Kaieteur News
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Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News Printed and Published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd. 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown, Guyana. Publisher: GLENN LALL Editor: Adam Harris Tel: 225-8465, 225-8491. Fax: 225-8473, 226-8210
EDITORIAL
MURDER OF A REPORTER Perhaps the world will never know the whole truth behind the disappearance and probably murder of Washington Post reporter and Saudi Arabia native, Jamal Khashoggi. But one thing is certain, the US-based journalist and critic of Saudi Arabia royal family walked into the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey on Tuesday October 2. Whether or not he was killed pursuant to a botched interrogation, his voice has been silenced. Turkish officials have concluded that Jamal Khashoggi a prominent critic of Saudi Arabia autocratic government was murdered by a 15member team sent specifically from Saudi Arabia to interrogate the journalist. It is believed that most of the suspects worked for the Saudi security services, military and other Government ministries. However, Turkey absolved itself of responsibility for what it believes was an assassination by foreign actors conducted on its soil but has declined to release incontrovertible evidence that could end the speculation. An initial statement from Saudi Arabia promising an inquiry was quickly followed by an angry denunciation of all allegations. The media has reported that after days of denial, Saudi Arabia crown prince intends to admit that the journalist died following a botched interrogation. Turkish officials have released what purports to be a recording of the instant when Khashoggi was killed. The releases have been published by the New York Times and by the Washington Post. However, Saudi officials have vehemently denounced the allegations as baseless. If fact, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, assured the United States and the world that Khashoggi left the consulate shortly after he arrived. Since then there have been reports that Saudi Arabia is ready to accept responsibility for Khashoggi’s death. The murder of Khashoggi would mark a startling escalation of Saudi Arabia’s effort to silence dissent. Under direction from the crown prince, Saudi authorities have in the past carried out hundreds of arrests of clerics and business executives under the banner of national security. Khashoggi’s murder is a monstrous and unfathomable act committed on a courageous journalist who writes out of a sense of love for his country and deep faith in human dignity and freedom. He was well respected in his country, in the Middle East and throughout the world. As reported, before his exile in the United States, Khashoggi had been a pillar of the Saudi establishment and was close to the royal family for decades. He was an editor at Saudi Arabia’s news outlets and had been an adviser to a former Saudi intelligence chief. But his recent criticisms of the royal family and its vast powers led to his self-imposed exile in the United States. He was considered especially dangerous by the Saudi leadership. Saudi Arabia has always shown disdain for freedom of the press, women rights and the value of human life. President Trump threatened severe punishment if it turns out Khashoggi was murdered by the royal family. Then he backed-off from his tough stance after the Saudi king told him that he had nothing to do with the disappearance of Khashoggi. The Trump administration has close political and business ties with the Royal family, and would prefer to smooth over the crisis to ensure the US$110 billion arms deal with the Saudis remain intact. The case has provoked an international outcry, with European leaders calling for tough penalty for those responsible. Jamal Khashoggi’s disappearance and possible death highlight the growing threat to journalists worldwide by governments. So far, forty-eight journalists have been killed this year, adding to the thousands killed in the past.
Editor’s Note; If your sent letter was not published and you felt its contents were valid and devoid of libel or personal attacks, please contact us by phone or email.
More pain and economic hardship ahead for Berbicians, unless the government acts DEAR EDITOR, Berbicians are already suffering from the closure of two sugar factories that resulted in thousands of layoffs, draconian increases in government fees, licenses and permits in 2016, adding VAT to some basic food items and other necessities, and slashing funding for the agriculture sector yearly since 2016. They are in for more pain and economic hardship that would likely drain the remaining economic lifeblood of their economy. The County is bracing for a severe dose of economic tranquilizer from the Berbice Bridge Company Incorporated (BCCI) unless the government takes corrective actions. On October 16, 2018, BCCI announced across-theboard increases in tolls of about 300 percent that would become effective from November 12, 2018. The new tolls for cars and minibusses – the most common forms of passenger travel – will each be $8,040, up from the current tolls of $2,200. For small and medium-size trucks, the new tolls will be $14,600 and $27,720 up from $4,000 and $ 7 , 6 0 0 r e s p e c t i v e l y. Likewise, for large trucks, the new toll will be $49,600 up from $13,600. These increases are draconian, to
put it mildly.
products, and cash crops
Vehicles New Tolls Cars $8,040 Pickups $14,600 4WD $14,600 Minibuses $8,040 Small Trucks $14,600 Medium Trucks $27,720 Large Trucks $49,600 Art. Trucks $116,680 Freight $1,680 Boats $401,040 Source: Berbice Bridge Company The tolls increase would have devastating impacts on families, businesses, the County’s economy, and the national economy. The Berbice River Bridge is the most important piece of infrastructure that connects Region 6 to the country’s commercial core and is vital to the domestic supply chain. It enables intra-region trade in goods and services, tourism, and access to tertiary healthcare for more than 100,000 people. Three of the six municipalities, which account for roughly 25-45 percent of all commercial activities in the country, are in Region 6. Thus, a collapse of household livelihood and commerce in this Region puts the entire national economy at risk of a similar outcome. Region 6 produces large volumes of sugar, rice, forestry
Current Tolls $2,200 $4,000 $4,000 $2,200 $4,000 $7,600 $13,600 $32,000 $460 $110,000
destined for other local and export markets that are transported across the bridge. Increased tolls would increase the cost of doing business in the Region and make its businesses, farmers, and workers less competitive. The expected fallout in demand for goods and services on both sides of the river and the associated job losses are likely to be significant, further damaging the Region’s economy. Consumer prices on both sides of the bridge are also likely to increase markedly. The shortage of supplies from Region 6 would increase prices in other markets. Likewise, increased transportation costs to supply goods and services to the Region would be passed on to the consumers in the form of higher prices. This is not good
for Berbice nor the Country’s Toll Change +$5,840 +$10,600 +$10,600 +$5,840 +$10,600 +$20,120 +$36,000 +$84,680 +$1,220 +$291,040
economy. The government’s decision to close two sugar factories is already choking the County’s economy. Large, small, and micro businesses alike have complained about the harmful effects the factories’ closure is having on business activities, consumer confidence, and household spending. The transportation service sector will also be hit hard. The cost of passenger fares will likely increase comparably as service providers pass on the increased costs to passengers. This would have an immediate impact on school children and workers with daily commute across the bridge.It would also make it impossible for individuals seeking urgent medical attention to access the care they need. Guyana (Continued on page 29)
Friday October 19, 2018
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Mistakes do have consequences National Development Strategy (2001DEAR EDITOR, It is no doubt that the APNU-AFC coalition has made some mistakes during its short but commendable term of being in office as the Government of Guyana. However, such blunders have a way of coming back to haunt those who are held responsible. Mistakes do have consequences following them. In the government of Guyana’s case there is no difference. The major one of those mistakes, I believe, is when speedy action was not taken to punish those who were responsible for the stealing of state assets, and the misuse of the nation’s financial resources. This failure to act may have seemed democratic, but it also allowed for the speeding of a dangerous bug in the life of the young Guyanese, and given a chance to those who were let
off, time to recuperate and launch other destructive attacks against the success of the nation’s development. The bug I refer to is that of young Guyanese being willing to get themselves involved in crime, not caring about the consequences. These acts of theirs suggest that we may have produced a lost generation of people, or that there is a mindset among them crime pays ,and that they will get away with it . The case of the punishment not fitting the crime is not an issue here. Since the conditions in our prisons remain very harsh, and the slow pace of the legal system can also deter one from even thinking of putting their life on remand and having to wait for ages to be tried. As a Christian minister, my view of what is going on in Guyana today amongst our
youth is an expression of no hope in life, and in their future. I do agree that the solution is with the church, that ambassador of hope. Nevertheless, I also appeal to politicians with selfish agendas to get out of the game. Guyana at this stage of her development needs people who love people, to be in charge of the nation’s business. Those who are out to get rich quick, build mansions, drive the most expensive cars, and treat people like dirt, that’s not needed. The horizon ahead of Guyana looks good, but the nation is sick, and those with a desire to restore health are who we need in every area of government. Let us consider these things my fellow Guyanese as we go to the polls shortly. Apostle Adrian Wade
What’s with this full page ad? DEAR EDITOR, A full page ad titled “FACTS ON BERBICE BRIDGE TOLL” (KN October 17 2018) listed the following points among others: •Berbice River Bridge ACT was passed in 2006 on the National Assembly while now Opposition Leader Bharat Jagdeo was President •The Berbice River Bridge Agreement was signed by the Bharat Jagdeo led PPP Government •Curiously BBCI sought NO TOLL INCREASES under seven years of the PPP Government from 2008 to March 2015
•BBC I has sought THREE toll increases under the Coalition Government in three years - in 2016, 2017 & 2018 My question is what had these facts to do with the proposed toll increases? Is this a case of them versus us? Maybe one day we would also be reminded of the Oil & Gas Contract and who negotiated and signed it while in government. This is no time to point fingers and cast blame but to find mutually acceptable solutions. Shamshun Mohamed
2010) – Chapter 21 – title: URBAN least to see if it provides a context within which DEVELOPMENT the behaviours in the current management of DEAR EDITOR, Against the background of the current Commission of Inquiry into the Mayor & City Councillors of Georgetown, it is perhaps not inappropriate to revisit the accompanying copy of Chapter 21 as titled above, in order at
Municipalities can be evaluated. Published in 2000, it was revived for submission to the current Commission of Inquiry on October 3, 2018. Yours faithfully E.B. John
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Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News
A clear declaration that selfless The Plight of Senior Officers at service is still recognized the Ministry of Agriculture in our fairly jaded society DEAR EDITOR, I must express my gratitude to Kaieteur News for printing a letter questioning the Honorary Doctorate proposed for Ms Laura George. It is most definitely a needed question at this time for a multitude of reasons, of which the first is, “Why did it take so long for our premier institution to make such an honour available to Guyanese deserving of such recognition?” It would seem as though many others value our citizens and recognise their hard work and dedication much more than our own, and I would like to offer a resounding applause to the Noble institution for taking this monumental step. Not only is it a significant one for us as a nation, but it is most important for our own institution to take such an approach to recognising the Indigenous Peoples of Guyana. I wish to highlight one of the most important points of Kaieteur News publishing that letter. It demonstrates the ignorance in Guyana of the plight of the Indigenous Peoples and conjures such images of persons scheming on ways in which they can find to undermine the legitimate plight of Guyana’s first peoples, and it further demonstrates, along the same line, the poor understanding people have of Indigenous Rights and why they need to be defended - which brings me to the Amerindian Land Titling Project. One of my biggest questions to anyone who wishes to entertain would be, “Why do we continuously settle for mediocrity in Guyana instead of legality?”
Why are Indigenous Land “RIGHTS” being treated as a project instead of recognising the Indigenous Peoples International and Constitutional Right to own their lands? Indigenous Peoples never surrendered our lands for it to be “Granted” to us! We have never given them to anyone. What is required is for our lands to be given back to us, and while I recognise the tremendous amount of funds that is available through the bilateral agreement between the Kingdom of Norway and Guyana, I must say I am appalled to know that someone can falsely accuse such an astute person who has dedicated her time, energy, and resources to identifying, advocating, and tirelessly working for the recognition of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. I have had the opportunity to sit as one of two reps from the National Toshaos Council on the ALT Project board. I have also had the opportunity to see some of the staff from the Ministry of Indigenous Peoples’ Affairs (MoIPA) at work. And I must bring the letter’s author and MoIPA to question, regarding the sincerity with which they seek to represent the Indigenous Peoples. MoIPA had the opportunity to move this project many times and faltered. They also stood idly by while Annai was Gazetted as an NDC, and the Honourable Minister himself tried to convince Campbelltown and Micobie that it would benefit them significantly if they were to be part of the Township of Mahdia, knowing full well that that would not only negatively impact their livelihoods, it would also be a contravention in the recognition of their rights.
In my time on the ALT board, I can say that there are times that I have questioned the sincerity of MoIPA in their execution of the project, as they seemed less concerned about Indigenous Land Titling, and more concerned about the hefty DSA that the project pays the field officers. Had they been genuinely concerned about Indigenous Peoples getting our lands, they would have availed themselves to addressing the multitude of issues that continue to stifle the project and hinder any progress on Indigenous Land Rights. Had the author paid any attention at the board meetings to which they were present, they would have understood that aside from the Lack of Capacity and Interest at the MoIPA, the single largest hindrance to Indigenous Land Rights being recognised in Guyana resides in the Lands and Surveys Commission, and by extension, the Government.The case of the Upper Mazaruni seeking to have the matter settled in Court should be applauded, as it remains the last and final remedy in trying to bring settlement to their land rights with absolute finality. While I can name many more Indigenous Peoples and Guyanese that I do believe are also deserving of this recognition, Ms Laura George and her colleagues to be honoured should be embraced. They are truly deserving of this honour. It stands as a clear declaration that selfless service is still recognized in our fairly jaded society. It is my hope that the soon to be Doctor Laura George would make a further push for the University of Guyana to correct and teach Indigenous History in Guyana. Respectfully Lenox Shuman Immediate Past Toshao – Pakuri and Former Vice Chair – NTC
DEAR EDITOR, We would like to use this forum to highlight the plight of senior officers at the Ministry of Agriculture, which has been ongoing in excess of 7 years and worsening within the last year. These officers have 17 plus years of experience at the said Ministry and functioned competently under various Ministers and Permanent Secretaries; to the point that they were awarded prestigious foreign-funded scholarships to conduct postgraduate studies, while being granted leave with pay to pursue same. As records can reveal, these officers sustained their high level of performance, completed studies and returned to serve as ex-
pected. Their plight commenced upon their return from study when they were told it was ‘difficult to place’ them due to their ‘qualifications’; a strange occurrence since one would expect their additional qualification to enhance their position, rather than result in deprivation. As such they were given two positions where they functioned outside of any department but conducted duties as were assigned by the Minister and Permanent Secretary (PS). These officers constantly complained both verbally and in writing of these unusual and awkward positions but all complaints fell on deaf ears. With the change of Government these officers ex-
pected that some regularization would have been conducted under an uncompromising and clean Public Service. Indeed, in 2017, an attempt was made to place these officers in regularized positions after the call was made for Planning Units to be set up to advance the Public Sector Investment Programme (PSIP). These officers were appointed and given three-year contracts to fulfil same, while approval was granted by the Public Service Ministry (PSM) to fill corresponding positions. However, with the appointment of a new PS in February 2018, a drastic turn was taken. These officers were (Continued on page 29)
Hike in Berbice Bridge toll hurts even more DEAR EDITOR, I do not want to start an inter-county war, but the inordinately high disparity between the cost for crossing a car over the Berbice Bridge (now proposed at over $8,000) versus the $200 being paid for the Demerara Bridge is now overbearingly obvious….and of course very hurtful.
Admittedly the Berbice Bridge is ‘privately-owned’ while the Government owns the Demerara Bridge. But, it is the Government in the final analysis that is responsible for transport by ‘public road, rail and ferry including bridges’, and if it cannot provide these directly, then the least it can do is to subsidise the privately-owned bridge so that there is equity for all its citizens.
