Guyana Times - December 21, 2018

Countdown to Christmas

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

Region 10 farmer supplies broccoli to Linden market

Page 14

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 3783

Friday, December 21, 2018

PRICE

Parliament debates no-confidence motion today

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Bent Street resident remanded for robbing, stabbing Policeman P8

Page 3

– Police Commissioner promises Opposition tight security Border controversy case

11 juveniles granted presidential pardon P10

More than $780M spent on legal fees in 2018 – Greenidge Page 7

Performance dips as 418 graduate from CPCE

2:00am P13 curfew relaxed for holiday season Duo get life imprisonment for murder of security guard P15

Best Graduating Student Annamarie Isserdeen Samaroo receives the Presidential Award of Excellence from Public Affairs Minister Dawn Hastings-Williams during the 84th graduation exercise of the Cyril Potter College of Education (CPCE) held on Thursday at the National Cultural Centre

Auto technician, doctor robbed by lone gunman Page 10

1 dead, 1 injured in Agricola shooting

Page 7 Dead: Kacey DaSilva

Visitors will be screened for infectious diseases – Ferguson P16

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, December 21 – a night retraction at 04:00h and a day retraction from 14:30h-16:00h and Saturday, December 22 – a night retraction at 04:30h and a day retraction from 14:30h-16:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, December 21 – 15:00h-16:30h and Saturday, December 22 – 15:45h-17:15h.

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY

Sunny intervals can be expected throughout the day, with clear skies in the evening. Temperatures are expected to range between 20 degrees Celsius and 29 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East North-easterly to North-easterly between 2.23 metres and 5.36 metres.

High Tide: 03:15h and 15:31h reaching maximum heights of 2.60 metres and 2.76 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 09:04h and 21:33h reaching maximum heights of 0.61 metre and 0.42 metre respectively.

WednesDAY, december 19, 2018

LOTTERY NUMBERS B

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FREE TICKET

24 Bonus Ball

thursDAY, december 20, 2018 DAILY MILLIONS

01 03 09 13 20 LUCKY 3

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

Parliament debates noconfidence motion today – Police Commissioner promises Opposition tight security

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parliamentary showdown on the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/Civic (PPP/C) motion of no-confidence in the David Granger-led Administration is set to take place today.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is urging Government Members of Parliament (MP) to vote their conscience, while the Government has expressed confidence of surviving the vote.

The Opposition Leader has already expressed fears that there may be attempts to disrupt the vote by persons in the gallery and has since called for fairness in this process.

According to him, it only takes one crossover vote or two abstentions from the Government side for them to win. The Government holds a one-seat majority in the National Assembly.

Jagdeo has said that because of this precarious margin and certain information his party has received, they were apprehensive. He hopes that the diplomatic community would bear witness to the proceedings, whichever way the vote turned out.

And while the Government has acknowledged there were challenges and a “few” missteps, it insisted that there were also “impressive” successes since 2015.

It bragged about its foreign affairs triumphs, the holding of Local Government Elections, regular Parliament sittings and Cabinet meetings and the “marked reduction” in serious crimes.

The Government went on to boast of installing “thousands” of street lights, improvements to education, “reliable public health care”, infrastructural advancements, and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) expansion project started under the former Government.

However, Jagdeo said the country is “drifting” because of a lack of vision of the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition Government. According to him, the No-Confidence Motion is intended to protect Guyanese and Guyana from the excessive borrowing, taxing and wasteful spending of the current Administration.

Several other key issues were listed by the Opposition.

Meanwhile, the AFC in a recent statement had said that the PPP/C is engaged in a distasteful act of tabling the motion at a time when President David Granger announced that he was seeking medical attention and needed the nation’s support.

The AFC labelled the motion “at best superfluous, and vexatious and at worse, a cowardly manoeuvre against the President, and should be withdrawn.”

But the PPP/C responded in a statement on Thursday saying that Prime Minister Nagamootoo, “in his usual thoughtless way and seeing an opening to exhibit egotistical bravado and arrogant brinkmanship, flatly rejected

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

Opposition Chief Whip and PPP/C MP Gail Teixeira

Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo

the suggestion and clumsily challenged the PPP to “bring it on”.

After public pressure is rising for a postponement of the motion, the PPP/C said Nagamootoo then issued a call to them to withdraw the motion, once again, “insensitively and callously exploiting the President’s illness as one of the basis of his call.”

“The PPP/C deeply regrets that the President’s unfortunate illness has become the subject of such juvenile political machinations by his own Government and we continue to wish him well and a speedy recovery. While the PPP remains ready, able and willing to debate the No-confidence Motion at any time, it does not enjoy the power of postponing it,” the Party added.

and PPP/C MP, Gail Teixeira said she was given that assurance by Commissioner of Police Leslie James who contacted her on Thursday evening. Teixeira had written the Top Cop expressing certain concerns in relation to security at Parliament.

The Chief Whip noted in her missive that the Party had received information that there would be an attempt to prevent the members of the parliamentary Opposition from entering the compound of the Parliament Building today.

“I’m happy that the Commissioner made contact with us in response to that letter and that he has indicated that he has taken the matter seriously and that they (Police) have put measures in place to try and ensure that such efforts does not succeed,” she told Guyana Times on Thursday.

But a flyer being circulated throughout the country and on social media has also raised some concern. The flyer which was purportedly put together by the APNU and AFC is calling for supporters to picket Parliament when the motion is being debated.

Teixeira said her party

has no issue with people supporting their party through a peaceful picketing exercise, since it is within their right to do so. However, she said if it becomes “disruptive behaviour” then she that won’t be acceptable and should be condoned.

She also acknowledged statements made by Prime Minister Mosses Nagamootoo that the PPP plans to send in provocateurs in their picketing exercise. She said it was totally untrue. “We are not mobilising people for tomorrow (today) and we are not having a counter picketing.”

Jagdeo had first announced the No-confidence Motion on November 15, 2018, on the heels of devastating losses in the Local Government Elections (LGE) for the coalition Government.

The next day, the scheduled sitting of the National Assembly was abruptly cancelled at Government’s request and the Opposition turned up to an empty chamber. In the half-empty Parliament Chambers, Jagdeo reiterated some of his expectations regarding the motion. (Samuel Sukhnandan)

Security concerns

Meanwhile, amid concerns that there might be disruptions in the National Assembly today when the No-Confidence Motion in the David Granger led-Government will be debated, there have been certain assurances given that heightened security will be a key feature at this sitting.

Opposition Chief Whip

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guyanatimesgy.com

fridAY, december 21, 2018

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

Minibus operations

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uch has been said about the loud and lewd music to which all, including schoolchildren, are forced to endure on a daily basis in minibuses. There is no respite and any objection by commuters is met with disdain, disrespect and wanton abuse in many cases. It appears that there is no consideration by these uncaring operators that they depend on the commuters for their livelihoods.

In a country that is slowly becoming more service oriented, those who buy, are given due importance as competitiveness increase. Maybe the time, which many believe has passed, for competitiveness in public transportation, is now. The provision of this service is bread and butter for the operators and many owners, however safety for road users and the provision of a better service cannot be continually disregarded.

In an age when the wheel is no longer invented, lessons can be leant from some Caribbean countries that have the service regularised. Templates can be borrowed from countries that have both private and government operated services. The power of choice not just empowers, in this case commuters, but brings competition that generally redounds in better services.

Of course there is the argument of preference for some for what is currently provided by the minibus operators. The bottom line is that they do not speak for everyone. Those who have been shamed for speaking up against loud and profanity-laced music, crave for a service or system that would bring them much needed relief. Same for the elderly, same for those with illnesses and same for those who are harassed and pressured, sometimes physically, into a minibus.

Some commuters, based on knowledge, tend to choose the minibus they wish to travel so as to reduce the likelihood of being exposed to the blaring music and to some extent avoid being subjected to indiscriminate driving.

But sometimes circumstance may not allow for this, given urgencies, weather and other related factors. There is the also the scenario of the appearance of a “peaceful” minibus before the journey commences but afterwards, the music booms trapping commuters. While some would disembark, others may not for good reasons.

In fairness to operators, some are trying to provide a proper service, have shown respect to commuters and abide by traffic laws. They would have over time highlighted challenges faced including that from touts. While one expectation would be for them to be more vociferous and to advocate for change from within, it appears that the odds are stacked against them. From peer pressure and pressure to meet their daily target to influential owners of some minibuses, make it difficult for change from within.

Inappropriate mode of dress, running red lights, speeding, not returning change, some drinking while driving, cutting dangerously into the path of other drivers, demanding with their hands out that they must pass or get in front, carrying way in excess the number of passengers legally allowed and using roads that are not authorised as per their road service, are some of the indiscretions commuters and other road users are forced to endure by some minibus operators.

Importantly, continuous exposure to high-decibel sound is a health risk and this should be of concern to the relevant authorities with respect wellbeing of commuters. This is another front that can be used to bring some order to the situation. The seat-belt law and no smoking in public places are two important initiatives for safeguarding public safety and health that have been implemented.

What prevents a policy decision on loud music in public transportation? What prevents other policy decisions to holistically regularise the minibus situation? Regularisation must be driven by the dire need to raise the standard of service and safety. It must not only be important for the creation of friendly and caring image to tourists, but fundamentally to Guyanese who daily toil and make sacrifices here to pay requisites fares.

The overriding consideration must be the welfare of the commuters and if this taken on board much needed change can be forthcoming without the need for lessons from elsewhere.

With only a few days before Christmas, shoppers were seen hustling and bustling in downtown Georgetown on Thursday for the best deals around (Adam Baksh photo)

Jamal Khashoggi: Saudi Arabia announces plans to reform security agencies

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audi Arabia announced on Thursday plans to create new Government bodies to improve the country's intelligence operations which have been scrutinised internationally after the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

King Salman ordered a restructuring of the intelligence service in October after the authorities, following initial denials, acknowledged that Khashoggi had been killed inside the kingdom’s Istanbul consulate by a team of Saudi intelligence and security agents.

Saudi officials have said, without providing proof, that the 15-man team was put together by the deputy head of the General Intelligence Presidency, Ahmed al-Asiri, whom the king fired along with royal adviser Saud al-Qahtani.

In October, an intelligence source told Middle East Eye (MEE) that the 15-man team, dubbed the “Tiger squad,” is well-known to the US intelligence services and formed more than a year ago.

Although MEE was not able to confirm the information disclosed,

kingdom tries to contain its biggest political crisis for a generation.

The US Senate last week blamed Prince Mohammed for the murder, in a rare rebuke to President Donald Trump, who has said he wants Washington to stand by the 33-yearold de facto leader, despite a CIA assessment it was likely he ordered the killing.

The vote last Thursday, however, was

Journalist Jamal Khashoggi

the source was independently verified and tasked with covertly assassinating Saudi dissidents inside the kingdom and on foreign soil.

The new Government departments – for strategy and development, legal affairs, and performance evaluation and internal review – are meant to ensure that intelligence operations align with national security policy, international law and human rights treaties, state news agency SPA reported.

They were created by a committee headed by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom’s Defence Minister. He has denied accusations of ordering the hit against

Saudi’s King Salman

Khashoggi, a royal insider who became a critic of the crown prince.

Western allies have called on Riyadh to hold those responsible for the murder accountable. The Saudi public prosecutor is seeking the death penalty for five suspects, as the

largely symbolic. To become law, they would need to pass the House of Representatives, whose Republican leaders have blocked any legislation intended to rebuke the Saudis. (Middle East Eye)

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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

Today, we separate the patriots from those who serve to fulfil personal ambitions Dear Editor, Today, Government Ministers would have a golden opportunity to convince the nation that the hardships they now endure will one day miraculously be transformed into the “good life” they have been promised every year since May of 2015.

Today, the Opposition People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) will also have an opportunity to expose the corrupt, ineptitude A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition as unworthy to hold public office. Yes, today we debate the much anticipated No-Confidence Motion in Parliament against the Granger-led Administration.

But above all, today we separate the patriots from those who serve to fulfil personal ambitions, and to accumulate personal wealth.

Despite the hardcore persona displayed

by Government MPs in Chambers, quite a few have

privately expressed feelings of uncertainty with the state of the economy and the general direction the country is heading, but they are powerless to do anything about it on their own.

Unlike 1992, when the PPP inherited a bankrupt country and had to pay off US$3 billion in external debts that the People’s National Congress accumulated during their 28 years in Government, the APNU/AFC inherited a robust economy with US$688 million in Foreign Reserves and $25 billion in gold reserves. Resources that are being squandered now.

In 2014, the last year that the PPP produced a Budget, the total tax take was $135 billion. Since 2015, Government has introduced a number of austerity tax measures on the backs of Guyanese, raking in $223 billion in taxes, $88 billion more per year in tax revenues, a 60.5 per cent increase on an annual basis.

Now you know why the average Guyanese don’t have

money in their pockets.

But that has not prevented this “don’t care” Government from making a last-ditch effort to fool the people again. In a recent publication, Government has listed its “achievements” since gaining office in 2015. Quite frankly, I find it amusing that the coalition would list some of the things mentioned as part of their “achievements”, when in fact, these very things demonstrate their lack of vision and mediocre performance in Government.

For instance, Government takes credit for giving national defence and security high priority, resulting in a marked reduction in serious crimes. In reality, Guyanese are more insecure since hostilities escalated to dangerous levels between Guyana and Venezuela under this Government, costing taxpayers billions of dollars in legal fees alone.

And the crime rate is so out of control that only Government Ministers, pro-

Response to Public Power and Distribution Inc missive Dear Editor, It was my intention to open Pandora’s Box and release its last inmate, hope.

