Guyana Time, Monday October 21, 2019

GRC hosts luncheon to celebrate its 25th anniversary P10

Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 4083

THE BEACON OF TRUTH monday, OCTOber 21, 2019

Natural gas power plant still under consideration – Min Sharma – says multi-stakeholder approach needed to plan project

PRICE $80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Linden youths P15 benefit from diversity, leadership training

Page 9

Attempted robbery-murder at El Dorado Trading

Police issue wanted bulletin for 2 Page 7

Man allegedly sets house on fire in Region 8 P8 Stricter birth registration service for Thomas Hill P15

Women urged to get screened for breast cancer P13

HSS ushers in Diwali with lighting of National Diyas Page 11

Page 12

Teacher living in fear 3 arrested after after receiving death bandits invade threats from ex-lover Corentyne home

Page 14

Man killed in suspected hit and run

Page 14

Priority of A&E Dept to treat P14 life-threatening cases – GPHC CEO P7

2

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

news

3

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, October 21 – 11:00h-12:30h and Tuesday, October 22 – 12:30h-14:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Monday, October 21 – 10:00h – 11:30h and Tuesday, October 22 – 11:30h-13:00h.

Investment in oil and gas sector

Current playing field not level – GCCI President

…says T&T firms with deeper pockets outmuscling Guyanese companies …urges Govt to “learn economics 101” quickly, protect local interests

FERRY SCHEDULE Parika and Supenaam departure times - 05:00h, 11:00h and 16:00h daily

WEATHER TODAY Light rain showers are expected in the morning hours, with sunshine prevailing for the rest of the day. Partly cloudy skies are expected in the evening. Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: North North-Easterly to North NorthWesterly between 1.78 metres and 4.02 metres.

High Tide: 09:47h and 22:12h reaching maximum heights of 2.18 metres and 2.24 metres.

Low Tide: 15:39h reaching a minimum height of 1.10 metres.

saturday, october 19, 2019

LOTTERY NUMBERS N

01

04 10

21 24 25

FREE TICKET

08 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

04 11

12 16 22

LUCKY 3

9

8

4

4

Afternoon Draw

5

0

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

01

07

08

09

11

14

17

PAY DAY

SUPER PAY DAY

01 05 07 10 17

02 05 06 12 21

DISCLAIMER: WE ARE NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY ERRORS IN PUBLICATION. PLEASE CALL THE HOTLINE FOR CONFIRMATION - TEL: 225-8902

GCCI Boyer

President

W

Nicholas

hile Guyana draws closer to first oil, concerns continue to be expressed about the large number of foreigners grabbing up local opportunities. This time, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has noted the rampant displacement of local companies by the Trinis.

In a statement, GCCI President Nicholas Boyer noted that companies from Trinidad and Tobago (T&T) are coming into Guyana with deeper pockets than their local counterparts.

These companies, Boyer noted, use their greater access to capital to outcompete locals.

“Right now, the playing field is not level, Trinidad businesses can access larger sums of capital at lower rates; therefore, they can pay higher prices for assets, as they have a lower hurdle rate,” he said.

“If our government doesn't learn economics 101 quickly, they'll soon have to collect their taxes from Port of Spain, because of issues like transfer pricing and lack of a multiplier effect for the dollars leaked out of the Guyanese economy.”

Boyer gave as an example a services company he set up to cater to the oil and gas sector. He noted that he has partnered with Trinidadian firms. However, he noted that representatives from one of the largest Trinidadian hardware partners have been in Guyana trying to invest and outcompete his joint venture.

“In order to strengthen the relationship and not damage it further, formal policies need to be put in place such as a local content policy and subsequent legislation, policies around investment promotion and strengthening of local businesses. We must welcome investment by our Caricom brothers and sisters, and I encourage competition; but on a level playing field.

“We need to work together to encourage investment

by Trinidad in a manner that benefits Trinidadian and Guyanese firms, especially the Trinidadian firms who set up more than a shell

office with the address of the lawyer that incorporated, and the firms who hire and train local Guyanese and don't repatriate all or most of the profits but instead reinvest it here.”

According to Boyer, firms who are interested in being genuine partners with Guyana will not seek to enter the market through the back door, but rather “will come to the front door and shake hands with the local Private Sector”.

He also criticised the recently-held Trinidad and Tobago Energy Chamber's Safety Forum and the Government’s investment outreach to Trinidad.

According to Boyer, both of these ventures left out the local Private Sector, resulting in a backlash against both events.

“Trinidad and Guyana have a long history together, but given what is before us, one can expect both countries' Private Sectors to be vying to profit from extraction of Guyana's newly-found oil,” Boyer said.

A local content policy was recently completed and released to the public, with the GCCI organising a forum to discuss its merits. In the policy, there are sections where the operator has to declare how many contracts it awarded to Guyanese suppliers for the preceding half year, versus how many it had anticipated awarding.

In this way, the policy notes, companies can be measured by their actions.

Concerns have previous-

A section of the Trinidad and Tobago Energy Chamber's safety forum

ly been expressed that oil companies’ claims of hiring locals cannot be taken at face value, but must be vetted. According to the policy, half-year and end-of-year reports will be one such vetting measure.

According to the policy, these reports will be standardised and delivered by the companies directly to the subject Minister. The information companies put down in these reports will be measured against what commitments for local content they made in their individual local content plans.

But despite legal requirements for companies to meet

local content expectations, the policy stops short of saying exactly how the policy will be enforced against delinquent companies who do not wish to honour their responsibilities. According to one source, a policy with no clear measures to ensure its implementation lets delinquent oil companies off the hook.

Section 36 of the Petroleum Exploration and Production Act specifies that a company can only be granted a production licence if their proposals for “employment and training of citizens of Guyana are satisfactory”.

4

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, october 21, 2019

Views Editor: Tusika Martin News Hotline: 231-8063 Editorial: 231-0544, 223-7230, 223-7231, 225-7761 Marketing: 231-8064 Accounts: 225-6707 Mailing address: Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown Email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, marketing@guyanatimesgy.com

The Police and the crime tsunami

A

s the PNC’s tenure inevitably winds down – time being longer than twine or running to the courts – crime is seemingly inevitably increasing. While this may appear to be ironic in view of its campaign Manifesto declaration that “the crime situation is the most pressing and most depressing problem facing ordinary Guyanese today. APNU+AFC pledge to ensure protection for all citizens, communities and institutions from threats to their well-being”, it is not. After four and a half years in office, Guyanese can now appreciate that the PNC simply mouthed whatever platitudes it felt would garner their vote, and never had any intention of fulfilling its promises.

But on the crime situation, citizens may have been excused for buying the PNC’s tale; if for no other reason than its ranks were so swollen with personnel drawn from the Disciplined Forces. It was not unreasonable to assume these personnel would give the PNC Government a head start in returning security to a beleaguered populace.

Especially since their Manifesto outlined 27 specific measures to “address the breakdown of law and order”.

But it soon became clear that there was another agenda at work.

The third recommendation was to “complete the implementation of the Disciplined Forces Report…”. Now one of the latter recommendations went to the heart of the contradiction in the Guyana Police Force – identified since 1965 – which militated against its professionalisation: the need for the Force to represent more faithfully, the composition of the populace. The experience in all the developed countries, especially the UK and the US, which have been advising the Government on reform, highlighted the need for this recommendation. But the PNC Government never incorporated this key policy in the slew of changes it made in the GPF since 2015.

It was in 2017 that the most significant changes were made, but these had nothing to do with the crime wave that by then had increased significantly. Using an allegation that the Police had not thoroughly investigated an “assassination plot” against him, President David Granger appointed a one-man Commission of Inquiry (CoI) to investigate and make recommendations. Nothing came out in the inquiry to charge anyone for the “plot” – indicating that the initial Police’s dismissive assessment of the matter was correct.

But Granger used the CoI’s Report to shake up the entire top brass of the Police Force. In the process, he placed junior officers over senior ones and banished those he felt were “friendly” to the previous PPP regime, to outlying regions. This left a very demoralised Force to face the crime challenge, since it was apparent to the lowest beat cop that political loyalty trumped professional performance in the GPF. At the swearing-in of the new Commissioner and his deputies in August 2018, President Granger intoned: “Unless those officers are persons of integrity, intelligence and impartiality, this country will never be secure and our women and children will never be safe.” He was correct. But when a year later, when one of the Deputy Commissioners – the one who acts as Commissioner when the latter is absent – became embroiled in accusations of blatant corruption made by serving ranks, Granger chose not to appoint a CoI, but left the investigation to the GPF’s internal Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). Not surprisingly, nothing came out of the matter.

It should, therefore, not be surprising that while there are undoubtedly pockets of integrity in the Police Force, these are more the exception than the rule in all facets of this institution, which forms the front line in the battle against crime. And obviously aware of this state of affairs, the criminals have become emboldened in all areas of the country from Essequibo to Berbice; Georgetown to Lethem and all stops in between.

In the meantime, the influx of refugees from Venezuela, with their quota of criminals and the criminally minded – has added to the challenge of drugs and guns entering from our western and southern borders. While intended for transshipment, an increasing amount of the drugs are used locally creating a more dangerous group of criminals.

Members of the Jeewan Ka Nritya dance troupe performing during the fifth Annual Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh and Hindu Sevika Samiti (Hindus for Selfless Service – HSS) National Diya Light-up on Sunday at Rahaman’s Park, Houston, Greater Georgetown

Corruption galore at GECOM

Dear Editor, Mr Granger and his PNC/APNU Commissioners on the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) look blindly to the other side while pretending that the Secretariat is functioning objectively, and void their party’s infiltration. It is absolutely the opposite and the situation has become so nasty that agents in the GECOM Secretariat are surreptitiously redesigning even the normally expected release of transparent information with intent to kerfuffle and confuse the public.

O p p o s i t i o n Commissioners and the objective media certainly have their work cut out to expose every sneaky trick; the Government Commissioners are now advancing, aided by the GECOM Secretariat.

There have been far too many occasions where individual public protest by Opposition Commissioners had to be used to correct the publication of seemingly independent Secretariat decisions, which runs in direct conflict with the decisions of the Commission. The situation is indeed vexatious and the Chairwoman has to put her foot down and make an example of the responsible person(s).

Now emerged in the backdoor attempts is the new Vincent Alexander-led buffoon of the highly suspicious removal of approximately 20 thousand persons from the Preliminary List of Electors who have not uplifted their voter Identification Cards.

The Secretariat is quiet, knowing that the wicked move seeks to target and disenfranchise thousands of citizens from voting.

This runs directly in conflict with the Chief Justice's ruling and is inconsiderate of the numerous other reasons why the cards have been yet uplifted. This column rejects the proposition of highlighting persons whom the Lowenfield’s House-toHouse Registration enumerators/activists did not reach, and much more will be said on this farcical recommendation in a follow-up article.

After all the constitutional abuse and mockery in the courts, Mr Granger has finally proclaimed March 2, 2020, as the date for General and Regional Elections following the advice of GECOM Chairwoman, Justice (retired), Madam Claudette Singh.

Disappointingly, the date is way beyond the constitutionally instructed timeline. Given the current focus of new surprising matters PNC/APNU Commissioners are now raising at the meetings of the Commission, it begs the pertinent question of when will GECOM release to the public their work schedule with the relevant and appropriate costs?

It is of note that many persons who worked during the controversial Houseto-House Registration are awaiting payments. There are questions regarding whether the PNC was providing more than one scrutineer to the respective team who are now demanding payment. This column was reliably informed that senior staff at GECOM did inform the PNC representative that those scrutineers will not be paid and this seems to have created a massive conflict since there have been demands from Sophia for the

extra milking cows to be fed.

Given that contractors, service providers, and other hustlers are still to be paid, it is necessary that GECOM let the public know how much money was budgeted for the un-finished controversial House-to-House Registration. GECOM is yet to answer serious audit queries for 2015, 2016 and 2018 elections for which the Secretariat expended millions of dollars to purchase equipment, stationaries, and unnecessary accessories for the running of elections.

When will GECOM do a proper stocktaking? Persons are emptying the bonds, people are seeing, and they are talking. The Auditor General owes this nation an explanation and GECOM must be accountable.

There is much confusion, distrust, anxiety, fear, and corruption at GECOM. Chairman Justice Claudette Singh comes highly recommended and is a competent person. Given that these matters have a direct impact on the image and credibility of the institution, the time is most opportune for her to look at the Auditor General’s report and take decisive actions to remedy the continuing abuse. Let the chips fall where they may and pull the respective culpable persons from the Secretariat and deal with all the challenges and corrupt spending.

The media houses have made public, the numerous breaches at GECOM and the damning Auditor General reports. However, there seems to be no end to the corruption and unaccountability that are being encouraged and acted out at the establishment under the Secretariat’s

leadership of Lowenfield.

Despite Lowenfield’s denial of procurement breaches at GECOM, the Auditor General’s reports over the last few years are saying otherwise. It is, therefore, necessary that Justice Singh, persons and groups participating in the upcoming election, take a closer look at the inefficacies of Mr Lowenfield.

Further, the special audit conducted by the AG Office in 2017 remains largely incomplete due to non-cooperation by officers of the entity. The previous Chairman, James Patterson, was also very defensive of GECOM’s unaccountability.

The situation created by the cabal permeates the Secretariat’s output with lawlessness and discrepancies at GECOM, which are widespread and overlapping.

Suddenly everyone wants to be employed with GECOM because of the perks and other benefits, not to speak of the lavish expenditures on transportation, meals and other miscellaneous expenses. Accountability is a strange world under the Lowenfield Secretariat, which he has converted to a ‘fattening cow’ depending on whether one is affiliated to PNC/APNU or the other side of the divide.

The general public demands swift action by Justice (retired), Claudette Singh, who must accept all international help she can get, in ensuring that GECOM’s image and performance are improved, heading to March 2, 2020.

Sincerely, Neil Kumar

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, october 21, 2019

5

You can send your letters with pictures to: Guyana Times, Queens Atlantic Investment Estate Industrial Site, Ruimveldt, Georgetown, Guyana or letters@guyanatimesgy.com

Guyanese are faced with a stark choice at the polls in 2020 Dear Editor, The Granger Administration initiated hostilities with the Private Sector immediately upon assumption of office in 2015, it is now 2019 and the local Private Sector Commission has been usurped as the representatives of business in Guyana. This position is now held by a group of Trinidadian companies, who have been ably assisted in their takeover by Granger’s cabal.

