Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

Thursday September 13, 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

ARBITRATION AND THE GTU

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he teachers’ strike ended last Thursday and schools have reopened. The Ministry of Educa tion and the Guyana Teachers Union (GTU) have agreed to arbitrate their dispute. The two sides reached an agreement on the dispute that has ended the impasse. Based on the recommendation by the high level Task Force appointed by President Granger last year, the GTU was demanding a 40 percent pay hike for 2016 and five per cent annually from 2017 to 2020. The government has stated it will cost the state four billion dollars to meet the union demands. However, its offer of $700 million, which is the equivalent of less than 5 percent was rejected by the majority of teachers. Having misunderstood the seriousness of the teachers’ strike, which was a major blunder on the part of the government, it finally did the right thing by agreeing to arbitration and putting an end to the strike which could have been detrimental to society. It would have been counterproductive for the government to allow the strike to continue and deprive thousands of students of their education.However, many, including teachers and parents, felt that the overwhelming support for the strike by teachers, parents and the public in general has forced the government to bend to the union’s demands for arbitration which would be binding on both sides. They felt that it was a victory by the teachers and their union led by its spirited president, Mark Lyte. They contend that the government should have known that the teachers were not afraid of the threats made by the Minister of Education to use substitute teachers. The threats did not prevent the strike; instead, the teachers felt that the Minister erred, because the manpower might have been available to replace them, but not the expertise. They opined that had the strike continued, most parents would not have tolerated the idea of unqualified persons teaching their children. The teachers’ solidarity has yielded results. If it had not, the disrespect that would have been meted out to teachers by the authorities would have been extremely painful. However, both parties have agreed that the resumption of work would result in no loss of pay or seniority for teachers and there would be no victimisation by either side. The union is hoping that the arbitration process would be completed by the end of the year. Others, mostly teachers from the rural areas of the country are disappointed that the Guyana Teachers’ Union acted hastily and called off the strike prematurely. They claimed that the leaders of the union may have felt that they were victorious in forcing the government to accept arbitration, instead of conciliation but it is the government that had triumphed. In their opinion, the union has blundered when it settled for arbitration and its public announcement that it was prepared to settle for a 20 percent increase, instead of 40 as recommended by the high-level Task Force established by President Granger last year. This latter revelation was clearly a misguided strategy by the union to aim high and then signal its intention to settle for less. Based on the divergent views, the union is now faced with the daunting task to unite its members. The decision by the union to accept a 20 percent increase has made extremely difficult for it to ask for a higher amount and it is highly unlikely that the arbitration team would comply. The union has weakened its case and it’s likely that teachers may probably end up with less. It seems that the union gambled and lost because the onus is no longer on the government to cut expenditures as the president has stated, in order to pay higher wages to teachers. But they deserve a 40 percent increase in order to place them in a livable wage bracket, which is less than the 50 percent given to ministers. That said, the strike by the GTU has set a precedent for other unions to follow.

THE OIL AND GAS SECTOR IS IMPORTANT FOR GUYANA AND GUYANESE Wealth Fund from political Point number 10 was the DEAR EDITOR, I read the Stabroek News article, under the caption ‘Shell invests in oil sector Mc Doom site to store equipment’, which was published on September 10, 2018. The article reported that the Opposition Leader, Mr. Bharrat Jagdeo made brief remarks at the commissioning of Mohamed’s Enterprise Laydown Facility located at Area MM McDoom, but this is not so. Business Minister, Dominic Gaskin, was also there and what happened is that Mr. Jagdeo used the opportunity to call on him to answer questions that I, like many other Guyanese have, about what our government is doing in the oil and gas sector. There was a clear call for

clarity on a number of issues. Among the several things that were raised were: 1.Why is there no adequate response to the need for a predictable and conductive environment for investment? 2.What are the terms of agreement that other oil companies would benefit from, and what will they not get that ExxonMobil got? 3. What is the role of the Department of Energy compared to the role of Petroleum Commission for which there is a Bill in Parliament to allow the Commission to be set up? 4. What is the Coalition’s policy on developing shorebased facilities? Will it invest partly? Where will these facilities be located? 5. Why is there no clarity on insulating the Sovereign

control? 6. What exactly are the plans for using oil monies to improve the local economy and for long-term progress? 7. What is the Coalition policy on taxes to ensure a settled environment for private sector development at a time when businesses see what appear to be whimsical acts by tax authorities? 8. What will happen to the remaining oil blocks? 9. What is the framework that will see ordinary Guyanese people benefiting from the oil and gas sector? 10. When will government bring the local content legislation to Parliament? How will that legislation benefit Guyanese people? How will the position in the legislation on investors from CARICOM?

only one mentioned in the article. This was most unfortunate. The reporter was either not at the event or opted not to present the full picture of what took place. I believe that our media has a responsibility to keep the public fully informed and not be selective. This is why this article raised questions. What was also unfortunate was that Mr. Gaskin did not respond to the questions. He talked about the draft local content policy, but still Guyanese people are no clearer on what is happening. The oil and gas sector is an important one for Guyana and Guyanese people and what happens as it develops is also important. Ibrahim Bin Jabbar

People are insulted for public assistance DEAR EDITOR, The accessing of old age pension and public assistance is now a royal prerogative which only the chosen few can acquire. The services now solely depend on Government Officers who it seems are bent on applying their own subjective criteria other than objective guidelines. According to the Director of Social Services, Mr. Wentworth Tanner, Public Assistance is conditional. Applicants have to fulfill certain requirements before they receive the assistance. Currently there are over 10,000 persons receiving the assistance and this is categorized as medical, temporary and economic public assistance. Mr. Tanner also stated that the applicant must prove that the monies are being spent for what it is needed. He gave an example that in the case of an application for assistance on behalf of a school-aged child the child must be registered and the attendance is no less that 85%. A child simply cannot make 85% attendance before accessing the cash to go to school. This is putting the cart before the horse. The child needs the assistance so that he/she can attend school regularly; it cannot happen in the reverse! Many persons are denied the public assistance even though they cannot sustain themselves and in some case, their families. Some are bluntly rejected by the Government officers who told them that their relatives or children abroad or in Guyana can sustain them. These officers need to understand that families and

children do not support unless you have something to offer them in return. Moreover, some applicants who are denied the assistance are bedridden but were told that their children should look after them. Some are also differently abled. This is a shame! Throughout Region Six there are some officers who it seems were nurtured in a pigsty given their rude and aggressive attitude towards some applicants. They are rudely told, ‘You wasting time; don’t apply. Let your children mind you.” Some are told, “You’re a drunkard” and many other insults. Imagine these people are insulted and rejected for the ‘princely’ sum of $8,000 per month! Is this social protection afforded by this Government? This type of attitude

has resulted in many persons being afraid to even apply! People in Social Protection must have undergone training sessions costing millions of dollars, all being wasted! In the 2018 Budget the Ministry of Social Protection received $16.988B to continue its mandate of providing quality service to the country’s vulnerable groups – women, children, the elderly, homeless and youths. Yet these vulnerable groups are insulted and chased away when they attempt to access the assistance. There are many widows who are denied this assistance. Some who continue to reproduce for multiple partners are given public assistance without any hassle. Why are these applications not accepted and carefully investigated and the findings

then sent to the Board to make a decision? Applicants must be made to feel that their requests are given due process. On many occasions people of certain ethnicity are the ones who are rudely rejected. Old age pensioners are not excluded from this type of discriminatory practice. It must be recalled that not so long ago the electricity and water subsidies were snatched away. In some cases if the applicant applies a year after attaining the age of 65, he/she is given the ‘royal run around’ to access the benefit. Moreover, the residency requirements are applied in a discriminatory manner. There are instances where persons have been spending a large proportion of their time in Guyana and yet have been (Continued on page 5)

There is need for hurried oil development DEAR EDITOR, There is a view that the multiple production projects that will be taking place offshore Guyana – with first oil in 2020 and five potential projects by 2025 – is too rapid a pace of development and this should be slowed. At the current rate, Guyana, according to Exxon, could be producing as much as 750,000 barrels of oil per day by 2025, raking in billions of dollars for the economy – billions of dollars we do not have and desperately need. Those who share the view that the production should be slowed must not know how badly we need this revenue to develop our economy and society. There is the old saying that it is better to ‘make hay while the sun shines’. In the

world of oil production, the sun is shining – for now. This includes favourable oil prices, manageable production costs, and a stable environment. But as history has shown, there is no guarantee that this will continue. And, many experts believe that the days of consistently high oil prices are behind us, and oil in itself will eventually be replaced as the primary energy source. If we don’t monetize our resources quickly, we could end up holding fool’s gold instead of real gold. Then there is the urgent need for development in Guyana. Crumbling infrastructure, limited and below par health care, poor electricity and water supply, are but a few of the shortcomings that require immediate attention.

It therefore seems that the wise approach is not to slow down the development of Guyana’s vast oil reserves, but for us to keep up with progress. It will require lots of work in the next year and a half, but we can do it. Government must hire a number of real experts who can provide carefully considered advice and direction on how Guyana can maximize the benefits of oil revenue. The Sovereign Wealth Fund must become operational in short order. The Petroleum Commission must come into existence. A vision for how the billions of dollars will be invested in a manner that benefits the present and future generations must be crafted. Sincerely, Clement Smith

Thursday September 13, 2018

A look at the Motie Dookie issue DEAR EDITOR, Deputy Superintendent of Police Motie Dookie’s (ex SWAT head) special leave matter reveals a comedy of errors. The learned Judge erred in treating this special leave matter as if it were, a priori, an act of disciplinary control. It was not. The respondent‘s Affidavit was periphrastically drawn—here pleading errors happened. The Permanent Secretary, Department of Public Service, duly performing his “approval” role, nevertheless seems to have misapprehended (in this case) the applicability of the law as to special leave in the public interest as some stop-gap measure in the absence of a Police Service Commission (PSC). It is not. Yet again, learned counsel Nandlall (Dookie’s lawyer) has succeeded with superficial, over simplistic and vacuous arguments with his customary abstract disquisition on trite constitutional law. And in this case the Respondent‘s defence ought to have been unassailable. It failed. (“Decision to send exSWAT head on leave unlawful-court rules” SN 2018-0902). Nandlall’s focus on article 112(1) of the Constitution, is misguided and misplaced. It succeeded (aided by abject defence pleading) in simplistically hoodwinking the court to making a finding that DSP Dookie was suspended! Regrettably, in a fatal flaw premised on an priori assump-

tion that the then CoP (ag) (“Deputy Commissioner” sic) acted unilaterally [rather than conjunctively with PS (PSM)], the learned Judge wrote viz “The only issue is whether the Deputy Commissioner is vested with the power by the constitution or by Rule H33 of the Public Service Rules 1987 Revised Edition……to send Mr. Dookie on special leave”. With all due respect, constitutional power vested in CoP is unknown! I entirely agree with former CoP Winston Felix that Rule H33 was applicable, and properly, and duly, invoked in this matter (contrary to Nandlall‘s belated orally submitted vacuous extravagant nonsense, that “a literal reading of Rule H33 disqualifies its application to the Guyana Police Force altogether.” – extracted from the Judge’s written ruling.) Turning briefly to further and better particulars as to the factual justification for acting for the public interest, on its face, this was not a decision arrived at whimsically or capriciously. Given the prima facie facts of DSP Dookie’s presence (along with the driver – a circumstance from which grave suspicion is; not unreasonably engendered) in the vehicle in which were some 357 bottles (not 30 bottles) of uncustomed whiskey, the rank and high profile status as the SWAT head; the wide media publicity and consequential nation-wide public awareness

of that circumstance and the perception or appearance or impression of corruptibility or criminality ensuing; the notorious public distrust and loss of confidence by a distrusting Guyanese public in the police force (generally at any rate) - such notoriety entitling a Judge to take judicial notice of it, - this matter, ineluctably became, and was, one of palpable public interest. This was not hypotheses; this was reality. What then was to be done in the exigencies of the situation? What should the CoP‘s response (as head of public security administration) have been – mindless and heedless passivity or indifference; or administrative action, to disabuse public perception? Should he have folded his arms in sterile despair? Surely, such disbursement or mitigation was of, and in, public interest. Surely the law could not be such an ass as to not provide an administrative remedy in the face of such preception. There is an overriding public interest that there should be public confidence in the administration of public security. Passivity erodes or diminishes such confidence. Administrative impotency was not an option; that would have been a betrayal of this duty as CoP to maintain public confidence in the GPF. The response was to send Dookie on special leave – action not capricious, and within (Continued on page 6)

People are insulted for public ... From page 4 denied the assistance. They are told that they travelled to the US on a regular basis hence they cannot qualify for old age pension. The Social Protection Ministry had stated that ‘in the event that the person is temporarily absent from Guyana, the applicant or pensioner must satisfy the Authority, usually through the provision of the person’s

passport and an immigration check conducted by the Ministry, that the period of absence from Guyana has not exceeded two years during the past twenty years, according to law.’ Why is this criterion not applied in all cases? Why is this changed to ‘you are travelling regularly to the US so you cannot qualify’? It is time that the vulnerable groups: women, children,

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the elderly, homeless and youths—be treated fairly and not be discriminated against because of race or ethnicity or political affiliations. I call upon Minister Amna Ally to convince these rejected applicants that they are being treated fairly. The monies belong to the taxpayers, not the Government! Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf RDC Councilor Region 6

Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration: Principles and Practice DEAR EDITOR, In the field of industrial relations, effective means of settlement of labour disputes have evolved through third party interventions, namely conciliation/mediation, adjudication by way of arbitration, and labour courts or other judicial means of settlement. Since conflicting demands in industrial relations often result in disputes, it is important to utilize methods of dispute settlement. These “should aim at peaceful and orderly settlement of disputes so as to make it unnecessary to resort to strikes and lockouts” or other forms of industrial action. Conciliation, mediation, and arbitration are valued dispute resolution methods used in the settlement of industrial disputes and have special significance for the social partners. These methods have been frequently and intensively utilized in industrial relations and have been permanently established in many countries with a long tradition and history of success. Conciliation/mediation and arbitration have also been used in the field of international relations, civil society, family and community relations, and in the commercial world in place of costly and time-consuming litigation. Frequent and prolonged labour disputes could have a negative impact on industrial growth, economic development and overall socio-political stability of any country. Effective and improved dispute settlement procedures

and machinery are crucially important for the national economy and the general good of the population. Conciliation/mediation Conciliation/mediation in industrial disputes, whether it is a dispute of interest or a dispute of rights, is an essential process in the field of industrial relations. The conciliation process seeks to encourage disputing parties to discuss their differences with a view to assisting them to develop their own proposed solution, as an extension of negotiations. The ministry/department of labour in the English-speaking Caribbean, as in many other countries, is the principal third party dealing with individual and collective labour disputes and provides a free, voluntary conciliation service. The Dutch-speaking countries in the Caribbean provide this service through a statefunded independent mediation service. The Ministry of Labour/ Department of Labour, or a mediation service embodies the concept of non-political conciliation/mediation and must maintain a role of nonpartisan conciliation/mediation if it is to enjoy the confidence of the social partners. It must function with credibility, impartiality, professionalism, and integrity whether or not the service is located within or outside the ministry of labour. From the ILO perspective, “conciliation and mediation are regarded as equivalent terms referring essentially to

More than meets the eye DEAR EDITOR From accounts in the media it seems a Board was in place at the state print media. After all, the Chairperson was summoned to a meeting and agreed that the dismissal letter be rescinded. On one hand there is the notion that no Board was in place and on the other the Chairperson was very much present. There seems to be more in the mortar than in the pestle, or is it a case of what a tangled web.... Shamshun Mohamed

the same kind of third-party intervention to promote voluntary settlement of disputes”. Technically, conciliation is limited to encouraging employers and unions in developing their own proposed solutions through rational discussion of their differences. Mediation, on the other hand, is a stronger form of third party intervention in which the mediator can offer to the parties, proposals for settlement of any industrial dispute. In practice, however, the technical distinction is blurred or disappears as both words are used interchangeably in some countries to express the same process of third-party intervention. In some other countries, the two words – conciliation and mediation - denote different forms of intervention for voluntary settlement of disputes in which mediation is the stronger form of thirdparty intervention than pure conciliation. The Dutch-speaking Caribbean countries use the term “mediation.” It should be noted that ILO guidelines use conciliation and mediation interchangeably, while at same time recognizing distinct national practices in the use of these words. “Conciliation can be described as the practice by which the services of a neutral third party are used in a dispute as a means of helping disputing parties to reduce the extent of their differences and arrive at an amicable settlement or agreed solution. It is a process of rational and orderly discussion of differences between the parties to a dispute under the guidance of the conciliator.” “As a process of (Continued on page 6)

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DISMANTLING WIND TURBINE IS NOT COST EFFECTIVE DEAR EDITOR, RE: Berbice hotel moves to dismantle wind turbine, ship it back to India. I was disappointed to read in (Wednesday’s) edition of Kaieteur News that after one year, GPL still cannot figure out how to safely connect a 350 KVA wind turbine to the grid. It is clear from the article that the Investor failed to obtain permission from GPL and GEA prior to purchasing and installing the wind turbine. While I do not condone his action, I am of the opinion that the penalty is too severe. The Minister of Public Infrastructure is not an Engineer and it is obvious that someone at GPL gave him erroneous information based on the following statement which is attributed to him in the article. “The Ministry had said that GPL’s existing frameworks cover the connection to its grid of either independent power producers (IPPs) supplying 10 MW and more or businesses supplying 1.5 MW and above. Patterson had said that the hotel officials were advised that it was not possible at this time for

an individual to connect to the grid unless the supply met the minimum of 1.5 MW.” The statement begs the question, if it is possible to connect a generator larger than 1.5 MW to the system, what precludes GPL from connecting a wind turbine that is smaller than 1.5 MW, only 350KVA, to the system. The fact of the matter is that GPL has a GRID CODE which details the requirements for connecting generators, including Renewable Energy systems larger than 1.5 MW to the high voltage (69 and 13.8 KV) grid. GPL does not currently have a Distributive Energy Interconnecting Guide for Renewable Energy Generation less than 1.5 MW and this may be the reason why they claim that they cannot connect the 350 KVA wind turbine in Skeldon. Of course, there is an international standard IEEE 1574 which can be used if the intention is to connect to the distribution network. I would not recommend connecting the wind turbine to GPL distribution network based on the reasons already highlighted by the Minister,

“a complexity which is further compounded by the weaknesses of GPL’s grid and the sensitivity of intermittent supply – requires judicious adherence to feasibility studies and grid interconnection processes”. My recommendation would be that GPL should apply their more stringent GRID CODE for RE systems larger than 1.5 MW and connect the 350 KVA wind turbine directly to the 13.8 KV transmission line. This would mean that the Investor would have to finance the additional cost of step transformer(s) and the associated meters, control system and transmission lines. This, I believe, would be more cost effective than dismantling and shipping the equipment back to India. The intermittent supply characteristic of the wind turbine is a valid concern, however, the SEI 10 MW Diesel plant in Skeldon is in close proximity and would be capable of providing adequate spinning reserve (5%) to prevent disruption of the system. Regards, T.Singh

Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration... From page 5 peace-making in industrial relations, conciliation aims to bring about the speedy settlement of disputes without resort to strikes or lockouts, and to hasten the termination of work stoppages when these have occurred. The steps that a conciliator may take to bring about an amicable settlement vary

from one country to another, but always the function is to assist the parties towards a mutually acceptable compromise or solution”. The use of the conciliation/mediation service may be required by law, and/or by a collective labour agreement, or at the intervention of the conciliation/ mediation service. This is usually the procedure re-

quired before resorting to adjudication through arbitration or labour court for final settlement. In the Caribbean, the conciliation/mediation services are state institutions/statefunded institutions and agencies, which provide free services to employers and unions. Yours faithfully, Samuel J. Goolsarran

A look at the Motie Dookie issue From page 5 the limits of statutory power under Rule H33. Evidentially, on the very familiar and established legal principle of presumption of regularity of official acts, that action, taken pursuant to Rule H33, was approved by PS (PSM), on the recommendation of the CoP (ag) and ipso facto, and ipso jure, in compliance with it. Has the Applicant (DSP

Dookie) produced any positive or direct evidence (Affidavit or otherwise) to rebut or displace this presumption of regularity? Absolutely none. The learned Judge’s finding that CoP acted “unilaterally”, is against the weight of this presumptive evidence. I end with this: the Dookie case raised novel and complex issues of much practical relevance and significance in relation to the di-

vision of powers and functions between the PSC and CoP in the case of senior officers, on which authoritative judicial erudition was patently needed. In my writings I have endeavoured to show that members of the GPF (except the CoP) are leaveable under Rule H33. DSP Dookie was leaved under Rule H33. The power under Rule H33 is sui generis. It is invokable whether there is an extant PSC, or not. Dookie (despite some paraphrastic pleadings) was not disciplined when the CoP (ag) invoked Rule H33. To judicially deny its beneficent use by the CoP, is to purport to render it obsolete and nugatory to that extent. That, any court must vigilantly restrain itself from doing, when invited to do so on abstract disquisition on law. Yours, Maxwell. E. Edwards

Thursday September 13, 2018

The Ministry of Natural Resources may have given Exxon US$880M DEAR EDITOR, It has been reported that the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) will review contract costs proposed by ExxonMobil for its work as a contractor to the Government in the Stabroek Block. If the Government intends to undertake a rigorous review of the contract costs, this is not the optimal route. Instead, the Government will be taking money from the people of Guyana and handing it to the foreign oil companies.One might ask why we need to review these costs. Why not trust the foreign oil companies to give us our share and not to inflate their costs (so as to increase their profits at our expense)? Look at the countries that get exploited by foreign oil companies and their own corrupt politicians. Those countries tend not to verify and check, often because their politicians are on the take, so they do not care about the people. Then look at the countries where the people benefit and the environment is not degraded by oil: these countries tend to review and verify everything. Below I outline the magnitude of the task of reviewing contract costs. I speak from experience: one of my jobs while working for a major oil company was to propose and negotiate costs with a government, and in another role, I challenged the costs being proposed by a partner (another major oil company). The review of contract costs and the subsequent negotiations to reduce the numbers proposed by the contractor (ExxonMobil), is a highly specialised Oil & Gas subject area. And it is not only the pre-FID costs (Final Investment Decision, or project sanction). The following costs have to be reviewed, challenged and negotiated by the Government: 1. Proposed pre-FID cost of about US$460 Million. These costs relate to work up to mid2017, for seismic surveys, exploration wells, etc. Only highly experienced Oil & Gas professionals can understand and review these costs. Not the GRA. 2. Proposed capital costs (CapEx) for the Liza Phase 1 project (about US$ 4.4 Billion). These costs are for building the facilities, such as the boat (FPSO), the production wells, the subsea pipelines, the shorebase, etc, and will be incurred from mid-2017 up to first oil in about late 2019 or early 2020. Only highly experienced Oil & Gas professionals can understand and review these costs. Not the GRA. 3. Proposed operating costs (OpEx) which

might be about US$ 200 Million per year or less for Liza Phase 1 alone. These costs will start at first oil and run for 20 years or more. Only highly experienced Oil & Gas professionals can understand and review these costs. Not the GRA.And this is all just for the Liza Phase 1 project. Similar costs and reviews for CapEx and OpEx will be needed for the Liza Phase 2 project and subsequent projects (associated with the other fields such as Payara, Snoek, etc).The Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) already failed to review the US$ 4.4 Billion capital cost for the Liza Phase 1 project. This review should have been performed prior to the approval of the production licence in mid-2017. If one assumes the capital cost for the Liza Phase 1 project could be reduced by 20%, which is not unreasonable, then the MNR effectively gave ExxonMobil US$880 Million of Guyana’s money for no reason. That is more than four Skeldons. The current government should be trying to compete with the former government in other ways, in ways to help Guyana, and not like this. Even if the percentage is 10% and not 20%, why would the MNR do such a thing to the people of Guyana? I believe a real and substantive review still needs to be performed of the Liza Phase 1 project cost before approval of the production licence for the next project, i.e. before approval of the Liza Phase 2 project. Even though the Liza Phase 1 project has been approved, the Government should withhold approval of the Liza Phase 2 project until they fix these issues.The GRA does not have the capacity to review or even the capacity to oversee the review of contract costs. Furthermore, the GRA should never try to develop the capacity to play such a high-level role. The role of a tax authority is tax, and tax is only a small part of the contract costs. Do not get me wrong, the GRA has a very important role to play, but a role focused on tax issues. Other Government Oil & Gas entities, which do not yet exist or yet have capacity (including the new Department of Energy), should be responsible for reviewing and approving contract costs. Hence no costs should be approved until Guyana has developed these entities and staffed them with the appropriately qualified O&G professionals. ExxonMobil can wait a bit whilst Guyana finally starts to get its shop in order. Regards, Dr. Jan Mangal

EXPLOITATION FROM PPP ERA CONTINUES IN THE HEART OF GT DEAR EDITOR, Some of the atrocities of the past regime still linger on. A former Minister who allegedly had a relationship with a staff at the Ministry of Housing, in an act of patronage, assisted the sister of his paramour to set up a snackette just under the nose of the Ministry of Housing with a branch at Sophia exhibition centre. This is no Mickey Mouse business, since apart from supplying its two centers it also supplies Banks DIH locations with pastries. It also does catering for large events. The anomaly of this business is that it has its kitchen at the proprietor’s home where it employs six women who works from 5am to 4pm, sometimes later in the afternoon. The owner does not deduct, neither pays NIS contributions for its workers. It offers no annual or maternity leave to its workers. When questioned by the workers, the proprietrix response is- “If you all report me anywhere I will declare bankrupt-you all won’t get anything and you all would be out of a job.” Someone did report to NIS during the PPP

reign. Being under the umbrage of the Minister she had promised the NIS officers to start paying but never did. The irony of this situation is that while she does not contribute for her workers, herself and husband continues to pay their NIS contribution as self employed. It seems that they somehow managed to cajole the staff at NIS that the two of them (husband and wife) alone work in the business or someone from NIS colluded with the proprietress to defraud these women (workers) of accumulating contributions to receive future benefits from NIS. Some of these women have over ten years’ service with this business and never had any annual leave or maternity benefits.It is sad that in the heart of Georgetown women are being exploited in this manner. This is not conducive to the good life promised by the coalition. I would like the people from the Labour Ministry and NIS to investigate this business. This mistreatment of our women workers must stop. Advocate for workers.