My previous missive was a championing of ‘doom and gloom’ but I am cognisant of the festive season and all it means to us in Guyana. The focus would have been on Hope Canal, a project conceived as a solution to the catastrophic floods of 2005; a canal that has a carrying capacity of 58 cubic meters per second and serves to drain the East Demerara Water Conservancy of excess water.

It is Hope that relieves Guyanese of stress caused by dark clouds and raindrops.

However, fate intervened in the form of a reply to the aforementioned ‘doom and gloom’ by Power Producers and Distribution Inc (PPDI).

The PPDI public relations officer fell victim to his inability to read and comprehend when he stated that I claimed “(PPDI) does not have local content nor does it have the capacity as its predecessor, Wärtsilä Operations Guyana Inc (WOGI).” For his and the public’s benefit, please allow me to reiterate my position.

PPDI does not have the capacity to build the 300MW

power plant envisioned by ExxonMobil. PPDI is a twoyear-old State-owned maintenance company with the failure of the Anna Regina and Guyana Sugar Corporation’s Wärtsilä engines as part of its record. PPDI has no history of anything other than GPL engine maintenance.

PPDI’s local content is not an issue as PPDI would not qualify to tender for building ExxonMobil’s power plant.

Editor, PPDI further states that I “sought to achieve is to discredit the profound decision-making capabilities of Minister Patterson” in this PPDI is correct. Patterson’s fetish for nationalisation by other names does irreparable harm to our nation’s future.

Minister Patterson declared in Parliament that he would save US$6 million per year by setting up PPDI, poaching the WOGI workforce and awarding PPDI the GPL contracts.

PPDI has never declared a $6 million annual profit, and the resulting loss of the engineering and construction capability of WOGI to Guyana is why ExxonMobil has not begun construction of the power plant. Minister Patterson’s takeover of the

Berbice Bridge has also done terrible harm to private investor confidence and I regret not being more strident during the creation of PPDI as silence seems to have emboldened the misguided actions of the Minister.

I hope this brings clarity to the issue.

Respectfully, Robin Singh

tected by heavily armed security, are not the ones feeling threatened by bandits on a daily basis.

Government is presumptuous enough to take credit for “an independent Judiciary” when the outcome of some legal cases bears the hallmark of direct Government interference.

Then the coalition takes credit for creating “an autonomous Parliament and other constitutional agencies which

are all guaranteed full financial independence”, while cutting billions of dollars from the budgets of these same constitutional agencies. But we intend to fully bisect and dissect these ludicrous claims of so-called achievements during the debate.

Today, Guyana will see the grit that men and women in Parliament are made of, especially on the Government’s side. They can continue to play politics as usual at the

expense and detriment of our people, or a few brave men, or women, can stop the bleeding of our economy and the sufferings of the Guyanese people by voting “yes” for the NoConfidence Motion. We need to find common ground now to move this country forward before it’s too late.

Sincerely, Harry Gill PPP/C Member of Parliament

Have our banks gone crazy?

Dear Editor, I would be grateful if you can permit me a small space in your newspaper to highlight an issue that I find extremely worrying.

Over the years, it seems our banking sector is doing everything possible to lose customers and stress out the general public. From requesting mountains of documents and implementing unfriendly procedures, this has resulted in long lines at most banks.

A close colleague of mine just returned from the bank and confided in me a tale that sounds like our banks have gone crazy. At the New Building Society Limited, he was attempting to deposit a dividend cheque value $3000 that was received from Republic Bank Guyana Limited. The proceeds being dividends from shares held at RBL. He was unsuccessful in completing this seemingly uncomplicated transaction.

I now provide you the de-

tails as to why he was unable to complete the deposit. The cheque is written in the names of A and B (A being my friend and B being his father). He was attempting to deposit the cheque at NBS to and account in the names B & C (B being his father whose is one of the payee of the cheque and C being his mother). The cheque was endorsed by both A and B (the payees) and both identifications were presented along with the cheque and the book for the account to facilitate the deposit.

Now bear in mind similar transactions have been completed in the past at the same NBS with little to no hassle, since dividend cheques have been similarly received from RBL over several years.

The teller after referring the transaction to his superior indicated that the procedures have changed and the transaction could not be processed unless both persons whose names were on the

cheque along with the other party on the account were present at the bank with there identifications. Then the payees on the cheque will have to endorse the cheque and also indicate pay to the order of the parties on the bank account and then the parties on the account will also have to endorse the cheque accepting the deposit to their account.

Am I the only one who thinks this is absolutely madness? Where else in the world exist such a procedure for conducting a simple deposit of a cheque for $3000 drawn on, dear I say, a reputable bank in Guyana.

Editor, I thank your for your time in reviewing the above letter and considering publishing it in your newspaper as I believe that these issues must be publicly highlighted so that common sense changes could be made.

With best regards, Marcus Perry

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om's in stress meltdown, the kids are fighting over the last cupcake, Uncle Bob is coughing up a lung as he carves the chicken, and your best friend just got text-dumped.

Hello, holiday memories!

'Tis the season to beat sickness (not to mention tiredness, stress, or other holiday downers). Fortunately, you can stay well and have a good time even if everyone else is falling apart.

Follow these five tips to boost your body's defences: Fend off germs Family gatherings, airports and travel stops, shopping malls, even the library— they're all places germs like to mingle. So protect yourself: Get a flu vaccine and wash your hands a lot.

The holidays are all about sharing, but some things you'll want to keep to yourself: forks, spoons, and drinking utensils.

People can be contagious before they know they're sick, so even just a sip from someone's drink puts his or her germs in your body.

Eat healthy and be merry Holiday foods can be high in calories and low on the nutrition you need to bat-

Foundation

tle germs and boost energy. Make it a priority to eat five or more fruits and vegetables a day (choose the whole fruit instead of juice so you feel full longer and avoid added sugar). Carry an apple or a bag of baby carrots so you always have a healthy snack available. And don't give your exercise routine a holiday. Exercise gives you energy in addition to burning calories.

Chill "Can I afford it?" "Will it be perfect?"

Even things we look forward to, like parties or gifts, can come with worries attached. If you feel stressed out, stop what you're doing for just a moment.

Take five deep breaths – all-the-waydown-to-your-belly deep.

Concentrate on each breath as you inhale and exhale. Walk over to a window and look out at the sky. Then go back to what you were doing, realising that holiday drama will happen. Just hope it leaves you with some great sto-

ries to tell.

Beat the blues Holiday depression doesn't just happen in songs. For some people, it's seasonal, brought on by shorter days, longer nights, and colder weather. Other people are going through difficult life events like a breakup or a move.

If you feel down, go outside, even if it's cold where you live. Sunlight and exercise are great mood lifters.

Try a seasonal activity to put you in the holiday spirit, like neighbourhood carol singing. And don't hesitate to talk to someone you trust, like a parent or teacher, about how you're feeling.

Get some ZZZs Getting 8.5 to 9 hours of sleep a night during the holidays can help strengthen your immune system, give you more energy, and make you less vulnerable to stress.

One of the top things to do for your health is to get out and have fun. Forget about the tough stuff for a while (except for your safety, of course — be sure someone knows where you are and watch out for drunk drivers).

Laugh and enjoy yourself — the holidays only come once a year. (kidshealth.org)

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s you get together with friends and family for birthdays, holidays, or other celebrations, why not celebrate the environment too? Here are some simple ideas for greening up your festivities. As an added bonus, many of them are as kind to your wallet as they are to the planet!

Choose eco-friendly gifts. Look for gifts made with the environment in mind (such as shade-grown chocolate or coffee; or items made with recycled glass, metal, plastic, or paper). Or give gifts that get used up, like soap, food, or candles.

You could also give gifts that help people cut down on waste. Reusable grocery or produce bags and refillable water bottles do more than just save landfill space – they also save the resources used in making and transporting

the disposable versions.

There's nothing to wrap or throw away when you donate to a person's favourite cause. Making a gift donation in someone's name is a good choice for parents or grandparents who don't need more "stuff". Or give the gift of your time, such as coupons for babysitting or computer help.

Green up your gift wrap. Instead of spending money on store-bought wrapping paper that ends up in a landfill, make your own wrapping from newspaper, magazines, or catalogues. Or use fabric items to wrap gifts, such as wrapping a cookbook in a dishtowel, or clothing in a scarf. Reusable gift bags are another eco-conscious way to present gifts – they're also easier to use than wrapping paper!

Decorate with the planet in mind. Holiday lighting can be a big energy user, so try to find efficient lighting (such as LED lights). Turn outdoor lighting displays off when you go to bed or if you're not at home. If you light candles, choose natural ones made with beeswax or soy instead of petroleum-based ingredients.

Send greetings that really care. Create your own cards using your computer or art supplies and recycled paper.

Some people keep old cards, cut the pictures out, and use these to make new cards or gift tags. Better still, go paperless with e-cards.

Reuse and recycle. As you plan your event or celebration, keep in mind ways to reduce waste, such as using rechargeable batteries in electronic items. If you receive gifts you can't return or use, pass them on to someone who can — or donate them to a charity resale shop. (You can also do this with any old items that this year's gifts replace.) (kidshealth.org)

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Border controversy case

More than $780M spent on legal fees in 2018 – Greenidge F

oreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge has disclosed that in excess of $780 million has been spent to cover legal fees for the team of lawyers that were recruited to represent Guyana’s interest in the border controversy case with Venezuela that is currently before the International Court of Justice (ICJ).

Speaking at his Ministry’s year end press conference on Thursday, Greenidge explained that the money spent is part of the US$15 million that was set aside to cover legal fees from the controversial US$18 million signing bonus that Guyana received from US oil giant, ExxonMobil.

“It was used to fund all the legal fees in 2018 and it will fund the fees in 2019 until it is exhausted…

The figures for 2018, I believe is in excess of 780 million Guyana dollars,” the Minister stated.

Back in May, Government went to the National Assembly and got a supplementary provision of $788,049,000 to offset the expenses incurred from its case at the ICJ. Leading Guyana’s team at the World Court is Sir Shridath Ramphal. The team also includes experienced overseas-based and local legal minds, some of whom were part of the team that won a border case for Guyana against Suriname.

While Government has been

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

tight-lipped about the identity of its legal team, it has been reported that three international law firms are working along with Sir Shridath.

One of these firms is United Kingdom-based Matrix and Minister Greenidge had previously stated that a professor of law, who lectures at two prominent UK universities, is attached to the firm.

However, even with this current core team of lawyers in place, the Foreign Affairs Minister recognised this issue of the border controversy is an “expensive and complicated” one. As such, he did not rule out a possible need to expand the team in future.

This, he noted, will be dependent on Venezuela’s memorial in response to Guyana, whether it decides to participate in the legal proceedings or not, and the needs of the court in determining the validity of 1899 Arbitral Tribunal Award, which sets out the land boundary with the neigh-

bouring Spanish-speaking nation.

The Spanishspeaking country was given until April 18 next year to submit its memorial in response to Guyana’s memorial which was filed back in June. “Even if Venezuela doesn’t participate, the Judges are at liberty to satisfy themselves that question A or B needs to answered. And in many ways, I think one has to be careful in these circumstances because if the Judge finds that he’s only hearing from one side, he wants to appear to be fair and may even ask you harder questions that the other side ‘cause he knows what he wants to satisfy himself and he or they may have lots of difficult questions to ask. So other teams may be required or the team may need to be supplemented by additional individual lawyers or firms of lawyers,” he asserted.

While he noting that he could not say how many more lawyers would be needed, the foreign Affairs Minister went on to explain

1 dead, 1 injured in Agricola shooting

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Dead: Kacey Da Silva

ne man was shot and killed while his friend is nursing a gunshot wound at the Georgetown Public Hospital (GPHC), following a shoot-

ing incident at Agricola, Greater Georgetown on Thursday morning. The dead man was identified as 34-year-old Kacey Da Silva, also called “Presser”, of Lot

96 Remus Street, Agricola.

The injured man, Seon Bobb, 24, of the same village is listed in a stable condition at the GPHC. Based on reports received, the suspect was involved in a fight during which the now dead man and his friend started to laugh.

This however infuriated the suspect who collected a gun from his brother and discharged same indiscriminately at the two men. The men reportedly fell to the ground and were picked up and rushed to the Diamond Diagnostic Centre where Da Silva was pronounced dead on arrival. Bobb was treated and transferred to the GPHC where he was admitted a patient.

The Police have launched a manhunt for the suspects who are referred to as “Home Alone” and “Gudgie”.

that the practice in these cases is for additional lawyers to be supplemented on a particular topic or angle to build on existing capacity within the legal teams.

Nevertheless, he defend Guyana’s spending on the matter, saying that it was a small price to pay, especially given what is at stake.

He emphasised the need for Guyana to have the resources available to make a strong case as possible, whether or not Venezuela participates. “[This] is a once and for all investment in protecting your right… You can’t fix it afterwards, you have to be sure that you have the best from the very beginning and then you can worry afterwards. If you look at

the resources at risk, you will see that this is a very, very important issue and it really doesn’t behoove us to be spending too much time arguing about 10 cents extra in order to get the legal skills we need,” the Minister contended.

Venezuela had renewed its claim to most, if not all, of Guyana’s territorial waters off of the Essequibo Coast in 2015, shortly after ExxonMobil had announced its first find of oil in commercial quantities.

Since then, the US oil giant has made nine more oil finds making Guyana home to the world’s biggest new deepwater oil discovery.

