West Indies claimed their second wicket when Perera was run

St. Vincent and the Grenadines sweep CARICOM 10K titles St. Vincent and the Grenadines swept the Male and Female categories in the 14th CARICOM 10K road race in Saint Lucia, Sunday, with female runner Linda McDowald recording a hat-trick of victories in the event.

Mc Dowald crossed the finish line in 40.40 to add to earlier victories in the 12th and 13th editions, held in Guyana and Jamaica respectively. She also placed second in the 11th edition in Barbados, behind Guyanese Andrea Foster.

The second and third placed runners were also a repeat of last year, with Grenada’s Kenisha Pascal crossing in 41.32 and Carlie Pipe of Barbados in 41.39. In the male category, the Vincentian Junior Ashton moved up from third place in last year’s race to win in 34.22, ahead of Kalique St. Jean of Antigua and Barbuda in 35.05 and Justin Hodge on Anguilla in 35.09.

Dominica, Jamaica, Suriname, Anguilla and host Saint Lucia also competed.

In a supporting 5-K race for students, Tarrick Xavier of the Vieux Fort Comprehensive

and MicolPopote of the Gros Islet Secondary took the top male positions, and Zadie St. Louis of Vieux Fort Comprehensive and LauratLynn Limery of the Sir Arthur Lewis Community College the female.

The event was witnessed by CARICOM Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque, who was joined for the presentation of prizes by his Assistant Secretary-General, Human and Social Development, Dr. Douglas Slater, Saint Lucia’s Ambassador to CARICOM Elma-Gene Isaac, Sports Director Patrick Mathurin, and Saint Lucia’s CARICOM Youth Ambassadors (CYAs).

The CARICOM 10K is held annually around the July Meetings of CARICOM Heads of Government, aimed at fostering people to people relations while also promoting healthy living. Saint Lucia will host this year’s Heads of Government Meeting on the 4 – 5 July at the Sandals Grande Resort, with an Opening Ceremony scheduled for Wednesday 3 July at the Royalton Saint Lucia Resort.

out at the non-striker’s end, failing to make his ground after being sent back by Fernando in mix-up over a second run.

H o w e v e r, F e r n a n d o then took the game away from the Windies in an innings containing nine fours and two sixes, while anchoring three successive half-century partnerships to put Sri Lanka back on top.

Playing in only his third match of the World Cup, the 21-year-old posted 85 for the third wicket with Mendis, 58 for the fourth wicket with Mathews (26) before adding a further 67 for the fifth wicket with Thirimanne. He reached three figures in the 47th over off exactly 100 balls before falling in the next over, caught at long-off off left-arm pacer Sheldon Cottrell.

The Windies hopes of a solid start were then dashed as Malinga removed opener Sunil Ambris (5), gloving a pull behind in the third over and Hope (5), dragging on two overs later. Gayle and Hetmyer came together to add 49 for the third wicket in a rebuilding effort but the partnership was a slow one, requiring 62 deliveries and built pressure on the innings.

Left-hander Gayle tried to loosen the shackles but succeeded only in skying seamer Kasun Rajitha to Jeffrey Vandersay running back at gully in the 16th over, after facing 48 balls and hitting one four and a couple of sixes.

A n d H e t m y e r, w h o counted two fours in an unusually humdrum 38-ball

knock, perished two overs later via the run out route after he was sent back in a mix-up over a quick single with Pooran.

Staggering on 84 for four, West Indies steadied themselves through the efforts of Pooran who put on 61 for the fifth wicket with Holder before dominating a 54-run, sixth wicket partnership with Carlos Brathwaite (8).

The 23-year-old blossomed from a slow start – he managed just 16 runs from his first 27 balls – to reach his second halfcentury of the tournament off 57 deliveries by smashing the first ball of Karunaratne’s solitary over of slow medium over long on for six.

Pooran required only another 35 balls for his c e n t u r y, r e a c h i n g t h e landmark in the 45th over

with a couple to deep midwicket off left-arm seamer Isuru Udana. Along the way he lost Holder, lazily lifting leg-spinner Vandersay to substitute Jeevan Mendis at mid-on in the 29th over and Brathwaite six overs later, run out at the non-striker’s end after a firm drive touched Udana’s fingers on its way to shattering the stumps with the batsman backing up too far.

