Kaieteur News
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Friday July 20, 2018
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
WAITING IN LINE
T
he public’s popular chorus in Guyana is the amount of time spent by the average person standing in line to access goods and services, conduct business or to pay a bill. In every country, people stand in line for various reasons and Guyana is no exception. It could take several hours if not days to get things done in Guyana, especially in the rural areas of the country. The reason is Guyana has a centralized system. Being in line, whether it is at the hospital, at the bank or at the post office, has become a way of life for most Guyanese. Those who have ever paid an electricity or telephone bill or any other utility bill know what it is to stand in a line for very long hours without restroom facilities or any accommodation for the elderly, pregnant mothers or the disabled. Perhaps the biggest influence on people’s feelings about being in line to conduct any type of transactions has to do with their perception of fairness, which extends beyond mere self-interest. Like any social system, lines are governed by an implicit set of norms that transcend the individual. The universally acknowledged norm for standing in lines is first come first served; any deviation from this norm is, to most people unfair and can lead to violent queue rage. The time that people spend waiting in line in Guyana could affect production and hurt the economy. Rain or shine, whether it is government agencies, private business or the banks, it is customary for people to wait in line for long periods of time. The passport office is a case in point where people from the rural areas of the country had to be in queue from three or four o’clock in the morning in order to be served. It was an exasperating experience. Waiting in lines at public places can be long and difficult. It is painful, emotional, stressful, boring, and the nagging sensation that life is slipping away. The last thing people want to do with their leisure time is squander it in lines, which will never be eliminated altogether. It began in ancient times and will continue forever. Studies have shown that in the United States, the average American spends about 40 minutes a day waiting for transportation, roughly one and a half hours a day waiting for medical services, 15 hours annually waiting for customer service, 45 hours a year waiting in traffic and 24 hours annually waiting to be served in restaurants. Taken together, this adds up to roughly 39 billion hours each year Americans spent waiting in line. Although statistics are not available for Guyana, it is estimated that the average Guyanese will spend 10 years standing in line in their lifetime due to poor systems and lack of customer service awareness. In Guyana, people stand in line for almost everything, and until there is an alternative, the practice will continue indefinitely. For one reason, the systems are not fully computerized, they are archaic and the fact that Guyana is a cash-based society that relies on face-to-face interactions to conduct the simplest transactions has made it very difficult to reduce the long lines. Another reason is poor customer service or the lack thereof. Improper training has made the process of doing any type of transactions in the country frustrating for the people, including businessmen. But over the years, there have been some improvements in the business and banking sectors and at some government agencies. Recent changes and greater efficiency in some government agencies such as the passport office, Guyana Power and Light and the Guyana Revenue Authority have reduced the waiting time substantially.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
Laid-off sugar workers are not likely to embrace cooperatives DEAR EDITOR, It seems that I touched a sensitive nerve unintentionally when I wrote a letter recently suggesting that Government’s initiative spearheaded by Minister Keith Scott to get laid off sugar workers to form cooperatives might not be the best option for them at this time. Someone from the Minister’s team, Kenava Elious, responded in the Stabroek News’ July 11, 2018 edition by accusing me of not doing research and not presenting “empirical evidence” to support my contention, among other misguided comments. Let me make it clear that I am not against cooperatives. Under the right circumstances and with the right people, cooperatives can be successful. My point is simple. At this time in Guyana’s history, the right circumstances might not exist for successful cooperatives in the areas
where most former sugar workers reside. And they might not be the right people to form successful cooperatives. Everybody knows that most cooperatives formed in Guyana failed. Everybody knows that many Guyanese connect cooperatives to a particular political party. Everybody also knows that former sugar workers live in communities that traditionally oppose the party that people link to cooperatives. Therefore, Government has a challenging task to get former sugar workers to embrace cooperatives and make them work. Also, I know for a fact, by communicating directly with many of these terminated sugar workers, that they have bitterness in their hearts, bitterness that is turning into hate. Their lives are in confusion and they appear to be unforgiving. For me, this is a sad state of affairs. It pains my heart that those in
the Skeldon/Corriverton area where I grew up - former sugar workers - are thronging and begging for jobs in any capacity to make ends meet. The fact that I do not have contracts in the area to absorb these people disturbs me. So, Kenava Elious, I might not have empirical evidence from formal research, but I have lots of information acquired by observation. I meet these people and they call me. Their wives and children Whatsapp me, appealing for jobs. This is where the closure of the various sugar factories in the important zones in the sugar belt affects me personally, because I know and you know there was no preparation or education of these people about cooperatives and proper investment of their severance pay. My other great worry is that while looking for employment, their severance will be eaten out and they
will be left with nothing in their hands. Then, drastic desperation and confusion will reign in their minds. It’s not dozens of people, but thousands who have been terminated without due diligence, preparation and organisation. I know that the Government will be willing to assist in the cooperative ventures of groups. I have faith in the Government. But feeding the idea of cooperatives into the minds of confused and vexed people will be a tough sell. I am not speaking philosophy. I am speaking reality. I originate from the bosom of the sugar belt, among sugar workers. I believe Government initiatives must be practical to succeed. I recall the words of the great American president Abraham Lincoln, who famously said: “. . . public sentiment is everything. With it, nothing can fail; against it, nothing (Continued on page 5)
Have Guyanese considered alternative solutions for addressing rigged elections come 2020? DEAR EDITOR, One of the things about which Guyanese can rest assured as a consequence of the numerous drug busts in North America and Europe, which originated from Guyana during the PPP’s tenure, is that Guyana is under the microscope of the anti-narcotics organizations of these countries. Further, based on evidence in our press and what they might have been able to garner themselves, the governments and anti-narcotics organizations of these countries are very likely satisfied that successive administrations up to 2015 aided and abetted the transshipment of narcotics through Guyana. The People’s Progressive Party therefore very probably has no support from the ABCs and Europe as a political organization in Guyana, and I would go so far as to say that like myself, they consider the PPP a criminal entity as a result of its association with, and desire to benefit from the movement of narcotics through Guyana’s borders. I have mentioned before that the People’s National
Congress’ declared intention to remain steadfast to Burnham’s ideas of national development holds nothing but the promise of more economic mismanagement and rigged elections going forward, as it is becoming clear that the coalition under the PNC’s leadership has set Guyana back on a course for economic stagnation and punishment of our people. The party’s questionable approach to installing individuals who give reason to question the integrity of our electoral system is a clear indication if any that it is buckling down for another twenty-eight years of tyranny. Congress Place has always been unwilling to confront the failures of Burnham’s policies in the face of all available evidence. If anything, this is confirmation that they know no better, and cannot, and will not offer anything but his backward notions and notorious tyranny post-2020. We have to understand that in our increasingly globalized world we can illafford the time to marginalize each other as is done by our traditional
political parties while in government. We should instead be more concerned with securing investment from abroad and generating increased incomes and wealth for ourselves by diversifying our productive base and increasing foreign currency inflows through increased exports. It seems a foregone conclusion that the support the coalition acquired from other than traditional PNC supporters at the 2015 elections will be lost in 2020. In the current unfolding environment of economic mismanagement by the
coalition administration and the shut-out of the clearly ineligible PPP in 2020 as a result of the increasing likelihood of a rigged election, does anyone have a more proactive, workable response than my proposal of establishing an alternative political party through which we can all commit to building a strong government come 2020? Because, like it or not, neither the Americans nor the British, or even our Canadian friends, will come to our rescue after 2020. Yours Faithfully, Craig Sylvester
Potential for ‘cost reduction’ at Berbice River Bridge DEAR EDITOR, While the relevant authorities are reportedly looking at the finances of the Berbice River Bridge, I wish to humbly suggest that they also take a hard look at the potential for cost reductions in the routine operation and maintenance of the bridge.As a frequent traveler over the bridge and an occasional visitor to the office, it is my perception that there is room for cost reduction in the day-to-day operation and maintenance of the bridge. Of course, my perception is influenced by my general and human resource management experience elsewhere, but I believe that there is sufficient relevance and transferability in this context. Nowrang Persaud
The Berbice Bridge Authority has already piled up US$15M in losses DEAR EDITOR, The tolls on the Berbice Bridge at 20-times the rate of the Demerara Harbour Bridge is an outrage. Users of the Berbice Bridge are being ransomed. Government should immediately take action to bring about a measure of equal treatment for Berbicians by cutting the Berbice Bridge tolls by half. Is that going to exacerbate the financial problems of Bridge Authority? Of course, it will. The Berbice Bridge Authority is heading for bankruptcy anyway. It should file immediately for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and reorganization. There is no way for such a small number of users to generate enough revenue to service financial obligations (dividends and interest payments) and cover operational costs. The only way to build infrastructure to service one region of the country is to subsidize or nationalize it.
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Kaieteur News
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Supporters of the current government should not use this Bridge fiasco to attack the Jagdeo government. There was a compelling need for this bridge. Berbicians suffered enormously before the bridge was built. The problem lies with the financial architecture used to build the bridge. Few investors and guaranteed returns - that means gouging and ransoming the users to pay unaffordable tolls. Also, at the heart of the problem is the mismatch between relatively few users and high capital costs to build the bridge. Do you then force the users to pay through their noses to cover the costs – that’s ransoming. The new oil-rich government has two choices: (1) Pay the investors the money they put in, and cut them loose. Now govt. owns the bridge. And, govt. must subsidize the operational costs of the bridge out of general revenues just as they do with
all other infrastructural projects - roads, ferry boats etc. (2) Let bankruptcy court pay the investors 50 cents on the dollar (wipe away half their investment) - and allow the Bridge Authority to reorganize. The Authority will then have to attract new investors and will again have the onerous task of matching revenues with a lower equity/ debt load. This is not a failure of the BOOT (build, operate, own and transfer) concept; it is just that the user population is too small and could not generate enough revenues to service the US$45 million equity/debt capital that it cost to build the bridge. To date, the Bridge Authority has announced losses of US$15 million; losses are mounting with no end in sight. The Authority has no choice but to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Mike Persaud
Creating a political storm in a teacup DEAR EDITOR, Just a few weeks ago, the intended launching of an indigenous Political Party to represent the Amerindian Peoples of Guyana was splashed across the headlines of our National media, so it is no wonder that the organizers of this conference left their homes in the Hinterland to attend this 12th sitting of the National Toshaos Council (NTC) Conference to discredit the sincere efforts of the APNU/ AFC Coalition. Over the last three years, the Government has engaged the leaders of the Amerindian communities through its many social, educational and economic programs geared to better the standard of living of our Amerindian brothers and sisters.It seems as though the leaders of the NTC are out in pursuit of political power, given that this present administration has worked unceasingly to give Amerindians equal opportunity to benefit from the promised good life. In Amerindian communities, children benefit
from the availability of boats, buses, bicycles and breakfast at some schools; hinterland airstrips are upgraded and soon the Government will provide adequate aircraft to improve transportation services out of our hinterland. The road from Lethem to Mabura will add to the comfort of the communities, trade from the hinterland will receive a tremendous boost. The mineral-rich land of the Hinterland does not only belong to the Amerindians, it is for all Guyana, Africans were here before a few Amerindian Tribes that crossed the border approximately 200 years ago, the Indigenous Africans were already here 200 and odd years before their coming, it is the tax payers’ money of those who live on the coastland that has been used before and after Guyana became independent in 1966 to develop Hinterland communities. While they have been receiving Amerindian land titles, African Guyanese communities are fighting to regain those ancestral lands
stolen by the colonial administration and the former PPP Government. This Government must never bow to deceit and deception by those who seek political power by all means necessary, they will stop at nothing to embarrass the President and the Coalition Government. Why didn’t they seek an audience with the President and his Ministers before coming to the Convention Centre to discuss those issues they raised at the opening of this much touted National Toshaos Conference? It seems as though they were ill advised. I commend President David Arthur Granger for not responding to those baseless rants that have dampened the possibility for constructive engagements between NTC and the Government. I am of the opinion that the NTC has gone into 2020 election mode, it seems a new opposition party is in full gear challenging to occupy the seat of political power. Yours respectfully, RAS Aaron Blackman
Laid-off sugar workers are not likely to embrace cooperatives From page 4 can succeed”. With that in mind, I ask: Is the public sentiment of former sugar workers for or against cooperatives? I will be the first person to applaud Minister Scott and his team if they can persuade former sugar workers to form successful cooperatives. I know that when people are helped to develop their own businesses by the sweat of their own brows, and when what they get from the business is in proportion to what they put in, there is a much higher chance that they would succeed. In my opinion, businesses based on group mentalities are more likely to go awry. There are usually quarrels and fights for leadership and members tend to grumble about the returns. Some cannot deal with financial responsibilities and start to steal. The writer of the response to my letter alluded to me being a disciple of Minister Keith Scott. I have never been anyone’s disciple. I have a strong aversion to the word ‘disciple’ being used to categorise me. I understand mentors and persons who inspire. The Minister has his way of thinking and I am not necessarily completely with him in everything he says and does, and he is not always fully in step with me on every issue, such as the plan to push former sugar workers into cooperatives. I admire the Minister for
his independent thinking and I think he has similar sentiments for me. I understand why he likes cooperatives, because he practically grew up in the cooperative movement era; from his formative years, he was in it. I understand that he believes wholeheartedly in the philosophy of people working together to achieve a common goal via a positive group mentality, which is what cooperatives are all about. The writer’s response failed to touch on one of the most important aspects of my letter. Why is it that the Ministry, the Honourable Minister and the Government did not think about starting to educate and prepare sugar workers to form cooperatives from the inception of the idea to close the sugar estates? That would have been the best time to feed the minds of sugar workers with the idea of cooperatives, the pooling of money in various ventures for the common good of members of the cooperatives. Why wait until the workers were already off their jobs and facing desperate circumstances before telling them that you will help them to form cooperatives? I advise the Honourable Minister and the writer of his reply to re-read my first letter and the points I made about keeping these people economically vibrant. I wrote that the former sugar workers are facing starvation. It means this is a possibility. However, with our
seas and our lands, I do not think it is possible for Guyanese to be in a state of mass starvation. The former sugar workers are definitely facing serious hardships and their spokespersons have said so publicly. When the minds of the people are in confusion, strain and stress, it is not easy for them to focus and they can fall into depression. There is serious poverty and the people have less to eat than they did before. I have been there; I have seen with my own eyes deprivation and confusion among the people and some have approached me and gotten help from me. The entire sugar belt is in crisis and many former sugar workers living there seem to think they have no future. It is good that Government, through the efforts of Minister Scott and others, is trying to address these issues. Nevertheless, I think they should have been more patient while slaking their thirst to close the sugar estates, and I think they made a big made a mistake by not preparing the sugar workers early for the loss of their jobs. Now, the entire country suffers one way or another. I do not think cooperatives will work for displaced sugar workers because the idea was brought up when the workers were already displaced, after the confusion and pain had already set in and the money has already been spent to make ends meet. The pain and
annoyance is already ingrained in the heart of the people. Furthermore, the people in the sugar belt were never attracted to cooperatives, except for a few small groups aligned with the then government. Governments in Guyana and worldwide come up with many ideas that seem good in theory, but end up being bad in practice. Here, we have the sad example from the ‘produce-or-perish’ era with the banning of imported items. Yes, it was good to urge us to consume what we produced, but it ended up breeding extensive smuggling and money laundering that we still suffer from to this day. In that era, Guyanese who had no inclination to smuggle anything and had no intention to support smuggling ended up doing that because they simply could not endure life without certain imported items that were an essential part of their lives. As a direct result, people who never dreamed about doing money laundering turned to this illegal activity as a way to hide their profits from smuggling. Look what happened; rampant smuggling in Guyana led to rabid attempts to smuggle wealth out of Guyana in terms of gold, cash and diamonds. It all started with the good intention to ban imported items to cut our import bill, but the leaders tried to force people to abstain from foreign items without getting the
people’s support first. The people did not accept it, the ‘parallel economy’ was born and it has grown into a monster. Another case of good intentions gone wrong was the decision to scrap Guyana’s railway and expand the local bus company. The bus company flopped and the ‘Tata’ and ‘Sanos’ buses ended up rusting in the ‘bus graveyard’ on Mandela Avenue in Georgetown. If we still had a railway, touts would never be dragging people and herding them into minibuses like cattle. The train would have handled public transport comfortably; who knows, we might have had a subway by now. This is my last correspondence on the matter. I trust that readers who follow the thread of my commentaries will know that I am a patriot and, as such, I am always on the positive side of any issue related to Guyana’s development and prosperity. Once we are commenting on controversial issues, there will be differences of opinion and
we must respect that. No one can expect me to follow all the Minister’s thoughts and vice versa. That needs to be respected. Let me make it clear that I do not want any initiative that benefits Guyana to fail. If Minister Scott and his team have done their outreach, collected data, gotten their feedback from former sugar workers and if, based on this research, it is their informed opinion that former sugar workers are ideal candidates to form cooperatives and are such persons are totally upbeat and ready to jump on board the cooperative movement, then may the richest blessings be upon the Minister Scott and his team. I wish to categorically state that I will never do or say things to humiliate my country or Government, and that I will always be a positive person in support of any elected Government of this country. I have no political priority or prejudices. Sincerely, Roshan Khan Snr.