Oil in commercial quantity was announced days after the Granger Administration was sworn in – any competent Administration would have immediately commenced working on ways to ensure maximum benefit accrued locally from this new resource. Granger did not, the focus of the first year was the Independence Jubilee celebrations in 2016. While Granger was focused on making merry, the companies that feed off of oil glob-

ally made their way onto our shores unimpeded, unheralded and under the cover of laws that offer no protection to Guyanese. Granger saw no danger and Schlumberger, Halliburton et al set up operations without so much as a ‘by your leave’.

Editor, I understand Guyana giving ExxonMobil all kinds of breaks, they took a chance and signed a deal in 1999 with President Janet Jagan to explore our deepwater zone for oil and they

Mr Best confirmed that Guyana was participant in rendition of Roger Khan Dear Editor, Mr Gary Best, the PNCR executive and former Chief of Staff of the GDF, at the party’s recent press conference confirmed that Guyana was a participant in the rendition or illegal transfer of Mr Roger Khan from Guyana’s jurisdiction. Mr Best said that the GDF as a State apparatus “did play a role in assisting the Guyana Police Force to ensure that Mr Khan would be eventually rendition in Trinidad and charged in the United States”.

As someone who covered Mr Khan’s case initially when it began in the US District Court for the Southern District of New York, rendition surfaced as an unsuccessful personal jurisdiction defence.

However, it remained a live issue outside of the courtroom since rendition became a prevalent method of grabbing persons without use of legal methods during the younger Bush-era.

Mr Best made a very revealing statement here.

First, it is an admission that State agencies responsible to protect Guyanese, including Mr Roger Khan, knowingly violated both Guyanese and international law in order to remove Mr Khan.

Second, his statement is a celebration by a PNCR executive at a PNCR platform of a transgression of local and international law.

It should be condemned,

not praised as Mr Best has done. Said another way, it is the PNCR that openly celebrated transgression of laws.

Third, despite his military credentials, his statement showed that he has limited knowledge of the Roger Khan matter.

Contrary to what Mr Best claimed, Mr Khan was not renditioned in Trinidad.

The rendition process began in Guyana and his statement underscores this fact. Further, the aircraft that removed Mr Khan from Suriname included agents from a non-Caribbean foreign country.

Mr Khan’s removal was the result of a very sophisticated plan hatched by multiple diplomats and ambassadors, DEA agents, and legal officers. This plan was distributed to certain top officials in the GPF and the GDF and resulted in “raids” on the properties of Mr Khan under the false pretext of wanting Mr Khan for questioning. We always knew it was a set up to either kill Mr Khan or to do exactly what was done.

Fourth, Mr Khan’s illegal removal from the Caribbean resulted in protest inside Suriname’s Parliament by Opposition parliamentarians. However, in Guyana, the PNCR, or parliamentary Opposition, abdicated its duty and celebrated the law-breaking act.

By doing this, the PNCR compromised on Guyanese

security. They also created a unique brand of nationalism, whereby the party may openly invite foreign countries and their law enforcement officials to abduct things or persons of Guyanese origin, such as Mr Khan.

This is the evidence before us. It cannot be removed. Mr Best and the PNCR may find that they have a tall order before them if they plan to make Mr Roger Khan their boogieman for this election.

Sincerely, Rakesh Rampertab

persevered after various costly setbacks. One should remember Shell walked away from the joint venture in the Stabroek Block in 2014. However, these oilfield service companies, worth billions, have been given incredibly generous tax breaks and other concessions.

In July 2019, well into its period of illegality (having failed to hold election by March 21, 2019,) Granger sent a contingent of Ministers to Trinidad on an ‘Investment outreach’ where they “engaged with over 200 business magnates and investors, the Guyanese team detailed investment opportunities in Guyana and outlined Guyana’s Green State Development Strategy policy while extending a welcome to regional investors to Guyana”.

No Guyanese businesses were invited to participate in this initiative. Events since this ‘outreach' have led me to believe that there may have been the biggest ‘sellout’ of a country's patrimony in the history of nations. Is the pending sale of the GNSC wharf to a Trinidadian company a harbinger of things to come? Has anyone told the Trinis of SARA? “Who got money got bargain” may not hold true in a new dispensation.

On October 16, 2019, the Energy Chamber of Trinidad and Tobago hosted A “Guyana Safety Forum” at the National Conference

Centre and neglected to invite any Guyanese business service organisations. The local business bodies were insulted by the complete shut out from the event, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI), The Private Sector Commission (PSC) and the Guyana Manufacturing and Services Association (GMSA) all made condemnatory statements to that effect following the event.

Present were the Kenson Group of Companies, a consortium of Trinidadian oil and gas companies; First Citizens Bank, a Trinidadian financial institution; Caribbean Tower Cranes Limited, Caribbean Safety Products Limited; HHSL Safety Systems Limited; the Hummingbird Group; IWES Limited; Oshes Limited; ExxonMobil; STOW; Saipem; OPITO and the Houston Area Safety Council.

None of these companies or organisations is Guyanese owned. Guyana was represented by the Ministry of Social Protection, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), TVET Guyana, and the National Advisory Committee on Safety and Health. Not a single Guyanese-owned or operated business was present.

Guyanese must ask themselves whose interest this ‘foreign’ policy serves.

Guyanese should also beware of any explana-

tions by Granger's defenders that talk of adherence to the Treaty of Chaguaramas and “international free trade agreements”. Treaties are mere guides, for example, Guyanese cannot sell eddoes to Trinidad, or even trans-ship honey to other destinations, is the Trinidad Government observing the letter of the Treaty? Or are they acting in the best interests of their citizens? Trade deals are renegotiated all the time, as circumstances change, for example, a patriotic stance by President Trump forced renegotiation of NAFTA to get a better deal for Americans.

David Granger professes not to understand clear provisions of Articles in our Constitution that "require no gloss" but seems to revel in the misshapen belief that Guyana must observe every iota of the Treaty to the detriment of locally-owned businesses. Is it that Granger places the terms of the Treaty over the interests of the people of Guyana or is it that he (Granger) and his cabal are better served by the ‘investments’ made during the ‘outreach’?

Guyanese are faced with a stark choice at the polls in 2020 – to support local businesses and content, or live in the future as ‘second-class' citizens in our dear land of Guyana.

Respectfully, Robin Singh

6

monday, OCTOber 21, 2019

Page

“I

Foundation

Saying you’re sorry

didn’t do anything!”

“It’s not my fault!”

“Say you’re sorry!”

Sound familiar? If so, you’re like lots of kids who sometimes argue with their friends and family members.

Let’s face it – it’s not always easy to get along with sisters and brothers, parents, and friends. Kids aren’t perfect and they sometimes do things that get them into trouble.

Saying “I’m sorry” can help.

Saying you’re sorry is called apologising. When you apologise, you’re telling someone that you’re sorry for the hurt you caused, even if you didn’t do it on purpose. People who are apologising might also say that they will try to do better. They might promise to fix or replace what was broken or take back a mean thing they said.

How does it make you feel?

When you apologise to someone – and really mean it – it’s because you have stopped to think about how the person may have felt because of what you did or said.

When you stop to think about the other person’s feelings, you begin to feel sorry for your behaviour. You might even feel embarrassed or ashamed if you did something that you knew was wrong.

Even if what happened was an accident or you did something you didn’t mean to do, you would probably still feel sorry if you knew the other person’s feelings were hurt.

After apologising, you might feel a little better (the other person probably will, too).

When you apologise in a caring way, you can feel good because you are trying to make things right again.

What does an apology sound like?

There are many ways to apologise. Here are some examples: “I’m sorry about the mean thing I said to you.”

“I’m sorry I lost your book.”

“I was mad, but I shouldn’t have called you a name. I’m sorry.”

“I’m sorry I hurt your feelings.”

“I’m sorry I yelled at you.”

“I’m really sorry I hit you when I was mad. That was wrong. I won’t do it anymore.”

When you apologise to someone, he or she might apologise back to you: “That’s OK, I’m sorry, too. I shouldn’t have teased you.” And then maybe you can both feel friendly again.

nothing to apologise for – but knowing how to tell someone what made you angry is important.

When little kids are angry, they might hit or kick or scream. They don’t have much self-control and they might not have learned yet that it’s wrong to hit someone because they’re upset.

But as kids get bigger and can use words, they know better than to hit or kick or scream when they’re angry. They learn to express

itself, it might not be enough to make everything all better again. Sometimes along with an apology, a person needs to fix the mistake or promise to do better. Sometimes doing a nice thing for the person after you apologise helps show that you really are sorry and want to be friendly again.

Sometimes a heartfelt “I’m sorry” fixes everything right away. Other times, it might take a while for someone to feel friendly after you apologize. You might need to

When should you apologise?

Participate 100% in class

Students think they can save time by using one class’s lecture time to prepare for a different class. For example, many students tune out during a science lesson so they can study the vocabulary for next period’s English quiz. But there’s never a better time to learn something than when a teacher is presents it; it takes twice as long to learn it at home on your own. When you’re following a lecture, it’s easy to stop and ask a question before you get lost. Plus, you’ll make a better impression on the teacher if she calls on you.

Accept that there isn’t always a right answer

Kids might need to apologise if they hurt or teased someone or lost something that belonged to someone else. They might need to apologise if they broke something (even by accident – oops!), or if they did something they knew was wrong – like telling a lie or breaking a rule on purpose. Maybe they did something their parent told them not to do, or maybe they didn’t do something they were supposed to do.

Kids might need to apologise to each other or to a grown-up. Grown-ups can apologise, too – to other grown-ups or even to kids.

After all, even grown-ups make mistakes sometimes.

By apologising when they’re wrong, grown-ups can set a good example and show kids how to do the right thing and apologise when they need to.

their feelings with words. Of course, the words they say when they’re angry might be stronger or louder than usual – but the words don’t have to be mean. You can tell someone you’re upset and why without putting that person down. You can be honest about how you feel without being unkind.

But sometimes anger takes over and kids might lose self-control. They might say mean things, lose their cool, and hit or push someone. Afterward, most kids realise that even if they were right to be angry, it is not OK to behave that way. That’s when an apology is definitely needed.

What if you were angry?

Does apologising fix everything?

Everyone feels angry with someone else now and then.

Being angry is OK – and

Tips for science class success

Saying I’m sorry when you need to is the right thing to do. It does a lot of good. But by

give the other person some time. Even after you say you’re sorry, you might still feel bad about what you said or did – but you can feel good about apologising and about making up your mind to do better.

When someone apologises to you, you might not feel like being friendly again right away. Once in a while, if a person doesn’t change, you might not want to be friends anymore. You might feel relieved and glad that the other person apologised and admitted being wrong. But if someone keeps behaving in mean ways or does something that keeps hurting, you might not feel the same way anymore.

Just because someone apologises to you doesn’t mean you have to be friendly again.

That part is up to you. (kidshealth.org)

Schools today teach that there’s always a right answer, one correct bubble to fill in on the scantron sheet. But in science, we don’t yet have all the answers. Sometimes the best we can do is to develop theories, so it’s important to be comfortable with complicated answers. During a lab, don’t be overly focused on getting the “expected” results; in science, any experiment that yields data is a viable experiment. In fact, some of the greatest discoveries of our time were born from “mistakes”.

Speak up in your group

Much of science is done in the company of others, from lab work to group projects. It’s important to be heard within the group. If there’s a problem, staying quiet is the worst thing you can do. Make sure you understand what others are saying by rephrasing what you’ve heard. Don’t ignore problems with group dynamics: the group works too quickly, someone takes over as the de-facto leader, or a member doesn’t help at all. Try working it out, but if it doesn’t help, go to the teacher to voice your concerns. A good teacher will intervene in the group to improve the dynamics, or if that can’t work, should move you to a more compatible group.

Take good notes

Science books cover vast amounts of information, and it can be hard to know where to focus. But each teacher has a specific subset of information that he feels is most important. The notes you take in class indicate what the teacher wants to emphasise, and what you should expect to see covered on tests and quizzes.

Investigate multiple sources

After a lecture that’s interesting (or confusing), it’s enlightening to seek out further information at home. The Internet is an incredible source of cutting-edge information and images.

You can easily supplement your understanding with a couple of Yahoo searches. (Excerpt from education.com)

news

7

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Attempted robbery-murder at El Dorado Trading

Police issue wanted bulletin for 2 T he Police are on the hunt for two men for questioning in connection with the murder of a businessman, Deon Stoll, who was shot and killed during an attempted robbery in front of El Dorado Trading, Da Silva Street, Kitty, Georgetown, two

Dead businessman: Deon Stoll

Mondays ago.

The two wanted men are 23-year-old Lennox Estwic, of Lot 640 South Amelia’s Ward, Linden, Region 10, and 33-year-old Delon Morgan also called “Shane Morgan”.

This, the police said, is in addition to the four other persons who were arrested and questioned, includ-

ing a doctor who is alleged to have treated an injured gunman that was shot during the heinous crime.

However, currently, much debate has surfaced as to whether or not the doctor in question erred or committed a crime by not notifying the police about the man he treated with a gunshot injury.

However, according to Chairman of the Council, Dr Navindranauth Rambaran, it would be premature to pronounce on the fate of the doctor at this time, as investigations by the police are still underway.

“The Medical Council of Guyana does acknowledge reports in the media of alleged misconduct by a medical doctor. As the matter is under investigation, the Council reserves the right to make its conclusion when all the facts of the matter are available. At this junction, however, the Council wishes to reiterate the Medical fraternity’s absolute support for the highest standards of medical practice while upholding the laws of Guyana,” he told Guyana Times on Sunday.

Meanwhile, another senior medical practitioner employed by the Public

Health Ministry told this publication that the Guyana Medical Practitioner’s Act does not have a direct rule/ law that states that a doctor must report such incidents to the police.

However, outside of this Act, and in keeping with the laws of the country, it is expected that any medical practitioner does so.

“It is the ethics that goes along with the profession…you should adhere to whatever are the laws of Guyana, it may not be in the Medical Practitioner’s Act but in other laws of Guyana, it would constitute absolute requirement to report the matter. Certainly, there are responsibilities outside of the Medical Act that have to be adhered to by citizens,” he stated.

It was reported that Stoll was shot and killed after two masked gunmen attempted to rob him.

During the foiled robbery, the Essequibo businessman returned fire, hitting one of the gunmen.

A security guard attached to the El Dorado Trading company was also shot during the shootout.

Stoll, aka “Mow” hailed from Charity, Essequibo Coast, Region Two

Wanted by Police for murder: Lennox Estwic

(Pomeroon-Supenaam), but is said to also have resided in Bel Air, Georgetown.

Reports are that around 10:20h on Monday morning, Stoll had been in a motorcar (PPP 6727) driven by Powley, when the duo arrived at El Dorado Trading Limited.

