Guyana Times - Wednesday, August 7, 2019

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THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Issue No. 4008

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019

PPP condemns threats of violence

by Attorney General See story on page 3

GPL pussyfooting around power sharing agreement with Giftland See story on page 7

– as blackouts continue to plague East Coast

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WHAT'S INSIDE:

Teen gets 5 years for armed robbery

P8

DPP advises extradition for former insurance P8 company manager Father seeks answers for teenage son’s P2 death

Burnham P10 remembered on 34th death anniversary

First Lady Sandra Granger (seated fifth from right) among facilitators, teachers, and participants at the closing ceremony of the two-day STEM Robotics Camp held at the Mercy Wings Vocational and Daycare Centre, Sophia, Greater Georgetown

Felix: Over 7000 Haitian nationals unaccounted for

Page 9

Man wanted for “Diesel Boss” Page 2 murder shot by cops See story on page 11

Taxi driver robbed, killed in Mocha

Guyana- P10 Suriname bridge talks active – Patterson

2 news

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Man wanted for “Diesel Boss” murder shot by cops

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hirty-six-year-old Marlon Badley, who is wanted by the Police for murder, was on Sunday evening shot and injured after he pulled a gun on a team of Police ranks in the Stabroek Market Square.

The injured man of Morcut Square, East La Penitence and of Goed Fortuin, West Bank Demerara, was wanted for the murder of Reginald Atherley, who was gunned down during a robbery at his Guyhoc Park home.

Based on information received, a team of Police officers were on patrol duty at Stabroek Market Square

The gun that was found in the wanted man’s possession

when they observed Badley also called “Maley” walking on Cornhill Street. He was reportedly walking towards a route 32 minibus.

Two ranks, Detective Corporal Cosbert and Constable Harris, approached the wanted man and as they were in the pro-

cess of arresting him, he allegedly whipped out a handgun from his crotch and pointed it at Harris.

As a result, Harris drew his service pistol - a 9mm Taurus - and discharged a round in Badley’s direction thus hitting him to the upper left leg. He reportedly fell onto the ground and was arrested.

A .32 Taurus pistol along with a magazine and eight live .32 rounds of ammunition were retrieved from the wanted man. He was picked up and taken to the Georgetown Public Hospital where he was treated and is presently under guard.

Atherly, popularly known as “Diesel Boss” and “Reggie”, of Lot G26 Guyhoc Park, East La Penitence, Georgetown, owned and operated a mechanic shop at his home.

It was reported that the father of five was shot multiple times at close range by two masked gunmen who invaded his home one morning.

The gunmen gained access to the home by removing louvred panes from the windows situated on the side of the house.

The man’s wife, Roxanne Crawford, had stated that she was awoken by voices of men inside the home, whom she soon realised had guns.

She quickly raised an alarm and Atherly, who was on the bed with her, sprung up and rushed towards the men.

It was at this time

Dead: Reginald Atherly, also known as “Diesel Boss”

that the mechanic was shot. After the shooting, Atherly was rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Father seeks answers for teenage son’s death

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he father of 14-yearold Rabindra Khagaram, who died after being treated for an ankle pain on July 21 at the Suddie Public Hospital said: “I will not rest until justice is being served”.

In an interview with Guyana Times, the angry father said he will not have closure of his son’s death until someone is held responsible.

The now dead teen was a promising student at the Anna Regina Multilateral School but his life was snuffed out by a group of incompetent health workers at the Suddie Hospital.

The father recalled that his son was taken to the medical facility twice on Sunday, July 21 – the day he celebrated his 14th birthday and was seen by two doctors.

On his first visit, he was crying out for severe pain in his ankle. A blood test was done as well as an X-ray after which he was given some tablets and injections. He was then sent home.

Upon his return home, the teen went to bed but soon after he developed a breathing problem. Without any hesitation, he was rushed back to the hospital where he was seen by another doctor who gave him another injection and sent him home again.

The father further explained that his son went back to his bed but as his mother went to check on him at about 02:00h the following morning, she discovered that his body was cold and he was not responding.

As such, for the third time, the child was taken back to the medical facility in an unconscious state.

After a few hours, the parents received the devastating news. The teen was laid to rest after an autopsy proved that he died as a result of septic shock. Now, the father is of the belief that his son was killed due to incompetence

Dead: Rabindra Khagaram

“Why the doctors didn't admit my son in the first place if they knew he had a serious infection which could cause him his life?”, he questioned.

He is calling for a thorough investigation to be conducted into the real cause of his son’s death. He also thinks that the injections and tablets given to the child resulted in his son’s demise.

The determined father told Guyana Times that “I don't care if I have to sleep on the pavement in Georgetown, I will get justice for my son”. He is calling on the relevant authorities to look into the matter.

Days after the young man’s death, Chairman of the Guyana Medical Council, Dr Navindranauth Rambarran related that if a report is made requesting an investigation, only then will the Council also become involved.

“It has not been reported in that regard in the news. If someone, or when a complaint actually arises out of such an incident, the Medical Council can get involved. Any entity that has received the complaint, the institution itself can complain about it, the individual can complain and then by the law, the Medical Council can act on it in receipt of the complaint,” he had told Guyana Times.

news

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WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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

Wednesday, August 7 – 10:00h-11:30h and Thursday, August 8 – 11:00h -12:30h.

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The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Wednesday, August 7 – 08:50h-10:20h and Thursday, August 8 – 09:50h -11:20h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Thundery showers will prevail in the early morning hours, leading into light rain showers during the afternoon and evening. There will be clear skies during the night. Temperatures should range between 21 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: Easterly to South South-Westerly between 1.34 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 09:23h and 21:47h reaching maximum heights of 2.43 metres and 2.40 metres.

Low Tide: 02:53h and 15:16h reaching minimum heights of 0.72 metre and 0.84 metre.

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PPP condemns threats of violence by Attorney General

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he People’s Progressive Party (PPP) condemned the threats of violence made

by Attorney General Basil Williams, during a panel discussion organised by the American Chambers in Guyana (AmCham Guyana) on Monday (August 5, 2019).

Williams threatened “dire consequences” if Houseto-House Registration is not allowed to proceed – fallaciously insisting that Houseto-House Registration is the only means of obtaining a credible voters’ list and disingenuously ignoring the constitutional three-month deadline for elections to be held in Guyana.

Williams said, “They are willing to go to the election with an anyhow list. They are ready for their properties, and all these things, to be subjected to those same post-election type of violence that we had in the past. I don’t want to say well y’all go, go to the election, because the consequences would be dire”.

This is not the first time that the Attorney General has descended to such talk.

In May 2019, Williams warned about “unrest” that might follow in Guyana if the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) rules against the Government in the three consolidated cases, related to the challenge to the validity of the No-Confidence Motion passed on December 21, 2018.

The party firmly believes that President David Granger is ultimately responsible for such reckless comments. It is clear that he opts to present a disposition that is above reproach while he dispatches his minions to engage in a campaign that does nothing but harm to our nation.

As currently being done, House-to-House Registration will de-register countless Guyanese, imposing demands on eligible Guyanese that are unconstitutional.

If this unsupervised, unconstitutional and illegal process, currently the subject of a court challenge, is allowed to continue – producing what will undoubtedly be a flawed list of voters – there will be no need for the organised violence that is typical of the People’s National Congress Reform’s leadership, which could be

Attorney General Basil Williams, former Attorney General Anil Nandlall and former Speaker of the National Assembly Ralph Ramkarran during the AmCham forum

the only thing that Williams was referring to.

There is already anger among Guyanese about the unconstitutional nature of the ongoing House-to-House Registration and the refusal of the APNU/AFC coalition to comply with the Constitution and the orders of the Caribbean Court of Justice. This anger could spill over into spontaneous and regrettable violence if there is mass de-registration, as the current direction of the House-to-House Registration indicates. This is an outcome that must be avoided by ensuring that there is constitutional compliance.

None other than the Chief Elections Officer (CEO), Keith Lowenfield, has admitted on two occasions that a Claims and Objections period will ensure a credible list to facilitate the holding of constitutionally mandated elections. He also admitted that President Granger’s claim about the list of voters being bloated by 200,000 is

spurious.

Many have been misled into believing that the House-to-House Registration, to produce a new National Register of Registrants, will be completed on October 20, 2019.

Only the field exercise of this process will be completed by that date. According to GECOM’s own work plan, the entire exercise to produce a new National Register of Registrants was programmed to end on December 18, 2019, but its start was delayed by 48 days – meaning that the new end date will take Guyana to February 2020, just to get

a new National Register of Registrants. Once this is done, it will take an additional several months to arrive at an Official List of Electors.

The caretaker coalition Government cannot continue to ignore the consequence of the successfully and validly passed No-Confidence Motion – that is, elections by September 18, 2019.

Additionally, the ongoing legal challenge to House-toHouse Registration – one that challenges the constitutionality of the process – is likely to end up before the Caribbean Court of Justice.

Turn to page 7

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guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019

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

There is no doubt

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here was never any doubt over Guyana’s vast potential. There was never any doubt that if the potential is unlocked and prudently managed, tremendous benefits would redound to all Guyanese.

There was never any doubt that unlocking the vast potential would catapult the country to a regional economic powerhouse. There was never any doubt that Guyana can truly become the breadbasket of the Caribbean.

There is also no doubt that the APNU/AFC coalition government is deliberately misinterpreting the Constitution and the ruling of the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) to avoid elections. There is no doubt that in the process, the Government has created a constitutional crisis for its gratification. What’s in doubt, is a swift resolution of the current political situation.

In essence, there is some doubt around the country, and rational Guyanese continue to bemoan the current situation while calling out the Government for demonstrating blatant disregard for the CCJ’s decisions.

The Government seems duplicitous. On one hand, it is not giving into constitutional processes, thereby, entrenching itself. On the other, it boasts of abiding by the Constitution and the orders of the CCJ. Many have branded the latter as lip-service, and even an insult to intelligence, given the Government’s ongoing lack of adherence to the rule of law.

One glaring case in point is the continual meetings of the Cabinet and subsequent bold proclamations made. From listening to officials, one can be convinced that the CCJ never ruled on the related cases— business as usual for Government at a time when it’s not business as usual.

That, in many ways, underscores Government’s unsubtle intention to operate as if the December 21, 2018, No-Confidence Motion (NCM) was a figment of everyone else’s imagination. That could, therefore, make it even more difficult for a swift resolution to the current situation.

The harsh reality is that the Government, by its own actions, seems to have no interest in a solution that should have been implemented months ago. Since then, it has done little to remove any doubt of its propensity to ignore the rule of law and to remain in office. In doing so, it increases the potential of unnecessarily placing the country at risk for possible international sanctions.

Some donor countries have not hesitated to impose such in the past when convinced that democracy is being trampled upon. Such actions can result in a withholding of much-needed financial support and imposed economic and other sanctions. It will adversely affect the country and its people as investments and the economy come into the line of fire.

The Opposition has even cited the same as an option it could possibly call for as part of its efforts to make the government accountable. If that were to be realised, then the blame must be placed squarely at the feet of the APNU/AFC government, given its ongoing propensity for self-interest while ignoring constitutional and democratic processes.

Had it, as it said it would, abided by the constitutional process that must be followed in the event of a valid NCM, the current political stalemate would have been avoided. By simply conforming to the enshrined democratic process, Guyanese would have been spared the psychological trauma inflicted by the current and seemingly unending uncertainties and from the prevailing fear of a growing dictatorship.

This fear is driven by polarising and defiant utterances by government officials— some of whom seem dismissive of the Constitution and the CCJ ruling. The President, himself, can be accused of arrogating the responsibility of interpreting the Constitution solely upon himself and twisting the related language for his convenience.

In doing so, he may have dispelled any doubt of him being the major driving force in trying to avoiding the holding of the constitutionallydue elections.

Therefore, the perceived absence of recourse becomes frightening. What is also a cause for concern, is the militarisation of the Government since 2015. Former Chiefs of Staff and other high-ranking officials of the army have been placed in various strategic positions within the government structure. This is aside from Police officials including a former Commissioner.

The concern may not lie in capacity, but in the historical context of the reported roles of the army and Police in aiding and abetting electoral rigging in support of the undemocratic PNC government which ended in 1992. Unfortunately, today, that historic and current relationship with the PNC and the security forces is stoking fear in many.

Just a few days ago, an arm of the State media reported a 75% increase in the army’s budget under the APNU/AFC government— within just four years. While such recapitalisation may be necessary and nothing prevents the appointment of security officials to government positions, the context should not be dismissed having taking into consideration the perception it precipitates. The doubts could, therefore, linger and even grow.

Today, there is blatant defiance of the Constitution as there was of democracy by the PNC in the past. With that, and other actions under the APNU/AFC government, it becomes difficult to doubt its intention.

Noteworthy, some have never doubted that actions speak louder than words.