Allen, in only his second match of the World Cup, then changed the game in an exhilarating cameo, lashing seven fours and a six to haul the Windies back into the contest.

Together with Pooran, he shifted the odds back in the Caribbean side’s favour but his unnecessary run out at the death was a blow from which West Indies never recovered.

Tuesday July 02, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Noble House Goals Galore Indoor Hockey Championships

YMCA Old Fort Top Form (Men’s), GCC Tigers (Ladies) capture titles

Ladies champions, GCC Tigers roared to Championship honors on Sunday night.

By Sean Devers The 2019 Noble House Goals Galore Indoor Hockey Championships climaxed on Sunday evening at the National Gymnasium with a pulsating Men’s final with YMCA Old Fort Top Form emerging victorious while GCC Tigers captured the Ladies title.

The largest turn out of fans at the tournament witnessed a wonderful last night of rivalry in what turned out to be a thrilling Men’s final between Pepsi Hikers and YMCA Old Fort Top Form which began with five Goals.

Pepsi Hikers, with a zerogoal handicap, conceded the opening goal in just three minutes of the final when their Custodian Jason Hoyte was beaten by exciting midfielder

Omar Hopkinson after he had completed a skilful individual move to send his shot in the Hikers goal to leave the score 6-0 for YMCA Old Fort Top Form. Old Fort defended stoutly and the next ten minutes proved goalless before the tournament’s leading goal scorer Aroydy Branford scored from a powerfully struck penalty corner in the 13th minute and the Hikers were off the mark.

By the first twenty-minute half, the score was 6-1 to Top Form and the top ranked Hikers knew that they had a fight on their hands. Captain Robert France with a crafty deflection and midfielder Jamarj Assanah launched the comeback with goals in the 25th and 29th minutes.

Rookie Louis Adams,

playing with the type of confidence not really expected at this level, completed a left side Top Form attack with a first time shot into the open goal immediately following Assanah’s goal to take the score to 7-3.

With just ten minutes remaining and needing four goals to tie the score, the Hikers replaced goalkeeper Hoyte with an additional field player and piled pressure on the Top Form defence.

Branford scored a second penalty corner and a field goal in four minutes and the ploy seemed to be working superbly for the Hikers.

Veteran defenders Aderemi Simon and Chris Low-Koan however held firm and negated several

Dominic DeGroot presents the winning Trophy to YMCA Old Fort Top Form. concerted raids from the Hikers.

Captain Robert France would bring the Hikers within one goal in the final minute of play but despite their hurry, time would expire before any further progress could be made, leaving Top Form to celebrate the 7-6 victory.

Paul D’Andrade of YMCA OFHC Top Form was adjudged the best goalkeeper of the men’s division while Aroydy Branford of Pepsi Hikers, with a whopping 35 goals, received the Most Goals award.

The Women’s final, while having spurts of brilliance was not as close as that of the men’s. Spartans, without a defeat in the tournament enjoying a 5-goal handicap to the GBTI GCC Tigers 3, the

GuyanaNRA Smallbore Section/Orinduik Development Inc./Four Stage Action Pistol Shoot

Chad Melville, Stefan John and Jason Cox are A,B & C Class winners When the Guyana National Rifle Association (GuyanaNRA), Smallbore Section held the Orinduik Development Inc. sponsored Four Stage Action Pistol Shoot on Sunday last at the Timehri Ranges, Chad Melville, Stefan John and Jason Cox emerged as the respective A, B and C Class champions.

All four stages of the shoot were contested with a fixed time frame and limited ammunition.

Melville accumulated 253 points made up of - 67, 76, 50 & 60 - from the four stages to take the top spot in the A-Class.

Second, a mere two point’s back was Azaad Hassan (69, 80, 39, & 63) with the third place occupied by Satya Dayaram on 231 points (57, 74, 47 & 53).