The company is set to commence production in 2020 at Exxon’s Liza 1 well in 2020

at an expected 120,000 barrels per day and it has been reported that the country will earn some US$300 million annually.

Back in January, Secretary General of the United Nations (UN) António Guterres had announced he was referring the decades-old controversy to the ICJ. This move followed unsuccessful attempts to resolve the matter through the various mechanisms outlined in the Geneva Agreement signed between Guyana and Venezuela in 1966. As such, Guyana filed formal proceedings back in March, asking the World Court to confirm the legal validity and binding effect of the 1899 Award.

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

Bent Street resident remanded for robbing, stabbing Policeman

A

Bent Street, Werk-en-Rust, Georgetown resident who is accused of disarming a Police Officer of his service weapon, relieving him of his personal valuables and stabbing him was on Thursday remanded to prison when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The defendant, Keston Duke, stood before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan and denied the charge when it was read to him.

Police stated that on December 15, 2018, while in the company of others, he relieved Police Constable Julius Bowlin of his service pistol along with six match-

ing rounds of ammunition belonging to the Guyana Police Force.

The 21-year-old man is also accused of relieving the Officer of his gold chain before stabbing him several times about his body.

The incident occurred at a popular nightclub in Alberttown, Georgetown.

It was reported that Duke disarmed the rank and attempted to take away his valuables and when he resisted, he was stabbed to his stomach, hands, and head.

However, the court was reliably informed that Closed Circuit Television (CCTV) footage was ob-

tained from the club.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield opposed bail as he informed the court that Bowlin, at the time of the incident, was undercover.

Further, Mansfield explained that owing to the injuries that the rank sustained, he was still hospitalised.

Days after the robbery, Police ranks were directed to a location in the vicinity of South Ruimveldt where they retrieved the same firearm from a pile of garbage.

The prosecution’s submission was upheld by the Chief Magistrate who later remanded Duke to prison until January 4, 2019.

Crossed wires…

J

…by coalition agdeo’s No-confidence Motion against the Government, which will be debated this afternoon, has really made the parties in the PNC-led coalition bassidy. They’re all running around helter-skelter like chickens without heads! Since the announcement, they don’t seem to have even sat down together to coordinate their response. So each of them has been squawking furiously to assure their supporters they have things under control. While watching each other like (chicken) hawks to figure out who will be voting their conscience!

Having a conscience, of course, is verboten in the paramount party that tells its members what to think.

Nagamootoo was first to squawk – but then, bereft of a portfolio, save his column in the Chonic – he has time on his hands to feed his paranoia about his bete noir, Jagdeo!! The PNC hasn’t said anything PUBLICLY, but from the PPP whip, Gail Teixeira’s letter to the Police Chief, it would seem – like with all other high-stakes meetings of Parliament – they’ve signalled their street forces in Georgetown to flex their muscles.

Teixeira revealed the party had heard about “ominous” plans for Government supporters to disrupt the proceedings both from without – by preventing the PPP MPs from entering the Public Buildings compound or from inside by creating a ruckus. There is, of course, the instance earlier when a Government supporter was allowed to enter the Chamber dressed in a Santa suit and challenged the Opposition Leader with a dictionary. It could’ve well have been a bomb.

But rather than exhorting his Police Force to heighten their precautions, up comes Public Security Minister Ramjattan to demand Teixeira provide details of the plans!! This is eerily reminiscent of the situation in the 1960s when Janet Jagan told the then Police Commissioner about plans they’d heard about to raze Wismar. The CoP sat on his hands and the disaster of Wismar ensued.

But even if Ramjattan wasn’t just playing to the gallery, why didn’t he ask his AFC Leader Raphael Trotman of details of the “diabolical” PPP plans HE said he’d heard about for the same day?? Or is Ramjattan – like the leaders of the rest of the mini-parties – just eager to prove to the PNC they’re not “voting their conscience”??

The GAP also came out with a press release to assure the PNC there’s no gap in their support!! The only one who was silent was Keith Scott of the…what was that again? …the National Front Alliance. Could he be thinking of bucking the PNC after all the humiliations they piled onto him since 2015??

Well, we will find out today who have consciences or who’ve sold theirs for a mess of pottage!! …on Christmas traffic This can’t be a coincidence: it has to be a (maniacal) plot by the PNC leader to starve the business community in Georgetown to death for daring to still accept that the PPP is a legitimate organisation in Guyana. Your Eyewitness is talking about the continuation of the blocking off of the major entry points into the shopping district for this – the busiest shopping time of the entire year!!

My dear reader, you’ve got to experience this strangulation to appreciate its impact. For those brave (and patient) souls who survived the storming of the barricades that were thrown up for blocks around the Public Buildings, by the time they got into the stores they’re too surly to shop. Now today, just a few days before Christmas, when the last great surge of Christmas shopping is nigh upon us, not only are the barricades up again for the no-confidence debate – the Government’s closed off Mandela Ave for those who might want to enter from the North to shop!!

“Bring it on!!” they said to Jagdeo who wanted to defer the barricades. …on mail As Guyana rushes pell-mell to catch up with the rest of the world to switch from “snail” mail to email, the Guyana Post Office Corporation’s handing out mailboxes to encourage its use!!

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

News

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana’s mission heads for rotation next year M ore than three years after making a commitment to have the country’s overseas mission heads rotated regularly, Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge has assured that this will be done come 2019.

“The Ambassadors and the Heads of Missions, we did give an undertaking that they will be rotated and that they will do. I didn’t intent that they would all be rotated at once and you will see in the course of this coming year that there will be rotations… We haven’t forgotten, that is to be done,” Greenidge told reporters at this Ministry’s year end press conference on Thursday.

After assuming office back in May 2015, the coalition Government had recalled all Guyana’s overseas Heads of Missions, who were appointed under the previous Administration. The A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change had said that in keeping with international best practices, overseas diplomats should be on a two to four-year rotation and promised to restore this practice.

Greenidge, at the time, had pointed out that the intention behind the recall was also for politicians who are not career diplomats, but were given posts by a President, to bring their term of employment to an end, given that that President has left office.

“There is nothing special about the [People’s Progressive Party] PPP politicians who are wearing the hat of diplomats today. They have to recognise that they served the President who appointed them, then they have to step down, there is nothing peculiar about it,” Minister Greenidge told the

Guyanese Diplomats

Government Information Agency.

Nevertheless, the Foreign Affairs Minister had noted that established protocol is that when a new Government takes office, the various Heads of Mission report to the new President. He said at the time, a President has to appoint those persons that he trusts, that he has faith in, and who know and understand his initiatives.

However, while the current Administration has since replaced those diplomats at its various missions overseas, this was not done without controversy.

In fact, former Guyana High Commissioner to Canada, Harry Narine Nawbatt had filed legal proceeding against Government for wrongful dismissal and was recently awarded $25 million is costs by the High Court.

Nawbatt was appointed under the PPP/Civic Government in February 2015 and was dismissed one month after the coalition Government got into office.

The former diplomat had sued the Attorney General in April 2016, claiming that his contract of employment

was not lawfully terminated, thus he was seeking salaries, emoluments and other benefits owed to him.

Nawbatt, through his attorneys Anil Nandlall, Manoj Narayan and Rajendra Jaigobin, sued the Attorney General in April 2016, claiming that his contract of employment was not lawfully terminated, thus he was seeking salaries, emoluments and other benefits owed to him.

In his legal suit, the former diplomat was seeking over $49 million for wrongful dismissal and a breach of contract. He requested damages in excess of $25 million for breach of contract and “special” damage in the sum of $24,295,104; the latter of which was awarded by the High Court in October.

He was, however, awarded $500,000 for breach of contract, and court costs in the sum of $50,000.

Nawbatt, in documents, had said he was being paid a monthly salary of $773,801 and his contract would have expired on February 9, 2016. According to the contract inked, the cost of education for Nawbatt’s children would have been paid

by the Government, and he was also entitled to this and other allowances.

Nawbatt would have been allowed to terminate his services, provided that

a written notice of three months was given.

Likewise, the Government would have had to give notice for the same time frame, or pay Nawbatt six months’ salary and station allowance if such notice was not given.

According to Nawbatt, he was owed $4.3 million for salary up to February 2016; $5.7 million in gratuity; payment of $4 million for 158 days’ leave; $4.8 million in station allowance; $4.6 million in station allowance for leave for five months, and $2 million in business class return air passages, among other things.

BCGI workers’ jobs no longer in jeopardy – Govt ...sanctions lifted against RUSAL

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ollowing the United States Treasury’s decision to lift sanctions against a Russian businessman, the Guyana Government has announced that jobs of multiple Bauxite Company of Guyana Incorporated (BCGI) workers are no longer in jeopardy.

In an official statement on Thursday, a cautious but optimistic Natural Resources Ministry stated that it is happy that the Donald Trump Administration moved to lift the sanctions against Russian business tycoon Oleg Deripaska, who is the main owner of the EN+ conglomerate which co-owns bauxite company RUSAL. RUSAL owns 90 per cent of BCGI which operates in Linden and Berbice and as such, 200 jobs were put at risk.

In the official release, the Government outlined that the matter with the two super powers is moving to a resolution, saying that with the postponement of the enforcement of the sanctions, a permanent and favourable resolution is in sight.

The Ministry added that it will continue to ensure that bauxite is exported to the benefit of stakeholders.

“As the Ministry continues to ensure that bauxite is mined and shipped to the benefit of workers and their families, and by extension, the national economy, the Ministry reinforces the fact that the Ministry of Social Protection, charged by the President and directed by the Cabinet, will be responsible for addressing the ongoing, and future, labour issues and guard workers’ rights,” the Ministry stat-

ed. The agreement reached by the parties makes it clear that sanctions on the company would only be lifted if Deripaska significantly lowers his stake in the company. Reports state that the Russian businessman has been agreed to significantly diminish ownership and sever his control. The move is set to take effect in 30 days. The sanctions were imposed on April last.

“The companies will be subject to ongoing compliance and will face severe consequences if they fail to comply,” the Ministry further explained.

When the sanctions were announced earlier this year, RUSAL’s stocks crashed on the world market, slumping some 41.8 per cent after the announcement. continued on page 14

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Auto technician, doctor robbed by lone gunman the injured men.

“We had to wrap up the wounds them and then my daughter had to rush them to the hospital … I ain’t really see what happened, because I was asleep; I could only tell you what I see when I come out, but my daughter who carry them to

the hospital, she see what happened,” the traumatised man explained.

The injured men were rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital, where they were said to be in stable condition, with Kissoon reportedly suffering a broken hand as a result of the gun-

shot breaking bone.

When this newspaper visited the scene, Kissoon’s motor car was seen parked with the right side window shattered. The matter was reported to the Police, and a manhunt has since been launched for the perpetrator.

‘Wife killer’ gets 15 years jail

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Robbery victim Ramesh Kissoon’s motor car was seen parked with the right side window shattered

28-year-old auto body technician and his friend, a doctor attached to a city hospital, are now nursing gunshot wounds at the Georgetown Public Hospital after they were trailed from a city bank and shot by a lone gunman.

The injured men have been identified as Ramesh Kissoon of Lot 8 Industry, East Coast Demerara (ECD) and Dr Lewis (only name given).

Guyana Times understands that the duo had just left a city bank and proceeded to Kissoon’s workshop housed in the lower flat of his Industry house. Kissoon

reportedly parked his motor car bearing registration number PSS 7498 and was preparing to exit the vehicle when a silver grey motor car pulled up alongside him.

A lone perpetrator allegedly whipped out his gun and shot Kissoon to his arm.

He then exited his vehicle and pointed the gun at Dr Lewis and shot him to his left leg. The bandit quickly grabbed a bag containing $400,000, which Kissoon had withdrawn from the bank, reentered his vehicle and sped away.

Jaganauth Kissoon, the father of the auto technician, related that he was awakened by the sound

of what he believed to be squibs which turned out to be gunshots. According to the man, after exiting his bedroom, he went outside to check on what was happening and it was then he saw his son holding his bloody hand.

“When I watch outside, I see my son running and he was holding his hand and I see blood dripping. I didn’t even know that was gunshot; I thought was squib until I realise that is my son got attacked,” Kissoon relayed.

He further revealed that relatives and workmen, who were at the establishment at the time, ran to the aid of

igh Court Judge James BovellDrakes on Thursday sentenced 40-year-old Melroy Simpson to 15 years’ imprisonment for the unlawful killing of his reputed wife, Carmelita Jones, who he turned into a human torch on September 26, 2012 at B Field Sophia, Greater Georgetown.

He was originally indicted with murder, but pleaded guilty to the lesser count of manslaughter.

Sentencing had been deferred owing to his lawyer requesting a probation report. According to the facts of the case, the offender set the 25-year-old woman on fire after an argument

Deceased: Carmelita Jones

erupted over a pack of milk he assumed she obtained from another male.

Simpson then threw a flammable substance on his reputed wife and set her alight. She sustained burns

about the body, including her right foot, back, neck and abdomen. She later succumbed to her injuries while receiving medical attention.

She was the mother of four children.

11 juveniles granted presidential pardon

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leven inmates of the New Opportunity Corps (NOC) on Thursday received pardons from President David Granger. These comprise nine females and two males between the ages 13 and 17.

According to the Government in a release, the pardons will take effect from Thursday, December 20, 2018.

It is expected that this expression of compassion and humanity by the Head of State will result in families being reunited, with the pardoned offenders leading good and fruitful lives henceforth. Since his ascent to office, President Granger has pardoned dozens of prisoners.

On Wednesday, the President pardoned three

female prisoners, thus allowing them to be home for Christmas.