Thursday September 13, 2018

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Rigorous audit of ‘Liza 1’, could save Guyana four Skeldon factories - Dr. Mangal By Kiana Wilburg USA oil giant, ExxonMobil projects that it will cost some US$4.4B to develop the Liza Phase One Project. But former Petroleum Advisor, Dr. Jan Mangal is advising the Government of Guyana to conduct a rigourous audit of this figure. The Oil and Gas Consultant says that this should be done prior to the approval of the production licence for the Liza Phase Two Project which is projected to cost US$10B. In a letter to the press, Dr. Mangal said Guyana could save US$880M even if the capital cost for the Liza Phase One project could be reduced by only 20 percent. Dr. Mangal alluded to the significance of the sum by highlighting that this is more than the cost to construct four Skeldon Sugar Estates. Significantly, the Oil and Gas Consultant said that the failure of an audit could see Guyana giving away money to ExxonMobil for no reason. Commissioner General of the Guyana Geology and

GGMC Commissioner General, Newell Dennison

Former Presidential Advisor, Dr. Jan Mangal

Mines Commission (GGMC), Newell Dennison confirmed with Kaieteur News that there was no audit or review of the estimated costs submitted by ExxonMobil. In the absence of a review, Dennison still believes that the costs “seem reasonable.” He said that while the costs for the Liza Phase One are being incurred, one must bear in mind that the US$4.4B is a mere “projection”

or “estimate.” Dennison also said that while GGMC is still building capacity to conduct audits via its Petroleum Division, the burden should not rest alone with his agency. He said that there are other sister agencies which have to pull their weight. When questioned to say if the Commission has the funds to effectively build the capacity it needs

City Mall robbery victim recalls brutal beating, pleading for her life A 12-member mixed jury yesterday heard the testimony in the first day of trial against Marisco George and John Caesar who prosecutors say attempted to murder a storeowner at the City Mall, Camp and Regent Streets, Georgetown nine years ago. George and Caesar were arrested back in July 2009 on charges of attempted murder and robbery with violence. The offences were allegedly committed on Dhanwantie Pulchand who had operated Reshma’s Collection, a store within the City Mall, which was attacked on July 04, 2009. They have both pleaded not guilty to the charges. The attempt to commit murder charge carries an alternative count, which alleged that on the day in question, they

wounded the woman with intent to maim, disable, disfigure or cause her grievous bodily harm. On Monday, State Prosecutor Abigail Gibbs and Mandel Moore, during opening remarks, told the jury that the duo assaulted the woman before or after they robbed her store. Attorneys-at-Law Damien DaSilva and Brandon DeSantos are representing George and Caesar respectively. Pulchand took to the witness box and recounted how she begged George and Caesar to spare her life. She said that at that time, she had a one-year-old child and she told Caesar to take whatever he wanted. According to her, on the day in question, she left home

for a city cambio from where she bought US$2,000. She added that she went to her store at the City Mall where she placed the bag on a dresser and began business. Pulchand told the court that between 12.00 p.m. and 1.00 p.m. she earned $100,000 in sales, monies she (Continued on page 8)

GRA Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia for the sector, Dennison said he would prefer not to comment on that matter. He maintained this position in spite of concerns that the Commission is low on cash to tackle the area of improvements in its Division. The GMMC Commissioner was keen to note however, that there is a need for exper t i s e i n t h e s e c t o r, “but we just don’t have the human resources.” SISTER AGENCY The Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is one of GGMC’s sister agencies in monitoring the oil sector. Another agency that is expected to come on stream is the Petroleum Commission. In the absence of this body, GRA has taken on the role of auditing all contract costs imposed by ExxonMobil. It is currently tackling the controversial US$900M pre-contract costs. GRA’s Commissioner General, Godfrey Statia has already issued a letter to

ExxonMobil requesting a series of financial documents which would show costs incurred from 1999 to 2016. ExxonMobil has up to September 21 to submit these documents. Statia had told Kaieteur News that, “pre-contract costs are not unusual to the oil industry. These are costs which were incurred and our Production Sharing Agreement (PSA) would have allowed for the operator to recover it. I am confident in the ability of our agency to get this job done. Our audit will help to determine if costs were inflated, among other things.” THE PRE-CONTRACT COSTS International lawyer, Melinda Janki, was one of the first persons to note that the country is neckdeep in US$900M worth of pre-contract costs. During a panel discussion on Guyana’s oil contract with ExxonMobil at Moray House, Janki reminded that the country has to pay US$460M in precontract costs. This covers the period 1999 to 2015. But there is a second lot. Janki noted that the contract specifically states that Guyana is to pay contract costs from January 2016 to when the deal was signed on October 7, 2016. The international lawyer said, “The costs for the whole of 2016 were about US$583M and if you apportion it to October, you get roughly US$400M. Again, Minister of Natural Resources, Raphael Trotman has agreed for Guyana to pay this. As at October 7, 2016, Government’s attempt to sell

our oil costs US$900M. I have found no law which gives the minister the authority to burden the nation with this, so it is quite possible that he acted illegally.” (See link for more details: https:// w w w. f a c e b o o k . c o m / jerome.edwards.925/videos/ 2144978259094356/) In his earlier writings on the petroleum sector, Chartered Accountant Christopher Ram had also pointed out that there was a second set of pre-contract costs specified in the 2016 Agreement signed by Minister Trotman. Speaking with Kaieteur News on the matter, Ram said his examination of the financial statements of ExxonMobil’s partners (Esso and CNOOC/NEXEN and Hess), the second element of pre-contract cost for the period January 1, 2016 to the execution date of the 2016 Contract – sometime in October 2016 – could range anywhere between G$75B to G$100B or roughly US$375 to US$500M. He noted therefore that Janki’s estimates are within reason and that it is up to Exxon as the Operator to disprove these amounts. Significantly, Ram pointed out that the Government ought to have been aware of the exact amount for the second set of pre-contract costs since Annex C to the 2016 Agreement required that those costs be provided to Trotman before October 31, 2016 and agreed on or before April 30, 2017. Ram expressed fear that neither the US$460 million – which in his opinion is substantially and improperly inflated – nor the additional US$375M to US$500 M, has been subject to any verification, let alone audit.

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Kaieteur News

Guyana, Trinidad MoU will be made public – Pres. Granger …PM Rowley postpones visit The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation on petroleum matters which will be signed between Guyana and Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) will not be kept secret. Questioned by Kaieteur News at State House yesterday, President David Granger disclosed his intention to make the agreement public. “It is not a secret document. It is just an agreement to cooperate. It was vetted by the Department of Energy and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I will ask for that document to be released,” the President stated. T&T’s Prime Minister, Dr. Keith Rowley, was expected to visit Guyana yesterday to sign the MoU and a separate cooperation framework, but postponed the engagement until possibly next week. The President’s decision follows several calls from the private sector and the Opposition for the MoU to be made public amidst concerns that the bilateral agreement would lay the groundwork for Trinidadian businesses and workers to overpower local companies in the oil and gas sector. All of the concerns are also being fueled by a lack of a local content policy for the sector. Foreign Affairs Minister, Carl Greenidge has made it pellucid during his interview with Kaieteur News that the Government would press ahead with signing the agreement in spite of the concerns

President David Granger

T&T’s PM, Keith Rowley

from the private sector. At an “emergency” press conference on Wednesday, GCCI’s President, Deodat Indar said that the Chamber wants to see the MoU to ascertain if there would be dire consequences for the private sector. The businessman said that the Chamber is not against investments from T&T. He stressed, however, that the MoU, depending on the arrangements in it, could open the floodgates, leaving Guyanese businesses without an iota of protection in the oil and gas market. This was followed up by a call to make the document public. Dismissing these concerns, Greenidge said that T&T does not need a MoU to establish itself here. He said, too, that if the T&T Prime Minister, Rowley has announced that the MoU will pave the way for Trinidadian firms to also be successful

here, “then nothing is wrong with that.” The Minister said, “Many T&T firms are here without a MoU so I don’t know what they (GCCI) are going on with. This is not the first MoU we are going to sign and before they stand up and start to make allegations that are completely unwarranted, they must look closely at the relations between Guyana and TT.” In this regard, Greenidge said that between 1975 and 1992, Guyana could not pay for the oil it was importing, but TT opted to carry that burden. The Foreign Affairs Minister said that Guyana cannot seek to improve its bilateral relations with a nation only when it is doing well. He said, “They are our CARICOM sister and they have rights and those rights do not depend on a MoU.”

Thursday September 13, 2018

Sherod Duncan “qualified”, “competent” - says PM amid Chronicle investigation Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo yesterday insisted that he considered embattled Guyana National Newspapers Limited (GNNL) General Manager Sherod Duncan to be “ably qualified and competent” for the position he holds. He made these remarks yesterday while speaking to members of the media at State House. Nagamootoo’s expression of confidence in the embattled newspaper boss comes on the heels of ongoing investigations into Duncan’s spending and his termination of the company’s Finance Controller, Moshamie Ramotar. The Prime Minister said he would reserve judgment on the matter until completion of the investigation but nevertheless, seized the opportunity to pronounce on Duncan’s quality as General Manager. “And if I may say so, he has a vision of helping to digitize the newspaper, putting it in a way that all other media in the world are now going in a direction where they deal more with the social media perception and concept of the role of media.” “Buck Stops With Me” Yesterday, Duncan, who is now on leave pending the outcome of the investigations, pleaded his case once again on Facebook. In a statement appearing on the popular

GM Sherod Duncan

PM Moses Nagamootoo

social media platform, the General Manger wrote that he accepted “full responsibility for all of the spending” and “leaked information”. He went further to add that the buck stopped at him. He wrote, “Criticisms are important if constructive and in context. For instance, without prejudice to the investigations, it was stated in an online article that I bought a “rocker”. Context for the spending will show that a retiring employee after more than thirty-years of service to GNNL was gifted a recliner. I believe in treating hard working employees well. I take full responsibility for it.” Duncan is alleged to have, within his probation

period as General Manager, spent $5M, in just less than three months on the job. He reportedly spent the monies, in the absence of the board, on furniture, a laptop and repairs to vehicles, among other things. Following the leakage of the spending, Duncan, as GM, issued the entity’s F i n a n c e C o m p t r o l l e r, Moshamie Ramotar, with a termination letter. The news of the sacking caused Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo to converge an emergency meeting. The Prime Minister further instructed that a full investigation be conducted by the board on both matters - the leakage of information and the termination of the Finance Comptroller.

City Mall robbery victim recalls... From page 7 also placed into her bag. George visited the store around 04:30p.m. that day and indicated that she was interested in purchasing a pair of “Passa Passa” jeans, Pulchand said. The virtual complainant recounted that George left the store after pointing out that she was going to bring her friend to help her pick out the clothing. The woman added that George returned with Caesar and choose a pair of jeans before going into the dressing room. While George was trying on the pair of jeans, Caesar, Pulchand said, sat on a chair and engaged her in a conversation. She said that during the chat, Caesar told her that he was a chef and even left his cell phone number with

Dhanwattie Pulchand her. Sometime after, the witness added that George emerged from the dressing room and stated that she

needed a new pair of jeans since the previous one did not fit her. “I went to get her another pair of jeans which was on a lower rack. When I bend, a heavy object hit me on the head. I urinate up. He (Caesar) continued hitting me with a heavy object and I fell onto the ground. “I begged him to save me. I told him to take whatever he wants. He tell me shut your f%&$king mouth and stay on the ground. He continued hitting me while George was standing on my neck.” She recalled that her attacker knocked out several of her front teeth. She also disclosed that she lost several fingernails during the near death attack. At one point during her testimony, Pulchand became very emotional and removed her dentures from her mouth to show the jurors. The witness added that Caesar twisted her neck to the side, which resulted in her losing consciousness. Pulchand stated that when she awoke, her monies and cell phone that were in her pocket were missing. This trial is continuing before Justice Sandil Kissoon at the High Court in Georgetown.

Thursday September 13, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Every cent must be verified The government must explain to the people the reasons for its reluctance to hire an experienced and capable auditing firm to audit what is known as the pre-contract and post- contracts costs of ExxonMobil. The government has a duty to ensure that whatever costs are presented to Guyana are verified before payments are made. This is not matter to be treated lightly. It is responsibility which the government must approach with all seriousness. The oil company has already saddled the government with a massive US$460 M pre-contract costs (also

known as pre-final investment decision costs). And there have been questions as to why these pre-contract costs are so high? This is all the more reason why these costs should have been subject to verification by auditors who have the experience in undertaking such an audit. The pre-contracts costs relate to those costs before Exxon took the decision to begin production. It is a staggering amount which will exceed that which Guyana will earn in the first year of production. And this does not include the costs associated with cost of first year oil production. Guyana is therefore

starting out from deficit position. Having being presented with such a massive bill, Guyana needs to take steps to verify that every cent which Exxon says it spent on seismic surveys and exploratory costs are counted and verified. Guyana can be taken to the cleaners by the oil companies. It is important that for every cent which Exxon Mobil and its affiliates say that it spent that these can be verified and a determination made as to whether these are reasonable. The Guyana Revenue Authority cannot undertake

Dem boys seh ...