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An apparent ignorance of the Albion workers’ plight and concerns DEAR EDITOR, The GAWU noted the remarks of GuySuCo’s Corporate Communications Manager, Ms Audreyanna Thomas as is reported in another section of the media titled “Albion Estate has 600 vacancies after 3000 workers dismissed” which was published on July 19, 2018. The article quotes Ms Thomas as saying that GuySuCo would “…like to get attendance up to 100 percent”. This statement by the Senior GuySuCo official is incredulous to say the least, but serves to confirm the massa-like mentality of the new GuySuCo. Obviously, consideration was not given to the difficult nature of the field work. At the same time, one notes that while the Corporation seeks to have all the workers every day at work during the cropping period, during the out of crop it wishes that the workers stay home, and it manages to do so through the offering of depressed wages. From all appearances the GuySuCo
wants to suck cane and blow whistle. We don’t know if it has dawned on GuySuCo that its attitude towards workers through the freezing of wages; the discontinuation of incentive payments; open disrespect and flouting agreements, laws and international conventions; a belligerent attitude to workers’ concerns, among other things, could only be tolerated by the workers for some time only. As GAWU has warned before, workers can be driven to the point where they may well react to the situation where they work and still starve. It seems that day and time is beckoning Incidentally, the Corporation has the option to recruit more than 600 workers who were formerly engaged at Rose Hall and Skeldon estates, and with the provision of transport to those workers, the work establishment of Albion estate which is 4,000 but has 3,100 on its payroll, would be addressed. We recognised, from the
article, similar and most appropriate contentions were made by Region Six Chairman, David Armogan in his address to the gathering. Indeed we hope GuySuCo took sincere account of the Chairman’s remarks, as they reflect the reality of the situation sugar workers must contend with nowadays. We fully endorse the Chairman’s remarks when he said that “…a plan cannot operate by itself”. Indeed it’s generally accepted that the best plans can be reduced to nothing if the people are not involved and committed to reaching the objectives. For us, it is simply upsetting that so far we have not yet received a copy of the plan Ms Thomas referred to, though we have sought a copy sever a l w e e k s a g o . B u t even more importantly is an apparent ignorance of the workers’ plight and concerns. We hope, even at this late stage, to finally obtain a copy of the plan that is touted. We urge the Corporation to consider rationally and realistically our concerns at this time. Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU
Friday July 20, 2018
Sexual violence awareness campaign to be translated in Indigenous language Indigenous Peoples are among the most susceptible groups to a number of socioeconomic issues including sexual and other types of violence according to a study. Studies conducted by the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) revealed an increase in the number of cases in teenage pregnancy in Guyana’s hinterland. According to the report, it was estimated that one in every four births occurred to a mother who is younger than 16 years old. When looked at from a wider scale, the collected data show that 21 percent of adolescent girls from Indigenous communities have already begun child bearing, a number which is six percent higher than the national average.The UNICEF study revealed that among the contributors to the problem is the fact that, Indigenous Peoples are less likely to access good quality education, healthcare services and information and a number other social issues than persons living on the coastland. The study also revealed that the barriers to the quality of education delivery and sensitization in the hinterland residents are said to be influenced by among other things, a lack access to computers and internet and language barriers. To this end, the Childcare and Protection Agency,
(CPA) is moving to spread awareness about sexual and other types of abuse meted out to children in the Amerindian communities. In addition, for the first time, the information will be translated and disseminated in the four main Indigenous dialects. Kaieteur News understands that the agency has been working to sensitize residents in the outlying areas of Guyana. The CPA has however taken note that there are barriers to effectively sensitizing the Indigenous people due to cultural differences. “What we know is that a lot of Indigenous people have their own culture and language. This can hamper the effectiveness of any awareness campaign in their communities.“What is accepted as a norm in Indigenous communities may very well be a violation of the Child Protection Act. So, the Agency has its work cut out in terms of communicating with them and ensuring the message gets out.“We have to help them to understand that what would be normal to them for instance, a father and daughter having sexual relations and a girl being pregnant at as young as 12 years old is in fact unlawful and not acceptable.“That is why, it’s important that the information on sexual abuse shared to the Indigenous people in their languages,” officials of the agency explained. As such, the agency will be working with radio stations particularly those reaching the hinterland regions to spread the word about the issues of child molestation, sexual and other types of
abuse. The CPA will collaborate with commentators, deejays and other persons familiar with the language to ensure that the information reaches the people in a language they understand. In a recent report, UNICEF deduced that the most liable cause for the high birth rates among young girls is due to the absence of women empowerment in many Amerindian communities. The study noted that it is very difficult for women in those areas to access contraceptives since they do not have the authority to make those decisions. Additionally, the high levels of violence in the home are not reported, since it is seen as a normal occurrence that has been happening for generations.In the Moruca sub-district, out of the 350 births that were recorded in 2016, approximately 90 were born to adolescent mothers. Meanwhile, incest in the household is an act that has been prevalent for some time now. It spans between not only father-daughter abuses, but also among siblings. It was indicated that these cases are never reported. In fact, the police within the communities have heard words on the street about the frequency of incest in communities but it would seem as though that is habitual among relatives. Final deductions conclude that the Indigenous people of Guyana “live in deep vulnerability, with historical changes that are rooted in the social, economic, administrative and political structures of the country”.
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Govt. has no agreement yet with Exxon for - Company still thinks it’s best gas to power project Guyana re-injects its associated gas By Abena Rockcliffe-Campbell
T
he Government is steaming full speed ahead in preparation for its proposed gas to power project. But is this a case of putting the cart before the horse? The entire project is essentially dependent on ExxonMobil and the decisions that that company has to make. But the oil giant is still to make any final decision on that front. The Production Sharing Agreement that exists between Guyana and ExxonMobil clearly gives ExxonMobil the right to re-inject associated gas into the oil producing wells. Therefore, the company cannot be forced to do otherwise. Indeed, the contract provides for alternative arrangements like the gas to power project. But, that sort of arrangement is predicated on a feasibility study that the contract states, has to be done by ExxonMobil. ExxonMobil’s Country Manager, Rod Henson, revealed that the study is yet to be done. He revealed this to the Parliamentary Sectoral Committee on Natural Resources during a recent meeting. Chairman of the Committee, Odinga Lumumba, asked Henson about ExxonMobil’s active involvement in the project and about “studies and agreements” that the
ExxonMobil’s Country Manager, Rod Henson
company will be guided by. Henson said, “There are no agreements to date and this gas to power project is essentially under discussion. We have done our own study work on this. Currently, the development plan for Liza Phase-One is that all the gas gets re-injected into the reservoir and the reason we do that is reservoir management.” Henson said that the reinjection method is a “very common, normal way to do these sorts of developments. Ultimately, you get the most value for your resource by doing that. So, Guyana would get more value by re-injecting that gas. Because it helps reservoir pressure and ultimately it helps you recover more oil.” Henson said that while this is generally the case, ExxonMobil has taken into consideration the uniqueness
of Guyana and its needs. He said, “We have done some (assessment) work that says that Guyana is in a unique position because of the high electricity cost. As part of the community, we are looking to see if we could we divert some of that gas and that is the project under discussion right now; but there are no agreements yet.” Pressed further by Lumumba as to the existence of any sort of final agreement, be it verbal or written, Henson said, “There have been no decisions that I know of. There have been discussions that I am aware of and essentially, we have been talking with various elements of the government regulatory make up.” Henson said that there is a possibility that ExxonMobil can divert 30 to 34 million cubic feet of gas from the Liza
1,608 persons recruited to Guyana People’s Militia - Min. Harmon Minister of State, Joseph Harmon, yesterday informed the National Assembly that to date, 1,608 persons have been recruited to the resuscitated Guyana People’s Militia. The Minister, who was responding to a question posed by the Opposition, said these persons are recruited at various levels and are between the ages of 18 and 35. They needed to be physically and mentally stable for entry. Thus far, 36 persons have been recruited from BarimaWaini (Region One), 154 from Essequibo Islands-West Demerara (Region Three), 365 from Demerara-Mahaica (Region Four), 204 from Mahaica-Berbice (Region Five), 405 from East BerbiceCorentyne (Region Six), 93 from Cuyuni-Mazaruni (Region Seven), 42 from Potaro-Siparuni (Region Eight), 45 from Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo (Region
Minister of State, Joseph Harmon Nine) and 264 from Upper Demerara-Berbice (Region Ten). Special consideration is given to highly-skilled retired military personnel and skilled professionals, the Minister said. Additionally, recruitment
teams are deployed to the various regions to sensitise persons to the programme and to recruit those interested. Advertisements are placed on social media, radio, television and flyers are distributed to attract interest. The officers are required to attend specialised training three times per week in the regions. The training entails personal drills, map reading and navigation, jungle and weapons training, internal security, national policy and more. A payment of $2,829 per day is provided. The State Minister made it clear that persons are not forced to join the Militia but do so of their own free will. Minister Harmon also informed the House that after a 10-year hiatus, the Reserve Officer Training, conducted by the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), has recommenced and will conclude on June 2019.
Destiny, build a pipeline to shore, then take that natural gas and burn it to generate electricity rather than the heavy fuel oil that is currently being burnt here. Lumumba then asked how it is that Henson can provide such details about the approximation of cubic feet in the absence of a feasibility study. Henson responded, “We have done much study on this matter but no formal document (has been prepared.) We have internal studies. Respectfully Sir, this is nothing difficult to do in the realm of oil and gas. You do not need a feasibility study from a technical standpoint. This is very feasible.” Henson went on to disclose, “We are in early discussions; (brainstorming) where the plant would be, the cost, capital investment, who builds the power plant, stuff
like that.” Lumumba asked Henson if ExxonMobil would construct the plant, pipeline and other needed facilities as well as manage the project. Henson responded, “That is something we are still discussing internally. We haven’t reached an internal discussion on the role we will play.” He added, “we’re just not there yet.” Lumumba asked Henson how long ExxonMobil would take to bring gas to power in Guyana into a reality. Henson said that it can happen within the next four to five years. He said, “If we get approvals in a timely manner with Environmental Impact Assessments, etc. we will be looking at 2022-2023.” In response to a question by PPP/C Member of the Committee, Pauline Sukhai about ExxonMobil’s “inten-
tion” to work with Government for the project, which forms part of the green state strategy, Henson said, “We do not have any intention to do this. This is something that we are discussing, it is an opportunity that we want to work with Guyana to see if we can make something work here.” However, Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, had said publicly that a site has been identified, but the necessary technical studies will have to be conducted. The site is 475 acres, while the natural gas and liquid petroleum plants will be approximately 20-25 acres. Patterson, who is responsible for the energy sector, said the remaining 450 acres have been dedicated for an industrial park aimed at incentivizing the (Continued on page 11)
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The Extractive Industries…
Political parties risk fueling corruption, economic distortion in the absence of informed policies-NRGI
P
olitical parties have a fundamental role to play in designing and implementing good resource governance systems. By developing comprehensive resource p o s i t i o n s , they are better able to communicate who they are and what they stand for to constituents and, whether in power or in opposition, participate in policy making and public debate in a more informed, strategic and unified way. But without comprehensive resource positions, political parties risk exacerbating the challenges associated with resource wealth—challenges such as corruption, mismanagement, untenable public expectations, revenue volatility and economic distortion.
Given the aforementioned, the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) and the Natural Resource Governance Institute (NRGI) have noted that Guyana and other emerging oil producers develop clear, informed and comprehensive policy positions that cover relevant issues across the natural resource value chain. These issues include beneficial ownership, contract transparency and monitoring, corruption, economic diversification, licensing and negotiation, mandatory payment disclosure, revenue management, sovereign wealth funds, tax policy and revenue collection. To cement its point on the importance of political parties having comprehensive poli-
cies for the extractive sector, the organizations presented the case of Ghana. GHANAAND POLITICAL RIVALRY NRGI and IDEA noted that in 2008, after the discovery of commercial quantities of oil, the New Patriotic Party (NPP) government initiated public consultations on the drafting of key laws governing Ghana’s nascent oil sector and revenues. The organizations said, “Domestic and international
civil society organizations and donors pushed the government to consult the people of Ghana. Citizens were initially wary of news of the oil discovery, because of historical public discontent with the management of mineral revenues in Ghana and neighbouring Nigeria’s challenges in the oil sector. However, broad public consultations led to a greater awareness of the oil discovery as a unique opportunity to get things right.”
The transparency bodies continued, “In spite of the consultative approach to developing the revenue management principles, intense political rivalry between the two main parties had a detrimental impact on revenue management outcomes. The NPP’s energy Minister at the time of oil discovery went as far as presenting a bottle of crude oil in a parliamentary session to celebrate the discovery. These types of public appearances and accompanying positive messages raised expectations among the assumption that revenues would be large enough to quickly transform the country’s economy.” They added, “Consequently, public consultations led to wide backing for sav-
ing a minority of the resource revenues for future generations and investing the rest in national development. Political rivalry has continued to play a role in shaping the sector’s management, with the subsequent NDC government publicly declaring that it would produce production.” IDEA and NRGI noted however, that this strategy was not accompanied by equal determination in developing a comprehensive set of policies, laws and regulations before the oil sector today, as expressed by Kwame Jantuah, Vice Chairman of Ghana’s Public Interest Accountability Committee (PIAC). This institution was created to increase accountability of the use of oil revenues.
Region records 23 percent decline in AIDS -related deaths between 2000 and 2017 - UNAIDS
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here were an estimated 310,000 people living with HIV in the Caribbean at the end of 2017. Almost three of four [73 percent] people living with HIV in the region were aware of their status. Of all people living with HIV, 57 percent were on treatment and 40 percent were virally suppressed. This level
of treatment coverage contributed to a 23 percent decline in AIDS-related deaths in the region between 2000 and 2017. This is according to information contained in the 2018 Global AIDS Update report which was released by the United Nations programme on HIV/ AIDS [UNAIDS] two days ago.The report has outlined
that to reach the targets that will set the Caribbean on track to end AIDS, the region must close the gaps in testing and treatment. The gap to achieving the testing target—90 percent of all people living with HIV diagnosed – was 54,800 people in 2017. The gap to achieving the second target—90 percent of diagnosed people on treatment—was 74,700 people. And the gap to achieving the third target— 90 percent of people on treatment virally suppressed—was 103,000 people. In 2014, UNAIDS and its partners launched the 90-9090 targets. The aim was to diagnose 90 percent of all HIV-positive persons, provide anti-retroviral therapy [ART] for 90 percent of those diagnosed and achieve viral suppression for 90 percent of those treated by 2020. The report outlines that
the Caribbean must increase its use of proven strategies such as community-led services for early diagnosis, enrolment in treatment, retention in care and treatment adherence. It noted, too, that stigma and discrimination and restrictive laws and policies hinder access to services for young people and members of key population communities. “The Caribbean has to quicken the pace in ensuring that people living with HIV know their status, start treatment and achieve viral suppression,” said Dr. César Núñez, Director of the UNAIDS Latin America and Caribbean Regional Support Team. He added, “AIDS programmes, Governments, civil society and development partners must work together to ensure that no one is left behind because of their age, sex, gender identity or sexual orientation.”
