Kaieteur News

Trade and Investment K NEWS Exhibition postponed due to elections AIETEUR

Guyana’s largest selling daily & New York’s most popular weekly

Saturday Edition November 23, 2019 - Vol. 13 No. 46

Online: www.kaieteurnews.com

Price $80

- Exhibitors “have some level of concern” - Coordinator

Online readership yesterday 124,220

Oil contracts give T&T companies automatic access to tax waivers …Ramps Logistics says 'we don't import, we only ship into the country' Small Businesses show off Guyana's first Women's wares at Market Day

Scenes from the Small Business Market Day, yesterday, in front of City Hall on Regent Street.

Chamber of Commerce launched Mother of three dead after Tuschen bus smash-up Caribbean Airlines delivers strong financial

performance for 2019

Local Content Policy would

mitigate risk for investors

- GCCI President

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Kaieteur News

Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

Saturday November 23, 2019

PAGE 03

Oil contracts give T&T companies automatic access to tax waivers

By Gary Eleazar

S

everal companies operating in Guyana, but based in neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago (T&T), have been securing contracts for the supply of goods and services to the emerging oil and gas industry, while undercutting local counterparts, using the Production Sharing Agreements (PSA) that the Guyana Government signed with oil companies.

Under the various PSAs inked with Government, oil companies and their affiliates are exempt from the payment of any taxes, a loophole which has caused companies such as Ramps Logistics, Triple D Inc. and

another T&T Company to secure contracts at a lower price. What this means is that the oil operators are given the exemptions or concessions on the purchases, imports and use of consumables and other accoutrements related to the oil sector.

What has been happening is that the companies have been using the 'loophole' in the contract that has been signed with the government of Guyana which permits the waivers, for the “contractor or affiliated company in respect of income derived, from petroleum operations or in respect of any property held, transactions undertaken or activities performed…”

What this means is that

…Ramps Logistics says 'we don't import, we only ship into the country' the companies such as Ramps Logistics and others do not even have to apply for a tax waiver, since the oil company giving the contract is given the concession and this is passed on to the contractor.

Investigations by this publication found that it is the duty free and other waivers which are handed to the Oil Companies in the PSA, which allow for companies to now be listed as affiliates in the process being exempt themselves making the payments.

Agricola beating victim not dead

I

t was reported yesterday by this publication that 23-year-old O'Neil Jeffrey of 97 Second Street, Agricola, died at the Georgetown Public Hospital, as a result of a punctured organ caused by broken ribs after a beating by two individuals in Agricola. This was according to Jeffrey's mother who was interviewed by this newspaper.

The man's mother claimed that her son was beaten by two men armed with handguns, and that residents pleaded with the men to stop beating him, but their pleas were in vain.

The mother explained to Kaieteur News that his beating was gang related “I don't

know. I can't tell yuh if me son talk whatever he ain't suppose to talk or wha he deh in, I can't really tell.”

Jeffrey's hands and feet were tied; he was beaten from First Street to Third Street and remained in that state until Wednesday morning when ranks of the Guyana Police Force took him to the hospital.

The mother concluded, “I don't disrespect nobody, nobody don't really disrespect de I (herself) so I trying fuh figure out wha de disrespectfulness coming from… if is because of me son.”

Kaieteur News apologises for any inconvenience caused by the aforementioned article.

What this has led to is that companies like Ramps Logistics, which recently secured a multi-milliondollar contract with an Oil Company, not even having to apply for a waiver of duties, since by virtue of being an affiliate or contracted supplier of the oil company, the waivers are automatic.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ramps Logistics, Shaun Rampersaud, in an interview with Kaieteur News denied being an importer of commodities for the oil companies, but rather, they are involved in the shipping, brokerage and other logistics for the oil company that they were contracted by.

He was adamant the company did not get a contract to be listed as the importer, but was rather only involved in the shipping and other logistics, including brokerage and transport.

He confirmed that it is the companies that are in fact being listed as the importer of any commodity, which is then turned over to the contracted company to handle its logistics.

Investigations by this publication had found that a large multimillion-dollar

contract recently handed to Ramps Logistics, has raised eyebrows among domestic counterparts, since, according to sources, the contract demonstrates the inability of locals to compete with foreigners when it comes to servicing the emerging oil and gas sector.

The contract was awarded to Ramps for the supply of logistics and other services, but domestic companies lost out since the T&T Company managed to under bid each of the local counterparts.

It was explained that this was done, since when a Request for Quotation (RFQ) is invited by the companies such as Tullow, an estimate or bid is prepared by local companies to include applicable duties and taxes that will have to be paid.

“What this leads to, is the ability to significantly under b i d l o c a l counterparts…They are bringing in everything duty free, they can quote less than what we can quote,” one supplier told this publication.

Despite calls for increased local content, the supplier explained that there

is no level playing field, since those companies would have already made significant purchases over time, all of which would have attracted import and other duties.

“Local companies cannot compete against entities such as Ramps Logistics, since the playing field is not level in terms of rules and in terms of the players.” One supplier said, “…We are not against foreign companies entering the market, but what we are against is the policy of the government that allows these companies to come and take advantage through unfair competition fostered by the uneven playing field.”

Ramps Logistics secured a fully integrated crossborder logistics contract inclusive of Shore Base provision and management, marine agency, personnel logistics, freight forwarding and customs brokerage, with UK-based Tullow Oil for its upcoming Guyana drill campaign.

Further to this, a host of third party services such as waste disposal, tank cleaning and CCU provisions have been secured.

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Kaieteur News

Saturday November 23, 2019

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

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

EDITORIAL

Impeachment In the United States, the Democrats started out on the wrong foot, with their impeachment inquiry into the conduct of the US Chief Executive in partnership with the Ukraine to sully an American political foe. As matters proceeded from frowned-upon secret hearings to the open forum of public testimonies and without infuriating calculated leaks, a number of things become increasingly clear. It is that there are smoking guns leading to unsatisfying places, not necessarily rising to the level of “high crimes” just yet, but certainly not of the paleness of that which may be termed “misdemeanours.”

In one news items after another, the liberal, stately New York Times ensured that the sharpest of scrutiny took firm hold on national consciousness with the latest news of leadership overreach. The commentaries from its Editorial Board maintained the sharp focus and unrelenting heat as to the inexcusability and more of the president’s reckless foreign caper. On the other side of the rancorous US political battlefield, the conservative and venerable Wall Street Journal has endeavoured tirelessly to flay and flail in lessthan-spirited defence with the hand it was given to play.

The proceedings are closed, they are partisan, they are detrimental to the Republic. Nonetheless, several times, even the Journal was compelled to retreat and pull in its horns, through limited admission that the president did not act in a manner most befitting a head-of-state.

Regardless of how positioned, how well-defended and well-minimized, the evidence is not helpful to the American president’s cause, and regardless of the believed purity of his actions and the strength of his barricades. Former envoys have spoken clearly, the damning has been heard.

Current military men have yielded to the checks and balances enshrined in the sacred US Constitution, through answering the calls of a determined Congress.

What they have shared has emphasized some major lapses of judgment, which have not been found endearing by the president or his army of dogged supporters. In recent days, the Times and Journal have issued editorials that clash on the merits of impeachment hearings, without letup in sight.From a Guyanese perspective, and for Guyanese consumption, this should be reduced to the crisp kernels of local circumstances that may be easily understood and appreciated. For, if and when, a Guyanese political leader was to reach to outsiders for purposes of accumulating fodder to set fire to an adversary, then an invisible but stretched Rubicon has been irreversibly, unpardonably breached.If the situation was different, as in the more acceptable standard commonplace of obtaining intelligence on a fugitive or suspected criminal under surveillance, then there might be some discretion, the leeway and official loophole through which to find legitimate cover.

It is, however, an altogether unpalatable, if not illegal, matter for a leader, any leader, to stoop so low that he or she advances beyond the restraints of decency and legality, past the protective barriers of the dignified and the ethical, to target a foe for cheap political purposes.

Should a Guyanese leader make that call to, say, a Venezuelan or any other, then the self-serving martyrdom of bluster and spurious sparring about victimization and of varied witch-hunt objectives of perceived enemies falls apart, for by then it is over. Once discovered, there is no rationalization, no diluting or dumbing down of what did happen and never should have had. Some things are just not done, not even in the heat of battle, as perceived political advantages are not worth it..There is where and how matters stack up in the unfolding and dramatic flurry of events in the Adam Schiff hearings. Though not of the calibre of a Peter Rodino of Watergate fame, he has been forced to learn on the run and adjust accordingly. Daily, the net draws tighter, leaving lessons for leaders similarly tempted or already so engaged.Should not be. Whether here or there or anywhere. Whether supporter or partisan, or about the political, the social, the commercial, or the constitutional, all must be pervaded through and through with the moral and ethical. This empowers and enlivens the authenticity and acceptability of whatever is settled upon, issues forth, and then must be masticated in acidic human systems.

Two traffic ranks, a female driver and a dashcam DEAR EDITOR, I share an incident involving two traffic ranks from last Monday for the education of the Guyana Police Force brass (especially the Traffic Chief and its watchful PRO); other drivers (particularly those not yet similarly touched); and all other Guyanese (mainly those concerned with standards and justice).

It stands as a casebook study of so many things under the surface, never reported, many times denied and then delivered again and again in all the other interactions in this preyed-upon place.

The two young, junior officers pulled over a female driver, the sole occupant of a private passenger vehicle, this Monday past.

The driver had just negotiated, from an easterly direction, the turn at the stoplight of Carifesta Avenue and Camp Road, while proceeding in a now southern direction.

It is just after midday and almost directly opposite the authoritative appearing Police Training School located on the western side of Camp Road.

Each officer positioned himself on either side of the two front doors of the vehicle. The windows were all the way up. At the signal of the officer on the drivers side, the woman lowered her window, and shared her anxiety at the positioning of the other rank on the other side, since both could not be observed simultaneously.

Editor, the first thing to note here is that a lone female citizen is uncertain and untrusting of two men in police uniform in broad light and steady traffic. Such is the degree of suspicion over authenticity and credibility in this society, which ensuing

developments were quick to confirm. The second officer standing by the front passenger door came around to the drivers side.

It was time for business.

The official pronouncement was of driver violation for “red light ran” and the necessity of the offender having to “go to court.”

Matters were now out in the open in the overture of this most professionally imparted, very subtlest, of the impending: the threatening gloom in the well-schooled, well-rehearsed, and well-performed recital of long familiar lines.The response from the driver was firm disagreement and insistence on checking her dashcam. Quicker than a flash there came the now less menacing, but still hopeful: “what if it confirms that the red light was ran?”

Then it is to the courts, came the drivers reply. The once, supposedly traffic breaching driver was immediately waved off in an attempt at hurried closure of a traffic shakedown that did not fol-

low the usual script.

It is yet another example that points to what really goes on without interruption on our roads, our criminal inquiries (perhaps, largely) in a country profaned and deficient at all levels. For emphasis, at all levels.

Editor, there are several points I now wish to make using this latest instance of GPF vulgarity as context.

What if there was no dashcam? What if the dashcam did indicate that there was a violation? What if this was a vehicle operator willing, as is customary, to reach not for official papers, but for Bank of Guyana issued paper?

Those are not rhetorical questions; the answers should shame every living and compromised police manager, and every tainted, elected Guyanese political presence, of whom too many exist from both groups.

Editor, I submit that the GPF has the longest of roads ahead to overcome the ills and evils that overwhelm, and

which are now so reflective of the norm, of the near terminal. I recognize that improvements have been made, but do they matter? There they were: two of the most junior ranks, but already wellgroomed in the roles and riches of their calling made swindling. It could be from contemporary conversation; stationhouse intelligence, indoctrination, and culture; or the sergeant at the desk waiting to play part in the charade, while licking their lips in anticipation of the daily returns from the roads cash registers long known.

Now I move from the predatory pathways and polluted precincts.

For every innocent road user waylaid and intimidated by the police with the calculated threat of hauling before the courts, there is waste and worse. Waste of the precious time of an overburdened magistracy; waste of innocent citizens resources and goodwill; waste through the malfeasances that intensify the (Continued on page 6)

APNU has a mockery of the Constitution DEAR EDITOR, I had to reach for my glasses when I read in the November 19 Chronicle that the APNU has said that the Constitution would guide discussions between the grouping and the AFC. It was unbelievable that a grouping which has left no stone unturned and used every conceivable trick and ploy to avoid the Constitutional consequences of the no confidence motion is trumpeting Constitutional compliance.

This is a grouping which has not hidden, at least in a convincing way, its agenda to undermine constitutional

agencies and actors.

We need not forget the imposition of the GECOM Chairman, Justice (Retd) James Patterson.

Or the improper removal of Commissioner of Information, Charles Ramson who, I recently read, had his decision stayed.

Or, how could we forget former Chairman of the Public Service Commission, Carvil Duncan?How could we forget too that personalities of both the APNU and the AFC had sought to insert themselves into the work of Constitutional agencies.

We saw a minister seeking to inject herself in the hiring of public servants.

Or the almost instruction by a top official that GECOM pursue house-to-house registration because he felt the voters list was bloated and needed to be revised.

This has turned out not to be the case. Or the inventing of all sorts of incredulous contentions to ignore, skirt around and bypass our laws, practices and norms.The officials of the APNU have made a mockery of Constitutional compliance and then they now seek to say with a straight face they want to abide by the Constitution. This would have been a laughing matter if it werent so serious.

Alicia Doobay

GECOM: We will deliver credible elections DEAR EDITOR, The Guyana Elections Commission has noted with deep concern a letter authored by one Dr. Annie Baliram and published on Wednesday, 20th November 2019.

Dr. Baliram in her writing sought to create an impression that GECOM cannot be trusted.

Any right-thinking person who read the contents of that letter would therefore conclude that Annie Baliram herself cannot be trusted.

While Dr. Baliram has the right to express her views openly, her articulation on any matter election related should be factual and not a set of sensational lines that attempts to discredit the work of the Guyana Elections Commission.

GECOM has no obliga-

tion to dance to the rhythm of a few including Annie Baliram, with clandestine motives and mischievous agendas. The work of the Guyana Elections Commission is guided by the Constitution of Guyana and all that is procedurally required for the conduct of free, fair and credible General and Regional Elections is guided by the Laws of Guyana.

GECOM does not serve the interest of any one political party as Dr. Baliram suggested in her letter.

This nation is guaranteed that free, fair and credible elections will be held on March 2, 2020.It is clear from the letter that Dr. Baliram does not really understand how elections are conducted and the multiple levels of safeguards in place, otherwise a word such

as rigging would not even be part of her vocabulary. The credibility of GECOM to conduct free and fair elections was buttressed by the conduct of Local Government Elections 2018.

I therefore wish to provide clarity for the readers and Dr. Baliram in particular so that in her awkward admiration of GECOM going forward, letters to the editor will be from an informed perspective.

This Commission does not function in chaos. GECOM cannot approve everyone who knocks without fully working through all the details. It would be reckless for GECOM to respond to the whims and fancies of every shout at this critical juncture and operationalize activities blindly.

Editor, GECOM welcomes

the presence of both local and international observers, advisors and technical officers. Dr. Baliram should interest herself with the constitutional provisions for accreditation of international and domestic observers.

However, there are statutory procedures to be followed and timelines to be observed.

To date, GECOM has taken every step to ensure that General and Regional Elections 2020 are transparent and credible.

Justice Claudette Singh is competent enough to preside over an election and will do so without fear or favour, affection or ill will.

Yolanda Ward Public Relations Officer Guyana Elections Commission

Saturday November 23, 2019

Troy kept workers who had nothing to do How many other compa- the need to lay off a large for months nies in Guyana can people number of employees who DEAR EDITOR, A lot of negative comments and rumours have been said and written in the media over the past weeks about Troy Resources, without many actually knowing the reality of working at Troy; a company that has been struggling financially but has a CEO who truly cares about the workers.

As a former employee with firsthand experience, I have read all of it, and is now doing something I should have done much sooner, so that the reality is out there for everyone to know and realize, instead of just listening and believing the lies and rumours from bitter people with ulterior motives.

The company undoubtedly pays one of the best salaries in Guyana which results in all employees being able to enjoy a very comfortable standard of living. To help employees grow and develop, it provides safety and job related training to all, beginning from the first day of work, and strives to ensure that the working environment is safe and well for working.

It flies in workers every day to and from the mine site, provides air-conditioned rooms and three meals per day to all employees from a kitchen run by Maggies- all of these are provided free to everyone.

To add to this, everyone has access to the bar, gym, barbecue area. There is also a medical facility for workers and persons from the neighbouring community.

work for that provide such facilities to their workers plus pay exceptionally high salaries?