John’s 225 points (53, 72, 53, 47) which took the top

pressure was on the Tigers to score against what had been a solid Spartans defence, led

by Captain Makeda Harding.

The breakthrough came just five minutes into play for the Tigers through a most inconspicuous manner as Sandy Roopnarine, who had been having a quiet tournament, pounced on a loose ball in the scoring circle and evaded goalkeeper Jessica Mittelholzer with a shot past her right leg for the Tigers opener.

Marzana Fiedtkou, who had put in an MVP performance throughout the tournament, scored next goal for the Tigers with a penalty corner in 7th minute, to register the first of her three goals in the match. The Tigers made up the deficit by the 7th minute and the Spartans threw caution to the wind and pressed the Tigers defence from the restart.

The Spartans’ effort created several chances but goalkeeper Natalie Hing was

up to the challenge on each occasion and kept the Spartans scoreless. However, a 22nd minute goal off a counterattack from Fiedtkou added another goal to tally of the Tigers before Roopnarine, Shebiki Baptiste and Fiedtkou would each score once more to put the game well beyond the reach of the Spartans for a final score of 9-5.

Jessica Mittelholzer of the Bingo Spartans was selected as the best goalkeeper of the tournament while Marzana Fiedtkou’s 20 goals gave her the Top Goal-Scorer Award for the ladies’ division. Earlier in the evening in the two men’s semi-finals, the PEPSI Hikers had disposed of the YMCA OFHC Champs by 17 – 15 while YMCA OFHC Top Form gave the Hikers Generals their first loss of the competition by 13 – 10.

The GBTI GCC Tigers got the better of the GBTI GCC Spice by 5 – 3 while the Bingo Spartans dismissed Saints by 11 – 6.

Andrew Lewis National Novice Boxing, July 5-7

The top shooters of the GuyanaNRA Smallbore Section, Orinduik Development Inc., Four Stage Action Pistol Shoot. spot in the B-Class competition was well ahead of the second placed Suruajbali Persaud who managed 201 points (64, 67, 40, 30) and the

third placed Brian Backer with 189 (56, 61, 35, 37).

Ruling the roost in the CClass was Jason Cox with a score of 188 (49, 60, 45, 34) in

first place followed by Michael Tang who ended with a similar overall score (51, 46, 50, 41) and Shawn Smith with 168 (59, 57, 10, 42).

The Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) will be staging the Andrew Lewis National Novice Boxing Card which is slated from this Friday to Sunday 7 at the National Gymnasium. Young Achievers, Vergenoogen, Forgotten Youth Foundation, GDF, Pocket Rocket, Rosehall Jammers, Caryll Boxing Gym, and Savanah Boxing Gym of Lethem are the gyms expected to participate.

According to Technical Director of the Guyana Boxing Association (GBA) Terrence Poole this Card will include Elite, Youths and Females pugilists from most areas in Guyana.

“This is the first stage of the elite boxing where to usually findfurther boxers since most these Boxers will be fighting for the first time in a competition” Poole noted. Poole said that a few of those who would have competed in the National School Boys and Under-16 tournaments should be involved. The Guyana Defence Force are the defending champion and Fight time is 19:30hrs, nightly. Poole, also the Coach of GDF said his youngsters are enthusiastic and eager to get into the ring.

The Weight-in and Medical will be conducted on Thursday at 17:00hrs at the National Gymnasium.

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NYSCL/New York Independence Cup 2019

Regal Masters stumble at final hurdle after batting meltdown A match-winning 65-run sixth wicket partnership between Erapalli Sahadeo and Nandalall Doodnauth, combined with a four-wicket haul by Navin Narine handed New York Softball Cricket League (NYSCL) Masters a five-wicket victory over 2018 champions Regal Masters on Sunday last at Baisley Pond Park to bring the curtains down on annual NYSCL Independence Cup in Queens, New York.

The final lived up to the billing of being highly competitive and swung in multiple directions before the dust settled in fading light in front of a large and vocal crowd highly in favour of the home team.

When Doodnauth swept Throy Kippins for a boundary off the first ball of the penultimate over, NYSCL Masters had completed the shocking task of beating a very clinical Regal Masters unit by five wickets with 11 balls to spare.