Former External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj passed away in Delhi on Tuesday following cardiac arrest at the age of 67. She was the first woman who served as External Affairs Minister of India from May 26, 2014 to May 30, 2019.

The phenomenal leader was the youngest Cabinet Minister at 25 when she joined the Haryana Government in 1977 and the first woman Chief Minister of Delhi.

J&K no more ‘special’, Art 370 goes T

he contentious Article 370 is part of the history now. In a predictable move after days of troop build-up in the Kashmir valley, the Narendra Modi Government on Monday scrapped Article 370 to do away with Jammu & Kashmir’s special status and also proposed the bifurcation of the State into two union territories, Jammu & Kashmir, and Ladakh.

By doing so, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led dispensation hopes to fulfil its poll promise and deal with a protracted militancy movement that has been ravaging the state for the past three decades.

Union Home Minister Amit Shah announced the decision in the Rajya Sabha, which approved the resolution and the Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Bill. Both will now come up in the Lok Sabha on Tuesday.

The Government’s effort to tackle head-on the vexatious 72-year-old problem wracking the soul of the nation sent a wave of jubilation among BJP supporters and others, but provoked outrage from the National Conference and the PDP, the principal political parties in Jammu & Kashmir.

According to the resolution moved by the Home Minister, Article 370 ceases to be operative from Monday itself. “The President on the recommendation of Parliament is pleased to declare as from 5th of August 2019, all clauses of the said Article 370 shall cease to be operative...,” the resolution stated.

Shah also moved a bill proposing bifurcation of J&K into two union territories — Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The union territory in Ladakh will have no

legislature like Chandigarh.

The other union territory of Jammu & Kashmir will have a legislature like Delhi and Puducherry, where key subjects like law and order are with the Centre.

Shah said full statehood would be restored to Jammu & Kashmir at the “appropriate time” and after “normalcy” returns. The Government will not allow the situation to turn into another battle-torn Kosovo, he said.

The Government hopes that abrogation of Article 370 that accorded special status to Jammu & Kashmir and the consequential end of Article 35A that defines the permanent residents of the State will help in the integration of the erstwhile J&K State into the Union of India like any other state or union territories and cease special rights enjoyed by its citizens on land, business, and employment.

As the Government moved a bill to convert J&K into a union territory with an Assembly and a Lieutenant Governor and thereby the Centre wielding major power over it, the state has “lost” its privileged status like an assembly that enjoyed a sixyear tenure, outsiders not

being allowed to buy land and Kashmiri women marrying outside forfeiting their rights over land in Kashmir.

Twenty-four seats which fall in the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) shall remain vacant in the new Assembly of J&K union territory.

Abrogation of Article 370 and Article 35-A would permit citizens outside Kashmir to move in, settle and start business in the new union territory of J&K, barring special restrictions imposed by its Government. The Union Government would now play a central role in controlling state Police and land issues.

The Lieutenant Governor, who will “consult the Election Commission”, will have final powers over deciding the disqualification of Assembly members in J&K. Its Assembly will not legislate on “public order” and “Police”. Law of Parliament “shall prevail” if a law made in state list in the seventh schedule to the Constitution “is repugnant to any provision of law made

by Parliament”.

Similarly, “a bill or amendment shall not be introduced in Legislative Assembly except on rec-

ommendation of the Lt Governor” on imposition, abolition, remission, and alternation of any tax or in relation to the Consolidated Fund of India; seats for SC/ STs would be reserved in the J&K Assembly.

According to the Government, the abolition of Article 370 will “completely integrate” the state with the Indian Union like other princely states in 1950 and its residents will enjoy equal rights like other citizens.

The large population of young Kashmiris, studying and working in other states of India will get the “power and confidence” to be equal citizens of India, without they being categorised as a special citizen.

According to Government officials, the ease with which private and public investment will flow into both these new UTs will lead to much faster development of the economy, the development of high-quality educational institutions, and the flow of a large corpus of funds to develop tourism in these underdeveloped regions.

The presidential order signed by the President of India has not scrapped Article 370. But invoking this very Article, the special status of J&K has been withdrawn. Thus Article 370 is very much on the statute book, say constitutional and legal experts.

Some insignificant amendments have also been made by this order such as substitution of the term Constituent Assembly by the State for the Legislative Assembly of State and Sadar-e-Riyasat for the Governor of State.

The presidential order has extended all the provisions of the Constitution to Kashmir. (Dailypioneer.com)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019

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

The intention to rig GAWU responds to Finance Minister

Dear Editor, Since October 2018 I had said in one of my letters to the press that the rigging of the 2020 elections by the PNC-dominated coalition is a reality and not the product or figment of an overactive imagination. This prognostication was based on the unilateral and unconstitutional appointment of the then GECOM Chairman but now numerous pieces of evidence have been brought to the fore since the successful passing of the NoConfidence Motion on December 21, 2018.

We have seen the acceptance of that NCM by both the President and the Prime Minister that the Government has fallen and GECOM held a meeting on December 22 to address the preparations for General and Regional Elections and on December 27, GECOM’s Public Relation’s Officer, Yolanda Ward, announced that Elections can be held within the 3-month timeframe stipulated by the Constitution.

However, the PNC knew that if that happens, they had no chance of continuing to be the Government since the reasons for the successful passing of the NCM were compelling indeed and the electorate will not be fooled again.

Therefore, Nigel Hughes initiated the train of events which eventually saw the violation of the Constitution, especially Articles 106 (6) and (7) and the delay of General Elections until now despite the Caribbean Court of Justice’s historic and unanimous ruling that the NCM was validly passed, the unilateral appointment of Patterson was un-

constitutional and that the threemonth election clock had started ticking since June 18, 2019. This meant that elections must be held by September 18, 2019, the latest.

The coalition, in the meantime, being cognisant of the fact that the CCJ would rule against them, used the ‘planted’ illegal GECOM Chairman, Patterson, to commit his intended illegality by ushering in the process of House-to-House Registration which will see General and Regional Elections going way past the three-month deadline and into 2020, closer to the elections due date.

This will give the coalition the time needed to not only to pad the electoral list but to get rid of thousands of Guyanese who, for various reasons, cannot be registered with the current House-to-House Registration. We have now seen that Moses Nagamoottoo has become extremely sympathetic to the Haitians’ cause since he knows the rigging modus operandi of the PNC – he had written and said volumes about this.

He knows also that since there is no overseas voting, it will now be better to bring the overseas voting home - register these Haitians and place them on the voters’ list and secure their votes.

This is easily done since it is easy to get fraudulent birth certificates and even passports in this country and this becomes a lot easier when it is done under the directive of the Ministry of Citizenship and Government officials.

Mr Kit Nascimento’s letter to the press nicely sums up the burning questions which the coalition has failed to answer and

even challenged the President to provide come clarity. But the President has chosen to be mum on the matter. So far we have seen that two Ministers have given diametrically opposing ‘evidence’ of the issue.

The Minister of Citizenship has claimed that Guyana is the “stepping stone” to greener pastures – Brazil, Suriname and the USA. Are all the Haitians accounted for in relation to this reason? If the Minister knows that to be so then he is condoning a criminal act. What has he done to stop this smuggling and human trafficking?

Then Minister Jordan blew the whistle when he admitted that Haitians are working for less money than Guyanese, thereby also admitting that these Haitians are willing to accept wages below the legal minimum. Since the Minister knows this to be true then he is also condoning an illegality as well.

Furthermore, Minister Felix’s Ministry must be the one to have granted work permits to these Haitians so it boggles the mind to understand his “stepping stone” theory!

In conclusion, no amount of yarn spinning by Nagamootoo and his coalition ilk will cause Guyanese to turn a blind eye to the fact that the current illegal House-to-House Registration embodies a sinister motive to delay and rig the elections. However, I am sure that the Chairperson of GECOM will not tolerate this illegal exercise and she will uphold our supreme law as she had vowed!

Yours sincerely, Haseef Yusuf

Dear Editor, The GAWU has seen and considered the statements of Minister of Finance, Winston Jordan expressed in the August 5 Stabroek News article titled “GuySuCo diversification delayed – Jordan”. The article, we gather, is the latest in the series of articles published by the newspaper arising from a wide-ranging interview with the Minister on a host of matters under his stewardship.

Through the latest instalment of the interview, our Union was gravely disappointed to learn that the planned diversification programme, with respect to the estates under the stewardship of GuySuCo, has been delayed. From the news report, we gather that the Minister indicated that the initiatives to construct co-generation plants have been shelved for the time being as emphasis is placed on other areas.

While we noted that the Minister did not specifically identify where the previously allocated co-generation monies would be spent, he did disclose, we saw, that the sums would be used to hasten the Stateowned estates’ return to viability. While we welcome every and all workable and considered efforts to restore the industry to a viable and sustainable state, the Minister’s admission is yet another sad twist in the confused road the industry has been taking in recent times.

The fact that NICIL-SPU will have to now approach bondholders to receive their proverbial ‘blessing’ to re-jig the utilisation of the $30 billion bond only serves to confirm, yet again, that absent was any plan to properly utilise the large sum. It is the absence of such a plan, in our view, that was the source of the animosity that spilled over into the public arena between the NICILSPU and the GuySuCo. As may well be recalled, the GAWU, on several occasions, has reiterated that, from our point of view, there appeared to be no plan regarding the expenditure. We should add that our concerted and consis-

tent attempts to engage the Corporation on its plan was stonewalled, it seemed, at every turn. Now, the admission that the bond proceeds have to be adjusted only serves to further confirm our suspicions.

This latest episode is yet another indication that the powers-that-be are either clueless or unconcerned, or maybe both, as they address the sugar industry. It must not be forgotten, that the industry, in spite of the reduced scale, is still the nation’s largest employer. It is also a significant source of sustenance in rural Guyana. This clear fact has been demonstrated by the vacuum created in the communities of the closed sugar estates.

It is saddening to recognise the reality that more than one year has elapsed and millions of dollars, so far, have been paid to bondholders as interest and there is, apparently, no tangible utilisation of the invested sums. This, for us, is not a matter of great comfort. What’s even more disheartening is that the latest admission comes just a mere week after no lesser than President David Granger, himself, had said he wanted the sugar industry to thrive.

While the President is saying one thing, we see completely different actions coming from the other officials of the Granger Administration.

Certainly, and undoubtedly, it is hard to really give credence to what the Government is saying about the sugar industry any longer. Remember the now-a-day governmental leaders told the Guyanese electorate prior to their election to office, that “Sugar was too big to fail”. The reality is that they were less than truthful as the industry was minimised and thousands lost their jobs. We cannot afford any further miniaturisation and a clearly workable plan is not an option but an imperative.

Yours faithfully, Seepaul Narine General Secretary GAWU

The overlooked aspect of businesses in Guyana catering for families with children

Dear Editor, Many corporate persons and business owners know the importance of being family-friendly, but it seems that they often don’t pay too much attention, thinking that families with children are a minority market that only those businesses specifically targeting that market needs to cater to. Such a shame since what they do not realise is that families with children make up a much larger market than most people believe!

So many places in Guyana, whether it is a re-

tail store, hardware store, shopping mall, restaurant, supermarket, entertainment or recreational facility, a service business or just a general business or company, ignore the needs of families with children and do so at their business’s peril.

The presence of children who will be in tow on these trips, more so, during the August holidays, is overlooked and this adds up to a lot of young children power influence, whether they come and how often, how long they stay and how much they spend.

Family-friendly encompasses a multitude of factors, especially when it comes to younger children focusing on children’s eating preferences (and those of what their parents would like them to eat), children’s short attention spans and easy boredom, to restrooms with changing tables, catering for parents with chil-

dren in tow ranging from manoeuvering strollers through doors, between tables and through aisles, parents’ obsession with their children’s safety (both injury and abduction), to the cleanliness of everywhere parents take their children and everything that their children can touch or mouth.

Being family-friendly

means attention to a few details, most of which would be of little concern to most adults without children in tow but businesses are urged to please take a little extra effort in design, operations and staff training to really please the family with

children market and make them loyal customers.

When you get it right, when your business is truly family-friendly, you will win customers for life.

Sincerely, Mommy V

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wednESday, august 7, 2019

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he roller coaster hesitates for a split second at the peak of its steep track after a long, slow climb.

You know what’s about to happen – and there’s no way to avoid it now. It’s time to hang onto the handrail, palms sweating, heart racing, and brace yourself for the wild ride down.

What is fear?

Fear is one of the most basic human emotions. It is programmed into the nervous system and works like an instinct. From the time we’re infants, we are equipped with the survival instincts necessary to respond with fear when we sense danger or feel unsafe.

Fear helps protect us. It makes us alert to danger and prepares us to deal with it. Feeling afraid is very natural – and helpful – in some situations.

Fear can be like a warning, a signal that cautions us to be careful.

Like all emotions, fear can be mild, medium, or intense, depending on the situation and the person. A feeling of fear can be brief or it can last longer.