A white Toyota motorcar with tinted windows that had appeared to be trailing Stoll’s vehicle also stopped across the road from the business place moments after Stoll had arrived at that location.

Two gunmen, donned in rags/handkerchiefs used to conceal most of their faces ran out of their vehicle and rushed towards Stoll’s car.

One gunman opened the door at the driver’s side and a scuffle began between him and Powley, who soon exited the vehicle to better defend himself. Powley received a gunshot wound to his arm in the process while his assailant rushed back to the waiting white Toyota motorcar.

At the time this was happening, the other gunman had rushed to the front seat passenger door, where Stoll had been, and opened it before attempting to snatch something from Stoll. The businessman also appeared to have been putting up a fight from inside of the vehicle but was shot to his stomach. His shooter then ran away towards the direction of the vehicle that he had arrived in but Stoll also exited the car (PPP 6727) with his handgun, firing shots at the gunman.

The gunman also returned fire while trying to get back to the white Toyota car, falling to the ground twice in the process, before managing to rush back into his vehicle.

The white Toyota motorcar then quickly sped away from the scene as the gunmen made good their escape.

Wanted by Police for murder: Delon Morgan aka “Shane Morgan”

A few days later, the doctor, who is reported to have attended to the wounds of the injured bandit, along with others, were hauled into the Criminal Investigations Department (CID), Eve Leary, Georgetown, in relation to Stoll’s murder.

Meanwhile, anyone with information that can lead to the arrest of the two wanted men is asked to contact the police on telephone numbers 226-1389, 226-7476, 226-7065, 226-6221, 911 or the nearest police station.

Investigations into the matter are currently ongoing.

8 news

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

GCCI urges penalties for companies who don’t follow Local Content Policy

– says “good faith”, “handshaking” not enough to ensure compliance – calls for setting up of Local Content Dialogue Commission

A

fter perusing and holding discussions on the third draft Local Content Policy, the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has identified a number of weaknesses within the policy, including the most obvious one – the lack of penalties for delinquent operators.

The policy is intended to hold operators accountable to their commitments and international principles of providing employment and business opportunities for Guyanese. But with no penalties to ensure operators follow through, GCCI noted that “handshakes” and good faith are not enough.

“The Local Content Policy does not speak to anything regarding penalties for companies which fail to report or follow the commitment to Local Content. Good faith and handshaking cannot suffice.”

“Whilst there does not need to be the inclusion of details of penalties in the Local Content Policy, there

GCCI wants penalties for oil companies who flout the Local Content Policy

ought to be some mention of what the penalty in a general sense will look like should there be violation.”

One of the GCCI’s recommendations is for a fine to be imposed on such operators who fail to comply with the order. This fine, according to GCCI, should be a percentage of an identified indicator.

“In addition, there should be a general policy on dealing with foreign com-

panies which will affront Guyanese partners simply to obtain local content treatment in situations where the company is not materially a Guyanese. The Local Content Policy is the document which needs to set out a general guiding principle as to how these situations will be dealt with.”

The GCCI also noted that the essential role of the policy is to create value for the local business sec-

Man allegedly sets house on fire in Region 8

T

he house of a miner at Tumanturi Village, Potaro River, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni), was completely razed by fire between Friday evening and Saturday morning, leaving the lone occupant seeking alternative living arrangements.

The building was reportedly set on fire by the suspect, Desmond Derially, who had previously threat-

ened to do so. The house was owned by 45-year-old Donette Doris.

Based on reports received, Doris and Derially were consuming alcohol at the El Paso School sports bar when a heated argument erupted between them.

It was at that time that the suspect threatened to burn down the victim’s home with her inside. Doris, out of fear, left and went to stay

with a friend for the night.

However, at about 07:20h on Saturday morning, she was informed that her home had burnt down.

Accompanied by the police, Doris went to check on her house, only to see it burnt to the ground. The suspect was arrested but has since denied committing the act.

Investigations are continuing.

tor and Guyanese in general. But with the responsibility of monitoring this placed under the Ministry of Business, the Chamber called for the creation of a separate agency.

According to GCCI, the agency, the Local Content Dialogue Commission, should have responsibility for overseeing the policy’s implementation. It recommended that the Commission be made up of Government, operators, civil society, academia and the Private Sector.

“Guyana’s Natural Resources are the national patrimony and whilst the State has the function to advance the welfare of the Guyanese people, there are other extremely important stakeholders in the petroleum sector and national development process. These include the aforementioned, who should be included on the Commission.”

Another issue with the policy which the GCCI highlighted is allowing the subject Minister to grant approvals automatically if reviews of applications are not completed in the requisite timeframe. The GCCI urged a review of this section.

“This equates to a company being given an automatic approval until and unless some serious objection is raised by the Minister. This fundamentally distorts the power which the Sovereign has. There needs to be a comprehensive review of this language in this section as no approval should be automatically granted.”

In addition, the Chamber noted that despite alluding to local content legislation, there is some uncertainty as to when this will be done.

According to GCCI, the policy should set out timelines for the completion of legislation.

“There is the allusion of the introduction of legislation into the framework of local content governing Guyana. The introduction of legislation into the framework is impeding,” GCCI said in its assessment.

“To ensure that credible signals are sent to the local and foreign Private Sector, an estimated timeline of the introduction from local content legislation should be made pellucid in the Local Content Policy at this juncture.”

Already, concern has been expressed about the number of foreign companies coming into Guyana and outmanoeuvring local companies. Whether it is using their increased access to capital or setting up shell offices, this concern has led some to criticise the Government for the delay in setting up a local content framework.

Small fry…

Y

…small parties our Eyewitness thinks one of the reasons there are all these small parties springing up is ironically because of our very small society of barely ¾ million persons. Here, everybody knows everybody so invariably they know somebody who was a president of Guyana or ran in elections to be president of Guyana. Don’t forget that – as was listed in excruciating detail yesterday- there have been dozens of small parties since independence.

Each with a Prime Ministerial or Presidential candidate.

The prevailing sentiment clearly is, “if ‘so and so’ can run to be president – or even BECOME president why can’t I??” Seriously, now if a fella like Keith Scott could run for the presidency, how are you going to disqualify that fella who picks up your garbage? At least he does an honest day’s work and knows the value of a dollar, which he had to sweat for! Anyhow, the bottom line is we’re going to have a crowded field in the upcoming presidential sweepstakes. There’s the additional Lotto premise: you gotta be in it to win it. And this time the jackpot is humungous with all that oil money about to start flowing in!!

There’s another theory your Eyewitness heard about to explain the proliferation of parties. After 4 years of filling their pockets and enjoying their perks (like Chinese fried rice, in the case of Broomes!) and power, the PNC is encouraging elements within its ranks to start new parties to keep disaffected supporters from 2015 away from the PPP. Their line is “OK…OK the coalition messed up in this or that area. Give us your vote and we will make sure you have a voice.”

This will be done, they all insist, by “holding the balance of power” in parliament and voting with either party on policies that are best for Guyana. But who do they think they’re fooling? Wasn’t this exactly what the AFC claimed? In their case that each of the three parties – the PPP (Ramjattan), PNC (Trotman) and WPA (Holder) had messed up! But once in Parliament, can you think of a SINGLE instance when the AFC supported the PPP? Even when they agreed with a policy like the AML/CTF Bill!

But of course, your Eyewitness hasn’t become so jaded to not accept there may be some well-meaning idealists throwing their hats in the ring to “save Guyana”.

But actually, dear readers, these are the most dangerous of them all since they invariably demonstrate that in politics, the guiding maxim is “the road to perdition is paved with good intentions”!!

They’ll be corralled by the PNC fifth columnists to present a “gentler” face. Remember that Ramsaroop fella from the AFC? …campaign funding One of the PNC-spawned small parties that was just off the blocks, announced proudly that one of its promises is “campaign spending reform”. Now this is a vexed issue that crops up at every election during the past three decades. Before that. Of course, it didn’t matter since the PNC had rigged elections for 28 years and didn’t care what his opposition spent!! Knowing no one could dislodge him, the big money businessmen made sure they filled his campaign coffers for the PNC show campaign!!

Campaign reform was inspired by laws in the US that covered campaign contributions and spending, starting from the 1970’s. Since then, individuals couldn’t donate more than US$1000 to a candidate – and only in 2002 this was raised to US$2000. So imagine your Eyewitness’ surprise when the said PNC-5th-column-new-small-party announced that in accordance with their “clean money” campaign reform plans, they’d announce the names of those who contributed US$10,000 and above!!

Yep, you heard right!! Below US$10,000 is chicken feed and can’t influence them.

And the oil ain’t even flowing as yet!! …integrity PNC’s executive Gary Best insisted that “under his leadership, he demanded and received integrity” from Brigadier Mark Philips, tipped to be PPP’s PM candidate.

Best, a stranger to integrity, wouldn’t know this is a personal quality from within!!

Readers are invited to send their comments by email to eye@guyanatimesgy.com

news

9

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Natural gas power plant still under consideration – Min Sharma

– says multi-stakeholder approach needed to plan project

By Jarryl Bryan

T

he construction of a natural gas plant that could convert the gas that oil giant ExxonMobil finds in its wells into energy for local consumption is still under consideration. This is according to Junior Minister of Public Infrastructure, Jaipaul Sharma.

In a recent interview with this publication, Sharma was asked for an update on the project, which Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson had noted last year would provide hundreds of jobs.

Sharma pointed to some of the positives such a project would bring, including cleaner energy compared to the fossil fuel currently dominating Guyana’s energy sector.

But while it is under consideration, Sharma noted that there are several considerations that have to be given for such a project. One such consideration is the fact that it is a multi-agency effort and arms of the Government like the Department of Energy have very important roles to play.

“The industrial park was our proposal, with 200 megawatts being produced, an industrial park might have encouraged agro-processors and companies to set up,” Sharma explained. “A dual-purpose gasifier would produce very cheap electricity.”

“Of course, the Ministry of Public Infrastructure

An example of how power generated by natural gas reaches households

cannot operate in isolation.

That information and the plan will have to be forwarded to be discussed by stakeholders, the most important one being the Department of Energy,” he noted.

And since natural gas is usually injected back into wells to aid in oil production by restoring depleted pressure in the reservoir, the Minister noted that this must also be considered before such a project is implemented.

According to Sharma, Exxon’s priority will be to recover oil in commercial quantities as projected. It is based on the profit oil that Guyana will get its cut of oil revenue. Therefore, he noted that the technical staff will have to determine how much gas Exxon could provide to Guyana.

“We would not do anything that impacts negatively on the recovery of barrels of oil. It’s under active consideration. When its first oil, we’ll know the amount of gas that’s there and how we can utilise it,” Sharma said.

Part of a US$20 million loan Guyana had signed with the World Bank is expected to go towards funding a study to examine the merits of bringing natural gas onshore for the local ener-

gy market. It is understood that the Liza field is approximately 120 miles offshore Guyana.

Several have already championed its merits, including US-based Energy Consultant Edwin Callender. At an energy forum in June of this year, Callender had noted that in a country like Guyana where power outages are a significant problem, natural gas production can help to

Apology In the Sunday, October 20, 2019 edition of Guyana Times under the caption “Major AFC financier cites Guyana’s economic woes in split from party”, we inadvertently printed

that Mr Nigel Hinds was a member of the Alliance For Change. We sincerely apologise to Mr Hinds for any embarrassment this mistake might have caused.

modernise the country.

“People who live in Guyana know that electricity is a problem and it is a problem because of an old system but it is also a problem because of the fuel source. Bunker C – that is very old and antiquated, the power plants are not efficient in any way, shape or form. And so you have an opportunity now to bring natural gas onshore and have gas fire power generation and that will open a whole lot of opportunities for the country,” the energy consultant had said.

Natural gas, while not a renewable source of energy, is composed mostly of methane and small amounts of hydrocarbon. Its emissions contain a significantly lower level of carbon dioxide, compared to oil.

In fact, natural gas, when used for power generation, also emits fewer sulphur

Junior Public Infrastructure Minister Jaipaul Sharma

and nitrogen oxides, making it the cleanest of all fossil fuels. As such, Government has previously said it can use natural gas to transition to a “Green State.”

Already, private companies like Demerara Distillers Limited (DDL) have begun the transition. It was only last week that the company commissioned Guyana’s first Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) gasification terminal.

10 NEWS GRC hosts luncheon to celebrate its 25th anniversary monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Yvonne Hinds, former President Samuel Hinds, former Deputy British High Commissioner, Steve Wiscop and Dr Henry Jeffrey among others at the gathering

T

he Guyana Relief Council (GRC) on Sunday observed its 25th anniversary under the theme “Years of caring and sharing,” where volunteers, sponsors and specially invit-

223-7230-1 (Ext 55)

ed guests came together to reflect on the project and its accomplishments.

A luncheon was held at the Pegasus Hotel, Kingston, Georgetown, and was attended by members of the Private Sector, diplomatic corp and stakeholders.

Chairman of GRC, Yvonne Hinds in her opening remarks related that the organisation operates on funding from donors and businesses.

She added that despite the acknowledgement and favourable reviews of the vast work that has been carried out yearly, funding is limited and donations are increasingly sporadic, however, the organisation is eternally grateful for the funding received.

The Chairman noted that the GRC has grown into a respected non-governmental

organisation over the years, after being faced with many

same sources. The past year has been very difficult financially, however, no one who sought our services is turned away”, Hinds expressed.

Reflecting on the past, Hinds said, “Our services to the nation over the past 25 years has seen many of our early dreams become a reality. We now have an emergency shelter with an apartment for such administration. The facility was renamed the Yvonne Hinds Hope and indeed is an oasis I envisioned, which could house one hundred persons when necessary. During the

Guyana Relief Council Chairperson Yvonne Hinds

Attendees at the GRC’s 25th anniversary celebration

challenges. She went on to say that the work that has been done for the Guyanese population is significant.

“Those involved in charitable work are well aware of how difficult it is to raise funds in a small society and reaching for help from the

great floods in 2005-2006, the residence accommodated age range from a onemonth-old baby to a 92-yearold man, who stayed for a period of six weeks.”

In closing, she outlined that the organisation is ful-

filling its vision of providing nondiscriminatory help to Guyanese when they are most in need. She further added that the GRC has handled 35 fire cases and 14 welfare cases and has helped 227 persons.

Former Deputy British High Commissioner, Steve

Wiscop stressed that even with help from international and local communities, funding is hard to accumulate since there is always a need for more help and assistance for those who have been affected by disasters, especially fire.

However, he encouraged young members of society to volunteer to make a meaningful contribution to the country.

