Guyana Times Newsletter - Friday, November 23, 2018

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 3755

Friday, November 23, 2018

No-confidence motion against Govt should be given priority – Guyana’s longest serving Clerk Page 3

ICAG conference focuses on Guyana’s emerging oil sector Rice land woes Govt threatens Hope Estate to revoke bar discontinues licences for legal action loud music against farmers Page 10

Page 9

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Father, son remanded on $2.2M narcotrafficking P8 charge

Educators urged to give importance to early P11 childhood development

Semi-nude body of man found at Canje

Page 7

City garbage collectors withdraw services

2 jailed for P14 gun, ammo possession

19 restaurants on board for Restaurant Week 2018

“Safety sells tourism” – P15 Security and safety take centre stage on day 2 of ICAO conference

Page 9

…M&CC admits no funds to pay

Page 2

GTA Director Brian Mullis and THAG President Mitra Ramkumar exchange a handshake to cement the MoU

2 news

fridAY, November 23, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

19 restaurants on board for Restaurant Week 2018

From left: THAG Chairman Kevin Daby, Director of GTA, Brian Mullis and THAG President Mitra Ramkumar sealed the deal during the launching of Restaurant Week 2018 at the OMG Restaurant

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ineteen restaurants are participating in Restaurant Week 2018, which is being hosted jointly by the Tourism and Hospitality of Association of Guyana (THAG) and the Guyana Tourism Authority (GTA).

Restaurant week, which is one of the signature events for Tourism Awareness Month 2018, kicks off today.

At the launching which was done at OMG, Sheriff Street, Georgetown, President of THAG, Mitra Ramkumar said Restaurant Week is an excellent marketing opportunity for businesses and will benefit patrons as well. He explained that the event will see the participating restaurants offering fixed prices on their menu throughout the week.

Each restaurant will feature two-course lunch menus at $1000 and $2000, and three-course dinner menus for $4000 or $5000 per person.

He added that persons who often look at restaurants and come up with the notion that it’s too expensive for them will be given the opportunity to dine at a reduced price.

Further, Ramkumar underscored that it would be profitable to the business owners as it would be an excellent time to market their products.

“Restaurant Week was designed to appeal to the local market and for people

who feel certain restaurants are not for them. I’m encouraging all Guyanese to come out and explore them all”.

Chairman of THAG, Kevin Daby, promised the Guyanese public an exciting week ahead. According to Daby persons are encouraged to keep up to date with its online website or visit guyanarestaurantweek.com for more details Meanwhile, GTA’s Director, Brian noted that culinary tourism has become increasingly overwhelming around the world and is encouraging everyone to take advantage of Restaurant Week 2018.

He also implored them to use this period to showcase their best cuisines and most importantly, their services.

He also thanked the proprietors for being a part of the initiative as he urged them take advantage of this marketing strategy.

The participating restaurants are Aagman Restaurant, Antonio’s Grille, Bistro Café and Bar, Cara Lodge, Café Bellvana, Grand Coastal Hotel, Pegasus Hotel, Java Coffee Bar, New Thriving Restaurant, Brasil Churrascaria, OMG! Restaurant, Petit Four, Herdmanston Lodge, Guyana Marriott Hotel, Roraima Duke Lodge, The Vintage Wine Bar, Windjammer Restaurant, and Xie Xie Restaurant.

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fridAY, November 23, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

BRIDGE OPENINGS The Demerara Harbour Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on: Friday, November 23 – 05:00h-06:30h and Saturday, November 24 – 05:30h-07:00h.

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, November 23 – 16:00h-17:30h and Saturday, November 24 – 05:10h-06:40h

FERRY SCHEDULE

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

WEATHER TODAY Sunny intervals with late afternoon sunshine are expected throughout the day, with clear skies in the evening. Temperatures will range between 21 degrees Celsius and 31 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to East North-easterly and Northeasterly between 1.78 metres and 5.81 metres.

High Tide: 04:19h and 16:32h reaching maximum heights of 2.73 metres and 2.86 metres respectively.

Low Tide: 10:07h and 22:33h reaching minimum heights of 0.50 metre and 0.33 metre respectively.

WEDNESDAY, novemBER 21, 2018

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No-confidence motion against Govt should be given priority – Guyana’s longest-serving Clerk …cannot be tossed aside in favour of Govt business – former AG

By Shemuel Fanfair

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s the debate on whether or not the no-confidence motion filed by Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo should take priority in the National Assembly, Guyana’s longest serving Clerk, Frank Narain has unequivocally stated that the matter must be given priority.

The former parliamentary official who is now retired, in an exclusive interview with Guyana Times on Thursday said he agrees with the current Clerk, Sherlock Isaacs, when he said Government has to decide when the motion should be heard since Government has the majority seats in the house but noted that it must be given the highest priority in the National Assembly.

Narain, who served briefly as Deputy Clerk after Guyana gained independence in 1966, and as Clerk from 1966 until 2002, concurred with his successor that motions are put on the Order Paper whenever the Government desires, noting that Government has to decide on the business for the Order Paper. The former official explained that this practice exists since Governments usually have a majority in the House, which allows the ruling Administration to fix the timings for sittings for the National Assembly. He outlined that this was not the case under the presidency of Donald Ramotar.

“When you look at the business of the Order Paper, before Budget Day, you only have tomorrow (Friday) and the Government didn’t fix a hearing and maybe they don’t want to have a sitting,” the retired Clerk reasoned.

He told Guyana Times that in his time in office, the Government always had a big majority, noting that the Speaker of the National Assembly had always come from the Government’s side back then.

His comments come just one day after Foreign Affairs Minister and 2nd Vice President Carl Greenidge expressed full confidence that the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) coalition will be able to defeat the Opposition Leader’s motion.

Additionally, Greenidge indicated that the motion has “no chance” of being heard before the presentation of

Guyana’s longest serving Clerk of the National Assembly, Frank Narain shared a light moment with President David Granger in 2017 when he gave the Head of State a copy of his book, Sharing my Memoirs – My big book

the 2019 Budget.

Govt afraid

Government, Anil Nandlall, on Thursday told Guyana Times that maybe, the Vice President is afraid to have the no-confidence motion debated before Monday’s presentation to the National Assembly.

“It is quite ironic that Mr Greenidge is emphatically confident that the NoConfidence Motion will fail but at the same time, appears mortally afraid it debated early and instead, is advocating for its delay.

One would expect that with such exuding confidence,

Mr Greenidge would be calling for an early debate of the Motion,” Nandlall told this newspaper.

According to him, a fundamental pillar of the West Minster Model Constitution is that the Government of

the day must enjoy the confidence of the majority of the elected members in the nation’s Parliament. He said that it is for this singular reason that the Cabinet is collectively responsible to the Parliament.

“Once the confidence of the Government is being challenged in the Parliament by a confidence motion, that motion is required to be accorded the highest priority in the Parliament’s business,” Nandlall outlined.

He also pointed to Article 106 (6) of Guyana’s Constitution which “expressly provides that where a no-confidence motion succeeds against a Government, that Government must call elections within 90 days.”

Nandlall is of the view that the “only way” to avoid a no-confidence motion is to prorogue the Parliament as the PPP/C Government had done in 2014.

Turn to page 10

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guyanatimesgy.com

fridAY, November 23, 2018

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

Social media awareness: A tool to end AIDS by 2030

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his year will mark the 30th anniversary of World AIDS Day and the day will focus on “Know your status”.

The importance of HIV prevention is reiterated each year as the international community bands together in observance of World AIDS Day on December 1.

The UNAIDS Latin America and Caribbean Regional Support Team Director, Dr Cesar Nuñez had some years ago explained that the community of nations committed to ending AIDS by 2030 as part of the Sustainable Development Goals.

HIV prevention is central to achieving this goal. At this moment in history, the world has at its disposal a combination of new science, evidence-based prevention strategies refined over more than 30 years, and the understanding that in order to succeed countries must ensure that no one is left behind.

Dr Nuñez made the statement against the backdrop that the Latin American region also has to continue to ensure that motherto-child transmission is prevented, while emphasising the need for people to protect themselves during sexual activity.

While he underscored the point that “condoms still matter”, Dr Nuñez also stated that new HIV drugs are bolstering prevention of the fatal virus.

Some 55 per cent of people living with HIV live in Latin America and the Caribbean, and in Guyana, according to the National AIDS Programme Secretariat, over 8500 persons are living with the virus.

The statistics released by the Public Health Ministry revealed that Region Four (Demerara-Mahaica) had recorded the highest number of new HIV cases in 2017. This was, however, just one of the disappointing and shocking revelations made, as the country has also seen an overall increase in HIV cases, owing to the fact that 705 were recorded in 2015, 855 in 2016, and a whopping 961 cases were confirmed in 2017. Trailing Region Four was Region Three (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara) with 130 new cases of HIV in 2017. For the same year, Region Eight (Potaro-Siparuni) was documented as the region with the least number of cases, since a mere three persons were diagnosed with the virus there.

According to UNAIDS, to achieve the goal to end AIDS by 2030, significant investments and commitment are required.

As Governments and Health Ministries strategise about how to achieve scale-up, it is important goals are feasible. In Latin America, Chile has already attained the treatment and viral suppression targets, while in the Caribbean, Barbados is on track to achieve the goals.

In Guyana, Health Ministry had announced that Guyana was on the “fast track” to achieve the Sustainable Development Goal to end AIDS in 2030, since the country had intensified its efforts in reaching the 90-90-90 goal established by UNAIDS. By accelerating the response to HIV/AIDS in the Americas, the ambitious goal of reducing new HIV cases by 74 per cent by 2020 and reducing AIDS deaths in the region by 62 per cent could pave the way for the end of the epidemic in 2030.

However, this will require major attitudinal and behavioural changes in society, including changes with respect to fighting stigma and discrimination. The populace has a part to play in ensuring that all people are treated with dignity and respect, regardless of race, religion, ethnic background or creed. On Thursday, Pan Caribbean Partnership against HIV&AIDS (PANCAP) also advocated for more emphasis on HIV prevention in healthcare campaigns and education initiatives. The organisation is leading the way in revitalising awareness of HIV prevention methods through a social media education initiative.

Since millions, especially young people, are using social media – Twitter, Facebook, etc – as a communication tool, this is an ideal platform to reach out to the younger generation to send the message of HIV prevention.

The overarching aim of the social media awareness initiative is to propagate messages related to HIV prevention among this young population.

Globally, there are an estimated 34 million people living with the virus. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.

Stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition.

World AIDS Day is important as it reminds the public and Government that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

A medium dressed as a deity stands near the fire as he performs during the traditional Kartik Dance Festival at Patan Durbar Square in Lalitpur, Nepal (Reuters/Navesh Chitrakar)

Saudi Crown Prince goes on tour of Arab States amid Khashoggi storm S audi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman arrived in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on Thursday at the start of a tour of several Arab countries, his first trip abroad since the murder of Journalist Jamal Khashoggi that caused a global outcry.

The Prince, the country’s de facto ruler, is also expected to participate in a G20 meeting in Buenos Aires at the end of the month which will be attended by leaders from the United States, Turkey, and European countries.

The killing of Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and a critic of the Crown Prince, at Riyadh’s Consulate in Istanbul six weeks ago has strained Saudi Arabia’s ties with the West and battered Prince Mohammed’s image abroad.

King Salman asked his chosen heir, known in the West as MbS, to conduct the tour “based on his keenness to deepen the Kingdom’s ties regionally and internationally”, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

Prince Mohammed was greeted upon his arrival in the neighbouring UAE by Abu Dhabi Crown Prince, Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed al-Nayhan, a close ally of MbS. “We’re proud of our deep-rooted ties. Close cooperation and a fruitful partnership lies in store for our countries. The UAE will al-

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during a meeting with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres at the United Nations in New York on March 27, 2018

ways be a loving and supportive home for our brothers in Saudi Arabia,” Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed said in a Twitter post.

Tunisian newspaper Business News said he was expected to visit Tunisia on Tuesday.

Saudi Arabia has said the Prince had no prior knowledge of the murder of the prominent Saudi Journalist. After offering numerous contradictory explanations, Riyadh said last week Khashoggi had been killed and his body dismembered when negotiations to persuade him to return to Saudi Arabia failed.

Turkey’s President Tayyip Erdogan has said the killing was ordered by the highest level of Saudi leadership, but probably not King Salman, putting the spotlight instead on the 33-year-old Crown Prince.

US President Donald

Trump said on Tuesday Washington would remain a “steadfast partner” of Saudi Arabia, despite saying that Prince Mohammed may have known about the plan to murder Khashoggi.

Turkish paper: CIA had recording of Saudi Prince demanding Khashoggi be ‘silenced’

A Turkish newspaper reported on Thursday CIA Director Gina Haspel signalled to Turkish officials last month that the Agency had a recording of a call in which the Saudi Crown Prince gave instructions to “silence” Khashoggi.

Asked about the report, a Turkish official told Reuters he had no information about such a recording. Saudi Arabia has said the Crown Prince had no prior knowledge of Khashoggi’s killing at the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul six weeks ago.

When asked about the recording by reporters in Florida, President Trump said, “I don’t want to talk about it. You’ll have to ask them.” The CIA declined to comment when asked about the report.

“There is talk of another recording,” Hurriyet newspaper Journalist Abdulkadir Selvi wrote in a column, saying the purported call took place between Prince Mohammed and his brother, Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to Washington.

“It is being said that CIA chief Gina Haspel indicated this during her visit to Turkey,” he wrote, adding that they had discussed Khashoggi, a critic of the Kingdom’s de facto ruler.

“It is being said the Crown Prince gave orders to ‘silence Jamal Khashoggi as soon as possible’,” in a call which was monitored by the US agency, he said.

Trump said the CIA had not definitively concluded that the Crown Prince was responsible, and said he would stand by Saudi Arabia’s leadership because it was a key US ally.