How fear works

When we sense danger, the brain reacts instantly, sending signals that activate the nervous system. This causes physical respons-

Foundation

es, such as a faster heartbeat, rapid breathing, and an increase in blood pressure. Blood pumps to muscle groups to prepare the body for physical action (such as running or fighting). Skin sweats to keep the body cool.

Some people might notice sensations in the stomach, head, chest, legs, or hands.

These physical sensations of fear can be mild or strong.

This response is known

is activated instantly – a few seconds faster than the thinking part of the brain can process or evaluate what’s happening. As soon as the brain gets enough information to realise there’s no danger (“Oh, it’s just a balloon bursting – whew!”), it turns off the fear reaction. All this can happen in seconds.

as “fight or flight”, because that is exactly what the body is preparing itself to do: fight off the danger or run fast to get away. The body stays in this state of fight–flight until the brain receives an “all clear” message and turns off the response.

Sometimes fear is triggered by something that is startling or unexpected (like a loud noise), even if it’s not actually dangerous. That’s because the fear reaction

describe our emotional reaction to something that seems dangerous. But the word “fear” is used in another way, too: to name something a person often feels afraid of.

People fear things or situations that make them feel unsafe or unsure. For instance, someone who isn’t a strong swimmer might have a fear of deep water. In this case, the fear is helpful because it cautions the person to stay safe. Someone could

Fears people have

Fear is the word we use to

overcome this fear by learning how to swim safely.

A fear can be healthy if it cautions a person to stay safe around something that could be dangerous. But sometimes a fear is unnecessary and causes more caution than the situation calls for.

Many people have a fear of public speaking. Whether it’s giving a report in class, speaking at an assembly, or reciting lines in the school play, speaking in front of others is one of the most common fears people have.

People tend to avoid the situations or things they fear. But this doesn’t help them overcome fear – in fact, it can be the reverse. Avoiding something scary reinforces a fear and keeps it strong.

People can overcome unnecessary fears by giving themselves the chance to learn about and gradually get used to the thing or situation they’re afraid of. For example, people who fly despite a fear of flying can become used to unfamiliar sensations like takeoff or turbulence. They learn what to expect and have a chance to watch what others do to relax and enjoy the flight. Gradually (and safely) facing fear helps someone overcome it.

Fears during childhood

Certain fears are normal

during childhood. That’s because fear can be a natural reaction to feeling unsure and vulnerable – and much of what children experience is new and unfamiliar.

Young kids often have fears of the dark, being alone, strangers, and monsters or other scary imaginary creatures. School-aged kids might be afraid when it’s stormy or at a first sleepover.

As they grow and learn, with the support of adults, most

kids are able to slowly conquer these fears and outgrow them.

Some kids are more sensitive to fears and may have a tough time overcoming them.

When fears last beyond the expected age, it might be a sign that someone is overly fearful, worried, or anxious. People whose fears are too intense or last too long might need help and support to overcome them. (Excerpt from kid-

shealth.org)

I

f you were a bird, what shape beak would you have?

That depends on where you lived and what you ate. Bird beaks come in many shapes and sizes –for example, hummingbirds’ thin beaks can dip deep into flowers for nectar, while pelicans’ spoonshaped bills can scoop through water to catch fish.

Special beak shapes are one way birds adapt to survive in their environment.

Pretend you’re a bird and try getting your “bird food” with different- shaped “beaks.”

Which shape works best to grab which food?

What you need

Pretend “beaks” (tools or utensils) for picking up food, such as a spoon, tweezers, chopsticks or a toothpick Pretend “stomachs” (cups) to put in foods you pick up “Foods” of different size and texture to pick up such as beans, rice, marshmallows

What to do

Place one type of “food” on a plate or in a pan.

Starting with one kind of tool or “beak,” use one hand to hold the “beak” and the other hand to hold a cup or “stomach.”

Try to pick up the “food” with the “beak” and place the food in the “stomach.” Try to pick up all the different types of food with that beak.

Which “beaks” were able to pick up the food?

Repeat these experiments with all the different “beaks!”

Which “beak” worked best for which “food?”

Talk about each “food” you tested! (247science.org)

news

7

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

GPL pussyfooting around power sharing agreement with Giftland – as blackouts continue to plague East Coast

Giftland Mall owner Roy Beepat

D

espite constant power outages and the dire need for additional power in the grid, the Guyana Power and Light (GPL) seems less than willing to take up the offer from private company Giftland Mall to supply excess power to the grid.

This was revealed in a statement from Giftland Mall on Tuesday, in which it revealed that after months of talk, GPL is no closer to concluding a Power

Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the mall.

According to Giftland, it has been receiving numerous complaints and questions as to why there are still occasional power outages. It noted that a few months ago, persons who thought the PPA was about to be signed with GPL had also been congratulating them.

“We wish to state that no PPA has been signed to date and this will explain why power cuts continue when there is lack of required power generating capacity,” the company, which is owned by businessman Roy Beepat, said.

“The last information reaching us was that GPL require justification as to why they should buy from us, apparently cheaper cost, no liability or commitment and readily available power supply to make up the deficiency are not sufficient reasons.”

Giftland noted in its statement that they have been in discussions with GPL for approximately three years, so that the em-

battled State company could purchase power from them.

Giftland also insisted that contrary to reports, they can supply the required power at whatever timeslots are required.

“We stand by our statement that a dedicated 3 MW is available and we can supply up to 4.5MW as required.

We are not sure what further justification is required to show why this can withstand any scrutiny.”

“Our prices are competitive and better than power supplied by GPL diesel generators, the supply is available without any expenditure to GPL without commitment for long-term supplies. We look forward to some response as to why this Agreement cannot be concluded,” the company said.

The Government’s Department of Public Information (DPI) had reported in June of this year that GPL and Giftland had concluded a Power Purchase Agreement for the supply of five megawatts of power and that all that was waiting was the ratification by the

Persons continue to be plagued by power outages

new GPL Board.

At the time, former Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) Chairman turned GPL Chair Rawle Lucas, along with Reggie Bagwandin, Kirk Hollingsworth, Morsha Johnson-Francis and Tara Singh, Gillian Pollard, Guyana Energy Agency Chief Executive Officer Dr Mahender Sharma and Private Sector Commission representative Komal

woman Miner charged for Guyanese found dead on beach theft released on bail after Crop Over Festival in Barbados A father of four was released on bail on Tuesday after denying a simple larceny charge which stated that he stole a $2.2 million Caterpillar swing gear.

Thirty-six-yearold Anson Mendonza of Matthews Ridge, Region One (Barima-Waini) appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts on Tuesday.

The charge stated that between April 1, 2018 and August 2, 2019 at Jack and Vieira Backland, North West District, he stole one

Caterpillar swing gear valued $2.2 million, belonging to Joseph Gonsalves.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the court that the defendant was arrested last Friday at Charity after Police received information that he was seen with the stolen equipment.

Mendonza was arrested and charged.

Chief Magistrate McLennan released the defendant on $150,000 bail, and the matter was adjourned to November 4, 2019 at the Matthews Ridge Magistrate’s Court.

PPP condemns threats...

From page 3

If House-to-House Registration is pursued and results in a flawed list of voters, which it will, there can be an impact on any election that is held. If an election is held with a flawed list and the CCJ rules that Houseto-House Registration is unconstitutional, the election could be invalidated.

Guyana can ill-afford continued political upheavals.

That said, it is for

GECOM to urgently pursue Claims and Objections as a tested method for updating the existing list of voters – a method used for the 2018 and 2016 Local Government Elections, as well as the 2015 and 2011 General and Regional Elections – to allow for elections to be held within the constitutionally mandated three-month timeframe.

Dead: Annastacia Natasha Angel

P

olice are investigating the death of a 27-yearold Guyanese, whose

body was found on a beach in Christ Church, south Barbados, on Monday.

The Police said the body of Annastacia Natasha Angel had been seen near the water’s edge and that it was subsequently pulled onto the sand.

The authorities have not indicated whether the woman was a visitor to the island for the Crop Over Festival which ended on Monday, but are treating her death as unnatural.

Media reports said that the body was found behind a guest house and close to a hotel. (Jamaica Observer)

Ramnauth, were appointed as GPL’s new Board of Directors.

The new Board came at a time when GPL’s service has been heavily criticised by citizens. This is because of regular power outages, maintenance work and announcements that there are issues with the interconnected system. These issues still continue.

Since 2016, Giftland Mall had offered to sell Government its excess electricity but this was rejected. At a press conference in June, GPL CEO Albert Gordon had explained that buying power from an independent power producer (IPP) is a complicated issue which includes negotiating pricing and legal matters.

To this end, he noted that GPL had enlisted the help of the Public Infrastructure Ministry to iron out these issues. Besides Giftland, there were also some talks with Banks DIH to purchase power.

While GPL is looking to increase the capacity on the interconnected grid with the purchase of fuel oil power from private firms, the company is also catering to have natural gas integrated into

its system to produce electricity.

In fact, Gordon had mentioned that they were seeking an agreement for the purchase of power from the Hope Wind Farm project, which is expected to come on stream by next year, generating between 10 to 16 megawatts of power.

Months after taking office in 2015, Government had announced that it would facilitate a US$50 million, 25-megawatt wind farm project at Hope Beach on the East Coast of Demerara.

While not as stable as hydropower, wind energy generated by turbines is a form of renewable energy.

All these energy woes might very well have been avoided had the Amaila Falls Hydro Project (AFHP) that was initiated under the previous Administration been pursued by the new Government.

The AFHP would have assisted GPL in getting adequate electricity supply.

In fact, the Norway-funded project, when completed, would have provided 165 megawatts to the national grid, thus providing cheaper and more reliable power to citizens and businesses.

8 News

wednesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

IN THE COURTS

DPP advises extradition for former insurance company manager

A

few months after Zameel Shaheed, the former manager of Demerara Mutual Life Assurance, was slapped with 45 fraud-charges, the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has advised that an extradition proceedings be initiated for the accused to be brought here to face the charges.

Police Prosecutor Shellon Daniels informed Principal Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-

Marcus when the case was called in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

The Prosecutor asked for an adjourned date to report on the proceedings; hence, the Magistrate adjourned the matter until November 18 for report.

Last March, the Magistrate issued an arrest warrant for Shaheed after he failed to show up for a third time in court.

Shaheed, who is report-

edly in the United States, is accused of defrauding the insurance company of over $40 million. He has failed to show up in the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts, where he is to answer to the charges.

It was reported that Shaheed was the manager of the Claims Department at Demerara Mutual Life Assurance.

Between 2013 and 2017, he allegedly authorised

transactions amounting to in excess of $40 million to 16 persons who were not entitled to claims. Shaheed, however, collected the monies for his own use and benefit.

Hence, the matter was reported and an investigation was carried out after which the charges were instituted. Following the audit, Shaheed reportedly submitted his resignation while overseas.

a half years for each of the charges to which he pleaded guilty. The sentences will run concurrently, hence, he will only spend two and a half years behind bars.

The first charge stated that on August 1, 2019, at Louisa Road, Georgetown, while being in the company of another and armed with a gun, he robbed Robert Rollins of a number of items which collectively totalled $43,000.

It was further alleged that on the same day and at the same location, he robbed Ulric Bristol of a quantity of items valued at $63,000.

The third charge stated that he robbed Roxanne Daniels of two mobile

phones and $15,000 in cash, totalling $131,000.

It was further alleged that on August 1, 2019, at Campbell Street, Albouystown, Georgetown, he had in his possession a .32 revolver and four matching rounds of ammunition without being a licensed firearm holder.

The matters were reported and a search was carried out in a room in which the suspect was occupying where the stolen articles were found.

Jupiter was then arrested and taken to the station where he was positively identified by the victims as the perpetrator. As such, he was charged for the offences.

Teen gets 5 years for armed robbery

O

ne day after an 18-year-old teen told the court that he committed the robberies because he was hungry and had no money, he was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment when he appeared at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

Principal Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus handed down the sentence on Tuesday to Quacy Jupiter of Campbell Street, Albouystown, Georgetown.

He was slapped with five charges when he made his first court appearance, however, he only admitted to robbing two persons while denying the third. He had also denied being in posses-

Quacy Jupiter

sion of an illegal gun and ammunition when Magistrate Sherdel Isaacs-Marcus had read the charges.

The Magistrate sentenced Jupiter to two and

Burnham’s…

Y

…looong shadow esterday was 35 years since Burnham died on a Georgetown Hospital operating table as two Cuban doctors attempted to operate on a “throat problem”.

Whatever you may say about the fella, you have to admit that he’s shed a loooong – and DARK – shadow over our beleaguered country. Back when he was alive, Guyanese would retort to fellow West Indians that while they had humungous disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes – WE HAD BURNHAM! And he was more destructive than all the natural disasters put together!!

In fact, we still haven’t recovered from the damage he wreaked on us socially, politically, and most of all economically between 1964 and 1985. Socially, just look around at the divisiveness that stalks the land.