The recent accident was very sad and unfortunate.

But it was also very unfortunate and disappointing to see a Minister make such a poor, unconscionable decision that resulted in hundreds of workers being laid off.

Clearly, he did not think of the consequences of his actions and how much it would have affected workers as well as the operations and income of the company.

How did he expect the company to make money and pay employees if it was ordered to stop all work?

Troy is a stickler in complying with the law, both in Australia and in Guyana.

So every action, decision and ensuing result is published and released on its website.

Perhaps, if those sections that rushed to peddle lies and sensationalism had taken the time to do some fact checking, they would have realized the truth and also the fact that the company had been facing financial challenges for a long time, but with the expertise and competence of a committed Board, barely managed to stay on top of things. But perhaps the basic logic of doing some fact checking and researching before spreading misleading information, eludes many.

Almost everyone in the company is aware that for many months now there was

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Kaieteur News

had nothing to do at work, but instead, the CEO opted for keeping them on as he was concerned about their livelihoods.

I am not sure if anyone out there has realized that the most recent decision by the company will actually help cushion the monetary setback for everyone who were laid off, despite the company needing funding to restart. The company could have chosen to bring on back all employees now, which means that they would not have any salaries until mid-December and also terminate them all later by giving them the one months notice, which means they would have to go back to work before they got any money.

But instead, they have terminated all who were laid off and will pay out the salary for one month, instead of giving the one month notice, as well as pay out the required severance benefits.

This will no doubt ease peoples financial stress in a big way if they thought about it, until re-hiring starts.There is also some consolation in the message to workers that the company will re-hire, starting in the near future.

If this wasnt the case, why would they have more than 100 employees still working? I urge right thinking individuals to believe in the start-up, it is actually a good deal and will still benefit my fellow Guyanese when it happens, rather than (Continued on page 6)

The Belle Vue farmers story DEAR EDITOR, Can you please publish this letter in your widely read newspaper and or TV news and radio, so that President David Granger , his APNUAFC-MPs, the PPP-C MPs and the people can see and understand the injustice and the willful destruction that are being allowed to be done, against the Belle Vue Co-op members crops, etc‌. Between January-March 2019, Mr. (name given) ‌and agents came and used a machine and willfully destroyed our co-op members crops in field # 3, 4, 5 & 6, worth several millions of dollars.

The police from Wales Police Station, Ministry for Social Protection, Minister Keith Scott and the Co-op Department did practically nothing, to stop these destructions and illegal occupying of our land. During this unjust and willful destruction of our crops, some farmers and their family came out to their cultivation and were trying to prevent\the principal and his agents and his machine from entering their cultivation and destroying their crops, etc‌ When the police showed up, it appears based on their action, that they were more interested in removing the farmers from the field dambed, rather than stopping and preventing the machine from going into the farmers culti-

vated area to destroy their crops.

Editor, after the first day of this destruction, Minister Keith Scott and Mr. Aubrey Norton from the Ministry of the Presidency, came to Belle Vue Scheme one morning to meet with the farmers, to listen to the complains and inspect their cultivation and the damages to the farmers crops.

It was reported, later, on the same day of this meeting, Mr. (name given) came and brought more of his agents/ workers and with his machine and continued destroying our farmers crops, with more speed. Editor, sometime in December 2018, I think it was a couple of days before the co-op members representatives /delegation, had an appointment for a second meeting with President Granger Minister Ronald Bulkan appointed an investigator, Mr. O. Clark.

Without prior notice\information, Minister Keith Scott, Mr. Francis Caryll, the CCDO and a few of his staff came in the afternoon, for the first time to meet with the Belle Vue Co-op members. Minister Scott and his accompany party were present during this roadside meeting\gathering on the West Bank Public Road, in front of our co-op office, when Mr. (name given) and his agents came, and started arguing with a few of the per-

sons present.

Threats were made by the man.

When the farmers asked Minister Scott if he will report these threats to the police, he told the farmers that whatever is said here let it stay here, and he went away.

Editor, is hoarding of money legal or a criminal offence? Before and after destroying our crops, it was reported that, Mr. (name given) is boasting that he have lots of money, by the boatloads.

That he can hire the best lawyers and law firm to represent him.

Later, he is also boasting that he has top police friends.

Editor, if this is true or not, it is needed to be investigated. Editor, we the legitimate members, wrote the President and Prime Minister asking them to intervene and to help us get justice, compensation.We want a return of all our lands and coop rights to us.

It is reported that a few of our members have videos, photographs and tape recordings as evidence of the destruction, and the boasting of police favours.The members are (Continued on page 6)

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Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

POLITICIANS GREED DEAR EDITOR, Around the world, you will see that a few religious leaders and politicians have one common goal. They use whatever is happening around to manipulate persons for their financial gains without having any regards to the effect they are causing on society.

Religious leaders would criticize other faiths/religious groups to garner more support/members for their religious place of worship with the intention of accumulating a tremendous amount of money without thinking about that many donors are economically worse off and in dire need of help.

It doesn’t matter what we say about the donors, that’s a fact and many of the donors believe that they would be rewarded.

Similarly, politicians do the same. Make promises to people, but fulfill their own needs instead of the society.

Like the religious leaders, they skillfully manipulate their supporters’ minds against those supportive of other parties.

In Guyana, it’s very prevalent, even though crime, abuse in all manner, drug usage, and mainly, discrimination is rampant. Guyanese would be living in relative unity/harmony for some four years, but immediately when the elections season is about, the dreaded racism arises from sleep by politicians and religions. I’ve come to the conclusion that those in power are comfortable the way things are and do not want to see changes even though citizens are will-

ing to see changes in Guyana.

The results from the last elections could tell you that there is hope.

Editor, since gaining independence, Guyanas affairs have been managing by two main parties, the PPP (mostly East Indians supporters) and the PNC (mostly Afro supporters).

When the previous government was in power, despite the condition of Guyana, many youths were given opportunities by putting them in decision-making positions.

A few even got Ministerial posts.

With the numerous promises especially for the youths, Guyanese decided to throw their support behind the APNU-AFC only to be greatly disappointed.

Instead of job creations, we witnessed massive laying off. Youths were left standing on the sideline, whilst retirees/pensioners were given opportunities. Some four-odd years later, nothing tangible could be shown for youths or opportunity being equally given.

Youths will always be like a scapegoat in Guyana if they don’t start curving their own paths and avoid these political parties that are hell-bent on keeping Guyana racially divided.

They should revisit history and see that at a very young age, Dr. Jagan decided that Guyana should gain independence and he recruited the scholar Forbes Burnham and together, these two young men decided to take on great England.

Today, our youths are seemingly mostly soupdrinkers- they want everything to be served to them.

Very few youths are standing up to criticize the two main parties.

Instead, they are trying to groove into one or the other for a position.

It’s my humble view that should a group of young people come together and try making a change, they could be successful, once they were never attached to any party.

Finally, Editor, now that elections are close, there’s some 16 political parties and many of the newly formed ones comprised of mostly disgruntled members of other parties. The AFC was formed like that with three main members- Sheila Holder, Raphael Trotman, and Khemraj Ramjattan.

Today, the two surviving members are holding ministerial posts whilst all sorts of accusations are being levelled against them. I highly doubt that they could garner any votes for themselves based on their track record. Because of their greed for power, the public are seeing rumbling within the Coalition and within the AFC itself.

Likewise, accusations and character assassinations are being pelted against various parties and their members. Based on all these political parties and their records, they are not to be trusted. It is time a new breed of politicians arises. Guyana is tired of racism and corruption.

Sahadeo Bates

The Belle Vue farmers story From page 5 willing to provide them.

The President, Ministry for Public Security and the Prime Minister must meet with these members, and take the necessary action to protect these members and the information for future legal action.

Editor, many of the co-op members are afraid of losing their land and rights to their co-op society.

It was reported that a few of the members are suffering stress and stroke because of these injustices, coercion and loss of income and the constant pandering and dilatory behaviour of officials in the co-op department and the

Ministry for Social Protection.

Editor, our Belle Vue Cane Farmers Marketing Co-op Society Reg # 967, is one of the oldest or the oldest such society in Guyana.

It comprises 55 peasant farmers from Belle Vue Pilot Scheme, West Bank D e m e r a r a .

In July-August 2017, the majority of the members- over 33- met more than once and the members democratically elected a new committee of management and also decided to explore other crops on their cane land.

In August 2017, the members elected representatives, applied for arbitration and re-

quested Mr. Yoganand Persaud as the arbitrator.

A copy of this signed arbitration form was submitted to the CCDO, Ministry for Social Protection, Ministry for Community, Ministry for Agriculture, the Ministry of the Presidency and the Office of the Prime Minister.

We are still waiting to hear from the CCDO and the Ministry for Social Protection on this arbitration.Editor, three members have lost over $6M from the destruction to their other crops/ farms. We had approximately two acres of cassava and sweet potatoes; and half of an acre of eddoes and dasheen; bora; ochroes; pumpkin; squash; peppers; cucumbers and over 300 plantain suckers (plants); over 350 3-year coconuts trees; eight soursop trees; 20 Katahar trees; 15 Papaya trees and other plants.

There are many other members who suffered significant losses too. The Belle Vue co-op legitimate members and their families want justice and compensation now.

Shyam Balkarran

A NATIONAL PRAYER IS NEEDED DEAR EDITOR, Time and again, we attend public gatherings c e l e b r a t i o n s , commemorations, observances etc.- where prayers to be offered, are on top of the agenda.

That is all well and good; we ought to be virtuous and, by choice, God-fearing people.

However, when religious leaders from three popular religions- Christianity, Hinduism and Islam- are invited to lead prayers, it leaves much to be desired.

For these reasons listed below, we should pray using a generic, national prayer.

It is time consuming to have several leaders offer prayers, sometimes in one language, then translating in English.Persons with short attention span do not sincerely observe the offerings.

A few religious leaders arrive late or do not show up.

Through the grapevine it was rumoured that political affiliation causes a few of them to abstain.

What about religions

other than the mainstream ones (such as the BahaI Faith, Buddhism, Rastafarianism, Judaism, etc. ?

Are they not recognized?

While we cannot logistically have prayers from all religions, every time, we can have one common prayer.

It is time that we have a competition for composing a national prayer and use the winning prayer at all events as desired.

That will certainly be in the spirit of genuine social cohesion.

Karan Chand

Traffic tickets to drivers in the mail DEAR EDITOR, I would like to comment on the number of illegal activities that are being caught by cameras situated around the city.

It was reported some months ago that over 100 surveillance cameras were strategically placed across the city as part of the Safe City System.

The Safe City System is a component of the US$36M National Broadband Project, which was funded by the China Exim (ExportImport) bank and implemented through the services of Chinese technologies company, Huawei.

Several persons had hailed the initiative as a step forward in public security.

Today, I too would like to lend my support to the initiative that is continuing to increase in success.

The numerous criminal activities that are caught on camera around the city are of great help to authorities.

More culprits are being caught and placed before the courts at a faster rate.

It is amazing, however, how persons have not come to terms with the fact that smarter cities are becoming technologically equipped to up their security.

Many young persons in particular continue to engage in petty crime including cell phone snatching, forgetting that the cameras are in strategic locations and hot spots.

Drivers, too, have not taken heed to what is happening.

It is only a matter of time before photo evidence and a ticket in the mail for flouting the law become a norm.Editor, I implore the authorities to commence a widespread campaign to promote the use of cameras in our society. I implore them further to increase enforcement through camera evidence so that criminals and wrongdoers are reminded that eyes are always on them in this new Guyana.

With our oil economy on the way, authorities need to make it clear to these criminals and aspiring criminals who is charge.

Justice for Guyana

Troy kept workers who had nothing to do..

From page 5 say irresponsible things to frustrate and discourage the company from staying in Guyana. Is anyone thinking that the company can actually decide to pack up and leave Guyana, given all the false and distorted information that is being peddled about it to tarnish its reputation? Is anyone thinking that if that were to happen, Guyana and Guyanese will be the losers and Troy will move on and find other projects in other countries given its expertise in the industry?

Is anyone thinking about the message that Guyana and Guyanese are sending to foreign investors with the way that we are dealing with Troy and how this bodes for investor confidence in Guyana?

How many Guyanese have the expertise

and capability to construct mines to the likes of Troy Resources if foreign companies are pushed out?

Or is it that Guyanese prefer to sit on the natural resources and wait for a genie to harness the natural wealth and develop Guyana overnight?Also, I am not sure that everyone has seen the report of another fatality caused by pit collapse recently which earned a small mention in this newspaper, November 12, 2019.

There was no union uproar, no comments from people like Mr Lewis, who claim they care about people (whether they are unionized or not) and no shut down by Government. Is it that one life is not as important as another?

Proud former Troy employee (Name withheld)

Two traffic ranks, a female driver and...

From page 4 norms of what is now standard police operations. Efforts of the clean and conscientious few suffer, are overlooked.

I share that one likely worsening is visible through the unconcern of uniformed outriders and stationary ranks to the palpable wrongdoings and dangers on roadways.

They are too occupied with seeking out targets of opportunity; the newer vehicles introduce the greater likelihood of the Guyanese equivalent of stop-and-frisk. It is why midnight-tinted vehicles, the helmetless, and the endangering hogs are mostly left alone. There is the institutional wisdom that easier, richer pickings wait from those other Guyanese available for hostage taking.

How many miscarriages? Exploitations?

How many matters that cry out for the policing hand of genuine justice, only to end up untouched, unanswered, and unresolved?

On the side of justice, this is merely a sliver of what must be the now countless injustices (not only about traffic) that plague and blight Guyanese existence, this grandest of national frauds.

I think that those two errant policemen could be multiplied (by 300,000) and there would still be tens of thousands unaccounted for, and which reveals and relays the totality of lawbreakers that infest this dark, sinister space. And when I think of the cohort of Guyanese politicians, I see those two corrupt policemen blown up and renewed in the most monstrous of proportions.

GHK Lall

Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Trade and Investment Exhibition postponed due to elections - Coordinators say exhibitors “have some level of concern” The Guyana Trade and Investment Exhibition (GuyTIE) has been postponed from February to May, next year.

This was revealed to the press during the sidelines of the final day for Guyanas second annual Guyana International Petroleum Business Summit and Exhibition (GIPEX) at the Marriott Hotel yesterday, by Administrator at the National Exhibition Centre and Coordinator for GuyTIE, Tameka SukhdeoSingh.

The initial dates for the Exhibition were February 1315, about two weeks before General and Regional Elections. Sukhdeo-Singh informed reporters that the election date of March 2, 2020, which was declared by President David Granger, influenced the postponement, since “exhibitors have some level of concern”.

The previous GuyTIE had 59 exhibitors, the Coordinator said, but that number is expected to jump to 150-200 next year. The organizers are looking to include a minority of regional companies, alongside the locals.

Damie Sinanan, who takes care of Competitiveness and Export Promotion at the Caribbean Export Development Agency, said that GuyTIE has the potential to become one of the top trade shows in the Caribbean region.

From left] GCCI President, Nicholas Deygoo-Boyer; CEO of GO-Invest, Owen Verwey; Administrator at the National Exhibition Centre and Co-ordinator for GUYTIE, Tameka Sukhdeo-Singh; and Manager - Competitiveness and Export Promotion at Caribbean Export Development Agency, Damie Sinanan Currently, the event has several well-known sponsors, including Comfort Sleep, Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), Caribbean Airlines, Banks DIH and GAICO Construction Services.

Sukhdeo-Singh explained that the event, which focuses on export and investment, provides a platform for local exports to reach international markets, and for companies to look for joint ventures and investment opportunities.

To gather exhibitors, the coordinators have been con-

ducting outreaches with various chambers across Guyana, looking at products that have potential exportreadiness, and businesses who are looking for joint ventures. Chief Executive Officer of GO-Invest, Owen Verwey, said that GuyTIE is just one instance of the continued activities and efforts of agencies within government to ensure that businesses other than those in the Petroleum sector understand that “something is being done and that opportunities are there for them too.”

Police seize 4 firearms, over 1300g of Cannabis within 24hrs Within 24hrs ranks of the Guyana Police Force detained several persons after four firearms, 27 rounds of live ammunition and over 1300g of cannabis were recovered during exercises carried out in four locations.

Yesterday around 10:00 hrs, during Intelligence-led operations in First Street, Agricola, five persons were arrested including two females; one of whom obstructed the ranks in the execution of their duties. Three unlicensed hand guns, 25 rounds of live ammunition and a small amount of cannabis were recovered. According to sources, these guns were found in a house; wash tub and in a vegetated location. However the suspects are assisting with investigations.