Guyana has been making deliberate inroads to sustain its gains against the disease. The Ministry of Public Health this week announced that it has collaborated with UNAIDS on a three-year HIV/ AIDS Strategic Plan to help improve the life expectancy of those affected by the virus. Under the terms of the HIVision2020 covenant, 90 percent of Guyanese living with AIDS must be diagnosed by 2020; a similar number must be receiving their antiretroviral treatment. The two sides also estimate that under the pact there must be 90 percent of the people in treatment with “fully suppressed viral load” by 2020.UNAIDS estimates that the ‘90-90-90’ compact will cost the country some US$5.58M [G$1.14B] to meet the global target. The 2018 Global AIDS Update has made it clear that around US$ 20.6 billion was available for the AIDS response in 2017—a rise of
UNAIDS’, Dr. César Núñez. eight percent since 2016 and 80 percent of the 2020 target set by the United Nations General Assembly. However, there were no significant new commitments and as a result, the one-year rise in resources is unlikely to continue. Moreover, it has been deduced that achieving the 2020 targets will only be possible if investments from both donor and domestic sources increase. From townships in southern Africa to remote villages in the Amazon to mega-cities in Asia, the dozens of innovations contained within the pages of the report show that collaboration between health systems and individual communities can successfully reduce stigma and discrimination and deliver services to the vast majority of the people who need them the most. These innovative approaches continue to drive the solutions needed to (Continued on page 9)
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Implementation and planning are the problems The world this week observed the 100th birth anniversary of Nelson Mandela. As part of the centenary reflections, it was accepted that the objective conditions which Mandela faced required him to depart from the peaceful resistance model of the American civil rights movement and India’s independence struggles. Nelson Mandela was no angel. Neither are most politicians! In Guyana, we can all agree that the PPPC is no flock of angels. But does this disqualify them from being critical of the present administration? Is the PPPC not the legitimate Opposition? And despite the opinion that they lack the moral authority to criticize the present government, consider what would have been the state of political accountability and public transparency if same PPPC was not exposing the excesses of the APNU+AFC. The PPPC is not under any obligation to make the government look good. Its role is to do the opposite. It role is to be the governmentin-waiting. Its role is to convince the electorate that it is a better alternative than the government. It therefore has a legitimate right and obligation to expose poor governance. The APNU+AFC is finding great difficulty in countering the criticisms of the PPPC. And so the APNU+AFC has concocted a new excuse for its underperformance in government. Instead of accepting its flaws and determining how these can be corrected, the mouthpieces of the APNU+AFC are now finding new excuses for their poor performance in government. The latest one to hit the fan is that the PPPC practised a policy of discrimination in the award of Government contracts and the same party members who won contracts are still doing so today. In other words, the excuse is that the APNU+AFC is being
sabotaged by a corrupt system which has been entrenched by the PPPC. It is as weak an argument as there can be. The argument ignores the fact that last year and earlier this year, there were concerns about the poor implementation ratio of the Public Sector Investment Programme – the government’s capital programme. The government took steps to address these defects and from all accounts, the government is claiming success in improving its implementation deficit. So then, how can it be claimed that the PSIP is being hijacked by persons within the system. In fact, this argument also overlooks the sweeping changes which have been made of personnel in government. The Central Tender Board has been revamped and is now dominated by persons appointed by the APNU+AFC. So if contracts are still being awarded to PPPC favourites, it is not being done by agents of the PPPC. In addition, a Public Procurement Commission has been put in place and this allows all those who feel that the pro-PPP companies are still unfairly gaining contracts to protest any unfair practices. The excuse, therefore, that the PPPC entrenched institutional corruption and that this system is responsible for subverting the APNU+AFC is pure poppycock. It ignores the mass dismissals which have taken place in many government offices. It ignores who wields power at power and the obsessions with control and domination of the public space by the APNU. The argument also ignores the dubious record of the government since 2015. The scandals are piling up on one another. In fact for such a short period of time, they outstrip that of the PPPC for a comparative period. But do not tell that to the apologists. They will ignore the Sussex Street bond issue, the fertilizer contract, the Durban Park
Region records 23 ... From page 8 achieve the 2020 targets. When combination HIV prevention—including condoms and voluntary medical male circumcision—is pursued at scale, population-level declines in new HIV infections are achieved, the report outlined. It also highlighted that oral pre-exposure prophylaxis [PrEP] is having an impact, particularly among key populations. Further, the report states that “offering HIV testing and counselling to family members and the sexual partners of people diagnosed with HIV has significantly improved testing access.”“For every challenge there is a solution,” said Mr. Michel Sidibé, Executive Director of UNAIDS. As such, he underscored that “It is the responsibility of political leaders, national governments and the international community to make sufficient financial investments and establish the legal and policy environments needed to bring the work of innovators to the global scale [since] doing so will create the momentum needed to reach the targets by 2020.”
fiasco, the ExxonMobil contract, the signing bonus controversy, the emergency drug purchases etc. The list is long and endless. The problem with the APNU+AFC is a two-fold. The first is a problem of project conception. The APNU+AFC is implementing inherited pipeline projects. The Cheddi Jagan airport project was inherited; the extension of the East Bank Public Road is an inherited project; work on the preparation for a new bridge across the Demerara River was long advanced under the PPPC; the road link to Lethem which
is now going to be commenced with local resources has long been touted by the PPPC. The list is long here. What major new project has the APNU+AFC created in its three years in power? The APNU+AFC also has an implementation problem. It was the same story in pre1992 when the implementation ratio was under 70% for a miniscule PSIP. Now with a bigger PSIP and greater capacity, the government is struggling to spend what it says it plans to spend. Do not blame the contractors. Just look at the so-called emergency tender which is
now the subject of controversy. The first tender went out in April and it was not until August that the controversial contract was approved by Cabinet. How then after almost four months, could the procurement be deemed to be emergency? The APNU+AFC has a serious problem. Do not blame the professionals who worked for the previous gov-
ernment. Do not blame the contractors. Lay the blame where it ought to be placed. Lay the blame at a government which is struggling with implementation and planning.
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THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
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D
o you shop often at the supermar kets? Well if you do, except Massy in Providence, Bounty branches on Water Street and Regent Streets, and DSL on Mandela Avenue, I shop not regularly but incessantly at all the other supermarkets in Georgetown – DSL, Survival, Nirva, Budget, Mattai, True Value, Gainmart, Bounty in Kitty, etc. The cashiers and attendants know me very well. In some instances, they tell me about their problems in general. About twelve years ago, while chatting with one of the cashiers at Survival on Vlissengen Road, she asked me to get a job for her. I was curious – she was already employed. This young lady
had ten CXC subjects with Grade 2 in Maths and English and was doing cashier work at a supermarket. But that was not all. Things were bad in Essequibo and she had three other siblings. She was the eldest. She came to Georgetown in search of a job. She found one at Survival. This is still not the end of the story. She was renting a place with another girl in Cummings Lodge. With rent, transportation cost and food expense, this girl was not saving a cent. In addition, she had to work at nights and went home late. I agreed to help because life had to be kinder to her. I went to a friend of mine who had a big position in Guyana - Mike Khan. He was
the CEO of a public sector organization that employs hundreds - Georgetown Public Hospital. Mike employed her the next week. About five years after, I saw her at the hospital and she was quite happy. I don’t know what became of her. I never knew her name so I can’t research her history at the hospital. I meet people like that girl all the time in many, many commercial places especially the supermarkets. You are not going to believe these two situations I am about to disclose to you. There is a young man in his early twenties packing your items in the black bags as you leave the cashier. It was through my regular chats with him that I found out that this boy (he is literally a boy) has ten CXC with Maths and English at grade 2. He couldn’t find work so he spent a year at UG to do business studies. But he couldn’t continue because of the family situation. He just had to find work. He found doing what he currently does. He said, “Mr. Kissoon, I know you won’t believe it but I completed one year at UG.” How could a young man with
such qualification be a packing boy at a supermarket? Here is the other one. Her story reminds me of the Survival employee twelve years ago. It is so identical you would not believe it. Because of economic pressure in the family in Essequibo, she came to Georgetown in search of a better life. She found one as a supermarket cashier. She rents a flat with another girl in Cummings Lodge. This young lady has thirteen CXC subjects with distinction in Maths and Grade 2 in English. Here is the problem. With that kind of CXC performance, they can enter UG but they have to live and to live they have to work so UG doesn’t come into the equation. It is the need to earn that made the young boy leave UG
in the first place. My thinking on this issue is either they find better jobs or they are given well-funded scholarships to go to UG. Both of these young persons have asked me for help. But times have changed since twelve years ago. I don’t socialize with power people. I campaigned for the AFC then the AFC became a monster and I keep away from AFC personnel except Michael Carrington who was a personal friend moons and moons ago. I don’t know the powerhouses in the PNC leadership to the point of asking them a favour. I do not socialize with wealthy people. I do not socialize with the business world. I cannot get employment for people. So my assistance to these two kids has taken the form of this col-
Frederick Kissoon umn. My cell is 614-5927. Home is 222-1615/1616. Email is fredkissoon@yahoo.com. Finally, an update on two columns. had asked readers to join me in filing a writ against the post office. I received many positive replies. The other is the result of a personal poll on readers’ attitude to the two teenage girls whose murder charge for killing their father was dropped by the DPP. I will offer a feedback on both matters later.
DEM BOYS SEH
Jagdeo nearly duck Felix cork Jagdeo and Soulja Bai meet yesterday. Dem had to meet because if dem didn’t meet no policeman coulda get promotion. Wuss yet; all dem commissioner woulda been acting commissioner. But dem boys want to know if de acting commissioner does get less pay than de real commissioner. One man seh de pay is de same because de acting allowance does mek it up. De problem does come when de person retire. De pension does be at de last confirmed position he hold. It gon be smaller than de real commissioner pension. Anyhow, when dem meet, one man see Jagdeo going in State House and he cry. He seh it wasn’t fair fuh de man to get put out of he own house and then got to
go back there to keep a meeting. De Chat-3 and Gail can’t understand because dem only use to go there fuh meetings. Is strange how it does tek events to mek people hear all de nasty things about people. If you want hear bad things about a woman, go to she wedding and stand in a corner. Is de same thing wid de groom. Another place is funeral. People does talk bad bout de living and de dead. If de dead had power, it woulda get up and slap some of dem who talking just like how Doctor Berry did promise to slap de woman from Red Thread. Jagdeo talk how Paul Slowe got malice in he heart fuh nuff policemen and he might tek out spite and prevent dem from getting pro-
mote. Dem boys she, Slowe lef de force ten years ago. Dat got to be a lot of spite. But is de story bout Winston Felix mek dem boys realize how spite does wuk. Jagdeo heself seh he didn’t know Felix was PNC, otherwise he woulda never mek Felix commissioner. Don’t mind Felix was de best of all de others who get test. It just show dat when people talk bout political victimization is not joke dem mekking. Winston Felix ought to be glad dat Jagdeo didn’t have a spy inside de PNC. And is a good thing he, Felix, never parade heself although he use to walk foot to foot behind Dessy when he was Head of de Presidential Guards. Talk half and watch how Felix get lucky.
$366M drug contracts to HDM…
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inister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence, informed the National Assembly, yesterday, about the controversial $366M drug contract awarded last year to New York-based HDM Labs Inc. But the Opposition will have to wait for its questions to be answered as the Minister merely read a statement on the sequence of events leading to the award to HDM, which is owned by Guyaneseborn Hardat Singh. On Tuesday, the Minister in a statement said she will be updating the House about the contract, which made the news in recent weeks with questions over the qualifications of the company, which seemed to have no track record. Indeed, the company’s office was traced to the Long Island, New York home of Singh. Yesterday, the Minister told the House that it was under the Coalition administration that the Procurement Department was established
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within the Public Health Ministry to ensure that there was segregation of duties, transparency and accountability in the procurement of items and services for the ministry, “while ensuring that the ministry adhered to the regulations and procedures stipulated by law.” While commending the monitoring of the system, the Public Health Minister urged that this be done in an appropriate and sensible manner, “avoiding sensationalism and misrepresentation of facts.” She also made it clear that the granting of advance payments to companies without any order or contracts is a thing of the past and is not the conduct of the Public Health Ministry under this government. Concerning the procedures of the HDM contract, she said that these were followed and the company was awarded on August 21, 2017, for the supply of pharmaceutical emergency supplies for regional and clinical services.
Volda: Govt. has halted advance payments to drug contractors
Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence The Minister told the House that this was confirmed by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), which stated that the contract followed all the requirements set out in the 2003 Procurement Act.
Minister Lawrence said on April 28, 2017, a request was made to NPTAB for restrictive tendering for the procurement of the supplies from six companies- ANSA McAL Limited, Caribbean Medical Supplies, Global Healthcare Supplies, International Pharmaceutical
Agency, HDM Labs Incorporated and Meditron Incorporated. Standard bidding documents were approved on May 3, 2017, Minister Lawrence noted. While tenders were opened on May 23, 2017, only three were received. On June 19, 2017, the NPTAB recommended that no award be made to any of the three bidders as they failed to meet the evaluation criteria at the preliminary stage. The minister explained that following this decision, the ministry then requested from NPTAB for restrictive retendering, which was approved on June 30, 2017. On July 12, 2017, all six companies were asked to resubmit and only HDM Labs Incorporated responded when the bids were reopened on July 18, 2017. The Minister said on August 16, 2017, the evaluation report for re-tender was received from NPTAB recommending that the sole bidder be awarded the contract.
A memo was then submitted to the Cabinet on August 29, 2017, noting NPTAB’s recommendation. Further, the award by NPTAB was addressed to the Permanent Secretary of the Public Health Ministry on August 31, 2017. The Health Ministry’s Permanent S e c r e t a r y, Collette Adams, said Tuesday that from her information, HDM had supplied the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation and had experience for two decades in the business of supplying overseas. Earlier this week, Opposition parliamentarian, Juan Edghill, said that his party is actively considering filing complaints to police and other authorities for a probe. The Opposition said that they have plenty questions about the contract. Over the years, there have been many wrongdoings reported with the supplies of drugs to the country’s hospitals. Annually, the contracts are in excess of $4B.
‘STEAMS’ exposition to be Education Month signature event
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ith an innovative touch of class, the Ministry of Education is currently making preparations for what is expected to be an exposition to remember. Poised to be the signature event o f t h i s year’s Education Month, the ongoing preparations have seen the Ministry employing expert tactics and inventive ideas to promote its services to the nation through the exposition. September is Education Month. The month is usually one that sees the education sector seeking to raise awareness about its various programmes and achieve-
ments. However, according to Senior Public Relations Officer, Mr. Brushell Blackman, “This exposition will be one with a difference; not like the expositions that we would have had before.” In daring to be different, the Ministry has already created its unique focus – STEAMS – which is a move to expand STEAM [Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics] which was previously just STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics]. ‘STEAMS’ is in fact a further expansion which seeks to include Spirituality. While the education sec-
tor had long embraced the need to advance focus in the subject areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics and later adopted STEAM, which saw the Arts being included, word out of the Ministry is that even more is warranted to produce a well rounded individual. According to one of the ‘behind the scenes’ planner of the event, “As a rounded person, you need to be someone who is educated, someone with a sense of purpose and morality and that falls under Spirituality. It is striking a balance between lifestyle, health and
Govt. has no agreement yet ... From page 7 manufacturing sector with inexpensive electricity. Already, GPL has advertised for Expressions of Interest for construction of a 50 megawatts natural gas plant to produce power. (See full story here: https:// www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ 2018/04/06/govt-steamsahead-with-landing-naturalgas-pipeline/.) Further, Patterson went as far as saying that more than 200 Guyanese will be employed during the civil works and construction phase for natural gas and liquid petroleum plants. He said, “It could be more because we have to do work
on the site; the foundation for the plant, fencing. (Guyana Power and Light) would be running a new transmission line from the site to the new substation, so we will need persons for those works. ”Of course, ExxonMobil would have its own employees on board as well,” Minister Patterson explained. When the plant becomes operational, the Minister stated that 30 to 40 persons will be permanently employed as maintenance and operational crew. “Other benefits we’re looking at from the natural gas plant include making the same cheap electricity available to our manufacturing sector di-
rectly, rather than them going to GPL and then coming back. “If any of the industries wish to use natural gas to power their operations, they can receive as well. That way, they will be able to produce products cheaper,” Patterson u n d e r l i n e d . A US$70,000 desk study is being conducted by consultants, Energy Narrative, on the options, cost, economics, impact and key considerations of transporting and utilizing offshore natural gas for electricity generation. (https:// www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/ 2018/05/29/manufacturers-offered-options-of-sourcingpower-directly-from-naturalgas-plant/.)
education.” This therefore means, “If you are going to educate a nation, you need to cover 360 degrees; if you leave one thing out, everything falls apart,” the official asserted. It was in recognition of this important factor that the Ministry decided to create ‘STEAMS’ as the primary backdrop for its exposition. Moreover, the exposition, which will span the period September 14- 16, will be held under the theme: “Education for a good life through innovation and STEAMS”. In order to bring the exposition to successful fruition, the Ministry has already started to reach out to corporate Guyana to help sponsor the event, which is billed for D’Urban Park, H o m e s t r e t c h Av e n u e , Georgetown. “We will seek sponsorship from places like DDL, Banks DIH, Starr Computers and we will even seek support from STEM Guyana, and many more. The Ministry will seek to join forces to host this event which will showcase public schools as the cornerstone of our community,” Blackman shared. He added that already several companies have committed to lending their support. “Plans are well apace,” said Blackman as he confi-
MOE Senior Public Relations Officer, Mr. Brushell Blackman dently assured, “This exposition will be one on par with something that obtains in the Region. We have specific guidelines, certain colour schemes with specific meanings; everything has to be done a certain way...so when you walk into D’Urban Park, you will be walking into a professional arrangement.” The official objective of the three-day exposition is to: show that education is fun; showcase the work that the Ministry has done and will continue to do to provide “quality education for all”. The event, moreover, will see the Ministry seeking to high-
light life-changing stories as it garners support from the public to embrace its vision and policies. The policies and initiatives that have been put in place by the Ministry are aimed at reducing the disparity between the coastland and the hinterland. Moreover, the exposition is being marketed as an event that will impact the lives of students, teachers, parents and the general public who have an inclination to enjoy an interactive educational experience. It is expected that the event will provide access to educational information, books, career advice, Health and Family Life Education instructions and entertainment with a daily onstage live programme. “Unlike traditional educational expositions, this educational extravaganza will provide free access to a world of extraordinary educational experienc-es, entertainment and comprehensive educational information. All in a space of possibilities and empowerment, where a spark of inspiration can change a visitors’ journey forever,” the Ministry has outlined. The exposition will be officially launched with a grand celebration, which will see President David Granger delivering a feature address and will include presentations from students of all of the 11 districts.
