Guyana Times -- Friday, August 23, 2019

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

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4024

friday, august 23, 2019

Jagdeo calls out Govt GECOM Commissioner for spreading misinformation See stories on pages 3&7

PPP exploring end of October as date for regional, national elections

– calls on GECOM to urgently make decision on way forward

SARA continues its political harassment

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WHAT'S INSIDE: Nabaclis murder

P2 Victim suffered 8 years of abuse by husband

GA-FDD launches investigation into suspected retailing of illegal P12 drug

Page 9

ExxonMobil hosts safety management workshop

Page 10

Country Manager of ExxonMobil, Rod Henson addressing participants at the workshop held at Marriott Hotel on Thursday

Civil society group reiterates Ramjattan boasts AFC calls for President, Cabinet played integral role in closing sugar estates to resign, call elections Page 11

P9

Brazil’s forest fires strike concerns – Trotman P16

…no direct impact presently detected

P16 New Amsterdam prisoner injured after setting mattress on fire

Man charged for stabbing ex-lover P8

2 news

friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Nabaclis murder

Victim suffered 8 years of abuse by husband

Vinetta Headley-James

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orty-four-year-old Vinetta HeadleyJames, the mother of eight who was attacked and stabbed to death by her husband on Wednesday afternoon reportedly suffered years of abuse.

The now dead woman was killed at around 12:50h at the Lot 68 Nabacalis, Sideline Dam, East Coast Demerara (ECD) home which she shared with her husband, 45-year-old Sherlock James.

Guyana Times understands that on Sunday evening last, the now dead woman was attacked by James, who had reportedly stabbed her to her face and neck, however, she had managed to escape.

James had reportedly left the scene of the crime and could not be found.

However, on Wednesday the man returned but to his dismay, he found his wife, the now dead woman, in the process of throwing his belongings out of the house.

One of the couple’s daughters told investigators that James requested that his wife cease doing so but the woman refused.

This angered James, who reportedly ran into the kitchen, picked up a knife and attacked his wife, this time fatally wounding her to the neck.

Headley-James was picked up and rushed to the Nabacalis Hospital, where she succumbed while receiving treatment.

James was later discovered lying in a clump of bushes close to the house with a self-inflicted stab wound to his neck. He was picked up and rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he is presently a patient under Police guard.

The police said the incident may have stemmed from an argument owing to the woman’s alleged extramarital affair. However, a neighbour and friend of the woman told a different tale.

When Guyana Times visited the woman’s house

Sherlock James

on Thursday, a relative, Brenda (only name given), recalled that the now dead woman sought refuge at her home on Sunday night during the first attack.

According to the woman, she was startled by a loud banging on her door and when she inquired, she saw the woman standing with blood dripping down her body.

“She ran over at me with a stab wound here [pointing to face] and one at her neck and then she told me that she small daughter get a stab in her back.

I was counselling her, I told her that I don’t like what was going on and I told her that many times this does lead to murder, I [told] she

abuse you mustn’t be silent about it, I said speak out about abuse, I had her here until about 02:00h she leave and she went home” the woman revealed.

Further, Brenda revealed that during the said time, the now dead woman told her that she faced several years of abuse, which had recently intensified.

“She said teacher Brenda, years, years this going on. Abuse, she seh was too much and some incident happened recently and the children them called the father and she said from then to the night that she was at me is abuse all the time, all the time but he ain’t showing it out to the children them like during the day, they even went to church on the Saturday and he telling them that everything would be alright” Brenda informed.

The woman told Guyana Times that she was told by Headley-James that problems always arise every time she attempted to seek employment.

“She said every time she starts working, he accuses her of having some man, when she starts dressing and making herself nice, is some man.”

However, the woman said that on Wednesday,

she was doing chores when she heard screams.

“It was my daughter calling from upstairs, so when I ran out, I saw

the woman recalled.

However, another neighbour and friend of Sherlock James described him as a family-oriented person.

her (dead woman) daughter and her baby running over the bridge, so I see like somebody fall into the trench or something but when I meet to the car I saw this woman, her throat was slit and she had something over the neck. My son went into the car with her and I notice her head fall back so I started crying out loud and I realise that she wouldn’t be able to make it”

“Lowme (perpetrator) is a person that like family, he is a person that would go to the extent to make sure he family get what they need…I don’t know about any issues that they had but I know him for a long time and I know that it had to be something drastic for him to do something like that” the man solemnly explained. (Kizzy Coleman)

news

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friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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

Friday, August 23 – 10:00h – 11:30h and Saturday, August 24 – 11:30h – 13:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

PPP exploring end of October for regional, national elections – calls on GECOM to urgently make decision on way forward

Friday, August 23 – 09:10h – 10:40h and Saturday, August 24 – 10:30h- 12:00h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny intervals are expected throughout the day. There will be clear skies at night.

Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-Easterly to South-Easterly between 1.78 metres and 4.47 metres.

High Tide: 09:31h and 21:54h reaching maximum heights of 2.30 metres and 2.31metres.

Low Tide: 15:24h reaching a minimum height of 0.96 metre.

wednesday, AUGUST 21, 2019

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FREE TICKET thursday, august 22, 2019

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Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

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he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) is now considering a date in late October for the hosting of early General and Regions Elections – a timeline that was worked out by the PPP-nominated Commissioners at the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

This was revealed by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo at his weekly press conference on Thursday. He told reporters that this is a more realistic date for holding of early polls.

“We’ve stuck with September 18 ‘cause that’s the constitutional date, but we know the Government is unconstitutional and it would be impossible now – given that the decision has not been made to hold elections

by September 18. So, I’ve seen a timeline worked out by our Commissioners which has— with all of the processes being followed so that you don’t come cut corners— elections towards the latter part of October,” he stated.

However, the Opposition Leader noted that the PPP Commissioners did not get to submit this proposal to GECOM at its last meeting on Wednesday.

“I don’t think they really had an opportunity [to make the submission]. I don’t want to talk about what took place at the meeting because I think all of the parties are in discussion,” he noted.

Nevertheless, Jagdeo posited that if GECOM is to immediately abandon the ongoing House-to-House Registration and move to a Claims and Objections alternative, then an October elections would be possible.

“If they move now, we can have elections early… I’ve seen the timeline. You can achieve [it]. If you do that now, like say they start on Monday with a Claims and Objection, or even Wednesday if they need time to prepare, you can achieve end October…,” he contended.

On this note, the Opposition Leader called on GECOM to urgently come up with a decision, noting that Guyanese are anxiously awaiting a way forward.

“GECOM must act with alacrity, recognising that people are out there waiting. The enumerators are in limbo…

Guyanese people are in limbo in the face of the Commission saying they’re waiting on the Chief Justice’s ruling… Why don’t they stop it now? They should stop it immediately, and that is the only course forward and to start Claims and

Objections – it’s a time-tested method,” he stressed.

Following a meeting on Wednesday, the Retired Justice Claudette Singh-led Elections Commission failed for a second time to come up with a decision on how to proceed regarding elections and the ongoing House-toHouse (H2H) Registration.

The Commissioners were tight-lipped about the meeting, but it was noted that GECOM would be able to advise President David Granger “very soon” on their preparedness for early polls.

The Elections Commission will be meeting again today to continue their discussions.

However, Jagdeo is insisting that GECOM should go ahead and scrap the ongoing Registration and move to a Claims and Objections period. This, he pointed out, would be consistent with the recent ruling of Chief Justice Roxane George on the constitutionality of ongoing H2H Registration.

Last week, Justice George ruled that while the conduct of H2H registration is not unconstitutional, it would be unconstitutional for the exercise to remove qualified persons from the voters’ list for reasons other than death or those disqualified under Article 159 (2) (3) or (4).

According to the Chief Justice, GECOM cannot operate in a normal elections cycle

and any verification process used must take into consideration the December 2018 passage of the No-Confidence Motion (NCM).

“The NCM is an extraordinary circumstance that GECOM must bear in mind in its decision making as it conducts the House-to-House Registration and for that matter, any verification process that has as the objective, the compilation, or revision of the list of electors for the required upcoming elections,” Justice George noted in her written ruling that was recently released.

Perusing the CJ’s decision at Thursday’s press conference, the Opposition Leader posited that despite three sections of the ruling stating clearly that it would be unconstitutional to remove qualified persons from the list, GECOM is still continuing with H2H, which, in the first place, intended to de-register everyone and create a new National Register of Registrants Database (NRRD).

“You’d recall that the reason for House-to-House Registration was to de-register all Guyanese who had been registered before and create a new list. That meant that if you registered before and if you didn’t re-register then you’re not gonna be on the database for the future and you couldn’t vote. But the Chief Justice said you cannot [be removed

from the voters’ list], GECOM doesn’t have the authority [to do that],” he asserted.

To this end, Jagdeo underscored the importance of abiding by the CJ’s ruling and prepare for the hosting of early elections, especially since the country has been on hold since December last year.

“The Government is an important interlocutor in people’s lives and, therefore, many people are uncertain as to how to engage this Government because we’ve made it clear that much of what they’re doing, in fact most of what they’re doing, is illegal because the Government is unconstitutional… In another part of the world, this would be described as a dictatorship... we’ve been a bit more generous in saying its unconstitutional rule.

But what you’ve had here is a coup d’état by abdication of responsibility,” the Opposition Leader stated.

President Granger has maintained that he needs to be advised by GECOM on its preparedness before announcing a date for General and Regional Elections. However, some Government officials have been floating around a date in December, but Jagdeo is insisting that polls can be held long before yearend if the H2H exercise is scrapped and a Claims and Objections period is used instead.

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guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 23, 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

Lifestyle changes for a better environment

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he issue of recycling is becoming a major concern for both the general public and also the economy. Scientific research has suggested that by reason of lifestyle patterns of citizens, the earth is being depleted too quickly to sustain a healthy balance. Earth’s natural resources are being consumed at a rate that reinforces the idea that we are living for today— and future generations will be paying for the consequences as a result of our lifestyle choices.

For years now, calls for citizens here to dispose of their waste in a responsible manner have fallen on deaf ears, and the issue of garbage build-up in and around the city continues to be repeated.

Governments and businesses all over are realising how serious the problem is and are taking steps toward putting policy mechanisms in place to ensure that the environment is protected from various forms of pollution, etc. Recycling, along with reducing consumption, has proven to be an effective way to counter the damage we have been doing to the earth for centuries.

A major part of recycling relates to how best we can recycle much of what we use instead of turning it into unusable waste. For the sake of emphasis, recycling is important as a means of reducing poisonous emissions into the atmosphere and also to spare our natural resources.

Guyana has indeed taken some time to get “on board”, while many companies and individuals in other parts of the world are improving their recycling habits by coming up with more ways to reduce and reuse what they use. In essence, while there has been much talk about the need to recycle certain products to save our environment from further damage, in a practical sense, the concept has not taken much root here as yet.

Only a handful of companies have shown that they are really serious about moving in this direction. For example, in a bid to support the efforts to sustain and maintain a clean and healthy environment through the provision of proper disposal mechanisms and technology, the Caribbean Containers Inc (CCI) had launched a line of bio-degradable products called Eco Pak. The Eco Pak products consist of biodegradable table wares— including bowls, boxes and cups— which are all environmentally-friendly products because of the materials and the process utilised to manufacture them.

The then PPP Government had made an offer of tax-free concessions to individuals and businesses willing to invest and setup recycling plants for plastics and Styrofoam. This was viewed as a good start and from all indications, a few companies had expressed an interest in taking up the offer.

However, we are not certain as to how far these companies have actually gone ahead with actual implementation of the project ideas.

That being said, if we are serious about maintaining a healthy and clean environment, consumers must demand that businesses engage in practices that are more ecofriendly. For example, consumers must be encouraged to purchase from companies that manufacture more ecofriendly products.

As part of efforts to spread the message of recycling, a comprehensive education and public awareness campaign would need to be carried out, using every available means.

Following this, the authorities should explore setting up recycling centres across the country, since it makes no sense preaching about recycling if the necessary infrastructural support system is not present.

In addition to the positive impacts on the environment, recycling brings in a lot of money for many countries.

Companies make huge sums from basically utilising the materials that could have been otherwise thrown away.

We believe that there is need for lifestyle changes among our citizens and it would be very helpful if the schools, religious organisations, and the local Neighbourhood Democratic Councils and Municipalities in every region start the conversation with citizens about recycling. This should be done with the direct the involvement of the decision makers.

Certainly, everyone prefers products that are manufactured in an eco-friendly manner and wants a better, cleaner and healthier environment.

HELP SAVE ME AND MY HOME: The Amazon rainforest, home to over 40,000 plant species, 1300 bird species, 3000 types of fish, 430 mammals, and a whopping 2.5 million different insects, is burning at record speed. The devastation is an international emergency since the Amazon rainforest produces over 20 per cent of the world’s oxygen. This heart-breaking photo shows a Brazilian Army officer rescuing a defeated-looking jaguar whose eyes alone have the ability to tell its story

Brazilian Minister booed at climate event as outcry grows over Amazon fires

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he Environment Minister of Brazil, where wildfires have been sweeping the Amazon rainforest, was booed at a climate event on Wednesday as celebrities, including Leonardo DiCaprio and Ariana Grande, joined an international chorus of criticism.

Videos of Ricardo Salles being booed by demonstrators as he took to the stage at Latin America and Caribbean Climate Week in the north-eastern city of Salvador circulated widely in Brazil. An Opposition Senator is planning to seek his impeachment at Brazil’s Supreme Court.

On Wednesday, the far-right President, Jair Bolsonaro, suggested NGOs were to blame for the surge in rainforest blazes because they lost money under his administration – but provided no evidence for his claim.

Salles flew over fires in the Amazon state of Mato Grosso – an agricultural powerhouse – on Wednesday, and told reporters that some of the fires were “intentional” and others “incidental”.

“It is drier, warmer, with more wind, and this allows a greater spread,” Salles said, according to the O Globo newspaper.

Analysts said the Amazon has become a political problem for Bolsonaro, who wants to develop the rainforest and has told foreigners to mind their own business.

“A perfect fire, rather than a perfect storm, is forming,” said Marcus Melo, a professor of political science at the Federal University of Pernambuco. “These are im-

Smoke billows during a fire in an area of the Amazon rainforest near Humaita, Amazonas State, Brazil

portant political losses”.

NASA tweeted photos of smoke and fires over several Amazon states, saying that while blazes are common in these drier, winter months, “the number of fires may be record-setting”. Fires are up by more than 80% so far compared within last year, according to Brazil’s space research institute.

Environmentalists blame Bolsonaro’s attack on environmental protection agencies and plans to develop protected indigenous reserves for inflaming deforestation. The Folha de São Paulo newspaper reported that in some regions, farmers emboldened by Bolsonaro’s rhetoric planned “fire days” to burn pasture and areas being deforested.