The three women were pardoned pursuant to presidential powers under Article 188(2) of the Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana.

The trio – Joanna Beckles, 26; Felicia Henry, 22 and Keysha Gibbs, 17 – who were all at the New Amsterdam Prison for various offences will be released today. The women have all served a portion of their respective sentences for larceny and forgery.

In 2015, 60 convicts were granted presidential pardons on Guyana’s 49th Independence anniversary by the President.

The release of prisoners in 2015 caused much contro-

versy after Government had refused to release the names and offences of those pardoned.

The President had indicated intentions to release another 60 young men and women in 2016, but this did not materialise.

In 2017, nine women prisoners were pardoned for Guyana’s 47th Republic Anniversary.

The prisoners, who were all inmates at the New Amsterdam penitentiary, were Kamla Bisram, 30; Malinda Beaton, 31; Charissazan Charles, 18; Sasha Christopher, 18; Jenny Davis, 26; Vanessa Frank, 26; Barbra Hunte, 51; Kamwattie Persaud, 23 and Dhanmattie Seenarine, 47.

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S RAIGHT Employment, documentation

fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Venezuelan refugees

need more attention

…as Citizenship Minister acknowledges international partners

President Granger cannot deliver the good life

A

developing economy can power economic growth while at the same time solve social and environmental challenges.

But such an outcome requires an intelligent commitment at the highest level. That vision and primary responsibility rest with the Chief Executive Officer of the nation – the President, who uses the technical advice of his entire team. But the decisions are his alone.

Can we say that President Granger understands what is required to unleash the required investments needed to grow and diversify the economy to deliver on this so-called “GOOD LIFE”? I leave you the readers to come to your own conclusions on this question. I will, however, put some facts on the table to bring clarity to my positions on the issue. I am of the firm view that President Granger has underserved Guyana over the last three years and to compound such low-quality service, his continued absence from the hot seat will bring greater harm to the nation, rather than good.

That is why I am reiterating the call that it would be best for Guyana if President Granger focuses 100 per cent of his time on his health today and give others within his party the chance to rise to the top and take charge of the task at hand. And to prove my point, let us focus on the money issues since Granger arrived.

Can we say that the fiscal policy framework was strengthened to safeguard the nation’s finance, enhance its competitiveness and promoted growth for all since May 2015?

Firstly, in November 2018, the national debt finally surpass the US$2 billion mark again. The last time Guyana surpassed that US$2 billion mark was when the then People’s National Congress (PNC) Government bequeathed the incoming Jagan Government such a gift in 1992. It took many years of hard work and the repayment of almost a billion US dollars along with some debt write-off before debt sustainability returned in 2007.

It is clear that whichever party wins the 2020 elections, they are sure to receive the same old PNC gift of US$2 billion plus in debt. As the table below reveals, public debt will be at 57.1 per cent of GDP at the end of 2018, a material increase from 50.1 per cent at the end of 2015. Over the three years from the end of 2015, this Granger Government would have borrowed US$441 million, which translates to GY$8.7 million of immediate debt in 2018 as a newborn child open their eyes.

Secondly if we look at the credit to the Private Sector which is a good indicator of the investment appetite within the business community, we can see that since 2015 it has been declining and is expected to close 2018 at 35.6 per cent of GDP compared to 39.3 per cent at the end of 2015, a decrease of 3.7 per cent.

This situation is due to a combination of weak demand for new investments and GO-Invest’s poor performance at facilitating business deals.

Thirdly, Guyana is struggling to fiscally consolidate its books because of the rapacious appetite of this PNC-led Government.

This Government can spend like wild boys on a drunken rampage as if there is no tomorrow. And their empty excuse remains that the oil review will pay of the accelerated spending currently financed mainly by debt. Sorry, the wrong answer, it will not!

These wild spending spree by this PNC-led Government does not offer any decent value for money in exchange for proper planned national development. At the end of 2018, the fiscal deficit is expected to be 4.9 per cent of GDP compared to 1.4 per cent in 2015. In layman’s language, a fiscal deficit is the annual amount the Government has to borrow to fund gaps in their annual spending. This mean that 4.9 per cent of the economy is being borrowed to spend on many projects that does not offer value for money such as the G$350 million that is being spent on Mash 2019.

Guyana will be borrowing an equivalent of US$149 million from the domestic market in 2018 and they are prepared to plunder every Tom, Dick, and Beharry to pay for these debts.

This Granger Government has borrowed from GPL, the Bank of Guyana (over G$50 billion), the local banks and if the laws permits, I would not be surprised if they make a move on the worker’s pension funds.

I am of the firm view that President David Granger cannot deliver the good life. Not today; not tomorrow; not ever.

Please share your thoughts at sasesin1@yahoo.com.

T

he National MultiSectoral Coordinating Committee convened its last meeting for 2018 with various agencies seeking assistance to support the influx of Venezuelan refugees who settled across Region One (Barima-Waini) and other remote areas throughout the country.

The International Organisation of Migration (IOM) would have collected data through its Displacement Tracking Matrix (DTM) and this demonstrated that employment opportunities have topped the list of these migrants, along with necessary documentation for them to stay in Guyana.

Nevertheless, Citizenship Minister Winston Felix pointed that the Committee is the underlying framework for managing the activities of the refugees and how materials are disbursed.

He explained, “Once the Venezuelans are arriving,

we will continue to work… hadn’t it been for a forum like this the information we received would have been isolated. When it is brought here, we are better able to make decisions on how best to address the issues… this Committee is central to coordinating and monitoring the activities of the Venezuelan migrants. As long as they (migrants) are coming, this Committee has a job to do.”

According to the Public Health Ministry, immunising all of these persons has placed an additional financial burden on an already taxed health sector to provide additional services at the level of primary healthcare delivery as well as in hospital settings.

As such, calls were made for the establishment of a policy framework to tackle the migratory population and provisions to provide these services on a long-term basis.

For now, the United Nations Refugee Agency

Citizenship Minister Winston Felix

(UNHCR) has been working with the Immigration Department to improve efficiency in terms of registration. A number of equipment such as biometric scanning devices, scanners and laptops were procured to aid immigration officers.

Organisations such as Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) continue to lend both technical and fi-

nancial support public agencies to deal with issues pertaining to migrants.

Just two weeks ago, the Region One Chairman, Brentol Ashely had blasted the Government for failure to live up to their assurances, since there was no feedback on the promises that were made to assist these persons.

The Chairman also explained for the past weeks, supplies were only donated by independent organisations and other agencies.

However, when contacted, Head of the Civil Defence Commission (CDC), indicated that they were “working” to supply materials at the earliest.

The Government admitted earlier this year that immigration bodies have limited capacity in tracking immigrants after they arrive in Guyana, even though data is collected when many of them enter Guyana through the borders.

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Performance dips as 418 graduate from CPCE have produced distinction graduates. The principal acknowledged that the institution is not pleased with the declining numbers and it is expected that commendable performance should be seen throughout all centres.

“Our records for the reporting period show that only 71 per cent of our centres registered at least one distinction compared to 87 in the last reporting period. We’re certainly not comfortable with this decrease and would like to acknowlPrime Minister Moses Nagamootoo addressing the trained edge that while individual teachers brilliance or the outstanduyana’s education Principal of the institu- ing performance of any one sector is expected to tion, Viola Rowe in her ad- centre is commendable, alreceive an upthrust dress, presented statistics beit that the desired results in the number of qualified which show that the number should be outstanding perteachers as 418 persons suc- of males during this period formances at all centres.”

In the 2018 batch, 36 cessfully completed their re- has increased by 31 per cent, per cent was trained in spective courses at the Cyril when compared to last year.

Potter College of Education “Of the total number of Mathematics, 20 per cent (CPCE) on Thursday. students presented for this in English, 14 per cent in The 84th convocation period, 82 per cent are fe- Agricultural Science, six per saw 76 persons trained in male and 18 per cent are cent in business studies, five early childhood, 115 in the male. In comparison with per cent in Pure Sciences, primary sector, 223 in the the last reporting period, we five per cent in Home secondary sector and four present 18 more males to Economics, four per cent in in the post graduate area. the education system,” Rowe Social Studies, four per cent in Industrial Technology, Thirteen students were revealed. awarded with distinctions However, in retrospect two per cent in Information while 403 passed with cred- to 2017, there was a 16 per Technology and one per cent it and two persons received cent decrease in the coun- in Spanish.

On behalf of the the standard pass. trywide centres which would

G

A student receiving an award

Education Minister, Nicolette Henry, Director of the National Centre for Education Resource Development (NCERD),

the water supply, meals are now offered for non-resident students and the dormitories have received a facelift.

“With increased invest-

viewed courses so as to cater for our 21st century needs,” said Cumberbatch on behalf of the Minister.

Meanwhile, delivering the feature address was Prime Minister Moses Nagamoottoo, who acknowledged the work of women in society in the Judiciary and other divisions.

“The nation places great confidence in our women…

The critics look at Guyana and they said it seems as though in Guyana, the women are running things. We have a Chancellor who is a woman, a Chief Justice… the Director of Public Prosecutions… the Chief Magistrate and 82 per cent of the new teachers in our schools will be women,” said the Prime Minister.

Throughout the ceremony, tribute was paid to the first female principal of the institution, Olive Lyken, who would have served in

A section of the students graduating from the CPCE

Jennifer Cumberbatch highlighted some improvements that were made to the facilities and services over the past year.

Along with an increase in

ments and improvements to the infrastructure, curriculum and courses, the priority is to provide modern facilities with new equipment, enhanced training and re-

that capacity from 1974 to 1979.

This year, Annamarie Iserdeen Samaroo was named the Best Graduating Student.

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

2:00am curfew relaxed for holiday season

F

ollowing repeated calls from senior public officials, along with requests from visiting overseas-based Guyanese and businesses, the Public Security Ministry has announced a relaxation of the 2:00am curfew for the holiday season.

Enforcement of the cur-

few will be relaxed for bars, nightclubs and other places of entertainment.

The period during which this will be in effect is from December 21, 2018 to January 7, 2019.

As of January 8, 2019, the aforementioned stipulated closing time will be back on stream.

“It must be pointed out; however, that all other laws, especially those prohibiting drinking and driving and noise nuisance, will be thoroughly enforced through more vehicular patrols and Policemen outside partying spots,” the Ministry in a statement said.

Party-goers are also being reminded to get a designated driver and to ensure noise levels at partying spots are not excessive.

The season is a time for celebration and knowing the Guyanese spirit, the Ministry is persuaded and sees the need for this relaxation of the curfew, and

also takes the time to wish all Guyanese a happy and safe holiday season.

Only recently, the Public Security Ministry had announced a ban on parties at Marriott Beachfront. In addition, Police were instructed to monitor the level of music being played at bars around the country

in an apparent noise nuisance campaign.

Since the implementation of these new measures, promoters and bar owners have been calling for a revocation, since the measures will affect their businesses and more so, tourism.

Consumers vent frustration about GPL’s “unreliable” power supply

A

s the festive season draws nearer, consumers from across the country have made numerous complaints about the constant power outages experienced throughout the day and the effects they have on their activities.

On the West Coast of Demerara (WCD), residents indicated that they would have received over six intermittent power outages, especially in the morning and early afternoon hours.

According to some, this has raised some concerns about the reliability of the power supply and the Guyana Power and Light’s ability to effectively meet the demands of all households and businesses, especially around this period.

Sharda Bissesar of Uitvlugt, WCD, explained that she has been living in the area for the past seven months and the quality of service seemingly has de-

Four (Demerara-Mahaica) such as Herstelling and Diamond, and in Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne).

Throughout last week, line maintenance was conducted within the perimeters of Georgetown and other sections of the coast. The power company would have advised persons that these activities would result in in-

creased during the holiday season.

“Leading up to the second week this month, we had like three blackouts every week and now it’s every day. Like you cannot predict what to do and always have to be prepared, ‘cause any time it’s happening and the service is very unreliable.

I’m disappointed,” she stated.

On the West Bank of Demerara (WBD), while there were complaints of unreliable service, another issue was the fact that calls went unanswered when con-

sumers were trying to report these matters, as well as utility staffers taking ages to fix the problems.

“I called last week about four times in the morning, because I was ironing and the current went off and on the fourth call, then somebody answered to say that it [the power supply] will come on shortly. We had to wait three-and-a-half-hours and this isn’t the first time,” an aggravated resident of Vreed-en-Hoop, WBD, explained.

The same issue has been recorded in sections of Region

termittent power outages, but many consumers have stated that this trend has continued throughout this week.

Ironically, Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson had assured Guyanese that there would be full electricity capacity for the entire Christmas season.

According to him, GPL has a

supply of 134 megawatts of power and there were efforts to fix any shortcomings before the holidays.

Patterson announced that some $3.9 billion was listed in the 2019 Budget for works on the distribution network, which is considered a weak link in the power supply. However, this would materialise only next year.

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Region 10 farmer supplies broccoli to Linden market

W

ith the festive season in the air, a Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice) farmer has begun supplying the community’s market with a rare vegetable commodity – broccoli.

Oswald Johnson, who has been a farmer for many years, is making a significant contribution to the Linden market and food economy with the vegetable which is slowly making its way into Guyana’s expanding food market.

Broccoli is considered a challenging crop to grow in these tropical soils, since it adapts to cooler temperatures; though it is said to be related to the cabbage family

which is successfully grown here.

However, Johnson of the small riverine community of Dalawala, has taken up the challenge. The farmer, who grows a variety of other vegetables, sells his produce in wholesale quantities which he supplies to the Linden market.

