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AIETEUR NEWS

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Shopkeeper shot dead by

Thursday Edition May 02, 2019 - Vol. 12 No. 18 Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

Price $80

Online readership yesterday 103,464

suspected bandits Govt. now searches for Consultant to modernise laws for oil sector Dead: Somdat Ramgobin

Three years later...

May Day 2019

Workers present united front as 100 years of Trade Unionism observed

GTUC President Partisan advocates for politics wearing gender equality Guyanese down in the workplace - Trade Unionist Lincoln Lewis

Call reiterated at May Day rally for re-establishment of Labour Ministry

Guyana's systems do not allow for CJIA invites bids transparent, accountable reporting for new parking lot on extractive sector - EITI Report

US$150M Airport Renovation...

U.S. Congress to examine report on Belt and Road Initiative, China's influence in Caribbean Region

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Kaieteur News

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

Thursday May 02, 2019

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Partisan politics wearing Shopkeeper shot dead Trade Unionist Guyanese down - Lincoln Lewis by suspected bandits

M

a k i n g important issues partisan is not productive for Guyana.

In fact, partisan “battles” are wearing the Guyanese people down. This is the opinion of Trade Unionist Lincoln Lewis.

Ye s t e r d a y , L e w i s addressed workers at the National Park, after the annual Labour Day parade through central Georgetown.

In his speech, he made a point of admonishing government for their handling of a range of issues.

On one hand, Minister of Social Protection, Amna Ally, who was present at the event, was congratulated by Lewis for her part in bringing about an end to the standoff between workers and the Russian Aluminium (RUSAL)-controlled Bauxite Company of Guyana Inc. (BCGI). He said that she made a valiant effort to “stand up to a global giant to protect the sovereignty of this nation and the workers of Guyana”.

Ally had just finished delivering her address, during which, she sang praises of the current A Partnership for National Unity + Alliance for Change (APNU+AFC) government, and spoke of the issues which she believes it improved on, over the record of the People's Progressive Party (PPP).

However, addressing Ally and the other officials present, Lewis chided the government, saying “Everything should not be a partisan battle in Guyana”.

He said that the constant political posturing on issues is “wearing our people down” and that it shouldn't continue that way if the country is to move forward.

He said that the government should work to find common ground with the Opposition; that, if there is to be argument, they can “trash them out” in parliament. However, he said that those engagements should be meaningful and productive.

Lewis added that, to government and all politicians, labour does not want to, and should not have to operate in an environment of conflict. He said that as the premier power in government, government should facilitate an environment of “harmony and consultation not confrontation”.

The trade unionist called for a stronger system of

A

Trade Unionist, Lincoln Lewis, addressing yesterday's gathering at the National Park cooperation, through the strengthening of inclusionary democracy.

That demand entails adjusting the number of votes required to pass bills in the National Assembly.

Lewis explained that this arrangement would allow politicians on both sides of the political divide, the opportunity to foster greater collaboration.

In addition to this, the union leader advocated for immediate amendment to Article 106(6) of the Guyana Constitution to allow for at least two-thirds or 60 percent votes of all members of the National Assembly for a noconfidence vote to be passed.

He said that it is “important to circumvent the risk of one vote in the National Assembly swaying the will of the people”.

Lewis also spoke in support of decentralizing the

electoral system for regional party representatives. He said that a new system should allow for the election of the regional members of parliament through direct balloting.

That, he said, would bring about greater representation and accountability to the community those persons are elected to serve.

Lewis admonished the Guyana Elections Commission for political posturing as well. He scolded the “constant walkout with no effort to dialogue and come to agreement”.

He stressed the importance of cooperation on the part of the commissioners to always come to a suitable resolve.

“These leaders who are paid by the people, owe it to the people to conduct the business of the electorate.”

46-year-old shopkeeper was shot dead in his Parika Backdam, Essequibo home on Tuesday night, allegedly after handing over a small quantity of cash to two men who had asked to see him.

Somdat Ramgobin, called 'Rakesh' was reportedly shot in the stomach by one of the intruders, who had ordered him and a 17-year-old friend to lie on his bed.

The bandits reportedly fled in a white Toyota Premio without taking any money from Ramgobin's shop, even though he had allegedly told them that there was cash inside.

An eight-year-old boy and the 17-year-old friend were the only other individuals who were at Ramgobin's residence at the time. They were not harmed.

A relative of the slain shopkeeper said the circumstances under which Ramgobin was shot suggest that robbery was not the men's primary aim.

“To me, they deliberately go there to kill him,” the relative said.

Kaieteur News understands that Ramgobin and the 17-year-old were cooking in the kitchen when the killers arrived. At the time, an eight-year-old boy was outside the shop. It is alleged that the men asked the child, “where the boss

Dead: Somdat Ramgobin man deh.”

After being told that Ramgobin was inside, the men reportedly entered via the open door.

The 17-year-old told Kaieteur News that one of the men pointed a gun at them and ordered them into Ramgobin's bedroom. They were told to lie on the bed.

The men then demanded money and jewellery and struck Ramgobin with a bottle when he didn't comply.

The shopkeeper reportedly then gave the robbers a small sum of cash from one of his pockets.

However, rather than going to the shop, the men shot Ramgobin in the stomach.

They reportedly then

escaped in a white car.

The teen said that he then ran outside and shouted for assistance. Ramgobin was pronounced dead on arrival at the Leonora Cottage Hospital.

The relative who spoke with Kaieteur News said Ramgobin had no dispute with anyone. He suggested that the killers may have been in collusion with individuals who are familiar with the community.

According to the relative, several young men from the neighbourhood would often visit the shop. A number of youths were there prior to the robbery.

Police said “stringent efforts” are being made to apprehend the suspects.

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Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

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

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

EDITORIAL

The U.S. report on the local judiciary The word is out there. And now, since it is from the mouth of foreigners, Guyanese deniers and obfuscators will find the honesty to take a stand and admit to truth and reality. Both are unpalatable and bring much shuddering, as to the state of the local judiciary and the law enforcement machinery.

The US State Department’s Bureau of Democracy, Human Rights, and Labor 2018 report on the local judiciary is telling. In Section e. Denial of a Fair Trial: “The law provides for an independent judiciary, and the government generally respected judicial independence and impartiality.”

Good for government.

Now for the damning part, “Delays and inefficiencies undermine judicial due process.” That is universally known.

Lawyers impractically and irresponsibly spread themselves thin across too many cases; display an absence in basic standards before the bar; and generally string along both clients and the process, as well as the patience of magistrates and judges overwhelmed with backlogs. Simply put, there is too much discretion through too many postponements allowed to too many legal practitioners. Public and process suffer.

The litany of woes is lengthy: “Shortages of trained court personnel, postponements at the request of the defense and prosecution, occasional allegations of bribery, poor tracking of cases, and police slowness in preparing cases for trial caused delays.”

Ready acknowledgement of personnel shortage is granted; the situation is, however, exacerbated by a known shortage of people of principle (principle) who man desks, paper flow, and the travails of those trapped in a labyrinthine system. It is ripe for exploitation; and as the system goes, so also are those compelled to come to grips with Dante’s wisdom and conclusion of, “Abandon hope all ye who enter here.” Again, it is usually the poor that are tortured and denied by the shenanigans that proliferate in the realm of the law. It is not majestic; merely mammon-oriented. As to “poor tracking of cases”, this much can and should be said, anytime there is a paper process in Guyana, there is trouble.

For those who either have access to, or control the recording and housing and retrieving of that paper, there is opportunity to exploit process and people for consideration.

Things happen; or they don’t.

The generally sympathetic and supportive US report continues in the Civil Judicial Procedures and Remedies section: “Delays, inefficiencies, and alleged corruption in the magistrates’ court system affected citizens’ ability to seek timely remedies in civil matters and there was a large backlog of civil cases.” The public is familiar with that record as reported fairly frequently in the local press. Those who have business pending - traffic, domestic cases, misdemeanour cases, and the rest - obtain firsthand experiences of the operations of a murky world that quickly assumes clear, solid lines. That might be the only thing clear about things - those lines as to how things are.

Many are the experiences from local lips of a system long practised in the art of the fix. Matters have gotten so granular and layered that there are willing helpers inside and outside of the perimeters to smooth issues over for the seekers of truth and justice (or the thwarting of both). They go by the same name as those now temporarily removed from the bus parks: touts. They tout their connections on the inside, and which could go high. Unlike the guarded US report, there is nothing “alleged” about the corrupt practices that permeate the judiciary.

Beneficiaries boast of timely results delivered. The understanding is that there is a sliding scale of established rates for different documents, different players, and different offences. In contrast to the State Department’s almost muted language of “occasional allegations of bribery”, Guyanese know that the reality rises way beyond the “occasional.” The hard reality is that the tiers of the judiciary are saturated with troubling breaches of law, procedures, and character.

Speaker of the House offers clarity on the Abdul Kadir Resolution DEAR EDITOR, I write to provide some clarity on the resolution on the death of a former Member of Parliament, Mr. Abdul Kadir.

Local parliamentary practice dictates that whenever a former or sitting Member of Parliament is deceased, the Clerk of the National Assembly is to draft a motion of sympathy which must be sent to the party of the deceased for their assent.

Notice is then given by the party for the motion to be an

item on the Order Paper.

This is what occurred in the case of the passing of the late Mr. Kadir.

The motion read as follows: “BE IT RESOLVED: That this National Assembly records its deep regret on the death of Mr. Abdul Kadir, on 28th June, 2018, and pays tribute to his dedicated service to the Parliament of Guyana as a Member of Parliament where he served in the English Parliament, from 17th April,

2001 to 2nd May, 2006 and to the people of Guyana; BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED: That the National Assembly directs that an expression of its sympathy be conveyed to his sorrowing widow, children and relatives.”

The debate on sympathy motions is to acknowledge the contributions of late Members to the Parliament of Guyana and to the people of Guyana.

It is done with no other intent. It should be further noted that the motion on the death of the late Mr. Kadir was

innocently drafted by the Clerk, as has been the convention in circumstances of death of former or sitting Members.

As the Clerk of the National Assembly, I wish to convey my profound regret for any unintentional offense this course of action may have caused.

I hope this letter brings a calm to the storm which emerged from the motion being put and carried by the National Assembly.

Yours sincerely S. E. Isaacs Clerk of the National Assembly

The narcissist doesn’t care about discovery DEAR EDITOR, ‘When you talk to people about the narcissists … it’s often the lies they focus on. … The narcissist doesn’t care about discovery, whether legal or the ordinary kind. He cares about promoting his truth even if it is a bald-faced lie and everyone will know it soon enough. And he will brook no challenges and will never admit it was a lie to begin with.’ Does this not sound like Mr. Frederick Kissoon?

Please note that in my previous letter I established that Mr. Kissoon blatantly lied to the public in relation to the present government, referring to important elements in it ‘as basic fool(s) not worthy of being part of a modern government.’ Of course, as a narcissist he doesn’t care about discovery and does not even like to think that he lies, and so did not bother to comment one way or another on this accusation!

Mr. Kissoon only cares about promoting his truth and so began his article by asking a question the answer to

which is more-or-less selfevident. ‘Why would a citizen of a country who had about two decades of power, failed as an achiever, and won’t let go? He/she still contests elections and wants people to vote for him/her.’ The simple answer is that that citizen does not believe that s/he has failed and except for your persistently saying so, you have presented no credible evidence that s/he has done so. Furthermore, given your record of persistent lying to the public, attempts at character assassination, etc., why should anyone, particularly that citizen, believe you?

The matter should have rested there but it does not help him to respond to my contention that he is a narcissist, so once again he comes up with a self-serving notion of narcissism that associates it with the a belief that one has a divine right to rule and that the proof of this belief is one’s attempt to appeal to the electorate with a bad record that has left one without a constituency. He appeared

to admit that a most important element in our politics that determines political empathy and the outcome of elections is race/ethnicity. But he is unable to take full advantage of this insight that serves only to allow him to throw about some names to juxtapose against Henry Jeffrey in an attempt to hoodwink the public.

But his thesis remains the same: those who do not have a constituency, even within their own ethnic p a r t y, d o n o t h a v e o n e because they were failures in office over a considerable period of time. And I, Frederick Kissoon, who have repeatedly lied to the public and a failure myself know they are failures; what constituency they seek; that they do not have that constituency and it is not possible for them to win over that constituency?

If you are operating in the public domain, there is a duty to state, respond and explain your history and policy, and I have never been timid about doing so and will continue to

promptly do so when the discussant is honest, but as I have clearly demonstrated in the current discourse and over many years, Mr. Kissoon is dishonest and does not believe he has to properly lay out a case and at the very least attempt to prove it: facts, Mr. Kissoon, matter!

Furthermore, much as he is now attempting, another narcissistic tactic of his is to feign victimhood in the public interest. As a result, in a letter to the press in November 2004, I stated, ‘Having a discussion with Mr. Frederick Kissoon is like pulling teeth, as he has developed a penchant for concocting and then speaking to his own documents and arguments. … I do not propose to address Mr. Kissoon’s personal comments, save to allay his fears as to my intent.

I have absolutely no wish to scare Mr. Frederick Kissoon.

Indeed, I am confident that I cannot for, taken generally, only the wise get scared.’

Yours faithfully, Henry B Jeffrey

Indians made significant contributions to Guyana DEAR EDITOR, Indo Guyanese have made a significant contribution to the development of the country. They came to British Guiana as indentured labourers to work in the sugar estates and in order to augment their meagre earnings, they engaged in farming and later their offspring did not only continue but expanded into large scale agriculture. The indentured workers were called “coolies” and up to this day Indo Guyanese are labelled as coolies. What is remarkable is that the coolies who were illiterate ensured that their offspring were properly educated and they denied themselves of the

basics for the education of their children. Today, there are thousands of Indos who have received high education so much so that they are scattered all over the world — many of them are world renowned in the field of medicine, technology and other important areas. There are also hundreds of Afros who did extremely well in the educational, cultural, sports and other areas.

Indentured labourers were brought to the then British Guiana after the abolition of slavery because the ex-slaves and their off spring hated the land maybe because of their forced labour and moved into the towns and cities where most of them were employed

as government employees some of their children became teachers, police officers, postal workers, etc., while the Indos remain in the rural countries and concentrated in large scale farming. This trend continued for several decades and maybe up to this day.

It was on May 5, 1838, the first ship landed on British Guiana shores which continued until 1917 bringing a total of 238,809 indentured laboures to work in the sugar estates. May 5 has been designated as Indian arrival date. The Luckhoo family is one that excelled. Lokhooa was among the first to arrive.

He educated himself and became a qualified interpreter

became a Christian and called himself Moses Luckhoo. His offspring did extremely well especially in the legal field.

His son, Edward Alfred Luckhoo became the first Solicitor and Edward’s son Lionel Alfred became the greatest criminal lawyer and was later knighted by the Queen. He was Guyana first High Commissioner to London and a few other European countries. He was also High Commissioner for Barbados. He wore two caps representing both Guyana and Barbados shortly after independence. In the early days, the outstanding Indians were Joseph Ruhoman, a writer and later (Continued on page 6)

Thursday May 02, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Government’s Trivial Response to Honouring former MP DEAR EDITOR, An NCN “Government responds to the US Embassy” report on the evening of April 29, 2019 presented the General Secretary of the People’s National Congress, Minister Amna Ally’s pathetic response to the US Embassy’s “objection, in the strongest terms, to the actions taken in the National Assembly to pay homage to former Member of Parliament Abdul Kadir, who was convicted of conspiring to commit acts of terrorism on US soil”.

In her response, the GS trivialized the significance of the objections not just of the US Administration but of all decent minded Guyanese. How could the General Secretary of the PNC not comprehend that this was an MP who was sentenced for a serious crime against humanity and therefore forfeited his rights as a former parliamentarian to be honoured. The GS dismissed the outcry of the majority of Guyanese and the statements by the diplomatic representatives of the USA, the UK and the European Union, which have all suffered as a result of terrorist acts. Coming on the recent terrorist acts committed in Sri Lanka and New Zealand, the statements by the GS of the PNC and her government that it “regrets the interpretation by the US Embassy” demonstrates the callous and opportunistic nature of the government and its leaders.

This is in sharp contrast to the PPP press release dated April 27, 2019, which recognized that the passage of the motion in the NationalAssembly onApril 26th, 2019 put an “indelible stain on our people and national character that will not be forgiven or forgotten by those who have suffered at the hands of international terrorism.”

The PNC and the

APNU+AFC government brought the National Assembly into disrepute and the entire nation under international scrutiny. One also has to ask how was this motion allowed by the Speaker when so many Opposition motions of national importance such as the rice industry, Wales Estate closure, the economy, for example, were disallowed?

Surely, the Speaker could not have been so naïve? He could have used his pen to strike out the motion as he did before.