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Local Content must not serve to enrich selected few in business community – Dr. Mangal By Kiana Wilburg
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uyana is in the process of putting together a robust Local Content Policy. This document is expected to guide the manner in which locals will be able to benefit to a significant degree in the oil and gas sector. While former Presidential Advisor on Petroleum, Dr. Jan Mangal, sees this as a commendable move, he recently cautioned that not all local content efforts are good. He warned that it can be bad as well. The Oil and Gas Consultant said that “good local content” will get Guyanese employed, something that will help the poor.He said that bad local content efforts will make wealthy and well-connected Guyanese business people and officials much wealthier without helping the rest of the citizenry. He said that this will create many local middle men who add minimal value to the oil and gas operations. Dr. Mangal said that it will also add minimal value to the economy and wellbeing of the country. As stakeholders in the oil and gas industry eagerly await consultations on the second draft of Guyana’s Local Content Policy, Chatham House Advisors, Anthony Paul and Renee Roger Tissot, have highlighted that there are some common pitfalls, which should be avoided. In a most comprehensive research paper, the local
Local Content Expert, Anthony Paul
Local Content Consultant, Renee Roger Tissot
Former Presidential Advisor on Petroleum, Dr. Jan Mangal
content experts cited poorly defined or inconsistent terminology as a major hindrance to the success of local content implementation. In this regard, they said it is imperative that Governments have consistent definitions of the terms: local content, local company or supplier, and nationals/ locals. The experts said that these terms often have different meanings in trade agreements, treaties and in government procurement legislation. They said that definition is critical to target setting, measurement and performance management. Tissot and Paul also noted said that the lack of strategic direction is one of the most obvious pitfalls. The Local Content Experts explained that policies that fail to consider long-term objectives in regard to industrialization, economic diversification and
strengthening of value creation may focus on the easy ‘low hanging fruits’ of local content activities and miss out on opportunities to create in-country value. The Experts noted that priority is sometimes given to low value added activities with limited capabilities for transfer into other sectors. They said that these opportunities often cause short-term local economic booms that tend to be more disruptive to the local population in terms of a surge of consumption and localized inflation, and create community resentment toward those employed in the temporary oil activities. The Local Content Consultants then turned their attention to insufficient consideration of the changing capacities, resources and activities in the country. This, they said, is a major
pitfall that some local content policies fail to address. Tissot and Paul said it is necessary for Governments to draw a baseline of existing capabilities and periodically assessing progress against the baseline, which allows countries to maximize shortterm opportunities and plan for future needs as the knowledge about the resource potential and its impact is better known. The Consultants continued, “Despite efforts in some countries to engage oil operators, local content policies are often developed without a proper understanding of oil companies’ strategies, objectives and procurement practices. “Developed in silos from industry, the result of Government efforts can fall under two extremes: a rigid policy forcing strict quotas and percentages, resulting in
significant cost inflation and delays; or a watered down policy where local content stipulations are encouraged but voluntary, resulting in an irrelevant policy.” They continued, “Another pitfall has to do with poorly designed implementation strategies that make measurement and reporting too complex or prescriptive, and do not properly consider the capacity of the regulator(s) to monitor and measure performance. “This can lead to poor enforcement or conditions that facilitate influence peddling or corruption of public officials.” The Chatham House Advisors added, “One should also pay attention to the fact that benefits are captured by local elites favouring friendlier attitudes rather than competitive solutions.” Expounding further on this point, Paul said that in many new producing countries, the tax base is very low, which encourages political incumbents to seek other sources of income and to use patronage to secure political loyalty. Consequently, he said that they may offer supply contracts to local entrepreneurs to reward political loyalty and to companies run by family members of the ruling elite. Paul noted that local content in such instances fails to encourage entrepreneurial development and instead promotes rentier behaviour.
In contrast, Tissot and Paul noted that the development of local content should result in the broadening of the tax base. The duo said only then can subsoil assets be transformed into other types of assets. They said that there is often a trade-off between maximizing revenue and developing local content, but the extra cost of developing local content is justified if it expands the tax base. Paul and Tissot agreed that rent-seeking-type local content doesn’t expand the tax base, unless the rent seekers reinvest their rents in other truly productive activities in the country. Further to this, the local content experts said that poor access to information and the limited understanding of demand and scheduling by local suppliers and training institutions is also a drawback of poorly crafted local content policies. “Similarly, the lack of reliable information on availability, competencies and experience of local suppliers and individuals cause operators and their international suppliers to seek outside sources.” The experts said that the lack of assessment of competencies is a further issue. In this regard, they shared the example that the host country might identify the national availability of welders, without understanding the precise welding competencies that would be required by the project.
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Granger, Jagdeo meeting…
Way cleared for appointment of Police, Public Service Commissions
President Granger and his team (right) are joined by Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo and his team during yesterday’s meeting at State House.
Appointments of the members of the Police and Public Service Commissions are expected soon following a consultati v e m e e t i n g yesterday between President David Granger and Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, at State House. The Leader of the Opposition was accompanied by former Attorney General, Anil Nandlall, and Opposition Chief Whip, Gail Teixeira. Minister of State, Joseph Harmon and Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, accompanied the President. Following the meeting, Jagdeo said that he expressed concerns over the proposed appointment of Paul Slowe as Chairman of the Police Service Commission. “I expressed my concerns about Paul Slowe, about how partisan he has been. From my understanding, he has substantial baggage with the leadership of the Police Force; that is, bad inter-personal issues and I expressed the hope that these will not cloud his judgment in that particular position,” Jagdeo told reporters. The Opposition Leader stated that the President assured him that he will speak to Slowe about the concerns. Slowe was appointed last July to head the Commission of Inquiry (CoI) into the alleged assassina-
tion plot against the President. By August 31, after public hearings, the report was submitted to the President with wide-ranging recommendations to reform the top brass of the Force. It was during the PPP Government that Slowe, an Assistant Commissioner, was denied promotion within the Guyana Police Force before he retired in 2010. If the President holds firm to his decision, Slowe will chair the Police Service Commission, which is empowered to undertake promotions and disciplinary proceedings in the Force. Slowe was nominated by the Parliamentary Select Committee of Appointments along with Clinton Andrew Conway, former Assistant Commissioner of P o l i c e ; Ve s t a G e n e v a Adams, former Woman Assistant Commissioner of Police; and Claire Alexis Jarvis, former Woman Assistant Commissioner of Police. The life of the former Commission, which w a s chaired by Omesh Satyanand, expired in August 2017. The National Assembly has approved the nominees for the Public Service Commission as Vincent Bowman and Mortimer Livan, which were put forward in the eighth report of the Committee, which was published in March. The life of the Public Service Commission also
expired in August 2017. APPOINTMENTS SOON Minister Harmon said that the President as required by the Constitution, has consulted with Jagdeo and he expects that the Commissions will soon be sworn in. “As you are aware, these two Commissions, the life had come to an end many months ago but the process had required the National Assembly to nominate some of these persons for both Commissions and once those were done; the President would consult with the Leader of the Opposition. So this is what took place,” Harmon noted. He further explained that the requirement was for meaningful consultation and not necessarily agreement. “That consultation took place and now I believe we can proceed with having the two Commissions established and the President at a short time from now will have those two Commissions sworn in so that their work can continue,” Harmon said. The appointments and c o n s u l t a t i o n s a r e being made under Article 210 (1) of the Constitution. The two sides also discussed other national issues including security, the Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) and the humanitarian concerns at the border communities with Venezuela.
Grandfather among three jailed for planting ganja Three elderly men who were found guilty on two charges of possession of ammunition and cultivating prohibited plants were sent to jail when they appeared before by Magistrate Alex Moore in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court. The men are Leroy Victor, 60, who gave his address as Long Hook, Canje River; Gregory McCalmon, 53, of Fort Ordinance, and Sheet Anchor, East Canje; and Malcolm Solomon D’Andrade, 53, of
East Canje, Berbice, were nabbed during a police drug eradication exercise on February 1, 2018, at Long Hook, Canje River. The case for the prosecution was that around 03:45 hrs, the police were on a drug eradication exercise at Long Hook up the Canje River when they came upon the three men who were in a number of camps in a 12-acre field. During the search of the camps, the cops unearthed a 12-gauge shotgun. The field
had about 200,000 marijuana plants of various sizes. The cops also found over 100 Kg of dried marijuana and another 100KG of processed marijuana. The men were arrested and taken into custody. They were subsequently found guilty on both charges. Victor and D’Andrade were sentenced to two years each on both charges while McCalmon was sentenced to eight months each on the two charges. The sentences are to run concurrently.
Friday July 20, 2018
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‘Zipper’ walks free after witnesses bungle case Fifty-seven-year-old Andre Gomes, called ‘Zipper’, yesterday walked out the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court a free man after a drug trafficking case was dismissed against him by Senior Magistrate Leron Daly. Last January, Gomes was arrested and charged after he was allegedly seen throwing a bag containing cocaine over a fence. Gomes, of 32 Craig Street, Campbellville, Georgetown, was charged with having 992 grams of cocaine on January 30 last. He pleaded not guilty during his first arraignment before Senior Magistrate Fabayo Azore and was on remand. However, as Magistrate Daly ruled yesterday, she told the court that she disbelieved the witnesses’ evidence since they contracted each other. In some cases, their evidence was not helpful in any way. She began by telling the
court that she did not believe CANU Officer Reynolds’s evidence and it was not helpful to the case in anyway. She added that she had great difficulty in believing Officer Shaquille Vickerie evidence since she found it hard to believe that someone would look a law enforcement officer in the face and throw a bag over a fence. Magistrate Daly added that another policeman testified to dispatching two officers in the alleyway but Vickerie in his testimony told the court that he was the only person placed in the alleyway. This, the Magistrate said was very contradicting. The court also heard that Vickerie in his statement stated that the bag of cocaine landed on a fence and in his evidence, he stated that he did not see where the bag landed. He then told the court that he only saw the direction in which the bag was thrown. The Magistrate further stressed that she was con-
cerned when Thompson said that he was standing east and Vickerie told the court that he was actually standing west in the alleyway. She added that while it is possible that Gomes threw a bag containing cocaine over a fence, she could not rely on the evidence. She went on to tell the court that while looking at the evidence as a whole, she was satisfied that they were some evidence that the offence was committed. However, due to the missing pieces in the case, she had no other option but to dismiss the matter against Gomes. The matter was prosecuted by Customs Anti Narcotics Unit, (CANU) Prosecutor, Konyo Sandiford, while Gomes was represented by Attorney-at-law Mark Waldron. According to reports, CANU ranks, acting on information, conducted an operation in Craig Street at the residence of Gomes where a quan-
America St. money-changer murder...
Three witnesses testify in PI
Charged: Kerwin Dos Santos
Charged: Kacey Heyliger
Charged: George Hope
The Preliminary Inquiry (PI) into the murder of America Street money c h a n g e r, S h a w n N u r s e , called ‘Fabulous’ who was shot and killed while plying his trade, continued yesterday. Kacey Heyliger, 23, of Kitty, Kerwin Dos Santos, and George Ho p e , b o t h 24, of Freeman Street, East La Penitence, Georgetown, are all charged with the money changer ’s murder. It is alleged that the three men while being in company of each other on February 4, last, at America Street, Georgetown, murdered Nurse during the course or furtherance of a robbery. They were n o t r e quired to plead to the indictable charge after it was read to them by Chief Magistrate Ann
McLennan. The PI into the matter is currently ongoing before Principal Magistrate Judy Latchman in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. Ye s t e r d a y w h e n t h e m a t t e r was called, three witnesses went into the witness box and gave brief testimonies. The first witness called by Police Prosecutor Shawn Gonsalves was the mother of the deceased, Monica Dettering. She was very emotional and cried throughout the pr o c e e d ing of the matter. The second witness called was D ebra Dettering, an aunt of the deceased. She testified to visiting the scene of the crime and identifying the body. And the last witness was Police Constable,
Terry Cummings. Nurse, known as ‘Fabulous,’ of Apartment 33 Shopping Plaza, South Ruimveldt, Georgetown, was shot in the left side of the face during a struggle with a gunman, who was attempting to relieve him of a large sum of foreign and local currency. The father of three died at the scene, while his killers fled with an undisclosed sum of cash and a quantity of gold jewellery. According to the police, Nurse was shot to the left cheek just below the eye by an identifiable male dressed in a red hoodie and brown three-quarter pants. The male then escaped on foot via Avenue of the Republic and Charlotte Street. Police ranks processed the area and the body. A .9mm spent shell was recovered at the scene.
tity of narcotics (992 grams of cocaine), cash, jewellery and other valuables were seized. Last year, CANU issued a wanted bulletin for Gomes in relation to nine kilograms of cocaine found in a gas cylinder. The gas cylinder was discovered at an apartment, which he rented for his 51year-old girlfriend, Naomi Persaud. Persaud who was taken into custody with her teenage grandson. She pleaded guilty to the charge. She was jailed for four years and fined $21M. As a result of her guilty plea, the charge was dismissed against the teen.
Freed: Andre Gomes
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Kaieteur News
Corentyne fathers jailed for raping friend Two Corentyne men, Parshram Guman, called “Naresh”30 , and Mahesh Lackhan called Govindra,30, of Williamsburg, Corentyne, Berbice, who were found guilty of raping their friend have been jailed. They were on trial before Justice Brassington Reynolds and a mixed Jury in the Berbice High Court. Guman who is a father of a four-year-old was jailed for 20 years and nine months. Lackan, a father of four (12, 10, 9 and 4) was sentenced to 15 years and nine months. The sentences were handed down following the presentation of a probation report, which was ordered by the court. They were accused of engaging in sexual penetration of a 26-year-old man (who was their friend and workmate), without his consent during a drinking spree back in 2015 on the Corentyne. The state’s case was presented by Attorney-at-law Tuanna Hardy. The two ac-
cused were represented by Attorney-at-law Rodwell Jugmohan. According to evidence led in court, the men knew each other for some time. They are all cane cutters and would work in the construction sector during the out of crop period with Guman who was the boss man. On the day in question, the two accused, the virtual complainant and another man were drinking together when the virtual complainant began feeling dizzy. Guman then took off the accused belt and pulled off his pants. He instructed Lackhan to hold down his hands. During the sexual ordeal, the victim lost consciousness. The next day, he was at home when he was called by one Guman who asked him if he was feeling good to go to work. It was then Guman told him that he and others sodomised him and this was in revenge for an incident that occurred earl i e r. T h e v i c t i m t h e n
checked his anus and found blood. The matter was reported. The victim was taken to the hospital where he was medically examined and confirmed that he was raped. The two accused were subsequently arrested and charged. In the probation reports, which were presented by Maisie Sheppard and Judith Vankennie, highlighted the poor and unfortunate circumstances in which the two accused grew up. They both were not privy to much formal education and had to leave school early to seek employment to assist their respective families. The two are brothers-in-law. The reports also highlighted the effects that the incident had on the victim who suffered a nervous breakdown and had to be treated for it. He was disrespected and lost his relationship with his reputed
The two accused: Mahesh Lackhan (r) and Parasram Guman wife after the incident. It took three years for him to reestablish another relationship. The accused expressed the hope that the two men whom he had trusted as his friend be dealt with firmly. Justice Reynolds be-
fore handing down sentences took into consideration the men’s age and the life expectancy of Guyanese men. He then admonished them for the act, which he blames not mainly on their poor upbringing, but on
alcohol. Guman was given the higher sentence since he sodomised the victim. The judge among his deliberations deducted one year for his young child. Justice Reynolds told Lackhan that although he did not sodomise the victim, he was equally guilty. You took instructions from your boss and drinking buddy to hold down the victim. You could have refused; you were big enough to know better. The judge during his calculation minus two years for the four children the accused has. The State called seven witnesses including three police ranks and the victim.