Police ranks in Regional Division - 4B Eccles to Moblissa - acting on information received went to a location at Soesdyke Junction, East Bank Demerara, and found 1350 grams of suspected cannabis; two persons were detained and are assisting with investigations.

1350g cannabis found at a Soesdyke Junction location (GPF photo) A forty-year-old taxi driver of Queenstown was

also detained for possession (Continued on page 23)

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Kaieteur News

Saturday November 23, 2019

Local Content Policy would mitigate risk for investors - GCCI Boss President of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), Nicholas Deygoo-Boyer has made a strong case for the implementation of a Local Content Policy before First Oil. The businessman addressed the final day of Guyanas second annual Guyana International Petroleum Business Summit and Exhibition (GIPEX) at the Marriott Hotel yesterday.

There has been staunch advocacy for local content policy and legislation, and criticisms of the past policy drafts have been widespread.

For Deygoo-Boyer, going into oil production before a local content policy is passed would be a failure on Guyanas part.

During the summit, the Chamber President explained in the presence of Department of Energy officials and foreign investors, that contrary to the assumption by some that local content comes at the expense of Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), it would actually have the effect of encouraging investment.

The oil sector is almost as expensive as it is lucrative.

Hence, large investment sums are often plugged into projects. He explained that for someone to make a smart investment, they have to ensure that there is minimal risk to them. Recent media reports on the matter of local content and other issues closely related to the budding oil sec-

GCCI President, Nicholas Deygoo-Boyer tor, he explained, may leave investors with some level of uncertainty.

This is due to the fact that though support for local content is almost unanimous, differing views on what constitutes a sufficient commitment to local content by a foreign company causes the goalpost to shift so much that investors may not be certain about where they should stand.

“I would [be uncertain too] if I was sitting in your place,” he told a room filled mostly by foreigners.

“Looking at the headlines, Id say You know, it makes me nervous to think that Id want to risk capital in here,” Deygoo-Boyer said.

On the other hand, he told them that the opportunity before Guyana is greater than most, if not all, of the prospects they may be considering in other parts of the world.

“It is an attractive opportunity to put capital into.”

To quell uncertainty, the bridge over uncertainty, between investors and the local market, Deygoo-Boyer explained, is a local content policy.

“Because then you have as investors, operators, contractors an understanding of what the rules of the game will be. So then you know this section is going to be carved (Continued on page 13)

Saturday November 23, 2019

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Kaieteur News

WHERE IS THE LOVE? WHERE IS THE INDIGNATION? ”If you tremble with indignation at every injustice, then you are a comrade of mine.” – Ernesto Che Guevara.

A few days ago, I came across a fashionably dressed young lad. From his head to his toes, he exuded the world of fashion. But what struck me were not his fancy and costly threads. Rather, it was the Tshirt that he wore. Emblazoned on its front was the iconic image of one of the greatest revolutionaries that ever lived, Ernesto Che Guevara.

Had Che been alive, he would have been revolted at the commercial abuse of his image. He would have ab-

horred the widespread use of his image as a fashion statement.

The Left suffered a mortal blow when Che died. But he knew that he was not indispensable.

His final words after being taken prisoner by the Bolivian military with the help of CIA agents were: “I knew you were going to shoot me; I should never have been taken alive.

Tell Fidel that this failure does not mean the end of the revolution, that it will triumph elsewhere. Tell Aleida to forget this, remarry and be happy, and keep the children studying.

Ask the soldiers to aim well.”

Forty years after his death,

Fidel proclaimed Che’s spiritual immortality when he asked and answered his own question: “Why did they think that by killing him, he would cease to exist as a fighter? …

Today he is in every place, wherever there is a just cause to defend.”

Indeed Che is everywhere today.

His face adorns all manner of trendy garments worn by the young and old alike, many of whom are either unaware of the ideals that Che stood for or have long allowed these ideals to wear thin.

Che’s death made him more popular. The humanity that drove him to political action became the anthem of others, in-

Dem boys seh ...

Uncle Sam send one of he own to face trial Soulja Bai create history. He mek Uncle Sam deport an American citizen to Guyana.

That is de first time Uncle Sam ever deport one of its citizens to Guyana. But he was always quick to demand any Guyanese who do something against Uncle Sam. And poor Guyana couldn’t refuse. Even when Guyana ain’t ketch de person Uncle Sam use to reach de person anywhere dem happen to deh and tek dem. De cost of de airfare was no problem.

Suh this first one come to Guyana and dem boys believe that Guyana only get through because de man born in Guyana.

Anyway, de man come to Guyana and appear in court. De government spend good money to transport him to Berbice to face a magistrate.

Then it had to bring de man back to GT because Uncle Sam seh it don’t want no harm to come to de man. But dem boys seh if de man get found guilty and Guyana want to hang him then Uncle Sam gun seh de coun-

try can’t hurt him?

He deh in de jail and everybody know that jail in Guyana is no five-star hotel. That mean that by right he should get a thin piece of foam fuh mattress. Dem boys want to know if Uncle Sam been to Courts and order a king size bed wid slumberpedic mattress and netting. Anodda big story break out wid de local business community and dem foreign ones that wukking in Guyana in de oil sector.

De locals complaining how dem don’t stand a chance. Dem claim how de farriners got de know-how and de resources. Who stop de locals from getting the resources.

Dem boys seh that dem too cheap, that dem don’t want to spend dem money. And dem who trying to get into joint ventures ain’t even trying fuh 50-50 share.

Now dem see oil coming in a couple days and dem want to really see dem money grow dem realize that dem ain’t stand a chance.

Talk half and don’t mess wid Uncle Sam people

cluding the disgruntled youth of the West, who found in him an inspirational figure.

Che had left Cuba to help the Cuban Revolution by opening up new fronts of socialism so that Cuba would not be isolated.

But his death did not signal the end of his revolutionary romanticism.

This is what he said about those who labeled him an adventurer, “Many will call me an adventurer — and that I am, only one of a different sort: one of those who risks his skin to prove his platitudes.”

For him, the greatest attribute of a true revolutionary was love. In ‘Socialism and Man in Cuba’, he noted that the true revolutionary was guided by great feelings of love.

“It is impossible to

think of a genuine revolutionary lacking this quality.

Perhaps it is one of the great dramas of the leader that he or she must combine a passionate spirit with a cold intelligence and make painful decisions without flinching.

Our vanguard revolutionaries must idealise this love of the people, of the most sacred causes, and make it one and indivisible.”

He went on to observe that the true revolutionary “must have a large dose of humanity, a large dose of a sense of justice and truth in order to avoid dogmatic extremes, cold scholasticism, or an isolation from the masses.

We must strive every day so that this love of living humanity is transformed into

actual deeds, into acts that serve as examples, as a moving force.”

The Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) had a hand in the murder of Che. The question still to be answered - but what is widely believed - is whether they were involved in the assassination of Walter Rodney.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

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Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

A history of the PNC: Part 2 In my Tuesday, October 15, 2019 piece, “History of the PNC: Part 1” I indicated that I would do a five-part series, the second of which would look at the PNC in power, referring exclusively to the government of the PNC headed

by Forbes Burnham, 1964 – 1985. After the 1964 election, in the coalition that was formed between Peter D’Aguiar’s United Force (UF) and the PNC, Burnham had no choice - since he needed D’Aguiar’s support to become Prime Minister - to concede the vital Ministry of Finance to the smaller United Force. Here the seeds of poison were planted.

If the PNC had retained that portfolio, financial policies would have been the diametrical opposite to what it

was under D’Aguiar. The PPP had nothing in common with the UF. The PNC had nothing in common with the UF too.

The PPP and PNC came out of traditional anti-colonial, working class environments and were mass-based parties whose constitutions were the urban and rural proletariats. Complicating this difference was the elite nature of the commercial classes in British Guiana which the United Force emerged out of.

Anyone with a rudimentary knowledge of Guyanese politics would have known that the PNCUF coalition could not have lasted. Lacking an electoral majority to win the 1968 election, the PNC rigged the process and became a majority administration after 1968. Burnham as head of government from 1968 was the

same man who outmaneuvered Jagan from 1957 to 1964. Knowing full well that the UK and the US were not pleased at the ouster of the pro-capitalist, pro-western UF, Burnham played the game he thought was the only one in town – stay pro-western, run a capitalist economy, placate the western countries, and wait for the opportune moment to become your own man with your own vision of national development.

That moment came with the birth of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM), the North-South Dialogue and the increasing militancy of the post-colonial Third World.

Burnham seized the moment with insane hands and began the breakaway from the West.

He began to fulfill his dream of a socialist Guyana.

The period of the PNC under Forbes Burnham (19641985) is one of the most fascinating dramas in world politics. It rivals any country for the presence of complex politics and complex personalities. With the protection of NAM, the USSR and the radical Third World, Burnham went very far away from traditional post-colonial economic backwardness.

He took control of the foreign-owned national resources of Guyana. He initiated a cultural revolution, where the major race groups could reclaim their natural civilization. His foreign affairs direction was characterized by support for national liberation movements around the world.

He gave financial support to African liberation movements and after the revolutionary victories in Grenada and Nicaragua, he offered physical assistance, especially military training.

The PNC by 1976 was a genuine, radical anti-capitalist, anti-western, anti-colonial formation in the world.

Inside this phenomenal metamorphosis of a former procapitalist, pro-western organization were inherent contradictions that manifested themselves essentially in the nature of the character and personality of its leader.

Many pro-Burnham scholars attributed his downfall to sabotage by western imperialism.

There is a case for that theory, and it is a potent one, but Burnham’s congenital defects allowed for the penetration and success of imperialism in Guyana in the seventies. While the PNC had transformed itself into a revolutionary force with young revolutionary socialist cadres, its leader was a study in Freudian topography.

Burnham was essentially driven by narcissism, selfawareness of his exceptional qualities, and was a serious embracer of authoritarian philosophy. The PNC knew Burnham was its problem, but he was the maximum leader and he tolerated no challenge.

He would listen, applaud your dissent, but he would never adhere to anything he didn’t believe in, even if he was wrong. The most spine-chilling example of this was a special meeting of the general council of the party, called to examine the dimensions of the flour ban. Persuasive arguments were put forward that the ban was an abysmal failure. It was corrupting the security forces and Transport and Harbours officials, and enriching areas where PPP

Frederick Kissoon constituencies lived. All in the room were against its continuation, including a surprise to Burnham – Hamilton Green. In the end, the maximum leader refused to be moved.

Burnham’s attitude in that meeting caused a serious split between himself and his party. The PNC was at odds with its founder-leader. But even before the flour ban debacle, many PNC leaders were revolted at the assassination of Walter Rodney.

They felt Burnham had gone too far. Even before his death in 1985, the PNC knew that its future was without Burnham.

(The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of this newspaper)

Saturday November 23, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Govt. has no input into oil companies’ operations if they act before approval - Jagdeo Oil companies who act before securing the necessary regulatory approvals from Government, leave no room for the Government to make a qualitative input into whats going to happen.

Thats the opinion of Peoples Progressive Party (PPP) General Secretary, Bharrat Jagdeo.

During a press conference at his Church street office, the Opposition Leader said that companies should not be moving forward with projects that concern works to be done

in this country if they dont have approval. That statement was a nod to ExxonMobil, who has awarded at least two contracts for works related to production operations it intends to conduct in the Payara oilfield, despite the fact that Government has not yet approved the Payara field development plan.

The company has awarded a contract to SBM Offshore, to begin the Front End Engineering and Design (FEED) of the hull for the Liza

Prosperity, the Floating Production Storage and Offloading Vessel (FPSO) that is meant to operate throughout Payara. Then, just last week, ExxonMobil gave Italian-based Saipem, a multi-million US dollar contract, for the subsea systems for the Liza Prosperity.

These two awards are in clear defiance of the Department of Energy, who has put a hold on granting approval anytime soon.

During the most recent press conference that was

held by Energy Department Head, Dr. Mark Bynoe, the media was told that a third party reviewer has to be hired to assess the development plans for Payara.

It may appear to the oil companies operating in the Stabroek Block that regulatory approvals are just rubber stamps on their big plans, since they have indicated that they already have both Government and Opposition in the bag. But Jagdeo, who once again refuted any claim that the Opposition has given

them certain assurances, said that Guyana must have the opportunity to make a qualitative input. It is for that very reason that the Energy Department decided it would need an expert to hold its hand through the review process.

“If you can just do it and over time you will get the permission in any case, whats the need for us to assess?”

Jagdeo asked. “I believe its a qualitative process.”

Dr. Bynoe had said that an expert is absolutely (Continued on page 22)

Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo

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Kaieteur News

Caribbean Airlines delivers strong financial performance for 2019 Caribbean Airlines has reported its unaudited summary financial results for January September 2019, which show the airline continues to achieve an operating profit and is net income positive.

The implementation of new technology, expansion of the airline’s route network, an increase in passenger demand and cargo business together with enhanced cost management; are some of the elements which contributed to the airline’s success over the period.

The unaudited results for the nine months ending September 2019 show Earnings before Interest and Taxes (EBIT) of TT$121m, comprising of TT$153m on international and other operations, and negative TT$32m on the Domestic Air-Bridge, between Trinidad and Tobago. Revenue for the period was TT$2.3bn, up 3.8%.

CEO of Caribbean Airlines, Garvin Medera Garvin Medera, Chief Executive Officer, asserted that “It has truly been a breakout year for Carib-

bean Airlines. Another strong financial performance means we can continue our investments into

new planes and services for our customers, building a better place to work for our employees, and supporting communities across the Caribbean through sponsorship, economic activity and global connectivity”.

KEY FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS Key financial highlights for the nine months ending September 2019 include: ·Increased Cargo revenue by 14% and year on year profit increase by 34%. ·Addition of three new Cargo Interline partners Alaskan Airlines, Air Canada and United Airlines, giving market access to 50 global destinations ·Increased Duty Free revenue by 1.1% and year on year profit increase by 36% ·Introduction of a new Revenue Management

Local Content Policy would mitigate risk..

From page 08 up for locals or the tendering process is going to be this way…”

“So when I look at contracts, I know that contract execution and contract management must go along with these roles and methodologies.” The Chamber President said emphatically, “Risk is not just a statistic. Its not just about variation. Its perception. And we must be able to mitigate risk by putting certainty into place.”

He has said that the oil sector is not just going to be useful to Guyana through the revenues it will earn the country, but through the stimula-

tion of an upward surge in the standards of services and products that indigenous companies provide.

“I think that what the oil industry will do for Guyana, not money-wise but standards-wise, will kick off a new round of industrialization in Guyanese businesses and make us internationally competitive,” the Chamber President said.

And he believes that, with just the right ingredients, Guyana has the opportunity to make strong, fruitful partnerships with foreign investors.

The Energy Department is currently working on the fi-

nal Local Content Policy. The Georgetown Chamber and various other commentators have submitted contributions for the policy to be improved upon from the shortcomings that were pointed out in its previous iterations, to one

that gives locals quality participation in the Petroleum sector.

The Energy Department hopes to complete the policy before the year is out. First Oil is expected to come about during the same period.

System for improved forecasting & business optimization ·Caribbean Airlines ranked 96 of 332 global airlines for On-Time Performance ·Domestic air bridge provided 872,498 seats and carried 766,776 passengers, ensuring that passengers were serviced as required with adequate capacity. The On Time Performance (OTP) also averaged 82% within 15 minutes on the air bridge for this period. ·International operations carried 1,247,592 passengers, with an On Time Performance (OTP) average of 81% Chairman S. Ronnie Mohammed added that “Caribbean Airlines continues to develop a strong, sustainable platform to extend its reach and services in the future.

We thank all our customers and employees and, our gratitude as always for the full support of the Trinidad and Tobago government.”

It was highlighted that a number of new products

and services were announced during 2019: ·Launch of the Caribbean Airlines Mobile App in June, booking and getting the latest flight updates got so much easier. ·A revamped website, 24hour call centre and Flight Notifications means every customer can stay in touch. · Non-stop flights between Port of Spain to Curaçao · Non-stop services between Kingston to Barbados, · Upcoming expansion of the Kingston hub to include service to Havana and Grand Cayman ·Seasonal Service from Montego Bay to Fort Lauderdale The iconic Caribbean Identity campaign launched in February included sponsorship of events and organizations in 19 destinations across Caribbean Airlines’ network, bringing extra focus to the music, food and vibrant heritage of the Caribbean – many cultures, one people.

Caribbean Airlines expressed sincere thanks to all its customers for their continued support.

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Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

Magistrates participate in Juvenile Justice Workshop

Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan (sitting second from right) among other attendees at the workshop As more and more youths are placed before the courts, Magistrates from across Guyana yesterday participated in a workshop geared towards building the capacity of the participants to better implement diversion and alternative sentencing programmes to juveniles.