More than three million people liked a photo of burning forest that Leonardo DiCaprio shared on his Instagram feed.

“Terrifying to think that the Amazon … has been on fire and burning for the last 16 days running, with literally no media coverage whatsoever! Why?” he posted. “The largest rainforest in the world is on fire,” Ariana Grande posted on her Instagram story. She also criticised the perceived lack of media attention.

Leading figures in the agribusiness sector, which is key to Bolsonaro’s support and represents nearly a quarter of Brazil’s GDP, warned that outrage over his environmental policies would hurt exports and could scupper a trade deal between the South American trade block Mercosur and the European Union.

“We are paying a very high price,” the former Agriculture Minister and Soybean Baron Blairo Maggi told Business Daily Valor recently.

“Agribusiness sectors who know that this [rising deforestation] is going to create problems for market access, for product price, are beginning to mobilise,” Marcello Brito, the President of the Brazilian Agribusiness Association, told Valor on Wednesday.

Melo, the political scientist, said an unusual “arc of alliance” was forming between agribusiness and environmentalists.

But Bolsonaro and his Ministers are unlikely to change tack until the real economic consequences of their assault on the rainforest become apparent, said Paulo Baía, a professor of political science at the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro. Instead, they will double down on nationalist rhetoric. “They are doing what they want for the public that supports them,” he said. (The Guardian)

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 23, 2019

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

Deliberate destruction of GuySuCo Why Irfaan Ali is Dear Editor, Sugar has been the heart and lifeblood of many Guyanese for over 375 years going back to the 1630s and has been aptly described by one writer as “the pulse of the nation’s economy”. The current state of the country’s economy bears testimony to this fact!

Sugar was king and Burnham wanted to bring it fully under his exploitative state machinery, he saw billions available to be squandered and that was exactly what he did. The nationalisation of the sugar industry in 1976, which gave birth to GuySuCo, saw the industry being used to finance Burnham’s harebrained schemes to mask the massive stealing which was taking place. In the process, billions of dollars, approximately $16 billion Guyana dollars, was squandered, monies which could have gone to fully capitalise and mechanise the industry in line with existing new technology.

It must be noted that the average US exchange rate was 71:1 from 1976 to 2002 and from 1976 to 1992 the average exchange rate was 21:1 US. The bulk of the monies were creamed off during 17 years through the sugar levy and flung after the many failings of the PNC dictatorship.

The sugar levy was used to fund the Linden community, the Guyana National Service and the Public service, among others. Today, the sugar industry is cast into ignominy

and referred to as the ‘dark hole’ by Moses Nagamootoo, the self-touted ‘champion of the sugar workers’ whilst his comrade in infamy, Khemraj Ramjattan accused the sugar workers of robbing and impoverishing the other sectors.

Why such ingratitude?

At today’s exchange rate at a conservative $210, the sugar levy would have translated into more than GY$100 billion! These monies excluded the cost of the humongous corruption which existed in GuySuCo at that time when managers were living royal and lavish lifestyles.

Sugar was ‘king’ and had produced its share of royalties! This levy was later abolished in 2002 by the PPP Administration, but the damage had been done. However, the sugar levy was not the only benefit the country received, sugar was a major contributor to the GDP, it was a major foreign exchange earner, provided over 18,000 jobs and greatly contributed to the socio-economic development of this country.

The multiplier effect was extensive and promoted high-level economic growth in the Private Sector as well.

Today all of that is distant memory! The urge to destroy the sugar industry has taken precedence over objective and rational reasoning.

Today, the Guyanese economy is feeling the brunt of the harsh and vindictive measures inflicted by the coalition on the sugar industry by the closure of Enmore,

Wales, Skeldon and Rose Hall estates.

Not only has the industry been failing to reach its paltry annual targets, not only has the foreign exchange earning capacity dropped by more than half, but the callous dismissal of more than 7000 workers have wreaked havoc in the family lives of these workers and the domino effect has literally destroyed the related and dependent sectors.

Many dependent communities are on the verge of social and economic devastation. Today, everyone has come to full realisation that the sugar industry was deliberately placed under the guillotine by the coalition in its quest to fulfil the 1991 PNC mandate to destroy the support base of the PPP. It must be recalled that the PPP invested $26 billion dollars in the sugar industry from 2011 to 2015 and the monies were wisely used to capitalise and mechanise the field and factory operations, no estates were closed and no jobs were lost while the much-needed foreign exchange continued to flow and the related industries and service sectors continued to flourish.

These monies were well spent and properly accounted for in Parliament. Today it is a grave travesty! This coalition has spent $32 billion in ‘bailouts’ and $17.6 billion from a $30 billion bond, a total of $49.6 billion and everything has fallen apart! Even

the highly watered down sugar targets are now unreachable. Not only that but these monies have not been properly utilised and cannot be properly accounted for.

The $30 billion bond was supposed to be used to upgrade and mechanise the existing sugar estates, set up co-generation plant and plantation white sugar plant.

None of which has even started to take shape. Has this bond been used to perpetuate the corruption which has become endemic and cancerous with this coalition?

The grossly underpriced selling of machinery and equipment of the closed estates by SPU officials has already placed these estates in unsaleable conditions. It has become more urgent that this coalition be voted out of office or GuySuCo will be beyond redemption!

In conclusion, it is the deliberate destruction of GuySuCo which has heralded the downfall of the coalition by the successful passing of the No-Confidence Motion.

It is this devastation which ignited the conscience of Mr Charrandas Persaud to vote “yes” in favour of the NCM. His vote has identified him the true “champion” of the sugar workers and I am sure that in a short while, the coalition will reap the bitter fruit of their misdeeds and the ‘pulse of the economy’ will be regenerated hundredfold!

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

good for business

Dear Editor, We are soon to become the envy of the Caribbean.

Our dream of becoming an economic powerhouse will soon materialise. With the discovery of over 5 billion barrels of oil, Guyana is set to become a major oil producer. And given the high prospect of additional oil discoveries, investors are eager to enter our fledging financial heaven.

Moreover, our strategic position between LAC further opens up countless business opportunities; from shipping and railroad services to manufacturing and agriculture. Land, labour and capital, the three elements of production are in abundance. With the correct combination of fiscal and monetary regime coupled with astute and bold leadership, Guyana is undoubtedly destined for greatness.

However, and here is where it becomes interesting, under this current Government, that is an elusive dream. With all the riches that would likely flow, our citizens have zero chance of benefitting.

In fact, things might even get worse because of the gross incompetence by the Government. Our Minister

Complaining to local authority is a total waste of time Dear Editor, I foremost wish to sympathise with Mr Kishore Das and the residents of Nandy Park and Continental Park, East Bank Demerara, concerning the unlawful grazing of cattle in those beautiful neighbourhoods.

Mr Das spoke of the uncouth behaviour of the herd owner and I hereafter confirm the same. In the past, I have had to deal with him on a similar occurrence and the Honorable Chief of Staff – Mr Joe Singh even took it further and had him arrested and charged. I do not

know the outcome of the case but what I do know is this cow herder is violent, abusive and careless of the aesthetics of the community.

Complaining to the local authority is a total waste of time. I guarantee you that hundreds of complaints and reports were lodged with that department.

Twenty years ago, I had another similar experience with a gentleman who worked at the said local authority office and who was attending to his cows in his yard just behind my resi-

dence. The stench and the chemical he used for sanitising give my entire family and the surrounding neighbours nausea and made us all sick.

Complaints and personal discussions were completely ignored. I contemplated removing my residence to a different location. However, logic told me to seek legal advice. I met my friend, the former Chief Justice – Honorable Ian Chan. He advised me to take legal actions against the cow owner. I then engaged my lawyer who filed the necessary

papers in court.

The matter was called before the Honorable Madam Claudette La Bennett. The honourable Judge then ordered the owner of the cows to remove same within two weeks. She was outraged and furious because she had to deal with similar situations.

That was indeed a big relief for the entire community. Today, I am still living in the same house in Republic Park. I urge Mr Das and his neighbours to do the same as I hope you will find relief soon.

Dear Editor, When does it end with persons using sports arenas to protest?

In a democratic society, I do support freedom of speech and a right to protest, but there is a time and place for everything.

I grew up with American television at my disposal and became a sports fanatic in many disciplines and my journey will end loving the Olympic Games.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t gifted with any sports talent competitive wise, but it has always been a joy for me to witness talented human be-

ings from around the world competing in one arena, the unity among nations, and the new addition for refugee athletes to have an opportunity to compete under the White Olympic Flag or persons who are stateless.

I will never support any Government of the day to boycott any Olympic Game or any other international sports event. The same applies to anyone using the sports arena/podium to showcase any act of protest.

A podium at any sports arena or venue is not the place for anyone to use for any type of protest.

Two American athletes at the just concluded 2019 Pan Am Games in Lima, Peru, used the podium to protest their cause and it was disgusting and disgraceful. I wish if there was a penalty attached to such conduct of athletes.

American President Donald Trump is currently one of the most hated human beings on earth for many reasons and as much as I am not too much of a big fan of his, he makes me laugh with his eccentric behaviour and I have always said he is mentally unstable and needs urgent medi-

cal help. No one seems to be taking me seriously about this situation. A podium is not the place to exercise any protest against the gentleman.

Perhaps Sports Guyana should seriously consider addressing this situation before we have to witness athletes taking a similar route and using the sports arenas/podium to protest any cause. In layman terms, don’t ever entertain such behaviour.

A time and a place

Yours faithfully, T Pemberton

Yours truly, Nazar Mohamed

of Finance is absolutely clueless when it comes to managing the economy; our Minister of Legal Affairs is the biggest pettyfogger in the entire nation; and our President, well, he is buried in oblivion.

Hence, there is no assurance that this Government will get anything right. If through a sleight of hand, they’ve managed to conceal the signing bonus for over 6 months, it is inconceivable what would transpire to the hundreds of millions that will follow.

But there is hope. And we now have the opportunity to right the wrong. With Irfaan Ali as President, Guyana is destined for greatness. Putting politics aside, Irfaan Ali is the best Guyana has to offer. The nation is at a critical juncture where astute leadership and economic shrewdness are warranted, and Irfaan Ali is the only one who could deliver.

With the reversal of over 200 tax measures, implementation of a robust Local Content Policy that would ensure our local businesses benefit from activities emanating from the oil sector, higher public servant wages, and generous cash transfer to parents and elderly, our economic landscape would surely transform. And there is a ton more, however, in the interest of time, I would end here.

Yours truly, Roger Samuels

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xperimentation with alcohol during the teen years is common. Some reasons that teens use alcohol and other drugs are: curiosity to feel good, reduce stress, and relax to fit in to feel older From a very young age, kids see advertising messages showing beautiful people enjoying life – and alcohol. And because many parents and other adults use alcohol socially – having beer or wine with dinner, for example – alcohol seems harmless to many teens.

Why shouldn’t I drink?

Although it’s illegal to buy alcohol until the age of 18, most teens can get access to it. It’s therefore up to you to make a decision about drinking. In addition to the possibility of becoming addicted, there are some downsides to drinking: The punishment is severe. Teens who drink put themselves at risk for obvious problems with the law (it’s illegal; you can get arrested). Teens who drink are also more likely to get into fights and commit crimes than those who don’t.

People who drink regularly also often have problems with school Drinking can damage a student’s ability to study well and get decent grades, as well as affect sports performance (the coordination thing).

You can look really stupid The impression is that drinking is cool, but the nervous system changes that come from drinking alcohol can make people do stupid or embarrassing things, like throwing up or peeing on themselves.

Drinking also gives people bad breath, and no one enjoys a hangover.

Alcohol puts your health at risk Teens who drink are more likely to be sexually active and to have unsafe, unprotected sex. Resulting pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases can change – or even end – lives. The risk of injuring yourself, maybe even fatally, is

Foundation

Why do teens drink? higher when you’re under the influence, too. One half of all drowning deaths among teen guys are related to alcohol use. Use of alcohol greatly increases the chance that a teen will be involved in a car crash, homicide, or suicide.

Teen drinkers are more likely to get fat or have health problems, too. One study by the University of Washington found that people who regularly had five or more drinks in a row starting at age 13 were much more likely to be overweight or have high blood pressure by age 24 than their nondrinking peers. People who continue drinking heavily well into adulthood risk damaging their organs, such as the liver, heart, and brain.

How can I avoid drinking?

If all your friends drink and you don’t want to, it can be hard to say “no, thanks”.

No one wants to risk feeling rejected or left out. Different strategies for turning down alcohol work for different people.

Some people find it helps to say no without giving an explanation, others think offering their reasons works better (“I’m not into drinking”, “I have a game tomorrow”, or “my uncle died from drinking,” for example).

If saying no to alcohol makes you feel uncomfortable in front of people you know, blame your parents or another adult for your refusal. Saying, “My parents are coming to pick me up soon”, “I already got in major trouble for drinking once, I can’t do it again”, or “my coach would kill me” can make saying no a bit easier for some.

If you’re going to a party and you know there will be alcohol, plan your strategy in advance. You and a friend can develop a signal for when it’s time to leave, for example. You can also make sure that you have plans to do something besides just hanging out in someone’s basement drinking beer all night. Plan a trip to the movies, the mall, a concert, or a sports event. You might also organise your friends into a volleyball or softball team — any activity that gets you moving.

Girls or guys who have strong selfesteem are less likely to become problem

drinkers than people with low self-esteem.

Where can I get help?

If you think you have a drinking problem, get help as soon as possible. The best approach is to talk to an adult you trust. If you can’t approach your parents, talk to your doctor, school counsellor, clergy member, aunt, or uncle. It can be hard for some people to talk to adults about these issues, but a supportive person in a position to help can refer students to a drug and alcohol counsellor for evaluation and treatment.

What if I’m concerned about someone else’s drinking?

Sometimes people live in homes where a parent or other family member drinks too much. This may make you angry, scared, and depressed. Many people can’t control their drinking without help. This doesn’t mean that they love or care about you any less.

People with drinking problems can’t stop drinking until they are ready to admit they have a problem and get help.

This can leave family members and loved ones feeling helpless. The good news is there are many places to turn for help: a supportive adult, such as your guidance counsellor, or a relative or older sibling will understand what you’re going through.

If you have a friend whose drinking concerns you, make sure he or she stays safe. Don’t let your friend drink and drive, for example. If you can, try to keep friends who have been drinking from doing anything dangerous, such as trying to walk home at night alone or starting a fight.

And protect yourself, too. Don’t get in a car with someone who’s been drinking, even if that person is your ride home. Ask a sober adult to drive you instead or call a cab.

Everyone makes decisions about whether to drink and how much – even adults. It’s possible to enjoy a party or other event just as much, if not more so, when you don’t drink. And with your central nervous system working as it’s supposed to, you’ll remember more about the great time you had! (Excerpt from kidshealth.org)

Design a rain garden

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ew construction in many towns and cities is increasing the amount of impervious surfaces – surfaces that don’t allow water to be absorbed.