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Drinking partner faces murder charge after man dies from cuff to face A Rose Hall Town man is set to appear at the Whim Magistrate’s Court today for the death of Wayne Sundar Singh, 43, who succumbed at the New Amsterdam Public Hospital due to injuries sustained after a night of imbibing with friends at Rose Hall Town. An autopsy was also performed on his body. Vivian Ross, who was arrested by police shortly after the man’s death reportedly, confessed to investigating ranks that himself, Singh and others were drinking when an argument broke out. The argument turned physical and Ross said he dealt Singh a cuff to the face. He said that Singh fell to the ground. He hit his head and was rendered unconscious. Government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Bridgemohan
40
Friday July 20, 2018
Kaieteur News
Dead: Wayne Sundar Singh who performed the post mortem examination on Wayne Sundar Singh, said that the man died from severe haemorrhage caused by blunt trauma to the head. Initial reports disclosed
that after leaving his home eight days ago to spend time with his friends in Rose Hall Town, Singh of Lot 316 Swamp Section, Rose Hall Town was found unconscious with apparent marks of violence about his body. He succumbed at the New Amsterdam Public Hospital. It was a young man from the village who informed Singh’s mother that he was lying unconscious along the road, approximately a street away. She had stated that she noticed that his mouth was swollen and bleeding while his entire left side head was swollen as well. They immediately made contact with the Rose Hall Police Outpost from which the ranks arrived and transported the unconscious man to the Port Mourant Hospital. He was then transferred to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he later died. The relatives of the now dead man were adamant that Singh was killed given the injuries they noticed on his body. Police had detained three persons and after intense interrogation one of the suspects, Ross, admitted to hitting the man causing him to fall and hit his head. The police were also awaiting the results of the post mortem report to determine the way forward.
Minister Broomes missed confrontation in security guard matter Twelve days after the Junior Minister in the Ministry of Natural Resources, Simona Broomes, claimed that a security guard cocked his gun and pointed it at her, which caused the police to lock-up two security guards for 16 hours, there has still not been a confrontation in the matter. Minister Broomes had claimed that two security guards attached to a firm providing security at a business establishment in Providence, East Bank Demerara, were abusive to her. One even pointed a gun to her, she said. But CCTV video footage from the scene told a different story. Police in a statement just after the incident said, “A thorough investigation has been launched following allegations of abuse and threats against a Minister of the Government and her driver at the parking lot of a popular established business
premises located at Providence, East Bank Demerara, about 20:30 hrs Sunday. ”The police said that two security guards were arrested, detained overnight and released on their own recognizance yesterday afternoon. Investigations will continue.” The Minister, who made claims of being fearful for her life, accused the security person of attempting to prevent her driver from carrying her up to the entrance of the New Thriving Restaurant, where she was going to get some food. But contrary to the Minister accusations, video footage of the incident that was obtained by this publication, showed a totally different story. The story, which was highly publicized saw a number of officials making comments on the matter. Minister Volda Lawrence reached out
to one of the security guards and apologized after hearing the security guard’s side of the story and viewing the CCTV video footage of what really transpired. This publication reached out to Commissioner of Police, David Ramnarine, to ascertain the status of the police investigations, and whether charges would be forthcoming. “Let me get it clear. Statements were submitted by all the parties and a confrontation is to be held. I was advised that it was to be held sometime after noon today. “I have not been updated, but as soon that has been completed, the file will be sent for advice.” That was yesterday around 3:54 pm. When this publication reached out to one of the security guards, he claimed that he was told by the police that he needed (Continued on page 31)
Teen accused for attempted murder Eighteen-year-old, Ron Lehman, of Philippine Village, Kamarang, appeared before Magistrate Leron Daly at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Court. It is alleged that on July 15, last, Lehman at the Essequibo Magistrates’ District with intention to commit murder, wounded Terrily Fredrick. He was not required to plead to the charge after it
was read to him by the magistrate. Lehman was represented by Attorney-at-law, Clyde Forde. “The defendant is a young 18-year-old man and has never being convicted before for any matter,” explained the lawyer to the court. He asked the magistrate for bail at a reasonable sum. Prosecutor Sang Singh
said he had no objection to bail being granted to the defendant but asked that conditions be attached to the bail. The magistrate, after listening to the prosecutor’s submission permitted Lehman’s bail of $150,000 and gave conditions that required the defendant to report every Monday at Kamarang Police Station until the completion of the trial.
Girl, 10 struck down on E’bo Public road after summer classes. A ten-year-old girl from the Taymouth Manor Primary school is now in a critical state, after she was struck down on the Affiance Public road, Essequibo Coast on last Tuesday. The incident is believed to have occurred around 15:20 hrs on last Monday, in front of the child’s residence. Kaieteur News understands that the 10-year-old, who was identified as Bibi Saudia Baksh, was returning from the Al Madea Islamic Academy summer classes, at the time of the incident.
Reports indicate that Baksh exited the rear end of the Academy’s school bus, which was proceeding south along the Affiance Public Road and proceeded to cross. She reportedly ran into the path of motorcar PRR 1393, which was driven by a woman. The child’s mother, Shameena Baksh, who is still in shock and disbelief, said that she was in her home at the time of the incident. The woman said that she heard the heavy impact and upon looking outside, she noticed her
daughter was lying motionless on the public road. Shameena said that her daughter was assisted, and rushed to the Suddie Public Hospital by public-spirited individuals who were on scene. Eyewitnesses, who claim that speeding was a contributing factor to the accident, said that the young girl was thrown some 50tf from the point of impact. The driver of the motor car is still in police custody, as the 10-year-old remains in an unconscious state at the Georgetown Public Hospital.
Four youths, two guns, ninth robbery in... From page 21 armed bandits were then accompanied by a third accomplice who was barefooted and wore a blue three quarter pants and a black hooded jacket that concealed his identity. After the cashier gave the bandits all the cash, he fell to the ground, unconscious. The four suspects then exited the gas station via the side street. The whole ordeal lasted just
under two minutes. One staff member for the gas station who has worked with the business for a number of years, stated that it was some nine times that the gas station has been robbed in recent years. The police in a statement reflected the fact that they received a report of a robbery at the Shell McDoom gas station around 03:15 hrs on Thursday, by four unidentifi-
able male suspects, ranks responded at 03:30hrs. The videos of the robbery can be viewed at these links: (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=nvSEri6DL94 ), (https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=1iLA079DzFk ) Anyone able to identify any of the suspects can make contact with the nearest police station or Guyanese Critic on 592-622-7740.
Friday July 20, 2018
‘Insist on contracts before working’ - Min. Keith Scott advises miners Miners across the regions are being advised to sign employee contracts guaranteeing payment, before proceeding to work with dredge owners. This guidance was given by Minister within the Ministry of Social Protection with responsibility for Labour, Keith Scott, at the National Toshaos’ Conference being hosted at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC). Several toshaos at the meeting raised the issue of residents within their communities not receiving salaries after working for months in various mining camps. A number of complaints were received from other miners as well, the Minister clarified,
adding that his Ministry was able to dispatch workers into several mining camps to conduct further investigation into the matter. According to Minister Scott, the enquiries revealed that nine out of ten miners employed at the various campsites, began working without signing contracts. “…Before you work, you need to have a contract signed.” He added, “If you have a contract and you do the work and you are not paid, then we, at the Labour Ministry, will go after those attempting to rob you, and we can take them to court or take other necessary actions.” Re-emphasizing that the miners and other workers need
Minister Keith Scott to ensure they sign all contracts before proceeding any work relations with dredge owners, the Minister noted that only then will the Ministry will be in a position to adequately represent labourers.
GPHC attendant charged for attempting to kill friend An attendant attached to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) yesterday made an appearance before a City Magistrate where an attempted murder charge was read to him. Andre Ferdinand, 29, of 348 Cummings Street, Alberttown, appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. He was not required to plead to the charge which alleged that on July 15 at New Market Street, with intent to commit murder, he wounded Terry Clement. Attorney-at-law Everton Lammy Singh, in an application to secure bail for his client told the court that his client has been an attendant at GPHC for the past 12 years and has no conviction. He went on to tell the court that before the incident, his client made several
Charged: Andre Ferdinand reports at the Alberttown Police Station for the victim. The last report was made last Thursday. He added that on the day in question, the victim was running his client with a cutlass and his client in trying to defend himself picked up a piece of wood and hit the victim. However, Police
Prosecutor, Neville Jeffers objected to bail being granted to the defendant citing the serious nature of the offence and the fact that the victim is still hospitalised. He added that they are known to each. Facts presented by the prosecutor stated that the victim was unarmed when the defendant attacked him with a piece of wood and dealt him several lashes about his body. He was picked up and rushed to GHPC were he is currently a patient. The Magistrate after listening to the prosecutor submission granted the defendant $300,000 bail. Conditions of the bail are that he must report every Monday at the Alberttown Police Station. She added that he must not go within 50 feet of the victim or cause anyone to contact him. The father of two was instructed to make his next court appearance on July 26 for report.
Ministry of Health takes training on substance abuse prevention to Region Two. The Ministry of Health recently commenced a fiveday training workshop on the Essequibo Coast, which is centered on the reduction of drug and substance abuse within Reg i o n Tw o [ P o m e r o o n / Supenaam]. The workshop, which commenced Monday was hosted in the boardroom of the Regional Democratic Council. It ends today. The workshop was fac i l i t a t e d b y M r. R e n Gonzales, who was assisted by Ms. Sylvia Cort, Project Director from within the Ministry of Public Health, Drug Demand
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Reduction Services. This publication understands that the workshop is set to facilitate social workers, welfare officers, NGOs, Youth Workers and representatives from the faith-based Organisations. The facilitator, Mr. Ren Gonzales, said that the objective of the workshop is to train these participants in dealing with substance abuse. Gonzales noted that participants will be equipped with the various prevention mechanisms, to not only curb, but to also avoid substance abuse in various communities. He further explained
that the workshop is based on cultivation interviewing and relapse prevention. The skills and strategies that they can use to prevent relapse of their clients. “The focus is to help trainers gain some skills on drug prevention… even with the use of the brief intervention strategi e s . M o s t o f o u r helpers may not necessarily be psychologists, they may lack the professional qualification but we will equip them with the knowledge on counselling and brief intervention methods so that we can see a change in drug addictions.”
Health officials probe death of eight - year-old West Dem Hospital patient Health officials have launched an investigation into the death of an eightyear-old boy who was being treated at the West Demerara Regional Hospital for a suspected urinary tract infection. Rohit Eshack, of Belle West, West Bank Demerara, was pronounced dead on arrival at the institution after midnight last Sunday, shortly after telling his grandparents that he was “feeling hot” and was “not seeing.” The child was being treated for a suspected urinary tract infection and was also given Gravol for vomiting. His grandmother, Joan Sudarsan, said that he was also taking an antibiotic. She alleged that his condition had worsened suddenly when she gave him the antibiotic and “a piece of Panadol.” Mrs. Sudarsan told Kaieteur News that she first
Rohit Eshack took her grandson to the West Demerara Regional Hospital last week Tuesday, a day after he complained of stomach pains. She said that she arrived at the hospital at around 10.30 hrs and several hours passed without her grandson being
seen by a doctor. She alleged that around 15.00 hrs, the doctors indicated that they had finished working for the day. She eventually left around 17.00 hrs. On arriving home, the grandmother said she gave the child “a piece of Panadol” and “he felt okay for the rest of week.” However, last week Friday, he complained once again of stomach pains and vomited twice that night. The following day, she took him back to the West Demerara Regional Hospital, where a female physician gave him an injection. He also underwent some tests and the same doctor informed the grandmother that the child had a urinary tract infection. Mrs. Sudarsan said the physician gave her antibiotics for her grandson’s infection and told her to return (Continued on page 31)
Assault accused remanded Forty-year old, Sunil Persaud, a city businessman, was yesterday remanded by Magistrate Annette Singh when he appeared before her at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on an assault charge. It is alleged that on July 12, last, Persaud unlawfully assaulted and caused bodily harm to his aunt-in-law, Pauline Persaud. Pauline Persaud reportedly went to Bourda Outpost and filed a complaint. She told the police officer that she was in front of a supermarket on Robb Street when the defendant approached her and started to use indecent language towards her.
The virtual complainant said she asked the defendant why he was cursing her. He responded by pushing and slapping her, she said. Yesterday, Pauline Persaud gave a new story to the court. She said that the defendant didn’t slap her, that he just pushed her and her niece slapped her. The defendant pleaded guilty to the charge and explained to the court that his wife and her aunt had a little scuffle and he went between the both of them to part. Sunil Persaud is scheduled to reappear in court later this month.
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Friday July 20, 2018
Natural Resources Corps of Warden benefit from TIP training The Corps of Warden attached to the Ministry of Natural Resources yesterday begun a training exercise on Trafficking in Persons (TIP), conducted by the Ministerial Task Force of the Ministry of Public Security at the Guyana Police Officers Training Centre. The two-day training session aims at enhancing the capacity and professionalism of the wardens. The training focuses on equipping the wardens with information regarding the nature of the crime of trafficking in persons; functions of the task force; services available locally; how to identify and assist victims and best practices in detecting trafficking in persons; creating a network of exchange of information among frontline officers and other stakeholders in different regions in Guyana and ways to make the task force more efficient. Director of Compliance at the Ministry of Natural Resources, Derrick Lawrence, speaking on behalf of Minister Raphael Trotman, told those gathered that this training is important in assisting the wardens to execute their responsibility of the natural resources of Guyana, especially its human resources. “As you patrol the natural resources sector, whether you are in the mining district, forestry or you are addressing issues pertaining to wildlife, you need to keep your eyes and ears open because there is no other resource that is more vital to a nation than its human resource.” According to Lawrence, it will take more than one agency to eradicate the trafficking in persons.“This is so important to the national interest. In fact, it is so important for all humanity that this human scourge, this thing
Director of the Compliance Unit, Ministry of Natural Resources, Derrick Lawrence. that is so wrong and still so pervasive in order of it to come to an end, no one ministry, no one agency can bring the end of this thing. We must all stay committed to doing just that.”The corps of wardens was added to the Ministry of Natural Resources as a law enforcement unit to ensure the various agencies within the sector comply with the rules and regulations of the mining sector.The Ministerial Taskforce in Trafficking in Persons has been conducting a series of TIP training exercises for the past 18 months for stakeholders. Among those who have benefited from similar training sessions is the Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC). (DPI
Friday July 20, 2018
Kaieteur News
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Excavator for sale CAT 320 DL 7000 hrs Good condition, Location Kuribrong $15M Negotiable as is/where is #613-5062 2 complete 6" Land dredge 2 Perkins, 1 MWM, Kubota, Miller 15 & 25 Yamaha 12 & 16ft Aluminium boat $10M Negotiable #613-5062 Hanging baskets, Crown of thorns in pots and more. Tel# 662-9832 One Juke. Contact #612-3706 HEALTH Herbal remedies: Diabetes, Hypertension, Infertility, Menstrual disorders, Enlarged prostate, Kidney & Gall stones, Arthritis etc. Call Sparman #676-5924. LEARN TO DRIVE P. Outar and C. Persaud Driving School at Maraj Building. Call: 622-2872, 6150964, 681-2808 TOLET 2 Bedroom apartment in Eccles. Rooms in Albertown. Tel# 225-3234/225-9223
VACANCY
1 Air compressor 5HP 3 Phase 230/220 volts. Call: 628-1486/698-1134.
One experienced cook to work @ Beer Garden preferably from WBD #679-2612
Flat wanted in North/South Riumveldt at least 2-3 bedrooms. 2-3 months rent available in advance. Call: 651-5990
Experience Cook/ Housekeeper, Parika/Bushy Park #693-0636 for details.