That was created when Burnham split the PPP in 1955 because he demanded that he be “leader or nothing” – even though Jagan had been organising the people since 1943!! Granger – who’s sworn to “fulfil Burnham’s legacy” – claimed that “Burnham was the father of social cohesion”!! So you can appreciate that irony is lost upon PNC types!! Some cohesion!!

But there is even greater irony in the fact that Burnham never really saw himself as part of the African-Guyanese masses. He strove mightily to live up to the “colourism” that dominated social relations in his day by marrying up (colour wise), educating himself and speaking “proper” – in his case, even cultivating a “Churchillian” accent! While in London during his student days, he joined the “League of Coloured People” rather than any of the Afrocentric groups then sprouting like mushrooms!

Politically, of course, Burnham’s most famous for rigging elections starting in 1968…each time finding a new way to do the dirty!! He checkmated the PPP and was only threatened in the 1970’s when the WPA began to mobilise in the African community. He had Rodney assassinated: simple as that! Yet today, the greatest irony is the so-called “comrades” of Rodney are in bed with Granger, Burnham’s successor as leader of the PNC. Economically, Burnham concocted the oxymoron of a “cooperative” republic, while nationalising 80% of the economy to approach the State-controlled communist nirvana of North Korea. Granger insists Burnham worked to “eliminate poverty” when he vowed to “Feed, House and Clothe” the nation in his grandiose 1972-1976 plan!

Yet we ended up hungry, homeless and naked by 1979!!

We sank by all measures of development to just pip Haiti!!

The PNC’s fond of castigating Bharat Jagdeo for all sorts of sins…but they should be eternally grateful to him for wiping out the US$2.1 billion debt albatross Burnham left.

Burnham’s legacy is one of misery for the Guyanese people. We got a second emancipation on Aug 6th!! …betrayal Burnham’s most cynical act was to connive with Britain and the US to remove the legally-elected PPP government, which was supposed to lead Guyana to independence. But interestingly enough, in selling his soul for a mess of pottage – imagine US$5000/month to build up the PNC!! – he could never earn the respect of those countries. The Brits called him “a racist who will tack and turn at every opportunity” while the Yanks snickered at his pretentions, such as parading around in a two-star General’s uniform.

But above all, Burnham craved the approbation of third world leaders – especially in Africa – and worked overtime to be recognised. But Walter Rodney was the one who earned that respect on the world stage and Burnham could never forgive him for that! Rodney penned several works that became classics – such as “How Europe Underdeveloped Africa” – but Burnham, who craved to be recognised as an “intellect”, could never cobble together a book.

Rodney was spot on when he tagged Burnham as “King Kong”!! Brute force and ignorance!!

…legalisms While Burnham had scant respect for Constitutions, he liked to at least observe the forms. He would’ve been scandalised at the PNC’s dependence on Basil Williams for legal advice.

Guyana doesn’t permit snap elections? Under which rock has he been living?

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

news

9

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Felix: Over 7000 Haitian nationals unaccounted for

Citizenship Minister Winston Felix

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ith 8476 Haitian nationals having arrived in the country for the year so far, only 1170 have left, leaving more than 7000 immigrants unaccounted for – but there seems to be a lack of response from the Government to address the issue under the Ministry of the Presidency for the period of January 2019 to July 2019.

While the issue of foreign nationals overstaying their time in the country is not a new one, the numbers have significantly increased since 2015.

In 2013, 188 Haitians arrived in Guyana with 99 departures; and in 2014, 227 arrived and 113 departed.

But in 2015, there were 770 arrivals and only 136 departures; in 2016, 722 arrivals with 451 departures; in 2017, 3515 arrivals and 291 departures; and in 2018, 1237 arrivals with only 85 departures.

While Government has long contended that the immigrants may be leaving Guyana illegally to head to Brazil or Suriname (to head to French Guiana), there has been no concrete moves by authorities to monitor the situation or attempt to put a stop to the illegal movement

of people.

These numbers of unaccounted Haitians had raised major concerns, especially for the parliamentary Opposition – which has alleged that there might be a people-smuggling racket afoot.

But Minister of Citizenship, Winston Felix in a statement on Monday night said there is no evidence of such. “…the Guyana Police Force has made checks and to date, has found no evidence to indicate even a single instance of people smuggling or Trafficking in Persons (TIP), relative to the Haitian travellers,” the statement outlined.

The Minister also contended that the records show that of all the cases regarding Trafficking in Persons, Haitians were not involved.

“In effect, the Department has been working with the police on each report of trafficking in persons and this has been so since 2015. For 2019, the police encountered 18 cases of TIP, 13 persons were charged and 7 cases were brought before the courts.

“The police, who have been working on TIP since 2014, has never encountered a Haitian who is [a] victim of TIP and similarly, they have not charged any Haitian with relation to TIP and that is instructive as to the nature of the Haitians’ presence in Guyana. They are not victims of trafficking nor have we encountered them smuggled into any territory or Guyana,” the Minister noted.

The Citizenship Minister had reiterated that those unaccounted Haitians might be leaving through the “backtrack” (unauthorised ports) to go to other countries.

“Many of the news outlets have been making heavy weather of the Haitians who cannot be accounted for. We have large and unprotect-

Haitian at the airport

ed borders on the East with Suriname, on the West with Venezuela and on the South with Brazil. It is very easy to travel from certain parts of the Rupununi to Brazil because of the porous borders.

For Suriname, there is the decades-old back track, which the Haitians utilise to travel across and then onward to Cayenne,” he said.

Furthermore, he explained that the legislative adjustment to Schedule II of the Immigration Act, Cap 14:02, might be another reason for the influx of Haitians.

The Act was amended to include Haiti as a beneficiary to the Caribbean Single Market and Economy (CSME), which facilitates free movement within the re-

gion and automatic entry and stay of six months in Caricom countries.

Prior to the amendment, the Act had facilitated the six-month automatic stay to other Caricom member states including Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, The Bahamas, Montserrat, Grenada, Jamaica, Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago with the

exception of Haiti, whose nationals had required a visa and were only allowed to stay for up to 90 days or three months.

Since then, Haitians no longer need a visa to travel to Guyana and are afforded the same treatment and welcome that other Caricom nationals have enjoyed.

Teen succumbs 2 months after accident

…driver to be charged shortly

A

fter battling for his life for two months following a hit-andrun accident, 18-year-old Bariel Hall succumbed to his injuries while receiving medical attention at the Georgetown Public Hospital.

Hall was rushed to the medical institution on May 25 after being struck down while journeying home from a J’ouvert party. He was struck by a silver-coloured motor car while attempting to cross the road at

the corner of Regent Street and Avenue of the Republic, Georgetown.

Reports indicate that after being struck, the teen was tossed into the air before falling to the road. He was picked up and rushed to Georgetown Public Hospital in an unconscious state where he remained, never regaining consciousness.

The teen sustained severe injuries to his leg and only breathed with the use of a machine.

Dead: Bariel Hall

The driver of the motor car was arrested days after as he was attempting to damage the motor car at Grove, East Bank Demerara (EBD).

He was later released on $100,000 station bail. The Traffic Chief, however, confirmed that the man was expected to be charged following an autopsy, which is expected to be conducted shortly on the body of the dead teenager.

10 news

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Guyana-Suriname bridge talks active – Patterson

Public Infrastructure Minister David Patterson

T

he Public Infrastructure Ministry has recommenced talks with its Surinamese counterparts on the much-anticipated bridge which will link the two countries.

In an interview with this publication on Tuesday, the subject Minister, David Patterson, explained that the technical aspect of the

project is currently being discussed while details are yet to be sorted out with regards to the project’s “foreign affairs” aspect.

“It’s an existing MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) that was signed under the previous Administration that we are working with so there’s a working group with the Surinamese and our Ministry on the technical details and that has been ongoing”.

Patterson added, “Of course there are not only technical details, it’s a bilateral component which has to go through Foreign Affairs so I am dealing with the technical details of it but the bilateral agreement will have to go through Foreign Affairs”.

He explained that the Guyanese Government has been working closely with its Surinamese counterparts on this project and usually meets about twice annually

to discuss progress.

The Minister admitted that progress has been slow even as he was hesitant to say whether the groups have met for this year.

The bridge had been in the works for a number of years under the PPP/C

ilar arrangement as the Guyana-Suriname Ferry in that it is jointly owned. This, he explained, would, therefore, mean that the project will pass through several stages before it can be completed.

As a result, he was un-

The Guyana-Suriname ferry crossing

MV Canawaima

Administration with both countries looking to capitalise on the current brisk trade expected to increase manyfold when the structure becomes operational.

The bridge, according to Patterson, will have a sim-

able to say when a contract would be inked to allow these works to commence.

There are reports that the bridge is likely to be erected at Moleson Creek or Orealla.

In May, several passengers were left stranded af-

ter the ferry, which plies the Guyana to Suriname, route encountered mechanical issues.

The vessel, MV Canawaima, officially suspended its services on May 27. The Minister had explained that the vessel was being powered by a tug for some time, which encountered some issues.

The ferry’s services still remain in limbo as this

newspaper understands that parts are yet to be sourced to rectify the vessel’s issues.

The Canawaima Ferry Service Inc was introduced to Guyana on October 28, 1998, under the Companies Act Number 29 of 1991 of the Laws of Guyana. It is jointly owned by the Governments of Guyana and Suriname as each country owns 50 per cent of the issued share capital.

Burnham remembered on 34th death anniversary T

he 34th death anniversary of former President Linden Forbes Sampson Burnham was commemorated on Tuesday with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Mausoleum, Place of Heroes, Seven Ponds, Botanical Gardens.

The event was organised by the People’s National Congress Reform (PNCR) and was attended by President David Granger, Ministers of Government and other dignitaries.

Burnham, the founder of the People’s National Congress, served for a period of 16 years, that is, from December 14, 1964 – October 6, 1980, before he died on August 6, 1985.

Vice Chairman of the PNCR, George Norton in his remarks called Burnham a political icon who encouraged self-sufficiency through hard work for the best inter-

A section of the gathering at the event on Tuesday

est of Guyana.

“President Burnham was a political icon whose work continues to inspire generations. He motivates Governments to work tirelessly in the best interest of this nation. He was a brilliant man who pioneered a system of free education from nursery to university. He was also a futuristic thinker who promoted sustainable

development and self-sufficiency, long before the global fight towards achieving sustainable development goals” Norton stated.

Also speaking at the event was President Granger, who emphasised Burnham’s contribution to Guyana’s education.

According to Granger, Burnham, who was the first elected Minister of Education

in British Guiana, believed that public education was the cornerstone of social justice.

The Head of State noted that the former President aspired to establish an educational system in which rural and hinterland schools would be as efficient as those on the coastland.

He stated that Burnham believed that if the nation was to improve its citizens’ quality of life, it had to provide them with a high quality of education.

“Forbes Burnham’s first decade in office was one of tremendous transformation of the public education system, making it more resilient and relevant to the national situation at the time and to our people’s aspirations for the future. He reinforced the bases of universal primary and secondary education and moved tertiary education from being the privilege of an élite few to an entitlement for everyone, the President stated.

He further highlighted that the former President is also to be credited with

President David Granger lays a wreath in memory of LFS Burnham

the building of community high schools and technical institutes along with the University of Guyana Campus and the Cyril Potter College of Education at Turkeyen.

“All with the aim of providing the best education for the post-Independence generation. Forbes Burnham gave effect to free public education by expanding opportu-

nities for all. He entrenched free education as an entitlement in [the] Constitution of the Cooperative Republic of Guyana…We are encouraged by his example. We are inspired by his vision. We, his heirs and successors, recommit to perpetuating his legacy of free public education.

We remember him with reverence and respect” Granger said, ending his remarks.

11 Taxi driver robbed, killed in Mocha A news

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

taxi driver was on Tuesday evening killed during a robbery at Cemetery Road, Mocha Arcadia, East Bank Demerara (EBD). The dead man has been identified as

Owen (only name given) of the said village.

Based on reports received, the father of three was hired by two passengers to take them to an address in the village.

However, as they approached Cemetery Road, the passengers whipped out a gun and knife and relieved the taxi driver of his valuables, including his cash and mobile phone.

CoI into deadly piracy attack

Pirates are fishermen who threatened to kill victims if identities revealed – boat owner

Fisherman and boat owner Mohammed Hussain Aaron testifying before the Commission

M

any of the pirates who prey on fishermen are fishermen themselves.

This was revealed to the Commission of Inquiry (Col) into the deadly piracy attack in the Corentyne River, off the coast of Suriname, last year.

The one-man CoI into the April 2018 piracy attacks on several boats manned by Guyanese fishermen commenced public hearings on Monday in Berbice.

The sole Commissioner, Dr Rishi Thakur, has the power to summon witnesses and investigate and present the findings with respect to the piracy attack. He is also tasked with determining the identities of those killed, the motive for the attack, and possible prosecution of those culpable.