“We want low oil prices and Saudi Arabia has really done a good job in that respect,” Trump said.

“I hate the crime. I hate what’s done. I hate the cover up. And I tell you what: the crown prince hates it more than I do,” Trump said, without providing further detail. (Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

fridAY, November 23, 2018

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

No amount of jumbie arithmetic DCEO’s lack of knowledge can deny the LGE result on election matters

Dear Editor, The Local Government Election (LGE) has come and gone and the electorate has spoken. It was a midterm election used as a barometer to measure the Government’s performance (or non-performance), over the past three years. The fact that millions were spent on campaigning by all the political parties involved meant the primary objective of going into the election was to win and win big.

As such, for some supporters of the Government to claim that the mere fact that LGE was held in 2018 is cause for celebration because it showed the world that local democracy is alive, (it should always be), is disingenuous and is an attempt to find some (any) consolation and solace amidst the devastation and utter rejection of a Government that has self-destructed, and is turning a blind eye to the realities, (and figures), of the just concluded election. The truth be told, showing the world that local democracy is alive in Guyana was of secondary importance in the larger scheme of things.

Abraham Lincoln once said you can fool all of the people some of the time and some of the people all of the time, but you can't fool all of the people all of the time.

What Lincoln didn't say, (but should have said), is that there is nothing worse than fooling yourself. Based on what is being reported in the media, the only people the A Partnership for National Unity/Alliance For Change (APNU/AFC) Government is fooling at this time is themselves and the two dozen supporters who were present at their joint press conference which was held at Congress Place, Sophia.

In a referendum of sort on the APNU/AFC coalition Government, the people rejected them both and embraced the People’s Progressive Party (PPP) in a big way. The electorate saw the PPP as a shoulder to cry on and turned, (and many returned), to the cup, not for sustenance, but to shed their tears into and put their X next to. And justifiably so, for this present Government

came into office promising change but has failed to deliver. In three years it has been a major disappointment and has become a talking point for all the wrong reasons.

The APNU, (read People’s National Congress), must know now that the electorate, including their supporters, (save and except the two dozen present at their press conference at Sophia), has come to realise that their slogan of a "good life for all", is just rhetoric and another empty promise. The only people enjoying the good life are the members of the Cabinet.

The rest of the population is barely existing. The self-proclaimed "fit and proppa" AFC must now realise that not only are they considered unfit and improper but irrelevant as well. The AFC, like the Working People’s Alliance (WPA), is paying the price for failing to see itself as an equal and important partner in a coalition Government which clings to power by a mere one-seat majority in Parliament, believing instead that it is a junior partner and allowing the PNC to treat it with scorn, contempt and disrespect. The mere threat of a no-confidence motion against the PNC-controlled Government by either the AFC or the WPA, would have made the big bad PNC understand that its survival as a Government is dependent on equal treatment of its coalition partners. You have that power and its time you let the PNC know that. Had you taken the bull by its horns and asserted your importance and power, either of you could have taken the spotlight away from Bharrat Jagdeo and the PPP. However, all is not lost for there is still time to do the honourable thing as honourable members of the House. Even as I am aware that people only do the right thing when it is the easiest thing for them to do, I ask that you put country first and lend your support to the no-confidence motion that is to be tabled in Parliament by the PPP for there is so much to gain with relevance being numero uno.

The joint press conference hastily called by the PNC

and the AFC, (at the insistence of the PNC no doubt), is an indication that all is not well within the coalition, (nobody is missing the fact that the coalition comprises more than two parties only). The fear of abandonment looms large because of the manner in which the PNC has (ill) treated the other members of the coalition. There are justifiable reasons for the PNC to fear a no-confidence motion at this time. If all was well then by all means such a motion would have easily been defeated by a coalition Government which holds a majority in Parliament.

Should the Government manage to defeat this motion, it is hoped that the other important members of the coalition finally realise that real power lies not with the PNC but real power resides in them, and they start to demand due respect.

Finally, to the Government and its supporters who are making light of what the results of the LGE means and think that Bharrat Jagdeo is blowing hot air, that David Hinds is crazy, and voter's apathy is to be blamed for your poor showing, then by all means forget about trying to stave off a valid no-confidence motion by the slimmest of majority in Parliament, call a snap election now and win yourselves a landslide. Until then, know this puts a spin on the results and no amount of jumbie arithmetic can deny the fact that 65 per cent of the people who voted have said enough is enough.

Respectfully, Reginald Sookram

Dear Editor, Here I am after this week’s statutory meeting of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM) giving you my usual update.

The meeting was held on Wednesday since Tuesday was a national holiday again.

It seems as if my updates are really negatively affecting the Chairman, as he was moved to assert that those of us on “our side” of the table did not deserve any common courtesy from him, since every week one of “our” Commissioners “spills the very guts” of GECOM’s meetings in the press!! Even Commissioner Alexander was moved to point out that the Commissioner in question (me) had at least had the “common courtesy” to inform the meeting of her intention to issue statements to the press after every meeting!

This outburst by the Chairman happened after Commissioner Sase Gunraj had accused the Chairman of not having the common courtesy of informing the meeting last Thursday that he had called a press conference for the next day, even during the long discussion about GECOM’s interaction with the press and the Chairman had heard suggestions that targeted press releases would better serve our purpose rather than a press conference where the message can get lost in answers to questions from reporters which detracted from the main reason for the interac-

tion.

The Chairman was in rare form, asserting his right to call any press conference without informing any Commissioner, at which Commissioner Robeson Benn was moved to point out that the Chairman then, could not claim to be speaking on behalf of the Commission, since he had not even informed, much less discussed with Commissioners the fact of the press engagement, never mind the reason for it.

Good theatre it was today!

The matter of the Mabaruma Local Government Elections results again came up. I told the meeting that I had been informed that two of GECOM’s officials, a Mr Allen and a Mr Clarke, had travelled to Mabaruma to investigate the issue of proxies about which we spoke last week, and that the two officers had spent much of their time interacting with the A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) activists and supporters in a private meeting at the Town Hall and that they were also transported by an APNU candidate to Aruka Mouth and Smith Creek. My point was that GECOM’s officials should have acted in a manner precluding any perception of bias, especially since the investigation was being done at the instance of complaints made by APNU. Later in the meeting, the DCEO in the absence of the CEO – who did not attend Wednesday’s meeting – reported orally about the inves-

tigation by Clarke and Allen, stating that it had found that procedures for the approval of proxies had been breached and that the only answer the Returning Officer (RO), who approves all proxy applications, could give is that he was trying to help. My own view on this was that the RO should then face sanctions, but to my consternation, the DCEO then asked that the Commission consider the question of whether the results of the Mabaruma elections should be published.

This, to my mind, was such a preposterous question from the DCEO! The election had been held and the final results had been declared by the Returning Officer and now here is the DCEO suggesting that the results of an investigation should be used to change or amend before publication, the declared final results!

I am amazed that the DCEO needed to be told by me, that when the RO declared the results he was functus officio and that results of an election can only be challenged in a court of law by way of an elections petition!

I am now wondering if the DCEO genuinely did not know this, because she had no previous experience running any election, or if she was advancing a particular interest. Food for thought!

Sincerely, Bibi Safora Shadick Commissioner – GECOM

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Foundation

child's favourite series, or let your child shop for it online. Most kids agree, but they don't also see a problem with more… well, extrinsic rewards.

"Go around your town and find out about contests – you know, like the ones at the library where if you read so many books, you get a reward. Or make up your own," says Vincent.

"If your kid likes ice cream, then every time he finishes, say, two chapter books at least over a hundred pages, then take him out for a little treat."

caring adult.

"My mom would write magical notes from Santa, from the tooth fairy, and 'discover' and read them with me in the morning. It was the sweetest reward knowing she'd taken the time," says Brittany.

Luis says, "My grandma is coming, and I want her to read to me."

For children lucky enough to have parents who read to them, the memory is lasting and their love for books and reading lifelong.

"Most of all, do it the old-fashioned way. Hold your child while you read together. One of my fondest memories is having my mom read to me in bed at night and falling asleep in her arms. I slept perfectly those nights," says Taurean. (readingrockets.org)

Let your kids see you read

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arents can make reading more motivating by letting children choose books and making reading a memorable family event. Find out what children themselves have to say about these guidelines for parents to increase motivation.

Here are a few tried-and-true guidelines from Reading Is Fundamental on how to motivate kids to read, with comments and suggestions from kids themselves.

Let kids pick out their own books

Book choice is a strong motivation for readers young and old. Let kids pick out books at the library or bookstore. It's almost a sure thing they'll want to read them. If you pick them out, they won't.

"Let your children pick out whatever interests them.

When I was little, I always picked dinosaur books. My dad would read them to me. I got to pick out any book, and he would read it, no matter how hard it was," says Brian.

Set goals and reward reading

Reward reading with more reading, we've always said.

Stop by the library or bookstore for the next book in your

Read the newspaper over your morning coffee, take a magazine from the rack in a doctor's office while you wait, and stuff a paperback into your purse, pocket, or briefcase. Your kids will catch on to the fact that reading is something you like to do in your spare time.

"If parents don't read a lot in front of kids, and instead watch lots of electronics – like TV and the computer – then the kids will think that's what they're supposed to do and they might not read as much," says Cameron.

Make reading together fun and memorable

Parents can convey important positive impressions about reading by making reading an experience their children will remember and cherish.

Emily says, "My mom really likes to read to me and she makes the books sound funny by using different voices."

It's not what you read to your child that counts; it's how.

Make a story come alive by changing your voice and pace, or using sound effects and motions.

"For me, it was not just books – it was how my mom read the book that got my attention," says Brittany.

Create loving associations with books and reading

Reading together is a time for closeness and cuddling – another way to show your love as a parent, grandparent, or

E

veryone needs some "alone time" or time to himself now and then. Time alone gives you a chance to think and to learn.

In MT Anderson's picture book, Me All Alone at the End of the World, a boy lives a very happy and peaceful life all alone at the End of the World. Even though he is alone, he has his own fun and adventure — hunting for treasure, finding bones and fossils, and netting fish.

On his website, Anderson writes about this book, "As a kid, sure, I thought my friends were great – but I really did love being alone too. So as an adult, I decided to write a book that discussed the pleasures of solitude. I wanted to say to kids: You don't need to be in a crowd all the time to enjoy yourself. It's great to make up your own kind of fun."

So if you had a day all to yourself – with no teachers, family or friends around – what would you do? On this day, you can be anywhere you like, but you are by yourself. You also have to spend at least part of your day outside.

Write a journal or diary entry that describes your good day and how you felt about spending it alone. You can include drawings that highlight your day's activities if you like. (readingrockets.org)

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fridAY, November 23, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt threatens to revoke bar licences for loud music …as Police decries sloth in prosecution of noise nuisance cases

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mid complaints of the Police not doing enough to curb noise nuisance in communities, the country’s premier law enforcement agency has lamented the slothfulness of prosecution when such cases are before the courts.

This concern was raised

by Senior Superintendent Errol Watts, who is Secondin Command of Operations in the Guyana Police Force.

He was at the time addressing participants at a oneday ‘Noise Management’ training session for Police Officers held on Thursday at the Police Training Centre.

Some 50 ranks participated in the training session for which they received certificates.

According to Watts, who is also the Force’s representative on the Public Security Ministry’s Task Force on Nosie Nuisance, dealing with this issue is not an easy task but added that with the training received during the workshop, the Force will be able to correct some of its shortcomings and be better equipped to tackle this societal scourge.

He went on to outline, however, that while the Police have been doing its part in curbing noise nuisance, its efforts are being frustrated by the judicial system.

“For the year 2017, I can tell you, there were 417 reports of noise nuisance cases countrywide. So far for this year, we’ve had in excess of 300 reports and we’ve laid charges in most of those cases. But one of the concerns we have in the Force, which we have no control over, is that when these charges are instituted, they’re taking a long time in the court system.

Some 50 Police Officers underwent noise management training on Thursday

So we are trying to encourage the victims to bear with the Police Force; we have no control over this, but those are the issues that would frustrate the members of the public, especially the victims in relation to noise nuisance,” Watts posited.

They urged the participants, as well as stakeholder agencies, to work assiduously so as to ensure that they address such issues as a collective.

Thursday’s noise management training was a collaboration between the Task Force on Nosie Nuisance and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The aim of the training is to build the technical capacity of Police Officers to respond to noise pollution reports from the public and to aid in the court prosecution process of offenders.

During the one-day session, participants were trained in the areas of EPA laws, nature of evidence and footage for noise nuisance, including the use of decibel noise meter.

Public Security Minister Khemraj Ramjattan in his

address to the participants at the opening ceremony, emphasised the need for collaboration among the stakeholder authorities within the task force in tackling noise nuisance.

On this note, the Minister posited these agencies should look at implementing more effective measures of curbing this societal scourge such as seizing equipment, revoking business licences, and increasing fines.

“We want to take the profit out of this illegal activity and that means we must start, after going through the procedures, ensuring that we can revoke some of the licences of these bars that play loud music or the (carts) selling their video and their tape recordings… or the cars of people,” Ramjattan stated.

He went on to say too that, “Many complaints of noise nuisance come from people complaining about small shops and bars not licensed to operate, they play some of the loudest music… and though there might be reports at Police stations,

we find that some of them still continue [to play]. So it’s a valuable partnership when you give the information to [the sister agen-

cy like the Guyana Revenue Authority] and the GRA could then use it together with Police Force and… those licences could be revoked.”

Meanwhile, acting Executive Director of the EPA, Aminah McPhersonDamon, in brief remarks pointed out that despite a sound framework with penalties for offenders, much more needs to be done to ensure the Guyanese citizenry is environmentally conscious.

Hence, she contended the need for such training to equip ranks with the necessary capacity to enforce these regulations. This, according to McPhersonDamon, will lend to efforts ongoing by EPA to curb noise nuisance, which in-

cludes outreaches at Station Street, Kitty and at the Soesdyke/Linden Highway Junction.

