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AIETEUR

July 28, 2019

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ExxonMobil contributes annually to Liberia's decommissioning fund but Guyana left exposed Accept oil contracts that offer best fiscal terms through bidding process

Celebrating its silver jubilee…

Guyana Watch treats over 600 patients in 2 days to conclude medical outreach

- Attorney Charles Ramson Jr.

Armed men disguised as Federal police agents snatch US$30M in gold bars from Brazil airport

Local content policy must demand all int'l suppliers have local partners, plan to transfer skills

Some of the 338 patients seen by the US Medical team (Guyana Watch Inc.) yesterday at Patentia Primary

- Chatham House Advisor

GAWU, GPSU, GLU, NAACIE, CCWU among 260 entities which for

decades failed to file tax returns

Kaieteur News

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Sunday July 28, 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

Build momentum on the GECOM appointment All Guyanese should treat themselves. True citizens of the soil should allow themselves the fleeting luxury of exhaling slowly; slowly but carefully, as only the first sharp prong in the tormenting trinity (chair, list, date) has found a settled resting place.

With a chair now a done deal, the two remaining prongs, no less sharp and scorching to the touch, should be quickly and amicably resolved. That, at least, has to be the hope of a tired, exhausted populace.

The hope has to be that the eternity of turbulent months, heavily characterised by the intense and the unswerving, that was required to fill a chair will not be repeated, will somehow be avoided. If somehow the wisdom and willingness could have finally been found to listen to courts, counsel from superpowers, and calls from concerned citizens, to arrive at the common ground of a chair, then inclination and resolve must be searched for to arrive at the same satisfactory state for a list and date.

We exhort leaders to be receptive to the maturity and notso-small miracle that helped to overcome the barriers over a chair, to be just as responsive to the guidance that comes from somewhere and everywhere for what is national and practical with regards to list and date.

Let the tensions be lessened considerably; lessened in terms of brinksmanship, and the hardball volleying back and forth in public.

A list and date does not have to rise to another clashing of wills, a public test, or calculated partisan appeals. Just as the heavy lifting and nuanced chess moves over a chair, at the end, occurred in secret and, to some extent, on a leader-toleader basis; so, too, can list and date be arrived at that is mutually embraceable.

Helping voices are never in short supply in Guyana; for that is what is detected in the development over a chair. It has to be the same for what remains.

Going forward, citizens are due an interlude of some ease, if that can be possible during always disturbing and dangerous elections seasons. Local history furnishes proof that it is this time that brings out the very worst that this society has to offer.

It could be a forlorn hope, but still needs to be presented by this publication: may Guyana be spared the dark and terrible side of its political nature.

Now, though moot at this point, the abrupt announcement of an agreement that startles (who said that secrets can’t be kept here) on the appointment of a chair will be debated feverishly in the days to come. It would range from stealth candidate, to who outfoxed whom, and who got their way. Amidst those irrelevancies, this must be said; or could be relied upon with some confidence: after all that transpired and went down, one side of the harsh, bitter political divide did not wake up tired, grew even more disconnected during Friday, and inexplicably threw in the towel. That did not happen here.

The thrust is that there was some sort of understanding, some degree of horse-trading and arm-twisting. Whatever it was, and however engineered, it is good. Now, with this as springboard, the appeal is for the same approach—away from the public glare, possible mediation, and quiet, but hard bargaining—to form mandatory elements of the next challenges that are the immediate calendar.

That would be the finalising of positions relative to registration. There are three positions only with which to operate: use the existing list; sanitise the same list; or seek some combination of a hard cutoff date and an accelerated effort. The latter requires joint approval to deliver the required resources.

Minds have to probe for the sweet spot that is in the different positions, and which empowers a date. Lessons should have been learned from the chair. Now it is time to proceed and apply them while overseeing the nation’s business.

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.

The AFC has squandered its opportunity DEAR EDITOR, The leadership of the Alliance For Change (AFC), all by itself, has squandered the grand opportunity given it by the citizens of Guyana in 2015.

The party’s descent from its formerly vaunted position as power broker in parliament was made pellucid in the results of the last Local Government Elections (LGE).

With the power, attraction and credibility of the AFC shattered, the party’s value to the Coalition as currently configured is not at all certain and the Coalition will need to attract credible citizens to its slate if it wants to secure electoral

victory.

While I would urge that the coalition of parties that won the elections in 2015 remain united and contest the upcoming election, I believe that to give once again to the AFC the Prime Ministerial (PM) position and the Ministry of Agriculture would be a slap in the face to all who expected transformative leadership and more specifically, sugar workers.

In relation to the transformative politics of the AFC, the loss of Nigel Hughes was a grave one.

Naturally, some key Ministries, such as Public Infrastructure must be retained by the AFC.

Moreover, to too drastically reduce its share would have dire political consequences.

Concretising the argument against the PM position, is the exposure of the internal power struggle within the AFC (along with the concomitant machinations) and subsequent choice of PM candidate. So now the AFC has once again and all alone, put itself in a worse position.

The People’s National Congress (PNC), as the leading partner in the Coalition must therefore, accommodate a slew of new people à la PNC/Reform.

Charles Ceres passionately spoke on the lack of inclusion of young people. A

young, rising star referred to the apparent fear of intellectuals. Many of these are but a social media message away, people I have worked with and some who have even turned against the Coalition, but ought nevertheless to be reached out to.

In relation to the PM slot, someone independent and of high stature from the IndoGuyanese community should be offered it; our local peculiarities dictate this.

Similarly, and not excluding the diaspora, someone new as Minister of Agriculture.

This would send a clear and positive message to the sugar belt. It would also convey the (Continued on page 5)

Sunday July 28, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Kaieteur M@ilbox

Kaieteur M@ilbox

‘Disqualifying all Guyanese’ should not be Jan Mangal’s goal

Security at the University of Guyana needs to be “Top Priority”

DEAR EDITOR, I take issue with Jan Mangal’s recent letter in the press about Guyanese participation in our oil industry.

In the letter “Bright light needs to be shone on MNR/ GGMC over award of oil blocks,” he states that, “The country does not benefit when say twenty well-connected Guyanese get a couple million US$ in the bank, a couple Land Cruisers, and acquire some properties in Miami and Long Island. Also, no Guyanese can legitimately “partner” with any of the major oil companies.”

What is Mr. Mangal saying here? If he has evidence that specific individuals are engaged in corrupt practices to gain oil block licences, then he should disclose it and endorse a full investigation. And even if he has concrete evi-

dence of that sort, how can he extend that to a blanket statement that not a single Guyanese should have the ability to invest in oil blocks?

Are we all unqualified and corrupt?

Mr. Mangal goes on to say that, “the guidelines mentioned above pretty much disqualify all Guyanese applications for oil blocks.

But this is alright, this is not a problem.

Disqualifying the unqualified is a good thing.”

Fair, most Guyanese right now don’t have the capacity to develop an oil block. But if there are, now or in the future, Guyanese companies that are able to invest the money, who is Mr. Mangal to say they can’t because of their nationality?

Importantly, it is clearly stated in the government’s

standard Production Sharing Agreement that if a company does not explore or develop a block within a short period of time, it must relinquish its ownership and the block can be auctioned again. So, why can’t Guyanese be allowed to bid on blocks?

If they can’t find money or hire the skilled workforce to develop it, then they’ll have to relinquish it anyway.

It seems to me this could be a great opportunity for Guyanese companies who know the coast and our geology well, but don’t have the capacity to develop fields singlehandedly.

Mr. Mangal should rethink his position and use his expertise to help Guyana’s oil industry move forward, instead of asking that it be held back.

Donald Singh

NAMING OF GECOM CHAIR HAS GENERATED RENEWED OPTIMISM IN THE DEMOCRATIC PROCESS DEAR EDITOR, It is indeed refreshing that an agreement has been reached regarding the appointment of a Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). Guyanese were already getting tired of the protracted delay in the naming of a new GECOM Chairman by President Granger.

Now that a Chairman has been named, it is important that GECOM gets down to serious business in preparing for Regional and General Elections within the constitutionally stipulated timeframe.The Chief Elections Officer, Mr. Keith Lowenfeld, is on record as saying that the existing Voters’ List could be used as

the basis for a sanitisation process in order to create a credible Official List of Electors (OLE).

The Commission needs to now ascertain the validity of that information provided by Mr. Lowenfeld at its next meeting having regard to attempts by a senior government official to suggest that Mr. Lowenfeld may have been ‘misquoted’ in the media.

The next ‘hurdle’ in the holding of elections within the stipulated constitutional deadline is to have a date for elections announced by President Granger.

The challenge facing the new GECOM Chair is to now advise the President on that body’s readiness to hold elec-

tions on or before September 18, 2019. This would pave the way for elections to be held within the shortest possible time; given President Granger’s insistence that he cannot name a date for (Continued on page 7 )

DEAR EDITOR, I trust that this letter finds all the stakeholders of the University of Guyana in good health and in good spirits.

It must be noted and understood going forward, that the University uses not its own security but employs a third party.

Security has always, I say that with no regrets, been an issue of grave concern for students. If someone decides to rob us, if we realise we cannot engage these robbers in a fight, even a call for help wouldn’t suffice.

Over the past semester, the University suffered to two bomb threats, putting school out for two weeks.

The Government of Guyana sent the then Crime Chief Mr. Alves and its Minister of Education Ms. Henry to address the issue going forward.

None of their promises has been up kept since then.

The students are still left to be protected by old unarmed guards throughout the course of the day (which lasts for about 12 hours).

Just after the above meeting with the Crime Chief, Vice Chancellor, Minister of Education, presi d e n t o f t h e UGSS, two students were robbed of their phones, laptops, etc. right at the

back gate.

The back gate remains poorly lit and guarded by elderly security staffers.

Even if they spot a robbery, I say this confidently, they can’t do anything!

The guards usually demand to see a badge of you’re a student but never check to see if it’s your badge that you’re brandishing.

I can also say this confidently; many times many students have passed in various facilities in the compound with badges that do not belong to them. In short, anybody can possess one, gain access to all the students there and inflict whatever pain it is that they wish to inflict.

Just a few weeks back, I was heading to a meeting with the head of facilities at the Campus, the guard at the back gate didn’t stop me

(usually they do).

After being shocked by not having my greetings to the said person returned, I glanced back to see why.

The boy (he couldn’t be older than 18 years old) had his head down to his phone, playing some game, (sounded like a shooting game). I continued to proceed.

This is what we, as students, have to endure while everyone continues to enjoy a merry life at the University of Guyana and it needs to stop.

University is scheduled to reopen in September and that month may also shape up to be the month of our upcoming elections. I hope all stakeholders take note of same.

Sometime ago, somewhere deep down in the psyche of Guyanese, it was (Continued on page 7)

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Kaieteur M@ilbox

Kaieteur M@ilbox

MAYOR NARINE SHOULD RUN FOR PRIME MINISTER

The AFC has squandered its ...

DEAR EDITOR, Permit me a space in your editorial to support and to echo a call on behalf of all youths throughout Guyana.

Editor, it is no secret that a majority of Guyana’s voting population comprises youths between the ages of 18 to 35.

It is the youths of this country that hold the power within their hands to ensure that a government that is of the people, for the people is elected.

Many have questioned why the PPP is afraid of the a new voters list but Editor, the fact is clear, the PPP knows that they will lose by a larger margin than they did by in the 2015 elections, should the thousands of youths that are unregistered become enfranchised.

The question remains however, is the APNU/AFC doing everything necessary to capture those new votes?

Only time will tell.

However, as a youth I can say pronto, Youths today expect leadership that is representative of what

they believe in - transparent governance, honesty and integrity and to this end Editor, the Mayor of Georgetown has been exp o u nding these qualities since taking office in late 2018.

He is youthful and for the short time he has occupied the seat of Ma y o r of Georgetown, Pandit Ubraj Narine has demonstrated what a true politician is made of, and what we truly can achieve when we put youths with a clear vision in key positions!

Editor, I strongly believe that the APNU/ AFC government would win the upcoming election by a landslide victory if the Honourable Mayor is placed on the ticket alongside His Excellency President David Granger as a we approach General Elections once more.

As a youth, Mayor Narine has the backings of a wide cross section of Guyanese from differing backgrounds and as Prime Minister of Guyana, I see a government

that is strong, stable and well equipped to manage our new found resource in a transparent and selfless manner!

Too many of our leaders have used their positions to grab from ordinary citizens through corrupt means.

Mayor Narine, as one of the youngest May o r s i n the history of Georgetown, has demonstrated to all that he is ready to serve and to do so with all his might and energy.

E d i t o r, l i k e M a r t i n Luther King, I too have a dream, a ticket for the 2020 elections w i t h o u r d e a r Mayor Pandit Ubraj Narine standing next to our dearest President His Excellency David Granger as His Prime Minister and first Vice President.

Editor, let’s us not dream further, I’m calling on all youths to throw their support behind the young Mayor and let us, whenever elections is called, support a party that is for the people of this beautiful land!

Mayor Narine for Minister, Youths, wise up, let’s make this happen!

Yours respectfully, R. M. Mathoo, B.Sc.

From page 4 PNC’s continued willingness to work with persons outside of its traditional base.

The PNC still retains goodwill thanks largely to the Grangers.

President Granger is on the side of the sugar workers and what happens next in the Ministry of Agriculture will serve to reinforce that.

Guyana has also never before seen such a First Lady as Sandra Granger: exemplary, dignified, passionate about helping the poor, down-toearth and hardworking just to name a few of her stellar qualities.

The work of both Grangers remains unfinished, hence my support for their reelection.

Another compelling reason is the very nature of the Coalition’s support base. It is not as blind as that of the People’s Progressive Party (PPP).

To highlight the difference in traditional party supporters, I point to the University of Guyana (UG) and Dr. Mellissa Ifill.

She openly stated that she voted for the Coalition in 2015 but has stuck doggedly to her principles.

In stark contrast, in the PPP world, being pro-PPP generally trumps principles.

She exemplifies the many in

the Afro-Guyanese community who go against the grain and stick to principle, a long tradition perhaps most exemplified by the WPA during the time of Dr. Walter Rodney.

This is something that continues to be woefully lacking in the Indo-Guyanese community and a factor why the PPP ought not to rule at this time.

One other urgent issue that the PNC must address is that of taxation. Given that the Coalition has a better record of responsiveness than the oft all too stubborn PPP, a new set of tax policies would be positively received.

There is national resentment to the extent that more than a few Coalition supporters may opt to sit out the elections, given the perception of a greater money flow under the PPP. The vexing issue of vehicle duties must also be resolved.

For example, by establishing new classes specifically suited to our economy and local conditions with lower duties.

In 2014, I had predicted a win should the AFC coalesce with APNU. It was based on the simple arithmetic that AFC + APNU =PPP. I had argued while that may not necessarily be so, because of the expected consequences of joining with the PNC, it would be enough to create the excitement needed for sufficiently high turnouts in the then opposition strongholds.

The AFC, back then seemed more intent on holding on to its miniscule Indian base (if ever it had one) rather than thinking of the national good.

I had felt that the toxicity

it created would have a lasting negative effect on national cohesion. I had argued it was not only what was said, but how.

It was during that time that I resigned from the AFC. The AFC’s underwhelming performance (Constitution Reform, agriculture, road carnage, etc.) coupled with intemperance and arrogance, and the mishandling of sugar workers will see maximum turnouts in PPP strongholds and abstentions among Coalition supporters. This lends grave urgency to the PNC moving beyond the AFC, by seeking new people, credible names.

This coming election may be the mother of all elections and I urge restraint and respect for our fellow Guyanese.

Do not let us be used as pawns. At the end of the day, political leaders know how to get along with each other, while we the people continue to fight amongst ourselves and struggle in our daily lives.

I will never forget President Granger sitting through the entire Hindu ceremony at my wife’s funeral, right near her serenely sleeping body.

I will never forget former Prime Minister Samuel A. A. Hinds and Minister Robeson Benn’s presence in the pouring rain at the funeral either.

Both parties have their good, bad and ugly.

Let us not hate, but simply make the best of the choices before us and work toward improvements in each successive cycle, ensuring our leaders are held accountable.

Yours faithfully, Gerhard Ramsaroop

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur M@ilbox Listen, observe, smile and don’t allow politicians to confuse your mindsets DEAR EDITOR, Whatever transpired during the meeting between former President Jagdeo and President Granger behind closed doors and deciding on the new head for GECOM, I am happy like they both seem to be. Finally, we have gotten over that hurdle towards elections 2019.

Welcome aboard Justice Claudette Singh.

Come August 1, 2019 for Emancipation celebration at the National Park, it is my expectation that both major party members and all other contesting parties for the general elections grace their presence as well behaved politicians in front of the international representatives/community based in Guyana.

This occasion is more or

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less the last one where the general public would meet and gather as one people, one nation, one destiny and an opportunity for a public interaction with all contesting candidates for elections.

I dare say to the general public, we will all be part of the mother of all elections in 2019 and let us exercise our right in going to the polls and live as decent neighbours.

Don’t allow politicians to confuse our mindsets with their campaigning messages of half truths, lies, deceit, etc.

Allow them to talk, listen, observe, smile and return home safely and respect whichever party becomes the elected government of the day.

Yours Faithfully T.Pemberton

Naming of GECOM Chair has generated ...

From page 5 elections unless he is so advised by GECOM. The naming of a GECOM Chair which accords with the constitutional provisions, even though delayed, had generated renewed optimism in the democratic processes.

I take this opportunity to extend congratulations to Justice Claudette Singh on her appointment as the new Chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission. The fact that she is the first woman in Guyana to hold such office is not without significance.

Hydar Ally

Security at theUniversity of Guyana needs to be ...

From page 5 taught that security personnel need to be old and all that is required is sitting and asking for identification.

The University needs a new direction and all those who cannot afford to go in that direction need to come off the ship.

Because while our fees increase, our quality of service continues to depreciate and that should not be the case.

Jafar Gibbon

Guyana initiates basic alert measures in wake of Ebola becoming a ‘global concern’

G

uyana has initiated a basic level alert in the wake of the World Health Organisation [WHO’]s declaration that the outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo [DRC] as a “global concern” which has caused it to be rated as a public health emergency.

Based on information released by WHO there are established phases of a pandemic which can be compared to colour-coded alert levels. These are alert levels Green, Yellow, Orange and Red. Alert Green requires no security measures to be adopted because there is no risk of the disease being communicated.

Alert Yellow on the other hand requires basic security measures, while Alert Level Orange would require maximum security. Alert Red is the stage where WHO declares a pandemic state of emergency and the commencement of an ‘activation of security measures’ would be executed.

“Nevertheless, it is important to conduct periodic exercises to test the effectiveness of equipment and the communication channels and to ensure that personnel are adequately trained,” according to Dr. Kay Shako, Director of Regional Health Services and current Chief Medical Officer (ag).

She revealed, yesterday, that the Yellow Alert has been activated in Guyana.

Moreover, among the recommended measures is the sensitisation of passengers to the precautionary measures and hygiene practices that should be observed during travel such as the possession of hand sanitizers, and practices such as washing hands, wearing of gloves or wiping of surfaces when using the water taps or lavatories.

All travel agencies and airlines selling seats or tickets for travel are also expected to take on the responsibility of sensitising their clients on the risk of Ebola. Dr. Shako also revealed that moves must be made to develop and display signage around the airport check-in area and arrival area for information purposes.

However, appropriate message content must be developed on the recommendation of the Public Health Ministry, she noted.

Further, the establishment of an isolated or sterile facility at the airport, which is remote from public access, should be in place in the event there is a suspected case or cases of Ebola victims.

Among the measures, too, must be the availability of personal protective equipment (PPE) to all airport staff when necessary.

During this current alert,

appropriate monitoring and surveillance is expected at the VIP Screening checkpoint and this must be implemented by the Airport Management and Port Health.

Further, it will be required that awareness training and sensitisation on measures to detect and combat the Ebola Virus must be provided to all personnel operating at or within these facilities such as the VIP and Executive Lounges.

According to Dr. Shako, too, sensitisation and training of frontline and other staff must be conducted at the check-in counters and elsewhere at the airport.

Among those who must be sensitized are: airline check-in staff, contracted handling companies, contracted security personnel, security screening personnel, cleaners and cleaning companies, immigration officers, red-caps (porters) and taxi-drivers.

“All of the categories of personnel as described above can be used to conduct initial observation and evaluation of outgoing traveling passengers.

“However, they will be required to pay close attention to maintaining a safe distance of three feet from persons with suspected illness; take precautionary measures when handling all travel documents and other

personal effects of passengers with suspected illness; report any suspicious cases of illness to Port Health Officers and Port Health Officials along with medical support team from Ministry of Public Health will subject suspected cases to further evaluation and determine if and when such cases should be taken to isolated/ sterile area,” Dr. Shako shared.

Also, the evaluation of arriving passengers is crucial, she added. Given the rating of the disease as a public health emergency, people are expectedly concerned about the regional spread of the Ebola virus, especially after a new spike in cases.

According to Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO’s Director General, “It is time for the world to take notice and redouble our efforts. We need to work together in solidarity with the DRC to end this outbreak and build a better health system”.

Dr Ghebreyesus emphasised.

However, that great work has been done amidst challenging circumstances.

Those contributing to this success include the WHO, national governments, international partners and communities.

“Guyana, a third world country in South America, is no less safe than its neighbours, thus, to this (Continued on page 11)

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

148 convicted for drug-related offences last year Carrying illicit drugs for your personal use or for trafficking can land you a large fine and time in prison, too. In Guyana, it is illegal to supply anyone with drugs or to have your own drugs. It is also illegal to import or export drugs, or to allow a premises, which you own or rent to be used for any drug-related activities among other things.

According to the Guyana Drug Information Network 2018 Annual Report, 539 persons were charged last year for drug trafficking, possession and cultivation.

Conviction statistics from the Guyana Prison Service show that 110 persons were convicted for trafficking narcotics, while 38 were convicted for possession of narcotics.

Of the number convicted for possession, 14 were found with marijuana, while five were found to be in possession of cocaine.

Moreover, seven were convicted for possession of other narcotics, namely ecstasy, heroin and meth.

Nine persons were convicted for possession of drug utensils. Meanwhile, of the 110 persons convicted for trafficking narcotics, 89 of them were for marijuana and 21 were for trafficking cocaine.

Furthermore, the report noted that three persons were convicted for cultivation of marijuana and three persons were convicted for smoking of narcotics. Data for 2018 indicate that the majority of persons, 96 who were

convicted for a drug crime were above 25 years old. Two persons were below the age of 20. The two persons were charged with trafficking cocaine and cannabis. Of the persons between the ages of 20-25, the majority were convicted for trafficking cannabis.

Persons convicted have received various punishments as specified in law ranging from six months to four years’ imprisonment.

Along with many of the applied punishment, fines are applied totaling three times the value of the narcotic the person was charged for trafficking.

The most served punishment for 2018 was three years’ imprisonment with fine.

According to the report, this punishment was handed down to 59 persons convicted of possession, trafficking and cultivation of various narcotics. This was followed by 24 persons who received six months sentencing plus fines for their crime. This punishment was mostly allotted to 21.

Assessment is only based on 127 convictions as per records received from the Guyana Prison Service for the year 2018 persons convicted of possession of narcotics (15 persons).

The reported revealed, “The harshest punishments for drug crime in 2018 were primarily allocated to persons convicted of trafficking in narcotics. This was four years’ imprisonment with fine for 18 persons, and three years’ imprisonment with fine for 45 persons.

“For 2018, the data indicate that three persons were convicted for cultivation and sentenced to three years’ imprisonment with fine.”

The report, therefore, recommended that based on the numerical presentation, it can be said that the law enforcement agencies must exert more effort in identifying the persons responsible for the cultivation of cannabis, so they can be prosecuted for

this crime as it is the prosecution rate is insignificant when compared to the figures for the number of eradications carried out in 2018.Meanwhile, the Guyana Police Force Narcotics Branch made 275 narcotics seizures last year. This translates to 218 seizures for cannabis amounting to 504.55 kilograms, and 50 seizures for cocaine totalling 11.09 kilograms.

There were seven seizures of ecstasy yielding 0.47 kilograms. This amounts to a total of 516.11 KG of narcotics seized by police for 2018.

The Customs Anti Narcotics Unit (CANU), on the other hand, made 59 seizures amounting to 718 kilograms. Of this total, 22 seizures were for cannabis equating to 545.78 kilograms of which 0.16 kilograms were cannabis seeds; 29 seizures were for cocaine totalling 171.58 kilograms.

In addition, CANU made eight seizures for drugs such as 0.304 kilograms of heroin, ecstasy totalling 0.533 kilogram, and methamphetamine totalling 0.1 kilogram.

The report recommends that the Guyana Police Force Narcotics Branch increase its manpower and strengthen its capacity to analyse trends in

the drug trade to better target interventions. It was also recommended that the Narcotics Branch increase its budget to carry out daily operations.

According to the annual report, “Provide access to training opportunities for all law enforcement agencies in the area of capacity building, and intelligence gathering with an aim of reducing the transshipment of drugs through Guyana.”

It further recommends that, “funding should be invested in enhancing officers’ competency in the field specifically, documentation and following SOPs for seizure and arrest, interviewing and interrogation techniques, investigative skills, land surveying, bomb dismantling, etc.”

It was also suggested that based on the drug strategy, bilateral relationships should be built with Venezuela, Brazil, Suriname and Colombia with the aim of further reducing the transshipment of drugs into Guyana through the sharing of information and mutual assistance and that law enforcement agencies to focus their attention and resources on higher-level drug traffickers and violent offences.

Sunday July 28, 2019

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Patterson refutes claim that business in Guyana is slowing Some people are of the opinion that the business pace in Guyana has slowed because of a number of factors. However, Minister David Patterson is in denial of this claim.

The Minister through his Facebook page yesterday refuted the claim. According to Minister. Patterson, “The truth is always stranger than fiction!”

The advertisement stated, “It’s been about two months since business has been slow in Guyana. The Cubans who have (sic) been flocking the Guyanese market are now shopping elsewhere, mostly Suriname.”

The advertisement contended that flights to Guyana are costly in ticket prices and baggage allowance. It also highlighted the difference in the number of flights going to Suriname weekly as compared to Guyana.

Hotel rates, taxes, Governmental assistance and the crime rate were the other factors raised in the advertisement.

The Minister noted that

Passengers at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA)

for June, passengers coming to Guyana increased by 12 percent; while the year to date total for passengers arrivals increased by seven percent.

Minister Patterson said that he was surprised by the claims made in the advertisement as a simple fact check can be done to clear the air.

“COPA arriving passengers increased by 44 percent or 6,398 passengers compared to the first half of 2018.

“ARUBAAIRLINES arriv-

ing passengers increased by 26 percent or 6,806 passengers compared to the first half of 2018,” Minister Patterson said.

“Caribbean Airlines (CAL) arriving passengers increased by four percent or 3,144 passengers compared to the first half of 2018.”

He added that the passengers of ARUBA and COPA are mainly Cuban passengers and as a result it should be safe to assume that the traffic

High Demand for XM Rum Contributed to 44% Export Sales at Banks— Report The first half of the financial year 2019 saw a spike in the export sales for Banks DIH as the company recorded a 44% percent growth in the export sales.

All this is attributed to increased sales to Europe, the United States of America and the Caribbean with the award winning XM Rums showing significant progress in those listed markets as a higher demand for them was exhibited.

Sales and Marketing Executive, Mr Carlton J o a o , said that the

company’s products have been receiving tremendous exposure and brand awareness at both regional and international trade shows which has contributed to the increased international demand.

He said, “All our XM family of rums especially the 15, 12, 10 and 7 year-old as well as the Xtra Mature rum all continue to grow and are in high demand.

The United States of America, France, Italy, Denmark and the Caribbean are important markets for our rum products.”

In the United States, XM is extremely popular on the East Coast and the company is working on expanding its brand to other cities. Additionally, the Canadian market is being explored and there are discussions with key stakeholders to have access these as soon as possible.

Joao said that the aged rums are continuing to excel internationally in quality and gaining awards, the latest being the 2018 Quality Awards from the Brusselsbased Monde Selection International Quality Institute.

Dem boys seh ...

Collect de money up front or else…

Oil is big business.

Was a time when oil was a black dirty thing was cheap.

But after a time is anodda.