In the first two days, three persons testified, including fisherman Mohammed Hussain Arron— who testified on Tuesday.

He told the Commission that his boats have been attacked. In fact, in 2016, four of his workers were killed during a piracy attack. He said he was personally a victim of a piracy attack once and he knew his attackers.

Days later, on the Corentyne Coast, he was confronted by a man who threatened him, saying that they were going to take his life if

he revealed their identity.

He said you could not give fisherman guns or they would kill themselves because of the competition at sea.

Aaron also told the Commission that many of the fishermen going out to sea use marijuana and cocaine. He said sometimes the drug use led to them striking and then refusing to work. On some occasions, this will result in them attacking boats to take their catch.

Aaron also expressed frustration over the lengthy time the judicial process took in Guyana. He noted that no one has been prosecuted for any of the four attacks on his boats. He is recommending the death penalty for pirates.

He also said radio sets were also needed on the high seas.

Asked by Commissioner Thakur why he continued to go out at sea when he keeps losing, he replied that there was nothing else to do in Guyana.

According to Aaron, 50 per cent of those who go to sea use illegal drugs. He is recommending that the Government of Guyana and the Government of Suriname come together to address piracy, noting that when the fishermen leave the shores of the Corentyne, they have to first go to Suriname for ice and then go to sea. This is so

because the boats are all licenced with the Suriname Government.

Also taking the stand Tuesday was former Magistrate Krisondat Persaud, who said that persons going out to sea should be of good character and they should be subjected to background checks. He is advocating firearms for fishermen and that ports be monitored, while he told the Commission that those found guilty of the offence should be given the death penalty.

The COI is being held at the Number 68 Primary School.

On Monday, Upper Corentyne Fishermen’s Coop Chairman Parmeshwar Jainarine spoke of the costliness of fishing in modern times and the huge losses many trawler owners incur with no guarantees of a recovery; since they don’t have the requisite insurance and the risk to life and limb they take just to make an honest dollar.

He noted that Guyanese who ply their trade in neighbouring Suriname are subject to the regulations governing the industry of that country, and reiterated calls for protection, preferably bilateral arrangements in the form of military or Police patrols in the areas where fishing takes place.

Turn to page 13

The two men then exited the motorcar bearing registration number PRR 3313 and made their way out of the village.

The driver reportedly raised an alarm and went in pursuit of the men, but in re-

taliation, the bandits turned around and discharged a round at Owen, thus, hitting him to the head.

In addition, it is believed that the taxi driver was also stabbed.

Because of the injuries

to the head, he died on the spot. The Police were summoned to the area where they cordoned off to conduct their preliminary investigations. No arrests were made as Police continue their probe.

12 news

WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

La Penitence Market vendors complain of “partial” rehabilitative works

W

hile some vendors are welcoming the ongoing rehabilitative works at La Penitence Market, others are lambasting the Communities Ministry for conducting works to benefit itself and not the vendors.

On Tuesday, Guyana Times visited the market when one vendor, M Chunilall, explained that the rehabilitation commenced last week on the administrative section of the Market, in the upper flat which functions as a reve-

nue collection department.

The stallholder described the works as “disappointing” given that other sections of the Market were in dire need of repairs as well.

He said, “They doing the rehabilitation for their pur-

Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan

pose; they are not doing it for the stallholders…the office didn’t need all of that repairs”.

Further, the vendor pointed to the roofs on the structure which he claims leak copiously when it

The whole place becomes flood up. I got to close and go home. No business!” the man declared.

Although vendors are forced to pack up and leave whenever they are affected by leaks, he said they are still required to pay the rental fees.

Another vendor who asked to remain anonymous explained that the Market has not had any rehabilitative works for about 15 years. As such, he believes it is a step in the right direction.

Meanwhile, Lalta Narine, a clothes vendor, said he was pleased with the works, especially since it has been in an appalling

Narine during a brief interview.

It is not clear at this point whether the entire structure will undergo a facelift or just the administrative department as calls to the Communities Minister Ronald Bulkan went unanswered.

Meanwhile, on Monday, Pamela Khelawan, a vendor, told Guyana Times that rats have infested the Market given that there was no proper waste disposal system.

The merchant is hopeful that better utility services can be provided once the area is completely revamped, as clean water supply and stable electrical

The upper flat of the building is currently being rehabilitated

rains. As a result, the businessman said he was forced to purchase zinc sheets to have his section made leakproof as the dripping water caused customers to turn away from his stall.

“We as stallholders like we don’t have no rights. All what we have the right for is just to pay a rent. When water leaks there, if I have a customer here they can’t stay there, they have to move away so when rain falling, I am being affected.

state for quite some time now.

But, another male vendor complained of slow business.

In fact, it was observed that several stalls were closed during the visit. The vendors are hopeful that the much-needed repairs to the facility will attract more customers in the near future.

The renovation was confirmed on Monday by Georgetown Mayor Ubraj

units were lacking, making it somewhat difficult to sell produce and other merchandise.

Back in April, projects were tendered for four markets to be upgraded.

La Penitence was on the list, with some $14 million set aside to commence the works.

The other structures expecting a facelift are the Kitty, Bourda and East Ruimveldt Markets.

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WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Govt approves $460M for emergency works on Mahaicony sea defence

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he Government of Guyana through the Finance Ministry has approved a contingency allocation of $460 million for emergency works to be undertaken on the breached sea defence at Mahaicony, East Coast Demerara

cultural lands have experienced no threats of flooding since the Bellamy Canal Sluice at the Mahaica River was operated during low tides to release excess water stored in the canal.

The Ministry had recently sealed some 125 me-

The recently constructed heavy-duty timber bridge at Dantzig

(ECD).

This was disclosed by the Public Infrastructure Ministry in a statement to the media on Tuesday.

During the recent spring tide period of July 31 to August 4, 2019, a section of the sea defence at Prospect, Mahaicony, was severely eroded, resulting in the intrusion of high volumes of saline water into the Bellamy Canal.

However, close-by agri-

tres of the sea defence embankment by use of over 5000 boulders after the first breach occurred on July 6, 2019, at Dantzig. In addition to this, emergency flood protection works are also being undertaken to restore other breaches along the sea defence embankment between the areas of Fairfield and Dantzig, Mahaicony.

Chief Sea and River Defence Officer at the Public Infrastructure Ministry,

Kevin Samad has since indicated that the team has been facing significant challenges in implementing flood prevention measures. Samad explained that significant degradation of the natural sea defence system along a 3-kilometre stretch of shoreline between Fairfield and Dantzig has occurred over the last six months.

According to him, it has become necessary for a resilient manmade sea defence to be constructed given the complete destruction of the mangrove fringe which has left the earthen embankment in several sections completely exposed to direct wave action. On this note, Samad pointed out that the rainy season also continues to have adverse impacts on the progress of works since the access dams are currently in a deplorable state.

The Ministry in its statement also noted that a 90feet long heavy-duty timber bridge was recently completed at Dantzig across the Bellamy Canal since the only other access bridge across the Bellamy Canal is approximately 3 kilometres away at Fairfield.

Nevertheless, the emergency works are still ongoing and to date, over 7500 tons of boulders have al-

Pirates are fishermen who...

According to Commissioner Thakur, “The President insists that he wants to know who are the authors in this thing, because we are of the view he wasn’t sufficiently convinced that it was simply a matter of tit-for-tat. It may be that, but there is another story to be told there, and he wants to know what that story is; not only to bring to a closure for the families who had to suffer as a result of what occurred, but also as a nation to tell ourselves we can’t allow this to happen – our own

citizens doing this to each other”.

He said that among the challenges he encountered while doing his preliminary investigations was the difficulty posed in policing the river for the fishermen and fear of providing information publicly. He noted that since the CoI commenced its work, he, himself, was able to meet and talk with some 30 to 40 persons.

M e a n w h i l e , Commissioner Thakur is also tasked with providing the Terms of Reference (TOR) of

from page 11

the probe, including the role of State agencies with respect to security of the firemen. The findings have to be submitted to President David Granger by September 2, 2019.

Last April and May, five fishing vessels were attacked in two separate instances. A total of 25 fishermen were affected and six survived. The bodies of three were recovered and 16 are still missing.

Currently, two persons are before the local courts for those attacks. (Andrew Carmichael)

ready been delivered within the Prospect-Dantzig area.

The approved monies will be used to undertake permanent rip rap works and to secure other vulnerable sections within the 3-kilometre stretch.

The Ministry of Public Infrastructure also reassured residents and farmers of the Mahaicony area that continuous efforts are being made to monitor the sea defences and interventions are being arranged to expeditiously reinforce vulnerable sections to prevent flooding.

Boulders being placed to secure the sea defence

14 News

wednesday, august 7, 2019| guyanatimesgy.com

Essequibo residents discuss oil and gas

Participants vote for main recommendations

Participants at the session

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esidents of Essequibo were recently given an opportunity to join in the creation of a process which would allow citizens to exercise influence over the way in which Guyana’s oil and gas sector would impact society.

This opportunity was made possible through a public consultation referred to as ‘Open Space’ hosted by Policy Forum Guyana (PFG), in collaboration with Guyana Human Rights Association and Transparency Institute Guyana Inc. The ‘Open Space’ initiative, held at the Essequibo Technical Institute (ETI), Anna Regina, aimed at generating the national consensus among ordinary

Guyanese on how the “mega-revenues” expected from the country’s oil and gas sector can best deliver to the future of all Guyanese.

It was the fifth in a series of eight initiatives which are set to be conducted in Corentyne, Lethem and Upper Mazaruni in the coming months.

The PFG team to Essequibo was spearheaded

by Benita Davis and a supporting team of twelve volunteers comprised of members from the University of Guyana Geographical Society, staff from ETI and youths from Anna Regina.

According to Davis, the Open Space method is an excellent way to engage all citizens in a discussion on a complex issue like oil

and gas. Apart from the ordinary people educating themselves about the consequences of oil and gas, Davis said, the event is also a valuable learning opportunity for many of the volunteers from Anna Regina who were experiencing the Open Space technique for the first time.

The long-term aim of the initiative, she explained, is to revive a collective belief among Guyanese that things could be different.

“Rather than resigning ourselves to each one striving as individuals to better their own position within the existing society, if citizens act together, they can renovate society as a whole,” she explained.

The groups engaged in

discussions that were centred on developments they would like to see in the community and across the country coming from oil and gas revenues. This included the future development of Essequibo’s economy and job availability for graduates, among other things.

They also embraced the opportunity to share issues and recommendations.

The top three priorities for Anna Regina generated by the event are: the de-

velopment of technical and agricultural training, improved healthcare system, and the creation of laws and policies specific to the oil and gas sector.

Among those present at the activity, were representatives the Essequibo Technical Institute, Board of Industrial Training, Essequibo Chamber of Commerce, New Opportunity Corps, Church of Christ, Guyana Forestry Commission, Al Madinah

Islamic School and Suddie Hospital along with a range of interested citizens.

The first phase of this the project will close with the final Open Space event scheduled for Berbice in late August. The second phase consists of compiling the main conclusions into a consensus document that enjoys the demographic legitimacy of having emerged from the widespread discussion, as a tool for strengthening the oil and gas dialogue.

Emmanuella pays courtesy call on Minister Norton

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he cast of Mark Angel Comedy on Tuesday paid a courtesy call on Social Cohesion Minister Dr George Norton.

Mark Angel, a Nigerian video producer, is best known for the Mark Angel Comedy series, which usually features child comedians— including his niece, nine-year-old Emmanuella Samuel and his sister, Aunty Success. In just a short period of time, the two girls have managed to create a massive stir on social media.

The Mark Angel Comedy cast is currently in Guyana as part of a tour of the Caribbean. Minister Norton welcomed the team to the Land of Many Waters.

Dr Norton is anticipating that Emmanuella and Aunty Success’ presence will inspire young comedians to start exploring their talents from an early age.

Angel and his team are here to perform at the

Emmanuella Samuel and Aunty Success posed with Dr George Norton

National Cultural Centre on Wednesday, August 7, 2019. The show, titled Emmanuella for Emancipation, will also include Kingsley, Amanda, Denilson, Uzoma and lit-

tle Success. The show will be hosted by Guyana’s own Lyndon “Jumbie” Jones.

Tickets for the event are $2500 for adults, $1500 for kids and $4000 for stage front.

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WEDNesday, august 7, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Ramsammy’s Ruminations GAWU complains about GECOM cannot change elections timeframe – new Chair should get going

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he Constitution is clear on the dissolution of Parliament and elections. There are three scenarios. First, Parliament stands dissolved on the last day of a full five-year term and elections must be held within three months. Second, Parliament stands dissolved on a date named by the President before the full five-year and elections are required within three months. Third, Parliament stands dissolved upon a successful NoConfidence Motion (NCM) and elections are due within three months. There is nothing ambiguous in any of these circumstances.

Guyana's Constitution also provides for a fulltime elections commission; Dr Leslie Ramsammy the purpose of which is continuous electionsreadiness to cater for the above circumstances.

