Guyana Times - Friday. August 30, 2019

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

Issue No. 4031

THE BEACON OF TRUTH Friday, august 30, 2019

PPP begins unveiling elections manifesto

…promises no VAT on electricity, water, healthcare …free university education in 5 years See story on page 3 ...no new taxes; 20,000 scholarships

Liza Destiny arrives in Guyana

…another significant milestone on road to first oil – ExxonMobil Page 2

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Police called in to assist P12 FDD in probe of fake drugs

PSC meets P11 with GECOM Quick fix P12 temporarily restores water pressure in Georgetown Twinning of P14 Georgetown with an Indian City being pursued – High Commissioner

Lindeners P14 receive school supplies, sporting gear from Police

"Claims and Objections" faster process for early elections – Jagdeo See story on page 7

…merging of H2H Registration data will take elections to 2020

Logging, mining concessions intruding on Indigenous lands – APA report Page 9

Construction of 24-acre P8 abattoir in WCB raises suspicion

2 news

Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Liza Destiny arrives in Guyana …another significant milestone on road to first oil – ExxonMobil

ExxonMobil Country Manager Rod Henson

T

he Liza Destiny, Guyana’s first oil production vessel, has finally arrived in the country after travelling nearly 11,000 nautical miles for 42 days from the Keppel Shipyard in Singapore.

This Floating, Production, Storage and

Offloading (FPSO) vessel is a significant component of the Liza Phase 1 development, which involves four undersea drill centres with 17 production wells.

The vessel has a production capacity of 120,000 barrels of oil per day and an overall storage volume of 1.6 million barrels. During normal operations, there will be at least 80 persons living and working on-board the vessel.

Commenting on the arrival of this first FPSO, Country Manager Rod Henson said “It’s exciting to have another significant milestone completed as we continue on the road to first oil”.

“While we still have a great deal of work ahead of us, I’m extremely proud of our entire team, both onshore and offshore, and their focus on working safely and being protective of the environment in all that we do”.

was commissioned by First Lady Sandra Granger, who was accompanied by Dr Bynoe.

The Liza Destiny FPSO was converted from oil tanker, “Tina”, a 1999 Very Large Crude Carrier (VLCC). The conversion included upgrading of the hull and integration of 14 topside processing modules, totalling 16 thousand metric tonnes.

ExxonMobil Guyana remains on target for first oil by early 2020.

Energy Department Director, Dr Mark Bynoe

After clearing customs, the vessel will be connected to the spread mooring before hook-up and installation begins in preparation for production, storage and offloading of Guyana’s oil.

Before its departure from the Keppel Shipyard in Singapore, the Liza Destiny

Pride and expectation

Energy Department Director Dr Mark Bynoe said the arrival of the Liza Destiny should stimulate a new spirit of nationalism, pride and expectation.

“The FPSO’s arrival means that we are no more just talking about first oil.

First oil is on the horizon,” Dr Bynoe is quoted as saying in a statement from the Ministry of the Presidency.

“As Guyanese, we should begin to recognise that it is a vessel that will be paid for by Guyanese, pumping Guyanese fuel which will be bringing in revenue for Guyanese to help our country to ultimately be transformed positively from an economic development perspective,” Dr Bynoe expressed.

He further noted that it is “imperative that as Guyanese, we begin to appreciate that the direct and the indirect benefits that emanate from this sector goes far beyond anything that we have seen thus far”.

Liza Phase 1 remains on track to achieve first oil by the first quarter of 2020. It will produce up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day at peak rates utilising the Liza Destiny FPSO. With 13 lucrative discoveries offshore Guyana, ExxonMobil anticipates a potential for at least five FPSO vessels producing more than 750,000 barrels of oil per day by 2025.

Future plans

Phase 2 of the Liza development is expected to start up in mid-2022 and will develop approximately 600 million barrels of oil through the “Liza Unity”, the second FPSO in the series.

ExxonMobil had stated that a total of six drill centres are planned as well as approximately 30 wells, including 15 productions, nine water injection and six gas

injection wells.

Liza Phase 2 is expected to cost $6 billion, including a lease capitalisation cost of approximately $1.6 billion, for the Liza Unity FPSO. The company is evaluating additional development potential in other areas of the Stabroek Block, including at the Turbot area and Hammerhead.

By the end of 2019, ExxonMobil will have four drillships operating offshore Guyana. Following well completion activities at the recently announced Yellowtail discovery, the Noble Tom Madden will move to the Hammerhead-2 well. The Stena Carron is completing a well test at the Longtail-1 discovery, and will then move to the Hammerhead-3 well.

Later in 2019, the Stena Carron will drill a second well at the Ranger discovery. The Noble Bob Douglas drillship is completing development drilling operations for Liza Phase 1.

ExxonMobil will add another exploration drillship, the Noble Don Taylor, in the fourth quarter of 2019.

ExxonMobil affiliate Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited is operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block.

Hess Guyana Exploration Ltd holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds 25 per cent interest.

news

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Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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

Friday, August 30 – 04:30h – 06:00h and 14:30h – 16:00h and Saturday, August 31 – 05:30h – 07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, August 30 – 16:40h – 18:10h and Saturday, August 31 – 04:45h – 06:15h.

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

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

Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 32 degrees Celsius.

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

High Tide: 04:19h and 16:45h reaching maximum heights of 2.82 metres and 2.79 metres.

Low Tide: 10:18h and 22:37h reaching minimum heights of 0.37 metre and 0.40 metre.

WEDNESday, AUGUST 28, 2019

LOTTERY NUMBERS I

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thursday, august 29

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PPP begins unveiling elections manifesto …promises no VAT on electricity, water, healthcare …free university education in 5 years …no new taxes; 20,000 scholarships

I

n preparation for the upcoming General and Regional Elections, the People’s Progressive Party/ Civic (PPP/C) has started rolling out its policies and plans for the country and its people, should it get into office.

The Party’s manifesto is being rolled out in phases, according to PPP’s General Secretary and Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo.

He explained to reporters at his weekly press conference on Thursday that the first version of the manifesto will be in the form of posters circulating, containing some of the policies the Party plans to institute immediately upon taking office. The second phase, he noted, will be a more popular version of the manifesto, while the final version will be a detailed technical document.

The manifesto, he added, will be launched closer to elections and will give people more insight into the Party’s vision for the future of the country and its people.

Already, the PPP has published on its social media accounts several of these posters, outlining the removal of Value-Added Tax (VAT) on key areas such as electricity, water and healthcare, among other things.

However, adding to this, Jagdeo disclosed at his press conference that high, also, on the Party’s agenda is the reversal and/or reduction of the over 200 tax measures imposed by the coalition administration— such as on building materials, on data, and exports.

He pointed out that a government should be encouraging more exports so that foreign currency can be earned and more jobs created locally, not trying to stifle exports.

The PPP General Secretary went on to outline too that the Party will reverse the VAT on farming, mining and forestry equipment, which he said has caused untold difficulties for farmers, miners and those in the forestry sector.

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jadgeo

Taxes

“I met with some small loggers, etc, and having to pay taxes on their equipment now is just pushing them out of production. We want that changed and we want to reverse the land rent, and draining and irrigation charges that are making cattle rearing, rice farming and all those activities basically much harder…

[We will also] reverse new taxes on Guyanese miners,” he stated.

These, Jagdeo said, are just some of the reversals, as he promise no new tax burden under a PPP administration.

“There are lots of [the tax reversals]… like on hinterland travels and so on. But the reversals first and then a promise of no new taxes…

So when you vote for a PPP government, you know in the five year period, you’re not gonna have an additional tax burden from our Government like how people, for every budget [under the coalition], they’ve had to worry about new taxes all the time. So that’s the dif-

ference between the two,” he stated.

20,000 scholarships

Another area Jagdeo said much emphasis will be placed on is the education sector, which will include 20,000 online scholarships.

This, he said, will be in addition to what is being done at the University of Guyana (UG).

“So this will help private education and a large number of people to get scholarships for courses in professions that may not be offered by the University of Guyana. So the online scholarship is one thing that is critical for us,” he noted.

Moreover, the PPP General Secretary also spoke of his Party’s plans to offer free university education within its five-year term in office.

“We could’ve easily said free university from day one but we’re not APNU (A Partnership for National Unity – the majority party in the coalition government).

They promised free university, but they increased the University fees by 25 per cent. We’re not gonna do that, we’re making it clear within the five year’s we’re gonna do it… The way it’s going now, we’re looking at running the numbers, probably in year two or three we can move into this policy, but once we promise this, you know it will be done because we’re not making wild promises,” he asserted.

Furthermore, Jagdeo said that the PPP/C Presidential Candidate, Irfaan Ali, will also be rolling out some additional measures to stimulate private education as well as a plans to tackle the issue of outstanding UG loans.

According to the General Secretary, the Party’s education policy is a comprehensive approach not just focusing on the tertiary level. turn to page 9

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guyanatimesgy.com

Friday, august 30, 2019

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

Cricket: a unifying force across the region

T

he Guyana leg of CPL 2019 begins in a matter of days at the Providence Stadium with the first of five home games.

Fans, both here and from overseas, will once again savor the opportunities to experience and embrace all that has come to make up CPL. Dubbed the biggest party in sport as cricket is played louder, CPL epitomizes the positive evolution of world cricket and further emphasizes the vibrancy of the game which characterizes the West Indian brand.

The natural enthusiasm through the vociferousness of fans in this part of the world evident over the decades, has in many ways influenced the atmosphere in other places notably England.

The home of cricket has been known for its more subdued but overwhelming attendance punctuated with a routine courteous appreciation of the art and showmanship of the game.

That has now changed as fans have fully gotten into the game bringing liveliness through infectious music and innovative celebrations. This change has been directly credited to T20 cricket which, again, the West Indians would have branded with their own flare of effervescence through a fusion of colour, music and rapturous involvement.

As interest in cricket would have waned in the past due to various factors, T20, through the CPL, has not only catapulted that interest, but transgressed the traditional fan base to overwhelmingly capture women and children. Among the many successes of T20 cricket, the ability to continuously and increasingly bring out women and children to the games is one of the biggest achievements.

This is what was needed for the sport, especially here in the Caribbean as CPL has now become a much anticipated family event. The names and prowess of the plethora of stars of the various teams easily roll off the tongues of women and children as interest and expectation grow rapidly. One of the many factors driving this within the CPL is the many fan-based promotions by the various sponsors.

This has ensured that fans are not only directly involved in the process of creating the pulsating environment for which the tournament has become known for, but allows them opportunities to be the recipient of something tangible aside from the abundance of paraphernalia. This is where CPL has to be commended for making fans a priority in the process of building and sustaining interest.

That interest cuts across societal divides as evident in the support for the Guyana Amazon Warriors. The Providence stadium, since the inception of the CPL, has become known as a place sanitised of partisanship as Guyanese rally around their stars. Of course naturally there would have been disappointment over the Warriors not yet claiming the title. However, that has never prevented the overwhelming support local fans have given the team with Guyana probably the highest fan turn out for the tournament!

Fans rally when the team seems to be on the ropes and never hold back in their unbridled celebration of the joys of a Warriors’ victory. With a sea of colours from the waving flags of the Warriors and that of the country, accompanied by the blaring rhythmic music often drowned out by the collective deafening screams of fans, the positive influence of the of cricket through the CPL is pellucid. The power of the game to effect the bypassing of differences and for rallying in unison for a common cause is never in doubt.

The Providence stadium, which has proven its worth over the years, will once again burst into life as cricket superstars from across the globe battle for supremacy. Guyana will once again be in the international spotlight as millions will join the global live broadcast from the East Bank corridor.

The benefits of such international exposure are priceless as are those that redound to the local economy from the hosting of CPL games.

With a growing fan base with every passing year, the Warriors are not just the players on the field, but every fan in the Providence stadium and those watching the live broadcast. That has been the impact of the CPL as it continues to break barriers, showcasing cricketing skills and discovering new talent.

As Guyanese and tourist converge in large numbers at Providence, the stadium becomes a hub not just for the many analyses by fans of what should or should not be done or who should bat or bowl when, but for the making of yet another step in the process of forging togetherness.

Cricket has always been seen as a unifying force across the region. Here at home, CPL and the exciting exploits of the Guyana Amazon Warriors have created a formidable platform for the furtherance of that process.

A man walks amid smoke from a burning tract of Amazon jungle as it is cleared by loggers and farmers near Porto Velho, Brazil (Reuters/

Ricardo Moraes)

What about the animals caught in the Amazon rainforest fires?

By Ashitha Nagesh

I

t’s believed about three million different species of plant and animal - one in 10 of all the species in the world - live in the Amazon. This has been the worst year for Amazon fires since 2010.

At the time of writing, Brazil’s space agency Inpe reports that there have been

almost 85,000 fires in the rainforest so far. So what does this mean for the many animals who call the Amazon home?

Some animals may be able to escape. Large mammals, such as jaguars, stand the best chance of getting away because they are able to run fast enough to get away from the fire in time.

But many other animals will be killed almost straight away.

Dr Claudio Sillero, professor of conservation biology at the University of Oxford, tells BBC News that he’s particularly concerned about the smaller creatures in the forest: “They don’t stand a hope in hell.”

“Different groups of animals will fare differently,” he says.

“But we really need to worry [about] amphibians, reptiles and invertebrates. They live in microhabitats, and if these microhabitats get hit by fire then they will disappear completely, and these animals will die.”

Their offspring are at risk too: “Their eggs also need to be kept damp - but [in fire] the eggs will be quickly cooked.”

This, he adds, could cause some species to go extinct.

Then there are the Amazon’s many small and slow mammals,

such as the sloth. Dr Sillero says these animals “tend to panic in the presence of fire, and are more likely to suffer direct mortalities”.

Birds face similar risks, he adds. While individual birds may be able to fly away and find safety, to do so they will need to abandon their chicks and eggs.

Paul Rosolie, an American author and conservationist, has

seen this first-hand. Last week, he posted footage on Twitter that he had taken of fires in the Amazon while working in the forest in July.

“What’s horrible is, and people don’t realise, that all these animals are being cooked alive,” he tells BBC News. “Baby birds in their nests, snakes, frogs... the monkeys go running for it, but this is the only place these animals have to live.”

Escape first, survive later Fleeing the fire is the first step - and as Dr Alex Lees from Manchester Metropolitan University tells BBC News, these animals’ chances of survival remain bleak.

Straight after a fire, he says, “once the area’s burned, it’s useless for many species”.

“It’s not like there’s necessarily lots of spare space,” he says. “Most areas are already at carrying [full] capacity, so they’ll need to displace another individual of the same species from their own territory.

“That’s the major problem here - they can’t go somewhere else because those areas are occupied, and they’d be waiting around for a new territory to open up. But they can’t re-use

their old areas that have been burned.”