Oil get expensive and de companies begin to follow it.

Since a country find oil, is nearly all dem foreign oil companies would come.

In Guyana case, de leaders get set up.

De country didn’t know it had oil. People was searching and wasn’t finding. Some of dem was even packing up and leaving.

Dem boys believe was part of a plan to smart Guyana. Technology was in place and dem boys believe Exxon did know from de satellite wheh de oil been.

It sign de kind of contract dat got Guyana in a pickle to

dis day. And de contract got nuff loopholes. For example, when de drilling done and de hole got to close up is Guyana got to pay to do .

It might have to hire de same Exxon to close de well wha Exxon itself drill.

But it ain’t too late. Dem boys pressing de government to put in de clause fuh Exxon to put aside money in Guyana pocket to close all dem well.

It is de Decommissioning Fund.

But it depend on who managing de fund. Money is a thing does disappear. De Venezuela money fuh oil disappear.

Guyana also trying wid a contract fuh oil spill. Dem boys seh dis whole oil thing is like sex. A lot of cleaning

up got to be done when everything finish. Somebody got to pay. Is either one person pay up de money fuh any clean up or de odda party do de clean up at de party own expense.

It gon be a case of tekking money from whatever payment you get, unless you charge a jewel and a crown from de start.

Guyana didn’t charge nutten, suh it deh at a disadvantage.

Thanks to Soulja Bai, dem boys get a chance to see de contract wha Guyana sign. Imagine how exposed Guyana woulda be. Like a man wid he pants down and he tail in de air.

Talk half and collect de money in advance.

between Cuba and Guyana has actually increased, rather than decreased.

Just recently, the Guyana Tourism Authority released a recording that between January and June 2019, Guyana has seen an increase of visitors to the country.

Based on information collected from the four main ports of entry, which are Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Eugene F. Correia International Airport (EFCIA), Lethem and Moleson Creek, it was ascertained that Guyana has since attracted 148,715 visitors for the period January - June, 2019. The report found that this is a 10.69 percent increase in comparison to the January - June 2018 period which received 134,347 visitors.

Recent engagements were done in Georgetown and Lethem to meet with sister agencies of the Guyana Tour-

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson ism Authority and private stakeholders to elevate the tourism sector in Guyana.

Discussions were focused on the tourism strategy, priorities, and outcomes to date for the 2019-2020 pe-

riod. The primary focus was on fostering a dialogue on the importance of collaboration in an effort to create shared ownership and buy-in for roles that all stakeholders need to play.

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

GAWU, GPSU, GLU, NAACIE, CCWU among 260 entities which for decades failed to file tax returns More than 200 entities, including unions have been failing to file their annual returns, according to a notice in the Official Gazette.

S

cores of active trade unions have breached their obligations, failing to file their annual tax returns.

In fact, according to a notice filed in the Official Gazette yesterday, the country’s biggest unions and associations have been guilty of the practice.

The notice to the trade unions was signed by Registrar of Trade Unions, Nicole Prince, and included 260 unions and associations.

Shockingly, despite handling tens of millions of dollars in dues, it appeared that the entities, many of them well known and in the news often, were not keen on

ensuring they comply with regulations by filing their annual returns with the Registrar.

For example, the Guyana Labour Union had outstanding returns for 1960, 1964, 1972-1978, 1983-1985, 1987-1988 and for the years between 2000-2017.

The Guyana Postal &

Telecommunication Workers Union had no returns for the years 1939-1959, 1970-1973, 1977-1978, 1981-1988, 19922007 and 2017.

The Forest Products Association of Guyana, which is a grouping of mainly large loggers, between 19452018, failed to file their returns, the notice from the Registrar said.

The National Association of Agricultural, Commercial and Industrial Employees (NAACIE), one of the sugar unions, appeared not be paying attention to its obligations as well.

It had returns that were not filed for the period 19471969 and 1978-2018.

The Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), the largest union for government

workers, was guilty with outstanding returns not filed for 1949-1972, 1975-1995, 1997-2000, 2003-2009 and 2012-2017.

The Clerical and Commercial Workers Union (CCWU) was also in the mix.

It owed returns for almost all the years from the period 1951-1959, 1962 and 19692018.

Shockingly also included in the list is the Guyana Agriculture & Workers Union (GAWU).

GAWU is the largest sugar union with members also in a number of other sectors, including forestry.

During the 2000s, it was reportedly collecting tens of millions of dollars annually in union dues.

It owed for 1962-1965,

1967-1969, 1973, 1974, 19762010 and 2012-2018.

They were others too which were not complying were the Guyana Nurses Association which since 1972 has also failed to file its returns.

It would mirror the Guyana Minibus Association which since 1989 neglected to do so.

The others named in the list are the National Mine Workers Union of Guyana, the Federal Management Staff Association, the United Minibus Union, the Guyana Private Trawlers Association, the Guyana Customs House Brokers Association, the National Workers Union, the General Workers Union and the Guyana Teachers Association Union.

Government takes Oil and Gas discourse to Berbice students

The Department of Energy (DoE), took its interactive session to the Upper Corentyne area where several students from the Upper Corentyne Industrial Training Centre (UCITC) were educated on the oil and gas sector and the potential impact and transformation it will have on the economy.

Office Manager, Sharon Patterson, explained that through these interactive sessions the government aims to improve the level of awareness among Guyanese about the oil and gas sector and what it has to offer especially

young persons, the necessary requirements needed for participation, and the benefits that can be derived.

Patterson also noted the forum provides an opportunity for participants to actively engage in the discussions and decision-making process to position themselves to benefit from the sector.

She noted that at the end of 2018, more than 54% of persons directly employed in the oil and gas sector are Guyanese and the (Continued on page 72)

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Smart City surveillance cameras operational …Chinese-built system has facial, car licence recognition capacity With eyes on the city, there is no place for criminals to hide. Citizens can feel much safer. Over 100 intelligence surveillance cameras have been strategically placed across the city as part of the Safe City System.

The Safe City System is a component of the US$32M National Broadband Project, which was received from the Chinese Government over two years ago.

Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, and Minister of Public Te l e c o m m u n i c a t i o n s , Catherine Hughes, along with other high-ranking officials were given a preview of how the safe city system works.

The headquarters is the New

National Database Centre, Liliendaal.

Minister Ramjattan said the system is crucial. He highlighted that statistics shows that 53 percent of serious crimes occurs in the city hence the decision to launch the pilot project in Georgetown.

“This is going to be one of the best developments for our country in relation to matters of security and the capacity and capabilities built in to ensure that we can track vehicles, track suspects to the extent of knowing where they are… thorough this technology, I am just so thrilled,” the minister underscored in a government statement. The system is

The unveiling of the project on Friday at Liliendaal being built by Huawei Technologies Co. Ltd. Noting that the system will enhance the capacity of the police, Minister Ramjattan described it as a combination of personnel and technology that will take Guyana forward in terms of security.

The project is a collaboration the governments of Guyana and China.

The high-tech system can perform face and [car] licence recognition. Several police vehicles are also equipped with cameras and radios that can be traced and accessed at any time. From the security control room, the operators have access to all the cameras across the city that they can pull up on a big screen as they keep watch. What is more important, is that the control

room is also connected with all the stations in Georgetown, making the system effective.

Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun, said that security is paramount, and the new system will be very useful to Guyana’s security sector and for businesses.

“I think that in the 21st (continued on page 14)

Sunday July 28, 2019

Preliminary inquiry begins into Sand Hills Chain saw operator murder The preliminary inquiry into the murder of a Sand Hills, Berbice River, chainsaw operator began on Wednesday in the New Amsterdam Magistrate’s Court.

Roy Glaston, 28, of Sand Hills, Berbice River, is on trial before Magistrate Peter Hugh for the murder of Elvis Benedict, 40, a chainsaw operator of Sand Hills, Berbice River. The incident reportedly occurred between Tuesday June 18, and Wednesday June 19, 2019, at Sand Hills, Berbice River.

Glaston was not required to plead to the indictable charge. The prosecution has called four witnesses so far.

Benedict was reportedly last seen around 17:00 hrs on Tuesday June 18 fixing a tractor. About 07:00hrs, the following day, he was found alive by a truck driver with multiple injuries about his body, lying at the side of the road, some two miles from where the alleged incident took place.

The man reportedly told his brother that he was injured by the accused. He was picked up and taken by boat to the New Amsterdam Public Hospital where he was pro-

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Kaieteur News

Roy Glaston nounced dead on arrival.

The body had visible marks of violence including lacerations to the left lower back, the centre of the back, the left hand and the left upper jaw. There were also multiple scratches and bruises and abrasions about the body.

A post mortem examination performed on the body of Benedict, by Government Pathologist Dr. Vivekanand Brijmohan at the New Amsterdam Hospital showed that he died from shock and haemorrhage due to multiple injuries. The matter is set for continuation on August 22.

Visitors’ visas issued by US Embassy continue to fall The number of visitors’ visas issued by the US Embassy in Kingston has continued to be fewer and fewer.

Over the last 12 months, between July 2018 and June 2019, figures from the US Department of State indicated that 4,401 non-immigrants visas were issued (B1/B2 category).

For the similar period the previous 12 months, 5,842 visas were issued.

While the US Embassy in Georgetown has not been giving an indication about the number of Guyanese who have been turned down for the holidaying visas, there have been indications that the falling numbers were because the demand has reduced.

A significant number of locals have those 10-year visas requiring fewer of them applying.

In recent years, the US has been approving more and more of those B1/B2 visas, a signal of the growing relationship with Guyana.

Correspondingly, they have been reporting that the number of Guyanese who have overstayed remains negligible- more than 95

percent returned home and did not overstay.

According to the US Department of State, June had the highest number of visas, with 521 issued.

The lowest was for the month of February when 202 was issued.

Between July 2017 and June 2018, the highest number issued was in July – 1,339.

The lowest was in January last year-242. The number of visitors’ visas has been high prior to 2017. In 2017, there were 25,338 visas issued for the B1/B2 category.

Last year, too, the US Embassy became even busier after it was handed the job to interview Cubans for immigrant visas.

Years ago, there were significant rackets involving visas with Guyanese willing to pay millions of dollars to go to the US. One US embassy official was even jailed following a visa racket.

In terms of immigrant

visas, since 2008, the average number of persons who received visas to the US was around 4,500.

In 2015, the US issued almost 7.2M visitors’ visas.

This went down to 6.9M in 2016 but fell to 6.3M in 2017.

For 2017, in the western hemisphere, of 28 nations, Guyana was ahead of 15 other countries in terms of the number of immigrant visas issued. At 4,096, it was ahead

of Venezuela at 2,917; Trinidad and Tobago at 1,285; Suriname at zero; Barbados at 1,789 and Brazil at 3,502.

Leading the western hemisphere for the number of visas issued in 2017 was Mexico at 86,876.

The Dominican Republic got almost 50,000. El Salvador and Haiti also have a significant number of immigrants to the US. So, too, does Jamaica.

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Over 300 Aurora workers choose NMWUG to represent them The application process for the workers of Guyana Goldfields’ Aurora Gold Mines Incorporated (AGM) to be unionised is well underway, and has seen about 300 workers being submitted to the Trade Union Recognition and Certification Board (TUR&CB) who have selected the National Mine Workers’ Union of Guyana (NMWUG) to be the bargaining union for their interests.

Minister of Labour, Keith Scott, told Kaieteur News that

consequent to his visit to the mines, Government would have to conduct a poll to determine the choice of union of the workers. A worker informed this publication yesterday that the workers had indicated overwhelmingly the union of their choice, and so a poll would no longer be necessary.

NMWUG President, Sherwin Downer, said that NMWUG is the only union that is vying to represent the workers, and that the union

made its submissions on Friday last, including its constitution.

Senior Labour Officer, Prandatt Basdeo, is expected to conduct a survey, determining whether 40 percent (the minimum qualifying requirement) of workers have selected NMWUG. Downer said that so far, the union’s application to the board has been accepted, and that by Tuesday, it should be revealed whether the union secured more than 40 percent

Smart City surveillance cameras...

From page 12 century we cannot only count on the people, we have to count on the technology and equipment.

So this is a good thing here.

Now we have the technology, I think most people will be happy and just a few people are not happy,” the Chinese Ambassador said.

These are “exciting times for Guyana and its security sector,” remarked Minister

Hughes.

The government, she noted, is committed to using information technology to transform Guyana and ensure that more government services are accessible. The Safe City component will ensure that there are prompt and efficient public security services.

“This is a direct benefit to the people of Guyana who we know deserve the best… what we are showing you, is

how through technology, we can guarantee a higher level of service to citizens of Guyana,” Minister Hughes stated.

The project in the city is a pilot, which is expected to be implemented throughout the country, shortly. While the Command Centre for the Guyana Police Force (GPF) will be constructed shortly, they will have full access to use the current system immediately. (DPI)

of the vote.

The company is also expected to submit, inkeeping Section 18 of the Trade Union Recognition Act, a copy of the payroll with the names and designation for the rank-and-file workers.

The workers expected to be unionised number in excess of 600.

While the process is not over, Downer, who is confident that there will be no hiccups, told this publication that NMWUG is ready to get to work to improve the working conditions of the rank-and-file workers.

Downer said that the company has attempted to periodically placate its workers by granting bonuses. Recently, after the last strike ended, the company decided to give workers a quarterly 7.6 percent bonus. Noted by the union President is that the workers are due for an increase.

He said that the union will also be looking at advocating for an improvement to the workers’ risk allowances.

The rank-and-file workers at Aurora’s mines and mechanical division had begun to strike

earlier this month, due to what they considered workers’ rights abuses.

Roughly 250 workers participated in the strike, which lasted for two days. During the ordeal, the managers of the mines reportedly turned off the internet connection so that the workers couldn’t reach the general public.

Workers protested in the rain, and reported that the administration had even refused to feed them on one day, save for a single meal.

Guyana Goldfields had released a statement shortly after, announcing that they had suspended work until a solution could be reached for the workers’ grievances.

The Labour Department was forced to meet swiftly with a team of workers to hear their concerns, after which Minister Scott told Kaieteur News that the workers agreed to go back to work, on the condition that their request for union representation is expedited.

Those negotiations included Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman, and Chief Labour Officer,

NMWUG President, Sherwin Downer Charles Ogle.

The workers had told Kaieteur News that Minister Scott promised to visit the mines to have a better understanding of what they are facing, and so he did.

Scott said that the Ministry’s efforts will consider all issues being faced at all of AGM’s units.

The Labour Department’s discussions with the union ended with Government ensuring that none of the workers would be fired, and that the application for the workers to be unionised would be expedited.

Sunday July 28, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Mechanic gunned down in Guyhoc home

The window through which the bandits gained entry Popular mechanic, Reginald Atherly, was shot dead at around 04.00 hrs yesterday, allegedly after confronting two masked bandits who had broken into his Lot G 26 Guyhoc Park home.

A t h e r l y, 4 4 , c a l l e d ‘Diesel Boss’, was shot in the head and right side, reportedly during a struggle with one of the intruders.

The father of six died n e a r h i s f r o n t d o o r.

According to the dead man’s wife, there was no demand for cash or valuables.

There have been reports that $110,000 went missing from the residence.

From all indications, the gunmen entered the oneflat premises after removing the panes from a southern window. They somehow managed to squeeze between the wooden bars that were erected there.

The intruders were described as slim in stature, and are believed to

have been extremely young.

Roxanne Crawford, Atherly’s reputed wife, and the couple’s nine-year-old daughter were the only other occupants at the time of the attack A dazed-looking and tearful Roxanne Crawford said the family was asleep in their bedroom, when the bandits struck.

She recalled awakening after hearing voices somewhere outside the house. She assumed that persons were walking in the alleyway in her yard.

But when she opened her eyes, she saw two masked, “thin built” men in black clothing standing by her bed and pointing guns at the family.

“When I see them, I started to scream,” Ms. Crawford said. Accord i n g t o t h e reputed wife, Atherly also scrambled up, and ran out of the bedroom.

The woman said she then woke her daughter and told her to hide under the bed, and she too, ran outside.

It was then that she

Dead: Reginald Atherly called “Diesel Boss”

The mechanic shop and the yard in which Atherly lived heard gunshots, and saw her husband struggling with one of the intruders near the front door.

According to Ms. Crawford, she then ran to retrieve a cutlass, but when she returned, she saw her husband lying motionless by the front door; the bandits had fled.

Crawford said she began to scream for her neighbours and for her reputed husband’s mother, who lives in another house at the front of the yard.

She estimated that she was screaming for some 15 minutes before anyone responded.

“Me and my daughter hollering for help, then Rasta man next door came over, and I told him what happened.

A t h e r l y ’s mother then came over and she started to say, “Them kill meh son, and I say, ‘No he ain’t dead.’”

She said her reputed husband appeared to have been shot in the head and the right side.

Residents assisted in taking Atherly to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation where he was pronounced dead.

The slain mechanic’s mother, 66-year-old Ingrid Atherly, told reporters that she was awakened by the sound of several gunshots, but she thought that robbers had invaded a nearby shop.

“When I heard the gunshots, it sound like a war zone so my daughter got up and we didn’t know what to do.

“I told my daughter that it sound like the shop next door getting robbed, not knowing that it is happening in my backyard.”

“When I heard the screaming, I jumped up on the top of the bed and look through the beam because I didn’t want to put my face through the window,

then I hear Miss Atherly!!

Miss Atherly!! Reggie get shoot’, so we open the door and run outside.”

The mother described her son as being “a very kind and loving person,” and does not know of anyone who would want to harm him.

“I don’t know who would want to do something like this. The world would talk good about him. He was well known and well respected,

we are asking the question why? Why they target Reggie?”

Residents also said described Atherly as being a generous individual who employed several youths

at his mechanic establishment, located at the front of his property.

Atherly was said to have been operating his mechanic shop for over three years.

PAGE 16

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Permanent Secretary ordered to pay former Deputy S.G her salary Chief Justice Roxane George-Wiltshire has ruled that that former Deputy Solicitor General, Prithima Kissoon, must be paid her salary, which was withheld.

In a statement, Kissoon’s Attorney, Nigel Hughes, disclosed that the ruling was delivered last Thursday, in a matter in which Kissoon had challenged the withholding of her salary by the Permanent Secretary (PS) of the Ministry of Legal Affairs and the Attorney General.

According to the lawyer in May 2017, Attorney General Basil William caused Ms. Kissoon to be sent on “administrative leave “by the Public Service Commission (PSC) pending an investigation into her alleged conduct on matters over which she had control while acting as Deputy Solicitor General.

After being sent on administrative leave, by the PSC, Kissoon left the jurisdiction after applying to the Permanent Secretary of MOLA, the Secretary of the

PSC and the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of the Presidency, Department of the Public Service, for permission to spend her leave out of the country.

Hughes noted that the PS of the MOLA wrote to Ms. Kissoon’s attorney advising him that her salary had been withheld because she had left the country without permission and that “on the directive of the Attorney G e n e r a l ’s Chambers [she] was advised and instructed that her salary be withheld with immediate effect pending the course of disciplinary action by the Public Service Commission.

He said no investigation was ever conducted. The attorney outlined further that, “Upon her return Ms. Kissoon was summoned by the Public Service Commission to attend a meeting with the PSC. “Ms. Kissoon attended the meeting with her Attorney, Nigel Hughes, who enquired at this meeting

about why her salary was withheld and the Commissioners present denied issuing such a directive. The Commissioners did not provide any information on the alleged investigation, which was conducted into the complaint about Kissoon’s work.

The Chief Justice found that indeed the letter inviting the applicant to meet with the PSC, did not say in relation to what the meeting was about.

This is especially relevant as the circumstances of this case disclose that the PSC was dealing with more than one issue as regards the applicant – the allegations by the AG against her regarding her work, the complaint that she made against the AG, and the issue of her leaving the country without permission, she said.

“Kissoon had challenged the withholding of her salary during the non-existent investigation,” Hughes said in the statement.

According to him, in her ruling, the Chief Justice stated that it was the PSC that had sent the applicant on administrative leave and it was impermissible for the PS to usurp the jurisdiction of the PSC in deciding or giving notification of the penalty, if any, to be imposed.

“Further, the Chief Justice found Ms. Kissoon’s fundamental right not to be deprived of her property, to wit, her salary, had been violated. The Chief Justice was critical of the advice given by the AG’s Chambers, which the PS decided to accept.

She found the advice “appears to have been an attempt to punish the applicant while awaiting the outcome of other disciplinary proceedings that were meant to be conducted as regards other allegations against her.”

The lawyer noted that the Chief Justice directed the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Legal Affairs to forthwith pay Ms. Kissoon any and all salaries that have

Former Solicitor General Prithima Kissoon been withheld as the decision to withhold her salary was ultra vires, whimsical, an abuse of power, in breach of the rules of natural justice and null and void.

Chief Justice GeorgeWiltshire further directed the Permanent Secretary to pay

costs in the sum of $500,000.00.

Kissoon currently has other matters pending against the State for the termination of her services and actions for libel for a series of malicious statements made against her.

Police to construct five new divisional HQ The Guyana Police Force is inviting bids for the construction of five divisional headquarters. The government, through the Ministry of Public Security, said that it is seeking eligible and qualified bidders for the construction of divisional headquarters at Mabaruma, Region One; Anna Regina, Region Two; Diamond, East Bank Demerara, Region Four; Fort Wellington, Region Five and Mahdia, Region Eight.

During last year’s budget speech, Finance Minister Winston Jordan said that plans were in place to vastly reform the police force. To this end, he had revealed that $700 M has been allocated for the construction of four new divisional headquarters in Regions One, Four, Five and Eight. Minister Jordan had said, “To better plan and execute its mandate, the GPF has undertaken to harmonize its divisional boundaries with those of the administrative regions in a phased manner, with a view to ensuring that each region has at least one divisional headquarters.”

Currently, there are seven divisional headquarters, which are headed by commanders. The composition of the divisional headquarters also includes a second in command, divisional detective officer and an officer in charge of traffic.

These are ‘A’ Division headed by Assistant Superintendent Marlon Chapman; ‘B’ Division headed by Senior Superintendent Paul Langevine; ‘C’ Division headed by Senior Superintendent Calvin Brutus; ‘D’ headed by Senior Superintendent E. Cooper; ‘E’ Division

headed by Superintendent Lynden Lord; ‘F’ Division headed by Senior Superintendent Kevin Adonis; and ‘G’ Division headed by Superintendent K. Pareshram.

Interested bidders may inspect the Bidding Document and obtain further information from the Finance Department, Ministry of Public Security at Lot 6 Brickdam Stabroek, Georgetown between 08:30 hours and 15:30 hours Monday to Friday. The Bid Document can also be uplifted from there at a nonrefundable fee of $5,000.

Bids shall be addressed to the Chairman of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB), Ministry of Finance, Main and Urquhart Streets, Georgetown.

Sunday July 28, 2019

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Kaieteur News

---Hinds’ Sight by Dr. David Hinds---

The coming Oil and Gas wealth as Emancipation and Reparations: Vote for your Grandparents’ back pay

I

n the coming days, Guyana will join the African Guyanese community in observing yet another Emancipation anniversary.

This year’s observances come as the country nervously awaits the outcome of several challenges emanating from the passage of a No Confidence Vote against the current government which is heavily supported by African Guyanese.

It is very difficult, then, to avoid speaking about Emancipation outside of the larger political context. What then are the linkages between Emancipation and the current political situation?

Emancipation in 1838 brought a formal end to chattel slavery in Guyana and the wider Anglophone Caribbean society.

The moment was pregnant with a sense of both triumph and anxiety. The now free people had triumphed over a system of socio-economic, political and cultural domination that was steeped in the inhumanity of mankind against mankind.

The profound story of Emancipation was and is the spirit of overcoming—no other group of people had undergone that level of inhumanity and for so long before and after.

The institution of slavery had profound implications for global developments during the period it was practiced and for the post-Emancipation era.

I am arguing that one cannot grasp the reality of Guyana from 1838 to the present, outside of the institution of slavery.

I know that there is a reluctance by some people, high and low, to explain the present as a consequence of the past. Such presentism conveys a flawed understanding of the challenges Guyana has continued to face as we advance deep into the twenty-first century.

If we downplay or silence

slavery and its consequences from the national consciousness, we erase the true character of the African Guyanese contribution to Guyana and distorts those of other ethnic groups that came before and after them.

It is not that African Guyanese should be elevated to a special status; it is that the scars of the long and sordid bondage they experienced must inform not only an African Guyanese praxis, but the larger Guyanese and African diaspora praxis.

It was the overcoming of enslavement that triggered another wave of migration in the form of indentureship. But that migration was not forced in the same manner as Africans were, nor was it grounded in the notion of the inhumanity of its victims.

That is a most important and central observation that must form the starting point of any analysis of the present.

This year’s Emancipation observances come on the eve of the most important election in post-slavery Guyana. The vote, that most precious and powerful political gift that we gave ourselves, is itself a derivative of Emancipation.

While it is not the sum-total of democracy, in contemporary Guyana it is one of the most democratic tools.

Because our elections are mired in ethnic competition and rivalry, the vote is sometimes viewed in negative terms. Further, because elections have not yielded emancipatory outcomes, many African Guyanese are cynical about it. And that in turn has diminished the quality of our politics and economics.

I view the coming elections as the route to a second Emancipation.

The coming of the oil and gas economy to Guyana has to be linked to Emancipation and beyond. For African Guyanese the possibilities are greatly significant. The ailments that have afflicted African Guyanese in the post-

Emancipation era, and for which they are sometimes blamed, stand the best chance of being erased with the coming of the expected oil and gas wealth.

The African Guyanese condition relative to that of other ethnic groups has been a source of concern, debate and political acrimony.

Some have urged the group to alter its condition through a spirit of “Black Uplift” that ignores the role of broad governmental emancipatory policy. Others, like this writer, have argued that that model is inadequate to meet the demands of a condition that is directly and indirectly the consequence of centuries of dehumanization and de-empowerment.

The African Guyanese condition is not the consequence of any inherent flaw in the collective psyche—it is the consequence of deliberate policies aimed at exploiting their labour for the enrichment of others and the perpetuation of underdevelopment of the African.

So, if grand, overarching policies are responsible for the present condition of the group, then it would take overarching policies to alter that condition. I am clear about that and I want African Guyanese who present themselves as leaders to grasp that truism.

The African Guyanese condition cannot be overcome by sermonization and demonization as some of us have been swayed to do, but by the use of institutions, including the government, to advance emancipatory policies.

African Guyanese, therefore, must use their vote in this coming election and beyond as leverage for policies aimed at turning back the rapid slide back into socioeconomic and cultural enslavement.

There is no more effective way out.

This imminent election is about the coming oil and gas

The Baccoo Speaks A patient at a city hospital will die from complications due to a surgical intervention.

Immediately there will be calls for the Medical Association to launch an investigation.

The general view would be that a doctor was unprepared for the intervention but the hospital trotted him out as the candidate to undertake the intervention. ** There will be another

invasion of a business place by a group of young men who seem unable to comprehend that the society is on the watch for such activities.

It goes without saying that they will be caught,

although catching them would take some doing. ** There is going to be an outbreak of a strange disease.

The cause would be the insanitary conditions under which some people live.

Initially there is going to be some animosity against the foreign migrants. But the truth is that some locals would be the people responsible for the spread by moving into the more concentrated populations.

economy. Who gets to manage that economy? How would that wealth be distributed to ensure that all ethnic groups benefit equally? I am contending that African Guyanese must see that moment in reparatory terms—it must be a form of internal reparations for the social and economic violence meted out to that community during and after slavery. That is my Emancipation plea.

But African Guyanese must make that demand. Start with the vote—cast it for the group that has shown a willingness to take African Guyanese seriously. For too long the African has been used as the route to power for their elites, only to be

marginalized after power has been attained. It must stop, but it can only be stopped by a collective resolve.

Make your vote matter.

Exchange it for opportunities that would lead you out of bondage.

One side has recognized the International Decade of Persons of African Descent (IDPADA) while the other side scornfully laughs. But we must demand policy, not pity and pittance.

Hold your head high Miss African. Hold aloft the “Red, Green and Gold”, Mr. African.

Let the memories of the Middle Passage and the Plantation spur you to the Promised Land.

You are equal to all and

Dr David Hinds inferior to none. Don’t be shy about voting for your Grandfather and Grandmother’s back pay. And then make it happen.