“The ultimate goal of the efforts to date and our future efforts is to ensure that mechanisms are in place to guarantee the reduction of noise emissions and to protect our citizens from excessive noise. It is hoped that [Thursday’s] workshop would be another step to achieving these high ideals…,” the EPA Head stated.

In addition to the workshop, the participants also took part in a practical session which saw them carrying out a field exercise at Station Street, Kitty, using the decibel meter to measure noise level from the various night spots there.

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fridAY, November 23, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Sophia miner charged for girlfriend’s murder

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Sophia, Greater Georgetown miner who allegedly killed and buried his girlfriend in a shallow grave was on Thursday slapped with a murder charge and appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Trevor Alleyne, 27, of

South Sophia, is accused of killing Patricia David between October 1 and November 15, 2018. It is also alleged that he buried her body in a shallow grave in the Eye Lash Backdam, North West District.

Alleyne was remanded to prison and was ex-

pected to make his next appearance at the Matthews Ridge Magistrate’s Court on February 5, 2019.

David went missing for several weeks before investigators found her remains in a shallow grave.

When arrested by Police, Alleyne allegedly confessed

that he and David had an altercation and he beat her.

The couple later went to bed; however, the following morning, Alleyne reportedly found the woman dead. He then allegedly proceeded to bury her body in a shallow grave.

Father, son remanded on $2.2M narco-trafficking charge

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North Ruimveldt, Georgetown father and his son, who are accused of trafficking more than $2 million worth of cannabis were on Thursday remanded to prison.

The duo appeared before Chief Magistrate

Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Orwin Battlefield, 53, and his 28-year-old son, Quincy Charles, are accused of trafficking four kilograms of cannabis on November 19, 2018 at North Ruimveldt,

Georgetown.

According to Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield, the men’s home was searched by Police and the drugs were discovered hidden in a plastic bucket.

The prosecution is contending that at the time of

discovery Charles reportedly admitted to ownership of the drug.

The men, who were both represented by Attorney-atLaw Mark Waldron, were remanded to prison. The case will continue on December 10, 2018.

Pomeroon farmer remanded for 2kg cocaine bust

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Pomeroon, Region Two (PomeroonSupenaam) farmer was remanded to prison by Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan on a charge of possession of narcotics for the purpose of trafficking.

Wayne Correria ap-

peared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts to face the charge which stated that on November 20 at his Pomeroon River Landing home, he had 2.2 kilograms of cocaine in his possession for the purpose of trafficking.

The prosecution is con-

tending that the 37-year-old man was nabbed after Police ranks, acting on information, swooped down at his home and discovered the cocaine worth $1.5 million hidden in a wooden box in his workshop.

According to the prosecu-

tion, a quantity of cocaine was also found hidden in a cooler under his bed. The illicit substance was later weighed.

Magistrate McLennan remanded him to prison. The case will continue at the Charity Magistrate’s Court on December 10, 2018.

PNC…

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…can run but it can’t hide ow that President Granger’s back and has announced he’s back in the saddle, what does that say of Moses Nagamootoo’s whining that the PPP was “taking advantage”. Your Eyewitness was always optimistic about the President’s prognosis since the latter is a fella who’s meticulous about his health.

It’s clear the non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma was caught early because of his vigilance. Nagamootoo will definitely have to step DOWN in 2020 after his performance (more like “non-performance!) in the Whim LGE!! The LGE proved conclusively that the “dead meat” AFC is like that dead albatross the Ancient Mariner was forced to carry around on his neck! And the PNC must be crying pitifully, “votes, votes; votes everywhere – but not a vote for us”!!

But it wasn’t just the miserable turnout in their core constituency that has rattled the PNC – it’s the masterful use of the political space by the PPP in general – and Jagdeo in particular – that has them running around like chickens without heads! Like a veteran heavyweight boxer, the PPP pursued the PNC and AFC in every constituency and showed them – notwithstanding their tag team tactic – they were cornered! The first body blow that doubled up the two erstwhile “coalition” partners was the LGE result.

The filing of the no-confidence motion was the uppercut that would’ve knocked them out clean!! So with the political graveyard staring them in the face, the PNC and the AFC have gone into each other’s arms again and are desperately seeking to avoid the inevitable. But as the great Joe Louis once told the challenger Billy Conn, “You can run but you can’t hide”!! The boxing ring, after all, is a finite, enclosed space!

And so’s the workings of the no-confidence motion through the labyrinthine parliamentary system!! In the normal course of things, the motion would have been placed on the Notice Paper and approved by the Speaker to go on the Order Paper within 12 days for debate “at the earliest possible occasion”. That’s what happened when the same Nagamootoo brought his no-confidence motion against the PPP with AFC’s Trotman as Speaker and the APNU/AFC having a one-seat advantage.

Today, they’re in Government – with the same oneseat majority – and yet they’re trying every which way not to have the motion come on the floor for debate!!

The Budget Debate before the vote will just earn the PNC another month or so in Government.

They can run…but they can’t hide!! …and no Basil in sight??

Was a time when AG Basil Williams, SC, was like his namesake herb – showing up anywhere, something was cooking! In his case, it was in things political. But oh, how low has the mighty fallen since he lost the race for the chair of the PNC to Volda Lawrence! With the President out on sick leave and the rest of the “big ones” – your Eyewitness is being kind to the AFC types!

– huddling late at night in homes and at Congress Place press conferences, Basil Williams was nowhere to be seen!!

Has he thrown in the towel after the first knockdown?

Or is it the knockdown was by a “girl”!! C’mon Williams, man up and show some spunk? Political fights are always fifteen-round affairs…and your defeat was just round one!! Look how Greenidge has come back from Siberia (or was it Amazonia?!) and is in the thick of things!!

Even giving assurances that the AFC will be going to the 2020 polls with the PNC!!

And you KNOW that ain’t so!! …and “motherland” PNC Minister Annette Ferguson told the international Fly Meet that Guyanese want to connect with the “motherland” Africa, by air.

Didn’t our Indigenous People’s come from Asia? Are they supposed to walk back over the Bering Strait?

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

News

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fridAY, November 23, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

City garbage collectors withdraw services …M&CC admits no funds to pay

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inancial strain at the Georgetown Mayor and City Council (M&CC) has once again forced principle collectors, Puran Brothers and Cevons Waste Management, to withdraw their disposal services from Monday next.

This was revealed by City Hall on Thursday, which in a statement explained that “…because of a serious financial shortfall, the Council is unable to honour its obligation to both contractors in a timely manner, a situation which the Council regrets.”

However, five of the small

garbage contractors have since expressed willingness to work with the Council from Monday, November 26, to carry out the collection services. As such, the Council is scheduled to meet with these small contractors today to concretise the details of the agreement.

According to the governing body in the Capital City, it expends approximately $30 million monthly for the removal of waste from the Georgetown environs. This solid waste management bill, it added, accounts for 38 per cent of the Council’s monthly income, which is

some $89 million.

To this end, the M&CC said that moving forward next year, it will have to reassess how it manages waste collection in the City.

Last month, both Puran Brothers and Cevons Waste Management had said that they were owed some $150 million by City Hall. This debt was said to have been outstanding since the second quarter of 2018.

Puran Brothers Disposal Service is owed $73 million, while Cevons Waste Disposal is owed $75 million.

At that time, the two entities had been contemplating

pulling their services, since there was “no positive outcome” to their meetings with City Hall.

It was also indicated that the two entities had been engaged by the Council on several occasions, but there weren’t any discussions on

how their payments would be made.

With the holiday season’s increased operational costs impending, there will be a steep escalation in the losses suffered by these entities as well.

“We are contemplating

a way forward together, because it’s affecting our working capital. To work for four months without receiving payment is kinda tough on us, because it’s a lot of costs behind these services that we provide,” Puran had stated.

For one of the collectors, the monthly operational expenditure is somewhere in the vicinity of $15 million.

City Hall’s financial crisis dates back to times when, with no other option, both solid waste collectors had been forced to withdraw their services until pending payments had been made.

Staffers were also dismissed and later rehired in light of this process.

Rice land woes

Hope Estate discontinues legal action against farmers

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he management of the Hope Estate Limited on Thursday withdrew legal proceedings against 18 rice farmers, who were dragged to court by Government for failing to pay a unilateral increase in land rents.

Hope Estate Management, which leased plots of rice lands to farmers at Hope Estate on the East Coast Demerara, is claiming an increase in rent for these lands by some 300 per cent per acre and also seeking to repossess the lands from those farmers in arrears.

The matter was being heard before a Rice Assessment Committee, established by Agriculture Minister Noel Holder as a tribunal in the matter, at the Cove and John Magistrate’s Court.

According to lawyer for the rice farmers, Attorney Anil Nandlall, on the last court hearing (October 26) and on Thursday, raised several technical legal objections to the proceedings filed, submitting that the proceedings were incurably bad.

Attorney Anil Nandlall along with the relieved rice farmers from the Hope Estate outside the Cove and John Magistrate’s Court on Thursday

“I requested either that the company withdrew the proceedings, or that the Rice Assessment Committee dismiss them. The company opted to withdraw the proceedings. This has brought nearly two years of legal battle to an end,” Nandlall said.

Nandlall said this decision has brought nearly two years of legal battle to an end and the rice farmers will now be able to return to their normal lives and continue their work.

Earlier this year, the Government had given notice of its intention to repos-

sess land being leased by a number of these farmers at Hope Estate, ECD, for falling behind in their rent last year. In 2015, the farmers were paying $3000 per acre but in the ensuing years, the rents were increased to some $15,000 per acre. The farmers have since been complaining of the burdensome hikes, saying that it will be hard to pay.

In a letter seen by Guyana Times, farmers were instructed by Attorney and Guyana Marketing Corporation (GMC) Chairman Omadatt Chandan to “quit and deliv-

er possession” of their land.

But these requests resulted in these farmers and their legal representatives taking a stand.

In one case, Khemchan Sukhlall, a tenant of De Hoop, Mahaica, was ordered to hand over 16 acres of rice land situated at Nooten Zuil… all within one month of receiving the notice.

The notice, dated January 16, 2018, was signed by Chandan who identified himself as an agent of Hope Estate Coconut Industries Ltd. Back then, Nandlall, who had visited several of

the farmers alongside fellow Member of Parliament Dharamkumar Seeraj, had issued a warning to the Agriculture Ministry via letter; stating that the farmers are protected by the Rice Farmers (Security of Tenure) Act. Section Five (1,d) stipulates that a notice to eviction cannot be issued outside what the Act permits.

Nandlall had informed the Ministry that he instructed the farmers to ignore the notice since the law gives them a regime of security of tenure. He had informed the Ministry that its letter is not only premature and precipitous, but it flies in the face of the Act. “In short, rents chargeable for rice lands cannot be increased and a tenant of rice lands cannot be removed from possession except by the procedures outlined by the Act. We are not aware that any such procedures have been initiated or undertaken,” Nandlall had stated.

Nandlall further explained to Guyana Times at the time that these farmers have been in possession of

their land for several years.

These lands, he noted, provide the only source of livelihood for them and their families.

Meanwhile, Government in August issued a summons for a total of 32 rice farmers however not all of them were served.

In 2016, the Government in a well touted deal had arranged to export rice to Mexico. The Agriculture Ministry subsequently disclosed that 17,000 tonnes of paddy were shipped to Mexico in a deal said to be worth some US$17 million (GY$3 billion), and 43,000 tonnes more will be shipped to the Central American country over the next few months.

However, the days of farmers getting premium rates for their paddy crops have since passed, following the end of the PetroCaribe (rice-for-oil) deal which was cancelled by Venezuela in 2015. Under that arrangement, farmers accrued some $9000 per bag of paddy, but this has been reduced to between $1800 and $2500, depending on location.

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fridAY, November 23, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

ICAG conference focuses on Guyana’s emerging oil sector

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he Institute of Chartered Accountants in Guyana (ICAG) opened its annual conference on Thursday, which saw private and Government stakeholders benefiting from discussions pertaining to the key economic sectors and preparations for the coming years.

With the slogan “Guyana 2020 and Beyond: An Examination of the Key Economic Sectors”, the conference focused on developing and prominent industries in the country’s economy and an overview on the progress over the years.

Power Producers and Distributors Incorporated (PPDI) Chairman Arron Fraser, in his remarks, noted that Guyana was at a pivotal junction where opportunities were endless, but the only concern was the unpredictability of outcomes.

“This conference couldn’t have come at a more opportune time; a time when Guyana is about to enter an epoch of unprecedented opportunities and uncertainty.

It is our strong belief that the ICAG should be a significant player in the conversations and deliberations regarding Guyana’s economic future,” Fraser pointed out.

A section of the gathering at the ICAG conference opening on Thursday

The Chairman said that all sectors would be explored during the summit as the stakeholders seek to thrive in their respective fields.

“We are fortunate to be able to assemble express from many facets of the economy, including Government agencies, industry regulators and the Private Sector.

The multi-focus nature of the conference is intentional as we posit a successful Guyana must have stellar performances in all sectors as an antecedent.”

ICAG member Colin Thompson explained that each industry and its requirements would alternate over a period of time.

“As we consider “Guyana 2020 And beyond: An Examination of the Key Economic Sectors”, the con-

ference committee has established a diverse with carefully curated sweeter presentations that not only links with the conference theme, but touches on the changes we’re experiencing in the profession,” Thompson stated.

Guyana is sailing towards oil extraction in as early as 2020. Speaking about investment, climate and opportunities, Guyana Office for Investment (GOInvest) CEO Owen Verwey pointed out that partnerships to acquire the relevant skills were important.

“For our economy, we know that we’ve never done

oil and gas before. Skillsets, resources and many other things are not with us. It’s only fair that we try to ensure that those coming with that partner with some local entity share the knowledge and the experience, so that one day, we’ll be able to do the same.”