A number of persons were recognised for their tremendous contributions and sacrifices to the GRC’s cause, ranging from the Chairman, Dr Henry Jeffrey, Sybil Fraser, Austin Phillips, Courtney Benn, Doris Lewis, Donna Ramsammy-James, Lloyd Stanley Gopaul, and CHE Jian Ping, among others.

news

11

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

HSS ushers in Diwali with lighting of “National Diyas” – Hindus urged to dispel disparity among races

H

undreds gathered on Sunday evening as the Hindu Swayamsevak Sangh and Hindu Sevika Samiti (Hindus for Selfless Service – HSS) held its 5th annual National Diya Lightup at Rahaman’s Park, Georgetown, to usher in the Diwali festival.

This year’s lighting up ceremony was held under the theme: “The light from within, dispelling darkness across Guyana”.

A concept which chief guest speaker, Professor Suresh Narine, said was most appropriate given the significance of Diwali, which is the festival of lights.

He said that by lighting a National Diya, the HSS is paving the way to use its religion, culture and traditions to bring Guyana’s patrimony of six peoples together.

He pointed out that the country’s natural patrimony

is diverse because of its various races but noted that this does not come without tremendous issues of divisiveness, violence and disparity.

“We took this blessing of patrimony and turned into a destruction...,” the professor stated.

On this note, he said Diwali must be seen as a catalyst for reaching out to

mend these differences.

“So this is a loud heralding call to Hindus to bring solutions to these problems… Use the message of Diwali as part of the solution to those problems,” Narine stated Another scourge, he said, that needs to be wiped out from the Guyanese society is the heinous crimes against women and children.

Hinduism is premised on idolising goddesses (deities) for their strength and prowess but according to Narine, in the same communities where they are worshipped, women are being abused.

“Diwali must be also about dispelling those kinds of ignorances or no amounts of diyas that we light is going to be enough to dispel the darkness and that scourge [of domestic violence] from society… This is a peri-

Hundreds attended the HSS’ 5th Annual National Diya Light-up ceremony at Rahaman’s Park

Professor Suresh Narine delivering the feature address at Sunday’s National Diya Light-up

od when Maha Lakshmi – the supreme female form of Hinduism – is worshipped and that must mean something to us… It must mean that our women folk must be enabled to be as successful as our men and as Hindus, this is an important [message] I want to leave you with,” he asserted.

Narine went on to point out that despite living in daunting times, Guyana is a beautiful country and Hindus have a lot to offer. This, he said, has started with the lighting of the “National Diya”.

“You’re talking about dispelling ignorance nationally and, therefore, whilst you’re saying that there are darkness we must dispel in our country, you’re also say-

ing we bring solutions to our country. We are going to be counted as Hindus bring solutions of intellect, solutions of love, solutions of peace, solutions of grace...,” he stated.

Reminding that Diwali is the beginning of a new year in the Hindu calendar, Professor Narine urged persons gathered to make a resolution and take note of their responsibility in guiding Guyana forward in harmony with the other races that make up the patrimony of the country.

On this note, instead of lighting up one diya as is traditionally done, the HSS, in keeping with its theme, lit six diyas to represent harmonising the country’s peo-

ber and Indian Rights activist Ravi Dev posited that Hinduism in Guyana must be depictable of the current circumstances. He said that the intention is to let thousands of diyas light up the darkness in not only the lives of Hindus but also the country and all of its people.

“The gods have been invoked to bless the diyas and bless this country... If Guyana is to go forward then none of its six people must be left behind,” he stated.

In a fifth consecutive year, patrons were mesmerised by this year’s “National Diya”.

Diwali celebrates victory over evil or darkness and the coming of a new year. The light refers to following a

ples. Additionally, the organisation also used 1000 diyas to create the Golden Arrowhead.

Speaking on the significance of this, HSS mem-

path of virtue such that our thoughts are always pure in heart, and the darkness refers to negative thoughts which bring about hurt and sorrow.

12 news

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

NEW GPC among top performers at GNBS award ceremony T

he New Guyana Pharmaceutical Corporation (GPC) was among the top awardees at the Guyana National Bureau of Standards’ (GNBS) Annual Award Ceremony held on Thursday evening.

NEW GPC was the overall winner in the category of continuous improvement in manufacturing.

Rupununi Essence, Luke’s Manufacturing, National Milling Company of Guyana (NAMILCO), Assuria Insurance Company, Eureka Medical Laboratories, and MACORP Inc were also awarded for their services provided to the country.

Quest Medical Centre was awarded for its continuous improvement in small

The Overall winner, winner of continuous improvement and winner of health and safety awards at the GNBS Annual Award Ceremony

business services, and St Joseph Mercy Hospital for its continuous improvement in services.

Morning Glory won the award in the category of green initiatives agro-pro-

cessing, while the National Milling Company of Guyana won in the category of the green initiatives manufacturing, Doobay Medical Centre won in the green initiatives small busi-

ness services, and Assuria Insurance Company in the green initiatives services.

For the customer focus award in small business services, Woodlands Hospital’s Limited Pathology Laboratory copped the winning spot while the National Milling Company of Guyana was announced as the winner of the customer focus of manufacturing. Eureka Medical Laboratory, on the other hand, went away with the award for customer focus services.

Ending off the award segment for the overall winners, Quest Medical Centre received the award for health and safety in

small business service, the National Milling Company of Guyana for health and safety in manufacturing and Massy Distributions Inc in the category for health and safety services.

Head of Marketing and Communications of GNBS, Saheed Abraham explained that the first award ceremony was held in 2017 where companies participated in the categories of manufacturing services of gold and platinum winners.

However, this was revised this year as part of their continuous improvement process.

Moreover, he explained that apart from them hav-

ing overall winners, they thought it best to allow participants to gain recognition in key areas of strength.

These key areas include continuous improvement, customer focus, health and safety, and care for the environment.

In closing, the Minister of Business, Haimraj Rajkumar, in his address congratulated the companies for their participation and their awards. He stated that this initiative has paved the way for these companies to persistently look for ways to improve their services to the consuming public; an effort that is appreciated by GNBS.

Teacher living in fear after receiving death threats from ex-lover

M

ichelle Nieuenkerk, a nursery school teacher who recently ended a relationship with her lover, is now living in fear after receiving a number of threats.

As such, the 45-year-old mother of six is calling on the police to take the necessary actions.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Nieuenkerk explained that on Thursday last, she went to work where her ex-lover, Stravo Evans, showed up and threatened to kill her because she did not buy him a birthday gift.

“I simply told him that I texted you, what more you want? The response made him angry and started to tremble. He started to speak to me very loudly,” said Nieuenkerk.

This prompted the Head Teacher of the school to take swift action and ask the man to leave the premises. However, shortly after, Evans returned and threatened the woman.

The fearful woman related that a few staff members, including the cleaner and security guard, intervened

Michelle Nieuenkerk

and asked him to leave for the second time.

Nieuenkerk noted that while the man was making threats, she ignored him but this made him angrier. Eventually, however, he drove off.

Nevertheless, the woman said while she was at home, she received threatening messages via WhatsApp. The terrified teacher explained that “When I open the message, I saw that he sent a photo of himself posing with a gun. He told me he will kill me and disfigure

my face”.

It was further related that Evans threatened to harm the woman’s 25-yearold son, with whom he is familiar. The woman claimed that she suffered both physical and mental abuse at the hands of Evans for the past two years.

She, however, ended the relationship with Evans after he threw a brick at her, resulting in her receiving injuries.

Several reports were made at the Ruimveldt Police Station but the man remains on the run.

Nieuenkerk is hoping that the police apprehend him soon before he harms her.

Evans is no stranger to the courts. He was slapped with several charges ranging from illegal possession of arms and ammunition, abduction, murder, and robbery.

Several months ago, he was sentenced in absentia to two years’ imprisonment but never served his time behind bars. However, this incident with Nieuenkerk has the Police on high alert for the man.

News

13

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Women urged to get screened for breast cancer – as scores turn out for “early detection saves lives” awareness walk

U

The procession during Sunday’s cancer walk

nder the slogan “early detection saved lives”, dozens of people turned up for the Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Walk in Georgetown on Sunday.

The event was organised by the Cancer Institute of Guyana, under the theme “We walk as one”, as part of its campaign to raise awareness on breast cancer.

Participants gathered on the Burnham Hard Court at Parade Ground at 06:00h and moved east along Middle Street into Waterloo Street then onto Church Street. The procession then turned into Irving Street and headed onto Lamaha Street, coming back around to Camp Street and then west into Middle Street as they headed back to the

is curable and the people here today at this walk, dancing and exercising they are showing positivity that cancer can be cured if detected early. So get screened and if you are detected early then it can save your life,” the Cancer Institute’s Outreach Director posited.

This message was also reiterated by one survivor, who has been free of cancer for about a year and a half now. She underscored the importance of early detection.

“When we were walking we talked about [how] early detection saves lives and we as a group – as survivors, as a family – have to do our part and not just say it. If everybody here takes somebody and say let’s go and get tested then that ‘early

Digicel Guyana handing over a cheque to the Cancer Institute of Guyana

starting point.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Outreach Director at the Cancer Institute of Guyana, Dr Syed Ghazi said he was pleased with Sunday’s turnout. Pointing out that they are not trying to commercialise the event, he said they tried to get as many supporters, as well as participants including survivors and sponsors, as they could have to show up for the walk.

According to Dr Ghazi, the main message they want people to take away from this year’s awareness walk is that breast cancer is curable but only if it is detected early and the only way it can be detected is by doing regular screenings.

“If we find this cancer in the earlier stages, it will be treated… You can’t be a pessimist and say ‘cancer is incurable’ and ‘cancer is a death warrant’ – no! Cancer

detection saves life’ makes sense. We each have to do something,” she contended.

Meanwhile, according to the Dr Ghazi, while they are in the forefront of early detection, the institute, in collaboration with the Healthy Caribbean Coalition (HCC) and the Australian High Commission, will be rolling out a campaign in the coming days that will see a team visiting Mabaruma in Region One (Barima-Waini) to screen about 200 women.

He noted that the programme will also extend to the other eight administrative regions until May next year to screen 1000 women for cervical cancer by doing pap smear testings.

“So it’s not just breast cancer we’re tackling. We are out here to fight cervical cancer, we are out here to fight prostate cancer – all the cancers that our community is suffering from,”

Dr Ghazi stressed.

On this note, he encouraged persons to continue to support the Cancer Institute of Guyana, volunteer and donate so that they can help more people especially the poor and needy, who cannot afford cancer treatment. As such, Dr Ghazi is appealing to corporate Guyana to step forward.

However, some companies had already taken the cue and threw their support behind the fight against cancer. In fact, local telecommunications giant, Digicel Guyana, was a co-sponsor of

Sunday’s cancer walk.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Communications Manager Vidya Sanicharra said Digicel is proud to be a part of events such as these to raise awareness on cancer, as it has done over the years.

“This year we decided to get the staff involved and invite them to come on the walk with us as we partnered with the Cancer Institute of Guyana. We would’ve always partnered with them but this year we did it a little different in that we actually had staff

Outreach Director at the Cancer Institute of Guyana, Dr Syed Ghazi

coming on the walk with us.

So cancer is something we’re committed to, we’re always gonna be behind the fight and always strive to contribute in whatever ways we can as a good corporate citizen. There is no doubt that anytime there is a need for cancer support or any other support that we’re gonna be there,” she stated.

In addition, another company – Guyana Beverage Inc – through its Oasis water brand was another corporate sponsor of Sunday’s Breast Cancer Awareness Walk.

14 news

monday, october 21, 2019| guyanatimesgy.com

Man killed in Priority of A&E Dept to treat suspected hit and run life-threatening cases – GPHC CEO

C

T

he body of a man was on Saturday afternoon discovered lying on the parapet at Number 76 Village, Corentyne, Region Six (East BerbiceCorentyne), and is suspected to have been a victim of a hit-and-run.

The man was later identified as 27-year-old Premchand Harripaul of Lot 62 Section A, Number 69 Village, Corentyne.

According to information received, the police received an anonymous call and were informed of the discovery.

As the ranks arrived at the scene, the motionless body was seen lying facedown with what appeared to be bloodstains on the neck and torso.

There was also a visible cut to the neck. However, at the scene, the police recovered a portion of a vehicle’s headlamp, which suggested that Harripaul might have been struck down.

Meanwhile, on Sunday, acting on information, Police

The car that was impounded by the Police

visited a spray paint establishment in Crabwood Creek and inspected a vehicle with a broken headlamp.

According to the owner of the spray paint shop, the vehicle was taken there on

hief Executive Officer of the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC), Retired Brigadier, George Lewis stated that too many persons with non-threatening illnesses and minor injuries are flooding the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Unit of the medical facility.

On top of this, he noted that they complain about the waiting periods they are subjected to when medical staff are attending to patients with more serious complications.

On this note, he explained that the priority of the staff at the A&E Department is to take care of accident victims or persons with life-threating cases “Some of the persons

in light of the influx of patients with varying levels of illnesses or health complications at the A&E, a number of changes have been implemented.

“The Medical Outpatient Department, which is at Middle Street, is now open until 8 pm. Also, it is open on weekends, both Saturdays and Sundays, so persons with minor illnesses should visit there. I can tell you that if you visit there on a Saturday or Sunday you walk in and quickly you walk out (no lengthy waiting time).”

Lewis further stated that in addition to a reduction in waiting time at that hospital, there has been an increase in the staff complement on any given shift, to cater to per-

who visit the Accident and Emergency (A&E) Department should not be visiting the A&E, as the name suggests it is for accident and emergency but persons go there for a common cold etc. The process of the A&E sees patients being treated on the level of injury, the more serious the injury the faster you get attended to.”

The CEO explained that

sons who visit the GPHC as a result of critical illnesses.

“And we are working to add additional facilities and with that, we hope that we would be able to reduce the persons with serious illnesses but I say again that persons with minor illnesses should not visit the A&E Department until 8 pm. Don’t go there before 8 pm because if you will go there with a common cold

or a small cut you will have to wait. If a person visits the GPHC with a gunshot wound or with respiratory challenges that person requires service before persons with the minor illness or non-life-threatening illnesses.”

He pointed out that the majority of complaints by patients or persons seeking medical attention at the GPHC’s A&E Department are voiced by individuals who do not or did not have life-threatening health issues and that the medical staff there would prioritise medical attention based on the situations they are confronted with.

“And that is where I think the problem lies and many people with minor illnesses would complain that they are waiting long at the A&E. But they will wait long because the illness that they go to the Department with is not an A&E type of illnesses,” the GPHC CEO added.