When fires rip through a rainforest like the Amazon, they burn down so many trees that there are holes in the forest’s canopy. This means that the environment beneath, which is usually dark and humid, is exposed to the harsh sunlight, and can dry out very quickly.

It is then repopulated by new species that usually live on the naturally dry areas on the edge of the forest.

This is bad news for animals that rely on the forest’s humid, moist environment. Dr Lees, who specialises in bird conservation, gives the example of insectivorous birds who need the ground to be soft and damp in order to be able to stealthily hunt for food. Dry, crunchy leaves on the ground make this impossible for them.

He adds that these species are unlikely to be able to return to their home “for decades probably far in excess of the single life expectancy of any given creature”.

Long-term devastation As well as immediately killing and displacing birds, insects and land mammals, this habitat change will also eventually hit aquatic species, such as the Amazon river dolphin or the rainforest’s many different fish.

Even though these animals are able to avoid the fires by seeking refuge underwater at first, Dr Mark Bowler, an ecologist at the University of Suffolk, says the rivers and lakes they live in will be altered.

“If you burn parts of the

forest in order to build a cattle ranch, then aquatic habitats are going to be affected as well,” he tells BBC News. “The fish populations and the ecology of the river will change, and that will [also] affect larger animals like the giant otter.”

Many forest-dependent humans will lose their livelihoods as a result of the fires, too.

Dr Rachel Carmenta, an environmental scientist at the University of Cambridge who works with the Amazon’s indigenous and mixeddescent communities, tells BBC News that the fires are “a humanitarian problem as well”.

Many of the animals hunted by these communities, including tortoises and capybaras, are slow-moving and therefore are likely to have died in the fires, she says.

Trying to hunt the few remaining animals is almost impossible, as the ground is too noisy for hunters to quietly cross the forest floor. On top of this, the plants they use to build homes and produce medicines would have also been charred.

“It’s not only about those immediate losses of flora and fauna,” she adds, “but also the relationships, the identities, the attachments that people have to their homes and to their landscapes, which are eroded and become unrecognisable as fires pass through.”

Faced with displacement and starvation, many people’s lives are at risk, Dr Carmenta warns. “In the long-run, I don’t think that’s too strong to say.”

(BBC)

guyanatimesgy.com

Friday, august 30, 2019

5

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

Guyanese are too tired, cannot be held hostage No party, no administration is immune to the fate that has befallen this Govt Dear Editor, The coalition Government has once again shown its total disregard and insensitivity for the hard-earned taxpayers’ dollars of the Guyanese people. It matters little that value for money is sacrificed for political expedience and the usual few getting filthy rich in the process.

This caretaker Government made a huge ‘investment’ in the H2H Registration – its bid to remain in power. In November last year, the Committee of Supply of the National Assembly approved $5.4 billion dollars for the Guyana Elections Commission.

The Opposition had proposed after the successful passing of the NCM that GECOM utilise the $3 billion intended for National Registration for the holding of elections, but this never materialised.

The Finance Minister, Mr Jordan, had said that “the sum of $5,371,061,000 is given a lump sum to GECOM to use as it sees fit and as it prioritises” and the coalition made full use of this offer.

The CCJ ruling would have negated the H2H Registration in keeping with the 3-month timeline as stipulated by Article 106 but GECOM saw this as a priority to execute the will of the coalition.

The unilateral and legally flawed appointment of Mr Patterson bore dividends on June 11, 2019, days before the CCJ’s rulings on June 18. The GECOM Chairman, Mr Patterson, used his casting vote to initiate the House-to-House Registration which was scheduled to begin on July 20 and end on October 20, 2019. The Order for Registration was signed by Patterson June 11 and was a well-guarded secret since the conspiracy with the coalition to delay the elections as long as possible to pad the electoral list was the decisive factor. The Order came into effect as planned but without the legally required scrutineers from the PPP/C, hence those who would have reg-

istered lacked verification. The PPP/C was not even invited to supervise the registration process. This again smacks of collusion between GECOM and the coalition. Hence the entire House-toHouse Registration was a farce enacted for the benefit of the coalition to pad the list with foreign nationals. This H2H should have been aborted since the GECOM Chairperson held her first statutory meeting.

The GECOM Chairperson, even after the court ruling by Chief Justice Roxane George that the H2H is not unconstitutional but recommended GECOM considers other forms of verification, should have halted the H2H Registration immediately instead of allowing it to continue until August 31. This has allowed GECOM to accelerate the process by working longer hours, again fulfilling the expectations of the coalition. Why is it that that the process was allowed to continue when it became clear that the existing NRR will not be invalidated and that there will be an “extensive” Claims and Objections period which would have captured those persons not on the list?

The only reasonable conclusion is to afford the coalition ample time to get these foreigners with fake ID cards and birth certificates to get on the list.

Furthermore, the decision to “merge” the data from the H2H Registration with the NRR is again affording the coalition more delaying time since this will take an unduly long time which will again violate the CCJ’s rulings and the Constitution. The data should have been scrapped on August 27 and the Claims and Objections period brought into immediate effect to afford elections within a “reasonable” timeline. This decision to allow the H2H to continue until monthend and to use the unverified data in a “merging” process is a very poor one and a decision which this country can ill-afford at this time bearing in mind

that a successful NCM against this coalition was passed since December 21, 2018, and further ratified by the CCJ since June 18 this year. The GECOM Chair is cognisant of this fact, yet failed to rule accordingly. This is not upholding the rule of law and the Constitution and enabling free, fair and transparent elections as promised! ‘Compromise’ cannot be used to cure a violation of the Constitution and justice cannot be adulterated with even an iota of illegality!

At this point, some lingering and pertinent questions need to be answered: What is the number of new registrants who are above the age of eighteen? We must take into consideration that the list expired on April 30 this year and persons attaining the age of eighteen would automatically be on that list. Any extraordinarily significant number of new registrants appearing will give credence to the padding suspicions which are already abounding. Why is it that these unverified registrations should be on the Official List of Electors? We must consider that the “extended” Claims and Objections period can take care of those not on the existing NRR. Will this “merging” plus the “extended” Claims and Objections period not take the election into 2020 and so violate the Constitution?

The GECOM Chairperson, Justice (ret’d) Claudette Singh must scrap this new H2H data and embark on the Claims and Objections period to sanitise the list and afford Guyanese not only a free, fair and transparent election but a timely one as well. Guyanese are too tired and cannot be held hostage to this deliberate political malingering which has become unbearably ridiculous and extremely absurd given that more than eight months have elapsed since the successful passing of the NCM. Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

Wakenaam hospital is part of the declining public health system Dear Editor, Every day, another horrifying public health story shocks the people of Guyana.

Last week, at least three families were forced to use ice boxes to store the bodies of their deceased relatives in Wakenaam.

Even as storage was a problem because of the malfunctioning mortuary refrigerators, deceased bodies could not be removed from the hospital because there was no doctor to sign-off the death certificates. One family complained that their relative died on Friday, but was still there on Sunday because they had to await the arrival of a doctor. Up to Sunday afternoon, there still was no doctor, and when checks were made about noon on Monday, a doctor was still unavailable to sign-off the death and so relatives were forced to continue using the icebox to keep the body from deteriorating.

At Wakenaam District Hospital, the problems are many – the malfunctioning mortuary is obscene. But there are other problems. Availability of doctors has become a major concern for citizens in this humble farming community. In a discussion with the Chairman of the NDC on the island, he confirmed there is a major problem with missing doctors, with availability becoming periodic rather than sustained. This important district hospital, more often now, has no doctors. The Ministry of Public Health has completely ignored the urgent calls from citizens in Wakenaam and from the RDC of Region Three to address the doctor availability problem. Even as the availability of doctors, nurses and other service providers at the Wakenaam Hospital affect the delivery of public health, the availability of medicines has become a chronic problem.

It is as if the Ministry of Public Health is in a mode of phasing out the Wakenaam District Hospital.

Public health in Guyana has rapidly declined since May 2015. For most of that time, Ms Volda Lawrence, the People’s

National Congress (PNC) Chairman, has been in charge of the Public Health Ministry. This lady, who vowed her only friends are “PNC-people” and that as the Chairman of the PNC and as a senior Minister in the APNU/AFC Cabinet her mandate is to find jobs “only for PNCpeople”, failed to appreciate that public health must be for all people. She failed to recognise that when public health fails, it affects all Guyanese, including “PNCpeople”. The next person who requires the use of a mortuary or an X-ray or medicines or doctors might well be one of these “PNC-people”. We never know the next person who needs the public health system.

The rapid deterioration of the public health system is on display every single day, with newspaper, TV and radio news and public discourse stories highlighting the many struggles people endure as they try to access public health. A week ago, I had frantic calls from the Essequibo Island of Wakenaam about troubles at the district hospital there. This hospital, which should be a place where people go for their ailments, is now a place filled with its own ailments as described above.

As Minister of Health, I worked diligently with our people, the public health staff and the Government to ensure we stopped the practice of iceboxes to preserve the bodies of our loved ones. We ensured that all our district hospitals were equipped to provide refrigerated storage of the bodies of deceased persons. But non-functioning mortuaries has become a malady of the public health system. There are occasionally reports that the mortuary of the GPHC, the premier hospital in Guyana, is down. There have been reports of other non-functioning mortuaries around the country. For many months now, the mortuary at New Amsterdam has been unavailable. Passing through Mahaicony two days ago, I was similarly told by residents that Mahaicony is

not offering refrigerated mortuary service presently. At Fort Wellington, the refrigerated mortuary facility used is a private mortuary, paid for by the families of the deceased patients. It is heartbreaking that the public health sector adds further trauma and stress to people because they must worry about the preservation of the bodies of their deceased relatives.

As this unnecessary stress intensifies within the public sector, the Minister herself has treated this important function of the public health sector as an orphan.

In a recent trip to commission a repaired kitchen at the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, a few feet away from the empty, unused, broken-down mortuary, she completely ignored that the hospital forces people to use private mortuary services, at a cost many of them cannot afford.

Even as people outside picketed her, trying to draw her attention to the non-availability of mortuary services at the New Amsterdam Public Hospital, she ignored any recognition that there is a problem.

In the last week, Volda Lawrence, who still refuses to acknowledge the people fired her on December 21 and that she has been illegally squatting as the Minister of Public Health since March 21, has visited Regions Six, Five and Three.

Ms Lawrence and her APNU/AFC colleagues have unfortunately been rejected by the people, having to speak to only people who were bussed-in and greeted with protesters everywhere. But even as they parade across these regions, brazenly funding their political campaign with taxpayers’ money, she totally ignores the many, many problems in a rapidly declining public health system. Ms Lawrence must take responsibility for a declining public health sector.

Sincerely, Dr Leslie Ramsammy Former Health Minister

Dear Editor, Reference Sherwood Lowe’s letter titled “For many Guyanese the motion of no-confidence is not a matter of legalities only” which was thought-provoking.

Thanks to him first for a willingness to engage. It is only by continuing the exchange of views that Guyanese will come to understand each other’s positions. To offer a slightly different vantage point (which I have stated in these columns repeatedly): APNU/AFC won by one seat, the slenderest of margins, they lost the vote of no-confidence by one vote, which is all it took to bring the Government down. The possibility of the APNU/AFC Government falling was in prospect from the moment it started its term of office.

Anyone who has observed the precarious existence of coalition Governments that

routinely scrape to victory in Europe (and subsequently fall) would have realised this. To the dismay of many local observers, the coalition governed as though they had no need to compromise or to consult or try to include other groups or build consensus. But then this is the standard procedure in Guyana. Our politicians all have a “winnertakes-all” mentality. The coalition is not the first to be guilty of this attitude. It is outdated. Demographics suggest strongly that we all need to wake up. Coalition Governments with slender majorities are likely to be the norm rather than the exception in Guyana’s future. No party and no Administration is immune to the fate that has befallen this one.

Yours faithfully, Isabelle de Caires

Minister Ramjattan has reached new lows Dear Editor, The GAWU could not have failed to recognise the recent statements by Vice President and Minister of Public Security, Khemraj Ramjattan with respect to the sugar industry. An Inews report of August 26 informed that the Minister, during a meeting held in Corriverton, reportedly told his audience “…that the Government made the right decision to close the estates”. While it is now publicly acknowledged, the Minister is known for his outlandish statements and has found his foot in his mouth on more than one occasion, his utterances this time around has even defied, in our view, the low expectations that many had of him.

While the Minister, seemingly preaching from his ivory tower, justifies, unashamedly, the decision to shutter estates which in its wake put thousands on the breadline, the communities and people linked to Skeldon, Rose Hall, East Demerara and Wales are going through miserable times and hardship-filled days and nights. Today, while the Minister and his colleagues make wishywashy statements and provide sordid rationales, there are people in the precincts of the closed estates that find it hard to eat or to pay their bills or to send their children to school. The public is well aware of the situation wherein the people of Skeldon must pay NICIL to catch fish in the canals to feed their families. Then there is the more recent instance, where a child of a redundant sugar worker is unable to take up a space at the illustrious Queens College as his parents simply cannot afford to

meet the expenditure.

The Minister went on to tell those he spoke to that “…the citizenry would become filthy rich in the near future with the booming oil sector coming on stream”. It seems the Minister is saying that we should place all our eggs in one basket. It is disheartening that an educated person and more so a national leader is making such outrageous statements. Time, experience and history have thought us that we never should place all our eggs in a singular basket. Moreover, recently, Minister Winston Jordan tempered expectations when he said that oil revenues in the early years will just be a few hundred million United States dollars, hardly sufficient to make us all “filthy rich”. Then, at the same time, we cannot ignore the many views expressed regarding the lopsided arrangements regarding oil exploitation that has been entered into. We really wonder whether the Minister’s feet were on the ground when he was speaking.

Today, while the Minister goes on to justify the unjustifiable, it was not too long ago and not too far away from Corriverton, when Mr Ramjattan told an APNU/ AFC rally at Whim, during the 2015 elections campaign, that if elected, they “…will not in any way close the sugar industry…”. Indeed, it goes to show that you can no longer take anything at face value from Minister Ramjattan and his ilk.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

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Friday, august 30, 2019

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Getting your first day right

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fter a summer of sleeping in or doing things on your time, the alarm bell announcing that first day of school can be a rude awakening.

Whether you're an anxious new student or a confident seasoned student, heading back to school signals a time of transition: new classes, new teachers, new schedules, and a new social scene.

Dread it or love it, you gotta go to school. Here are some ways to make the transition from summer to school a little easier.

First-day mania

There's no escaping the fact that the first day of school can be crazy. New kids wander around in circles. Lockers won't open.

The school nurse needs your medical records. You forgot your gym shorts. New students are running in all directions.