The workshop was hosted by the Juvenile Justice Department of the Ministry of Public Security and the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) Community, Family, and Youth Resilience (CYFR) programme.

It was facilitated by consultant Dr. Dianne Williams, who is a Criminologist and Certified Criminal Justice Specialist.

Vice-President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan, gave brief remarks before the programme commenced.

The Minister stated it is

very important that this initiative take effect immediately.

He said, “It is important that we understand that at this policy level the Minister of Public Security wants this thing to be fast-tracked so that our young people can see a more alternative way to incarceration.”

He added that he does not want Guyana to be known as a jailhouse nation and as such we should find better solutions other than incarceration for the offences of young offenders.

With that said, Minister Ramjattan reiterated some of the options magistrates can implement as provided by the Juvenile Act. “The Act provides for certain measures like an apology, community service, compensation to the victim…

I hope that you can get as innovative as possible knowing that the entire purpose is not to jail or to mete

out punishments that are too harsh.”

Moreover, he highlighted that his ministry intends to leave no stone unturned as it seeks to ensure that all stakeholders become au fait and develop capacity in the execution of their functions and duties.

According to information, 35 Civil Society Core Groups have already participated in this workshop, from which a group will be formed to take this knowledge to the 10 administrative regions of Guyana.

Furthermore, Prosecutors from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Staff members of the Guyana Legal Aid Clinic, Child Protection Officers and Probation Officers were also beneficiaries of the initiative.

A series of workshop were held between November 14 and 22, 2019 to facilitate the outreach.

World Aids Day candlelight vigil set for Nov. 30 - GTT fully supportive Guyana Telephone and Telegraph Company (GTT) is giving support to Artistes in Direct Support as the team prepares to observe World Aids Day on November 30 at the National Cultural Centre in the form of a candlelight vigil and drama show.

Yesterday at GTTs 79 Brickdam office, Senior Marketing Executive of GTT, Tashandra Inniss presented Representative of Artistes in Direct Support, Sidney Benjamin with donations to be used as prizes. The nonprofit, community-based, HIV/ Aids-focused organization received GTT umbrellas, GTT bottles, mobile handsets, GTT mini speakers and GTT mobile credit. These prizes will be distributed (Contined on page 20)

GTTs Senior Marketing Executive, Tashandra Inniss (L) makes a presentation to Representative of Artistes in Direct Support, Sidney Benjamin

Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Mother of three dead after Tuschen bus smash-up

S

p e e d w a s reportedly the primary factor in an accident yesterday that resulted in the death of a

Saturday November 23, 2019

The toppled minibus at the scene of the accident.

(Photo Credit: Regina Juman - Facebook page)

Tuschen mother of three.

Dead is 31-year-old Reshma Ramotar of 3355 Tuschen Housing Scheme, East Bank Essequibo.

According to reports, the accident occurred at 06:30 hrs on the De Kinderen Public Road, West Bank Demerara.

From police reports, the bus Ramotar was in - PEE 1243 - was reportedly heading east on the northern side of the road behind another bus - BGG 8917. The driver was said to be speeding and attempted to overtake.

Eyewitnesses say that another vehicle was coming in the same direction and this forced the driver to swerve to avoid a head-on collision, but this move resulted in him colliding with the rear of BGG 8917.

The bus that Ramotar and her family were travelling in turned turtle.

The injured occupants were rushed to the Leonora Cottage Hospital. Ramotar was transferred to the West Demerara Regional Hospital and died while receiving treatment.

The other occupants were tre ated for minor injuries and sent home.

Meanwhile, both drivers were arrested and are assisting with investigations. Both drivers were tested and no alcohol was detected.

Investigations are ongoing.

Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

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Guyana's first Women's Chamber of Commerce launched

T

h e Wo m e n ' s Chamber of Commerce and Industry Guyana (WCCIG) was launched Thursday evening with the tag line “Champions of Change for women of the future!”

The launch was held in the Grand Savannah room at the Pegasus Hotel Guyana and attracted such influential women as Sophie Makonnen, IDB Guyana's Country Representative and Office of the Prime Minister's Legal Advisor/Coordinator of Governance Office and WCCIG Board Member, Tamara Khan.

Giving the opening remarks and simultaneously highlighting the struggle of female business owners, was President of the WCCIG, Kerensa Gravesande-Bart “We struggle to gain access to capital, access to markets, sometimes even access to networking opportunities. Did you know as well that the average economy gives women threequarters of the legal rights of men, especially in developing countries? This might shock a lot of us. It means we need better laws; we need better regulatory reform and we

need better business practices.” Vice President of t h e W C C I G , Ly n d e l l Danzie-Black supported her President by showcasing how the chamber could help those very women.

“We also believe that we can help our members to create excellence in doing business. To ensure womenowned businesses and women-led businesses are equipped with sound and technical business procedures as well as market intelligence for decision making both r e g i o n a l l y a n d internationally.”

The WCCIG will join with the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI).

President of the GCCI, Nicholas Boyer lauded the breaking of certain stereotypes in the business community by the WCCIG. “I Nicholas Boyer, a male, am standing here as part of the establishment. We have to as men, take recognition of that fact.

Because if we try to deny it, we would be lying to an entire group that needs us to understand and realise the fact that there is an establishment and for us to

The new board of the WCCIG step aside, to make room for, not in contention with, women, to break that glass ceiling, we have to start by admitting that fact.”

To date, there has never been a female president at the helm of the GCCI, a fact that was not lost on Boyer.

“Our chamber, and now we have this organisation, will promote a new cadre of women who are strong,

intelligent and are going to be trailblazers and successful, and that glass ceiling has a time limit, it is women like Kerensa, like Lyndell, that will shatter that glass ceiling.”

Earlier in the day, Boyer attended the launch of the Women in Business Expo, showing his support and that of the GCCI, for the industrious women who are going above and beyond to

excel in the business community.

WCCIG has seven Board of Directors, they are: Kerensa Gravesande-Bart, Chief Executive Officer, Strategic Recruitment Solutions Incorporated; Lyndell Danzie-Black, Managing Director, Cerulean Incorporated; Renata Exeter, Chief Executive Officer, GUYOIL; Anije Lambert,

M a n a g i n g D i r e c t o r / R e s e a r c h e r, Professional Development Consultants; Sherry Ann Dixon, International M o t i v a t i o n a l Speaker/Journalist; Tamara Khan, OPM Legal Advisor/Coordinator of Governance Office and Jennifer Cipriani, Managing Director, ACME Marketing Consultancy. (DPI)

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Exxon aims to sell $25B of assets to focus on Guyana, four other countries LONDON (Reuters) Exxon Mobil plans to sell up to $25 billion of oil and gas fields in Europe, Asia and Africa in its biggest asset sales for decades, seeking to free up cash to focus on a handful of mega-projects, according to three banking sources.

The sell-off would be a marked acceleration of the U.S. oil majors previous divestment plans. It would represent an ambitious attempt

by Chief Executive Darren Woods to catch up with competitors who carried out sweeping portfolio reviews and sold swathes of assets following the 2014 market crash.

Exxons shares have underperformed its major rivals in recent years. The disposals would help the company increase spending on new developments and appease investors unhappy with weak cash generation and oil output, which flatlined under Woods predecessor Rex Tillerson.

The sales would see Exxon effectively quit its upstream oil and gas business in Europe, according to the three banking sources with direct knowledge of the plans.

They would free up cash to invest in new developments in Guyana, Mozambique, Papua New Guinea, Brazil and the United States.

An Exxon spokesman declined to comment on specific assets offered for sale but noted it has told Wall Street its asset sales could reach $25 billion through 2025.

Shares in the worlds top listed energy company rose following the Reuters report.

In recent months, the Texas-based company has drawn up an extensive list of

The Liza Destiny floating platform and storage facility which is preparing for Guyanas first oil. assets that it wants to divest, spanning at least 11 countries, the sources said.

The list, details of which have not been previously reported, would easily exceed its current divestment target which envisages it selling about $15 billion of assets by 2021.

Exxon has struck a number of deals in recent months including a $4.5 billion exit from Norway, and is also already offering assets in Australia, Nigeria, Malaysia.

The expanded plan will see Exxon also sell out of operations in the British North Sea, Germany and Romania, according to the sources. In Europe, that would leave it with production only in the

Netherlands, where it holds a stake with Royal Dutch Shell in the giant Groningen gas field which the government plans to shut down in 2022.

The new plan would also see Exxon significantly pare back operations in Southeast Asia with the sale of its assets in Indonesia and Malaysia, the sources said.

In Africa, Exxon wants to sell its operations in Chad, Equatorial Guinea as well as parts of its Nigerian assets.

While Exxon is set to ramp up its spending sharply in the coming years to develop new oil and gas projects, most of its peers have more cautious spending plans due to an uncertain outlook for oil prices and growing pressure from

investors to diversify away from fossil fuels toward renewables.

INVESTOR PRESSURE Exxon responded more slowly to the 2014 oil price

crash than some of its rivals that sharply cut spending, (Continued on page 23)

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Saturday November 23, 2019

UNDP pilots Community Mom arrested after pepper spraying Disaster Risk Reduction Projects students bullying her daughter

Mr. Jairo Valverde, Resident Representative, UNDP, Guyana, handing over a $1.9M cheque to Mr. Kenny Thomas, Toshao, Apoteri Village “As our climate changes, our weather patterns are becoming unpredictable.

This variability in climate can result in significant damages and loss that affect all sectors in Guyana, including the agriculture sector,” said Jairo Valverde, Resident Representative, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Guyana.

These brief remarks were made at the opening ceremony for the disbursal of

grants held at the Bina Hill Institute, Annai, Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo (Region 9).

UNDP, with funding from the Government of Japan, disbursed grants to six villages in the North Rupununi, Region 9, through the project “Strengthening Disaster Management Capacity of Women in the Cooperative Republic of Guyana and the Commonwealth of Dominica.”

Through this project, farmers have already benefited from training in the Participatory Integrated Climate Services for Agriculture (PICSA) tool which allows them to use weather information to make better decisions regarding their agriculture practices.

Building on the foundation provided by this training, with a strong emphasis on linking women farmers to (Continued on page 23)

A mother is questioning her responsibility as a parent after she was reportedly detained by the police for defending her daughter who was allegedly being abused by a group of students who attend her school.

The 13-year-old girl, who lives in Norton Street, Lodge, and attends Campbellville Secondary School, confided in her mother that for three days this week (Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday) she was being repeatedly beaten by a group of older students from her school.

Upon hearing of the complaint, the child’s mother decided to go and pick up her up from school the following day (Thursday). However, on that same day, while in the vicinity of the Stabroek Market, the alleged group of bullies pounced on their victim once more, in the presence of her mother.

They reportedly started to kick and slap the teen. It was then that the girl’s mother was prompted to take out a pepper spray from her handbag and spray it in the air.

Some of the children received droplets of the pepper spray on various parts of their body.

Moreover, according to a police rank who at the scene of the incident, he did not make any attempt to intervene as he claimed that it was “against the law” for him to arrest juveniles.

The child’s mother, however, was arrested based on a subsequent report of one of the alleged bullies who claimed that the pepper spray got into her eyes.

The police rank confirmed that an investigation has been launched into the matter.

In an interview with this publication, the child’s aunt, who was also at the scene of

the incident, said that her niece is now terrified of attending school. She is also afraid of being subjected to further alleged daily torment by the other students who are much older than her.

The aunt further disclosed that at times her niece would even return home from school with visible marks of violence on her skin, and she told her aunt that the same group of children attacked her.

“Is long now these children have been tormenting my niece, and it happening in and out of the school compound.

When I talk to people at the school, they told me that they can’t do anything when dem [alleged bullies] beating my niece on the road…but the same children beating her in school too, and they [school officials] ain’t doing nothing.”

World Aids Day candlelight vigil...

From page 14 during the candlelight vigil to lucky patrons.

During the handover, Inniss highlighted the importance of raising awareness and knowing ones status. She said, “It is because of organizations such as Artistes in Direct Support that education and awareness around HIV/ Aids has increased in Guyana.”

She noted that GTT is honoured to give support, as it would help to bring more awareness and encourage safer sex practices through the utilization of the arts.

Echoing similar sentiments was CEO, Justin Nedd who indicated that one of GTTs goals is to create a company known for its contribution to the

wellness and prosperity of Guyana. “In order for there to be productivity in any organization there needs to be energized, passionate and healthy employees; any venture that supports health and wellness in Guyana, GTT is proud to be a part of,” said Nedd.

Executive Director of Artistes in Direct Support, Desiree Edghill said that the success of the vigil can be linked to the continued support which she receives from organisations such as GTT. “We are grateful to GTT for their continued support to our organisation as we continue to educate the public on HIV/AIDS. Let us continue to work together, while “Getting to “Zero”. Zero new HIV Infections, Zero Aids Related

Deaths and Zero Stigma & Discrimination,” Edghill emphasised.

Edghill said the observance is aimed at recognising those who have died of Aids and those living with HIV. “Our members give their talent, free of charge, because we want to ensure the messages are received by our patrons, especially the underprivileged, without any cost to them.

This is also our way of giving back to the community for their support of us d u r i n g t h e y e a r, ” s h e added.

For the past 26 years, Artistes in Direct Support has pulled off successful World Aids Day observances under the theme “The Flame and the Ribbon”.

Saturday November 23, 2019

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Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

LEGAL NOTICE

FOR RENT Apartments for rent at Nandy Park #641-3318

SERVICES

FOR SALE

Visa Application: U.S.A, Canada & UK; Graphics design, advertisements, Wedding arch rentals. Tel: 626-7040

1 CAT 215 Excavator, 1 CAT 428 Backhoe, 1 Mack concrete mixer 8 CU YDS. Tel# 275-0367/ 683-7225

ICONIC MARKETING & PRINTING –TEL: 6006887: We create A/works, logos, business cards, posters, etc, placements of ads included.

1 Double Steel wheel roller, 19 Wheel Pneumatic roller, 2 Bitumen kettle. Tel# 275-0367/ 683-7225 German Shepherd pups.

Riumzeight Gardens, WCD #269-0671/688-1656

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620 HOUSE PLAN TO DRAW OR YOU JUST ESTIMATE. CALL: 216-0671/692-8464.

WHATSAPP #622-0267 Installation, Repairs and parts for AC, Fridge, Washing Machine, Stove etc. Call Nick 630-1600, 627-3206 Jacob’s Jewellry and pawnshop, friendly money lenders. 16 Pike Street Kitty, Georgetown. Tel#227-8748/ 622-4970 Power tool repairs. #648-1326 REPAIRS AT LOW COST: FRIDGES, AIR CONDITIONERS, WASHING MACHINE, FREEZER, SALE OF AC’S. TEL#629-4946,225-4822

Care for elderly and special need kids. Call: 600-0593/2317467 PROPERTY FOR SALE Property for sale at 15A Craig Village EBD, house 3 bedroom (1) self contain house #6177691/718-213-6496 Lot 89 Robb Street, Lacytown, Georgetown. Next door to Mike’s Pharmacy.Land size3431.25 Sq.ft. Phone: 617-5323, 666-8052 3 bedroom flat house at Cornelia Ida, Tiled, Grill, Big Shed - Side & Back $11M #671-2474/661-3659

2 bedroom flat apartment @ Diamond Housing Scheme $65,000 monthly.

Contact#643-9286 Furnished Apt for rent, 1 bedroom, two bedroom, Providence & Diamond. Call: 672-1906/682-6238/216-2299 Apt for rent, Parfaite Harmonie WBD #603-3912 3 bedroom house for rent #267-1446/604-1469 LEARN TO DRIVE

CAR RENTAL PROGRESSIVE CAR RENTAL: CARS FROM $4000 & UP, SUV’S PER DAY- CALL: 656-0087 / 6435122 ,EMAIL:PRO_ A U T O R E N T A L @YAHOO.COM DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL CALL: 225-7126 & 2263693 -DOLLYS AUTO RENTAL @ YAHOO.COM/ W W W . D O L L Y SAUTORENTAL.COM AIDAN’S CAR RENTAL:PICKUP,9-11 SEAT MINI BUS, GOOD FOR AIRPORT & FAMILY OUTINGS, CHEAPEST RATE . Call: 698-7807

Admin/Accounts Clerk, Cashier,Cook, Counter Server, Driver, must be able to work shift. Call: 225-6255/226-9000 Tyre repairs technician to work in Georgetown. Call: 2271717 Email: andre@cevons.com 1 Live in or Live out maid.