No amount of double-speak by Guyana's Attorney General (AG) can change any of these scenarios provided for by the Constitution. Unfortunately, Guyana's present AG proudly proclaims himself the poster-child for the notion that "law is an ass". On his advice and his strategising, the Government has rendered the Constitution nothing more than a piece of paper, held up the Judiciary as a toothless poodle, and shamelessly used GECOM as a party instrument.

On Monday, August 5, 2019, the AG told an audience— including prominent professionals, business people and diplomats from the ABCE countries— the David Granger-led APNU/AFC will abide by the decision of GECOM if GECOM says elections before September 18. Outside of the political sycophants, not a soul believed the AG. APNU/AFC has already set the condition, defying the September 18 timeframe, by demanding an illegal House-to-House Registration. The AG did not say they will give up this demand. Whenever in a situation demanding reasonableness, they setup a mine field to blow up all reasonableness.

The AG's minefield insists GECOM must set the time for elections. The Constitution says the President chooses a specific election date. But the Constitution does not permit either the President or GECOM, nor does the Constitution allow anyone else to determine the timeline for an election. The dates for an election are always determined by a timeline established by the Constitution. It is always within three months of the dissolution of Parliament— which happens automatically on the last day of a full five-year term, or on a date chosen by the President any time before the last day of a full-five-year term, or automatically upon a successful NCM. On a successful NCM, Parliament stands dissolved on the date of the NCM and elections MUST be held within three months. For those who have not read or refuse to understand the Constitution, the CCJ affirmed this fact. On December 21, 2018, this is exactly what happened in Guyana and, therefore, elections were due on or before March 21, 2019. The date had to be chosen by the President, but not any date at his whims and fancies, it had to be a date on or before March 21. While he could have sought advice from GECOM, GECOM was bound to be prepared for elections and advice on a date within that timeframe. It is now water under the bridge, elections were not held and because of the involvement of the Judiciary, a pause was enforced. The CCJ made it clear, however, the three-month timeline is the law and, in effect, restarted a new countdown, beginning June 18th and ending September 18.

The President had to choose a date within that timeframe, not any date he wants. Seeking GECOM's advice is legitimate, but whatever date GECOM proffered to the President, it had to be within that timeframe.

Recklessly, in promising APNU/AFC will accept GECOM's advice, the AG also insists GECOM is not constrained by the three-month deadline. In fact, the Constitution is not ambiguous, it does not subscribe to the double-speak of the AG, it is clear as crystal. The Constitution demands the President chooses a date within the strict timeline. Which date within that strict deadline he chooses could be informed by GECOM's advice, but GECOM does not have any role or any power to change the timeframe, nor does anyone else.

GECOM, in fact, stated categorically on December 27, it was prepared to conduct elections within the three-month timeframe that ended on March 21. GECOM has also stated it can refresh the electoral list available under the mandatory Claims and Objections process for elections to be held by September 18. Nothing can change that date, unless the President, with assurances, obtains the agreement of the Leader of the Opposition to extend the date. While we await the ruling of the Chief Justice next Wednesday, the new Chair of GECOM should proceed with an election preparation that adheres to the constitutional timeline, that is, on or before September 18. The clock is ticking and there is no room for dilly-dallying.

delayed salaries to Trotman

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he Guyana Agricultural and General Workers Union (GAWU) on Monday met with Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman, where the representatives complained about delayed salaries among other things.

In a statement to the media on Tuesday, the Union reported that the workers at the Guyana Forestry Commission (GFC) are often paid their remuneration later than the usual date.

In addition, it said the same usually occurs with workers’ benefits.

“The Union pointed out that salary is personal property and the management had no right to delay such payments beyond the stipulated pay day,” the missive stated.

Moreover, the Union explained that it also seized the opportunity to highlight some concerns with regards to some $600 million that was invested in a High Street, Georgetown, property and a few other debts,

Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman

some of which are owed for protracted periods to the Commission.

The Union, which sees itself as the sole bargaining agent of the workers at GFC, said it also pointed out to the Minister that the Commission is being given a heavier work load although no new resources are being provided to ensure these tasks are completed.

“In recent times, the Commission has been charged with additional responsibilities.

Notwithstanding the new tasks, the GAWU observed, that the GFC was not receiving any additional resources to meet its new obligations,” the Union pointed out.

It added, “With regards to one such obligation, the Union referred to a large number of employees employed by the Commission who are engaged in tasks reportedly unrelated to the Commission. On that score, we urged that given the roles of the Commission in protecting a significant natural resource of our people, the State, we felt, was obligated to provide appropriate support to ensure that the Commission effectively discharges its expanded mandate”.

According to the Workers’ Union, it reminded the Minister that the Forestry Act stipulates any shortfall in the Commission’s expenditure be charged to the Consolidated Fund.

GAWU was represented by its General Secretary, Seepaul Narine; Organising

Officer Porandatt Narine, and GFC GAWU Branch Secretary Hewley Clarke during that meeting.

Trotman reportedly committed to addressing these issues once discussed with Cabinet. In fact, the Union said it was to be discussed with this body with a view to seek a subvention for the Commission as an immediate relief.

In response to concerns raised about the $600 million property on High Street, GAWU noted that Trotman said he would “advise the Government to divest the High Street property and repay the GFC its investment”.

Pomeroon residents to benefit from free Internet by September

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esidents of Jacklow Village, Lower Pomeroon, will have internet access in and around their community before the end of September 2019.

The primary school in the community will be connected and residents will be able to access e-Government services for the first time via satellite.

This was promised to the residents by Public Telecommunications Minister Catherine Hughes during a recent community meeting at the Jacklow Primary School.

According to the schedule drawn up by the National Data Management Authority (NDMA) e-Government Unit, the satellite dish that was installed re-

Public Telecommunications Minister Catherine Hughes speaking to a gathering at the Jacklow Primary School

of immense help to all the students, and my Ministry’s Training Department will come back and hold computer literacy classes for anyone in this community,” she assured them.

“When you are able to connect to the internet, it means that you will not

New satellite dish in Jacklow

cently in Jacklow will go live in August. Minister Hughes gave a commitment that soon, thereafter, she would return to deliver computer tablets for students to use.

“The computers will be

have to travel up the river to Charity, or go all the way to Georgetown to conduct your business with the NIS, the GRA or the Passport office. You will be able to talk to family and friends on the

internet anywhere, whether they are in Guyana or not”.

Jacklow is one of seven communities along the Pomeroon River soon to benefit from internet connectivity via satellite dishes. The dishes were in-

stalled in recent months in Kabakaburi, Siriki, Saint Nicholas Mission, Jacklow, St Monica-Karawab and Akawini. They will all be activated before September.

Minister Hughes said that this initiative is part of the Government’s programme to supply the means for citizens to become computer literate at least, no matter where in Guyana they live and work.

To date, the NDMA/eGovernment Unit has installed connections for free internet at more than 170 community Information and Communications Technology (ICT) hubs, 175 primary schools, 102 secondary schools, 37 technical and other tertiary institutes, and 120 government ministries and agencies.

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guyanatimesgy.com

wednesday, AUGUST 7, 2019

Regional

US imposes sweeping sanctions Brazilian inmate who nearly escaped jail dressed as on Venezuelan Government woman found hanged

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President Nicolás Maduro has accused the US of waging “war” on his Government

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resident Donald Trump has imposed sweeping sanctions on the Venezuelan government, freezing its assets in the US and barring transactions with it.

This measure is expected to be far more damaging for Venezuela’s socialist government than previous sanctions.

The move is the latest aimed at increasing pressure on President Nicolás Maduro to step down.

The US is one of more than 50 nations that do not recognise Mr Maduro as Venezuela’s legitimate President.

It has instead given its

backing to the Head of the National Assembly, Juan Guaidó, who declared himself President in January.

President Trump signed an executive order which states that “all property and interests in property of the Government of Venezuela that are in the United States... are blocked and may not be transferred, paid, exported, withdrawn, or otherwise dealt in”.

The order also bars transactions with Venezuelan authorities whose assets are blocked, stating that “the making of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services by, to, or for the benefit of any person whose

property and interests in property are blocked pursuant to this order”.

“The receipt of any contribution or provision of funds, goods, or services from any such person,” is also banned.

The move really ramps up the pressure on President Maduro by not only targeting his government’s assets in the US but also the individuals, companies and countries doing business with his government.

It means that Venezuela will face many of the US restrictions on Cuba, Iran, North Korea and Syria. (Excerpt from BBC News)

Antigua: Electronic Crimes Amendment Bill gets Senate approval

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he evolution of cybercrimes and computer related offences has prompted officials in Antigua and Barbuda to move to authorise the Police to seek and the Court to grant Search Warrants under the Electronic Crimes Act, to obtain data from electronic devices for use as evidence.

For reasons unknown, under the Electronic Crimes Act of 2013, this important requirement was omitted, perhaps by oversight,

according to Senator MaryClaire Hurst who moved the Bill on Wednesday in the Senate where it was passed.

It was said that the granting of the warrant to give powers of access, search and seizure of the electronic device is important, given that the evidence of the commission of offences under the Act is likely to be stored in data on the electronic device used to commit the offence.

The offences under the Act include: access to or in-

terference with an electronic system or network; sending offensive messages through communication services, etc; identity theft; electronic forgery; electronic fraud; violation of privacy; misuse of encryption; child pornography; disabling or obtaining access to a sensitive electronic system; electronic terrorism; harassment utilising means of electronic system; false websites and spam; and unauthorised access to code. (Excerpt from Antigua Observer)

Clauvino da Silva, is pictured at the Bangu Jail Complex, Gericino, Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, August 3, 2019, in this still image obtained from social media video by Reuters on August 5, 2019

Brazilian inmate, whose masked attempt to break out of jail dressed as his daughter reverberated around the world, was found dead in his cell, after apparently having hanged himself, Rio de Janeiro State authorities said on Tuesday.

Convicted Rio drug dealer Clauvino da Silva, 42, was serving a decades-long sentence when he was caught trying to break out of jail last Saturday, disguised as his daughter. He was caught wearing an eerie plastic mask, a long black wig and women’s clothes, including a bra.

A video, released by prison authorities, in which he slowly removed his surreal disguise went viral, shining a light on Brazil’s longstanding struggle with its violent, overcrowded prison system, the world’s third largest.

On Tuesday, however, in a gruesome twist, Rio prison officials said Silva had been found dead in his cell in a high-security unit in the state’s Bangu prison complex.

“The inmate appears to have hanged himself with a bed sheet,” Rio’s prison authority said in a statement, adding that an investigation had been opened.

The death of Silva is an embarrassment for Rio’s prison authorities, which had initially cheered their actions in preventing his unusual escape plan. He is the latest prisoner to die in Brazil’s jails, which has become a major headache for new tough-on-crime President Jair Bolsonaro. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Jamaica pushing for pension plan regulations to be in place early 2020

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egulatory amendments aimed at strengthening the legislative framework to safeguard the assets of pension plans are expected to be in place by early next year.

This was disclosed by Minister without portfolio in the Economic Growth and Job Creation Ministry Senator Pearnel Charles Jr, who moved the Pensions (Superannuation Funds and Retirement Schemes) (Investment) (Amendment) Regulations, 2019 in the Upper House last Friday. regulations, which were approved by the Senate, were adopted by the House

of Representatives in July.

“Target dates have been set. I know Minister (of Finance and the Public Service Dr Nigel) Clarke is pushing for them to be done by this year and I would say at latest the early quarter of 2020,” Senator Charles Jr said.

He noted that the amendments, which also aim to broaden the range of permissible assets in which pension plans can be invested, are “critical regulations underpinning this Government’s thrust towards microeconomic stability”.

“As the macroeconomic environment in Jamaica

has improved and as the Government’s appetite for debt has gone down, pension funds now have assets that they need to invest. The scope of their options and opportunities have, however, been constrained. These regulations are intended to release those constraints while contributing to economic growth,” he said.

Senator Charles Jr noted that the amendments proposed by the Financial Services Commission, which is the regulator for the private pension industry, as well as the means of execution “were well researched, and carefully considered”.

(Jamaica Observer)

3 US tourists die Learning space opened for migrant children in Trinidad in Caribbean E drowning tragedy

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hree American tourists have drowned in the Turks and Caicos Islands after apparently getting caught in a fast-moving tide fuelled by high winds, authorities and local residents said Tuesday.

The victims – two men and a woman – were from two families from Texas who were spending the holidays together, along with their two girls, Police said.

They had been exploring scenic Bambarra Beach on

the sparsely populated island of Middle Caicos when disaster struck on Monday, Police and local residents said.

The children were plucked from the ocean by rescuers and were being cared for by local social welfare services.

Residents said the families may have been attempting to cross the half-mile distance through shallow water from Bambarra Beach to nearby Pelican Cay. (Excerpt from AFP)

ver Mejia, the father of two, today praised Is There Not a Cause (ITNAC), a non-government organisation, for providing a school for migrants’ children.