Verwey announced this encouragement was given not only to the oil sector, but to all that it can be applied.

He is of the view that many opportunities are latent in Guyana and remain unexplored.

“Many incentives exist in Guyana, not taking advantage of and we have incentives in Guyana more than many of our counterparts in the Region. We have more incentives in our incentive regime than [Trinidad and Tobago]”.

Discussions will be held on society changes, modifications that need to be made and worthy investment opportunities. The Sovereign Wealth Fund, Information Communication Technology (ICT) and education tourism were also among the topics.

No-confidence motion against...

“It cannot be ignored or tossed aside in favour of other Government business in the National Assembly.

Certainly, it is required to be debated before a national budget is presented. The rationale is a pragmatic one: that if the No-Confidence Motion is dealt with after the budget, then the Government that presented the budget may not be in office to implement that budget,” the former Attorney General opined.

There had been some degree of assumption that one or two members from Government could deflect whenever the matter

comes up and voting is required but Government has brushed aside such claims.

Clerk Isaacs released a letter on Wednesday evening outlining that Government has the power to determine when the No-Confidence Motion will be heard rather than the Speaker of the National Assembly.

It was after the 2018 Local Government Elections (LGE) results when the PPP/C garnered the majority of the victories that Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo filed the confidence motion. It was contended that the elections served as a referen-

From page 3

dum on the performance of the current Administration, especially at the Central Government level.

Among a host of concerns, the PPP cited heightened taxes, the loss of thousands of jobs in the sugar industry, sole sourcing of drug purchases and procurement breaches relating to the awarding of Government contracts as reasons for having lost confidence in the APNU/AFC. Moreover, Opposition Chief Whip Gail Teixeira maintained that hearing the no-confidence motion before the 2019 Budget would be ethical thing to do.

S RAIGHT How can you have confidence in a government that does this?

By Sase Singh; MSc – Finance, ACCA

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he negative economic impact of the mismanagement of the economy is escalating and there is no greater evidence of this than the state of the Government Deposits at the Bank of Guyana.

Lawmakers in Georgetown are really testing the mettle of the people when they conduct the affairs of the State so tragically.

Every day uncertainty continues to build in society, so much so, that it has now been ingrained in the psyche of consumers, the investors and most definitely – the official Private Sector. This is not how you mould a nation.

If one is to observe how the A Partnership for National Unity/ Alliance For Change/People’s National Congress (APNU/AFC/ PNC-led) Government has managed the deposit account of the Central Government at the Bank of Guyana, it is a manifestation of gross incompetence of the highest order. That account should at all times have cash in it as a strategy to combat inflation. Yet this PNC-led Government continues to spend and spend and not earn adequately. All they are doing is empowering the economic demon called inflation to creep deeper into the economy, and in the process destroy the wealth of the people. Inflation usually hits the poorest hardest and their “bellies ah bun” already. Could that be a big part of the reason why they delivered a shellacking on the siting PNC-led Government at the recently held Local Government Elactions?

The International Monetary Fund continues to recommend that limiting overdrafts at the Central Bank enhance its credibility and is a key ingredient for achieving effective monetary policy. Recently, the rules governing Central Bank lending to the Government have been revisited to make them efficient (Bank of International Settlements, 2009). The basic recommendation was to establish explicit restrictions to Central Bank financing governments in order to avoid disrupting Central Banks’ objective of preserving price stability.

The graph above illustrates that when the People’s Progressive Party lost power in May 2015, they transferred to the new PNCled Government GY$10.4 billion in liquid cash sitting at the Bank of Guyana. Fast-forward three plus years to the end of September 2018, and the evidence shows that the PNC-led Government spent all that cash and ran up an overdraft of some GY$55.4 billion. That translates to the fact that they have drained all of the deposit and then went on to borrow from the Central Bank at a rate of G$54 million per day during their tenure with no source of inflows to replenish those outflows.

The empirical evidence further proves that for more than 12 months there has been massive capital flight from the country, as the Private Sector thought it fit to park their resources in Miami rather than Mahaica. One only has to look at the data and they can see that private investment is down drastically. Additionally, there is a stark reduction in money circulating in the hands of the working class and one only has to visit places like Canje on the Corentyne to witness how a once vibrant community has been reduced to an economic ghost town.

But do these politicians in Congress Place care? From where the Guyanese people sit, all they are seeing is a bunch of opportunists singularly focused on personal power and enrichment and do not care a hoot for the welfare of the working class. Even after more than half of the electorate rejected the ruling political establishment, we continue to see an opacity and denseness in the brains of these politicians.

The demographic evidence proves that Guyana is a nation of minorities and that our Constitution is outdated at serving the nation. Yet the PNC found the opportunity to scuttle the constitutional reform as proposed in the APNU/AFC Manifesto? All the PNC has done – by destroying that process – was to put Guyana firmly on a path that is heading for the bottom of the Caribbean economic ladder and fast.

Today the majority of Guyanese truly believe the Government of Guyana cannot be depended on. More importantly, the Guyana Parliament has been reduced to the laughing stock of the Caribbean. No side can be proud of itself today. I keep hearing Bharat Jagdeo must do this and Jagdeo must do that, but Jagdeo is not the President of Guyana.

This situation demands leadership from Congress Place and what I saw at that Moses Nagamootoo press conference held at Congress Place on November 16, 2018, was most uninspiring. What next must we expect from these incompetent and intellectually bankrupt politicians?

Please share your thoughts at sasesin1@yahoo.com.

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Aviation conference

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fridAY, November 23, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Efficient, effective transportation critical to regional integration – Caricom SG

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he ongoing air transport conference organised by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) has brought many experts into the Region to promote air travel.

Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretary General Irwin LaRocque took the oppor-

tunity to highlight that keeping with the Caricom Treaty entails interminable efforts to develop transportation in the Region.

“The Caricom Treaty requires the Community’s constant trade and economic development to develop policies and programmes to facilitate the

Educators urged to give importance to early childhood development

Educators at the workshop capitalising on the tips for early childhood development

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he Education Ministry has collaborated with the Caribbean Development Bank (CDB) to launch a national sensitisation workshop for early childhood development.

The two-day workshop, which commenced on Wednesday at Parc Rayne, Rahaman’s Park, Greater Georgetown, targeted education officials from across the country to introduce the Early Childhood Good Practice Guide that is currently being disseminated in several countries in the Region.

Delivering the feature address was Education Minister Nicolette Henry, who reminded that such capacity-building ventures would improve performance in the classrooms and, moreover, enhance the country’s abilities to function commendably.

She believes that the workshop would ensure that Guyana stayed relevant within the context of a changing education system since poor childhood development affected a person throughout their educational life and beyond.

“The knowledge, skills, and practices of early childhood are important factors in determining how much a child learns and how prepared that child is,” Henry told the gathering, as she admitted that educators were being asked to have a complex understanding of early childhood development.

Notwithstanding those expectations, the Minister said a detailed process undertaken by the stakeholders to develop the guide was important in offering research. This will assist educators in framing the most suitable methodology to be used in Guyana.

Chief Education Officer Marcel Hutson was also present as he reiterated that transformation of the education sector was only possible if the guide was used properly by educators and policymakers.

Additionally, the CEO said that educators should set standards that children would be willing to achieve and work towards.

The workshop is being conducted by two of the leading early childhood development specialists in the Region, Sian

Williams of Jamaica and Leon Charles of Grenada.

This engagement is intended to develop an understanding of the specific principles that have to be addressed in programming each area of good practice covered by the guide.

Ideas on how to explore principles that can be applied to the specific national setting and whether or not the applications in the guide are appropriate for Guyana’s context were also examined.

Caricom Secretary General Irwin LaRocque

transportation of people and goods,” he stated.

According to LaRocque, sections of the framework demand air service that is safe but competitive enough to foster development.

“It [Caricom has also been charged with coordinating the national transport policies of Member States. The Community transport policy, which is provided for in the treaty, calls for the provision of adequate, safe and internationally competitive transport services for the development and consolidation of the Caricom Single Market and Economy.”

He further linked these required qualities to the regional integration process of countries within Caricom by adding, “There is no doubt that safe, efficient and cost-effective transportation within this region is critically important to our regional integration process.”

Caricom Member States are scattered across the Region,

and air transport is crucial in connecting people of these nations. The Secretary General is of the opinion that such engagements with officials would foster tourism on an elevated level if action was taken based on these decisions.

“Given the geographic spread of our Member States, such a transportation system is essential to fulfil the goal of free movement of people and goods.

It is equally important in fostering the spirit of community among our people. It will also facilitate the growth of tourism that is so crucial to the economies of the Member States,” LaRocque claimed.

Last February, Member States approved the Caricom Multilateral Air Services Agreement, which provides a range of advantages to passengers and creates new markets for these airlines.

“This is a major advance as it expands the scope for airlines owned by Caricom nationals to go to new markets within the Community. The agreement allows for no-restriction on routes, capacity or traffic rights among the participants,” the SG noted.

The Air Transport Meeting concludes today after input from the ICAO and the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) under the theme “Promoting Connectivity for Sustainable Air Transport Development’’.

Issues such as harmonising the regional air transport regulatory framework and the liberalisation of air cargo were also on the agenda for discussion.

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fridAY, November 23, 2018 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana stands behind CCJ as final appellate court – Greenidge

By Shemuel Fanfair

W

hile some observers are questioning the Caribbean Court of Justice’s (CCJ) credibility after two Caribbean countries rejected joining the regional body; Vice President and Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge has said Guyana stands fully behind the CCJ as its final appellate court.

It has been 15 years into its establishment in neighbouring Trinidad and the CCJ only has four of 15 members choosing the court for final appellate jurisdiction.

Recently, the electorate of Grenada and Antigua and Barbuda voted against

Foreign Affairs Minister Carl Greenidge

joining the CCJ in nationwide referendums, opting to continue using the United

Kingdom’s Privy Council as their final appellate body.

Coupled with that, major island nations such as Jamaica and Trinidad and Tobago (where the court is located) do not have the CCJ as their final appellate court, which is putting the credibility of the regional institution under scrutiny as highlighted by respected columnists and other writers in the Region. Guyana’s Foreign Affairs Minister however assured Guyanese on Wednesday evening that Government has full confidence in the decisions of the court.

“The public can be assured that the Government

will continue. If it is dissatisfied with decisions taken at the court at this level (Appeal Court in Guyana); we are reasonably confident that the Court (CCJ) will render acceptable decisions. Of course these are courts and you are never going to be able to guarantee with everything that you say. There is the question of interpretation of law,” the Minister pointed out.

Some decisions of the CCJ have not found favour with Government, such as the November 2017 order upholding US$2.2 million judgement that was awarded to Trinidad road construction company Dipcon in 2015 by a High Court Judge in Guyana. This decision was handed down after the Judges at the CCJ observed that Guyana’s Attorney General, Basil Williams, had failed to file an application to the Court for special leave to appeal the case. Justice Rishi Persaud’s judgement was tuned to $455 million in local currency.

Minister Greenidge while acknowledging that Government may not agree with all of the CCJ’s findings, said the Administration views the Court as a competent body.

“We are not going to say

that every decision that they make is the right decision but we are satisfied that the processes and the competence of the Court as currently constituted under the rules we have,” the Foreign Affairs Minister stressed.

Responding to questions

by Guyana Times, the Vice President outlined that from looking at many of the CCJ’s decisions with the benefit of hindsight, the court has taken the Region forward. He also maintained that the number of countries that joined the Court is not an issue as it “does not affect the quality of the Court.”

In one of the CCJ’s re-

cent decisions, Judges struck down a colonial era law that banned men and women from wearing clothing associated with the opposite gender. This effectively removed the barriers to cross-dressing locally, though both the High Court and Appeal Court had ruled that cross-dressing for “an improper purpose” was prohibited.

Nevertheless, the Caribbean-based Judges declared that this characterisation was vague. Guyana, Barbados, Belize and Dominica are the only countries that fully subscribe to the CCJ.

2 jailed for gun, ammo possession

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wo labourers will spend the next three years in prison after they admitted to having an illegal firearm along with matching ammunition in their possession.

Thirty-four-yearold Anthony Lamazone

of Grant Cullen, Lower Pomeroon River and Munesh Ramsaroop, 27, of Back Street, Charity, Essequibo Coast on Thursday appeared at the Suddie Magistrate’s Court before Magistrate Esther Sam.

The men were jointly charged and admitted to having the unlicensed items in their possession on November 19, 2018 at Anna Regina, Essequibo Coast.

They were jailed and fined $100,000 each.

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Semi-nude body of man found at Canje

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“Safety sells tourism” – Security and safety take centre stage on day 2 of ICAO conference

Ramlall Bassant’s body covered as residents and Police gathered at the scene of the discovery

he semi-nude body of a Canje, Berbice man was on Thursday morning discovered on the roadway.

Dead is Ramlall Bassant, also called “Doc” and “Rope” of Lot 12 Goed Banana Land, East Canje.

The 54-year-old unemployed man was discovered lying face up at about 06:30h by a passerby, who was on his way to work. The man was clad in a shirt and a pair of jeans that was below his waist. He was not wearing underpants at the time.

The Police were summoned to the scene and an investigation was launched.

The now dead man was last seen at about 20:00h on Wednesday evening leaving

Dead: Ramlall Bassant

his mother’s home.

Bassant lived with his 81-year-old mother, Lilian Bassant. She told Guyana Times that she was asleep

when her son left.

His body was discovered at a street, which villagers refer to as ‘Pandit Runner Dam’; a place where his sister, Chandakaeali Bassant, said he never went.

According to Chandakaeali, her brother had no reason to venture to that area since most of his outings were to a cousin who lives along the main access road, which is a few houses away.

Bassant leaves to mourn two sisters and his mother.

“He was with his mother since he born. He grow in this same yard; it is not easy for this family after losing one a few days ago,” the sister said.