Salary $60,000. Call: 677-2659 Handyman- Contact #2235273/223-5274 Experienced Waiters, Drivers, Cleaners, Apply at Hack’s Halaal with H/written application, 5 Commerce St Labourers for wood concession - $5000 per day Call: 630-1831

N. Outar Driving School, Learn to Drive the right way @ Cuffy Square. Affordable package.

Call: 644-5166/691-2561/6812808

Minibus driver to work with company #646-8748, Driver for route 42 minibus #6640802

LAND FOR SALE

VACANCY

Parfaite Harmonie $1.5M, $2.2M, $2.5M Schoonard Main Road $4M.Provience $5M, Tuchen with Foundation $3.3M, Herstelling $4.5M.Call:666-2326.

EDUCATION Care for elderly, care for children. First Aid & CPR. #227-4881 ST JOHN ASSOCIATION FIRSTAID/CPRAND HOME NURSING CLASSES WILL COMMENCE JANAURY 2020. TEL #225-9082

Security Officers to work, preferably ex army,police or disciplined services. Age 2440. Contact #223-4172/6396648 Accounts Clerk, General Labourers, Security Guards, Handyman. Preferably from EBD. Tel#647-4427 Immediate Vacancy exists for one female cashier to work @ Del Ice Co, must have Maths + English. Call: 231-1408/6429191 Desk Staff, Room Attendant 25-45 yrs, 233 South Road Lacytown/225-2304

TO LET

We repair fridge, freezer, AC, washer, dryer-Call: 231-0655; 683-8734. Omar Repairs at affordable prices: fridge, air conditioner, washing machines, dryers, TV, microwaves & freezer-Call: 6105846 or 661-8158

PLANNING AN EVENT? BIRTHDAY PARTY, G R A D U AT I O N , W E D D I N G S , ANNIVERSARY, ETC. CALL DIAMOND TENTS: 216-1043; 677-6620

WANTED 1 live-in maid. Call: 625-4080.

Send photo & info via whatsapp

Rooms in Albertown. #2259223/225-3234

VEHICLE FOR SALE 1 Honda CRV. includes TV, music system, alarm, reverse camera, sproiler, crash bar, Low mileage. PTT Series (First Owner) Contact #6490956 Allion, Premio, Fieldwagon, Raum, Bluebird, Sienta, Spacio, Rz, 212 Carina, Pitbull bus. #650-7501

1 bedroom apartment for working couple/single person $35,000 monthly, light & water included. 2 months security.

Tel#623-0076 WANTED 1 Security Guard, Waiter, Waitresses, Servers. Apply at Herdmanston, Anira & Peter Rose Sts, Queenstown Tel#225-0808 Ex-100 Private & hire car & Bus route #44 drivers. #225-9223/2253234

Model M Bush truck, good truck $2.5M Tel# 678-2216/ Driver wanted, should be able to drive stick shift & left hand 688-7296 drive Tel# 223-5354 PEN PAL Lorry Driver- Apply in person Wanted Female companion to R.P’s Enterprise Area K Le age 45-55, interested person Resouvenir ECD. Tel#2202818/3710 can call #661-1426

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

Tel#227-8748/622-4970 Plumber, must have certificates & handyman/ security guard, fit & healthy, willing to gardening & others.

Tel# 223-4159 One (1) Clerk for TSI Eccles Industrial Site Office. English -1, Mathematics-2, Quickbooks. Call: 615-9132 Vegetarian Gardens: Delivery driver #227-7714/223-3448 info@vgiworld.com Cashiers/Supermarket helpers at Nirva Superstore.Apply with written application 49 Sherrif Str.Tel#227-5771.

Looking for a job & educational services? Contact The Job Centre 43 Croal & Alexander Street or call 6843757/600-8457

VACANCY Vacancy exist for Experienced Pharmacy assistants to work @ reputable pharmacy in G/ town. Interested persons call # 696-5098 between 8am-4pm Hick’s Ville Hotel: Receptionist/Hotel attendant. #231-0951-5/223-3448 Immediate vacancy exists for male workers to work shift @ Del Ice Co. Call: 231-1408/6429191 1 Secretary, 25-35, must be computer literate Tel# 2310655/683-8734 LEGAL NOTICE 2019-HC-DEM-CIV-FD1233 IN THE HIGH COURT OF THE SUPREME COURT OF JUDICATURE FAMILY, DIVORCE AND MATRIMONIAL JURISDICTION FAMILY DIVISION Application No. FD-1233 BETWEEN : (JOSEPH) RYAN DEXTER Petitioner v. (JOSEPH) DIANA nee BOODHOO Respondent TO: DIANA JOSEPH nee BOODHOO Last Known Address 113 Kuru Kuru, Soesdyke, Linden Highway TAKE NOTICE that on the 7th day of October,2019 a Petition for Divorce was filed against you by RYAN DEXTER JOSEPH, the Petitioner in the Family Division of the High Court in Georgetown, Demerara AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that as part of an Order made on the 12th day of November ,2019 the Petitioner was directed to effect service of her Petition on you by publication of this Notice in two (2) consecutive Saturday issue of a daily Newspaper of general circulation in and around Guyana.

AND FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire you may appear or attend in person or by your duly authorized agent or Attorneyat-Law at the Registry of Family Division of the High Court at Georgetown, Demerara where you will be issued with a certified copy of the Petition together with related documents.

AND FUTHER TAKE NOTICE that if you desire to Defend this Divorce, then upon receipt of the certified copy of the Petition, you must file an Acknowledgement of Service, Notice of Intention to Defend (Forms are available at the Registry) Answer and/ or Cross Petition in the Registry of the Family Division of the High

Court at Georgetown, Demerara within 28(twentyeight) days after the date of the second and final publication of this Notice TAKE NOTICE that the matter is fixed for Directions Hearing on Tuesday the 28th day January 2020 at 9:30 am before the Honourable Madam Chief Justice Roxanne George in the Family Court of the High Court at Georgetown.

IN DEFAULT of your filing an Acknowledgement of Service/Notice of Intention to Defend Answer and/or Cross Petition the Court may proceed in your absence and may make any Order it considers appropriate, including granting the Divorce.

The Registry of the Family Division of the High Court is located at the Law Courts, [Georgetown, Demerara]. The office is open to the public between 8:00am and 3:30pm Mondays to Thursdays and 8:00am to 2:30pm on Fridays except on public holidays and on such other days as the Registry is closed.

Dated the 15th day of November, 2019

Govt. has no...

From page 11 necessary for increased scrutiny of the development plans, even though an initial assessment was done by the Energy Department as well as the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC).

The Director said that the Department of Energy is progressing with the expedited procurement process for a third party reviewer with the help of the World Bank, one of Guyanas international development partners.

Additionally, Dr. Bynoe said that the Department is targeting the first week of December for the third Party Reviewer contract award and subsequent third Party Review into the first quarter of 2020.

Saturday November 23, 2019

Small Businesses show off wares at Market Day Some 30 Small Business yesterday turned out at a Market Day, held in front of City Hall on Regent Street, Georgetown, to showcase their locally-made products.

The Small Business Market Day was made possible by the Small Business Bureau (SBB), in collaboration with the Ministry of Business.

The market was opened at 08:00hrs for patrons to view, sample and purchase the items that were displayed. The event was used to, in many ways, advertise for the upcoming Christmas season, especially those who produced cooking ingredients and other food items.

They were a variety of products on sale at the market like food spices, clothing, craft, hair products, floral arrangements, accessories and ornaments.

Several persons who attended were quite impressed with the layout.

Many of the manufacturers were mainly producers of locally made spices that they produced for different purposes. One of them noted that her spices are guaranteed to add that “Guyanese flavour” to anyone s pot.

The woman shared that she had always dreamt of being an independent business owner creating and promot-

ing her products and for the past year her dream has become a reality. “I started making spices over a year now and its something Im passionate about.”

“Most Guyanese are accustomed to the imported spices that we get from Trinidad and the other producing countries. There are many persons who were a bit skeptical at first to try my product, but after they put it to the test they came back and purchased more, supporting a local Guyanese business.”

Venturing through the other booths, the brightcoloured clothing and floral (Continued on page 24)

Exxon aims to sell $25B of...

From page 19 putting it under pressure from shareholders to reduce costs.

Exxons shares heavily underperformed relative to other Oil Majors over the past five years.

Unlike rivals such as Shell and BP, Exxon did not carry out major review of its portfolio in recent decades. BP sold over $65 billion of assets following the 2010 Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico while Shell sold over $30 billion after acquiring rival BG Group in 2016.

Under Woods, Exxon is set to sharply increase its spending in the coming years as it launches new, large oil and gas developments. In its 2019 investor day, the company said it planned to boost its annual capital spending from $26 billion in 2018 to $30$35 billion between 2021 and 2025.

Building up its coffers via asset sales could help allay concerns that Exxon will ramp up its debt levels to fund new projects, particularly with oil prices remaining stubbornly close to $60 a barrel.

Moodys Investor Service on Tuesday changed Exxons outlook to negative from stable due to its negative free cash flow and anticipated use of debt to fund its future capi-

tal spending.

Moodys has forecast negative free cash flow of about $7 billion this year and $9 billion next year. It warned the companys debt rating could be lowered next year if Exxons financial metrics weaken further.

By contrast, Exxons biggest rival Shell has generated $21 billion in free cash flows so far this year and the figure

PAGE 23

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is expected to rise further in the fourth quarter.

“The companys high level of growth capital investments cannot be funded with operating cash flow and asset sales at projected levels given ExxonMobils substantial dividend payout, absent meaningfully higher commodity prices and earnings from downstream and chemicals,” Moodys said.

UNDP pilots Community Disaster...

From page 20 finance, these grants are intended to support climate smart practices which would contribute to the continuous supply of food for communities in the event of a disaster.

This first disbursement, which amounted to approximately $12M Guyana dollars,

Police seize 4...

From pge 7 of 40 grams of suspected cannabis at Vi c t o r i a Road, Plaisance, East Coast Demerara; charges are being processed against him.

And another man was arrested after ranks acted on information and conducted a search at Aubrey Barker Road, South Ruimveldt Gardens around 10:45 hrs; an unlicensed pistol with two live rounds of ammunition were found concealed on a 20year-old old unemployed suspect of Perry Street, Tucville.

The Guyana Police Force has started its annual policing strategies for the Christmas period and has unveiled plans to tackle the expected hike in criminal activity.

benefitted the villages of Apoteri, Surama, Aranaputa, Wowetta, Rupertee, and Annai, in initiatives as diverse as peanut farming, poultry rearing and cassava processing. “Our poultry project is the first of its kind in the village of Annai.

We will use the profits to financially support our farmers to do things that will help them enhance their livelihoods and contribute to food s e c u r i t y, ” s a i d M i k e Williams, Senior Councilor, Annai Village Council.

In addition to Region 9, the grants component of the project encompasses

Mahaica-Berbice (Region 5), East-Berbice-Corentyne (Region 6), CuyuniMazaruni (Region 7), and Potaro-Siparuni (Region 8). Grants will be disbursed on a competitive basis, targeting legally registered groups and village councils involved in agricultural activities located in areas vulnerable to natural hazards.

UNDP stressed its commitment to strengthening community resilience and disaster preparedness and wishes all the grant recipients every success for the implementation of their respective projects.

PAGE 24

Metal detectorists jailed for stealing rare Viking hoard worth millions C N N ) — Tw o m e t a l detectorists who stole an ancient Viking hoard “of national importance” from a British field have been jailed, after a judge ruled they had cheated the public out of what should have been national treasure.

George Powell, aged 38, and 51-year-old Layton Davies were found guilty of theft, conspiracy to conceal criminal property and conspiracy to convert criminal property after they failed to declare the find and instead set about selling it.

Powell was jailed Friday for 10 years and Davies for 8.5 years. Two other men were also found guilty of criminal charges. Simon Wicks, 57, was found guilty of conspiracy to conceal criminal property and conspiracy to convert criminal property and was handed a sentence of five years.

Paul Wells, aged 60, was found guilty of conspiracy to conceal criminal property and will be sentenced in December.

West Mercia Police said in a statement that Powell and Davies discovered the large hoard, thought to be worth £3 million ($3.9 million), in a field in Herefordshire, England in 2015. It contained ornaments, 300 coins, a gold ring and a pendant made from a sphere of rock crystal bound with gold, among other items.

Some of the coins, one of which was issued by King Alfred the Great of Wessex, are thought to have dated from as early as 871 AD and were collected

by Vikings.

The pair claimed to have found only a couple of gold coins, but investigators recovered deleted images of the full hoard f r o m P o w e l l ’s m o b i l e phone. The vast majority of the treasure is still missing, with just 31 coins recovered. he theft came to light after police were alerted by reports from the metal detecting community and the B r i t i s h M u s e u m , We s t Mercia Police said.

Sentencing Powell and Davies at Worcester Crown Court on Friday, Judge Nicholas Cartwright berated them for concealing the find.

“Stealing the items as

you did denies the public the opportunity of seeing those items in the way they should be displayed.

When treasure is found it belongs, from the moment of finding, to the nation,” he said.

Speaking to the BBC, Gareth Williams, curator of early medieval coinage at the British Museum, said the coins were mostly of Anglo-Saxon origin and were of historical significance. They had been buried he said, by Vikings, to protect them.

“These coins enable us to re-interpret our history at a key moment in the creation of England as a single kingdom,” he said.

Ex-CIA officer sentenced to 19 years in prison for conspiring to spy for China (Reuters) - A former CIA case officer was sentenced by a federal judge in Virginia on Friday to serve 19 years in prison, after he pleaded guilty in May to conspiring to become a spy for China, federal prosecutors announced.

Jerry Chuan Shing Lee, 55, left the CIA in 2007 and moved to Hong Kong. A few years later, in 2010, he was approached by two Chinese intelligence officers who offered to pay him $100,000 and to take care of him “for life” for information he had acquired as a CIA officer.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars were subse-

Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

quently paid into Lee’s personal bank account between 2010 and 2013, in exchange for his services.

“Instead of embracing that responsibility and honoring his commitment to not disclose national defense information, Lee sold out his country, conspired to become a spy for a foreign government, and then repeatedly lied to investigators about his conduct,” Zachary Terwilliger, the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, said in a statement.

According to the Justice Department, the FBI conducted a search of

Lee’s hotel room in Hawaii in August 2012 and discovered he had an address book and day planner containing handwritten notes he had made during his time as a CIA case officer prior to 2004.

The notes included highly sensitive intelligence, such as the names of CIA assets, operational meeting locations, phone numbers and details on covert facilities.

He later lied to the FBI when he was confronted.

He pleaded guilty in May with conspiring to deliver national security defense information to aid a foreign government.

President Trump made 53 false claims last week, including 29 in a speech to New York business leaders W a s h i n g t o n (CNN)President Donald Trump made a conventional kind of presidential appearance last week, delivering a speech about the economy to a gathering of New York City corporate elites.

He then made 29 false claims in 71 minutes.

It isn’t only rally speeches in which Trump is relentlessly dishonest. His address to the Economic Club of New York was littered with inaccurate economic statistics, baseless claims about environmental policy, and one of his signature fictional tales about people crying in gratitude at one of his events.

Trump made 53 false claims in all last week. That was below his average of 66 false claims per week for the 19 weeks we have tracked at CNN. Through Sunday, Trump had made 1,255 total false claims since we started counting on July 8.

The economy was the top subject of Trump’s dishonesty last week, with 15 false claims — the first time in seven weeks that neither his

Ukraine scandal nor Democrats’ related impeachment inquiry topped the list.

The impeachment inquiry came second last week, with 13 false claims.

The most egregious false claim: Schiff’s non-doctoring Trump predicted on November 2 and again on November 3 that Democratic Rep. Adam Schiff would fraudulently alter any transcripts the House Intelligence Committee, which Schiff chairs, might release of closed-door impeachment inquiry testimony.

The committee then began releasing transcripts. None of the Republican members of the committee, and none of the witness who testified, alleged that any of these transcripts had been doctored in any way.

Trump was, naturally, undeterred. He tweeted November 11 that “Schiff will only release doctored transcripts.”

Before the transcripts were released, this was merely a highly dubious prediction.

After the transcripts were released, it was an inaccurate smear.

The most revealing false claim: An assumption on health care Trump held a Friday event at the White House to herald two new rules to increase transparency in health care pricing.

“First,” he said, “we are finalizing a rule that will compel hospitals to publish prices publicly online for everyone to see and to compare.

So you’re able to go online and compare all of the hospitals and the doctors and the prices, and, I assume, get resumes on doctors and see who you like.”

The first part, his scripted line about hospitals publishing price information, was correct. The last part, his apparent ad-lib about people being able to see “resumes on doctors,” was baseless.

Neither of the two new rules contains any provision about resumes.