I plead with our Government to consider how best it can reduce the inordinately high burden being suffered by citizens who must cross the Berbice Bridge. Minister Patterson’s advice that we should not pay the hiked-up cost is tantamount to saying that we should not use the Berbice Bridge, which of course is impractical! Nowrang Persaud
Reflect on the state of poverty DEAR EDITOR, The United Nations has designated October 17 as the International Day for the Eradication of Poverty. This is a good time for policy makers to reflect on the state of poverty in their respective countries and to come up with solutions to eradicate poverty. To say that the level of poverty in the world today is alarmingly high is to put it mildly. Too many people, in-
cluding women and children are dying due to lack of basic amenities such as food, clothing and shelter. The statistics show that there are over one billion people who are forced to live in a state of abject poverty. The Government of Guyana needs to craft a poverty reduction programme which should be targeted and area-specific. It is no secret that Amerindian and rural populations experience a much higher level of poverty than those who reside on the coastal belt. This is not to suggest that there is not a significant level of poverty on the coastal belt. The closure of the sugar es-
tates and the consequential contraction of the economy have put many people on the breadline. People are not poor because they are lazy. Poverty is structural and is the result of bad policies and programmes by those in positions of power and influence.China, and to a lesser extent India, have managed to reduce poverty by significant levels. However, there are far too many people who remain poor. What is needed is a new global human order where the interests of the poor are placed ahead of profits for the few. Hydar Ally
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Berbice drivers slam ridiculous toll hike
T
he increase of tolls for the Berbice River Bridge is not sitting well with drivers. According to some of them, it is “absolutely ridiculous”. Drivers from the Number 56 route who traverse from Stelling Road, New Amsterdam to West Coast Berbice said that such a hike will be a strain on their daily living. Head of the Number 56 Bus Association, Dennis Chesney, opined that more thieves will roam the streets “because all these families that got a family to maintain, where we gon find the money from? Where we working here now, when the day done sometimes we does mek $7000 to take home and people that working other people bus does carry home $3000. “Now when you gotta charge people, you gotta charge them about a $1000 to come across the bridge to clear the expense for a trip, so tell me when you gotta pay $8000 and you gotta clear gas and so what you gon charge the people?” Nadira Sarswattie, one of the very few female drivers in Berbice, said that such an increase will affect her tremendously. She explained, “People does ask back for dem $20. Three passenger for $260
Amsterdam to Georgetown route said he has to provide financial support to his two children. After hearing of the increase he said he calculated that he would have to find $81,000 a month to pay the crossing for the bridge. “If you mek one trip per day you ain’t really making nothing. Most likely you does two trip alone per day. I gon can’t continue this route if that price stay”. The increase was announced following the absence of an agreement between the BBCI and the Government of Guyana on the way forward. On Thursday Minister of Public Infrastructure David Patterson met with the directors of BBCI to follow up on the toll adjustments request. This, the management of
the bridge said, was in accordance with the Berbice Bridge Act 2006. The Minister refused to accept the request made for the toll increase and instead proposed that the government take responsibility for servicing the bridge pontoons. According to BBCI, that proposal was not within the contractual agreements that exist with the concession agreement and “is in breach of our agreement”. President of the Central Corentyne Chamber of Commerce, Poonai Bhigroog, said he was wondering if “it was April Fool’s day” since the increase is “ridiculous”. He added that with the current state of the Berbice economy “this is the final nail in the coffin”. Bhigroog stressed that what was announced is unrealistic and the main ingredient for “automatic inflation”. He added that the chamber will be releasing a statement on the increase. The Berbice River Bridge saw an investment of $9.1 Billion from public and private sector combined. BBCI said that they wrote the Ministry on July 9th, 2018 requesting the implementation of a toll adjustment. They disclosed that the company is currently running at a loss of $2.8 Billion with no dividends paid to its shareholders.
works to four bridges along the Mabura to Kurupukari corridor; completion of the Mahdia internal roads and for the commencement of works on the Linden to Lethem
roadway- Wisroc to Rockstone junction. Another $29M will be used to meet the increased cost and value-added tax for a fireboat for the Fire Service
Number 56 Bus park
each, when dem give you $800 dem does ask back for dem $20”. She questioned, “If people complaining for $20 how you think dem gon behave with this increase?” Another driver said that he has four children to maintain and is working four days a week, as a result of a rotating system set out by the bus association to allow all bus operators to earn. He averages $5000 a trip but with the revised toll it is unlikely that he will earn that much, he said. Khemraj Persaud said he has been a bus operator for nine years but when he heard of the announcement yesterday he was left to ponder his next move. He had already deduced that working the route would not be feasible.
President of the Number 56 Bus Association Dennis Chesney
Nadira Sarswattie female driver
“This is the only work I have since the bridge open. You wouldn’t get the number of people to travel because dem na go afford to travel. Right now $260 is the fare and
some people na even get the $260 to cross the bridge”. He said, “The toll is absolutely ridiculous”. A hire car driver, Dwayne Cort working the New
Govt seeks additional $7.5B in spending
-$2.4B for sugar workers’ severance
G
overnment has tabled a supple mentary budget to the National Assembly for $7.58B in additional funding. Part of the monies, some $2.45B of it, will go to pay 1,400 sugar workers whose services were severed last year. According to the Financial Paper No. 3 of 2018, the current estimates will amount to $4.09B with the capital estimates at $3.48B. Among other things, some $19.2M is to meet expenditure to provide relief supplies for hundreds of Venezuela migrants who are in Regions One, Seven and Nine; $4M for emergency repairs in Diamond Housing Scheme and for the hosting, monitoring and man-
agement of the Brazilian team which is drilling several wells in Region Nine. A major part of the $7.5Babout $3B- will be going to the Ministry of Agriculture. That includes the $2.5B for former sugar workers of Skeldon, Rose Hall and Enmore; and $600M for that National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA). The authority will be using the monies to conduct works on facilities once handled by the Guyana Sugar Corporation. The Authority had taken over the drainage and irrigation duties following the divestment of some responsibilities once carried out by GuySuCo. Part of the monies will be
used to pay GuyTrac, a company which supplies heavy equipment and was owed because of a court judgment. Several hundred millions will be used to pay for security services at Regions three, Four, Five, Six, Nine and Ten. The request is also for payments to Sweepers/ Cleaners in the regions with $10M intended for emergency works at the Leguan Cottage Hospital and three health posts in Region Three. Some $165M is being earmarked for additional employment costs and other charges for the period October to December 2018, Under Capital Estimates, there is almost $20M in additional resources for the
completion of rehabilitations of building to house classrooms at the Bertram Collins College of the Public Service. There were additional works to be done at the Ogle building, where GuySuCo was once headquartered. This will mean that $112M has been spent so far. Some $192M will be used to facilitate payments for the Lethem and Belvedere industrial development project, which includes access to the business incubator area for operations. Another $60M is the Government’s counterpart financing for widening of the East Coast Demerara roadway. With regards to the hinterland, $239M is being asked for to improve critical hinterland transport links, including emergency
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Guyanese companies lag in adopting Responsible Business Conduct – US By Kiana Wilburg
W
hen compared to Responsible Business Conduct (RBC) norms in North America and Europe, Guyanabased businesses lag in adopting RBC policies and activities. This was recently noted by the US Department, specifically its Bureau of Economic and Business Affairs. In one of its special reports, the Department explained that RBC entails conduct consistent with applicable laws and internationally recognized standards. It said that the concept focuses on two aspects of the businesssociety relationship. The Department explained these to be positive contribution businesses make to sustainable development and inclusive growth,
and avoiding negative impacts and addressing them when they do occur. The Department stressed that riskbased due diligence and value creation are at the heart of this process. The Department said that while many businesses engage in charitable acts, the totality of these deeds does not constitute good RBC practices. In fact, the US Department said that Guyanese consumers generally are not aware of RBC principles and do not demand them from local businesses they patronize. It said that the Guyana government has expressed the hope that large multinational companies will lead the way on RBC practices, setting an example for smaller local firms to follow, particularly in the extractive industries sec-
tor.
With Guyana’s major petroleum discovery, and anticipated production, the US Department noted that Guyana joined the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) as a candidate country in October 2017. The Department notes that EITI will assist in helping businesses in the extractive industry follow some fundamental aspects of RBC. GUYANA/ EITI HISTORY EITI is an international body that was established in 2003 with the aim of making it harder for governments and companies to hide the truth about the proceeds garnered from the extractive industries. The companies in the extractive sector report on what they are paying the government and the government reports separately on what it
received from the companies in the sector. A report is then prepared by a Multi-Stakeholder Group. The document, among other things, will highlight whether the numbers data collected from the two add up or if there is an irregularity. Head of the local EITI Chapter, Mr. Rudy Jadoopat, told this newspaper that Guyana must be praised for
its efforts in recent years, which were all geared towards satisfying the EITI candidate sign-up requirements. The official noted that the Government of Guyana had announced its commitment to implement the EITI Standards since May 2010 . He noted that Guyana and EITI even signed a Memorandum of Understanding in 2012, which paved the
way for Guyana to be assisted with its preparation of EITI candidacy. He noted that the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), the World Bank and the Carter Center provided assistance to the Government and supported its efforts towards EITI candidacy. Jadoopat said it is expected that this will continue. Jadoopat added that the government, as stipulated in the International EITI Standard 1.4, has committed to working with Civil Society and Companies. He said, “It has unequivocally and boldly announced its commitment to work with civil society and companies. Also, the government has agreed to ensure that there are no obstacles to civil society’s participation in the EITI processes. It agreed to refrain from actions which may result in narrowing of, or restricting public debate in relation to the EITI implementation.” Jadoopat took the opportunity to encourage all to consider it their civilian duty to actively participate in the activities and work of the GYEITI.
Ranks deny collusion in Lusignan escape - several tips, but no sign of fugitives
Dextroy Pollard
Travis Evans
Sudesh Dyal
The five ranks who are under close arrest following the Lusignan jailbreak continue to hold out that they did not assist the inmates in their escape. But they have reportedly been unable to give any reasonable explanation for failing to observe when the prisoners clambered over the prison fence and slipped away. Four policemen and a prison officer have been in custody since Monday, when prisoners Sudesh Dyal, Dextroy Pollard and Travis Evans escaped. They were on duty at towers two and three, which is the area where the inmates made their escape. Chief Prison Officer
Gladwin Samuels has said that the towers give ranks “a bird’s eye view” of the facility, which should have allowed them to witness the escape. A source close to the investigation said that there was no indication that the ranks colluded with the escapees, and suggested that they may have been asleep while on duty. During a press conference, Samuels had also said that the ranks “were not alert, and I am forced to conclude that it is very likely that they were sleeping, thus resulting in them not observing the prisoners - first in their attempt to get the razor wire separated in order to pass
and then during the process of them escaping by scaling the fence.” Meanwhile, Crime Chief Lyndon Alves said that police have followed up on several tips about the whereabouts of the escapes, but have found no trace of them. They have also questioned the men’s family members who said that they have no idea where the men are. Fugitive Sudesh Dyal, 23, was remanded for Break and Enter and Larceny and Escape from Custody; Dextroy Pollard, 29, of Wales Village was on remand for Break and Enter a n d L a r c eny and Travis Evans, 23, of ‘C’ Field Sophia, was in prison for murder.
Instead of its bullying tactics, the government should have sat down and worked with the Berbice Bridge Company Inc. as to how best tolls could have been kept low and traffic increased so as to keep the bridge viable. The APNU+AFC did the opposite. It took the fight to the company by offering free travel across the river using the Transport and Harbour vessels along with a few private launches which were hired. The same monies could have been put into subsidizing the bridge so as to reduce tolls.The government instead of protecting the interests of the National Insurance Scheme ended up hurting that company investments by the action it took in trying to pressure the company to lower tariffs. NIS got a good deal on the bridge but its returns are contingent on the bridge making money. The government was not helping the BBCI to make money when it began to offer free travel across the
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Berbice River.The BBCI is not making the money it ought to be making because it does not have the traffic flow. The economic crisis in Berbice is not helping. What was needed was a plan to increase the traffic instead of the government offering free boat rides. The government, because it has a majority interest in the bridge, has the primary responsibility to solve the financial woes of the company, otherwise not only will the bridge have to be sold but the NIS will lose out again. There are two options which face the government. The first option is to buy out the other shareholders. This should not be a problem because the government already has majority interest in the bridge. The only way the government can fulfill its promise to its supporters to reduce the bridge tolls significantly is if it turns the bridge into a fully Government-owned enterprise. Private people invest to make money. They are not going to want their investment to yield nothing.
Oil money is coming. The first tranche is US$300M. That would be more than enough to pay for the bridge and still have a great deal left over. The money is there to buy the bridge.The government however may be thinking: why buy the bridge when we can get it for free? After all, if the company continues to lose money and cannot pay its debt, then the company will declare bankruptcy, then they may be forced to hand the bridge over to the government for free. The second option would be for the government to support the bridge company by waiving the dividends of NICIL’s shares in the BBCI so as to allow the company to improve its cash flow. The government should not have any problem with this because it found the money to secure a bond to help prepare the sugar corporation to look dandy for investors and that bond is thirty billion dollars. It is paying a fat interest on this sum even though Guysuco says it has only got-
DDL, Agri Ministry to partner in developing milk, juice industry
Minister Noel Holder and DDL’s Chairman, Komal Samaroo (2nd r) on Wednesday. The Government of Guyana and Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) have agreed to examine the implementation of a private/public partnership to develop the local dairy industry to provide for milk and dairy products. Agriculture Minister Noel Holder, during a tour of Demerara Distillers Limited, said that Guyana’s milk and milk products imports amount to about US$25M. The production of milk locally would eliminate this expenditure while creating jobs and generating revenue for local cattle farmers. He said there is a pool of animals in Guyana that can be converted to dairy production over the next five to ten years.The partnership will also seek to expand local juice production with the Ministry of Agriculture embarking on a programme to encourage market driven agriculture.This was among the decisions taken Wednesday when Agriculture Minister Noel Holder and a team from his ministry toured the operations of DDL at Diamond during which there were wide-ranging discussions with a DDL team headed by its Chairman, Komal Samaroo. According to a joint statement from the ministry and DDL, the meeting also viewed a presentation by a visiting team of personnel from Tetra Pak, a Swiss headquartered company with which DDL is currently finalizing an agreement for the design and supply of a new packaging plant to be installed next year
at Diamond. The presentation also included a system for the effective collection of fresh milk from dairy farmers.“Minister Holder’s visit is the third by a government minister over the past three months as DDL and Government seek to work together to ensure a smooth and coordinated approach to the implementation of their respective development projects. Earlier visits were paid by Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson and Finance Minister Winston Jordan.” These followed visits late last year by Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo and Business Minister Dominic Gaskin. According to Holder, DDL with its technical, marketing and management expertise is best suited to partner with Government to pursue the production of milk in Guyana. The Government of Guyana through the Guyana Livestock Authority will provide the required expertise inartificial insemination, embryo transplant techniques, pasture management and on farm development and milk collection activities.“There are synergies for us to work together and to access the needed resources through international agencies such as the World Food Programme,” he said. Samaroo said that DDL is open to pursuing a partnership with the Government and will continue to engage in moving the process forward as part of the company’s diversification plans.
ten $2 billion so far. The government obviously has money to burn so therefore it should have no problem waiving the dividends of NICIL. The President likes to launch inquiries. He should bring in some experts who should examine the finances of the company, the concession agreement and the financial model and determine the best way forward, with the support of the government. If the government continues on this ill-advised path, it will find itself in serious problems because it is dealing with a public private partnership and the international financial
institutions will be looking very closely at how the government treats with this matter.The manner in which the government addresses this problem has serious implications for future public private partnerships. The public private partnership model is the preferred model for financing large scale investment projects.Should the government be seen as exerting pressure on BBCI or is engaged in political gimmicks, then there is no international financial institution, oil or no oil, which is going to lend Guyana any money for any infrastructural project.The government can then kiss
goodbye to any public private partnership for a new bridge to link the east and west banks of Demerara. The Minister of Public Infrastructure announced three days ago that the bridge will be built using a public private partnership. But which investor is going to want to come and invest if they believe, whether rightly or wrongly, that the government is pressurizing a company established under that very model?