Minister Ally’s banal attempt to split hairs and do damage control by saying that the government only spoke about him as a parliamentarian and not as a terrorist leaves one dumbfounded. Her callous assurance that the “sympathy motion that was passed in the National Assembly for its late member Abdul Kadir, who was convicted of a terrorist act in the US, in no way supports terrorism” is an insult to Guyanese and to all victims of terrorism across the world.

The GS then most deceptively tried to cover up her government’s shame by drawing a comparison between former Minister and MP Ronald Gajraj and Mr. Kadir. Let us put the facts in case the PNC believes they can continue to kerfuffle the public with impunity.

First of all, Gajraj was never charged, arrested, convicted or sentenced for terrorism or terrorist activities in Guyana, or, elsewhere, or, for any crime anywhere. Mr. Kadir was. Judge Irizarry at the time of his trial stated that “There can be no doubt whatsoever that the offences for which Mr. Kadir was convicted are about as serious as they come, short of actual murder,” In contrast, the

Commission of Inquiry appointed by then President Jagdeo—which Brigadier David Granger was a member—to investigate allegations of extrajudicial killings, demanded by the then PNC opposition, exonerated Minister Ronald Gajraj. The GS in spinning this web of deception goes on to claim that there was a similar motion tabled in honour of former Minister and MP Ronald Gajraj. Mr. Gajraj passed on December 15, 2018 and since then there has been no motion tabled or debated in the National Assembly on Mr. Gajraj. At the January 3, 2019 sitting, it is reported that there was one minute silence for 3 former MPs, Heralall Mohan, Ronald Gajraj and Abdul Kadir.

Following the US Embassy statement, the government should have issued an unequivocal apology to the US Administration and to other nations which have suffered as a result of terrorism and terrorist activities and continue to be under threat.

In fact, no nation is safe as we have also experienced in Guyana. The trail of Abdul Kadir provided that insight to our own vulnerability at that time. The FBI Archives (U.S. Attorney’s Office ( NY Eastern District) December 15, 2010, revealed that “At trial, “Kadir, a former member of the Guyanese parliament, admitted that he regularly passed information to Iranian authorities about sensitive topics, including the Guyanese military, and believed himself bound to follow fatwas from Iranian religious leaders. On June 2, 2007, Kadir was arrested in

Trinidad aboard a plane headed to Venezuela, en route to Iran. He was subsequently extradited to the United States”.

Furthermore, “Kadir admitted under cross-examination that he drafted regular reports for the Iranian ambassador to Venezuela, including details like the “low morale” in the Guyanese army. The documents he allegedly drafted included a five-year development plan to promote Islam in Guyana, which included references to infiltrating the military, police and other government agencies.”

So not only did the Government offend the USA and all nations who have suffered from terrorism but simultaneously offended all Guyanese. Here was a person who violated the constitution art 155 (1) (a) that a person was disqualified to be a member of the National Assembly who had “any acknowledgement of allegiance, obedience, or adherence to a foreign power”. Kadir by his action and admissions in court did have allegiance to a foreign power. While one must remember this same article has been interpreted by the Guyana judiciary as the reason given for the removal of parliamentarians with dual citizenship, it also refers to Guyanese citizens who are accused of spying, treason and undermining the security of a nation.

Surely it must have concerned the Commander in Chief President Granger that

the Guyana National Assembly was honouring a man who spied on his country, including the very Guyana Defence Force which he had previously headed, and, sent reports to a representative of foreign state? Surely it should have struck the President that under his government’s AntiTerrorism Act Kadir would have been charged with treason?

But then maybe one should not be surprised, as the PPP statement of April 27, 2019 pointed out “The PNC has a history of honouring and exonerating violent criminals. Linden ‘Blackie’ London whose reign of terror ended when he was killed in a shootout with law enforcement services of Guyana, was honoured by PNC leaders, who infamously draped Blackie’s coffin with Guyana’s national flag, the Golden Arrowhead. In addition, the five prison escapees who wreaked havoc and were responsible for murder, mayhem and an unprecedented crime wave, were dubbed ‘freedom fighters’ by many leaders of the PNC. The Lindo Creek Commission of Inquiry (COI), during which the father of a sitting Minister was its lone Commissioner and the brother of another Minister its legal

counsel, was aimed at “exonerating” Rondell “Fineman” Rawlins. All of these actions show a pattern of association and glorification of home grown terrorists.”

The main objective of the same Commission was to point the finger and blame the Guyana Defence Force and the Guyana Police Force for the Lindo Creek massacre.

One must also not forget that the kidnapping and the grotesque murder of the Iranian Cleric, Imam Ibrahemi in 2004 remains a mystery. The Imam was associated with Kadir and the mosque he set up in Georgetown. The link between Kadir and the “Buxton gang” and international terrorists is/ was known to several leading former members of the security services and leaders of the present day PNC and AFC. Maybe the Guyana Police Force should re-open this cold case and others of the 2002-2008 era.

I have tried to comprehend why the APNUAFC government would take such a risky and reckless action and more disturbing such a cold hearted reaction to the US, UK and EU statements. l can only wonder if this motion, being brought 6 months after Kadir passed, was merely a desperate attempt by the PNC to win back sections of the Kadir family and disillusioned supporters in Linden back to the PNC fold.

(Continued on page 6)

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Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

Would additional overseas born players be recruited for Gold Cup, participation?

DEAR EDITOR, With our nation’s participation in this year’s Gold Cup, as a debutant following a 2-1 victory over Belize, on 23.03.19 at the Leonora Track and Field facility. Editor, the recruitment of overseas born players of Guyanese parentage or grandparent(s); is an ongoing process which has been happening for well over two decades. But not in the significant numbers that is prevalent today. As a consequence, the level of the GFF’s Elite League, in terms of its standard, leaves much to be desired to the extent that. “Current champions Fruta Conquerors, don’t have a significant presence of player(s), if any at all as starters in the national team.”

Who’s to blame? The GFF, Technical Director and or the Technical Department/ Coaching Staff! In all due fairness, the Technical Director ought not to be

blamed. Since his vision for development, not being a “stop gap solution”, but would take at least a minimum of eight years, encompassing well structured and efficiently run Academies, with adequate resource personnel.

Whereby, from the embryonic stage of under -11, the harnessing and nurturing of unearthed talent, would move onto; under-13, U-15, U-17, U19 and Under-21.

Editor, then and only then would local players be able to vie for senior national team selection, as their technical inferiority would be enhanced significantly from day one of: Academy Training, albeit eradicating a “poor first touch”. Suffice, it to say that in the Elite League, it’s still an ongoing problem, much less domestically in Associations.

So, when an overseas born is playing third/fourth division in Europe, or North America, is selected it shouldn’t be a problem due to: Technically,

they are more superior than the local based players! By the way can an ‘old dog, be taught new tricks?’ The tree must be bent, while it’s young.

By relative comparison, when former national cricket captain and former West Indies senior cricket coach, Roger Harper was publicly criticized for “technical flaws, in some of the frontline batsmen stroke play”. Harper, quite rightfully responded by saying; “at the senior representation level, it’s unheard of attempting to teach a batsman how to play a proper forward defensive stroke”, or words to that effect. As a consequence, must the Technical Director, or the senior national coach, teach a 25-year-old, how to take/trap a ball cleanly, in pursuit of senior national selection/representation?

Finally, in returning to the subject matter of: “Would additional overseas born players be recruited for Gold Cup, participation?” If, it was my call at this given moment, surely, I’ll be supportive.

Indians made significant contributions to...

From page 4 Ayube Edun represented the workers in the field of trade unionism.

Among the Indos who excelled are Sir Shridath Ramphal who was Commonwealth Secretary General for 15 years. In the field of business — trade and commerce, Yesu Persaud who celebrated his 90th birthday recently, was honoured by at least three universities. A lecture room at the University of Warwick was named in his honour. Dr. Cheddi Jagan, can also be singled out for his role in politics and in the field of sports - Rohan Kanhai, Shivnarine Chanderpaul as outstanding cricketers. Dr. Basdeo Mangru, and Dr. Clem Seecharan are two historians who wrote several books on Indian history and culture.

President David Granger also penned about Indians in his book titled “Indian presence.

There are few organizations, which propagate Indians including GOPIO and the Indian Diaspora Council which is headed by Berbician, Ashook Ramsaran, who is known in India, Mauritius, Fiji, and Trinidad and Tobago.

Space does not permit to identify more. It is unfortunate that the country’s historical background, culture and achievements have not been highlighted to any significant degree. The late Wordsworth Mc Andrew tried, but he was not given encouragement and he unfortunately had to leave Guyana for New Jersey where he died 11 years ago. It was only two months ago a monument portraying the indentured labourers from

India was completed with financial assistance from the Indian government. It was erected at Palmyra, three miles outside the town of New Amsterdam.

Oscar Ramjeet

Government’s Trivial...

From page 5 If l am right —and l hope that l am wrong —that the government would risk our nation’s image and place us under additional international scrutiny as a “defender of terrorists” for such self-serving and opportunist reasons, then, all Guyanese, must call on the government to resign forthwith.

They have betrayed our people, our constitution and rule of law repeatedly but this one is unforgiveable.

Sincerely Gail Teixeira

Since an extremely good showing as a debutant against countries that all have previous Gold Cup appearances, along with the defending champions U.S.A; numerous senior World Cup appearances, with Trinidad and Tobago and Panama; one each. So, a good showing by Guyana, would lead to quality opponents in international friendlies. This would pave the way for exposure and contracts while supplementing the coffers of the GFF, by way of TV rights, among others. Only a few weeks ago, I was privy to view Brazil and Panama, playing to a 1-1 draw, in an international friendly. So, in actuality and factually the senior national line-up cannot have players with deficiencies. It is sad that the national League club champions, Fruta Conquerors, hadn’t any player in the squad.

Meanwhile, to the best of my knowledge, I am aware that Mr. Faizal Khan holds the responsibility of: “Overseas Recruitment Official/Officer”.

However, is his role definitive, to the extent that he can identify, within a specific timeframe, a player for possible recruitment apart from providing the player’s bio-graphics and resume? Is an accompanying video clip sent along highlighting the player(s) in training and in a competitive match; for assessment? Does Khan’s role in recruitment subject to the review of the national coach /technical staff? If, not then the individual truly deserves the relevant accolade, in playing a meaningful part in the country’s qualification for the Gold Cup. Jamaica, Trinidad and Tobago had previously utilized overseas born players to aid their qualification for the World Cup finals. And so too was regional powerhouse U.S.A, in 2014. With the aforementioned countries way ahead of Guyana as it relates to international exposure, domestic activities and infrastructure. Then it would be foolish for our

country to fool itself that local based players have the necessary tools to propel us forward. Maybe, what is needed at this crucial juncture is: “The Technical Director, to draft/craft a training programme specifically for local clubs, compatible to national team(s) training. Whereas, all clubs thereafter must at least twice a week, implement the Federation’s training policy into their schedule. So, whenever a player is called to the national grid, he/she knows what the training programme is like instead, of groping to adjust, which would be time consuming.

Albeit, failing to prepare, is preparing to fail. In this modern world of scientific technology a Brazilian professional plying his Trade in China, Germany or Russia, upon receiving selection for a national squad, can quickly readjust to the “Samba” style of play. What is the GFF, waiting for?

Respectfully yours, Lester Sealey

I applaud the efforts of stray catchers to rid the streets of strays but…

DEAR EDITOR, Please permit me space to share my near death experience yesterday, one which I would blame solely on the stray catchers employed within the Ministry of Public Security.

At approximately 12:30 pm, along with the driver I went to pick up my 2 year old from a pre-school in Subryanville, as we were heading back home to the East Coast , in the vicinity of the Rubis Service Station in Bel Air, a truck with approximately four men employed as stray catchers were conducting their duties: rounding up some cows which were grazing along the roadside, the catchers were throwing lassos to catch the animals, who without

hesitation started to run wildly across both sides of the road. The driver of the car I was in immediately stopped and indicated with hazard lights the animals. Within 10 seconds the hoof one of the cows came crashing through the windscreen of the car, although the men saw the effects they continued to give chase , mind you, Mr. Editor my two year old was also with me in the back seat, the cows didn’t stop there, neither did the men, a driver attached to Digicel narrowly escaped too as a raging bull jumped over his bonnet, my driver pulled over, parked and approached the men who claimed that it was their job to rid the streets of strays and he can take it up with the police.

We immediately went to the Sparendaam Police Station and made a report the officer, in exact words he said “I’m sorry but there is nothing we can do, let insurance fix it or you will have to find the

owner”....the cow had no brand mind you.

I immediately called the Ministry of Public Security and spoke with an officer who said pretty much the same thing as the police, so my question is: God forbid were we injured, who would have been responsible?

Cows do not run insanely unless they are being chased, why are stray catchers running animals on a busy road? Is it the incentive?

I’d like answers on a way forward, it’s not about the car, yes insurance will fix it, but what if a life was lost or there was severe injury?

I applaud the effort to rid the streets of strays but more can be done to ensure incidents of this nature do not occur.

Let common sense prevail, I remain humble while I await a response from an authority within the Ministry.

Atika Stephens

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 7

Kaieteur News

US$150M airport renovation...

The current parking lot area at CJIA.

CJIA invites bids for new parking lot

The Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is inviting bids for the construction of a new parking lot at the Timehri facilities. These works were not part of the 2011 contract with China Harbour Engineering Company (CHEC), raising eyebrows as to why not.

For a US$150M expansion of CJIA, a minor project like the parking lot should have been included, observers had said.

The Government of Guyana will now have to spend separately on a parking lot.

On Sunday, the Ministry

of Public Infrastructure, in the Invitation For Bids (IFB), published in Kaieteur News, in announcing the project, said that bidding will be conducted through the National Competitive Bidding procedure specified in the Procurement Act 2003.

The bids will be opened on May 14th, at the offices of the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board, Ministry of Finance compound, on Main and Urquhart Streets.

In 2011, the administration of outgoing president, Bharrat Jagdeo, without going to tender, signed onto a

contract with CHEC, a Chinese contractor that has offices in Jamaica and Trinidad.

In this case, the contract was signed by former Minister of

GTUC President advocates for gender equality in the workplace GTUC President, Coretta McDonald

P

resident of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Coretta Mc Donald, yesterday highlighted struggles faced by women in the fight to achieve gender equality in the workplace.

Addressing the crowds at the annual Labour Day rally held at the National Park, the trade unionist declared that now is the time to change the “unacceptable norm”.

McDonald had previously noted that the work and struggles of the male gender often overshadow the issues faced by women in the labour spheres.

According to McDonald, while women account for a significant portion of the labour force, issues facing them are often brushed aside.

“There is hardly any mention made of the females and their struggles; it is as if they do not exist.”

However in her capacity as Leader of the GTUC, Mc Donald is seeking to shed more light on women’s and labour issues. She called on her male counterparts to take heed and move towards addressing the cries of women in the workplace.

“We must create the platform for the empowering of the women and youth. We must continue to promote

gender equality, while we continue to advocate for improved working conditions for our women and youths.

We must continue to promote gender equality and continue the call for improved working conditions and eliminate the sexual and other forms of harassment in the workplaces,” Mc Donald stated emphatically.

She said that the Union has received a number of complaints about sexual harassment from females, particularly those employed by private security firms.

McDonald called on Unions to work in tandem with law enforcement, politicians and other stakeholders to help reduce the issues of sexual harassment in the workplace.

The GTUC President emphasized the need for policies which will protect workers from any forms of harassment, regardless of their gender.

The trade unionist did note, however, that unions have a lot to celebrate.

“Comrades, today marks a 100 years of trade unionism in Guyana. This is no easy feat. Labour is on the move!

We have come this far not only by faith but with the blood, sweat and tears of those who preceded us, and we will not let their sacrifices

to go in vain.”

“This is serious business.

We cannot play chess with the lives of our workers. Our members’ welfare is first and foremost. We commemorate struggles for workers’ rights everywhere, because we earned the right to celebrate.

We acknowledge the devotion and contributions of the workers to ensure the prosperity, strength and well being of our country regardless of religion, colour, race, creed or political alliance and for these reasons, we are extremely proud of our members.”

As such, McDonald said that the Unions will continue to call for equal rights, social justice, and respect for every class of worker and the Union that represents him or her.

“It is written and has been proven that no country or company could flourish or even be sustained without labourers.

It is a known fact that labourers have great political influence and that certain labour issues have helped several political parties to win elections.

Our political leaders must be reminded that our labour force is no longer ignorant and uneducated about our rights or can be easily (Continued on page 12)

Public Works, Robeson Benn.

It happened a few days before the 2011 general elections which saw the then Government of the People’s Progressive Party/Civic, losing control of Parliament, amid a slew of scandals.

It has now come out that Guyana only did not check to see whether it was getting value for money (many of the prices were highly inflated) but that the Chinese themselves did not conduct the necessary soil studies and preparation of other reports that would have helped in determining costs.

Rather, the PPP/C agreed that it would build a project for US$150M, with US$138M going to the contractor.