Most presidents would not depart from the vetted text of a policy speech to tell Americans something they merely “assume.” But Trump isn’t like most presidents.

Israel’s Netanyahu facing fight of his political life (BBC) Anyone who thought a decision on the long-running corruption investigation embroiling Israel’s prime minister would resolve the country’s political turmoil was wrong.

On Thursday Benjamin Netanyahu reacted to indictments on charges of bribery and fraud with a vitriolic attack on law enforcement, the judicial system and what he sees as hostile left-wing media. He claimed that police and prosecutors were conducting a grand conspiracy to remove him from power.

This was a line of attack he’d taken as the investigation closed in, and one he’s expected to continue as the country staggers towards more months of political cri-

sis. And although Mr Netanyahu has been weakened, he has time on his side as he continues to struggle for political survival.

Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit announced the indictment after three years of probes into the prime minister’s relationships with wealthy friends.

Mr Netanyahu is accused of accepting expensive gifts in exchange for political favours, and doing deals to get good press coverage.

Mr Mandelblit insisted he was not politically motivated but had acted professionally to uphold the law.

The force of Mr Netanyahu’s response alarmed observers of Israel’s political scene.

“He will set everything ablaze,” wrote Ben Caspit of Maariv, a daily newspaper.

“He won’t stop until all is rubble.” Whatever the case, this certainly is uncharted territory. It’s the first time a sitting prime minister in Israel has been indicted with criminal charges. And it comes in the midst of an unprecedented political stalemate.

Mr Netanyahu and his main political opponent Benny Gantz have both failed to form a government after two rounds of inconclusive elections. The indictment seems to have made the chances of cobbling together a working coalition even more remote, increasing the prospect of another return to the ballot box.

Small Businesses show off...

From page 23 arrangements were an equally appealing attraction to patrons. And among the beverages available were bottled wine and mauby.

One even had the opportunity to sample these in glasses and even in plastic bags cool down style.

Crafted handbags, slippers, wallets,

shoulder purses and much more were some of the other items on sale.

The patrons shared that they thought it was a good idea to host a general Small Business Market Day, so as to accommodate persons who produce and sell different items.

The sellers were also thankful for the opportunity, and praised the organisers.

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Bolivia’s Congress to pass law for Electoral officials say names of thousands of people to be removed for voters list new elections on Saturday: lawmaker KINGSTON, Jamaica, CMC – The Electoral Commission of Jamaica (ECJ) says an estimated 70,000 names will be removed from the next voters’ list, which is to be made public on November 30.

“On the voters’ list is actually 1.9 million persons.

When our November list comes out you are going to see a significant number of dead persons’ names removed from the list,” Director of Elections, Glasspole Brown, has said. He told the Jamaica Information Service (JIS) that the ongoing exercise, which began in late 2018, is being carried out in phases, with the aim of removing over 260,000 dead electors.

“That first phase involved the engagement of verifiers who went out, verified and visited 1.1 million electors’

homes where they were 40 years and over. They came back with a figure indicating to us that approximately 160,000 persons have died out of that 1.1 million persons,” Brown said.

“We are now in the second phase, which is the confirmation phase, and, so far, we have confirmed that out of that 160,000 persons that have been identified, close to 70,000 have died. So, the November list, hopefully, will reflect that figure and we will continue that process up to next year,” he added.

The Commission said it is working to confirm the deaths of the identified electors through collaboration with stakeholders who would have information to corroborate the deaths. These stakeholders include both public-

and private-sector entities, such as the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the Registrar General’s Department, the Ministry of Labour and Social Security and media houses.

Media houses with a database of death announcements are able to use those to confirm the electors’ deaths and Brown estimates that by the end of next year, close to 200,000 names of dead electors will be removed from the voters’ list.

The last general election was held here in 2016, when there were 1,824,412 registered voters, the Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) defeated the then ruling People’s National Party (PNP) by winning 32 of the 63 seats at stake. The JLP has since improved its majority with victories in byelections.

LA PAZ (Reuters) - Bolivia’s parliament will pass legislation on Saturday to pave the way for new elections after a deal was reached by top lawmakers of the body’s three political parties, a congressman with the party of former president Evo Morales told Reuters.

Henry Cabrera, the vice president of the house of deputies, said the Senate is expected

to pass a bill late on Friday and the lower chamber will give its green light on Saturday afternoon.

“We’re definitely going to pass it,” Cabrera said. Minutes earlier, the head of the Senate, Eva Copa, said the upper chamber would pass a bill on new elections in a latenight session on Friday.

Government introduces marijuana legislation to Parliament PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad, CMC – The Trinidad and Tobago government Friday formally informed Parliament of its intention to introduce legislation allowing for the decriminalisation of marijuana for medicinal and other purposes.

Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi, in a statement, said that the introduction of the legislation forms part of the “most aggressive and profound reformations of the criminal justice system,” and that there would be amendments to the Dangerous Drug Act and the introduction of the Cannabis Control Authority Bill.

Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi making statement on marijuana bills in Parliament (CMC Photo) Al-Rawi told legislators that the government intends to have the matter debated on the floor and brushed aside a veil suggestion from the opposition that the legislation be sent to a Joint Select Committee of Parliament first, “Like any good government would, we must listen to the concerns that come out on a fairly complex issue that is the reason why it has taken us and in the AG’s (Attorney General) office in particular, some time to perfect the work product now before us.

“We welcome the new found enthusiasm of those opposite to the reform of law.

We will simply get it done,” he said, noting that it is axiomatic that the criminal justice system should focus on serious crime and that all roadblocks to justice should be immediately removed so that judicial and

Attorney General Faris Al-Rawi law enforcement time can concentrate where it matters most”.

Al-Rawi said that it is equally axiomatic that Tr i n i d a d a n d To b a g o should be “anxiously conscious of the developments across the world and those developments are informing us that there is a recognition of the economic potential of cannabis production once unshackled from the mid-19th century colonial values”.

The Attorney General in his statement outlined most of the measures that the legislation would contain including allowing persons to have up to 30 grammes of marijuana in their possession and that persons in possession of 30 to 60 grammes of the drug will be issued with a fixed penalty by police..

He said once the fine is paid within the stipulated period, the person would not have a criminal record, but failure to do so could result in a fine of up to TT$50,000 (One TT dollar=US$0.16 cents).

The Attorney General said that people would not be allowed to smoke marijuana in public spaces He said also that persons who have a conviction or charge in relation to under 60 grammes of marijuana will be allowed to apply to the

court to have it dismissed and removed from their criminal record.

Al-Rawi said that under the Cannabis Control Authority Bill, the Trinidad and Tobago Cannabis Authority will be established to administer a licensing and registration regime to legitimise, establish accountability and transparency for the use of cannabis by persons and bodies engaged in religious, sacramental, medicinal and commercial activities.

He said the Authority will have the power to issues eight types of licences including a cultivator licence, a research and development, laboratory, processor as well as retail distributor, import and export licences.

“There will be strict control for medicinal use and for religious purposes which are separately addressed in the bill. Only certain persons will be eligible for licenses and registration and there is a guaranteed minimum local content of 30 per cent of ownership for companies and cooperatives so as to avoid the abuses that occurred with multinational domination in other territories,” Al-Rawi said , adding also that provisions are being made to protect children as a result of the decriminalisation of the drug.

Saturday November 23, 2019

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Kaieteur News

National Schools Championships

District 10 retains overall title Action in the boys’ under-20 100m 4x100m relay whioch was won by District 5.

District 10 (Upper Demerara-Kwakwani were jubilant after it was announced that their retained their overall title.

District three won the teachers’ championship.

Saturday November 23, 2019 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) You could feel especially amorous today. If you're romantically involved, you could have an overwhelming urge for an intimate dinner with your significant other.

TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Necessary cleaning or repairs in the home could inspire you to go a bit further and do some redecorating. Get rid of old furniture or other castoffs to make room for new objects that make your home look more attractive.

GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Important new information could come your way, perhaps through classes, books, or conversations with friends. This might open new personal and professional doors for you.

CANCER (June 21–July 22) New learning and improved communication with friends and family add greatly to your sense of self-esteem.

LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) An improvement in your relations with a love partner or close friend has you feeling optimistic about the future and even more so about the present.

VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) An unexpected raise could have you feeling especially generous toward those you love. Your gifts will be appreciated, but take care that you don't wipe out all you've gained.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Falling in love at first sight is something you never thought would happen, but it could happen today.

SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Movies that involve a lot of special effects might be especially appealing to you now. You may decide to learn more about how such effects are produced.

SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Life is an adventure. At least, that's the attitude you take today. Flush with past success and basking in the affection of friends, you're feeling especially confident and enthusiastic.

CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) A new unity and purpose could create a more positive atmosphere regarding your career. Recognition and an increased income are just over the horizon.

AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Optimism and excitement permeate any get-togethers that you're involved in today. You and those around you tend to see only positive trends for the future success with few obstacles.

PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) Today you might be in the right mood to organize.

High-tech equipment may be of help in this project, and so could the help of friends. An optimistic, enthusiastic attitude will sustain you through any tasks.

Upper Demerara/ Kwakwani (District 10) have won their fifth consecutive National Schools Cycling, Swimming and Track & Field Championships after the sixday event concluded last evening at the National Track

& Field Center (NTFC), Leonora. District 10 finished with 68 points, while their nemesis, North Georgetown (District 11) were second overall with 59 points. In addition, the champions also clinched the much subscribed

Track & Field Championships. District three (West Demerara) maintained their fine showing in the teachers championship during recent years with a marginal victory over District 13 (South Georgetown).A total surmounting 34 records were broken during the final day of the schools track and field championships. District nines (Rupununi) Dereck Mentis shattered the previous boys under-18 High Jump record with a fantastic leap of 1.84m.

The 15-year-old St. Ignatius student was elated with his performance and he noted it as one of his most memorable performance out of the five previous times he has attended the games.

Nicholloyd Cameron and Attoya Harvey who won the track & field under-14 Champion boy and girl accolades, respectively, both broke their respective 400m races yesterday.Hannah Reid of District Four and Wesley Tyndall of District 11 won the respective champions girl and boy trophies in the under-16 age group. Former under-16 track & field Champion girl, Deshanna Skeete of Linden, copped the under-18 prize while the impressive Melon Lowenfield won Champion boy under-18.

In the open division (under-20), North Georgetowns Keliza Smith won champion girl after winning four events, while Encosie Leitch of Corentyne was the under-18 champion boy after amassing 32 points, two more that Joshua Tappin of District 10 and record breaking Jumper Jennis Benjamin. (Calvin Chapman)

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Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

GCB/CWI Kiddy Progression One Cricket

Grove and St. Pius emerge champions of respective districts

Grove Primary-East Bank Demerara District Champions.

Ishant leads India’s domination in day-night Test against Bangladesh St. Pius Primary-Georgetown District Champions.

In the finals of the East Bank Demerara District of the Guyana Cricket Board CWI Kiddy Progression One Cricket tournament played at the Everest ground recently, Grove Primary beat Peters Hall Primary to emerge district champions. Grove Primary batting first posted 97 for 7 off their allotted 14 overs.

Number 3 batsman, Sharaj Johnson stroked an impressive 35, which included 5 fours and one six. The only other batsman to reach double figure was Gary Alleyne with 11.

Needing 98 for victory, Peters Hall managed to edge their way to 81 all out from their allotted 14 overs. Deandre Marcus demonstrated some levels of resistance with 22, inclusive three fours. Joshua Reid and Rameshwar Persaud supported with 15 and 13 respectively as Grove Primary won by 16 runs.

North Georgetown Primary, who had ear-

lier in the day defeated Rama Krishna Primary in a Georgetown District play-off match, lost to St. Pius Primary in the deciding Georgetown District match. Batting first, North Georgetown Primary could only muster 57 all out from their allotted 14 overs, with middle order batter, Chazaiah Bernard being the only player to reach double figures with 11. Bowling for St. Pius, Jamal Fraser 2 for 3 and Donovan Welcome 2 for 11 were the main destroyers with the ball.

In reply, St. Pius just scraped home with one wicket to spare, reaching 58 for 12 from 13.3 of their allotted 14 overs. Brian Browne, who hit one four and one six was the only batsman to reach double figures with 14. Bowling for North Georgetown Primary, the main contributors were Chazaiah Bernard 2 for 1, Delon Wray took 2 for 2, and Aquanna Griffith 2 for 6 as St. Pius won by one wicket.

GFF-Always Championship Cup 2019 kicks off today Six Female clubs set to face off in round-robin play at GFF NTC The battle for female supremacy in the 2nd edition of the Guyana Football Federation / Always Female Championship Cup competition is set to get underway this afternoon at the GFF National Training Center, Providence, East Bank Demerara.

Female players from six clubs drawn from the West Demerara and Georgetown Football Associations will be locked in battle in the 11v11 format of the game, last years inaugural tournament was played using the 7v7 format.

Ansa McAl Trading, the local distributors of the Always sanitary napkins have once again committed their full support towards the continued development of female

football by maintaining their partnership with the GFF. The clubs set to compete are Foxy Lady FC, Fruta Conquerors FC, Guyana Defence Force FC, Guyana Police Force FC, GT Panthers FC and Santos FC. Teams would be playing using the roundrobin format over two rounds of play, the top four teams emerging from the first round will advance to the second round.

Matches would be of 70 minutes duration, two equal halves of 35-minutes each with 10-minutes allotted for the half time break.

Santos and Fruta Conquerors have been given the opportunity to set the pace for the tournament as they

will match skills in the opening match from 13:00hrs today followed by a clash between the Armed Forces, Guyana Defence Force and Guyana Police Force from 14:30hrs.

Tomorrow, another double header is scheduled, Santos will come up against the GuyanaDefence Force from 13:00hrs with the main attraction being between Guyana Police Force and Foxy Lady.

Ishant Sharma celebrates his 10th five-wicket haul in Test cricket. (BCCI)

AFP - India paceman Ishant Sharma helped skittle out Bangladesh for 106 and Virat Kohli put the hosts in the lead on day one of the first day-night Test for both the teams.

Ishant returned figures of 5-22 in India’s pink-ball debut to bowl out the tourists in the second session after they elected to bat first in Kolkata.

The home side’s batsmen then got going with the hosts reaching 174 for three at stumps, leading by 68 runs.

Kohli, on 59, and Ajinkya Rahane, on 23, were at the crease.

The captain put on 94 runs with Cheteshwar Pujara for the third wicket after the early fall of openers Mayank Agarwal, for 14, and Rohit Sharma, for 21.

Pujara completed his halfcentury before falling to paceman Ebadat Hossian, who took two wickets, for 55.

But Kohli stayed firm to raise his 23rd Test fifty as he played the pink ball with ease as he hit eight boundaries in front of a sell-out crowd at Eden Gardens.

Bangladesh were dealt a double blow after Liton Das and Nayeem Hasan pulled out following hits on the helmet from paceman Mohammed Shami. Mehedy Hasan and Taijul Islam returned to the XI as substitutes.

The International Cricket Council (ICC) approved the use of concussion substitutes for all internationals from August. This is the first time two subs have been used in a Test.

Mehidy, who made eight while batting, was replacing a batsman, so he can only bat.

Taijul is a sub for an off-spinner, so he can bowl and bat.

Taijul bowled eight overs off his left-arm spin.

India and Bangladesh have joined the pink-ball party four years after the first daynight Test in Adelaide between Australia and New Zealand.

Ishant struck first to get Imrul Kayes trapped lbw for four, and the left-handed opener wasted a review with replays showing the ball would have hit leg stump.

Umesh Yadav joined forces in his second spell to send back skipper Mominul Haque, caught superbly by Rohit at second slip for nought, before bowling Mohammed Mithun two balls later.

Kolkata-based Shami, part of India’s deadly pace trio in the series, received the loudest cheers after getting Mushfiqur Rahim bowled for nought.

Opener Shadman Islam top-scored with 29 in an innings that witnessed four batsmen getting out for zero.

Liton was retired hurt on 24.

India’s cricket chief Sourav Ganguly has put on a grand show at Eden Gardens, which is sold out for the first four days of the match.

Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was in attendance along with a host of cricketing greats including batting icon Sachin Tendulkar.

Stumps: India 174 for 3 (Kohli 59*, Rahane 23*) lead Bangladesh 106 (Shadman 29, Ishant 5-22) by 68 runs.

Saturday November 23, 2019

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Kaieteur News

Yadram enjoying Grenada but miss home & Family

By Sean Devers in Trinidad Twenty-year-old former West Indies U-19 all-rounder Bhaskar Yadram is a simple County Boy from the East Coast Demerara Village of Nonpariel which is just in front of Enterprise about 35 minutes drive from the City of Georgetown in Guyana.