Pradoville was Jagdeo Roman city wid walls When SOCU and SARA start fuh question how some things disappear from de state Jagdeo and he boys challenge dem to prove anything. That was because dem believe dem was smart. Jagdeo build Pradoville fuh he and he Ministers because all of dem think dem was special, more special that everybody else in de country. Jagdeo mek sure that Irfaat arrange a low price fuh de land because as far as he concern, he owned de whole country and he could fix whatever price he want fuh de land. Rob de Earth realize that all of dem thief. He was prepared to pay de right price fuh de land and he call pun he colleagues fuh do de same. But when you greedy, is another story. Yesterday, Robeson open he mouth and tell SOCU that Jagdeo was building a special area fuh he and he Ministers. He claim how gunmen kill a Minister in 2006 and Jagdeo was going to build a city within palace walls fuh he and he colleagues. Robeson seh Jagdeo cry and tell he Ministers that dem got to come together and

build dem house in this walled city. Not all dem Ministers was stupid. Dem see a chance to mek money and dem sell de land at Pradoville as soon as dem get it. Dem boys seh SOCU prepared to help Jagdeo and he Ministers live in a walled city, but at Camp Street. If dem like peeping at poor people through dem fence, SOCU arranging fuh dem peep through de prison bars. That is only part of de story. Jagdeo use to laugh and tease SOCU. He talk how after dem spend all that money dem couldn’t charge nobody. Now that de charge facing him he wondering if eh guh spend Christmas outside. This was a man who only had to peep out he car window and a crowd use to gather. Nowadays when people hear him coming de whole place does clear. People avoiding him like de plague. Dem boys hear that once Jagdeo deh round, jail don’t deh too far. Talk half and watch how Robeson sell out Jagdeo.

such an audit. It does not have the capacity to undertake such an audit. It has never audited a major oil company. It is entering unchartered territory. There is a world of difference between a tax audit and the sort of audit which is required to verify pre and post contract costs. As former petroleum adviser to the President, Dr. Jan Mangal pointed out, there are three main sets of costs to be audited – precontract costs, capital costs and operating costs. The public hardly needs convincing that the GRA cannot undertake such specialized audit. But since the GRA believes that it does, it would be in the interest of transparency for it to announce the names, qualifications and experience of those persons who will form part of its audit team, so that the public can judge for themselves whether these persons has the capability, as Dr. Mangal said, to understand and review these costs. Exxon is going to chew the GRA up and spit it out in any audit. The GRA will be at sea in any such audit. The proposal for the GRA to undertake the audit is the biggest joke in town. It is tan-

tamount to giving Exxon a free pass. The GRA simply does not have the capacity to undertake such an audit. This column has already pointed out that the GRA’s mandate as a tax collection agency excludes it from performing such an audit. The question therefore is why is the government unwilling to do what is expected of it and that is to hire a competent auditor to audit pre-contract and contracts costs of ExxonMobil? So why is the government being so reckless with this audit? Why is it not doing what is to be expected? Why has it not gone out to tender to recruit a firm to undertake

the audit? There has to be good reason why the government would wish to delegate the GRA to undertake the audit. There has to be good reason why the GRA which is tax agency would want to do so. What are the reasons of the government and the GRA? The public needs to be told. The oil industry is too important for it to be managed in such an irresponsible manner.

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Thursday September 13, 2018

Kaieteur News

=== The Freddie Kissoon column ===

The talented Mr. Duncan I knew Sherod Duncan when he was a student at UG while I was a lecturer there. Mr. Duncan published some nice sentiments about me in a letter to the press in which he voiced his admiration for my human rights contributions. But in an interview with him in March this year, at the end of our conversation, it was clear to me that my human rights work had no influence on Duncan. The incident was the removal of David Hinds and Lincoln Lewis as columnists with the Chronicle. Duncan voted for the ouster of the two men. As we spoke

for about fifteen minutes (which exhausted my cell phone credit), I tried in vain to impress upon Duncan two salient values contextual to Guyanese society. One was that these two men are no ordinary activists who arrived overnight but icons in the Guyanese society who fought for the freedom of independent minds to write in the Chronicle. The second impression I heaped on Duncan was that given the status of these two men, the editor should not make that decision by himself. While listening, Duncan

kept repeating these words, “I hear your wisdom; I hear your wisdom.” At the end our chat, my wisdom meant absolutely nothing to Duncan. In a mild tone, quite the opposite to mine, Duncan told me that he voted to uphold the right of the editor to make the decision. After that angle, a long lecture followed during which I took Duncan to Nazi Germany and the Nazis’ legal right to kill people. I reminded him of his endless condemnations of the Town Clerk, Royston King, for doing wrong things and pointed out to him that

Berbice farmers take Region Five REO to Court Three cash crop farmers have taken the Regional Executive Officer, (REO) of Region Five, Ovid Morrison to Court over the alleged illegal occupation of their lands. The farmers, Krishna Sewall, Kristopher Sewnarine also known as Kristopher Seunarine and Kaleel Jameer of West Coast Berbice,(WCB) have filed an injunction in the High Court to bar Morrison’s occupation of lease land located at Lot Tract ‘X’ of Block ‘1A’ and Tract ‘Y’, portion of Plantation of Naarstighed and Bath villages, WCB. According to the court documents, the cash crop farmers are asking the court to restrain Morrison, his servants, representa-

tives, officers and or agents collectively and individually from continuing entering upon, remaining, occupying, farming, bulldozing or occupying in any manner whatsoever, interfering with their quiet and peaceful use, occupation and enjoyment of the portion of lands. In the application, the farmers noted that they were at all times in possession of lands spanning several acres along Naarstighed, and Bath Villages West Coast Berbice. According to the applicants the lands were cultivated on a lease and with the permission of the Regional Democratic Council (RDC) of Region Five. (Continued on page 19)

though King had the right to make egregious decisions, he Duncan was critical of King because of the output of those edicts. No lecture or words of wisdom mattered to Duncan in that exchange. It was clear to me I was speaking to an opportunist. There is an American film with a tragic theme that was a worldwide success named, “The Talented Mr. Ripley,” based on the 1955 novel of the same name. It is the story of an opportunist who conspiratorially exploited every situation he found himself to get what he always wanted for himself. One of the themes of that novel/movie can be applied to the talented Mr. Duncan. Duncan used the morbid nonsense that took place in the Georgetown City Council to achieve the fame of a democratic fighter. The horrible parking meter contract was a fertile bed. He got national recognition, and it was time, like Mr. Ripley, to get what he wanted. He found it in the Alliance For Change. He secured it in Moses Nagamootoo. The apex came with the GM position at the Chronicle.

Maybe Duncan saw the Ripley movie. In it the opportunist gets his way. He goes on with his life. Unfortunately, for Duncan, the Guyanese movie he starred in has a different ending. Maybe we are seeing the end of the political career of the talented Mr. Duncan. It is doubtful he can win a constituency seat for the AFC even if the AFC nominates him. It probably will because the AFC is in a desperate situation; it needs all the faces it can get to contest the local government elections in November. If it doesn’t, he may move to APNU. The problem Duncan will find should he gravitate to APNU is that the party is not short of faces and may have no place for him. Of course the Chronicle money mess now constitutes baggage for the talented Mr. Duncan. Young cadres in the PNC will ask themselves why should someone like Duncan hop over and be rewarded with a City Council seat. The future doesn’t look good for the talented Mr. Duncan but the imbroglio he found himself in is typical of this country. So many in the top of the AFC pyramid and

Frederick Kissoon in APNU’s hierarchy, rose to power and authority because of the venalities, depravities and immoralities of the Jagdeo/Ramotar hegemony over Guyana. In office, APNU+AFC put people who were not schooled in the art of democracy and possessed of the finer instinct of justice. The extravagant spending Duncan is accused of and his alleged role in firing the finance director is not an isolated case. Since 2015 many of the public sector new faces of the APNU+AFC regime are on a spending binge. If you think Duncan’s $5 million bill is large then you should see the figure for UG. It is my opinion that you will not survive a heart attack or apoplexy when you see the figures.

Thursday September 13, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Guyana appears on UN’s “shame” list The United Nations has named Guyana among 38 “shameful” countries in its latest human rights report. According to the report, “Cooperation with the United Nations, its representatives and mechanisms in the field of human rights”- Report of the Secretary-General, the alleged incident has to do with the Lusignan Prisons, East Coast Demerara. The report, released yesterday, said that on 18 October 2017, the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent expressed concern about alleged reprisals by prison authorities and guards against an individual. The name was withheld by the Working Group, the report said. The individual was incarcerated at Lusignan Prison. The man was interviewed during their visit to Guyana in October 2017. “They subsequently received information that the individual had been verbally threatened by the prison authorities and guards for having cooperated with them.” The report did not give more details. But while Director of Prisons Gladwin Samuels confirmed that the Working Group of Experts on People of African Descent had visited the prisons, he is unaware of any inmate being threatened after the group’s visit. “I’m unaware of any such incident. I would wish for them to say who (the inmate was), “Samuels said. He also said that after the visit, the Organisation had recommended that the Lusignan Prison be closed. The 38 “shameful” countries included China and Russia. The report said that the countries carried out reprisals or intimidation against people cooperating with it on human rights, through killings, torture and arbitrary arrests. The annual report from U.N. Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres, also included allegations of ill-treatment, surveillance, criminalisation,

- report cites Lusignan Prison alleged reprisal against inmate - Prison Director says he’s unaware of incident

U.N. Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres and public stigmatisation campaigns targeting victims and human rights defenders. “The world owes it to those brave people standing up for human rights, who have responded to requests to provide information to and engage with the United Nations, to ensure their right to participate is respected,” Guterres wrote according to a Reuters report.. “Punishing individuals for cooperating with the United Nations is a shameful practice that everyone must do more to stamp out.” The 38 countries included 29 countries with new cases, and 19 with ongoing or continuing cases. The new cases were in Bahrain, Cameroon, China, Colombia, Cuba, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Hungary, India, Israel, Kyrgyzstan, Maldives, Mali, Morocco, Myanmar, Philippines, Russian Federation, Rwanda, Saudi Arabia, South Sudan, Thailand, Trinidad and Tobago, Tu r k e y, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. Governments frequently charged human rights activists with terrorism or blamed them for cooperating with foreign entities or damaging the

A UN report on human rights has point to alleged reprisals at the Lusignan Prisons against an inmate for cooperating with human rights workers. state’s reputation or security, it said. “(There is a) disturbing trend in the use of national security arguments and counter-terrorism strategies by states as justification for blocking access by communities and civil society organisations to the United

Nations,” the report said. Women cooperating with the U.N. had reported threats of rape and being subject to online smear campaigns, and U.N. staff often encountered people who were too afraid to speak to them, even at U.N. headquarters in New York and Geneva.

U.N. Assistant SecretaryGeneral for Human Rights Andrew Gilmour, who will present the report to the Human Rights Council next week, said in a statement that the cases in the report were the tip of the iceberg. “We are also increasingly seeing legal, political and administrative hurdles used to intimi-

date – and silence - civil society,” he said. ome of the countries listed are current members of the Human Rights Council, which adopted a resolution last year reaffirming that everyone - individually or in association with others - had a right to unhindered communication with the U.N.

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Thursday September 13, 2018

Kaieteur News

Arrest of alleged Samatta Point gang…

One jailed, two remanded on arms and ammo charges Days after members of the Guyana Police Force (GPF) intercepted a car with five men at Samatta Point, Grove, East Bank Demerara; three of the

suspects were yesterday charged with illegal possession of arms and ammunition. Those charged are Jason Hunte, 32, a miner of 44

Samatta Point Grove, Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara; Michael Vanderstoop, 30, a construction worker of 86 Grove, Hous-

ing Scheme, East Bank Demerara and Terrence Frank, 33, vendor of 86 Grove, Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara. It is alleged that on September 6, last, at Samatta Point Grove, Housing Scheme, East Bank Demerara, they had in their possession one 9mm pistol and one .45 pistol without being licensed firearm holders. It was further alleged that on the same day and the same location they had in their possession 13 matching rounds when they were not licensed firearm holders. The men appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts. An unrepresented Vanderstoop pleaded guilty to both charges after they were read to him and was sentenced to two years and fined $100,000 on both charges. The charges will run concurrently. Hunte and Frank denied the allegations after they were read to them by the Magistrate. Attorney-at-law George Thomas, in an unsuccessful bail application for Hunte, said that his client was merely a passenger in the vehicle in which the haversack with the arms were found. The lawyer added that his client did not give the police an oral or written statement. Frank’s attorney, Patrice Henry in an application to secure bail for his client stated that Frank has an unblemished record and was merely in the vehicle for two minutes before the vehicle was stopped by policemen. The lawyer added that his client was in the front

Jailed Michael Vanderstoop passenger seat and the police found nothing in his possession. However, the court prosecutor made serious objections to bail being granted to the two men citing the serious nature of the offence and the penalty the charges attracts. Facts presented by the Prosecutor stated that on the day in question about 09:30 hrs police acting on information intercepted motor car PSS 4118 along Samatta Point Grove, Public Road, East Bank Demerara. The court heard that police found two unlicensed firearms along with matching ammunition. All the occupants of the vehicle were arrested and taken into custody. The prosecutor added that while in custody, Vanderstoop admitted that Hunte planned the robbery and they were going to rob a Supermarket at Samatta Point,

Remanded to prison Jason Hunte

Remanded to prison Terrence Frank Grove. The Magistrate, after listening to the Prosecution, remanded both defendants to prison. They were instructed to make their next court appearance on September 27.

Wedding house killing…

Accused who wrote A Levels while incarcerated gets 23 years Davenand Dhandhari, called “Kevin,” of Lot 27 Betsy Ground, East Canje, Berbice who was found guilty of killing a fellow villager has been sentenced to 23 years in jail. This was following the presentation of a Probation Report. The 20-year-old, who was earlier indicted for murder but had that indictment reduced to manslaughter by the DPP, was on trial in the Berbice High Court before Justice Jo Ann Barlow and a jury. He was accused of killing Omesh Seelall, called “Rovin” and “Short Neck”, 21, a labourer of Betsy Ground, East Canje, Berbice. He was found guilty and a Probation report was ordered.