The project involved the

lengthening of the main runway and the building of a brand new terminal building with energy-saving features and modern features that would have been the envy of the region.

With regards to the parking lot, the PPP/C government agreed that CHEC would only have to mark the spot where it would be built…the contractor had no other obligations.

However, the project was drastically modified by the Coalition Government in 2015, shortly after it came to office, after finding that little work was done, but that CHEC had claims to more than half of the money - almost US$90M. The terminal building was

reduced to house only the arrivals area while the old terminal was adjoined, gutted and refitted to cater for departures.

The criticisms recently saw Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, blaming the project’s woes on poor decisions of the Opposition while they were in Government.

The government has not indicated whether it has sanctioned CHEC, which reportedly used equipment it had for the airport project for other private sector projects.

The Audit Office of Guyana has announced that it is moving to carry out an audit on the project, currently the largest infrastructural one in terms of value.

PAGE 8

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

Govt. now searches for Consultant to modernise laws for oil sector Three years later...

By Kiana Wilburg

W

ith first oil just around the cor ner, the APNU+AFC Administration is now looking for a consultant to modernise laws needed for the efficient governance of the oil and gas sector.

With funding provided by the World Bank, the government via an advertisement said it needs a consultant to provide advisory services and technical support on legal and regulatory frameworks for the oil and gas sector to the Government, through the Department of Energy (DoE), under the Ministry of the Presidency.

According to the present Terms of Reference, the Consultant will be required to prepare draft revised legislation and regulations required to support t h e u p d a t e o f Guyana’s legal and institutional frameworks for the governance, management and oversight of the oil and gas sector, including but not limited to petroleum laws and regulations pertaining to operations, occupational health and safety,

environmental management, maritime operations, etc.

This would be do ne on the basis of existing institutional, legislative and regulatory gap analysis and revision documentation.

The Consultant is also expected to provide general advice on legal and contractual matters arising from the administration/management of existing Petroleum Agreement(s), including matters concerning assignments, terminations, events of default, force majeure, disputes, dispute resolution and cost recovery audits, etc.

The official will be expected to support the Attorney General’s Chambers in the review, assessment and re-drafting necessary to ensure the draft legislation is in good order for presentation to the National Assembly for passage into law.

The Consultant will be required to prove legal advice on the marketing of crude oil to ensure that the marketing will be transparent, efficiently organized and that marketing agreements are in place prior to first oil; advise on and provide a framework

detailing the legislation and regulations required for the comprehensive development of a petroleum downstream sector and support the drafting of such legislation and regulations initially focusing on the use of associated gas; and provide ad hoc legal advice on and recommendations concerning matters arising from DoE’s governance and management of the petroleum sector.

In addition to this, the official will be expected to provide constructs for the transfer of knowledge, including mentoring arrangements, to Guyanese lawyers within the Department

of Energy, Attorney General’s Office and other ministries/ agencies as identified by the DoE, on legal aspects of the petroleum industry.

The advertisement noted that these activities are estimated to take place over a period of four years starting this year.

The Consultant will be expected to be physically present in Guyana for a specified number of days per month and the contract will initially be issued for one year with a possibility of renewal for the duration of the Project period based on performance.

(See link to access the

full details of the advertisement: https://motp.gov.gy/ index.php/notices/terms-ofreference/3524-terms-of-reference-consultancy-services-for-advisory-serviceson-legal-matters-in-the-oila n d - g a s industry?fbclid=IwAR00t87exgGv4 9KZBsDILaW RIRl44amDRaW90oa sAOxav5K dpP0tIlCxg) RELENTLESS CALLS For over three years, local transparency advocates called on the government to review all laws that would be needed to govern the oil and gas sector. They stressed that this was necessary before the commercial production of oil in 2020.

Even Chatham House, an international transparency body that helps countries with the governance of their extractive sectors, said that if Guyana intends to be successful with the governance of its oil sector, it must ensure that there are clear oil-related policies and systems to ensure accountability of the oil wealth to come.

The London-based body recommended that policies for the oil and gas sector be guided by a clear vision for

the development of the country and a strategic view of how the petroleum sector will deliver that vision.

Speaking to other guidelines, Chatham House warned that the rush to adopt international best practices may not always be appropriate in the case of emerging producers in the oil and gas sector.

Instead, Chatham House said that the government should aim for more appropriate practices, taking account of the national context.

Chatham House said, “In order to attract the most qualified oil company to a country with an unproven resource base, the host government can invest in geological data, strengthen its prequalification criteria and ensure transparency. It should also plan for success and anticipate the implications of hydrocarbon discoveries in its tax code, and be robust through declining oil and gas prices.”

As for the aspect of licensing, Chatham House said that this is a key mechanism whereby government can reap early revenues and maximize long-term national benefits.

It said that Government must ensure that it simplifies both negotiations and tax structures to mitigate knowledge asymmetries with oil companies.

It said, too, that the government and industry must engage and share information with communities to manage local expectations regarding the petroleum sector and build trust.

“In emerging producers, budgets for local content may be small and timelines for building capacity short. In this context, the focus should be on the potential for repeat use of any local capacity developed.

Additionally, meaningful participation of national organizations in resource development is a central objective of many emerging producers.”

The international body said that once the aforementioned are followed, Guyana would be well on its way to laying a strong foundation for the protection of the oil sector.

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 9

Kaieteur News

Workers must self-organise

O

ne year ago, this column called on the workers of the word to unite. It argued that workers did not need their unions which have become, in Guyana, extremely impotent.

One year ago, this column pointed to the inability of the sugar unions to prevent the mass severance of workers.

The Guyana Agricultural and General Workers’ Union (GAWU) took umbrage.

The column had pointed also to the failure of the Guyana Public Service Union to take industrial action in the face of APNU+AFC continuing the PPPC’s practice of imposing wage increases on public servants. The TUC, the umbrella organization for trade unions in Guyana, has a loud bark but no bite. It does not have the capacity to organise a general strike.

The unions have nothing to offer workers anymore.

And to add insult to injury, many of the unions have negotiated poor deals for their workers.

They could have done much better. But there are rea-

sons why there is reluctance to pressure the government to do more. And in some cases, the workers are part of the problem.

It is for these and other reasons why this column argued that workers have to engage in self-organisation.

Workers do not need unions.

Workers must not delude themselves into believing that without the unions they are powerless.

Union leaders have done some strange things in this country. Some of them have been compromised, in the past, by the very persons with whom they were supposed to be negotiating.

Yesterday, there were protests in many cities around the world which were observing May Day. In many places, the workers came out in protest. In Guyana, the unions used May Day more for rallies, marches, speeches and fetes rather than sustained protests.

In Germany, workers were protesting the rise of nationalism. In Spain there were protests for fiscal reforms. In South Africa, the protests

were about land reform and inequality.

It is clear that in many countries, the issues which were being pushed were beyond those concerning earnings and living conditions.

Larger social and political concerns took centre stage.

It is not as if these foreign workers are more socially conscious than Guyanese workers.

If anything, it is the opposite: Guyanese workers are far more socially conscious, but Guyanese workers are also more politically divided and the trade union movement is polarised along political lines, thus negating its effectiveness.

The trade union movement is deeply divided. The present show of unity is only a plaster. It cannot heal the deep divisions within the trade union movement. Some unions are politically tainted.

They are compromised.

It would be futile for workers to continue to place their hopes in unions. Trade unions will not agree with the assessment that they have

Dem boys seh ...

Dem thief man get more bold face Thiefing reach a peak.

From de look of things, it look like if everybody thiefing. Dem boys hear Ministers thiefing and dem who ain’t thiefing tekking kickbacks.

Some officers in dem Ministry tekking bribe.

One contractor done seh when people tender, somebody inside does pick up de bid and carry it outside to adjust it closer to wha de engineer seh. Of course, de man got to get pay when he do dat.

But dat is de blue and de white collar criminals.

Dem got de real thief man.

One of dem decide dat he gon go into two old people home like if he live deh.

Dem boys can’t understand de nerve of these

people. Dem sit down and suddenly dem believe dat dem can walk in anybody house.

Dis one mek noise when he try to go in de people house.

De old man wake up and spot him. He see de old man, too, but he bad. Instead, he jump down and run, he decide to fight de old man. He get some chop dat he couldn’t move.

He had to lie down till de police come. He deh skinning he face in de hospital. He claim he in pain like if is somebody got to give him compensation.

Dem boys certain dat when he get better and after he serve jail, he gon do de same thing again.

Anodda one decide to rob a chef who go to wuk early.

He see de man and decide to mek demands. De victim didn’t know dat is only one bullet de man got. He put up some resistance and get a buss mouth.

A guard come out end up killing dis thief. Dis is a man who lef he house good, good.

And hours later some bandits tackle a businessman pon West Coast. De news is dat dem shoot and kill dis man.

De thing dat does mek dem boys vex is when is time fuh trial, these same people does seh how is manslaughter.

Dis coming week is more thiefing. Bet you last dollar.

Talk half and hope thiefing done fuh dis week

outlived their usefulness. But it is something which the workers need to actively consider.

It is for this reason that last year the call was made for workers to voluntarily cut their ties to their unions. But what are the options? Should workers decide to make a clean break?

Workers have to seek betterment. If an employer is underpaying you or exploiting you, do not stick around.

Move on to something else.

It is no use sitting and hoping that one day your services are going to be appreciated. Move on to some other employer where you will be appreciated for the value that you bring.

Secondly, workers can establish their own associations. Years ago, there used to be staff associations comprising workers at a particular entity.

The workers organised themselves, set their own rules, and in these associations, determined what they were willing to pay as a sub-

scription.

They know that if they have a problem they can turn to their workers’ representative to make representation on their behalf.

More workers are likely to take action to press for changes at their place of employment rather than join a national campaign. Selforganisation allows them to fight for better wages without

having to undermine their own demands by fighting for other workers. It is not about being selfish; it is about taking care of yourself first, before looking out for others.

PAGE 10

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

La bour and c lass str ug gle Labour class strug ugg Labour Day 2019 is one of the few times I have missed the march that begins from Parade Ground on Middle Street to Avenue of the Republic turning into D’Urban Street, making a left on Louisa Row, where I grew up, turning east on Regent Street into Albert Street to end up at the TUC headquarters on Woolford Avenue.

If there is an activity I enjoyed in my years as a social activist it is the Labour Day march. But I was there yesterday when the march turned into the National Park. As I drove into the park, the omission was overwhelmingly conspicuous. It was the omission of vehicles that tells you something about class struggle in Guyana.

I am a recurring decimal at the National Park (which should be renamed the Forbes Burnham Park; he did a phenomenal thing in creating it). When there are certain

events there that include Jehovah’s Witnesses Conventions, earth day or climate day or green day or anti-racism day etc, the car park overflows. In Thomas Road, there is no space. On Albert Street adjoining Thomas Road, there is no space.

But yesterday, on the occasion of one of the most important events in the calendar year –Labour Day – the place was packed with marchers, but the car park had less than a third of its space occupied. I saw a few joggers going to their vehicles, which meant some of the few cars that were there, were not connected to Labour Day. There was plenty of room on Thomas Road and Albert Street.

If you go to the Inner Wheel annual hat show in the Promenade Gardens (never been there and never will; just not my thing), the surrounding streets (Middle, Waterloo, New Market and

Carmichael) are ringed with vehicles. Deductive reasoning should instruct you that the strata above the proletariat in class-divided Guyana (the middle class, lower middle class, upper middle class and the petty bourgeoisie) do not go to Labour Day. It is simply intriguing that you can have such an important occasion and parking spaces were not taken up because there were hardly any cars.

As I listened to the speakers, Lincoln Lewis said something that pierced my soul right there and then. He observed that GAWU’s president Komal Chand is ill and he wishes him a speedy recovery. Do the people of Guyana know that an entire generation of this country that currently live in Guyana was born after Komal Chand took office?

Half of Guyana’s population is 25 years. 70 percent of the population is under 36.

What it means it that an entire generation was born or was in napkins or was using nursing bottles after some people came into office.

Here is a sample. Komal Chand is over 30 years in his job. The same goes for his counterpart in the Guyana Public Service, Patrick Yarde.

Mike McCormack has been at the helm of the Guyana Human Rights Association for 30 years. The same amount of years, Juman Yassin has chalked up heading the National Olympic Association.

Coming close behind them is the head of ACDA, Ms. Jean Baptiste. My own buddy, Lincoln Lewis is not too far behind with more than 20 years as General Secretary of the TUC. After more than 40 years as head of the Dharmic Sabha, Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud died in office Has anyone in Guyana ever heard about something called term limits? The answer

is all Guyanese are familiar with it, because Bharrat Jagdeo has made that possible. It was Mr. Jagdeo who challenged the constitutional stipulation that a president can only serve two terms.

The case in the Caribbean Court of Justice galvanized extensive interest in Guyana.

If a citizen didn’t know what term limits was, after the Jagdeo court case, they certainly did.

So why are there not term limits for so many organizations in this country? Guyana is pathetically deficient in skilled personnel and people with experience. If there were term limits in GAWU, do you know how many experienced trade unionists GAWU would have produced? If there were term limits in the Olympic Association, do you know how many persons would have had a fair amount of experience in sport administration.

Do you know the boards

Frederick Kissoon of many public companies like insurance companies, commercial banks, have directors that are in their late seventies and have been on those boards for more than 30 years? Why are we treating young Guyanese with such disdain?

I will leave you with some startling information on me that will upset you. I have been the president of Guyana Chinese Checkers Association for the past 35 years. The pay is fantastic.

U.S. report reiterates Guyana’s prison conditions “potentially life-threatening”

T

he U.S Department of Justice has once again decried the state of affairs as it relates to the living conditions in Guyana’s prisons, noting that it poses a serious threat to human life. This is according to a recently published report on human rights practices of Guyana and other countries around the world.

According to the document, “Prison and jail conditions, particularly in police holding cells, were reportedly harsh and potentially life threatening due to overcrowding, physical abuse, and inadequate sanitary conditions.

In October (2018), the Guyana Prison Service reported there were 2,216 prisoners in eight facilities with a combined design capacity of 1,505. Overcrowding was in large part due to a backlog of pretrial detainees, who constituted approximately 30 percent of the total prison population.”

The report was keen to note that in May 2018, the government released the finding of an independent study of the prison system funded by the Inter-American Development Bank which revealed that prison officers physically

abused prisoners.

Further, the report said that government reported that the UN Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent found that prison conditions at the Lusignan Prison were appalling and cells were unfit for human habitation.

In this regard, the report disclosed that prisoners reported unsanitary conditions and a lack of potable water, and they also complained of lengthy confinement in their cells with limited opportunities for sunlight.

Turning its attention to the administration, the report noted, “Authorities stated they investigated and monitored prison and detention center conditions monthly, and committees prepared reports after each visit.

Prisoners often circumvented procedures for submitting complaints of inhuman conditions or mistreatment by passing letters addressed to government officials through family members.”

In the report, ‘Study of Inmates in Guyana 2017’, six out of 10 inmates said that there were more inmates in the prison facilities than it was designed for. The report also

Camp Street Prison

highlighted important shortcomings in the prison systems as it relates to the provision of basic items such as clothing, sheets and towels.

According to the study, “Only 5.7% of the inmates reported that prisons provided sheets.

Only 6% of the inmates reported that prisons provided clothing. Only 3.6% of the inmates reported that prisons provided towels.” Prison-

ers reported that their families were the main providers of these items.

“Prison was perceived as an unsafe place by the inmates. Nine out of ten inmates reported feeling less safe in prison than at their home or the place where they had lived before. Six out of ten inmates said that someone has stolen their personal belongings in the prison. A quarter of the prisoners said that, in

the previous six months, they had been attacked or beaten.

Eight out of ten inmates said that they had seen another inmate being beaten.”

As it relates to the kinds of activities in the prisons, 21.9% of the inmates participated in entertainment activities and 28.2% participated in educational activities.

To a g r e a t e r d e g r e e , 48.7% participated in s p o r ts activities, half of the inmates (52.3%) participated in the cleaning or maintenance of the prison, and just 47.9% performed some kind of work inside the prison.

However, some positive aspects can be observed regarding four other issues.

The study found that a vast majority of the prisoners or 75.1% reported that they had the opportunity to have a shower between eight and

fourteen times per week. In a similar vein, a high percentage of inmates (71.4%) believed that the toilets they used were “clean” or “very clean.”

Along these lines, seven out of ten inmates (71.3%) said they had enough water to drink, although half of them (50.8%) rated the water they received as “poor” or “very poor”. Despite these prevailing conditions, it was noted that there were no major violations when it comes to inmates’ sexual rights.“Nine out of ten inmates said that since they were arrested, they had not witnessed another inmate being forced to have sexual intercourse with another person. Almost all prisoners said they had not been forced to have sexual intercourse against their will since they were arrested.”

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

PAGE 11

PAGE 12

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

National Assembly defends “sympathy” motion on late MP, Abdul Kadir-Canada joins condemnation The National Assembly has defended a motion on the late Member of Parliament, Abdul Kadir, which it said is a practice of sympathy that is normal.