Happy Emancipation.

More of Dr. Hinds’ writings and commentaries can be found on his YouTube Channel Hinds’ Sight: Dr. David Hinds’ Guyana-Caribbean Politics and on his w e b s i t e www.guyanacaribbeanpolitics.news.

Send comments to dhinds6106@aol.com

PAGE 26

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Murdered mom, vanished car

By Michael Jordan

A

t around nine o’clock on the morning of Sunday, May 19, 2019, residents from a new housing scheme in La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara, came across a shocking sight.

The body of a woman lay face-down in a trench, in a bushy and desolate area. The victim was of East Indian ancestry, and was wearing a pair of blue pants and white top.

A pair of slippers lay near the corpse.

Ranks from La Grange Police Station arrived and cordoned off the area. Soon after, a young man also arrived.

The distraught youth immediately identified the victim.

She was his mother, Jennifer Bipat.

The 48-year-old Bipat was a widow with two children, and resided at Samaroo Dam, Pouderoyen, West Bank Demerara.

At one time, she had worked as a security guard. A woman working as a security guard is particularly vulnerable at night, and relatives had expressed concern about her safety.

Mrs. Bipat then switched careers and began driving a taxi. Some six months prior to

Detectives scour the crime scene

her demise, she bought a Toyota Premio, PXX 4114, and began operating from a Goed Fortuin, West Coast Demerara taxi service.

It is alleged that on the afternoon of Saturday, May 18, at around 04.30 p.m., Mrs. Bipat received a call on her cell phone.

The call was reportedly from someone who wished to hire her.

Mrs. Bipat allegedly told the dispatcher that she would not be returning to the base for the rest of the night.

She then left.

Seemingly wary about working late into the night, Mrs. Bipat would always re-

turn home at around seven in the evening, When she failed to show up, her daughter, Tharisma Samaroo, became worried.

She became even more concerned when her mom failed to answer her phone or respond to messages.

As night fell, the daughter, her brother, an aunt and grandmother contacted ranks at the Vreed-en-Hoop Police Station and reported Mrs. Bipat missing.

The following day, they received reports about the discovery of a woman’s body at the back of Dairy, a section of La Parfaite Harmonie. Her 24-year-old son, Deokhan

Murdered: Jennifer Bipat

Samaroo, went to the scene and immediately confirmed that the victim was his missing mom.

A post mortem revealed that she had been strangled and struck on the head.

Investigators appear to have not ruled out the possibility that this killing may not be a carjacking.

But could someone have lured or forced Mrs. Bipat to drive to the desolate area where she was found?

It is practically unlikely that the victim would have willingly ventured there.

A resident who spoke with me said that most taxi drivers are reluctant to enter that desolate section of Parfait Harmonie, particularly at sundown.

Another question that some are asking is, if the motive was merely robbery, why would the individual also kill Mrs. Bipat? And did the fact that the victim was beaten and strangled suggest that the ‘carjacker’ did not possess a weapon?

Asked if she had sensed

anything unusual in her mom’s behaviour, the daughter, Tharisma Samaroo, says that Mrs. Bipat had left home in a ‘happy’ mood.

She knows of no one who would have wanted to harm her mother, and is pleading for a breakthrough that would lead to the apprehending of her mom’s killer.

“I need justice for my mom. I am asking if they wanted her car, you could have just taken it, why beat her?

I am begging the police, and the public, to help us get justice.”

If you have any information on this case incidents or any other unsolved murders, please write to us at our Lot 24 Saffon Street Charlestown office or you can contact us on telephone numbers 22-58458, 2258465, 22-58473, or 2258491. You need not disclose your identity.

You can also contact Michael Jordan on +592 645-2447 or via his email address kamarangnight@gmail.com

Sunday July 28, 2019

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

==THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN==

The danger in President Granger’s politics How could a rugby player tell a cricketer that if the fielder’s foot touches the rope while stopping the ball it is not a four?

The cricketer is bound to tell him that he knows the laws of cricket and the rugby man is completely wrong. How can an engineer tell a lawyer that there is no time limitation on filing an appeal? The lawyer is going to tell the engineer that he knows the relevant law, and he is going to read it for the engineer.

What President Granger has done, before he bowed no doubt to pressure and chose Justice Claudette Singh, has severely damaged his credibility. Also, he has telegraphed his thoughts to the world that he will not accept the loss of power. On Thursday, Granger met the diplomatic community and organizations in civil society on the same day at different venues and said the identical things to them.

Two outputs were severely embarrassing. He may have opened himself to the view by persons in both groupings that he is cultivating an intention of preserving power at all cost.

First, he told them that the CCJ ruling gives him the right

to submit names to the Opposition Leader to be considered for the GECOM chairman.

It is foolish to utter such a statement when educated persons in both groupings can read the words of the President of the CCJ and the relevant article in the constitution.

If that was done, Granger would have been exposed, thus the volte face to pick Justice Singh.

One cannot find one word in the constitution and in the emanation of the President of the CCJ that gives Granger a window to submit a list of names to the Opposition Leader for the GECOM chairmanship.

There has been endless regurgitation of what the President of the CCJ told the court and here is one more act of regurgitation. These are the words of the CCJ: “We are of the view that the most sensible approach is that before the list is submitted, the Leader of the Opposition and the President must communicate with each other in good faith on, and perhaps even meet to discuss, eligible candidates for Chairman.

The aim of these discussions must be to agree on the

names of six persons who fit the stated eligibility requirements and who are not unacceptable to the President. In this regard, the Constitution anticipates that the Leader of the Opposition and the President will conduct themselves in a reasonable and responsible manner, eschew partisanship, and seek the best interests of the Guyanese people…

Once the President and Leader of the Opposition have hammered out a list of names not unacceptable to the President, the list, comprising the six persons, must then formally be submitted to the President by the Leader of the Opposition and the President must select the Chairman from those names.”

Did Mr. Granger expect the educated men and women in those two settings in which he spoke would not have gone and read what the CCJ said?

Where in that delivery and in the constitution, does the President have the right to offer a list and he could choose from same?

The volte face came no doubt via pressure from diplomatic sources for Granger to pick from the submissions of

the Opposition Leader, someone the Guyanese people can trust and who has the character to be impartial.

Mr. Granger also uttered the unthinkable. He lifted GECOM above the reaches of the court. He said GECOM is independent. He informed his audience that the court cannot rule when there must be an election. But the court has done just that and the Guyanese court has done just that, when the case was first heard before the Chief Justice. That date is not specific, but the specificity of it is immaterial. After a no-confidence vote, there must be elections three months after.

The Chief Justice stipulated that. The CCJ reinforced it.

GECOM is independent, according to the President.

But he didn’t explain. My layman’s knowledge tells me

no section of Guyana, even the presidency, is independent of the judiciary, for the simple reason that any actor or institution can violate the constitution and the court decides if there was a violation.

GECOM can do things that conflict with the constitution. A judge once ruled an election null and void because GECOM’s requirement of a voter identification card was a constitutional violation.

Vishnu Persaud can ask the judiciary to find that GECOM abrogated his rights as a citizen when it selected someone over and above his qualifications.

My opinion is that Mr. Granger has shown his true colours. He is an authoritarian personality. That has implications for free and fair elections.

Frederick Kissoon

PAGE 28

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Violent crime is a solvable problem

(An address by Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan at the Launch of the new Police Records Management Information System (PRMIS)

V

iolent crime is a solvable problem.

We may never get to the homicide statistics

down to resemble Singapore, Kuwait or Iceland where it is below 1 per 100,000 persons per year.

Author Steven Pinker in his book “Enlightenment Now - the Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress’ says: “What has to be done is that, we have to stay close to the symptoms –

the neighborhoods and individuals responsible for the biggest wedges of violence – and chip away at the incentives and opportunities that drive them. And it begins with law enforcement”.

He added: “An aggressive posture must be adopted to deter all the violent gangs and individuals, otherwise people will break the law with impunity. A most effective tactic is focused deterrence.

A laser like focus must be directed on these neighborhoods and hotspots identified by data gathered in real time”.

Here is where CariSECURE assumes such great importance. (The goal of the CariSECURE project is to improve youth crime and violence policy-making and programming in the Southern and Eastern Caribbean through the use of quality, comparable and reliable national citizen security information.)

Attention must be paid too, to troublemakers who are impulsive, who jump on opportunities to steal and vandalize and viciously attack the people who cross them, heedless of the long term consequences.

This machismo, especially displayed by our young males, can be reduced or neutered through anger management, social skills training, and counseling in At-Risk youth programs.

Just recently the Ministry of Public Security graduated 50 young people at this Guyana Police Officers’ Training Centre, who successfully completed this kind of training under the Citizens Security Strengthening Programme (CSSP).

Focus must also be directed on potential miscreants, keep them out of trouble by removing the environment which facilitates these opportunities. Pinker in ‘Enlightenment Now’ stated, “When

cars are harder to steal, houses are harder to burgle, goods are harder to pilfer, when persons carry more credit cards than cash, and dark alleys are lit and video monitored, would-be criminals do not seek another outlet for their larcenous urges.

The temptation passes and a crime is not committed”.

A more difficult challenge to focus on is drug-fueled violence which remains an unresolved international problem. But in all cases, we must take an evidence-based approach.

This approach has vastly helped regional and international institutions to fight violent crime, and it is what this new Information System is all about.

With an automated Police Records Management Information System (PRMIS) in place, it would be easier for the police to capture and analyse the reports made by any person to a police station where the system is installed.

EASYIDENTIFICATION The system permits the tracking of a subject’s address and telephone number, history and any aliases that the subject has been known to use.

It can store multiple photographs of the subject referenced by date, as well as references to prior incidents or crimes where applicable.

This system will make it easier to identify persons of interest, and allow the police to easily pull up the names of persons who are known to be Child Molesters, Sex Offenders, Deportees, Murderers, Witnesses, persons with outstanding warrants, persons with travel restrictions, drug traffickers, gang members, etc.

PRMIS will also capture data on vehicles that have been positively identified as having been used in/by any person of interest related to any type of incident/crime.

PRMIS has the capacity

to work in conjunction with other systems throughout the justice system (case management – Police, DPP, Courts, Prison).

The system contains an electronic case file (ECF) module that is capable of capturing, storing, querying and retrieving information from personnel records and other documents, exhibits, events, and photo albums.

With this system in place, the police can enhance their traffic incident database to include the time and location of an incident or accident, weather conditions, and traffic conditions at the time.

Additionally, PRMIS could identify an unlimited number of associated persons and vehicles.

PRMIS will be pilot-tested for six months in two districts at the Alberttown and Fort Wellington Police Stations.

Following the pilot testing, PRMIS will be installed and available in all station districts throughout Guyana.

COMMITMENT The success or failure of PRMIS will largely be a function of police service leadership, Officers’ active involvement in the implementation of the system. As such, the GPF has appointed Superintendent Jermain Johnson as the Readiness Manager to carry out the implementation of PRMIS. In addition, we are going to invest in building the technological capacity of our policemen and women to maintain both the hardware and software.

We will undertake continuous training for the police service members and others in the security sector and justice system.

Ultimately, we hope to be able to improve resource sharing with organisations such as CARICOM, in order to keep all of our IT systems and networks functioning properly and up to date.

Sunday July 28, 2019

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

My column

The silly season is here and so is racism

U

p until Friday there was a lot of chat ter about the apparent indecision by President David Granger to appoint a chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission.

People who are no more than armchair politicians had their views about the names submitted by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

President Granger did not win friends from some of those people whom he rejected. I remember Major General Joseph Singh resigning from his position on the staff of the Ministry of the Presidency.

Then there was Christopher Ram who was so incensed at the rejection that he actually began a campaign to highlight the ills of the government.

He took legal action against the government over President Granger’s appointment of a Chairman of the GECOM Chairman in the person of Justice James Patterson.

He also became enjoined in the wake of the No Confidence vote on December 21, 2018.

The others simply went about their business.

Then on Friday there was an appointment. A woman known for her legal acumen and who was working with the police suddenly got thrust into the confusion leading up to the elections.

People are slowly getting accustomed to the fact that the Guyana Elections Commission is the entity to signal the readiness for elections. All the talk about President Granger calling elections was nothing but political hot air.

On Thursday he repeated what then President Jagdeo did in 2006 - that not the People’s Progressive Party, not the People’s National Congress, not the president, can call elections. That statement was largely forgotten in the recent clamour.

Now the focus is on the house-to-house registration.

Last year the elections commission took a decision that there should be house-tohouse registration. In the wake of the no confidence motion that decision was thrown out the window. The contention was that GECOM should always be ready for elections.

The argument that the list used for the 2011 elections was the same list used for the 2015 elections and for two local government elections could have been used for these elections.

The government contended that the list was grossly padded. It further argued that plausible elections are necessary for democracy.

So Justice Claudette

Singh’s first challenge would be to rule on the holding of the house-to-house registration.

At present, the matter is before the courts, so she would not have to get involved unless by some twist of fate, the challengers decide to remove the matter from before the Chief Justice.

And while all this is going on, the supporters of the political opposition have taken to the streets to protest the registration. In every administrative region there were protests on Friday. What impact this would have cannot be predicted.

To their credit, the people conducting the exercise are out in their numbers doing just that. People are registering.

I have heard the comments that the exercise is efficient and speedy. I have not heard about people refusing to register, although that is exactly what the political opposition is asking its supporters to do.

I now have the task to speculate about the refusal of the courts to halt the registration.

Indeed, the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice has been interpreted to mean that elections must be held by September 18, 2019.

As fate would have it, this is the time when the more affluent Guyanese go on their vacation.

Many now fear that if they should go on their vacation they would not be registered and would therefore be ineligible to vote.

While the focus is on these things at the national

level, something else is going on. Racism has surfaced.

That is not something that Guyanese are encouraged to talk about. For most of the time we live comfortably, careful enough to push the element of race into the background.

I see it at this time and I hear it. I have experienced the fake smiles from people who know me.

In the period between elections these people have no problem greeting me.

Nowadays any greeting is perfunctory.

I know why this is so. Way back before I was born, the two major races were taught to avoid each other by the colonial masters. However, I wonder whether this actually had to be taught. I see all over the world that people of African ancestry seem to attract more hostility than anyone else.

Perhaps it is the fear of people who look different.

There was the focus on sex.

The fallacy that black men are more endowed than men of other races helped fuel that fear.

When possible, people simply gravitated to each other because of the personality. Their progeny tells the story.

I am certain that if one were to conduct a survey in multiracial societies, one would find more people of mixed ancestry than the pure bred.

The United States is a classic example. For some strange reason, if a person is the offspring of black and white parents, he or she is immediately categorized as black. Why not white?

I remember reading about Meghan Markle, the American who married Prince Harry.

She looked white to me, but the press made much about her mother being black. Her white father was pushed into the background.

It is the same in Guyana. I remember during the disturbances of the 1960s when people were told by one or

other of the races that they would beat the other half out of them.

I am not certain what is happening to people of mixed ancestry at this time in Guyana.

What I do know is that the time has come when people must be people.

A pity such has not yet come.

Adam Harris

PAGE 30

In Guyana, thanks to the achievements of the APNU+AFC coalition government, several of the problems that plagued our nation are now a thing of the past.

Under the APNU+AFC government, Guyana is finally moving in the right direction.

We have come so far in just four short years, that some citizens may have forgotten what passed for ‘normal’ under the PPP. During their time in office,

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

key leaders and their cronies in the PPP were not interested in building our sanitation infrastructure. Under their watch, Sanitation and potable water supply in our cities, towns and villages were poorly maintained.

It might be easy to forget, given the progress that has been made by the APNU+AFC, that many communities all across the nation did not have access to drinking water. Guyanese were

embarrassed of our capital city - Georgetown; Stabroek Market Square was no better than a landfill and the streets, canals and drains of our capital city were overflowing with garbage.

Under the PPP, dams and canals were not maintained or built, this caused massive flooding along the coast and the lowlands. Flooding destroyed farmlands, damaged crops and took away the livelihood of many a farmer. Gold mining communities suffered from pollution of their waterways due to poor regulation and a lack of enforcement.

In 2013, there was a massive outbreak of gastroenteritis in the Barima-Waini region, there were over 529 reported cases of the disease and several people died. The dishonest PPP under-reported this event and claimed that the situation had returned to ‘normal’.

Reports of illness and deaths dropped off the daily headlines to make way for everyday crimes and the budget debates in the National Assembly. This was a clear indication that the PPP central and regional administrations were indifferent to and tolerant of the appalling suffering of the population in the Barima-Waini. Unfortunately, this incident like so many similar incidents were par for the course during the 23 years of PPP mismanagement of Guyana’s water and sanitation infrastructure.

THE GOOD LIFE Ensuring all Guyanese have access to potable water is essential to a good quality of life. Since taking office in 2015, the APNU+AFC Coalition government has instituted policies that are responsible for more than 100,000 people now having access to clean drinking water. We have built water treatment plants at places like UitvlugtEssequibo Islands -West Demerara Region; DiamondDemerara- Mahaica Region; and Sheet Anchor- East Berbice-Corentyne Region, providing over 45,000 residents with 24-hour access to water.

Major expansion in the water treatment plant in New Amsterdam saw around 7, 000 persons gain first-time access to drinking water, with overall supply increasing to 24-hour, for the first time in over two decades.

With an investment of $64M, the water treatment system in Pouderoyen, Fel-

lowship, and the Vergenoegen water treatment plants in the Essequibo Islands–West Demerara Region (Region No.3), were rehabilitated to better serve customers. 31,200 residents benefitted from improved levels of service from Cornelia Ida to Fellowship.

Upgrades and general maintenance were also made to several water distribution lines, including at Sheet Anchor - East Berbice-Corentyne (Region No.6) this helped over 6,000 residents; Wisroc - Upper Demerara-Berbice (Region No. 10) 9,100 residents benefitted, and at Three Friends and Moblissa– benefitting 500 residents.

In keeping with our promise of a good life, new wells were drilled all across the hinterland. Wells were drilled in the Barima-Waini Region at Port Kaituma, Koko, Moruca; in the Upper Berbice Region at Port Mourant; in the Cuyuni-Mazaruni Region at Trestle; in the Potaro-Siparuni Region at Campbelltown; in the Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo at Kuma, Rupertee, Wowetta, Aranaputa and Shulinab, just to name a few. New water treatment systems were installed in Mathews Ridge, Koberino and Kamwatta in the Barima-Waini Region. Installation of transmission lines from rehabilitated wells in Ruimveldt and Turkeyen helped to bring potable water to over 20,000 residents of ‘D’ and ‘E’ Fields in Sophia.

Due to a major overhaul of the transmission system in

the city ,thousands of residents of Georgetown now receive 24-hour water supply for the very first time.

Realising that proper sanitation and drainage is essential to attract the future quality jobs for our young people, APNU+AFC has spent billions of dollars on drainage and irrigation. Over 29Km of canals and 42 Km of irrigation channels have been built.

RAID programmes improved irrigation systems in villages like Ithaca, Triumph and Mocha Arcadia, helping over 11,500 acres and 100 farming households, and 8,000 people.

In 2018, the APNU+AFC government commissioned five new pumps; at Lusignan ($364M), Friendship/Vigilance ($240M), Enmore ($412M), Three Friends ($103m) and Buxton ($367M).

These new pumps have all together benefitted over 200,000 persons. The new pumps provide relief for residents from flooding, and help facilitate drainage of over 4, 500 acres of farmland.

It is no secret that within the first few months of taking office, the APNU+AFC embarked on a nationwide clean-up campaign, starting with the city of Georgetown.

Tons of garbage were cleared from the streets of Georgetown, canals were desilted, national monuments were spruced up and our green spaces were made greener.

In those first few months the government spent over $100M in a “clean-up Georgetown” campaign.

What was a ‘Garbage City under the PPP, was transformed into a Garden City.

Improved solid waste management is now benefiting citizens all across the country. The Coalition government along with regional and local governments have developed new landfill at Bartica, Linden and Mahdia.

Since 2015, our government has invested billions of dollars on upgrading our canals and irrigation systems and improving our solid waste management.

This has helped to reduce flooding during the rainy season and cut down on the incidence of vector-borne and other similar type diseases. In just four short years President David Granger’s Coalition team has set about making Guyana clean and green.

We are proud of the progress that we have made, but we know that real change is neither quick to come by or easy to establish. There is a lot more to do. Together, let’s keep moving forward.

Sunday July 28, 2019

PAGE 31

Kaieteur News

Varicose Veins: The unsightly swollen veins

By Dr Zulfikar Bux Assistant Professor of Emergency Medicine I am certain that you have, or someone you know has, varicose veins.

It affects up to half our population with about 10-20% of persons having visible varicose veins.

They are basically veins that are swollen and may bulge above the surface of the skin and may be twisted and are often blue or dark purple. These veins are most commonly found on the legs or feet, but they can also be found on the groin.

There are also deeper and larger varicose veins that you can’t see. Hemorrhoids (piles) occur because of varicose veins. Today we will discuss how these veins form and what options you have if you are suffering from them WHATARE SYMPTOMS OF VARICOSE VEINS? Varicose veins can be painful. You may have a feeling of heaviness or tiredness in your legs.

Your legs may ache or throb where there are varicose veins. You may also have swe llingofyour legs that go down when you elevate them. This swelling is called venous stasis. Sometimes, your skin may be itchy.

In some severe cases, ulcers or blood clots may develop.

If you begin to have any of these symptoms, let your doctor know immediately. Varicose veins can bleed significantly and can also lead to chronic leg sores if they worsen.

WHAT CAUSES VARICOSE VEINS? Veins return blood back to the heart so that it can be recirculated to the rest of your body. There are valves in your veins that open to allow the blood to flow toward the heart. In some people, the valves may stop working correctly, allowing blood to flow back down into the veins; This often happens because the valves have stretched over the years.

Blood then pools in the veins, causing them to swell

even more.

The veins in your legs are especially vulnerable because those veins have to work against gravity to get the blood back to your heart. This is why most varicose veins are found in the legs.

HOWARE VARICOSE VEINS DIAGNOSED? Your doctor often will be able to diagnose varicose veins simply by examining your legs. Other times, your doctor may order tests to look at how well your blood is flowing before diagnosing you.

CAN VARICOSE VEINS BE PREVENTED OR AVOIDED? Some people are more at risk for developing varicose veins. Risk factors include: · Genetics: Varicose veins tend to run in families. · Gender: Women are at greater risk of developing varicose veins. · Pregnancy: Hormonal changes, pressure from the uterus, and increased blood volume make varicose veins common during pregnancy.

· Age: The risk for varicose veins increases with age.

About 50% of people over the age of 50 have varicose veins. · Obesity: Being overweight puts additional pressure on your veins. · Job: If your work means you have to stand for long periods of time without moving around, you are more likely to get varicose veins.

There are several things you can do at home to improve the symptoms of varicose veins: · Lose weight, if you are overweight. · Avoid standing for long periods of time. · Raise your legs while you are sitting. If possible, keep them above the level of your heart. · Wear loose clothing.

ARE THERE

TREATMENT OPTIONS? Your doctor may recommend that you wear compression stockings.

These are stockings that provide gentle, consistent pressure.

This will help keep blood from pooling in your legs and reduce swelling from venous stasis when you are sitting or standing. Compression stockings can be found at pharmacies and medical supply stores.

If your symptoms don’t get any better with at-home care, or if you don’t like the way varicose veins look, there are more invasive treatment options available. These include surgery, laser therapy, and injection therapy. Your doctor can recommend which procedure would be the best option for you.

If you have varicose

Dr Zulfikar Bux veins, know that you aren’t alone. It’s a common condition, especially among women. Make sure you see your doctor to help prevent complications that can arise from them.

PAGE 32

SUNDAY EXTENSIVE REVIEW OF 130 OIL CONTRACTS EXPOSES INFERIORITY OF GUYANA & EXXONMOBIL’S PSA – GUYANA PAYS EXXON’S INCOME TAX FROM SHARE OF PROFITS – GUYANA RESPONSIBLE FOR EXXON’S INSURANCE PREMIUMS, INTEREST ON LOANS – NO SLIDING SCALE FOR ROYALTY – GUYANA GETS NO PRODUCTION BONUS COMPARED TO OTHERS The Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) Guyana signed with ExxonMobil has been scrutinised from all angles by industry stakeholders far and wide.

No matter which way they look at it, they simply cannot agree with Exxon’s Country Manager, Rod Henson, who opines that Guyana got a good deal.

They all conclude that the Guyana-Exxon PSA possesses some of the most unusual provisions they have ever come across. The absence of some fundamental safeguards is alarming to those critics too.

Kaieteur News did an extensive review of 130 PSAs to better understand just how “unusual” Guyana’s provisions are.

It turns out that out of over 100 PSAs this newspaper examined; Guyana’s is in a class of its own. It is the only one, which has more than a dozen odd provisions all in one place.

For example, the PSA says sees the government paying the contractor’s income tax out of the country’s share of the profits.

However, none of the 130 PSAs examined shows this arrangement.Further, Guyana’s PSA is the only one out of 130, which has very moderate work obligations for contractors who are vested with offshore licenses.

Additionally, the GuyanaExxonMobil PSA is the only one out of 130 contracts, which has no ring-fencing provisions to prevent costs of unsuccessful wells being carried over to that of successful wells.

There is also no sliding scale for royalty to increase as production improves.

And that is not all. Guyana’s PSA is the only one out of 130 that allows insurance premiums to be fully recovered as well as interest on loans and financing costs that are incurred by the contractors.

The 130 PSAs examined are part of a register on www.resourcecontracts.org. ( h t t p s : / / resourcecontracts.org/ search?q=Production+Sharing+Agreement+)

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

That website offers over 620 PSAs from around the world for perusal.

PRESIDENT GRANGER…INTERIM GOVT WILL PASS NO BUDGET, MAKE NO STATE VISITS, RESTRAIN ITS ACTIONS The Coalition Government says it is very clear about its role in in the lead-up to elections, following the recent rulings and orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice.

According to CCJ earlier this month in its consequential orders, Government should adopt a caretaker role.

The Government has interpreted that to mean and afterwards described itself as an “interim government”.

Under Article 106 of the Constitution, the supreme law of Guyana, it says that the Government shall resign if defeated by a vote of a majority of the elected members of the National Assembly on vote of confidence.

However, the same Article said that the government shall remain in office and shall hold an election in three months.

There has been much debate on what the Coalition Government can and cannot do in the interim.

According to President David Granger on Friday, during a taped interview of ‘Public Interest’, the Coalition Government is acting correctly and in good faith.

“I would not have met…I would not have set up a working group which met several times in three weeks unless I was acting in good faith and unless I was interested in a favourable outcome for both sides.”

He explained that while nothing in the Constitution addresses “interim status”, in the Westminster model of government, like in Canada and Australia, an interim government means that Guyana may not, for example, pass a budget.

“We obviously have to keep government running. We have to limit our expenditure. We have to ensure we don’t embark on any controversial projects.”Granger said that it means that he cannot also undertake state visits and sign agreements with foreign countries.

PPP URGES SUPPORTERS TO BOYCOTT HOUSETO-HOUSE REGISTRATION – TO SEEK INJUNCTION TO HALT PROCESS – GOVT. AND OPPOSITION CLASH OVER ROLE OF PRESIDENT IN GECOM’S CHAIR SELECTION Workers of the Guyana

Elections Commission (GECOM) fanned out Saturday across the country to start house-to-house registration but the Opposition has called on its supporters to not cooperate.

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo, in a Facebook video Saturday, hours after, signaled intentions to approach the courts tomorrow for an injunction to halt the registrations.

It will mean both the Government and the Opposition are defiantly standing on opposite grounds on an issue that has heavily divided the nation.

The Opposition says it is convinced that the registrations is an excuse to delay early elections brought on by the historic December 21 no-confidence motion The response was but one of many warnings sounded by the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in recent days.

According to the Opposition Leader, supporters have been calling expressing worry over the ongoing house-to-house registrations.

He was convinced that the ongoing countrywide exercise is being done in contravention of rulings and orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Jagdeo singled out GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer, Keith Lowenfield, as proceeding without any legal basis based on an order signed by Justice (ret’d) James Patterson who was “illegally appointed” Chairman but now resigned.