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 19, 2018
THE FREDDIE KISSOON COLUMN
The constitutional power of the president and the Opposition Leader I guess we will have to wait months, maybe even a year, before we have the final legal position given by the CCJ on the constitutional right of the President to select a GECOM chairman of his choice without choosing from the list submitted by the Opposition Leader. Anil Nandlall has given notice of appeal to the CCJ. In a previous column, (Monday, October 8, 2018 captioned, “My opinion on the GECOM chairman appointment), I argued that the crucial area was “not unacceptable to the president.” I contended that if the president (not specifically Mr. Granger) had made up his mind that he wanted Mr. Jones, a Guyanese from Mauritius, then he could classify all the submitted names as not being fit and proper. I was and I am still of the opinion that the framers did not want him to act unilaterally. Now here is an interesting pronouncement by one of the Appeal Judges, Justice Barnes. She stated that the president had a right to act unilaterally in the absence of consensus and after a period of eight months. Questions are bound to arise here. First, why did consensus
not take place, and could one of the two persons – Opposition Leader or President, be at fault here? Secondly, the president indeed had to act because time was going and indeed eight months had passed. But who caused a lapse of eight months – the Opposition Leader or the President? Both Justice Dawn Gregory and Justice Rishi Persaud concurred that the president should not have been constricted to pick from the list. Judge Gregory submitted that the existence of a list does not mean the president has to select from it. Judge Persaud argued that to mandate the president to choose from the list is to interfere with his discretion. If you accept what these two judges adumbrated then there one is tempted to ask if this is what the framers intended. The court thinks so. For me it reduces the importance of the list, the role of the Opposition Leader in the selection of the GECOM chairman, and the consensus model in the constitution. Based on the ruling of the Court of Appeal, the CarterPrice formula did not really have the legal substance to
create a consensus model. The unanimous decision of the court that the president has the right to appoint a chairman of his own choice then means that since 1990 when the Carter-Price formula was adopted and put into the constitution, it was merely a blueprint that the president can accept if he wants to. Justice Gregory was unambiguous in her delivery. She said that the designation of fit and proper was for the president alone to determine and also to decide who is acceptable to him. There is an interesting observation by Justice Persaud that should hold interest for those who study constitutional law and political theory. The Judge reasons that to force the president to choose from the list; “…that could possibly lend itself to politicking, abuse by one … such an interpretation may also attempt to elevate the Leader of the Opposition to a position over and above the norms associated with his authority.” But that very constitution (Article 127) gives formidable power to the Opposition Leader. Two of the most powerful persons in this country, and by power is meant, quint-
essential legal power – the Chief Justice and the Chancellor - cannot be confirmed in their respective position unless the Opposition Leader agrees. We had the ugly situation where Chief Justice Ian Chang and Chancellor Carl Singh ended their career on the bench in acting position because Opposition Leader Robert Corbin and David Granger did not assent to their confirmation. At the moment, the Chief Justice and Chancellor are acting because Opposition Leader Jagdeo has refused to endorse the president’s choice of a chancellor,
Belizean Chief Justice, Kenneth Benjamin. The outgoing President of the CCJ, Justice Sir Dennis Byron, said that this is an unfortunate situation in Guyana and needs to be resolved soon and observed that such a state of affairs is unacceptable in a modern democracy. Now according to one Court of Appeal judge, to have the constitution empower the Opposition Leader to decide who shall be the Chairman of GECOM without the right of the president to reject is to widen the authority of the Opposition Leader beyond what is necessary.
Frederick Kissoon But the same Opposition Leader has power that today prevents the president’s choice of Chancellor to take his seat. The court has ruled. The appointment of GECOM’s chairman was properly done. Over to the CCJ.
DEM BOYS SEH
Corruption deh like a cloak round Guyana Not a day does pass without some rampant dishonesty don’t tek place. And this been going on long. Ever since Janet mek Jagdeo and Sam play musical chairs dem dishonesty begin. People wukking in de Ministry of Works get permission to rob de government. People who never hold a saw or a trowel suddenly start to get contract to build roads and schools. All dem had to do was put in dem name fuh a bid and dem get de contract. Then de government to help dem by giving dem big advances. Nuff of de contractors tek de advance and do kak wuk. Some of dem never even start de wuk and dem keep de money. That is wha use to happen when people use to boast how money flowing. Dem boys thought that this was over when Soulja Bai tek over. Dem was wrong. De same people who germinate during that lang time suddenly become like wood ants. Dem dig suh deep in de system that anybody who want to get rid of dem got to blow up de whole system.One man bid fuh two contracts; tek de people estimate and can’t start de wuk because de money done. Patterson got every right to move in pun this man but nutten ain’t
happen. Dem boys want to know if somebody get a kick back and now dem can’t talk or do nutten. De Auditor General start to check how Soulja Bai people doing because dem was de ones who chase down Jagdeo and he kavakamites about corruption. Wha he find mek he nearly faint. He find a contractor in Berbice who tender fuh eight contracts. Dem boys know that nutten ain’t strange in that. But when de man win all eight dem start to tek notice. De Auditor General buss up de bag yesterday. De Berbice contractor bids and de engineer estimates is one and de same in all eight of de contracts.Is either de engineer is de contractor or de engineer and de contractor in a tight relationship. This could have been a case of de contractor checking wid de engineer before he put in he bid. Dem boys waiting to see wha gun happen now. If de engineer still got a wuk wid Soulja Bai dem boys got to watch Soulja Bai. And dem boys waiting to see who gun talk bout law before dem blacklist de contractor.Talk half and watch how corruption deh like a cloak round Guyana.
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 19, 2018
BIT prepares over 600 Region Six youths for labour force The Board of Industrial Training (BIT) recently awarded certificates to 674 young people from Region Six, through the National Training Project for Youth Empowerment (NTYPE) Programme. At one of the most recent graduation ceremonies that was held at the New Amsterdam Town Hall on Friday, last, a total of 577 young people received certificates in 14 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Programmes. Those programmes were offered by 12 agencies and institutions that the Board of Industrial Training would have recognized as its partners. Kaieteur News understands that 120 young people were trained in the area of Information Technology and 30 in the area of Computer Repairs from the RK Computer Institute. The Coles Engineering School trained 27 young people in the areas of Welding/fabrication, Refrigeration Mechanic and Electrical Insulation. A Taste of Heaven Catering School trained 20 young persons in the areas of Catering and Cake Decoration. One hundred and twenty-four youths were trained by the New Amsterdam Technical Institute in the area of HeavyDuty Equipment Operations and Motor Mechanic. Twenty-two were trained by the Winkle Road Work Shop and Henry’s Work Shop received certificates in Welding and Fabrication. In addition to this, 50 persons received certificates in Garment Construction after successfully completing their training at the Upper-Class Community Developer Institute. Thirty-two individuals were taught at the Siparuta Village Council and the Ikuwaru and Bara Cara Upper Canje Creek Centres in the area of Motor Mechanic. One hundred and eleven individuals were trained by the GuySuCo Training Centre in the areas of Motor Vehicle Servicing, Supervisory Management, Fitting and Machining, Welding/Fabrication, Electrical Installation and Refrigeration. Through the Roadside Baptiste Church, 43 persons received training in the areas of Garment Construction, Catering, Computer Repairs and Information Technology. The NTPYE Programmes over the years would have been used as a bridge to successful careers by persons who were unable to complete their schooling at tertiary institutions. Given the opportunity to present a reflection of the programme to his fellow grandaunts and guest at the graduation, one graduate mentioned how the programme was able to move
The Region Six youths who successfully passed the BIT programme him from a clerical position to being hired by one of the leading companies in Guyana’s emerging Oil and Gas Industry. He was also sent to neighbouring Trinidad and Tobago for training. Regional Chairman, David Armogan, thanked the Board of Industrial Training for the outstanding work they have done in Region Six and throughout the country. He also encouraged BIT to continue to meet the skills demand of new and emerging sectors. Valarie Moore, the Chief Recruitment and Manpower Officer encouraged the graduates to embrace professionalism, honesty, integrity, fairness, respect and punctuality as they endeavour to make their mark in the labor force. Correspondingly, on September 19, last, 97 individuals who were trained under one of BIT’s partners, the GuySuCo Training Centre, have completed studies in Electrical Installation, Fitting and Machining, Welding and Fabrication, Motor Vehicle Servicing and Repairs, Refrigeration and Supervisory Management. In addition to the NTPYE graduation ceremony that was held on October 5, last, 84 Industrial Skills Training Enhancement Programme (INSTEP) beneficiaries graduated on September 12, last at the GuySuCo Training Centre - Port Mourant (GTC/PM). This newspaper was informed by BIT that the programme was implemented in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources and Guyana Sugar Corporation. It catered for the sugar workers who were displaced due to redundancy. Moreover, on July 4, last, 57 apprentices in Region Six graduated at GTC/PM. The 57 youths completed their training as Fitter Machinists, Agricultural Mechanics, Electricians, Auto Electricians, Instrument Repair Mechanics, and Sugar Boilers. BIT officials noted that the Apprenticeship Programme is one of the only human resource development programmes that guarantees employment after training. Thus, they said it should be viewed as one of the primary
programmes for developing skilled manpower for industry. Furthermore, BIT representatives said that the apprenticeship programme used the existing infrastructure of industries; thereby, reducing governmental infrastructure spending on training centres.
Additionally, it facilitates the skilful development of the programme beneficiaries through the on-the-job technique of competency development. Thus, more agencies they said, should seek to be licensed by BIT to receive and train apprentices.
They contend that this will help to reduce the skills gap and the mismatch between the training individuals receive and the skills industries need. Furthermore, in light of the changing industrial skills demands in Guyana, BIT said it
intends to ensure that there is continuous improvement of its TECHVOC Programmes by reviewing and prioritizing the following core elements: Alignment with Guyana’s Development Strategy, Improvement in Governance (Continued on page 28)
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 19, 2018
Sophia Man killed after bicycle and food row
The crime scene investigators taking statements from witnesses and going over the scene.
The “Blacka” dam where the incident occurred.
The deceased Seon Harry Seon Harry, 26, was stabbed in the region of the heart yesterday morning after an altercation with an accomplice in the South Sophia Squatting Area.The two men were on the “Blacka” dam between “Black and White” bridge and “Puri Man” bridge. The incident was said
to be over the borrowing of a bicycle and the kicking down of a box of food. When Kaieteur News arrived at the scene, detectives had already commenced their crime scene investigation and a number of witnesses were being questioned. Harry was already pronounced dead on arrival at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC). One witness explained to this publication that Harry and the suspect, only known as “Darius”, a 31year-old, also a resident of Sophia, had an altercation on Wednesday night, because Harry picked up Darius’s bicycle and rode away with it. After Harry returned the bicycle there was a heated exchange of words. A box of
food that “Darius” had in his hand was reportedly kicked from his hand by the victim. Yesterday morning, Harry saw the suspect again and arming himself with a cutlass, he attacked him, chopping him about the body. The suspect then drew a knife from his waist and stabbed Harry about his body. An individual who was crossing the “Black and White” bridge and witnessed the scene said, “(Harry) start to chop “Darius” with a cutlass. Next thing “Darius” pull a knife and push it in he. When the man pull out the knife the blood pitch pon the fence. Harry start to run, and the man run behind he firing juck.”Harry was said to have been chased some 200 feet by
“Darius” leading down the “Blacka” dam and over the “Puri Man” bridge. He then ran into a yard, where he fell and was then beaten by “Darius” with a branch. It was not until people came out and intervened that the blows stopped. Harry was immediately rushed to the
GPHC where he was pronounced dead on arrival. This publication learnt from a source, that the men were unemployed, but were known to sell illicit drugs in the area.The police in a statement confirmed most of the information that Kaieteur News received from witnesses. It also
stated that Harry’s body was at the GPHC morgue awaiting a post mortem examination. Police have also confirmed taking the suspect into custody where he is helping with investigations.Darius also had to seek medical attention at the GPHC for injuries about the body.
Govt. used seven rooms at hotel to store drugs, items attacked by termites While it was paying $25M per month to use a house in Sussex Street as a drug bond, the APNU+AFC Government still found it necessary to store drugs at Ocean View International Hotel. This was revealed in the Auditor General’s report covering a review of the fiscal year ended 2017. The report was released to the National Assembly yesterday. Within a review of the Ministry of Public Health, the Office of the Auditor General noted, “…the drugs were stored in seven hotel rooms. The manner in which the items were packed made it difficult to conduct a stock count as the items were not arranged in manner that made them easy of access and check.“In addition, there was evidence of termite infestation in the rooms and damages (sic) to the boxes and items stored,. The extent of the damage could not be determined at the time of physical count.” The ministry responded
that it had taken a decision to utilize the Ocean View Offsite “to store medical supplies rather than pharmaceuticals, which need A/C’s to maintain potency. The proprietors have treated the rooms against termites and rodents to avoid damage to the items.” The Audit Office recommended that the Ministry “take immediate steps to ensure that the Stores Regulations is complied with, as it relates to the accounting for stores.” But that was not the only problem highlighted by the Auditor General. As it turns out, the Audit Office has been unable to find formal agreement for rental of the property or the other offsite locations that were being used. The report stated, “There was no evidence that rent was paid to the owners of the facilities and audit checks revealed that the Ministry did not enter into contracts with the owners for the storage of the items”. The Ministry of Public Health responded that the
Ministry had sought the assistance of corporate citizens to have the items stored at the offsite locations temporarily since the construction of bonds was ongoing. The Audit Office recommended that the Ministry take action to ensure that contracts are put in place that meet the requirements of the Procurement Act 2013, especially as they relate to the terms and conditions that would indemnify the government from financial loss. What many find strange is that the government was using Ocean View and other “offsite facilities” despite the fact that it was paying so much money for the Sussex Street Bond even though not much used to be stored there. When the media visited the bond, much space was available. Overall, the government ended up paying over $300M for the Sussex Street Bond for which the owner paid $25M which was wholly secured from an advance he got from government.
Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News
PAGE 13
Former Kaieteur News graphic artist is newest member of the Bar Attorney –at –law, Christopher Anthony Thompson, is the newest member of the local Bar. He was admitted to practise law in the civil and criminal courts of Guyana after a petition was presented on his behalf, yesterday, before High Court Justice Sandra Kurtzious yesterday. In a courtroom filled with family members and wellwishers Thompson’s mentor, Attorney –at- law Christopher Ram, presented the petition on his behalf. The lawyer detailed Thompson academic and professional journey to becoming a legal practitioner. Ram noted that the young lawyer built an academic foundation at the St John’s College and St Stanislaus College before venturing into law studies at the University Of Guyana and the Hugh Wooding Law School in Trinidad and Tobago. According to Ram,
Thompson’s experience in professional world includes employment as an audit clerk at National Hardware and a graphic artist at Kaieteur News, where he worked for several years. He noted that in addition to his easy going personality, sense of humour, Thompson is also driven and has a passion for the law — especially towards ensuring its serves the common man and woman. In accepting the petition, Justice Kurtzious advised the new member of the legal profession to continue being a student of the law. “And remember your clients are your best advertisers.” In response, Thompson thanked the Court for graciously accepting his petition. “ Even as I celebrate and give myself the proverbial pat on the back, I am re-
minded that I stood on the shoulders of giants both living and dead, who brought me to this juncture. Giants like Mr. Chris Ram, Mr. Glenn Lall (Publisher of Kaieteur News), Justice Claudette La Bennett, my wife, parents, family members and many friends. Since my days at the University at Guyana I have relied upon Mr. Ram’s guidance and experience, and even as I dip into that fountain of knowledge, I am acutely aware that I am only scratching the surface; I have a long way to go. And I wish I could take all the credit and say that everyone is gathered here today because of the great and terrific person that I am. But that’s not the reality, because today is not merely about me, it’s about the ideas that were instilled (Continued on page 28)
From Left Attorney at Law Christopher Anthony Thompson, Justice Sandra Kurtzious and Attorney Christopher Ram
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Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News
Ownership of Sussex St. wharf facility was transferred to NICIL - Attorney tells City Hall COI In-house Attorney and Company Secretary of National Industrial Commercial Investments Limited, (NICIL), Arianne Mc Lean, has produced documents to show that the State-owned privatization unit has ownership of the disputed wharf facility located at Lot 1 Mudflat, Lombard Street. The lawyer supplied the document to the Commission of Inquiry into the affairs of City Hall on Wednesday. Including among the documents which Mc Lean supplied is a supplemental
deed of lease agreement dated January 2002 between Guyana National Engineering Corporation, (GNEC) and Guyana National Industrial Company, (GNIC). She explained that GNEC had a transport for the plot of land since 1985. The property was nonetheless leased to GNIC for a period not exceeding 15 years. “The substantive lease is from 1995 and the supplemental lease is from 2002 for an additional ten years.” “So that would be from 2002 to 2012?” McLean was
asked by Chairman of the COI, retired Justice Cecil Kennard. “Yes sir.” Mc Lean told the commission that NICIL acquired the property in 2002 by virtue of a vesting order. She explained that a vesting order is legal method of transferring legal title of a property from party to the next as part of an equitable remedy. She explained, too, that there is no transport in the name of NICIL, only details of the transfer which are in the vesting order. According to Mc Lean,
GNEC was dissolved in May 30, 2002 and transferred to and vested in NICIL. To this day, she said NICIL is still the owner and has not leased the riverfront property to any other company. The lawyer explained, further, that GNIC the current lease holder, has been in default; the company had continued to occupy the place but stopped paying rent since 2010. Questioned about the rental of the property to Quick Shipping Inc, Mc Lean said that she knows about the company but cannot say how it acquired a lease to the wharf facility from the Georgetown Mayor and City Council. As it stands, Mc Lean says only NICIL has the rights to lease the property. The plot of riverfront land, is not the property of the Georgetown Mayor and City Council, (M&CC), but was leased to a shipping company by Town Clerk, Royston King. King has reportedly been collecting a yearly rent from
NICIL Secretary Arianne Mc Lean the tenants, despite the dispute surrounding the piece of real estate. NICIL is said to have raised an objection over the Town Clerk’s leasing of the Wharf Front Land. NICIL noted that King had no authority to lease the land. The shipping company subsequently wrote NICIL requesting permission to rent
the land but King never revoked his lease to the company. As a result, NICIL filed a complaint with the Local Government Commission, (LGC) over the matter. Earlier this month, proprietor of Quick Shipping Inc, Paul Sandy, admitted that the riverfront land he leased from City Council is being claimed by at least two other entities. The businessman told the Commission that he spent “millions of dollars” improving the wharf, which was once occupied by pigs. Sandy admitted to using the unfinished wharf to dock his vessels despite the controversy over who owns the land. The repairs included clearing and back filling the wharf. Sandy noted too that he has already been paying a rent of $645,000 annually since 2016, when the NICIL, Government’s holding company for state assets, and the Guyana National Industrial Corporation,(GNIC) came forward claiming ownership of the properties.