How can you combat first-day chaos? If you're headed to a new school, during orientation explore any areas that are of particular interest, such as the gymnasium, library, or science labs. Some schools offer maps. Get one and give it a read before school starts — then keep it in your backpack until you're familiar with your new surroundings.

Your first day is also the time to bring in school supplies and paperwork. It can help to pack your backpack the night before school starts so you're not scrambling around at the last minute looking for what you need. In addition to packing

basic supplies (such as notebooks, pens, pencils, and a calculator), hunt down any of the school forms necessary: immunisation (shot) records, permission slips, and class schedules.

Each school has a different opening-day drill. You'll meet your new teachers, and they'll probably give you an overview of the course syllabus, class rules, what the term will be like, what supplies you'll need, and expectations of your performance and behaviour. Some teachers will jump right into their first lesson, while others may have non-coursework activities planned. It all depends on the class and teacher.

Emotions

Here's a simple equation:

new place = new emotions.

Lots of people feel anxious, scared, or excited about school. Although students who are coming back as seniors may be happy they're in their final year and can't wait to visit with friends, most freshmen or new kids are likely to be tense or worried.

It's perfectly normal to feel nervous on the first day of school. Getting back to the school routine and adjusting to new workloads takes some getting used to after a long summer break.

If you're having a mental meltdown, think back to some previous "first days."

Everything probably settled down pretty quickly once you got into the routine.

Meeting new people or getting reacquainted with classmates can feel over-

whelming, especially if you're the shy or reserved type. Start small: If large groups make you nervous, try saying hello to one or two new people a day – the kid at the desk next to yours in homeroom is a good place to start. Or ask new people to sit with you in the cafeteria.

If you still feel uncomfortable after a few days, talk to the school guidance counsellor, a favourite teacher, or someone else you trust about how you're feeling and what you can do. But give yourself time – most problems adjusting to school are only temporary.

else? But with foods like pizza or burgers staring you in the face when you're at your most hungry, it can be hard to make healthy choices.

Here are some tricks to choosing foods that will keep you focused and active throughout the day – as well as help you grow and develop throughout the school year: Get a copy of the menu.

If your cafeteria provides a weekly or monthly menu, check it out. Knowing what's on the menu puts you in control: You can pick and choose which days you want to buy lunch and when you want to bring your own.

Think energy. Some foods are better choices than others for maintaining energy during the day. Choose low-fat proteins, like chicken, beans, or low-fat yogurt and add lots of fruits and veggies to your meal.

They'll provide the vitamins

and minerals you need and the energy to get through the day. Foods that have a lot of simple carbohydrates, like sugary snacks, donuts, or french fries may give you a quick rush of energy but it's not sustainable – which means you'll be left wanting more soon after you eat. The same is true of drinks filled with caffeine or sugar. You don't have to cut these out entirely — just enjoy them in moderation.

Stop for a snack. You can't concentrate or absorb new knowledge without a well-fed mind and body. So take along a healthy snack, like carrot sticks or trail mix, to stave off hunger between classes (don't munch during class, though, or you may face a reprimand!). Not only will this keep you going, it will also help you avoid overeating when mealtime finally arrives.

(Excerpt from kidshealth.org)

Start a change:

Write a petition

F

ollow the steps below and write a petition which gives many people one collective voice on an issue. Petitions start with a letter stating one’s points and end with many signatures.

Making your way through the lunchroom

What's everyone's favourite period? Lunch, what

Step 1 – Decide on your audience. (Teacher, principal, community leader, organisation, etc) In your greeting, use their name to start your letter.

Step 2 – In the body of your letter, explain your issue.

Give supporting facts for your side which will help to convince the audience why this is beneficial. Tell what you want to change. End with a call to action.

Step 3 – Add signatures of people who agree and support your issue to the bottom of your letter.

Possible Issues to “Start a change” -- Choose one and design a petition.

Create a better playground Add/remove items to a classroom to enhance learning Create a better library Start a new public s park Improve a public community ground Add/remove items to a lunch menu Add stop signs or traffic lights to a dangerous intersection (startwithabook.org)

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Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

"Claims and Objections" faster process for early elections – Jagdeo …merging of H2H Registration data will take elections to 2020

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

W

hile lauding the Guyana Elections Commission’s (GECOM) recent decision to scrap the House to House (H2H) Registration exercise, Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo said that the plans to merge the data with the existing database will push the hosting of early elections to 2020.

Speaking at his weekly press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo reiterated his party’s opposition to the merging of data. He argued that there is a much faster and simpler way of ensuring that everyone, including new registrants, gets on the voters’ list, that is, through Claims and Objections (C&O).

The Opposition Leader explained that of the 285,000 registrations that were obtained during the H2H exercise, only approximately 2000 are new registrants.

As such, instead of adding the more than 280,000 registrations to the existing National Register of Registrants (NRR) Database, which would have massive duplication, and since the Chief Justice, Roxane George, ruled that it would be unconstitutional to remove qualified persons from voters’ list, Jagdeo said GECOM should filter out those new registrants and have them re-register at their local divisions.

This, he added, will save some three months off the merging process.

“I’ve seen their latest work programme [and] with this merger, the most optimistic scenario is to go to Claims and Objections in November because the merger will take about three months and then elections on the 27th April, next year. So you understand this merger will not improve the database. It’s a delaying tactic once again. It will not improve the database. If you don’t merge the data, you have a simpler way of capturing all these people by getting the 2000 new registrants of the 285,000 to just go back and get re-registered,” he stated, adding that this time the registrations will be done consistent with GECOM’s manual, which says that it must be done in the presence of scrutinisers from the political parties.

This, Jagdeo said, did not happen in the House-toHouse exercise.

Furthermore, he contend-

GECOM Chair Retired Justice Claudette Singh

ed that the data collected during the more than 40-day registration might even be illegal. He noted that the statutory form for the conduct of House-to-House registrants was replaced with another form that was not approved

by GECOM or the National Assembly.

According to the Opposition Leader, his party has already fought to prevent the contamination of the voters’ list and now there seems to be a new battle to fight, that is, to ensure that elections are being held on time.

“That is what we’re now attempting; to ensure that this so call merger of unverified data with a verified database doesn’t contaminate the database and doesn’t fall into APNU’s plan again to delay the elections using this so call merger, which is unnecessary, for another three months… so this is the new fight for decency,” he contended.

Jagdeo went on to say that

the Government keep saying it wants elections at the earliest time possible but at the same time, its GECOMnominated Commissioners are frustrating this. He said that publicly and privately, the Government Commissioners’ arguments are designed to slow things down.

Nevertheless, the Opposition Leader is hopeful that the Elections Commission will make the right decision on the way forward, saying his party has no intention of approaching the court to challenge the merger.

“All we’re saying to GECOM, without telling them what to do, is that the Constitution of Guyana stands above everything else.

The caretaker President is not respecting the Constitution, but we expect, we have great faith that under the new leadership, GECOM will,” he asserted.

Earlier this week, the Justice Claudette Singhled Elections Commission announced that the H2H Registration will be scrapped on August 31, and the information gathered thus far will be merged with the existing database.

GECOM said too that it will be moving to an extensive

Claims and Objections period but no date was set for this.

However, the Commission said it will continue to further deliberate on other matters relating to the holding of General and Regional Elections within the shortest possible time.

However, Jagdeo reminded at Thursday’s press conference of the Chief Justice’s ruling last month during which she said that GECOM is not operating in a normal elections cycle and as such should undertake processes which are less time-consuming.

8 News Construction of 24-acre abattoir in WCB raises suspicion Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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onstruction of an abattoir is ongoing at Onverwagt, West Coast Berbice, Region Five (Mahaica-Berbice), but the location and the size of the facility have raised suspicion among farmers.

In December 2016, the Agriculture Ministry said that the cattle industry is expected to grow with the establishment of two abattoirs in Regions Five and Nine (Upper Takutu-Upper Essequibo), claiming that those facilities are expected to see improved breeding stock and better husbandry practices. In January 2018, the Ministry again announced that the beef industry is soon to benefit from the construction of a state-of-the-art abattoir in Region Five.

Head of the Guyana Livestock Development Authority (GLDA), Nigel Cumberbatch said the construction of the abattoir is in keeping with the agency’s drive to ensure higher quality meat for consumers.

He also disclosed that Region Five is deemed the most suitable location for the abattoir since “Regions Five and Six are the largest cattle producing regions

24 acres of land being fenced for abattoir

Mohamed Rafaideen

and we feel it is important to put the abattoir where the animals are. The construction will cost us in excess of $2 million. It will be an international standard abattoir,” Cumberbatch explained.

In November last year, the Ministry of Agriculture announced that through funding from the InterAmerican Development Bank (IDB), it will be constructing a “high efficiency” ready-to-use abattoir in the Mahaica Mahaicony AbaryAgriculture Development Authority (MMA-ADA).

Recently, the fencing of a 24-acre plot commenced.

However, the project is being questioned by Mohamed Rafaideen, a Rice Producers Association representative who also produces rice in the MMA Scheme.

According to him, Government is utilising prime land for the facility.

“They are putting an abattoir on 24 acres of land when you probably only need half of an acre,” he told this publication.

However, he said that is the smallest of issues as he pointed out environmental hazards of placing the facility at Onverwagt.

Rafaideen said an abattoir should not be in the rice cultivating area since the area is one where chemicals are used.

“When we process the meat here and have to export it, will we be able to get international certification for the meat coming out of this abattoir while chemicals are used right around the abattoir?” he asked.

The farmer also looked at the cost to fence 24 acres with a concrete base and metal pipes connected with mesh.

“It is very expensive...

The twenty-four acres again

is a waste of money. If we have an abattoir on half an acre of land, then it will make sense with this type of fencing, but right now what they’re doing is wasting money. What will they do with twenty-four acres?

Are we going to raise the animals at the abattoir from the initial stage then take it into the abattoir?”

“You need to have persons doing things which make sense. We have comedians.”

He said only about 5000 square feet is needed for the building.

“Definitely it’s a waste of money and it shows gross incompetence all the current Administration,” he said.

Meanwhile, when contacted, an official at the Ministry said with an international standard abattoir, “we can also say to the persons who are bringing in meat, that we are slaughtering under proper hygienic conditions and if the quality is good, we see no reason why you cannot purchase animals feeling satisfied with the wholesomeness of the meat that will be coming out of the abattoir”.

The standard…

A

…is on show s you dear readers would know, your humble Eyewitness greatly admires the rule of law tradition, which the British bequeathed to us – albeit a tad late in the day after they’d cast aside our ancestors like sucked oranges. The foundation of the rule of law, of course, lies in the British Constitution – which remains the gold standard not just for us in the detritus of the Empire, but the world. No fistfights in the commons, thank you… even though the speaker may sometimes be forced to bellow “Ordah!! Ordah!!” in such stentorian tones, the walls literally quiver!!

All of which is made more remarkable since their Constitution is unwritten!! That, of course, reminds us that when we create institutions and enact all these laws then expect our people to follow them, we’re barking up the wrong tree. There can be no real change in people’s behaviour before there’s a change in their moral and cultural consciousness. And that, brings us to the point your Eyewitness wishes to make: the refusal of the bullying PNCin-power to obey the tenets of our Constitution very much WRITTEN in black and white!!

Back in 2014, the AFC had threatened to move a motion of no-confidence in the PPP government. The latter had only 32 seats to the combined 33 of the APNU and AFC – but had captured the Presidency and Executive because of our peculiar plurality system. The No-Confidence Motion had been copied from the British Constitution, where it had been used on several occasions. President Ramotar, however, used his prerogative power in the Constitution – derived also from the British Constitution – to prorogue Parliament and schedule elections by his initiative. He did so within six months rather than the 3 months specified by the NCM. But all hell broke out!! And most interestingly, then UK High Commissioner to Guyana Andrew Ayre criticised the prorogation and called for President Donald Ramotar to reconvene Parliament. He warned that while the Constitution did give the President the power to prorogue Parliament, “it also gave in Article 106 part 6 the right for majority of MPs to dissolve the Parliament essentially and have new elections”. In the eight months since our own NCM was passed, it is more than passing strange that the present quite voluble High Commissioner hasn’t demanded that the PNC government have “new elections” by the same Art 106 (6)!!

Now, over in ole Blighty, PM Boris has also prorogued Parliament so as to avoid a No-Confidence Motion on Brexit. Will the HC offer a comment on Boris’ action? If he’s unclear of his unwritten Constitution, maybe he can use ours? The PNC government hasn’t been using it much lately!! …on electoral lists Oh, what a tangled web we weave when first we practice to deceive!! The PNC insisted that they wanted new H2H Registration to produce a new voters’ list because they were concerned that the old list was too “bloated”.

But now, of course, it’s ok to merge another 350,000 new names to the old list and that won’t be “bloated”??

But one has to wonder about this new GECOM Chair running with the hare and hunting with the hounds, under the guise of “giving something to both sides”. Which part of “elections must be held within the shortest time” she doesn’t understand?? Why didn’t she order that the H2H exercise cease IMMEDIATELY?? Why the extra four days?? And then to rub salt into our wounds, she allows the Secretariat to increase the working hours of the field officers to register even more voters!!

GECOM has to adhere to the Constitution, as interpreted by the Courts. Singh’s decisions are nothing more than another thumbing of the nose at that Constitution. …for oil extraction The FPSO, Liza Destiny is here. Well, actually in Exxon’s Stabroek Block, where it’ll be getting ready to start pumping out our light, sweet, crude oil for the world market.

Your Eyewitness figures we won’t have elections before first oil!!

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

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Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Logging, mining intruding on Indigenous lands – APA report

T

he extractive industries operating both within and outside of allocated concessions are posing serious threats to the livelihoods and development of Indigenous peoples in various regions across Guyana.

This was revealed in the recently launched Participatory Assessment of the Land Tenure Situation of Indigenous People Report for Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni) by the Amerindian Peoples’ Association (APA) on Thursday.

Governance and Rights Coordinator of the APA, Dr Laura George, in giving a summary of the report stated that it sought to present a detailed picture of the current status of land rights for 20 communities in that Region, 15 of which are titled, while the other five possess no legal documents to their lands.

She explained that all of the communities reported some form of land and resource conflict with external parties on both their titles and customary lands. Most of the issues relate to mining and logging, with one instance of conflict with State authorities, including the Army and Police Force.

“Eleven of the 15 titled villages have problems with mining activities or movement of unauthorised miners on their titled land. At least two villages have reported explicit incidences of bullying and violence by miners.

Sixteen communities reported that commercial mining and logging are harming the environment and livelihoods that these communities depend on”.

According to Dr George, main concerns being expressed by these 20 communities in relation to livelihoods include: resources within titled areas becom-

ritory.