He takes pride particularly in broccoli, which he notes, has been growing intermittently for some time now. He related that while this venture is challenging, his largest customer is a popular supermarket in Linden.

Many are not too particularly keen on purchasing the vegetable, Johnson said,

which is retailed at approximately $1000 to $1200 per pound. At this price, it is considered quite expensive for the average local shopper.

Owing to this, he said his wholesale market is not a vast one. "The local market here is slow. People don’t buy it in a large quantity,” he told Guyana Times.

Being a product which is mainly imported from overseas, the farmer added that many are also not too familiar with it. This makes his vision of expanding this product market a bit more challenging, so much so that he thinks about giving up.

“People ain’t really conscious about it and Linden in

Oswald Johnson displays his locally grown broccoli

the whole ain’t really got money. Plenty people can’t really afford it at the price. Most people does hussle to buy lil boulanger, bora and ochro and those things that they can afford,” Johnson said.

According to the farmer, he was once a broccoli supplier to the capital city Georgetown, but he had faced similar challenges back then. The farmer admits that the fatigue of transporting the produce to Georgetown also took a toll on him which caused him to stop.

He said now with the renaissance of knowledge on consuming healthy foods, local people are now becoming

more aware of broccoli. “But the bottom line is that not everybody has the money to buy it,” Johnson reiterated.

The farmer said this is somewhat discouraging but he has learned not to depend on farming just one produce.

Guyana Times spoke with a few vendors who purchase broccoli from Johnson. They noted that while they are happy that it is being produced on a local level, owing to the price the demand is somewhat low.

According to Johnson, some vendors are also reluctant to buy as much due to the lack of cold storage. Finding markets for his produce, he

noted, is presently a slow process. Due to this, he said a lot of the broccoli he produces perishes.

Pointing to several other issues he faces as a farmer, Johnson said acquiring additional farmland to expand is a major issue.

Though he has a reasonably sized farm, Johnson said it is difficult to expand as he explained that an application he made for 10 acres of land is yet to receive a response. "I'm still waiting on Government...", he said.

He added that farmers in the community have requested that space and a date be set aside by the relevant authorities to facilitate a farmers market but this is yet to come to fruition.

Johnson further noted that as a result, this leads to high market prices for vegetables and even exploitation by some vendors. The farmer said acquiring seeds and other necessities is also a challenge for him.

"I don't get all the full supply of seeds and like certain insecticides and weedicides and so on," he noted.

Regardless, he said he will continue his trade as a farmer with the hopes that one day things will improve.

BGCI workers' jobs...

Union representatives were disturbed by the news when it was first announced. When Reuters published the story it had been outlined that the US Government’s decision to include Deripaska on its sanctions blacklist would have had reverberated around the world since his business empire has a global footprint and counts major multinationals as partners.

Deripaska, estimated

by Forbes magazine, is to have a net worth of $6.7 bil-

lion. His company EN+ is the co-owner of some of the world’s biggest metals producers including RUSAL and Nornickel.

According to the international news agency, Deripaska’s inclusion on the US sanctions list could have potentially created complications too for companies with which he does business; they include German car giant Volkswagen and commodities trader Glencore.

RUSAL, Reuters reported, had said it regretted its

from page 9

inclusion on the US sanctions list, adding that its advisors were studying the situation. Hong Kong-listed RUSAL is one of the world’s biggest aluminum producers. It said exports to the United States account for over 10 per cent of its output.

RUSAL owns assets in Italy, Ireland, Sweden, Nigeria, Guyana, and Guinea. It owns a stake in Australian QAL, the world’s top alumina refinery.

news

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fridAY, december 21, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Indigenous Residence hosts annual Christmas luncheon P

ermanent Secretary and other senior functionaries in the Indigenous People’s Affairs Ministry on Tuesday hosted 100 persons at the Indigenous Residence for its annual Christmas Lunch.

The Christmas Lunch was hosted by the Ministry to spread the season of cheer to persons who would be leaving for home shortly, and more so, those who would be spending the holidays away from their loved ones since they are in Georgetown seeking medical assistance.

The festivities saw residents enjoying Indigenous

Duo get life imprisonment for murder of security guard

Convicted murder accused Shivnarine Jainarine

S

hivnarine Jainarine, also called “Sammy” or “Samuel”, of Trainline Dam, Port Mourant, Corentyne; and Ryan Persaud, also called “KK”, of Williamsburg, were on Thursday sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of Jagdat Ramcharran, called “Ronald”, 61; a security guard. The possibility of parole will be considered after the men would have spent 45 years in prison.

The murder was com-

he arrived at the Madir, no one came to greet him and the gate was locked.

After making several calls and getting no response, the worshipper jumped the fence and to his horror, noticed the security guard lying on the ground.

G o v e r n m e n t Pathologist, Dr Vivekanand Bridgemohan gave the cause of death as manual strangulation. The dead man’s head was also basked in.

Justice Priya Sewnarine-

Convicted murder accused Ryan Persaud

mitted between January 6, and January 7, 2013 at the Iskcon Hari Krishna Mandir at Block 6 Williamsburg, Corentyne Berbice.

A third man Kerwin Hintzen, also called “Rattie”, was previous sentence to 20 years imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to heinous crime.

Attorney Mursalene Bacchus represented Jainarine while Arudranauth Gossai represented Persaud.

The State’s case which was presented by State Prosecutor Mandel Moore stated that on the day in question, the trio murdered the security guard during the course of a robbery.

The security guard’s body was discovered by a worshipper. He recalled that when

Beharry after listening to a probation report noted that from the evidence during the trial it was evident that both men profited from the crime.

Jainarine received $5000 for his involvement in the robbery while Persaud was paid $1500 the following day for his involvement.

She also noted that none of them did anything to extricate themselves from the crime when they saw the security guard tied up.

In handing down the sentence, Justice Beharry said she took into consideration the physical and emotional trauma the family of the dead security guard has had to endure. She also ordered that through the prison’s welfare department that they are provided with counseling.

cuisine prepared by the dedicated kitchen staff led by Gail Williams.

Guests enjoyed plantain delight, cassava bread, deer pepper pot, stuffed debone chicken in orange sauce, baked fish topped with mango and tomato salsa, saffron rice, vegetable farine, chef salad, sorrel and ginger beer, fruits and a candy corner made possible by Executive Office Services.

Ten children and eight newborn babies received gifts, compliments of the Ministry and corporate Guyana.

This activity is in keeping with the Ministry’s vision and mission for the Indigenous people needing medical services and to also

provide educational and recreation services, counselling and nursing care in an effort to improve their health and welfare.

It was the desire of the Ministry for all visitors to the facility to leave fully satisfied with the service provided to them.

So far in 2018, two thousand three hundred and nineteen persons from all 10 administrative regions were and are being accommodated there. Among them, one thousand four hundred and sixty-five patients, accompanying relatives, travellers, persons who were incarcerated and several cases related to social issues.

Persons are provided with meals, accommodation and transportation, while the facility is also outfitted with nursing and welfare staff who deal with day to day activities.

In an effort to better serve the Indigenous people, the Ministry has made a multimillion-dollar investment towards infrastructural developments with an extension to the facility which will provide officer space and additional accommodation.

Currently, the staff of the Welfare and Health

Residents enjoyed the luncheon organised by the Ministry

Department occupies office space there; however, when the extension is completed early next year, where office space is catered for as well as accommodation for village Toshaos.

The space they currently occupy will be transformed to accommodate additional persons. The two-extension is estimated at $27 million and is expected to be completed by the end of February.

The Residence is also equipped with a minibus which ensures all transportation needs are adequately met.

Minister Sydney Allicock presented the keys to the facilities administrator Claire

Emmanuel last November, in the presence of Minister within the Indigenous People’s Affairs Ministry, Valerie Garrido-Lowe, Permanent Secretary Alfred King, Deputy Permanent Secretary Samantha Fedee and other staff.

Further investments towards the facility will be forthcoming in 2019.

Meanwhile, also attending the Christmas Lunch were Deputy Permanent Secretary Samantha Fedee, Ministerial Advisor Mervin Williams and Special Assistance on Projects and Community Development Martin Cheong.

16

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friDAY, december 21, 2018

News

Visitors will be screened for infectious diseases – Ferguson

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s plans are currently afoot to beef up connectivity between Guyana and other States, Minister within the Public Infrastructure Ministry, Annette Ferguson has made it clear that visitors who would be flying in on the new airlines would be required to be screened for infectious diseases.

Ferguson made the announcement during an exclusive interview on the sidelines of an event hosted earlier this week.

She said, “Once the new airlines come into Guyana, I know we have our Health Ports at the various (checkpoints with) Health Officers who will do exactly what is required of them, so in the event of anybody coming in

with an infectious disease, they (health officials) know exactly what will be required.”

When asked if the Ministry and the Government have any other concerns with regard to the increased number of airlines which will be and have begun flying into the country, the Minister responded in the negative.

According to her, “I don’t think there is any concern, because, remember if you are talking about connectivity (and) getting people from one jurisdiction to another, this is heavily dependent on air transport, so with new airlines coming it will be a boost.”

Ferguson noted that the boost would be not only for

Minister within the Public Infrastructure Ministry, Annette Ferguson

Guyana’s economy but for the transportation industry.

Many persons have

raised concerns about the increased number of airlines flying to Guyana, especially from the African continent.

Just recently, at the Air Transport Meeting held here at the Arthur

Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown, between November 21 and 23, Guyana signed an open skies agreement with Ghana, which will allow for direct flights to the country.

In a recent interview with Guyana Times, Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Director, Retired Lieutenant Colonel Egbert Field disclosed that the organisation was gearing up to sign another open skies agreement, this time with the African country Tanzania.

He noted that already, the agency has signed open skies agreement with other South American countries which will allow for more airlines to fly here as well.

“We’ll improve connectivity in the Region, especially with the South American Region, by reaching out

to sign more air services agreements with the various States, because having air services agreements – that is the foundation or the platform which the airlines will be able to ride on,” the Director said.

So far, agreements have been signed with Brazil and Ghana. In addition to Tanzania, the GCAA is also seeking to ink an agreement with Nigeria.

The GCAA Director was keen to note that these agreements being inked were in keeping with this year’s theme of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) with regard to connectivity.

When it comes to a time span for those agreements, Field said the required framework was already in place and was presently waiting to be finalised.

GEPAN makes annual donation to hinterland communities

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Recipients of stationery and hampers from GEPAN

very year, GEPAN provides stationery and school supplies to children as part of the organisation's commitment to enhancing access to education. These items are given to children whose families are financially challenged and who subsequently find it difficult to attend school owing to limited resources.

This year, school bags containing two rulers, two pencils, two sharpeners, two erasers, five notebooks, 12 crayons for kiddies/five pencils and four pens for older children were distributed to 200 children in Region Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo) and 160 in Region One (Barima-Waini). Another 24 back-packs with stationery

were donated to children in Region Eight (PotaroSiparuni) while a number of children from Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam) are scheduled to benefit by the end of December 2018.

The decision to focus the majority of the organisation's activities in the hinterland this year was not an easy one, as distribution was rendered difficult owing to logistics, the remoteness of communities and poor infrastructure which delayed access to remote areas, especially in Region Nine.

However, given the hardships faced by Indigenous children in the hinterland with regard to attending school, GEPAN was determined to assist families in alleviating school expenses.

Indigenous children are among those who face tremendous challenges associated with harsh geographic, climatic and infrastructural setbacks. Shortages of trained teachers, as well as financial difficulties owing to unemployment or struggling village economies, increase the burden of families who struggle to send their children to school.

Some families are unable to purchase uniforms and shoes, and sometimes, cannot afford more than a meal a day for their children. It is, therefore, not uncommon to see schoolchildren attending school bare footed with worn-out uniforms in the deep hinterland.

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guyanatimesgy.com

friday, december 21, 2018

T

he Kingston seawall was the spotlight on Sunday evening as Empire Media Inc & Lashpot Sundays launched Armageddon Clash 2019.

The night kicked off with Determine Family providing early entertainment followed by the DJs who will be competing in the January 26 event.

Dishing out some of what you can expect at the Clash were Selector Face out of Afrikan Vybz, DJ Platinum from Trinity Sound, DJ Keston out of Slingerz Family & DJ Antz Man from Exodus Nuclear.

In what was a Clash-like style showdown, the DJs thrilled their fans to some of their favourite music. Adding to the excitement were the beautiful Armageddon ladies, who interacted with the crowd and gave away numerous tickets for the event.

Fans were all hyped and ready for what will be the biggest sound clash to hit Guyana. The event will take place on January 26, 2019 at the National Park tarmac.

The DJs, along with Magnum from Notorious International and Stingaz from Kanabis Sound out of Antigua, will battle for $1 million, one trophy and one year’s bragging rights.

Tickets for Armageddon Clash 2019 will be available soon.

For more information, you can check the Facebook page “Empire Media Inc” or call 680-6720 or WhatsApp 862-233-0494.

Q

ueen of Bacchanal, Destra is expected to set the tone for the Christmas season as she is expected to perform at Guyana’s premier party spot, Palm Court tonight.

Destra is no stranger to Guyana since she has performed here several times for her fans.

Tonight will be no difference as the Trinidadian artiste is set to rock PC, but before she takes to the stage, the Boom DJs are expected to set the tone. Everyone will be admitted free before 23:00h. Meanwhile, after an energetic night of Soca vibes, the action moves to Club Privilege on Sunday for “Ice and Chasers” Christmas Edition.