According to Jagdeo, that order of Patterson, which appeared in the Official Gazette of June 11, was overtaken by CCJ ruling of July 12th.

The law says otherwise.

Lawyers know this and have said as much.

GECOM must comply with the Constitution, which called for elections within three months after a no-confidence motion against a government would have been passed.

Jagdeo said that the GECOM exercise would be done without a functioning Commission.

MONDAY LACK OF RING-FENCING PROVISIONS IN EXXON PSA COULD NEVER BE IN GUYANA’S BEST INTEREST – UNIVERSITY OF HOUSTON INSTRUCTOR Several top officers of the Guyana Police Force have been polygraphed. The results are likely to be discussed at the Government’s National

Security Committee.

Country Manager for ExxonMobil, Rod Henson has told the local media corps that the absence of ring-fencing provisions in the Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) signed with Guyana is actually in the country’s best interest.

But there are numerous industry stakeholders who contend that nothing could be further from the truth, since the absence of ring fencing allows the operator to transfer costs from unsuccessful wells to those that actually are. This results in a reduction of the profits that would be available to split between the government and the oil company.

University of Houston Instructor, Tom Mitro, is one of many who strongly advocates for there to be ringfencing provisions in all of Guyana’s PSAs. The Petroleum Consultant said, “I think what the ExxonMobil representative was probably trying to imply is that for a raw untested exploration province having no ring-fence (provisions) can be an attraction to a potential exploration investor.

That part may be probably true. However, at the time this agreement was signed, Guyana was by no means a raw exploration province.”

Additionally, the University Instructor stated

that having no ring-fencing provisions, perhaps , would not be so objectionable when it is in a small or “normal”sized license. “But the (Stabroek block) license in Guyana is gigantic,” expressed Mitro.

He continued, “I don’t think I have ever seen one this big before. To me, it’s the combination of the license size, plus no ring-fencing provisions in a well-explored area that makes it so extraordinary, and not in the best interest of any country.”

‘WHISTLE’ GUNNED DOWN IN NORTH RUIMVELDT – OTHERS WOUNDED Leon Duncan, 28, also known as “Whistle”, was shot dead last night at Williamstad Street North Ruimveldt. Kaieteur News understands that Duncan, his brother and others, were sitting on a culvert at the side of the street, playing cards.

A vehicle reportedly pulled up at around 21:30 hrs, from which multiple occupants emerged and started to shoot at Duncan.

Duncan’s body was reportedly riddled with bullets, and his brother was reportedly shot to the leg.

Bullet casings were found on the ground at the scene of the murder.

His body was taken to the

Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC).

Leon had also been shot in Leopold and Breda Streets in 2018 after he was traced by an off duty police rank who reportedly witnessed him robbing and gun-butting a woman. He had faced several charges last year for robberies, and an attack on cops.

Duncan was also accused, then freed, of the murder of businessman Intaz Roopnarine, who was executed at Cool Square Hotel, Marigold St. West Ruimveldt in January 2013.

TUESDAY HOUSE-TO-HOUSE INTENDED TO DEREGISTER THOUSANDS “WE WILL NOT ACCEPT ANY VOTERS’ LISTS GENERATED FROM THIS ILLEGAL EXERCISE” – PPP In a statement issued to the press Monday afternoon from its Freedom House headquarters, the Opposition People’s Progressive Party indicated that its leadership had met earlier in the day and had decided that to participate in the Guyana Elections Commission’s “illegal National House to House Registration” will make it (the party) complicit (Continued on page 33)

Sunday July 28, 2019

From page 32 in aiding and abetting the violation of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) June 18th 2019 rulings and July 12th 2019 consequential orders, which upheld the Guyana Constitution.

In the missive, the party reiterated its position that, “The Caribbean Court of Justice ruling and consequential orders stated that the No Confidence Motion was valid, the No Confidence Motion was passed with 33 of 65-member National Assembly, and as a result the President and Cabinet must resign, and, elections must be held within three months as required by Article 106 (6) and (7).”

“Further the CCJ ordered that, ‘The Guyana Elections Commission has a responsibility to conduct that Election and GECOM too must abide by the provisions of the Constitution.’” “The PPP, therefore, shall not participate in this illegal unilateral activity by the Chief Elections Officer which threatens peace and stability in the country and undermines constitutional rule.

The Chief Elections Officer has embarked on a House-to-House Registration in defiance of the Caribbean Court of Justice, the apex court of Guyana, and, even in defiance of the advice of GECOM’s internal legal officer, at a time when there is no functioning Commission in place. He must be stopped.”

“The approach to the court to bring an injunction to stop the National Houseto-House Registration is one stage of the struggle to ensure that constitutional rule is preserved. The PPP is convinced that this Houseto-House exercise is intended to deliberately de-register thousands of Guyanese voters. The objective is to delay elections to facilitate the APNU/AFC government remaining in office illegally after September 18th 2019.”

The PPP gives notice that it will, therefore, not accept any voters’ lists generated by this illegal exercise. We remain resolute in our position that the illegal House-to-House registration must be stopped and that the claims and objection period must commence.

CFATF COMPLIANCE… FIU LAYS FOUNDATION FOR CRITICAL INFORMATION SHARING; SEVERALAGENCIES SIGN AGREEMENTS As part of meeting the requirements of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF) –

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Director of Guyana’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) Matthew Langevine Monday signed agreements with several key agencies, which will allow the Unit to access critical information from its stakeholders.

Officials of reporting agencies – the Bank of Guyana, Guyana Gold Board, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission, Guyana Securities Council, Guyana Revenue Authority, Land Registry, Guyana Gaming Authority and Chief Cooperatives and Development Officers signed Memoranda of Understanding with the FIU. The signing took place at the boardroom of the Attorney General’s Chambers on Carmichael Street, Georgetown.

According to Langevine, the memoranda have been in process for quite some time.

He explained that this was because getting the necessary terms and conditions for each entity was critical.

“We had to negotiate with each entity, individually to find mutual and safe grounds under which the information could be shared in a manner that it does not breach or compromise any obligations they have to their clients.

We had to find the correct and legal balance to make sure that the information exchanged is above board and will not hinder/disallow effective investigations from being conducted.

The FIU Director noted that the memoranda lay the foundation for the next phase of the work to commence.

“What these MOUs should do is allow the FIU to do its work in a more hasslefree environment as Guyana moves closer to the next round of assessment of the Caribbean Financial Action Task Force (CFATF).”

Meanwhile, Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs Basil Williams noted that the government is taking all the necessary steps to ensure full compliance with the CFATF’s recommendations.

Williams reminded that Guyana is in the fourth round of mutual evaluation by the CFATF, which comes up for assessment in 2022. He stressed that it is critical that the supervisory bodies and reporting agencies are operating with a high level of efficiency.

GUYANA-EXXON PSA DEFINITELY IN BOTTOM PILE OF WORSE CONTRACTS – CONSULTANTS In light of all the feedback received from numerous oil

and gas experts, international organisations such as the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), the International Monetary Fund (IMF), and from his own knowledge, Petroleum Consultant, Dr. Jan Mangal is of the firm view that Guyana’s oil deal with ExxonMobil for the Stabroek Block is definitely in the bottom pile of some of the world’s worst contracts.

During an exclusive interview with this newspaper recently, the former Presidential Advisor noted that Guyana’s contracts are from the colonial era. But what is of significance, he said, is the fact that Guyana is being “recolonised.” The transparency advocate asserted that the nation’s leaders in politics and some businesses are being used as the local army f o r t h e c o l o n i s e r s . D r.

Mangal said that this is a common strategy of colonisers and exploiters, which is, to create local agents to subdue and control the local population.

I n o t h e r w o r d s , D r.

Mangal said that the concept can be surmised as, “Make a few local business people and politicians rich from oil so they will work for the exploiters and so they will not work for their country folk…”

Also sharing similar sentiments that Guyana’s PSA with Exxon does stand out among some of the worst was University of Houston Instructor, Tom Mitro.

In his over 30 years experience in the industry, Mitro said he has never come across a PSA with

more troubling provisions than those contained in the Guyana-ExxonMobil deal.

The Oil Consultant who is versed in contract renegotiation posited that one may see isolated cases where one or two of the odd clauses are present in other contracts.”But so many, (that is to say, 13 unusual provisions) all in the same agreement is unheard for me,” the University of Houston Instructor stated.

Mitro added, “Normally, the only time you see a PSA with highly favourable terms for the companies is in a province where there has been no exploration done or where they have only had dry holes in the past. And even then, the PSA is usually not as favourable as the one for Exxon and its partners operating in Guyana.”

Based on the dozens of contracts he has reviewed, Mitro said that undoubtedly, the Guyana-Exxon PSA stands out as the worst.

WEDNESDAY EXPIRED VOTERS’ LIST CAN BE REFRESHED AND USED FOR ELECTIONS – LOWENFIELD Chief Elections Officer of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Keith Lowenfield, has declared that the Official List of Electors, which expired on April 30, 2019, can still be used to execute free and fair General and Regional Elections.

Lowenfield was, at the time, speaking to reporters outside of the High Court in Georgetown, following a

statement by Chief Justice, Roxane George, on whether a conservatory order, sought by Attorney-at-Law, Christopher Ram, should be granted, blocking the execution of House to House Registration.

Lowenfield, Tuesday, was asked whether the expired list is considered ‘bloated’.

He responded, “We have a list that was expired… as of April 30… that was used for our election, for registration, etc. Bloat is not a word I’ll affix to it.”

Lowenfield was then asked: “Can the list, if refreshed, be used to conduct a free and fair election?”

“That’s correct,” he responded, “Always has and always will.”

Back in February, Lowenfield had said that GECOM needs 148 days to prepare for elections. At the time, he had said that GECOM would need to be given the Order by the Commission to start the preparations, an Order he had been pleading for.

That period, he had explained, would include a 21-day period of claims and objections, not House to House Registration.

His most recent statement comes during a highly contentious period.

House to House Registration has already seen the participation of over 20,000 people, according to GECOM’s Public Relations Officer, Yo l a n d a Ward. But the commission has received reports that some persons are reluctant to participate in the process, which would see GECOM crafting a new list.

This is because of statements by Ram and the

political opposition, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) that House to House is illegal.

CHIEF JUSTICE REFUSES TO HALT HOUSE-TOHOUSE REGISTRATION PENDING FURTHEREVIDENCE Attorney-at-Law and Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram, has failed in his bid to secure a Conservatory Order against the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to stop the house-to-house registration process which commenced last week Saturday. This programme is scheduled to end in another three months’ time. Chief Justice Roxane George, Tuesday, in refusing to grant the order said, that she was not satisfied based on the evidence in the affidavit that GECOM is not acting to complete the registration process to hold elections by the September 18 constitutional timeframe, Ram’s lawyer Anil Nandlall told reporters outside the courtroom.

According to Nandlall, “The Chief Justice did not grant the Conservatory Order which we sought to restrain the registration process. But significantly the Chief Justice emphasized that she understands that the CCJ ruled that the elections must be held by September 18 in accordance with Articles 106 and 107 of the Constitution.”

Furthermore, Nandlall said that Justice George said that she wants more evidence to persuade her that the registration exercise will take elections beyond that (Continued on page 34)

PAGE 34

From page 33 timeframe. By the end of Tuesday, Nandlall indicated that he would be filing another affidavit in which he will lay out the evidence to support his contention that the registration exercise will collide with, and go way beyond the timeframe “which the Chief Justice said for the holding of elections is September 18.”

Ram has listed Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield, Commissioner of National Registration; GECOM; and Attorney General Basil Williams as the Respondents in his challenge. The Respondents and the Guyana Bar Association which was granted permission by the Chief Justice to be a party in the case, were given until month end to file written submissions with the court.

The Chief Justice has agreed to hear arguments on the constitutionality of the process which is set to begin on Friday, August 2 at the High Court in Demerara.

Nandlall, a former Attorney General, is convinced that the house-tohouse registration process will go past that timeframe.

CABINET WILL NOT RESIGN – MINISTER RAMJATTAN Cabinet will not resign, says Minister of Public Security and Leader of the Alliance for Change (AFC), Khemraj Ramjattan.

He was at the time discussing the implications of the December 21, 2018 vote of no confidence with People’s Progressive Party (PPP) stalwart, Juan Edghill.

The Opposition had written to the President, requesting that he dissolve Parliament, have Cabinet resign, and have elections held by September 18, 2019.

Edghill said, during a radio show, that Cabinet must resign in accordance with the stipulations of the Constitution when a motion of no confidence is passed.

Article 106(6) states “The Cabinet, including the President, shall resign if the Government is defeated by the vote of a majority of all the elected members of the National Assembly on a vote of confidence.”

Edghill said, “When they [Cabinet] resign, they will have publicly acknowledged that they intend to comply with the rulings of the CCJ, and the Constitution. After their defeat, they become a caretaker Government. A caretaker Government means that the executive – the Cabinet – is disbanded.”

“So you have gone into what is called a caretaker

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Kaieteur News

government.” Edghill told Ramjattan.

The AFC leader, in response, said “On his… point that we have to resign, we are not going to resign. We are still in Government. There is absolutely nothing in the Constitution that indicates a formal resignation. That was gone through by the CCJ, and it was even gone through by the High Court judge.”

Edghill continued to implore Ramjattan: “Announce your resignation.”

“Announce what?”

Ramjattan responded.

“Because the next article says notwithstanding that resignation – whatever it is – you continue in Government.”

The text in focus, Article 106(7), states that “… notwithstanding its defeat, the government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months.”

THURSDAY ECO ATLANTIC’S SHARE PRICE APPRECIATES 200 PERCENT IN 18 MONTHS Since being awarded the Orinduik Block in 2016, one of the licensed holders, Eco Atlantic, is already enjoying some level of success even before a discovery is made.

According to Eco’s CEO, Gil Holzman, the company’s share price has appreciated around 200 percent in just 18 months.

But this is just the beginning of Eco’s good fortune it seems. The CEO has indicated that things are only going to get better since the commencement of drilling activities on the block is expected to attract more investors.

In this regard, Holzman noted that the Stena Forth drill ship is already working on the first well called the Jehtro-

Lobe and the results are likely to be published in 40 days.

“So we are looking at the middle of August,” Holzman said. He also said that the licence holders of the block, which includes French oil major, Total, will have a better understanding of the block after the results are out.

He further noted that Tullow, the operator for the block, has a very experienced team operating the drill ship and one can certainly looking forward to increasing momentum on the Orinduik block.

Holzman said that a perfect result would naturally be a discovery with a good reservoir for the Jethro. But even if a discovery is not made with Jethro, Holzman noted that the Stena Forth will be moving immediately to the Joe prospect in mid-August.

The results for this well are expected in September.

Holzman reminded that the licensed holders anticipate a discovery of approximately 220 million barrels of oil equivalent reserve.

The Eco CEO added, “That is the best estimate but it can be more or less but we understand from the structure of this play (Jethro) that it can open additional series of oil pockets surrounding it, but we will know much more in August.”

Furthermore, Holzman said that while it is doing a two–well programme this year, it is funded for an additional six wells next year and the partners have already identified over a dozen possible targets. “…But regardless of the results, there is a lot of work to be done,” the CEO concluded.

Just a few months ago, Holzman had disclosed that the entity was able to raise over US$17M which would be used to fund

Eco’s share of up to four potential new wells, in addition to the committed Jethro and Joe wells, as well as for general corporate purposes.

ATTORNEY GENERAL HOPES OPPOSITION WILL GRANT TWOTHIRDS MAJORITY TO EXTEND ELECTION DEADLINE Government has not given up hope that the political Opposition, the People’s Progressive Party (PPP), will grant them the support that is needed in the National Assembly, to postpone the deadline for General and Regional Elections.

Because a motion of No Confidence was passed against the Government on December 21, 2018, the provisions of Article 106 have been activated. The final appeal brought to the Judiciary by Government had received a ruling from the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) on June 18, 2019.

The Court had ruled that the motion was validly passed, and the Opposition Leader consequently requested that elections be held before September 18, 2019 – three months after the ruling.

This, the Opposition purports to be in accordance with Article 106(7), which states “… notwithstanding its defeat, the government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months, or such longer period as the National Assembly shall by resolution supported by not less than two-thirds of the votes of all the elected members of the National Assembly determine, and

shall resign after the President takes the oath of office following the election.”

Jagdeo has said time and time again that the Opposition will, under no circumstance, support an extension of the deadline.

He has said, as well, that the Opposition will not go back to Parliament, and that all that’s left for the legislative body is its dissolution.

Attorney General and Minister of Legal Affairs, Basil Williams, said that he hopes there will be a change of heart.

“The Leader of the Opposition [Bharrat Jagdeo] has been saying he’s not going back… Let’s hope that good sense prevails,” Williams said.

Further, the Attorney General said that such an extension shouldn’t be for just another three months.

“You must note that t h e r e ’s n o t h i n g i n t h e Constitution that says, when you go for the twothirds extension [that] it has to be for another three months. That wouldn’t make sense.”

PATTERSON’S ORDER IS ALL THAT’S NEEDED TO PROVE HOUSE-TO-HOUSE WILL SURPASS SEPTEMBER 18 – JAGDEO Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo says that if lawyers want to prove that House-toHouse Registration will go beyond September 18, 2019 – three months after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ)’s ruling on the validity of the December 21, 2018 vote of no confidence in the A Partnership for Nationa l Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government, then they need to look no further

than the Order made by former chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

During a discussion on a local radio show on Tu e s d a y, last, the Opposition Leader recalled t h a t , e a r l i e r t h a t d a y, Attorney-at-Law and Chartered Accountant, Christopher Ram, failed so far in his bid to secure a Conservatory Order against the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) to stop the h o u s e - t o - h o u s e registration process, which commenced last week Saturday.

Chief Justice, Roxane George-Wiltshire, had said that she was not satisfied based on the evidence in the affidavit that GECOM is not acting to complete the registration process to hold elections by the September 18 constitutional timeframe, R a m ’s l a w y e r, A n i l Nandlall, told reporters outside of the courtroom.

About that, Jagdeo said, “I am sure that the PPP can prove to the Court that the House-to-House Registration is inconsistent with the timeline imposed by the CCJ and the Constitution.”

The text of the Constitution in focus is Article 106(7), which states that, if the Government is defeated by a vote of no confidence in the National A s s e m b l y, “… notwithstanding its defeat, the government shall remain in office and shall hold an election within three months.”

As the CCJ ruled on Government’s appeal of the motion on June 18, 2019, the P e o p l e ’s Progressive Party (PPP) has requested that General (Continued on page 35)

Sunday July 28, 2019

From page 34 and Regional Elections be held by or before September 18, 2019 – three months past the ruling.

For proof that the Houseto-House exercise will exceed that timeframe, Jagdeo made reference to Patterson’s order, dated June 11, 2019.

FRIDAY GECOM WORK PLAN SHOWS HOUSE TO HOUSE EXERCISE PROJECTED TO END IN 2020 – JAGDEO The House to House registration work plan presented to the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) is projected to end well into 2020, according to Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo.

Thursday, he provided members of the media with copies of the work plan, during a press conference held at his Church Street office.

“This is a document produced by the Secretariat, and shared by [GECOM’s Chief Elections Officer] Mr. [Keith] Lowenfield with the Commission, and it has 290 days.” Jagdeo told the press.

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“This work plan was shared with the commissioners some time last year. This work plan laid out a timeline for House to House registration.”

The document lists 43 items to be completed, more than half of which has been dealt with.

Of the current House to House registration exercise at No. 24 of the plan, it is stated that the intended start date was June 2, 2019 – with duration of 120 days – thereby, ending on September 29, 2019.

In reality, the exercise started last Saturday, July 20, 2019. The Order signed by former GECOM Chairman, Justice Patterson, states that that process will conclude on October 20, 2019.

After that, there are a series of other items on the plan, which need to be executed.

The undertaking of postregistration activities, at No. 29 of the document, is scheduled to start on October 3, 2019, and end on October 23, 2019. Since the actual exercise, according to the order lists a concluding date of October 20, 2019, the postregistration activities will likely go much later than

planned.

Four of the items (Nos. 3336) on the list are scheduled to conclude in November 2019. Then, from items 37-41 are set to conclude in December.

The last two items, Nos. 42-43, are not clearly printed in the documents shared to the media. But the Opposition Leader claims that No. 42, ‘Produce voters’ ID cards’ is set to take 60 days to be completed. That, he says, would be completed in February 2020.

“No. 42 is to produce voters’ ID cards… They have 60 days for that. That would have taken them to February 18, 2020, to just produce the ID cards.”

GHANA TO HELP GUYANAWITH NATURALRESOURCE FUND TRAINING Once all the arrangements are finalized, officials from Ghana are expected to help Guyana with oversight training for the Natural Resource Fund (NRF) says Finance Minister, Winston Jordan.

During an interview, Thursday, the economist reminded that the NRF

legislation provides for a Public Accountability and Oversight Committee.

This body which will meet with representatives from the Media, the Guyana Bar Association and Transparency Institute Guyana Inc. (TIGI), will be responsible for monitoring and evaluating the compliance of the government and other relevant persons when it comes to the principles of transparency; good governance; and international best practices, including the Santiago Principles, when using the Natural Resource Fund.

Jordan said that Ghana has a similar set up for its Fund and a workshop is being organized so that Guyana’s oversight committee can be aware of what is expected of it in practice.

“We are trying to organize a seminar with representatives from Ghana who can come and share their knowledge…We will then write all the 22 groups that will have a seat on our committee and invite them to the workshop where it will be explained to them how the process works etc.

“After that, they will return to their respective

bodies and nominate their representatives.”

Minister Jordan disclosed that letters have since been dispatched to the President, the Private Sector Commission and the Leader of the Opposition, Bharrat Jagdeo, for their nominations for the Committee.

Jordan noted that Jagdeo has since declined to comply with the request.

NO ROOM FOR PARTISANSHIP WHEN IT COMES TO WELFARE OF CITIZENS– PRESIDENT GRANGER President David Granger has said the improvement in citizens’ wellbeing should not become a source of partisan division nor should there be room for partisanship when it comes to the welfare of citizens.

The Head of State was at the time speaking at the opening ceremony of the Second National Conference of Local Democratic Organs, which will conclude tomorrow at the Arthur Chung Convention Centre (ACCC).

The Conference is a deliberate intervention intended to become a platform for promoting the

work of the Neighbourhood Democratic Councils (NDCs), Regional Democratic Councils (RDCs) and Municipalities.

It aims to provide a practical basis for them to work together with Central Government to strengthen community development and improve citizens’ quality of life.

This is the second year that the Opposition controlled NDCs, RDCs and Municipalities have boycotted the Conference.

“Cooperation and collaboration will help to better deliver these services.

People are paramount. This improvement in citizens’ wellbeing therefore should not become a source of partisan division. There should be no room for partisanship when it comes to the welfare of our citizens.

“We have to work together, across the divides of class, geography, politics and race to bring improvements to our people.

It is regrettable that for the second time, that this forum, intended to promote cooperate and coordination for the common good, has become a victim of a partisan (Continued on page 36)

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From page 35 boycott. Who gains? The people lose when their officials boycott, whether it is the National Assembly or a forum organised by the Minister of Communities,” the President said.

President Granger noted that local government is aimed at satisfying the basic needs of the people, particularly at the community level and is concerned with ensuring safe, secure and economically sustainable communities.

He said that the local democracy is a public good.

Local democracy is about bringing governance “…of the people, by the people, for the people” at the community level.

SATURDAY GRANGER, JAGDEO AGREE ON NEW GECOM CHAIR – JUSTICE CLAUDETTE SINGH NAMED President David Granger and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo have finally arrived at a consensus on the selection of the new chairperson of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM). Justice Claudette Singh, SC, CCH, was selected by the President from a list of six names proposed by the Opposition Leader, which President Granger found not unacceptable.

The selection process for the new GECOM Chairman had started when Justice James Patterson resigned from the post, following a ruling by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) that his appointment was flawed and unconstitutional.

The nature of this selection broke from convention, as the two sides opted to “hammer out” the names together, prompted by a suggestion by the CCJ, in its ruling.

The President and the Opposition Leader met Friday at the Ministry of the Presidency where they engaged in a series of meetings to discuss the final stages of the selection process for a list of six nominees.

The final list agreed to by Jagdeo included retired judges BS Roy, William Ramlall and Claudette Singh; Attorneys-at-Law, Kashir Khan and Ronald BurchSmith; and Governance Specialist, Lawrence

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Kaieteur News

Latchmansingh.

“The President received and reviewed the list of nominees later this afternoon in an effort to bring the selection process to a speedy and favourable conclusion,” a release yesterday from the Ministry of the Presidency indicated.

It continued that this was aimed at ensuring that GECOM could resume its normal functions with the intention of conducting General and Regional Elections in the shortest possible time.

The President determined that the selection of Justice Singh satisfies the ruling for the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) that the appointment of the GECOM chair should be consensual.

She is expected to be sworn in on Monday, according to Jagdeo.

Justice Singh’s name was suggested by the Opposition Leader. During a press conference held yesterday at his Church Street office, Jagdeo said “I’d asked her [Claudette Singh] … prior to this, and she had indicated that she was unwilling to have her name submitted at that time. So I met with her today, had an extensive discussion with her, and she agreed to her name being resubmitted, and the President found favour with that name. This was a name that was cleared very early.”

He said that there is no question of a unilateral appointment being done.

This, he noted, brings Guyana one stage closer to an election date, “which must now be announced… in keeping with the CCJ ruling.”

The Opposition Leader said that Justice Singh’s selection is a “real positive development for all of us and for the country”, adding that both sides demonstrated good faith in arriving at the decision.

Speaking with Kaieteur News on Friday, Justice Singh, who was admitted to the Guyana Bar in 1976, said that she is a believer in inclusivity and that she will carry that principle into the execution of her duties as chairperson of GECOM. She added that it must be made sure that elections are free, fair and transparent – agreed on by all stakeholders.

Singh further stated that the commission must not carry on with the attitude of walking out of statutory

meetings when there are disagreements, and that moving forward, the commission will be expected to sit down and hammer out their problems at the table.

Justice Claudette Margot Cecile Singh, was called to the Bar in London in 1973 and admitted to the Bar in Guyana three years later. She served as Deputy Solicitor General and as a Puisne Judge and a Justice of Appeal. She has also spearheaded the Modernisation of the Justice Reform Project, and is currently the Guyana Police Force’s Legal Advisor.

In 2002, Justice Singh received a National Award The Cacique’s Crown of Honour - and in 2017, she was one of three women appointed Senior Counsel.

PPP STAGES COUNTRYWIDE PROTESTS AGAINST HOUSE-TO-HOUSE REGISTRATION - INTENSIFIES CALL FOR ELECTIONS BY SEPTEMBER 18 Supporters of the Peoples’ Progressive Party protested all across Guyana on Friday, calling for action from the Guyana Electio n s Commission (GECOM) to hold elections by September 18th. This follows GECOM’s recent commencement of Houseto-House registration, an

exercise expected to finish in October of this year or later.

The protests were staged in Georgetown, Linden, Lethem, Port Kaituma, Anna Regina, Coldingen, Corriverton, New Amsterdam, La Grange, and Bartica.

Opposition member and former Prime Minister Samuel Hinds, who was on the frontline of the Georgetown protests expressed, “We are out here trying to sensitise more of our brothers and sisters that Guyana needs to confer with the most recent ruling of the CCJ (Caribbean Court of Justice)… and that requires that elections be held by September the 18th”.

“We are calling on our president to start the preparations for elections

by September the 18th. All Guyanese should know that it is in their interest and not matter which party they support - to ensure and to work for us to comply with the CCJ and with our Constitution.”

Meanwhile, hundreds of PPP supporters from across Region Six converged on the GECOM office in New Amsterdam, also calling for elections to be held by September 18th, 2019. The protesters included a number of

youths from the Progressive Youth Organisation (PYO), Regional Chairman David Armogan and former Mayor of Rose Hall Town, Vijay Kumar Ramu.

Party Organiser for the region, Zamal Hussain, told reporters that Region Six is disappointed with the actions taken by GECOM to commence the house to house registration despite the CCJ’s ruling recently, “we notice that house to house started, but this is an illegal act, and this in itself will take us past the date of September 18 which is the deadline for elections in Guyana”.

Hussain stated that so far he has received information that the majority of persons in Region Six are not taking part in the current exercise.