Wanted experienced hire car drivers and dispatchers at Ramada Hotel. Contact #2657075/616-5419 Barbers. Contact #683-1534 1 Salesgirl preferably from East Bank Demerara. Call# 265-3586 Experienced pastry maker to work in Georgetown. Contact # 225-9409/618-1212 Help Wanted-Hot dog sales persons, men or women. Ages 25-35. Tel: 614-2412 Attractive live in waitressCall: 327-0252/674-4665 Wanted land to buy in Parfaite Harmonie, Uitvlugt or East Bank. Tel# 642-1252 Wanted persons to assemble bicycle, apply at Alabama Trading, 65 Robb Street, Bourda. Caretaker for 86 year old grandmother, weekend night. C/ville area. #225-5606
Generac Pressure Wash for sale 3100 PSI. Tel#654-5267/ 652-2244/220-4203 Yamaha boat engine 250. 6625524, 681-4563, 627-8000
WANTED
First AID/CPR & home nursing courses available week-days and saturdays. Tel:225-9082 Register your child at Hidden Treasures Summer classes for slow learners in Phonics, Reading, Math etc. #675-4379 Study in Canada/US 100% acceptance MicroGraphics #264-3057 2019 Processing now. Kids Summer Computers, register now $8,000 2 months MicroGraphics #264-3057
PROPERTY FOR SALE Lot 15 Public road #2 Vill. WCB 3 House Lots, Rice cultivation 49ftx10,314ft length. Price $18M. Contact# 648-7109/686-4818
LAND FOR SALE
LAND FOR SALE
2 acres of title land situated @ 1st St Garden of Eden EBD $6.5M Neg. Call Terrence #6387836. email: Latchmanrich@gmail.com
Zeelugt - $2.3M Tushen $1.5M. Tel# 697-6311
Experienced sales girls with 2 yrs experience. Apply @ Christine’s Variety, Lombard St. Contact: 227-8529 Bartendercomputer knowledge, Blue Martini 169 Lamaha & De Abreau St. Call: 656-5544 5pm- 6pm Room attendant, Female supervisor, Male deskstaff 25-50 yrs. Tel# 225-0198 233 South road, Lacytown Vacancy for: Marketing clerk, Logistic clerk, Garage supervisor, Purchase clerk. Contact #218-5120/603-4541 e m a i l : chungsvacancy@gmail.com Jos-el Educational Institute seeks Grade 1 & 5 teachers, science teachers & abeka trained teachers. Phone: 2267868
CAR RENTAL Business Spot 27 Public road, Bagotstown, next to Bakewell. Contact #662-3837,664-7663
Prime land to build that dream home. Not far from Princess, New Thriving, Massy, HJ water world $13M neg- Call: 669-8397
Tuschen house corner lot $6M $1.5. Crane Scheme house $5M. Parfaite Harmonie $3.5M. Diamond front $4M. Call 666-2326
Porters/Salesmen, apply in person with application to ARK Enterprise/The Container House. 17 Lombard Street, Werk-EnRust.
Property for sale (1) 3 story building at 97 Sugarcane street S/Rvldt Gardens. Price US 1.5M neg. Tel: 695-1356 & 6878445
CXC 2018 Computer deal 9 course Diploma $40,000 4 Course Computerized A c c o u n t i n g MicroGraphicsVreed-enhoop #264-3057 Parfaite Harmonie $1.4M. Farm $4M. Herstelling 2nd bridge corner lot $4M. Uitvlugt $2.5M. Providence $5M. Call 604-6724
1 Maid/Cleaner, 1 Security Guard for Georgetown. #2271717/659-9967
Herstelling Prime Houselot (between 1st & 2nd bridge upfront 110ft x 60ft) $5M. Tel#656-0701/656-1345 18,731 acres mining land Gold & Diamond Mazaruni $5,000,000 USD Contact: 6951356, 687-8445
PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL:643-5122/ 6 5 6 - 0 0 8 7 , ,EMAIL:PRO_AUTO RENTAL@YAHOO.COM DOLLY’S CAR RENTALCALL:225-7126/ 226-3693DOLLYSAUTORENTAL @YAHOO.COM/ WWW.D OLLYSAUTORENTAL.COM WING’S CAR & PICKUP RENTAL: LOW DOWN PAYMENT, CHEAP R AT E S , S P E C I A L OFFERS! . CALL: 6906494 AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807
Friday July 20, 2018
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Smart classrooms aim to bridge education divide - Min. Hughes Minister of Public Telecommunications, Catherine Hughes has assured the National Toshaos Council (NTC) that government has begun to bridge the education divide through the establishment of smart classrooms. The Minister who was making a presentation on Wednesday evening at the Arthur Chung Conference Centre (ACCC) during the 12th annual NTC confer-
ence said the landscape of the hinterland regions poses several challenges for the delivery of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in remote locations. She explained, the smart classroom concept, which allows students in remote and hinterland locations to connect with teachers in Georgetown through the use of ICTs, is a system similar to Skype.
The same principle applies to teachers in the hinterland. Minister Hughes said through ICT connectivity they will soon be able to complete the teacher’s training course via the internet. The Public Telecommunications Minister informed the NTC that over 157 schools have been connected across the country, with several in the hinterland.
Health officials probe death of eight... From page 27 on Monday so that an ultrasound test could be done. Mrs. Sudarsan said that when he returned home, her grandson was “playing normal”, but at around 21.00 hrs, he again complained that his “belly hurt.” The woman said she gave him the medication that she had collected from the hospital, along with “a piece of Panadol.” But then the child began to perspire and complained of feeling hot. She gave him a bath and left him with his grandfather, who placed him near a fan. “Then he say ‘grandpa, meh nah see” and I take him to the hospital and two doctors pronounced him dead” (after midnight),” the woman said. “I tell them meh baby can’t be dead; he left home alive.” A postmortem was conducted last Monday. However, she said that no one at the hospital gave her any explanation about the possible cause for her grandson’s sudden death. A Ministry of Public Health official told Kaieteur News that doctors who treated Rohit Eshack stated that the child was taken to the hospital with facial and ab-
Some of the child’s medication dominal swelling. The Health official was told that the patient’s vital signs were normal, and he was diagnosed with a “suspected urinal tract infection.” Rohit Eshack was given Gravol, which was said to be adequate for the child. His vital signs were reportedly normal when he left, and relatives were reportedly advised
to bring the child back if his condition worsened. The relatives returned the following day and the child was pronounced dead on arrival. The doctors were reportedly unable to provide the health official spearheading the investigation with the postmortem results, since a copy of the pathologist’s findings was not at the hospital.
Minister Broomes missed confrontation... From page 26 to present himself at the Providence police to have a confrontation with the Minister. But when his lawyer called, he was told that the confrontation will be between
the driver and himself, since the Minister was unavailable. He declined, based on advice from his lawyer. The security guard was of the opinion that it was only fair that a confrontation be
held among all parties involved. An attempt last evening to reach out to the Minister Broomes to have her comment on the lengthy hold up in this matter has proven futile.
Local Govt. Elections for November... From page 18 government elections would have taken place when legally due. He noted that the Government will take steps to deliver on its promise through multiple initiatives, including public education on constitutional and legal provisions for LDOs on the authority and responsibilities; developing model/policy direction to empower LDOs to manage the economic space and develop in partnership with national government. Additionally, steps will be
taken to strengthen the Guyana Association Municipalities to provide effective service to all municipalities. “These include the institutionalization of the National Regional Development Consultative Committee (NRDCC), the Regional Development Consultative Committee (RDCC), and the Regional Agricultural and Commerce Exhibition (RACE); mechanisms which are designed to promote entrepreneurship, investment, partnership and collaboration between and
among stakeholders/agencies within a development space.” The Minister explained that promoting community engagement and participation, both elected and unelected components in all facets of LG operations, by training councillors and residents – in local economic development facilitation, community consultation, project management training, financial management and regulations, waste management, disaster preparedness, are also part of the plan.
Some of these include Aishalton, Sand Creek, St. Ignatius, Annai and Karasabai Secondary and the Bina Hill Institute. She urged that the council continue to work with the government to continue the transformation process. As it relates to telephone service, Minister Hughes said the two main operators; the Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) and Digicel have said the cost to set up towers in these areas is too high. However, with the passage of the Telecommunications Legislation, government is now in the position to invite other international and even local entrepreneurs to provide telephone and internet services in the hinterland. Minister Hughes noted that there are far too many communities that do not have telephone services. She anticipates that by year-end, there will be more operators present in Guyana.
“Government believes we can begin to transform and do more work in those communities if we can get
the technology to you and I am happy to say that we have started that process,” she told the Council. (DPI)
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Rory McIlroy in contention, Tiger Woods and Jordan Spieth fade, Kevin Kisner leads BBC Sport - Rory McIlroy began his bid for a first major in four years with an opening-round 69 as Tiger Woods finished level par at Carnoustie on his Open return. Northern Ireland’s McIlroy, 29, sunk three birdies to leave him three shots behind leader Kevin Kisner. American Kisner, 34, carded an eagle and four birdies in a five-under 66. Woods, at his first Open since 2015, was two under after 12 but ended with a 71, while defending champion Jordan Spieth and Justin Rose are one over. Wo r l d n u m b e r o n e Dustin Johnson saw his chances harmed by a triple bogey on the par-four 18th
to finish with a five-over 76. McIlroy made birdies on the third, 12th and 13th, with a bogey on the fifth was his only blemish, helping him join England’s Matthew Southgate and Danny Willett on two under. South African pair Erik van Rooyen and Zander Lombard, along with American Tony Finau, are a shot adrift of Kisner after 67s, while Brandon Stone another South African who won the Scottish Open earlier this week - is a further shot behind. Of the 156 players aiming to win the 147th Open, only 31 managed to finish under par in benign conditions on the east coast of
Scotland, on the links dubbed Car-nasty. On a dry, fast course in warm temperatures, scoring proved to be easier earlier in the day with five of the leading seven players having teed off in the morning as the breeze started to pick up in the afternoon. Woods, 42, was among the late starters and began by sinking a birdie putt from 10 feet on the first, followed by another birdie on the fourth. The 14-time major winner’s progress was stalled by a bogey on the 10th and, after cancelling that out with a 35-foot birdie putt on the next, dropped more shots on the 13th and 15th. Spieth, a three-time ma-
Friday July 20, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Your incredible passion and creativity are taking center stage. It's also quite possible that there's a great restlessness within you egging you on to take things to the next level.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) When it comes to love and romance, you may find yourself in a bit of a pickle.There's a request for greater commitment now. You may be unsure about how to respond.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You may be feeling a bit reserved today, especially when it comes to issues involving love and romance. Follow your instincts and know that your hesitation isn't unfounded.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Your romantic, sensitive nature comes alive today, and you may find yourself searching for the security of a close lover. You're apt to be pickier than usual - not just anyone will do anymore.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Reclaim control of things that might be holding you back now, Gemini. You may find that there's an element of restriction to the day that's keeping you from getting where you want to be. CANCER(June21–July22) Be selective when it comes to expressing your passion today, Cancer. Remember that less is more. You don't have to use a tremendous number of bells and whistles in order to get your point across. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) In general, your spirit is upbeat, freedom loving, and adventurous, Leo. Today, however, you might find that it's a bit more intense and possibly somber, especially when it comes to romantic issues. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) It's important for you not to overanalyze every little detail of your situation now, Virgo, especially when it comes to love and romance issues.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Tension in your romantic life is apt to well up today, Sagittarius. More than likely, there are certain responsibilities that you feel you have to attend to that take you away from your intimate experience with another. CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You could be feeling the pressure of time now, Capricorn. At this point in your life you may be more aware than ever of your limited time left on this planet. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Situations regarding love and romance are likely to get much heavier and more intense now. Are you ready to make a deeper commitment to the one you love? PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) The love and romance department should be going pretty well for you now, Pisces. This is the time to probe more deeply into your current affair with that person who catches your eye.
Kevin Kisner
jor champion, is bidding to become the first player to retain the Claret Jug since I r e l a n d ’s Padraig Harrington a decade ago. The 24-year-old American was three under after 11, but dropped four shots in the final four holes to finish six shots adrift of Kisner. Spieth is one of seven
Mayweather puts... From page 35 celebritygame.Mayweather took to the court at UCLA’s Pauley Pavilion to show off his basketball skills and help raise money for multiple charities including Teen Cancer America. The retired boxer was joined by a host of actors and celebrities – including Jesse Lingard’s former girlfriend Jena Frumes. Mayweather was part of Los Angeles Lakers star Kyle Kuzma’s side while his opponents were coached by Detroit Pistons center Andre Drummond. The 41-year-old, whose last fight came against Conor McGregor on August 26, 2017, attends NBA games on a regular basis due to his love for the sport. He has previously stated his interest in buying an NBA team but he is yet to acquire one of the 30 franchises. Mayweather could be tempted into a 51st fight as Manny Pacquiao is keen on facing his long-time rival again. Pacquiao lost to the undefeated Mayweather in May 2015 but the Filipino wants a rematch. He recently said: ‘Mayweather? If he decides to go back to boxing then that is the time we are going to call the shots. I have the belt, so it’s up to him. If he wants to come back in boxing, let’s do a second one.’ (Mailonline)
American players sharing a house of the east coast of Scotland this week - along with Kisner. Only Kisner and Rickie Fowler, who shot an opening one-under 70, have not won a major among the group, with Spieth, Justin Thomas, Jason Dufner, Zach Johnson and Jimmy Walker having claimed eight between them.
Koepka, who won defended his US Open title last month, went out in 41 on the front nine before turning his card around with a back-nine 31. World number two Thomas finished two under, Reed opened with a four-over 75, while five-time major champion Phil Mickelson shot a 73 and two-time Masters champion Bubba Watson a 75.
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Amateur Swimming Association of Trinidad & Tobago selects Goodwill Team
ASATT 2017 Goodwill Team Trinidad and Tobago will seek to successfully defend its Goodwill Swim Meet title at the 2018 edition of the meet which will be held in Barbados from August 17 – 19, next. The team was selected on Tuesday night at a meeting of the Amateur Swimming Association of Trinidad and Tobago (ASATT). The Goodwill Swim Meet
is a developmental meet where swimmers who have represented Trinidad and Tobago at CARIFTA, CCCAN and higher level meets are excluded. Trinidad and Tobago is hoping to capture its 5th consecutive Goodwill title, as the team has won from 20142017. The National Age Group Short Course Championships
which was completed on Sunday was the final qualifier for this meet. The 10 & unders were selected by virtue of the overall placing at the end of the meet, while the 11 and overs has to set qualifying times set by ASATT. The team: 8 & Under Girls - Alyssa Reid, Netania Edwards, Asia-Marie Pouchet, Tamia Archibald.8 &
Under Boys - Rylan Thomas, Adam Scoon, Alejandro Agard, Zaheed Walter. 9 - 10 Girls - Keryn Burke, Shauna Nelson, Madara Edwards, Atiyah Wa l t e r. 9 - 1 0 B o y s Giovanni Rivas, Zachary Anthony, Liam Carrington, Jacob Cox. 11 - 12 Girls Kiara Goodridge, Amari Ash, Sharana Balkaran,
Daniella Blackman. 11 - 12 Boys - Dillon Jaglal, Nathan Pascall, Keron Kotiah, Justin Hassranah. 13 - 14 Girls - Isabella Edwards, Patricia-Lee Ravello, Naomi Walters, Jaedra Douglas. 13 - 14 Boys - Aaron Stuart, Gardel Elcock, Nicholas Francois, Prince Moreau. 15 - 17 Girls - Kami Morean, Courtney
Lawrence, Bianca Prevatt, Analee Maharaj. 15 - 17 Boys - Jordan McMillan, Brandon Coombs, Dante Williams, Jamaal Pascall. Manager: Nefertiti AcostaYates, Head Coach: Mark Alexis, Assistant Coaches: Lennox Gould, Rochelle Pierre, Leslyn Alexander. Chaperones: Keith Matamoro, Nisha Charles
Philippines v Australia basketball Mayweather puts Pacquiao fight talk to one side as he plays Thirteen players suspended after on-court brawl in celebrity basketball game BBC Sport - The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) has suspended 13 players after an on-court brawl during a World Cup qualifying tie between the Philippines and Australia earlier this month.Ten Philippine players have been banned for 35 games between them, while three Australians will miss a sum of nine. Both sides’ national federations have been charged,
with the Philippines fined 250,000 Swiss francs (£191,703). Australia have been fined 100,000 Swiss francs (£76,681).In addition to the player bans, the Philippines have been ordered to play their next home game behind closed doors, and Head Coach Vincent ‘Chot’ Reyes has been suspended for one game and fined 10,000 Swiss francs (£7,668).FIBA has also removed the game’s
referees from its Elite Programme, and they will not officiate at any FIBA-sanctioned competitions for a period of up to one year. The fight broke out on 2 July, in the third quarter of Australia’s 89-53 win at the 55,000-capacity Philippine Arena in Manila.Thirteen players were ejected from the game, and it had to be later stopped after the Philippines were left with just one player on court.
Former boxer Mayweather drives to the hoop during the charity game in California. Floyd Mayweather is rumoured to be considering a return to the boxing ring but he continues to invest in his
other sporting passion... basketball. With the NBA in the off-season, basketball superfan Mayweather de-
cided to get himself onto the court by playing in the inaugural $50K charity challenge (Continued on page 34)
The game was stopped when the Philippines were left with just one player on court.