The statement yesterday

by Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs, would come even as the Canadian government joined in condemning the motion that was passed as the Opposition stayed away, last Friday.According to Isaacs, he wrote to provide some clarity.

“Local parliamentary practice dictates that whenever a former or sitting Member of Parliament is deceased, the Clerk of the

National Assembly is to draft a motion of sympathy which must be sent to the party of the deceased for their assent.

Notice is then given by the party for the motion to be an item on the Order Paper.”

Isaacs made it clear that this is what occurred in the case of the passing of Kadir.

He said that the motion reads: “That this National Assembly records its deep regret on the death of Mr Abdul Kadir, on 28th June, 2018, and pays tribute to his dedicated service to the Parliament of Guyana as a Member of Parliament where he served in the Eight Parliament, from 17th April, 2001 to 2nd May, 2006, and to

the People of Guyana.”

The National Assembly also further resolved that an expression of its sympathy be conveyed to his sorrowing widow, children and relatives.

Government has come in for backlash from the US, the European Union, and just yesterday from Canada, for the motion.

However, according to a Government statement earlier this week, it is clear that the motion in the National Assembly was misinterpreted.“It is well known that there is a timehonoured convention of the National Assembly to observe, in a standard and solemn form, the work of

Guyana urges peaceful resolution to Venezuela violence

A protest scene in Venezuela on Tuesday. (CNN photo) Despite Venezuela’s continued coldness to Guyana over the border issue, Government is not backing any violence in that neighbouring country.On Tuesday, violence flared with protests, tear gas, and a government vehicle was caught on camera driving over citizens.The protests against the Nicolas Maduro regime have been growing with the US and several countries calling the government illegal, and instead recognizing oppositionleader,Juan Guaido, as the interim president. The oil-rich country has fallen on hard times with thousands of its citizens fleeing to neighbouring states to avoid food shortages, crimes, protests and other hardships.

Guyana has taken in about 6,000 Venezuelans from the border area that fled here.

On Tuesday, news reports said that the opposition leader tried to spark a military uprising against embattled President Nicolas Maduro, leading to several pockets of violent anti-government protests.Guyana is fighting Venezuela in the World Court, in The Hague, over claims by Venezuela on two-thirds of Guyana…almost all of

Clerk of the National Assembly, Sherlock Isaacs

The late Abdul Kadir former members who are deceased. The observance of this tradition has never been selective, and has included, over the decades, persons of all political parties and persuasions who served in the National Assembly.”

Government said that it regrets the interpretation given to the motion passed in the National Assembly on April 26 on the death of Kadir. ”The Government of Guyana asserts that it had no intention of conveying the impression that the motion was designed to honour a former MP convicted of terrorism in another jurisdiction. The motion recognises the member ’s service as a parliamentarian.”

The statement also stressed that the Government of Guyana continues to condemn terrorism in the strongest possible way.

Yesterday, the Canadian High Commission, in a one-line statement, said that: “Canada is disappointed that members of Guyana’s National Assembly have paid tribute to former MP Abdul Kadir, a convicted terrorist.”

On Monday, the EU Delegation said that it “notes with surprise the honouring of former MP Abdul Kadir in the National Assembly of Guyana and believes that eulogizing a person convicted of terrorist acts is

inappropriate”.In its own scathing statement on Monday, the US embassy said that the resolution was insensitive and thoughtless, and would leave a stain on the legacy of the country’s law-makers. Kadir, who was 66 when he died in a US prison last year, was sentenced to life by a court after being found guilty of plotting a 2007 terrorist attack at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York.

“Members of the National Assembly, therefore, chose to honor a man who conspired to kill innocent people from across the United States and around the world. This resolution is an insensitive and thoughtless act, which demonstrates the National Assembly’s disregard for the gravity of Kadir’s actions,” the US Embassy said.

The embassy pointed out that while speaking at an International Peace

Conference recently, U.S. Ambassador Sarah-Ann Lynch held up Guyana as “a model to the world on religious tolerance and understanding.”

The National Assembly’s resolution of April 26 would draw into question that reputation, the embassy said.

“It also comes on the heels of Guyana’s historic cooperation with the United States on the extradition of an alleged murderer. Members of Parliament have placed this resolution in direct contradiction to the efforts of security cooperation between our two countries.”

According to the embassy, with this resolution, honouring a convicted terrorist, members of Guyana’s National Assembly have left a stain on their legacy as representatives of the Guyanese people and on their commitment to the rule of law.

India begins evacuations as Cyclone Fani moves up coast

Venezuela’s President, Nicolas Maduro Essequibo.However, the Government of Guyana, in a statement yesterday, said it is following with attention and deep concern the evolution of events in the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela. In particular, Government said, with regards to the potential for grave consequences both for its civilian population, and for the peace and security of Latin America and the Caribbean. “Guyana reiterates its rejection of violence and the threat or use of force as acceptable means for the resolution of conflict, and calls upon all parties involved to vigorously pursue the search for a peaceful and democratic solution to the

crisis for the benefit and well being of the Venezuelan people,” Government urged.

CNN Business reported yesterday that it was taken off the air by the Venezuelan government moments after the network broadcast a feed that showed military vehicles running over protesters in Caracas.DirecTV, Net Uno, Intercable, and Telefónica all received orders from Venezuela’s government regulator Conatel to block CNN. (DirecTV and CNN are both owned by AT&T.) A BBC spokesperson told CNN that BBC Global News had also been taken off the air in the South American country.

Thousands of people are being evacuated from villages along India’s northeast coastline ahead of a severe cyclone.

Cyclone Fani is heading towards the state of Orissa with wind speeds of up to 190 km/h (120 mph), and is expected to make landfall on Friday.Officials have now shut down operations at two major ports on the east coast, and thousands of rescuers are helping people evacuate low-lying areas.Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu states are also on high alert.Which areas will be affected?

The cyclone is currently moving up the Bay of Bengal, east of Andhra Pradesh.

HR Biswas, director of the meteorological centre in the state capital Bhubaneshwar, said that at least 11 districts in Orissa would be hit - and that they have “suggested people to stay indoors”.India’s National Disaster Management Authority has also warned people along the rest of India’s east coast, including the coastal towns’ many fishermen, not to go out to sea because the conditions are “phenomenal”.

GTUC President advocates for gender...

From page 07 suppressed,” McDonald added, as she called on her fellow Trade Unionists to take the proactive approach towards addressing the issues of concern to workers.

“As a trade movement, we must have the wisdom and courage to tackle problems when they arise and we should never wait to find solutions. We must be proactive; have measures in place to defend and improve quality of the Public Service.” McDonald noted, how-

ever, that this could only be achieved through cooperation and solidarity.“Therefore, the unity of the trade union movement is the key to achieving the objective.It is in our common interest to elaborate sustainable approaches in order to promote jobs, growth and social justice, creating well-designed social policies.

We cannot do this alone, we have to force the hand of the government and opposition to ensure that labour is included at the highest level of decision-making,” she said.

Kaieteur News

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 13

Call reiterated at May Day rally for re-establishment of Labour Ministry

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rade Unionists have repeated a call for the reestablishment of the Ministry of Labour during the observance of the 100th A n n i v e r s a r y o f Tr a d e Unionism yesterday.

Speaking at the annual May Day rally held at the National Park, General Secretary of the Guyana Trades Union Congress (GTUC), Lincoln Lewis reiterated the desire of the Unions to see the reestablishment of the Labour Ministry.

The Labour Ministry was reduced to a department under the Social Protection Ministry by the current administration.

As such, Lewis called on the Granger/Nagamootoo administration to demonstrate commitment to labour by ensuring attendance to this year's Annual Conference of the ILO to be held in Geneva next month.

“We ask Minister Ally to take this message back to the Cabinet that today united Labour calls for the setting up of a Ministry of Labour that will best represent the issues and concerns surrounding the people of Guyana. It is the workers

who turn the engine of government and this country, and it is important that this vital resource be properly represented by a Ministry of Labour.

How can we have a Ministry of Business representing the business community and ignore a Ministry of Labour and be committed to development.

Think about it: Are the people of Guyana not important enough, deserving enough? This is an area of potential conflict.”

Lewis had previously stressed that a Labour Ministry is important for shaping and executing labour policies that affect all workers, past, present and potential, “In other words, we the people.”

He said that this among other requests would not be a challenge for President David Granger, given his stated commitment and desire for trade union unity.

According to Lewis, what the President wants was showcased yesterday with the unified presence of the trade union movement.

Lewis added, “If they (government) are still friends of the trade union movement as they were prior to 2015, they must prove it.

We speak with one voice on these issues.”

He said that today, the trade union movement must not exist in isolation, but rather, function in an environment of politicians, employers and workers.

Lewis explained to the audience that as unionists, they are also impacted by domestic as well as international laws, agreements, conventions, rules and practices.

Trade union leaders have been calling for the reestablishment of the Ministry which was done away with when the Coalition secured Government at the May 2015 General Elections.

President David Granger has so far resisted those calls.

Last year, a motion was tabled by Opposition Member of Parliament, Gillian Burton-Persaud, to have the National Assembly call on Government of Guyana to support the call of the joint trade union movement and restore the Ministry of Labour to its pre2015 status, as soon as possible.

The trade unionists present yesterday stated that the absence of a Ministry of Labour is a disservice to

Harmon appointed Director-General of Ministry of the Presidency “I did not choose to resign to avoid renunciation,” the new Director-General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon stated Tu e s d a y e v e n i n g during a community meeting at the New Silver City Secondary School, Linden, Region 10.

This clarification f o l l o w s t h e announcement of the former State minister's new appointment within the Ministry of the Presidency. The Director-General said as a result of the court proceedings following the December 21, 2018 vote, it was found that the Constitution provides that “no person who has sworn allegiance to another state can be in the National Assembly.”

According to Harmon, “this meant

Joseph Harmon

several persons who were in government and held dual citizenship, had to renounce.”

H e f u r t h e r explained the process of renouncing requires a certain number of applications and is done over a period of time. It was noted that before the renunciation process is complete, MPs holding dual citizenships were required to resign their seats.

The DirectorGeneral disclosed that he wrote to President David Granger indicating that his renunciation process began.

“I wrote to him and said I have commenced the process of renunciation of US citizenship and therefore by the time we come around to the next elections, I will go back into the Parliament.”

Guyanese and the historical development of the society.

It was also highlighted that concomitant with identifying problems within society is also the necessity of moving to solve them through policy, laws and programmes to secure real change.

The ILO has 189 Conventions. As a member, Guyana is duty-bound to ensure the conventions are implemented and policed

through programmes and law. Of these conventions, about 16 attend to Social Protection. This leaves more than 170 to be attended to, of which seven are considered Fundamental Rights. This reality has historically been attended to by a Ministry of Labour that treated with all in equal measures.

“The absence of focusing on Labour as a ministry denies recognition of our historical struggles,

achievements and continued pursuit for the creation of a just society, represented in the philosophical guidance of these conventions which are intimately intertwined to our social, cultural, economic and political advancement,” trade unionists have argued They noted that the Trade Union Movement is not asking for a new ministry, but the Movement is asking for equal treatment.

Kaieteur News

PAGE 14

Thursday May 02, 2019

Cuban medical specialists say farewell after 2-year stint - 436,269 consultations done in 2018 alone

Minister of Public Health Volda Lawrence (centre, front row) and Minister within the Ministry Dr. Karen Cummings (fourth from left, front row) along with senior Ministry officials, the 14 doctors from Cuba and the Cuban Ambassador to Guyana

F

ourteen Cuban Doctors referred t o a s 'collaborators' who have worked in various parts of the country over the past two years are now returning to their homeland after a

successful stint.

The Ministry of Public Health formally bid them farewell with a dinner where they were also presented with certificates.

The Cubans have one medical brigade with

different teams of doctors serving every two years, after which they are replaced with a new batch, hence the title 'collaborators', a government release said.

Cuba's Ambassador to Guyana, Narciso Reinaldo

Armador Soeorro, commended the work put forward by the Cuban doctors of this particular batch. “In 2018 alone, 436,269 consultations were provided by the Cuban medical

MV Kimbia gets new lease on life

T

he North West will be more accessible from tomorrow. A vessel that once serviced the route is being returned after three years in the docks.

MV Kimbia will be recommissioned today. The vessel was subjected to some patchwork over the past years. It was not until 2016 that the administration

The rehabilitated vessel

brigade.

This represents approximately 50 percent of the population. 7,462 lives were saved and the number of Cuban medical specialists increase,� he said.

The ambassador

particularly pointed out the level of dedication displayed by members of the team. “I would like to recognise the humanist values of the work carried out by all of you with complete detachment and (continued on page 15)

The new seating in the MV Kimbia

decided that the vessel should be rehabilitated.

Courtney Benn Contracting Services won the tender to rehabilitate the vessel. The work entailed complete engine overhaul.

The two engines were shipped to Damen Shipyard in Holland where they were refitted.

Technicians from Damen Shipyard then came to

Guyana to supervise the installation of the engines.

Chief Executive Officer of Courtney Benn Construction Services, Mr Courtney Benn, said that the engines and the MV Kimbia are good for another 20 years.

The days of the vessel breaking down at sea are things of the past. Further, MV Kimbia will now reduce the travel time between Georgetown and Mabaruma by about 10 hours. The trip

often took close to 24 hours.

This vessel was commissioned nearly 70 years ago. It serviced communities along the Berbice River and the North West District. With age, it began to breakdown before it could complete a voyage. In one case it had to be towed back to Port Georgetown after stalling miles in the Atlantic.

In addition to the complete overhaul of the

engine the vessel has been repainted and panels replaced. At no cost to the government, the vessel now boasts television sets, a number of refrigerators and freezers, improved cabin facilities and a refurbished galley.

This is the sixth marine vessel to be rehabilitated within the past three years.

The Transport and Harbours Department said that the (continued on page 20)

Kaieteur News

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 15

Century-old struggle for better pay, conditions

I

n 1964, a bronze statue of Hubert Nathaniel Critchlow, the man who went down in history as the father of Trade Unionism in Guyana, was unveiled.

Yesterday, in observance of Labour Day, scores of Essequibians marched in solidarity, as they reflected on Critchlow's fight for fair wages, better working conditions, old age pensions and the struggle against unemployment.

The parade of some 150 participants from the Guyana Teachers Union and the Guyana Public Service Union (GPSU), marched from the Damon Cross, La Belle Alliance to the Regional Democratic Council Building, Anna Regina.

There they were addressed Duwane Boston of the GPSU, who stressed that there still needs to be more focus on Guyana's human resource.

“It's overwhelming to know that the struggle which began over 100 years ago for better wages, salaries and working conditions is still a problem today. Some of our

- E'bo workers told

Guyana Public Service Union members during the march to the RDC building in Anna Regina yesterday leaders have brought the colonial principles into the 21st century.”

Regional Executive Officer (REO) Mr. Dennis Jaikaran, who also addressed the trade unionists yesterday, said that it is integral for unions to continue walking in the footsteps of the father of trade unionism, Mr. Critchlow.

Cuban medical specialists...

From page 14 humility. The way you offered the best of your knowledge and skills to save lives, cure and prevent diseases to Guyanese people, thus contributing to improve their standard of living and life expectancy.”

Minister of Public Health, Volda Lawrence and Minister within the Ministry Dr. Karen Cummings, thanked the team for the work done and highlighted similar expectations fr o m t h e incoming batch.

Minister Lawrence said the team of collaborators which served from May 2017 to April 2019 brought to Guyana several specialties including dermatology, anaesthesia, neurology and pharmacy.

She also added that they played a significant part in communicating with Ve n e z u e l a n m i g r a n t s seeking health care.

“You may not know but you were a pivotal element in us being able to address the situation with the Venezuelan migrants, having them receive the best medical care... this shows that Cuba and Guyana are better together than apart.”

Minister Lawrence noted.

Dr. Cummings in her remarks, added, “It is indeed gratifying to witness the continuation of the fruitful bilateral relationship Guyana shares with Cuba.... I can assure you that Guyanese are immensely satisfied with the work done by the team.”

According to the REO, it is important that trade unions measure their own accomplishments, as compared to the achievements made years

ago.

“We want to encourage you as representatives to understand a few things. If your father would've worked hard, he would've achieved

for you and you are living by the fruits of his labour, then you have an equal and corresponding duty even to make it better than he did…

But we continue year after

year to say who fought for us, who brought freedom for us, but we are not registering the point what are we doing to take care from where our father would've left off.”

Kaieteur News

PAGE 18

Thursday May 02, 2019

Idaho couple braves Guyana's wild in TV reality show “Naked and Afraid” (www.idahostatejournal. com) Guyana - Crews didn't film the most dramatic storyline that transpired in the South American jungle where Pocatello, Idaho couple Star Torres and Tony Wheeler competed in Discovery Channel's reality TV series “Naked and Afraid.”