Too many rooftops, driveways, and parking lots result in an increase of storm water runoff and a greater chance for pollution to enter our waterways through storm sewer systems. A rain garden helps direct water through the soil.

Supplies • Books and guides to plants native to your region or materials from your local Extension Service • Database for native plants in your area: https://www. epa.gov/watersense/what-plant • Pencil and journal • Tape measure • Soil mix: 50% sand, 30% compost, 20% topsoil • Seeds, seedlings, or starter plants.

Remember to choose native plants if possible, and plants that attract pollinators like butterflies and bees Think back to what you’ve learnt about the water cycle and your local watershed.

Rain has to go somewhere. Where does it go when it can’t soak into the soil?

Take notes about all the pervious and impervious surfaces you see. Draw a picture (aerial view if possible) of the current space. Note where water collects or travels when it rains. Identify natural drainage patterns and how rainwater could be filtered into the surrounding soil. Why is it important for rain to be directed to the soil rather than the storm drain?

Let’s get started!

Start mapping out your rain garden. Gardeners make and use maps to plan what, where, and when to plant.

You’ll need to think, talk about, and investigate: • If this is a real or imaginary garden (if you can’t plant, it is still fun to imagine and plan) • How much water you will have to drain (measure the specific drainage area of the surface — roof, driveway, etc) • What kind of soil you have (sandy, clay, loamy, or mixed) • How much space you need for your rain garden (sandy soil, a rain garden should be 20-30% of the drainage area; or clay soil, a rain garden should be about 60% of the drainage area) • What’s already in or near the space (the house, patio, deck, paths, driveway, existing plants and lawn) • Natural depressions in the landscape (a rain garden can be up to six inches deep) • Native plants (plants that typically have deep root systems with water holding capacity) Since plants can be expensive, consider planting seeds or using seedlings grown in trays. It may take longer to fill in the space in the garden, but can help keep costs down.

The links below offer detailed guides to building a rain garden: http://www.wgcucuriouskids.org/what-is-a-raingarden/; https://www.edmonton.ca/city_government/ environmental_stewardship/rain-garden-in-aboxpilot-project.aspx; https://www.edmonton.ca/city_ government/documents/Rain%20Garden%20in%20a%20 Box%20Handbook.pdf; https://www.plslwd. org/2013/05/raingarden-in-a-box-designs/; http:// baybackpack.com/schoolyard_projects/project/create_a_ rain_garden. (startwithabook.org)

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friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Jagdeo calls out Govt GECOM Commissioner for spreading misinformation …says CJ never said GECOM must use data generated from H2H for verification

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

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peaking at his press conference on Thursday, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo responded to a number of inaccurate statements made

by Government-nominated Commissioner of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Vincent Alexander.

In an invited comment to the State-owned Guyana Chronicle, published on Thursday under the headline “No decision on way forward”, Alexander is reported to have said that Chief Justice (ag) Roxane George, in her ruling on the challenge to House-to-House Registration, stated that the House-to-House Registration should be used for verification, rather than for a deletion of names from the list.

This was disputed by Jagdeo, who pointed out that the Chief Justice never said that GECOM must use data generated from the Houseto-House Registration exercise for verification, and he quoted paragraph 178 of her

ruling to support this.

Paragraph 178 of the Chief Justice’s ruling says: “Thus, whatever verification or revision exercise is undertaken to ensure a fair and credible election, whether house-to-house or otherwise, for the preparation of the list of electors for national and regional elections consequent on the NCM, must be conducted in the context of the order of the CCJ of July 12, 2019, that the provisions of Art 106 immediately became engaged on the passage of the NCM on December 21, 2018. This means that the election should have been held on March 21, 2019, that is within 3 months of the passage of the NCM or such extended date as approved by two-thirds of all the members of the National Assembly”.

Further, he explained that paragraph 128 of the ruling deals with how the House-to-House exercise can be used to verify a first-time registrant – not to de-register persons that are already

on the National Register of Registrant.

Jagdeo was also critical of the Guyana Chronicle, which he accused of peddling falsehoods, when in a section of the same article it was stated that, “House-to-House Registration is a new registration exercise, and all eligible persons must register, even if they were previously registered, the elections management body stated.

Upon conclusion of this exercise, a new National Register of Registrants Database (NRRDB), which is reflective of the current Guyanese population, will be created”.

The Opposition Leader quoted three paragraphs of the Chief Justice’s ruling that point to the unconstitutional nature of a House-toHouse Registration exercise to remove the names of persons from the NRR if they are already registered.

These are paragraphs 141, 161 & 174:

Paragraph 141 states that: “A reading of all the relevant provisions leads to the inevitable and ineluctable conclusion that GECOM does not have the discretion without more to remove the name of a person from the list of registrants or electors because such a person who was previously registered has not re-registered during a house to house registration exercise”.

Paragraph 161 states that: “GECOM would have no legal authority to remove or de-register such persons who are otherwise qualified unless such registration can be cancelled…these persons may have to return to their districts to vote, but their names cannot ipso fac-

Govt GECOM Commissioner Vincent Alexander

to be removed from the register of registrants, which removal would then disqualify them from and deprive them of their right to vote. To do so would be unconstitutional and therefore illegal”.

Paragraph 174 states that: “This is to say, where persons are already registered, it would be unconstitutional if they are removed for the sole reason that they now reside in another jurisdiction or as I have pointed out, another part of the country vis-à-vis where they reside as regards their place or district of registration in Guyana where they would be able to vote.

The same would apply if it is that they are simply not present for whatever reason when the registration officer

or enumerator visited or visits. Once they fulfil the criteria in art 159(2) and are already registered, they are entitled to remain so unless it is proven that they are deceased or have become disqualified or that art 159 (3) or (4) applies”.

Further, Jagdeo concluded that since the House-toHouse Registration, with the intention of creating a new database will be unconstitutional, the exercise must be immediately halted and that GECOM has to go to the time-tested and non-controversial method that served to refresh the List of Voters for the last four elections – that is, a Claims and Objections period.

The Opposition Leader also cautioned against us-

ing data from the 270,000 persons GECOM claims to have registered, since no one knows how many are firsttime registrants and it will take months to find that out.

Jagdeo added that the data obtained will be suspect since the process was not scrutinised by the Opposition and may very well have been illegally obtained since the statutory forms were not used.

He stressed that with Claims and Objections, new registrants will have an opportunity to register as firsttime voters, among the other transactions that such an exercise allows.

On the subject of timelines, the Opposition Leader said that he has seen a proposal from the three Opposition-nominated Commissioners which indicate that elections can be held by late October.

He also said that before the appointment of current Chairperson, Justice (retired) Claudette Singh, proposals for the holding of elections had always coincided with those publicly stated by Congress Place.

As such, he urged that any new timeline put forward by the Secretariat must be thoroughly scrutinised by the new Chairperson as it may be bloated.

8 News

friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Man charged for stabbing ex-lover

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man who stabbed his ex-lover to her breast, along with her male companion, at Hururu Mission, Upper Berbice River, made his first court appearance on Wednesday at the Linden Magistrate’s Courts.

Forty-eight-year-old Gilbert Thomas was remanded to prison after he was slapped with two malicious wounding charges committed on Dally Gobin

and Leaymond Smith.

It was reported that on the day in question, the victims were imbibing alcohol at Gobin’s house when the suspect showed up without an invitation.

This resulted in a heated argument among them. The argument, however, turned into a scuffle and it was at this time that the suspect whipped out a knife and dealt one blow to Gobin.

He then turned his atten-

Gilbert Thomas

tion to Smith and stabbed him once before escaping the scene.

The couple was taken to the Kwakwani Hospital where they were treated and referred to the Linden Hospital Complex. There, they were admitted but subsequently discharged.

Thomas was arrested while hiding out at a camp in Hururu Backlands and was subsequently charged.

Carpenter remanded on break and enter charge

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carpenter, who admitted that he assisted in removing items from a home that was broken into, was remanded to prison on Wednesday when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Fifty-seven-year-old Daniel Gulliford appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and pleaded not guilty to the charge when it was read to him.

The charge stat-

Daniel Gulliford

ed that between August 15 and 16, 2019, at Lot 335 Cummings Street, South Cummingsburg, Georgetown, he broke and entered the home of Revton Turman and stole a number of items valued at $377,000.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield did not object to bail, however, he asked that bail be granted in a substantial amount based on the value of the items.

The prosecutor further in-

dicated that the defendant had admitted to removing items from the home upon his arrest.

However, the defendant told the court that he was the victim’s neighbour, but due to the incident, he moved out of the area and has nowhere to go.

The Magistrate, after listening to both sides, remanded Gulliford to prison and the matter was adjourned until August 28, 2019.

Pipe dream…

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…of AFC nitially, opium was smoked in long pipes and its aficionados would experience delicious dreams – hence the term “pipe dream”. It appears that Khemraj Ramjattan, Minister of Public Security, has taken up the vice since your Eyewitness is hard-pressed to come up with another explanation for his utterances on an internet panel-interview that featured him, Anil Nandalall and Jonas of ANUG on the state of the elections.

Asked as to how he thinks the AFC would do if they ran without hanging onto the PNC’s coattails, the fella actually insisted they’d get 12 seats, hands down!! Now we all know (and even expect) that politicians would puff up their prospects. But 12 seats?? Maybe he was smoking something even stronger than opium…crack?? Because he sure sounded cracked!!

He rationalised his prediction by pointing to the five seats they secured in 2006 and then the 7 in 2011.

A trend!!! So, rather than the “dead meat” fate he’d predicted if the AFC coalesced with the PNC, he sees an exponential growth after 2015!! One wonders what that tremendous boost would be due to. Their fulfilment of all the promises they made to their supporters up to 2011?

Like they’d NEVER coalesce with either the PPP or PNC? Or they’d ensure constitutional change within 2 years to reduce the President’s powers?? Or maybe because (as he boasted) the AFC played an integral part in deciding to shut down 4 sugar estates and throw 7000 workers into the streets?? Without making any arrangements for alternate employment? Or maybe it was because they agreed with the PNC that 33 wasn’t the majority of 65 – when they’d tried an NCM against the PPP back in 2014 by claiming the reverse!!??

Or maybe it was because he (Ramjattan) insisted that HE, rather than his erstwhile buddy Nagamootoo, would be the PM sidekick of Granger in the next elections??

After all, his sterling performance in his Public Security Ministry – exemplified by his stupendous “2 am curfew” initiative to reduce crime – so impressed his boss Granger, that he immediately insisted Ramjattan rest while he (Granger) took over all security measures since then!

But seriously folks when asked about the result of the LGE last year – where the AFC DID do it alone and couldn’t even pick up a single seat on a single NDC – what’d you make of Ramjattan’s flip rejoinder that it wasn’t indicative of their support? This was more than just a pipe dream.

It’s the answer of a man who has suffered the worst possible humiliation by the PNC – just to continue feasting at the trough of the Consolidated Funds at the expense of the people. …on elections?

Your Eyewitness wasn’t too excited about ending the impasse to select the new GECOM Chair. That’s just an incidental bother – it’s the casus belli, not the causa belli (the occasion for the war, not the cause of the war).

And we ARE in the midst of a war…let there be no doubt of that!! It’s a war of attrition by the PNC to game the elections. We mightn’t know HOW, but we know WHAT and are waiting for the WHEN! But ultimately, this is a political problem – not a bureaucratic one about the efficiency of the means of preparing the voters’ list. And if it’s a POLITICAL problem, it means it can only have a POLITICAL solution. Meaning that everyone and their uncle – including Granger – knows that NCM’s are an integral part of modern parliamentary governance and there should’ve been elections since March 21.

Even when GECOM finally says when they can be ready; it’s Granger who has to set the date!! …on better medical care Once the decision makers on medical matters in this country can jet out to the 1st world for medical care, there will be no improvement here.

Imagine CT scanners were donated to NA and Bartica Hospitals since 2016 and still can’t be used!!

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

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friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

SARA continues Ramjattan boasts AFC played integral role in closing sugar estates its political harassment

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The state of Sanata Complex upon aquistion

he State Asset Recovery Agency (SARA) has returned to its practice of political harassment; this time by seeking to directly intimidate Queens Atlantic Investment Inc (QAII), the corporate owners of the property which houses the Times Media Group – including Guyana Times newspaper– at Ruimveldt, Georgetown.

On Thursday afternoon, a notice was received that SARA is seeking to recover the difference between an outside valuation of the Sanata property and the valuation of the official Government valuation entity at the point of sale.

In June 2018, SOCU had charged Dr Ashni Singh, former Finance Minister and Winston Brassington,

former Chairman of NICL, in relation to the same transaction. At that time, Guyana Times had received a number of threats to stop publishing news items which are critical of the Administration.

SARA continues to press ahead with this political witch-hunting, despite being fully aware that the act has been challenged in the court.

The property was acquired by QAII in a fully transparent manner more than a decade ago, and this was fully ventilated in the press. Billions of dollars have been invested to develop this property and as such, QAII will vigorously defend any issues relating to the transaction.

AFC Leader Khemraj Ramjattan

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eader of the Alliance For Change (AFC) Khemraj Ramjattan has admitted that his party played an integral role in the decision to close sugar estates across the country – a move which affected thousands of Guyanese and which was widely criticised by stakeholders.

“When the sugar sector decision was made to close estates and factories and merge some of them, it was primarily the AFC who was a big part of that decision,” Ramjattan said during a Globespan 24x7 programme on Wednesday.

“Myself, Mr [Prime Minister Moses] Nagamootoo, and a whole host of other AFC members were part of that decision,” the AFC

Leader declared.

He was at the time responding to a question posed by the moderator, who asked why the AFC has not represented the thousands of workers – where the party’s support base lies – who were negatively affected when the estates were closed.

But according to Ramjattan, “nobody was disenfranchised.” He contended that an “economic decision” had to be made for the sugar sector.

“So, it was not a PNC decision that we were forced to accept,” Ramjattan contended.

In 2016, the Government announced the closure of the first sugar estate located at Wales on the West Bank of Demerara (WBD).

The move was made despite the fact that Government spent millions of dollars to hold a Commission of Inquiry (CoI) which recommended that there be no closure of the sugar estates.

Estates at Enmore, Skeldon and Rose Hall were subsequently shut down – triggering widespread controversy.

More than 10,000 persons have been directly and indirectly affected by the closure of these estates.

Nearly 4000 workers from Enmore, Rose Hall and Skeldon were dismissed in late 2017, and over 1000 were dismissed from Wales

The Rose Hall Estate

in the previous year.

Cottage industries that were once thriving in some of the communities in close proximity to the estates are now dying as spending power has been significantly diminished among the local populace.

Retrenched workers, most of whom were breadwinners of their families, are still struggling to find a steady job – despite several piecemeal initiatives rolled out by the Government.