8 Public Road Haswell, Port Mourant home, when the three masked men held them at gunpoint and forced them into the building.

One of the bandits was carrying a firearm while the other two were armed with cutlasses. The couple was ordered to lie facedown on the floor.

According to Narainsammy, one of the intruders started kicking him to his ribs as he demanded jewellery and money.

He was instructed not to raise an alarm. One of the men stood guard over the couple while those with cutlasses ransacked the house.

Within five minutes, the

men ran out of the building, taking with them four cellular phones, two gold chains, four gold rings, one silver ring, two gold earrings and about $30,000 in cash.

The couple was locked in the house as the bandits padlocked the grilled door from outside.

Neighbours were, however, alerted and the police were contacted. It was reported that during the robbery, a car was parked a short distance away.

Nevertheless, three men were subsequently arrested after being found in a car which is similar to what was described as the getaway car.

The investigation continues.

Saturday evening to have it fixed as soon as possible.

The vehicle was taken into Police custody and the owner of the car was arrested and is assisting with the investigation.

GPHC Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Retired Brigadier, George Lewis

3 arrested after bandits invade Corentyne home

M

oments after the execution of an armed robbery on a Corentyne, Berbice home on Saturday evening, three men are were taken into Police custody and are assisting with the investigations.

According to reports received, on the night in question at about 21:30h, a young Corentyne couple had just returned to their Port Mourant, Berbice home from a religious function when they were attacked by armed bandits.

Saradha Frederick called “Kimberly”, 21, and her husband Pawan Narainsammy called “Akash”, 21, had just opened the door to their Lot

news

15

monday, october 21, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Linden youths benefit from Stricter birth registration diversity, leadership training service for Thomas Hill

A

pproximately 38 youths from across Linden, Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), last week benefited from a two-day diversity and leadership training workshop facilitated by the Ministry of the Presidency ‘s Department of Social Cohesion, Culture, Youth and Sport.

The training, which was conducted on Thursday and Friday, was titled “Unity and diversity, bridging gaps in communities” and saw the attendance of participants from various youth organisations in the community.

Speaking at the conclusion of the exercise at the Linden Enterprise Network (LEN) on Friday, lead trainer/training consultant Wil Campbell explained the aim of the initiative.

“The aim is to help people become more aware of their own personal biases and [realise] how these biases negatively impact the way we deal with people in our communities and how they hamper our development as communities and as a nation. We also hope to help people learn how to embrace our diversities rather than see them as liabilities, see our differences as assets rather than liabilities.”

Additionally, Coordinator of the Department of Social Cohesion (ag) within the Ministry of the Presidency, Natasha Singh Lewis said over the course of the two days, equal opportunities for training was provided for young leaders at the community level.

C

Lead trainer/training consultant Wil Campbell during the session on Friday last

“Our mandate speaks to creating a unified Guyana, equal opportunities for everyone. Our approach to this...is capacity-building at a community, municipal, regional and a national level”, she noted.

Singh further explained that participants were divided into four groups – two for Wismar and two for the Mackenzie areas – and were involved in the creation and planning of community-based projects that will promote unity and cohesion in these areas.

“They are expected to demonstrate what they have learnt...in terms of leadership in their community... they’re going to use projects in their community, the Department of Social Cohesion will support the implementation of the projects,” Singh stated.

She added that the Department’s approach is to train persons to facilitate behavioural change.

Meanwhile, Campbell further explained that the training assisted the participants in focusing on identi-

fying strengths within themselves and various groups and identifying values in others as well as focusing on how they can bring various groups together.

He said it also zeroed in on how negative attributes such as prejudice and stereotypical behaviours can affect progress and how differences can be used to promote strength. Campbell pointed out that the youths were further trained on how to become great leaders for a united community.

Singh related that such training commenced in 2017 and has been conducted in all ten administrative regions. She said it has so far targeted Indigenous communities, Toshaos and other stakeholder groups and organisations. She noted too that the Department is currently involved in the training of young people and teachers in an effort to impact behavioural changes in stakeholder groups.

It has also commenced the training of heads of departments for social studies and Councillors, she noted.

Local businesses need to be innovative, competitive – GNBS

– improved quality needed in light of Regional, International companies’ presence

I

n light the presence of regional and international companies, innovation and competitiveness are essential for the sustainability of local businesses as Guyana prepares for first oil.

This is according to the Guyana National Bureau of Standards (GNBS) Head of Legal Metrology Department, Shailendra Rai, who told a gathering of business owners and managers at the recent GNBS Quality Awards ceremony that the presence of foreign companies will make it more difficult for local companies to compete in the Guyanese market if they are not prepared.

“So it is very important for us to be very innovative as we move forward in terms of developing the quality of our products and services.

Local companies should look at not only the local market but also Regional and International markets as well because that is the aim to move forward…the Bureau commits to working with companies (stakehold-

ers) to ensure that we provide the necessary technical assistance and other forms of assistance to help local businesses in this regard,” he stated.

According to Rai, a business can only be successful if it is able to sustain itself. “It is important that you sustain what you achieve because if you don’t do that, then your competitive advantage would decrease,” he noted.

Meanwhile, Guyana’s Business Minister, Haimraj Rajkumar explained that for the companies that copped awards at this year’s event hosted by the GNBS, it speaks volumes.

He said that they would have been judged on international standards and for those that participated but did not emerge victorious, they would have also displayed such quality work to have been selected in the first place.

The Minister also noted that more and more businesses in Guyana are developing and expanding with the “Green State” agenda in

GNBS Head of Legal Metrology Department, Shailendra Rai

mind.

This, he added, is a move in the right direction and is in keeping with global trends.

“There are more efforts of local companies and businesses that embrace sustainable business practices and incorporate with more green initiatives in their operations. As we are seeing these days consumers are demanding more of this and are holding companies to higher standards.”

itizenship Minister Winston Felix on Saturday visited Thomas Hill, Mabaruma, Region One (Barima-Waini), where he addressed the residents’ concerns about the need for improved delivery of birth certificates in farflung communities.

He assured that measures would be put in place to better the current distribution of certificates in the community.

“We are here today to ensure your needs are met, to evaluate each community’s development and to fix what is lacking. As I am here, I urge those who have issues with their existing birth papers to come forward so that your issue can be document-

Citizenship Minister Winston Felix

reported that the Minister also outlined the measures his office has implemented thus far to decentralise citizenship, immigration and birth registration services across the country.

Sheila Adams making a point to the minister on Saturday

ed,” Felix told the gathering.

The Department of Public Information (DPI)

He noted that to date, two new passport and immigration offices have been opened – one in Linden

and the other in Berbice to the tune of $31 million and $57.5 million respectively.

Both will provide services in the provision of birth, marriage and death certificates.

Before meeting with the residents, Felix also conducted a walk-about to assess development within the community. He noted that there was a “well-constructed primary school, a solar farm, proper water storage and distribution for the villagers”.

These services, he assured, were just a start and the Administration would continue to provide more to the hinterland communities.

A resident, Sheila Adams related that for years the small community has suffered from several shortages, such as inadequate water and poor health service.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, october 21, 2019

Regional Bolivia votes on extending Morales’s rule as rival hints he could dispute result B

olivians went to the polls on Sunday to decide whether to extend the rule of President Evo Morales to nearly two decades or oust the great survivor of South America’s “pink tide” of leftist leaders, in a tight election his chief rival suggested he may dispute if results show he lost.

In the capital La Paz, Bolivians walked to polls on streets that were nearly empty due to restrictions on driving during elections,

Bolivia’s President and candidate Evo Morales of the Movement Toward Socialism (MAS) party greets supporters as he arrives to vote during the presidential election at a polling station in a school in Villa 14 de Septiembre, in the Chapare region, Bolivia, October 20, 2019

with many chatting with neighbours and eating sandwiches sold from food stands outside voting stations.

Morales, widely known as just “Evo”, is the favourite to win, but this election is set to be his toughest race since sweeping to power as Bolivia’s first Indigenous president in 2006. Recent opinion polls show he could win with his weakest ever result and may face a risky second-round run-off.

Morales did not seem

worried as he cast his vote in the coca-growing region of El Chapare, where residents threw flower petals on him and shouted slogans of support.

“We’re very optimistic,” Morales told Journalists.

“We have a lot of confidence, mainly confidence in our democracy.”

Morales has managed to hang onto power while most other leftist presidents in South America who rose to power in the previous decade

have since been replaced by right-leaning leaders.

The former union leader for coca growers has overseen a long stretch of political and economic stability for Bolivia, a landlocked country of 11 million people that is the continent’s poorest. But support for him has slipped amid slowing economic growth and concerns about Government corruption and anti-democratic practices. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brazil environment: Clean-up Chile protests: Three dead in on beaches affected by oil spill supermarket fire as clashes continue

V

olunteers, as well as Government workers, used wheelbarrows, spades and plastic gloves to remove the thick tar from the sand and water.

The source of the spill, which was first detected on September 2, remains a mystery.

Experts say this could be the worst disaster for the region’s coral reefs.

It has affected wildlife and popular beaches including Praia do Futuro in Ceará, Maragogi in Alagoas, and Itacaré and Ilhéus in Bahia.

At least 15 sea turtles, two seabirds and one fish have been found dead,

the environmental agency Ibama said.

It was not clear if the volume of oil was increasing or decreasing and how long the problem, which has affected 187 places in nine states, will last.

On Thursday, Ibama President Eduardo Bim said tests had proved the crude oil was produced in Venezuela, but officials had not been able to identify the vessel responsible for the leak.

This did not mean that Venezuela was responsible for the leak, he added, describing the case as “unprecedented”. Venezuela, however, has denied responsibility for the oil.

The incident is more challenging than a typical oil spill, because the dense crude is not floating on the surface and only appears when it washes up on shore, Bim was quoted by Reuters news agency as saying.

In Pernambuco state, 30 tonnes of oil were removed from beaches on Saturday alone.

Meanwhile, federal prosecutors have accused the federal government of failing to organise a response, saying the spill has caused environmental damage in an area spanning 2100 kilometres (1300 miles).

(Excerpt from BBC News)

Trinidad PCA probing Police killing

T

he Police Complaints Authority (PCA) has initiated an investigation into the Police killing of 34-year-old Keone Paryag at Chaguanas, on Friday. The officers involved must also report to Police Commissioner Gary Griffith to explain the circumstances under which the incident took place.

Senior Police told Newsday that Griffith’s office will be looking at a viral video as they investigate why Crime Watch host Ian Alleyne was present with a gun. Paryag was the boyfriend of Alleyne’s sister, Danah.

Paryag was killed in a hostage situation at her

apartment at Biljah Road Extension in Chaguanas.

In a media release, the authority’s communications unit said, “The PCA’s civilian investigations will conduct an independent investigation of this matter, after which a report will be forwarded to the authority.”

On completion of the report, the Authority would determine whether to make a recommendation to prosecute and/or for disciplinary proceedings or closure in its investigation.

Reports are Danah was reportedly held hostage by her boyfriend, a licensed firearm holder,

at an apartment, at about 18:00h, on Friday. Shots rang out from inside the apartment and neighbours contacted the Police.

Officers then went to the scene.

After tense moments of hostage negotiations, the Police lured Paryag out of the house. Paryag, who also had a licensed gun, came out and the officers ordered him to drop his weapon. A Police report said he refused and instead pointed the weapon at them and officers shot him in a leg. His gun was removed and he was taken to the Chaguanas Health Facility where he died.

(Excerpt from Newsday)

UWI honours Facebook Director

H

undreds crossed the stage at the University of the West Indies, Cave Hill, on Saturday morning.

During the first graduation ceremony, scholars from the Faculties of Humanities and Education, Science, Medicine and Technology and Law all accepted their

scrolls with pride.

Director of Diversity at Facebook, Maxine Williams of Trinidad and Tobago, was conferred with an honorary doctor of laws.

Among those crossing the stage were Ayesha Comissiong and Nandi Yard of Riddim Tribe and Ken Mason Jr, a former

member of the Guild of Students.

Andiesa Weste, who earned First Class Honours in Law, was valedictorian of the morning graduation.

The second ceremony was scheduled for Saturday evening. (nationsnews)

T

hree people have been killed by a fire inside a supermarket in Santiago during a second night of protests in Chile.

Two people died at the scene and another died in hospital after the store was looted, Santiago’s regional governor, Karla Rubilar, said.

President Sebastián Piñera has suspended the rise in metro fares that sparked the protests, but unrest has continued.

Soldiers and tanks were deployed after the Government declared a state of emergency and imposed a night curfew.

The protests have broadened to reflect general discontent about the high cost of living in one of Latin America’s most stable countries.

The unrest, the worst in decades, has exposed divisions in the nation, one of the region’s wealthiest but

Unrest sparked by a metro fare hike continues in Santiago

also one of its most unequal, and intensified calls for economic reforms.

In parts of Santiago, hundreds of troops were deployed on the streets for the first time since 1990, when Chile returned to democracy after the dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet.

In the second day of violent demonstrations, protesters erected barricades and set buses on fire, and Police used tear gas and water cannon. Clashes erupted

in the city centre with Mayor Felipe Alessandri describing the situation as chaotic.

More than 300 people have been arrested, and 156 Police injured, as were 11 civilians, Police said.

Speaking on television, President Piñera, whose response to the protests has been criticised, said he had listened “with humility” to “the voice of my compatriots” and to discontent over the cost of living. (Excerpt from BBC News)

C’bean envoys analyse prospects for sustainable development

T

he Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) says representatives of 35 Member States and associate members have reviewed the institution’s work programme and analysed the prospects for sustainable development in the Region “in a scenario of uncertainty and economic deceleration”.

ECLAC said that last week, delegates participated in the 34th Session of its Committee of the Whole at the United Nations’ headquarters in New York.

The session was inaugurated by ECLAC’s Executive Secretary, Alicia Bárcena, and Deputy Permanent Representative of Cuba to the United Nations, Ana Silvia Rodríguez Abascal.

Cuba holds the Committee of the Whole’s Presidency pro

ECLAC Executive Alicia Bárcena

Secretary

tempore.

“The challenge facing Latin America and the Caribbean today is to be able to achieve sustainable development by closing economic, social and environmental gaps in a complex context,” Bárcena told regional envoys.

“The economic deceleration process continues with negative rates for the regional average and for South America. In the first quarter of 2019, Latin America’s economic activity contracted 0.1 per cent versus the same period of 2018,” she said.

Bárcena said this lower growth has stalled progress on matters of poverty and income distribution, adding to the impact of global phenomena, such as climate change, “to which Latin America – and the Caribbean in particular – is especially vulnerable.”