Regional Chairman Armogan reiterated that elections must be held by September 18th and stressed that the current house to house exercise will drag on past that date.

“This process they have started to have a new list will not be completed by the September deadline.

GECOM has permanent staff which should always be in a state of preparedness. This is a c r e e p i n g dictatorship,” Armogan said.

Meanwhile, a protester who broke down in tears while speaking to reporters on the protest line, Debra

Boatswain, said she had confidence in the present regime and cast her vote in their favour, but she is now disappointed, “I am here today because Granger mek me hand fall, I voted for he and this is what he do. I never punish so yet under a government and he must go, he must go, Granger must go”.

And supporters of the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic on the Essequibo Coast, also turned out in their numbers to picket against the Guyana Elections Commission [GECOM], following the commencement of house to house registration. The peaceful protest, which took place at the commission’s Anna Regina Office, was led by Vishnu Samaroo, the supervisor of Freedom House, on the Essequibo Coast.

Exactly one week ago, the Guyana Elections Commission commenced house to house registration, in preparation for the next General Election. Party supporters of the PPP/C insist that the move taken by the elections commission was illegal, and that the present house to house registration needs to come to a halt.

Some of the protesters picketed at the Anna Regina GECOM office, while a number of additional supporters stood near the Charity office.

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

WTO aid for trade and CARICOM

By Elizabeth Morgan KINGSTON, Jamaica, (CMC Feature) -The World Trade Organization (WTO) held its seventh Global Review of Aid for Trade (A4T/ AfT), July 3-5, in Geneva under the theme ‘Supporting Economic Diversification and Empowerment”.

The Aid for Trade Initiative arose from the discussions on the link between trade and development (the development dimension) in the WTO Doha Development Round. The Initiative was adopted at the 2005 WTO Ministerial Conference in Hong Kong. A4T aimed to assist developing countries, particularly the Least Developed Countries (LDCs), to build supply-side capacity and trade-related infrastructure needed to benefit from WTO Trade Agreements and to expand their trade generally.

A 2006 Task Force proposed operationalizing A4T by measures including identifying the needs of the recipient countries, engaging donors, and establishing a monitoring mechanism through the biennial Global Reviews.

Monitoring was undertaken by the WTO and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD). The focus should have been on providing additional resources specifically to trade projects and programmes. It was decided not to establish a new fund, but to utilize existing bilateral, regional and multilateral financial institutions and policies for Overseas Development Assistance (ODA).

After the 2008/9 financial crisis, ODA showed a marked decline. It was, thereafter, evident that A4T resources would come primarily from cu s t o m a r y ODA allocations. Following the

first and second Global A4T Reviews, it was assessed that the Caribbean region, with one LDC, was receiving the least amount of A4T resources.

The Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), through which A4T resources were channeled, assisted Belize, Jamaica, and the CARICOM Secretariat to develop national and regional A4T strat egies. It is doubtful whether these strategies were fully implemented. A problem for some highly indebted Caribbean countries, such as Jamaica, was that these resources were mainly provided through concessionary loans which could not be accessed due to limited fiscal space.

Nevertheless, the Caribbean received financial and technical assistance directed at building trade capacity through the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB), IDB, World Bank, and the European Union (EU) Economic Development Fund (EDF), among others. ODA to the Caribbean targeting trade has covered, for example, regional integration, trade n e g o t i a t i o n s , competitiveness, customs modernization, logistics, private sector development, and enhancing quality infrastructure.

The Doha Development Round, which A4T was to address, has fizzled. The main Agreement resulting is that on Trade Facilitation (TFA) which commits donors to p r o viding technical and financial assistance for implementation. The focus is also now on implementing the UN Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs) goal 17 of which points to trade and aid as critical means of (Continued on page 48)

Our pugilist politics and...

(From page 39) Commission (GECOM), an appointment that found favour with both the President and Leader of the Opposition. Let us hope this is the beginning of a new beginning to set aside differences and work for the common good. As I wish Justice Singh well in her new assignment, it is incumbent to ask for the emergence of a new behaviour in treating with the holder of this office.

The treatment meted to former Chairmen Dr. Steve Surujbally and Justice James Patterson, where attacks were taken to their person for decisions taken or election loss, must be a thing of the past.

The holder of the office

needs to be given the deserving respect of the office.

The Chairperson of GECOM has a casting vote.

From time to time, based on judgement, that vote will weigh on the side of the Opposition- or Government-appointed commissioners.

Where there is disagreement with the Chair’s decision, let there be discussion on this without stooping to the level of being disagreeable.

At a time when there is so much disrespect and disagreeable behaviour by countries we would have formerly looked up to as role models, Guyana has a chance to demonstrate a better example.

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

WHO urges Caribbean countries to invest in eliminating hepatitis GENEVA (CMC) –The World Health Organization (WHO) is urging Caribbean countries to take advantage of recent reductions in the costs of diagnosing and treating viral hepatitis, and scale up investments in disease elimination.

A new study by WHO, published on Friday in Lancet Global Health, has found that investing six billion US dollars annually in eliminating hepatitis in 67 low- and middle-income countries, such as those in the Caribbean, would avert 4.5 million premature deaths by 2030 and more than 26 million deaths beyond that target date.

The study says a total of US$58.7 billion is needed to eliminate viral hepatitis as a public health threat in these 67 countries by 2030, adding this means reducing new hepatitis infections by 90 per cent and deaths by 65 per cent.

“Today, 80 per cent of people living with hepatitis can’t get the services they need to prevent, test for and treat the disease,” said WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, adding that on World Hepatitis Day, which will be observed today “we’re calling for bold political leadership, with investments to match.

“We call on all countries to integrate services for hepatitis into benefit packages as part of their journey towards universal health coverage.”

The study notes that by investing in diagnostic tests and medicines for treating hepatitis B and C now, countries can save lives, and reduce costs related to the long-term care of cirrhosis and liver cancer that result from untreated hepatitis.

Wi t h o u t i d e n t i f y i n g them, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) said that three countries in the Americas, including the Caribbean, have established the goal of eliminating hepatitis as a public health problem by 2030.

It said, in order to achieve that, these countries are working on price reductions of key antiviral medicines, adding that its Strategic Fund for medicines has available options to treat Hepatitis C. In addition to existing originator combination t h e r a p y, t h e f u n d i s including WHO prequalified generic antivirals available for countries in the region that can buy the generic version of the treatment, PAHO said.

It said around 3.9 million people in the Region of the Americas are living with hepatitis B and another 7.2 million with hepatitis C, while about125,000 died from viral hepatitis in 2013.

PAHO said around 96 per cent of this mortality from viral hepatitis is a result of chronic

hepatitis B and C infection, leading to cirrhosis a n d primary liver cancer, or hepatocellular carcinoma.

Hepatitis B and C antivirals can reduce the risk of developing liver cancer by around 75 percent, PAHO said.

In 2016, it said around 14 per cent of individuals with Hepatitis C have been diagnosed, while less than one per cent have been treated in Latin America and the Caribbean.

“No one should die from hepatitis. We have the tools to save lives – a cure for hepatitis C, effective treatment for hepatitis B,” said Marcos Espinal, PAHO’s Director of the Communicable Diseases and Environmental Determinants of Health.

“There is no question that the Americas have had substantial success in infant vaccination against hepatitis B which will save millions of lives.

But this alone is not enough. Immunization cannot help those already infected with hepatitis B, and no vaccine exists for hepatitis C. “Hepatitis C cases can now be cured in just three months, and this saves lives.

Treatment, however, remains unaffordable or inaccessible for most in the region.

We need u rg e n t investment by ministries to scale-up diagnosis and treatment now to reach the goal to eliminate hepatitis as a public health problem in the Americas by 2030,” he added.

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Johnson tells EU: ditch backstop or face no-deal Brexit MANCHESTER, England (Reuters) - British Prime Minister Boris Johnson cautioned the European Union yesterday that the “anti-democratic” Irish backstop must be ditched if they were to strike a Brexit divorce deal.

Johnson, since taking office on Wednesday, has repeatedly said that if the EU continues to refuse to renegotiate the Withdrawal Agreement agreed by his predecessor Theresa May, then he will take Britain out on Oct. 31 without a deal.

His biggest demand is that the most hotly-contested element of the Brexit divorce agreement, the Irish border backstop, be struck out of the Withdrawal Agreement, a demand that has angered Ireland and perturbed other EU capitals.

“If we get rid of the backstop, whole and entire, then we are making a lot of progress,” Johnson said, when asked if it was only the Irish border backstop that he wanted changed.

Speaking before a

Stephenson’s Rocket, a 19th century steam locomotive, in the northern England city of Manchester, Johnson dedicated most of his speech to improving public services, transport and the internet and driving up economic growth.

“Our post-industrial towns have a proud, great heritage but an even greater future. Their best years lie ahead of them,” he said, announcing new long-term rail links and promising immediate improvements to bus services That message, aimed at what Johnson called “left behind” towns, is seen as the early stages of an election campaign, even though Britain is not due a parliamentary election until 2022 and Johnson is adamant he will not hold one before Brexit.

His Conservative Party does not have a majority in parliament, is divided over how to deliver Brexit and under threat of a noconfidence vote when parliament returns in September.

ANTI-DEMOCRATIC European leaders are prepared to talk with Britain’s new leader over Brexit but have so far insisted they will not reopen the Withdrawal Agreement.

Many EU diplomats think the United Kingdom will hold a snap election soon.

Johnson, who discussed Brexit with U.S. President Donald Trump on Friday, brushed aside those concerns.

“My friends, I do not want a no-deal Brexit, that is not where we’re aiming, but we have to face the fact that at the moment we’re being told, as we have been told for the last three year ‘rien ne va plus’ - ‘the deal is fixed’ - and can’t be changed. I doubt that,” he said.

Nevertheless, investors fear a no-deal exit would send shock waves through global markets and hurt the world’s economy.

Ireland is crucial to any Brexit solution.

The backstop is an insurance policy designed to prevent the return of border controls along the 500-km (300mile) land border between Ireland and Britain’s province of Northern Ireland that were ended by the 1998 Good Friday peace agreement.

Irish Prime Minister Leo Varadkar said the question of the unification of Ireland and Northern Ireland would inevitably arise if Britain leaves the EU without a divorce deal on Oct. 31.

“The approach of the UK government is not going to be disengaged or aloof or waiting for them to come to us: we are going to try to solve this problem and we are going to do it in a spirit of friendship and cooperation,” Johnson said.

“But we can’t do it as long as that anti-democratic backstop, that backstop that seeks to divide our country, divide the UK, remains in place,” he said. “We need to get it out and then we can make progress, I think.”

The Withdrawal Agreement that May struck in November with the EU says the United Kingdom will remain in a customs union “unless and until” alternative arrangements are found to avoid a hard border.

Many British lawmakers oppose the prospect of being bound to EU rules and customs duties that would prevent Britain doing its own trade deals and leave it overseen by EU judges.

WTO aid for trade and...

From page 45 implementation. SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth) calls for increased A4T to developing countries, particularly LDCs. The TFA and SDGs are now the priorities of recipients and donors.

As small, vulnerable economies (SVEs), trade is critical to growth and development in the Caribbean and export diversification is necessary.

The reality is that Caribbean countries are still grappling with the implementation of the CARICOM Single Market and Economy (CSME) and trade agreements such as the CARIFORUM/EU Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). Capacity constraints are still identified as a continuing challenge. SVEs need A4T. They also need to use it effectively. It does appear, however, that Caribbean interest in WTO A4T has been waning.

In his closing remarks to the 2019 Global Review, the WTO Director General,

Roberto Azevedo, pointed to themes emerging, such as: The importance of digital connectivity and supporting developing countries’ participation in WTO ECommerce work; Building diversification in climate sensitive sectors and increasing resilience; and D e e p e n i n g understanding between trade and gender.

The DG stated that A4T continues to be a fundamental tool for economic empowerment with scope for adapting, changing, improving and evolving to further assist Members in addressing old and new structural challenges.

CARICOM participation in this Review seems to have been low-key. New issues raised are important to the region and the Caribbean should reengage in these trade and development discussions.

(Elizabeth Morgan, who writes for CMC, is a specialist in international trade policy and international politics)

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

The Lashes Boss shares key tips to consider before adding lash extensions As promised ladies, we are back again this week with the Lashes Boss herself, Latoya Zephyr, sharing some key tips you need to consider before adding those luminous lash extensions.

1. According to the Lashes Boss, it is crucial for the ladies to consider their unique, physical characteristics, particularly the shape of their eyes and natural lashes. Zephyr said that these vary from person to person, as such; lash extensions would not look the same or complement everyone the same way.

2. If you are on your menstruation, the Lashes Boss notes that it is quite normal to expect your face to be a bit oily as excess fat is being produced by your hormones. As such, the queen of her craft suggests that you cleanse your face with an oil free cleanser at least twice, morning and nights, for two days prior to a lash appointment.

3. If you have an appointment, Zephyr advocates that you avoid wearing make-up or walk with a water-based make-up remover.

4. Further, she advised that face products should not be applied on the morning of your appointments unless it is water-based.

5. It was noted that ladies must avoid rubbing, plucking or irritating the eyes before or after a lash appointment.

6. It s also important that you avoid hair or nail vitamins or other growth pills for at least two days prior to appointment date. According to the Lashes Boss, this may stimulate oils which can reach to your lash follicles.

7. Cleaning your lashes to avoid build up of dirt is a must, the Lashes Boss noted.

8. Zephyr noted that care must be taken to avoid caffeinated products before appointment as this would cause eyelids to be restless or jumpy during an application.

9. She further advocated that clients avoid very oily foods before and after lash appointment as they aid in producing additional oils on your face which may cause particle buildup from the environment around the eyelid.

10. BONUS TIP: Zephyr emphasized

Ace Marketing Event is proud to present Kids Jam on Sunday, July 28 at the Everest Cricket Ground. School is out and Kids Jam will provide much needed activities for families before the end of the Summer vacation.

Kids Jam attractions include mascots such as Princess Tiana, Chase, Princess Elsa, Sponge Bob, Dora and Diego. Additionally, there will be face painting, bouncy house, dunk tanks and other attractions and games for the entire family.

There is also a Spelling Bee competition coordinated by KOKO the Natural Hair Store

Latoya “Lashes Boss” Zephyr that clients should take time out to eat healthily, avoid certain pills or medication, and drink lots of water. She said that this will not only aid the longevity and durability of your extensions but also promote the healthy growth of your natural lashes.

In her own words, the Lashes Boss’ advice to all you beautiful ladies this weekend is: “Beauty from the inside always enhances your beauty on the outside.”

For more information, be sure to contact the Lashes Boss at 6708031. You can also follow her page on Instagram @LashesByToya.

Gen 5 Merlot 2016: A blend of powerful aromas and dark juices This special selection can be found at the Wine Vault at the Marriott Hotel, as well as all leading bars and restaurants.

The Gen 5 which hails from California, pairs well with tomato-based pastas, roasted meats, grapes, and parmesan cheese.

592 Lager Beer Jouvert set for July 31 On July 31, the Ansa McAL Trading Ltd Group will be hosting its grand pre-Emancipation Jouvert at the National Racquet Centre. Tickets only cost $2000 with free water, paint and beers being distributed to patrons all night long. The best DJs will be there to

featuring children between the age of 9-11 which begins at 2 PM. Tickets for Kids Jam cost $1000 and available at KOKO, Exclusive Styles, Hits and Jams, Nimbus Vreed -En-Hoop and Muslim Top Up Shop Linden. Kids Jam is sponsored by Ansa Mcal (through their brands Smalta, Tropical Rhythm, ICool, and Chiefeez Snack), Xtra Energy Drink, BM SOAT, Guybisco, Star Party Rental, Hits and Jams Entertainment, Pro Cleaners, Koko – the Natural Hair Store, Glosee PR and Marketing and Heavenly Delight Cuisine.

Digicel sends Kingston, Tiger Bay children to computer classes

Wine of the week The Gen5 Merlot 2016 is sure to hypnotize you with its powerful aromas of ripe dark fruit. It carries a smooth and spicy taste with the dark juicy fruit of plum and blackberry wrapped up in a pleasant, silky texture. The dry finish features more of the same.

Kids Jam set for July 28 at Everest Cricket Ground

ensure your entertainment to the max. The lineup includes: DJ Ace, Gully Ras, Diamond, DJ Energy, Selector Carl, Selector Face, and Father Moey.

You wouldn’t want to miss this event. See you there!

Schools out for the JulyAugust holidays and Digicel Guyana is reaching out to their community to send a number of children to an allexpense paid computer camp at Global Technology.

“Kingston and its environs will always have a special place in our heart especially when it comes to the children.

We wanted to do something that will have a lasting impres-

sion on their minds. At Digicel, we have been committed to youth development and empowerment, whether it’s through sports, education or academia. We are as delighted as they to be able to give them this opportunity and expand their horizons”, said Vidya Sanichara of Digicel.

The camp will offer an ex-

Reserving Tuesday Nights for American’s Got Talent is totally worth it !!!

For the past few weeks, the Entertainment Police has featured the absolutely thrilling Big Little Lies series as a must watch show on the E-networks channel. But it’s time to switch things up a bit. If you are ever wondering what to do with your Tuesday evenings, then worry no more; reserve that night for America’s Got Talent at 8 PM on NBC. For those who may not be familiar with the hit show, America’s Got Talent sees some of the world’s talented yet undiscovered performers of all ages — singers, dancers, magicians, comics, musicians, ventriloquists and more — appear before celebrity judges who decide which contestants move on in the competition each week. With the guidance of the show’s host, the audience learns the back stories of these amazing people as they strive to make it to the finale, in which one talented performer wins a life-changing $1 million prize — as well as viewers’ hearts. It is a show you would more than likely fall in love with. Be sure to catch up on it this and every Tuesday.

perience in the fundamentals of computer and scratch programming and will run for approximately three weeks beginning August 6 and ending on August 20. The children who carry an age range from five to 12 are excited to learn about computers, Sanichara intimated.

The official said that over the twelve years that Digicel has been in Guyana it has contributed significantly to youth development. She noted that the firm has done this through several youth initiatives country wide, such as Schools Football Championship, youth basketball, Track and Field, Squash, Special Olympics, and back to school dental outreaches just to mention a few.

“As always, we welcome the opportunity to give back in whatever way we can when. The fact that we can have an impact in bettering the lives of youth and children in communities that we have a strong presence in is always heartening to us,” noted Sanichara at the presentation of packages on Wednesday July 24 at their Fort and Barrack Sts. Kingston head office.

Sunday July 28, 2019

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Kaieteur News

13 Proven Health Benefits Of Dates

Dates are sweet fruits of date palm tree scientifically known as Phoenix dactylifera. They are one of the best versatile foods that can regulate the digestive process and have gained popularity in recent times.

Date palm trees are cultivated all over the world especially across tropical regions. You can also use date molasses, a natural sweetener made from date syrup, in your smoothies or desserts in place of sugar.

The Institute of Medicine recommends an intake of 2538 grams of dietary fiber per day, which can be high fiber supplied through high fiber foods like dates. It is also said that consuming these dried fruits can promote eye health and may be effective in guarding against vision problems like night blindness. Medjool dates, in particular, are one of the popular varieties that have many benefits.

The massive health benefits associated with dates have made them one of the best ingredients for muscle development, brain health, regularity, and more.

According to USDA, dates are a good source of energy, fiber, sugar, and various vitamins and minerals. [2] Essential minerals such as calcium, iron, phosphorus, sodium, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, and zinc can be found in them. Apart from the above-mentioned nutrients, they also contain important vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin A, and vitamin K. A 2008 review published in Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition journal

by Cornell researchers Chang Yong Lee and Mohamed Ali Al-Farsi suggests that over 15% of the daily requirement of essential minerals such as copper, potassium, magnesium, and selenium can be fulfilled by consuming 100 grams, or about 4 pitted dates per day.

Health Benefits Let us look at some of the key benefits of dates in detail below.

Good Source of Energy Dates are high in natural sugars like glucose, fructose, and sucrose. The high energy present in them can be attributed to this high sugar content. Many people around the world eat natural low-fat dates for a quick afternoon snack when they are feeling lethar-

gic or sluggish to help bump up energy levels fast.

Often when you exercise in a gym, outside or even on a stretching machine at home, you feel exhausted. A study published in the International Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition, suggests that dates rich in essential nutrients may help you regain your energy immediately.

People who follow Islam and observe fastings, break their fast by eating them along with water. This also helps avoid overeating of food once the fast is over. When the body begins to absorb their high nutritional content, feelings of hunger are pacified.

May Boost Brain Health A study led by Musthafa Mohamed Essa, Ph.D. et al. suggests that dates protect against oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. According to research, “date palm fruits are a good source of dietary fiber and are rich in total phenolics and natural antioxidants, such as anthocyanins, ferulic acid, protocatechuic acid, and caffeic acid”. The presence of these polyphenolic compounds could potentially help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Dates Rich in Fiber May Help Relieve Constipation In traditional Tunisian medicine, dates are used for treating constipation. According to research on the effects of dietary fiber, the foods that are rich in fiber are essential for promoting healthy bowel movements and ensuring the comfortable passage of food through the intestinal tract. A 2005 study also suggests that these dried fruits have high levels of dietary fiber and insoluble fiber, in particular. The insoluble fiber found in dates promotes healthy digestion by bulking up the stool and may also aid in relieving the symptoms of constipation.

How to use: Start by soaking dates in water overnight to help them soften up. Next, add soaked dates and a bit of soaking liquid to a food processor and blend to make a thick, fiber-rich date paste.

Relief from Intestinal Disorders Research suggests dates contain insoluble and soluble fibers, as well as many beneficial amino acids which can stimulate the digestion of

food and ensure quick passage through the gastrointestinal tract. According to a review published in the Journal of Nutrition Reviews, the fiber may also aid in the treatment of conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), diverticulitis and hemorrhoids.

Give Relief from Anemia Dates are a good source

In 2006, an animal study revealed the effects of date palm pollen and its oil on sexual functioning, reporting that the high levels of estradiol and flavonoid components in dates are helping increase sperm count and motility. Another study conducted in India states that date palm pollen has been used to treat male infertility

of many nutrients, including iron. A deficiency of iron can contribute to anemia, a condition characterized by fatigue, dizziness, brittle nails and shortness of breath. Fortunately, increasing your intake of iron-rich foods such as dates could help provide relief from anemia symptoms.

However, there is currently a lack of research evaluating their direct role in the treatment of anemia.

Prevent Heart Diseases A study by Waseem Rock et al. concluded that consuming dates was effective at reducing triglyceride levels and decreasing oxidative stress, both of which are risk factors for heart disease and atherogenesis, which is the buildup of fatty plaque in the arteries.

These dried fruits are rich in antioxidants, which may help prevent atherogenesis and aid in reducing the risk of stroke. They are also high in various phytochemicals which may also help protect against heart disease.

Furthermore, they are a rich source of potassium, which studies have shown to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke as well as other heart-related diseases.

Treat Sexual Dysfunction

in traditional medicine.

Therefore, if you are looking for an easy way to boost libido and sexual function, you may consider consuming organic dates, thanks to their aphrodisiac like properties.

How to use: Soak a handful of dates in fresh goat’s milk overnight, then grind them in the same milk with a mixture of cardamom powder and honey. However, consulting with a trusted medical practitioner before trying is strongly recommended to determine the best course of treatment for you.

Prevent Night Blindness

Vitamin A deficiency is often linked to night blindness, along with other symptoms like dry eyes and an increased risk of infection. According to an article by H.A. Hajar Al Binali, M.D., dates are rich in carotenoids, which may help prevent night blindness and preserve healthy vision.

Help Treat Chronic Diarrhea According to an article published by Columbia University Medical Center, foods rich in potassium such as dates can help replace and replete electrolytes that you may have lost due to chronic diarrhea. Thanks to their high fiber content, they can also aid in digestion and may alleviate the unpredictable nature of chronic diarrhea.

May Have Cancer-Fighting Properties Research conducted by Prof. Dr. Jeremy PE Spencer et al suggests that eating dates may help improving bowel health and slow down the development and spread of colorectal cancer cells.

Studies also indicate that these dried fruits exhibit antitumor activity, although the exact mechanism remains unknown and requires more research.

Bone Health A publication by Julie Garden-Robinson, Ph.D., L.R.D., et al. and colleagues of North Dakota State University suggests that dates contain boron which is amongst the nutrients that promote healthy bones. A study published in the Journal of Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition suggests that significant amounts of minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium

found in dried fruits make them a superfood for strengthening bones and fighting off painful and debilitating diseases like osteoporosis.

Organic pitted dates contain selenium, manganese, copper, and magnesium, all of which may aid in managing bone health, particularly amongst older adults.

Dates May Promote Healthy Weight Gain According to USDA, these dried fruits are rich in sugar along with proteins, and many other essential vitamins and minerals. They are also high in fiber, which can aid in weight management.

Medjool dates are easily available in grocery markets and make for a healthy and delicious snack!

An animal study conducted in 2014 suggested that intake of dates may aid in weight gain. However, another animal study done in 2016 indicated no such increase in weight. In view of the conflicting reports, more research is needed to support this benefit.

Aid in Relieving Symptoms of SAR According to a study conducted in 2012, dates may have a positive impact on SAR (Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis), a condition which affects approximately 30 million people in the United States alone.

The study published in Inflammatory Research actually found that date palm immunotherapy was effective at decreasing several markers of inflammation in patients with allergic rhinitis. (https:// www.organicfacts.net/healthbenefits/fruit/health-benefits-of-dates.html)

PAGE 52

1.A guy goes in for a job interview and sits down with the boss.

The boss asks him, “What do you think is your worst quality?”

The man says “I'm probably too honest.”

The boss says, “That's not a bad thing, I think being honest is a good quality.”

The man replies, “I don't care about what you think!”

2. My memory has gotten so bad it has actually caused me to lose my job. I'm still employed. I just can't remember where.

3. Some people say the glass is half full. Some people say the glass is half empty. Engineers say the glass is twice as big as necessary.

4. I asked the corporate wellness officer, “Can you teach me yoga?” He said, “How flexible are you?” I said, “I can't make Tuesdays.”

5. My boss says I have a preoccupation with vengeance.

We'll see about that.

6. The reason we “nod off to sleep” is so it looks like we're just emphatically agreeing with everything when we're in a boring meeting.

7. When an employment application asks who is to be notified in case of emergency, I always write, “A very good doctor”.

8. Team work is important; it helps to put the blame on someone else.

9. I'm great at multitasking. I can waste time, be unproductive, and procrastinate all at once.

10. Nothing ruins a Friday more than an understanding that today is Tuesday.

11. I can't believe I got fired from the calendar factory. All I did was take a day off.

12. I always tell new hires, don't think of me as your boss, think of me as a friend who can fire you.

13. My resumé is just a list of things I hope you never ask me to do.

14. The proper way to use a stress ball is to throw it at the last person to upset you.

15. There is a new trend in our office; everyone is putting names on their food. I saw it today, while I was eating a sandwich named Kevin.

16. My annual performance review says I lack “passion and intensity.” I guess management hasn't seen me alone with a Big Mac. 17. I get plenty of exercise – jumping to conclusions, pushing my luck, and dodging deadlines.

18. How do construction workers party? They raise the roof.

19. If every day is a gift, I'd like a receipt for Monday. I want to exchange it for another Friday.

20. Feeling stressed out? Make a nice cup of hot tea and then spill it in the lap of whoever's bugging you.

21. I use artificial sweetener at work. I add it to everything I say to my boss.

22. A clean desk is a sign of a cluttered desk drawer.

23. The only thing worse than seeing something done wrong is seeing it done slowly.

24. If at first you don't succeed, redefine success.

25. Give me ambiguity or give me something else.

26. We have enough youth. How about a fountain of “Smart”?

27. I started out with nothing and I still have most of it.

28. The boss frowns on anyone yelling: “Hey Weirdo!” He says too many people look up from their work.

29. Things really haven't gotten worse. We've just improved our inter-departmental communication skills.

30. Anything that could possibly go wrong often does – as well as a thing or two that couldn't possibly.

31. If it wasn't for the last minute, nothing would get done.

32. If our boss makes a mistake, it is our mistake.

33. A diplomat is someone who can tell you to go to hell in such a way that you will look forward to the trip.

34. To steal ideas from one person is plagiarism. To steal from many is research.

35. A bus station is where a bus stops. A train station is where a train stops. On my desk, I have a work station…

36. I like work. It fascinates me. I sit and look at it for hours.

37. I'm out of bed and dressed. What more do you want?

38. Experience is what you get when you didn't get what you wanted.

39. To be sure of hitting the target, shoot first and call whatever you hit the target.

40. To err is human, to blame it on someone else shows management potential.

41. A man can do more than he thinks he can, but he usually does less than he thinks he does.

Kaieteur News

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Sunday July 28, 2019

country profile One of Africa’s major oil producers, Angola is striving to tackle the physical, social and political legacy of a 27year civil war that ravaged the country after independence.