Jailed: Davenand Dhandhari, called “Kevin” Seelall was bludgeoned on his head on Sunday, September 17, 2016, and died

five days later, on 22nd September, at the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation. Attorney-at-law Tuanna Hardy had presented the Prosecution’s case while prominent Attorney Mursalene Bacchus represented the accused. A detailed probation report was presented by Probation and Social Services Officer Maise Sheppard. It mentioned that although his parents’ educational standard was average, the accused was always a high flyer in school. He attended schools both in Nevis and Guyana and performed well. At the time of his incarceration he was an A level student and wrote three (Continued on page 23)

Thursday September 13, 2018

Kaieteur News

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Kaieteur News

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1 Diesel Mechanic/Welder to work in Interior. Contact #625-5136 Monday-Friday between 8am-5pm Live in or live out babysitter/ domestic- Call: 223-7500 Monday to Saturday 8:15am-4:15pm Land to buy in Parafaite Harmonie, Eccles, Uitvlugt, Tuschen,Covent Garden, Herstelling, Diamond, Providence & Zeelugt. Tel#686-9608 1 Experienced male or female to look after layer birds in the interior. Contact#699-4718

Room Attendant, Deskstaff, Supervisor 25-45 years old Tel#225-0198 or visit 233 South Rd, Lacytown. Maid for East Bank to cook & clean. 614-4358 Vacancy for assistant manager & shop manager at Wencai Trading. Phone 6179513 1 Experienced welder/ fabricator preferably from Sheriff Street to Mon Repos. Contact# 222-3844 Female cleaner office & home. 233-2745

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Thursday September 13, 2018

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Kaieteur News

NGOs Collaborate on Outreach - Guyana Medical Relief, GCF, CIOG, HAP others September, the designated month of prostate cancer awareness has seen the support of many local and overseas-based nong o v e r n m e n t a l organisations, with the most recent being a general medical outreach in Moraikobai last Sunday. The Guyana Medical Relief in collaboration with the Guyana Cancer Foundation, US Embassy of Georgetown Humanitarian Assistance Programme, the Cheddi Jagan Dental Centre, hosted a medical outreach where residents of Moraikobai accessed general body check-ups, clothing articles, and medication and food items free of cost. The Cheddi Jagan Dental Centre provided dental care to residents. The Guyana Medical Relief was founded in 1984 and recently collaborated with several renowned non-governmental organisations to advocate the need for cancer awareness in society. Sharir Chan, GMR’s Chief Operating Officer stated that the organization, founded out of the concerns of a group of Los Angeles based Guyanese, has blossomed over the

years through partnerships with local and foreignbased NGOs. GMR saw the need for medical supplies in Guyana and therefore found its main purpose in shipping medical supplies to various hospitals across Guyana. Hospitals supported through GMR are New Amsterdam, Port Mourant, Mahaicony, Linden, Bartica, Suddie, St. Joseph’s Mercy, Davis Memorial and the Public Hospital in Georgetown. In addition to these major institutions, the hospital at Charity is supported with shipments sent to Suddie. Wismar and Kwakwani Hospitals are serviced through Linden Hospital while Missions along the Abary River are serviced by the Mahaicony Hospital. GMR has collaborated with Canada-Guyana Outreach Mission (CanGo) to bring relief to thousands of residents in Regions One and Two. Collaborating with the Guyana Cancer Foundation, they have provided pap smears to women in rural areas of Guyana. Bibi Saeedah Ahkteer Hassan, president of the Guyana Cancer Foundation, highlighted her organisation’s growth in recent years through its part-

nership with GMR, with just over twenty-five outreaches in just this year. GCF’s most recent collaboration with Guyana Medical Relief in Moraikobai gave female residents the opportunity to have pap smears, screening and clinical breast sonograms among other things. The NGO’s efforts to reduce the mortality rate in cancer as well as to advocate cancer awareness cases, applauded by many, saw collaborations by several local organizations. Very little is known about the direct cause of prostate cancer, . According to the latest World Health Organization (WHO) data published in 2017, prostate cancer deaths in Guyana reached 89 or 1.54 percent of total deaths. This number is a reflection of the need for more awareness within society o n c a n c e r. T h e G u y a n a Cancer Foundation aims to function as an advocacy for cancer awareness with its reach extending across Guyana. Based on data as recent as 2017 from the Ministry of Public Health, Guyana has the highest incidence of cancer related mortality when

Accused who wrote A Levels while... From page 12 subjects whilst being incarcerated. The report went on to state the accused had an anger management problem and had problems both at school and while being incarcerated. He was however described as a good student and one who showed much promise. Both the prosecution and defence called a number of witnesses to support their case. The prosecution called eight witnesses including three police officers. Government Pathologist Dr. Nehaul Singh had testified to conducting a post mortem examination on the body. The Defence attorney had put forward a no case submission which was overruled by Justice Barlow. The defence called five witnesses including Magistrate Maurica Mittleholzer who conducted the preliminary Investigation. The accused Dhandhari had given an unsworn statement from the dock. He told the court that he acted in self defence after he was attacked by the accused with a knife. The men were reportedly among a crowd of persons at a wedding house when Seelall was reportedly floored

Killed: Omesh Seelall after being struck by Dhandhari with a piece of 2×4 wood from a dray cart. He was immediately rendered u n c o n s c i o u s . Seelall was picked up and rushed to the New Amsterdam Hospital where he received emergency treatment, before being transferred to the Georgetown Public Hospital in a critical condition. He was hooked up on a respirator and died five days later without regaining c o n s c i o u s n e s s . The police had retrieved the piece of wood reportedly used in the attack. Attorney at law

Mursalene Bacchus in a stirring plea of mitigation asked the court to temper justice with mercy. He stated his client’s good background and that at the time of the incident he was an A Level student. He stated that a life was lost but his client was very remorseful although he was provoked and only acted in self defence. He begged the court to look at the facts of the case and give his client an opportunity to realize his dreams. Before passing sentence Justice Barlow mentioned the contents of the Probation report and the mitigation plea by attorney Bacchus. She however said that a life was lost and the doctor evidence which stated that the victim had suffered a severe blow which shifted his brains. She mentioned that although it was stated that he was provoked the blow with the 2x4 wood was as lethal as that of a gun, meaning it was struck with great force. She mentioned his stated anger problems She then sentenced him to 23 years in jail. However time spent in jail and a further year was deducted. Justice Barlow also ordered that whilst incarcerated he be exposed to session of anger management.

Residents of Moraikobai receiving healthcare compared to the Caribbean region. The Guyana Cancer Foundation aims to drastically reduce that number as they advocate and educate citizens on cancer related ailments while the Guyana Medical Relief continues to provide

its consistent support on the needs of the poor with

emphasis on women and children.

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Thursday September 13, 2018

Don’t contact my relatives - Magistrate warns A Magistrate attached to the Court at Bartica, Region Seven had cause to issue an open warning to persons against contacting members of her family in relation to matter she is presiding over, yesterday. According to information reaching this newspaper, Magistrate Crystal Lambert reportedly told the courtroom that she is an officer of the court and would not condone anyone contacting her family with regards to any case. Lambert, who is presiding at the Bartica Magistrates Court, issued the warning in open court at

40

the time that the assault case involving two Ukrainian men Vitaly Paraschuck and Maksym Furtak was called up. The case attracted attention last month after a video surfaced depicting what appears to be a brawl involving a Guyanese miner and the two foreigners. The Ukrainians who are operatives of West Bank Demerara Gold Company were charged with assaulting the Guyanese miners last month. The Guyanese miner Charles Clark was also charged. The parties were arrested after a video which purportedly showed Russian-speak-

ing security personnel assaulting a Guyanese mining ranger. The video sparked an investigation by the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), and Guyana Police Force (GPF). The video allegedly shows a Guyanese being confronted by two foreigners. The foreigners were wearing attire resembling military fatigues and civilian jerseys, and both men were armed with handguns. The Guyanese was telling the foreigners that he was not working for them and did not have to show them anything. This seemed to be because the foreigners felt that the man was working in the wrong area. One of the foreigners then punched the Guyanese and the Guyanese attempted to respond in kind, but the foreigner drew a handgun. The video sparked a debate on social media that saw Guyanese expressing dissatisfaction about how foreigners are treating Guyanese. After conducting investigations and sending a file for legal advice, the police were advised to charge all three men with the various offences.

Hurricane Florence: Mass evacuation from ‘storm of a lifetime’ (BBC) US East Coast residents are running out of time to flee before Hurricane Florence hits the region as soon as Thursday evening, officials warn. The storm was downgraded to category three with maximum sustained winds of 120mph (195km/ h), but officials say it is still “extremely dangerous”. Up to 1.7 million people have been ordered to evacuate across South Carolina, North Carolina and Virginia. Four South Carolina motorways have been diverted one-way to speed the exodus. On Wednes-

day, Georgia declared a state of emergency, following the Carolinas, Virginia, Maryland and Washington DC. A National Weather Service forecaster said: “This will likely be the storm of a lifetime for portions of the Carolina coast. “And that’s saying a lot given the impacts we’ve seen from Hurricanes Diana, Hugo, Fran, Bonnie, Floyd and Matthew. “I can’t emphasise enough the potential for unbelievable damage from wind, storm surge and inland flooding with this storm.” Jeff Byard, of the

Federal Emergency Mana g e m e n t A g e n c y, s a i d : “This is going to be a Mike Tyson punch to the Carolina coast.” North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper warned that “disaster is at the doorstep”, and “tens of thousands” of buildings may be flooded. Waves 83ft (25m) tall were recorded at sea on Wednesday morning. But while man y coastal residents have complied with mandatory evacuation orders, others are boarding up their homes and vowing to ride out the storm.

Couple jailed for selling son to pedophiles Berlin (CNN)A German mother and her partner have been sentenced to prison for selling the w o m a n ’s s o n , n o w t e n years old, to pedophiles on the internet in a case that has horrified the nation. The couple was accused of repeatedly raping and abusing the boy from May 2015, and selling him online to other men for sex since 2016, a court in southern Germany said in a statement Tuesday.

The abuse was filmed, and police were alerted to the case and arrested the pair in 2017. The 48-year-old woman was sentenced Tuesday by Freiburg state court to 12and-a-half years prison, and her 39-year-old partner sentenced to 12 years. The court ruled that after serving his sentence, the man must also remain in preventive custody. Several men, believed to be pedophile “clients” of

the couple, have also been prosecuted in connection with the case. A Spanish man was also convicted. The couple also sexually abused a three-year-old girl in 2015. The girl, who had mental health issues, had on several occasions been given to the 48-year-old woman by her mother to care for her. The couple has been ordered to pay the boy 30,000 euros ($35,000) in compensation, and 12,500 euros ($14,500) to the girl.

Police raid Korean company which claimed to have found sunken ship full of gold (CNN)Police in Seoul have raided the offices of a South Korean company which claimed to have found a sunken Russian warship with billions of dollars of gold on board. Shinil Group attracted global attention when it claimed last month to have discovered the Dmitri Donskoii, a 5,800ton warship that had sunk during the 1905 B a t t l e o f Ts u s h i m a , i n the waters between present-day South Korea and Japan. Reports from the time o f t h e s h i p ’s s i n k i n g claimed the gold on board could be worth upwards of $125 billion, a staggering amount Shinil later downgraded to a still respectable $8.9 billion at a press conference on July 26. Ahead of that press event, the company had hinted it would make a major announcement, perhaps even show photos and video of the gold on board. But nothing was forthcom-

ing, and questions began to be raised over the veracity of previous images of the sunken ship put out by the company. The police raid, which occurred Tuesday morning officials confirmed, comes less than a week after police told CNN they were investigating the firm on suspicion of fraud and had banned senior company officials from leaving the country. Attempts to reach Shinil were unsuccessful. Details about the company have so far been scant. A representative previously told CNN it was a “conglomerate,” and the as-yet-totallytheoretical ship’s salvage was major part of its business operations. Asked why the company had begun its search for the ship, the representative said Shinil wanted something that would “give hopes and dreams to the Korean people” after the corruption scandal which eventually resulted in the impeachment of President Park Geun-hye.

Following Shinil’s original announcement of the ship’s discovery, shares of Jeil Steel Manufacturing Co. surged on the South Korean stock market, though Jeil Steel said it had nothing to do with the finding. The Financial Supervisory Service said both the current and former heads of Shinil Group bought stakes in Jeil Steel earlier this month, according to Reuters. If the ship’s “discovery” was an attempt to juice stock prices, there was strong precedent for assuming it would work. Following reports in 2000 that it would attempt to explore and salvage the ship, shares in Dong-ah Construction surged despite skepticism and official government denials over the amount of gold on board the Dmitri Donskoii. Dong-ah did not manage to salvage the ship or establish how much gold was actually on board, and the company eventually went bankrupt.