Police are investigating.

Caricom Secretariat to launch state of biological diversity report in Egypt

T

he Caribbean Community (Caricom) Secretariat is set to launch, internationally, the recently released study report on the state of biodiversity management in the Caribbean.

The report will be launched in Egypt today to an international audience at a United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) event, on the sidelines of the 14th Conference of Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD). The global summit on biological diversity is being held in Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt from November 17-29.

This UNEP side event is expected to discuss support for the implementation of

the Post-2020 global biodiversity framework and the long-term strategy for capacity building which will be adopted at the CBD COP15. It is within this context that Caricom will present the report which examines how Member States have progressed in meeting their commitments under the Aichi Biodiversity Targets within the framework of the Convention on Biological Diversity.

Titled ‘The State of Biodiversity in the Caribbean – A review of the progress towards the Aichi biodiversity targets’, the report was originally launched in Georgetown, Guyana on October 24, 2018, at the opening of the Caribbean

Regional Preparatory Workshop for the 14th Conference of the Parties (COP) for the CBD and Regional Consultation for Phase III of the Programme for Capacity Building related to the Multilateral Environmental Agreements (MEAs) in the African, Caribbean and Pacific (ACP).

The preparation of the report was a unified effort among the Caricom Secretariat, UN Environment, Caricom Member States and regional biodiversity experts. It was funded by the European Union with the implementation support from UN Environment, under Phase II of the ACP-MEAs Project.

C’bean to explore cooperation with the United Arab Emirates

J

amaica and its Caribbean counterparts are to bolster existing partnerships and explore new opportunities for economic, cultural and technical cooperation with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at the first UAE-Caribbean Cooperation Forum set to get underway in Dubai from November 24-26.

Jamaica’s Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade Minister Senator Kamina Johnson Smith departed the island to participate in the meetings.

The Minister stated that she looks forward to this engagement as Jamaica, and

by extension the Caribbean, seek to strengthen the current state of cooperation with the UAE, with a view to determining modalities for deepened, mutually-beneficial cooperation between the two regions.

Noting the possible impact of the cooperation, Johnson Smith confirmed that Jamaica will be promoting its investment opportunities, such as the Logistics Hub and renewable energy initiatives.

Jamaica will also be exploring opportunities for participating in the UAE’s Energy Fund, she said.

Her Ministry explained that it is expected that the forum will provide an opportunity for dialogue on the development of strategic relations between the UAE and the Caribbean at the regional and bilateral levels.

This includes the deepening of technical cooperation with Caribbean Community Member States, as well as enhanced collaboration in trade, investment, culture and World Expo 2020 Dubai. The forum will host key Government and Private Sector representatives from across the Region. (Jamaica Observer)

The Air Transport Meeting panel Day 2 – Air Transport and Security

T

ourism alone contributes greatly to the Gross Domestic Product of many of the Region’s economies, including Guyana, and as the second day of the Air Transport Meeting got underway in Georgetown, safety and security in the sector were on the agenda.

During his presentation, Programme Manager, Regulatory and International Aviation, Transport Canada, Andrew Larsen, spoke of the need for greater security measures to be implemented on both domestic and international flights.

Larsen said Canada stands ready to lend support in this area to the Region.

“One of the ways Transport Canada will improve aviation safety is through a collaborative approach; through safety promotion, education, training, and through a programme called the Canadian Collaboration Aviation Safety Forum,” Larsen is quoted by the Department of Public Information a saying on Thursday.

Focus was also placed on creating a ‘smart product’ for the Region. This smart product seeks to manage a traveller’s time in an effective way. The intention is to evaluate how the use of technology before, during and after a visit influences the tourist experience.

Smart tourism is seen as

a logical progression from traditional tourism and is more e-tourism and technology-based. For now, the initiative is still in the discussion stages, as massive amounts of data sharing would be required for it to actually be implemented.

Also presenting on day two was Chief Executive Officer of LIAT, Julie ReiferJones.

Her presentation focused on the decline in intra-regional travels, which she says, is a challenge for the Region that must be addressed immediately.

“Hindering the growth of tourism in the Region, are difficulties with domestic travel connectivity. There are limited policy measures in place to deal with this issue and the CTO and regional heads must take a special look at it”.

Reifer-Jones says once this issue is addressed and rectified, intra-regional travels will increase, thus further developing regional tourism.

The objective of the three-day Air Transport Meeting is to offer practical solutions to remove existing regulatory impediments to air transport liberalisation and to finance the development of quality aviation infrastructure.

16

friDAY, NOVEMBER 23, 2018

guyanatimesgy.com

T

he stage is set for the Grand Coronation of Miss Berbice Pageant is billed for Saturday evening at the Albion Sports Complex. The eight delegates vying for the coveted title participated in several preliminary competitions including the swimwear segment that was held at the Skeldon Estate Heritage Pool Side.

There the delegates showcase their posture and curve in designers’ swimwear. Then on Sunday, the delegates were part of the costume parade and were judged at the Rose Hall Primary School.

The delegates were tasked with coming up with a costume depicting a bird and from feedback and photos seen, the designs were off the hook. The scores from those segments will be tabulated to the scores on the night of the grand coronation to determine the winner.

On coronation night, the contestants will be showing their talent, evening gown and their intelligence. At the end of the night, only one of the eight beauties will be crowned the queen.

The reigning queen, Farah Bates unfortunately will not be in Guyana to hand over her crown due to unforeseen circumstances.

This will be the 2nd edition of the “Miss Berbice, I am a Big Deal Beauty and Empowerment Pageant” and the organizers did exactly what they promised. The events were spread across Berbice thus bringing awareness about the pageant.

The focus remains heavily on social awareness which is being tackled by delegates who are educating and inform-

ing the masses on the issue of suicide, domestic violence, cyber bullying and women empowerment among others to help curb these problems.

Top Brandz Distributors who supply Corona, Budweiser, Budlight and other non-alcoholic remains the main sponsor of the event and other youth and women development projects in the region.

tributing positively towards the lives of the young people across Guyana through the performing arts, with dance being a specific focus.

Latisha Davidson, a member of WIST since 2015, said it has been a “life changing experience,” and she has no regrets, “WIST has opened me up, helped me find myself, WIST has given me a family I never knew I needed.” WIST’s impact is evidential since the company was recognised this year by the Ministry of the Presidency and is the proud recipient of this year’s National Youth Award.

W

orship In Spirit and in Truth (WIST) Ministries International Inc. ushers in the season with ‘BEHOLD!’, its fifth annual Christmas production scheduled for Saturday evening at the National Cultural Centre at 19:00h.

This year’s theme – “Behold” – emphasizes Christ, the gift of salvation, healing, deliverance and a symbol of hope for all mankind.

Come and witness a spectacular display of dance, songs, drama and poetry. It’s the perfect

Christmas event for the entire family.

In 2013, the board of WIST decided to host their first Christmas production. Ms Sandia Ramnarine, the founder of WIST, said: “Churches often shy away from the Christmas themed concerts.” So, to keep the spirit of Christmas alive, the team gathered 13 skilled dancers and the magnificent tradition was brought to life and has now grown to performances by more than 50 students.

For the past 16 years, WIST has been con-

Every year, WIST hosts charitable events in aid of various care homes and individuals in need. At Christmas, the proceeds from the production are donated to a selected home. In the past, WIST has given to the Ruimveldt Children’s Home and Care Center, Carib Kids International and Hararuni Girls Home.

This year WIST will be giving to Cheshire Homes Guyana for Spastic Children (a home for the disabled and autistic) located at Unity, Lancaster Village, East Coast Demerara.

With every purchase of a ticket $1000 or $1500, patrons will not only be enriched on Saturday evening but will also be impacting the lives of those at Cheshire Homes.

Tickets are available at WIST Ministries International, National Cultural Centre, Roxie’s Fashion, FonRoje and Pinnacle Management services that is located at the Giftland mall.

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, November 23, 2018

17

I

A

ll curry lovers will head to the Guyana National Stadium, Providence East Bank Demerara on Sunday for the 18th Annual King’s Jewellery World, Duck Curry Competition.

With over 600,000 to be won in cash, over 20 groups from across the country have confirmed their participation.

These include groups from Berbice, Essequibo, East Bank and West Bank of Demerara, East Coast and West Coast of Demerara and Geogetown. In addition, there will be groups from Trinidad and Tobago, Suriname, The USA and Canada.

Apart from the monetary prizes, the winners will be awarded with trophies, hampers and certificates. This competition allows for the

groups to marinate their duck meat at home.

On the day of the competition, the groups will be required to walk their utensils and ingredients since the organisers will be providing the tables, chairs, stove and gas. The competition starts at 14:00h with the judging at 16:30h.

Immediately after the judging, there will be the stage performances featuring Raymond Ramnarine, lead singer of Dil-E-Nadan Band out of Trindiad and Tobago and Guyana’s own, Timeka Marshall. Other performers are also slated to perform during the competition.

The event is a family oriented one with lots of entertainment for the entire family. Admission to the event is absolutely free.

T

he Young Warriors Tassa Troupe was formed in December 2009 and operates out of Lot 594 Good Hope, Phase One, East Coast Demerara. The group is led by a dynamic young man, referred to as “Bryan” and consists of Raj, Suraj, Ryan and Cristan.

The group was formed following a liking for the music by the leader of the group who had a chance to play the tassa drum at the age of 10. From that day forward, it has been his dream to establish his own tass drumming group. Since its formation, there have been some challenges but with persistence and a brotherly bond, the group managed to cross those hurdles.

Time and again, the group would be contracted to play at weddings, birthdays, stage shows and mandirs

T

he Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha will host Kala Utsav, its annual festival of arts on Sunday at the Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud Dharmic Sanskritik Kendra, Prashad Nagar beginning at 10:00h.

The Utsav will see more than 200 young people under the age of 25 participate in a friendly competition in the categories of Ramayan Chanting, Male and Female Singing, Tassa, Classical Dance,

Folk Dance , Instrumental Music and Kirtan singing.

Kala Utsav, which was introduced by the Sabha more than 20 years ago, was conceived as an innovative way to propagate and preserve the Indian Art forms. Its intention is to motivate young people to continue the traditions of their fore parents and to achieve excellence in the various art forms while simultaneously building talent bases in the various regions. It is a launch

t’s that time of the year!!!

The festive season is dawning up us, and to start the excitement, Banks DIH is once again hosting its “Santa’s Enchanted Christmas Village”.

The two-day affair is set for December 8 and 9 at Demerara Park.

It will be a time for entertaining games, storytelling, face painting, Bouncy Castles and Trampolines among other activities. In addition, there will be several cartoon characters that will be at hand to make sure the kids have a grand time.

The main attraction, however, will be Santa Claus and his helpers who will be distributing gifts and goodies to the boys and girls who turn up at the event. It will indeed be one of the most wonderful time of the year.

Tickets for adults and children over 12-years-old are $500. Children can also pay $500

and receive a gift from Santa Claus.

Ticket can be picked up at Qik Serv Sheriff Street; Caesar’s Palace, Durban and Hardina

for special occasions. Tassa is an art form that entails a mixture of sounds and drums.

Tassa is referred to as the instrument that is hung from the neck and played using two pieces of specially selected sticks called chope.

It is usually used in accompaniment with a large base drum (dhol) and brass cymbals (jhanj).

On the other hand, the dhol is a double-sided barrel drum played mostly as an accompanying instrument in regional music forms.

The stretched skin on one of the ends is thicker and produces a deep, low frequency (higher bass) sound and the other thinner one produces a higher frequency sound.

And finally, the jhanj is a percussion instrument consisting of a circular flat

pad for talented youths across the country and allows for talent to be discovered for future development. Trophies, certificates and cash incentives are given to all participants to encourage them.

Indeed, Kala Utsav has been a launch platform for numerous outstanding Guyanese singers including Vishale Sukram, Purnash Durgaprasad, Artie Sookhai, Ganindra, Bunty Singh, Vidya Ram and Shiva Sankar.

In 2017, 10 year old Nayakumarie of East Bank Demerara and Karamchand

Sugrim of East Berbice emerged as the top performers in the female and male singing categories respectively.

Karamchand is currently studying Hindustani Classical Vocal Music at the prestigious Shri Ram Bharatiya Kala Kendra in India through the efforts of the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha in collaboration with the Government of India.

In 2016, outstanding Kala Utsav musical winner Suraj Balkarran, was sent to India on a musical scholarship though the Pandit Reepu Daman Persaud Scholarship

Streets and Main Street Qik Serv. The gates to the enchanted village open at 15:00h on the two days.

or concave metal plate that is struck with a drumstick or is used in pairs struck together. Traditionally, the best cymbals came from turkeys.

Presently, there are several young people who are being trained to play the tassa which will definitely build the composition of the group. The present members of the group are meaningfully employed and find the time to practice on their days off.

The leader, Bryan, recalled that their most memorable time playing as a group was the first time they entertained invitees at a wedding in 2009. To him, it was magical after seeing the response from the guests who were enjoying the music and the festivities.

The group will continue to shine and entertain.

Foundation.

Prior to the final Utsav, each of the Sabha’s Praants hold Preliminary Utsavs in their communities to pick the best to represent them at the finals. Participants will come from Upper Corentyne, Central Corentyne, East Berbice, West Berbice, Black Bush Polder, East Coast Demerara, Georgetown, East Bank Demerara, West Coast Demerara and Essequibo.

Among the highlights of this year’s Kala Utsav will be the Ramayan Chanting category with dramatic depiction aimed

at promoting elements of the Ramleela tradition, the Kirtan and Folk Dance segments in which large vibrant groups are slated to perform and the the Tassa category which will see some of Guyana’s popular groups competing for the top spots. It is anticipated that some amazing new singing talent will be discovered on Sunday was well.

All are invited to come and be a part of this special day with the Guyana Hindu Dharmic Sabha. Admission is free.