Soesdyke man charged with ‘peacemaker murder’ Three days after a teenager was fatally stabbed after he went to the aid of a woman whose spouse had attempted to hit her, a Soesdyke man was on Wednesday charged with the teen’s murder. Forty-year-old Anthony Jones, of Circuit Ville, Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway was not required to plead to the charge
which stated that on October 13; last, at Yarrowkabra, Soesdyke/ Linden Highway, he murdered 19-year-old Nyron Vyphuis. The charge was read to him by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. He was represented by Attorney-at-Law James Bond who asked that statements in
the matter be disclosed on his client next court appearance. The Matter was prosecuted by Police Prosecutor, Simone Payne, who told the court that the file is incomplete and asked for more time to complete the matter. The Magistrate remanded the father of five to prison and ordered him to make his (Continued on page 31)
Friday October 19, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Granger assures Govt. will not squander oil revenue …Says Natural Resources Fund legislation to be tabled next month President David Granger has assured that the Coalition Government is committed to transparency in the management of the oil and gas sector, promising to be prudent with revenues which will flow from oil production in 2020. Delivering an address to Members of Parliament (MPs) following the annual Parliamentary recess, President Granger outlined Government’s legislative plan for the upcoming session and provided an update on the state of affairs in the country. According to Granger, Government is taking steps to ensure that the revenues which accrue from the sector will not be squandered but, instead, will be invested strategically in building human and institutional capacity, addressing infrastructural deficit and providing economic security for future generations. Granger told Parliament, which saw attendance from the Diplomatic Corps that this would be done through a Natural Resources Fund (NRF) which will be established before first oil in 2020. “It is being reviewed by Cabinet and the revised legislation will be laid in the National Assembly next month. This legislation is comprehensive and will ensure that revenues from petroleum are managed in a transparent and accountable manner,” Granger stated. He indicated that the legislation, as it stands, meets 21 of the 24 Santiago Principles with the other three principles being met once the legislation comes into force. “Your government will ensure that oil revenues are prudently managed for the present and future generations in accordance
with our objective of securing the good life for all,” Granger stated. He assured that Government has already begun to build the capacity of key agencies concerned with management of the NRF and has developed an implementation plan to ensure that the Fund is fully operational in 2019 prior to first oil. He said priority will be given to investments in human capital, particularly our public education system and key catalytic infrastructural projects that improve productivity and bridge the divide between the coastland and hinterland. As it relates to other developments in the sector, Granger noted that work is continuing, also, on the Petroleum Commission Bill which has been re-drafted and forwarded to the Department of Energy for review. Other legislation which the Department of Energy is reviewing includes amendments to the Petroleum (Exploration and Production) Act and Regulations. “Your government is committed to transparency in the management of this sector. We have made public the petroleum contracts
40
signed between investors and the Government of Guyana,” Granger stated. PACKED AGENDA Granger said that government has a packed legislative agenda to bring before the National Assembly in 2019. He highlighted a few including the Public Debt Management Bill, which will address reforms of the procurement system, as well as for improved expenditure planning, management and execution of the public sector investment programme. According to Granger, the Mining Act and its Regulations are being comprehensively overhauled to ensure that mining is better regulated to ensure safety, efficiency and environmental sustainability through the Mining (Amendment) Bill. He said amendments will also be tabled in respect of the Guyana Gold Board Act and its Regulations. He promised new regulations to reduce the use of mercury in the mining sector and to ensure better environmental practices on land and water resources. Also scheduled to be tabled for this sitting is the Judicial Review Bill and the long-awaited Intellectual Property Rights Bill.
Granger stated that the Integrity Commission (Amendment) Bill will amend the schedule of declarants so as to more accurately reflect today’s range of senior public officers. OPPOSING GREETING During his address, Granger received thunderous applause from the Government MPs and was heckled by the Opposition, People’s Progressive Party (PPP) when he addressed topical issues, including those related to the sugar industry.
Unlike last year when the Opposition greeted him with placards and drowned out his speech, Granger was allowed to deliver his speech relatively uninterrupted. The Opposition did not stand when the President was invited to address the Parliament or when he completed his address. Opposite the Parliament Buildings, supporters from the two sides jostled to occupy the space behind the police barricades. Opposition Leader, Bharrat Jagdeo and other PPP MPs stopped to
greet their supporters. However, the PPP supporters eventually caved in to a counter group and left the area. As Granger arrived, he was greeted with chants of ‘Granger, Granger’ from a group of persons mostly decked out in A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) gear. As the President departed the Parliament Buildings he stopped his motorcade, exited his car and shook hands with supporters. Other Government MPs did the same.
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Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News
An estimated 60,000 Guyanese suffer from undernourishment,’ says FAO’s rep “In 2017 it was realized that hunger was rising in the world again to the extent where one in every nine persons, is suffering from some sort of undernourishment… “ In Guyana, however, we have been able to reduce undernourishment from over 21% of the total population to less than 10% by 2015,” said Food and Agriculture Organisation [FAO] representative in Guyana, Mr. Reuben Robertson. Robertson was at the time delivering the feature address on World Food Day, which was hosted in the Mainstay Wayaka Village on the Essequibo Coast for the first time, on Wednesday. The activity which was observed under the theme “Working for zero hunger,” was also attended by Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder; Region Two Chairman, Devenand Ramdatt, and other officials from the Ministry of Agriculture. Complementing the event on Wednesday were some 50 booths, which displayed a number of products from Guyana’s Agriculture sector. During his feature address, Robertson noted that
“Images of the exhibition at Mainstay on the Essequibo Coast.” unlike many other countries in the Caribbean, Guyana is a net producer, producing enough to feed its citizens. He said that while Guyana produces enough food, there are still persons who are stricken by poverty and who
have little access to the food produced. “Worldwide one in every nine person is suffering from some form of chronic malnourishment. In the Caribbean there are over seven million in this category. In
Guyana over 21% of the population fell into this category. “By 2015 however there was a reduction to about less than 10% now. There are still too many people in Guyana, some 50,000 to 60,000 persons who are suffering from this plight of undernourishment.” Robertson noted that since world hunger is on the rise, revenues from Guyana’s oil and gas sec-
tor can be used to transform its agriculture and fisheries sectors. This according to him will create decent rural employment; illuminating Poverty and securing food and nutrition security for all Guyanese. Minister of Agriculture, Noel Holder, said that by 2050 Guyana’s Agriculture sector will need to produce 50% more food than it did in 2012. The Ministry of Agricul-
ture has been working to ensure that there is an increase of investments, to enhance the country’s agricultural capacity, he said. Statistics from the Food and Agriculture Organization indicate that in the world there are poor people in rural areas, who depend heavily on agriculture for food. The Pomeroon/Supenaam Region with a population of some 50,000, continues to stand on Agriculture as one of its main economic pillars. As Regional Chairman, Devenand Ramdatt, pointed out, the region is heavily dependent on it fish, coconut and rice industries, most of which he says are failing. In highlighting some of the Government’s intentions for sustainable development in Region Two’s agriculture sector, the Minster added, “We are focusing on sustainable and diversified agriculture…In Region Two we are gradually improving the Drainage and Irrigation system. “Recently there has been an upsurge in the demand for coconuts and its byproducts.” In an effort to combat chronic and seasonal flooding in the Pomeroon, Minister Holder said that the long overdue silted Pomeroon River mouth will soon be desilted. [Romario Blair]
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Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News
Albion sugar workers’ strike over snake-infested area enters 10th day Over 300 hundred sugarcane workers from the 15B Gang of the Albion Estate are continuing a strike with Guysuco already losing millions of dollars as a dispute with management rages on. At issue is cutting of canes in a snake invested area. The workers are saying that they are not refusing to cut the cane, but need the Bell Loader to “cut and drop” instead of “cut and load” since the area is invested with deadly Crapaud Labaria snakes. The workers who were formerly from the Rose Hall Estate, East Canje location, on Wednesday along with representatives of the Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) stages a picketing exercise in front of the Albion Estate on the Corentyne to press their case. Speaking to the media during the picketing exercise, GAWU Field Secretary Harvey Tambron said that management burnt cane on October 9, despite request from representative of the gang that GuySuCo should have the Bell Loaders to load the cane. However, despite the request management went ahead and burnt the cane. The workers refuse to cut the cane, since their requests were not met. Management
Workers and family protesting.
burnt cane again on Wednesday and the workers continued to refuse to venture into the field. What is ironic is that on the first day the workers did not even enter the field when they encountered and killed two venomous snakes in the Crossing Punts.
Tambron said that when the Enterprise E Field 1-5 were burnt the workers had the usage of Bell Loaders. They were told by management that the Bell Loaders were borrowed from the SPU and were since returned. He said what is foolish about it is that the Bell Load-
ers are now at Skeldon sitting idle, because no harvesting is being done at Skeldon. He is questioning the big bad bully style of the Estate Management and asked “Why not borrow the Bell Loader so that the workers can earn some money. The
workers feel that they are being made into scapegoats. He is calling for an investigation. According Harvesting representative, Indergeet Bhopaul, the 15 B Gang is the strongest gang, supplying the estate with over 100 punts cane every day. He said at
present there are over 8.8 hectares of canes rotting, a total of over 80 punts cane. He said that due to the bad decision and the Corporation is losing millions. They will now have to pay workers to cut and throw away the spoil cane.
GPHC waiting time reduces
Accident and Emergency Department at the GPHC Patients of the Georgetown Public Hospital Cooperation (GPHC) have noted a reduction in the wait at the Accident and Emergency Department. Over the years, GPHC’s waiting period has posed an issue for patients visiting the hospital. However, noticeable strides were made by the government in achieving a lower period of waiting for these patients. A five-hour reduction was seen in the waiting period at the A&E department compared to just two-years back. Initially, overcrowding and a lack of nurses in the department were factored in as the main causes for the lengthy waiting period. The issue was then approached, and in turn, the department now has a higher number of nurses who are trained to handle the emotional stress that comes with being in the A&E. The atmosphere of GPHC, compared to what it was a few years ago,
marks a considerable improvement in the system. Whilst there is still a process of waiting, one can conclude that, there has been substantial progression in operations at the department. Operating under the Triage system, patients will meet with a nurse who will later assess the priority of their condition. The system ensures that patients who require immediate care receive that said care. It is a commonality for patients who have visited the A&E department to complain about the long wait that they may have experienced. However, citizens who have visited or worked at the hospital, have noted the improvement in its operations. With more medical equipment and trained personnel, GPHC is on the path to a much more reduced waiting time and better health care for its patients.
Friday October 19, 2018
WHO clears CARICOM Member States of Virus The Caribbean Region has one less public health challenge to deal with. This is in light of the World Health Organisation [WHO] decision to clear Member States of the Caribbean Community [CARICOM] of the Zika virus. This development has been linked to the inactivity of the virus. Moreover, WHO was forced to revise the Zika virus country classification scheme for the Caribbean Region. The scheme is one that categorized most of the Caribbean territories as having active Zika virus transmission. WHO’s decision comes on the heels of data released by the Caribbean Public Health Agency [CARPHA] which suggest that the transmission of the virus in the Caribbean had been interrupted for over 12 months or was at undetectable levels. This by extension meant that any trace of the virus posed very little risks to residents and visitors to the Region. The CARPHA data was substantiated by information coming from Canada, the United Kingdom, Europe and the United States which showed that no Zika virus had been detected for over one year in travellers returning from the Caribbean to those countries. Moreover, the evidence of the inactive Zika virus was used by CARICOM to pen a letter to the WHO Director General calling for the immediate reclassification of CARPHA Member States from Category One [having active Zika virus transmission] to Category three [having no virus transmission]. Detailed in the letter was the argument that the classification system had outlived its useful purpose. CARPHA’s Executive Director, Dr. C. James Hospedales, explained that
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Kaieteur News
CARPHA’s Executive Director, Dr. C. James Hospedales. the virus classification was not only having an adverse impact on the Caribbean, but it was also against the tenets of the International Health Regulations [IHR]. This adverse impact was confirmed by the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association [CHTA] and the Caribbean Tourism Organization [CTO], which together made a formal request to CARPHA for the Agency’s intervention. Dr. Hospedales stated, “The Caribbean is the most tourism-dependent region in the world. It is also one of the most popular honeymoon destinations worldwide and ongoing cancellations due to the classification of most Caribbean countries as Category One is hurting the industry unnecessarily. Therefore, CARPHA felt compelled to provide the evidence and to advocate for the removal of this WHO classification system.” Today, the efforts of CARPHA, its Member States, CARICOM, and other regional and international agen-
cies have yielded fruit as the WHO virus country classification scheme is no longer active. CARPHA was legally established in July 2011 by an inter-governmental agreement signed by CARICOM Member States and began operation in January 2013. As a result, the CARPHA laboratory serves as the Region’s reference laboratory for its Member States. As the sole regional public health agency CARPHA has pledged to continue to work with its Member States to ensure that the Caribbean is capable of preventing, detecting and responding to public health threats affecting the Region. One of its strategic priorities is to strengthen the health systems of Member States through improved human resource development. Indeed CARPHA had offered training to Member States to combat the Zika virus and other mosquito borne diseases. According WHO, the Zika Virus is a disease caused by a virus transmitted primarily by Aedes type mosquitoes. People with the virus, WHO noted, can have symptoms lasting up to two to seven days including: mild fever, skin rash, conjunctivitis, muscle and joint pain, malaise or headache. There have however been reports that the symptoms of Zika, which primarily spreads when a mosquito infected with Zika bites someone, were farther reaching. The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention had reported that while many people infected with Zika won’t have symptoms or will only have mild symptoms, a pregnant woman on the other hand, even without symptoms, can pass Zika to her developing fetus. CDC had reported too that Zika infection (Continued on page 30)
Con-woman disappears after taking $400,000 from West Demerara family A West Coast Demerara family is trying to locate a woman whom they claim defrauded them of a significant sum of cash, valuing over some $400,000. Urias and Emily Cornelius who both live in Tuschen on the West Coast Demerara, are now claiming that a woman who was identified as Shelly Ramnarine conducted a fraudulent transaction with them on July 12, last. According to the victims, the woman promised that she would secure for them house lots in the Zeelugt Housing Scheme. The woman reportedly promised that she would also build houses for them since her objective is to help the poor. Kaieteur News understands that the woman requested some $60,000 from Urias Cornelius, who is now deceased, to purchase materials to construct the house she promised. She also requested money to fill out the necessary documentations for the house lot. The monies that totaled some $103,000 were reportedly paid to the woman, but the materials and house lots were never purchased. The man’s sister in law, Emily Cornelius, was also de-
The alleged con woman, Shelly Ramnarine frauded of some $300,000 as the woman claimed she will purchase for her a house, land and car. Though the woman promised that receipt will be served, the victims alleged that they did not receive any receipt for the transaction. Robert Junior, whose mother was also a victim of the scam said, “When we asked to see the house lot or the materials this woman jumped up and said she can’t do it today because she very busy.