The ECLAC chief said that between 1990 and 2017, 408 disasters were recorded in the Caribbean: 90.4 per cent of them originated with hydro-climatic phenomena, such as floods, storms and tropical cyclones. (Excerpt from CMC)

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, october 21, 2019

17

Around the World

Resurgent Hong Kong protesters stage DRC bus skids off highway, bursts into huge rally, violence erupts again flames leaving 30 dead

P

olice and pro-democracy protesters battled on the streets of Hong Kong on Sunday as thousands of people rallied in several districts in defiance of attempts by the authorities to crack down on demonstrators.

After two weeks of relative calm in the five-monthlong crisis, the rally drew broad-based support from regular citizens including young families and the elderly.

But a more radical faction of largely young protesters later clashed with riot Police.

The Civil Human Rights Front, which had failed to obtain Police approval to hold the march, said about 350,000 people took part.

Hong Kong, an interna-

territory, the worst political crisis since colonial ruler Britain handed it back to China in 1997.

On Sunday, massive

crowds occupied thoroughfares in several districts in Kowloon and moved northwards, smashing a number of businesses linked to China including banks, a bookshop and other stores.

Protesters threw petrol bombs at the Tsim Sha Tsui Police station after Police inside fired tear gas to disperse demonstrators. One activist urinated onto the police gate.

Bonfires were also set as riot Police with shields and batons charged at the crowds, fired multiple volleys of tear gas.

Police used water cannon trucks to disperse protesters, spraying jets of blue dye into the crowds and sending hundreds fleeing. Police have used the dye to identify protesters. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Britain's Prime Minister Boris Johnson

do so,” Michael Gove, the Minister in charge of nodeal Brexit preparations, told Sky News.

“That letter was sent because Parliament required it to be sent ... but Parliament can’t change the Prime Minister’s mind, Parliament can’t change the Government’s policy or determination.”

Gove said the risk of no-deal had increased and the Government would step up preparations for it, including triggering its “Operation Yellowhammer” contingency plans. (Excerpt from Reuters)

An anti-Government demonstrator throws a petrol bomb towards Tsim Sha Tsui Police Station during a protest in Hong Kong, China, October 20, 2019

tional financial centre, has been battered by months of huge and often violent protests over fears that Beijing is tightening its grip on the

A

t least 30 people died early on Sunday when a packed bus came off the road on a highway west of the capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Kinshasa, and burst into flames, according to the Red Cross.

"The current toll is 30 dead, 18 others have third-degree burns," Red Cross spokesman David Nsiala told AFP news agency.

"We are continuing the work of identifying the bodies," added Nsiala, who runs the Red Cross in MbanzeaNgungu territory southwest

of Kinshasa.

The bus, carrying people and goods, was travelling from Lufu to Kinshasa when the brakes failed, he said.

An injured passenger who gave her name as Nacha said more than 100 people had been in the vehicle at the time, and many bodies were burned beyond recognition.

Mbanza-Ngungu is located about 150 kilometres (90 miles) west of Kinshasa on Highway 1, a road with a notorious reputation for deadly accidents. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

“The people are one”: Brexit will happen on Oct 31 despite Lebanese unite PM's unsigned delay request, UK says against political elite

T

he British Government insisted on Sunday the country will leave the European Union on Oct 31 despite a letter that Prime Minister Boris Johnson was forced

by Parliament to send to the bloc requesting a Brexit delay.

The Brexit maelstrom has spun wildly in the past week between the possibility of an orderly exit on Oct 31 with a deal that Johnson struck on Thursday and a delay after he was forced to ask for an extension late on Saturday.

Johnson’s defeat in the

British Parliament over the sequencing of the ratification of his deal exposed the Prime Minister to a law passed by those opposed to a no-deal departure, demanding he request a delay until Jan 31.

Johnson sent the request note as required, but unsigned, and added another signed letter arguing against what he cast as a deeply corrosive delay. One of his most senior Ministers said Britain would still leave the bloc on Oct 31.

“We are going to leave

by October 31. We have the means and the ability to

Ending rampant corruption is a central demand of the protesters, who say the country's leaders have used their positions to enrich themselves for decades through favourable deals and kickbacks [Aziz Taher/Reuters]

US troops leaving Syria will go H to Iraq, says Pentagon chief

A

ll US troops withdrawing from northern Syria are expected to be relocated to western Iraq, Secretary of Defence Mark Esper confirmed.

Esper told reporters that, under current plans, about 1000 soldiers would be redeployed to help stop the resurgence of Islamic State (IS).

President Donald Trump has previously pledged to bring US troops home.

Meanwhile, a Kurdishled force said it had withdrawn all its fighters from the besieged Syrian town of Ras al-Ain. Correspondents said it appeared to be the start of a wider withdrawal under a US-brokered temporary ceasefire agreement between Turkey and Kurdish fighters.

President Trump's announcement of a US with-

Hundreds of thousands of people have fled their homes since the Turkish offensive

drawal from northern Syria paved the way for a Turkish military offensive against Kurdish-led forces in northern Syria.

Under the temporary ceasefire, the SDF has agreed to withdraw from an area of about 120km (70 miles) stretching from

Tal Abyad to Ras al-Ain, although Turkey wants to ultimately control a much larger area.

The SDF had earlier accused Turkey of not allowing its fighters and wounded civilians to leave Ras al-Ain. Both sides have accused each other of breaching the truce. On Sunday Turkey said one of its soldiers was killed and another wounded in a Kurdish attack near the Syrian town of Tal Abyad.

In another development, US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and a bipartisan group of US lawmakers arrived in Jordan for talks with King Abdullah.

Pelosi, along with senior US politicians, has strongly criticised President Donald Trump's decision to withdraw troops from northern Syria. (Excerpt from BBC News)

undreds of thousands of people hit the streets of Lebanon on Sunday in the biggest protests in the last four days, demanding an end to economic woes and perceived Government corruption.

Protests have grown steadily across the Mediterranean country since people took to streets on Thursday evening in response to a proposed tax on WhatsApp calls and other messaging services.

The capital Beirut, second city Tripoli in the north and the southern port of Tyre came to a standstill, with streets filled with protesters waving the national flag, chanting "revolution" or "the people demand the fall of the regime" resembling the 2011 Arab Spring.

Big gatherings were also reported from Sidon and Baalbak cities.

Ending rampant corruption is a central demand of the protesters, who say the country's leaders have used their positions to en-

rich themselves for decades through favourable deals and kickbacks.

A nationwide general strike has been called for today to demand Government overhaul despite pledges of reforms by Prime Minister Saad al-Hariri, and despite the resignation of Government Ministers on Sunday.

While the proposed new tax plan has been dropped, Al Jazeera's Steffanie Dekker, reporting from Beirut, said demonstrators say economic reforms are simply not enough.

Hamza, one of the protestors in Beirut's Martyr Square, told Al Jazeera he drove two hours from Lebanon's Bekaa Valley to join rallies in Beirut.

The protesters have been united under the national flag breaking the sectarian divide in the country.

Like many others in the popular protests, Hamza said: "The people are one - Shia, Sunni, Christian, they're all one here."

(Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, OCTOber 21, 2019

ARCHIE

ARIES

Get on board and make things happen. Don’t leave your future in someone else’s hands. Pitch in and be a part of the process. Your contribution matters.

TAURUS

A change someone makes may not sit well with you, but if you go about your business and do your own thing, you will feel satisfied with your accomplishments.

Keep the peace.

(March 21April 19)

(April 20May 20)

dilbert

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

Broaden your horizons, learn all you can, build your stamina and endurance, and prepare for inevitable changes. Don’t be fooled by someone using temptation or manipulation to lead you astray.

Listen and learn. The information you pick up will help you mold your ideas and strengths into something beneficial. A positive change is heading your way.

Romance is accentuated.

LIBRA

You can dodge a bullet if you refrain from sharing your opinion. Listen, learn and choose your battles wisely. Don’t waste time on a dead-end project; focus on what’s new and exciting.

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

SATURDAY’S WORD

Share your stories, dreams and intentions with a loved one. The insight and thoughtfulness you get in return will help you bring your plans to the forefront.

Romance is featured.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

(Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SUDOKU

If someone questions you, offer only what’s necessary. Remain in control and protect yourself against theft. Be smart and equitable.

solution for SATURDAY’S puzzle AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Discuss your thoughts and feelings. It’s important that the people you are dealing with know your plans if you want to get the support you need to be successful.

Insincerity is apparent when dealing with matters that concern money, settlements and expectations.

Don’t dismiss your intuition.

If something doesn’t seem right, ask questions. Stay in charge and avoid being manipulated.

Don’t start your day on the wrong foot. Put emotional negativity on the back burner and embrace the things that can bring you the rewards you desire.

Choose love over discord.

You can waste time arguing, or you can focus on making personal gains, expanding your interests and contributing to something worthwhile. Maintain a positive attitude.

Don’t stir up trouble or take part in someone else’s chaos. You’ll make gains if you use ingenuity when handling your finances, approaching your responsibilities and taking care of your health.

monday, october 21, 2019

19

South Africa rocked after Sharma 212, Rahane 115 I

t's difficult to see this Test match developing any differently to the previous two in this s e ries. India have done what they did in

Visakhapatnam and Pune, piling on the runs, although they declared when the total was under 500 in Ranchi.

South Africa have done what they did at those venues too, by bowling inconsistently, conceding heavily and then being handicapped in response.

At 8 for 2, this is their worst start yet and, barring something truly special, it appears only a matter of time before they are whitewashed.

Rohit Sharma, the star of India's innings, enhanced his reputation further after scoring two centuries in his first Test as an opener in Visakhapatnam. Rohit doubled up in Ranchi, to become the third double-centurion in the series for India, surpassing 500 runs for the series. He also took his batting average at home up to 99.84, just above Don Bradman's 98.22.

Shining alongside him were Ajinkya Rahane, who brought up his first hundred at home since 2016, Ravindra Jadeja, who added a second half-century at No.6 and Umesh Yadav, whose 3 1 o f f 1 0

balls allowed Virat Kohli to declare in time to let India's quicks loose on South Africa's openers.

Mohammed Shami and Umesh only got an over each in fading light but bounced out South Africa's openers to put the visitors under pressure immediately.

India had the luxury of allowing their quicks to go full tilt for a short spell, having declared with a session in the day, but knowing the weather would allow for much less. Shami and Umesh hit the deck hard and seemed to catch Dean Elgar and Quinton de Kock by surprise. Both gloved behind, Elgar off a Shami delivery that found extra bounce and de Kock

to an Umesh snorter that climbed on him steeply.

On a dry surface, debut a n t Shahbaz Nadeem has already extracted more turn in two

Africa's weaknesses. Lungi Ngidi, playing his first Test in the series, struggled with his lines and often strayed on to the pads, while Dane Piedt, brought back into the XI, bore the brunt of Rohit's aggression. Piedt has now conceded the most sixes in a series, a grand total of 20, and appears n o where near the bowler that domi -

Africa is that India's attack doesn't offer the freebies Ngidi and Piedt did, so they will have to grind a lot more, which may not be possible on a surface that will deteriorate.

George L i n d e showed there is already something f o r t h e

spinovers ners t h a n a n d South he got Africa's something spinners out of the did in alfootmarks most two o u t s i d e d a y s , Ravindra and R Jadeja's offAshwin stump. Linde has yet was the most to get goimpressive ing. The of the South upside African bowlers is that on the day, takthere's ing four wickan opets, including portunithose of Rahane ty for some and Jadeja, and of South Rohit Sharma and Ajinkya Rahane had much to celebrate controlled his end Africa's better than South bench to come good. Zubayr Hamza nated the domestic fran- Africa's spinners have done so far. is batting at No. 3 and chise system at home.

None of the Indian batsAt the other end, Rahane Heinrich Klaasen at No. 6, and we don't need to go barely put a foot wrong, scor- men will be too unhappy, over how important it is for ing runs all around the field, Faf du Plessis and Temba particularly in the oft-vacant third-man region, and Bavuma to score runs.

If they're looking for an put right a home record that example of how to do it, was crying for some beefing they need look no further up. The Rohit-Rahane partthan the opposition. Rohit nership swelled to 267, by paced his innings perfectly, far the highest fourth-wickseeing off the more testing et stand for India against spells from Kagiso Rabada, South Africa.

The trouble for South and then cashed in on South

especially not Jadeja, who has handled the promotion to No. 6 well. He shared in a 64-run fifth-wicket stand with Rohit and 47-run fifth-wicket partnership with Wriddhiman Saha. But the fun came after Jadeja was dismissed and Umesh arrived with a license to thrill. He hit five sixes off Linde in a 10-ball 31, and fast-forwarded the

declaration.

It came after India scored 273 runs in 58.3 overs on day two, at a run rate of 4.67, and their willingness to call time on their innings early shows just how dominant they have been.

They have outplayed South Africa in all departments and can sniff a strong finish. (ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD

India 1st Innings MA Agarwal c Elgar b Rabada 10 RG Sharma c Ngidi b Rabada 212 CA Pujara lbw b Rabada 0 V Kohli (c) lbw b Nortje 12 AM Rahane c †Klaasen b Linde 115 RA Jadeja c †Klaasen b Linde 51 WP Saha † b Linde 24 R Ashwin st †Klaasen b Piedt 14 UT Yadav c †Klaasen b Linde 31 S Nadeem not out 1 M Shami not out 10 Extras (b 10, lb 6, nb 1) 17 TOTAL (116.3 Overs, RR: 4.26) 497-9d Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Mayank Agarwal, 4.6 ov), 2-16 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 8.3 ov), 3-39 (Virat Kohli, 15.3 ov), 4-306 (Ajinkya Rahane, 75.3 ov), 5-370 (Rohit Sharma, 88.1 ov), 6-417 (Wriddhiman Saha, 103.3 ov), 7-450 (Ravindra Jadeja, 111.4 ov), 8-464 (Ravichandran Ashwin, 112.5 ov), 9-482 (Umesh Yadav, 113.6 ov)

BOWLING K Rabada L Ngidi A Nortje GF Linde DL Piedt

(23-7-85-3) (20-5-83-0) (24.3-5-79-1) (31-2-133-4) (18-3-101-1)

South Africa 1st Innings D Elgar c †Saha b Shami 0 Q de Kock c †Saha b Yadav 4 Z Hamza not out 0 F du Plessis (c) not out 1 Extras (b 4) 4 TOTAL (5 Overs, RR: 1.8) 9-2 Yet to bat: T Bavuma, H Klaasen †, GF Linde, DL Piedt, K Rabada, A Nortje, L Ngidi Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Dean Elgar, 0.2 ov), 2-8 (Quinton de Kock, 1.6 ov) BOWLING M Shami UT Yadav S Nadeem RA Jadeja

(1-1-0-1) (1-0-4-1) (2-2-0-0) (1-0-1-0)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

monday, october 21, 2019

Lallana goal saves late draw for Reds at Man Utd A

dam Lallana’s late equaliser rescued a point for Liverpool at Old Trafford as Manchester United ended the leaders’ flawless start to the Premier League season.