18

guyanatimesgy.com

fridAY, November 23, 2018

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

dilbert

False pretenses will lead you down a slippery slope.

Avoid working hard for someone else's benefit. Pour your energy into your ideas and reap the rewards for your efforts.

CANCER

Don't feel you must make changes or offer your help, skills or services just because someone else does. Do your own thing and be open to starting a creative endeavor.

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

You'll learn something worthwhile through observation. Someone with experience will make an impression on you. Don't get involved in a joint venture. Emotional manipulation and ulterior motives are apparent.

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

(June 21July 22)

Peanuts

Go over your investments or expenditures in detail to find a way to make your money work for you. A contract can and should be negotiated.

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Make time for friends and family. A social event will encourage you to make a positive change in your lifestyle. Romance is highlighted.

Emotional differences will surface if you or someone else isn't honest about feelings and motivations. Be careful whom you confide in.

Meddling will pose a problem.

Communication will help LIBRA (Sept. 23- resolve an issue that has been Oct. 23) hanging over your head. Say what's on your mind and offer solutions that are beneficial to everyone involved. Personal improvements can be made.

WORD GAME

SUDOKU

TODAY’S WORD — NARCISSISM (NARCISSISM: NAR-sis-ism: Egoism; excessive self-love.)

Can you find 30 or more words in NARCISSISM? The list will be published tomorrow.

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

YESTERDAY’S WORD — ENCODES

cone once dense does done donee dose scend

scene scone second seed seen send sonde sone

RULES OF THE GAME: 1. Words must be of four or more letters. 2. Words that acquire four letters by the addition of “s,” such as “bats” or “dies,” are not allowed. 3. Additional words made by adding a “d” or an “s” may not be used. For example, if “bake” is used, “baked” or “bakes” is not allowed, but “bake” and “baking” are admissible. 4. Proper nouns, slang words, or vulgar or sexually explicit words are not allowed. To contact Word Game creator Kathleen Saxe, write to Word Game, Kathleen Saxe, Universal Uclick, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.

Copyright 2015, Distributed by Universal Uclick for UFS

You won't be surprised by others' actions if you check the facts and use your intuition to figure out if someone is being legitimate with you.

Trust has to be earned.

Someone will use emoSAGITTARIUS tional tactics to take ad(Nov. 23- vantage of your good naDec. 21) ture. Don't be gullible or allow yourself to be taken for granted. Personal change is encouraged.

Average mark 22 words Time limit 30 minutes

need node noes nose cede cense code coed

SCORPIO (Oct. 24Nov. 22)

Don't get down about the things you cannot change.

Focus on what you can do and give it your all. Don't wait for someone else to initiate change and disrupt your plans.

solution for LAST PUBLISHED puzzle AQUARIUS (Jan. 20Feb. 19)

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

A positive change to how you earn your money will develop. Talk over new possibilities with a loved one. Altering where or how you live will result in benefits.

Take a moment to adjust to emotional matters that are out of control. Anger won't solve problems, but common sense and patience will help you deal with the situation.

fridAY, november 23, 2018

19

Stand-alone Women’s World T20 tournament…

Jones, Sciver lead electric England into final – Knight, Gordon restrict India to 112

By Brandon Corlette

E

ngland joined arch rivals Australia in the historic ICC Standalone Women’s World T20 final with an eight wicket win over India at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound Antigua.

Earlier, England bowlers, who were led brilliantly by captain Heather Knight, bundled out India for 112 and a match-winning partnership of 92* between Amy Jones and Natalie Sciver set up a thumping English win with 2.5 overs to spare.

A Mithali Raj-less Indian team opted to bat first against England on a slow Antigua pitch, in the second match of the day. It was a match that would determine who will join Australia in the historic Stand-alone Women’s World T20 final. Taniya Bhatia and the impressive Smriti Mandhana trotted out to the middle, opening the Indian innings. Mandhana (34) continued from where she left off against Australia hitting her hallmark boundaries in her expressive innings. She was the first wicket to fall after being softly caught and bowled by Ecclestone at the end of the power-play with the score on 43. Bhatia’s painstaking knock came to an end when captain Heather Knight picked up her first wicket of

Team England celebrates an India wicket

the match.

The Mumbai resident, 18year old Jemimah Rodrigues looked solid during her stay at the crease, but she was brilliantly run out for 26

by Tammy Beaumont and Amy Jones in the fourteenth over. Six-hitting machine Harmanpreet Kaur strolled out to bat and smoked one of her trademark maximums, but she was out to Kristie Gordon for 16. Gordon, who is playing in her second match, then kept things simple and removed Veda Krishnamurthy.

It was a collapse for match favourites India as their final seven batters were bundled out for 20 runs to leave the Asian giants in disbelief and out of playing the World T20 finals. Mandhana was the

only batter that looked comfortable top-scoring with a 23-ball 34 and Rodrigues (26) was the other batter managing more than 20 runs in an ordinary batting effort.

England bowlers came to the party with disciplined bowling from arguably the best batting unit in this tournament when they were restricted to 112 all out in 19.3 overs. England’s captain picked up 3-9 to put the Indian batters against the wall. She was supported by the young Kristie Gordon, who grabbed 2-20 and Sophie Ecclestone captured 2-22.

Chasing 113 for victory, England had no easy task with the all-out Indian spin attack making perfect use of the spin-friendly conditions in Antigua. Off-pinner

Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club set to come alive on November 25

T

he Ryan Crawford Memorial Turf Club and Sports Facility at Alness Village on the Corentyne Coast in East Berbice is scheduled to host a horse race meet this Sunday, November 25.

With several entries already confirmed for the card, which consists of seven categories, the day promises to be an exciting one. As the action is set to progress, horse racing fans will be able to witness the feature event known as the Alness Classic over 1400m in which the winner will compete for a winning purse of

$500,000 and trophy. While the other events listed on the card will also see the event for I and lower horses over a distance of 1200m competing for a first prize of $240,000 and trophy.

The race for 2 Years Old maiden, over 1200m will carry a winning prize of $200,000 and trophy. There is an event for horses classified J3 and lower over 1000m for the takehome package of $170,000 and trophy.There are two events for three year old horses. One is for animals classified L and 3 years and up for fillies and mares over 1400m for a win-

ner’s take of $100,000 and trophy.

The other race is for horses classified under the L and 3 years and up category, which is open to colts and geldings, also over 1400m for a first prize of $100,000 and trophy.

The final event will see the L class animals that have not earned any money since, racing over a distance of 1000m.

The winner will pocket a sum of $50,000 and trophy.

Individual trophies and other incentives will be given to riders who have performed exceptionally; the race is scheduled to start at 12:00h.

Deepti Sharma and left-arm spinner Radha Yadav shared the new ball and it was not long for the latter to make inroads. Radha Yadav removed Tammy Beaumont for one in the second over with only four runs on the board. India had their strong belief of defending the small target with captain Kaur chopping and changing her bowlers to perfection. Kaur took a gamble that eventually paid off, sticking with Deepti Sharma for her third consecutive over in the power play.

Sharma removed Danielle Wyatt for 8 with the score on 24-2. Amy Jones, the replacement wicket-keeper batter for Sarah Taylor, batted brilliantly with Natalie Sciever as the pair looked to bat deep into the innings and take their team across the line.

Amy Jones top-scored with an unbeaten 51 while Natalie Sciever top-scored with an unbeaten 54 to register a clinical England victory. Deepti Sharama and Radha Yadav were the only wicket takers with one wicket each.

SCOREBOARD

India Innings Taniya Bhatia (wk) c N Sciver b H Knight Smriti Mandhana c & b Sophie Ecclestone Jemimah Rodrigues run out (Beaumont/A Jones) Harmanpreet Kaur (c) c N Sciver b Kirstie Gordon Veda Krishnamurthy c A Jones b Kirstie Gordon Deepti Sharma run out (D Hazell/A Jones) Dayalan Hemalatha c Beaumont b H Knight Anuja Patil c L Winfield b H Knight Radha Yadav run out (D Wyatt) Arundhati Reddy st A Jones b Sophie Ecclestone Poonam Yadav not out 0 Extras 5 (b 2, lb 0, w 3, nb 0, p 0) Total 112(10 wkts, 19.3 Ov) Fall of wickets 43-1 (Smriti Mandhana, 5.6), 53-2 (Taniya Bhatia, 8.4), 89-3 (Jemimah Rodrigues, 13.5), 93-4 (Veda Krishnamurthy, 15.1), 94-5 (Harmanpreet Kaur, 15.5), 99-6 (Dayalan Hemalatha, 16.5), 99-7 (Anuja Patil, 16.6), 104-8 (Radha

11 34 26 16 2 7 1 0 4 6

Yadav, 18.1), 112-9 (Arundhati Reddy, 19.2), 112-10 (Deepti Sharma, 19.3) Bowling Anya Shrubsole 4-0-23-0 Natalie Sciver 2-0-16-0 Sophie Ecclestone 3.3-0-22-2 Danielle Hazell 4-0-20-0 Kirstie Gordon 4-0-20-2 Heather Knight (c) 2-0-9-3 England Innings Danielle Wyatt c Rodrigues b Deepti Sharma Tammy Beaumont c Arundhati Reddy b Radha Yadav Amy Ellen Jones (wk) Batting 51 Natalie Sciver Batting 54 Extras 2 (b 0, lb 0, w 2, nb 0, p 0) Total 116 (2 wkts, 17.1 Ov)

8 1

Fall of wickets 4-1 (Tammy Beaumont, 1.3), 24-2 (Danielle Wyatt, 4.5) Bowling Deepti Sharma 4-0-24-1 Radha Yadav 4-0-20-1 Anuja Patil 3.1-0-27-0 Poonam Yadav 4-0-29-0 Dayalan Hemalatha 1-0-10-0 Jemimah Rodrigues1-0-6-0

BCB/Pepsi 50-Over 1st Division Cricket Tournament

Rose Hall Town, Young Warriors to clash in final A

ll roads lead to the historic Port Mourant Cricket Ground, which has produced seven Test cricketers, for exciting cricket this Sunday for the final of the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB)/Pepsi 50-Over First Division Round Robin Tournament.

The final will be played between overwhelming favourites Rose Hall Town Gizmos & Gadgets (RHTGG) led by former National Under-19 Captain Shawn Perriera and the Seon Hetmyer-led Young Warriors.

RHTGG, the dominant First-Division team in Berbice during 2018, easily defeated Blairmont Community Centre by 112 runs at the Area H Ground in the first semi-final while the Young Warriors Cricket Club got past Port Mourant by 33 runs in the second semi-final at the Cumberland Ground. The Young Warriors Cricket Club, just two months ago, was a dormant cricket club and this tournament has been a dream return for the Anil Beharry-led youth and sport organisation.

RHTGG are the stronger team in each department of the game, but the Young Warriors cricket team make up for their shortcomings with passion and commitment under the inspirational leadership of Seon Hetmyer, the older brother of West Indies batting star Shimron Hetmyer. They would depend heavi- ly on National Under-19 player Alex Algoo, Vishal Mohabir, all-rounder Linden Lewis, Berbice Under-19 player Trevlon Stanislaus and the talented Ricardo Ramdihal.

RHTGG’s bowling attack includes pace kings Clinton Pestano and Sylus Tyndall.

In the spin department, senior and junior national players will be operating with the likes of Kevin Sinclair, Junior Sinclair, Jonathan Rampersaud, Eon Hooper, and Perriera. Berbice Under-19 left-arm spinner Keith Simpson will also offer support with his variety, along with the gifted Kevlon Anderson.

The batting line up will be spearheaded by the destructive opening duo Kevin and Junior Sinclair; the highly-talented Anderson who scored a brilliant century in the semi-finals; Pestano; Vidal Crandon; Chanderpaul Govindan; Eon Hooper and the promising 15-year-old Jonathan Rampersaud.

The match starts at 09:30h and the winners would Shawn will lead Rose Hall take home $100,000 while the Perriera runners-up would get Town (Brandon Corlette photo) $50,000.

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

fridAY, november 23, 2018

Bangladesh surrender advantage after Mominul’s ton

A

topsy-turvy day that consisted of a brilliant 120 by Mominul Haque and a blazing third spell from Shannon Gabriel, ended with Bangladesh's ninth-wicket stand of Taijul Islam and debutant Nayeem Hasan resisting West Indies in the last hour and a half.

Their unbroken 56-run stand staved off the visitors who had taken control early in the third session.

After going swimmingly

well for the first two sessions, Bangladesh collapsed from 222 for 3 to 235 for 7 in the space of 4.2 overs. Gabriel picked up all four wickets – Mominul, Mushfiqur Rahim, Mahmudullah and Shakib Al Hasan.

Mominul edged a waft outside the off stump.

Mushfiqur, fresh from an unbeaten 219 in his last Test, lasted two balls before Gabriel jagged one back into his pads and trapped him in front. In his next over, Gabriel got another one to nip back between Mahmudullah's bat and pad, and knock his stumps.

Shakib was the fourth wicket to fall in that Gabriel spell, another in-swinger that took the ins i d e edge on its way to clipping middle stump.

O n many days, such a blazing spell would have spelled the end of the Bangladesh innings, with the tail-enders at the crease. But Mehidy Windies pacer Shannon Gabriel snared Hasan, Taijul four wickets during a fiery spell and 17-year-old Nayeem batted

Mominul Haque stroked a century for the Tigers

a combined 148 balls together. The Taijul-Nayeem ninth-wicket stand has so far lasted 95 balls.

The stand had its moments: Taijul survived two leg-before decisions through reviews, while also seeing Jomel Warrican dropping the throw that would have run him out after he slipped on the turn when Nayeem rejected a third run.