Following the withdrawal of the Portuguese colonial masters in 1975, the rival former independence movements competed for power until 2002.

Much of Angola’s oil wealth lies in Cabinda province, where a decadeslong separatist conflict simmers.

The government has sent thousands of troops to subdue the rebellion in the enclave, which has no border with the rest of Angola.

Human rights groups have alleged abuses against civilians.

LEADER

President: Joao Lourenco Angolan President Joao L o u r e n c o I m a g e copyrightGETTY IMAGES Joao Lourenco became the country’s first new

president in 38 years in September 2017.

He was the chosen candidate of his predecessor Jose Eduardo dos Santos, who did not run in the general election but who was

still expected to retain a strong influence over the running of the country.

However, Mr Lourenco surprised many by firing several security chiefs close to his predecessor as well as the leaders of state-run companies, including Isabel dos Santos, who was removed from the helm of Sonangol.

Mr Lourenco is a retired general who first fought in the independence struggle against Portugal, and later against the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) during the civil war.

MEDIA

PAGE 53

Angola A n g o l a n newspapersImage copyrightGETTY IMAGES Social media appeared to be under threat at the end of 2015 when President dos

Santos called for their stricter regulation, at a time when the government was cracking down on political dissident and activism.

For many urban Angolans, the internet has become the primary medium for expression of political anger because of the dangers of protesting on the streets.

The state controls all media with nationwide reach, including radio, the most influential medium outside the capital.

TIMELINE Some key dates in Angola’s history: Cuban forces during Angolan civil warImage

copyrightGETT Y IMAGES I m a g e caption The Angolan c i v i l w a r involved forces from Cuba, pictured, as well as from South Africa 1300s - Kongo kingdom consolidates in the north.

1483 - Portuguese arrive.

17th and 18th centuries Angola becomes a major Portuguese trading arena for slaves. Between 1580 and 1680 a million plus are shipped to Brazil.

1885-1930 - Portugal consolidates colonial control over Angola, local resistance persists.

1950s-1961 - Nationalist movement develops, guerrilla war begins.

1974 - Revolution in Portugal, colonial empire collapses.

1975 - Portuguese withdraw from Angola without formally handing power to any movement.

MPLA is in control of Luanda and declares itself government of independent Angola. Unita and FNLA set up a rival government in Huambo.

Civil war begins, dragging on until 2002.

1979 - Jose Eduardo dos Santos becomes country’s leader. He steps down 38 years later.

1987 - South African forces enter southeast Angola to thwart MPLA and

Cuban offensive against Unita. They withdrew the next year.

1991 - Government, Unita sign peace accord in Lisbon.

1992 - Disputed elections. Fighting flares again.

1998 - Luanda launches offensive against Unita thousands killed in next four years of fighting.

2002 - Unita leader Jonas Savimbi is killed in battle and a formal ceasefire is signed.

2018 - Joao Lourenco becomes president.

The Angolan civil war involved forces from Cuba, pictured, as well as from South Africa

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 54

Foolish monkeys

Before several centuries, there was a very large, dense and dark forest. A group of monkeys arrived at the forest.

It was winter season, and the monkeys struggled hard to survive the freezing cold nights. They were hunting for fire to get warm.

One night, they saw a firefly and considered it a dab of fire. All the monkeys in the group shouted ‘Fire, Fire, Fire, Yeah we got fire!’

A couple of monkeys tried to catch the firefly and it escaped. They were sad as they could not catch the fire.

They were talking to themselves that they couldn’t live in the cold if they didn’t get the fire.

The next night, again they saw many fireflies. After several attempts, the monkeys caught a few fireflies. They put the fireflies in a hole dug in the land and tried to blow the flies.

They blew the flies very hard without knowing the fact that they were flies!

An owl was watching the activities of the monkeys. The owl reached the monkeys and told them, ‘Hey those are not fire! They are flies. You won’t be able to make fire from it!’

The monkeys laughed at the owl. One monkey replied the owl, ‘Hey old owl you don’t know anything about how to make fire. Don’t disturb us!’

The Owl warned the monkeys again and asked them to stop their foolish act.

‘Monkeys, you cannot make fire from the flies! Please hear my words.’

The monkeys tried to make fire from the flies.

The Owl told them again to stop their foolish act. ‘You are struggling so much, go take your shelter in a nearby cave.

You can save yourself from the freezing cold! You won’t get fire!’

One monkey shouted at the owl and the owl left the place. The monkeys were simply doing the foolish activity for several hours and it was almost midnight. They were very tired and realized that the words of the owl were correct and they were trying to blow a fly.

They sheltered themselves at the cave and escaped from the cold.

We may go wrong many times and should seek and accept the advice / suggestions provided by others.

Crossword puzzle

Junior page HOMEMADE WIND CHIMES, Remember to check over your cans for sharp edges. I taped around the rims of the cans to prevent any cuts.

Using a paintbrush, paint the outside of the tin cans with washable paint.

You can add glitter to the paint;add it on the tin cans when the paint is still wet.

If you’re working inside, lay down some newspaper or even a plastic shower curtain liner to contain the mess.

After the paint dries, punch holes in the bottom of the tin cans.

Be careful when using the hammer.

String a long piece of yarn through the holes and tie two washers onto the end of the string, inside the tin cans. One washer is used to hold the yarn in

To make your own you'll need: ·cleaned out tin cans ·paint ·string ·hammer ·nail ·metal washers or nuts ·glitter (optional) ·tape (optional) place, the other is placed at the end of the string to make a lovely clanking sound when it hits the tin can.

You could also use nuts or rocks instead of washers. Something that is hard enough to make a noise when it hits the can.

Experiment with Sound Once you’ve tied on your washers to the wind chimes, test out the noise it makes!

Different size washers make different noises.

Different size tin cans make different noises, too!Hang up the tin cans so that they overlap each other.Let the wind do its thing and enjoy the wonderful clanking of

your homemade wind chimes!

FUN WITH POETRY

Art is So cool

Drawing and painting are so cool, And they make me feel so great, To know that I can make a picture, That others admire and appreciate.

Sometimes I draw the things I see, At other times what I imagine, Whatever I do it makes me so happy To know I created something.

The good thing is that I can do art Anytime and anywhere I be, All I need is pencil and paper, And I soon have a picture to see.

So join me in this nice hobby, That you'll be sure to enjoy; Use the time you have to yourself, Art is more fun than playing with a toy.

(BY UNCLE ROY)

Kaieteur News

Sunday July 28, 2019

PAGE 55

Make a sincere effort to become a friendlier person True Friendship

It will be helpful in all areas of your life if you can be perceived as a person who is always willing to be a friend.

It will therefore be worth any amount of your time and energy spent in thinking about this and making a real effort towards this end.

Here are some pointers you can use to achieve this in your personality, so that you will automatically behave in a friendly manner in whatever situation you may be in, and in whosoever company you will be:1. Do not be too quick to criticise, condemn or complain.

Remember everyone else has his own life to live, and you can only antagonise others if you use too much force to tell them of something they may have done that you find not up to standard.

2. Give an honest, polite and sincere opinion of anything you may witness about someone.

Always remember, if you really mean to help someone, you have to take into account in

God in His wisdom made a friend, Someone on whom we can always depend, A loyal friend who'll understand, And always lend a helping hand.

He felt we'd need somebody who Could comfort us when we just feel blue, Whose special warmth and happy smile Would make us feel that life's worthwhile, Someone with whom we can take a walk, Or share a joke or have a talk, Who'd chat for hours on the phone, Or sense our need to be alone.

In short, God made a friend to be Someone we're always glad to see; There's little else that God can send That means as much as one true friend. any endeavour to not let them feel inferior or bad in any way.

3. Whenever you do have to point out someone’s error, it would always be helpful if you can find something positive about them to introduce your comments.

This would make them feel worthy in some way and so

more willing to act on your suggestion for improvement.

4. As a basis for any effort as above, try to show the person that you are genuinely interested in his/her welfare.

If you are successful in this endeavour, you can be assured that any recommendations you may

make will be properly received and acted on.

5. Make it a habit to smile in any interaction with others, as this automatically sends a positive message about your intentions, and keeps your association friendly and with more likelihood of a continued relationship.

Just as you yourself feel the need of having friends around to make your life more worthwhile and enjoyable, just so you can help others by making a special effort to help those in need of true friendship.

THOUGHT FOR THE WEEK TELL IT TO UNCLE ROY Please always remember that Uncle Roy is always ready and willing to assist with any problems with which you may be faced. Just connect by my email at uncleroy1992@yahoo.com and I will respond promptly.

Solutions to last week’s

Acrostic "The mind commands the body and is instantly obeyed. The mind commands itself and meets resistance."

Aurelius Augustinus, Confessions

Word search

PAGE 56

Tips For Treating A Bad Sunburn Take A Cool Bath It's also important to cool the skin down, says Friedman, but skip the shower -– the continual blast of water on your scorched skin will not feel good. "I suggest taking a bath to cool down the skin gently," Friedman says. Also skip the soap, which will dry skin out even more. Instead, add a few scoops of baking soda to your bath. It's cooling and helps your skin retain moisture.

Use Aloe If you're away from home and can't catch a bath, blot your burned body with a cold compress to draw out the heat. Or smear on aloe vera. "Aloe is a cooling agent and an anti-inflammatory," Friedman says. Get the oozy juice straight from an aloe plant if you have one, or else use a storebought gel.

Avoid Benzocaine And Lidocaine When you got sunburned as a kid, your mom might have broken out the big aerosol can of Solarcaine and sprayed you down. We're guessing it hurt like hell.

That's because it contains lidocaine, a local anesthetic that at first stings the skin, then numbs it with the end goal of cooling it down. It tends to work, but Bowe cautions against using sprays, lotions and creams with lidocaine or benzocaine (a similar chemical) because they can cause irritation and allergic reactions.

Use Lots Of Lotion After your bath or compress cool-down, slather on lotion. But if you have any small blisters, leave those spots alone, Friedman warns. "When choosing a lotion, reach for something that is both moisturizing and hydrating so that it helps trap moisture in the skin," Bowe says. "Look for ingredients like ceramides, glycerin or soy. I also like lotions that contain oatmeal, which is particularly soothing. Some fancier creams contain antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which can also help tame inflammation in the skin.

But avoid creams with petroleum, because those will trap heat in your skin." Friedman adds that dabbing on small amounts of 0.5 percent or 1 percent hydrocortisone cream, sold over the counter, for a day or two can relieve some discomfort.

Drink Water "Bad sunburns cause a process called vasodilation, where your blood vessels dilate and you lose water from your skin very quickly," says Bowe.

“This can lead to dehydration, fatigue and even heat stroke if not treated." Start sipping water immediately and keep drinking it to be sure you stay hydrated. "Coconut water or other waters with added electrolytes can be even more effective at preventing dehydration," Bowe adds.

Don't Touch The Blisters Leave it alone. Period. "Picking or peeling burned skin or popping blisters can lead to permanent scarring," says Bowe.

Don't Get Burned Twice Don't let yourself forget how much sunburn sucks. Use your current misery as motivation to get in the habit of applying broad-spectrum sunblock every day, especially through the rest of the summer. Look for one that is SPF 30 to 50, guards against both burn-causing UVB rays and wrinkle- and cancer-causing UVA rays and is water-resistant so it'll stay put when you sweat or swim.

Mineral-based blocks with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide tend to work best. Apply 15 minutes before heading outside, and reapply every two hours.

SOLUTION TO LAST WEEK’S WORD SEARCH

Kaieteur News

Sunday July 28, 2019

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

STANDARDS IN FOCUS

SME’S SHOULD TAKE ADVANTAGE OF AVAILABLE STANDARDS Standards provide as many benefits for small businesses as they do for global enterprises.

The strategic use of standards can make a significant difference to the annual profits of an SME, and can sometimes mean the difference between success and failure.

For smaller firms, some of the benefits of using standards include the opening up of export markets, heightened operational efficiency and increased confidence as customers from all over the world recognise the compliance of businesses, products and services that comply with standards.

For many small businesses, making the decision to participate in a standards development process remains difficult, as managers are typically reluctant to allocate resources to a longterm process that may not yield immediate benefits.

However, if a company is committed and participates actively in the process, the return on investment can be substantial.

The principal benefits of participation include visibility, indepth understanding, innovation, competitive advantage, networking possibilities, and opportunities to access potential customers. In other words, non-participation in standardisation gives away the advantage to the competition.

It is, however, still a challenge in many business environments locally and abroad to convince small companies to participate in

standardisation.

According to Kurt Blind, one of Europe’s most prominent advocate working in the field of Standardisation, “Most SMEs, particularly the smaller ones, lack the necessary resources to commit to long term strategies and investments, which are only paying back in the future.

“Their management is largely involved in daily operational practice, and there is no time or money available for activities not directly related to improving the daily business. They usually have a short term view of their business and are limited in reacting to anticipated changes such as future regulations or the development of new standards.”

The Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) through its Consultancy and Training programmes provides an avenue for micro, small and medium size enterprises to be sensitised on the requirements of national and international standards.

The notion that an enterprise is too small to implement standards is a myth. The Bureau continues to believe that it is time that local businesses begin to embrace the implementation of standards as guidelines and tools to strategically streamline their operations, realise profits, maintain sustainability, and most importantly, facilitate access to more markets.

In addition, through standard implementation, an enterprise can ensure quality,

improve customer service, reduce costs and engage in global trade.

The GYS 231 standard, ‘Requirements for good manufacturing practices for micro, small and medium sized enterprises’ defines the fundamental requirements to enhance small business performance through the process of continual improvement and assurance of quality, environment and occupational safety and health requirements.

The standard also reduces nonconformity. Local SMEs are therefore encouraged to consult with the GNBS to be sensitised on how this national standard can be implemented to guarantee improved business performance.

Other specific standards, which can be implemented by small businesses in Guyana include Specification for package water, Specification for jams, (fruit preserves) and jellies, Specification for salted fish and dried salted fish, Specifications for coconut oil, and Specification for breads and rolls.

Entrepreneurs are encouraged to initiate contact with the GNBS to find out which standards can best address the needs of their businesses for growth and competitiveness.

For further information, please contact the GNBS on telephone numbers: (592) 2190065, (592) 219-0066 or visit the GNBS website: www.gnbsgy.org

PAGE 65

ANNA Kaieteur News

PAGE 66

Sunday July 28, 2019

a quaint little village where quiet and peace seemingly abound

FOCUS Today things have changed.

The mud firesides are rapidly being replaced by gas stoves and as such, residents get caught up in the modern times.

One thing for sure is that villagers here remain close to their roots and still share the traditional customs and beliefs of Mother India.

This village has a large squatting area and in 2010, the government through many efforts made things better for these squatters.

“In the 1980's, things was really hard for us villagers but things improved a few years later. At least now we have light and potable water and a fairly comfortable life, so to speak.”

By Alex Wayne

I

t was about 10 am and I was on a minibus, weaving in and out of traffic, en route to Anna Catherina on the West Coast of Demerara. I was particularly enraged by the reckless manner in which the driver was manoeuvering along the roadway and by the callous manner in which the bus conductor was speaking to several young females on the bus.

What infuriated me further was that these very girls having no respect for themselves were heckling and blushing under his very blunt and crudely vulgar insinuations.

On arrival at my destination, I got out of the bus squinting from the sharp rays of the sun. After adjusting to the glare and the scorching heat, I whipped out pen and notepad, ready to start unfurling the tale of this impressive village.

This village was strangely quiet in most areas.

Save for the steady banter of a few youths by the roadside, everyone was tending to their own business in a somewhat quiet and controlled fashion.

I looked at a group of woman in a variety store and warmth seems to ooze from their smiles and jolly conversations. I was certainly going to like this village and its jovial inhabitants.

I, for some strange reason, felt at home in this village, this intriguing village, which is located about eight and one-half miles from Vreed-en-Hoop.

Anna Catherina, as it turned out, is a quiet place and, above all, inhabited by harmonious people. It is divided into two parts, the housing scheme, and the squatting area, referred to as 'Sea View.' This area is normally popular for its many entertainment initiatives.

It possesses sandy sections; perfect for open-air bar-b-ques, bush cooks and other outdoor ventures.

Everyone seemed to be at

The Early Childhood Educational Centre in the village is highly recommended by villagers. ease and in great contentment. Even the cows seemed to be trying their best with the almost sun-dried grass and shrubs by the roadside. A few sheep bleated loudly as they darted down the dusty dams to sip water from the trenches as the tropical sun beat down mercilessly.

I was just overwhelmed by the quiet and refreshing aura that seemed to surround this village, so there I was breathing deeply the fresh, crisp 'country breeze' as my eyes took in with wonder, the cluster of little homely cottages, impressive shops and even budding boutiques that surrounded me.

This village does not feature too many majestic buildings, and posh shops, like many others, but what caused me to gaze around in awe was its quiet existence, fuelled by the humility and charm of its residents, and its dazzling aura of simplicity.

Actually, there are quite a few small shops from which villagers obtain their groceries and household supplies. Some however prefer to travel to the somewhat distant Parika where they can get things cheaper.

Most people in the village, the majority of whom are of Indian descent, earn their living as sugar

workers, farmers or fishermen. Others work in administrative entities outside the location.

History of the Village I was very curious about how the village got its name and to tell me that was elderly villager, Selena Satnarine, who was a teacher in her younger days.

“I can't recall much about the history of this village, but

if I can recall clearly Anna Catherina was named after the famed Anna Catherina, the daughter of a famous Dutch colonial estate owner who had bought a part of Guyana and named two areas after his daughters.

“This Dutch family had resided in Guyana during the days when it was a colony.”

Anna Catherina is a Dutch name ('Anna' is a fairly common female name

in both the Latin-based and Germanic languages), but I have to admit that I can't shed much light on what Catherina really signifies. I know for a fact, however, that the village not this developed as it is today.

In years gone by, this village was clusters of trees, scattered cottage houses, maybe a shop or two, but everyone was always kind and helpful to the other.

Interacting with villagers I was very surprised that coconut vendor 'Tejram' was still around. He has grown much older that when I saw him a few years ago, but his tale of hard work and contentment was still very stirring.

“I still selling me water coconuts and snacks as always man. Me ain't making much, but I try to manage at the end of the day. I am a very contented man and I have learnt to accept small blessings and make do with (continued on page 67)

The traditional horse cart is still widely used as a form of transport in the village

Kaieteur News

Sunday July 28, 2019 From page 66 it.

“It's really hard work to get up at early in the morning, using precious hours to prepare the snacks, and finish selling till late in the afternoon, but my mother always told me that hard work and sacrifices pay off in the long run.”

Selena Dhanpat explained that the village had always had an employment issue, which still remains today.

“This village always seems to have an employment issue and persons have to come up with ways of making an honest dollar. Although this is a calm and quiet village unemployment is an issue that would to be dealt with more rigorously by Government.

“Some students are out of school with excellent grades and can't find suitable jobs. They have to settle for jobs beneath their credits.”

That aside, a large majority of the villagers were employed at the Uitvlugt Sugar Estate as cane cutters and labourers, so when it closed its door, one can only imagine what occurred.”

Some residents are employed in the schools outside the village, while some engage in farming.

A budding entertainment hub This village may be small and quiet by day, by as

PAGE 67

evening falls, many locations turn up the heat with music, thus attracting residents in their numbers, all starving for recreational entertainment.

At first, there was one major nightspot, but some persons are opening dance hotspots or drinking locations in the village.

Villagers continue to gather in their numbers, especially on weekends, at the Caribbean Temptation Night Club and Restaurant for beers, alcohol and dancing.

However, many have agreed that if this location does not change the party trends, they will eventually lose to outside 'competition.

But the birthdays, customary weddings, and other events further allow other avenues of leisure time fun.

Gripping recollections Housewife, Patricia Singh, was very stirring as she recalled a harrowing tale of a murder in the village a few years ago.

“I still tremble when I think of the triple murders that occur here in 2016. I wonder what kind of a human can do such an act.

“Businesswoman Jennifer Persaud and her two young sons were brutally murdered by a man persons said was a wife abuser. It was a shame that it took six years for the suspect to be arrested, and it's a good thing he confessed as well.

Section of the very appealing village

Taking a 'lil tupps' at a village rum shop.

“The man had gone to rob the shop that Persaud operated. However, his wife, who kept his secret for years, told the police to question him about the murders after she got tired of his constant abuse.

“In September 2012, Persaud, 41, the owner of a liquor store and bar at Anna Catherina and her sons Afridi Bacchus, 6, and Jadon Persaud who was 18 months old, were murdered and their bodies were found in the village.

“Their throats had been

slit and they also suffered stab wounds.

Acting on the tip provided, investigators arrested the alleged killer.

Under interrogation, he confessed to committing the triple murder, sources close to the investigation said.

“He told the police he would normally be at Persaud's shop. He said on the night of the murders, he went with the intention of robbing the liquor store. The man told investigators that he went upstairs after he did not collect a substantial

amount of cash from the shop.

“He related that once upstairs, he collected a bag and Persaud woke up and saw him in the house. It was at this point, he told investigators, he stabbed the woman.

“The man said Persaud's elder son woke up and saw his face and he decided to slit his throat.

Bacchus screamed when his throat was slit and the baby woke up, and suffered the same fate as well. How gruesome, I just can

imagine…”

Conclusion This is a village where the contentment and simple existence of residents is mirrored in their quiet dayto-day operations. They work around their misgivings and shortcomings and use disappointments as stepping-stones to perfection.

Join us next Sunday, for the intriguing tale on the makings of Perth Village, Mahaicony.

PAGE 68

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

PROPERTY FOR SALE House for sale, Eccles Housing Scheme. 7 bedrooms, 3 toilets and bathrooms enclosed. $28.5M. Call 642-0391/ 001447587233657/ yasharabhola4@gmail.com

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One Truck Driver. Tel#2271717 Urgently need one land to buy in Eccles New Scheme. Tel# 656-0701 Female Domestic wanted for light housekeeping $3000 daily. Male skilled Labourer $4000 daily Vreed-En-Hoop 682-5230/615-4414

One Apartment for rent, First Street, Market. Mon Repos, E.B.Dem Tel#602-4105/2207330 One (2) bedroom apartment at Lot 1031 B Field Sophia.

Contact Colin #621-5781, Maureen #650-8827 1-two bedroom semi furnished apartment in Campbellville, suitable for students studying. For more information. Call: 666-3213/ 668-0450 VEHICLE FOR SALE Pearl white Toyota Runx. Lady Driven, very good condition.

Tel#676-9562 1 Honda CRV. includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crash bar, Low mileage. PTT Series (First Owner) Contact #6490956

40x80 located in North Riumveldt. Price $7.5 Mil. Contact Llewellyn & New model Sylphy, driven by Llewellyn Real Estate on #645- lady. #614-9742 6498 Eccles (Single & Double lots) Pick up Truck from Canada , Providence EBD, Enterprise extra cab, 2005 Tacoma $1.8M, & Paradise ECD Contact Ray’s Ford F150 Sport $1.3M, Ford Ranger sport $1.1M, 682Realty #627-9685 5230/615-4414.

TO LET Tractor Massey Ferguson 1 bedroom apartment for (foreign used) MF165$1.5M, working couple/single person MF135 $1.1M, MF265 $1.8M, $35,000 monthly. Light & MF165 Loader tractor $2.2M Water included. Lodge. Vreed-en-hoop.Call:682-5230/ Call#623-0076 615-4414.

EDUCATION STEWART’S ACADEMIC INSTITUTE- SUMMER PROGRAMME: 22nd JULY16th AUGUST 2019) For more information, Contact Mr. Stewart Cell# 697-3801 Care for elderly, care for children. First Aid & CPR. #227-4881 HEALTH HERBAL REMEDIES: DIABETES, INFERTILITY, MENSTRUAL DISORDERS, ENLARGED PROSTATE, KIDNEY, GALL STONES & SKIN DISORDERS ETC. CALL SPARMAN #676-5924 VACANCY General Domestic to cook and clean for East Bank. Call: 6144358 Female cleaner office & home.

Call: 642-9823 Waitress & Cook, preferably carnegie trained & Cashier/ Waitress #225-7933 or visit 172 Sheriff St Cook to work in Charity.

Contact#654-7162

1 experienced driver, must have license for car/van/ minibus & motorbus, residing in G/town between ages 24-50 yrs old. #225-1429/ 641-5075

House and land available at Parfaite, Tuschen, Diamond etc.

Contact Pacific Development Inc. 223-6035/ 604-4909 (1) 3 bedroom house located at Stewartville. Tel#625-3299/ 268-3129 Grove Public Road. Tel#6177678

7 bedroom house located in Campbellville. Price $140 Mil. Contact Llewellyn & Vacancy for 1 massage Llewellyn Real Estate on #645therapist, 1 hairdresser & 2 nail 6498 technician at Natural Beauty Newly constructed 4 Salon & Spa. #652-5800 bedroom, 3 bathroom, house DemBake @ Land of Canaan overlooking the sea for sale, is seeking experienced Motor ECD#675-1510/613-7964 Lorry drivers & Sales agent. 2 storey building, Broad St Email CV: (Business area) Georgetown. admin@demerarabakery.com / Contact Ray’s Realty #627call: 266-5848 9685 Accounts Clerk. Contact#2235273/223-5274 Receptionist. Contact#2235273/223-5274

Modern 3 bedroom house, business area below & bond behind, Ketley Street, Georgetown. Ray’s Realty #627-9685

Surveyor. Contact#223-5273/ One concrete 2 storey 3 bedroom Modern home, 223-5274 Melanie (public road) ECD 1 Secretary 28-45 yrs old. #231- Contact Ray’s Realty #6279685 0655/683-8734 Elegant 2 story concrete Wanted Live-in maid 40-45 property (grilled), perfect for year, must have police living & business, Parika. clearance & reference. Contact Ray’s Realty #627Contact# 688-4525/649-9595 9685 Driver/Salesman, Apply to Manager Sol Gas Distribution with written application. 9 Dowding St, Kitty, G/town #216-3152/622-5922

Desirable homes in Campbellville and Bel Air Georgetown. Contact Ray’s Realty. #627-9685

VACANCY 1 Trainee computer technician age 17-21 to work Vreed-en- One experienced legal hoop WBD. Email Application computer clerk. Call: 624-7087/ to rtechguy@gmail.com 226-4283/258-0213/ email: husainsaphier@yahoo.com Vacancy exist for Administrative Assistant. Vacancy for waiter/waitress to Send Email to: work at Aagman Restaurant Georgetown@gmcg.global on Sheriff Street. Contact #219-0158 Security Officers wanted.

Contact Superior Security & Vacancy for housekeeper to Management Services on work at Aagman Restaurant #223-2306 between 9am-4pm on Sheriff Street. Contact #219-0158 Mon-Fri Driver, Factory worker, must have a sound secondary education, for more information. Please call: 2230090 General domestic. 3 Days work. Must know to cook.

Apply with 2 references.

KeyFood McDoom village Looking for a job & educational services? Contact The Job Centre 43 Croal & Alexander Street or call 5024002/600-8457 LT 40 wood miser operator to work at Mango landing. Call: 609-7675/674-1705/233-2614

Vacancy for a seamstress, 2 years experience, must be able to work on East Coast. #6994563 Cook #624-0033, Driver for water delivery canter #6803863, Customer service assistant #624-0033. Call or whatsapp General Domestic, must be able to prepare Vegetarian meals. Apply at Alabama Trading 65 Robb St, Bourda Sales clerk to sell bicycle spare parts, must have previous experience . Apply at Alabama Trading

Sunday July 28, 2019

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CONSUMER CONCERNS

FOCUSING ON THE RIGHTS OF THE CHILD

By PAT DIAL In Western societies, until very recently, children were regarded as small adults and no different from adults except for their age, size and level of experience. This accounted for small children during the Industrial Revolution in England being sent to work in the coal mines or as chimneysweepers where, from their size, they would be able to go up the chimney.