He has been living on the Easter Caribbean 136.6 Square-mile Island of Grenada since July 15 to further his cricket career but has had some challenges adapting to the different life style of living in the Spice Isle especially the food, the language and culture of the people in that Windward Island.

For the first two weeks after his arrival, living alone for the first time he became homesick and badly missed his family and although he has now overcome most of those issues and made new friends, he still misses his family and Guyanese food.

But there are positives that far outweigh the negatives as he represents the Windward Islands Volcanoes who can no longer reach the semi-finals of the ongoing Regional Super50 cricket tournament here in Trinidad.

Yadram, who had the most wickets (11) for the West Indies in last years Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand and who played two FirstClass matches for Guyana 2017 as a 17-year-old, explained how he was picked for the Windwards whose home base is Grenada.

“After I did not get a con-

tract from GCB I put my name in the Franchise pool and was contacted by the Windwards Board and contracted for the 50-over and Four-day tournament which starts early next year,” informed Yadram who is the only batsman to score a triple century in Guyanas U19 Inter-County cricket.

“While I took a while to settle in, playing with Alex Athanaze before helped and we have become close friends. We share a four-bedroom apartment with Kaveem Hodge and Larry Edwards.

Being in the Windwards camp is a good feeling and despite our performance in the Super50 here, we have a good vibe with a nice bunch of young players,” stated the six-footer, who says he has learnt a lot from advice given

by Devon Smith, Shane Shillingford and Kirk Edwards.

“Living alone forces you become independent, responsible and a professional. I cook, clean and wash for myself now. My Dad taught me to cook, while WIPA sends money for the rent and Groceries,” said Yadram, whose mom is in the USA. “Back home, I enjoyed music and playing Pools and spending time with family and friends and that s what I miss the most. I am not a party type and when I get home from practice in Grenada we watch TV and talk cricket. I cook mostly stew I dont have a favourite food but like, Dhall, Baggie, Chicken Curry which is not so available in Grenada.”

“I would love to play for Guyana but I think of the Windwards as my home and hurts when we dont win. I try to always do my best for the team.”

“Grenada is a very nice place and grand Anse Beach is one of the best in world.

When I first got here I was overweight but we do really hard training from Monday to Friday with Friday being the Gym work. I feel fitter and stronger now and have lost a lot of body fat but I am working on losing a few more pounds,” the talented youth said with a grin from the Teams hotel in Port-of-Spain.

Yadram disclosed that their training consists of running up the Hills, agility and track work adding that he is now enjoying the hard work since he is seeing the results.

Yadram has played 14 List A games since making his Super 50 debut in 2017 for West Indies U-19 with 52 against the Windwards.

He has played five 50over games for the Windwards this year and his List A record reads: 14 matches, 182 runs and 10 wickets.

He has 46 runs in this tournament batting down the order and has the second most wickets (6) for his team with a best of 4-22.

Only Keron Cottoy who has seven scalps including 532, has more wickets than him for Volcanoes.

“I am a batting all-rounder and became a pacer when I was 16. I had a good U-19 World Cup with the ball but I enjoy batting more. I am not

Aurora Knight Riders honours top CSEC Student As part of its mandate to recognize and reward the efforts of some of the nation’s brilliant minds, the Aurora Knight Riders Cricket Club made a presentation of a trophy and an undisclosed amount of cash to Rehanna Stephens; the best graduating student of the Aurora Secondary School at their 20th Graduation and Prize Giving Ceremony which was held on Wednesday 20th November, 2019.

The proud Stephens praised and wished the club well in its endeavours. Since its formation, the club has been providing an avenue for the many youths to make the best use of their potential, both academically and sports wise.

The club with assistance from corporate villagers has been executing its calendar of activities efficiently. President of the club Mr Reshad Ally would like to thank all the

Yadram in Volcanoes colours, bowls to Hemraj while Chanderpaul is at the other end during their record opening stand for Jaguars. genuinely quick although my height gives me extra bounce, so I have developed lots of variations like slower balls and a lot of yorkers, especially in T20 cricket,” explained Yadram “Since I was small I used to hit the ball hard so the Windwards use me as powerhitter during the last few overs. I have a good technique and I can hit the ball hard so I enjoy 50 and 20 over formats but I am looking forward to the four-day tournament and my aim is to play Test cricket. You can play all three formats, its about adapting technically and mentally,” said Yadram.

Yadram feels he has been good with the ball but wanted to cash in with some good scores in his last two matches but unfortunately the game on Thursday was washed out.

“I have learnt that when you play at this level you have to work hard and play smart cricket and cant be lackadaisical. My goals for this tournament, was to learn as much as possible and play team cricket for us to win. I am disappointed with the results but we want to end with a win. When this is finished we go back to Grenada to prepare for the four-day tournament,” informed Yadram, who

was born on September 18, 1999.

Yadram said that pitches in Grenada are similar to those at home but while most of the grounds are not as good as in Guyana, the facilities are much better.

“We train at the National Stadium where there is a Gym and indoor nets with lights and a bowling machine. My aim in the next three years in to play for the West Indies and remaining humble when you become successful,” added Yadram who attended the Enterprise Nursery and Primary schools before going to the Bladen Hall Multilateral.

“I put cricket ahead of studies so when my cricket career is over I think I will be a Businessman like my dad who does trading,” disclosed Yadram who played three years at U-15, two at U-17 and three at U-19 levels with the first at U-19 being as a Keeper before bowling spin.

Yadram played his first match for Enterprise when he was nine after looking out the window of his school, which is next to the Enterprise ground and growing up in a cricketing family sparked an early interest in cricket. His sister (Kavita) played for Guyana, while his dad and brother played club cricket

and his Uncle is a Coach at the National Sports Commission (NSC).

He played U-13s for City Club GYO and Captained the Georgetown U-15 team at age 13.

Asked why he thinks Guyana has dominated Regional First-Class cricket for the last five years and when their players get selected to the higher level they generally dont have outstanding performances?

Yadram said he feels it is a mental thing, adding our First Class system does not develop the mental and technical skills for a young player to go to places like Australia, South Africa, England and India and be consistently successful.

“I feel Guyana cricket has improved over the years that we were dominating due to the Academy System which I was a part of. But I also think because Guyanese were not getting picked for West Indies we had the same group together for a long time plus the other teams who had West Indies players going off on tours got weaker.”

The Windwards play their last game against the USA tomorrow and Yadram hopes he can bat higher in the order to show his worth with the bat.

Rehanna Stephens collects her award from a Representative of the Aurora Knight Riders Cricket Club on Wednesday. members of the club as well as the many sponsors, friends and well wishers for their overwhelming support.

The club’s remaining activities for 2019 are: its Annual Dinner and Award Ceremony, the presentation of hampers to mothers who give birth on Christmas Day

and the recognition of long serving cricket coach Mr. Forbes Daniels.

Anyone who wishes to make any form of donation or contribution to the club can check us out on facebook or call Mr. Timure on 660-2714 or Mr. Reshad Ally on 683-5408.

The Yadram clan. Bhaskar his brother, sister and parents.

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Kaieteur News

West Meten-Meer-Zorg ground to light up tomorrow for Asgarally limited overs cricket action Meten-Meer-Zorg Future Youths and Meten-Meer-Zorg Sports Club Senior will battle for the Bibi Farirda Asgarally Memorial Trophy in a 30 overs cricket featuring match starting at 10:30 am Sharp.

According to one of the late Asgarally daughter Ms. Naseema Khan who is in Guyana for this match said; “The Asgarally family is happy to be involved in cricket; some special reasons are because the Meten-MeerZorg ground is just 3 houses away from where we grew up and the family have had a rich history of cricketers, beginning from my Uncle Abdul Shakoo who played cricket across Guyana before he migrated to the USA and brother Ejaz Asgarally who has represented Police Sports Club and Guyana from 1997 to 1999 at the National Youth level, and a few years back my nephew Azzurdeen Andy Mohamed, who represented the USA in the Youth Under 19 World Cup Cricket in New Zealand.”

Ms. Khan further went on to say there is a possibility that this event may very well play across Region #3 sometime in the future. The teams will use white ball and coloured clothing for this game.

The Meten-Meer-Zorg Future Youths team comes from J. Maxwell, D. George, T.

ECCBs Elizabeth Styles Competition Continues tomorrow Merrel, Ricknauth Rooplall & Ravi Singh highlight last weekends action

Mr. Ejaz Asgarally Former Guyana National Youth Wicketkeeper Imlach, S. Alexander, R. Lindore, C. Mc Ewan, Hills, D. Sewnarine, S. Evans, Dinesh George, and D. Ram. The Meten-Meer-Zorg Sports Club Senior team comes from Mahendra Nankishore, Troy Khan, Shawn Mc Kay, Rabindra Dasrat, Adrian Johnson, Sean Allen, Kevin Coleman, Levy Miggings, Javid Shafik, Anil Sukdeo, Emanuel Chrisnauth, Chris Class, Travis Mohamed and Ansar Khan.

LGC set to break another record The outgoing Executive Team at the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) continues its march to set new records for events held in a single year as they host yet another double header weekend of activities with two events scheduled today and tomorrow.

Today starting at 12 p.m. the Club will host our Annual Spa & Beauty Tournament which features prizes from all of the top spas in Guyana (Nayelli’s, Vivaanta Ayurvedic and Healing Waters Spas).

“The LGC is proud to bring this incredible event to the players who will benefit from the services provided by the country’s leading health and beauty treatment providers,” said Captain Chen Deo. “Over the years, golfers have tended to ignore the stress placed on their bodies by the sport and the push by the LGC President to bring new activities and partnerships has led to these companies providing gift certificates for the prizes this weekend.”

Nayelli’s Salon & Spa, located on New Market Street has provided top Health & Beauty Services to the Guyanese public for many years and has been a strong supporter of the LGC in the years past. They offer a wide variety of services and cater to all needs from styling to pedicures and everything inbetween.

This year we saw the advent of Healing Waters Spa located at the Ramada Princess Hotel come on board with us for the first time and their

Saturday November 23, 2019

services are worldclass, offering all types of treatments and beauty care packages.

And to round off the amazing slew of prizes, the new Vivaanta Ayurvedic Spa on Church Street which provides exotic healing treatments and a wide variety of options for all types of needs added their weight to the event.

“With the leading names involved, each prize will be of tremendous benefit and value to the winners and it will be a tough choice for them to choose from amongst the prizes provided,” said Mr. Shaw, Treasurer of the Club.

There will be prizes for the top two positions in the 0-9, 10-18 and 19-28 categories along with the Nearest to Pin and Longest drive. (Manicures, Pedicures, Facials, Neck, Back massages etc, are all up for grabs). For the first time, the Club will also feature a prize for the Best Gross in all three categories.

This was proposed by Dr. London and Bishop Guy Griffith, the Club’s Public Relations Officer and it will be tested to see if the players who have become very competitive in the past few years will embrace the addition.

And if that were not enough, tomorrow starting at 8:30 am (groups may go off earlier), the Club will host the final Romel & Robin Bar-BQue Extravaganza, a 9-hole fun tournament that will see players of all categories competing for lots of prizes, food and drinks. Bar-b-que is available for just $1,000 and all are

invited to attend this fun event, a preview of the Christmas and Easter events held by the LGC. Romel Bhagwandin and Satrohan Robin Tiwari are both young Lusignan born businessmen who are also members, have taken an interest in assisting the LGC in promoting and hosting events to ensure that the Club is funded for operations.

This is their third event this year and promises to be the largest and most elaborate as they gear up for 2020.

Players may continue after 9 holes and the course will remain open but music will be played after the completion of the tournament and awards.

“The grounds are in the best condition ever and the weather has been fantastic so we are taking full advantage of the conditions to promote the game.

Recent efforts by Ms. Fatima Reple (wife of GM Eduardo Reple of the Guyana Marriott) and Rudy Ramalingum of New Trend Auto have seen the improvements to the clubhouse and grounds taking effect and we feel that all the visitors will be pleased with the results,” said Mr. Hussain.

Visitors are always welcome and may find more details on the Lusignan Golf Club Facebook page or calling 220-5660 for information.

The newly erected lighted driving range sponsored by the Macorp group is available for practice and the Club provides free lessons, equipment and cart rentals for players and beginners.

Ravi Singhs fifty and fivewicket haul along with half centuries from Rawle Merrel and Ricknauth Rooplall highlighted last weekends action in East Coast Cricket Boards Elizabeth Styles 40-over cricket competition for teams on the East Coast of Demerara as Buxton A, Mon Repos and Better Hope won their matches.

At Buxton Community Centre Buxton Carl Hooper Cricket Club B Vs BetterHope Raptors In overcast conditions after overnight rain the match was reduced to 30 overs and Buxton Carl Hooper Cricket Club “A” (BCCA) won the toss and batted first.

Better-Hope Raptors (BHR) were roughed-up by the BCCA batting with the inform Rawle Merrel blasting another half century in this competition with 62 with eight fours and three sixes.

Ryan Meusa 32 and Rawle Fredericks 27, give excellent support to Merrel as BCCA, losing wickets very quickly, were bowled out in 28 over for 225 as Mustafa Azimulla had 3-27.

BHR in reply lost quick wickets as Rawle Fredericks 3-33 and Anthony McFarlane 3-38 proved too difficult to handle. Ricknauth Rooplall, 50 with seven fours and two sixes, was the only batsman from BHR to offer resistance as they were bowled out for 146 in 22 overs to hand Buxton A victory by 79 runs.

At Enterprise Community Centre Enterprise Busta Cricket Club B Vs Mon Repos Cricket Club A Mon Repos Cricket Club A (MCCA) brushed aside the Enterprise Busta Cricket Club B (ECCB) in just 22 overs as the home side looked shaky throughout their time at the crease. ECCB batted first and could only muster139-7 in their allotted 25 overs after the overs were reduced due to overnight rain. MCCA in reply cruised to victory after posting 140 4. Sahadeo Ramkelawan made 55 with six boundaries and Stephen Khan supported with 42 as Mon Repos won by 6 wickets.

At Better Hope Community Centre Better Hope Cricket Club Bversus Lowland Cricket Club In a match that was reduced to 28 overs because of overnight rain, 2017 Elizabeth

Ricknauth Rooplall

Ravi Singh Rawle Merrel

Styles Champions, BetterHope Cricket Club B (BCCB) won the toss and elected to bat. Lowland Cricket Club (LCC) bowled well and managed to curtail the home-side to 157 all out 25 overs. Ravi Singh top scored with 51 with five fours and two sixes as Shewraj Dwarkanauth 3-18 and Zamaladeen Khan 3-28 did the damage for LCC who found it difficult to handle Singh who returned with his left armspin to capture 5-17 as they crumbled to 123 all out in the 26 overs despite 30 from Romario Stuart as Better-Hope won by 34 runs.

Meanwhile, the competition continues tomorrow.

Golden Grove Cricket Club B will clash with Lowland Cricket Club at Golden Grove Community Centre, Umpire will be Gavin DAguiar.

At Buxton Community Centre Ground, Buxton Carl Hooper Cricket Club (B) verses Golden Grove Cricket Club A Umpire Omadat Samaroo will be officiating.

At Enterprise Community Centre Ground, Enterprise Busta Cricket Club (A) will host Better-Hope Cricket Club B Umpire will be N. K. Omar.At Better-Hope Community Centre Ground, Better-Hope Raptors versus Clonbrook Cricket Club. Umpire will be Imran Khan.

Beaton will be missed...

From page 31 the batting performance in the last match when Chanderpaul Hemraj and Tagenarine Chanderpaul featured in a record 171run opening stand which took Jaguars 294-9 and added that every game has been a learning experience for the team.

“It is essential that we take all the learning information from each game and plan around that. Obviously, assessing the conditions on the day is crucial. It’s also important that we execute our game plan effectively,” said Crandon speaking about plans for todays game against the host.

“Trinidad had the better of us during our first encounter.

They’re playing good consistent cricket at the moment. We had two days to prepare and develop our skills in the nets, it is now time for the boys to go out and play positive and consistently good cricket throughout the game,” Crandon concluded after their nets session at the Oval yesterday morning.

Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

Beaton will be missed but other youngsters chance to set-up

By Sean Devers in Trinidad When Guyana Jaguars play leaders T&T Red Force today at the Oval in their penultimate preliminary round game they will be without 27-year-old pacer Ronsford Beaton who returned to Guyana after his bowling action was deemed illegal.

Beaton, who has played two ODIs was reported during the game against United States last Monday but was allowed to play the next three games.Video footage from the game was sent to Loughborough University in the United Kingdom for an opinion report in accordance with the CWI Regulations for Dealing with Suspected Illegal Bowling Actions and Footage confirmed the action to be illegal.