There will be free chasers and cutters all night. However, patrons can walk with two bottles of liquor and pay $2000. There will be lots of giveaways and persons can win tickets for the

H

Slingerz Family event billed for Christmas Day at Tuschen Community Centre Ground, East Bank Essequibo, featuring Jamaican Dancehall artiste Sheneesa.

Music will be provided by Stereo Sonic and Slingerz Family.

its and Jams Entertainment and Keem’s Foundation hosted their sixth annual Christmas Drive on Thursday, December 20, 2018.

Each year, the groups choose a community in need of Christmas cheer, and toys and clothing are distributed there, but this year, the items were distributed out of their office.

Previously, the Drive was taken to Tiger Bay, Albouystown and East Ruimveldt. This year, hampers of dry and canned foods, along with personal care items, were distributed to the less fortunate.

Hits and Jams Entertainment and Keem’s Foundation are pleased to have sponsors such as ANSA McAL Trading Guyana, Shop and Save, Chris Variety, DeSinco Trading Limited, Kashif and Shangai Organisation, Pro Cleaners, Singh’s Confectionery, Adamantium Holdings Guyana, DJ Shizzle, Colis Daniels, Gordon Mosely, and 592 Movements with much more on board.

The groups also expressed heartfelt thanks to everyone who would have contributed to the initiative and look forward for their continued support in the New Year.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

E

ighteen-year-old Josiah Matthew Mohabir, who was born at the Georgetown Public Hospital to Rampaul and the late Pampela Samaroo Mohabir, has set his eyes on becoming one of the most versatile singers in the music industry.

He is the last of seven siblings with the others being Ryan, Paul, Francina, Alicia, Marissa and Melinda Mohabir.

He attended the Comenius Primary School and after writing the National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA), he was awarded a place at Houston Secondary School, where he completed his secondary education. Mohabir, who has a passion for music, grew up in Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

His childhood was very challenging. His mother passed away when he was eight years old. From then on, it was a rough journey, but with faith and hope, he learnt a lot about life and more so, came to know the true meaning of it.

Education has played an important part in shaping his mind and now that he has a secondary education, he can look forward to a brighter future.

He started to sing in church and continued to test his vocals as he thought his talent was a gift bestowed upon him. Music helps him to relax his mind and more so act as a vehicle to share his feelings with the world.

“There are a lot of chaos and tragic things happening and through music I can inspire and help others in a positive and uplifting way by allowing them to believe in their self and build a change for a better future,” he told Guyana Times Entertainment.

Although he started to write his music when he was 14, but was exposed to music at an early age. He was taught the concepts of music and more so, had enough time to train his vocals in preparation for his

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friday, december 21, 2018

career in the music industry.

He is drawn towards Soul, Pop Rock, Country and Classic Rock since they are more meaningful and powerful. Thus far, the young man has written about 20 songs – all are based on life experiences and future goals. Although he has not recorded any of his songs owing to finances, he is optimistic that everything will fall into place when the time is right.

He hopes to build a brand for himself with a strong background, but first he has to accumulate savings.

His biggest role models are Jennifer Lopez and Kelly Clarkson, as they have inspired him to get into music and their music encourages him to push even harder in life. He perceives himself as going through the same hardships as they did, but they still managed to be successful in life.

In another five years, he sees himself as becoming the musician that he has always wanted to be, helping others around the world and being a role model to others. He also sees himself as someone who will urge those wanting to give up, to live their dreams.

When he makes a name for himself and becomes an international artiste, he wishes to share the stage with Clarkson whom he described as a fantastic singer. Singing one of her hits with her would be a dream come true.

On a lighter note, this talented songwriter cites “Piece by Piece” by Kelly Clarkson; “Gravity” by John Mayer; “I Have Nothing” by Whitney Houston and “Just like Fire” by Pink as songs he truly enjoys.

His favourite foods are fried chicken with macaroni and cheese, fried rice and barbecue.

Matthew Mohabir

NATIONAL CULTURAL CENTRE

he 10th edition of “Uncensored” is ready to take the National Cultural Centre by storm on December 29 and 30, with some of the best acts in stand-up comedy ready to take to the stage.

“Uncensored” has solidified its place in the entertainment world and has become a class act for stand-up comedy. The show provides comedians with a stage that has removed certain limitations, allowing them the liberty of expressing themselves and making the kind of jokes they would not otherwise be allowed to make anywhere else.

Thus, the show will be adults only.

Both nights will be completely different shows with the first night seeing a line-up of comedians competing for the coveted title of “Uncensored” King or Queen. Who will dethrone Odessa Primus? Or will she keep her crown? That is the question on everyone’s

mind. The second night will see the comedians in a clash, which promises to be a roasting session. Most people are anticipating the clash between Kirwyn Mars and newcomer Kunchi Reynolds, aka “Miss Pepper”.

The show will feature other comedians such as Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones; Michael Ignatius; Mark Luke Edwards; Kirt “Chubby” Williams; Kwasi “Ace” Edmondson; Jermaine Grimmond; Mark Kazim, also called “Chiney Man”; Paul Burnette; Marlon Jacobs; Randolph Critchlow; Granny Ivelaw and Annie.

Tickets cost $1000, $2000 and $3000, and are available at the National Cultural Centre, Gizmos & Gadgets, Giftland Mall, Elegance Jewellery, Payless Variety and from Sir Mars. The show is billed to start at precisely 20:00h.

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arty Boss WR Reaz and Trinidadian Chutney singer GI are set to release their debut song titled “Pretty Woman” today on RGI and NTN Radio Stations. The song will also be released on several radio stations in the US and the Caribbean.

The song was written by Shatta Youth, GI and Big Rich with the intention of getting people to party. The lyrics for the song are off the hook to set the tone for a night of party.

The song is about giving up “rum” and chasing behind the “pretty girls”.

It also tells of the singer changing his bad ways and concentrating on the girls around him. However, this will cause some confusion since most of WR’s friends are rum drinkers.

From reports received, most of them would have heard a piece of the song and started to “stay in dem corner”.

The song was recorded at DP Records and produced by Pungalunks Factory in Trinidad and Tobago. WR Reaz has a few songs under his belt, but this is the first time, he has collaborated with a recording artiste. Stay tuned to WR Facebook Page for more releases and information about “Pretty Girls”.

FRIdAY, december 21, 2018

19

Cuban baseball players allowed Anthony Drayton in MLB without defecting reflects on his year …hopes to accomplish more in 2019

Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder Yasiel Puig has spoken out about being held captive by human traffickers on the way to the US from Cuba

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S Major League Baseball (MLB) and Cuba’s Baseball Federation have reached a deal to let Cuban players sign with US teams despite diplomatic tensions.

Eligible Cuban players can now join MLB teams without defecting from the communist-run nation, in a deal similar to those with Asian leagues.

The MLB has also agreed to pay Cuba’s Federation a percentage of signing bonuses that Cuban players receive.

Officials say they hope the deal will end player trafficking from Cuba.

Under the new agreement, Cuban baseball players over age 25, who have played in Cuban leagues for six years, are free to leave and sign with MLB teams, according to US media.

If a player defects from Cuba, which traditionally produces some of the best players in the world, they will have to wait one to two years before playing for a US team.

The Washington Post reported that the deal required “extensive” discussions between MLB and the Trump administration, given the US embargo against Cuba and the president’s more recent rollback of Obama-era deals.

Robert Samuels

Cuban players will have to obtain work visas approved by the US Department of State.

The deal is in effect until 31 October, 2021. The International Chamber of Commerce will handle any disputes between the leagues.

Until now, Cuban players who wanted to sign with US teams had to defect and leave the country illegally.

As a result, for decades many Cuban players suffered kidnapping and extortion from traffickers - some with ties to drug cartels - on their way to the US. In 2014, Los Angeles Magazine revealed how Dodgers’ star Yasiel Puig had been smuggled to the US in dangerous conditions and held captive by traffickers, underscoring the severity of the issue.

During Fidel Castro’s presidency, Cubans who defected to the US to play in the MLB were banned from ever returning.

Now, players can return to Cuba in the offseason if it is approved by their MLB club.

Baseball Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement on Wednesday that MLB “has been seeking to end the traf-

ficking of baseball players from Cuba by criminal organisations” for years, the Associated Press reported.

The deal now offers “a safe and legal alternative”.

And, according to AP, the agreement could spell much-needed income for the Cuban baseball federation: the most recent signing bonus for Cuban player in the MLB was nearly $1m (£792,000).

The Early Defector Over 200 Cubans have played for Major League Baseball (MLB) teams since the 1870 - around half of them officially defected to the United States.

The story of René Arocha became a renowned case in 1991.

Arocha played for Cuba’s national team for 10 years before defecting while in the US for a tournament. The decision meant he had to leave his wife and daughter behind in Cuba.

He became a pitcher with the St Louis Cardinals, but his major league career was troubled by injuries and exhaustion. He played just one season with the Cardinals and spent the remainder of his career playing for minor league teams.

Scorpions Head Coach Robert Samuels fired

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iting a string of poor results from the Jamaica Scorpions and off-field issues, the Jamaica Cricket Association will not renew the contract of head coach Robert Samuels.

Samuels, whose previous contract expired on August 31, 2018, agreed to an extension to December 31, 2018. However, based on his performance, his contract will not be renewed.

The Jamaica Scorpions, who had won five consecutive titles on coach Junior Bennett, has had a string of poor performances. The team finished fifth in the 2016/2017 regional four-

day competition and was fourth in the 2017/2018 season.

The Scorpions also lost their opening match against the Barbados Pride in their opening match this season.

The team fared marginally better in the Regional Super 50 with a fifth-place finish in 2016. They finished second last year and made it to the semi-finals earlier this year.

It against this background that the JCA decided that it was time to move on from the former Jamaica and Windies opening batsman.

“With full consideration given to on-field performances and off-field areas which needed improvement, the Board concluded that a change

Anthony Drayton

By T imothy J aikarran

A

s 2018 comes to a close and 2019 quickly approaches, Guyana’s highest rated chess player, FIDE Master Anthony Drayton is reflecting on the accomplishments he has made for the year and the steps he is taking to climb to the top in his career.

According to his FIDE ratings, Drayton is Guyana’s top player and at the age of 24, he has the highest ELO rating of 2030. In an exclusive interview with Guyana Times Sport, when asked how he viewed his current year, Drayton said, “Well, for 2018, it’s been very good.

The starting of the year I won the qualifying tournament for the national championship and got second in the championship after tiebreaker between me and Wendell Meusa. After that, I went on to play in my first subzonals that was held in Jamaica, where I accumulated six points which got me elected for the FIDE master title ,while bringing 14th out of 76 players with my starting rank at 56th in that tournament. Shortly after that, I went to Barbados to gain my FIDE instructor title in Barbados, which I am now a certified (National instructor). On top of that, our country participated in the 43rd Chess Olympiad, that is when I accumulated the

was necessary,” the JCA said in a statement released on Thursday.

“The decision to not renew Mr Samuels’ contract is the first in a number of changes coming to the Jamaica Scorpions franchise which will be made public in due course,” the statement continued.

“The Board sincerely thanks Mr Samuels for

points again for the FIDE master title, making me the first FIDE master (FM) for Guyana and also the highest-ever rated chess player ever for Guyana, which is 2030 currently.”

According to Drayton, he is ecstatic about his accomplishments. However, while it does feel good, he did not do it for himself, but for his country and other players, so one day young players can surpass him and reach higher levels. He also went on to state that achieving such a feat was never easy, but he has always had the talent for the game and great analytical abilities, as he learnt from the masters such as Bobby Fisher, Garry Kasparov, M Botvinick and current number one Magnus Carlsen. He also did not shy away from the fact that he is grateful to one of Guyana’s top powerlifting champions, Carlos Peterson who taught him the game. He also relayed that he wanted Guyana to have a youth chess programme whereby kids could learn chess at a very young age, and he hoped that every school could have a chess club.

In closing, Drayton said: “As for me, I’m just going to try and win some tournaments and raise my ratings as much as possible so I can one day move on to the next level.”

his positive contribution to cricket in Jamaica which spans many years and wishes him every success as he continues his journey in the sport.”

The JCA said they are conducting interviews to find an interim replacement and will announce their decision during the during the course of the Christmas holidays. (Sportsmax)

20 Hetmyer will be the Jabari Joseph ‘man’ for Windies aiming high for 2019 – Dwayne Smith …sets out GUYANATIMESgy.COM

FRIdAY, december 21, 2018

'his goals

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est Indies middle-order batsman Shimron Hetmyer, despite not having the most consistent time with the bat since his international debut, has certainly turned some heads and made people notice, including former regional batsman Dwayne Smith.

“From the first time I saw him, I thought he had tremendous talent,” said Smith, a former Windies and Barbados opening batsman.

Hetmyer, already ranked the number 51 Test batsman in the world, made his debut for the Windies at Sabina Park in Kingston against Pakistan in 2017.

Since then he has averaged just 29.70 with a highest score of 93 in Tests.

His average is higher in One-Day Internationals (ODIs) at 37,9 with a highest score of 127, but still, the lefthander’s scores are not anywhere near the immense talent he shows.

In fact, in T20 Internationals (T20Is), where his attacking personality should flourish most, Hetmyer only manag-

Shimron Hetmyer

es an average of 14 and a half.

Smith believes very minor adjustments are needed for those averages to go up.

“He just needs to be wiser about his shot selection, especially in Test cricket,” said Smith.

That aggression, Smith seems to suggest, is something that has been missing from West Indian cricket and he, for one, would like to see more of it.

“I like the aggressive, attacking way he goes about his cricket. This is so West Indian and we can’t take the West Indian out of our West Indians. We just need to keep them going and give them the right backing and stuff like that,” he said.