Liverpool were in search of their 18th successive league win to equal Manchester City’s topflight record set between August and December 2017 but had to settle for a point after a scrappy encounter.

Marcus Rashford’s hotly-contested first-half goal, allowed after a video assistant referee check for a foul by Victor Lindelof on Divock Origi, looked to be condemning Liverpool to their first league loss since they went down at Manchester City in January.

Rashford finished neatly from Daniel James’ cross in the 36th minute but Liverpool, who saw a first-half strike from Sadio Mane ruled out by VAR for handball, struck back when substitute Lallana arrived unmarked at the far post to score from Andy Robertson’s cross five minutes from time.

The draw means Liverpool’s advantage at the top of the table has been cut to six points.

Liverpool grateful for a point

Liverpool’s relentless start to the season ended here at Old Trafford, an arena where they always struggle to produce their

advantage at the Premier League summit.

United show character and fight

Adam Lallana’s equaliser was his first Premier League goal since May 2017 (Getty Images)

best.

They have failed to win on their past six visits to Manchester United, comprising three losses and three draws, meaning manager Jurgen Klopp is still searching for his first win here with Liverpool.

Robbed of the injured Mohamed Salah, Liverpool started with Origi on the left and rarely displayed the intensity and attacking verve that has become their trademark in a

strangely subdued performance.

They had 68% of the ball but barely created any clear-cut opportunities in a match that swiftly became a war of attrition.

Liverpool, however, are sustained by a fierce determination even when not in top gear and Lallana was on the mark after a lengthy spell of possession to score his first league goal for over two years.

Klopp’s side even threatened

to snatch victory, but substitute Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain’s shot flashed inches wide.

Klopp was furious about the decision to award Rashford’s goal but he must also accept that this was a below-par Liverpool performance and in the end they and their fans, who taunted their United counterparts with inflatable Champions League trophies and the number “6”, were grateful for a draw that means they still have a healthy

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be bitterly disappointed they could not hang on for five more minutes for what would have been a hugely satisfying landmark win.

He will, however, be delighted with the fight, spirit and organisation shown by his side, especially as the five-man defensive system United had been working on this week was disrupted minutes before kick-off when Axel Tuanzebe was injured in the warm-up and replaced by Marcos Rojo.

They subdued Liverpool until they switched off carelessly late on when Rojo went missing and Ashley Young failed to spot the danger from Lallana in behind him.

Overall, however, this was a huge improvement simply in terms of resilience and character.

Goalscorer Rashford worked tirelessly while Scott McTominay continues to mature in midfield, and the Stretford End showed their appreciation at the final whistle.

This is a mediocre Manchester United side but there was no shortage of effort and they deserved a point that Solskjaer will hope provides a platform for a rise up the table. (BBC Sport)

Murray beats Wawrinka to win Rashid picked 1st in Hundred 1st title since hip surgery draft, Gayle misses out

A

ndy Murray broke down in tears after winning his first singles title since career-saving hip surgery by beating Stan Wawrinka at the European Open.

The Briton, 32, launched a stunning comeback from a set and a break down to win 3-6 6-4 6-4 in Antwerp to take his first title for more than two years.

Murray had surgery in January and was playing in just his seventh tournament since returning to singles.

He described it as “one of the biggest” wins of his career.

“It means a lot,” the three-time Grand Slam champion said. “The last few years have been extremely difficult.

“I didn’t expect to be in this position at all. I’m happy, very happy.”

Fellow Grand Slam champion Wawrinka, who has also had a number of recent injury issues, said: “To see you back at this level, it’s amazing.

“We’re all really happy. I’m sad I lost today but I’m really happy to see you back.”

Andy Murray (left) leads the head to head over Stan Wawrinka 12-8 (Getty Images)

A title 961 days – and one new hip – later

At the Australian Open in January a tearful Murray said he feared his hip prob-

lem would force him to retire after the tournament.

But the Scot made a promising return to doubles action in June and then made his singles comeback in August and in doing so became the first player to resume his career after a hip resurfacing operation.

His comeback had been encouraging, reaching the quarter-finals of the China Open, but on Sunday in Belgium he produced his best performance yet against a fellow Grand Slam champion who was playing close to his best.

Murray played well in the first set but was overcome by Wawrinka’s scintillating hitting which continued into the second set when the Swiss hit four winners to win Murray’s serve for a set and a break lead.

Murray crucially saved two more break points soon after to stop himself falling two breaks behind and then won three games in a row before forcing the decider through his trademark athletic tennis.

Both players looked nervous at the start of the third set with four consecutive breaks of serve but at 4-4 Murray saved two more critical break points, the second seen off with a big first serve.

In the following game, Wawrinka surged ahead but at 40-15 he hit a volley to a Murray lob that looked to be going wide and then Murray hit a running passing shot winner to move to deuce.

Shortly afterwards, on Murray’s first match point, Wawrinka hit a forehand wide and, after the pair embraced at the net, Murray was visibly emotional as he waved to the crowd.

(BBC Sport)

A

fghanistan spinner Rashid Khan was the first pick in Sunday’s inaugural The Hundred draft.

The leg-spinner will earn £125,000 after being picked by Trent Rockets.

Australia team-mates Steve Smith and Mitchell Starc will play together at Welsh Fire while David Warner was drafted by Southern Brave.

However, West Indies opener Chris Gayle, South Africa bowler Kagiso Rabada and Sri Lanka’s Lasith Malinga all missed out on selection.

The BBC will have live television coverage of 10 men’s matches from The Hundred and up to eight live matches from the women’s tournament, including both finals.

Leg-spinner Rashid, 21, will play alongside England Test captain Joe Root at Trent Rockets who described him as the “one of the best players in the world”.

“It’s going to be great to have Rashid join us at Trent Bridge next summer,” Root said.

“I’ve played against him and I know he’s a fierce competitor and one of the best players in the world.”

In total 96 players were selected in the first major player draft in British sport, with 474 going unsold.

Lancashire and England batsman Liam Livingstone was drafted by Birmingham Phoenix, joining Eoin Morgan, Moeen Ali and Jason Roy on the maximum £125,000 contracts.

English players Liam Dawson, Lewis Gregory, Sam Billings, Phil Salt, Alex Hales, James Vince, Adil Rashid, Tom Banton, Tom Abell and Ravi Bopara also picked up six-figure contracts.

Former England Rashid Khan

batter Ebony Rainford-Brent said the opportunities for domestic players is the “most exciting” thing about the new tournament.

Former England bowler Ryan Sidebottom added: “It’s absolutely brilliant for this game that the homegrown players have been selected.

“It happens in the Indian Premier League and the Australian Big Bash so to get the English players getting picked up for big prices is amazing.”

Which other big names were picked?

The second £125,000 pick was West Indies all-rounder Andre Russell, who was signed by Southern Brave.

Australians Aaron Finch, Glenn Maxwell and D’Arcy Short (all £125,000) were signed

by Northern Superchargers, London Spirit and Trent Rockets respectively.

Rashid’s Afghanistan team-mate and fellow spinner Mujeeb ur Rahman, 18,was also signed by the Superchargers - another £125,000 pick - while all-rounder Mohammad Nabi (£100,000), was signed by London Spirit.

Nepal’s 19-year-old leg-spinner Sandeep Lamichhane (£100,000) was picked by Oval Invincibles as was West Indies all-rounder Sunil Narine (£125,000).

Pakistan left-arm seamer Mohammad Amir (£100,000) was signed by London Spirit while New Zealand captain Kane Williamson (£100,000) will play for Birmingham Phoenix.

The teams have one last chance to add to their squad with the ‘wildcard’ pick next summer.

(BBC Sport)

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, october 21, 2019

CLASSIFIED ADS FOR SALE Left Hand Drive Toyota Corolla $380,000 neg. 680-3863 1 Black 2005 Jeep Cherokee (3.7L Engine) Right hand drive. Price: $5.3 mil (Neg). Contact: 622-4746

4th EBFA/Ralph Green U-11 League…

21

Semi-finalists to clash on October 26

1 Sleek 2015 Audi Q5 Tfsi Quattro.

Fully loaded. $8.9 mil. Contact: 6224746.

Quantity of Fan Motors- 667-0887 One King Size metal bed frame, Good condition: 667-0887 3 Caterpillar (326 D2L) Escalators for Sale, 2 Hyundai (300LC-95) Escalators for Sale. Escalator hours: 4,000 – 6,000 Hours. Price from: $18m - $22m (negotiable). Contact: 691-0131. Address: Opposite Massy Stores in Providence.

LAND FOR SALE TRANSPORTED HOUSELOTS SARAH JOANNA EAST BANK DEMERARA # 673-9231 / 216-4063/ 685-5476 Transported Land: 11.6 Acres. Lot 15 Public Road.No. 2 Village, West Coast Berbice, 5mins away from Berbice River Bridge.contact no.

648-7109.

2 Acres for Housing. Vreed-en– Hoop, W.C.D. 621-6918, 697-7731

services Do you require a designated driver?

Call: 667-0887

spirituality & ASTROLOGY Are you having trouble with Health, Money/Love Life and Domestic Problems. Removal of Obstacles of any kind. Then I can help. Call / WhatsApp : 671-8919.

TO LET 1 House to Rent at lot 5 Best Road, Best village. Contact number: 668-6755 (Nevile) FOR RENT BY OWNER. 8000 sq ft of warehouse/office space on the BV (Beterverwagting) Public Rd, East Coast Demerara.

Multiple air-conditioned offices. USD $4500 NEGOTIABLE. Call or Whatsapp 592-610-6580

VACANCIES Handyman to assist with yard work, etc. $3,000 per day - 680-3863 Pump Attendant - 680-3863 Store Helper - 624-0033 Female live in Domestic wanted to work in Trinidad.Must be single between the ages of 25-38.Meals and Accommodation is provided.

WhatsApp or call for more info.tel:1 868 386 5302,1 868 386 4621.

Office Assistant: Proficient in Excel, Minimum of 2 years’ experience, Knowledge of NIS/PAYE/PAYROLL, 5 subjects C.X.C, Good Oral and Written communication skills. Must be willing to assist in other areas.

Apply to MIMA Decor, 8 Sheriff Street Subryanville / mimadecor2@ gmail.com/ 226-0176.

NOT RECEIVING YOUR DAILY & SUNDAY

COPIES OF THE

GUYANA TIMES

in your area?

Contact our

Circulation Department on

Phone: 223-7230 EXT: 55

T

Action between Vurlon Mills Academy and Eagles FC of Stewartville, WCD

he group stage has been completed among the 12 teams that have contested the fourth edition of the East Bank Football Association (EBFA) Under-11 League sponsored by USA-based Guyanese Ralph Green, and four teams have advanced to the semi-final stage.

Vurlon Mills Academy on Saturday completed the group stage with a 2-0 win over Eagles Football Club of Stewartville to end with the most points of all the teams, having posted the most wins: four wins in five matches, and also being the lone team not to concede a goal.

Romario La Rose scored for Mills Academy in the 25th minute, and Shaquille Dalrymple did likewise three minutes later.

Kuru-Kururu Warriors waltzed into the semis without breaking a sweat, gathering three points and two goals to be catapulted past Agricola Red Triangle; as Swan Football Club, their Linden-Soesdyke Highway neighbours, failed to show up for a match.

Friendship All Stars also won by walkover (their first win) against Grove Hi Tech, which also failed to turn up. These two walkovers were the first for this tournament since it kicked off on September 14.

Diamond United recorded the biggest win of the tournament when

Marissa Frank of Fruta Conquerors (right) and Iouson Da Silva of Diamond United competing for the ball at the GFF NTC, Providence

they defeated Fruta Conquerors 6-0. Rick Ramatar recorded the second helmet-trick of the tournament in that encounter, bettering Fruta Conquerors’ and Agricola Red Triangle’s respective 4-0 triumphs over Eagles and Friendship All Stars teams.

Ramatar’s performance has also seen him occupying a place atop the leaderboard for having the most goals in the competition; he ended on seven, while Timehri Panthers’

Jaden Tasher has five.

In the match against Fruta Conquerors, Ramatar scored goals in the 3rd, 5th, 7th and 17th minutes, and the other goals were scored by Iouson Da Silva (10th) and Daniel Morgan (28th).

The semifinal matches would be contested on October 26 when Group ‘A’ winners Vurlon Mills Academy take on Group ‘B’ runners-up KuruKururu Warriors from 09:30hrs, and Group ‘B’ winners Riddim

Squad take on Group ‘A’ runners-up Timehri Panthers, the tournament’s defending champions, from 10:00hrs.

Respective winners would contest the finale, which will be played on Saturday November 2nd at the same venue; while respective losers will play a match to determine who are the third- and fourth-placed teams.

Players from the top two teams would each receive replica trophies, while players from third- and fourthplaced sides would receive medals.

6 Berbice schools to participate in Naeem Nasir Memorial Cricket Tournament T he Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, MS (RHTY&SC), with support from the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB), would be hosting the 6th Annual Naeem Nasir Memorial 20/20 Cricket Tournament at the Area ‘H’ Ground on the Corentyne Coast on October 30.

This tournament would be contested by six secondary schools in Berbice as this club pays homage to Nasir, late Chief Executive Officer and founder of Bakewell, the popular bakery located at Triumph Village, East Coast Demerara.

Secretary/CEO of RHTY&SC, MS, and President of the Berbice Cricket Board, Hilbert Foster, has said a decision was taken to play the tournament this year with secondary schools in an effort to develop youths.

Bakewell General Manager Rajendra Ganga handing over the sponsorship cheque to RHTY&SC Secretary/CEO Hilbert Foster

The accolades for the first five years of this tournament were won by the Rose Hall Town Bakewell Team, and noting that Nasir had been an avid promoter of youths in sports, Foster suggested that the best tribute to the late Bakewell founder would

be the staging of a youth tourney.

Participating schools are: Lower Corentyne Secondary, Port Mourant Secondary, Corentyne Comprehensive High School, Berbice High School, and the Berbice Educational Institute.

Several Berbice top players, including Jonathan Rampersaud, Mahendra Gopilall, Jeremy Sandia, Gourav Ramesh, Matthew Pottaya, Rampersaud Ramnauth, Leon Cecil, Zeynul Ramsammy and Abdul Ramsammy, would be participating in this tourney.