The APA representative elaborated that the main causes of violations of Indigenous land rights in Region Seven are similar to the findings of the reports that were already conducted for Regions One (BarimaWaini), Two (PomeroonSupenaam) and Eight (Potaro-Siparuni).

These, she added, include problems with the way land is allocated by the Government to mining and logging interests, notably, State issuance of mining rights in customary lands under claim, including over a large portion of lands in the Upper Mazaruni River basin, which are the subject of legal proceedings in the High Court.

“Also, lack of effective and meaningful participation in decision making (by Indigenous people), including Free Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC), and lack of effective means of redress for indigenous communities”.

Proposals for action

According to the report, in their recommendations, communities are calling on the APNU/AFC Government to legally recognise and provide secure title to all lands that the Akawaio, Arecuna, Carib, Arawak, Patamona, and Warrau peoples of the Mazaruni, Cuyuni and surrounding areas have traditionally owned, occupied, used and where they hold close attachment to the land.

“These areas include

lands upon which their fore parents depended and which people continue to occupy and use for farming, hunting, fishing and gathering today, as well as spiritual sites, cultural heritage sites and other areas of historical importance. Key proposals include calls for measures by the State and its Authorities and Agencies to refrain from granting mining and logging concessions on communities’ traditional and titled lands without their FPIC”.

Additionally, calls are being made for the Government to revoke all mining and logging concessions granted on Indigenous lands without FPIC and the return of lands “take” to build government compounds back to the indigenous communities.

PPP begins unveiling...

The recently launched Participatory Assessment of the Land Tenure Situation of Indigenous Peoples in Region Seven (CuyuniMazaruni)

ing scarce as a result of population growth coupled with mining causing pollution, deforestation, and scarcity of game animals and fish, among others.

“Twelve of the titled villages report land conflicts with mining interests inside titled boundaries. Four communities, one of which is titled, have land conflicts with logging interests in untitled boundaries. One titled village has land conflicts with logging interests inside titled boundaries, and two communities report land conflicts with private leaseholders,” the APA representative further stated.

Flaws with national laws

The report for Region Seven (Cuyuni-Mazaruni) also revealed that only six

of the 15 titled villages have been demarcated and one of them has reported flaws in its title demarcation where the demarcation does not follow the title description.

Of the four extension applications filed by some of the villages included in the report, none have yet been granted, and six villages in the Upper Mazaruni are presently seeking collective title to a larger Akawaio and Arecuna territory through a Court case against the APNU/AFC Government.

Dr George noted that the current system of titling communities individually does not cater for the fact that much of the customary land of communities has traditionally been shared between neighbouring villages with a collectively held ter-

“I don’t want for a moment for people to think for focus is confined to tertiary education because it’s also at the [technical vocational] level and at the nursery, primary and secondary levels. They also have plans for those areas. The overall objective of the PPP government is to have a world class [education system] because we will have a bit more resources from the oil revenues to pump into education,” he explained.

Other areas the PPP plans to address when it

gets into office include reducing the age limit on the importation of vehicles, which Jagdeo said will take more than $1 million dollar off the current costs of vehicles, thus, more affordable for Guyanese. Added to this is the reversal of the 2AM curfew, the restoration of the Joint Services bonus, as well as the support for small businesses via grants and interests free loans to promote entrepreneurship.

Moreover, the PPP General Secretary outlined too that his party will roll

from page 3

out an extensive plan on how Guyanese will benefit from the riches expected from the impending oil and gas sector.

“We made it clear that more Guyanese have to benefit from this. The way it’s structured now, the foreigners are gonna hog everything and that can’t be sustainable in the long run,” Jagdeo posited.

With the first phase of the manifesto roll-out already on the way, Jagdeo said the popular version of the document will soon be released.

10 news

Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Region 6 farmers call for upgrade of dams

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resident of the Guyana Rice Producers Association (RPA) Leeka Rambrich is calling on Region Six (East Berbice-Corentyne) and the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority (NDIA) to assist with the rehabilitation of access dams in the rice cultivating area.

Speaking with this publication on the issue on Wednesday, Rambrich said harvesting has commenced in some parts of the Black Bush Polder and should commence in the front lands in the coming week.

“The dams are all in a deplorable state. The rainy season has just ended and we’re seeing some sunshine now. We are hoping that with the farmers’ help and some assistance from the Regional Administration and the National Drainage

and Irrigation Authority, we can get some help to prepare the dams so that farmers will be able to use them for harvesting.”

He said if those dams are not prepared well-timed, it will be impossible for some of the farmers to harvest in a timely manner.

“We might see some losses as a result of the current situation of the dams rice cultivation area. When rice is not harvested in time there is lodging that takes place.”

Lodging is when rice gets ripe and panicles fall.

Rambrich said that when this happens, farmers cannot harvest all of their paddies.

The current sunny conditions will result in broken rice if it is not harvested in a The state of one of the deplorable access dams

timely manner.

“And when you take it to the mill to get graded, there will be a lot of cracked rice.

So, that in itself will result in farmers losing. I am appealing to the Regional Administration and to the National Drainage and Irrigation Authority that they need to come forward as early as possible,” the RPA President appealed.

He said he spoke with the Regional Chairman, David Armogan, who informed him that the Tender Board is expected to meet shortly to award tenders to rehabilitate some of the dams in the cultivating area.

“We are hoping that the tender would go out as early as possible so that contractors will be able to start working,” he added.

“Make the investment today” – Dr Bynoe …urges UG students to position themselves for oil sector

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s the time gets closer to first oil, Director of the Department of Energy, Dr Mark Bynoe is urging Guyanese, particularly young people, to position themselves to benefit from the budding industry.

“Make the investment today because Guyana is not just about the oil and gas; and oil and gas is not just about the wells, it’s not just about the drills. It is also about the supplementary infrastructure that is needed,” he is quoted by the Department of Public Information as saying.

Dr Bynoe was at the time addressing new students of the University of

Guyana’s Faculty of Earth and Environmental Sciences during an orientation exercise, the Department of Public Information (DPI) reported.

The Energy Director explained that the petroleum sector also speaks to “hotels, transportation, scientific data and the range of other things needed to make informed decisions”. He told the students that they can position themselves to benefit from the petroleum sector by diversifying their career options.

He added that employment positions within the industry are not restricted to just the technical field.

He implored the students to

not follow the rhetoric but to think about where their future lies.

The Energy Head stated that there will still be a need for financial analysts, marine biologists and several other professions in the sector as its production and business develop.

“We will still have needs for the financial and managerial accountants, you will still have a need for what we may all a softer side.”

Bynoe also urged the students to be patient as they continue their academic journey to enter the world of work. He reminded them that no one is born an expert at any given profession.

Twenty-three students, who recently returned to Guyana from China, share a photo with the three new scholarship awardees who will soon depart Guyana for China to study, along with Chinese Ambassador to Guyana Cui Jianchun and Mrs Jianchun, officials from the Foreign Affairs Ministry and Deputy Chief of Missions of the Chinese Embassy in Guyana, Chen Xilai on Thursday evening

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Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

NGO providing platform for victims of abuse to speak out

Executive Members of the Private Sector Commission on Thursday met with Chair of the Guyana Elections Commission, Retired Justice Claudette Singh and Chief Elections Officer Keith Lowenfield to discuss the current developments within the Commission and General and Regional Elections

ExxonMobil funds SSYDR “Work Wear 101” initiative

H

undreds of persons that benefited from training in various fields by the Specialists in Sustained Youth Development and Research (SSYDR Inc) over the years will now be given the opportunity of obtaining clothing for the workplace free of cost under a “Work Wear 101” initiative.

This programme is sponsored by US oil giant ExxonMobil and will allow eligible persons to be able to enter the work environment in professional attire Executive Director of SSYDR Inc, Magda Wills disclosed that the organisation has recognised a need

Some of the clothing on display

to do more for youths.

“We have been training our young people in entrepreneurship, linking them to livelihood opportunities and ensuring they get access to grants to start their own businesses,” Wills said.

“One of the things this organisation have been doing on a small scale is purchasing clothes for youths to attend school or to work, but what we wanted to do this time around with “Work Wear 101” is to provide a space where young people, who are now entering the workforce, will be able to come here and get an outfit for work at the cost of zero dollars,” she

Some of the children who received school supplies

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SSYDR Executive Director Magda Wills, along with Shola Bishop

added.

She said that it is envisioned that the initiative will reach the 10 administrative regions of Guyana.

“Our next launch for “Work Wear 101” workforce will be held in Region Six shortly.”

Board Member of SSYDR Inc, Shola Bishop explained that the initiative is a “basic clothing opportunity” being provided to the youths who are in need of assistance.

“It is targeting the youths who would have passed through one of the organisation programmes, we will be making sure that not only will the youths be

equipped with skills but they look good and feel good when they go for an interview or job. This initiative is basically to start them off to the good life we promised the youths of this nation.”

With the closing off of USAID funding, the group of specialists understanding the great need for youths to benefit from the package came together under the leadership of Magda Wills to form the Specialists in Sustained Youth Development and Research (SSYDR Inc).

SSYDR Inc’s team of specialists continue to work with key organisations for our nation’s youth.

newly-formed non-governmental organisation (NGO) is providing a platform for victims of abuse to speak out.

Silence Hides Violence Foundation (SHV) is also providing psychosocial help to persons who become victims of all forms of abuse.

Founder Camille Cox told this publication that SHV seeks to eliminate violence in society and eventually worldwide.

“I know it is going to be impossible, but that is our aim,” Cox said while adding that they are trying to empower and educate persons about violence, providing information on what measures can be taken by victims.

She made mention of violence in inter-partner relationships, child abuse and violence in the workplace.

“Our first mission is to go into schools, especially the secondary schools, and supply information to students through workshops. We want them to know about violence and what they can do if caught in a violent situation at home or just anywhere. We need to let them know where they can go”.

The group currently has fourteen members, including two professional social workers and a third in train-

ing.

“I, myself, am a victim of abuse. So, that is one of the reasons why I wanted this organisation, because it is one way that I can help persons from being caught such situations”.

SHV seeks to provide support to anyone who may be in an abusive relationship and are victims of any form of abuse and to collaborate with stakeholders to sensitise individuals on violence— which takes into account child abuse, domestic violence, inter-partner violence.

Public Relation Officer Lauristan Choy told this publication that the objectives will be achieved through sensitisation campaigns in forms of workshops, community outreaches, raising funds for families who are affected by violence, working with other stakeholders, and through counselling sessions.

Recently, several students from East Bank Berbice were given school pages, water bottles, and other essentials needed for the new school term.

Children at secondary, primary and the nursery levels who are living in difficult circumstances were beneficiaries.

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Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Police called in to assist FDD in probe of fake drugs …countrywide exercise being undertaken

authorised conditions.

This revelation was made after a complaint was lodged at the GA-FDD in relation to the issue at hand, which resulted in the launch of an investigation.

During a sweep, according to information released by the GA-FDD, inspectors visited 16 pharmacies on August 22, 2019 and August 23, 2019. The SF drugs were found at nine of the locations and these products were seized and removed from the retailed premises.

At the locations, a total of 17 boxes of a medication labelled “Chanca Piedra Phosmovite”, sold at an average price of $3,500— which claims to treat gall and kidney stones, clean the liver and the urinary tract— were found.

Also found were 28 boxes of a product named “Fungabort”, sold at an av-

Some of the substandard and falsified (SF) medications unearthed at local pharmacies

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wo weeks after a sweep was carried out at the markets in and around Georgetown and a number of substandard and falsified (SF) medications at local pharmacies was discovered, the Guyana

Police Force has been called in to assist the Government Analyst Food and Drug Department (GA-FDD) in its quest to locate a distributor who is manufacturing and selling a number of pharmaceuticals under un-

erage price of $1,000, which claims to be effective in the treatment of nail fungus. In addition, a sum of 23 boxes of “Phosferine”, sold at an average price of $3,000, were also seized and removed from premises.

It was reported that ingredients used, in some of the products, could be detrimental to end users. This is according to a source familiar with the state of affairs.

In an interview with this publication, Food and Drugs Director Marlan Cole, said that a country-wide sweep will be done to determine if the illegal items are being retailed at locations other than the ones reported.

Details of the countrywide exercise are likely to be released by next month, he said.

The Department, he said, is currently in a position to aggressively implement measures to protect consumers from the associated dangers of sub-

standard medications. To aid its investigations, the Department examined the products individually and the batch numbers and tried to trace these back to the facility where they were manufactured. If they cannot be traced, it will confirm the allegation of the item being processed locally.

With the next step being for them to locate the distributor, the Director speculated that such a person operating illegally may be found operating a mini-lab in his or her home, photocopying some labels, buying bottles from another country which is similar to the ones used in Guyana, which are then pasted on to labels before distributing them for sale.

According to Cole, if the distributor is found to be operating under illegal circumstances, legal actions will be taken for him/her to be prosecuted. Currently, the punishment for such acts incur

a fine of up to $30,000 along with six months’ imprisonment.

The GA-FDD found it necessary to seek the assistance from the Guyana Police Force since the retailers had no paperwork which trace back to the distributor or manufacturer of the products.

The Food and Drug Department is advising all pharmacies to immediately desist from the practice of purchasing and retailing medication to be used by patients from walk-in-salesmen (suitcase traders) who refuse to provide invoices or adequate receipt or other records for traceability purposes.

Information provided to this publication revealed that one of the products sold is made with ‘Caustic Soda’ better known as Sodium Hydroxide, which is broken down as an ingredient of one the products.

Quick fix temporarily restores water pressure in Georgetown …permanent repairs to be done in 2020

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ollowing the recent break away of the Cemetery Road, Georgetown main water pipe, which saw residents of central Georgetown being left without running water for days and in some instances, extremely low water pressure, Managing Director of the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) revealed that the company has since prioritised the repairs of the over 100-yearold main for 2020.

The broken 117-year-old

Managing Director of GWI, Richard Van West-Charles

A damaged section of the water main

14-inch main has since been temporarily repaired and water has been restored to the affected areas.

However, Managing Director of GWI, Richard Van West-Charles, said on Thursday that the water company has since prioritised the replacement of the said main for 2020.

“The breakage at Cemetery Road has now moved us to prioritise that project for 2020, as you know that transmission line was about 100 years old, so it is a critical priority for us and we are reordering some of the priorities for 2020 to ensure that resources will move to replace those lines as immediately as the budget is approved,” Van WestCharles disclosed.

Additionally, two other

mains located at Church and Vlissengen Roads are also scheduled to be replaced in 2020.

“That, along with Church Road and Vlissengen Road, are two of the main transmission lines which we have to replace as soon as possible” the Managing Director said.