With those ingredients, Smith believes Hetmyer will be one of the best players in a Windies jersey for years to come.

“He’s someone, who for me, is going to be one of the top cricketers for the West Indies,” said Smith. (SportsMax)

Social Cohesion Ministry donates to Bina Hill … principal grateful

Assistant Director of Sport, Melissa Dow-Richardson presents the items to Bina Hill Youth Learning College Principal, Dr Laureen Pierre

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he Social Cohesion Ministry handed over a quantity of football gear and uniforms on Thursday to the Bina Hill Youth

Learning College in the presence of its principal, Dr Laureen Pierre at its headquarters on Main Street.

The handing-over ceremony was

chaired by Liaison Officer attached to the Ministry, Shabbir Ali. The items were presented to Dr Pierre by Assistant Director of Sport,

Jabari Joseph

F

ollowing the recent conclusion of the 2018 Rainforest Water/Malta Supreme/Georgetown Amateur Basketball Association (GABA) League, UG Trojans Under-23 player Jabari Joseph reflected on his performance over the basketball season.

He told this Guyana Times Sport, “This tournament was just a stepping stone to greater things in place for the team and I was able to learn new systems, better myself on both ends of the court, having court awareness and time management. I can’t say much about the stats, because I don’t focus on that as long as the team’s winning – it’s all good.

Throughout the tournament, I must say that the coaching staff motivated us; they helped work on our game individually. The club’s motto is “train hard, win easy” so that says it all.”

Joseph further said that for the tournament next year, he has planned to work on his shooting since it’s not there yet.

He relayed that the coaching staff gave them lots of shots that should be taken per week – 500 shots total, including 100 from each baseline and top of the key free-throw line extended. When asked what goals he wants to achieve in the new year, Joseph said, “Well, for 2019, the main goal is to be fully prepared for the universities games held in Columbia.

Training has already started, so I’m looking forward for the games. More emphasis should be placed on sports here in Guyana.”

He concluded, “And for the new young Trojans that’ll be representing next year, training is always intense from start and the coaches can be harsh at times, but it’s only to better your game, so don’t take it personally and just work.

The results will show as you can see we’re the champs for U-23 (in the GABA League].”

Joseph also stated that he would like to thank God for life and his parents for their continued support, and the University of Guyana sports administrator Lavern Fraser for her efforts towards this tournament and sports as a whole. (Timothy Jaikarran) Melissa Dow-Richardson, who said, “Indeed, it’s a pleasure to see this happen; sports development is a critical part of this portfolio of social cohesion, culture and youth. So, we are happy to donate these uniforms and gears to Bina Hill and we know that uniformity is a very important part of sports discipline and the way that athletes present themselves as a team, so we look forward to help them to continue to grow and develop the youths of Region Nine.”

Upon receiving the items, Dr Pierre said, “I’m really pleased that the Minister is

propelling this request, the students at Bina Hill are full of energy and when the day is over, they want to be involved in exercise and football is a big deal there, so this would really be an asset to them and we would like to assure you that we are a strong team and we have been winning matches.”

She went on to state that both boys and girls were actively involved in sports and they would be sharing the equipment. The principal noted that the students would be encouraged and was grateful to the Ministry for the donation. (Timothy Jaikarran)

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sports

21

Tucber Park receive support from Tika Persaud – GCB Marketing Manager on lookout to assist cricket clubs

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t is the home of Romario Shepherd, Tremayne Smartt, Julian Moore, and other great cricket ambassadors, and Tucber Park received several team uniforms from overseas-based Guyanese Tika Persaud.

The cricket enthusiast, who owns a cricket team in Orlando, Florida, was a resident of the Tucber Park area in New Amsterdam, Berbice. The cricket club that have produced talented cricketers over the years were recognised for their outstanding performances, on social media by the donor.

Speaking to Guyana Times Sport in an interview, Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) Marketing Manager Raj Singh explained that he immediately contacted the Tucber Park Coach and aided in acquiring the sponsorship in partnership with US cricket store Cricket Zone.

Singh further explained that even though he resided in Orlando, he was continuously seeking sponsorship and support, not only for GCB, but cricket clubs across the country.

The stylish red and black Royal Proud sponsor Tika Persaud showcases the uniform

Members of the Tucber Park Cricket Club and Raj Singh display the new uniforms

Challengers Bangalore kit-like uniforms come with caps. The colourful uniforms will be well used by the Tucber Park Cricket Club.

Guyana Jaguars’ all-rounder Shepherd, who is a member of the Windies A team, and former national players Nial Smith and Anthony D’ Andrade received the uniforms on behalf of the Tucber Park Cricket Club. The vibrant Cricket Club has also produced Candacy Atkins, a female cricketer who played one Test match for the West Indies. Atkins also played 11 OneDay Internationals (ODIs), and also represented the United States of America.

Smartt is among the most experienced players; the Tucber Park player has 117 International matches beneath her belt and

Petra pledges continued support to football at school level

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she offers support to the youths, playing the role of a mentor. Fast bowler Jeremy Gordon, another proud product of the Tucber Park Cricket Club, has played five First-Class matches and seven international matches for Canada. The Club also have a number of national youth players who are working towards greatness; Guyana Under-15 Captain Zeynul Ramsammy, Garfield Benjamin and Tomani Caesar are among the notable names.

The administration and members of the Tucber Park Cricket Club expressed gratitude towards Persaud and Singh for their support , and will continue to perform and produce outstanding individuals.

“Ultimate Warrior” tackles Baramita sports problem – Coach Gordon Brathwaite takes the lead

Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca

s it reflected on the 10-plus tournaments hosted for the year 2018, the Petra Organisation is of the opinion that it has met its mandate and similar strides will continue to push its development agenda in 2019.

Looking back on the year’s work, Co-Director Troy Mendonca explained that the organising body has fulfilled a number of initiatives that were in the pipelines.

“2018 has been a very good year for us and I think going into 2019 we would have established some focal points. Most importantly, we were able to set a strong foundation for youth development and football in the school system.”

One such initiative was the Guyoil/ Tradewind Tankers Under-18 tournament, which, for the first time, brought a league format to the Under-18 age group. Aside from this, the Organisation has streamlined a number of new tournaments namely the ExxonMobil Boys and Girls Under-14 competition and the KFC Goodwill Tournament.

Owing to its continuous work, the organization is now well known for football development. As such, Mendonca noted that they were in the right position to assist those who have an interest in jumping on board with sponsoring or fuelling a tournament or even development programmes at a particular level. Ventures such as this, Mendonca explained, help to lay the foundation in order for Guyana to progress as a footballing nation.

In light of this, the Petra Co-Director made an appeal to interested persons to come on board.

“We want to appeal to the public at large and even persons in the Diaspora to come forward and help football; you don’t have to come through the Petra Organisation. Like I said we know exactly who are involved and where to go,” Mendonca stated in reference to a programme held in August of this year which involved female players sourced from the participants in the inaugural ExxonMobil Under-14 tournament.

One avenue that the Organisation has been pursuing is borrowing development practices from foreign or regional teams. It was disclosed that the Organisation has been in talks with the Shiva Boys Hindu College management in pursuit of this agenda.

Looking towards 2019 and the future, the Petra Organisation has pledged its continued commitment to enhancing football at the school level. “We will continue as an organisation to push school football and this is a demonstration of the seriousness of our commitment to development of the sport,” the Co-Director declared.

Coach Gordon Brathwaite poses with some of the young footballers of the Baramita Primary School

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n yet another effort to address the growing social problems affecting the people of Baramita, Region One (BarimaWaini), the Department of Sport deployed one of its most experienced coaches to the community, Gordon Brathwaite, better known around the football community as the “Ultimate Warrior”.

Arguably one of Guyana’s finest worldclass footballers, Brathwaite was sent to the community to engage its youths on healthier ways of channelling their anger, frustration, and boredom.

Brathwaite has been interacting with the young people of Baramita since Thursday. “From the response that I have gotten, I believe that sports can really help the people of Baramita. The youths have potential and I am glad that the Department of Sport took this initiative to ignite a sports presence in that particular community,” Brathwaite said.

The Coach explained that engagements even led to the formation of a Baramita Sports Club, which is being headed by a five-member executive body.

“The good thing about this body is that it has the presence of important people from all sections of the society. It has a teacher; a police officer; a young, vibrant, talented youth leader; a very successful businessman, as well as the Deputy Toshao of the village,” Brathwaite explained.

Coach Brathwaite commended the efforts of Social Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton in recognising the positive impacts that sports could have on a person’s overall life.

“I genuinely believe that sports can solve many of the problems facing the people of Baramita, and I look forward to seeing positive changes very soon,” Brathwaite said.

22 “2018 was a fantastic Windy conditions make for challenging competition at Archery year for golf” – Hussain GUYANATIMESgy.COM

FRIdAY, december 21, 2018

Outdoor Recurve Finals

Golfers endured a sensational year of action in and out of Guyana

By Clifton Ross

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usignan Golf Club President Aleem Hussain described 2018 as a “fantastic” year for the sport, despite its many challenges, but outlined a number of plans to supersede this year’s feats should his executive body be re-elected.

Hussain told Guyana Times Sport on Thursday that it was a tough year in executing all of the set plans that the executive body had been brewing since taking office in the latter part of 2017. Hussain said despite the setbacks the Club had managed to take the sport from a state of mediocrity to one of the most developed in the country.

“2018 was a fantastic year for golf, because

This year saw more games being played in half a year than in a full calendar year compared to previous years, highlighting the immense steps the fraternity has taken. With sponsorship from the likes of Massy Microsoft, Sanjay’s Jewellery, Macorp, ANSA McAL, Ganesh Parts, and Trophy Stall to name a few, the LGC has been riding on a high.

Also, with the support from Macorp, whose current and past Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) are senior members of the LGC, the course underwent a phenomenal change so it was no longer afflicted by the weather while the greens and fairways received a complete makeover, thanks to the millions of dollars in machinery freely donated by the machinery giants who has signalled it intentions to con-

...Singh, Duncan take home the gold for Individual Men's & Women’s matches

Some of the competitors at the Outdoor Championship. In centre, 2018 Men’s Individual Winner Robert Singh and second from left, Women’s Individual winner Samira Duncan

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flashback! Golfers pose with West Indies legendary batsman Shivnarine Chanderpaul who is also fond of the sport

it became one of Guyana’s major sports with more persons now aware of golf. Three of the main reasons golf has improved in 2018 is due to the peak condition of the course; fortunately we have not lost a day to rain despite some other venues in Guyana being undone by the weather; our course remained open all yearround,” the LGC President said.

Hussain identified as the second reason, the overwhelming amount of corporate sponsorship, which, he said, played a key role in the LGC managing to host at least three tournaments every month since January 2018. He pointed out that should he and his current team find favour at the Club’s forthcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM), they plan to acquire more sponsorship in 2019 with plans to double up on the number of tournaments on the calendar.

Thirdly, Hussain credited the golfers’ form this year as a reason for the success accrued.

He said owing to the number of tournaments played (close to 40), golfers have been able to enhance their respective games and that was evident when they stormed the Suriname Open back in October before starring in the biggest Guyana Open Cup yet.

tinue supporting the revamping of the Club heading into 2019.

According to the pro golfer, the Club has also had to take some tough times with the good as some of its plans were delayed owing to unforeseen events. Among those put on hold was the importing of new golf carts, given the number of break-ins the Club has suffered in recent times. Hussain said that the LGC was in the midst of boosting security while a storage room for the carts would be included in the plan.

Apart from security, plans to add a swimming pool, tennis court and extend the course are among the things Hussain said the members were strongly behind making happen as the new year looms.

Looking ahead to the new year, the current LGC President said that once re-elected, he planned to host more Opens along with more activities that blend culture and academics with golf. With 2019 just days away, Hussain also confirmed that the LGC will kick off January with the Suzuki Open tournament while the University of Guyana (UG) golf programme among others will resume early in 2019.

16 shortlisted for ExxonMobil International Futsal Festival

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The shortlisted Guyanese futsal squad

rchery Guyana’s Outdoor Recurve In the semi-final, Umasankar overcame Championship Finals kicked off at a poor start to dominate Sean Duncan in the 12:00h on Sunday, December 16, 2018 last three rounds to secure the win and a at the GNS Ground on Carifesta Avenue. spot in the final.

While the weather was not as sunny as In the finals, Sean Duncan defeatforecast, the championship displayed excit- ed Nicholas Hing 6-2 to secure the bronze ing and competitive matches between the medal with Robert Singh displaying calm archers. and brilliance to overcome the favoured The first event was the women’s semi-fi- Umasankar Madray 6-2, ending the men’s nal match between Narda Mohamed and individual contest with Singh taking gold, Samira Duncan in which Duncan secured Madray, silver and Duncan, bronze. a spot in the final against Shereeda Yusuf, For the team shoot-offs, Robert Singh and who benefited from a bye owing to a no-show Narda Mohamed dominated as they took from Vidushi Persaud-McKinnon. The fi- gold medals leaving team Anand Mangra nal match after an even start was dominat- and Samira Duncan with silver while ed by Duncan, who claimed the gold medal Madray and Yusuf secured bronze.Archery with Yusuf settling for the silver medal and Guyana extends thanks to the Honourable Mohamed, the bronze.

Minister Norton and the Ministry of Culture, The cadet women’s contest was a two-per- youth and Sport for making the ground availson match which was dominated by Talitha able and Director of Sport, Mr. Christopher Kissoon, who won every end to secure the Jones and the National Sports Commission gold medal, with Jessica Callender taking for promoting the sport of Archery. the silver.