Thursday September 13, 2018

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Triathlon Bermuda-Island wins bid to host grand final in 2021 Hamilton, Bermuda, CMC – Bermuda has been chosen to host the ITU World Triathlon Series (WTS) grand final in 2021, described by a tourism chief here as “an amazing milestone” for the country. The island’s bid was approved on Tuesday by the ITU executive board in Queensland, Australia, the Bermuda Tourism Authority (BTA) announced. Bermuda hosted the first of three previously awarded WTS races in April, when Flora Duffy delighted crowds by storming to victory on home turf. The BTA said 450 local workers and volunteers had earned high praise for their execution of the event. Bermuda will also host WTS events in 2019 and 2020, be-

fore the big event the next year. BTA chief executive officer Kevin Dallas said: “While winning the ITU World Triathlon Series was an awesome achievement, winning the grand final has been our ambition from the beginning. “This is an amazing milestone in Bermuda’s journey to become a premier sports tourism destination. “Congratulations to all involved in the bid process. I have full confidence that Bermuda will seize this incredible multiyear opportunity to show the world how we skillfully execute high-profile events out here.” He continued: “These triathlon events shine a spotlight on Bermuda, and importantly, have positive and last-

Bermudian Flora Duffy … one of the world’s leading triathlete.

ing impacts for her tourism economy, as well as for athletes, families and volun-

Thursday September 13, 2018 ARIES (Mar. 21–Apr. 19) A household member might toy with the idea of moving out or going away for a while, Aries. This could stress you out, but don't make yourself crazy. TAURUS(Apr.20–May20) Stress could have you feeling uncommunicative today. You probably aren't going to want to talk to anyone, even your dearest friend, Taurus. GEMINI (May 21–June 20) Finances should be going well, Gemini, but your financial affairs aren't something you want to talk about to anyone now. CANCER (June 21–July 22) You're likely to be in a solitary mood today, Cancer, and proba b l y w a n t t o spend the evening reading or working on a project of your own. However, it isn't likely to work out that way. LEO (July 23–Aug. 22) Today you might have a strange feeling that something is wrong, perhaps in the neighborhood or with a friend or relative. VIRGO (Aug. 23–Sept. 22) An organization with which you're affiliated may be having financial problems, and this fact could come out today. It might be a shock to you and e v e r yone else involved, Virgo, but it's good that it's coming out now.

LIBRA (Sept. 23–Oct. 22) Some unexpected changes that have been kept under wraps at the workplace could come out soon. SCORPIO (Oct. 23–Nov. 21) Some disconcerting revelations about your past or the past of someone close to you could come out today. This might be a bit of a shock, Scorpio, but it's a positive development nonetheless. SAGIT(Nov.22–Dec.21) Something you might have wanted to keep between you and a few trusted friends could inadvertently be revealed, perhaps to the wrong people. CAPRI (Dec. 22–Jan. 19) Demands placed on you by work colleagues could have you stressed, Capricorn. You might feel that your coworkers are taking unfair advantage of you. This could start you thinking of perhaps going into business for yourself or with a partner. AQUARIUS(Jan.20–Feb.18) Stress and job frustration might have you thinking about breaking free, walking out the door, and getting on the first plane somewhere else. PISCES (Feb. 19–Mar. 20) A close friend or loved one might drop out of sight today. You may panic when he or she doesn't return your phone calls. Don't jump to conclusions.

teers.” BTA’s chief product and experiences development of-

ficer, Pat Phillip-Fairn, and Steven Petty of the Bermuda Triathlon Association, made

the winning presentation to the ITU executive board on Tuesday. The BTA pointed to a glowing report on the impact of April’s race in Bermuda from international professional services firm PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC). PwC wrote: “Based on prior WTS grand final events, approximately 3,000 athletes are expected to participate in the age-group race, with 55 men and 55 women in the elite race and 100 para-triathletes. “The estimated incremental on-island spend for the WTS grand final is US$13.4 million, which results in an anticipated overall impact on GDP of $16.6 million.” Duffy’s hopes of completing an unprecedented hattrick of titles this year were ended by a recurring foot injury, having been female world champion in 2016 and 2017.

How Soccer Without ... From page 26 everything that has happened began full of energy,” says Francisca. “All of the businesses opened without fear and everyone walked in the streets with safety and confidence, not thinking that something bad might happen.” That is no longer the case. There is a climate of fear, of suspicion and caution. And that has disrupted Soccer Without Borders. “Our aim in the future is to grow the programme further in Granada, and bring the model to other departments across the country,” says Connor. “We hope that there is a peaceful way to end the violence that is affecting so many families, and that the Nicaragua that emerges on the other side of this difficult time reflects the creativity, determination, hopefulness and kindness that we have seen at first hand over the past 10 years.”

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Thursday September 13, 2018

How Soccer Without Borders is helping young female footballers in troubled Nicaragua

Hasly, centre, and her team-mates live with the threat of violence in Nicaragua. Francisca (top left) is part of a new breed of female coaches in Nicaragua. BBC - Hasly was at university when the violence began. She felt scared and helpless. The campus at the Universidad Nacional de Ingenieria in Managua, Nicaragua’s capital, was left in ruins - destroyed after protests against Daniel Ortega’s authoritarian government escalated. For Hasly, 18, the future is uncertain. Students have been at the centre of Ortega’s crackdown: many led the protests - which began in April -

against the government’s social security cuts. Ortega responded with brutal repression, accusing protesters of attempting a coup. That month, the Concacaf Women’s Under-17 Championship in Nicaragua was cancelled because of safety concerns. More than 2,000 people have been arrested since. The threat of violence, for youngsters like Hasly, is very real. “It is very difficult to live in our country right now,” she says. “The streets and high-

ways are not safe to travel on to the capital and my university. No-one can make sure that we are safe once we are there.” Hasly simply wants to continue her education. She is studying systems engineering and hopes to forge a successful career for herself in the field. But she has been unable to attend university for three months. It is a consequence of a country in disarray. More than 300 people have been killed,

Strong start pushes Guadeloupe past Saint Martin

Guadeloupe players gather to celebrate after scoring against Saint Martin in CNL qualifying on September 11 in Anguilla.

The Valley, Anguilla – A strong start consisting of two goals in the first 27 minutes pushed Guadeloupe to a 3-0 victory over Saint Martin in 2019/20 Concacaf Nations League Qualifying on Tuesday in Anguilla. The win helped Guadeloupe snap a six-match winless streak and earn its second win in its last 15 matches. Florian David gave Les Gwada Boys a dream 1-0 start with a hard-struck volley in the 6’. Guadeloupe kept the pressure on and in the 27’ the lead was doubled through Gregory Gendrey, who got on the end of a corner kick at the back post and turned the ball into net.

Saint Martin looked to respond in the second half and four minutes after the re-start Jonathan Nyuiadzi had a good look at goal but fired over the crossbar. Minutes later Saint Martin’s Yannick Bellechase had a go at goal but his left-footed shot missed wide. Saint Martin would end up ruing those missed chances, as Guadeloupe would round out the 3-0 scoreline 3-0 in the 65’ courtesy of Yannick Passape’s excellent left-footed finish. The other match scheduled for Tuesday between Martinique and British Virgin Islands was postponed due to the potential impact of Hurricane Isaac on Martinique and will be rescheduled.

Ortega is viewed by many as the enemy and Nicaragua, a Central American nation which borders Honduras and Costa Rica, has been plunged into an economic crisis. But amid the relentless negativity, football offers some relief. It is through football that Hasly started on her road to university, via a programme which uses the sport to change perceptions and help young girls develop in Nicaragua. ‘Football as a tool for positive change’ “I believe that soccer is a mirror of society, but also has the power to shape it,” says Mary McVeigh Connor. She is the co-founder of Soccer Without Borders, a charity set up in 2006 with the aim of using the sport as a vehicle for positive change. In Nicaragua, girls did not play football. And if they attempted to, it was frowned upon. Those perceptions are beginning to change, thanks in part to the work done by Soccer Without Borders. It has helped break down other pernicious social norms, too. “Life as a girl in Nicaragua is extremely isolating,” says Connor, who played football professionally before her involvement with Soccer Without Borders. “Nearly 30% of girls are pregnant before the age of 18, and about half never advance from primary to secondary school. The culture of machismo dictates a certain set of norms for girls, many of which are internalised before they reach adolescence. Sport, and particularly soccer, has a unique ability to break down these barriers, build girls’ leadership and confidence and create uncommon outcomes.” The programme, based in the city of Granada, works with girls and women from the

ages of six to 20. There are 170 girls involved and a further 1,500 are reached through various camps, tournaments and special events. The staff consists of 10 Nicaraguan coaches and group leaders, four of whom are alumnae of the programme. The girls involved find their prospects improved, their options increased. “In places where girls are given an equal opportunity to play and are encouraged and supported to play by their families, siblings, and communities, they are also able to better access opportunities in education and in the workforce,” says Connor. “I think soccer in particular has a unique power to shift gender norms because of its popularity and the passion that surrounds it. In places like Nicaragua where machismo is so prevalent, for a girl to play soccer in particular sends a message that, as one of our male coaches put it, ‘girls can do everything just like we [boys] can’.” ‘Difficult times’ Now, though, there are challenges. Granada was not at the epicentre of the protests, but the programme was still impacted by the turmoil. Changes have had to be made to Soccer Without Borders’ schedule: some sessions have been cancelled because it is not considered safe for girls to walk home alone at night. The decrease in tourism has also hit hard. “It affects so many families,” says Connor. “Jobs and customers are lost. We normally host groups of American players who come to Nicaragua for a week of cultural immersion and exchange. These trips supply all of our equipment for the year and raise about 35% of our annual operating budget.”

These have had to be cancelled. The charity must now find another way to raise funds. But they will press on, aware of the importance of their work. “I think in times of difficulty, uncertainty, and change, there is no greater comfort than that of family, and Soccer Without Borders is a family for our girls,” says Connor. “Losing the consistency of our programme and its place in these girls’ lives would be devastating.” For some of the girls, it is a time of uncertainty and tumult. Hasly does not know when she will be able to return to university. She is, she says, shocked by the deaths in her country. “The violence affects all Nicaraguans and especially young people. Many have left the country to seek safety. I am very sad.” Hasly joined Soccer Without Borders when she was eight and 10 years on still helps out, having herself been helped to gain a scholarship and attend university. Another longtime participant, Francisca, recalls the early days of her involvement. “When I was eight, I received a lot of bad comments because men thought soccer was not for women,” she says. “But now it is different. The population has accepted that not only men can play.” Francisca, like many others, has seen her life “completely change” through football. The past few months have been difficult - and a strain on everyone involved - but there is a sense of determination, of perseverance. ‘The days ahead’ The challenges are not yet over. Nicaragua is at a crossroads, and life for many has been put on hold. “A typical day in Granada before (Continued on page 25)

Thursday September 13, 2018

Welcome to Stade Didier Deschamps!

France boss has stadium renamed in his honour after World Cup triumph as The newly-named Stade Didier Deschamps is located just right of Monaco’s Stade Louis II.

Mailonline - The legend of France Manager Didier Deschamps grew substantially on yesterday after a second stadium was named in his honour. Deschamps has already got a stadium named after him, located in his hometown of Bayonne, but has added to his collection with the renaming of the Stade Marquet in Monaco. Located mere inches away from the imposing Stade Louis II, the football ground’s new name was unveiled in the presence of the France Manager and Prince Albert II of Monaco. Deschamps, who has lived in Cap d’Ail region of Monaco since 2001, unveiled the ground’s new ‘Stade Didier

Deschamps’ signage in front of a crowd of 500 people and was joined by his wife Claude. There was also a surprise visit from his son, Dylan, who presented his father with the World Cup trophy he brought back from Russia with Les Bleus earlier this summer. It was the second time in their history, after 1998, that they had won the trophy. ’For me and my family, it is a huge honour to have the name of my family associated with this stage,’ said Deschamps. ‘ The most important thing is the little ones, the young footballers. Seeing smiles, tears, joy, happiness, there’s nothing more beautiful.’ Deschamps was part of

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Kaieteur News

the squad that lifted the World Cup for France in 1998 and his managerial triumph in Russia saw him join Mario Zagallo (Brazil) and Franz Beckenbauer (Germany) as the only three to have won it as a player and a coach. The 49-year-old has been in charge of France since 2012, but his success has seen him linked with a number of Europe’s biggest clubs. He has previously stated his intention to see out his current contract, which expires at the end of Euro 2020. Speaking in July, he said: ‘I don’t do everything like Aime Jacquet (the France boss who famously retired after the 1998 win). I am in a state of continuity and I have a contract to honour.

Didier Deschamps and Monaco’s Prince Albert (left) attend a ceremony at Stade Cap d’Ail.