“Every time they requested to see the house lots and materials she always has an excuse...My grandfather requested to speak to her boss, and this woman called my grandfather and put on her husband and him pretended to talk as the boss trying to make it sound official.” Robert Junior, who is also from Tuschen, said his mother paid the woman $135,000 for a house lot, but never received a receipt, or saw for herself the house lot the woman claimed she purchased. After months, however, he managed to reclaim the cash. He added, “She actually got my mom to pay her $135,000 cash and she said that she would’ve bring the money to my mother and that never happened… I had to be on this woman back before she returned this $135,000 and she still owes my grandfather who died and now that my grandmother is a widow she needs this money.” In a video recording shown to this publication, the woman is heard and seen acknowledging the transaction. “In all is $103,000. By weekend you gon get that back because that ain’t (Continued on page 31)
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 19, 2018
Contractor collects $112.1M on two Carpenter remanded for showing woman his Manhood projects last year; fails to start work Mark Phillips, a 47-yearold carpenter of Yarrowkabra village, Soesdyke-Linden Highway, was yesterday remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann Mc Lennon for publically exposing his genitals to a woman. The incident allegedly occurred on October 13, 2018, at Yarrowkabra. The man was unrepresented and pleaded not guilty to the charge that was read to him by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan. In his defence, Phillips told the court that the woman who is known to him, was previously making use of electricity and water from the premises in which he lived, but as a result of high electric and water bills and her not contributing to the payments he was forced to disconnect her. The defendant told the court yesterday that all the accusations made against him stemmed from her being disconnected, and an argument between himself and her spouse.Police Prosecutor Simone Payne objected to bail
Remanded: Mark Phillips
and the defendant was remanded to prison. The Magistrate also ordered that a psychiatric examination be performed on the
defendant to determine whether he is of sound mind. The matter is expected to continue on November 6, 2018.
As it relates to advance payments to contractors and the non-commencement of works, the Auditor General’s Office has discovered that one contractor received an advance payment of $39M in 2017 from Region Number 10. In his latest report, Auditor General, Deodat Sharma, said that the contract for the construction of a Regional Administration Building was awarded by the National Procurement and Tender Administration Board (NPTAB) to the lowest responsive bidder in the sum of $265.6M against an engineer’s estimate of $249.3M. Sharma said that the contract was signed on December 29, 2017 and the works were expected to be completed two years after the commencement date. The AG said that as at December 31, 2017, an advance payment in the sum of $39M was made to the contractor. Sharma said that a site inspection revealed several worrying things. Among these, he said, is the fact that the site was abandoned, that no equipment or personnel were present; and a quantity of white sand was stockpiled with two material storage sheds.
Auditor General, Deodat Sharma
Sharma said that the full advance payment of $39M was prepared and processed in the name of the contractor but at the time of payment, no bond was lodged by the contractor. It was only last February that one was produced. The Auditor General said that this is a breach of procurement laws. At the time of the audit in July 2018, the Auditor General noted, too, that the RDC was now requesting permission to go to tender for supervisory consultancy services for the supervision of the works for the contract which was awarded since December 29,
2017. The AG was alarmed that the contractor was already in possession of the advance money when no supervisor was in place. The Government in response to this finding by the AG said that the matter is currently engaging the attention of the Ministries of Communities and Finance with the view to engaging a Supervising Consultant. Sharma said that the same contractor received $73.1M advance payment from the Ministry of Public Health in 2017 and at the time of reporting, no significant works had commenced on site.
Appeal Court upholds President’s appointment ... (From page 3) been enacted earlier; after he rejected the first list. Although she agreed with some of the submissions presented by attorney Anil
Nandlall, the Chancellor noted that under Article 161 (2) of the Constitution, that Granger has the right to appoint a GECOM Chairman. Similarly, Justice of Appeal Rishi Persaud said
BIT prepares over 600... From page 11 arrangements, More emphasis on employer engagements, Increased funding and incentives systems, Reconfigure curriculum design and delivery systems, and Review and improve our assessment mechanisms in order to ensure quality assurance and accreditation. It also intends to ensure marketable certification and/or further progression, not excluding the achievement of local National Vocational Qualification (NVQ), and/or ultimately Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) which will ensure the skills generated are sought after not only locally but Regionally and Internationally.
Former Kaieteur News... From, page 13 in me as a child; ideas such as, that one can rise in spite of their circumstances; that education is still the key to success; that there is no substitute for hard work and persistence and that sacrifices will realize results.”Thompson gave thanks for each and every person who contributed to his success.“Whether in thought, words or deeds I may not have heard the prayers, but I certainly experienced many an occasion of divine interventions in those exams,”he added.
there was nothing to suggest that the President acted unconstitutionally, illegally or unreasonably in appointing Justice James Patterson. The President could not be forced to choose from a list because that could lead to an “unreasonable fettering of his discretion”. “That could possibly lend itself to politicking, abuse by one …Again such an interpretation may also attempt to elevate the Leader of the Opposition to a position over and above the norms associated with his authority,” Justice Persaud added. In June Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George ruled that the President acted lawfully when he unilaterally appointed Justice Patterson as Chairman of GECOM.The appeal was filed by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Member of Parliament Zulfikar Mustapha.On Tuesday, the powers of the President were the source of contention among the lawyers from both the State and the PPP.
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Kaieteur News
Friday October 19, 2018
The Plight of Senior Officers at the Ministry of Agriculture... From page 6 told that they would be reverted to their former un-regularized positions; a strange move.Even more strange, it was indicated that there was need for regularization. The officers would have thought that regularization would include the aligning of persons in suitable positions commensurate with their qualifications and experience. Instead, these officers are being bullied to revert to their former un-regularized and awkward positions. Additionally, there seemed to be haste to place persons in some ‘new’ positions hurriedly, just ahead of the reconvening of the Public Service Commission (PSC). If indeed there is regularization, how can this include rescinding of officers to un-regularized positions? If indeed there is need for regularization, why should there have been a hurry, just ahead of the reconvening of the Public Service Commission? Would it not be the just and right thing to have the PSC oversee this regularization in a transparent manner; aligning current staff who are fit and proper in the required positions, with no prejudice? Of great interest and amazement is that in the height of efforts to rescind the officers, attempts were made to force the very officers to produce a Plan to operationalize the very unit they are to be rescinded from; a clear indication that there is knowledge of the capability of the officers but a determination to deprive them anyway. The question is: A plan to give to whom? So are these officers being pushed down to provide ‘shoulders’ for the ‘new’ positions to stand on? This must not be. It should be noted that
when persons are placed in positions for reasons other than their qualification and experience, this can create controversy and awkwardness. A head who has to constantly ask his or her subordinates for direction, will find himself or herself in embarrassing positions, when tasked to explain themselves beyond what is described and given to them. Is this the direction to take? The Officers are being tacitly bullied to accept the former un-regularized and awkward positions, by what is called a re-appointment letter and other means. When they don’t accept, their gratuity, among others is being withheld under the excuse of mismatch of position and duties. But the officers have been performing duties delegated to them, even in their awkward situation. Are these officers the cause of this chaos? These officers would have complained of this situation years ago, with no redress. These officers have always been employed as professionals, are not politically aligned and have competently represented Ministers, Permanent Secretaries; including the current Minister and Permanent Secretary and the wider Ministry, at both local and foreign events, even in instances with correspondence of commendation for their performance. To try to rescind these officers to the former un-regularized and awkward positions, by what these officers consider subtle blackmail efforts, should be investigated. It should not be condoned. In fact, the entire structure and placement of positions at the Ministry of Agriculture should be investigated. Is it
any wonder we often read what we read about the Ministry in the media? Place the fit and proper staff in the correct positions across the entire Ministry and let meaningful work be conducted. The Public Service Commission should be allowed to perform this function without fear or favour, if indeed good is meant to be achieved. A lot more has been meted out to these officers which cannot be written but is available. In fact, the intensity of this onslaught against the officers is making them concerned about their safety and well-being on the job and otherwise. If their work is not in question for 17-plus years, then what is the cause of this demoralization? Is it because they cannot or do not wish to engage in certain activities? Is it a case of discrimination or injustice? Is it a case where the presence, knowledge and experience of the officers is intimidating to persons who intend to bluff? How can officers at the highest levels of qualification and experience not be fit and proper for appropriate placement? Who really is responsible for this and what then are the criteria for appropriate placement? Editor, this matter needs urgent, unprejudiced and transparent investigation. The officers do not believe that these are acts of the current Government, but rather, some person(s) trying to let them feel that their plight will be the same or even worse with the change of government and to finally force them out of their jobs. The fact that this argument and intimation of finding it ‘difficult to place’ the officers, has moved across governments, is very telling.
The officers are thus of the firm belief that it is the work of a person or group of persons who have managed to move smoothly across governments in a position(s) of influence, (whether overtly or covertly) and have convincingly continued to advance the same argument against the officers - in short,
the officers may just unintentionally be ‘in the way’ of the person(s). Are these professionals to deduce that they are singled out and targeted for reasons unknown? For the good of the MOA, this matter needs to be thoroughly investigated. H.E. President Granger in
his inauguration speech, appropriately quoted from Psalm 118: 24 indicating: “This is the day the Lord has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it”. The situation at the Ministry of Agriculture seems otherwise. Yours truly (Names supplied)
More pain and economic hardship ahead for Berbicians... From page 4 has one of the highest maternal and child death rates in the Caribbean, partly the result of transportation challenges to accessing care. Poor and low-income families will have to make impossible choices like whether to send their children to school, pay for food, or visit the hospital for life-saving healthcare. According to the Minister of Public Infrastructure, the government would not approve any increase in tolls. However, unlike GuySuCo, in which the government was able to make unilateral decisions about its closure, BCCI is a public-private partnership company with public entities owning a minority stake in the company. Thus, it is unlikely that the government’s disapproval would be enough to
prevent the new tolls from taking effect. Assuming the adopted tolls hike is financially justified, the absence of an agreement between the government and the company to prevent any tolls increase would be disastrous. The National Insurance Scheme, the country’s biggest health insurance provider, is the single largest investor in the company. Local banks have also invested heavily in the company. If the company is unable to meet its financial obligations, or worse, defaults on them, the impact would be systemic and far-reaching. With budget 2019 around the corner, lawmakers have a real opportunity to negotiate a better way forward with the company to prevent more families from falling into poverty, and job losses, and the
further economic collapse of the Region and national economies. They have the fiscal tools and resources necessary to resolve the issue and create a stable and predictable economic future for families and businesses. A reorientation of spending in the national budget from unproductive spending and the elimination of waste, inefficiencies, and duplications would free up enough resources to invest in the company and keep the cost of tolls affordable. It is also a perfect opportunity to earmark a portion of future oil revenues for sustainable transportation and public infrastructure development. Dhanraj Singh Executive Director Guyana Budget Policy Institute
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Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News
WHO clears CARICOM...
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From page 27 during pregnancy can cause serious birth defects. Among the birth defects that CDC has associated with the Zika virus is microcephaly. Microcephaly is where the fetus is exposed to certain viruses, toxins or even drugs or alcohol during pregnancy resulting in under development of the brain tissues thereby causing an abnormally small head. Having been faced with the threat of Zika virus, Guyana recorded over a dozen cases of microcephaly suspected to be related to the virus.
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Friday October 19, 2018
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Kaieteur News
Estonia e-government team briefs Cabinet - Govt. services, online population registry, hinterland access Chairman of the Management Board of the e-Governance Academy (eGA) of Estonia, Dr. Arvo Ott, accompanied by Ms. Marit Lani and Mr. Tõnis Mäe, presented a draft report on the project, Digital Governance Roadmap for the Government of Guyana, during Tuesday’s Cabinet meeting. The draft roadmap outlines an implementation plan that will see the complete establishment of digital governance by 2030. During an interview with the Ministry of the Presidency’s Public Information and Press Services Unit, Chairman of the National Data Management Authority (NDMA), Mr. Floyd Levi, explained that the roadmap was drafted after an assessment of Guyana’s e-governance status and is meant as a guideline to shift Guyana into a more modern state. As Estonia is world renowned for its successful e-governance system, Levi said that a partnership with the eGA primes Guyana for an efficient and effective e-Government. “There are several e-government initiatives undertaken by Government and we wanted to review that against a baseline. We chose the country of Estonia, which has had a very successful e-government implementation. “We wanted to ensure that we were on the right track and using the e-Governance Academy of Estonia to review our work… as a starting point, we designed a roadmap that will clearly show what we need to have in place in order to get where we want to go,” he said. The Chairman added that the Estonian delegation highlighted four key areas of development that will ensure Guyanese benefit fully from the e-governance: the integration of the population registry into the e-government framework, the establishment of unique digital identities for every citizen in Guyana, the development of a secure and seamless digital exchange to facilitate the sharing of information between Government agencies, and the listing of all available Government services that need connection to the
President David Granger and his Cabinet fully engaged as a delegation from the Estonian e-Governance Academy presents the draft report on the project, Digital Governance Roadmap for the Government of Guyana. secure Government information exchange. Levi said that tackling these gaps in Guyana’s e-governance development will boost efficiency; whereby a citizen needs only share their information with a government agency one time. “This is what we call the ‘once only’principle. A citizen is already known to Government and you should not be asked by different Government agencies for the same information every time you interact with them… The system will be able to verify that you are who you claim to be with the Government agency that is offering you service seamlessly [and] securely,” Mr. Levi explained. Ambitiously, the NDMA chairman said Guyanese will benefit from online Government services as soon as next year. “I believe citizens would be very satisfied if they can have all of their interactions with Government done online so we are aiming at this point in time, to have over 200 Government services be available to the citizens online by the end of 2019… “You go online and you have
this interaction, you complete your application and you send it into Government agencies from the comfort of your own home, from your own smart phone, and, if you do not have one, from the Government-initiated community ICT hub in your community,” the Chairman said. Referencing the Government’s Green State Development Strategy (GSDS), Mr. Levi said that the NDMA has aligned itself with Government’s ‘green’ agenda. “The Green State Development Strategy is Guyana’s blueprint for development. It is not only an environmental blueprint. It is a blueprint that this administration has advanced as its development framework for the entire country for all sectors of society… We have to compete and work in tandem with the other sectors of society toward the same goals… We are very synchronised with Government’s agenda,” he said. In a determined effort to promote inclusivity and equality, Levi said that the department is actively reducing the occurrence of digital exclusion, especially for those living in Guyana’s
Con-woman disappears after... From page 27 got nothing to do with the land or so that was to start build the house.” In another video recorded, later, the woman is heard again saying, “When meh husband come home yuh gon get it. Bear with me the two days cause a gon tek he money and give yuh back. So as soon as he come if not today
d’sure tomorrow. As soon as he come home meh gon send it.” Kaieteur News understands that the woman, who was renting a house in Zeelugt, has now disappeared and the outstanding debts have not being repaid. Though a report was made at the Leonora Police station against the woman, there still remains no word on her whereabouts.