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Jamaica confirms friendly Able nets brace to help Special Olympics Jamaica defeat Japan matches ahead of CNL Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz
Kingston, Jamaica - As part of the preparation for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League Qualifiers, Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz have announced two friendly international matches against Caribbean neighbors. The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) has confirmed that its Senior Men’s team will face Grenada in that country’s capital St George’s on Friday, August 17, and will then follow that up with a match against Barbados in that country on Monday, August 20. Like Jamaica, Grenada and Barbados are sharpening their teeth for the September 9 start to the widely anticipated confederation-wide tournament. A local-based group of Boyz, under the direction of Head Coach
Theodore “Tappa” Whitmore, has been engaged in training camp July 6 and will break on July 22. ”We would have had discussions with a number of teams, and we have finalized arrangements with Grenada and Barbados,” said JFF President Michael Ricketts. ”Our Nations League campaign starts with a home game against Cayman, so we are looking to play (another game) the week before when we would have had all of our players at our disposal,” he added. Jamaica plays its first game in the Concacaf Nations League against the Cayman Islands on Sunday, September 9, at the National Stadium. Kick-off is at 7:00 p.m. local time. Jamaica, the Caribbean number one ranked team on the new CONCACAF ranking
index, will fly then to Bonaire for a meeting with the tiny island on October 14 and are home to Suriname on November 17. The Boyz will close out the Nations League qualifying play-offs with an away meeting with Central American outfit El Salvador on March 23, 2019. Following the qualifying rounds, based on performances teams will be placed in Leagues A, B, and C of the three-tier CONCACAF Nations League. The league embraces a promotion and demotion system and will serve to seed teams and serve, importantly, as a qualifying platform for the expanded Gold Cup, which will have for the first time 16 teams for 2019 edition. (concacaf)
Fifth Annual Heineken Golf Cup Plays Tomorrow The Ansa McAl, Heineken Golf Cup, in its 5th year was yesterday launched in association with the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) at the sponsors head office, Beterverwagting, East Coast of Demerara. The tournament tees off tomorrow at noon at the LGC
Course and golfers will be competing for trophies and medals. This Heineken Cup will be the 23rd tournament under this LGC executive, headed by President Aleem Hussein, for this year. During the launch, Heineken Manager, Darshanie Yussuf explained
that, “It’s been a really good five years doing this event with the Lusignan Golf Club. When we first started we had a really good turnout and since then the tourney is growing from strength to strength each year, not only through the amount of participants but with the commitment to the sport’s development by the stakeholders.” LGC’s Hussein noted that despite the recent inclement weather, “The golf course is in good shape and I expect a great tournament. With all the rain that we had, we can still go out and play on the surface now. It is a really good pitch.” The Heineken Golf Cup is an open tournament and all Guyanese golfers are free to enter.
Tajae Able (centre) of Special Olympics Jamaica skips by Seiya Ito (left) of Special Olympics Japan. Chicago, CMC – Tajae Able came on as a substitute and netted twice in the final 20 minutes to lead Jamaica to their first win, a 4-1 victory over Japan in Wednesday’s Special Olympics Toyota Unified Football Cup match at the Fire Pitch. The win moved Jamaica to second in the group with three points, after they lost 10 to Nigeria in their first game of the tournament on Tuesday. Captain Moran Singh opened the scoring for Special Olympics Jamaica in the third minute of the 60-minute encounter, before Clive Jarrett
crashed in a stupendous effort to make it 2-0 in the 20th minute. After Japan pulled a goal back through Hikaru Kuroba’s penalty kick on the stroke of half-time, Able’s two second half strikes in the 42nd and 50th minutes ensured Jamaica would be victorious. Jamaica’s head coach Shane Richards was elated with the result and admitted his players were more clinical in front of goal this time around. ”We really feel good about this victory against Japan. Goals win games and I
stressed that to them before the game. We didn’t do anything different but to score the goals,” he told the Jamaica Observer during a post-game interview. ”I spoke to the players about the advantage we would have with our height, speed and physical ability, and those helped us to take control.” Nigeria currently tops the group with six points after defeating Italy 5-0 on Wednesday. Jamaica faced Italy in their final group game yesterday at the CIBC Fire Pitch.
Tour de France: Geraint Thomas wins back-to-back stages to retain yellow jersey BBC Sport - Geraint Thomas won a dramatic five-man sprint finish to secure backto-back stage wins at the Tour de France and extend his lead in the yellow jersey. The Welshman put in a late surge to beat rivals including Team Sky team-mate Chris Froome and Tom Dumoulin after a gruelling climb up Alpe d’Huez. Froome attacked from the leading group and passed long-time leader Steven Kruijswijk with 3.5km to go. But he was reeled in before Thomas confirmed he is a serious contender. The 32-yearold is the first Briton to win on the fabled Alpe D’Huez. ”I am speechless. There wasn’t a chance in hell I was going to win today [Thursday]. I just kept following Dumoulin and Froome,” said Thomas. “Can we just go to Paris now?” Italy’s Vincenzo Nibali hit
the deck with 4km to go, having apparently tangled with a motorbike, but remounted and eventually finished seventh, 13 seconds behind Thomas. The Welshman has a lead of one minute 39 seconds over four-time champion Froome, with Dumoulin a further 11 seconds back. The rest of the field are more than two and half minutes distant from Thomas. A brutal stage which featured 5,000m of climbing, three hors categorie - the hardest - climbs and a daring breakaway by Dutchman Kruijswijk put strain on the entire field. But, when he might have been expected to fall back into a support role, Thomas once again proved stronger than team leader Froome. With four kilometres to go, Thomas led Froome across a gap to cover an attack from Romain Bardet, and
was then able to follow Dumoulin as the Dutchman rode back onto Froome’s wheel after the champion had launched a significant attack. And, when the leaders approached the finish as a select group, Thomas’ sprint power and know-how, honed by his days on the track where he is a two-time Olympic team pursuit champion, proved decisive over the last 200m. Despite now leading overall by more than a minute and a half, Thomas insisted that Froome’s Grand Tour pedigree means he remains in the service of the defending champion. “Maybe I can keep the jersey for the next few days,” he said. ”This race is so hard and you never know how the body reacts. I am still riding for Froomey, he knows how to ride for three weeks. He is a legend, one of the best ever.”
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England captain Alex Danson looking forward to Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup The Vitality Hockey Women’s World Cup gets underway tomorrow, with the trophy having arrived in central London on Wednesday. The tournament, which runs until August 5, will take place at Lee Valley Hockey and Tennis centre at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. England captain Alex Danson is looking to forward to the World Cup and hopes that home advantage will inspire her team to glory. She said: ‘It’s really exciting to be able to compete on home soil in front of your friends and family and we can’t wait to get started. ’I am honoured to be able to lead out this side on Saturday and I am sure I speak for the whole team when I say it will be a fantastic competition and hopefully the fans will be able to cheer us on to achieve our goals.’ England will get their campaign underway tomorrow when they face India in an eagerly-anticipated encounter. India captain Rani Rampal is eager to relish the atmosphere at the tour-
Captains of the contesting nations.
nament and hopes that her side will be able to make it through to the knockout stages. She said: ‘We’re feeling really good ahead of Saturday and we look forward to soaking up the atmo-
sphere, which I am sure will be amazing as we take on the host country. ‘The World Cup is always competitive but we hope to still be in the competition by the knockout stages and then you never know.’
In addition to sponsoring the tournament, Vitality support the growth of hockey in England via its sponsorship of the grassroots programme Back to Hockey. The competing nations are
Argentina, Australia, Belgium, China, England, Germany, Netherlands, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Korea, New Zealand, South Africa, Spain and USA. (Mailonline)
GFF Elite League Season III Gold, Silver for Guyana at CUT Athletic Championships Double-header at Leonora tonight DPI - Outstanding performances by Orlando Carrington, Annalee Williams and Somayia Orna ensured Guyana medaled at the recently concluded Caribbean Union Teachers (CUT) Athletic Championships, in Bermuda. Eight-year-old Carrington, who lives in New Amsterdam, Berbice (Region Six), earned a gold medal in the cricket ball throw event for which he now holds the record. Carrington threw 44.75 metres, breaking the record of 44.00m previously held by Akelon Marcano in 2010. Carrington also participated in the 150 metres dash where he copped the bronze medal. Annalee Williams also won gold for Guyana in the cricket ball throw, she hails from Cartabo Village, Lower Mazaruni, Region Seven and threw the ball 37.88 metres. Also, medaling in the cricket ball throw was young Somayia Orna from Linden, Region 10. The eight-year-old Orna earned a silver medal after throwing 18.44 metres. She also placed fourth clocking 24.13 seconds in the 150 metres dash. The young athletes were yesterday honoured for their exceptional performance by Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton and Director of Sport, Christopher Jones. Minister Norton congratulated the athletes and added
At the National Track and Field Center (NTFC), Leonora tonight, Western Tigers are poised to regain the spot at the top of the points table when they come against the seemingly toothless Cougars FC in the feature match at 21:00hrs. Currently, Fruta Conquerors (11 matches) are top of the league table with 26 points, only ahead of Den Amstel FC
Director of Sport, Christopher Jones decorates Somayia Orna with an NSC medal.
that he is optimistic that in the future the ministry can substantially support more young athletes in their ventures overseas to represent Guyana. ”The fact that these three athletes, young as they are was able to achieve gold medals, putting the golden arrowhead on the flagpole at that meeting Bermuda, I think they did well, I am proud and we are looking forward to more such performance” the minister stated. Similar sentiments were echoed by Jones who said the enabling environment that has been created by the government, for athletes, is one
of the reasons Guyana continue to shine overseas. ”In the 2019 Budget, for example, we have put some measures and mechanisms in place that would see more support being given to our athletes, subject to the approval of the National Assembly.” The long-awaited National Sports Policy Draft is currently out for public consumption and feedback. Once completed, the document will provide the necessary guidance to the government, athletes and other sporting officials for the development of sport in Guyana. (Isaiah Braithwaite)
(12 games) on goal difference. However, Western Tigers, that finished the first half of the league as the leaders have been pegged by many to usurp Guyana Defence Force (GDF) as national Champions, and they currently are third in the points table with 24 from 10 matches. Berbice based Cougars are currently ranked seventh after winning only two of their
11 games while losing the other nine with the worst goal difference of -30 in the league. In the evening’s opening match that kicks off at 19:00hrs, Ann’s Grove United will oppose New Amsterdam United in a bottom of the table encounter. This game should be exciting as both teams will be looking to go all out in a bid to avoid relegation.
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Friday July 20, 2018
Kaieteur News
Morris cops Most Valuable Player award
Best wicketkeepers Yeudister Persaud, left, of Guyana and Leonardo Julien of T&T. (Trinidad Guardian photo) Port of Spain, Trinidad, CMC – Barbados’ Antonio Morris took home the highly coveted Most Valuable Player (MVP) award when Cricket West Indies (CWI) held the awards ceremony for the just concluded Regional U-17 competition on Tuesday. Morris led his country to the title with a brilliant unbeaten century in the final match against Guyana, which helped Barbados edge twotime defending champions and hosts Trinidad and Tobago by just 0.1 points, to take top honours in what has been described as the closest finish ever in the prestigious regional tournament. The 16-year-old also ended the tournament with
the highest aggregate of runs, 194. Tariq Newman of the Leeward Islands was the top bowler with nine wickets, while there was a tie for the wicketkeepers claiming the most dismissals, with Leonardo Julien of Trinidad and Tobago and Yeudister Persaud of Guyana both finishing with six dismissals. Speaking at the event, acting Director of Sports Patrice Charles, said the tournament was important in helping to develop young cricketers in the region. ”I understand the pivotal and critical role sport plays in youth development. By participating in sports, young person’s can develop physi-
cal, mental and social skills as well as acquire important values that will carry them throughout their lives. I believe that sport coupled with youth development programmes are effective tools for creating wellrounded individuals and productive members of our society,” Charles said. ”When education and religious knowledge are added to the mix it makes for an unbeatable formula. Our young men, especially, need sports like cricket to give them a sense of focus and purpose and to help them become strong, confident, productive and successful leaders, providers, fathers, and friends.”
Guyanese sprinter to be part of Elite Sport and Culture Week The Advertiser-Tribune Olympic sprinter Aliann Pompey is to be among the 15-20 athletes and coaches, including Olympians and Paralympians, who will be in Tiffin Oct. 23-25 for Elite Sport and Culture Week hosted by Tiffin University, Mercy Health – Tiffin Hospital and Terra State Community College. As a young Guyanese girl growing up in New York City from age 14, Pompey had no idea her undiscovered talent would lead her to four consecutive summer Olympics, beginning in Sydney in 200 and ending in London in 2012. She earned two medals in Commonwealth Games, gold in 2002 and silver in 2010, competing at world championships. Pompey’s accolades have mounted for Guyana’s most prolific female athlete. Often, an athlete has a routine that is simple but critical to be mentally and physically ready to run a race for which he or she has spent the remainder of the year preparing. Each ritual is different for every athlete, and Pompey executes five steps when facing an evening race on the day of competition — wake up early, eat, stretch, hydrate and then go back to sleep. After Pompey finished college and was ranked as 12th in the world, she began to attract the interest of two national Olympic teams, the United States and Guyana. The decision was an obvious one for Pompey, an idea she was sold on by a Guyanese coach.
Aliann Pompey The African nation of Guyana as well as her family and loved ones have expressed gratitude, support and love for Pompey. However, the nation was oblivious to the physical and mental battles Pompey fought every year, deciding to quit after each season yet returning year after year. In 2012, Pompey qualified for the London Olympics and got through the first round, but not in her usual comfortable fashion. She had spent most of the season struggling, injuries were becoming more prevalent, recovery time was taking twice as long as she was used to; all of this took a toll on her body and mind. Pompey took the final steps in her career while on her way to an English bar, leaving her belongings in the warm-up area of the track. With feelings of contentment and satisfaction, she knew she had done it all and there wasn’t anything else left for her to do as a track and field athlete. Pompey remains heavily active and involved in the
sport she loves. Three years ago, she had an idea to create an international track competition known as The Aliann Pompey Invitational; however, putting the plan into motion was harder than she thought. Underestimating the work needed to be done and the time to implement plans would’ve stalled anyone’s actions and risen doubt, but Pompey persevered to the end, just as she persevered in her athletic career. Perseverance, hard work and being honest with oneself are all traits Pompey has exhibited from a young age. Since its inception three years ago, The Aliann Pompey Invitational has featured world-class athletes and nurtured local talent who also have gone on to represent Guyana in major events. Success stories range from a world championships silver medallist and a Commonwealth champion at the junior level. The Aliann Invitational, the only one of its kind, provides that opportunity for home-grown athletes and an experience for Guyanese fans right at their doorstep. The last meet to take place featured Olympic and world champion Kirani James of Grenada. Consequently, the addition of the Aliann Pompey Invitational has helped change the dynamics and the face of the sport in Guyana and provide a backbone for further success. Pompey promises to be at the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, whether in an official capacity or a spectator.