Vuelta a Espana 2018

Simon Yates maintains overall classification lead Great Britain’s Simon Yates maintained his overall classification lead at the Vuelta a Espana as Canada’s Michael Woods won the 17th stage. Yates’ lead over Alejandro Valverde was cut by eight seconds to a 25-second margin after the 157km road race from Getxo to Alto del Balcon de Bizkaia.In thick fog, Woods, riding for the EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale team, took the win. Belgium’s Dylan Teuns came second, with Spain’s David De La Cruz third. After the race, an emotional Woods said: “My wife and I lost our son, she had a still birth and it was a really tough time. I told her that I wanted to win for him and I did - I can’t describe how happy I am right now.” Yates brothers lead GB team at worldsWoods, who finished seventh overall in the 2017 Vuelta, broke clear with 800m to go to take his first stage victory in the summit finish. “I thought I had less than 800m to go, but you could not see anything up the road,” added Woods.“Dylan Teuns was riding super strong and there were a couple of times where I thought I didn’t have it but I managed to hold on. This is aprobably my favourite region in racing.” The 18th of 21 stages takes place on Thursday over 186.1km from Ejea de los Caballeros to Lleida with the race finishing on Sunday. Yates is aiming to become only the second Briton to win the Vuelta after Chris Froome’s success in 2017, while Spain’s Valverde is aiming to win the Vuelta for a second time after victory in 2009. Stage 17 result

Simon Yates moved into the Vuelta lead after stage nine, dropped to second after stage 1 2 and regained the lead after stage 14 1 Michael Woods (Can/ EF Education First-Drapac p/ b Cannondale) 4hrs 9mins 48secs 2 Dylan Teuns (Bel/BMC Racing Team) +5secs 3 David De La Cruz (Spa/ Team Sky) +10secs 4 Rafal Majka (Pol/BoraHansgrohe) +13secs 5 Ilnur Zakarin (Rus/ Katusha-Alpecin) +38secs 6 Alessandro De Marchi (Ita/BMC Racing Team) +44secs 7 Amanuel Ghebreigzabhier (Eri/Dimension Data) +48secs 8 Jesus Herrada (Spa/ Cofidis, Solutions Credits) +51secs 9 Jai Hindley (Aus/Team Sunweb) +55secs 10 Vincenzo Nibali (Ita/ Bahrain-Merida) +1min 4secs General classification 1 Simon Yates (GB/

Mitchelton-Scott) 69hrs 5mins 34secs 2 Alejandro Valverde (Spa/Movistar Team) +25secs 3 Enric Mas (Spa/QuickStep Floors) +1min 22secs 4 Miguel Angel Lopez (Col/Astana Pro Team) +1min 36secs 5 Steven Kruijswijk (Ned/ LottoNL-Jumbo) +1min 48secs 6 Nairo Quintana (Col/ Movistar Team) +2mins 11secs 7 Ion Izagirre (Spa/ Bahrain-Merida) +4mins 9secs 8 Rigoberto Uran (Col)/EF Education First-Drapac p/b Cannondale) +4mins 36secs 9 Thibaut Pinot (Fra/ Groupama-FDJ) +5mins 31mins 10 Tony Gallopin (Fra/ AG2R La Mondiale) +6mins 5secs

Usain Bolt toasts zerogravity with champagne

Paris (Reuters) - Usain Bolt yesterday sprinted through thin air and sipped champagne floating on his back as he enjoyed near zerogravity conditions in the back of an aircraft performing stomach-lurching parabola d i v e s . The eight-time Olympic champion grinned as he experienced weightlessness in a modified plane normally used for scientific research — but on this occasion to showcase a champagne bottle that will allow astronauts to drink bubbles in space. The bottle was designed by champagne-maker Mumm. In time the company hopes to capitalize on the advent of space tourism.

Retired sprinter Usain Bolt poses as he enjoys zero gravity conditions during a flight in a specially modified plane above Reims. Billionaires Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon Inc, Richard Branson and Tesla chief executive Elon Musk are locked in a race to send

wealthy tourists into suborbital space, high enough to see the curvature of the planet. They may want to toast their adventures.

Thursday September 13, 2018

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Kaieteur News

Natalie Nedd Secures Football Scholarship The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) along with The International Supporters Group (ISG) is proud to announce the first female football player in Guyana’s history to be signed to a scholarship at an American University. Ms. Natalie Need, Goalkeeper for the Senior Women’s Football team, commonly known as the “Lady Jaguars”, started school at Graceland University on August 27. Nedd was recruited by the school as part of a programme established by the GFF and ISG to identify and promote national team players for scholarship opportunities in the US and Canada. In an invited comment GFF President Wayne Forde said providing development opportunities for footballers to pursue education and football ambitions is part of the mandate of the Executive Committee. ”My constitutional mandate is to develop football but my moral calling is to create an environment where the beautiful game can enrich the lives of every man, woman,

and child. That is the full measure of my service to the football community. The Executive Committee is determined to create scholarship opportunities across the world that will give our players access to world class education along with solid professional football development experiences, my best wishes and prayers go out to Natalie, make us proud.” ”This is a very important first for the women’s programme and Natalie is a great representative for the programme, we will be following her progress closely,” said Technical Director Ian Greenwood. For his part, Paul Beresford, GFF’s International Team Coordinator, who went to Iowa for Natalie’s signing ceremony and first college match said this is a start of a long-term process to achieve development within Guyana. ”This has been part of the vision of the GFF current leadership and the ISG. The partnership is a strong one that I know will benefit not only the players but the country as these players give back to Guyana using the knowledge gained from the education af-

forded to them through these scholarships. We want to make Guyana a primary destination for college coaches to recruit players from going forward.” Head Coach of the “Lady Jaguars” Dr. Ivan Joseph said having players consistently training and playing is a key strategic element of the national programme: “A strategic priority of the GFF Women’s National Team is for all our players to play and train year-round. We are proud of Natalie for pursuing her dream and her commitment to getting better every day.”In extending congratulations to Nedd, “Lady Jaguars” Assistant Coach, Kevin Sherry, said the exposure to college football will greatly contribute to Nedd’s improved performance: “It is a huge accomplishment and a great reward for all the hard work Natalie has put into her game. Natalie will receive daily training and conditioning which will help her achieve a very high level of performance, which is good for both Natalie and GFF. We wish her well and hope her success will inspire others to also play in USA

Guyana to send 22 member Golf team to Suriname next month With the game of golf on the rise in Guyana and the rivalry between the Guiana Shield countries at its highest level, the first of the three major tournaments will tee off in Suriname on October 6-7 with Guyana hosting its leg on November 3-4 while French Guiana will complete the action when they host on November 10-11. The Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) has a proud history of sending its best players to represent Guyana and this year is no different as 22 players will take their talent to Suriname with the hope of bringing home as many honors as possible. In the ‘A’ Division, current 8-time Guyana Open Champion Avinash Persaud will be joined by Munaf Arjune, Kalyan Tiwari, Alfred Mentore and Club President, Aleem Hussain. The ‘B’ Division will feature Pur Persaud, Max Persaud, Lakeram Ramsundar (Panko), Videsh Persaud, Brian Hackett, Patrick Prasad, Jax Harry, Aasroodeen Shaw, Jerome Khan, Paton George, and John Tracey. Two former Guyana Open Women’s champions Joann Deo and Shanella Webster will represent the Female team.

The ‘C’ Division will have the likes of Troy Cadogan, Dino Bissessar, Dr. Philbert London and Eon Blue. The Suriname tournament is an Invitational event whereas the Guyana Open is the grandest of all as 100 players from more than 12 countries are expected to show up to wrest the title from the Guyanese. Several major companies have already expressed their support for the Guyana Open including Builders Lumber Yard, Giftland OfficeMax, Banks DIH, Ansa Mc Al, Kissoons Furniture, AR Printery, DDL El Dorado, 2017 main sponsor Ganesh Parts, Assuria General, Hand-in Hand Mutual, Chetsons,

Foodtown Restaurant, New Trend Auto and Trans Guyana Airways/Baganara Resorts. It is expected that more than 65 companies will support the Guyana Open tournament with fans eligible to win over $500,000 in giveaways on tournament days. The activities kick off next weekend at the Giftland Mall as persons will have a chance to try their hand at putting to win free tickets and beverages courtesy of Banks DIH or simply by shopping at any of the Giftland Mall stores. For more information or to be a part of the activities, persons can visit Lusignan Golf on Facebook or call 220 5660.

and develop their abilities.” Meanwhile, Head Coach of Graceland University which recruited and signed Nedd to her four year scholarship and was instrumental in working through the challenges she faced during the college application process, expressed his thoughts on Natalie’s arrival: ”We at Graceland University are excited and proud to partner with the Guyana Football Federation and the International Supporters Group to provide a pathway for Guyanese student/athletes to receive a quality education and a fantastic football experience in the USA. Natalie Need is the first recipient and she is a fine choice. Natalie ticks all of the boxes we are looking for. She is a quality person with great habits and work ethic. I have no doubt that Natalie will succeed in the classroom and on the pitch. I am grateful for the work that Paul Beresford and the Guyana Football Federation is doing to make this opportunity possible.” Graceland University is located in Iowa, USA and the team plays in the National

Paul Beresford (left), Natalie Need and Kevin Sherry, Head Coach of Louisiana Tech University and Assistant Coach of the Guyana Lady Jaguars. Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The Federation is looking forward to welcoming more colleges into the programme and is looking forward to the impact it will have on Guyanese footballers

as well as the country as these student athletes return to Guyana to repay the investment the federation and the footballing community have made in their education and career.

World Masters Athletics C/ships – Malaga, Spain

Fortune 400m away from another medal in tomorrow’s final Guyana’s leading Over-40 Female athlete, Alisha Fortune currently competing at the World Masters Athletics Championships in Malaga, Spain. Having already won silver in the 100m and gold in the 200m, Fortune is now 400m away from copping a third medal. She will contest the 400m final tomorrow after qualifying as the third best in Heat one of yesterday’s semi finals. The indefatigable Fortune placed third in 1:00.26 in the heat that was won by USA’s Cynthia Monteleone in 58:70, her countrywoman, Cynthia McNamee placed 2nd in 1:00.06 while taking the fourth place in the heat was Poland’s Malgorzata Gasowska wo was timed at 1:00.47. Heat two was won by Great Britain’s Susie McLoughlin (59.23) from Kenya’s Elizabeth Muthuka (59.66), Annette Quaid of Ireland (1:00.76) and USA’s Angela Myers (1:01.83, the other qualifiers. Fortune in winning the 200m gold (25.77) had defeated Susie McLoughlin (25.87-silver) and Malgorzata Gasowska (25.97) who settled for the bronze. McLoughlin had to settle for the bronze in the 100m final in 12.75s with Fortune taking silver in 12.66s with the gold going to Jamaica’s Nadia Cunningham in 12.63s.

Alisha Fortune

Thursday September 13, 2018

PAGE 29

Kaieteur News

Natalie Nedd Secures Football Scholarship The Guyana Football Federation (GFF) along with The International Supporters Group (ISG) is proud to announce the first female football player in Guyana’s history to be signed to a scholarship at an American University. Ms. Natalie Need, Goalkeeper for the Senior Women’s Football team, commonly known as the “Lady Jaguars”, started school at Graceland University on August 27. Nedd was recruited by the school as part of a programme established by the GFF and ISG to identify and promote national team players for scholarship opportunities in the US and Canada. In an invited comment GFF President Wayne Forde said providing development opportunities for footballers to pursue education and football ambitions is part of the mandate of the Executive Committee. ”My constitutional mandate is to develop football but my moral calling is to create an environment where the beautiful game can enrich the lives of every man, woman,

and child. That is the full measure of my service to the football community. The Executive Committee is determined to create scholarship opportunities across the world that will give our players access to world class education along with solid professional football development experiences, my best wishes and prayers go out to Natalie, make us proud.” ”This is a very important first for the women’s programme and Natalie is a great representative for the programme, we will be following her progress closely,” said Technical Director Ian Greenwood. For his part, Paul Beresford, GFF’s International Team Coordinator, who went to Iowa for Natalie’s signing ceremony and first college match said this is a start of a long-term process to achieve development within Guyana. ”This has been part of the vision of the GFF current leadership and the ISG. The partnership is a strong one that I know will benefit not only the players but the country as these players give back to Guyana using the knowledge gained from the education af-

forded to them through these scholarships. We want to make Guyana a primary destination for college coaches to recruit players from going forward.” Head Coach of the “Lady Jaguars” Dr. Ivan Joseph said having players consistently training and playing is a key strategic element of the national programme: “A strategic priority of the GFF Women’s National Team is for all our players to play and train year-round. We are proud of Natalie for pursuing her dream and her commitment to getting better every day.”In extending congratulations to Nedd, “Lady Jaguars” Assistant Coach, Kevin Sherry, said the exposure to college football will greatly contribute to Nedd’s improved performance: “It is a huge accomplishment and a great reward for all the hard work Natalie has put into her game. Natalie will receive daily training and conditioning which will help her achieve a very high level of performance, which is good for both Natalie and GFF. We wish her well and hope her success will inspire others to also play in USA

Guyana to send 22 member Golf team to Suriname next month With the game of golf on the rise in Guyana and the rivalry between the Guiana Shield countries at its highest level, the first of the three major tournaments will tee off in Suriname on October 6-7 with Guyana hosting its leg on November 3-4 while French Guiana will complete the action when they host on November 10-11. The Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) has a proud history of sending its best players to represent Guyana and this year is no different as 22 players will take their talent to Suriname with the hope of bringing home as many honors as possible. In the ‘A’ Division, current 8-time Guyana Open Champion Avinash Persaud will be joined by Munaf Arjune, Kalyan Tiwari, Alfred Mentore and Club President, Aleem Hussain. The ‘B’ Division will feature Pur Persaud, Max Persaud, Lakeram Ramsundar (Panko), Videsh Persaud, Brian Hackett, Patrick Prasad, Jax Harry, Aasroodeen Shaw, Jerome Khan, Paton George, and John Tracey. Two former Guyana Open Women’s champions Joann Deo and Shanella Webster will represent the Female team.