Soesdyke man charged with ... From page 14 next court appearance on November 6. According to information, the accused and his common law wife were arguing and he attempted to hit her when the teen intervened. It was reported that the accused became annoyed and an argument ensued be-
tween him and the teen whom he stabbed to his stomach. An injured Vyphuis fell to the ground and was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival. The matter was reported and the accused was arrested.
hinterland. “I know at this point in time [that] we’re very focused on the coast, but we are now moving on a project to get into the hinterland [and] to get those hinterland areas connected. There are over 17 hinterland communities where we are providing services and citizens can
use those existing facilities that we have developed and deployed to use those Government services when we bring them online… “We take out the need for transportation, for moving [citizens] from their communities to get [Government] service done.
[This] has an implied cost and, of course, the time it takes to get all of this done,” he said. The Chairman encouraged Guyanese to embrace the coming technological advancements as they will significantly improve the quality of life for the people of Guyana. “[Citizens] may be digitally disadvantaged because they cannot and do not have a physical device or the means to connect that device to the internet… We are saying that at the Ministry of Public Telecommunications that all citizens must have the ability to access information and the internet whenever they need. “We see this almost as a human right, the right of all Guyanese to access digital services and the internet when needed. I say to those digitally disadvantages citizens that Government is doing its part by providing these services in your community… “Take advantage of these opportunities because they can have profound effects on [your] lives and livelihood… your lives can be better and certainly your livelihood can be improved when you take advantage of modern technologies,” he said. Some of the planned interventions include eCabinet, ePolice, eHealth, eSchool, and eResidency.
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Friday October 19, 2018
St. Lucia Sports Director (Ag.) says support for athletes can pay off Acting Director of Youth Development and Sports Patrick Mathurin says the continued support of the nation’s elite athletes is vital for the continued production of world class performances similar to what female sprinter Julien Alfred has put in for the past two years. Alfred won the silver medal in the women’s 100 meters event at the Youth Olympic Games, which ended in Buenos Aires, Argentina yesterday. Last year, Alfred won the gold medal in the same event at the Commonwealth Youth Games in the Bahamas. An official welcome is being planned for her and the Saint Lucian contingent to-
morrow afternoon. ”It just goes to show that when you support athletes with potential, they will finally realise their dreams. It’s all about facilitating athletes. We will continue to work with her coach Cuthbert Modeste who works here at the Department to assist in her future development, “Mathurin said. The Ministry of Youth Development and Sports , as a stand-alone Ministry at the time got involved in an important part of her development, helping to facilitate her ability to attend the Saint Catherine High School in Jamaica for three years between 2015 - 2018. Alfred graduated on June 28 and returned home on June
30. She began training in July for the Youth Olympics with her club Survivors until the end of September. Modeste was assisted by other coaches in the Department, Makeba Alcide and Michael Biscette, both outstanding athletes in their own right. ”We were always kept in the loop regarding her development and we will do all what we can do to ensure she continues to do so, “Mathurin added. Meanwhile, coach Modeste emphasised that Alfred had long been spotted by other coaches in the region who were all impressed by her performances on the track. ”There was a particular
Friday October 19, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) Try to rise above the potential tension and rough spots of the day. Do yourself a favor and don't feel like you have to stoop to another's level.
LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) You may know exactly the right thing to do today, but for some reason, the action required may be a hard thing for you to implement, Libra.
TAURUS (Apr. 20–May 20) You might want to escape the frenzy of the day by going shopping, Taurus. Align yourself with partners and allies who share your views. Try to keep the disagreements to a minimum.
SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Make sure your opinion doesn't get lost in the frenzy of the day, Scorpio. Your words may not quite fit with the things that people want to hear. Try not to take this personally.
GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Your mood should be quite good today, Gemini, although there may be some strong forces at work trying to subvert this positive attitude. Try not to let other people's disagreements bring you down.
SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) You have two choices today. Either jump into the thick of the mess with both feet or stay out of it altogether. There are definitely two distinct camps setting up their arsenals for battle.
CANCER(June21–July22) Today's arena is one in which you can find a great deal of material. There will be no shortage of energy to work with or opinions coming from you.
CAPRI(Dec.22–Jan.19) You may end up being the peaceful savior that calms everyone down today. Use your artistic nature and love of beauty and harmony to inspire others to put away their differences and concentrate on the positive aspects.
LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Peace and harmony are in the regularly scheduled program for the day, but there is a good chance that there could be a warring force with strong opinions and vindictive tendencies. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) I told you so might be your motto of the day. Try not to rub this in other people's faces. Indeed, you have the foresight to witness an action and see the consequences right away. These consequences might rear their ugly heads on a day like this.
AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Your unique ability to communicate with many different groups and personalities will be extremely important today to maintaining a bridge between warring camps, Aquarius. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) You might feel like you're getting worked up from all angles today, Pisces. Find comfort in knowing that things will definitely improve by tomorrow.
CAC Junior Games that she was seen by several coaches and three had expressed interest in her. The Jamaican coach pursued it and I remember being at a Windward Islands Schools Games in Dominica when the Jamaican coach followed up. The Ministry got involved and she was able to secure a place at Saint Catherine High, “Modeste disclosed.
Jaguars battle... From page 38 dismissed three times in the 30s when well set and badly needs a big score to keep the Regional selectors interested. Anthony Bramble scored 44 in his last innings when he and Reifer bailed the Jaguars out of danger with a century stand but he often throws his wicket away with impetuous shots but the Jaguars batting has depth with Shepherd, Pestano and Permaul all capable of runs at this level. Heavy showers and thunderstorms affected several areas here, washing out Wednesday’s game at the Oval and the Jaguars practice was rained out yesterday. More rain is expected today in Port-of-Spain. This can affect the Jaguars’ charge to finish on top if their game is washed out and Red Force win in South Trinidad.
President Granger... From page 39 expressed gratitude to the Guyanese President for his kind gesture and noted that it was pleasing to know that President David Granger was committed towards the development of Berbice cricket. She assured that the trophies would be used for the intended purpose. The President over the last three years has served as Patron of the RHTY&SC and has played a major role in the rapid growth of the dynamic organisation with his financial support.
Julien Alfred.
Hurricanes defeat USA by 47 runs (D/L Method) – Group B Bridgetown, Barbados, CMC – The Leeward Islands Hurricanes defeated USA Cricket by 47 runs on the Duckworth/Lewis method in their Group B match of the Regional Super50 at the Three W’s Oval here yesterday. Scores: HURRICANES 248 for seven off 49 overs (Rahkeem Cornwall 125 not out, Devon Thomas 43, Orlando Peters 27; Kyle Philip 3-62, Nosthus Kenjige 2-28). USA 131 for seven in 36 overs (Jaskaran Malhotram 40, Steven Taylor 23; Orlando Peters 2-11, Rahkeem Cornwall 2-13).
Friday October 19, 2018
Boxing’s Olympic risk is ‘unprecedented’ says head of England Boxing BBC - Boxing faces an “unprecedented risk” and must work to ensure it is not ousted as an Olympic sport, says the head of England Boxing. Gethin Jenkins feels the sport is “starting to wake up to the threat and consequences” of missing Tokyo 2020. The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has threatened the move if amateur boxing’s governing body AIBA does not improve internal governance. “In the longer term I think there is a threat to boxing clubs,” said Jenkins. ”It is grave. I think it’s an unprecedented risk in terms of the statements the IOC has made.” The AIBA has been asked by the IOC to address its finances, governance and antidoping issues. The organisation is currently under scrutiny because its interim president Gafur Rakhimov could stand for reelection unopposed to remain in the position. Rakhimov has been described by the US Treasury Department as “one of Uzbekistan’s leading criminals”, though he denies allegations he is linked with criminal organisations. The only man who could contest the
presidency is 1980 Olympic Games silver medallist Serik Konakbayev. His candidacy was turned down on grounds he did not receive adequate votes to be on the ballot paper. But Konakbayev says some of his nomination forms were not counted. He has taken his case to the Court of Arbitration for Sport, who will decide if his candidacy stands by 30 October. The AIBA is expected to announce its president in early November, with the IOC set to update its position on boxing at the 2020 Games in December. ”Olympic participation is vital for boxing,” added Jenkins. “It’s not only from finances directly to the world governing body, it’s direct and indirect finances through solidarity payments and by other means to the national federations. ”It is key to the sport that we work with the IOC to get the desired outcomes.” These are desperate times, with AIBA the reason boxing may be expelled. But this is also grave for the IOC. For all the threats they make about expelling boxing, they realise how important the sport is. Only track and field, out of the other 27 sports, has as many
countries represented by the athletes as boxing does. When you look at the Olympic charter, if a sport wants to be part of the schedule, it has to be played by men in 75 countries on four continents. For women it must be played in 40 countries on three continents. Are you really telling me that all of those other sports are played by that many people in that many countries? I would argue they are not. Boxing has this vast, widespread, cosmopolitan representation and that is what the Olympics needs. The greatest fighters for over 50 years - Muhammad Ali, George Foreman, Sugar Ray Leonard, Oscar De La Hoya, Wladimir Klitschko, Anthony Joshua, the list is endless - have appeared at the Olympics, but will it end? Olympic boxing is in grave danger, it is on the ropes. We are just a few weeks away from amateur boxing at the Olympics no longer existing. The top 15 or 20 boxers from the last three Olympics are the ones we are talking about now. If the Olympics no longer has boxing, what will happen to the people in this country whose wages are dependent on funding? The funding only exists because of Olympic boxing.
Alonso hails Hamilton as one of the F1 greats Austin, Texas (Reuters) Lewis Hamilton’s former team mate Fernando Alonso hailed the Briton as a Formula One great yesterday and said he was happy to see him stand on the brink of a fifth world championship. The pair were fractious team mates at McLaren in Hamilton’s 2007 debut season, with the youngster ending that campaign as runnerup and ahead of the double world champion Spaniard who then left. ”I’m happy for him because he showed the talent from day one,” Alonso told reporters at the U.S. Grand Prix where Hamilton can seal the title if he scores eight points more than Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel. ”He was able to win races when the car was there to win it but he was able to win races in some of the seasons when the car was not in the top of the form, like 2009,” he said. “It’s impressive — and now it’s time to enjoy for him, so I’m happy,” added the Spaniard, who is bowing out of Formula One at the end of the
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Lewis Hamilton. REUTERS/Issei Kato year. Hamilton will stand level with the late, great Argentine Juan Manuel Fangio if — as seems inevitable — he takes a fifth crown and becomes only the third driver to reach that mark. Germany’s Michael Schumacher holds the record of seven. Asked to list his top five world champions, Alonso — regarded as one of the best of his era — modestly declined to mention himself. ”Probably Michael, Fangio, (Ayrton) Senna, (Alain) Prost, Lewis, probably this will be the top five, prob-
ably, that come to my mind,” he said. “But it’s difficult to compare different times and different ways to win those championships. ”Lewis winning five now and being the same as Fangio...it’s a great achievement and if one had to do that in our generation, I’m happy that it’s Lewis because he showed the talent and he showed the commitment.” Hamilton, who has won four races in a row and six of the last seven, refused to take anything for granted even if he is now 67 points clear of Vettel with four races — worth a total 100 points — remaining.”As a team, none of us are saying how cool it would be if it happened this weekend or the next, we’re not focussing on ifs. We’re focussing on making sure that we deliver,” he said. “We can just never be complacent in life, and in a Championship as intense as this. We expect Ferrari to punch back hard here this weekend, so we can’t be relaxed in any way, shape or form.”
Holness eyeing international events to boost sports tourism product - Fraser-Pryce honoured with statue Kingston, Jamaica, CMC – Government has embarked on an overhaul of the island’s sporting facilities with the aim of attracting major international sports events. Prime Minister Andrew Holness said Jamaica had in the past missed out on key sports events but now hoped the country could take full advantage of opportunities available. ”The Government has already started the process under the banner of Jamaica 55 Legacy Projects to improve the National Stadium Complex, the Trelawny Stadium, Chedwin Park Sporting Complex in St. Catherine, Drax Hall in St. Ann and the Herb McKenley Stadium in Clarendon. All of these will see significant improvements,” Holness said. He said there were key plans for the National Stadium and the Trelawny MultiPurpose Stadium, which would make them critical to Jamaica’s sports tourism product. The use of the Trelawny Multi-Purpose Stadium has come under the microscope since its construction for the 2007 Cricket World Cup hosted in the Caribbean. While the venue hosted the opening ceremony and warm-up matches for the event, it has not seen a high volume of sporting activity, with a handful of international women’s matches and West Indies A series being played there.
PM Holness (2nd left) joined by Olympian Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce (3rd left) at the unveiling. Enjoying the moment are Sport Minister, Olivia Grange (left) and Sculptor Basil Watson. (Photo: Llewellyn Wynter). Holness was speaking at the unveiling of a statue in honour of renowned sprinter Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce at Statue Park in the country’s capital Kingston. The 31-yearold is a two-time Olympic 100metres champion and seventime World Championship gold medallist, and Holness said she “deserves a place in the annals of track and field.” ”Shelly has achieved so much winning a total of six Olympic medals, including two gold medals and nine world championship medals, including an impressive seven gold medals,” Holness said. “She truly epitomises the
Jamaican term ‘likkle but tallawah.’” Sports Minister Olivia Grange also praised FraserPryce’s contribution to Jamaica’s development, pointing out that it went beyond simply sports. “Shelly Ann’s story is one of the many narratives of the Jamaican woman, who remains steadfast in the belief in her inherent abilities, daring to step out and rise above the fray, both here and abroad,” Grange noted. Next year, statues of other elite Jamaican athletes such as Veronica Campbell-Brown and Asafa Powell, are expected to be erected.
Grange congratulates Reggae Girlz on historic World Cup qualification Sport Minister, Olivia Grange, is hailing the historic achievement of Jamaica’s team, which qualified for the FIFA Women’s World Cup on Wednesday night after defeating Panama 4-2 on penalty kicks in Dallas, Texas. Minister Grange noted that “the Reggae Girlz have become the first Caribbean team to qualify for the Women’s World Cup, an achievement that is well deserved and comes after overcoming several challenges and working very hard.” Jamaica defeated Panama in a penalty-kick shootout in the third-place match of the 2018 concacaf Women’s Championship after the teams had battled to a 2-2 draw at the end of full time extra time play.
“This is a glorious day. Words cannot truly describe this historic achievement by this group of young ladies, who through sheer grit and determination in a game in which both teams went all out for victory, came out victorious,” said Grange. ”Dallas, USA may be miles away. But at my office we followed every kick, every tackle, every goal, until that final penalty kick landed in the back of the goal. “It was a total team effort. But special commendation to the goal scorers Khadija Shaw and 16 year old Jody Brown,” Grange said in a statement. Shaw had opened the scoring in the 13th minute when Jamaica took the lead while Brown restored the lead during extra time in the 95th
minute before Panama equalised for a second time in the 115th minute of play sending the match to the dreaded penalty shootout. ”The Reggae Girlz have represented Jamaica well and we look forward to welcoming them home and to their performance in France in 2019,” the Minister added. Minister Grange also congratulated the Jamaica Football Federation as well as the coaching and support staff. The Reggae Girlz have qualified for the World Cup 21 years after the Reggae Boyz achieved the feat in 1997. The Boyz made their World Cup debut in the 1998 campaign in France, the same country where the Reggae Girlz will make theirs next year. (Loop)
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Red Force crush Volcanoes to secure semi-final berth Tarouba, Trinidad, CMC – The Trinidad and Tobago Red Force assured themselves of a semifinal spot in the Regional Super50 with a crushing seven-wicket over the Windward Islands Volcanoes at the Brian Lara Stadium here Wednesday. The result meant that while the Red Force qualified for the knockout round, the defending champions were eliminated from contention. And the home side did so in emphatic fashion, bundling out the Volcanoes for just 78 runs – the lowest total so far of the competition. They then needed only 30 minutes to romp to victory, racing to 83 for three off just 9.4 overs. In a shameful batting display by the Volcanoes, no other batsman apart from opener Gidron Pope who scored 37 made it into double figures. In fact, the eight extras which the Red Force conceded was the next highest contributor. Had it not been for Pope’s knock which came from 44 balls, things would have been considerably more embarrassing for the visitors. By the time Pope was dismissed, the Volcanoes were already in trouble at 58-4, following the earlier losses of Tyrone Theophile for 1, Kirk Edwards for 7 and Devon Smith for 2, with four different Red Force bowlers ac-
Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News
counting for the wickets. Spinners Imran Khan and Khary Pierre then teamed up to snag five of the six remaining wickets, for the addition of just 20 runs. Without another run being added, Kavem Hodge was dismissed by Rayad Emrit and Khan sent Roland Cato back to the pavilion. Pierre was responsible for the wickets of Captain Shane Shillingford and Alick Athanaze, who was clean bowled to be the last man out. Man-of-the-match Khan ended with three wickets for 13 runs from four overs, while Pierre and Emrit both took two wickets. In their chase, the Red Force suffered a brief slump before an unbeaten half-century from the in-form Lendl Simmons carried them to a hasty victory. Simmons blasted 52 from only 29 balls, inclusive of five boundaries and four sixes. The promoted Kieron Pollard, who opened the innings, was dismissed without scoring, along with Jason Mohammed (3) and Darren Bravo who also made a duck, to leave the Red Force precariously placed on 23 for three, with Hodge snaring all three wickets. But Simmons and Nicholas Pooran who made 25 not out, carried them to victory without any further alarms.