Despite calls by stakeholders, the Government refused to conduct a socioeconomic study before closing the estates.

In fact, an executive member of the Working Peoples Alliance (WPA) – a member of the coalition Government – had blasted the APNU/ AFC for not conducting social impact assessments before making such a decision.

“I think that when you are making decisions to lay off so many people, you have to think about the impact of

families and on communities; and I think the decision makers did not put enough thought into that impact, and we are clearly seeing that here,” Hinds had expressed during an event at Patentia – a community neighbouring Wales.

The rippling effects of the closure of the sugar estates can be seen in those communities, especially in the commercial districts where activities have practically been ground to a halt.

Market areas which were once bustling are now almost isolated.

In some cases, families face a daily struggle in finding a way to send their children to school.

Government had eventually arranged a $30 billion bond, guaranteed by the State and National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) assets, to recapitalise the sugar sector.

But to date, little information is available on how the money was spent.

10 news

Friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

ExxonMobil hosts safety management Telemedicine to come on stream by yearend workshop for contractors

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xxonMobil Guyana has reemphasised its commitment to a culture of safety by staging a related workshop for contractors on Thursday at the Guyana Marriott Hotel.

The Contractor Safety Management Workshop focused on integrated planning, safe execution of work and safety leadership and workforce engagement.

It was attended by key representatives of SBM Offshore; Saipem; TechnipFMC, Stena, Noble, Bristow; G-Boats; Seacor; Bourbon; Tidewater and Nalco.

Addressing participants, Country Manager

Manager Rod Henson addressing participants at the workshop

Rod Henson indicated that safety is a core value at all

ExxonMobil operations and facilities. He noted the im-

portance of demonstrating that oil and gas can bring benefits to Guyana in a safe and responsible manner.

“We care not only about the business objectives that we have but how those objectives are obtained,” the Country Manager added.

Henson believes it is critical that all stakeholders are aligned on the issue of safety. As such, the company continually engages its contractors in this regard.

ExxonMobil Guyana aims to protect the safety of its employees, others involved in our operations, the public and the environment.

GAWU presents bursaries to NGSA students

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he Guyana Agricultural Workers Union (GAWU) on Thursday distributed bursary awards to nine of their members’ children who would have performed outstandingly at the recent National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).

At a simple ceremony at their Kingston, Georgetown headquarters, the students were congratulated for their hard work and bestowed with a prize.

General Secretary of the Union, Seepaul Narine explained that these persons were selected from the Demerara branch after various requirements were analysed. These activities will be followed by a similar distribution exercise in Berbice on Saturday.

“Every year, we normally do this function where we award students who are the best among our members.

Here, we are doing the Demerara bursaries and then on Saturday, we will do a similar presentation for our comrades in Berbice. You have a new beginning that is going to be much more challenging. This is the beginning of a new road of harder work”.

GAWU President Komal Chand explained that because of the downsiz-

Recipients of the bursary awards and their parents at the GAWU headquarters

ing of the sugar industry, less students were eligible for bursary awards after the various criteria were taken into consideration.

“This is something we had started some years ago. Unfortunately, we have closure of estates. In the case of Demerara, we had Wales estate and Enmore. Then we had the closure of a private company used to process fish products. And then we have two estates in Berbice, Rose Hall and Skeldon that

were closed. The fact that our membership is smaller now than before, naturally we’ll have less bursaries when we take and apply the rules,” Chand noted.

“We have recognised your performance and we feel that this activity will encourage you to continue on your journey to higher education in your country. Of course, we can’t fail to recognise your parents”, he encouraged the students.

Public Telecommunications Minister Catherine Hughes explains how the video-conferencing equipment works to residents of Orealla in Region Six

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he Public Telecommunications Ministry is working to accelerate advancements in the ICT sector with the clear understanding of the role information and communications technology (ICT) plays in the ongoing development and modernisation of our economy.

According to the Department of Public Information (DPI), under the $7 billion (US$34 million) National Broadband Project, Government has installed videoconferencing equipment for use in telemedicine applications in four of 30 health facilities identified to be so developed.

Thus teleconferencing facilities have been installed at the clinics at Baracara and Orealla, and at the New Amsterdam Hospital in Region 6 and the Bartica Regional Hospital in Region 7.

An operational manual has already been developed, and in the second half of this year, medical personnel in these locations will receive training on the correct use of the equipment.

Videoconferencing equipment was also purchased to be installed at health facilities in Regions 1, 6, 7, 8 and 9, with training slated for health professionals stationed at those facilities before the end of 2019.

The telemedicine initiative came on stream at the Orealla Health Centre in April, allowing doctors and other medical

personnel stationed there to have direct video communication with the New Amsterdam Regional Hospital and other hinterland health centres. It was highlighted that the service has vastly improved the health centre’s capacity to conduct diagnoses, and facilitates direct contact with specialists. It allows the staff stationed there to speak in “real-time” with specialists.

Public Health Minister Volda Lawrence has welcomed the project. She said it will open new doors within the health sector.

“When this programme is launched, it will cut dependency on the current medevac services for interior residents, especially alleviating maternal and child health issues in the hinterland regions,” she said.

According to the PAHO/ WHO Office in Georgetown, the Guyana Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) will act as the national telemedicine hub, building capacity in the use of information and communication technology (ICT) for the effective implementation of the telemedicine programme.

Other benefits will see the expansion of decentralised specialist care from the country’s four main regional hospital providers, and the development of a community of practice for telemedicine to provide teaching and counselling around complex cases.

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friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Civil society group reiterates calls for President, Cabinet to resign, call elections

Some of the protesters at the Ministry of the Presidency

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ess than a week after staging its first protest outside of the Ministry of the Presidency (MotP), the Mass Action People’s Movement (MAPM) — a civil society group— has reiterated calls for President David Granger to respect the Constitution by resigning and setting an elections date.

Unless this is done soon, the MAPM is promising to continue its demonstration outside the Ministry of

Presidency.

This was disclosed by MAPM member Johnathan Yearwood on Thursday while speaking at the picketing exercise where a number of protesters had assembled and waving placards.

“Let’s go to the elections, let the people vote, let a government be elected and let’s have a government that has a mandate to run the country, until then, we will be out here protesting because we disagree with how

Illegal dumping!

The Ruimveldt Industrial Site access road is in a deplorable state and adding to the woes of businesses in the area, this canter was caught red-handed by Guyana Times dumping garbage there on Wednesday

the President is behaving,” Yearwood stated.

Adding to this, the MAPM member posited that President Granger should set example of being a law-abiding citizen, while noting that since the final rulings handed down by the Caribbean Court of Justice (CJJ), he has demonstrated otherwise— given his re-

luctance to resign, dissolve Parliament, and call elections.

“We are saying that he must do the honourable thing, he must do the right thing, he must set the example of abiding and honouring the Constitution of Guyana, which so far he has failed miserably to do because he had shown no indications of honouring it”, Yearwood asserted.

Similar views were echoed by another member, Don Singh, amongst which he made mention of the upsurge in racial tension across the various social media sites, which according to him, has stemmed from the country’s current political climate.

“But what is happening in our country is that slowly on social media sites (Instagram, Facebook) we are seeing an upsurge in racial baiting, in racial attacks on both sides, and if that is allowed to continue, by us not having out elections as per Constitution, it will get out of control”, Singh explained.

Mass Action Peoples Movement (MAPM) Member Johnathan Yearwood

On his concluding note, Singh took the opportunity to shed light on the organisation’s dissatisfaction with the now caretaker Government over the past years in office.

“We have a President that had three press conferences in four and a half years, we want to be reassured by our President that we elected that things are okay and this is what’s gonna happen, but we hearing a side-line gyaff. We just fed up so, we as regular Guyanese say let’s come out

and ask the President very straightforward,” he highlighted.

The protest was held under the theme “Disrespect for the Constitution = Disrespect for Guyanese”.

It was organised by the group which was responsible for the mass movement against the parking meter project in the city—originally called the Movement against Parking Meters (MAPM) but now is rebranded as the Mass Action Peoples Movement (MAPM).

12 news

friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

GA-FDD launches investigation into suspected retailing of illegal drug

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he Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) is currently investigating a local pharmacist who is reportedly conducting a clandestine operation of reselling an untested drug.

The said drug is being sold over the counter at several pharmacies and is said to be used for stomach ailments.

“The items have to do

with those persons who are suffering from stomach ailment and they would have to use an antacid for ease, that is the line of product [that] is alleged to being counterfeited” GA-FDD’s Director, Marlon Cole told media operatives on the sidelines of a food handlers’ seminar on Thursday.

According to Cole, the released drug had not been tested for safety, efficacy or quality and as such, the

GA-FDD Director Marlon Cole

public is being cautioned.

“We have since visited a

number of retail pharmacies where we have encountered the product but we are now to trace it back to the same individual, we only know of his location and where he operates from” Cole revealed.

“For all we know, this might be an individual who is buying products from other parts of the world, bring it here and selling. It is leaning on hearsay currently but we need to get to the specifics but the allegation is out there and we need to be responsive and act” Cole further explained.

Presently, the GA-FDD is attempting to trace the drug with the use of the batch number on the product’s label.

“It would depend on if the person has a mini-lab in his or her home, photocopy some labels, buy some bottles, paste on the labels, do a concoction and releasing it on the market. What could help is tracing the item through the batch number but if that cannot be done then we would know but all of that is yet to be determined” the Director stated.

However, proprietors of-

fering the product are also being forewarned about penalties attached to selling the untraceable drug. Cole noted that it is mandated that all drugs be traced back to the manufacturers.

If found to be involved in illegality, the individual(s) can expect to be taken before the court to be prosecuted.

“The penalty would be we would have to take the individual to court as it relates to legal action. Prosecution, we have penalties – 30 something thousand dollars and 6 months’ imprisonment”.

Valmiki launches College for Business and Technology

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he Valmiki Vidyalaya High School has successfully launched its College for Business and Technology which is now equipped with a state-ofthe-art computer centre.

Now the Valmiki College for Business and Technology, the newest tertiary educational institution located at Crown Street, Queenstown, Georgetown, is the product of a fruitful collaboration between the institution and its

exact our fourteenth and it was all achieved under twelve years, we are all passionate [about] what we do and most importantly we do it with sincerity. This project was made possible after we made a visit here”, he underscored.

While disclosing that the project was completed in the space of three months, Sobhraj further grasped the opportunity to admonish those present to set high

Director of the Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation, Jay Sobhraj

The newly-launched Valmiki College for Business and Technology

newest partner, the Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation.

During the simple launching ceremony, Director of the Jay and Sylvia Sobhraj Foundation, Jay Sobhraj pointed out that the school’s massive transformation is the result of teamwork.

“It’s a collective team effort, this project here is not our first rodeo this is to be

standards with regards to the provision of education for future generations, so that more can be achieved personally and as a nation.

“We must always have the drive for educating our people as parents, you want to make your children and grandchildren be better than you, whatever you’ve done. If they do the same as you, It means you as a

parent has failed, it means you’re not raising the bar.

We have to keep raising the bar higher” he urged.

Meanwhile, Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine in his brief remarks lauded the school’s accomplishments as he urged students to take advantage of the opportunities offered while pursuing studies diligently.

“Education is the key to success, it is the great-

est asset you could ever achieve in life, I urge you as youths to take your education for when one is young your mind is like a sponge.

It’s capable of absorbing everything so use the time you have to absorb and observe…today’s investment can be tomorrow’s foundation, be wise and think twice, make a decision with an impact.” Narine posited.

The school’s computer centre is expected to serve both students and the wider society in equipping them with skills to thrive in a rapidly changing ICT professional environment. The non-profit institution is now expanded to offer varying academic services while at the same time instilling the Hindu culture and religion.

Among the persons present at the launch were Principal of the institution, Yogeshwar Mathoo; former Commissioner of Police, Seelal Persaud and Governor of the Bank of Guyana, Dr Gobind Ganga, among other dignitaries.

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13

friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

High demands force Govt to monitor mercury imports

…“limited” amounts to be made available

R

estrictions will soon be placed on large amounts of mercury imported to Guyana, as the Natural Resources Ministry has embarked on a process to monitor the movement of the substance, owing to the numerous hazardous effects and health risks.

Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman on Thursday indicated that the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Pesticide Toxic Chemical Control Board would have played an integral role in the development of a framework and official document that will be signed in a week’s time.

With this Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), stakeholders will have to present valid reasons for importing mercury, as well as gain the permission of all the entities.

Mercury, which is also known as quicksilver, is extremely toxic as is any compound derived from it.

Inhalation of its vapour will result in harmful effects on the nervous, digestive and immune systems, lungs and kidneys, and may be fatal.

The product is used primarily in the mining sector.

As such, Trotman insisted that the product cannot be imported without valid

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman

reasons. In some cases, persons have desired to have thousands of kilograms of the substance shipped or transported to Guyana.

“It really says that you just can’t import mercury into Guyana. You have to have the permissions of the three entities. They are working in collaboration with each other…We’re monitoring what is stocked in hand. We’re going to ensure that there is a limited amount at all times and not an open invitation process,” he said.

The Minister opined that this move will impact the sector. There are also views that some of the imported mercury is carried across the borders to other countries.

“How is it going to affect

the sector? I think it will in a positive way. We’re seeing requests for importation.

Last year, I refused to give permission for 30,000 kilograms of mercury to be imported from Mexico. I wondered what would one want with 30,000 kilograms of mercury. That’s one importer. There are multiple importers. We have business to believe that some of it is moved across borders,” Trotman explained.

Last February, Trotman had revealed that even as Government tries to mitigate the harmful effects of mercury on the environment, some villages are, in fact, complicit in the use of mercury and the destruction it causes.

Trotman made this revelation during the Minamata Convention – a stakeholder session set up to develop strategies for eradicating mercury use. According to the Minister, villagers and Toshaos in some mercury-scarred villages are facilitating the miners responsible.

The Minamata Convention on Mercury is an international treaty designed to protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury and mercury compounds.

Meanwhile, Trotman had also spoken of a mod-

el mercury-free operation; a project that could be taken on through the provision of mining blocks. He noted that a number of blocks could be distributed to the Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA) for

this purpose.

In 2018, the discovery of high levels of mercury in the Guyana Gold Board (GGB) laboratory in Georgetown had led to Trinidad-based Kaizen Environmental Services being contracted to

conduct an independent investigation on the effect of the emission. In the case of mining personnel, a reading showing levels of 0-6 micrograms per litre is considered safe while 7-10 is high and above 11 is dangerous.

GA-FDD intensifies inspection activities, closes several food establishments

T

The agroprocessing training on Thursday

he Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) after trumping up inspection activities on local food establishments following a survey conducted earlier this year has since closed several of the said businesses.

Speaking at a oneday seminar held for Agro-Processing Food Service Establishments on Thursday, Director of the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department, Marlon Cole said that the survey which showed an

alarming number of food businesses breaching sanitation regulations has since been expanded to other parts of Guyana.