The ‘C’ Division will have the likes of Troy Cadogan, Dino Bissessar, Dr. Philbert London and Eon Blue. The Suriname tournament is an Invitational event whereas the Guyana Open is the grandest of all as 100 players from more than 12 countries are expected to show up to wrest the title from the Guyanese. Several major companies have already expressed their support for the Guyana Open including Builders Lumber Yard, Giftland OfficeMax, Banks DIH, Ansa Mc Al, Kissoons Furniture, AR Printery, DDL El Dorado, 2017 main sponsor Ganesh Parts, Assuria General, Hand-in Hand Mutual, Chetsons,

Foodtown Restaurant, New Trend Auto and Trans Guyana Airways/Baganara Resorts. It is expected that more than 65 companies will support the Guyana Open tournament with fans eligible to win over $500,000 in giveaways on tournament days. The activities kick off next weekend at the Giftland Mall as persons will have a chance to try their hand at putting to win free tickets and beverages courtesy of Banks DIH or simply by shopping at any of the Giftland Mall stores. For more information or to be a part of the activities, persons can visit Lusignan Golf on Facebook or call 220 5660.

and develop their abilities.” Meanwhile, Head Coach of Graceland University which recruited and signed Nedd to her four year scholarship and was instrumental in working through the challenges she faced during the college application process, expressed his thoughts on Natalie’s arrival: ”We at Graceland University are excited and proud to partner with the Guyana Football Federation and the International Supporters Group to provide a pathway for Guyanese student/athletes to receive a quality education and a fantastic football experience in the USA. Natalie Need is the first recipient and she is a fine choice. Natalie ticks all of the boxes we are looking for. She is a quality person with great habits and work ethic. I have no doubt that Natalie will succeed in the classroom and on the pitch. I am grateful for the work that Paul Beresford and the Guyana Football Federation is doing to make this opportunity possible.” Graceland University is located in Iowa, USA and the team plays in the National

Paul Beresford (left), Natalie Need and Kevin Sherry, Head Coach of Louisiana Tech University and Assistant Coach of the Guyana Lady Jaguars. Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA). The Federation is looking forward to welcoming more colleges into the programme and is looking forward to the impact it will have on Guyanese footballers

as well as the country as these student athletes return to Guyana to repay the investment the federation and the footballing community have made in their education and career.

World Masters Athletics C/ships – Malaga, Spain

Fortune 400m away from another medal in tomorrow’s final Guyana’s leading Over-40 Female athlete, Alisha Fortune currently competing at the World Masters Athletics Championships in Malaga, Spain. Having already won silver in the 100m and gold in the 200m, Fortune is now 400m away from copping a third medal. She will contest the 400m final tomorrow after qualifying as the third best in Heat one of yesterday’s semi finals. The indefatigable Fortune placed third in 1:00.26 in the heat that was won by USA’s Cynthia Monteleone in 58:70, her countrywoman, Cynthia McNamee placed 2nd in 1:00.06 while taking the fourth place in the heat was Poland’s Malgorzata Gasowska wo was timed at 1:00.47. Heat two was won by Great Britain’s Susie McLoughlin (59.23) from Kenya’s Elizabeth Muthuka (59.66), Annette Quaid of Ireland (1:00.76) and USA’s Angela Myers (1:01.83, the other qualifiers. Fortune in winning the 200m gold (25.77) had defeated Susie McLoughlin (25.87-silver) and Malgorzata Gasowska (25.97) who settled for the bronze. McLoughlin had to settle for the bronze in the 100m final in 12.75s with Fortune taking silver in 12.66s with the gold going to Jamaica’s Nadia Cunningham in 12.63s.

Alisha Fortune

PAGE 30

Thursday September 13, 2018

Kaieteur News

Baron Food of St. Lucia on board with BCB/Dave Martin Concert

T

he outstanding work of the Hilbert Foster led Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) continues to attract support from overseas based Guyanese. Chief Executive Officer of Baron Food, Ronald Ramjattan has become the latest overseas Guyanese to support the BCB. Ramjattan has made a financial contribution towards the hosting of a Cricket Development Concert with Legendary Guyanese Singer Dave Martin set for

November 3, next. The Concert would be held in the Compound of the New Amsterdam Technical Institute and all funds raised would go towards the development of youth and female cricket in the Ancient County. Foster, who is spearheading the planning for the historic concert, expressed delight at the support from Ramjattan and Baron Food. The sponsorship from the St. Lucia based company was obtained by Interna-

tional Cricket Commentator Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira, who recently visited Berbice as a special guest of the Board. The donated funds would cover the cost associated with Martin’s Band and its transportation. Martin has committed to performing for one hour at the Concert, which is expected to attract thousands of Berbicians, excited to see the Legendary International singer live on the stage. Martin is known worldwide for songs like, We

Turning pitch not to blame for defeat, says Bravo Georgetown, Guyana, CMC – Skipper Dwayne Bravo has refused to blame the slow, turning turning pitch for Trinbago Knight Riders’ two-wicket defeat to Guyana Amazon Warriors, in the first playoff in the Caribbean Premier League here Tuesday night. While conceding conditions at the Guyana National Stadium had been difficult, Bravo said TKR had also failed to make the necessary adjustments and had only themselves to blame for the loss. ”Obviously here in Guyana, you don’t expect the wicket to play like the MCG or the SCG so it’s challenging but we’re professional cricketers and whatever is prepared and laid in front of us, both teams have to play on it so I can’t use the wicket as an excuse,” Bravo said following the g a m e . ”It’s not a 150-[run] wicket. If we had assessed better as a batting group, maybe 135-140 [would have been possible]. Here in Guyana it’s always a slow, turning wicket … our spinners made it difficult for them as well so I think that gave us a lot of courage and a lot of heart. ”We have another game (Friday’s semi-final) up our sleeves and we look forward to that. We have what it takes to bounce back. We’re not going to use the surface and conditions as an excuse. Well played to Guyana – they played well – and I’m happy with the effort my team went out there and [gave].” Sent in, TKR struggled to cope with the turning track and could muster only 122 for seven from their 20 overs, with Colin Ingram the topscorer with 25 from 26 balls while the usually fluent Darren Bravo required 33 deliveries for his 24. Captain Chris Green exploited

are the Champions, Honey Mooning Couple, Not a Blade of Grass, A Man and a bunch of Animals, Cricket in the Jungle, Copy Cat, Boyhood Days and Come back again. Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira who handed over the donation to former BCB President Anil Beharry on behalf of Baron Food, stated that during his visit to Berbice, he was very impressed with the dedication, vision and plans of Foster and the BCB and as such has committed himself to assisting Berbice cricket as much as possible. Perreira who arranged for the services of Martin for the concert is also working on other fundraising ventures. Beharry expressed gratitude to both Perreira and Ramjattan for the sponsorship. He noted that in addition to planning 22 tournaments in 2018 the Board is also in-

Anil Beharry (left) accepts donation from Joseph ‘Reds’ Perreira. volved in dozens of cricket related developmental programmes. The Board also has huge overhead expenses which include rental, GPL and GTT bills, office staff salaries and transportation costs among others. The Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club has as-

sisted the BCB by pumping in over $1.5M of its own funds to assist them to stay afloat financially. Sponsors interested in coming on board for the historic concert can contact Hilbert Foster on 337 4562, Angela Haniff 333 2375, Robby Saywack 660 0049, Dr. Cecil Beharry 624 5707 or Anil Beharry on 623 6875.

Alvarez and Golovkin break with tradition by not having a face-off at the final presser

Trinbago Knight Riders Captain Dwayne Bravo reacts during his side’s playoff defeat to Guyana Amazon Warriors on Tuesday night. (Photo courtesy CPL) the conditions beautifully, proving a handful in four overs of off-spin which yielded two wickets and only eight runs. Amazon Warriors’ run chase was far from straightforward, however, slumping to 29 for three in the sixth over and then 52 for five in the 12th over, as the spin trio of off-spinner Sunil Narine, leg-spinner Fawad Ahmed and left-arm spinner Kharry Pierre dried up the scoring. And though Man-of-theMatch Shimron Hetmyer, who top-scored with 39 off 36 balls, and Sherfane Rutherford (30) put on 50 for the sixth wicket to rescue the innings, Bravo said he was still proud of the manner TKR went about defending such a small total.

”It was another good game of cricket despite the conditions but I’ve got to give credit to my team, the bowlers – the way they went out there and tried to defend 123,” the allrounder explained. “It’s always a hard task to defend 123 but [for Amazon Warriors] to get the runs in the last over [with one ball left] I think the guys fought very well and I give them a lot of credit.”With the victory, Amazon Warriors qualified for Sunday’s final while TKR will await the winner of Wednesday’s second playoff between Jamaica Tallawahs and St Kitts and Nevis Patriots for another chance to reach the championship match and defend their CPL title.

The fighters broke with tradition and did not engage in a face-off after addressing the media. Mailonline - And still the world champion and his challenger did not look each other in the eye. Not even at the final press conference before Saturday’s mega-millions rematch on the Vegas Strip. For the first time since their second fight was announced on February 27, they were in the same room together. Middleweight king Gennady Golovkin posed for photographs in a grand theatre here in is work clothes, Canelo Alvarez prowled the other end of the stage in his expensive suit before taking his solitary turn in front of the cameras.It was as if a restraining was in effect, keeping them at least 30 feet apart. Saturday night’s bid to settle their highly dubious draw a year ago promises to be a thunderous thriller. But it has been preceded by the quietest, weirdest promotional even in ring history.The atmosphere was painfully hushed. The words awkwardly brief. There were not even cheers from the rival camps, ust polite applause. Canelo’s fabled Golden Boy promoter Oscar De LA Hoya, who has been a third-party protagonist through the hostile build up, was conspicuously absent. But then he can be exciteable. The fighters, for their part, really do intend doing their talking in the ring.

The ritual face-off has been part of boxing for more than a century but Alvarez was the main protagonist in breaking with that tradition. His refusal to breathe the same air as Golovkin came as the aftermath of Canelo’s two failed drugs tests grew increasingly hostile.Canelo flatly refused to join Triple G in the customary trans-America promotional tour. Golovkin proceeded to debunk the Alvarez excuse for testing positive for the prohibited drug clenbuterol that he had unwittingly eaten contaminated meat in Mexico. Canelo resented being called a liar and a cheat by Golovkin.The false courtesies were strained. Alvarez did say; ‘I will knock him out to bring a great victory for myself, my family, my team and to my entire country on this Mexico Independence Day.’Golvokin recognised the significance of the date which brings tens of thousands of celebrating across the border by saying: ‘This is the biggest fight in boxing and I want it to be a great fight, too, as gift to the Mexican people, many of whom are among my fans.’ The response from the few of us admitted to the auditorium, virtual silence. Spooky. But a sudden announcement that the lest few tickets for Saturday night in the T-Mobile Arena.

Thursday September 13, 2018

Kaieteur News

PAGE 31

NSC/Enterprise Busta SC Coaching Camp Conclude

T

he National S p o r t s Commission (NSC)/Enterpris e Busta Sports Club Cricket Camp concluded on Saturday last with a simple ceremony at the Enterprise Busta Sports Club Pavilion. The camp was attended by 30 aspiring male and female cricketers. The youths were exposed to basics of the game and were also given lecturers on the importance of discipline, leadership, injuries and treatment and nutrition. Sessions were conducted by Coach Latchman Yadram and members of the Enterprise Busta Sports Club Yadram said the camp which started on the August 25 was designed to provide youths with an opportunity to develop their skills and become well rounded individuals. At the closing c e r e m o n y, Ya d r a m reminded the youngsters to be discipline at all times and

Coach Latchman Yadram (right front row) with participants of the camp following the closing ceremony. put into practice what they would have learnt. He expressed gratitude to the

National Sports Commission, Enterprise Busta Sports Club,

Enterprise Legends Softball Club, Sheik Mohamed of Star Sports, Seemangal

Yadram, Mohamed Ali, Vivan Albert, Yogeeta Balkishun, Guyana and

Windies Under-19 player Bhaskar Yadram for their input.

Warriors skipper Green looking to reward fans with win in Sunday’s final bowlers played their part in restricting the Knight Riders before their successful run chase. Green said he is proud of their efforts as the players held their nerves well. “We have been on edge, Dwayne was bowling a very good last over and he is a true professional. We were excited to win the game and it means much to the people of Guyana. I am really proud of our effort, we held our nerves tremendously and show case what we can bring to the table going into the final.” Green indicated that he didn’t think the pitch would have been so conducive to the spinners and his bowlers did a fine job. “I didn’t think the pitch would be as conducive as it was to spinners but as we saw it was consistent. The pitch

Chris Green (right) has done a fine job being at the helm of the Guyana Amazon Warriors.

By Zaheer Mohamed Skipper of the Guyana A m a z o n Wa r r i o r s , Christopher Green said he is looking forward to bring the Hero Caribbean Premier League trophy to Guyana and reward their fans. Speaking with media following their two-wicket win against the Trinbago

Knight Riders in the first playoff game on Tuesday night at Providence, Green stated that they are all excited to be in the final. ”Winning the last two games gave us some momentum, it’s nice to be a part of such a great team and the support we have had here in Guyana and around the Caribbean has been special, it’s nice to

have that opportunity to play in the final on Sunday and to bring back that trophy and reward all the people is what we have been working towards. We have put in the hard work and it’s going to be our goal I am really excited for that,” he added. The Captain explained that it is important that they focus

on what they do best. “I don’t think we can focus on who the opposition is. We have to play the ball rather than the man and just keep all our thoughts positive. We can only control what we can control which is to do our best as we did in this game and now we have to do it one more time on Sunday.” The Amazon Warriors

dictated the nature of the game and credit has to go to our bowlers as well as Hetmyer and Rutherford they were really outstanding in the partnership.” Green felt Rayad Emrit made a good come back and showed he is a true professional. He really bowled well and definitely we will need that on Sunday. He has been a great help to me.” The Amazon Warriors skipper said he is enjoying the captaincy role. “I am enjoying the captaincy; naturally it’s been a tough challenge coming in as a replacement for the first four games and I was really excited to learn that I will be staying on for the rest of the t o u r n a m e n t . The final will be played at the Brian Lara Stadium

rt o p S Hero CPL T20 Playoff 2 P. 29

Devcich powers Patriots to tomorrow’s Semi-final in T&T

Members of the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots celebrate their victory.

At the signing ceremony from left, Assistant Coach Graceland University, Chelsea Phillips; International Team Coordinator, Paul Beresford; Natalie Need and Head Coach Of Graceland University, Ozzie White.

P. 29

Natalie Nedd Secures Football Scholarship

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