GSCL Inc. Prime Minister’s T20 Cup bowls off today
Mahendra Hardyal
Wazeer Hussain By Zaheer Mohamed The second edition of the Georgetown Softball Cricket League (GSCL) Inc. Prime Minister’s T20 Cup will commence today at several venues in Georgetown. The tournament is being played in the Open and Masters’ categories and teams have been divided into four zones. Zone ‘A’ includes Hill Foot Vipers, Enterprise Rebels and defending champions Speedboat; Zone ‘B’ contains Bartica Allstars, Farm Allstars and DCIS Allstars; Zone ‘C’ is made up of Regal Allstars, Booths Allstars and Chellengers; Zone ‘D’ has SVC Allstars, Success and Corriverton Spartans. In the Masters segment, Florida/Guyana Hope/ Sunrisers Masters and defending champions Regal Masters will battle in Zone
‘A’, Royal Canadian Masters, Fisherman Masters and Enterprise Masters will vie for supremacy in Zone ‘B’, Albion Masters, Parika Defenders and Tropical Spring Masters will match skills in Zone ‘C’ and Ontario Masters Mike’s Wellman and Marine Masters will clash in Zone ‘D’. Speaking with Kaieteur Sport, President of the GSCL Inc., Ian John said an exciting tournament is anticipated adding that all the teams are at full strength. He stated that they have put in a lot of work in order to ensure a successful tournament and welcomed the overseas teams. John indicated that there will be lots of giveaways for the fans on the day of the finals and encouraged them to come out and support the
competition. He expressed gratitude to the sponsors. Matches will be played at GNIC Sports Club, Muslim Youth Organisation, Gandhi Youth Organisation, Demerara Cricket Club, Malteenoes Sports Club, Police Sports Club Eve Leary and Everest. Captain of Regal Masters Mahendra Hardyal expressed confidence that his team will successfully defend their title. “There are a number of very good teams in this tournament, but we are ready for the challenge. I know they will come hard at us and even though we have a balanced team, we will not take them lightly,” he added. In the Open segment, the winning team will take home $700,000 and runner-up $100,000 while in the Masters’ category the champion team
will be given $600,000 and the runner-up $100,000. Prizes will also be given to the MVP’s in each segment, best bowler and batsman and manof-the-match in the finals. Speedboat skipper Wazeer Hussain is upbeat about his team’s chances. “We have been doing a lot of training leading up to this tournament the players are really excited. Once we stick to the basics and play as a unit we should be able to retain the trophy,” he said. Preliminary matches will continue tomorrow and the tournament will culminate on Sunday at the Everest Cricket Club. Lighted bails will be used in the competition and added entertainment will be provided by the crossover band and cheerleaders during the finals.
Lavelle and Morgan lift the United States over Canada for the 2018 CWC title
Brazil claim Youth Olympic Futsal gold Brazil defeated Russia 4-1 to win the first-ever M e n ’s Yo u t h O l y m p i c Futsal Tournament title, with the South Americans taking home the gold medal at Buenos Aires 2018, yesterday. It was the Brazilians who took an early lead inside the first two minutes of the match, and in the most fortuitous of circumstances. Danil Karpiuk’s attempted clearance inadvertently found the back of his own net. Brazil then dominated the early stages of the contest, but despite having 62 per cent of the ball in the opening period, Russia defended stoutly up to the half-time break. In fact, it was the European side that ended the first half more brightly, with Ilia Fedorov unlucky not to level mat-
ters at close range. The second period proved a different story, as the tournament favourites doubled their lead less than a minute after the res t a r t a f t e r B r e n o ’s l o w drive slipped under Russia goalkeeper Denis Subbotin. Trailing by two goals, Russia deployed the fly goalkeeper to find a way back into the match. It led, however, to a third Brazil goal, as Moura slotted into an empty net from the halfway line. Though Danil Samusenko pulled a goal back for Russia late on, Brazil ensured it was gold going around their necks when goalkeeper Francoar scored into an empty Russia goal from his own end with seconds remaining.
Team USA Frisco, Texas - Rose Lavelle and Alex Morgan scored goals to lift the United States to a 2-0 victory over Canada and to the title of the 2018 Concacaf Women’s Championship at Toyota Stadium on Wednesday night. The Americans, who won their sixth confederation crown, finished the competition with a 5-0-0 mark while outscoring their opponents, 26-0. As in their previous four
games, the Americans scored their first goal inside of the opening nine minutes to take the lead and put their foes on their backfoot. Midfielder Lindsey Horan, who secured National Women’s Soccer League MVP honors while performing for the Portland Thorns, started the scoring sequence with a left-wing feed to the middle of the box. The ball was deflected to Lavelle, who
drilled the ball past goalkeeper Stephanie Labbe into the lower right corner for her third goal of the tournament. Morgan gave the USA some breathing room in the 89th minute. Megan Rapinoe sent a corner kick into the box that was headed out by a Canadian defender to Horan. She tapped the ball to Crystal Dunn, who fed Morgan in front of the net and the
striker slipped home her tournament-leading seventh goal from four yards. It also was Morgan’s 97th international goal. In the opening game of the doubleheader, Jamaica became the first Caribbean team to qualify for the WWC by overcoming Panama in the third-place match in a penaltykick shootout, 4-2, after playing to a 2-2 draw in regulation and extra time.
Friday October 19, 2018
Guyana hosts eight nations for this weekend’s U-18 3x3 tourney The 2018 FIBA/International Basketball Foundation (IBF) Antilles 3x3 U-18 basketball tournament which tips off tomorrow at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall (CASH) was officially launched yesterday at the Sleepin International Hotel, Brickdam. The tournament which is being coordinated by the Guyana Amateur Basketball Federation (GABF) and the IBF will see the ‘Land of Many Waters’ playing host to eight nations, Barbados, Dominica, St. Lucia, Aruba, Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Martinique and Antigua & Barbuda in the two-day tournament. In addition, as was the case in the 2017 tournament in St. Lucia which saw Guyana’s male team losing in the final, all the officials will be from the Guyana Basketball Official Council (GBOC) which is headed by Dexter Douglas. Theren Bullock of Switzerland, an IBF Associate, posited during the launch that,
“We the IBF always have a social component as part of each our events. And, the Change Foundation out of England will be partnering with us to teach youths how to use basketball to overcome social issues little by little and initiate change through their peers or whoever they might come in contact with.” The Change Foundation will lead the Youth Leadership seminar that is scheduled to run from 08:45hrs to 17:00hrs today at the CASH while tomorrow and Sunday’s sessions will last from 08:45hrs to 12:15hrs. Bullock cited the meteoric rise of the 3x3 game which was first introduced on the world stage at the 2010 Youth Olympics and now 3x3 has been announced to join 5x5 at the 2020 Tokyo games. The IBF associate explained that 3x3 give the opportunities for smaller countries to be more competitive while shedding light on the small nation of Andorra being able to get past world
number two Spain not so long ago in the format. Tomorrow, matches will begin from 14:00hrs with both male and female. According to head of the GABF, Nigel Hinds, the visiting teams and local patrons should expect an atmosphere with a local Guyanese flavor inclusive of entertainment. In addition to the competitive games, there will be a skills contest for girls, a threepoint contest for both males and females and a dunk contest for lads. Hinds further said that this is a great opportunity from an educational and basketball front for our youths to benefit from FIBA which funds the IBF. Admission to the venue is free of cost on both days. The tournament will see the participation of teams 3x3 male and female teams that would’ve have won the qualification tournaments in their respective nations. Banks DIH through their Rainforest Water and Malta Supreme brands is the flagship sponsor of the event.
Razack leads McGill Superstars to victory over All Youths SC A fine all-round performance by Abdool Razack guided Mc Gill Superstars to a 70-run victory over All Youths Sports Club when play in the West Demerara Cricket Association 50-over tournament continued on Sunday last. Travis Persaud and Sudesh Persaud added 35 for the first wicket after Mc Gill opted to bat at Canal Number Two before the former was taken off pacer Amir Imran for 12 in the eight over while Sudesh Persaud who struck three fours was bowled by Budhan Baksh for 22. Shafiek Deen and Razack put on 48 for the third wicket to steady the innings somewhat before Deen was removed by Anthony Carrington for 20. Razack timed the ball well and brought up his half century with a six over long on but fell very next ball for a well played 54. He struck five fours and one six and faced 60 balls. Following his dismissal, Mc Gill suffered a collapse as six wickets fell for 30 runs with only Azar Deen of the remaining batsmen reaching double figures; Mc Gill managed 183 all out in 36.2overs. Narindra Persaud claimed 338, Ganesh Persaud 2-24 and Budhan Baksh 2-26. All Youths suffered an
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Kaieteur News
Jamaica becomes the first Caribbean country to qualify to the FIFA Women’s World Cup
Jamaica’s Reggae Girlz celebrate their historic achievement of qualifying for the FIFA Women’s World Cup on Wednesday night. (PHOTO: concacaf.com). Frisco, Texas — Jamaica became the first Caribbean country to qualify for the FIFA Women’s World Cup defeating Panama in a penalty-kick shootout in the third-place match of the 2018 Concacaf Women’s Championship at Toyota Stadium on Wednesday night. The Reggae Girlz won the tie-breaker, 4-2. Goalkeeper Nicole McClure, who replaced Sydney Schneider in the 120th minute, saved shots by Lineth Cedeno and Kenia Rangel after Yomira Pinzon and Erika Hernandez converted their chances.
Deneisha Blackwood, Ashleigh Shim, Christina Chang and Dominique BondFlasza put home their attempts for Jamaica. The Panamanians still have a chance to reach France for next year’s tournament as it will play Argentina in a home-and-home playoff. Brown set up the Reggae Girlz’ first goal as Khadija Shaw headed in her rightwing cross from seven yards for her third goal of the tournament in the 14th minute. Panama equalized in the 75th minute on Captain Natalia Mills’ first goal of the compe-
tition. Mills latched onto a pass and ran to the top of the box as she drilled a shot into the lower left corner past Schneider to knot the score at 1-1. Jamaica’s Jody Brown tallied her fourth goal of the tournament five minutes into the first extra period. She fired a right-footed shot from 16 yards into the near right post past Bailey. Panama tied things up for the second time in the 115th minute as Adrith Quintero fed Cedeno, who beat Schneider from eight yards.
South American 10K Second Leg Launched - Banks Malta and Rain Forest Water on board Abdool Razack early set back in their chase when opener Budhan Baksh was dismissed without scoring in the first over. Spinners Razack, Travis Persaud and Shafiek Deen bowled with impeccable precision on a slow turner creating lots of pressure. Razack had Sanjay Persaud smartly caught at cover by Prahalad Singh for five while Deen accounted for Randy Ramroop and Colwyn Benn for 11 and 12 respectively leaving All Youths Sports Club on 25-4. Razack then trapped Ganesh Persaud lbw for 10 then bowled Jadesh Persaud (00) and had Anthony Carrington (00) caught at slip. However Travis Whyte and Navindra Persaud added 60
Daniel Basdeo for the eight wicket partnership to give their team some hope before left arm seamer Daniel Basdeo had Whyte caught for 37 off 55 balls with one four and three sixes and uprooted the stumps of Navindra Persaud for 10. All Youths were eventually bowled out for 114 in 25.4 overs. Razack captured 4-6, Daniel Basdeo 4-7 and Shafiek Deen 2-14. The competition continues on Sunday from 09:00hrs. At Joe Vieira Park Independence ‘A’ will face Sawpit (Umpires A. Ramgobin and A. Singh), at Wales Cornelia Ida will battle Windsor Forest (M. Earnest and N. Shivsankar), at Canal Number Two, All Youths (B) will play La Grange All Stars (C. Persaud and A. Persaud).
Over 50 athletes, drawn from South America and the Caribbean are expected to participate in the second leg of this year’s South American 10K race according to President of the Athletics Association of Guyana (AAG), Aubrey Hutson. Hutson at the time of the announcement was addressing the gathering of media, athletes and officials of Banks DIH at the launch of the 16th edition of the prized event yesterday at Banks DIH’s Thirst Park. The AAG President revealed that the 2018 South American 10K race will host its first leg in Suriname next weekend, following which, the athletes will then turn their attention to Guyana for the second leg, before heading to Panama for the third and final
leg. According to Hutson, based on the information received from his counterparts in South America and the Caribbean, some of the top and well-known athletes are geared to compete in Guyana, where the winner of the male and female categories, apart from the cash incentive, will win ‘real gold’ medals. It was advised that unlike previous years, with the help of the Guyana Police Force, the entire 10K rout will be closed to traffic and only authorised vehicles will be allowed. Meanwhile, Communication Officer of Banks DIH, Troy Peters, who was part of the local organising committee for the inaugural South American 10K, said that the event is one of the most im-
portant for distance athletes in Guyana, since, for many, it provides a platform where they are able to compete with the best within the South American region, and often times the Caribbean. Peters further noted that as a company, Banks DIH is always willing to support the event, and this year, will be offering support with their Malta and Rainforest Water brands. The race will start on Carifesta Avenue at the GTT Earth Station, where the athletes will proceed onto the Rupert Craig Highway, make a U-turn at the University of Guyana junction, and then head onto the Kitty Public Road into Vlissingen Road, into Thomas Lands and into the National Park for the finish.
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Friday October 19, 2018
Kaieteur News
BCB to host Rhonda EBFA/Ralph Green U-11 kicks off tomorrow Lewis Memorial T20 at New Diamond Grove Primary School Ground final tomorrow Kevin Sinclair
The Tamarind Root Cricket Ground located in the quiet Corentyne Rural Village of Hampshire, will host its third final this year when the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) host the Rhonda Lewis Memorial T20 Tournament, tomorrow. The Tournament is being sponsored by overseas based Berbician, Lindon Lewis in memory of his eldest daughter, Rhonda, who died of Cancer over one decade ago. Rose Hall Town Bakewell and Fyrish would clash in the remaining semifinal at 09.30 hrs, with the winner going through to play Whim National in the final from 13:30hrs. This final would be the 12th to be hosted by the BCB over the last three months as the entity strives to complete 22 tournaments for 2018 at all levels. The next final would be held on Sunday when Blairmont and Cotton Tree clash in the West Berbice Magic Moments Tournament. Rose Hall Town Bakewell, Berbice’ most dominant Second Division Team would be held by Kevin Sinclair with support from Vidal Crandon, Junior Sinclair, Surendra Kissoonlall, Kevlon Anderson, Keith Simpson and Chanderpaul Govindan in a strong batting lineup. Former National U-19 pacer Sylus Tyndall and West Indies female fast bowler Erva Giddings lead a powerful bowling attack that includes
another medium pacer Kevlon Anderson. Offspinners Kevin and Junior Sinclair, National U-15 allrounder Jonathan Rampersaud and left arm spinner Keith Simpson complete a strong bowling attack, capable of defending any total on the scoreboard. Fyrish would depend heavily on former Guyana U19 Javed Mohamed, Yogindra Chinapen, Anarine Shrikissoon, Yohana Goordial, Akenen Rangasami, Saif Bacchus, Imran Ally and Reeaz Ramcharran. The last time, the two teams clashed was in the final of the Lower Corentyne Magic Moments T20 tournament, last month, Fyrish was crushed by a 100 plus margin. Whim National, playing in their first BCB final for over 20-years, has surprised cricket pundits with their strong team showing at various tournaments this year. They have defeated two strong teams, Albion and Chesney in booking their place in the final and would be spearheaded by Vinod Samaroo, Joshua Persaud, Yogindra Sooknanan, Tameshwar Harrinarine, Devendra Balkarran and Mahendra Charran. The winner, runner-up and man-of-the-final would receive trophies and monetary prizes. BCB President Hilbert Foster and sponsor Lindon Lewis participate in the presentation ceremony.