Central Georgetown residents, along with residents of Turkeyen, Cummings Lodge area, North Ruimveldt, Festival City, Sophia Plant, Central Plant and Kingston were affected for a number of days.

Many had reached out to Guyana Times to voice their complaints about the water shortage woes and the time it took to be rectified.

Meanwhile, a large section of West Coast Demerara (WCD) residents are also without water; however, the company revealed that works are being conducted for that issue to be rectified.

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Friday, august 30, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Plastic City residents call for settlement of land issue

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or residents within the Vreed-en-Hoop/ Plastic City community in Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), the hope of being able to own their land and home is dream shared by many. While some residents are squatting in the community, others legally own their land.

However, according to a report by the Department of Public Information, it was been highlighted during a community meeting by a

Vreed-en-Hoop/Plastic City resident Adrian (only name given)

resident, Adrian (only name given), that himself and other residents are being bullied to leave the area.

According to Adrian, this stems from the claims of one individual, who said he holds a land transport which will not only mean the removal of many residents, but also that of the Vreeden-Hoop Secondary School and other businesses.

“How is [it] possible that you have a school in this location, and someone has [land] transport harassing

18 students receive GWI’s inaugural bursary

The students who received the bursary awards from GWI

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or the first time, the Guyana Water Incorporated (GWI) distributed bursary awards employees’children who performed exceptionally at the 2019 National Grade Six Assessment (NGSA).

Each student received $30,000. The beneficiaries hailed from Regions Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), Four (DemeraraMahaica), Five (MahaicaBerbice), Six (East BerbiceCorentyne) and Lethem, Region Nine (Upper TakutuUpper Essequibo). The students all attained 70 to 99 per cent of the total marks.

Imani Daniels, Ashley O’Brien and Raphael Joseph gained a spot at Queen’s College while, David Hoyte will attend St Rose’s High School and Nishaun Samaroo, President’s College.

Delivering remarks, Managing Director of GWI, Richard Van West-Charles encouraged the students to continue to excel.

“I want to say to you that you have the world in front of you, Guyana is going to be a different place where you will grow up to become professionals and you will be permitted to work to be productive citizens of Guyana, of the Caribbean and of the world. You are lucky to be born at a different time from most of us, because Guyana is about to open up for you the young citizens of Guyana to have a different opportunity to maximise you potential” Dr Van West Charles explained.

He further noted that it is GWI’s duty to provide for the students, who are a part of the company’s family.

“This is important be-

cause we are seeing your success as the success of the GWI family. So we have to say thanks and once again congratulate you for your success in studying through and getting to the point where the minimum number of marks among the GWI family is 70%,” Charles congratulated the students.

Guyana Times caught up with a few of the students who expressed their satisfaction with company’s gesture.

“I feel good and I am very glad that they are giving out the bursary awards to help people with their school things,” Imani Daniels said.

“The journey was good and I feel happy to get something for my performance,” Anna Austin, the Lethem student who gained a place at the St Ignatius Secondary School stated.

businessmen in the community and residents and constantly pushing to take over this entire area?” Adrian questioned during a meeting held on Thursday.

Minister within the Public Infrastructure Ministry, Jaipaul Sharma, who was present, said that this matter will need to be reviewed by the Attorney General and Legal Affairs Minister, Basil Williams, for legal advice on the way forward.

The Minister stressed that persons will need to abide by the final ruling, but if the document is not au-

thentic, it will be challenged in court.

In the meantime, residents who are currently

squatting requested for assistance to obtain their land titles.

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Friday, august 30, 2019| guyanatimesgy.com

Twinning of Georgetown with Lindeners receive school supplies, an Indian City being pursued sporting gear from Police …initiative aimed at assisting development – High Commissioner of children – Lord

…commits to working with M&CC to beautify Mahatma Gandhi statue

Some of the beneficiaries who received school supplies from the Guyana Police Force on Wednesday in Region 10

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Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa

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he Government of India has committed to assist the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) to beautify the statue of Mohandas Karamchand “Mahatma” Gandhi located in the Promenade Gardens, Georgetown, in observance of Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary.

This is according to Indian High Commissioner to Guyana, Dr KJ Srinivasa, who, during a courtesy call to Georgetown Mayor, Ubraj Narine, on Wednesday, stated that his country will be providing assistance to relevant authorities in Guyana to help beautify.

He pointed out that this beautification process will not be limited only to the statue that was erected in honour of Mahatma Gandhi, but also various parts of the capital city.

“This is the year of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Ghandi. So, as part of that, we will be trying to help the city of Georgetown to beautify that

The statue of Mohandas Karamchand “Mahatma” Gandhi located in the Promenade Gardens, Georgetown

area and to redo that premises”.

He explained that India will also be assisting Guyana with developing and transforming Georgetown in various ways using plans that have been successful in advancing cities in India.

“We are also working upon trying to do a twinning of the city of Georgetown with a city in India where complementarities can exist say for example garbage disposal and also in the IT and the language field and the development of culture etc”.

Gandhi, during his lifetime, advocated for non-violent actions.

In 2007, the United

Nations General Assembly declared Gandhi’s birthday on October 2 as an ‘International Day of NonViolence’. It is also a national holiday in India.

Gandhi’s Doctrine of Non-violence and his philosophy of love, tolerance and truth, have not been confined to India, but are embraced around the world where people fight for freedom and self-determination.

His teachings of peace and humanity greatly influenced various freedom struggles and inspired several world leaders such as Martin Luther King and Nelson Mandela in their fight for equity.

oth education and sport activities play vital roles in the overall development of youths in any society.

This is according to Commander of E Division (Linden- Kwakwani), Senior Superintendent Linden Lord, who, along with ranks of the division, in an effort to promote both education and sports, made donations of school items and sporting gear that will benefit scores of Lindeners.

Commander Lord told this publication that on Wednesday, 45 children of Police ranks attached to the Mackenzie Police Station received school bags and stationary supplies to assist their families. He noted that in order to assist both the parents and children of those families, the Guyana Police Force (GPF) ZARA Computer Centre located at Eve Leary, Georgetown, provided these donations.

Meanwhile, a quantity of sporting gear that can be used in various sports were also donated to a specific area in Block ” Upper West, Watooka, Demerara River (Region 10) where it is expected that over 100 res-

Residents of Watooka, Upper Demerara River receiving the donation of sporting gear from Police ranks of E Division (LindenKwakwani)

idents there would directly benefit.

According to the Commander, there are instances where some parents found it extremely difficult to provide much-needed school supplies and items for their children to obtain an education and that such an initiative was executed with the aim of alleviating the financial burdens on Police ranks.

Additionally, it was pointed out that while education is deemed as crucial for a child’s future, sport

should not be overlooked. He added that this is why the Police force deemed it necessary to also provide sporting gear for residents so that their children can stay fit and healthy while learning or perfecting sporting talents.

Also, such opportunities will provide youths and young adults with alternatives to safely and gainfully occupy their free time and this in turn would help to prevent them from indulging in criminal activities, he added.

Delinquent City Hall exploring options to pay off NIS debt

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he Mayor and City Council (M&CC) is yet to figure out how it will clear its $218 million debt to the National Insurance Scheme (NIS), but has begun a series of meetings with that agency to find a solution.

This is according to Mayor of Georgetown, Ubraj Narine, who told this publication during an interview on Wednesday that several options are presently being explored by City Hall to pay NIS. Blaming taxpayers for the situation, the Mayor claimed that had taxpayers paid their taxes, the M&CC would not have been in its current financial state.

“It is a norm at City Hall, which in the entire public is aware of that if people do not pay their rates and taxes, how can we do work in the city? How can we sustain our staff? I must say that the struggle is on at City Hall where we are trying to battle all

City Hall, Georgetown

around to find ways and means in the right way to garner revenue to maintain the City,” the Georgetown Mayor explained.

He stated that City Hall has been experiencing major financial difficulties for many years to date that range from late payments to staff, non-payment to garbage collectors, and failure to pay NIS the monthly contributions of its workers.

“These NIS and all these issues with finance should not happen in the first instance. Anything you do, whether at a country level or at a city level, you need money, you cannot expect the city to come at your door and do something.

Where would we find this money to pay these people to execute the duty of the City Hall?”

Narine also reminded and reiterated that several taxpayers, both commercial and residential, still owe millions of dollars in ar-

rears to City Hall and that they are yet to settle those accounts. In fact, he had previously revealed that over 100 city businesses owe taxes to the M&CC. The Mayor has recently admitted that the situation becomes so severe at times that the Council is unable to pay staffers some months. According to the Insurance Act, it is a criminal offence if entities fail to pay their contributions by the due date.

Those who refuse to pay can be prosecuted.

Last August, City Hall workers took to the streets in front of City Hall as they protested the non-payment of NIS contributions among others. It was reported that City Hall deducts the NIS contributions, PAYE, and credit union dues from the earnings of workers but do not pay the relevant agencies.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, AUGUST 30, 2019

15

Around the World

Florida extends state of Amazon fires: Brazil bans land emergency as hurricane looms clearance blazes for 60 days

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S President Donald Trump on Thursday canceled a trip to Poland and Florida’s governor expanded a state of emergency because of Hurricane Dorian, which is forecast to become a highly dangerous Category 4 storm during the weekend before hitting the state’s Atlantic coast.

Trump said at the White House that he was canceling his visit and remaining in the United States “to ensure that all resources of the federal government are focused on the arriving storm.”

“It’s something very important for me to be here.

The storm looks like it could be a very, very big one indeed,” Trump said.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis had declared a state of emergency for 26 counties on the east coast but extended it on Thursday to the whole of Florida.

Authorities canceled some commercial flights, planned precautions at rocket launch sites along the Space Coast and prepared to give out sand to residents for sandbags

Hurricane Dorian is shown in this photo taken by NASA’s Terra satellite MODIS instrument as it nears St Thomas and the US Virgin Islands as it continues its track toward Florida’s east coast

ahead of the storm’s arrival.

Spurred on by warm late-summer waters, Dorian is predicted to pack winds reaching 130 mph (209 kph) in 72 hours, the Miamibased National Hurricane Center said on Thursday.

That would make it a Category 4 storm, the second-strongest on the SaffirSimpson scale for measuring hurricane intensity.

The center describes Category 4 storms as capable of causing “catastrophic damage” including severe damage to well-built homes.

It said in such storms, “Most trees will be snapped or uprooted and power poles downed.”

Dorian is likely to make landfall on Florida’s eastern coast on Monday before lingering over central Florida on Tuesday but tropical storm-force winds from Dorian could begin in parts of Florida as early as Saturday evening, the hurricane center said. The storm could affect big population centers as well as major Florida tourist destinations. (Reuters)

China says troops will defend Hong Kong’s prosperity ahead of planned pro-democracy march

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hina brought fresh troops into Hong Kong on Thursday in what it described as a routine rotation of the garrison, days before protesters planned to hold a march calling for full democracy for the Chinese-ruled city after three months of demonstrations.

Chinese state media stressed the troop movement was routine and Asian and Western diplomats watching the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) forces in the former British colony had been expecting it.

State news agency

Xinhua said the military had completed a p rotation of air, land and maritime forces. It released pictures and footage of armoured personnel carriers moving in convoy in Hong Kong before dawn, their lights flashing.

Analysts estimate the garrison numbers between 8000 and 10,000 troops split between bases in southern China and a network of former British army barracks in Hong Kong.

Unrest in Hong Kong escalated in mid-June over a now-suspended extradition bill that would have allowed people to be sent to mainland China for trial in Communist Party-controlled

courts.

It has since evolved into calls for greater democracy under the “one country, two systems” formula, which guarantees freedoms not enjoyed on the mainland, including an independent judiciary.

The protests have posed the biggest challenge for Communist Party rulers in Beijing since President Xi Jinping took power in 2012.

China has denounced the protests and accused the United States and Britain of interfering in its affairs in Hong Kong. It has sent clear warnings that forceful intervention is possible. (Excerpt from

Reuters)

razil has banned setting fires to clear land for 60 days in response to a massive increase in the number of fires in the Amazon rainforest.

The decree was signed

by President Jair Bolsonaro, who has faced intense criticism at home and abroad for failing to protect the rainforest.

A leading Brazilian environmentalist warned on Wednesday that the “worst of the fire is yet to come”.

South American countries will meet next week to discuss the crisis.

It remains unclear what impact the ban will have, as environmentalists say the overwhelming majority of forest clearance in the Brazilian Amazon is already illegal and enforcement is lax.

The Amazon - a vital car-

bon store that slows down the pace of global warming - has seen more than 80,000 fires break out so far this year - a 77% rise on the same period in 2018.

Environmentalists say the increase is due in part to policies enacted by Mr Bolsonaro’s administration.

Prosecutors have been investigating allegations that some of the fires were triggered by the illegal

clearing of land and the decree now bans setting fires for this purpose across the entire country.

It allows three exceptions: when fires are authorised by environmental authorities for reasons relating to plant health; as a preventative measure to fight wildfires; and as part of traditional subsistence agriculture practised by indigenous people. (BBC)

Brexit: Next week ‘only opportunity’ to act on no-deal

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ext week could be MPs’ “only opportunity” to challenge a no-deal Brexit, ex-Minister David Gauke has said.

This follows the Prime Minister’s decision to suspend Parliament in September and October.

The move sparked criticism from those who argue Boris Johnson is trying to prevent MPs from blocking a no-deal Brexit.

The Government said the five-week suspension known as prorogation - in September and October will still allow time to debate Brexit.

But Government whip Lord Young has resigned in protest, arguing the move risks “undermining the fundamental role of Parliament”.

And a Scottish court hearing is underway which could block the suspension of Parliament.

Speaking to the BBC, the former Justice Secretary

David Gauke: “There isn’t a mandate for no-deal Brexit”

David Gauke has said it looks like next week is “the only opportunity” for MPs to act before the UK leaves the EU. He argued the public did not want a no-deal Brexit but that the options of those opposed to such an exit have “now narrowed”.

And Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell has said he believes that Parliament will be able to find a way to stop a no-deal Brexit but that nobody should “underestimate” how difficult it

would be.

Despite having little time, MPs still have options for trying to block a no-deal Brexit.

They could try to take control of the parliamentary timetable in order to pass legislation which would force the PM to request an extension to the Brexit deadline.

Another option would be to remove the current Government through a vote of no confidence. (Excerpt from BBC

Márquez says in the 30-minute video, referring to the high number of activists and former Farc members killed since President Duque took office.

But President Duque hit back later on Thursday, accusing the rebels of being “narco-terrorists who have the shelter and support of the dictatorship of Nicolás Maduro”, president of neighbouring Venezuela.

It shows Iván Márquez reading out a statement in front of a banner saying: “While there is a will to fight, there’ll be hope of winning”. dressed in camouflage.