Severe weather in Tokyo prompts concerns of 2020 Olympics facing similar outbreak of intense heatwave
As the two-year mark approaches for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Japan is being scorched by an intense heatwave that has prompted fears of similar extreme weather when the sporting showpiece takes place in the country. More than a dozen people have died as temperatures soared above 40 degrees Celsius (104 Fahrenheit) for the first time since 2013, and the thermometer hit 43 Celsius during an Olympic Stadium media tour on Wednesday. The opening ceremony will be held at the venue on July 24, 2020, a time of year when Tokyo records average temperatures of around 25 Celsius, which combined with severe humidity will create tough conditions for athletes and spectators alike. Earlier this year, experts warned of the risks of heatstroke at the Games, which runs until Aug. 9, with conditions reaching levels at which sporting activities would normally be halted. The issue is one Tokyo 2020
organisers are taking seriously as they consider a raft of counter measures to battle the extreme heat. These include increased shelter and cooling fans provided for spectators, and the installation of a ‘Wet Bulb Globe Temperature’ device designed to provide constant feedback to assess levels of heat stress at each venue. The data provided will help organisers adjust conditions for supporters depending on the weather. The scheduling of events, set to be announced later on Wednesday following an International Olympic Committee (IOC) meeting with Games organisers in Lausanne, will also be designed with the protection of athletes and supporters in mind. Tokyo 2020 organisers also told Reuters that they were looking to establish guidelines on whether a scheduled event would be allowed to go ahead if they were worried by the danger posed of extreme temperatures. Speaking at the stadium media
tour, officials from the Japan Sports Council (JSC) said solutions for tackling heat would be a priority for the Olympic Games. While beams for the stadium’s inner roof — made with wood supplied from all 47 prefectures — are meant to project warmth and hospitality, JSC official Keiji Kato explained they were also designed to circulate air to keep spectators cool. Mist fans would also be installed, Kato added. Yet on Wednesday, despite the heat, there were still several joggers braving the conditions to run the circuit around Tokyo’s Imperial Palace, with the most committed of them admitting they had struggled. ’I have been running (this route) for the past five years, but for the first time, I could not complete the track both last week and this week,’ 44-year-old Tatsuro Abe told Reuters. ‘It has been truly intense this time round.’ (Mailonline)
The opening ceremony of the games is set to be held at a time of record temperature in the city. (GettyImages)
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Friday July 20, 2018
Youth teams benefit from capacity building sessions
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he male and female youth teams, which recently wrapped up national encampment, have benefitted from two sessions aimed at building their capacity for understanding the Laws of the Game and interacting with the media. The sessions, held on July 11th and 12th, were facilitated by GFF’s Head of Refereeing Department, Stanley Lancaster, and Communications and Public Relations Officer, Debra Francis who addressed the Laws of the Game and offered tips on media interaction respectively. According to Lancaster, the Laws of The Game discussion focused on explaining same it in an ageappropriate manner to the group. Emphasis was placed on the Laws applicable to the age group being targeted: “We explained Laws 4 – 12, which address a crosssection of issues including player kit, ball in and out of p l a y, d e t e r m i n i n g t h e outcome of the match, the principle governing offside,
fouls and misconduct, the importance of discipline on the pitch, and procedure for kicks from the penalty mark. The Law relative to the functions of the Goalkeeper was also explained.” Meanwhile, Francis, in her interactive session, addressed areas relative to being a guest on a media interview: how to introduce oneself, the art of the handshake, dress, responding to questions, posture and concluding the interview. She underscored the importance of national players having the skill to effectively engage the media: “As national players, you will be required to engage the media in the form of an in-studio or field interview and it is the federation’s responsibility to ensure we equip you with the essential skills to effectively represent yourself, club, association, federation and, by extension, the country. These skills are transferable and thus can be used for public speaking and/or interaction.” The national youth teams
Lancaster during his presentation on The Laws Of The Game to the Youth Team.
are preparing for the Caribbean Football Union (CFU) Boys U14 Challenge Trophy from August 2 – 12 in Curacao and the CONCACAF Girls U15 Championship from August 6 – 13 at the IMG Academy, Florida, USA.
Meanwhile, the next encampment with the shortlisted squads is scheduled for July 22 – 26 and July 29 – August 1 respectively. Guyana is one of five countries placed in Group C of the CFU Boys U14 Challenge Trophy along
with Curacao, Bonaire, Trinidad and Tobago and Aruba while the U15 Girls have been placed in Group E with the Bahamas, Cayman Islands and St. Lucia. Guyana is scheduled to play its first match in the U15 Championship against St.
Lucia on August 6 at 11:00hrs, followed by Cayman Islands on August 7 at 09:00hrs and Bahamas on August 9 at 11:0hrs. The playoff will begin on August 10, following the group qualifiers, with the finals set for August 13 at 11:00hrs.
Malteenoes Cricket Academy starts Monday
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he Malteenoes Cricket Academy will begin from next Monday at the Club on Thomas Lands and runs until August 3. MSC is catering for 120 students between the ages of 6-18 and registration cost $3,000 and includes lunch each day with sessions be held from 09:00hrs to 15:00hrs with a Lunch break from 12:30hrs to 13:30hrs. Registrations forms can be uplifted at MSC until Monday morning before the Academy is officially opened by Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth & Sports Dr George Norton. Yesterday, the club held a press conference where the Media was addressed by PRO Sean Devers, President
Winston Semple, Captain Steven Jacobs and Academy Head Coach, Orin Bailey, just back from the Regional U-17 tournament in Trinidad where he was the Coach of the Guyana team which placed third. Devers said that everything is on track adding that three overseas supporters have joined together to fund 18 underprivileged children to attend the Academy free. Ve t e r a n C r i c k e t Commentator Reds Perriera, Mark Harper, International Scorer Bharrat Mangru, Umpire Ryan Banwarie, someone from the Ministry of Communities and a representative from the Child Protection Agency are among the facilitators who
MSC President Winston Semple (2nd left) shares the head table yesterday with from right, Club Captain Steven Jacobs, PRO Sean Devers and Academy Head Coach, Orin Bailey. will conduct sessions in scoring, umpiring, interviews, etiquette and table manners, cricket
Day/Night Volleyball tomorrow at Albion The Berbice Volleyball Association (BVA) has organised a day/night competition in association with the Blairmont Community Center (BCC) that will be played for the Roy Fredericks Floodlight Cup ‘REVOLUTION’ and contested tomorrow at the Albion Sports Complex, Volleyball Court. The late Roy Fredericks was a former West Indies cricket great and former Minister. The BCC has over the years been organising the Roy Fredericks Floodlight Cup which also involves cricket and other
activities. This year the organisers have decided to team up with the BVA to make the activity bigger. All the top volleyball teams in Berbice are expected to participate in the competition which will start at 14:00hrs. Guyanese-born world acclaimed Cricket Commentator Joseph ‘Red’s’ Pereira who is guest of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) is expected to be in attendance and to give live commentary. Apart from volleyball and cricket other attractions include dominoes, spectators bowl off, spectator catching and more.
broadcasting, cricket reporting, the laws and history of cricket among other topics aimed at building rounded individuals. The club’s aim is to instill discipline, cricket and life skills in the young participants. Both theory and practical sessions would be done with classroom work taking place during the mornings and outdoor sessions in the afternoons. Devers informed that apart from Bailey, National Head Coach Esuan Crandon, National Youth Coach
Latchman Yadram, former Test players Colin Stuart, Clyde Butts and Reon King will conduct coaching sessions during the Academy which will carter for both Boys and Girls. Jacobs, MSC’s only present First-Class player, spoke of the benefits of the Academy to young players while Bailey stressed the importance of learning the basics at a young age. “Malteenoes was founded in 1902 by a B a r b a d i a n Ta y l o r a n d informed that the MSC Cricket Academy was first held in 1993 with aim of
broadening the pool of wellrounded young cricketers not only one the field but off of it too” said Semple as he provided a brief of the Club. He added that not only cricket is played at MSC but also Table Tennis and Darts. The Academy has produced Test players Ramnaresh Sarwan, Ryan Ramdass and female Windies player Indomattie Goordial, and has been supported by the business community and friends of the Club with their contributions. Malteenoes expressed gratitude to the sponsors for their support.
Kaieteur News
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Friday July 20, 2018
CPL Tickets go on sale in Guyana
Warriors, Patriots face-off August 9 at Providence in opener By Sean Devers Tickets for Guyana Amazon Warriors first three match in the Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 tournament at Providence went on sale yesterday at the CPL Office on Camp & Quamina Streets and several fans rushed to secure theirs for the biggest party in Sport as soon as they were available. Warriors Manager Omar Khan and Media and Marketing Officer John Ramsingh spoke to the Media at the launching. Tickets cost $5,000 for the Red & Greens stands, $3,000 for the Orange stand and $2,500 for the Grass Mound and are on sale from 08:00hrs to 17:00hrs on weekdays and 09:00hrs to 13:00hrs on Saturdays at the CPL office. Seven matches, including the two play-off games will be contested at Providence and the Warriors will play their first three games in Guyana on Thursday August 9, Saturday August 11 and Sunday August 12. The Warriors will return to South American soil for their final two games on the weekend of September 8 & 9 before the two playoffs are held on September 11 & 12.
Khan confirmed that Shoaib Malik will Captain the Warriors and noted that this year Guyana has gotten more games than any of the previous years since CPL’s inauguration in 2013. T h e Wa r r i o r s s i d e includes International Sohail Tanvir, Cameron Delport, Imran Tahir, Kuke Ronchi, and American pacer Saurabh Netravalkar while Sherfane Rutherford is in a side which includes Guyanese Test players, Devendra Bishoo, Ve e r a s a m m y P e r m a u l , Shimron Hetmyer and Kemo Paul. Chadwick Walton, Jason Mohammed, Reyad Emirt, Roshan Primus, Gajanand Singh, Romario Shepherd and Akshaya Persaud are the other players in the Warriors squad. The Guyana based side, which Khan disclosed will begin their Camp here from August 2-7, will have one practice match on August 8 before battling St Kitts & Nevis Patriots from 18:00hrs on Thursday. Skipper Chris Gayle, the all-time leading T20 runscorer, will hope to lead the Patriots to their maiden CPL title while fans could expect fireworks from Evin Lewis and Carlos Braithwaite. The Warriors next game is against St Lucia Stars
The first group to buy CPL tickets yesterday. whose team includes David Warner, Lendl Simmons, Darren Sammy, Kieron Pollard and Andre Fletcher. They then come-up against Barbados Tridents who will be spearheaded by Martin Guptill, Shakib Al Hasan, Hashim Amla, Dwayne Smith and Jason Holder. Khan informed that this year the fans in the stands
Open Domino tournament organised for Faye Joseph’s Birthday tomorrow Domino lovers and real supporters of the sport are expected to flock the Transport Sports Club tomorrow to participate in an Open Tournament to celebrate the Birth Anniversary of President of the Guyana National Domino Federation (GNDF) and the Georgetown Domino Association (GDA) Faye Joseph. According to a release from the organisers, the tournament is open to all teams from across the country and it is being staged in honour of the long serving President, who to many stakeholders, has been integrally responsible for the lofty status the game enjoys right now. Joseph has been at the helm of both entities for a number of years
and has placed Guyana right on top of the regional ladder in terms of the sport’s visibility and success. The release added that the tournament will be played on a points system and sudden death to decide the winner. Up for grabs will be over $300,000 in prize monies and trophies with the winning team set to receive $150,000, runner-up $75,000 and third place $35,000 with all prizes guaranteed. Entrance fee per team is $12,000 and double-six time is 15:00hrs. Food and drinks will be on sale throughout the day. Interested teams can contact Mark ‘Jumbie’ Wiltshire on 665 5855 for more information.
will be more involved in off the field activities “The sun should not be a problem since only the St Lucia match on August 11 will start at 16:00hrs while the Barbados game will start at 18:00hrs as the first game” Khan pointed out. “The Warriors could play six games in Guyana if they top the points table in the
preliminary round. If we can do that we will play in the first play-off and if we win we go directly to the final in Trinidad” Khan said. The Warriors has never won the title despite being the most consistent team; reaching three of the five finals. Khan puts that down to the mental side of the game. “The team that wins
T20 Finals is the team that makes the least mistakes on that day” said Khan, who has been the Warriors Manager since 2013. Large crowds are anticipated and expected to celebrate with dancing, colour, music, especially since the younger generation love of the shortest format of the game.
GCB Conducts CWI/UNICEF Child Protection Course
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he Guyana Cricket Board in collaboration with CWI and UNICEF conducted a Child Protection Course on Tuesday last at the GCB’s Board Room, top flat of the GCB’s office building, Regent Road, Bourda. The course was geared at providing participants with relevant information, relating to Child Care, Child Abuse, Child Welfare and their management. Further, it examined essential reporting procedures necessary to be adopted on the recognition of abuse and/or the observation of the potential for abuse. The participants of this course were mainly, teachers and players who are pursuing coaching
certification. It should be noted, that individuals desirous of obtaining CWI Coaching Certification, are required to possess the prerequisites of Child Protection, First Aid and Police Clearance. Thereafter, they may be processed to participate in the CWI Coaching Courses through a structured pathway of programmes beginning with the Foundation, Level ONE, Level Two then Level Three.The Main facilitator of the course, Senior Probation and Social Services Officer, Orette Francois indicated that the Child Care and Protection Agency have found the conduct of the GCB/CWI/UNICEF Child Protection Courses useful in educating individuals tasked with supervising children, about relevant matters relating to the effective care and protection of children. Francois posited that individuals in children’s care have an important role to play, in ensuring that children are provided with a friendly-learning environment, one which is free of
abuse and takes highly into consideration children’s safety, their well-being and the best system for their progressive growth. Nicholas Fraser, Head of the Physical Education Department of the Allied Arts Unit, the Ministry of Education who was one of the facilitators of the course, noted that the Child Protection Courses are greatly assisting in making coaches and those who act in the role of coaches more cognizant of the requirements on management of children. Fraser, stressed that the effective supervision and management of child is of paramount importance, and that the absence of which may lead to serious implications for children negatively affected, to those with the responsibility care of children and to the sport in question itself. On Wednesday, a similar CWI/UNICEF Child Protection Course was scheduled to be held in West Berbice while yesterday, a similar course was scheduled for the Parika Salem School, Parika, East Bank Essequibo.
Kaieteur News
Friday July 20, 2018
PAGE 41
Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition
National playoffs start one week from now; seating being made available for fans
I
t is an observable fact that the street phenomenon known as the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ competition is the most anticipated event in the shorter version of the sport and the ninth edition is shaping up to provide a wonderful experience for the fans. Guinness Brand Manager Lee Baptiste has every intention to make this year’s national playoffs as inclusive as possible and all the stops are being pulled out to ensure that the tournament’s legacy is enhanced and secure. The organisers, Banks DIH has attempted, every year since the tournament’s inauguration, to improve some aspect of the experience for the fans and players and this year’s national playoffs will be bigger and better. Last year saw the introduction of colourful uniforms and balls in keeping with the new trend seen internationally and apart from a duplication of
that effort the organisers are planning to make seating accommodation available for fans so that more persons could share the wonderful experience of witnessing the games. Teams have begun to intensify preparations and as usual the quality on display over the three nights is nothing short of fantastic. With the Bartica Zone just concluded and their representative decided, they now have the opportunity to showcase the talent of that community against the more established communities of Georgetown, East Coast, Linden and West Demerara and the early whispers are that the newcomers will adequately equip themselves judging from the performance of zone winner Disconnection Crew that have a few Brazilians in their lineup. They will definitely want to prove something against the opposition and vindicate their presence in the tournament. Linden’s Dave
GPF 179th Anniversary Volleyball Finals serves off today As the Guyana Police Force (GPF) continues to celebrate its 179th Anniversary, the eagerly a n t i c i p a t e d Vo l l e y b a l l Championship Finals will be hosted today from 13:00hrs, in the Mounted Branch Compound, Barrack Street, Eve Leary. This will be followed by t h e F o r c e ’s A n n u a l Swimming and Athletics Championship between this Sunday and next Friday, under the theme, “Fostering Unity and Partnership with the Police and Public through Sports”. Events will kick-off with an Inter-Divisional Mixed Road Relay this Sunday commencing at 06:00hrs, from the Police Officers’ Mess to the University of Guyana Access Road and back. The Inter-Divisional Swimming Meet splashes off as well on Sunday from
10:00hrs at the National Aquatic Centre, Liliendaal, ECD. The Finals of the Track and Field events will be held next Friday from 13:00hrs with the March Pass of Officials and Athletes drawn from the seven Divisions and other Caribbean countries, at the Police Sports Club Ground, Eve Leary. Heats will be held on Tuesday and Wednesday commencing at 10:30hrs, daily.
Part of the action in the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets’ Competition. & Celena All Stars who became the first team outside of Georgetown to win the national Guinness will no doubt be aiming to prove that last year’s performance was no fluke, while the Georgetown entries will be looking to reclaim lost glory. Then there are the dark horses from the other communities who’re yet to stamp their authority in the big tournament, but just as
the reigning champions showed, the gap is closing among all the teams. This year could prove to be a blockbuster extravaganza and one that fans will truly enjoy. At this point it is anyone’s guess what will be the outcome of this tournament with all the teams rearing and ready to rumble. The tournament opens on July 27, at
Pouderoyen Tarmac, West Demerara and then moves to Haslington Tarmac, East Coast Demerara on Emancipation Day (August 1st), before the final showdown set for August 4, at the National Stadium tarmac. The teams that have qualified are: Georgetown Gold is Money-Champion, Sparta Boss, Leopold Street, Bent Street. East Coast -
Uprising-Champion, Paradise, Melanie-B, Buxton Diamond. West Demerara - ShowstoppersChampion, ESPN, West Side Ballers. Linden - Silver Bullets-Champion, Dave and Celina’s All-StarsNational Champion, Swag Entertainment. Berbice - TrafalgarChampion. Bartica Disconnection CrewChampion.
rt o p S
Gold, Silver for Guyana at CUT Athletic C/ships
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Minister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Culture, Youth and Sport, Dr. George Norton along with [from left] Orlando Carrington, Annalee Williams and Somayia Orna. (Giovanni Gajie photo)
Fifth Annual Heineken Golf Cup Plays Tomorrow P. 36
LGC President Aleem Hussein (left) receives the sponsorship cheque from Heineken’s, Darshanie Yussuf.
League action between Ann’s Grove and Buxton United (red) last week at the NTFC, Leonora.
GFF Elite League Season III
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Double-header at Leonora tonight Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.