“As it relates to that survey and the alarming results that we, because of the laboratory support and intervention, we have decided to expand the activity but what have happened over time is that the health officers has been responsive to the results of our survey and have since trumped up their inspection activity and a lot of food services restaurants have been closed and

work have been done and some have subsequently, after completing the sanitation work or pest control work or food-handling work, have since reopened” Cole disclosed.

Analytical Scientific Officers attached to the GA-FDD’s Food Laboratory conducted the survey in collaboration with Food Inspectors of the GA-FDD’s Public Health Officers from the city and municipalities, Environmental Health Officers (EHOs) of the region and Port Health Officers.

Turn to page 16

14 News

friday, august 23, 2019| guyanatimesgy.com

President urges Victoria residents to pay attention to youths …as he officially opens FORCE

The Foundation for Real Christian Education (FORCE) located in Victoria Village, ECD

P

resident David Granger on Thursday officially opened the Foundation for Real Christian Education (FORCE) located at Lot 4 Victoria Village, East Coast Demerara (ECD).

The President commended the Principal of the vocational centre, Desmond Saul, for his hard work in

ensuring that the youth of Victoria Village benefit from skills training. The Head of State called for emphasis to be placed on youth not in employment, education or training (NEET).

“NEET is a person not in education, employment and training. We need to pay attention to persons who are not in education,

employment or training and to some extent I expect FORCE is going to be committed to ensuring persons who are not in education, employment or training are given employment and education,” the President stated.

Further, Granger also committed to assisting the school with solar panels.

He reminded that Victoria Village is regarded widely as Guyana’s first coastland village and that education, next to economic liberation, was the greatest gift freed slaves received.

“African-Guyanese embraced education as a means of providing a better life for themselves, their families and future generations. They supported the establishment of social institutions for education and religious instruction, including by providing lands for building churches and schools,” the President said.

He told the attendees that education “unlocks opportunities for employment, empowerment and enterprise, and promotes greater equality. It lifts people out of poverty. It inculcates values and teaches the skills

President David Granger receives the village’s 177th Anniversary Commemorate Stamp from Evelyn Bacchus, the oldest resident of Victoria Village

necessary for economic development”.

The President called for the village to be restored to a central place in education. He noted that the raising of a child involves interactions with and the support of the entire community. “The village has an essential role in education,” President Granger said adding that “education is a shared responsibility”.

“Villages, collectively, should bear and share re-

in order for this to materialise, he believes that there must be a model of education which imparts a greater role for entire communities, including churches, in the public educational system.

“The Foundation for Real Christian Education exemplifies that model. It embeds education in the community, holding classes in the community and offering courses that respond to the needs of the community;

Principal of the Foundation for Real Christian Education, Desmond Saul

sponsibility for the education of children because the most important thing, apart from family, is the education of the child.

Villages should ensure that every child is in school.

Government’s policy is to provide for every child to access to education, to attend school and to graduate from school. The foundational principle of this policy is ‘Every child in school (ECIS)’,” President Granger said.

It is the President’s vision to see a school in every village in the future and

encourages village involvement in education to ensure school attendance and improve closer relations between teachers and parent; enhances village life with skills for economic empowerment and entrepreneurship; equips young men and women with practical skills to enable them to secure employment; and establishes partnerships with institutions such as the Board of Industrial Training and the Regional Democratic Council,” the Head of State said.

As he declared the

Foundation open, the President said it enfolds households, imparts education and involves local stakeholders as he recommended the Foundation’s model of village, church and school collaboration to deliver education effectively.

He reminded the attendees that with the expected petroleum revenues, the Government of Guyana will ensure that free tertiary education is restored.

President Granger reminded that Guyana must not only boast of universal primary education, but also universal secondary education.

Saul, in outlining the history of the Foundation, said he returned to Guyana in 2002 after living overseas for a number of years.

A Victorian, Saul said in October 2003, he utilised the old GRECO building to provided remedial education to youth who were dropping out of the formal education system.

“I sought to make a difference in the lives of the underprivileged youths. I received support from the United Kingdom, Canada, the United States and that helped to pay the stipends given to volunteers,” he recounted.

Further, he thanked the Government of Guyana through the Ministry of Communities and the Board of Industrial Training (BIT) for providing support.

“Through this Foundation, we want to enrich the lives of youth as well as senior citizens,” Saul said while also thanking his family for their unwavering support. “This building is a monument to the love of God,” he said.

Meanwhile, the oldest resident of Victoria Village, Evelyn Bacchus, presented the Village’s 177th anniversary commemorative stamp to President Granger.

Students who attend the Foundation benefit from training in welding, motor mechanics, home economics, sewing and information technology. The courses last from 16 weeks to as long as one year. There are approximately 40 students enrolled in the short courses while approximately 25 are enrolled in the one-year courses.

Foreign Affairs Minister Dr Karen Cummings, Retired Justice Donald Trotman, and Brigadier Edward Collins, former Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force (GDF), also attended the opening ceremony.

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friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Another community centre commissioned in Linden – as part of New Horizons 2019 initiative

The newly-commissioned community centre in Linden

A

s part of the exercises conducted by the United States Armed Forces Southern Command, New Horizons Exercise 2019, another community centre was commissioned at Blueberry Hill, Wismar, Linden, in Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) on Thursday.

This was in addition to a playground at Block 22, Wismar. The exercises were marked by official opening ceremonies attended by personnel from both the local and foreign Armed Forces, officials and residents.

Speaking on behalf of President David Granger, Director General of the Ministry of the Presidency, Joseph Harmon noted that the project is yet another outstanding representation of the excellent relations which exist between the United States of America and Guyana, as he pointed to the importance of community centres in bringing development to communities.

“The Government of Guyana holds that relationship which has existed since August of 1966 in the highest regard. Throughout this relationship, our counties have cultivated strong, stable and sound relations. Guyana and the United States of America are bounded by geography, history and friendship that are premised on the principles of mutual respect, cooperation, respect for international laws and treaties and the maintenance of international peace and security. The United States of America continues to be one of Guyana’s most significant trade and investment partners and we truly appreciate the many programmes which have contributed to our national development and to positive social change in our society”, Harmon explained.

Harmon further noted that assiduous work will ensure future activities in 2020 as he pointed out that conversations in this area are very important in bridging the gap between the length of time in which such projects are executed. “...we are also looking at some of the things that our

President holds very dear to him and that is the way in which we connect our people on the coast and our people in the hinterland... with the completion of three community centres, one at Yarrowkabra, LindenSoesdyke Highway... and two in Linden...also completing a shelter for women... the Government of Guyana is committed to building resilient communities...”, he said.

Harmon also noted that community centres will contribute to the objective in providing a base in which the community can organise and educate.

This, he noted, will lead to the improvement in the quality of life of residents within the communities.

Additionally, he said the project will make an indelible mark on communities where the centres are located.

The construction of the women’s shelter, which is located in Linden, he stated, should also be commend-

ed as he noted that it will aid in the protection, education, empowerment as well as serve a refuge for women. He noted that community centres should be used to promote development, entrepreneurship and enterprises as well as hubs for social, economic and cultural activities.

The centres, Harmon said, must also be properly managed and maintained in accordance with the vision of the Green State economy.

He also thanked all involved in the initiatives.

Chief of Staff of the Guyana Defence Force, Brigadier Patrick West in his remarks also extended gratitude to the United States military for improved bilateral relations, positing that the New Horizons 2019 team was able to achieve more through cooperation and coordination between militaries. He said the community centre building would have a huge impact on members of the society, more so for victims of abuse

and domestic violence as he also extended gratitude to the Guyana Defence Force.

“Projects such as these benefit a wide cross-section of our society...many thanks to the Guyana Defence Force for its continued support and guidance...I want

to say, from all perspectives, our Force will continue to benefit from shared interactions...and tangible manifestations and goodwill... I look forward to continued and deeper bilateral military relations to the benefit of both Forces and nations”, he not-

ed.

Mayor of Linden, Waneka Arindell also pointed to the importance of the projects in the community as she underscored the impacts and benefits which they bring to the lives of the people in the community.

16 news

friday, august 23, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Brazil’s forest fires strike concerns – Trotman …no direct impact presently detected …timber production increases

W

ith the Amazon rainforest in neighbouring Brazil burning at a record rate for several days, Guyana is taking precautionary measures to protect against any such occurrence in its dense forest.

Natural Resources Minister, Raphael Trotman on Thursday explained that while no direct impact has been identified as yet, concerns are still brewing that the causes of these fires could manifest in proximate territories.

“I think any Government, particularly Governments within the Amazonian region should be very concerned because whatever conditions would have led to those fires could occur here. We all should be concerned. We all should extend our support to the Government of Brazil to ensure that those fires are brought under control. At this point in time, we don’t see any direct impact. At present, we are quite alarmed and like everyone else, we wish the people there support,” said Trotman.

He stated that some areas undergo a natural cycle but the current climate emergency does increase trepidations.

Guyana may be fortunate at this time to have an extended rainy or wet season that

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman

may cast a spell on such fires.

Close monitoring is also done via satellite imaging.

“I know from time to time; we do have forest fires which are naturally occurring but the scale at which we see the fires in Brazil does lead us to be quite concerned. We may not be able to stop fires altogether. We are in an extended wet season so that may help us somewhat here in Guyana.

We do our own degrees of monitoring. Thankfully, we have good satellite coverage of our forests under our arrangement with Norway so we’ll be able to spot if there is anything [that] causes concern”, Trotman added.

The Amazon rainforest

produces about 20 per cent of the world’s oxygen and is oftentimes referred to as Earth’s “lungs”. A large fraction lies in northwestern Brazil while the smaller portion extends to border countries in the South American continent.

The World Wildlife Fund had once informed that if this area of plant resources is permanently damaged, it could start emitting carbon dioxide which will fuel climate change. Less than one month ago, Brazil had declared a state of emergency over rising fires in the same zone. The National Institute for Space Research (INPE) has recorded more than 73,000 fires this year.

Forestry sector

Meanwhile, Minister Trotman revealed that Guyana’s timber and log production increased by a few percentages when compared to last year’s statistics, while some international demands saw declines. Primary lumber producers recorded a 32.4 per cent gain for the first half of this year.

“Timber production has increased by 7.8 per cent as against 2018. Log production grew by 6.8 per cent, which was driven by an extraction of lively greenheart logs to meet local demand. We have seen a weaker demand for round wood from international markets and this has resulted in this category contracting somewhat,” Minister Trotman informed.

Trotman assured that the deforestation rate here remains one of the lowest on the global stage, despite struggles with other resources.

“Even though there are challenges with bauxite, gold

Forest fires engulfing the Amazon rainforest

and other minerals, we’re still receiving high marks for the work we do…Forestry through its monitoring, reporting and verification systems has concluded on its assessment for the year 2018 that we are at a 0.052, which would be one of the lowest rates ever recorded

and one of the rates globally and regionally,” he relayed.

It was announced that plans are underway for a national forestry inventory since the previous one was carried out some five decades ago.

“The [Guyana] Forestry Commission has also been en-

gaged in conducting a national forest inventory. The last one was done 50 years ago…I think it is timely as we look in horror at what is happening in Brazil. We appreciate, even more, the value of our standing forest.”

New Amsterdam prisoner injured after setting mattress on fire

C

ommitted prisoner Delon Boucher received injuries about his body after he set fire to his mattress located in the Security Block of the New Amsterdam Prison.

The incident occurred at around 19:15h on Thursday, according to Prison Director Gladwin Samuels.

He said the fire was extinguished by prison officers on duty and later inspected by firefighters, who quickly responded.

The prisoner, who was described as aggressive to first responders, received lacerations to his head and above his left eye. He received medical attention

New Amsterdam Prison

and is in a stable condition.

Boucher, in 2015, hurled a bench at Magistrate Zamena Ali when she sentenced him to four years’

imprisonment. Reports indicate that he had also attacked and wounded a police detective in the Cove and John Station.

GA-FDD intensifies inspection...

The purpose of the survey was to determine compliance of the food service industry with existing sanitary regulatory requirements.

In September 2018 to March 2019, 55 food services establishments were randomly selected for an assessment. The inspection checklist assessed six areas: food storage, cold storage, food preparation, sanitation, garbage disposal and employee hygiene.

In May, the alarming results were revealed to the public which showed unsatisfactory results.

Only 25 per cent of the facilities practised adequate food storage, only 13 per cent of establishments used gloves and only 4 per cent of establishments’ workers were observed applying the correct principles of cleaning and sanitising.

Only 20 per cent practised handwashing correctly and in 42 per cent of establishments’ workers used hairnets. Of the 102 hands of workers that were swabbed after washing, 47 per cent was unsatisfactory.

In regard to food contact surfaces (cutting boards and

From page 13

Findings at one food establishment in May

utensils), 30 per cent of the 125 surfaces swabbed after cleaning and/or sanitising was unsatisfactory.

Furthermore, 46 per cent of the 48 food service con-

tainers (food boxes) sampled were unsatisfactory.

Surveys are presently being conducted in Linden, the Essequibo Coast and other parts of the capital city.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 23, 2019

17

Around the World

India’s Health Ministry wants Argentina Minister defends to ban electronic cigarettes peso amid default risk

T

he Health Ministry of India has proposed a ban on the production and import of electronic cigarettes, documents seen

by Reuters showed, potentially jeopardising the expansion plans of big firms such as Juul Labs and Philip Morris International.

The Ministry has proposed that the Government issue an executive order banning the devices in the public interest, saying this is needed to ensure e-ciga-

rette use doesn’t become an “epidemic” among children and young adults.

“E-cigarettes and similar technologies that encourage tobacco use or adversely impact public health are hazardous for an active as well as passive user,” the Health Ministry said in an internal note that was seen

by Reuters and that the Federal Cabinet is expected to consider.

Health officials are proposing jail terms of up to

three years, with a penalty of up to 500,000 rupees (US$7000), for repeat offenders who violate the new rules, according to a draft of the executive order.

It was not immediately clear whether the draft executive order will face changes, or when it will be approved.

The Ministry’s plans would deal a blow to Juul Labs Inc, an electric cigarette company that is based in the United States, is hop-

ing to launch its e-cigarette in India, and has hired several senior executives in recent months.

Advocates for the devices say smoking e-cigarettes is far less harmful than smoking tobacco because users do not inhale the same dangerous matter.

But many tobacco-control activists are opposed to e-cigarettes, saying they could lead to nicotine addiction and push people to consume tobacco. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Too late for new Brexit deal, France’s Macron tells Johnson

F

rench President Emmanuel Macron told Prime Minister Boris Johnson on Thursday that there was not enough time to wholly rewrite Britain’s Brexit divorce deal before an October 31 deadline.

Johnson met Macron at the Elysee Palace a day after talks in Berlin with German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who challenged Britain to come up with acceptable alternatives to the agreed safety net provision for the UK-Irish land border.