The men then took to the field Final results for their quarter-final match-ups Cadet Women with Sean Duncan and Jeewanram Talitha Kissoon – 40 (gold) Persaud in a tense match where they Jessica Callender – 9 (silver) both tied with five points each, thus giving onlookers a chance to witness Individual Women a one-arrow shoot-off for a tie breakSamira Duncan – 46 (gold) er. Duncan took the opportunity to Shereeda Yusuf – 13 (silver) show his dominance and secured his Narda Mohamed – bronze by default semi-final berth.

In the other quarter-final matchIndividual Men es, Anand Mangra was defeated by Robert Singh – 65 (gold) Umasankar Madray 2-6, with the othUmasankar Madray – 61 (silver) er quarter-final match being effectiveSean Duncan – 60 (bronze) ly a semi-final with Nicholas Hing losing to Robert Singh resulting in Robert Teams Singh advancing to the final owing to Robert Singh / Narda Mohamed – 101 (gold) a no-show by Ryan McKinnon and Anand Mangra / Samira Duncan – 120 (silver) Latchman Singh, the other quarter-fiUmasankar Madray / Shereeda Yusuf – 64 (bronze) nalists.

n anticipation of the high-level competition on the horizon, the Guyana Football Federation (GFF) has shortlisted the best of the best futsal players to participate in the upcoming GFFExxonMobil International Futsal Festival.

A total of 16 players have been selected to represent Guyana in the four-day Futsal Festival, which will take place at the Cliff Anderson Sports Hall from December 27-31.

The shortlisted squad was drawn from an initial 45 players who have been in training for the past two weeks under the watchful eye of Head Coach Bill Wilson and technical staff.

Among the squad are seasoned futsal players, including Daniel Wilson, Andrew Murray and Eusi Phillips, along with the two goalkeepers. (Please see below complete squad). Trials for the national selection began on December 8 at the National Gymnasium with players from across Guyana

contending for a spot after which a shortlist was done.

The Festival will kick off with six matches that will be played between 18:00h and 00:00h with each match being played on the hour culminating with the final match starting at 23:00h.

The teams, which include Morvant Caledonia United from Trinidad and Tobago, ZV All-Stars from Suriname, and a São Paulo select team from Brazil, will be placed into two groups. The local participating teams are East Coast All-Stars, Linden All-Stars, Georgetown All-Stars and West Demerara All-Stars.

The winning team will pocket $1.2 million, while the losing finalist will receive half that amount. The third and fourth-place finishers will pocket $300,000 and $100,000 respectively. Admission to the event will be $1000.

Shortlisted Squad: 1 Alfred Deon 2 Alleyne Eon 3 Austin Solomon 4 Benjamin Darren 5 Deane Delroy 6 Fraser Okenney 7 Grant Travis 8 Halley Rudy – Goalkeeper 9 Jones Omar – Goalkeeper 10 Junor Jermine 11 Kellman Curtez 12 Murray Andrew 13 Nelson Colin 14 Phillips Eusi 15 Sheppard Sheldon 16 Wilson Daniel

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIdAY, december 21, 2018

Hetmyer, Bramble, Campbell capture major GCB awards

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Essequibo named Franchise Team of the Year

By Brandon Corlette

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n a prosperous season, the auspicious Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) awards ceremony was held at the Umana Yana.

In the presence of Prime Minister Moses Nagamootoo; Social Cohesion Minister with responsibility for culture, youth and sport, Dr George Norton and GCB officials, the nation’s best players and organisations received awards. The outstanding and exciting West Indies performer, Shimron Hetmyer was named the GCB male cricketer of the year.

Hetmyer has been a prolific batsman announcing himself at the Caribbean Premier League for the Guyana Amazon Warriors, scoring a huge amount of runs.

The left-handed Hetmyer has transformed his CPL form for West Indies, scoring centuries against India. He holds the record for the youngest centurion in the Caribbean.

Albion wicketkeeper-batsman Anthony Bramble was named the regional player of the year for his solid performances at the 2017-2018 Professional Cricket League (PCL) Regional 4-Day Tournament.

Bramble scored 613 runs at an astonishing Guyana Jaguars’ Captain Leon Johnson Guyana Jaguars’ Head Coach Esuan Crandon receives his award (Brandon Corlette photo) average of 47.15, including four half-centu- receives his award (Brandon Corlette photo) ries and one magnificent century. The comYouth and Sports Club member, Campbell tournament that was played in Jamaica, pact right hander hit 196* and was also the played an unforgettable knock in the World where Guyana finished second. Guyana best wicketkeeper in the 2017-2018 Regional T20 tournament that ensured West Indies a Under-17 awards went to Nigel Deodat and 4-Day Tournament. Bramble effected 45 dis- victory in a nail-biting encounter.

Sachin Singh. missals, inclusive of 42 catches and three Chanderpaul Hemraj, Keemo Paul, and Kevin Sinclair captured the Best-Youthstampings in 10 rounds.

Sheneta Grimmond were the other outstand- Player-of-the-Year award after his all-round The lone Guyanese female who played ing senior performers who received awards. performance for Guyana in the Under-19 in the historic Stand-alone ICC Women’s The Blairmont Cricket Club was named the tournament. Sinclair was also the Captain World T20 tournament, Shemaine Campbell GCB Club of the Year, while Essequibo was of the winning Berbice Under-19 team that received the GCB best female cricketer adjudged the best franchise team, under won both the one-day and three-day formats, award. Campbell was brilliant in the female award-winning local coach Ryan Hercules. in 2018. The vibrant Guyana Cricket Board Regional Super50 Tournament scoring mas- The Guyana Under-15 star performer, has invested in the youth and Sinclair was sive runs that earned her recall to the West Mavindra Dindyal was awarded after scor- given an academy contract. Joshua Persaud, Indies Women’s team. A Rose Hall Town ing the most runs in the Regional Under-15 who scored the most runs in the Cricket

West Indies (CWI) Regional Under-19 oneday format, received his award. The entire winning 50-over Under-19 team led by brilliant Coach Julian Moore and greatly assisted by Andy Ramnarine received awards for their consistency at the Under-19 level.

Arguably the best coach in the Caribbean, Esuan Crandon was also awarded and his services to the Guyana Jaguars have been recognised by CWI. The GCB expressed gratitude to its sponsors and urged them to continue supporting the dominant Guyanese sport, cricket.

Award-winning sport Journalist Romario Samaroo was also awarded for covering the gentleman’s game.

Cricket in Guyana has been on the brighter side; the Caribbean Premier League graciously entertained the nation along with the ICC Stand-alone Women’s World T20 Tournament. Bangladesh toured West Indies. Guyana was presented the opportunity to witness high-profile matches. Additionally, the fittest team in the Caribbean – Guyana Jaguars, led by its courageous captain, Leon Johnson, have also been awarded for their consistent performances in the Regional 4-Day format, winning the tournament for four consecutive seasons.

With the GCB designing training sessions for their contracted players from Mondays to Thursdays, the players are able to execute their skills in the matches. The GCB has also been refurbishing the La Bonne Intention (LBI) facility to give the players who usually occupy the hostel an opportunity to undergo training. Facilities for the physiotherapist will be available at the LBI facility and in the second phase, lights will be installed for night cricket. With the vibrant Cricket Board, led by Fizul Bacchus, Anand Sanasie and co, cricket in Guyana is on the rise.

All-round Shakib helps Bangladesh level series B

angladesh prevailed by 36 runs against West Indies in the high-scoring second T20I in Dhaka.

Shakib Al Hasan’s all-round supremacy – five wickets after blasting an unbeaten 26-ball 42 – was complemented by Liton Das’ 60 off 34 and Mahmudullah’s unbeaten 21-ball 43 not out, the latter adding 91 for an unbroken fifth-wicket stand with Shakib.

However, it wasn’t all plain sailing.

West Indies kept fighting through Rovman Powell, who made 50 off 34 balls with five fours and a six, after they had lost half their side by the 11th over. Powell, who was dropped on 6 and 14 by Shakib and Mushfiqur Rahim respectively, slammed Abu Hider for 20 runs in the 14th over, hitting him for a four and a six down the ground before two top-edges gave him two more fours.

Only when Powell fell in the 16th over did the home side breath properly. Keemo Paul struck a four and two sixes in his 16ball 29, but he too fell in the penultimate over, caught at deep square leg while trying to hock Mustafizur Rahman.

After being put in, Liton powered Bangladesh to 211 for 4, their second-highest total in the format. The opener struck four sixes and six fours in his knock. There was an odd play-and-miss, but Liton in full flow

Saifuddin straight for two straight fours Shakib’s five-wicket haul was only the in the second over kept them going. third by a Bangladesh bowler in T20Is and the Hope and Nicholas Pooran, whose first since 2016 World T20 when Mustafizur 14 runs came off two fours and a took a five-for against New Zealand in six, added 41 for the second wick- Kolkata. The first was taken by Elias Sunny et. Shakib had Pooran sky a catch against Ireland in 2012. (ESPNcricinfo) to short fine leg immediately after 3 he had smacked the bowler for a six.

Mustafizur was Bangladesh Innings SO Hetmyer c Mohammad taken for 24 in his first (20 overs maximum) Saifuddin b Shakib Al Hasan 19 over, with Hope hitTamim Iqbal c Cottrell b Allen 15 R Powell c Tamim Iqbal ting him for four conLiton Das b Cottrell 60 b Mustafizur Rahman 50 secutive fours – over Soumya Sarkar c Brathwaite DM Bravo c Mustafizur Rahman mid-on, flicking him b Cottrell 32 b Shakib Al Hasan 2 past square-leg, scythShakib Al Hasan (c) not out 42 CR Brathwaite (c) st †Mushfiqur ing him over cover and Mushfiqur Rahim † c Allen Rahim b Shakib Al Hasan 7 smashing straight down b Thomas

1 FA Allen b Shakib Al Hasan

0 the ground. Under presMahmudullah not out 43 KMA Paul c Ariful Haque b sure, Mustafizur bowled Mustafizur Rahman 29 Extras 18 (lb 4, nb 2, w 12) a horrible bouncer that TOTAL 211/4 SS Cottrell not out

3 went for five wides, (20 Overs, RR: 10.55) O Thomas b Mahmudullah 0 making it even worse.

Fall of wickets: 1-42 (Tamim Extras 14 (lb 6, w 8) But Hope fell soon Iqbal, 4.1 ov), 2-110 (Soumya TOTAL 175 all out after Pooran, sweepSarkar, 11.1 ov), 3-113 (19.2 Overs, RR: 9.05) ing Mehidy Hasan straight (Liton Das, 11.6 ov), 4-120 Fall of wickets: 1-18 (E Lewis, down the midwicket’s throat (Mushfiqur Rahim, 12.6 ov) 2.1 ov), 2-59 (N Pooran, 4.3 ov), for 36 off 19. Shakib then BOWLING 3-62 (SD Hope, 5.2 ov), 4-98 removed Shimron Hetmyer SS Cottrell 4-0-38-2 (SO Hetmyer, 10.2 ov), 5-101 and Darren Bravo in the O Thomas 4-0-43-1 (DM Bravo, 10.6 ov), 6-118 (CR 11th over, both trying to CR Brathwaite 4-0-43-0 Brathwaite, 12.4 ov), 7-138 (FA push for boundaries, but FA Allen 4-0-29-1 Allen, 14.1 ov), 8-150 (R Powell, top-edging the slogs to the KMA Paul 15.5 ov), 9-173 (KMA Paul, 17.6 fielders. ov), 10-175 (O Thomas, 19.2 ov) 4-0-54-0 Carlos Brathwaite was West Indies Innings BOWLING Shakib’s fourth wicket, (target: 212 runs from 20 overs) Abu Hider 4-0-33-1 E Lewis c Liton Das b Abu Hider1 Mohammad Saifuddin 4-0-42-0 Mushfiqur affecting a smart SD Hope † c Liton Das Mustafizur Rahman 4-0-50-2 stumping in the 13th over b Mehidy Hasan Miraz 36 Shakib Al Hasan 4-0-20-5 when the batsman missed N Pooran c Tamim Iqbal Mehidy Hasan Miraz 3-0-23-1 a wide ball, but didn’t slide b Shakib Al Hasan 14 Mahmudullah 0.2-0-1-1 back his foot back while Mushfiqur juggled the ball.

SCOREBOARD

made for pretty viewing. He added 68 for the second wicket with Soumya Sarkar, who struck three fours and a six in his 22-ball 32.

After Liton and Soumya fell in the same Sheldon Cottrell over, and Mushfiqur Rahim also fell in the following over, Bangladesh slightly lost their way. But Shakib and Mahmudullah charged their way through the last seven overs as Bangladesh added 112 runs in the last 10 overs. Shakib struck a flat-batted six over midwicket apart from his five fours.

Mahmudullah, Bangladesh’s designated slogger, struck seven fours, crashing five boundaries in the arc from backward point to extra cover, apart from his two tickled fours.

While West Indies lost Evin Lewis early in the big chase, Hope blasting Mohammad

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Hetmyer, Bramble, Campbell capture major GCB awards

Essequibo named Franchise Team of the Year

Page 23 Awardees of the Guyana Cricket Board annual award presentation ceremony (Brandon Corlette photo)

All-round Shakib helps Bangladesh level series Page 23

Rovman Powell struck a 50 in vain

Windy conditions make for challenging competition at Archery Outdoor Recurve Finals ...Singh, Duncan take home the gold for Individual Men's & Women’s matches

Page 22

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