Speaking to Newsday at the opening and orientation of The Learning Space for Venezuelan children at the corner of Western Main Road and Calcutta Street, St James, Trinidad, Mejia said when it was made public that migrants’ children will not have access to public education, it raised a lot of concerns for parents.

He said thanks to the programme, his two teenagers now have an opportunity to go to school.

“I am happy about the programme because in the past

there was no programme and I am overwhelmed to be here, because the children are not at fault with the political problem in Venezuela.

At the launch, team leader of ITNAC Avonelle Hector-Joseph called on corporate TT to support the programme.

Hector-Joseph said the initiative is a large task and the budget is $490,000 for the year.

“Like all of our projects, we are stepping out in faith and also, in addition to all of this, we still have our TT back-toschool projects in Haiti, India, and Kenya. We are excited with all the challenges, because we think they are here and a need has been presented to us, and we have to respond”. (Trinidad Newsday)

A Venezuelan girl learns the alphabet in Spanish and English while waiting with relatives to be registered at Queen’s Park Oval, Port of Spain (Photo by Angelo Marcelle)

guyanatimesgy.com

WEDNESday, august 7, 2019

Around the World

China warns Hong Kong protesters not to “play with fire”

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rotesters in Hong Kong must not “play with fire” and mistake Beijing’s restraint for weakness, China said on Tuesday in its sharpest rebuke yet of the “criminals” behind demonstrations in the city whom it vowed to bring to justice.

Hong Kong has suffered weeks of sometimes violent protests that began with opposition to a now-suspended extradition law, which would have allowed suspects to be tried in mainland courts.

But the protests have swelled into a broader backlash against the Government of the Asian financial hub, fuelled by many residents’ fear of eroding freedoms under the increasingly tight control of the Communist Party in Beijing.

“I would like to warn all of the criminals: don’t ever misjudge the situation and mistake our restraint for weakness,” the Chinese Government’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office said in a document issued during a briefing in Beijing.

“We would like to make

A demonstrator throws a traffic cone at a group of people opposing the anti-Government protesters, during a demonstration in support of the city-wide strike and to call for democratic reforms in Hong Kong, China, August 5, 2019

clear to the very small group of unscrupulous and violent criminals and the dirty forces behind them: those who play with fire will perish by it,” the office said.

A bipartisan group of US lawmakers on Friday urged

the Trump Administration to suspend future sales of munitions and crowd-control equipment to Hong Kong police, which have been accused of using excessive force.

The protests are the

greatest political threat to Hong Kong’s Government since the territory returned to Chinese rule in 1997, and one of the biggest popular challenges to Chinese leader Xi Jinping since he came to power in 2012. (Excerpt from Reuters)

Brexit: EU “refusing to “Unacceptable”: US warns Turkey negotiate”, says Gove of operation in northern Syria

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abinet Minister Michael Gove said the EU “seem to be refusing to negotiate with the UK” over a new Brexit deal.

Gove, who is responsible for no-deal planning, said he was “deeply saddened” that Brussels was, in his words, saying “no, we don’t want to talk”.

It comes after the EU said UK demands to remove the Irish backstop from Theresa May’s deal were unacceptable.

Irish PM Leo Varadkar has reiterated that the withdrawal deal, including the backstop, cannot be renegotiated.

The European Commission said it was willing to hold further talks, “should the UK wish to clarify its position”.

Meanwhile, a group of politicians has started a legal action aimed at preventing Boris Johnson shutting down Parliament to force through a no-deal Brexit.

Theresa May’s deal has been rejected three times by MPs and as things stand, the UK will leave the EU on October 31 whether it has agreed a new one or not.

On Monday, EU negotiators told European diplomats there was currently no basis for “meaningful discussions” and talks were back where they were three years ago.

A senior EU diplomat reportedly said a no-deal Brexit appeared to be the UK Government’s “central scenario”.

Last week the Government announced an extra £2.1 billion of funding to prepare for a no-deal Brexit doubling the amount of money it has set aside this year.

Gove said the Government’s preparations for no-deal had been stepped up and “the days of drift that we have had in the past have ended”. (Excerpt from BBC

News)

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he United States has warned that any Turkish operation in northern Syria would be “unacceptable” and vowed to step up talks to prevent unilateral incursions, as tensions between Washington and Ankara simmer.

On Sunday, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said Turkey, which already has a foothold in northwest Syria, will carry out a military operation in a Kurdish-controlled area east of the Euphrates in northern Syria against the USbacked Kurdish People’s Protection Units (YPG) that Ankara views as a terrorist group.

“Clearly we believe any unilateral action by them [Turkey] would be unacceptable,” US Defence Secretary Mark Esper told reporters in Tokyo on a trip through Asia on Tuesday.

Erdogan has threatened

an imminent attack in the northeast and he renewed that pledge on Tuesday.

“Turkey has the right to eliminate all threats against its national security... God willing, we will carry the process started with [previous offensives into Syria] to the next stage very soon,” he said in a televised speech in Ankara.

With US backing, the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), which includes the YPG, have taken control of much of northeastern Syria from the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL, also known as ISIS) over the last four years.

Esper suggested that a Turkish operation into northern Syria could affect the SDF’s focus on ensuring ISIL did not retake the territory it once held in Syria and the ability of the US-backed forces to hold the thousands of alleged ISIL fighters in detention. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

Toni Morrison, author and Nobel laureate, dies aged 88

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oni Morrison, who chronicled the African American experience in fiction over five decades, has died aged 88.

In a statement on Tuesday, her family and publisher Knopf confirmed that the author died in Montefiore Medical Center in New York on Monday night after a short illness.

Born in an Ohio steel town in the depths of the Great Depression, Morrison carved out a literary home for the voices of African Americans,

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Toni Morrison

first as an acclaimed editor and then with novels such as The Bluest Eye, Song of Solomon and Beloved. Over the course of a career that garnered honours including the Pulitzer prize, the Nobel prize, the Légion d’Honneur and a Presidential Medal of Freedom presented to her in 2012 by her friend Barack Obama, her work became part of the fabric of American life as it was woven into high school syllabuses up and down the country. (The Guardian)

1800 dead as malaria ‘epidemic’ rages in Burundi – UN

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alaria has killed more than 1800 people in Burundi this year, the United Nations humanitarian agency has said, a death toll rivalling an Ebola outbreak in the neighbouring Democratic Republic of Congo.

In its latest situation report, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said 5.7 million cases of malaria had been recorded in Burundi in 2019 - a figure roughly equal to half its entire population.

Of those cases, a total of 1801 died from the mosquito-borne disease in Burundi between January 1 and July 21, OCHA said.

The tiny country

of 11 million people in the African Great Lakes region has still not declared a national emergency, despite OCHA saying the outbreak crossed “epidemic proportions” in May. “The national malaria outbreak response plan, which is currently being validated, has highlighted a lack of human, logistical and financial resources for effective response,” OCHA said in its latest weekly bulletin on humanitarian emergencies.

A lack of preventive measures such as mosquito nets, climatic changes and increased movements of people from mountain areas with low immunity to malaria were driving the crisis, OCHA said. (Excerpt from Al Jazeera)

War with Iran is the mother of all wars – Iran President

W

ar with Iran is the mother of all wars, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said on Tuesday in a speech broadcast live on State TV, warning once again that shipping might not be safe in the Strait of Hormuz oil waterway.

Tensions have risen between Iran and the West since last year when the United States pulled out of an international agreement which curbed the Islamic Republic’s nuclear programme in return for an easing of economic sanctions on Iran.

“Peace with Iran is the mother of all peace, war with Iran is the mother of all wars,” Rouhani said at the Foreign Ministry in a speech which also praised Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif after the United States imposed sanctions on him on July 31.

If the United States wants to have negotiations with Iran then it must lift all sanctions, Rouhani said, noting that Iran must be allowed to export oil.

Fuelling fears of a Middle East war with global repercussions, the Guards seized British tanker Stena Impero near the Strait of Hormuz in

Iranian President Hassan Rouhani

July for alleged marine violations, two weeks after British forces captured an Iranian oil tanker near Gibraltar accused of violating sanctions on Syria.

“A strait for a strait. It can’t be that the Strait of Hormuz is free for you and the Strait of Gibraltar is not free for us,” Rouhani said.

Approximately one-fifth of the world’s oil traffic passes through the strategic Strait of Hormuz.

The Guards seized an Iraqi oil tanker in the Gulf on Wednesday which they said was smuggling fuel and detained seven crewmen, Iran’s State media reported. (Excerpt from Reuters)

18

guyanatimesgy.com

wednESday, august 7, 2019

ARCHIE

ARIES (March 21April 19)

dilbert

TAURUS (April 20May 20)

A change regarding a partnership or an agreement will catch you offguard. Don’t act in haste.

Consider your options and counter with something you feel is fair.

GEMINI (May 21June 20)

Keep the peace by refusing to let anyone meddle in your personal affairs.

Protect your privacy, loved ones and assets. Romance will enhance a meaningful relationship.

CANCER (June 21July 22)

Peanuts

LEO (July 23Aug. 22)

VIRGO (Aug. 23Sept. 22)

Calvin and Hobbes

LIBRA (Sept. 23Oct. 23)

SCORPIO

SUDOKU

(Oct. 24Nov. 22)

SAGITTARIUS (Nov. 23Dec. 21)

CAPRICORN (Dec. 22Jan. 19)

YESTERDAY’S WORD

Embrace life and try something new. A lifestyle change will lift your spirits and give you a new lease on life. Romance is encouraged.

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

PISCES (Feb. 20March 20)

Someone you encounter will change the way you see or do things. An offer will grab your interest, but you must check to make sure it’s legitimate.

Be careful when dealing with sensitive issues.

Someone you love or work alongside will be touchy if you take more than you give. Aim for equality, peace and love, not for chaos.

Network, get involved and make your actions count. The more productive you are, the less time you will have to get involved in situations that aren’t good for you.

Don’t rely on others. If you want something done, do it yourself. Look for positive opportunities and find out how you can turn a skill or service into a lucrative affair.

If you share your emotions, be prepared to put up with the backlash that follows. Communication will be necessary, but how you respond will make a difference.

Rely on what you know, whom you can trust and how best to get what you want. A personal contract, legal matter or financial issue will need your undivided attention.

Put your heart and soul into whatever you decide to take on. Whether it’s how you earn or handle money, deal with essential partnerships or run your home, do it with finesse.

Look for opportunities to advance. Keep an open discussion going with anyone who will be affected by the decisions you make.

Romance is in the stars.

You’ll have some exciting ideas, but you must consider the possible consequences of putting them in action. Moderation is key.

wednesday, august 7, 2019

braced for introduction of VAR “P eople go on about VAR, they (referees) clearly need help. If this is the best, mostwatched league in the world, then give them all the help they need. It is a joke”. These were Southampton forward Charlie Austin’s furious words shortly after his team drew 1-1 against Watford in a Premier League game last November. Austin’s anger stemmed from a contentious decision by the match officials—a goal scored by him was incorrectly disallowed for offside.

Much to Austin’s relief, as well as to many others, Video Assistant Referee (VAR) will be used in all Premier League games this season.

The English top tier follows in the footsteps of other major European Leagues—La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, Ligue 1.

The technology will undoubtedly boost Premier League referees’ ability to make the correct decisions.

But as seen in the men’s World Cup last year and the women’s edition this summer, it is impossible to get every call right. Not only are many decisions down to the subjective interpretations of referees, new laws on handball in particular could further complicate things.

Despite VAR’s assistance, contentious decisions will not disappear, and as a consequence, neither will the angry Charlie Austins.

The guiding principles for VAR use in England will roughly be the same as those for major international tournaments, or in other leagues in Europe. Decisions will be reviewed for four kinds of incidents during a game— goals, penalties, direct red cards and mistaken identity. The designated VAR for

a game will review these situations immediately in the background for the possibility of ‘clear and obvious errors’ or ‘serious missed incidents’, following which the on-field referee can take a final call.

The biggest difference between Premier League and others, however, is likely to be over the quantum of its use. Mike Riley, England’s chief of referees, is keen on ensuring VAR doesn’t cause a major disruption to the flow of play. “We don’t want VAR to come in and try to re-referee the game. We ac-

a review every 3.2 games. A low review rate is likely to be the case in the Premier League for now.

Another difference in Premier League’s VAR use will be the absence of reviews on a goalkeeper’s positioning during a penalty. As per the law, goalkeepers are required to have at least one foot on the goal line when a spot kick is taken. However, reviewing every penalty at the women’s World Cup led to severe criticism of technology overuse.

To maintain transparency for fans at the stadium, re-

Referee Deniz Aytekin checks the VAR during an International friendly between England and Italy (Getty Images)

tually want it to protect the referees from making serious errors, the ones everybody goes: ‘Well, actually, that’s wrong,’” he told BBC last month.