More than three years after the United Kingdom voted to quit the European Union, it is still unclear on what terms - or indeed whether - the bloc’s sec-

French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Boris Johnson speak during a meeting at the Elysee Palace in Paris, France, August 22, 2019

ond-largest economy will leave the club it joined in 1973.

Macron left the door open to Britain seeking a solution

to the Irish “backstop”, but said any alternative must respect both the integrity of the EU single market and stability on the divided is-

land of Ireland.

“I want to be very clear,” he said. “In the month ahead, we will not find a new withdrawal agreement that deviates far from the original.”

On his first trip abroad since entering 10 Downing Street a month ago, Johnson has warned Merkel and Macron that they face a potentially disorderly no-deal Brexit on October 31 unless the EU does a new deal.

Speaking in The Hague, Merkel said she had not meant to set a deadline when saying on Wednesday that a solution to the Irish border issue could be found within 30 days, but to “highlight the urgency”. (Excerpt from

Reuters)

Trinidad: House crumbles in freak storm

G

alvanised roofing sheets of over 40 homes blew off during heavy rain and winds on Tuesday leaving people and their property soaked and damaged. But one man stepped out his house seconds before the family’s home crumbled.

Standing on Wednesday in the debris at Aripero Village, Trinidad, crab catcher Sham Maraj said the wooden house started to

rock because of the strong winds and heavy rain.

Maraj, 52, his common-law wife Monica Thornhill, 44, and his 15-year-old daughter Bridget are now homeless.

Maraj said: “There was no warning. Within seconds, everything was gone. There was nothing I could have done. The house started to rock and with that, I walked out. That was the end of it. When I looked back, the

house was flat”.

Looking at broken items, Maraj added: “I born and grow up here. My father always taught me that whenever I see rain and a hard breeze to go for shelter,” Maraj said.

Thornhill was at Chaguanas when the house, which is not wired for electricity, came crashing down.

Chaguanas was sunny and when she received a call about it, initially she did not

believe it.

“My daughter said the house fall. I asked if the roof came off and she said no ‘everything fall’. Last night, Sham and I spend the night in the car, and she stayed by someone. He has diabetes and has to get surgery because he cannot see in one eye,” Thornhill said.

The family does not know where they will get money to start the rebuilding process.

produced long-range missile defence system.

Iran began production after the purchase of Russia’s S-300 system was suspended in 2010 due to international sanctions that have barred it from importing many weapons. It installed the stalled S-300 system in March 2016 following several years of delays in the wake of the now-crumbling 2015 nuclear deal.

Speaking at the ceremony, Rouhani said the mobile surface-to-air system was “better than S-300 and close to [more advanced] S-400.”

With a range of more than 200km, Iran’s official IRNA

Bavar-373 has been introduced as the country’s first domestically made long-range missile defence system [Reuters]

(Excerpt from Trinidad Newsday)

Iran unveils new missile defence system, calls US talks ‘useless’

I

ranian President Hassan Rouhani has inducted a locally built air-defence system into the country’s missile defence network at an unveiling ceremony in the capital, Tehran.

The display of the new system, Bavar-373, on Tuesday came amid heightened tensions with the United States, which last year unilaterally withdrew from a multinational nuclear deal signed between world powers and Iran and reimposed crippling sanctions on it.

Iranian officials have previously called Bavar, which means “believe” in Farsi, the country’s first domestically

news agency said the longrange missile system is suited to the country’s geography.

In his speech, Rouhani also struck a muscular tone on dealings with the US, saying that “talks are useless” over the nuclear deal.

Zarif added, however, Iran

would not tolerate US interference in the Gulf, warning against Washington’s efforts to create a security mission to guard shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital gateway for global oil supplies. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Treasury Minister Hernan Lacunza was appointed last week

A

rgentina will use its dollar reserves to shore up declines in its currency, Treasury Minister Hernan Lacunza has said, as markets brace for a default.

Debt ratings agency Fitch said the peso’s recent depreciation “suggests a real risk of default”.

Fitch said it also “raises the potential for a sharper deterioration in economic growth”.

Much of Argentina’s debt is priced in dollars and the peso’s decline makes it harder to afford the interest.

Default occurs when the original terms of a loan are not met and can lead to anything from a delayed interest payment to a much more

serious failure to repay the debt.

Argentina’s central bank has spent $709m to bolster the peso since the 11 August primary election, which triggered a collapse in the value of the currency.

President Mauricio Macri was beaten in the nominating contest by centre-left candidate Alberto Fernandez, who is now expected to win the presidential election in October.

Since that result, traders have been worried that Fernandez could take Argentina back to populist economic policies.

The peso fell 0.53% at 55.03 to the US dollar. Prior to the poll, a dollar bought just 45 pesos. (Excerpt from BBC News)

China blames Canada for difficulties in relationship, demands Huawei exec be freed

C

hina’s embassy in Canada said on Thursday that bilateral ties were suffering “gross difficulties,” and demanded Ottawa free Huawei Technologies Co Ltd Chief Financial Officer Meng Wanzhou.

Relations have been icy since Meng was detained in Vancouver last December on a US warrant.

China has since charged two Canadians with spying and halted imports of canola seed and meat products from Canada.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Wednesday said his Government had no intention of backing down in the dispute and would defend Canada’s interests.

In a response to Trudeau’s speech, the embassy told Reuters that China would also always defend its interests.

“China adheres to the

principle of equality between all countries, no matter big or small. ... ChinaCanada relations now suffer gross difficulties and the Canadian side knows very well the root cause,” the embassy said in an email.

“Canada should release Ms Meng Wanzhou immediately and ensure her safe return to China, and bring bilateral relations back onto the right track,” the embassy said.

Trudeau and Canadian Foreign Minister Chrystia Freeland met US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo in Ottawa for talks on Thursday.

Pompeo assured Trudeau that American officials were working to free the two Canadian men.

“Please do note that our team is focused on helping those two Canadians be released,” Pompeo said. “It’s wrong that they are being held.” (Excerpt from Reuters)

Bolivia: Opposition rallies against President’s re-election bid

O

pposition groups have held a strike across much of Bolivia.

They’re angry with President Evo Morales for seeking a fourth consecutive term in office.

They say he’s acting unconstitutionally by ignoring a national referendum, which showed voters were against him standing again.

But Morales is leading in opinion polls ahead of the October elections. (Al Jazeera)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 23, 2019

ARCHIE

ARIES

Gather information and

(March 21- explore your options. Don’t April 19) let your emotions cause

you to forgo something vital for someone else’s sake.

Nothing ventured, nothing gained.

TAURUS A change is heading (April 20- your way. Get ready to take May 20) advantage of a chance to learn something new, travel somewhere exciting or spend time with a loved one.

dilbert

You’ll be torn between GEMINI what you want and what (May 21June 20) you know is best for you.

It’s OK to think big, but taking baby steps will help you avoid a costly mistake.

Peanuts

CANCER (June 21July 22)

How you help others will influence the outcome of a situation that’s important to you. Partnerships and sharing should be your top priorities. Love and romance will ease stress.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Take care of family affairs. Update contracts and personal documents, and do your best to lower your overhead. Don’t trust someone else to handle your affairs properly.

If someone questions VIRGO (Aug. 23- your motives, take a more Sept. 22) in-depth look to ensure that you are making the changes you want and not just trying to please someone who is pressuring you.

Calvin and Hobbes

Don’t expect others to do LIBRA things for you or hand you an (Sept. 23opportunity on a silver platOct. 23) ter. If you want something, pursue it wholeheartedly so you can call it your own.

SUDOKU

Listen to reason and recogSCORPIO nize the cockamamie. Knowing (Oct. 24the difference between what’s Nov. 22) doable and what’s not will be what counts at the end of the day. Trust your instincts, not someone’s bluster.

SAGITTARIUS You don’t have to become something you are not (Nov. 23to prove yourself to others.

Dec. 21) Learn to love who you are and to associate with people who value your friendship.

Avoid emotional foolhardiness.

If you negotiate on your CAPRICORN own behalf, you’ll get what you (Dec. 22want. Whether you are in purJan. 19) suit of more attention, cash or a better lifestyle, determination, persuasiveness and a little patience are favored.

solution for last published puzzle AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Take care of personal matters to avoid getting into a senseless dispute. Have a clear picture of the changes you want to put into play and proceed openly.

Listen to someone who PISCES has never let you down. You (Feb. 20may not like what you hear, March 20) but it will be good for you to hear it. Avoid temptation.

friday, august 23, 2019

19

Australia rolled for 179 – Jofra Archer claims 6-45 A

nyone watching his debut at Lord’s would be left in little doubt as to what Jofra Archer brings to this England side, but his six-wicket haul rammed the message home all the same, as Australia were bowled out for 179 on the opening day of the third Test at Headingley.

It was a case of another day and another intriguing chapter in this Ashes contest, as David Warner found some form and Marnus Labuschagne, only in the side because Steven Smith was still suffering the effects of being concussed by Archer, top-scored for Australia for the second time in as many innings. But Archer, playing just his second Test, had the last word, his 6 for 45 putting England on top.

Despite rain and bad light forcing a delayed start, and long, frustrating stretches without any play at all, there were enough twists and turns amidst the action to ensure it was in keeping with the rest of the series so far.

England, keen to make the most of Joe Root’s decision to bowl in overcast conditions, upon winning the toss and having already reduced the tourists to 25 for 2, were stymied, first by the weather they had hoped would work in their favour, and then by the stubborn pairing of

Warner and Labuschagne.

But just as it looked like Warner might dig in, after rediscovering some much-needed form with his first double-figures’ score of the series and then having a caught-behind decision rightfully overturned, he exited; the first in a flurry of three wickets that had England back in control, as Australia slid from 136 for 2 to 139 for 5 in the space of 15 balls.

That became 162 for 6, thanks to Root’s deft use of the DRS when Tim Paine was given not out lbw on 11 to a Chris Woakes’ inswinger, with replays showing the ball hit the knee roll in line and would have taken the top of leg stump.

But as in the second Test, when he came in as Smith’s concussion replacement and scored 59, Labuschagne produced another composed innings. After play started 70 minutes late, Archer struck in the fourth over of the match when he had Marcus Harris - in the side for Cameron Bancroft, who was dropped after scores of 8, 7, 13 and 16 in the series so far - caught behind for 8.

Harris’s disappointment was compounded as the players immediately followed him off the field because the rain had returned. After lunch was taken early, Stuart Broad had Usman

Khawaja out just as cheaply early in the second session, caught down the leg side after a confident and ultimately successful review by Root. The England players looked rather dubious when play was halted as light rain began to fall again, with Warner on 18 and Labuschagne yet to score; and they were even slower to leave when bad light was called 3.1 overs into the resumption. An elongated tea break was followed, however, by a break in the weather, which is forecast to be fine for the coming days.

That, however, did not lift England’s mood, as they became bogged down in a tenacious partnership between Warner and Labushcagne, which yielded 111 runs. Warner reached his half-century off 79 balls with a four off Woakes, and booing could be heard as the batsman, still finding his way back into the game following his yearlong ball-tampering ban, acknowledged the crowd, which also offered warm applause as his wife and two of his three young daughters cheered him on from the stands. Warner was on 61, and mighty swift to call for

Shuriken Martial Arts International Championships…

GPF and HEMAA dominate

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he Guyana Police Force (GPF) and the Harpy Eagle Martial Arts Academy (HEMAA) have performed outstandingly at the Shuriken Martial Arts International Championships contested between Guyana and Suriname on Sunday August 18th, 2019 in Nickerie, Suriname.

Six members of the Guyana Police Force and two from the Harpy Eagle Martials Arts Club attended these championships on behalf of the two mentioned entities. They returned with 13 gold, 2 silver and 2 bronze medals earned from contesting in five categories, namely: - Empty Hand Kata, Weapons Kata, Point Sparring, Self-Defense and Kick Boxing.

Invited to comment, Sensei Bobb of the GPF said he was extremely proud of the results, as both of these entities have continued to excel in their outings. Bobb said the tournament creates exposure for newcomers from both sides, as they are able to showcase their skills

on a large platform. He also noted that there were 25 participants in the tournament, and said he is optimistic that the teams would again participate in this tournament in 2020.

Listed below are the results of the tournament:

Gold

Name

Canesha Phillips 29-35 Police Gold Gold

Age group Club Emptyhand Kata Weapon Kata Point sparring Self - defence Kick- boxing Anthony Das Cyril 5-7 Harpy Eagle Bronze Gold Gold Aykel Cromwell 7-10 Harpy Eagle Gold Gold Dion Bobb 20-22 Police Gold

Troy Bobb Jr. 23-26 Police

Shenese Babb 22-26 Police Silver Gold Gold Silver

Paul Ignatius 3 5 - a n d over Police Gold Gold Bronze Troy Bobb Sr. Masters Police Gold Gold Special gratitude has been extended to Police Commissioner Leslie James D.S.S, D.S.M, and his administrative team; and to Assistant Commissioner Clifton Hicken, Force Training Officer, for their assistance in making this tournament successful.

a review when he was given out caught behind off Broad, with UltraEdge revealing he had not hit the ball. He failed to add to his score, though, before Archer found the edge in the next over with a near-unplayable 90mph ball and Bairstow took the catch.

Far from the onslaught of speed and aggression he showed with such devastating effect at Lord’s, Archer bowled in more controlled spells, with no damage whatsoever to his figures. He still produced speed when he needed to, as Warner discovered, and enough bounce to keep the batsmen on their toes. He bowled the most overs with 17.1, having sent down 44 overs of venom in the previous match, which ended just four days ago.

Broad, too, caused Australia some problems, answering Labuchagne’s fifty celebration with a ball to the groin that took the batsman several minutes to recover from; and taking 2 for 32 from his 14 overs, including the dismissal of Travis Head for a duck with a gem of a delivery that crisply struck the top of off-stump, the second wicket

3

SCOREBOARD

DA Warner c †Bairstow b Archer

61 MS Harris c †Bairstow b Archer 8 UT Khawaja c †Bairstow b Bro ad 8 M Labuschagne lbw b Stokes 74 TM Head b Broad 0 MS Wade b Archer 0 TD Paine (c) † lbw b Woakes 11 JL Pattinson c Root b Archer 2 PJ Cummins c †Bairstow b Archer 0 NM Lyon lbw b Archer 1 JR Hazlewood not out 1 Extras 13 (b 4, lb 2, nb 2, w 5) TOTAL 179 all out (52.1 Overs, RR: 3.43) Fall of wickets: 1-12 (Marcus

of Australia’s mini-collapse.

Matthew Wade followed, also for a duck, after an Archer delivery struck him on the glove and thigh pad before dropping behind him and rolling gently into the base of leg stump.