An assortment of prizes would be on offer for top teams and players in this competition, including a 32-inch television set, water dispenser, five-gallon water pitcher, and educational packages. Each player in the competition would also receive a youth information booklet and an anti-suicide poster.

The would also use the opportunity During tournament day, the event’s organisers would embrace the opportunity to promote the RHTY&SC’s highly successful Say No/Say

Yes message, which advises youths to “Say NO to drugs, suicide, crime, alcohol, tobacco, pre-marital sex, and yes to education, life, sports, culture and religion.

The BCB President has said it is an honour to pay respect to Nasir, as he had been a role model, mentor and inspiration to youths across Guyana, and also a strong supporter of sports, especially cricket, football and lawn tennis.

Bakewell has since 2000 been an official sponsor of the RHTY&SC, and has played a major role in development of numerous players, who have gone on to play for Berbice, Guyana and West Indies teams.

Foster and Bakewell General Manager Rajendra Ganga would speak at the presentation ceremony, and hand over the prizes.

22

monday, october 21, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Guyana to host 2020 Caribbean Mini and Pre Cadet Table Tennis Championships – ITTF Caribbean Hopes Training and Selection Camp also on cards

T

he Guyana Table Tennis Association and by extension Guyana was given the stamp of approval by the Caribbean Regional Table Tennis Federation and the Latin American Federation to host the 2020 edition of Caribbean Mini and Pre Cadet Table Tennis Championships and Caribbean Hopes Training and Selection Camp in the summer of 2020.

The Caribbean Mini and Pre- cadet championships forms the incubator for Regional table tennis engages girls and boys between the ages of 11 and 13 years and under players in the Caribbean region.

It is a signature competition on the GTTA’s and Caribbean calendar of events, since its forms the basis for regional table tennis supremacy and incubator for the development of young emerging table tennis talents and platform from which all of the region table tennis stars commence their journey.

The hosting of these games represents a long term investment in Guyana’s Table tennis development, since as hosts of this tournament, Guyana has the possibility of being able to

double the amount of players fielded in competition which would see thirty two players.

The plan is to use these developmental championships as basis to develop a nucleus of players who can be selected to represent Guyana in future international competitions and to establish a succession plan at the youth level, this will see focus strategy the development of players at the primary level ( between the ages of (613) in view of establishing a

Olympic cycle games world junior circuit events being played at the cadet level it has become of critical importance that developmentally Guyana establish a structured feeder system and program if we are to continue to be successful and become more competitive.

ITTF Caribbean World Hopes Training and Selection Camp

Hosting of these games will see and intensification concentrating on development of players from the primary school realm and a concentration acceleration of the GTTA national table tennis for schools’ program.

n a tional Hopes program thus synchronizing the GTTA programs with ITTF. With junior

Colin Wong

Guyana last hosted the 8th edition of the championships in 2013 The GTTA fielded and develop a nucleus of thirty 32 players, the likes of Miguel Wong, Jeremy Singh, Khalil Ninvalle, Simran Bissu, Jordan Conway, Davonna Bess, Sandor Kanhai, Vincent Henry, Khalid Gobin, Tyrese Jeffrey, Joshua Norton, Shamar Williams and Jamal Butts.

Girls’ Under-13: Kristie Lopes, Priyanna Ramdhani, Davonna Bess, Brittney Bunbury and Annabelle DeFreitas; Boys’ Under-11: Tyriq Saunders, Terrence Rausch, Kaysan Ninvalle, Niron Bissu, Yeudistir Persaud, Hemant

Dalip, Ty Dickson, Brandon Jaikarran, Navendra Persaud, Isaiah Layne, Khalid Glasgow, Anfernee George, Sherwin Atherly; Girls’ Under-11: Selenas Jackman, Nevaeh Clarkston, Abigail Martin and Charlia Webb which served well in terms of developing a core of players.

The hopes training camp which will be held eight (8) days before the champions will be conducted by an ITTF expert and will see the Caribbean’s best 11 years and under boys and girls and their coaches participating in high intensity camp. The program aimed at providing training, nurturing and early exposure to young talents will be held the eight (8) days. The Program will be used to select the best two Caribbean and 11-years and under boys and girls to participate in the Latin American world hopes training and competition slated for later in 2020 training will be two three hour sessions per day; each day commencing at 9.00am and concluding at 6.30pm.

Additionally, coaches attended workshops Jasmine Billingy and seminars, followed

by a Challenge tournament.

This offers Guyana the opportunity to again field a quantum of layers and expose our coaches The ITTF world Hopes programme targets players in the Under 11 category which is the first step on the road to high performance conducted under ITTF Education and Training Programme it is an ITTF global continental programme which offers young players selected from the different continents a support pathway to benefit from training competition exposure and equipment support, as an induction to the ITTF development program ITTF Hopes program; ITTF Rough Diamond ITTF with the Future in Mind.

The GTTA will put forth its strategies for the hosting of these events.

Caribbean Under 13 boys bronze medalist Colin Wong bronze, along with young talents Jasmine Billingy, Samara Sukhai, Akira Watson, Quenna Torrington, Malachi Moore Ebo Mc Neil, Dhanesh Persaud, Alexander De Abreu Neil players with international experience among other emerging talents will form Guyana’s squad in preparation for the games.

Jamual upstages Anthony, Briton in 60-mile ‘Cycleton’

Junior Champion Ajay Goopilall showed good skill in a sprint with Ralph Seenarine Story and Photos By Brandon Corlette

O

n a heated Sunday morning in New Amsterdam Berbice,

Jamual John showed his skill to win the 60mile Cycleton race in two hours 15 minutes 52 seconds. Traversing the New Amsterdam roadways,

Team Coco’s John tagged along with Michael Anthony (second) and Briton John (third) but it was until the final lap when Jamual got away from the duo and cruised to yet another victory.

With 31 starters starting from New Street New Amsterdam and turning from Tacama Turn in 15 laps of intense battle of the senior wheelsmen, all cyclists returned at the point of origin for the finish. Marcus Keiler finished in fourth position while Christopher Griffith and Curtis ‘Chappy’ Dey rode in fifth and sixth positions respectively.

In the cycling event organized by Contemporary Planning and Décor in collaboration with Rotaract Club and Tojan Cycling Club, Jamual took away seven sprint prize while Anthony bagged three, Briton had two and Paul De Nobrega had one sprint prize.

Ajay Goopiall won the sprint showdown with Ralph Seenarine to cop first position in the 10-lap 40mile affair. The Trojan cyclists, Goopilall, clocked in at one hour 25 minutes 74 seconds. Mario Washington pedaled in third position.

Seenarine had two sprint

Top trio! Jamual John, Briton John and Michael Anthony bossed the entire race

prizes while Goopilall won a consolation sprint prize.

In the Juvenile category Washington emerged as the top cyclist at one hour 33 minutes while Dutch boy, Yari Wadelive pedaled in second, upstaging Jonathan Ramsuchit (third). Alexis Mendes topped the veteran’s category clocking in at two hour 15 minutes in

their 60-mile race. Kwamie Ridley and Junior Niles were other top finishers in the senior statesmen category.

After yet another successful race for the Team Cocos rider and the National cyclist, Jamual stated that he looked to get in a good position where he can control the race. “Briton

attacked on the turn and I saw the gap to capitalize”, Jamual stated. The top cyclist who will represent Guyana in the upcoming Caribbean Championships, Jamual added that his aim is to win a medal in a space of one three. His highlighted that fitness is a key asset in his performances.

guyanatimesgy.com

monday, october 21, 2019

23

Foo, Smith star in Lower Corentyne’s tense win over Essequibo Adrian Sukwah (02) and Junior Sinclair (00) failed to contribute as well as Kevlon Anderson (05). The West Indies Under-19 selectee who looked at his solid best attempted a sweep shot and was bowled all over by Anthony Adams.

In came Jonathan Foo t h e on the charge savduring his matchior,

Story and photos by Brandon Corlette

S

ealed with a Nial Smith-boundary over the off-side at a packed Young Warriors Ground yesterday, Lower Corentyne sneaked past Essequibo by two wickets in the fifth round of the SBF Petroleum CGI 50-overs Franchise League. As the decisive lighting looms the Cumberland Ground in East Canje, it was a Jonathan Foo who scored a masterful 86 that kept Lower Corentyne in the match, chasing Essequibo’s 196.

Essequibo had earlier began the day with the bat, scoring 195-9 in their allotted 50 overs. Skipper Anthony Adams top-scored with a responsible 50 while the impressive fast bowler, Smith had 4-54 as the pick of the Lower Corentyne bowlers. Essequibo opener, Kevon Boddie continued came out with intent scoring a rapid 34 from 32 balls. Kemol Savory with three half-centuries already in this tournament scored 35 from 85 balls. He featured in a 58-run partnership with a consistent Quinten Sampson who scored 37 from 41 balls.

In addition to Smith’s 4-wicket haul Foo with his offspin bowled brilliantly

winning knock

with 2-20 in 10 overs, including one maiden.

He was also on a hat trick after removing Boodie and Ricardo Adams for a golden duck.

Veerasammy Permaul and Kelvin Umroa had one wicket each.

As Lower Corentyne openers went out to bat, they had their 12th man up and running, the loud crowd at Young Warriors. Both

Albion’s big hitter and the well-known Foo. He lost Maxie De Jounge (10) but he found a reliable partner in Seon Hetmyer. The dynamic duo added 62 runs to take the game deep.

Foo was at his brilliant best, smashing the ball with elegance and grace. He literally destroyed one of the fastest bowlers in the tournament, Ronsford Beaton taking his four 17 runs in five balls. Beaton left the field after Foo’s onslaught with a hamstring niggle.

Seon, the elder Hetmyer brother entertained his home crowd with some delightful shots in his 57-ball 33 that included five fours.

The pugnacious Foo who

Foo smashed Beaton for 17 in five balls and led the fast bowler off the field with an injury

The winning moment!

Nial Smith and Kelvin Umroa jump for joy

sliced one to backward point and gifted his wicket away, smashed seven fours and four sixes in his 86, his second 80plus score of the season. After Foo departed it was the resurrection of Jason Sinclair.

The classy righthander played some crisp on drives as he backed up his sharp gloves work behind the stumps in the first innings.

Jason, the elder brother of Junior hit a vi-

tal 17 but it was Smith’s unbeaten 26 from 23 balls which included five sweet fours, took Lower Corentyne over the line in the virtual final. Ricardo and Akinie Adams had two wickets each, in a game that had all the entertainment, form umpiring miss -checking overs and making some surprising decisions Foo was awarded player of the match for his all-round brilliance.

The penultimate round of the tournament will continue on Tuesday West Berbice will meet Georgetown at Everest, Essequibo will meet East Coast at Lusignan, East Bank will play Upper Corentyne at GCC while West Demerara will meet Lower Corentyne at Albion.

Citizen’s Bank Cancer Awareness Golf Tournament…

Persaud carts off feature title C

itizen’s Bank/LGC Cancer Awareness Golf Tournament did well as philanthropist Patanjilee Persaud excelled on Saturday October 19, 2019 It was a fabulous day of golfing on Saturday as some international competitors here for the premier Guyana Open International Invitational Golf Tournament, teamed up with many top golfers in Guyana to compete and at the same time promote awareness for cancer and the search for a cure.

On Sunday, the annual Banks DIH Invitational was also scheduled to host some 50+.

This year, Citizen’s Bank, a sister company of Banks DIH, teamed up with the LGC to host Saturday’s event as part of a joint Citizens Bank - Banks DIH weekend of great golf leading to the Guyana Open of October 26 and 27.

And what a tournament it was with a battle for the top position being won by Patanjilee ‘Pur’ Persaud

From left: Julie Stevenson, Satrohan Tiwari, Club President Aleem Hussain, Patrick Prashad, Patanjilee Persaud, Maxim Mangra, Banks PRO Troy Peters, Jonathan Mentore, Mauro Remiro, Guillermo Escarraga and a Citizen’s Bank representative

from Crown Mining who shot a net tournament low of 64 to win the overall net title along with first place in the 10-18 Category.

A three way tie for second in that highly contested 10 -18 category between Aasrodeen Shaw from GWI (70/13), William Walker of Oasis Café (70/11) and Satrohan ‘Robin’ Tiwari (70/16) was won by Robin on

the countback tie breaker.

In the 19-28 flight, a magnificent performance was turned in by Nirmaldeo Sarwan, who scored a net 66 (off h/cap 24) to edge out Guillermo Escarraga of Macorp who came in second with a great 67 (off h/cap 22), beating out his co-worker Jordi Pinol, who played the best round so far of his golfing career at the LGC,

with a net 69 (off h/cap 28).

In the Championship 0-9 flight, veterans Patrick Prashad, Mike Mangal, (both with h/cap 9) defending Guyana Open Champion Avinash Persaud (h/cap 2) and LGC President Aleem Hussain (h/cap 9) all shot 80 gross but it was Patrick who emerged the net winner, and Mike the 2nd place winner, on the back nine countback.

Avinash Persaud carted off the Best Gross overall with a better back nine of 36.

The Nearest to The Pin was won by Maxim Mangra and once again, it was Avinash - smashing a monster drive – who won the Longest Drive for the 6th consecutive tournament. A special prize for the Most Improved Golfer of the tournament went to

Mauro Gamargo Remiro from Slumberj’s who shot a net 76 playing in just his 5th tournament. Another special prize, the Youngest Golfer prize was awarded to young Jonathan Mentore, (son of veteran golfer Georgetown Deputy Mayor Alfred Mentore,) who playing in his first tournament performed admirably under the pressure of playing with the more seasoned golfers.

On hand to distribute the prizes was the Banks PRO, Troy Peters, ably assisted by Julie Stevenson, one of the top female golfers from Barbados - present in Guyana to participate in the Guyana Open next weekend.

President of the LGC Aleem Hussain thanked the players - who all wore pink ribbons - for showing their support for the Cancer Awareness cause. “This is another step in ensuring that the LGC and its corporate sponsors fulfil their obligations to social involvement and giving back to our community,” he stated.

monday, october 21, 2019

Sports is no longer our game, it’s our business

guyanatimesgy.com

Foo, Smith star in Lower Corentyne’s tense win over Essequibo Page 23

Anthony Adams stroked a solid 50

Respect due!

Ricardo Adams congratulates Foo after his brilliant knock

Marcus Kelier takes the sprint in the pack finish

Jamual upstages Anthony, Briton in 60-mile ‘Cycleton’

Page 22

Moment of finish! Jamual shows off his trademark celebration in New Amsterdam

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.