Doodnauth finished on 26 not out (3x4) while the more attacking Sahadeo who brought up his half century in the match-changing 18th over was left not out on 50 (3x6 2x4). Sahadeo batted at number three and featured in two crucial partnerships to take guide his team.

Set 131 to win from 20 overs on a tricky but hard

Eion Abel drives through the offside against NYSCL Masters on Sunday in Queens NY.

Eric Thomas smashes one over the top.

Erapalli Sahadeo drives through the off side on his way to a matchwinning half century.

pitch and on a slope with big outfield, NYSCL lost opener Karramchand Panday (04) in the second over brilliantly caught by Eric Thomas keeping up to Kippins.

Sahadeo, who was later named Man-of-the-Match, then joined Rishi Singh in the middle where they put on 47 important runs but at a slow rate which gave Regal Masters some hope.

Their optimism was further stretched when Ramesh Narine got the breakthrough in his first over, the ninth of the innings at 532 when Singh who made 22 offered a regulation catch off the top edge to backward

point.

At the halfway stage it was even-steven at 60-2 with NYSCL Masters still needing 71 runs from 60 balls to dethrone Regal but after the resumption the defending champions hit back with a triple blow.

In the 11th over, Ramesh Narine clean bowled Faizul Ulla (05) before knocking over Ravi Sahadeo with the next ball for a duck.

Incoming batsman Abdul Hafeez survived the hat trick ball, but was not so lucky in the next over when he lost his leg stump to left-arm spinner, Laurie Singh also for a duck at 66-5.

At this stage, Regal Masters and their supporters felt that their spin twins Narine and Singh had it all wrapped up.

Sahadeo found a useful partner in Doodnauth and they were watchful to the spinners. With 38 runs needed from 24 balls Regal Masters captain Mahendra Hardyal opted for pace, a decision that backfired.

Over number 17 bowled by David Harper cost 23 runs including 2 no-balls, 3 wides, one four and a six. In the context of the game it was very expensive leaving the equation at 15 runs to win from 18 balls.

Experienced fast bowler Mahendranauth Parasnauth then came up for his final over only to be dispatched for 11 leaving the hosts with 12 balls to get just four runs and a maiden title which was easily done at the start of the next over.

The wicket takers were spinners Narine with 3-17, Singh 1-14 and Kippins 1-27 while Harper (0-39) and Parasnauth (0-26) proved expensive.

Earlier, the Regal Masters’ innings was a start-stop one with steady bowling, bad shot selection and rain creating drama. Throughout the tournament, the Guyana side won the toss and batted and in the final the trend continued but not the luck.

Uniss Yusuf and Eion Abel got the men in green and yellow off to a good start reaching 42 without loss halfway through the fifth over before disaster struck.

In Navin Narine’s first over Yusuf attempted his trademark sweep shot and was bowled for 15 (2x4) and two balls later Kippins too attempted to sweep and was easily taken at short backward square for a duck.

They were quickly followed by Ramesh Narine (01), Harper (02) and Mohendra Arjune (02) and the champs had suddenly lost five wickets for 12 runs to be

reeling at 54-5 after nine overs. Abel and Lloyd Ruplall then tried to repair the damage but were held up for about an hour due to rain at 66-5 after 11 overs.

After the break, Abel was caught at cover for 36 (3x4) in the 12th over before Eric Thomas and Ruplall put together the best partnership of the innings.

The pair put on 55 before Thomas was bowled in the final over of the innings for 38 (4x6 1x4) leaving Ruplall not out on a patient 19 (28 balls) and Regal Masters at 130 for 7.

In the preliminary stage of the tournament, Regal made 129 which turned out to be adequate when they routed NYSCL Masters for 107 but this time, 130 was just about 20 runs short.

In the other categories of the tournament which started last Friday, defending champions SVC All Stars beat NYSCL All Stars in a repeat of the 2018 Open finals while Toronto Blizzards beat NY Hustlers to take the Pro title (over-50).