Among them are two other senior former Farc rebels, Jesús Santrich, and the man known as El Paisa.

Ivan Márquez says that

he called for a return to arms because the Colombian state had “betrayed” the peace agreement he helped negotiate.

In the recording, he also says that the new guerrilla group, which carries the old name, FarcEP (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia - People’s Army), will pursue different tactics.

He says that the group will only “respond to offensives” and that it will not carry out kidnappings for ransom but instead “seek dialogue” with local landowners and business people to try to convince them to “contribute” to their cause.

The video ends with Jesús Santrich shouting “Long live the Farc-EP!” (BBC)

News)

Colombia Farc rebels: President vows to hunt down new group

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olombia’s president has vowed to hunt down Farc rebel commanders who have called on followers to take up arms after three years of peace.

President Iván Duque offered $882,000 (£725,000) for the capture of each of the rebels who appeared in a video with former Farc commander Iván Márquez.

He was one of the main negotiators of the 2016 peace deal, which ended 50 years of conflict.

But now the former commander has accused the government of “betrayal”.

“In two years, more than 500 social leaders have been killed and 150 guerrilla fighters are dead amidst the indifference and the indolence of the state,” Ivan

The picture shows Iván Márquez reading out his call to arms

guyanatimesgy.com

Ariel Alexander

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Ashley Sands

he Imperial House has launched its Miss Guyana Teen Scholarship Pageant with the aim of empowering teenage girls and contributing toward their education through scholarships.

Thirty applications were received in the initial stages of the pageant, but after a screening process, 18 have been selected to move on to the quarterfinals. Ten will move forward to the finals of the competition, which will be held on September 7, 2019 at the National Cultural Centre.

The Imperial House is working towards creating and implementing social programmes for the advancement of youths in Guyana through pageants and the theatrical arts.

The Imperial House’s mandate is to support social investments through youth empowerment, community service, entrepreneurship and the advancement of education for young persons Furthermore, the public will have a chance to get involved in the happenings. The organisers will be awarding a special prize for the most photogenic contestants and the public can assist by voting for their favourite delegate. This is done in collaboration with Missosology Guyana. React “WOW/LOVE” & Share this photo to make your favourite finalist to win.

To vote: https://www. facebook.com/137923756347194/ posts/1380507072088850?sfns=mo Rules Voters must like/subscribe to the Official Missosology Guyana and The Imperial House Facebook page in order for his/her votes to be

Devya Singh

Carolann Correia

counted.

Only one reaction will be counted from a legitimate Facebook profile.

Unlimited shares are allowed.

Likes or any other reactions other than the ones listed above will not qualify.

This People’s Choice voting is only valid for Missosology Guyana.

Unfair means of gaining votes will not be entertained; the contestant will be disqualified from this segment.

Voting ends at 23:59h on Friday, September 6, 2019. The winner will be announced at the pageant.

Meet the quarterfinalists: Quissieana Odle: Hailing from Blankenburg, West Coast Demerara, 15-year-old Olde is a student at Queen’s College. She aspires to be a psychologist and considers herself a linguist.

She spends much of her free time studying and analysing languages.

Devya Singh: Eighteen-year-old Devya hails from Happy Acres, East Coast Demerara. She is a former student of St Joseph High and is currently pursuing studies at the University of Guyana. She loves to look at documentaries.

Naheeryah Newland: This 15-year-old is a resident of Den Amstel, West Coast Demerara.

She attends the West Demerara Secondary School. She hopes to take up a career in the paediatric field. Her hobbies are singing and meeting new people.

Carolann Correia: A former student of the North Georgetown Secondary School. She is 17-year-old Carolann and is now a 6th form

Jesmaine Assanah

Kizza McLeod

friDAY, august 30, 2019

Christel Mangra

student at the St Rose’s High. She resides at North Ruimveldt and is also a model attached to Jada’s Consultancy. She aspires to become a dental surgeon.

Niara Amsterdam: A resident of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara, Niara is a student at Mae’s Secondary School. Her dream career is as a paediatric anaesthesiologist. This 15-year-old enjoys singing, sketching and poetry.

Ashley Sands: Eighteen-year-old Ashley hails from the Linden. She is a student at St Joseph High School. She spends her free time reading mystery novels.

Sarona Fraser: From the community of North Ruimveldt, Sarona is a student at Queen’s College.

She is 15 years old and aspires to work in public relations. She loves attending shows depicting any of the art forms. She also likes singing and being creative.

Nia Williams: She is a resident of Melanie Damishana, East Coast Demerara. At 17 years old, she is currently pursuing CAPE studies at Bishops’ High School. She is an aspiring lawyer/ politician who enjoys dancing, playing hockey and basketball.

Christel Mangra: This 15-year-old lives at Crane,West Coast Demerara. She is a student at Queen’s College. Mangra hopes to take up a career in auditing. Her hobbies are dancing, painting and swimming.

Daniela Aravjo: A model attached to Image Model Management, Daniela lives at Kaneville, East Bank Demerara. Her hobbies are writing, reading, listening to music and observing nature.

Jasmaine Assanah: This 17-year-old beauty is a resident of Wortmanville, Georgetown and

Naheeryah Newland

Daniela Araujo

a sixth form student at St Joseph High School.

She hopes one day to become a criminal lawyer.

Assanah enjoys theatre arts and sports.

Omaiah Hall: This former student of the Bishops’ High School and prospective student of the University of Guyana aspires to work in public relations. She enjoys dancing and modelling.

Ariel Alexander: She is a former student of Covent Garden Secondary School and presently a member of the Modern Adventure Youth Club.

Originally from Skeldon, Berbice, this 18-year-old hopes to become a paediatrician.

Shazeena Ghannie: 15-year-old Ghannie is a student at the St Joseph High School. She aspires to become an entrepreneur and an artist. She loves painting and fostering animals which she does for the Rosewood Foundation.

Tamasha Oxford: A sixth-former at the Bishops’ High School and an aspiring oncologist.

Oxford hails from Annandale, East Coast Demerara. The 17-year-old enjoys reading, painting, researching and composing music.

Kizza McLeod: This 15-year-old is a St Joseph High School student and a resident of Sophia, Greater Georgetown. She hopes to become a chemist. She loves dancing, socialising and visual entertainment.

Rayshana Gillis: At 14 years old, Rayshana is the youngest contestant. She attends Christ Church Secondary School and hails from Wortmanville, Georgetown. She enjoys singing.

Ramiesa Ganesh: Ramiesa aspires to one day become one of Guyana’s ambassadors.

The 17-year-old is a former student of Zeeburg Secondary School. Her hobbies are dancing and sketching. (Pictures and profiles complement of Missosology)

Nia Williams

guyanatimesgy.com

Ramiesa Ganesh

friDAY, august 30, 2019

Rayshana Gillis

Niara Amsterdam

Omaiah Hall

Quissieana Odle

Sarona Fraser

Shazeena Ghannie

Tamasha Oxford

Wedding House DJ Competition

9 to compete for Wedding House DJ Competition at XS Bar & Lounge this Saturday

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he XS Bar and Lounge, Cornelia Ida, West Coast Demerara will come alive on Saturday evening as nine talented and versatile DJs compete for top honours in the first ever “Wedding House” DJ Competition. This one of kind event is promoted by Team MMR. The DJs competing are DJ Danny, Sheik, Steve, Addi and Chino out of West Coast Demerara; DJ Cyanide and Omesh out of East Coast Demerara; Selector Charlie out of Georgetown and all the way from Berbice, DJ King.

These young men will undoubtedly transform the Lounge into a “wedding h o u s e ” atmosphere with some of the best juggling on the console.

Each DJ will have at least 20 minutes to deliver their ‘A-game’ by dishing out some of the best

wedding house tunes from all genres from yesteryear to present.

In this competition, there are no judges. Those in attendance will have the ultimate say as to who is the best DJ at the end of the night. The winner of the competition is expected to walk away with $75,000 in cash and other prizes.

Apart from the competition, Party Boss WR Reaz and Selector Andy will set the tone for a highlycompetitive event.

The action is expected to get underway at 21:00h, but the doors will be opened f r o m 19:00h.

The event is made possible

by Bacardi, Red Club Smoke Shop, Chand Printing Service and Power Tech Sound Company.

This highlyanticipated event is one that you cannot miss…

17

“40 Shades of Gayle” for October 5 at Arthur Chung Conference Centre

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n October 5, 2019, the Arthur Chung Conference Centre, Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown will definitely be a hype of activities as West Indies star batsman, Christopher Henry Gayle, hosts his 40th birth anniversary in grandeur.

The title of the party, “40 Shades of Gayle”, is one of the most highly-anticipated parties but more so, it is one of many parties being planned throughout the Caribbean to mark Gayle’s birth anniversary.

While the details of the party have not been released as yet, plans are already being discussed about the party.

The list of artistes is yet to be confirmed but from all indications, it will be a party of the year. General admission to the event costs $4000 and stage-front $10,000. There are expected to be some early bird tickets at a cost of $3000.

Patrons will pay more at the gate once they do not have a ticket. The event is made possible by HJ, Marriott Hotel, Sherriff Security Service, Star Party Rental, Roosters, Gismos and Gadgets, Pomeroon Fresh Coconut Water, and others.

A

fter a three-year hiatus, Heineken’s Masquerade Party will return to the 704 Sky Lounge on Saturday evening. The event is expected to be ‘off the hook’ as the venue is being transformed into the ultimate green light effect.

It’s the place that you must be this weekend as some of Guyana’s and Trinidad’s best DJs will provide the party experience of a lifetime. Upon entry, patrons will be given free masks and beads.

The music will, however, put you in the party mood. Heating up the dance floor will be Boom DJ Seen Up. Later in the evening, DJ Ana and DJ Simmons from Trinidad will take over the console. These two DJs are known to set the place on fire with their excellent juggling skills. In fact, DJ Ana had the crowd going when Heineken hosted its champion league at the Marriott Beach Front.

Moreover, early bird tickets for the Masquerade party cost $1500 and will be available at the 704 Sky Lounge and Sports Bar. If you do not have that early bird ticket then patrons will pay $2000 at the door.

Doors to the party will open at 21:00h.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 30, 2019

ARCHIE

ARIES

Knowledge is power, and

(March 21- it will give you the confiApril 19) dence you need to stand up

for what you want. Look at an unexpected change as a chance to move forward.

Take a deep breath and TAURUS plunge into action. If you (April 20see something you want, May 20) don’t hesitate to go after it full throttle. A positive change regarding a personal relationship is apparent.

Don’t feel the need to GEMINI make a big decision right (May 21June 20) now. A break from the everyday will help you put things in perspective and come up with a viable plan.

dilbert

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Get together with friends or relatives. Make romantic plans with someone special.

You have plenty to gain if you are attentive, caring and game to try something new. A makeover will prompt compliments.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Don’t give in to someone who is inconsistent or asking you to take part in something that won’t benefit you directly. Explore avenues that offer the adventure you crave.

Peanuts

You’ll learn plenty if you VIRGO observe how others respond (Aug. 23- to what’s going on around Sept. 22) you. Set your sights on what you want and make your plans a reality.

Calvin and Hobbes

Protect yourself against LIBRA (Sept. 23- people who are trying to conOct. 23) trol or take advantage of you.

Recognize that you deserve more. Put the past behind you and focus on self-improvement and personal gain.

SUDOKU

SCORPIO Check out what’s avail(Oct. 24- able, what interests you and Nov. 22) how best to use your skills and knowledge to get what you want. A social evening will promote romance.

SAGITTARIUS Stick close to home.

(Nov. 23Traveling, socializing and Dec. 21) engaging in elaborate or excessive activities will put you in a vulnerable position.

Don’t give in to emotional manipulation.

solution for Last Published puzzle

CAPRICORN Plan your actions and ex(Dec. 22ecute them with precision.

Jan. 19) Positive change is heading your way. Don’t sit back when everything depends on using your skills and insight to gain ground.

AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

Speak the truth and demand the same in return.

Don’t feel that you must follow someone else’s path.

Consider what makes you happy and proceed that way.

Balance, integrity and PISCES living within your means (Feb. 20will help keep your stress March 20) level down and your spirits high. A creative project will bring you joy, while romance also looks promising.

friday, august 30, 2019

19

India face ‘the Ashwin question’, West Indies another batting examination W

est Indies have crossed 300 twice, with a highest of 415 during their historic series win over England to regain the Frank Worrell Trophy earlier this year.

On the evidence of what was on display in Antigua, they did not even give themselves a chance to make half the batting impact they had in that series (their run of scores: 289, 415, 206, 17 for no loss, 154 and 252).

As was the case then, the bowling seems to be coming along well. Kemar Roach, with 2.0, is often in unplayable territory with the new ball.

Shannon Gabriel has cranked up pace and intensity; while a fit -again Keemo Paul, coming in for Miguel Cummins, has proven to be more than just a support bowler.

The same cannot be said about the batting. West Indies’ inability to stick around and fight has been exposed repeatedly at the slightest hint of being under pressure. For inspiration, they need only look back to the 2016 Jamaica Test, when Roston Chase, playing in only his second Test, stonewalled India on the final day as West Indies sneaked out an honourable draw. They would do well to emulate that resolve against a formidable bowling attack, which is showing no signs of letting up.

India are faced with ‘the R. Ashwin question’. Ravindra Jadeja has done enough to

Against a quality attack, he is needed to blunt the new ball and allow the middle order the luxury of coming in without having to rebuild. Maybe he can draw inspiration from his previous Test visit to Sabina Park, wherein he made the last of his eight Test hundreds.

Hanuma Vihari’s 93 is sure to keep Rohit Sharma on the bench again, barring a lastminute injury shuffle. India could also consider bringing in R

Team India will be aiming to clinch the series 2-0

enhance his reputation as a Test batsman over time, and sent down overs of fast left-arm spin like the way he does it: fast, with some bite as the surface tires; but, surely, Ashwin’s 24 wickets in seven overseas Tests at 30.16 in 2018 present a compelling case. Two of his four Test centuries came on the previous tour of the West Indies, and a stint in county cricket earlier in the season is enough evidence of Ashwin being match ready.

As things stand, India will need to ask themselves if they want to play two spinners and possibly leave out Mohammed Shami, or play either Ashwin or Jadeja and three pacers.

KL Rahul’s Test berth was hanging by a thread, until it was somewhat revived by Prithvi

Shaw’s dope suspension and India’s long white-ball season, wherein he struck some kind of form. In Antigua, he made scores of 44 and 38. There are two ways of looking at this: he got off to starts, or that he didn’t convert. What he did right, though, is that he got into better positions, seemed to have better balance, and did not dangle his bat out indecisively.

The second Test is another opportunity for him to correct that and produce a big knock.