It was also a norm for them to be involved in agricultural work and we are reminded of this in the Nursery Rhymes where Little Bo-peep had to tend the sheep and ensure that they return home from the pasture.

In addition, Little Boy Blue had the task of blowing his horn to control the sheep and prevent the cows from invading the wheat field.

Unlike today when children are dressed differently from adults, the assumption that children were small adults was reflected in their being dressed as adults.

This contrasts with many ancient cultures and civilisations where children and teenagers were accepted as different from adults. In Hindu Society, for example, by the Laws of Manu, the human lifespan was divided into four segments: The first quarter covered the time when the child was to be educated and as a young teenager to learn the skills of livelihood.

(Bhramchari), the second quarter, is when the bhramchari moves into adulthood, is married, raises a family, builds a home and is creatively engaged in the work of the world.

(Gharhastya), the third quarter, prescribes that the householder does public service and begins to devote more time to God. (Vanaprashta), and the last segment is when one disengages from money-making and other material pulls, prepares for death and becomes more subsumed with God and religion (Sanyasa). These four segments of life are not mutually exclusive but could run into each other at several points.

Towards the end of the 19th century, Western Society fully grasped that children were different from adults and had their own needs, their own sensitivities, suffered deep pain from insensitive treatment by adults, and had to be treated differently and specially protected.

With the vision, intellectual depth, efficiency and speed for which Western Man is known, Western societies have set up various institutions, legal frameworks,

researches and teaching programmes as for example ‘Child Psychology’ and creative media projections promoting the Rights of the Child.

This is also reflected in international organisations such as UNICEF. Guyana has been doing its part in energetically protecting the Rights of the Child by several activities; for example, the training programmes conducted by the Adult Education Association (AEA), where in June, the Childcare Management class successfully graduated a number of Childcare practitioners.

Ms. Ann Green, the Director of the Childcare and Protection Agency, spoke on the occasion. She reported that her Agency had received reports of 1,178 cases of violations of the Rights of the Child in the first quarter of 2019-- 576 cases of neglect; 334 cases of abuse; and 268 cases of physical abuse.

She reminded that the caring of children required affection, concern, time, energy, patience, observation and commitment. Her Agency operated within the ambit of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child to which Guyana has subscribed.

That Convention outlines 42 Rights and among these are the Right to Survival; the Right to develop to the fullest; the Right to participate fully in family, cultural and social life; and the Right to be protected from harmful influences, abuse and exploitation.

Ms. Sylvie Fouet, Head of the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF), has been always supportive of all local activities for the protection of the Rights of the Child and on the occasion of the AEA graduation, on behalf of UNICEF donated approximately $3.9 million worth of equipment and supplies including computers, cameras, tripods, televisions, chairs and desks to be used by the Child Advocacy Centres in Regions One, Four and Seven.

Some months earlier, in

April, a specific Child Labour Policy was launched addressing such abuses as trafficking in children for sexual exploitation and for forced labour in dangerous abusive circumstances.

Ms. Fouet gave a background of the genesis and development of the Child Labour Policy. She pointed out that Guyana was a leader among CARICOM countries in respect of Child Labour Policy and that the Policy was the result of a three-year effort by various stakeholders, both locally and internationally.

“We have been pleased”, she said, “to support the journey. In 2017, we began by reviewing the Law together. Then last year and this year elaborating the Policy and also drafting an Action Plan that will operationalise the Policy and supporting key interventions”.

UNICEF and the Ministry of Education also have been working together to provide school spaces and even meals for the thousands of refugee children from Venezuela. In this programme of assistance, bilingual teachers have to be trained since most of the Venezuelan children know no English.

Ms. Claudia Coenjaerts, the International Labour Organization (ILO) representative, said that the Policy provides a coherent framework on the way forward in tackling child labour issues in Guyana and that its implementation is very important.

As part of a collaborative effort, a child labour risk identification model in the country would be piloted. The model is a statistical tool, which uses national data to identify levels of risk for child labour in specific geographical areas so as to make it easier to identify where prevention and operationalisation of active measures would be more important.

The State’s efforts in enforcing the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child and the Child Labour Policy are important and necessary measures in furthering the protection of children and

ensuring that their childhood is not taken away from them.

But it is also necessary to bring parents and guardians onboard since if they know

of their roles and know of their importance in protecting their children, this would go a far way towards solving the problems of neglect and

abuse and ensure protection of the child’s rights. This would entail constant and methodical education of parents as to their roles.

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City Council woos foreign help during tour with diplomats Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine with diplomats

Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine, on Friday, led a team of diplomats on tour throughout the capital city.

The outing took the foreign dignitaries to l o c a t i o n s such as the Industrial Site Day Care Centre, Meadow Bank sluice door, Stabroek Market Wharf, City Constabulary Training Complex and the Municipal

Abattoir.

Accompanied by some of his councillors, Mayor Narine outlined the purpose of the trip. “I organised this little tour so that they can see actually what is happening, what the Council manages, and how we go about managing it.”

On the sidelines, the Department of Public

Information (DPI) interviewed a few diplomats to get feedback on the activity. “It allows us to visit the sites and see how we can collaborate to improve services, to improve systems and have them organised.

“I believe that will prove helpful to the city,” noted Country Representative of the

Organisation of American States (OAS) Jean-Ricot Dormeus, who praised the tour as, “a great initiative.”

“It sets the tone. So, we will see what we can do t o g e t h e r, ” the OAS Representative concluded.

Meanwhile, Brazilian Ambassador to Guyana, HE Lineu Pupo de Paula was optimistic on the way

forward for the city.

The diplomat said, “I think we can help. So, after, we are going to have a meeting with the Mayor and see what we can do.”

After the diplomatic tour, Mayor Narine stated, “I was able to touch on the major issues and major problems, which we are f a c i n g i n t h e c i t y. ”

According to the Mayor, it is hoped that the tour will facilitate deepened cooperation between the M&CC and the diplomatic community.

“There would be a follow-up meeting with the Diplomatic Corps at which I will able to get a brief on what will be the way forward.” (DPI)

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ExxonMobil contributes annually Sneak-peak at PPP’s plans…

Irfaan Ali signals removal of major gold to Liberia’s Decommissioning taxes; $2B annually for hinterland roads Fund, but Guyana left exposed

By Kiana Wilburg Decommissioning is considered one of the most crucial aspects of an oil project.

It involves safe well plugging, platform removals, pipeline and power cable extractions as well as secure site clearance.

All of this takes place when a project is nearing its end. It is an expensive process that runs into billions of dollars.

But if it is not managed properly, and the right contractual provisions and policies are not in place, countries could be left to stand this cost.

As a safeguard against this, oil producing nations have moved in the direction of establishing funds to which the oil company or operator makes payments. When the time for decommissioning or abandonment comes, the countries use that Fund to handle the associated expenses.

In the case of Liberia, the country ensured that ExxonMobil signed onto such an agreement.

In fact, a 2013 Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) it has with Exxon expressly states that when each oil field has reached 50% of its productive capacity, which, for the sake of clarity means that 50% of the estimated recoverable Petroleum has been produced from such Field, the Contractor shall submit a revised Abandonment or Decommissioning Plan along with a budget for same to be approved by the government.

Within 90 days of said ap-

Guyana initiates basic alert...

From page 7 effect, it is imperative that measures be adopted to as advised by the WHO relevant to safe guarding all passengers and our ports of entry,” added Dr. Shako.

She stressed the need for “monitoring civil aviation activities of international travel given that this medium can facilitate the movement of communicable diseases via infected passengers and thereby spreading the threat.”

The processes related to air travel, specifically those associated with outgoing passengers, incoming passengers and activities on board an aircraft can be managed to control the spread of any communicable diseases.

“At this time, the risk of contracting Ebola currently has diminished and as such only the basic measures/ SOPs shall be implemented,” Dr. Shako said.

University of Houston Instructor, Tom Mitro proval, an Abandonment Fund would be established. It is held in an interest-bearing escrow account with an escrow agent approved by Liberia’s Ministry of Finance.

The PSA states, too, that the account shall be established at an international bank of good financial standing.

The same Abandonment Fund, the PSA notes, shall receive the funds for all fields.

Importantly, the PSA states that any portion of the Abandonment Fund not required for or used, the Plan shall be transferred to benefit the State. If Liberia finds that the Abandonment Fund is insufficient to complete the approved Abandonment Plan, Exxon is also required to pay all additional costs needed.

In Guyana’s case, however, the PSA signed with Exxon for the Stabroek Block makes no provision for such a Fund, much less the foregoing provisions.

What is in place, however, is a provision that greatly ben-

efits Exxon. In the PSA it has with Guyana, the American oil king is allowed to tabulate a budget for abandonment, and recover a portion of that budget in the form of oil years before it is time for decommissioning.

During an exclusive interview with Kaieteur News, University of Houston Instructor, Tom Mitro, had said that best practice dictates that while some cost recovery for abandonment is important to establish, this only happens after the company starts pre-funding into some sort of escrow account.

“This provision of allowing them to begin cost recovery, in some cases, 20-30 years before they actually fund the costs, is a very significant benefit for the companies from a cash flow and net present value standpoint... It is not the norm. It is the most unusual provision I have ever seen in a PSA,” Mitro had stated.

The University Instructor had further noted that Guyana is in danger since the company may end up selling its equity interest prior to the time of decommissioning/abandonment. If that were to happen, Mitro noted that the way Guyana’s PSA is set up, Exxon and its partners would have fully recovered all the costs associated with that activity.

In short, only Guyana stands to lose in this type of arrangement, he said. He further stated that this should be corrected in Guyana’s model PSA, which is being prepared by the Department of Energy.

T

he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is aggressively moving into elections mode, already signaling what it wants to include in its manifesto.

According to Presidential Candidate of the party, Irfaan Ali, one of the big areas that he is targeting for revamp will be the struggling gold industry.

“Many players in the field have been complaining not only about the deteriorating conditions of the roads but also of increasing taxes,” Ali disclosed on Friday.

Among other things, he is promising under his Government, as President, to remove the Value-Added Tax (VAT) on hinterland travel and freight to benefit not only mining sector but residents and communities.

“We have intention to remove the fees imposed by this Government to sell gold

PPP’s Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali, has signaled widespread overhaul of the gold industry when elected. and remove the sliding scale charged. imposed and replace with a “Perhaps one of the simple two percent final tax.” biggest issues we want to For machinery and address, based on the equipment, the former complaints, will be better Housing Minister said that roads. That is why we the VAT will no longer be (Continued on page 72)

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Sunday July 28, 2019

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Accept oil contracts that offer best fiscal terms through bidding process - Attorney Charles Ramson Jr.

For future Production Sharing Agreements (PSAs), Government should grant oil blocks to the International Oil Companies (IOC) that offer the best fiscal terms during the bid process. That is the advice of Attorney-at-law Charles Ramson Jr. Recently, Government was advised that it should be careful in its pursuit of increased royalties for future contracts.

Alessandro Bacci, Upstream Oil and Gas Analyst at Global Data, stated, “If Guyana goes ahead with its plan of increasing the royalties in its production sharing agreements (PSAs), the scope for adjustment will be limited if it wishes to retain its regional competitiveness.

“Under the current contract structure, Guyana may push its royalties up to a 5% rate from the current 2%. Be-

yond that threshold, it may diminish the attractiveness of the country’s petroleum fiscal framework for investors.”

The PSA with ExxonMobil’s subsidiary, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited (EEPGL), for the Stabroek Block, states, “The Contractor shall pay… a Royalty of two percent (2%) of all Petroleum produced and sold, less the quantities of Petroleum used for fuel or transportation in Petroleum Operations.”

Yesterday, Ramson stated that royalty is a regressive tax, since it could serve to take a greater stream of income from IOCs when the profit is low.

In this regard, the consultant said that while it would be favourable to have a high royalty percentage, increasing it would come at a cost.

In some cases, a higher royalty could tax IOCs into a

position of loss.

This is especially likely in cases where the oil carries a high breakeven price. The breakeven price is the amount of money for which the oil must be sold to allow the IOC to recover costs invested into its production.

Ramson said that, with high royalties, some IOCs could see themselves making very little profit or worse, a loss, and that could affect Guyana’s competitiveness with investors in the region.

Bacci had also suggested a sliding scale, which would see royalties increasing with profits, Ramson concurred.

Nevertheless, he also said that the royalty is just one term of the agreement; that other terms, such as signature bonuses, relinquishment provisions, work programs and decommissioning should also receive attention when con-

Attorney-at-Law, Charles Ramson Jr. sidering the viability of an oil contract.

Government could use the success of its first production from the Liza Phase one project as leverage to demand attractive fiscal terms, Ramson said.

In addition, if a country

wants the best terms, it could have IOCs bid on those terms.

Ramson, who is Head of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI)’s Petroleum Committee, said that the companies, in this situation, would pro-

pose, for example, relinquishment provisions, and Government would decide which provision is most attractive.

In the same vein, Government could have companies bid on each Contract term, and assess the viability of each proposed contract, based on a weighting scale for those terms. Such a scale could consider, for example, the relinquishment provision proposed as 10 percent of the consideration, or royalty at 20 percent.

Of course, Ramson added, the drafting of a weighting scale for contract terms would have to be market-driven, depending on various factors such as the economic value of the reservoir and the breakeven price.

Then, he said, Government should accept the contracts, which offer the best combination of those terms.

Trump tells black lawmaker to clean up ‘disgusting, rat and rodent infested’ district WA S H I N G T O N (Reuters) - President Donald Trump hit out at a prominent African-American critic yesterday, calling him a “brutal bully” who should concentrate on cleaning up his “disgusting, rat and rodent infested” Baltimore district rather than criticizing the work of U.S. immigration officers on the Mexican border.

Trump’s target in a series of early yesterday morning’s tweets was U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings, the Democratic chairman of the

House of Representatives Oversight Committee, who has called Trump a racist and sharply criticized his immigration policies.

Democratic House Speaker Nancy Pelosi responded to Trump by calling Cummings a champion for civil rights and economic justice and added in a tweet: “We all reject racist attacks against him and support his steadfast leadership.”

On Thursday, the committee voted 23-16 along party lines to allow Cummings to

issue subpoenas to White House officials, including Trump’s daughter Ivanka Trump and son-in-law Jared Kushner, deepening a probe into potential violations of government record-keeping laws.

In his tweet, Trump, a Republican, took aim at Cummings’ criticism of his administration’s Mexican border policies.“Rep, Elijah Cummings has been a brutal bully, shouting and screaming at the great men & women of Border Patrol about condi-

Irfaan Ali signals removal of major gold...

From page 11 support easier transport for the mining, forestry and communities by reducing travel time and cost. We will do this by investing a minimum of $2B annually to support hinterland roads.”

With regards to the making available more mining lands, Ali said that it is the intention to establish a fairer and more equitable system.

“Miners and other

stakeholders have been burdened by onerous documentation required. We want production. We want to make it easier by reducing the burden.”

According to Ali, the mining sector is in a rapid state of decline as a result of poor Government policies and little intervention in infrastructure leading to higher cost of transportation and increased cost of

Government takes Oil and ...

From page 10 administration is currently working to increase the number to 75% by the end of 2020.

She said that 25 persons were trained to work on the Floating Production Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessel- the Liza Destiny.

Floyd Scott , C-TVET Director, in his address to the gathering, spoke of the immense job opportunities that will become available but underscored for persons to tap into those opportunities they must understand that standards are required, as such, training and certification is

vital.

Students were pleased that the Government conducted such a session at the Institution.

There a number of them had no prior knowledge of the industry but after listening to the various presentations they feel motivated and empowered. A number of them have plans to work in the industry in the future.

They said that the seminar let them know what is going on in the country. They are also proud to learn of the many opportunities that lie ahead.

production.

“The burdensome taxes have negatively affected recapitalisation and have increased transactional cost.

The removal of incentives that brought cost savings to miners and hinterland communities has served to further erode the strides our administrations would have made.”

According to the PPP official, the leakages from smuggled gold and favouritism in the distribution of mining properties and claims have also contributed to place the biggest foreign currency earner on a decline that has to be halted with actions.

“The neglect, mismanagement and corruption are beyond believable. Our government has been paying attention to the gold contributions and promise that like before, our attention will remain in ensuring the miners have a right to smile. The gold price is currently over US$1,400 per ounce. We need to capitalise and manage properly.”

tions at the Southern Border, when actually his Baltimore district is FAR WORSE and more dangerous. His district is considered the Worst in the USA......,” Trump tweeted. “(T)he Border is clean, efficient & well run, just very crowded. Cumming District is a disgusting, rat and rodent infested mess. If he spent more time in Baltimore, maybe he could help clean up this very dangerous & filthy place,” he said.

In a third tweet, Trump questioned why so much money was spent on Cummings’ district, which covers the downtown area of the city of Baltimore, about 40 miles (64 km) northeast of Washington, “when it is considered the worst run and most dangerous anywhere in the United States.”

“No human being would want to live there. Where is all this money going? How much is stolen? Investigate this corrupt mess immediately,” Trump wrote.

Last week, Cummings slammed Trump’s acting Homeland Security Secretary Kevin McAleenan over conditions of U.S.-Mexico border

President Donald Trump

Elijah Cummings

facilities that house migrants.

“You feel like you’re doing a great job, right?”

Cummings asked during a congressional hearing.

“What does that mean? What does that mean? When a child is sitting in their own feces, can’t take a shower? ... None of us would have our children in that position.”

Trump’s attack follows his broadside two weeks ago against four congresswomen of colour, which the Democratic-controlled U.S. House of Representatives condemned as racist.

Cummings responded to Trump on Twitter.

“Mr. President, I go home to my district daily. Each

morning, I wake up, and I go and fight for my neighbours.

It is my constitutional duty to conduct oversight of the Executive Branch. But, it is my moral duty to fight for my constituents,” he said.

Cummings also highlighted a letter he co-signed to the president this week expressing “profound disappointment” at his failure to work to lower drug prices.

Baltimore Mayor Bernard Young called Trump’s rhetoric “hurtful and dangerous.”

“It’s completely unacceptable for the political leader of our country to denigrate a vibrant American City like Baltimore, and to viciously attack U.S. Representative Elijah Cummings a patriot and a hero,” he tweeted.

Cummings represents Maryland’s 7th congressional district, which according to 2010 census data was 54.6 percent black, had a median household income of $51,018, and a college graduation rate of 35.7 percent.

According to the same census, Maryland was the richest state in the United States, with a median household income of $69,272. Real median household income for the United States as a whole was $49,445 in 2010.

Guyana Watch treats over 600...

(From page 20) United States of America and India, and more than 60 eye surgeries, four adult kidney transplants in India and financially assisted numerous persons with various illnesses for overseas medical treatment.”

The organisation, Yassin said, has given over 10 full scholarships to university students.

During this year’s programme, the team expects to see well over 3,500 patients for medical and dental problems at seven clinics across Guyana, with the inclusions of the orphanages.

Most of the funds are donated by Guyana Watch Inc., members and supporters, while some of the medications are donated by pharmaceutical companies.

“We will distribute over US$500,000 in medication and conduct medical and health counselling at these clinic sites,” Yassin added.

Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

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CWI Regional U-19 bowls off today, Guyana play Windwards St John’s, ANTIGUA West Indies “Rising Stars” Under 19 Championship Bowls off in St Vincent today with particular focus on the January 2020 World Cup in South Africa squad preparation and selection.

The opening round matches all at 9:30 am are; Wi n d w a r d I s l a n d v s Guyana, Leeward Islands vs Jamaica and Barbados vs Trinidad and Tobago.

The Championship culminates on the August 7th with the final (round), followed by an additional three “Best vs The Best” matches to identify the leading Under 19 talent.

Jimmy Adams, Director of Cricket said “the value of our Under 19 tournament

cannot be overstated given its position within the development pathway.

Most, if not all, of our international players going back 20-30 years were identified in this tournament and it continues to be a critical p h a s e o f o u r Ta l e n t I D program.”

G r a e m e We s t , H i g h Performance Director explained that “the Under 19 is senior tournament for youth cricket in the region and it’s a very important tournament with regards to assessing the talent in our pathway.”

“This year we have no team from ICC so it’s a straight five team format similar to recent Under 17

competition in Trinidad and Tobago. Some of these guys it could be their last year in youth cricket before they make the step up to senior and professional cricket, while for others who were involved in Under 17, its a great opportunity to test themselves against older players.”

“From my perspective we have had 18 players in set up for the last year that we have invested in through camps, so I’m looking forward to seeing their progress along with new players that can emerge from the pack for U n d e r 1 9 Wo r l d C u p c o n s i d e r a t i o n . We a r e looking to pick 24 players

Sunday July 28, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You might come across strong opposition today.

Someone may seem to want to cut straight through to your heart, Aries.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) It's important to take action on a day like this. Trust yourself and your instincts. Often you have the perfect counsel for everyone but you.

TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) Act on your instincts and you won't go wrong. You may need to give up control and put logical thinking aside. Let the wind take you where it will. Explore your feelings and how others influence them.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) You might be unfocused and confused about which way to go. Your baffled look isn't giving others much confidence in your ability to make a good decision.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) You have the missing piece that people need in every situation today. Engage in light conversation in social situations, and turn your charm up high.

CANCER(June21–July22) People may want to talk a great deal, but they're avoiding their feelings today. Put your emotions on the back burner and let your mind take over.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) You may be feeling a bit more in touch with your warrior side than your emotional side today. More than likely this will set the stage for conflict in your world of hopes and dreams.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) If you're talking about another person today, don't say anything that would upset them if they were standing next to you. Gossip may run rampant, but that's no excuse to contribute to it. Be aware that what you say has a strong impact on the people around you.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) It's important to get outside and feel the wind. Reconnect with nature and be aware of the four elements, especially the air. Take deep breaths and fill your lungs with the energizing life force.

CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) Make practical use of the thoughts you've synthesized in the last few days.

Stretch your boundaries and extend your wisdom to the people around you. This is a day to take action.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) This is an important day to make valuable connections, Aquarius. You will be engaged in fast-paced, witty conversations and debates from which you can learn a great deal.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) It may be hard for you to get a handle on things today.

Your focus seems to jump from one problem to the next without finding resolution. This isn't a day to find a solution.

at the end of tournament which will stay on for three additional games, which we will look to narrow down for activities later in the year.”

Ricky Skerritt, CWI President added, “rebranding the Under 19 to ‘Rising Stars’ is just one indication of how serious we are about focusing on our young cricketers.

Putting cricket first includes investing now in our youth so we can reap better results in the future.”

Green Machine trampled 87-7...

From page 74 revamped with major emphasis on grassroots and infrastructure.

In other news from the Pan Am games 2019, Chefde-Mission, Nalini McKoy, has confirmed that Keevin Allicock’s 56kg bout will be on Monday (tomorrow) evening at 18:30hrs instead of last night as was previously reported.

Allicock, who is the most touted Guyanese athlete at the games, will be up against a competitor from Uruguay.

McKoy also confirmed the safe arrival of Badminton sibling duo, Priyanna and Narayan Ramdhani.

Both players will have to contest three matches tomorrow, one each in singles and then the mixed doubles against Cuba.

The Chef-de-Mission explained that although the weather is cold, the Guyanese athletes are not complaining and she posited that although the results have been unfavourable so far, the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and Guyana are proud of their athletes and will continue to back them.

All races sponsored...

From page 79 bred non-winner & Guyana bred Open over 7 furs, the winner will receive $240, 000.

In the J&K Lower over 7 Furs the winner will receive $180,000.

In the L-non winner (20182019) over 5 Furs the winner will receive $140,000.

In the 2 years old Guyana bred over 5 Furs the winner will receive $200, 000.

In the L-Open over 5 miles the winner will receive $160,000.

CPL tickets go on sale from today Ticket Sales for the Guyana Amazon Warriors home matches of the 2019 Hero CPL will commences today at the CPL OPCO (Guyana) Office located at Lot 238 Camp and Quamina Streets, Georgetown.

Tickets can be purchased from 9am to 5pm on Weekdays and from 9am to 1pm on Saturdays. The costs of tickets for this year’s CPL matches are as follows: • GREEN STAND G$5,000 • RED STAND G$5,000 • ORANGE STAND G$3,000 • GRASS MOUND G$2,000 There have been numerous enquiries regarding the sale of Tickets for the Guyana CPL games and with this in mind, fans and Cricket enthusiasts are advised to make early purchases so as to avoid the rush as match days

approach.

The five home matches scheduled to be played at the Guyana National Stadium, Providence, are as follows: • Thursday 5th September – Guyana Amazon Warriors vs St. Lucia Stars at 18:00hrs.

• Saturday 7th September – Guyana Amazon Warriors vs St Kitts Patriots at 20:00hrs • Sunday 8th September – Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Barbados Tridents at 17:00hrs • Thursday 3rd October – Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Jamaica Tallawahs at 18:00hrs • Friday 4th October – Guyana Amazon Warriors vs Trinbago Knight Riders at 20:00hrs Fans and contact the CPL OPCO (Guyana) office on telephone numbers 2315344, 502-0448 or 502-0454 for more information.

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Exxon Mobil U-14 Football finals set for August 4 - Lodge face Caramel (Boys) East Ruimveldt oppose New C/Ville (girls)

New Campbellville secondary warm up in pouring rain yesterday before the Final against East Ruimveldt was postponed due to thunder and lightning.

On a day which began in glorious sunshine before developing into a Thunder Storm at the Ministry of Education ground just over 100 meters from the Atlantic Ocean on Carifesta Avenue, Cummings Lodge Secondary and Carmel secondary advanced to Saturday’s Boys final with victories in their semi-finals in the Exxon Mobil U-14 Schools Football tournament organised by Petra Organisation yesterday.

Talented striker Jitzak Martinez continued his good run in the tournament by finding the back of the net on four occasions and got support from the pint size Shiloh Adams who also scored four goals, while A n t w a n S a m u e l s netted once as a dominant Cummings Lodge had the majority of possession as they peppered Queenstown’s secondary goal to register an

emphatic 9-nil victory in the first semi-final of the day.

In the second semi-final, goals from Ian Daniels and Shem James spearheaded Carmel secondary to a 2-1 win against Dolphin Secondary in a much more competitive game which climaxed under dark angry clouds hovering over the Atlantic and the already waterlogged sward.

With a fair size crowd on hand, expecting a pulsating Girls final, the weather got worse as the day progressed and during the second half of the Gi r l ’s t h i r d p l a c e d match, peels of thunder and flashes of lightening accompanied the pounding rain that quickly formed huge puddles of water on the surface causing the game to be aborted with 11 minutes remaining in the one-sided contest.

At that stage Charlestown Secondary were up 5-nil against Tucville Secondary

Ian Daniels (left) and Shem James scored as Carmel Secondary beat Dolphin Secondary 2-1 in Petra semi-finals yesterday. and were awarded the win due to the Force-majeure rules. The rains and heavy winds also forced the postponement to the Girls final between East Ruimveldt and New Campbellville

Secondary which was slated to start at 15:30hrs.

Weather permitting, the Boys third place play-off between Dolphin secondary and Queenstown secondary will now be played at 13:00hrs

Shiloh Adams (left) and Jitzak Martinez were presented with haversacks by the Ministry of Public Health for scoring the most Goals in yesterday’s Petra’s semi-final. on Saturday August 4. The Girls final is scheduled to commence at 14:00hrs and the Boys final at 15:00hrs on the same day.

Meanwhile, as is customary, the Ministry of

Public Health donated a haversack to the leading goal scorers Martinez and Adams under the thyme eradicating Cronic deceases through physical activates. (Sean Devers)

Pan Am Games 2019

Green Machine trampled 87-7 by Chile

By Calvin Chapman in Peru Guyana’s 40-member contingent at the 2019 Pan American games was all smiles on Friday evening in their bright yellow uniform during the beautiful opening ceremony at the National Stadium in Lima.

However, smiles turned into frowns hours later as the national ruggers, the ‘Green Machine’ suffered two more additional loses in the rugby sevens yesterday.