The other Guyanese team, Fishermen Masters were knocked out at the semi final stage when they were bowled out for 69, replying to 228-7 made by Regal Masters, to lose by 159 runs in their NYSCL Independence Cup debut.

2019 USATF Youth Outdoor Track and Field Championships

Alpha Harrison cops gold in Boys 8 &Under 200m; also snares 2 silver medals Guyanese Alpha Harrison continues to register outstanding performances in the USA. Competing at the just concluded USATF Youth National Outdoor Track and Field Championships held at the Durham County Memorial Stadium, Alpha Harrison copped one gold and two silver medals competing in the Boys 8 & Under events; all times being Personal Records (PR).

His gold medal was captured in the 200m Dash in a time of 26.69. The Unattached athlete, in the 400m Dash clocked 1:08.37 which was good enough for the silver medal as was his 100m Dash time of 1:08.37.

Harrison’s brother, Jeremiah contesting the Boys 100m Dash 13-14 Division Finals ended in 7th place.

Some 120 teams excluding athletes who competed Unattached participated at the event which took place from June 25-30, 2019.

Selected Results: Boys 100m Dash 8 & Under Division - Finals 1 Delan Rodgers Jr Cobb

Jeremiah (left) and Alpha Harrison Pal 1:08.19 2 Alpha Harrison 06Unattached 1:08.37 PR 3 Elijah Lewis Panthers Track Club - Cs21 1:10.22 4 Truth Caesar Carolina

Allstars Track & Fi 1:10.28 5 Clin Jean-Pierre Miami Northwest Express Trac 1:13.44 6 Justyce Moore Velocity Track 1:13.68

Alpha Harrison raises his hand as #1 following the Boys 200m Dash 8 & Under Division – Finals presentation.

7 Noble Beasley Bull City Express 1:18.00 8 Abel Pendergrass Rolesville Lightning 1:18.58 Boys 200m Dash 8 & Under Division - Finals

Alpha Harrison 06Unattached 29.69 PR 2 Ethan Moore Peak Perfomance South 30.06 3 Cueston Parks Bull City Express 31.29

4 Delan Rodgers Jr Cobb Pal 31.31 5 Jayden Lott Bull City Express 31.77 6 Justyce Moore Velocity (Continued on page 25)

Kaieteur News

Tuesday July 02, 2019

YBG-NSBF Nationals

Marian Academy bounce back to clip Saints; President’s College crush West Demerara Saint Stanislaus College’s Mustapha Kadir (right) attempts a jump shot during his team’s extra-time loss to Marian Academy on Sunday night.

The first night of action in Youth Basketball Guyana (YBG) National Schools’ Basketball Festival (NSBF) National Playoffs saw six of eight matches played in the Under-18 category on Sunday last at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) on Homestretch Avenue.

Saint Stanislaus College (SSC) and Marian Academy had one of the more exciting games of the night despite being marred by some questionable calls. SSC

came out with a bang in the first half against the clear favourites, leading 15-0 at one point and maintaining their 15-point lead with the half finishing 21-6. A few turnovers in the final two minutes of the match in favour of Marian Academy that was expertly lay-up by Jether Harris (23) forced the game into extra-time.

The boisterous fans in CASH expressed dissatisfaction with majority of the calls that seemed to go against the weaker SSC side

and three turnovers in the final 50 seconds of extratime that were all converted

by Marian Academy allowed the former champions the come from behind win, 4642.

President’s College crushed West Demerara 6916. Leading the scoring for the East Coast Demerara Institution were Richard Semple (19), Tushawn Bailey (12) and Gabriel Lim (9) while Osaffa Chapman hooped eight points for the (Continued on page 29)

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Sparkling Pooran hundred fails to save Windies from sixth defeat

Nicholas Pooran struck the ball sweetly © Getty Images Fabian Allen put up a big partnership with Nicholas Pooran ©Getty Images.jpg

St. Vincent and the Grenadines sweep CARICOM 10K titles

Athletes who competed at the 14th CARICOM 10K road race in Saint Lucia on Sunday, pose with CARICOM Secretary-General Ambassador Irwin LaRocque.

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