Kevlon Anderson.
A total of twelve (12) clubs including defending champion Agricola Red Triangle will from tomorrow be engaging each other when the 3rd annual East Bank Football Association Under-11 League sponsored by USA based Guyanese Ralph Green, kicks off. Matches are slated for the New Diamond Grove Primary School Ground, from 09:00hrs after the march pass of the teams where executive members of the EBFA and the GFF including President Wayne Forde would be present. Grove Hi Tech, Samatta Point/Kaneville and Diamond Upsetters ended second, third and fourth in 2017 and will all be aiming, along with the other clubs to stop Agricola from winning a third straight title. The Agricola team would be led once again by the cool, calm and collective Jonathan Andries who won the MVP Award last year. Also expected to feature again this year are 2017 Most Disciplined player, Grove Hi Tech’s Rayfield Hilliman as well as the Best Goalkeeper for last year, Joshua Dias of Diamond Upsetters. Some exciting matches are anticipated in this developmental league which will see each club playing 11 matches. Clubs have already received
Flashback! 2016 & 2017 EBFA Ralph Green U-11 champions, Agricola Red Triangle. Mt. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.
Team Swan v Hararuni Eagles v Timehri v Diamond United v Diamond Upsetters v Agricola v
two balls (one branded) each and a Captains armband while coaches collected a Technical folder and whistle. Tomorrow, each club would be presented with branded tops to be used in matches as well as bibs. Apart from replica trophies that would be presented to the winning and runner-up clubs, the third and fourth placed
Team Herstelling Raiders Grove Hi Tech Samatta Point Friendship Kuru Kururu Warriors Mocha Champs teams would receive medals. There would also be five individual prizes with backpacks and trophies being presented; the most disciple club and best coach would also be rewarded. The Executive and members of the EBFA is expressing gratitude to the Headmistress of New Diamond Grove Primary School, Ms. Wendy Norville as well
Time 09:15hrs 10:00hrs 10:45hrs 11:30hrs 12:15hrs 13:00hrs
Venue Grove DPSG “ “ “ “ “
as the Regional Democratic Council of Region 4 and REO Ms. Pauline Lucas for their support in making the ground available. The association would be working along with the students of the school to assist in their technical and tactical development. Following is the first day’s fixture:
GABA/Banks DIH Leagues
UG tutors Eagles; Pacesetters miss 100-point mark in win over Sonics Play continued at the Burnham Basketball Hard Court on Wednesday night in the Rainforest Water/Malta Supreme/Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) tournament with an Under-23 double header which saw wins for Trojans and Pacesetters while Sonics remained winless and Eagles dived deeper into crisis mode. UG Trojans 67-62 Eagles University of Guyana (UG) Trojans returned to winnings ways after handing Eagles Basketball Club their third defeat in four games despite game leading scores from Eagles’ Captain, Shemaar Huntley and teammate Sherland Gillis who both netted 22 points in their team’s fivepoint loss to the students. However, Trojans that were led by Jonathan Browne with 15 points had more evenly distributed contribution and support from their bench as opposed to Eagles whose next major contributor was Nickosie Allicock with five points while Tarikh Cave
Pacesetters’ Cashif Liverpool (6) opts to take a shot with his teammate Troy David wide open while Sonics’ Lemuel Grant just looks on. didn’t take to the court during the loss. Adding to Browne’s tally for UG were Kadeem Peterkin (11), Jahleel Young (10) and Jabari Joseph (09). Pacesetters 98-50 Pepsi Sonics - It was business as usual for Pacesetters, the biggest club in Guyana in terms of the number (22) of youth players registered. They nar-
rowly missed the century mark after a buzzer-beater shot from beyond the three-point arc circled the rim of the basket before popping out. Pacesetters’ Troy David’s purple patch raged during the clash and he netted a gameleading 24 points with support from his skipper Quincy Dossantos (13), Kwesi Roberts (12) and Cashif Liverpool
(12) to sink the battered Sonics team. The winless Sonics didn’t even come close to their first league win during the 48-point thrashing and Troy Glasgow (15) along with Lemuel Grant’s (11) team-leading contributions were not even close enough to what was needed for a positive result. (Calvin Chapman)
Friday October 19, 2018
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Concacaf U-20 Men’s Championship
Corporate partners rally around team
C
orporate Guyana has thrown its support behind the National U20 team as preparations continue for its successful participation in the Concacaf U20 Men’s Championship scheduled for Nov 1 – 22, 2018 in Florida, USA. The donations, in the f o r m o f h e a l t h supplements, snacks, water, a monetary and inkind contribution respectively, were received and assisted the team in their daily preparations. The New GPC Inc. donated Codal Compound and Mustarcream, the former being a nutrition supplement, which, according to their website, “provides extra-strength and vitality while building resistance” and the latter h e l p s s o r e joints and muscles. In an invited comment, Team Manager, Daniel Thomas, expressed his gratitude for the donations, which have greatly contributed to the success
Some members of the national U20 team display the health supplement and sports rub from New GPC Inc. of the programme thus far: “ We ’ r e h a p p y t h a t Maggie’s Catering has come on board and provided snacks for a number of days as well as offered a discount for snacks provided for the remainder of the month thus far.
The Guyana Producers Limited through Mr. Aaron Fraser has also given a financial donation. We have also had water being provided for the team t h r o u g h M r. C l i f t o n Douglas of Ultra Waters, which has resulted in us not paying for water for the past
GPF/HEMAA’s Fevrier and Sensei Bobb are golden at Pan American Martial Arts Alliance C/ships
Sensei Troy Bobb and Niquann Fevrier pictured with Grand Master Cynthia Rothrock in Barbados.
A
two-member team comprising Harpy Eagle Martial Arts Academy (HEMAA) in collaboration with the Guyana Police Force athletes Sensei Troy Bobb and 12 year-old Niquann Fevrier combined to capture four gold medals and one silver medal at the just concluded Pan American Martial Arts Championship which took place in Barbados between October 12-14, 2018. Hosted by the Caribbean National Martial Arts Alliance, the event saw Sensei Boob fighting his way to gold medals in Self Defense, Weapon and Open Form while
young Fevrier captured gold in Weapon and a silver medal in the Open Form. Sensei Bobb reported that prior to the championship; he was upgraded to Junior Master 5th Degree Black Belt. After their respective performances, the athletes took time out for a photo with famous movie star and Grand Master in Martial Arts Cynthia Rothrock. The athletes are expressing gratitude to the Harpy Eagle Martial Arts Academy, Guyana Police Force and other sponsors who contributed towards their successful participation at the Barbados held event.
month through that kind sponsorship.” St. Joseph Mercy Hospital was also instrumental in facilitating the medical, which was required by Concacaf as a prerequisite for participation in the tournament.
Daniels said the team, which is scheduled to depart on the 28th October, is also open to additional sponsorship: “We are still open for sponsorship and / or contribution from the public so if there’s anyone out there interested in same, feel free to reach out to the
Federation.” The National U20 team’s match schedule in the first round is as follows: November 2 vs Guatemala, 10:30hrs; November 6 vs Cayman Islands, 10:30hrs; November 8 vs Curacao, 12:45hrs and November 10 vs El Salvador, 19:45hrs.
Kaieteur News
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Friday October 19, 2018
Regional Super50
Jaguars battle Volcanoes and the weather today in race with Red Force for top spot By Sean Devers in Trinidad in association with Vnet, Regal, Noble House Seafoods & Cascadia Hotel. Both Guyana Jaguars and Trinidad Red Force have qualified for semi-finals in Barbados with two games
remaining but the Jaguars will want to extend their unbeaten streak to six matches when face defending Champions Windwards Volcanoes at Queen’s Park Oval from 11:30hrs today. Trinidad has assembled arguably their strongest team
since Regional 50-overs cricket commenced in 1976 but the Jaguars are proving the saying, ‘Cricket is not played on paper but in the middle’ correct with five consecutive wins, all with bonus points. Their only loss was in their first game to the host
but they have gathered momentum and destroyed all before them including the star-studded Red Force (23 points) in the return match to lead by two points. Red Force battle West Indies ‘B’ at the Brian Lara Academy from 14:00hrs in today other match-up. Red
Force opposes Canada and Jaguars play West Indies ‘B’ in the final round on Sunday in games which will decide the zone winner. In 28 games against the Windwards, Guyana has won 19 times, lost eight with the other game being washed out. The last time they met the Jaguars won by 93 runs as the spin trio Ramaal Lewis ( 4 - 2 5 ) , Ve e r a s a m m y Permaul (3-32) and Ricardo Adams (2-22) completed the job after Sherfane Rutherford (69) and Trevon Griffith (64) had set up the game with a 121-run opening stand. The Volcanoes’ only win was against Canada, when D e v o n S m i t h ’s 1 3 2 spearheaded them to 337-9 but their biggest disappointment is the form of their leading batsman. Smith, although scored the first of the five tons so far, he has just 29 runs from his six other innings. At 36 and with eight List ‘A’ tons to his name including one at ODI level, Smith is the most experienced batsman in this tournament and despite his string of failures, he could still be Guyana biggest threat today. The Grenadian has 161 runs, behind the 179 made by Kaveem Hodge while Bajan Kirk Edwards (124) and Tyrone Theophille (104) are the only others in the team with 100 runs which emphasises how badly they have batted here. Smith, Theophille and Edwards, Kyle Mayer, Rolando Cato and Shane Shillingford will need to demonstrate more fight than they on Wednesday when they bowled out for 78 by Red Force. They will have to contend with a Jaguars bowling attack which has collectively been very good and individually outstanding as in the case of Clinton Pestano and Lewis while Leon Johnson has captained the side brilliantly. Only Canada’s pacer Romesh Don (17 wickets) has more wickets by a pacer than Pestano’ 11. In the last game he took the first 50over hat-trick by a Guyanese and fifth overall and has been consistent throughout this tournament. Raymon Reifer, Romario Shepherd, Chris Barnwell
Raymon Reifer and Rutherford have bowled well while Jamaican Lewis has been frugal and his 12 wickets are only behind Don and left-arm spinner Larry Edwards (13). Permaul and especially Adams have also bowled consistently. Delorn Johnson should lead the pace attack which could include Kesrick Williams and Mayers while Edwards, Aleck Athanaze, Hodge and Shillingford could lend support. Barnwell has batted with confidence and authority and his 255 runs include two unbeaten fifties and he is third among the run-scorers behind Red forces’ Nicholas Pooran (283) and Canada’s Naveet Dhaliwal (271). Reifer has been a model of consistency and has batted with a level-head on several occasions since joining the Guyanese Franchise to pull his team out of a hole. His 217 runs include three halfcenturies. Opener Trevon Griffith is the other batsman in the team with 200 runs (207) with two fifties but while his compilation of runs has been pleasing to the eye with plenty sweeps against the spinners, he has more than once orchestrated his own demise with loose shots. Rutherford has brutal at top and was asked to open when Chanderpaul Hemraj left for ODI duties and Tagenarine Chanderpaul was unavailable due to ‘stiff neck’ and has made full use of the opportunity with 121 runs but he is also susceptible to recklessness. Johnson had a marvellous GCB 50-overs League; scoring the most runs and ended with century but has not reached 40 in 107 runs here and although he has batted fluently and elegantly he has been (Continued on page 34)
Kaieteur News
Friday October 19, 2018
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Desinco Trading rides with Matthew Vieira
T
hrough their Mobil 1 brand, DeSinco Trading announced yesterday that they will be sponsoring local Super Bike race ace, Matthew Vieira, in an initial deal that they are hoping can be renewed for years to come. The 21-year-old who first won the national Superbike championship at the age of 18 years-old in 2015 will receive an initial sum of $200,000 which will go towards his preparations for next month’s Guyana Motor Racing and Sports Club (GMRSC) Ignite event which is set for the South Dakota Circuit. During the simple presentation ceremony at
DeSinco’s bond, Eccles Industrial Site, Vieira expressed gratitude at being granted the opportunity to showcase the brand. The same brand which he has used a lot prior to being sponsored by the long-time motor racing patrons. CEO of Desinco Trading, Frank DeAbreu, explained that he has been an avid supporter of motor racing through the years, citing that he knew Matthew even before he was born and it is no surprise that the young man has become a top competitor since his family’s history is rich with motor racing success. Alicia DeAbreu, Marketing Manager of
President Granger donates trophies to BCB BCB’s Angela Haniff (right) receives cheque from a Ministry of the Presidency Staff.
The Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) on Tuesday last benefitted from a donation of trophies worth $200,000 from His Excellency President David Granger. The donation is a major boost to cricket development in the Ancient County and boosts the BCB’s drive of successfully hosting 22 tournaments at all levels, this year. BCB President Hilbert Foster hailed the large donation from Guyana’s leader and the Ministry of the Presidency. Foster noted that on his election as President of the BCB on February 18, last, he committed himself and executive to hosting at least 22. Despite a five month break due to the extended rainy season, the BCB has been able to successfully complete 11 tournaments at the Under-15, 17, 21, T20, Second Division and First Division levels. Apart from being used to
reward outstanding players at various levels, the trophies would also be used for remaining tournaments in the next two months. The BCB for the first time in its history would also commence preparation for the Guyana Cricket Board Junior inter-county tournaments, four months in advance. Foster, who is also the Secretary/CEO of Guyana’s leading youth and sports organization - Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club, MS - disclosed that the Board was very grateful for the donation as the day to day expenses of Berbice cricket is very high. Having taken over the BCB with $42,000 in its bank account, the Board, in the past eight months has raised over $8M in cash and kind from local and overseas donors. Former Secretary and current BCB Administrator Angela Haniff (Continued on page 34)
DeSinco Trading, expressed the company’s delight in beginning a partnership Matthew and noted that, “ We d o h o p e t h i s relationship will be one that will last for quite a few years.” Mobil 1 is a one of the best brands of synthetic motor oils in the world and is currently used by Formula 1 racing team, Red Bull.
From left, Alicia DeAbreu, John Maikoo, Matthew Vieira and Frank DeAbreu pose for a photo at the presentation ceremony.
t r o Sp
Guyana hosts eight nations for this weekend’s U-18 3x3 tourney
From left, Navjeet Sira (Change Foundation Director), Mike Singh, Dexter Douglas, Theren Bullock, Nigel Hinds, Shemar France (Team Guyana) and Mark Agard (Team Guyana Coordinator) at yesterday’s launch.
South American 10K Second Leg Launched
Banks DIH’ Clive Pellew hands over the cheque President of the AAG Aubrey Hutson in the presence other Banks DIH officials and athletes.
- Banks Malta and Rain Forest Water on board
Desinco Trading rides GSCL Inc. Prime Minister’s T20 Cup bowls off today with Matthew Vieira Printed and published by National Media & Publishing Company Ltd., 24 Saffon Street, Charlestown, Georgetown. Tel: 225-8458, 225-8465, 225-8491 or Fax: 225-8473/226-8210.