Kraigg Brathwaite’s defensive game borders on the unorthodox. Not many opening batsmen get square on the way he does and yet find a way to blunt bowlers day in and day out. But he hasn’t scored a century for 17 innings now.

Ashwin for Mohammed Shami, and play two spinners, two pacers.

India (probable XI): 1 KL Rahul, 2 Mayank Agarwal, 3 Cheteshwar Pujara, 4 Virat Kohli, 5 Ajinkya Rahane, 6 Hanuma Vihari, 7 Rishabh Pant, 8 Ravindra Jadeja, 9 R Ashwin, 10 Ishant Sharma, 11 Jasprit Bumrah West Indies will make a forced change, with Keemo Paul replacing Miguel

Cummins. They may consider strengthening their bowling by possibly looking at the uncapped Rahkeem Cornwall in place of Shamarh Brooks.

West Indies (probable XI): 1 Kraigg Brathwaite, 2 John Campbell, 3 Darren Bravo, 4 Roston Chase, 5 Shai Hope, 6 Shimron Hetmyer, 7 Jason Holder, 8 Rahkeem Cornwall, 9 Keemo Paul, 10 Kemar Roach, 11 Shannon Gabriel. (Excerpt from

Cricinfo)

Clement “Busta” Lawrence Premier League 2019…

Atlantis CC into quarters

G

eorgetown Cricket Club all-rounder (GCC) Winston Forrester continued his fine form over the weekend by blasting 38 runs off just 30 deliveries for his club, Atlantis, in action against the Sheffield Cricket Club in the Clement “Busta” Lawrence Premier League 2019 tournament.

Atlantis have now booked a spot in the quarterfinals, and Forrester has moved up the runs chart, having scored 342 runs from 8 matches at an average of 48.86, with a healthy strike rate of 117.53. This compares favourably with his opponents’ rates, especially since they have played their full quota of 13 games.

Forrester is currently ranked 9 on the batting charts.

In an Atlantis 40-Over matchup against Sheffield, Sheffield won the toss and elected to bat. After the first ten overs, Sheffield found themselves in a world of trouble, struggling for runs. No batsman could form any partnership around Akeem Dodson, who looked to carry on.

However, unfazed, Dodson took the fight to Atlantis, but was dismissed for a patient 45 made off 66 balls. After Dodson fell, the team lost their will to fight and were bundled out for a paltry 134 in 33 overs.

Bowling for Atlantis, Joseph Brown returned figures of 3-53,

Hugo D’Oliviera 2-27, Trinson Carmichael 2-17; with Keon Lake and Prashant Nair bagging one each.

Needing a small total of 135 for victory off 40 overs, opener Randal Wilson and his more aggressive partner Winston Forrester dominated the weak Sheffield bowling lineup, until Forrester fell for a well-played 30-ball 38 that included 7 boundaries.

Wilson and new batsman Yannick Elliot never lost their footing though, as they brought balance to the innings and finished the game in 18.1 overs on 137-1. Wilson top scored with 52, while Elliot supported with 36.

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friday, august 30, 2019

BCB President concerned!

– lack of communication with GCB, NSC is worrying trend

A

cricket camp held by the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB) and Region Six Sports Organizer Godwin Allicock at the Albion Community Centre ground commenced on Tuesday August 27 and concluded today, Friday August 30.

Because it involved the Region Six Sports Organiser, an employee and hence a representative of the National Sports Commission (NSC), itself an arm of the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports; and because it was held under the auspices of the Guyana Cricket Board (GCB), of which the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) is an affiliate; and especially because it was held in Berbice, where the BCB is responsible for the administration of cricket, this development has been the source of considerable alarm and much disgust for the BCB. Contending that it was never even notified about this camp by any of the parties involved in its holding, the Berbice Cricket Board has said it would like to make the following pellucid: We welcome the cooperation of all stake-

holders in the development of our cricket, and we are committed to working along with everyone, once the main objective is to develop all potential talent in the county. The BCB has the best developmental training programme of any Cricket Board in Guyana, and we invest heavily in a countywide coaching system.

We are quite concerned and alarmed that the NSC, the GCB, and the Sports Ministry would be involved in a cricket coaching programme in Berbice and not at least contact the BCB in an effort to ensure that all the clubs in Berbice and the best players benefit therefrom.

Further, the BCB contends that only a select few clubs were invited to send players to this camp, all other clubs were ignored.

One notable omission was the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC), MS, which has the most structured youth development system in the county, and arguably in the country. Other clubs in the list of those never consulted or informed were: Rose Hall Canje; Mt Sinai; Edinburgh;

Windies U-15 tour to England…

Ramnauth gains wealth of experience

W

est Indies Under-15 batsman Rambertab Ramnauth has described his tour to the United Kingdom as “a learning curve”. The left-handed opener, who is also eligible for selection to the West Indies Under-15 team in 2020, told this reporter that the conditions in England was unfamiliar and challenging.

“The ball swung more in England, and my high-score over there was 20”, Ramnauth explained. He added that the tour was filled with learning experiences wherein he was exposed to batting techniques; playing the ball late, and leaving the ball away from off-stump.

Having participated in a full overseas tour, Ramnauth, the Port Mourant Community Centre Cricket Club batsman, is now being regarded as a role model by his peers.

Currently continuing his development at the Guyana Cricket Board/ NSC Sports Organizer cricket camp, Ramnauth has said he is grateful for having been on this tour.

The prolific batsman has a career-best innings of 147, which came against Essequibo in an under-15 inter-county match played at Lusignan.

Batting for Berbice, He finished that tournament as the leading run-scorer, and that feat placed him on the radar for selection to represent Guyana.

Continuing his rich vein of form, Ramnauth finished among the runs in the Under-17 InterCounty Tournament, in which he played for the Select Under-15 team.

Playing for the Guyana Under-15 team, which placed second in the Cricket West Indies (CWI) Regional Tournament in Antigua, he smashed a superb 114 against Jamaica, imme-

Upper Corentyne, and the Young Warriors.

The BCB is contending that the Government of Guyana and its sports officials should be working in the interest of all youths, and no reason can be advanced why this should not be so.

Moreover, the BCB has charged that since election of its current executives, this Region 6 Sports Officer has been very hostile to the BCB and the RHTY&SC, MS. “We are therefore wondering if this is the reason why both bodies were bypassed,” the BCB has said.

The BCB has said that, in an attempt to reconcile whatever real or perceived grievance might be existing between these sporting arms of the Government and the BCB, it would like to give the following reassurance: We are committed to working with the NSC, and urge the Director of Sports to look into this strange development. One of the stated objectives of the camp was to identify young female cricketers for the future, yet the only club with female players was neither ever informed about the camp or invited to at-

Berbice Cricket Board President Hilbert Foster

tend.

The BCB is also appealing to the Government of Guyana to inform its sports officials in Berbice that personal vendettas and score-settling have no place in the development of sports.

Massachusetts State Cricket League…

Eagles win handsomely – off Williams’ ton

A

Rampertab Ramnauth during his tour to the United Kingdom

diately distinguishing himself in the first match he played.

And in another well-crafted innings, this time against Trinidad and Tobago in the finals of that tournament, he scored 92 runs.

His performance saw him finishing narrowly behind his Guyana and West Indies teammate Mavindra Dindyal, both of whom achieved the rare feat of playing inter-county cricket at all three levels in the same year.

As time progresses, Ramnauth will continue to develop as a batsman, and is certainly one for the future. (Brandon Corlette)

ction continued in the Massachusetts State Cricket League with Guyanese cricketer Shaquille Williams blasting a magnificent ton to take his side, the Golden Eagles, over the line in a 40-over affair against St Columbus CC ‘A’. In the process, the Eagles have booked their spot in the playoffs.

Having won the toss Columbus opted to bat first, aiming to post a mammoth total. Openers Sathish Mahendran and Abhishek Garg took to the crease and batted patiently within the ‘powerplay’ overs.

However, they soon became victims of Williams’s off spin, and fell for 32 and 21 runs respectively. Williams then picked up this third wicket when he removed Nikhil Sikka cheaply.

From there wickets continued to fall in rapid succession despite Divyesh Patel putting up resistance with a patient knock of 43 off 40 balls. In the end, Columbus were bowled out for 171 in 36.5 overs.

Bowling for the Eagles were Nirav Shah, with 3-49; Nitin Mewada, with 3-39; Shaquille Williams, with 3-18; and Karthikeya Jagadish, with 1-22.

Needing only 172 for victory, the Eagles lost opener Ravi Rao for a golden duck after the first two balls, and a few other wickets tumbled, but the Eagles continued to press on.

When Williams to the crease, his unbeaten innings of 104 off 90 balls was filled with 10 boundaries and 4 maximums. He was the driving force behind the Eagles’ innings, which ended with the Eagles win-

Shaquille Williams has continued to dominate

ning in 29.5 overs with the score at 174-2.

Williams, the top scorer, was assisted by Amogh Gudi with 33 and Shashin Thakur with 26. Siddhesh Vedak was the only bowler to bag 2-35.

Williams has by far continued to impress in the tournament, having scored 261 runs from his 6 matches at an average of 87, inclusive of 2 fifties and 1 century.

No reason why we shouldn’t go and win the Ashes now, says Archer J

ofra Archer, feeling that the visitors became complacent at Headingley and that cost them the game, has continued the banter against Australia. He has, however, stressed that England are relieved that the series is still alive, and that they now have a chance to turn things around.

“That’s the thing! Never get complacent,” Archer said on Wednesday (August 28). “To be fair, 359 runs is a lot of runs.

The crowd started to get on their backs as well. I think they panicked a bit. They probably thought they were going to roll us if they got a few quick early wickets, but they didn’t; and I’m glad we showed some resistance, because the series isn’t over, and in the upcoming games, I don’t think they’ll declare now”, he opined.

Mentioning that the loss will haunt Australia as the series progresses, Archer said: “If they do have a chance, I

don’t think they’ll be too attacking. If they draw the series, they still get to retain the Ashes. They were in the field for a long time. They got to the second new ball and still couldn’t bowl us out. All of those mental facts should sit with them next game.”

With Steve Smith likely to be back for the Manchester Test, the fans will again gear up for the battle between Australia’s premier batsman and Archer. Smith has already fired his shots by saying he has the edge, as the England pacer couldn’t dismiss him at Lord’s.

Archer, on his part, continued the banter. “Well, I can’t get him out if he wasn’t there,” he gushed. “But there’ll be more than ample time to get him out. I’m not saying I won’t get him out, but if we don’t get him out, there are 10 other people we can get out. And if he’s stranded on 40, that’s not helping his team too much. He can’t do it all himself. We

want to win the game. I’m not here to get caught up in a contest with one man; I want to win the Ashes!”

In a game full of twists and turns, England nearly lost the game by one run, but Nathan Lyon fumbled a run-out opportunity, to give the hosts a reprieve.

“When Lyon fumbled the run-out, you could hear a heartbeat in the dressing room. There were so many emotions flying around. When the scores were level, it was just a big cheer. At least we knew the series was not over,” Archer revealed. “He did give us a second life in this series. Everyone would like to win the World Cup and the Ashes as well, so there’s no reason why we shouldn’t go and do it now,” Archer said.

The two teams will meet at Old Trafford on September 4, before the series concludes at The Oval with the final Test starting from September 12. (Excerpt from cricbuzz)

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 30, 2019

CLASSIFIED ADS

Anderson, Nedd confirmed in 21-man Windies U-19 squad

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21

Kevlon Anderson (Brandon Corlette photos)

T

he West Indies Under-19 Rising Stars continue their preparation for the ICC Under-19 World Cup tournament in South Africa in January 2020 with a ten-day camp in Antigua.

Following this camp, which will run from September 13 to September 23, a squad will be selected to participate in the first ever Tri-Nation Under-19 Rising Stars OneDay International Series to be hosted in the Caribbean against England and Sri Lanka from December 6-21.

Twenty-one players have been selected by Cricket West Indies (CWI) for this camp, primarily based on performances in the West Indies Under-19 Rising Stars Championship held in Saint Vincent and The Grenadines.

CWI have also included three players who participated in West Indies Under-17 Rising Stars Championship in Trinidad and Tobago in July.

W e s t I n d i e s Under-19 Coach and CWI High Performance Manager Graeme West had this to say on the aims and objectives of the training camp: “The ten-day camp will focus on getting the players to understand the game strategies required to win an ICC Under-19 World Cup. We will be looking to establish player roles and the specific skills they will require to deliver winning performances. The skill work at the camp will be focused on producing greater consistency and efficiency for all situations.

He continued: “We will work through game scenarios, to build greater game awareness and understanding. Additional practice matches will be played to assess the progress that has been made and the learning that took place at the trial matches in St. Vincent. It’s also important that we formulate team values which underpin the behaviour, mindset and performance of the squad on and off the field.”

Coach West also highlighted from the Under-19 setup some players whom the Caribbean

cricket public can look out for, based on his work with these young players during the last 12 months.

“Kimani Melius, who is the only player with firstclass experience in the squad; Leonardo Julien and Jayden Seales are three players who were part of the CWI Development Team that played in last year’s Super50, so they are the three senior players in the set up,” he said.

“From the trial games at the end of the Under-19 Rising Stars Championship, l e f t- a r m seamer Ramon Simmonds is someone that stands out. He had batsmen jumping around with his pace and aggression, and I am sure he will excite Windies’ fans.

“Successful One Day teams are often built around positive opening batsmen; and with Kirk McKenzie, the squad possesses a player with outstanding ballstriking ability and a wide range of attacking options.

He is certainly a player that can take advantage of the first powerplay and lay down a firm foundation for his side,” the coach explained.

The three Under-17 players selected for the camp are Barbados all-rounder Jaden Leacock, who received the Most Valuable Player award at the Under-17 Rising Stars Championship; 15-year-old seamer and fellow Barbadian Che Simmons, and middle order batsman Teddy Bishop from the Windward Islands/Grenada.

West had this to say about the three Under-17 Rising Stars

selected: “The three Under-17 Rising Stars players have shown great potential this summer, and have earned their places at the Training Camp. They will benefit from entering the High Performance Pathway, and are fortunate to have two chances of playing in an Under 19 World Cup.” Coach West, CWI President Ricky Skerritt and Director of Cricket Jimmy Adams further addressed the significance of West Indies hosting the TriSeries for the Under-19s Rising Stars.

“The fact that we are hosting the Tri-Series is quite a breakthrough for the programme”, West said. “It will be very competitive cricket, which the team needs before the World Cup. The Sri Lankan and English styles will be contrasting and provide our players with a different kind of challenge to those faced in Regional Cricket.”