A young boy, who'd been bitten by a venomous Labaria pit viper, was bleeding from the gums, and members of his remote village in Guyana ran to the show's medic, Beth Hammons.

Her producer authorized her to treat the child with fluids and medicine, before she helped make arrangements to send him to the nearest town to be airlifted to a hospital in Brazil for life-saving treatment, according to a Discovery Channel statement.

The next morning, Torres and Wheeler were turned loose in that same Guyana jungle — in an area even the villagers protested was especially dangerous and should be avoided. And they were prohibited from wearing any clothing or bringing any supplies into the harsh environment,

Star Torres and Tony Wheeler were the first couple to ever compete in the Discovery Channel reality program 'Naked and Afraid'.

where they were tasked with surviving for three weeks.

Torres, 32, and Wheeler, 47, have been asked not to give any spoilers regarding how long they endured their tropical test, or about the creative approaches they employed to trap food and purify water. Those answers, however, will be forthcoming at 6 p.m. May 5, when their episode of “Naked and Afraid” will air on Discovery.

The show typically pairs two strangers in coed teams.

Torres and Wheeler were the

first couple ever allowed to brave the wild together.

“They wanted us to go on separately; Tony put his foot down,” Torres said.

The producers ultimately agreed to try something new.

In the press release issued prior to the current season, Discovery begged a question about the Pocatello couple: “ Wi l l t h e c h a l l e n g e strengthen their relationship or break them apart?”

They moved to Pocatello in January from Raleigh, North Carolina, so Torres could take a job at the city's

expanding FBI data center.

Wheeler is still searching for work in information technology or welding. They also still own an automotive mechanic shop in Raleigh.

Both Torres and Wheeler, who have been dating for four years, are experienced at wilderness survival, as well as living together in cramped quarters.

They met in Afghanistan while serving in the military.

For a year, they made a home together of a shipping container at Bagram Airfield. Torres believes she

was further prepared for the experience by the training she received as a child, when she was part of the Young Marines, and during a brief period of time in which she was homeless.

Nonetheless, life in the jungle was harder than she expected.

“Everything about the environment was difficult,” Torres said. “We tried to build a shelter with razorsharp palms, and they were cutting my hands.”

They were also eaten alive by mosquitoes and got bad sunburns, without any clothing for protection.

“It's a lot more difficult being out there without clothes on,” Wheeler said.

“In the military or anything else, you have all of your

equipment. There, you're totally exposed to the weather.”

Wheeler was raised on a small farm in Georgia, where he said he learned the value of hard work. He followed his father's footsteps by joining U.S. Army Special Forces.

They've long recorded every episode of “Naked and Afraid,” critiquing the actions of the competitors against how they would personally handle survival situations. From Afghanistan, they interviewed with the program's staff via Skype, answering questions about their survival skills. They were later flown to Los Angeles for physicals and (continued on page 20)

Kaieteur News

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 19

Public health laboratories honoured at inaugural award ceremony

Well done! CMO Dr Shamdeo Persaud presenting Ms Joyce Whyte-Chin, National Coordinator, Medical Laboratory Services, with her award.

T

welve public s e c t o r laboratories and 16 individuals were honoured at the inaugural award ceremony for medical laboratory professionals organized by the Standards and Technical Services Department of the Public Health Ministry.

Laboratories operating at the Mabaruma, Suddie and West Demerara hospitals and the Diamond Diagnostic Centre were recognised for their contributions in the highly specialised field.

Other laboratories awarded function at Fort We l l i n g t o n , N e w Amsterdam, Skeldon and Bartica hospitals. Those at Kamarang, Lethem and the Linden Hospital Complex [LHC] received accolades too.

Two of the individual honorees, Mrs. Arlette Inniss-Pearce and Ms. Rena Marks, gave a combined total of 71 years service to the field of laboratory.

Marks, a medical technologist attached to the National Blood Transfusion Service [NBTS] has given 36 years' dedicated service to the field.

Inniss-Pearce who specialises in haematology [a branch of medicine that deals with diseases of the blood and blood-forming organs] and who also is head of the National Public Health Reference Laboratory [NPHRL], has devoted the past 35 years to the public sector.

Others awarded were S h a r m e l l a R a m a s w a r, Keizer Percy, Donessa Harry, Natasha Torres, Keon

Kyte, Kenny Morris, Alicia Debideen, Vidya Outar, Nataline Seepersaud, Moya Williams, Alexis Pearson, Renuka Lall-Mahadeo and Nolan Hawke, the sole private sector honoree.

Organisers surprised Mrs. Joyce Whyte-Chin, N a t i o n a l C o o r d i n a t o r, Medical Laboratory Services of the Public Health Ministry, with an award.

When she addressed the gala dinner Saturday, WhyteChin reminded her audience that laboratory services are often “at the forefront of medical advances in any health system [whether] public or private.”

“One can predict the important role clinical laboratories play from testing, diagnosing, screening for maladies to provide efficacious treatment to patients. Highquality healthcare is not possible without highquality laboratory services,” Whyte-Chin said.

She said clinicians rely on lab results to have a 100 percent accuracy of what a patient might be suffering from. “In essence, they are asking the laboratory to help them take care of their patient,” she reminded.

Laboratory test results are needed across the entire continuum of healthcare including the prevention, diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of diseases. Lab results are also often used for research purposes and are also a critical tool for outbreaks in any country.

Whyte-Chin said clinical laboratories are “sophisticated and complicated environments”

Seated, CMO Dr. Shamdeo Persaud flanked by Ms. Joyce Whyte-Chin at left and Dr Fiona Perry, Deputy Director of the Regional Health Services, and the awardees. and require sufficient space, light and infrastructure, specialised personnel and well-functioning and validated instruments and a robust supply chain.

“When a patient agrees to do a blood test, they do so with trust that their specimen

will be treated carefully and seriously – that the lab specialist will quickly perform the correct testing so that an accurate and trustworthy result is

provided to the clinician.”

“The result of a single blood test can change a life and it is of utmost importance that the

Fusion of rhythms: The Dubraj Tassa Group and the Otishka Drummers

laboratory is one that can be trusted and that it is provided in a timely manner,” Whyte(continued on page 20)

Kaieteur News

PAGE 20

Thursday May 02, 2019

Nandlall moves to challenge appointments of SARA Director, Deputy Head

F

ormer Attorney General and E x e c u t i v e member of the opposition People's Progressive Party/ Civic, (PPP/C), Anil Nandlall, has approached the High Court to challenge the appointments of Dr. Clive Thomas and Aubrey HeathRetemyer, as Director and Deputy Director of the State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA), respectively.

In his application before the court, Nandlall is seeking a declaration that Dr Thomas and his Deputy Retemyer, have not been lawfully, validly and properly appointed as Directors of the State Assets Recovery Agency in accordance with Sections 5 and 107 and the Schedule of the SARA Act No. 14 of 2017.

The former Attorney General is also asking the court to find that Dr Thomas and Retemyer have been performing the functions of Director and Deputy Director of the SARA Agency unlawfully, illegally and in contravention of Sections 5, 106 and the Schedule of the SARA Act No. 14 of 2017 Nandlall is also seeking a writ of prohibition directed to the two Directors restraining them from performing the functions of or acting in the capacity as

heads of the SARA. As a final request, the lawyer wants an order directing the removal of both men, forthwith, from the offices of Director and Deputy Director, respectively, of the SARA. In his ground of application, Nandlall said that as a citizen and Member of Parliament, he has an interest that the laws of Guyana be obeyed and complied with, that the rule of law be respected, and that the public officers within the State of Guyana function lawfully and in the manner provided and contemplated by the Constitution and the Laws of the land.

Nandlall noted that as a Member of Parliament, he is assigned specific responsibilities of oversight, in relation to the Executive, to ensure that the executive acts within the confines of the constitution and the Laws of the land, and to ensure that persons appointed to public offices are done so lawfully.

Nandlall said that he became aware, through a report in the Guyana Chronicle dated June 22, 2015, that Dr. Thomas had been appointed as a Presidential Advisor with responsibility for the State Assets Recovery Programme.

On the 13th day of April 2017, the National Assembly

passed the State Assets Recovery Act No. 14 of 2017 (SARA Act) which was assented to on the 4th May 2017.

The lawyer explained that Pursuant to Section 5 of the SARA Act, the Director and the Deputy Director of the SARA are appointed in accordance with the procedure set out in the Schedule of the SARA Act. Section 5 states that: “The Provisions of the schedule shall have effect in relation to the appointments of the Director, Deputy Director, their terms and conditions of appointment, staff, finance and other related matters of SARA.” Section 1 (1) of the Schedule to the SARA Act states that the National Assembly shall by a simple majority; and on the recommendation of the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments, appoint the Director and the Deputy Director of the State Assets Recovery Agency.”

Nandlall contends, however, that the Directors were appointed to the State Assets Recovery Unit before the enactment of the SARA Act, No. 14 of 2017.

“Therefore, their appointments are provided for under the SARA Act as “Transitional Arrangements – Staffing of SARA” by

Public health laboratories...

From page 19 Chin counselled.

She said that while laboratory personnel will be less visible and anonymous to the public and even those attending health facilities, “we must recognise that the work they do is crucial to the correct detection, diagnosis and treatment of diseases”.

“Laboratory services are therefore a core pillar in Guyana,” the National Coordinator said.

Chief Medical Officer Dr Shamdeo Persaud who also addressed the inaugural ceremony said Guyana “owes a debt of gratitude” to lab professionals.

Their work, Dr Persaud said, is critical to demystifying “what is happening in the

human body”.

“Their advice is also critical for fighting deadly diseases,” such as HIV/AIDS and other highly infectious agents, the CMO said, recalling the recent outbreak at the tunnel operated by the Manganese firm, GMI, at Matthew Ridge in Barima/Waini (Region One).

Two Chinese nationals died, and several others were hospitalised from what laboratory tests eventually d i a g n o s e d a s histoplasmosis, or 'cave disease' a fungus found in the droppings of birds and bats in humid environments. The infection is caused by breathing in spores of the fungus, which if confined to the lungs, is not fatal, but can

be deadly if it spreads throughout the body.

Dr Persaud credited the work of lab specialists for the “quick response” at Matthew's Ridge.

When she spoke on the behalf of Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence, Deputy Regional Health Services (RHS) Director, Dr Fiona Perry, lauded the work of lab specialists in the fight against diseases and forecast that their services shall soon soar nationally.

The inaugural Award Ceremony and Dinner held at Parc Rayne, Houston, on the East Bank corridor, included some engaging cultural items and drew the curtains on activities for International Laboratory Week.

MV Kimbia gets new lease on life From page 14 marine fleet had almost all been mothballed.

There was no effort to keep them afloat. Since 2016, the vessels have been reappearing.

There have been Setter, a tug; MV Aruka, MV Barima, MV Sandaka, Alan Young and now MV Kimbia—six completely rehabilitated

vessels in three years, according to T&HD. The main cabin which offers seating for about 100 passengers is akin to a movie theatre, complete with soft seats and television.

Minister of Public Infrastructure, David Patterson, will commission the rehabilitated vessel this afternoon.

Anil Nandlall virtue of Section 106 of the SARA Act, which provides (1) Subject to appointments being made under section 5, a person who immediately before the commencement of this Act was employed by the body known as the State Assets Recovery Unit (SARU) shall after the commencement be deemed to be employed by the State Assets Recovery Agency (SARA) on the same terms and conditions which p r e c e d e d t h a t commencement ;(2) Within a period of not more than four months from the date of commencement of this Act, the Parliamentary Committee on appointments on the notification by the Minister shall recommend to the National Assembly a person to be appointed as Director of the SARA. Nandlall contends further that the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments of the National Assembly has not

Deputy Director of SARA, Aubrey Heath-Retemyer

SARA Director, Dr Clive Thomas

made any recommendations for the appointment of either of the respondents, nor has the National Assembly voted to appoint the Respondents as Director and Deputy Director (respectively) within the timeframes prescribed by section 106(2) of the SARA Act nor at all.

The PPP executive noted, therefore, that it is manifestly clear that the two Respondents are holding, performing the functions and acting in the offices of Director and Deputy Director, respectively, of SARA illegally, unlawfully, without lawful authority, and in contravention of the clear and expressed provisions of the SARA Act. Nandlall claims that the letter and spirit of the relevant provisions of the SARA Act are being flouted and ignored by the Respondents, who acted and continue to act in the respective offices of Director and Deputy Director of SARA, including, unlawfully, unjustly and illegally authorizing the

commencement of civil proceedings against citizens of Guyana and unlawfully and illegally collecting remuneration from public monies appropriated from the Consolidated Fund.

“I am aware that the Parliamentary Committee on Appointments of the National Assembly has not made any recommendations to the National Assembly for the appointment of either of the Respondents, nor has the National Assembly voted to appoint the Respondents as Director and Deputy Director (respectively) within the timeframes prescribed by section 106 (2) of the SARA Act nor at all.

It is, therefore, manifestly clear that the two Respondents are holding, performing the functions and acting in the offices of Director and Deputy Director, respectively, of SARA illegally, unlawfully, without lawful authority, and in contravention of the clear and expressed provisions of the SARA Act,” Nandlall added.

Idaho couple braves Guyana's wild in TV reality show “Naked and Afraid” From page 18 psychological interviews.

For several months, they studied suitable traps, edible plants and potential hazards associated with several different environments, not knowing where they would be sent. In the South American jungle, for example, some of the trees have toxic sap. They were alerted they would be headed to Guyana a week in advance.

The jungle provided them with a diet of fish, worms, insects and palm hearts — and miniature pigs w e r e a h a r d e r- t o - t r a p delicacy. The film crew was usually hidden behind a blind, and Torres and

Wheeler paid them little mind, though it was nice to know a medivac flight was available, if needed.

“A lot of people want to know if the show is fake.

There is nothing fake about it,” Wheeler said. “You go out there and you're on your own. They'll do everything they can to keep you alive, but they're not going to help you in your challenge.”

Wheeler would like to see more couples take on the challenge, but he warns couples should have “no chinks in the armor,” as the stress both highlights a couple's strengths and exacerbates weaknesses.

They plan to invite friends over for a Cinco de

Mayo party, with tacos and margaritas, to watch the episode.

“Naked and Afraid” offers no prizes or cash rewards, but both Torres and Wheeler agree the bragging rights are well worth the discomfort. For the time being, they're enjoying backpacking around Scout Mountain and exploring the outdoor life in the Pocatello area.

“I don't think anybody ever regrets (being on the show),” Wheeler said.

“You're a lot more thankful for the little things — even creature comforts — and then when you get to go hiking with clothes on, it's best thing ever.”

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 21

Kaieteur News

Guyana’s systems do not allow for transparent, accountable reporting on extractive sector – EITI The preparation of Guyana’s first report for the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) unearthed several weaknesses in the systems of government agencies. A major finding is that those systems do not allow for the transparent and accountable collection and reporting of data on the nation’s extractive sector.

Independent Administrator, Rached Maalej, who prepared the document, noted that Guyana’s report is expected to cover a vast range of information. These include revenues collected by Government Agencies, transfers

of funds, data on production, exports and register of active licences, when it is established that there is routine disclosure of the data required by the EITI Standard in requisite detail, and that the financial data is subject to credible, independent audit, applying international standards.

Maalej noted however that while Government Agencies provided several EITI data, financial data were not systematically subject to independent audits. He emphasized that this is an EITI requirement.

Additionally, the Tunisian said that contextual informa-

US Congress to examine report on BRI, China’s influence in Caribbean Region -Centre for Global Policy says America has legitimate reasons for being suspicious

By Kiana Wilburg The Government of Guyana has welcomed with open arms, China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) which is focused on infrastructure development in various regions around the world. But one of Guyana’s strategic partners, the United States of America, views the BRI with much suspicion due to the consequences of both its failures and successes.

In fact, the US Congress is expected to examine a report on China’s influence in the Caribbean and Latin American Region as well as the controversial BRI. (See link for full report: https:// fas.org/sgp/crs/row/ IF10982.pdf) Some critics argue that US policy makers are only opposed to BRI because it can be used as an excuse by China to establish military bases in countries where the USA has an established presence, thereby weakening its power.

But the Center for Global Policy is of the view that the US may have legitimate reasons for being opposed to BRI. Specifically, Paul Haenle from the Carnegie–Tsinghua Center for Global Policy recently examined the outlook from the United States on the BRI. Haenle said that too often, Belt and Road projects have been prone to corruption while severely lacking in economic sustainability, regulatory transparency, and good governance. Together, the 53 year-old said, these deficits lead to projects that threaten sovereignty, export sub-standard norms and practices, and cause concerns over the initiative’s geostrategic implications.

The political advisor said

Political Advisor, Consultant, Paul Haenle that these sentiments have been spelled out in a number of speeches delivered by senior members of U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration, including Vice President Mike Pence and Secretary of State Mike Pompeo.