Labuschagne carried on, as Paine, James Pattinson and Pat Cummins fell - the latter two more Archer fodder - before

Harris, 3.6 ov), 2-25 (Usman Khawaja, 8.4 ov), 3-136 (David Warner, 31.4 ov), 4-138 (Travis Head, 32.5 ov), 5-139 (Matthew Wade, 33.6 ov), 6-162 (Tim Paine, 42.6 ov), 7-173 (James Pattinson, 45.6 ov), 8-174 (Pat Cummins, 49.6 ov), 9-177 (Marnus Labuschagne, 51.2 ov), 10-179 (Nathan Lyon, 52.1 ov) Bowling SCJ Broad (14-4-32-2) JC Archer (17.1-3-45-6) CR Woakes (12-4-51-1) BA Stokes (9-0-45-1)

his bizarre dismissal, lbw to a dipping Ben Stokes’ full toss that he reviewed to find the ball would have smashed into the centre of middle stump. Nathan Lyon was the last man out -- and Archer’s sixth wicket -- lbw to a full, straight ball that was hitting leg stump, and which allowed England to claim the day. (Excerpt from Cricinfo)

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GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friday, august 23, 2019

West Indies-India 1st Test…

India save the blushes – with Rahane’s 81, after top-order collapse

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est Indies fought back late in the day, after two halfcentury stands had taken India to relative safety following a fiery opening spell that had pinned them to 25 for 3 inside eight overs.

Ajinkya Rahane and KL Rahul led the immediate fightback with a 68-run stand, and Rahane put on 82 with Hanuma Vihari as India dominated briefly in the middle session.

But Kemar Roach, architect of the early collapse, returned to cause trouble with the old ball; and, alongside opening partner Shannon Gabriel, helped reduce India to 203 for 6. Left-handers Rishabh Pant and Ravindra Jadeja, at the back end of India’s elongated batting order for this Test, were unbeaten at stumps.

However, the delicious ebb-and-flow of the game was cut short. Intermittent rainfall meant a 15-minute delayed start, an early finish to the last two sessions; and, ultimately, only 68.5 overs of play.

But this moisture is what had prompted Jason Holder to elect to bowl, and his bowlers delivered immediately, with a fiery opening spell. In a largely cloudy first hour, Roach was, by some distance, the bowler who bowled the fullest length, and was rewarded for it. With steep climb from a length, he pinned the openers to the crease, and it didn’t take him long to get one of them to poke with hard hands, although Mayank Agarwal had no choice but to do so against a ball holding its line after coming in. He got a thin outside edge, as did Cheteshwar Pujara, four balls later. India’s No. 3 was rooted to his leg stump guard and pushing away from the body, although, based on the offstump line, he too had little choice.

Shai Hope, stand-in wicketkeeper for the injured Shane Dowrich, had little trouble taking both those catches.

While nagging in the corridor did the job for those two, West Indies needed a little more brute force with Virat

over slip off the next one, as the batsman looked to cut a short ball. They were possibly the

the day, was removed from the attack following his next over, when Vihari drilled him down the ground.

But it was this change that eventually paid off. Roach and Gabriel were back bowling in tandem, and Vihari’s aggressive streak led to him opening the face slightly, on a defence against Roach and edging to Hope, who took a dipping ball well in front with a dive.

Rahane’s three boundaries in the session had come with horizontally-batted shots, including a picturesque square

3

Roston Chase getting KL Rahul caught down the leg side

Kohli. Gabriel had been spliced through point, and then driven down the ground by the India captain, who as per usual had looked India’s most confident batsman within minutes of arriving. That was until Gabriel’s burst of three consecutive short balls. One had him hopping, one sneaked under an early pull to hit him on his right elbow; and against the third, Kohli jabbed away from the body, lobbing one harmlessly for debutant Shamarh Brooks at gully.

Walking in at 25 for 3, Rahane showed immense restraint against a red-hot West Indies pace attack, which greeted him at the crease with a short one into his midriff.

At one point early in the day, Holder had bowled four consecutive maidens to him.

He hung in with Rahul, another Indian batsman with a point to prove, and the pair made it past the opening hour.

Both batsmen seemed to have made a concerted effort not to drive away from the body, a decision backing their myriad straight drives through the day. While not all of those drives produced runs or boundaries on a two-paced pitch, the batsmen seemed content to wait it out.

They gave themselves permission to expand their games in the second session only when the sun was out and there was no swing on offer. The first cover-driven boundaries came during this period.

But just as he looked like he had set himself up for a fifty, Rahul was caught sharply down the leg side by Shai Hope off Roston Chase. Rahul was visibly disappointed as he walked off. With the chance to make a substantial overseas score gone in somewhat unfortunate circumstances, it wasn’t surprising.

One of the most stirring passages of the day came after tea. After an afternoon of figuring out the pace of the wicket, Rahane and Vihari began aggressively. Off the second over of the session, Rahane dismissed a Roston Chase short ball, and set off a ripple that carried into the next 30 minutes, with the two batsmen one would typecast into anchor roles scoring briskly.

At one point, the session run rate was over seven per over.

Inside this phase was an over in which Miguel Cummins had Vihari edge past second slip on the defence, beaten him on the straight drive next ball, and drew an edge that flew

best few minutes of Cummins’s day. The fast bowler struggled to hit consistent lengths, and after being too short most of

drive on the rise against Roach. It was perhaps with this confidence that he chased Gabriel away from the body, on his toes to try and punch through the covers. But in a similar manner to Kohli, he was through the shot too early, as the pitch took some pace off the ball. He chopped on, and kept his two-year wait for a Test century going.

Rahane did, however, play the kind of innings for which India have continued to back him during his prolonged lull in form.

SCOREBOARD

India 1st Innings KL Rahul c †Hope b Chase 44 MA Agarwal c †Hope b Roach 5 CA Pujara c †Hope b Roach 2 V Kohli (c) c Brooks b Gabriel 9 AM Rahane b Gabriel 81 GH Vihari c †Hope b Roach

32 RR Pant † not out 20 RA Jadeja not out 3 Extras 7 (b 1, lb 5, nb 1) TOTAL 203/6 (68.5 Overs, RR: 2.94) Yet to bat: I Sharma, Mohammed Shami, JJ

Bumrah Fall of wickets: 1-5 (Mayank Agarwal, 4.2 ov), 2-7 (Cheteshwar Pujara, 4.6 ov), 3-25 (Virat Kohli, 7.5 ov), 4-93 (KL Rahul, 34.2 ov), 5-175 (Hanuma Vihari, 54.5 ov), 6-189 (Ajinkya Rahane, 59.4 ov) BOWLING KAJ Roach ST Gabriel JO Holder ML Cummins RL Chase

O M R 17 6 34 15 3 49 15 9 27 10 0 45 11.5 1 42

W 3 2 0 0 1

Dowrich ruled out of opening Test with ankle injury

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est Indies Test wicketkeeper-batsman Shane Dowrich has sustained an ankle injury and has been omitted from playing in the ongoing first Test match between West Indies and India.

Having played 30 Test matches for the Caribbean team, Dowrich has had to hand over the gloves to regular One Day International (ODI) wicket-keeper Shai Hope, who has taken smart catches to dismiss India’s in-form batsmen Mayank Agarwal, Cheteshwar Pujara and Hanuma Vihari.

West Indies ‘A’ team player and Leeward Islands wicketkeeper Jahmar Hamilton has been called up as cover for Hope, while former West Indies Under-19 pacer Chemar Holder has also been called into the squad as cover.

Recognised as the number one Test wicketkeeper in the Caribbean, Dowrich has scored three Test centuries and eight half-centuries.

Hamilton, who captained the West Indies XI against India in the three-day warm-up match, has been in the Test squad for the tour to India, where he kept wicket as a substitute. He is yet to make his Test debut, since the Barbadian duo of Dowrich and Hope enjoy the advantage of preference.

Chemar Holder, who has shown great promise

Shane Dowrich

in the recently concluded India ‘A’ tour, is closer to a Test debut. The Barbadian has taken 40 first class wickets in his 11 matches, and has a best bowling figure of 5-54 against the star-studded India ‘A’ team, which he took last month.

A wicketkeeper injury would suggest that Anthony Bramble, leading wicketkeeper-batsman at the 4-day level, should have been called up as cover for Dowrich.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 23, 2019

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2019 Caribbean Mini and Pre Cadet Table Tennis Championships…

Guyana U-11, U-13 boys storm into quarter finals

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21

The victorious Guyana team

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uyana enjoyed a great outing on the first day when they booked their places into the quarterfinals, when play commenced in the team events of the 2019 Caribbean Mini and Pre cade Table Tennis Championships being held at the Gymnasium Santo Domingo Dominican Republic.

13 and under boy’s category

Guyana’s under 13 boys team one (A1) of Jonathan Van Lange and Krystian Sahadeo were first up for Guyana when they repelled the challenge Dominican Republic Team three (B1) by a 3- 1 margin in a closely contested encounter seeded two in group 4 along with teams of Dom Rep B1, Trinidad and Tobago 2 and Puerto Rico as the top seed.

The inform Jonathan Van Lange started proceedings when he defeated Andelson Acevedo by a 3-0 margin 1 – 11; 5 - 11 ;12 - 14. Krystian Sahadeo after winning the first game lost to Abraham Cabral by a 3-1 margin (12 - 10, 8 - 11, 13 - 11, 11 – 9).

The team of Sahadeo and Van lange then won the doubles by a 3- 2 margin in a tense competitive over the pair of Andelson Acevedo and Abraham CABRAL to give Guyana a 2-1 lead. Jonathan Van Lange then close proceedings to give Guyana the victory when he defeated Cabral and Abraham by a 3-1 margin.

The team then faced the top seeds for group 4 Puerto Rico in a key match to determine the top seed of the group spurred on by the parents and team mates in attendance Jonathan Vanlange started proceedings for Guyana when he defeated Centeno Giovanni by a 3-2

margin in a tough encounter with scores of (14 - 12, 11 - 8, 7 - 11, 6 - 11, 9 – 1).

Krystian lost to Yadier Lopez by a 3-1 margin after winning the first game in what seemed like a lost in concentration. Vanlange and Sahadeo then teamed up and held their nerves to win a critical doubles match over Lopez and Centeno to extend Guyana’s lead after fighting back from a 2 -0 deficit to win 11 - 6,11 - 6 ,9 - 11, 8 - 1 and 4 – 11).

Sahadeo fought valiantly but concede to Centeno by a 3-1 margin. Jonathan Van Lange who seemed to be in ripping form then close proceedings for Guyana when he defeated LOPEZ by a 3-0 margin with scores of 7 - 11, 5 - 11 and 9 - 11.

The Guyana duo of Van Lange and Sahadeo then defeated Trinidad and Tobago Team 2 by a 3-0 margin to earn the top seed in group advancing to the quarterfinals.

Guyana B under 13 boy’s category

Guyana’s other under 13 Boys of Dhanesh Persaud and Colin Wong didn’t enjoy a successful outing in their first match when they faced the top seeded Dominican Republic Team of Ramon Vila and Cabrera Rafael in group one losing a 3-0 margin.

Colin Wong started proceedings for Guyana against the experienced Ramon Vila with scores of 11 - 6, 11 - 4,8 - 11 and 11 – 6. Dhanesh Persuad then lost to Rafael Cabrera by a 3-0 margin. The team then lost the doubles by a 3-0 margin in what seemed like a bad day at the office.

However, they rebounded in the afternoon session to defeat Jamaica A1 by a 3-1 margin to advance to the quarter finals from

group one as the second seeded team.

Girls 11 and Under category

Guyana 11 years and under girls’ team of Jasmine Billingy, Samara Sukhai and Akira Watson facing Trinidad and Tobago Team (A) in their first challenge of the competition lost to Trinidad and Tobago by a 3-1 margin. Billingy started Guyana’s quest on a positive note when she faced and defeated Ashlea Mohammed by a 3-1 margin with scores of 11 - 3,8 11, 11 - 7 and 11 – 8.

Trinidad and Tobago Caribbean Hopes qualifier Chloe FRASER then de-

feated Akira Watson 3-0 (9 - 11, 3 - 11 and 2 – 11).

The Guyanese pair of Billingy and Watson then lost to Trinidad and Tobago pair of Ashlea Mohammed and Chloe Fraser by a 3-1 margin in the doubles encounter to give Trinidad a 2-1 lead. Billingy then lost to Fraser by a 3-0 margin to give Trinidad and Tobago the victory by a 3-1 margin.

The girls team then faced Dominican Republic B1 team of Guerrero Yesmeily and Brioso Mileizy, this time with the inclusion of the talented Samara Sukhai in a must win encounter in order to advance to the knockout stage, however despite valiant efforts and close matches the pressure was a bit too much when Billingy lost to Guerrero and Yesmeily by a 3-1 margin with some key mistakes made at crucial points of the match scores of 14 - 12, 7 - 11, 8 - 11 and 9 - 11.

Samara Sukhai fought valiant to level things but was overcome by Mileizy in a close encounter losing 3-1 with scores of 11 - 7, 5 - 11, 11 - 13 and 3 – 11.

With the pressure mounting, the pair of Billingy and Sukhai came to the table ready to change their fortunes and qualify for the knockout stage however despite their effort they lost to the team of Yesmeily and Mileizy by a 3-2 margin in a nail biting encounter with scores of 6 - 11, 6 - 11,11 - 9 and 11 - 9.

Boys 11 years and under category

Guyana Boys 11 years and under team of Ebo Mc neil and Malachi Moore seeded two in group 4

along with Jamaica A and Dominican Republic team 3 (B1) started their quest on the table seeded against Jamaica (A) in the afternoon session.

The team fighting some jitters in their first match never settled losing to Jamaica A 3-0.

The team then faced Dominican Republic B in a must win encounter in order to advance, determined they seem to ensure that their fortunes from the previous match was reversed the Guyanese duo came out with the fight and determination.

Malachi Moore who was Guyana’s participant at the Caribbean Hopes Training Camp started proceedings with a victory over Samuel Garcia by a 3-0 margin 11 - 4,11 - 7 and 11 – 9, Ebo Mc neil playing in his first international match lost to Ivan Vila by a 3-0 margin.

The Guyanese duo then team up for the critical doubles encounter where they defeated Samuel Garcia and Ivan Vila by a hard fought 3-2 margin with nail biting scores of 11 - 13, 6 11, 11 - 9, 11 - 6 and 11 – 9 to give Guyana the 2-1 lead.

Malachi Moore then lost to Ivan Vila by a 3-2 margin in a game he should have won with scores of 9 - 11, 11 - 8, 6 - 11, 11 - 9 and 8 – 11.

This set the stage for Mc Neil and Garcia to battle to see who would take their country to the knockout stage, Mc Neil with lots of fight showed his class when he came back from a match down 6-2 in the second game to win by a 3-1 margin to give Guyana the victory and the under 11 boys their shot at a quarterfinal.