The Essequibian quickie had spearheaded the Jaguars attack in this competition with seven wickets from 44 overs at an average of 33.75 and an economy rate of 5.34 from six matches and was the quickest bowler in Zone B on slow tracks.Jaguars Head Coach

Ronsford Beaton bowled quick on the slow tracks, here he hustles Guyanese Kevin Sinclair in their game against Emerging players.

Esuan Crandon informed the team is very sorry about Beatons situation. Beaton has been replaced by former West Indies U-19 all-rounder 21-year-old Renaldo AliMohammed.

“Firstly let me say that we’re all sorry about Ronsfords situation. He did a very good job for the team when he played. He would’ve displayed his skills particu-

larly in the death overs. He would be missed by the team,” said the 37-year-old Crandon.But Crandon, who was a member of the team that won Guyana last 50-over in 2005, noted that Beatons unfortunate absence presents an opportunity for another young player to step up and show what they have.

Crandon was pleased with (Continued on page 30)

Cornwall, Joseph shine in stalemate LUCKNOW, India, CMC All-rounder Rahkeem Cornwall reiterated his value with the bat while fast bowler Alzarri Joseph tasted form, as the three-day tour match against an Afghanistan Cricket Board XI finished in a draw here yesterday.

Resuming from their overnight 217 for seven, West Indies were energised by a cameo unbeaten 44 from Cornwall before they were bowled out at lunch for 297 in their second innings.

Cornwall, who made his Test debut against India last August, struck half-dozen fours and two sixes in a 55ball knock, batting at number 10.

Importantly, he inspired a 59-run last wicket stand with Jomel Warrican (10) after West Indies lost two quick wickets early in the morning session to stumble to 238 for nine.

The 26-year-old picked up four wickets in the Board XI first innings of 158 on Thursday.

Left-arm spinner Hamza Hotak was the leading bowler for the Board XI with four for 91.

Set an improbable 308 for victory, the Board XI got entertaining half-centuries from Ihsanullah Janat (84 not out) and Ibrahim Zadran (76) as they finished on 183 for three.

Ihsanullah, a 32-year-old

Rahkeem Cornwall hits through the off-side during his swift 44 on the final day of the three-day tour match yesterday. right-hander, stroked 11 fours off 149 balls in nearly 3-¼ hours at the crease while Zadran also counted 11 boundaries in a knock requiring 126 balls in a shade under three hours.

They put on 150 for the second wicket after seamer Keemo Paul had removed first innings top-scorer Javed Ahmadi without scoring in the fourth over with four runs on the board.

On 130 for one at tea, Joseph claimed Zadran to a catch at the wicket nearly 45 minutes following the break, and then removed Rahmat Shah for 11 after the righthander put on 27 for the third wicket with Ihsanullah.

West Indies take on Afghanistan in a one-off inaugural Test bowling off at the same venue next Tuesday.

Scores: WEST INDIES 168 (Kraigg Brathwaite 48, Shimron Hetmyer 38, Shai Hope 26, Shane Dowrich 23; Hamza Hotak 4-34) and 297 (Sunil Ambris 66, Roston Chase 57, Rahkeem Cornwall 44, Shimron Hetmyer 30; Hamza Hotak 4-91).

AFGHANISTAN CRICKET BOARD XI 158 (Javed Ahmadi 56; Jomel Warrican 5-38, Rahkeem Cornwall 4-54) and 183 for three (Ihsanullah Janat 84 not out, Ibrahim Zadran 76; Alzarri Joseph 2-37).

Rio Indoor Street-ball Championship Gold is Money,Show stoppers, Sophia, Bent Street and Back Circle on winners row Traditional giants, Gold is Money, Showstoppers, Sophia, Bent Street and Back Circle secured easy wins when the Inaugural Rio Indoor Street-ball Championship continued on Thursday at the National Gymnasium, Mandela Avenue.

Gold is Money defeated Island All-Stars 6-3. Keifer Brandt scored a hat-trick in the fifth, eighth and 17th minutes, while Jamal Pedro, Randolph Wagner and Phillip Rowley scored in the second, 10th and 14th minutes respectively. For the loser, Quincy McDonald, Devon Hyman and Rory Lewis scored in the third, seventh and 15th minutes respectively.

Bent Street crushed Avocado Ballers 4-1.

Daniel Wilson, Colin Nelson, Pernell Schultz and Akel Clarke netted in the fourth, 12th, 15th and 17th respectively. For the loser, Cedric Osborne netted in the sixth minute.

Showstoppers dismissed Future Stars 52. Delon Lanferman recorded a double in the fourth and eighth minutes, while Lennox Wilson, Keanu Lawrence and Stephon Jupiter scored in the 16th, 17th and 19th minutes respectively.

On target for the loser was Jamal Cozier in the sixth and 11th minute. Also Sophia downed Gaza Squad 2-0. Elroy George and Mervin Morris netted in the fourth and eighth minutes respectively.

The competition will continue today at the same venue. Island All-Stars will face-off with Gaza Squad from 19:00hrs, while Rio AllStars oppose Spot-7 at 19:30hrs and Stabroek Ballers battle Albouystown at 20:00hrs.

In the fourth match, Avocado Ballers will oppose LA Ballers from 20:30hrs, while BV tackle Bent Street at 21:00hrs and Gold is Money lock horns with Sophia. In the final match, Sparta Boss face-off with Alexander Village from 22:00hrs.

PAGE 31

PAGE 32

Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

Colonial Medical Super50 Cup Jaguars face leaders Red Force today in POS Adverse weather forecast

By Sean Devers in Trinidad With two points separating the top three teams in Zone A, third placed Guyana Jaguars (16 points) play leaders T&T Red Force (20) from 13:30 hrs today at the Queens Park Oval in their penultimate round of Colonial Medical Super50 Cup. West Indies Emerging Players sit on second place with 18 points but they play their last match on Monday against the Red Force Rain, which fell yesterday afternoon and is forecast for today, adds drama to the three team semi-final race.

When these two teams last met, Red Force, led by a 124-run opening stand between Tion Webster (87) and Jeremey Solozano (39) reached 194-4 in 36 overs to beat the Jaguars by four wickets with Daren Bravo and Jason Mohammed scoring 28 each.

In Jaguars 187-9, only Johnathon Foo (36) reached 30 although Chanderpaul Hemraj, Chris Barnwell, Raymon Reifer and Ramaal Lewis were all in the 20s but could not go on as pacer Anderson Phillips captured 444.The Jaguars, who oppose the USA in their final game, hopes of advancing to consecutive semi-finals, rest on a solid batting performance, especially since they are without pacer Ronsford Beaton who is unavailable due to an illegal action.

In the last game against the Windwards Hemraj joined Clayton Lambert with two centuries for Guyana in 50over format. Ramnaresh Sarwan has the most and all of his three tons were made in 2005 tournament when Guyana last won a title.

Hemrajs even hundred and Tagenarine Chanderpaul (64) added 171 for the first wicket to set a new Guyana record for any wicket.

Barnwell, Guyanas leading run-scorer with 291 runs with two fifties from six matches, and Reifer who made 52, added 76 runs for the fourth wicket in the same game as Jaguars posted 2969, the highest total in the Trinidad zone.

Jamaica (twice) and Barbados have posted 300 plus totals in the St Kitts zone but they were made at the small Warner Park ground.Apart from Barnwell, who has batted brilliantly but needs now to get a maiden three-figure score, Foo, who has also had a good tournament with the

for Day/Night encounter Chris Barnwell is Jaguars’ leading scorer despite him not getting a century as yet.

Darren Bravo is back in form and the second most runs in the tournament.

bat with 196 runs.These two batsmen are the only two in the Jaguars team with a strike rate of 100.

Hemraj (185 runs) is the only other batsman in the team with 150, while Chanderpaul, Skipper Leon Johnson, and Reifer are the others with 100 runs and will be keen to step up today against the strong Red Force.

Without Beaton, the Jaguars will depend on Reifers left-arm pace and thinker with bringing back the fast but inexperienced 23-year-old Nial Smith, or using Barnwell or 21year-old All-rounder Renaldo Ali Mohammed, who has not yet played senior cricket for Guyana, as medium pace o p t i o n s . Ve e r a s a m m y Permaul, with 11 wickets, is Guyanas leading wicket-taker as he continues his excellent work at the Regional level.

Permaul will spearhead the spin attack with includes Lewis, Gudakesh Motie and the rapidly improving Hemraj.

Reifer is the only Jaguars bowler with a five-wicket haul and his 139 runs with a fifty and a 45 makes him one of the leading all-rounders in this tournament.The Red Force has batted well this season and Bravo, Solozano and Mohammed have scored centuries.Bravo is second in the overall runs tally and his 349 with a century and three fifties, is just 10 less that Kieran Powell 359 runs in Zone A. Bravos return to form has been the most pleasing aspect

of this tournament for West Indian fans and he could be a destructive force for the Red Force today. Webster and Khesan Ottley are the others with 100 runs and will be depended on for the home team.

Phillips is the leading bowler for Red Force with 12 wickets, while Ottley has 10 and along with Imran Khan, Odean Smith, Jon-Russ Jaggesar and Mohammed they have a quality attack.

Raymon Refier has Jaguars’ only 5-wk haul and will need to pick up the slack in Beaton’s absence.

Johnathon Foo’s come back has been a good one so far.

Anderson Phillip is Red Forces leading wicket-taker.

Sevens coaches blown away by son of New Zealand’s fastest man WELLINGTON (Reuters) - Edward Osei-Nketia, the son of New Zealands fastest man, has made a big impression on rugby union coaches after turning up to a training camp for potential sevens players in Auckland, local media reported yesterday.

Osei-Nketia, the son of 100m national record holder Gus Nketia, attended the development camp being run by New Zealand Rugby (NZR) as part of a programme to entice athletes from other sports into sevens.“Ive never seen an athlete (like him) walk through our doors in rugby.

And we probably never will see one again,” NZR high performance sevens talent ID manager PJ Williams told Stuff Media.Osei-Nketia ran for New Zealand in the 100m at the world athletics championships in Doha in September and the 1.90m tall 18-year-old, who weighs 95kgs, is concentrating on athletics for the foreseeable future.

While he has no plans to switch to rugby sevens for next years Tokyo Olympics, longer term he is ruling nothing out.“Im here trying to learn more as I go as a sprinter, learn the game, learn the people and learn as many different things about rugby as possible so that one day, if possible, we can make a switch and I can be on top of the game,” he said.

“Well take it one at a time at the moment but I would love to do both,” he added of potentially competing in both rugby sevens and athletics at the 2024 Games in Paris,” added Osei-Nketia, who has a personal best of 10.19 for the 100m.The teenager was the subject of a tug-of-war between New Zealand and Australian athletics earlier this year after he won the Australian 100m title following his familys move across the Tasman Sea two years ago.However, he chose to represent the country of his

Justin Gatlin of the U.S. and New Zealand’s Edward Osei-Nketia in action in the Men’s 100 Metres Heats at the World Athletics Championships Doha 2019. (REUTERS/Lucy Nicholson/file photo) birth and then relocated to New Zealand to attend secondary school in Wellington.

His father left Ghana following the 1990 Commonwealth Games in Auckland.

He ran for New Zealand at the Commonwealth Games in Canada four years later, where he set the national record of 10.11 seconds, and the 1996 Atlanta Olympics.

Saturday November 23, 2019

Kaieteur News

Shomari Wiltshire displays class in Thursday action at Farfan & Mendes Squash tourney It was the second night of play on Thursday for the Farfan and Mendes Junior Skill Level Squash To u r n a m e n t a t t h e Georgetown Club Camp Street. Long standing champion Shomari Wiltshire did not disappoint in his first match up of the competition against Nicholas Verwey.

With a dominant first game, Wiltshire stamped his authority. Despite Verwey rallying it out with some outstanding retrieval during long rallies, and executing perfect drops to increase his points progressively in each game, Wiltshire was on form.

His precise execution and well timed shot selection was too much for Verwey and Wiltshire took the match comfortably 11/2, 11/4, 11/6.

The battle of the lefties with Gianni Carpenter and Samuel Ince-Carvalhal saw a smooth start for InceCarvalhal who moved out ahead 11/2, 11/3 with a consistent confident game.

Carpenter came out fighting in the third and pushed hard to earn 10/10 then 11/11 before Ince-Carvalhal closed off the match 13/11 for the three straight win.Mohryan Baksh played a solid match against Lucas Jonas with good lengths and tight play.

Baksh played a patient and calculated game putting the ball away at opportune moments. Jonas worked hard but was no match for Bakshs well thought out game plan for a 11/4, 11/5, 11/5 triumph.

Brenno DaSilva continued his winning streak with an impressive game against Rylee Rodrigues, securing a 11/9, 11/6 victory.

Also unbeaten after two matches are Shiloh Asregado, Abhinav Singh and Tiana Gomes.Matches will continued last evening with more play set for this evening and final games tomorrow from 11am.

Results for Thursday play Category A S h o m a r i Wi l t s h i r e defeated Nicholas Verwey 11/2, 11/4, 11/6 Samuel Ince-Carvalhal defeated Gianni Carpenter 11/2, 11/3, 13/11 Category B Mohryan Baksh defeated Lucas Jonas 11/4, 11/5, 11/5 Category C Shiloh Asregado defeated Joshua Verwey 14/12, 11/5, 11/5, 11/0 Category D Rayad Boyce defeated Beau Fernandes 12/10, 11/4,

Samuel Ince-Caravhal plays off the glass in a previous match against Gianna Carpenter. (file photo)

10/12, 11/5 Dhirren Persaud defeated Lucas Persaud 13/11 11/9, 11/2 Category E Grant Fernandes defeated Safirah Summer 11/6, 11/9 Category F Abhinav Singh defeated Bradley Walton 11/6, 11/9 Brenno DaSilva defeated Rylee Rodrigues 11/9, 11/6 William Escarragga defeated Demetri Lowe 5/11, 11/5, 12/10 Category G Kassie Walcott defeated Solomon Ince-Carvalhal 11/8, 13/11, 11/3

Shomari Wiltshire Jnae Singh defeated Mya Dean 11/8, 11/4 Tiana Gomes defeated Nandishraj Singh 11/3, 11/4

PAGE 33

Brian Tiwari birthday tournament set for Saturday, Sunday at Den Amstel Known widely for his philanthropy as well as his support for sports, popular businessman Brian Tiwari will celebrate his birth anniversary today with a 9-a-side InterWard football Tournament set to commence today and continue tomorrow, at the Den Amstel Community Centre ground starting 4:00pm.

The tournament, which is being organized by former national coach Lennox Arthur, will see twenty-four teams from all across the country compete over two days for prize monies and trophies worth in excess of $300,000 and will conclude on December 1 at the same venue.

The winning team will receive $200,000, while second, third and fourth place finishers will take home $100,000, $60,000 and $40,000 respectively.

According to Arthur, the businessman has always been forthcoming in his support for sports and has in the past repeatedly reached out to the sport of football hence his preference to allow a tournament to be played in celebration of his birthday.

Among the teams invited to participate in the tournament are Casa Coima FC out of Venezuela and GT Kanaimas originally out of Kamarang in Region 7.

The challenge to ward off the impending invasion will be spearheaded by teams such as hosts Den Amstel Kings, Uitvlugt, Plaisance, West Side Spartans and Stewartville.

Brian Tiwari The fixtures are as follows: Saturday November 23 Bagotville vs. Plaisance Hurry Ate vs. Lima Dam Stewartville vs. Casa Coima FC Soesdyke vs. Wales Sara Lodge vs. GT Kanaimas Uitvlugt vs. De Kinderen Den Amstel vs. Agricola Sunday November 24 Sara Lodge vs. Gaza De Kinderen vs. Timehri Crane vs. Soesdyke Pouderoyen vs. GT Kanaimas West Side Spartans vs. Kuru Kururu Uitvlugt vs. South Ruimveldt Den Amstel Kings vs. Wales Den Amstel vs. Durban Backlands The tournament will conclude on December 1, at the same venue.

National Schools Championships

t r o Sp

District 10 are the five-time consecutive champions.

District 10 retains overall title

Dereck Mentis during his record breaking 1.84m High Jump in the boys’ under-18 division.

District 11(right) did well to recover from a big gap from district 13 to win the girls’ under-20 4x100m race.

Rio Indoor Street-ball Championship

Colonial Medical Super50 Cup

Gold is Money, Show Jaguars face leaders stoppers, Sophia, Bent Street Red Force today in POS and Back Circle on winners row Adverse weather forecast for Day/Night encounter

Cornwall, Joseph shine in stalemate Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8452, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.