The Consultant said that if China does nothing to address them, it will be difficult for third-party countries like the United States to view the BRI with anything but suspicion, rather than as an opportunity for collaboration.

DEBTAND SUSTAINABILITY Haenle said that a major factor in this is the debate surrounding the claims that China engages in debt-trap diplomacy through the BRI, ensnaring developing countries with debt dependence and then translating that dependence into geopolitical influence.

The Center for Global Development classifies eight countries as having a “particular risk of debt distress” as a result of their involvement in China’s BRI. It was noted that China’s actions in Sri Lanka, Pakistan, (Continued on page 22)

tion on the extractive industry, data on revenues collected and budget allocation are not yet subject to electronic publication in the form of interactive open data.

In order to improve transparency and promote investment in the Guyana mining sector, Maalej noted that an online Mining Cadastre Portal is currently being developed by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

But to ensure overall transparency and compliance with the requirement of the EITI Standard, Maalej said

that Government Agencies should set-up an open EITI database in the government systems by implementing and upgrading a cadastral system with adequate details such as data about the shareholders and the beneficial owners of the companies.

He said that the current management information systems of the Government Agencies involved in the GYEITI process need to be enhanced, in order to allow, among other benefits, systematic publication of EITI data required to be published in the EITI report.

He listed some of the agencies that need this upgrade to be the Guyana Revenue Authority, Guyana Gold Board, National Insurance Scheme, Environmental Protection Agency, Ministry of Finance and Guyana Geology and Mines Commission.

In addition to this, Maalej said that capacity building and raising awareness of government officials on transparency and open data disclosure; and implementing /updating manual of procedures for relevant Government Agencies to put processes in place to ensure timeliness,

Independent Administrator, Rached Maalej quality of data and cost effectiveness of the systems, will also be necessary.

PAGE 22

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

US Congress to examine report on BRI ...

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From page 21 and Malaysia are central to the debt trap debates. Speaking on this matter, Haenle noted that China acquired ninety-nine years of operating rights for the Hambantota Port in southern Sri Lanka after costs for the project spiraled out of control, forcing the government to give up control of the port in return for a Chinese bailout.

In Pakistan, Haenle noted that a financial crisis has fueled opposition to projects from the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a major spur of the Belt and Road.

He said that the debt-trap argument gained further credence after Malaysian Prime Minister, Mahathir Mohamed canceled $23 billion in BRI projects and warned countries against falling prey to “a new version of colonialism.”

The official said, “Even for those not inclined to view the BRI as a Trojan horse for Chinese influence or a reincarnation of nineteenth-century-style imperialism, this sustainability gap is a major cause for concern regarding Belt and Road projects. China argues that countries that cannot assume the debt burden of large-scale infrastructure projects should not accept such projects in the first place.”

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He continued, “However, Chinese companies also have a responsibility to conduct appropriate risk and business viability studies ahead of time to ensure recipient countries are likely to repay their debt obligations and are capable of doing so. Given the complex business and political climates of many developing countries where these projects take place, the difficulty in conducting the thorough analysis needed is often amplified.”

Haenle added, “Even with the most scrupulous preparation, no project’s success can be fully guaranteed, but the rising number of countries reporting major debt struggles related to BRI projects indicate a need for Chinese companies to strengthen their project implementation process. Part of improving this surrounds increasing project transparency.”

TRANSPARENCY AND FOREIGN PARTICIPATION Haenle noted that the lack of transparency surrounding the initiative has been one of the largest sources of U.S. objections to the BRI’s implementation. He said that opacity makes it difficult for foreign firms to become involved in BRI-related projects until they are already in motion, and it may also create fertile conditions for corruption.

He said that these concerns are not specific to the BRI and are also reflected in the broader ongoing U.S.China trade and economic disputes over fairness and reciprocity for U.S. firms operating in China.

The Consultant said, “China continues to encourage outside investment to help overcome the massive deficit of funding needed to complete its vision, but there is a disconnect between those looking to participate and actual opportunities. Low standards, difficulties competing in the procurement and bidding process, and riskiness of investments are further obstacles to joining.

The confluence of complications lends credence to existing perceptions that Belt and Road is a ‘made in China, made for China’ initiative, as Brian Hook, the State Department Director of Policy Planning, described it.”

CORRUPTION Haenle noted that lack of transparency feeds into concerns that BRI projects may encourage poor governance and act as a magnet for corruption. In this regard he contended that many of the countries along the Belt and Road already rank among the world’s most corrupt, per Transparency International.

He said that the opaque nature of BRI projects makes them a highly fertile environment for embezzlement and

mismanagement. Under such conditions, he said that political leaders in BRI countries may view Chinese-backed projects as a win-win.

“Leaders get to claim that they are bringing development while also embezzling funds through kickbacks and shady financial transactions,” expressed the political advisor.

He said, too, that indeed, there have already been several high-profile examples of BRI-related corruption. In Kyrgyzstan, Haenle pointed out for example that the failure of a Chinese-built power plant has led to the arrest of two former prime ministers accused of receiving kickbacks from the Chinese company in charge of construction.

GEOPOLITICS/ GLOBAL GO VERNANCE As long as opacity is the norm in BRI projects, Haenle stressed that it will be difficult for the United States and other like-minded countries to view the initiative in a positive light.

He said, “Not only does it foster corruption and exacerbate the debt woes of developing countries, the lack of transparency also fuels suspicions that Belt and Road works as a Trojan horse for Chinese influence. China religiously repeats that it ‘has no geopolitical calculations’ for the BRI. However, the initiative’s scale means that it necessarily has geopolitical implications.”

In this regard, Haenle highlighted that the BRI’s Digital Silk Road component has served as a conduit for the export of Chinese privacy and surveillance technology.

This includes the use of facial recognition software in Zimbabwe, social credit–like systems in Venezuela, cybersecurity laws in Uganda and Tanzania, and a great firewall in Russia.He said, too, that a number of BRI projects are in strategic locations that suggest a geopolitical calculation. “The Strait of Malacca, a high-traffic trade route that has been a source of tension between Malaysia and neighboring Singapore, has three BRI ports planned that will provide direct access to the route. Although all ports are planned for commercial rather than military uses, the strategic implications of Chinesefunded ports in all of these disputed locations are enough to worry some that China’s presence in the region will grow beyond commercial ports alone.”

When the foregoing points are considered, Haenle said that China’s claims of ‘win-win cooperation’ and a ‘community of common destiny’ with BRI seem disingenuous at best, and at worst, a cover to hide the true intentions of the initiative.

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 23

Kaieteur News

Goldsmith’s home burglarised in Cumberland

- Family slept soundly, believes intruders sprayed them

T

he Khan family of Cumberland, East Canje, Berbice, awoke yesterday morning and found their entire home ransacked, with cash, jewellery and other valuable items missing.

Fifty-one year-old Hamza Khan, a goldsmith, told this publication that nearly $500,000 including US$500 in cash was stolen from his home, along with a laptop, two cellular phones, a Samsung tablet and several pieces of silver jewellery.

Their vehicle that was parked below the living quarters was also vandalized, with some accessories stolen.

Khan disclosed that himself, wife and children retired to bed around 23:00 hrs Tuesday and woke up yesterday morning to find their entire home in disarray. He believes that the burglars “sprayed the house with something so that we can sleep through everything, because I didn’t hear a sound, and normally I does get up two to three times in the night, but Tuesday night I didn’t wake at all”.

Khan explained that the doors for the rooms were bolted inside. He said when he woke up, he noticed that the door locks on the other side had impression marks to

The Khans’ house indicate that the intruders had tried entering the rooms, but failed.

“They had to spend a while, because all over tumble up… and I had like three other laptops that were not working too well, but like they sat down and checked it out and so, and took what they wanted, because they left one of the laptop on top of the car,” Khan disclosed.

Reports reaching this publication have since revealed that a white Toyota 212 was seen in the area driving around prior to the break-in.

The very description of the car was given for a previous robbery where a woman was

beaten and robbed.

Meanwhile, Khan lamented that upon discovering the break-in, he immediately made calls to the Reliance Police Station; however it was on the sixth call that the police finally answered, but then only collected their names and address.

An hour later, ranks from the Central Police Station in New Amsterdam, located some 15 minutes away from the home, showed up at the house.

The family is puzzled why ranks from the police station within their area could not respond, rather than having those from further away show

45% of E’bo rice crop affected by paddy bug

More trouble continues to plague the local rice industry on the Essequibo Coast, now that a majority of rice crops have reportedly suffered tremendous damage during the last harvest.

According to the President of the Essequibo Paddy Farmers’ Association, Naith Ram, the association has recorded that 45% of the rice crops on the Essequibo Coast have been severely affected by the paddy bug infestation.

He also revealed that the infestation during the final crop last year was worse. Ram explained that the infestation is somewhat normal during the autumn crop. According to him, the yield during the last crop was great.

He noted, however, that despite the presence of a GRDB entomologist, the damage to paddy has been severe.

“They are both plus and negative within the industry.

Yield for the crop has increased but the damage has been very severe, and I am very much disappointed because GRDB extension staff and the entomologist were here for over two weeks now doing outreaches to

up. It was noted that on a previous report of a robbery in Canefield where businesswoman Yasodra Singh was beaten and robbed, the Reliance Police also failed to respond to the report.

Investigations are ongoing.

A section of the home that was ransacked.

Camp Street Prisons to be rebuilt, Engineer’s Estimate for each lot in excess of $300 million Continued from last edition Maritime Administration Department Docking and Rehabilitation of the MV Setter

Ministry of Public Health Supply and Delivery of Printer Ink

Supply and Delivery of Contraceptives

A farmer displays a handful of the damaged paddy

President of the Essequibo Paddy Farmers’ Association, Naith Ram farmers, distributing drugs to them, and enlightening them

how to use the drug to control the paddy bug.”

Ram alleged that there appeared to be favouritism in the distribution of pesticides, underlining the fact that close friends and relatives seemed to be benefiting from the distribution system.

He went on to say “we have those poor farmers who have five acres and ten acres are not gaining access to the drugs.

They are the ones who do not have the resources, and I believe that they should have more access to the drugs. I believe that there should be an equitable distribution of drugs. We should not select special persons.”

Ministry of Communities Rehabilitation of Hauraruni/Yarrowkabra NDC Building

Supply and Delivery of Infant Formula

PAGE 24

Kaieteur News

Thursday May 02, 2019

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 25

Kaieteur News

Essequibo hold slim lead heading into final day as defeat...

Amit Persaud had 6-69 from 31 as Demerara slipped from 162-5 overnight to 207 all out yesterday.

Essequibo opener Kevin Christian made 49 as he sweeps Joel Spooner who followed up his 5-10 with 6-53 at Bourda yesterday.

Thursday May 02, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A social event or group rally could put you in touch with some new, exciting people in interesting fields, Aries. You might run into an old friend you haven't seen in ages.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Unusual circumstances could arise that change your creative orientation.

It's likely that they involve the gathering, sharing, and using of information.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Today you could be hit with some exciting news, Taurus.

This could involve new people or equipment coming onto the scene or an entirely new project or course of action that you'd never have dreamed of.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Today you could decide to attend a workshop or social event involving people in a spiritual, metaphysical, or intellectual field, Scorpio.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Information that you receive from others and from within your own heart could compel you to participate in some ambitious projects.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) You could meet some fascinating people,and perhaps learn Earthshaking information that impacts your life.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Group activities or social events in your neighborhood could put you in touch with new and exciting people who eventually become friends, Leo. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) Have you wanted to move in a new direction, Virgo? If so, this could be when you get the lead of a lifetime. You might receive unexpected information indicating possible new sources of income

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) New information could come at you from all sides today. Books, magazines, TV, the Internet, and conversations are likely to bring exciting knowledge your way that reinforces some of your convictions.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Surprising news about your finances and the economy in general could cause you to feel confident and secure about your financial future AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Some fascinating new information, possibly spiritual or metaphysical, could come today from periodicals, TV, or the Internet.

This could set you on a new course of study, Aquarius.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Dreams and meditations could lead to insights about how best to handle your finances, Pisces. Your intuition is very strong.

From page 30 Jodah for four before Jailall spanked Spooner for a boundary as the partnership, the only century opening stand so far in the tournament, flourished.

The 100 was posted just before Tea but Spooner struck with the last ball before the break.

Jailall, who could have blocked the ball and resume his innings after the interval, drilled a big drive to short cover and at Tea Essequibo were 110-1.

After the break, the attacking Jerimiah Scott (2) pushed hesitantly forward to Spooner and was LBW before Amir Singh (6) and Christian took the score to 132 before Balkisoon removed Singh to trigger a dramatic collapse with saw six wickets tumbling for three runs as Spooner, in a particular, bowled much slower and turned the ball

Young Golden Jaguars go...

From page 31 because of their performances over the past two years. They are in a higher class and competing at this level will provide an extraordinary learning experience for everyone involved but more so, the players.

They played with great heart and fought throughout the ninety minutes. I am very proud of them and wish them well in the remaining fixtures.”

Next up for the young Guyanese would be a clash with Honduras from 16:00hrs, tomorrow at the same venue with their final match against Haiti on Sunday from 10:00hrs.

more in the final session.

At 135-8, the lead was just four runs and with dark angry clouds hovering over the Bourda sward, the game could have still ended yesterday.

But Bhadesh Parsotam (6) and Persaud, who threw his bat around in his unbeaten 14, added 20 frustrating runs for the ninth wicket before Balkisoon trapped Parsotam

LBW at 155-9.

Marvin Benjamin (0) and Persaud ensured the contest goes into the final day when the Umpires called off play due to bad light and might hope that rain pours today for the game to end in a draw.

Today’s action is scheduled to commence at 09:30hrs to make up for time lost yesterday. (Sean Devers)

PAGE 26

Antetokounmpo scores from all over as Bucks blast Celtics

Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum (0) shoots between Milwaukee Bucks forwards Khris Middleton (22) and Giannis Antetokounmpo (34) during game two of the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoffs between. (Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports) Giannis Antetokounmpo scored 15 of his 29 points in the third quarter and the topseeded Milwaukee Bucks pulled away for a 123-102 victory at home over the Boston Celtics to even their Eastern Conference semifinal at one game apiece.

Game 3 is tomorrow night in Boston.

Antetokounmpo opened the series Sunday — a 22-point loss — by shooting 7 of 21 while constantly getting bottled up in the paint by Boston defenders. On Tuesday, he was 3 of 8 in a closely contested first half that ended with Milwaukee holding a four-point lead before things changed drastically in the third.

The Bucks dominated the third by outscoring the Celtics 39-18 and ended the period with an impressive 24-2 run over the final 7:06.

Antetokounmpo keyed the clinching run by hitting four free throws, a pair of 3-pointers and a tip-in. He exited to a standing ovation with 2:17 left, and Eric Bledsoe scored the final seven points to push the lead to 98-73 going into the fourth.

Antetokounmpo returned with 8:59 left in the game and by then Milwaukee held a 30point lead. He checked out for the rest of the game nearly two minutes later with Milwaukee

up by 28.

Antetokounmpo shot 7 of 16 from the field and made 13 of 18 free throws. He also added 10 rebounds and four assists.

Khris Middleton helped Milwaukee overcome some early sluggishness by scoring 20 of his playoff career-high 28 points before halftime, and he went 7 for 10 on 3-pointers for the game.

Bledsoe added 21 as Milwaukee set a team postseason record by hitting 20 3-pointers.

Bledsoe and Middleton were a combined 10 of 15 from behind the arc.

Marcus Morris led the Celtics with 17 points and Jaylen Brown added 16. Al Horford finished with 15 but Kyrie Irving missed his first seven shots and was held to nine points on 4-of-18 shooting.

It was the second time Irving was held to fewer than 10 points in a playoff game.

The Celtics suffered their first loss this postseason, and were within 74-71 midway through the third on a jumper by Morris before collapsing. They finished the quarter missing 11 of 12 shots and committing six turnovers as Milwaukee surged ahead and essentially sealed the game with the period-closing run.

(Field Level Media)

Farah declines marathon spot at World Championships (Reuters) - European record holder Mo Farah has declined a chance to contest the marathon in the World Championships in Doha, increasing the possibility of a return to the track.

Farah, a four-times Olympic champion over 5,000 metres and 10,000 metres, retired from track athletics to focus on marathon events in 2017.

The 36-year-old has since broken the European record when winning the Chicago Marathon last October, but only finished fifth at the London Marathon last weekend, over three minutes behind Kenyan great Eliud Kipchoge.

British Athletics on Wednesday announced their marathon participants for

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

the World Championships in September - the men’s lineup consisting of Callum Hawkins and Dewi Griffiths — and Farah was the notable absentee.

“Having seen my fellow athletes, who I’ve competed against in the past, and watching the European Indoor Championships on TV, I was thinking ‘Oh man! I want to get back out there’,” he said in March.

“That’s just me. If things are going well and I’ve got a chance to win a medal then I’d love to come back and run for my country.