However, the day should be remembered for Mominul's hundred. He made 120 off 167 balls with 10 fours and a six. This was his eighth hundred in Tests, equalling Tamim's record for most centuries for Bangladesh. It was also Mominul's fourth century in 2018, equal with Virat

Kohli; the fourth hundred also meant he now holds the record for most hundreds in a calendar year for Bangladesh.

Despite losing Soumya Sarkar and Imrul Kayes on either end of the first session, Mominul ensured Bangladesh made a strong start. After Soumya was out third ball of the match edging a Kemar Roach delivery, Mominul struck Gabriel for three fours and generally dominated a 104-run second-wicket partnership with Kayes, who survived two chances on his way to 44.

Roston Chase had dropped him at second slip on three, and Warrican had overstepped as Kayes slogged him to deep square

In-form Regal Masters trounce Parika Defenders

– Wellwoman and 4R Lioness advance to next round

A

fter a brief break for various reasons, the Back to Eden/Permaul Trading/Khan’s Trading/ Trophy Stall-sponsored softball tournament continued action over the weekend, with several matches being played at the Malteenoes Sports Club (MSC) and Parika Salem Grounds.

Playing at Parika Salem Ground, Regal Masters defeated Parika Defenders by seven wickets as they continued their fine form in the competition. Batting first, the Defenders were limited to 140-9 in their allotted 20 overs as Laurie Singh snagged 4-13 and Mahendra Arjune supported with 2-23.

Batting for the Defenders were Desmond Harries and S Mohamed, who made 46 and 20 runs respectively.

Having to make 141 for victory, Regal Masters chased the total down in 17.4 overs – scoring 143-3, as Eon Abel led with a stroke-filled 54 and was supported by Samuel King with 26.

In the female category, the women set the Malteenoes Sports Club ablaze, as Wellwoman defeated Swan Strikers by 53 runs.

Batting first, Wellwoman

Eon Abel

posted a commanding total of 180-6 in their allotted 15 overs. Top-scoring for Wellwoman was Latoya Smith, who scored 57 (5x6); Zola Telford 44 (3x4, 2x6); Joan Vansertima 36 (3x4, 3x6) and Susan Devanand, who contributed 26, bowling for Swan Strikers was Avina Adrian, who picked up 4-24. Needing 181 for victory, Swan Strikers slumped to 127-6 as Avina Adrian composed a resistant 33 (1x4, 2x6); Rowena Chu, 23; and Camlita Adams, 20, while Telford picked up 2-18.

In the other match-up, Swan Strikers fell to their second defeat as 4R Lioness won by 56 runs. Batting first, 4R Lioness posted 171-5 as Temica Wilson slammed six fours and five sixes in scoring 69, as she added 86 for the third wicket with Sangeeta Sawh, who stroked six sixes in a fluent 65. Aleema Aroka got 13 as Avina Adrian took 2-18, while there was one each for Alisha Gilkes, Camlita Adams and Wendy Davidson. Swan Strikers were limited to 115-7 in reply. Adrian hit five fours in

scoring 41, while Adams and Rowena Chu made 15 each and Gilkes ,14. Lisa Gills had 2-12, Akaze Thompson 2-14, and Kaysia Schultz 2-16.

The competition is organised by the Guyana Floodlights Softball Cricket Association (GFSCA), and also features teams in the Masters’ Over-50 category and Female Open.

For further information, teams may contact Wayne Jones on 650-1790, Anil Beharry on 623-6875, or Jailall Deodass on 615-8644.

leg on 16. Mominul struck Warrican for three fours in the 16th over and reached his fifty off 69 balls. But West Indies would have been relieved to get Kayes in the last over before lunch, as he hit Warrican straight to short leg.

Soon after the lunch break, Shane Dowrich dropped Mominul on 67 off Devendra Bishoo, before the wicketkeeper took Mohammad Mithun's skier, after an unnecessary slog against the same bowler. It was the second time in his three Test innings that Mithun had fallen in that

manner.

Mominul remained solid as he and Shakib rebooted Bangladesh's innings during their fourth-wicket stand.

Mominul slammed a six over midwicket to reach 98 before reaching his hundred in the following over, with a four through point.

The game unravelled swiftly, however, as Bangladesh first collapsed and then resisted. Through it all, both teams would have noticed just how much the ball was turning, even when Kraigg Brathwaite bowled his part-time offspin.

(ESPNcricinfo)

SCOREBOARD Bangladesh 1st Innings Imrul Kayes c Ambris b Warrican 44 Soumya Sarkar c †Dowrich b Roach 0 Mominul Haque c †Dowrich b Gabriel 120 Mohammad Mithun c †Dowrich b Bishoo 20 Shakib Al Hasan (c) b Gabriel 34 Mushfiqur Rahim † lbw b Gabriel 4 Mahmudullah b Gabriel 3 Mehidy Hasan Miraz b Warrican 22 Nayeem Hasan not out 24 Taijul Islam not out Extras 12 (b 3, lb 5, nb 4)

TOTAL 315/8 (88 Overs, RR: 3.57) Yet to bat: Mustafizur Rahman Fall of wickets: 1-1 (Soumya Sarkar, 0.3 ov), 2-105 (Imrul Kayes, 26.5 ov), 3-153 (Mohammad Mithun, 42.3 ov), 4-222 (Mominul Haque, 59.3 ov), 5-226 (Mushfiqur Rahim, 59.6 ov), 6-230 (Mahmudullah, 61.5 ov), 7-235 (Shakib Al Hasan, 63.5 ov), 8-259 (Mehidy Hasan Miraz, 72.1 ov) BOWLING : KAJ Roach 15-255-1, ST Gabriel 18-2-69-4, RL Chase 11,0-42-0, JA Warrican 21-6 62-2, D Bishoo 15-0-60-1 ,KC Brathwaite 8-119-0

GCA cricket fixtures continue

M

atches organised by the Georgetown Cricket Association (GCA) will continue this weekend with some crucial fixtures.

The GCA/FRIENDS OF CRICKET Under-17 (100-Over) Cricket Competition continues on Saturday with a double header, as the Muslim Youth Organisation (MYO) will face off in an intense battle as they take on Demerara Cricket Club (DCC) at the MYO, while Transport Sports Club will duke it out with Bel Air Rubis CC at the Malteenoes Sports Club.

Both matches will commence at 09:30h sharp.

The New Building Society (NBS) Second Division 40-Over 2018/2019 season will continue on Saturday and Sunday, with several matches across Georgetown. On Saturday Gandhi Youth Organisation will face off against Diplomats SC in a mustwin encounter at GYO while Sophia SC will be looking for a win as they face the in-form ACE Warriors at Camp Road.

On Sunday, the MYO will clash against GNIC at the MYO Ground, while DCC will face off against the in-form UG Trojans.

The last time the Trojans faced DCC, they lost to them in the semi-final of both the First and Second Division. Therefore, with the commanding win the Trojans had over GNIC, they will be looking to take that form into the match against DCC as they are scheduled to play on home turf in Queenstown. Transport SC will also be vying for a win as they take on Third Class CC at Camp Road,

Ershad Ali

Transport will be looking for a win following their tragic loss to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) last weekend as they were bowled out for 56, and GDF will see off Sophia CC at Camp Ayanganna.

Matches are scheduled to start at 10:30h on both days.

The Noble House Seafoods two-day Second-Division tournament will resume on Saturday and Sunday as well, as it has now progressed to its semifinal stage and will see Police SC clashing with Everest CC at Eve Leary and Georgetown Cricket Club (GCC) facing Malteenoes SC at Bourda. Play is scheduled to start at 10:30h.

The V-NET/GCA LITTLE CHAMPS Under-13 (25-Over) Cricket Competition will see DCC battle Transport SC at Queenstown in the final today in a night match under lights.

The presentation ceremony will follow the conclusion of the match. The match is scheduled to commence at 17:30h.

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21

T

he last of four quarterfinals in the second annual Turbo Knockout Tournament were completed on Wednesday evening with Mahaica Determinators and Georgetown Football Club (GFC) advancing to the semi-final round.

The Turbo Tournament takes on a straight knockout format, which makes for more intense competition. Nothing short of this was delivered in the last two quarter-final games on Wednesday night when Mahaica Determinators were pitted against Pouderoyen and GFC clashed later on with defending champions Campton. Both encounters had their fair share of thrills.

Mahaica Determinators and Pouderoyen took to the

playing field first in a game where both parties often missed their target. As such, the already passionate battle intensified when extra time began. Here, the Mahaica Determinators became more composed, which saw to Neil Lynton netting the lone goal of the game in the 110th minute of play to eliminate their West Coast Demerara opponents.

Speaking on behalf of the fairly young Mahaica Determinators team, Kirk Roberts noted that the team lacked in some areas, but were still thankful for the victory.

“First of all, it was a hard game. We didn’t expect it to be so hard, but we gave a lot of work in training sessions and we come out here

and put out that work, but the midfield was very lackadaisical in the second half.

But I’m still glad in the end that we pulled off a victory,” Roberts stated.

It was as if the best was saved for last, as the second

game of the night brought many spectators to their feet and as close as possible to the sidelines. La Vaughn Enniss kick-started the scoring in the 21st minute with a goal for GFC. However, the score was soon equalised when Adrian Aaron connected for Campton in the 33rd minute.

The 1-1 scoreline remained for the first half and much of the second, until Jamal Cadrington put Campton in the lead in the 82nd minute.

But the game was not over.

With four minutes of reg-

penalty shootout.

Here, the teams could not be separated, as both were accurate with their first five shots. Going again, the teams were also tied at 7-7.

But the eighth goal proved to be the decider. The GFC connected beautifully, but the 2017 champs did not have the same luck, squandering their last chance of reaching the semis.

The semi-final action will go down at the Ministry of Education Ground, Carifesta Avenue. At 19:00h, Mahaica

ulation time to go, Enniss stepped up to net the equaliser for the Bourda team.

The scores remained locked for the duration of extra time, thus, leaving the battle up to a sudden death

Determinators and to GFC will take the field to do battle while at 21:00h, Northern Rangers and Santos will fight for the remaining final spot.

Guyoil/Tradewind Tankers Under-18 Tournament

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Annandale surge to top with win over Dolphin

A

nnandale Secondary have cemented their dominance in the ongoing Under-18 Guyoil/ Tradewind Tankers tournament with a comfortable win over Dolphin Secondary.

Annandale, who are known for their attacking style and well-crafted play, opted for a more laidback approach in their encounter against Dolphin, which unsurprisingly bore the regular results.

With their game reduced to 20 minutes per half, the

Annandale side were patient with getting the scorecard ticking. Colin Hendricks was the first striker to hit the back of the net in the 10th minute. He was followed by Omari Glasgow, who put a goal to his name in the 16th.

Within the blink of an eye, the ball was once again sitting in the net, as Captain of the East Coast team, Jamar Harrigon contributed to the tally in the 17th minute.

The second half of the game saw Dolphin putting up a fight, as they often bat-

The four Annandale goal scorers: Colin Hendricks, Jermaine Harrigon, Jamar Harrigon and Omari Glasgow

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Annandale (blue) controlled ball possession through the encounter

tled to get possession of the ball. However, the Dolphin side faltered in their striking as the young players failed to capitalise on blatant chances at the goal. Annandale were unbothered by Dolphin’s newfound grit and continued to score. Hendricks returned in the 35th minute for his second goal of the game and two minutes later, Jermaine Harrigon joined the party when he connected his long ball with the net. The time expired with the score on 5-0 in Annandale’s favour.

The second game of the

evening would have been an entertaining one featuring Lodge Secondary and St Rose’s High. The Lodge boys arrived early and were pumped and ready for their game; however, St Rose’s failed to show which afforded Lodge a walkover.

This result means that the stiff battle for the top of the table will be temporarily won by Annandale, who now surpass Lodge Secondary on goal difference. With the ninth round looming on the horizon, this may change, but only time can tell.

22

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

fridAY, november 23, 2018

Guyanese table tennis players to benefit from Chinese training camp C

oming off of Guyana’s excellent showing at the 2019 Senior Caribbean Table Tennis Championships, which were held in Jamaica on September 22-30, 2018.

Four of Guyana’s national table tennis team members – Natalie Cummings; Joel Alleyne; Nigel Bryan and Elsihaba Johnson – will depart Guyana today for China to participate in a one-month high-level training camp at the Hebei Zhengding Table tennis Training Centre.

This critical high-level table tennis training programme, being offered to eight of Guyana’s national table tennis team, is facilitated through the support of the Government of the People’s Republic of China via its local embassy through current technical and diplomatic engagements with the Guyana Table Tennis Association (GTTA); the Guyana Government and Foreign Affairs Ministry aimed at supporting and improving the performance and devel-

Guyanese table tennis players pose with Chinese officials

opment of Guyana’s table tennis. This engagement signals the commencement and forms part of the many initiatives to be unfolded between China and Guyana aimed at improving Guyana’s table tennis prospects.

The GTTA had selected Miguel Wong, Nicholas Romain, Kyle Edghill and Jamal Nicholas as the other members to benefit from this engagement; however, this group will be the first

set undertaking the training program.

The members attending the programme have made tremendous sacrifices for this engagement; they were under intense practice pressure over the last few months in preparation for this training programme in order to be ready to maximally benefit from this training engagement.

The GTTA has recognised and identified that there was a critical need

to reorient the culture and process of training in the psyche of our national team representatives at all levels and for them to commence training and play in high-yield competitive environments similar to international peers in order for them to bridge the gap and excel in regional and international competitions in the future.

The Hebei Zhengding International Table Tennis Club has a repertoire of

high-level and quality players and coaches. It is the centre for China’s national table tennis team and many international players, and has a tradition of producing world-class players at the junior and senior levels The programmes offered are very intense; players train and practise hours eight hours a day, benefiting from a wide range of coaching expertise and knowledge, a variety of top-level players and practice partners, competitive matches playing in leagues which allow players to develop their technical and tactical proficiency transitioning them to reach and exploit their fullest potential. This is the current formula being utilised by all the top-level players and nations internationally as their basis for success and has been proving successful for players and teams adopting this approach.