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friday, august 23, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

GCB/Region 6 Sports Organiser Guyana shine in CAREBACO to host cricket workshop Open Doubles’ divisions

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atering for male and female cricketers at the Under-15 level, the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), in collaboration with the Region 6 Sports Organiser, will host a 4-day cricket workshop at the Albion Community Centre Ground in East Berbice from Tuesday August 27 to Friday August 30.

Region 6 Sports Organiser Godwin Allicock has disclosed that this cricket workshop will be spearheaded by Cricket West Indies (CWI) Level Three Coach Julian Moore, CWI Level Two Coaches Tremayne Smartt and Anthony D’Andrade, veteran Michael Hyles, and GCB Territorial Developmental Officer (TDO) Colin Stuart, the former West Indies Test

Colin Stuart

pacer.

With female cricket in focus, one of the main aims of this cricket workshop is to attain a larger crop of female cricketers. Since newly elected Cricket West Indies President Ricky Skerritt has made female cricket a priority, this initiative will unearth more young fe-

T

Flashback: Godwin Allicock and Julian Moore

male players who may perhaps represent CWI at the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham 2022.

This workshop will be used as a building block for the Commonwealth Games, which will be played in the 20-over format. The Under-15 males will also gain cricketing knowledge from some of the top coaches and cricketing personnel in the country.

The Berbice area is known for producing numerous cricketing talents, both males and females. The crop of Guyana’s female players has emerged from ‘the ancient county’, and this workshop is certainly aimed at recognising these young talents at an early age.

Among those female cricketers that have emerged as successful play-

ers for their country and have been recognised at the West Indies level are Shemaine Campbelle, who grew up in the Liverpool area of Corentyne; Sheneta Grimmond, who also grew up in Corentyne Berbice, and Shabika Gajnabi, the humble female cricketer from Chesney in Albion.

These three ladies, who play for the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club, are Berbice female players who have been in the West Indies teams and training camps.

The under-15 males who would be engaged in this cricket workshop will one day seek to follow in the footsteps of current West Indies Under-15 Berbician players Isai Thorne and Rampertab Ramnauth, who are currently in England.

he Guyanese Badminton team has so far had mixed fortunes since the beginning of the Caribbean Regional Badminton Confederation (CAREBACO) Open International tournament.

Following their successful stint at the Junior competition, Priyanna Ramdhani, Akili Haynes, Tyrese Jeffrey, Jonathan Mangra and Narayan Ramdhani suited up for the more competitive Open International tournament, which began on Tuesday, August 20.

Hosted at the Garfield Sobers Gymnasium in St. Michael Barbados, badminton players from 23 countries, namely Czech Republic, Germany, Panama, USA, Canada, Italy, Luxembourg, Wales, Poland, Finland, Iceland, Slovakia, Suriname, Haiti, Brazil, Ecuador, Mexico, Jamaica, England, Trinidad and Tobago, Barbados, and Mongolia, are not only competing for gold medals but also Olympic qualifying points.

While all the male players had wins in the preliminary round of the men’s singles, they were not as fortunate when the competition got more intense.

Akili Haynes lost to Vinson Chiu of USA 21-8, 21-8, Tyrese Jeffrey was defeated by Samuel O'Brian Ricketts of Jamaica 214, 21-6, and Jonathan Mangra was dispatched by Sam Parsons of England 21-5, 21-12.

Being the only Guyanese male player to com-

A glimpse of the mixed doubles action featuring the Ramdhani siblings

pete in round 2, Narayan Ramdhani registered a loss to Slovakia’s Milan Dratva 21-12, 21-6.

Priyanna Ramdhani also bowed out of the singles competition in the second round, after she was defeated by Mexico’s Haramara Gaitan 21-15, 21-13.

On the other hand, Guyana was dominant in the doubles’ divisions, having advanced to the quarterfinals in the mixed doubles, men’s doubles and ladies’ doubles categories.

Narayan Ramdhani and Jonathan Mangra defeated Shae Michael Martin & Gavin Robinson of Barbados 21-12, 21-10 in the men’s doubles to advance.

Meanwhile, the Ramdhani siblings made light work of the Barbados duo of Cory Fanus & Monyata Riviera 21-12, 1821, 21-14.

The quarterfinal was contested on Thursday evening, but up to this publication’s press time, there were no results available.

2nd annual Bartica Basketball GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power U-17 League Camp begins today Henrietta United hammer FC Castle

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he second annual Bartica Basketball Camp, which bounces off today and concludes on Sunday in that town, was launched yesterday at the head office of major sponsor, Grace Kennedy Remittance Services (GKRS) on Water Street, Georgetown.

The organisers of the three-day event, which will be hosted at the Bartica Community Centre hard court, the Hercules Basketball Academy, through their Head, Andrew Hercules, explained that the camp will continue to focus on the 6-18 years age group and will be based primarily on the fundamentals of the sport— namely, dribbling, passing, defensive techniques, and shooting.

During the launch yesterday, it was also revealed that there will also be sessions based on the rules of the game, along with scholarship guidance and valuable life skills will also be taught to the youths.

Registration for the camp is free and today, the workshop will commence

– play continues over the weekend

GKRS Tina Gibson (left) presents the sponsorship cheque to Andrew Hercules, who will be running the basketball camp, while Marion Fiedtkou (centre) watches on

at 15:00h and conclude at 18:00h. Meanwhile, during the weekend, there will be two sessions per day. The first will occur from 10:00h to 12:00h, while the second will be 13:30h to 15:30h.

On both Saturday and Sunday evening from 19:00h, Georgetown-based team Plaisance Guardians will bounce with the home team Bartica Wranglers in two anticipated friendly matches at the same Bartica Community Centre

basketball court.

Tina Gibson of Grace Kennedy posited during the launch that, “It’s our corporate duty to give back and develop the young minds of the next generation, so we are pleased to support the camp”.

Hercules noted that in addition to the major sponsorship of GKRS, the camp has also gained the support of the National Sports Commission (NSC) and Banks DIH Limited.

Dartmouth Dominators Football Club will come up against Good Hope Football Club from 15:00hrs today at the New Opportunity Corp Ground, as competition in the Essequibo Coast/Pomeroon leg of the GFF/NAMILCO Thunderbolt Flour Power U-17 League continues.

In the latest match, contested on Thursday at the same venue, Henrietta United waltzed to a huge 11-2 triumph over FC Castle, led by a helmet-trick and hat-trick from Alderon Austin and Ezekiel Scott. Austin hit the network in the 18th, 74th, 77th and 84th minutes, while Scott was on target in the 3rd, 5th and 6th minutes.

Tareak Johnson netted a double (12th, 88th), while there was one each coming from Emmanuel Smith (11th) and Shawn Norton (36th).

Converting FC Castle’s consolation goals were Griffith Ronaldo (7th) and Eloyd Miguel(58th).

Shawn Norton (left), Tareak Johnson, Ezekiel Scott. Emmanuel Smith and Aldreon Austin (stooping) – Henrietta United FC

EBFA Leg Play in the East Bank Football Association leg will continue on Saturday at the Timehri Red Ground with three matches.

Timehri Panthers ‘B’ will open action from 10:00hrs against Soesdyke Falcons.

Next up will be Herstelling Raiders and Friendship All Stars from 12:00hrs, with the final encounter of the day, from 14:00hrs, being between Samatta Point/Kaneville and Timehri Panthers ‘A’.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 23, 2019

Mohammed, Ottley in Patriots squad as cover for Udana and Jones J

a s o n Mohammed and his Trinidad and Tobago team mate Kjorn Ottley are due to enter the St Kitts and Nevis Patriots’ squad as cover for Isuru Udana and Aaron Jones

Aaron Jones.

The St Kitts & Nevis Patriots have announced two Isuru Udana temporary replacements to their

squad for the upcoming season, both due to international commitments for players they selected at the Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) draft.

U d a n a , the left-arm seamer, is unavailable for the first two games of the CPL season due to Sri Lanka’s ongoing series against New Zealand. He will be replaced for the first two matches of the Patriots’ campaign by Trinidadian

b a t s m a n Mohammed, who played for the Guyana Amazon Warriors (GAW) last season, and with 1,211 runs in T20 cricket, is an experienced campaigner.

The Patriots ICC Americas pick at the draft, Aaron Jones, will be playing for the USA until September 14. The draft rules allow for the ICC Americas player to be temporarily replaced by a Caribbean national. Jones, a right handed batsman has plied his trade in the USA in white ball cricket, but has played mostly for Barbados, from the Under-15s to First Class.

His most recent First-class match for Barbados Pride came against Guyana Jaguars at the National Stadium at Providence in March 2019.

While Jones is away on in-

New GPC refresh Limacol Tournament for 4th year

F

or the fourth consecutive year, New GPC, under their Limacol brand, will be the chief sponsors of the Limacol Football tournament which gives senior teams a chance to showcase talents.

Over $750,000 in cash and prizes has been injected into the fourth edition of the annual event, which brings the best of the best nonelite football teams together for weeks of riveting competition.

This year’s tournament will see participation from 12 teams, eight of which hail from Georgetown, two are from the East Coast of Demerara, one is from the Demerara West Coast, and one is from the Demerara East Bank.

Speaking on behalf of the organising body, Troy Mendonca of the Petra Organisation noted that while corporate entities may not necessarily have any direct returns from hosting tournaments, the reward comes in giving youths a platform to showcase their talent.

“There are a lot of times when companies might not be able to actually measure what they get out of it, but we create young leaders and athletes, and it builds their character.

This tournament alone would engage over 250 youths,” Mendonca explained.

Mendonca also expressed gratitude to the pharmaceutical company on behalf of the coordinating body and the wider football fraternity.

“We continue to praise New GPC for coming on board with us; and on behalf of Petra and the entire football fraternity, we want to say a big ‘thank you!’,” Mendonca stated.

The teams that will have a chance to vie for the $400,000 grand prize are: GFC, Pele, Camptown, Northern Rangers, Black Pearl, Beacon, Riddim Squad, Pouderoyen, Grove Hi Tech, Mahaica Determinators and Buxton Stars.

Meanwhile, GT Panthers and Eastveldt will have a play-off for the twelfth spot.

Citing New GPC’s co-ownership of the Guyana Amazon Warriors team, Company Director Zulfikar Ali stressed the company’s continued involvement in sport, and revealed his hopes for Guyana’s future in football.

“We pay a lot of emphasis on sport in

ternational duty, he will be replaced

by Kjorn Ottley, who was the leading run scorer for the Combined Colleges and Campuses team in the most recent Regional Super50 competition, a tournament which his team won.

K j o r n , brother of R e g i o n a l Super 50 ‘player of the tournament’ in 2019, Yannick Ottley, is a left-handed batsman who has 17 FirstClass matches under his belt and 36 List A Jason Mohammed

23

Kjorn Ottley

matches. His First Class high score is 99, while his List A high score is 80*.

Ottley has played for West Indies ‘A’ against India ‘A’ in the recently concluded ‘A’ Team OneDay tour.

St Kitts and Nevis Patriots full squad reads: Isuru Udana, Fabian Allen, Evin Lewis, Carlos Brathwaite, Rassie van der Dussen, Laurie Evans, Sheldon Cottrell, Devon Thomas, Rayad Emrit, Shamarh Brooks, Jeremiah Louis, Dominic Drakes, Afif Hossain, Keron Cottoy, Akeem Jordan, Usama Mir, Aaron Jones, Kjorn Ottley and Jason Mohammed (replacement players).

NSC throws support behind GAPLF – for upcoming NAPF Pan American Powerlifting & FESUPO South American Classic Powerlifting Classic Championship

A

New GPC Company Secretary Zulfikar Ali speaking at the launch

Guyana, and football is one of the sports that we see having a lot of opportunities and room for growth. We hope that one day, when our national team can qualify for the World Cup and maybe win that World Cup, we would have played a part in the early development stages, to groom our young footballers to raise their standards of play in a tournament that will give them experience and confidence to go further,” Ali explained.

He also expressed the New GPC’s commitment to assisting in the development of Guyanese athletes, especially in the football arena.

“You can always count on New GPC to partner with the Petra Organisation to grow football in Guyana,” this Company Secretary pledged.

The Limacol Football Tournament is expected to kick off next Saturday, August 31, at the Ministry of Education Ground on Carifesta Avenue.

The teams will participate in the round-robin group stage before advancing to the quarterfinals, semis and the final showdown. With a new champion set to be crowned, the twelve teams will be battling for a $400,000 first prize, while second place will walk away with $200,000. Third and fourth places will pocket $100,000 and $50,000 respectively. (Jemima Holmes)

team of 11 will depart the shores of Guyana to compete in the 2019 edition of the NAPF Pan American Powerlifting & FESUPO South American Classic Powerlifting Classic Championship in Piriapolis, Uruguay.

As such, the NSC have thrown their support behind the participating team by donating $3.6 million, both competitions will be held on September 18-23.

In a simple handover ceremony held at the NSC headquarters on Homestretch Avenue, Director of Sport Christopher Jones said, “The National Sports Commission has been approached by the Guyana Amateur Powerlifting Association to attend the upcoming event in Uruguay.

Guyana will be sending a delegation of 11 athletes, (and) of course the financial cost of offsetting said participation is somewhere within the vicinity of seven million. The NSC would have met with the President of the GAPLF, Ed Caesar, and his executives during the course of the year, to collect the relevant information so that the Sports Commission could be guided on setting out a significant financial contribution. The sum of money we have handed over will ensure the participation of the Guyanese

Sports Director Christopher Jones handing over a cheque to the Treasurer of the GAPLF, Colin Austin, in the presence of GAPLF President Ed Caesar and Executive member Runita Whyte

contingent at the upcoming games.”

Also speaking on behalf of the GAPLF was President Ed Caesar, who stated that the GAPLF focuses mainly on its athletes, as it caters for athletes from all age ranges. He noted that it is the federation’s goal to promote discipline in the athletes, as this would bring out the best in them. Caesar also noted that the federation is highly business-oriented and hopes that plans can be booked in the future to make the necessary preparations ahead of time.

He is optimistic about

the team’s performance when they depart Guyana on September 15.

The participating team includes: Athletes Franklyn Brisport, Noel Cummings, Lisa Oudit, Natoya Robinson, Nairanjan Singh, Nadina Taharally, Frank Tucker, Runita White, Bjorn Williams Officials Colin Andrews, Erwyn Smith, Gordon Spencer, Nadina Taharally, Runita White N.B. Two of the officials are also athletes.

Team Physiotherapist Kathleen Paul

friday, august 23, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Mohammed, Ottley in Patriots squad as cover for Udana and Jones

West Indies-India 1st Test…

Page 20

Page 23

India save the blushes

– with Rahane’s 81, after top-order collapse

New GPC refresh Limacol tournament for 4th year

Page 23 Petra’s Troy Mendonca, Shawn Embrack and Mark Alleyne, along with New GPC Company Secretary Zulfikar Ali and Marketing Executive Adam Rahaman

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