First, the Brazilians continued what team USA left off with a thumping 59-0 win over the Guyanese in which the neighbouring country completely dominated the men from the ‘land of many waters’.

That first match was at

09:45hrs, the Green Machine then regrouped and took on Chile at 15:40hrs, later in the day. Chile had drawn 14-14 with Brazil the previous day (Friday) and they knew that a big win was needed to see them through to the knockout round and they came out with a bang!

Chile flattened the Guyanese 87-7. By the end of the first half, as was the case with the previous two matches that Guyana played, the game was well out of the Golden Arrowhead’s reach with the score at a staggering 40-0 at that stage.

However, Guyana did manage to get on the score card for the first time in the tournament with Skipper Jamal Angus sprinting away

to touch down a Try which was converted by Godfrey Broomes.

Guyana has conceded a total of 208 points while only scoring seven in the three matches played and it is not over yet. The Green Machine have an opportunity to get some results when they tackle plate action today.

Skipper Angus and scrum half Osei Mckenzie had shared with this publication that Guyana are capable of competing with any team once they get constant exposure to high level competition added with regular domestic competition at home, but the general consensus is that the rugby programme needs to be (Continued on page 73)

- Allicock enters the ring tomorrow

Scrum half Osei Mckenzie lays off a pass during Guyana’s 59-0 loss to Brazil yesterday morning.

Sunday July 28, 2019

Tonight is semifinals night in Divine Entertainment Summer Super Cup Football - Rockers face Capital FC and Eagles United take on Botafago at MSC ground Tonight the Divine Entertainment Summer Super Cup twelve team championship semifinals are set for two rollicking encounters as a large crowd should converge at the tournament venue the Mackenzie Sports Club ground.

The matches are expected to bring to rest who are going to reach the inaugural final and walk away with the bragging rights.

The first semifinal decision had to be put back to a playoff game between Group C clubs, Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection and Capital FC, they faced each other yesterday afternoon.

This was after Capital FC romped past Hi Stars by a 7-0 scoreline Friday night and their 1-0 win yesterday over Winners Connection at the Wisburg Secondary School ground has placed them to now face the second seed Net Rockers, who topped Group B, from 19.00hrs.

Previously the Haynes and Lewis Winners Connection and Capital FC played to a tied game in their previous Group C clash.

Winners Connection had inflicted a similar 7-0 beating on Hi Stars earlier in the tournament, and that meant the two were locked on points forcing the game yesterday afternoon.

Capital FC on Friday night were led to their 7-0 drubbing as Andre Mayers led their charge with a hat-trick which

PAGE 77

Kaieteur News

Donovan Francis of Eagles United

Deshawn Joseph of Net Rockers

Colwyn Drakes

Andre Mayers

came in the 4th, 25th and 77th minutes of play as Keon Sears got a double in the 55th and 65th minutes and one each from Tony ‘Spirit’ Adams and Emmanuel Atkins in the 35th and 79th minutes respectively.

Yesterday the Capital FC won by a 1-0 score to advance ahead of Winners Connection from Group C with the lone goal coming off the boot of Tony Adams when they played at the Wisburg Secondary School ground.

The other semifinal is after the first which is at

19.00hrs between Rockers and Capital FC and that game starts at 21.00hrs where to be featured are the top seed Eagles United who will look to get past the number three ranked Botafago in what is another crowd puller.

Botafago impressed in their 5-0 routing of Silver Shattas as Duquan Hercules led their shout with a brace in the 86th and 87th minutes after the Haynes brothers, Jamal in the 34th and Shane in the 48th, had given them a 2-0 lead and Runic Volloza completed their win with a goal in the 90th minute.

NRA 150th Imperial Meeting

Captain Braithwaite elated with Guyana winning The Junior Kolapore Captain of the Guyana team that competed and won the Junior Kolapore match at the NRA 150th Imperial Meeting in England, Lennox Braithwaite, has expressed delight at winning the prestigious trophy.

Braithwaite, who is also there as Captain of the West

Indies Fullbore Shooting Council team, said that despite challenging conditions w h i c h w a s experienced by almost all the shooters and challenges with the ammunition, the team represented Guyana with pride and he is proud of their

performance as well as that of team Coach, GuyanaNRA Vice Captain, Dylan Fields.

Guyana totaled 558 points along with 51 Vs to beat Falklands Islands five points back on 553.44v with the Twin Island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago settling for third place with 549.37v.

Following are the individual and overall scores of the top three nations.

Guyana Captain Lennox Braithwaite Coach Dylan Fields Name 300x 500x 600x Lennox Braithwaite 49.8v 48.6v 48.6v Dylan Fields 49.5v 49.8v 46.3v John Fraser 46.4v 45.3v 44.2v Sigmund Douglas 43.1v 46.3v 45.2v 187.18v 188.20v 183.13v 558.51v Falklands Islands Captain: GK Goodwin M. Dodd 48.3v 49.7v 49.4v C. Berntsen 47.5v 45.3v 48.7v KJ Aldridge 45.3v 44.2v 47.0v GK Goodwin 41.4v 46.2v 44.4v 181.15v 184.14v 188.15v 553.44v Trinidad & Tobago Captain: Norris Gomez Coach: J Hakim N. Gomez 48.6v 46.3v 46.2v O. Daniel 44.3v 47.4v 47.5v J. White 44.0v 50.2v 43.3v C. Gomez 45.3v 45.5v 44.1v 181.12v 188.14v 180.11v 549.37v

Total 145.20v 144.16v 135.9v 134.6v

146.14v 140.15v 136.5v 131.10v

140.11v 138.12v 137.5v 134.9v

Archer set to make Test debut in Ashes LONDON, CMC – England’s newest fast bowling sensation, Barbadian-born Jofra Archer seems set to make his Test debut after being named in their 14-man squad to face Australia in the Ashes.

The 24-year-old Archer earned his call-up based on his exceptional performance for the World Cup champions, where he was England’s leading wickettaker.

Archer, who revealed he had bowled in “excruciating” pain with a side strain throughout the second half of the World Cup, is poised to make his

Test debut as part of a whirlwind summer which saw him play his first international match in May. He went on to take 20 World Cup wickets, a record for an England bowler in the tournament, which also saw him bowling the dramatic tied Super Over that enabled the hosts to win the title.

Archer was involved in another tied match on the eve of England’s Ashes squad announcement, taking 2 for 21 for Sussex against Surrey in the Vitality Blast on Friday night, his return to action after taking a short post-World Cup break.

There were suggestions that Archer might have been rested until the second Ashes Test at Lord’s, but the

English Cricket Board said, “his readiness for five-day cricket will be assessed at Edgbaston”.

Archer has played 28 first-class matches, taking 131 wickets at 23.44.

Ben Stokes has been reappointed England vicecaptain, while Olly Stone was named in the squad for the first Test starting at Edgbaston on August 1 as a fast-bowling option and Joe Denly was also included.

England squad: Joe Root (capt), Moeen Ali, Jimmy Anderson, Jofra Archer, Jonny Bairstow, Stuart Broad, Rory Burns, Jos Buttler, Sam Curran, Joe Denly, Jason Roy, Ben Stokes, Olly Stone, Chris Woakes.

The winning Guyanese quartet of from right, John Fraser, Dylan Fields, Lennox Braithwaite and Sigmund Douglas.

Kumar Rampat Cricket Academy of T&T set for one week tour of Guyana The Kumar Rampat Cricket Academy (KRCA) of Caroni, Central Trinidad will commence what is anticipated to be a hectic one-week tour of Guyana o n Tu e s d a y, a n d t h e y arrive, tomorrow.

KRCA has been coming to these shores on a

regular basis to interact on and off the field of play against their Guyanese counterparts and will bowl off action on Tuesday with the first of five matches against Enmore from 11:00hrs.

All the matches would be of 40-overs duration; on

Wednesday they will come up against host Everest from 10:00hrs with Lusignan being their opponent on Thursday from 11:00hrs.

Zeeburg will be next up on Friday from 11:00hrs with their final match from the same time on Saturday against Parika.

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Sunday July 28, 2019

Kaieteur News

Hamilton sweeps to German Rain forces Friday’s Guinness football round to be postponed to August 2 pole after Ferrari falter HOCKENHEIM, Germany (Reuters) Formula One leader Lewis Hamilton seized pole position for Mercedes in their 200th race at the German Grand Prix yesterday after both Ferrari drivers were sidelined by engine problems.

The five-times world champion lapped the 4.5km Hockenheim circuit in one minute 11.767 seconds for a record-extending 87th career pole and his fourth of the season.

The Briton was comfortably quicker than Max Verstappen, who will start alongside the 34-yearold on the front row in his Red Bull.

Va l t t e r i B o t t a s , 3 9 points behind Hamilton in the standings after 10 of 21 races, qualified third in the other Mercedes.

“Lewis, this is Toto.

You never stop to amaze us,” team principal Toto Wolff, whose employers are also celebrating their 125th year in motorsport with a retro livery and team clothing, told him over the team radio.

Ferrari, who had been fastest in both Friday and yesterday practice with Charles Leclerc, could only lick their self-inflicted wounds.

It all went wrong when it mattered for the sport’s most successful and glamorous team, with home favorite Sebastian Vettel the first casualty when he failed to set a time in the opening phase.

The German, hoping for a happier homecoming than last year when he crashed out of the lead from pole, will start last after a problem with the air flow to the car’s turbo.

Leclerc then failed to make it out of the pits in

Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton after qualifying in pole position for the German Grand Prix at Hockenheimring. (REUTERS/Ralph Orlowski) the final top 10 shootout due to a fuel system issue.

“It’s a difficult day for the team, I hope it will be a very positive day tomorrow,” the 21-year-old Monegasque Leclerc told reporters.

“I felt great in the car and the car felt great today and all weekend so it’s a shame it ends up like this.”

SORE THROAT Hamilton, who revealed a sore throat had left him uncertain about even taking part in qualifying, was glad to pick up the pieces.

“I don’t know really h o w w e d i d i t t o d a y, ” declared the 34-year-old, who will be chasing his eighth win in 11 races on Sunday.

“It’s such an important r a c e f o r u s , i t ’s j u s t incredible to celebrate this week in this way. The car’s been feeling good. If (Leclerc) had been able to complete a lap, I think it would have been close

between us.”

Bottas, itching to hit back after an ill-timed safety car dashed his victory hopes at the last race in Silverstone, had been faster than Hamilton in final practice but failed to match his team mate when it mattered.

“A disappointing qualifying, I couldn’t find the grip I found in FP3,” said Bottas. “Obviously I’ll try to come up from the third place.”

The race at Hockenheim has been won from outside the front row only twice since the track was redesigned in 2002, one of those being Hamilton from 14th last year.

That should boost Ve r s t a p p e n ’s h o p e s o f challenging for his second win in three races.

“We could have been closer,” said the Dutchman who won in Austria last month, dealing Mercedes their only defeat so far this season. “I went a bit wide and bottomed out, but it’s a good result.”

Behind the top three, Frenchman Pierre Gasly, who crashed heavily in F r i d a y ’s p r a c t i c e , w a s fourth for Red Bull.

Kimi Raikkonen was fifth for Alfa Romeo ahead of Romain Grosjean in the Haas and McLaren’s Carlos Sainz.

Sergio Perez was eighth for Racing Point ahead of G e r m a n y ’s Nico Hulkenberg who will start his home race alongside Leclerc in ninth.

Lance Stroll, in the other Racing Point car, made it out of the opening phase of qualifying for the first time this season. The Canadian will start 15th.

Following a persistent downpour, which made the National Cultural Center tarmac unplayable, the Guinness ‘Greatest of the Streets Quarter-final and Semi-final stage will now be staged on Friday August 2nd at the same venue.

This was disclosed by an official release from the tournament coordinator Three Peat Promotions.

According to the correspondence, “The torrential downpour rendered the venue unplayable which was certainly disappointing as systems were in place for a wonderful night of action.”

The release further said, “Priority was and must be given to the safety and overall health of the players.

Although injuries are a byproduct of the sport, we have to use every opportunity to ensure and remove any possibility of injury for the players.

That is the most important factor of the event, because without the players they would be no event. Despite the unfortunate incident, we envision a thrilling night of action on Friday, as the teams vie for a coveted final’s berth.”

In the opening match, Broad Street will oppose

Leopold Street at 19:00hrs, with Albouystown-B taking aim at Back Circle from 19:45hrs and Sparta Boss opposing Sophia at 20:30hrs.

The fourth quarterfinal will put defending champion Gold is Money against Tiger Bay from 21:45hrs. The respective winners will advance to the semi-final stage. The grand final will be staged on August 3rd at Jubilee Park.

Winner of the event will collect $500,000 and the championship trophy. They will also automatically seal a place in the National Championship.

The second, third and fourth place finisher will cop $300,000, $200,000 and $100,000 respectively and the corresponding trophy.

Meanwhile, the National Championship, which will be contested over two days, will commence on August 9th at

the Pouderoyen Tarmac. 15 teams are slated to compete in the event, which will conclude on August 10 at Jubilee Park.

Presently, Gold is Money [National Champion], Beacons [Bartica Champion], Melanie-B [East Coast Demerara winner], Brothers United [West Demerara/East Bank Demerara winner], Trafalgar [Berbice champion] and High Rollers [Linden champion] have sealed automatic berths. Below features the quarterfinal fixtures.

Quarterfinal Matchups (1)Broad St vs. Leopold St (2)Albouystown-B vs.

Back Circle (3)Sparta Boss vs. Sophia (4)Gold is Money vs.

Tiger Bay Semifinal Matchups Winner (1) vs. Winner (4) Winner (2) vs. Winner (3)

India A romp to comprehensive victory – 4th day, 1st “Test” NORTH SOUND, Antigua, CMC – India A predictably defeated the West Indies A in the opening session on the fourth and final day of their first four-day “Test” at the Vivian Richards Cricket Ground here yesterday.

Resuming the day on 29 for one and needing 68 more runs for victory, the visitors comfortably wrapped up the contest before lunch, ending on 97 for four to take a 1-0 lead in the best of three series.

The result of the contest was never in doubt, even when Windies’ fast bowler Chemar Holder claimed the wicket of Abhimanyu Easwaran, with just four runs added to the overnight total, to leave India A on 33 for two.

Srikar Bharat, who made 28 and captain Hanuma Vihari, who scored 19, combined in a 49-run partnership to essentially seal the deal and erase any slim possibilities the home side would have had of mounting a miraculous comeback.

By the time offspinner Rahkeem Cornwall struck to remove Bharat, India A

Miguel Cummins did not pick up any Indian wickets in the second innings. needed just 15 more runs.

Jomel Warrican did manage to claim the consolation wicket of Vihari three runs later with his very first ball, but Wriddhiman Saha who finished unbeaten on nine and Shivam Dube, who scored four not out, guided India A to victory.

Cornwall was the pick of the Windies; bowlers, taking

two scalps for 18 runs.

Scores: WEST INDIES 228 & 180 (Shamarh Brooks 53, Montcin Hodge 36, Roston Chase 32, Jermaine Blackwood 25; Shabaz Nadeem 5-47, Mohammed Siraj 3-38).

INDIA 312 and 97 for four (Srikar Bharat 28, Abhimanyu Easwaran 27; Rahkeem Cornwall 2-18).

Kaieteur News

Sunday July 28, 2019

PAGE 79

GPF’s 66th annual Swimming & Athletic C/Ship

HQ emerge Champions as Guyana beat T&T into 2nd place

Police Commissioner Leslie James with the delegates for the Police inter-division pageant.

By Sean Devers Despite the adverse weather which left the Police Sports Club ground, Eve Leary in a soggy condition, the fans turned out in massive numbers last Friday for the conclusion of the

three-day Guyana Police Force’s (GPF) 66TH annual Swimming and Athletic Championship.

From the time the Championship commenced on Sunday July 21 at 06:00hrs with the 10K road race,

Headquarters (HQ) stamped their dominance to take first place with 10 points to emerge run-away Champions when the Event climaxed in rain under floodlights and despite the heavy downpour, the after party went way into the night.

Former New York Knicks player to visit Guyana

Rich Mahler

F

NBA Anthony Bonner

ormer NBA New York Knicks player Anthony Bonner aka “The Big Man from St. Louis” will be in Guyana this August for the second free Youth Hoops Basketball Guyana Clinic.

Organised by Green Mango Media in partnership with the Guyana Amateur Basketball Association (GABA), Bonner will host training sessions with Xperience Outreach (USA) founder and youth coach Rich Mahler from August 6th - 8th in Regions 4 and 10.

Sessions are opened to young people between the ages of 11 and 19.

“We are excited that Anthony Bonner agreed to travel to Guyana to be a part of YHBG which was formed to give young basketball players a chance to be trained and hear from athletes who played/play in top leagues, including the NBA and BIG3.”

This is Bonner’s first trip to Guyana. He was one of the top forwards in the NBA during the 1990s and played six seasons in the NBA for the Sacramento Kings (23rd overall pick), New York Knicks and Orlando Magic. Bonner was on the 1994 Knicks team that made it all the way to the NBA Finals; then a year later to the Eastern Conference

Anthony Bonner Flashback

semifinals. In 1996, now playing for the Orlando Magic, his team again made a playoff run but lost to the Michael Jordan’s Chicago Bulls.

After leaving the NBA, he played in professional leagues in Europe before returning to St. Louis and sponsoring youth basketball camps to help young athletes attain the same level of success he enjoyed.

Youth Hoops Basketball Guyana Clinic was launched in April 2019 with sessions in Georgetown and Linden hosted by Rich Mahler and former NBA and present BIG3 baller Jermaine Taylor.

“Green Mango Media is committed to promoting youth skill development in basketball through local and international partnerships and to reinvigorate an interest in basketball at all levels.”

Bonner and Mahler will focus on footwork, aggressiveness, mentality, and all around offensive skills, including ball handling and shooting.

They will also identify players with the potential to make it to the next level and hold talks with players on the pathway to sports college/training scholarships in the United States and playing in the NBA.

T&T’s Trishon Rochford was the overseas female Champion.

In the 10K race HQ were followed by Country Division, ‘A’ division and ‘B’ division in that order, while same the order followed from 10:00hrs in the Swimming events at the National Aquatic Centre.

On Wednesday, the heats and some finals were contested and HQ extended their lead on the points table heading into Friday’s action which began with the March past and lighting of the torch in overcast conditions.

Immigration was adjudged the March Past winners and ‘B’ division runners-up by the pair of retired Assistant Commissioners Vyphuis and Alves and retired Deputy Superintendent Colin Boyce, who along with Linden Murray did an excellent job as Announcers as they kept the massive crowd well informed.

Police Commissioner Leslie James said Sports has always been regarded not only as a prime Stakeholder in promoting health and fitness, but a major force in relations among Nations throughout the hemisphere.

“Its usefulness cannot be overstated since it provides a channel for release of energies and talent of various

Trinidadian Clinton Glasgow was the Male overseas Champion. types,” Commissioner James stressed.

The former Crime Chief told the spectators and members of the 10 teams competing for supremacy that the annual Athletic Sports of the Police Force has become part of the tradition and culture of the Force.

“We are celebrating 180 years of existence at a time when our Country is on the cusp of greatness. Let me take this opportunity to congratulate all who have been involved in planning and preparation for this event. I would like to welcome the overseas Athletes. May the best team emerge victorious,” the Commissioner concluded.

The action began with the Female 1,500 meters’ race and Joanna Archer won in a time of 5:11.06, while Aliya Moore and Keizer Murray finished in that order, while Anfernee Headecker won the Male 1,500 to get things going.

Due to the soft underfoot conditions the times, especially in the sprints, were not as fast as the athletes would have liked but when the dust had settled after more rain the Championships, under the distinguished patronage of

Osafa Dos Santos was the Male Champion. the honourable Minister of Social Cohesion, could be deemed a success.

In addition to Guyana beating T&T into second spot and HQ winning Championship honours by a wide gap, Country division finished as runners-up, while ‘A’ division ended third.

The Champion Male was Osafa Dos Santos, Natasha Alder who finished with 30 points shared the Champion Female trophy with Archer, while the Champion Male and Female athletes were Tr i n i d a d i a n s C l i n t o n G l a s g o w a n d Tr i s h o n Rochford respectively.

Fitzroy Thom was the Champion Male Swimmer with Andrew Jordon was the runner-up, while on the distaff side Nikita Fiedkou took Championship honours with Noelle Smith taking the runner-up position.

This event was used as preparations for the joint Services Sports in which Police are the defending Champions, while the delegates for the Police interdivision pageant were also present on Friday evening.

Race times were not readily available at the conclusion of the Championships as the rain came down in full force.

The Police ground was filled to capacity on Friday night for the finals of the Police Swimming & Athletic Championship.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 80

Sunday July 28, 2019

Sponsorship pours in for highly anticipated Guyana Cup 2019 event - Mohamed Construction, Prem’s Electrical and Z. Ali & Son’s onboard

Rovin DeSouza (right) receives sponsorship from Prem’s Electrical representative.

The 13th annual Guyana Cup 2019 is scheduled for August 18th at the Rising Sun Turf Club, Rising Sun Village in West Coast, Berbice (45mins from Georgetown) and according to the organisers, Jumbo Jet Thoroughbred Racing Committee (JJTRC), this edition will be the biggest ever with increased prize money and a mega concert planned.

Among the latest sponsors to throw their support behind this mega event have been Mohamed’s Excavation and Construction Company, Prem’s Electrical Store and Z. Ali and Son’s Trucking Services.

In a release to the media, Chairman of the Organising Committee, Nasrudeen Mohamed Jr., noted his

Faizul Mohamed of Mohamed’s Construction hands over the cheque to JJTRC’s Rovin DeSouza (right) as his son Faioud (left) watches on.

Z Ali and Son’s Trucking representative presents Rovin DeSouza of JJTRC with sponsorship.

satisfaction with the support being received from the corporate community and he explained in the correspondence that this event is getting bigger each

year. “The Guyana Cup is becoming a household name among turfites in the Caribbean and it is becoming a major player for sports tourism during August for

Guyana,” Mohamed posited.

In addition to feature race, which will see the winner pocketing $2million, the three-year-old Guyana bred race will see the winner

running away with $1million.

A total of eight races are on the cards and after the race-meet, fans will enjoy a concert that will feature six international artistes.

Already confirmed for the concert are Gage, Munga, Kristo and K.I. The prize money for the races is as follows: – C Class and lower feature race over a distance of one mile for – $2million, – Three-year-old Guyana Bred – $1million – G3 and lower – $400,000 – L3 and lower (open to non-winners from Trinidad & Tobago) – $350,000 – Two-year-old Guyana bred over – $300,000.

– J3 and lower over seven furlongs – $300,000.

– L Class for Colts –

$250,000 – L Class Philly and Mare – $250,000 Some of the top animals expected to be on show come race day will include Just Call Me Bass, Crown the King (Jamaica), Doublin Fashion (USA), Chameli (Jamaica), Safara (Jamaica), Southern Express (T&T), Silver & Things (T&T), Sitarr (T&T), Kentucky Woman (T&T), Super Easy (T&T) and She’s a Princess.

Apart from the foreign contingent of horses to be on show, several leading jockeys from overseas are also expected to participate, which will add that international flavour to the day’s event.

Fans will be able to enjoy both the horse-race meet and concert for the price of $2,000.

Schools Windball cricket girls final set for today

Sophia Windball Cricket team Ketley Windball Cricket team The highly anticipated A. Munroe organised AL Sport & Tour Promotions National Sports Commission 22nd Edition End of School Year Edward Cobenna Memorial Primary Schools Windball Cricket Champions Trophy, girls finals is set for today July 28 commencing at 5:00pm.

Defending champions Sophia will be

going hard to retain that title, while rivals Ketley, who is making their first appearance on the big stage, would be going all out to make history.

Speaking with the teacher/coach of Ketley, he mentioned since his team lost to Sophia more than a month ago in the tournament he has been working with his

team very hard, even on Saturdays they have being training, as a results of his hard work his girls are in the finals. St Pius and Enterprise teachers they were also busy working with their respective teams.

Enterprise and Saint Pius will meet in the 3rdplace game.

Trophies and Medals are at stake for the

2nd, 3rd & 4thplaced teams, while the winner will received a trophy and backpacks for their players.

Before the 3rdplace girls match, Region 3 Champions boys, Leonora, will play Georgetown champs Winfer Garden in a clash of the champions match up, a trophy are at stake.

Kaieteur News

Sunday July 28, 2019

PAGE 81

NSC contributes to YBG, Jefford’s Track and Field Classic - clubs, coaches, athletes encouraged to register on time The National Sports Commission (NSC) continued its support for grassroots sport when it officially handed over its c o n t r i b u t i o n t o Yo u t h Basketball Guyana (YBG) and Jefford’s Track and Field Classic X on Friday at its Homestretch Avenue Office.

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones said that such support for sport is a prerequisite for the development of sport in Guyana. Jones lauded the efforts of both organisations, indicating that they are both established entities in their efforts to mobilise sports at both the community and schools’ levels.

Founder of the Jefford Track and Field Classic, Edison Jefford thanked Jones for his support, stating that the Director of Sport has been very consistent in terms of his contributions to the development of sport.

Jefford said that Jones’ scope spawns every discipline and such dynamism is required to continue to thrust sports forward.

The Jefford Track and Field Classic X will be held on Sunday August 11 at the MSC Ground in Linden.

Jefford used the opportunity

on Friday to appeal to coaches, clubs and athletes to register for the competition on time.

Registration closes on Tuesday, July 30 and Jefford expressed optimism that the process will be smooth.

“All coaches and athletes should use this opportunity to compete and earn at the same time. I have already secured the cash prizes thanks to our generous donors and I am hoping that the events can be as competitive as possible with mass participation from the athletes. I don’t think any coach should deny their athletes this unique opportunity,” Jefford said.

Athletes will compete for a total of $2 million in Linden. Each event carries a total purse of $80,000 with the winner taking home $40,000, second place $25,000 and third place $15,000 along with memorabilia medals. The Champion Male and Female athletes will benefit from $25,000 worth in Under Armour Sports Gear and $25,000 cash along with trophies, while the top three finishers in the school boys and girls 150m will take home Hampers and medals.

All races sponsored as Ganesh Parts is major contributor - Entries close for KMTC’s Emancipation Horserace Meet today All races for the Kennard’s Memorial Turf Club Emancipation Horserace Meet set for Sunday August 4th at their race track at Bush Lot Farm, Corentyne Berbice have been sponsored. Ganesh Parts is the major sponsor for the event and entries close officially today.

Horses can be entered by contacting Club Secretary Niketa Ross (tel 662-4668), Assistant Secretary Isaac Dallo (689-0629), Ivan Dipnarine (331-0316), Justice Cecil Kennard (6237609 or 225-4818), Fazal Habibulla (657-7010), Dennis Deroop (640-6396) and Campton Sancho (6911174). No late entries will be allowed.

The C & Lower one-mile

race, which is the feature, will see a winning purse of $700,000 and the entrance fee for this race is $85, 000.

Owners of Horses must pay at least $5,000 for each Horse at the point of entry. If not paid the Horses’ names would not appear on the Official Programme and the Horse will not be permitted to run.

In the event that there are less than five Horses in any event the club reserves the right to cancel or reframe the said event or reduce the prize money after consulting with the Horse owners.

In the L-non-earner over 5 furlongs will see the winner will receive $120, 000.

In the H & Lower WI (Continued on page 73)

For patrons, there will be 10 gate prizes up for grabs.

Jefford said that the event is geared to be a celebration of athletics and athletes in Guyana and as such the athletes must be the biggest winners on the day, hence the lucrative prize structure, which will be the most ever given away at a single athletics meet in Guyana.

Director of Sport, Christopher Jones (second, left) pose with Founder of the Jefford Track and Field Classic, Edison Jefford (left) and YBG Director, Rayad Boyce (second, right) as they display their cheques on Friday.

Pan Am Games 2019

Green Machine trampled - Allicock enters 87-7 by Chile the ring tomorrow

t r o Sp

The Guyanese athletes led by flag bearer Keevin Allicock march into the venue during the opening ceremony in Lima, Peru on Friday.

GPF’s 66th annual Swimming & Athletic C/Ship

HQ emerge Champions as Guyana beat T&T into 2nd place

Police Commissioner Leslie James (middle with shirt) is flanked by Champions Headquarters on Friday night.

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