With Guyana scheduled to host the 2019 Caribbean Table Tennis championships and based on the

International Table Tennis Federation assigning this competition, as the Pan American games qualification event to be used to select four teams from the Caribbean Region to participate in the 2019 Pan American Games – a key qualification event for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. Guyana have given great importance to the hosting of the Caribbean championships and our push to have our players benefit and prepare for these types of arrangements.

The GTTA would like to extend appreciation to Chargé d’Affaires Chen Xillai; Chinese Ambassador to Guyana, Cui Jianchun and Mrs Wang Qiuyi; Minister of State, Joseph Harmon; the Guyana Olympic Association; Guyana Power Producers and Distributors; Dominion Enterprises CEO Dwayne Munroe; the Guyana Revenue Authority and all who have assisted in making this venture a reality.

LGC tees off inaugural Charity Open this Saturday – Doobay Dialysis Centre named beneficiary

T

he executives and

members of the Lusignan Golf Club (LGC) will be hosting a special tournament this Saturday as they have chosen the Doobay Dialysis

Medical Centre as beneficiary of the charitable event.

LGC President Aleem Hussain confirmed for Guyana Times Sport on

Open Water Meet gets huge endorsement from Minister Norton – swimmers commence race Sunday

M

inister of Social Cohesion with responsibility for Sport, Dr George Norton recently endorsed the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association (GASA) Open Water Meet set to whirl off this Sunday, November 25 at the Lake Mainstay Resort.

Wednesday’s meeting, held at Minister Norton’s Main and Quamina Streets office, saw President of the GASA Ivan Persaud and Vice President of the South American Confederation of Swimming Jorge Delgado, paying a visit to the Minister.

The debriefing was based on the upcoming grand competition, which will host some 300 swimmers from across Guyana. Minister Norton signalled his support for the event which is seen as the practical aspect of a Coach’s Swimming Clinic, which kicked off on Wednesday evening.

According to Persaud, Sunday’s meet will also be

(from left) Minister of Social Cohesion, Dr George Norton, Vice President of the South American Confederation of Swimming, Jorge Delgado and President of the Guyana Amateur Swimming Association, Ivan Persaud

used as a test event to determine Guyana’s preparedness to host international competitions. Regarding the meet, Minister Norton said: “I believe that Guyana will make a strong competitor for open water swimming, so the GASA will have my full support in this initiative.”

“I am very pleased that GASA is putting so much effort into producing Olympicready swimmers. Their

dedication has not gone unnoticed,” said the Minister, who further congratulated Persaud on the work that GASA has been doing thus far in the realm of swimming.

Meanwhile, Minister Norton has accepted an invitation to pull the trigger to officially declare open Sunday’s swim event.

The LGC fraternity will be hosting its firstever charity golf tournament this Saturday

Thursday that this weekend’s event would be geared towards giving back to the community, more so the Medical Centre which operates within the same community.

Hussain said the initiative was the brainchild of the LGC members, both local and overseas, who are on a mission to not just promote the sport but to give back to the community. The Centre, which provides affordable dialysis treatment to Guyanese on Guyana’s East Coast as well as other parts of the country, makes for the perfect beneficiary of such a timely gesture, according to Hussain.

“A lot of the guys, both local and overseas, are from this area and they see the work that the people of Doobay have been putting in, so we’re going to be giving back to them,” Hussain said.

He said that the overseas members, some of whom

grew up learning the sport by playing or caddying; are better established these days and as such, have chosen to help give back to the community. The local golfer pointed out that with the LGC and golf as a whole receiving overwhelming support from corporate Guyana as well as a few private sponsors, it is in keeping with their yearly mandate to share their blessings with others.

Last year, the LGC made a donation to the local cancer society at the end of the Guyana Open Championships, and Hussain strongly believes that an entity which provides life-saving aid to all Guyanese in need of dialysis treatment could do with all the assistance it can receive.

The LGC President further pointed out that overall, the golf fraternity will be giving back to the community whether it be on the East Coast or any part of the

country. He noted that with the aim to bring more youngsters into the golf fold, giving back to those in need or those who are in need of assistance will help to spread the positives underlying the sport.

Saturday’s first-ever charity tournament will also be coupled with another charitable move as Hussain confirmed that he, along with the people of Party Castle and a few other sponsors, will be feeding over 100 kids from various communities. Hussain also confirmed that the generosity will continue as early as February 2019 as the LGC planned to partner with the Marriott Hotel, a key sponsor of golf locally, to form a charitable partnership which will see golf being used as the platform to give back on a consistent basis. Meanwhile, Saturday’s tournament is set to bowl off at 12:30h. (Clifton Ross)

guyanatimesgy.com

fridAY, november 23, 2018

23

Stand-alone Women’s World T20 tournament…

Heartbreak: Windies suffer heavy defeat in 1st semi-final – Healy, bowlers lead Australia into finals

By Brandon Corlette

A

ustralia’s flag flew proudly after the West Indies produced a horrific batting performance at the Sir Vivian Richards Stadium, North Sound Antigua. The Australians had the final laugh thumping the defending champions by 71 runs after posting 142-5 batting first. Australian bowlers then stunned the Caribbean restricting the Windies for exactly half of the required runs (71) inside 18 overs.

It has been 32 months since the West Indies Women had overdosed the Australians with the champion dance winning the World T20 in Eden Gardens, India. Australia got their opportunity for a rematch while West Indies

Stafanie Taylor won the toss and opted to bowl under sparkling sunshine on a pitch that is not straight-forward for batting. It was the return of the Australia’s star batter Alyssa Healy, accompanied by Beth Mooney, who started proceedings for the Aussies. Healy and Mooney have been the most productive opening duo, putting together 73 runs in a power play earlier in the tournament. The West Indies opening bowlers Selman and Connell were aware of the duo’s dominance; Selman picked up Mooney’s wicket in her second over with Natasha McLean completing a comfortable catch.

Mooney stroked one boundary, but was removed for six with the score on 20-1.

One of the world’s best women batters, Meg

with the score on 71-2 when Afy Fletcher pocketed the prized wicket after Connell completed a simple catch.

Healy departed for a shotfilled 46 from 38 balls inclusive of one maximum and four trademark boundaries.

Australia’s captain, Meg Lanning consolidated with calm and composed batting with Ashleigh Gardener, but West Indies bowlers kept coming at them. The Aussies were tempted to clear the infield; Gardener failed to avoid the temptation and lofted a delivery in the fifteenth over straight to Chinelle Henry at midoff. Villani (14) made her exit with the score on 95-3 with a watchful Lanning (31) following soon after in Deandra Dottin’s first over.

Lanning’s innings lasted 39 balls in a boundary-struggling batting effort. The ex-

Kimmince celebrates Stafanie Taylor wicket

created an opportunity to win the first ICC World title at home. However, it was Australia’s day to knock the West Indies out of the World T20 tournament.

The atmosphere throughout Antigua was electrifying; it felt like a national holiday with the Antigua and Barbuda Prime Minister Gaston Browne proposing that all governmental employees be given half-day to support West Indies and women’s cricket.

Lanning partnered Healy and ensured no further hiccups as the pair began the rebuilding process. Lanning and Healy saw their team reach the half-century mark in 9.2 overs of sensible batting, with Healy being the aggressor in a 51-run partnership with Lanning contributing 19 runs. Healy with three player-of-the-match awards prior to this match assessed the conditions brilliantly.

She was then beaten for bounce in the twelfth over

perienced Rachael Haynes and Elyse Perry enjoyed the pace of Dottin and took their team to a respectable 142-5 when 20 overs elapsed. Shakera Selman, Hayley Matthews, Stafanie Taylor, Afy Matthews and Deandra Dottin picked up one wicket each in a disciplined bowling effort.

Matthews and Dottin entered the batting arena with the aim of chasing 142 runs to book another World T20 final spot. Megan Schutt and Sohie Molineux started

Healy picked up another player of the match award

proceedings for Australia, but it was Healy’s brilliance that got things going with a run-out of Matthews.

Matthews (5) ran past a Molineux delivery that allowed wicket-keeper Healy to pull off a stunner that sparked a Windies collapse. The semi-final pressure got to the Caribbean girls with Australian bowlers chipping away with wickets at regular intervals. The world number one all-rounder Elyse Perry was impeccable hitting a consistent line removing Dottin (6) in her first over.

Natasha McLean came and went without troubling the scores while Shemaine Campbell (7) chopped on an Elyse Perry delivery in a wicket maiden over.

After 6.2 overs, West Indies were 27-4 hitting several speed bumps caused by the mighty Aussie bowlers. The loss of Taylor (16) in the eleventh over minimised the chances of West Indies repeating what they did in the 2016 World T20 finals. Eventually, West Indies were bundled out for an embarrassing 71 with only Taylor reaching double figures. Ellyse Perry bowled two magical overs with 2-2 while Kimmince and Gardener snatched two wickets each to complete an impressive bowling performance.

SCOREBOARD

3

Australia Innings Beth Mooney c N McLean b S Selman 6 Alyssa Healy (wk) c Shamilia Connell b Afy Fletcher 46 Meg Lanning (c) b D Dottin 31 Ashleigh Gardner c Chinelle Henry b Hayley Matthews 14 Elyse Villani c Britney Cooper b S Taylor 6 Rachael Haynes not out 25 Ellyse Perry not out 3 Extras11 (b 0, lb 5, w 6, nb 0, p 0) Total 142 (5 wkts, 20 Ov) Fall of wickets 20-1 (Beth Mooney, 2.5), 71-2 (Alyssa Healy, 11.6), 95-3 (Ashleigh Gardner, 14.5), 109-4 (Meg Lanning, 16.4), 113-5 (Elyse Villani, 17.1) Bowling Shakera Selman 4-0-28-1 Shamilia Connell 2-0-9-0 Stafanie Taylor (c) 4-0-20-1 Hayley Matthews 4-0-24-1 Afy Fletcher 4-0-33-1 Deandra Dottin 2-0-23-1 West Indies Innings Hayley Matthews run out (Alyssa Healy) 5 Deandra Dottin b E Perry 6 Stafanie Taylor (c) c Georgia Wareham b

Sophie Molineux 16 Shemaine Campbelle c Sophie Molineux b E Perry 7 Natasha McLean c Lanning b Delissa Kimmince 0 Kycia Knight (wk) c E Perry b Gardner 7 Britney Cooper c Alyssa Healy b Delissa Kimmince 2 Chinelle Henry c Georgia Wareham b Schutt 8 Afy Fletcher b Gardner 3 Shamilia Connell not out 6 Shakera Selman st Alyssa Healy b Georgia Wareham 3 Extras 8(b 0, lb 3, w 5, nb 0, p 0) Total 71 (10 wkts, 17.3 Ov) Fall of wickets 15-1 (Hayley Matthews, 1.5), 15-2 (Deandra Dottin, 2.4), 25-3 (Shemaine Campbelle, 4.6), 27-4 (Natasha McLean, 6.2), 44-5 (Stafanie Taylor, 10.1), 45-6 (Kycia Knight, 11.1), 53-7 (Britney Cooper, 12.5), 60-8 (Chinelle Henry, 14.5), 60-9 (Afy Fletcher, 15.1), 7110 (Shakera Selman, 17.3) Bowling Megan Schutt 3-0-13-1 Sophie Molineux 3-0-14-1 Ellyse Perry 2-1-2-2 Delissa Kimmince 4-0-17-2 Ashleigh Gardner 4-0-15-2 Georgia Wareham 1.3-0-7-1

VIVA/GPA Inter-Media Domino tournament set for Saturday

T

he Guyana Beverage Inc-sponsored Guyana Press Association (GPA) Inter-Media Domino tournament will take place on Saturday at the Everest Cricket Club from 19:00h.

Under their VIVA Sparkling Flavoured Water brand, the company handed over a cheque for an undisclosed sum to the GPA on Thursday at their Diamond, East Bank Demerara location for the tournament, which is being held in conjunction with SannSports.

According to Rawle Toney, executive member of the GPA, the tournament is expected to be fun-

Guyana Beverage Inc’s Shaundel Haripersad making a presentation to GPA executive member Rawle Toney to mark her company’s sponsorship of the VIVA Inter-Media Domino Tournament. Also in photo, Raymond Gavinda, VIVA Brand Manager (first from left) and SannSports’ Esan Griffith

filled and competitive, since a $100,000 cash prize is up

for grabs for the winner and the teams finishing second

and third. There will also be a ‘Queen Domino’ prize.

“The GPA believes that the domino tournament is another way to foster a closer working relationship among the media houses, because, we hardly get a chance to socialise or better yet compete and have fun while doing so.

The cash prize we’re offering is simply to encourage mass participation and to give them something to play for, apart from the trophies,” Toney said.

The GPA Executive member thanked the Guyana Beverage Inc for supporting the initiative and stated that he’s looking forward to more support from the company.

Raymond Gavinda, VIVA Sparkling Flavoured Water Brand Manager, expressed Guyana Beverage Inc’s delight at being on board, and stated that his entity is looking forward to working closely with the GPA to pull off more activities, especially in the area of sports, that will see competition between the various media houses.

No entrance fee is required and while several teams have already registered through the GPA, media houses can also enter on the day of the competition at the venue.

fridAY, november 23, 2018

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Stand-alone Women’s World T20 tournament…

Heartbreak: Windies suffer heavy defeat in 1st semi-final

Page 23

– Healy, bowlers lead Australia into finals

Hayley Matthews walking away in disappointment as Australia celebrates

Turbo Knockout Football

Mahaica Determinators send defending Page 21

champions Campton packing

A glimpse of the battle between Mahaica Determinators and Pouderoyen

Stand-alone Women’s World T20 tournament…

Jones, Sciver lead electric England into final Page 19

– Knight, Gordon restrict India to 112

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