Director of Cricket, Jimmy Adams: "This is a great opportunity for our Under-19 players to be involved in a TriSeries just prior to the World Cup. For England and Sri Lanka to have seen similar benefit in accepting the invitation points to the value of the tournament beyond our borders. It also will mean the opportunity to tour their countries in reciprocal agreements in the future, and these tours will have a role to play in the ongoing development of our young players.”

CWI President Ricky Skerritt said: “It’s a major step in our preparation for the World Cup, and demonstrates another example of our “Cricket First” plan and how we will be committing greater investment into youth development for future returns and our long-

Ashmead Nedd

term success.”

West Indies Rising Star Under 19 21-man camp squad: Kevlon Anderson, Daniel Beckford, Teddy Bishop (Under 17 player), Matthew Comerie, Matthew Forde, Elroy Francis, Leonardo Julien, Avinash Mahabirsingh, Nico Reifer, Matthew Patrick, Kirk McKenzie, Kimani Melius, Antonio Morris, Ashmead Need, Rivaldo Ramlogan, Jayden Seales, Ramon Simmonds, Che Simmons (Under 17 player), Nyeem Young, Jaden Leacock (Under 17 player) and Mbeki Joseph.

GUYANA TIMES Odyssey River and Sightseeing 2020 Formula 1 Season…

Valtteri Bottas will in your area? Tours partners with LGC Contact our

Circulation Department on

Phone: 223-7230 EXT: 55

remain at Mercedes

T

he number one tour company in Guyana, Odyssey River and Sightseeing Tours -- that one with a new 80-passenger tour boat operating from Parika -- has joined the LGC to promote the game of golf.

Managing Director of this tour company, Feroze Barakat, is a longtime member of the club, and is still an avid golfer. Despite his absence from activities there, he said he is proud to support the LGC executive body as they continue the strive to provide the best golfing experience yearround.

Speaking at a simple ceremony, LGC President Aleem Hussain said, “We want to say thanks to Odyssey Site Seeing Tours for their support. They have always been major partners of the sport; so, this year, as they have come on board, we ask everyone to come out and support the tournament. We are expecting a major turnout, as the court is in excellent condition.”

Troy Khan, manager of the company, urged members of the public to use Odyssey Site Seeing Tours, as they are safe and reliable. Khan also noted that the company is looking to award participants special prizes in their respective events, so they

V

LGC President Aleem Hussain receives the sponsorship cheque from Odssey Site Seeing Tours’ Manager Troy Khan

may be able to witness Guyana’s beauty first hand.

This weekend will feature a double-header, as players prepare for the Suriname Open and the Guyana Open in October.

There will be three flights to accommodate players of all abilities, with handicap up to 36!

Top two winners in each flight will take home a trophy, and prizes will be provided for the longest

drive and nearest to the pin.

Members of the public are invited to attend the event, which commences at 8:30am; and they are urged to stay on to enjoy the tranquility of the serene setting of the golf club.

For more information on how you may learn the game absolutely free, visit Lusignan Golf Club on Facebook, or call 220-5660.

altteri Bottas will remain at world champions Mercedes for the 2020 Formula 1 season. Mercedes exercised an option to extend his contract after team boss Toto Wolff decided to retain the Finn rather than promote reserve driver Esteban Ocon.

Ocon has joined Renault for 2020, after a year on the sidelines.

Wolff had been concerned that Bottas's form had slipped after a strong start to the season, but preferred stability over the uncertainty of taking Ocon.

"For 2019, we set Valtteri the challenge of coming back even stronger than we saw him in the first part of 2018, and he has achieved that with some really impressive performances in the early races this year," said Wolff.

Bottas, who joined Mercedes in 2017, is second in the championship, 62 points behind team-mate Lewis Hamilton.

He is level with the Briton on four pole positions going into the Belgian Grand Prix this weekend, but has won only two races, compared with Hamilton's eight.

"I am very happy and proud to be part of the team for a fourth season, and wish to thank every team member and the board of Mercedes for their trust and belief in me," the Finn,30, said.

"My performances have been getting better and better each year, and this is a great way to kick-start the second half of 2019."

Bottas and Hamilton have each had two wins after the first four races of the season, but Hamilton kicked on from there while his team-mate's form dropped off, especially in races. He went into the summer break on the back of two disappointing grands prix, crashing out in Germany when running second and with a great chance to cut Hamilton's championship lead, then finishing eighth in Hungary after damaging his front wing on the first lap in a collision with Ferrari's Charles Leclerc.

Wolff, however, ultimately decided against the potential risk of introducing an unknown element into the team. He also had concerns that putting the 22-year-old Frenchman up against Hamilton so soon could damage his career, and has instead freed Ocon to join Renault. (Excerpt from BBC.COM)

22

friday, august 30, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

GAW focused on improving young talents

By Jemima Holmes

S

ince the Hero Caribbean Premiere League’s (CPL) inception in 2013, the Guyana Amazon Warriors franchise has been known to assemble and utilize a fairly young team with just the right amount of experience. This tactic has proved to be successful for the Warriors, which remains one of the most consistent teams in the CPL. For the 2019 edition of the “biggest party in sport”, however, the spotlight will be placed on the younger crop of players, especially those who hail from Guyana, in order to ready them for the big stage.

According to GAW Operations Manager Omar Khan, the plan will remain the same for the Warriors, with the addition of more responsibility given to players in order to improve their performance and accountability.

“More importantly, I want to make the point that for Guyanese young players, it’s a great opportunity; and we have provided the greatest opportunity for their development as young cricketers,” Khan stated, as he addressed the inclusion of young Guyanese players in the squad.

Khan went on to cite the CPL and the Amazon Warriors team as stepping stones towards international level cricket.

“When we can see young Sherfane Rutherford signing a deal with Mumbai Indians, the IPL Champions in India, as one of their marquee players, that’s a significant intent by the international cricket levels that our young Guyanese are making it big,” he explained. “And they would not have been able to do that without being exposed during the CPL games here.”

For this reason, Khan disclosed, the team’s management has intentionally sought to grab the majority of young Guyanese talents, in order to nurture and better their game.

“This year, Guyana is the only franchise that has eight national players in their lineup; the only Caribbean franchise. And we have deliberately done that because we want to ensure that young Guyanese players in particular get the opportunity to make a name for themselves,” Khan revealed.

Earlier this year, three Guyana Amazon Warriors’ players, namely: Shimron Hetmyer, Sherfane Rutherford and Keemo Paul, were selected for the Royal Challengers Bangalore and the Delhi Capitals, respective IPL teams.

Their selection was a testimony to the groundwork that is being laid in the GAW setup, given that the last Guyanese player to be selected for the IPL was Christopher Barnwell in 2013.

Furthermore, two Under-19 cricketers will have the opportunity that was handed to the Guyanese trio some years ago, which was the beginning of their stellar careers.

“We are also including 2 young Under-19 players. The Guyana Cricket Board is still working out the details for those players to join the squad for the training camp,” the Operations Manager disclosed to media operatives. “We have done that since 2013; that’s how Keemo Paul started, Hetmyer started, Sherfane started. All those players were given opportunities at the Under-19 level to be part of the training squad, and be exposed to international players coming here, to see how they operate as professionals,” he went on to explain.

Guyana Amazon Warriors Operations Manager, Omar Khan

Hetmyer’s Appointment

Returning to the idea of giving players in the Warriors’ outfit more responsibilities, Khan had one more revelation to make. Racking up some 440 runs during the 2018 CPL Season, Hetmyer was the most electric batsman for the Warriors, recording his first CPL century. For these reasons the 22-year-old will be appointed the team’s ‘Batting Director’.

“Shimron Hetmyer will be appointed the Director of Batting. Let him take responsibility in the squad, we’re setting it up as a business unit,” Khan shared.

It is expected that Hetmyer would have an input in batting practice sessions, and in formulating batting strategies.

Limacol Football Tournament

4th annual tournament to kick off with double-header advancing to the quarterfinals, semis and the final showdown. With a new champion set to be crowned, the twelve teams will be battling

for a $400,000 first prize, while second place will walk away with $200,000.

Third and fourth places will pocket $100,000 and $50,000 respectively.

While pharmaceuti-

cal company New GPC Inc is the primary sponsor pf the tournament, W.J. Enterprise which is the sole distributor of Croxley Paper has recently come on board as a sponsor.

Guardian Life to support CPL Volunteer Programme in 2019

T

A glimpse of the action during the 2018 competition

T

omorrow evening, The Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue will come alive as the fourth annual Limacol football tournament kicks off their 2019 season.

When the tournament begins tomorrow evening, sixteen teams; in four groups will be in contention for over $750,000 in cash and prizes. The tournament has seen an additional four teams competing from the initial 12 that was first announced.

Nevertheless, the Limacol action will get underway at 19:00hrs on Saturday, when Dynamic

Football club takes on Police B in the first encounter of the competition. The second and final game of the night will kick off at 21:00hrs and will see Santos Under 20 Squad coming up against Black Pearl.

The next paying day will be Tuesday September 3 and will feature Mahaica Determinators and Pele Fc going head to head at 19:00hrs. The second game on that night will see Beacons going toe to toe with Pouderoyen at 21:00hrs.

The teams will participate in the round-robin group stage before

Group A

Santos Under 20 Camptown Grove Hi Tec Black Pearl

Group B

Conquerors Under 20 Buxton Stars GFC Northern Rangers

Group C

Riddim Squad Beacons Pouderoyen East Veldt/Gt Panthers

Group D

Dynamics Football Club Mahaica Determinators Pele Police B

he Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) is thrilled to have Guardian Life of the Caribbean back on board for the 2019 instalment of the tournament. Guardian Life will continue their support of CPL as a partner of the tournament, and will continue to be the Official Insurance Partner of the event. As part of this arrangement, they will continue to support the Guardian Volunteer Programme.

Over the years, the Guardian Volunteer Programme has been an asset to the CPL in numerous ways. Roughly, 40 volunteers per country are supported by Guardian Life in every country CPL is played. The tournament has come to rely on these volunteers to ensure its efficient and seamless execution.

C P L Commercial Director Jamie Stewart expressed his appreciation to Guardian Life by saying, “A big thank you to Guardian Group for their continued support of the Caribbean’s largest sports event. As a founding partner of the League,

Guardian Group have been instrumental in the Hero CPL becoming what it is today -- a globally appreciated tournament that has reinvigorated the passion for our great sport around the islands. We look forward to this continuing partnership.”

Guardian Life of the Caribbean is the largest life, health and pensions provider in the Eastern Caribbean. The organization has been around for over 175 years, which speaks to its experience and strength.

Reaffirming Guardian Life’s commitment to the Volunteer Programme and the Hero CPL tournament, President Anand Pascal commented, “Just as we have solidified ourselves in the markets where we operate, similarly we are committed to strengthening our relationship with Hero CPL and contributing to the region's forward movement where sport is concerned.”

The 2019 Hero CPL runs from September 4 to 12 October 12 this year. To sign up to be a volunteer in any of the six countries in which the tournament will be played, interested persons are invited to apply through the volunteer coordinators in each country. (CPL)

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, august 30, 2019

23

Government, GAW confirm agreement for CPL home games W

ith the signatures being inked on the dotted lines earlier this morning, The Guyana Amazon Warriors’ five home games for the National Stadium at Providence have been given the official green light.

While the games were confirmed some weeks ago, signing the documents is a routine procedure to confirm the use of the National Stadium at Providence.

Signing on behalf of the Ministry of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Sport was Permanent Secretary Melissa Tucker, while GAW’s Operations Manager Omar Khan represented the local franchise.

Minster of Social Cohesion, Dr. George Norton, and Deputy Director of Sport, Melissa Dow-Richardson, were also present at the signing event, which was conducted at the Ministry’s Main and Quamina Streets office.

Noting that everything is in place at the venue, which has a capacity to house 15,000 cricket fans, Social Cohesion Minister Dr. George Norton boasted about the quality of the stadium and stressed the unity that cricket -- and by extension the CPL -- brings to Guyana.

“Cricket is in the air! We know what cricket is to the Guyanese society, and we are certainly glad to be a part of this annual tournament, where persons from all walks of life, the different geographical areas and the different communities, will all come out to enjoy the game of cricket; where the Director of Sport referred to as a world class stadium with very favourable conditions,” the Minister stated.

GAW’s Omar Khan hands over the document to Social Cohesion Minister, Dr George Norton

Speaking to the massive support that CPL often receives from Government and the Guyanese population at large, Guyana Amazon Warriors Operations Manager Omar Khan highlighted that tickets for the home games are almost sold out.

“I am told already that Trinbago Knight Riders game is completely sold out, and about 3000 Trinidadians are coming across for that game already. They’ve booked out all the hotels and everything. So I’m just making that point to show the euphoria and excitement that CPL brings to Guyana,” he said.

Dr. Norton explained to media operatives that there was no intentional delay to the signing of the agreement, but rather, it was done at the earliest possible convenience.

“Well, of course we could have only signed this agreement with approval from Cabinet, and while we were making other efforts to do it before now, this is the time we were able to do so,” Norton stated.

The first home game that the Guyana Amazon Warriors will play will bowl off next Thursday, September 5, against the St. Lucia Stars. On September 7, they will take on the St. Kitts and Nevis Patriots; while on September 8, GAW will face off with the Barbados Tridents.

Tickets are priced at $5000 for the Red and Green stands, $3000 for the Orange stand, and $2000 for the Grass mound.

Tickets can be uplifted at the CPL office located at 238 Camp and Quamina Streets, Georgetown. (Jemima Holmes)

TKR’s Munro to miss start of CPL, Simmons called up T

rinbago Knight Riders (TKR) will be without their top batsman for the start of the 2019 Hero Caribbean Premier League (CPL) T20 Tournament,

Colin Munro

Lendl Simmons

as Colin Munro has been called up for New Zealand’s T20 series against Sri Lanka which starts on Sunday.

Munro will represent New Zealand in

the three-match series until September 6 in Sri Lanka. TKR will play at the Queen’s Park Oval, in St Clair, on September 4, 6 and 8 and Munro will miss those three matches.

The hard-hitting batsman is expected to join TKR in Jamaica for the team’s clash against Tallawahs on September 13 at Sabina Park, Jamaica. After being overlooked in the 2019 CPL draft, TT and West

Indies opener Lendl Simmons has been called up as a replacement for Munro for the first three matches.

Munro scored heavily for TKR last year ending the tournament as the leading run-scorer with 567 runs in 13 innings at an average of 51.54. Left-handed Munro cracked six fifties at an impressive strike rate of 140.34 which included some massive sixes. (Trinidad and Tobago Newsday)

friday, august 30, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Government, GAW confirm agreement for CPL home games Page 23

Anderson, Nedd confirmed in 21-man Windies U-19 squad

Page 21

GAW focused on improving young talents Page 22

Limacol Football Tournament

4th annual tournament to kick off with double-header Page 22

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