“Part of me when I watch track races I’m like, ‘can I still do it? I want to do it’. I do miss the track.”

Jofra Archer in an England kit - finally ESPNcricinfo - It is an image which seems to have taken forever to appear, probably for Jofra Archer, and most certainly for England cricket fans.

And even though the sight of the country’s newest match-winning prospect in full England kit has arrived quicker than some expected, not least the man himself, images of him posing for official squad photos ahead of tomorrow’s ODI against Ireland show a man who looks ready for business.

Barbados-born Archer, who recently became eligible to represent England after the ECB’s qualification period was reduced from seven years to three, is poised to make his debut after being included in the squads for the one-off ODI against Ireland on Friday, a T20I against Pakistan on Sunday and five ODIs against Pakistan.

He was left out of England’s preliminary World Cup squad but the upcoming matches present an opportunity to press his case for inclusion in the final squad, which needs to be finalised by May 23.

Archer ’s supporters speak of his incredible talent, most recently showcased in his exploits for Rajasthan Royals in the IPL. For his part, Archer described the speed

Jofra Archer in England colours (finally). (Getty Images) of his elevation to the England squad as overwhelming.

“I’ve worked pretty much all my life for this moment and I just want to tackle it and put my best foot forward,” he said upon his selection.

“Hopefully I get a chance to play and do myself justice.”

But he also stated he did not “want to step on anyone’s toes”.

Archer’s potential call-up for the World Cup has sparked debate among the squad’s incumbent fast bowlers.

Some with reservations have argued that bringing a new player into a

well-established set-up could destabilise the side, or be harsh on any player who misses out, having helped England become the top oneday side in the world.

However, Alex Hales’ expulsion from all England squads - including for the World Cup - in the wake of his ban for using recreational drugs has dominated the agenda in the build-up to Archer’s debut, and has also led to three more players - Ben Duckett, Dawid Malan and James Vince - being included in the squads for the Ireland and Pakistan series.

While Hales’ 21-day ban will have been served well before the World Cup, the ECB this week decided to withdraw him from their squads, citing a need for “creating the right environment within the team and ensuring that there are no unnecessary distractions”.

Hales has not been a firstchoice player in England’s white-ball squad for some time, but was seen as someone who could enhance the depth of the squad, particularly amid injuries to key and fringe players alike.

His omission has opened the door for another face to appear in the England line-up, meaning that Archer won’t be alone in pressing his claims for a World Cup berth.

Sangakkara to become first non-British president of MCC (Reuters) - Former Sri Lanka captain Kumar Sangakkara has been named as the first non-British president of Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) and will take up his one-year post in October.

Sangakkara’s nomination was announced by current president, Anthony Wreford, at the MCC annual general meeting at Lord’s yesterday.

Former Sri Lanka wicketkeeper-batsman Sangakkara, who scored 12,400 runs in 134 tests, appears twice on the honours boards at Lord’s.

He hit 147 in the drawn Test against England in 2014, and 112 in Sri Lanka’s one-day international win on the same tour.

“It is a huge honour to be named the next President of MCC and it is a role that I am thoroughly looking forward to,” the 41-year-old said in a statement.

MCC was founded in 1787 and has been based at Lord’s, which it owns, since 1814. It is the guardian of the Laws of the game.

“For me, MCC is the greatest cricket club in the world, with its global reach and continued progress for cricket on and off the pitch,” added Sangakkara.

“The year 2020 is going to be yet another significant one in cricket, especially at Lord’s, and I am thrilled that I am going to be able to play a part in supporting its future as President of MCC.” Sangakkara’s tenure will include another

Kumar Sangakarra of Sri Lanka during nets at Kia Oval - 12/6/13.

(Action Images/Paul Harding Livepic/File Photo) busy year at Lord’s next year, with two England test matches against West Indies and Pakistan and the launch of The Hundred - the England and Wales Cricket Board’s new 100-ball cricket format.

Thursday May 02, 2019

PAGE 27

Kaieteur News

Warriors top Rockets as Curry, Harden play through injuries Kevin Durant led a balanced attack with 29 points Tuesday night as the Golden State Warriors went up 2-0 in their Western Conference semifinal series against the Houston Rockets with a 115-109 win in Oakland, Calif.

Both Warriors star Stephen Curry and Rockets star James Harden sustained injuries in the contest.

After a three-day break, the series shifts to Houston on Saturday and Monday.

For the second game in a row, all five Warriors starters scored in double figures, including Curry, who dislocated the middle finger on his left hand early in the game and yet still managed 20 points. Curry didn’t seem bothered by the injury after returning quickly to the game, but the same couldn’t be said of Harden, who sustained a scratched left eye shortly after Curry’s mishap.

Harden finished with a game-high-tying 29 points but often was seen squinting and rubbing his eye after returning to action.

The Warriors took advantage of 18 offensive rebounds and 24 points off 18

Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) blocks the shot of Houston Rockets guard James Harden (13) during the first quarter in game two of the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. (Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports) Rockets turnovers to overcome Houston’s 51-33 dominance in points scored off 3-pointers.

Durant, who had 35 points in Golden State’s home win in Game 1 on Sunday, shot 9-for22 from the field in Game 2.

Klay Thompson added 21 points and Andre Iguodala 16 for Golden State. Warriors forward Draymond Green had another outstanding allaround game with 15 points, 12 rebounds and seven assists.

Chris Paul complemented Harden with 18 points, seven rebounds and six assists for the Rockets, who went 3-0 at home in their first-round triumph over the Utah Jazz.

Eric Gordon had 15 points and Austin Rivers 14 for Houston, while Clint Capela (14 points, 10 rebounds) and PJ Tucker (13 points, 10 rebounds) collected doubledoubles.

The Rockets outshot the Warriors 46.8 percent to 46.2 percent but attemptdfewer

Messi torments Liverpool with 600th Barca goal in 3-0 win BARCELONA (Reuters) - Lionel Messi put Barcelona on the verge of the Champions League final by scoring twice in a 3-0 home win over Liverpool in yesterday’s semi-final first leg, taking his goal tally for the Catalans to a remarkable 600 in the process.

Former Liverpool striker Suarez reminded the visitors of his clinical finishing by splitting a tense and finely-balanced game at the Nou Camp in the 26th minute, although Juergen Klopp’s side went on to carve out a number of chances, spurning them all.

Barca captain Messi scored the allimportant second goal of the night in the 75th minute, chesting the ball down on the rebound and dribbling it over the line after Suarez had hammered the crossbar with a shot with his knee.

The Argentine then added to Barca’s already huge advantage to take into next Tuesday’s second leg at Anfield by scoring his milestone goal in style, smashing into the top corner with a sizzling free kick in the 82nd minute.

Barcelona’s Lionel Messi celebrates scoring their third goal with Sergi Roberto, Luis Suarez and Sergio Busquets. (REUTERS/Susana Vera)

Houston Rockets guard Austin Rivers (25) shoots against Golden State Warriors forward Kevin Durant (35) during game two of the second round of the 2019 NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports field-goal attempts.

Curry was the first to head to the locker room just 3:29 into the game, having jammed his finger into the basketball.

X-rays were negative, and Curry, with two fingers on his left hand taped together, was able to return to the game a

little more than three minutes later.

Harden was inadvertently swiped in the left eye by Green just before the midpoint of the first quarter. Harden, who had yet to score in the game, was gone for nearly a full quarter, returning to the

game with 7:09 left in the half and Houston trailing 36-31.

The Rockets fell back by as many as 11 before Harden poured in 10 points in the final 4:27 of the half, helping Houston stay within arm’s length at 58-49 at the break.

(Field Level Media)

Polished Holder unable to prevent Northants defeat LONDON, CMC – West Indies captain Jason Holder signed off on his stint for Northamptonshire with another classy knock but it came yet again in the losing cause, as the hosts went down to Yorkshire by five wickets under DuckworthLewis in the One-Day Cup here yesterday.

Opting for first knock at Wantage Road, Northants piled up an imposing 351 all out off 49.3 overs, with South African opener Ricardo Vasconcelos stroking a top score of 112 off 97 balls to mark his first List A hundred.

He posted 118 for the first wicket with fellow countryman Richard Levi (58) and also added 114 for the second wicket with Josh Cobb (58), partnerships which propelled the hosts to a strong position of 232 for one in the 35th over.

Wicketkeeper Adam Rossington chipped in with an unbeaten 45 from 25 balls while Holder carved out 36 off 34 deliveries to sustain his form with the bat.

In his final match before linking up with the West Indies side which arrived in Dublin on Wednesday for the Tri-Nations Series involving Ireland and Bangladesh, Holder punched four fours

West Indies skipper Jason Holder. and a six before falling in the 43rd over.

The 27-year-old allrounder finished with 284 runs from five outings, at an average of 71 with three halfcenturies.

More importantly for West Indies, Holder seems to have recovered from the leg injury he picked up during his 72 against Lancashire last week, and which kept him out

of the subsequent fixture against Worcestershire.

However, he did not bowl when Northants took the field as Yorkshire chased down a revised target of 175 off 25 overs, after rain intervened.

Opener Tom KohlerCadmore top-scored with 67 off 80 deliveries, adding 109 for the second wicket with Harry Brook who made 47 off 38 balls.

PAGE 28

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

Olympic champion Semenya loses appeal over testosterone rules CAPE TOWN (Reuters) Olympic 800-metres champion Caster Semenya yesterday lost her appeal against rules that mean middle distance female athletes with a high natural level of testosterone must take medication to reduce it.

The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) ruled the regulations were necessary for athletes with differences in sexual development (DSDs) to ensure fair competition.

The case is likely to have far-reaching consequences for women’s sport, and has split opinion around the globe.

But the court also voiced concern about how the new rules, which cover events ranging from 400-metres to a mile, would be implemented by the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF), the sport’s governing body.

Testosterone increases muscle mass, strength and hemoglobin, which affects endurance.

Some competitors have said women with higher levels of the hormone have an unfair advantage.

Semenya has said she does not wish to take medication to change who she is and how she was born, and wants to compete naturally.

“I know that the IAAF’s regulations have always targeted me specifically,” Semenya, 28, from South

Caster Semenya of South Africa reacts after winning the World Athletics Championships 800m final at the London Stadium in 2017. (REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson/file photo) Africa, said in a statement released via her lawyers.

“For a decade the IAAF has tried to slow me down, but this has actually made me stronger. The decision of the CAS will not hold me back. I will once again rise above and continue to inspire young women and athletes in South Africa and around the world.”

The ruling means Semenya and other athletes with DSD hoping to compete at the World Championships in Doha in September would have to start taking medication to lower their testosterone levels within one week.

Semenya and her lawyers

are considering appealing the ruling.

Professor Steve Cornelius, an advisor to the Athletics South Africa legal team, told television news channel eNCA the case could be elevated to the European Court of Justice.

DISCRIMINATORY The IAAF welcomed the verdict, saying it was “pleased that the regulations were found to be a necessary, reasonable and proportionate means of achieving the IAAF’s legitimate aim of preserving the integrity of female athletics in the restricted events.

“No athlete will be forced

to undergo any assessment and/or treatment under these regulations.

It is each athlete’s responsibility, in close consultation with her medical team, to decide whether or not to proceed with any assessment and/or treatment,” it said.

However, in the 165-page ruling, the CAS Panel expressed concerns as to the future application of the regulations.

“The Panel found that the DSD regulations are discriminatory, but the majority of the Panel found that, on the basis of the evidence submitted by the

parties, such discrimination is a necessary, reasonable and proportionate means of achieving the IAAF’s aim of preserving the integrity of female athletics in the restricted events,” the statement said.

Under the rules, female athletes who have high natural levels of testosterone will have to reduce their levels through medication to under 5 nmol/L, which is double the normal female range of below 2 nmol/L. The court suggested the regulations be limited to events between 400- and 800metres due to a lack of evidence that testosterone has a significant effect beyond these distances.

This has been rejected by the IAAF for now, which says it could expand or reduce events under the regulations in the future if there is a compelling scientific case.

South Africa’s Sports Minister Tokozile Xasa said: “Naturally we are disappointed with the judgment.

We will study the judgment‚ consider it and determine a way forward. As the South African government we have always maintained that these regulations trample on the human rights and dignity of Caster Semenya and other women athletes.”

The IAAF has received support from some current and former athletes.

British former long distance runner Paula Radcliffe said: “I understand how hard a decision this was for CAS and respect them for ruling that women’s sport needs rules to protect it.”

But the governing body has also come in for criticism from human rights organizations. The United Nations Human Rights Council adopted a resolution in support of Semenya in March.

The reaction in South Africa has been particularly stinging.

L e t l h o g o n o l o Mokgoroane from Sonke Gender Justice, a nongovernmental organization, said: “Essentially it’s reverse doping and it’s disgusting.

The decision will have farreaching implications, not just on Caster Semenya, but it will also apply to transgender and intersex people.”

Following the CAS case, other sporting bodies may now choose to set their own parameters for participation

by DSD and transgender athletes in their individual codes.

Semenya took potential steps to reinvent her career in the past days when she won the 5,000-metres at the South African Athletics Championships in a modest time of 16:05.97, an event that would allow her to compete outside of the IAAF regulations.

Georgetown Grand Prix revs off next Saturday

Nathan Rahaman will be one to watch out for some sublime driving. (News Room photo)

Rayden Persaud (G26) was the leading Guyanese in the Caribbean Series, followed by Jeremy TenPow (G61) but all will start even on home turf.

(Akeem Greene - News Room photo)

It has been confirmed that the first event of the Karting calendar will be a day race at the GT Motorsports track on Thomas Lands and Albert Street on May 11.

Further details about the event are being worked out but the organisers, GT Motorsports, have confirmed that they may have several overseas competitors.

Further reports indicate that there will be bonus points qualifying and fastest laps in an attempt to make the event more interesting.

The six Guyanese that participated in the recently concluded Caribbean Junior Karting Academy Trophy (JCKAT) along with the two youngsters, who competed in the Barbados Karting Association (BKA) Winter Cup, will be eager to show their stuff.

The six CJKAT competitors were Nathan Rahman, Jeremy Ten-Pow, Rayden Persaud, Paige Mendonca, Zachary Persaud, and Elan Rahaman. Elan only

competed in rounds one and two. Justin Ten-Pow and Nicholas Sawh were the two who competed in the Winter Cup with Justin snagging the overall trophy.

Meanwhile, a source close to the sport has indicated in using the recently implemented (Super Karts USA) SKUSA format which features a qualifying, two prefinals and then a final as against one qualifying and three races.

Qualifying karters will be gridded for three races: Race 1(Best qualifying time); Race 2 (Based on Finish from Race 1 with Top 50% of the grid inverted); Race 3 (Based on 2nd best time from Race 1).

Race laps are 12, while in qualifying it will be five, and there will be a bonus two points for qualifying and bonus three for the fastest lap of the day.

The categories will be 60cc Kids Cup; 125cc seniors, juniors and Masters; Shifter Cup Pro and Easy Cup Rookie.

Thursday May 02, 2019

Bent Street clinch Stag Beer Easter futsal title Team Bent Street left the National Gymnasium on Mandela Avenue $700,000 richer after defeating Gold Is Money 6-5 in the final of the Stag Beer Easter futsal festival that was organised by the Santos Football Club (SFC) on Tuesday night.

A bra ce from Pernell Schultz to go along with one each from Adrian Aaron, Sheldon Holder, Daniel Wi l s o n and Clive DeNobrega accounted for Bent Street’s six goals, while Randolph Wagner netted a helmet-trick for the losing finalists, while his teammate Colin Nelson netted the other.

In the third place playoff that kicked off at 22:00hrs, Sparta Boss bettered North East 8-6 despite a hat-trick from Kevin Moore. In the highscoring e n c o u n t e r, J e r m a i n e J u n o r, Ry a n Hackett and Daniel Edwards each scored a brace for the winners, while Grego r y Richardson and Devon

Jamal Eastman to lead Guyana team to Lara birthday boxing tourney in T&T Caribbean lightweight champion Jamal Eastman will lead a team of four boxers to the Brian Lara 50th Birthday Boxing Competition in Trinidad and Tobago this evening.

Eastman from the Rose Hall Jammers Gym will join welterweight Shamar Beaton of Ricola Gym and Christopher and Kelvin Moore of the Essequibo Gym as the party representing Guyana in the Twin Island Republic.

The local pugilists are being accompanied by coaches Clifton Moore and Francisco Roldan.

Jamal Eastman

Windies players urged to maximise opportunities on Ireland tour Frank ‘English’ Parris (center left) present that championship trophy to Pernell Schultz.

Charles added the seventh and eighth goals.

Also on target for North East were Kevin Moore who notched a brace and Joel Yahn who found the back of

the net once.

Thirty-two teams featured in the competition that was sponsored by Ansa Mcal, Dynas Trading, Star Party Rental, Sonic Boom and 94.1.

Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate Association stages annual inter-club tournament The Guyana Mixed Martial Arts Karate Association hosted their annual inter club tournament, which comprised of clubs namely: The Iron Fist Martial Arts Academy, Vreed En Hoop Martial Arts Academy, Invisible Kicks Martial Arts Academy and the Red Dragon Martial Arts Academy.

Students of various dojos showed their skills against each other. The results are: Junior male traditional kata Russell Roberts 1st, Travis Savory 2nd, Junior male traditional kata Hemant Tegi 1st, Mahendra Gorakh 2nd, Dominique Doodnauth 3rd.

J u n i o r m a l e traditional kata Jafari Caesar 1st, Antonio Persaud 2nd, Junior male traditional kata Mario Beck 1st, Rajeev Ramjit 2nd, Tamesh Singh 3rd, JuniormaletraditionalkataJaffar Ramnarine 1st, Darshan Diaram 2nd, Junior male traditional kata Jayden savory 1st. Rajiv Ramnauth 2nd.

Ashi Harnauth 3rd. Junior female traditional kata Roselyn Samaroo 1st.

Shaneeza Sanichara 2nd.

Senior male traditional kata Zafar Ramnarine 1st.

Altaf Singh 2nd. Chandrapaul

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

Sukhu 3rd. Mark Ferreira 4th.

Senior male traditional kata Joseph Da Silva 1st.

Triston Joseph 2nd. Senior male traditional kata Abrar Wahid 1st. Raul Joseph 2nd.

Senior male traditional kata Randolph Chrisen 1st.

Judah Holder 2nd.

Traditional weapon - Bo staff Zafar Ramnarine 1st.

Hemant Tegi 2nd. Mark Ferreira 3rd.

Male sparring Travis Savory 1st. Liam Phand 2nd. Male sparring Jafari Caesar 1st. Sohail Dairam 2nd.

Hemant Tegi 3rd. Russell Roberts 4th. Antonio Persaud 5th.

Male sparring Jayden Savory 1st. Dominique Doodnauth 2nd. Shiv Ferreira 3rd. Male sparring Triston Joseph 1st. Ashi Harnauth 2nd. Sunil Ragunauth 3rd.

Mario beck 4th.

Male sparring Divendra Singh 1st. Joseph Da Silva 2nd. Male sparring Samuel Dotson 1st. Nikhial Ramoutar 2nd.

Male sparring Judah Holder 1st. Roman Pollard 2nd. Raul Joseph 3rd.

Michael Bastiani 4th. Male sparring Zafar Ramnarine 1st. Altaf Singh 2nd. Jaffar Ramnarine 3rd.

Female sparring Shania

Mohamed (lone female) 1st. Female sparring Roselyn Samaroo 1st. Beyanka Benons 2nd. Shaneeza Sanichara 3rd. Freestyle kata Mahendra Gorakh 1st.

Shiv Ferreira 2nd. Dominique Doodnauth 3rd. Joseph Da Silva 4th.

Grappling Zafar Ramnarine 1st. Altaf Singh 2nd. Darshan Diaram 3rd. Grappling Roman Pollard 1st. Michael Bastiani 2 n d . G r a p p l i n g Ty r e s e Benons 1st. Sohail Diaram 2nd. Junami Telman 3rd.

Master Lloyd Ramnarine extends special thanks to the judges, the main judge for kata Steven Persaud, as well as the others including Master Lloyd Ramnarine, Raul Joseph, Abrar Wahid, Zafar Ramnarine and Aliya Ramnarine. Also special thanks to the parents who were at the head table. If anyone is interested in joining any of the four branches and one set to start in Herstelling at the NDC building, can contact the instructor on 698-6727 (any of the four branches) 266-2869/ 622-4857(Herstelling).

The association now turns its attention to MAFMA tournament in May in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

DUBLIN, Ireland, CMC – Assistant coach Roddy Estwick has urged players to make the most of their opportunities in the Tri-Nations Series but says West Indies’ ultimate goal will be to win the tournament when it bowls off Sunday.

The Caribbean side arrived here Wednesday for the series which will see them pitted against hosts Ireland and Bangladesh, in what will be their final audition ahead of the ICC World Cup which gets underway in England and Wales at month end.

“You obviously want to win, you don’t go into any series not looking to win but what you want is for us to play good cricket, execute our plans well, enjoy each other’s company,” Estwick said on arrival. “[We want to] make sure the dressing room is a good place and that they’re fully contented with everything we do and they’re happy and enjoying playing for West Indies.”

He added: “It should be a great experience for a lot of the younger players. It’s an opportunity for them to showcase their talents at this level.

A lot of them haven’t played for the West Indies at this level before so it’s a great opportunity for them.

“Even though they’re not going to the World Cup, it’s still important they go out and play good cricket and the ones that are going to the World Cup, this is the chance to get in some meaningful practice … so this tournament is going to be very important for a lot of different reasons.”

West Indies are fielding an under-strength squad in the May 5-17 tournament, with the core of their side currently campaigning in the Indian Premier League.

The inexperienced likes of opener John Campbell, batsman Sunil Ambris and allrounder Raymon Reifer have all found spots in the 14-man unit, while experienced lefthander Jonathan Carter has been recalled following a two-year break.

Estwick, recently returned to the coaching setup following a raft of changes to the management staff last month, said the TriSeries was also a chance for these players to stake their claim for more permanent spots in the ODI squad.

“It’s a big opportunity. [There are] one or two who’ve been out of the side and who’ve been given a chance to come back into the ODI setup so that’s important for them as well,” he pointed out.

“And like I said, it’s an opportunity for lot of the younger players. When I look at the makeup of this squad in Ireland, it’s a very, very young squad so they should be looking forward to performing well, breaking into the ODI side and probably playing two for three World Cups going forward.”

Following the Tri-Nations Series, West Indies will undergo a final preparation camp in Southampton from May 18-24 before taking on South Africa and New Zealand in official warm-up games in Bristol, on May 26 and 28.

They open their World Cup campaign against Pakistan at Trent Bridge on May 31.

Fringe West Indies ODI players have been urged to make the most of the Ireland tour.

PAGE 30

Thursday May 02, 2019

Kaieteur News

GFF/KFC U-20 Independence KO Cup –EBFA Leg

Soesdyke Falcons, Grove Hi Tech and Diamond Upsetters advance Led by their Captain, Tyrone Khan who netted a second half double, Soesdyke Falcons blanked Mocha Champs 3-0 to advance to round two of the GFF/KFC U20 Independence Cup, East Bank Football Association leg which continued at the GFF Training Facility yesterday afternoon with three matches.

Also booking their places in the next round, which will start on Saturday, were Grove Hi Tech which got past Kuru Kururu Warriors 3-1 and Diamond Upsetters who squeezed past Friendship All Stars on kicks from the penalty mark 4-3 following an exciting 2-2 scoreline in regulation time.

Playing the feature match of the day, Soesdyke Falcons found that Mocha Champs were not going to be pushovers and as a matter of fact all the teams are finding out that you have to come good on the day in order to move on in this knock-out tournament, the first for the association this year.

It was not until the penultimate minute before the half time whistle that Soesdyke were able to break the deadlock thanks to Kevin Sobers. It was welcome relief for the Soesdyke boys while the pressure was now on Mocha Champs.

Paul Fields (right), Threvon Pluck and Alwyne Haynes – Grove Hi Tech Second half play saw both teams going after each other but it were Soesdyke who again would score.

Sixty-four minutes into the match, Captain Tyrone Khan found the back of the nets again for his side from the penalty mark and 80 minutes on; he achieved his second to seal the game and his side’s place in the next round of the competition.

Mocha Champs had the opportunity to halve the deficit when it was 2-0 but failed to do as they missed a penalty that was awarded to them.

Grove Hi Tech wasted little time in asserting their dominance over Kuru Kururu Warriors; Paul Fields netting

the fastest goal of the tournament so far when he rocked the nets in just the 2nd minute.

The early goal caught the Warriors by surprise but they held their own. On 22 minute however, Grove was awarded a penalty and central defender, Threvon Pluck was given the opportunity to take the kick, he buried his shot clinically to put his team 2-0 up.

The advantage was further increased in the 37th minute compliments of an Alwyne Haynes goal.

Allowing the Hi Tech boys to run away with so many goals so early would have always proven a humongous task for the Warriors to pull back; and

Hand-in-Hand 3-Day U-19 Inter-County Cricket

Essequibo hold slim lead heading into final day as defeat looms Essequibo, despite a 110 stand between Orlando Jailall and Kevin Christian, ended a truncated second day of their Hand-in-Hand three-day U-19 Inter-County match against Demerara at Bourda yesterday with a slim 24-run lead with just one wicket in hand when bad light stopped play.

Essequibo were bowled out for 75 in their first innings to give Demerara, who made 207, a 131 run lead, and they were 155-9 after losing six wickets from three runs.

Jailall reached the boundary four times and cleared it one in 60 from 133 balls and shared in a century opening partnership with Christian who hit two fours in 49, but only number 10 Amit Persaud, unbeaten on 14, of the other batsmen reached double figures on a spin friendly track and very heavy outfield.

Off-spinner Joel Spooner followed up his 5-10 in the first innings with 6-53 for Demerara who began the day

on their overnight score of 162-5.

They lost their last four wickets for 39 runs to finish on 207-9, innings closed, 11 minutes before Lunch with burly off-spinner Persaud capturing 6-69 from 31 overs.

With rain forecast for today Demerara will hope to dismiss the last batsman without many runs added and hit off the required runs as quickly as possible.

The penultimate day began in overcast conditions and watched by a much smaller turn-out than the first day, Demerara seemed well placed to register an innings defeat against Essequibo and finish the contest yesterday.

But the hosts lost their last four wickets for just 39 runs as Persaud captured all of the wickets to fall yesterday. Skipper Ashmead Nedd did not bat due to illness.

Zachery Jodah (17), Pradesh Balkisoon (11) and Spooner (13 not out) all got into double figures before

they were removed by Persaud, while Qumar Torrington (2) was last dismissed.

When Essequibo began their second innings, the lefthanded Jailall, who favoured the on-side, got going with a couple of edges off Torrington, the quickest bowler in the tournament.

Christian, played the supporting role and drove Andre Samaroo nicely past cover for four, while Jailall hammered Alphius Bookie back past his ankles for four to dent Demerara’s hopes of an early win as the openers and rain, which stopped play 15:51hrs and caused a 47minute delay, ensured Essequibo survived to the close in fading light.

The opener capitalised on spinners who bowled much too fast and flat and lacked energy on the ball in the second session which was dominated by the teenagers from Guyana’s largest County. Christian swept (Continued on page 25)

Diamond Upsetters and Friendship All Stars in action yesterday at the GFF Training Facility, Providence. despite trying they were unable to.

The second half produced a determined effort from the Linden Soesdyke Highway based Warriors in which they were able to shut out their opponents in the final third and score a goal of their own but the winners had already done the hard work in the opening 45 minutes.

Anthony Roberts scored for Kuru Kururu in the 53rd minute, but that was the closest they were going to come to Grove’s tally; the match ending 3-1 in favour of

Grove Hi Tech.

The day’s opening clash produced exciting end to end exchanges between Diamond Upsetters and Friendship All Stars with the former running away 2-0 leaders with back to back goals in the 28th and 29th minutes through efforts from Jaleel Thomas and Joshua Herbert.

At that point it seemed an uphill task for Friendship but they kept their focus and responded in like manner, their first coming in the 37th minute off the boot of Jomal Scott.

The equalizer was scored

by Shamaar Montooth in the 46th minute.

Neither team were able to breach each other’s defence thereafter which meant that kicks from the penalty mark was going to be used to determine the winner as per the tournament rules. At the end of the 10 kicks, five each, Diamond Upsetters nailed four (4) of their shots as compared to Friendship’s three (3). More GFF/KFC U20 Independence Cup play is set for Saturday at the same venue.

Algoo leads Berbice fight back with attacking century

Kelvin Umroa

Kevlon Anderson

Alex Algoo

Opener Alex Algoo struck a belligerent unbeaten century to lead Berbice fight back against the Select U17 side when the Hand-in-Hand Inter County U19 three-day tournament continued yesterday at the Everest Cricket Club.

Trailing by 91, Berbice ended day two on 292-5, thereby enjoying a lead of 201, going into the third and final day, today.

Resuming on their overnight first innings score of 185-6, in reply to Berbice’s 127, the Select U17 side managed 218 all out in 71.4 overs. Sarwan Chaitnarine, who began the day on 18

departed for 38 with eight fours, while Niran Bissu (12) was the only other batsman to reach double-figure as Kelvin Umroa bagged five wickets and Junior Sinclair two.

Facing a deficit of 91, Berbice began their second innings positively with Algoo and Junior Sinclair adding 87 for the opening stand before Sinclair was bowled by Bissu for 42 which contained six fours.

Bissu accounted for Jeetendra Outar (06) in similar fashion before Algoo and Kevlon Anderson steadied the innings nicely with a third wicket stand of 87. Anderson

struck seven fours before he was caught off Chanderpaul Ramraj for 53. The righthanded Algoo added a further 57 with Seon Glasgow who was lbw to Andre Seepersaud for 40 with five fours and one six.

Algoo laid the cornerstone for a huge Berbice second innings total, clobbering eight fours and three sixes to remain unbeaten on 119, while Garfield Benjamin was not out on six at stumps.

Bissu has so far taken two wickets, while Ramraj and Seepersaud have one each. Play continues at 10:00hrs today.

Kaieteur News

Thursday May 02, 2019

GVF male and female U-21 teams off to French Guiana for U-21 tournament

The Guyana Volleyball Federation male and female U-21 teams and officials prior to their departure.

The Guyana Volleyball Federation (GVF) U21 male and female teams are in French Guiana to participate in a three way competition involving the three Guiana’s (Guyana, Suriname and French Guiana).

Guyana is being represented by a 27 man delegation which includes both male and female players and officials.

The 27 man contingent left the Guyana shores via Moleson Creek. The male team is being Captain by Andy Rohoman with Ronaldo Bobb the vice-captain. The female captain has Kelshine Griffith with CherryAnn Fraser the vice-captain.

The other players expected to be on the contingent are: Males - Hellond Singh, Tyrone Farley, Kristoff Shepperd, Terrence Groenhart, Levi Nedd (Jnr), Jaleel Roberts,

Daniel Joseph, Diaymion Al Ahamad, Montel Denny, Kevin Todd and Steffon Norah.

Females: Hannah Hicks, Amesha Mohabir, Famke David, Candacy Mentore, Philana Simpson, Cassie Junior, Kelanie Griffith and Shanariah David.

The officials travelling with the team are Levi Nedd - President/ Head coach, Rodney Fredericks - Vice President/ Asst. Female coach, Daniel Harricharran-Manager, Errol Fingall -Chef de mission, female coach, Vernella Chester - Female chaperone and Gregory Rambarran - Media personnel.

Guyana is scheduled to play on May3rd.

The males are the defending champions, while the females are the runners-up in their category. (Samuel Whyte)

Concacaf Under-17 Championship

Young Golden Jaguars go down to El Salvador Guyana playing its first match at the Concacaf Under-17 Championship yesterday at the IMG A c a d e m y, B r a d e n t o n , Florida USA went down to El Salvador 4-0.

Under the guidance of Head Coach Sampson Gilbert, the young Guyanese could not get on the score sheet against their more seasoned counterparts. This tournament is not only providing a berth at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup, but also the tournament provides the perfect showcase for Concacaf’s emerging stars.

Netting for El Salvador

were Emerson Saúl who found the back of the nets twice, while there was one apiece for Kevin Román Linares and Luis Vásquez Velásquez.

Guyana’s starting X1 is as follows: 1. Shawn Adonis, 3. Jermaine Padmore, 16.

Nicholai Andrews, 15.

Marcus Wilson (c), 12.

Shannon Samnauth, 6. Tyrel Khan, 8. Jemar Harrigan, 14.

William Vaughan, 7. Orville Daniels, 11. Omari Glasgow, 9. Ronaldo Rodrigues.

GFF President Wayne Forde commented on the performance of the young Golden Jaguars: “The young

Action between El Salvador and Guyana yesterday at IMG, Academy, Florida USA.

jags are seeded in the playoffs alongside the big boys of the confederation, (Continued on page 25)

PAGE 31

t r o Sp Olympic champion Semenya loses appeal over testosterone rules

Champions of the Stag Beer Easter futsal tournament.

Gold medalist Caster Semenya of South Africa celebrates her Commonwealth Games - Women’s 1500m title. (REUTERS/Paul Childs.file photo)

Concacaf Under-17 Championship

Young Golden Jaguars go down to El Salvador

Bent Street clinch Stag Beer Easter futsal title

Windies players urged to maximise opportunities on Ireland tour

GFF/KFC U20 Independence KO Cup –EBFA Leg

Soesdyke Falcons, Grove Hi Tech and Diamond Upsetters advance

Soesdyke Falcons Captain Tyrone Khan (2nd left) scores his second goal against Mocha Champs yesterday.

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