When VAR was trialled across select games in the FA Cup and League Cup last season, there were a total of just 14 VAR reviews in 69 games, which is one review every 4.93 games. In comparison, the women’s World Cup this year saw a review every 1.9 games. The men’s World Cup in Russia last year saw

plays of the final incidents will be shown in case of overturned decisions. This is not the case in other domestic leagues where VAR is used.

However, two stadiums in the league—Old Trafford and Anfield­—do not have wide screens and will not be able to make use of this feature.

Instead, stadium announcers and electronic scorecards will be used to relay the decisions to fans.

On offside calls, linesmen will follow the usual convention of not raising the flag—

unless in ‘obvious’ cases— until after a goal is scored or the move ends.

So, is there a possibility of errors? With VAR only to be used in the four kinds of incidents mentioned earlier, a number of refereeing errors will undoubtedly go unchecked. VAR cannot intervene if a referee makes a decision on any other incident after witnessing it—for example, if a player is booked for a mistimed tackle. Unless VAR rules the referee missed a consequential aspect of the incident, the decision will stand and won’t go for review, even if replays show the tackle possibly warranted a red card.

Then comes the major source of VAR controversies—handball. This season, the International Football Association Board (IFAB), the global rule-making authority, has made a few changes to the laws. In addition to deliberate handball, accidental handball by an attacking player in the course of his team scoring will lead to that goal being cancelled and a free-kick awarded to the other side. A defending player accidentally handling the ball will lead to a penalty if he/she is deemed to have made his/ her body ‘unnaturally bigger’.

Riley recently assured that the Premier League will not be strict on the new handball rules. “You don’t expect defenders to have their arms glued to their side, so if the hand is in a natural position then it’s not an offence,” he said. But what is a ‘natural position’ of the hand is down to the referee’s interpretation. The referee’s decision after a slow-motion replay may vary from the one made in real-time. It is likely create ground for more controversies. (HST)

19

The Nigeria players celebrate after booking their berth at the 2020 U-19 World Cup (ESPNcricinfo Ltd)

Nigeria replace Zimbabwe in men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier

Z

imbabwe’s administrative hassles, which have led to their ICC suspension, have given Namibia a chance of securing a maiden entry to the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup to be played in Australia next year.

Namibia step into the frame by virtue of finishing second, behind Zimbabwe, in the African Qualifiers. They will join hosts Scotland, Bangladesh, Ireland, Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, Thailand and USA to fight for two qualifying spots for the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup to be played in February-March. The qualifying tournament is set to begin later this month.

Meanwhile, Nigeria will take the 14th and final spot, in place of Zimbabwe, for the Men’s T20 World Cup Qualifier to be played in the UAE in October. Nigeria finished third in the Africa Men’s Qualifier final and will be the third African side in the global qualifier alongside Kenya and Namibia.

The Men’s Qualifier will feature Nigeria, UAE, Hong Kong, Ireland, Jersey, Kenya, Namibia, Netherlands, Oman, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Singapore and two teams from the Americas Final due to be held later this month. The top six sides will advance to the 2020 Men’s T20 World Cup to be held in OctoberNovember next year in Australia.

Zimbabwe’s removal from the qualifying process for the Men’s T20 World Cup means that at least one Associate nation is guaranteed to reach the 12-team main draw of the tournament.

The top eight sides on the ICC T20I rankings table at the end of 2018 including host Australia qualified for the Super 12s automatically.

The six teams that advance from the Qualifiers to be held in October in the UAE will join Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the opening round, to be divided into two groups of four. The top two teams in each group of the opening round will then join the main draw. It means at least one Associate is guaranteed five matches against Full Members in the T20 World Cup - either Bangladesh and Sri Lanka in the opening round plus at least four Full Members in the Super 12s.

In March, Nigeria scripted– history by entering their firstever global event - the 2020 Under-19 World Cup - when they beat Sierra Leone in a tense final. The men’s team had gone through a revamp following a poor finish at 2016 World Cricket League Division Five in Jersey, when a last place result saw them relegated out of the 50-over Associate competition. (Cricinfo)

NBA, Twitch announce deal for digital rights to USA Basketball

T

he National Basketball Association on Tuesday said that Amazon.com Inc’s Twitch would be its exclusive digital partner for streaming USA Basketball games globally through 2020.

Twitch – best known as a platform for video game players to interact and stream their own competitions – will also exclusively stream up to 76 boys and girls youth basketball games during the Jr NBA Global Championship, which begins Tuesday, the league said.

USA Basketball is the governing body of American basketball and fields men’s and women’s teams for international competitions, including this year’s International Basketball Federation (FIBA) World Cup in China starting August 31 and the 2020

Tokyo Olympics. NBA handles media and marketing partnerships for the organization.

The deals will add to the growing library of live sporting content on Twitch, which streams the NFL’s Thursday Night Football, as does Amazon Prime.

They will also allow the NBA to keep experimenting with digital partnerships as more fans dump traditional cable subscriptions.

Some purely digital media subscription

services – like Amazon Prime and London– based newcomer DAZN – have drawn viewers, as have ESPN and other networks that have started their own direct-to-consumer products.

Leagues themselves now also stream some games on their own websites, in this case on NBA.com.

Even so, leagues still view linear television networks as valuable partners because of their high production capabilities and the huge audiences they continue to capture for big events.

The NBA’s main media rights are tied up

with Walt Disney Co’s ESPN and ABC, as well as TNT, a unit of AT&T Inc’s WarnerMedia, through the 2025 season.

That has left the league carving out other rights in order to try out new kinds of content and partnerships.

As part of Tuesday’s deals, Twitch and USA Basketball will develop extra content around each event, including the USA Men’s National Team, certain 3x3 events and USA Women’s National team friendly games, training camps and the 2020 Nike Hoop Summit, the NBA said.

Twitch has already been streaming matches from the NBA’s minor league organization, the G League, as well as its NBA 2K videogame matches. Financial terms of Tuesday’s agreements were not disclosed. (Reuters)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

wednesday, august 7, 2019

Record turnout for India’s 1st Guyanese game in 17 years

India’s Captain Virat Kohli receives the winning cheque from Shivnarie Chanderpaul Story and photos by Jemima Holmes

A

lthough it was not a Caribbean Premier League (CPL) sized crowd, Guyanese cricket fans turned out in their numbers to witness the first-ever T20 International played by the Indian national team in the “Land of Many Waters”.

It was the final T20I in the three-match My Team 11 series, and Guyanese from each ethnicity and all walks of life braved the rains that seemed unstoppable in the earlier hours of Tuesday

morning. But any sensible Guyanese would know that rain only signals a welcome to cricket at the National Stadium, Providence – an unwritten tradition of sorts.

The last time that an Indian national team graced the “Land of Many Waters” was in 2002, contesting a Test against West Indies at the historic Bourda Ground in Georgetown, Guyana.

However, a bit of Guyanese cricket history was made on Tuesday, August 6, when the boys clad in blue led by the ecstatic Virat Kohli made their way into the middle of the National

Stadium, Providence, for their first battle in the shortest format of the game in Guyana.

Looking back at Bangladesh’s visit to Guyana in July 2018, while there were many die-hard fans of the boys in maroon who showed up to cheer on their team, the Providence Stadium was far from ‘filled to capacity’. It was the polar opposite for the first India game, with droves of spectators, equally clad in blue and maroon, pouring into the venue to witness one of the most consistent cricket teams around.

West Indies Captain Carlos Brathwaite and India’s Captain Virat Kohli shook hands after the toss

Guyana is usually known for its record turnouts on game day, but given the particulars of the West Indies vs India match, many speculated that the Guyanese Diaspora would not live up to their expectations. But even on a weekday, affected by rain and a starting time which is fairly early for T20s in the Caribbean, Guyana saw attendance from over 7000 patrons, ranging from the elderly to infants.

The boisterous and eager fans, however, were not the only ones who were happy about the match at

Providence and the atmosphere. India’s Captain, at a post-match press briefing, shared that he was elated about visiting the soonto-be-oil-laden land for the first time.

“It is pretty good; I hadn’t played here before, so I was pretty excited to see what the Stadium was like and how the atmosphere was going to be. I think there was a lot of people in the crowd here and everyone enjoyed themselves. We had a good day here as a team, so we’re very happy about coming here,” Kohli told media operatives.

Tuesday morning’s game was testament to the fact that Guyanese patrons will always show up once cricket is being played and that the love for the game which seems to be dwindling around the wider Region is in fact alive and well in the “Land of Many Waters”.

One can only hope that this acts as an eye opener for those who are responsible for the distribution of international games around the Caribbean region and that Guyana would be more often considered as the right venue for West Indies cricket.

District Sports Council’s 22nd Games…

Agnus Chess Institute to host another chess course President Granger delivers feature address Part of the proceedings at the recentlyconcluded chess camp

A demonstration of skill and training at the Upper Mazaruni Games (Photo

courtesy of the Ministry of the Presidency)

A

fter hosting a successful chess camp, the Agnus Chess Institute will be back at it again as it prepares to launch another beginner course at the American University of Peace Studies.

Registration dates for the classes are August 10 & 17 from 10:00h to 14:00h.

The course will commence on August 19 and continue for four days (20th, 21st, 26th and 28th) from 09:00h to 12:00h at a cost of $15,000.

The individual behind this initiative is Candidate Master (CM) Ronuel Greenidge, who has a 1728 rating, and proudly represented Guyana in the 41st

Chess Olympiad, where he snatched his CM title.

From there, Greenidge has continued to use his platform by training players.

He is the current chess coach for the University of Guyana and bagged a total of 11 medals at the University Games in Colombia. At the chess camp, some of the issues that would be covered are how the pieces move, tactics, opening, middle game strategy and concepts, endgame concepts and more.

In an invited comment, the Candidate Master said, “I believe in chess; I believe in my product; I believe chess should be offered to

everyone. People may want to know why I am offering yet another class, but it is my true belief that everyone should learn the game of chess. The institute has many aims: the first is to provide quality training to chess players of all levels.

The second aim is to identify chess talent that has the desire and drive to help them become a titled player – CM, FM, WCM, WFM, WIM. I’m still a competitive player with further aspirations and I have knowledge and experience that can be passed to my students.”

For more information, interested individuals can contact CM Greenidge on 630-6458 or 657-7543.

I

t was a day filled with lots of action as the Upper Mazaruni hosted its District Sports Council’s 22nd Annual Games held at Jawalla Village.

Present at the Games was President David Granger, who delivered the feature address to the village encouraging them to take advantage of the benefits of sports.

“I am happy to be here again; every time I come to Jawalla, Upper Mazaruni, I am always surprised. Today, I was very surprised to see the floodlights, the new buildings and to see your wonderful young people here. One of these days, I will return and I will feel as though I am here at Providence Stadium. Sport is very important to us in the Government; sport is a part of our culture, and here in the Upper Mazaruni, you have led the way in terms of Village Day and village organisation.

Sport is important for building self-confidence, sport is important for discipline, it is important for fostering leadership, for winning and losing sport is important to the hinterland. Our government is trying

to erase the difference between the hinterland and the coastal area,” the President said.

President Granger also congratulated the village on the show that it put on display. He stated that the day of sport was a momentous occasion as it illustrated the unity of the 16 villages coming together.

He went on to urge the villages to follow the four C’s – namely competition, cooperation, commitment and cohesion. The President told the athletes that sport was not about hatred but about the commitment of ideals and social cohesion, in terms of the relationship between the people.

In closing, the Head of State said, “Upper Mazaruni, your games are a model for the rest of the nation; this is not a political forum. But this is a national forum and Guyana is proud of you, wherever you are from. This is a model that I would like other districts and regions to emulate.

I am proud to be here and I congratulate you for the effort you have made in making these games possible for the last 22 years.”

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21

6th Edition Gregory Gaskin Memorial Sport Awards…

Hetmyer, Giddings, BCB cop major awards C

ricket in the Ancient County of Berbice is currently on the move owing to the outstanding work of the Hilbert Foster-led Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) and as such, it was no surprise that personnel from the game dominated the awards at the sixth Annual Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Award Ceremony.

West Indies players Shimron Hetmyer and Erva Giddings easily copped the Berbice Sportsman and Sportswoman of the Year Award while the vibrant BCB was named Sports Association by the panel of judges. The Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Awards was organised by the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC) with sponsorship from Sentinel Security Ltd. Club Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Foster stated the Awards started in 2014 as a tribute to the memory of the late Gregory Gaskin, former CEO of Cops Security Ltd. Gaskin was a strong believer in the use of sports as a safe avenue to keep youths off the streets. His sudden death following an accident involving his motorcycle left his family devastated. The main objectives of the Gregory Gaskin Memorial Berbice Sports Awards are to honour outstanding sports personnel in Berbice, to provide positive role models for youths

Sentinel Security Operations Manager Cedric Brown poses with the five awardees

to emulate, to promote the importance of sports and to preserve the memory of the late Gregory Gaskin.

Members of the general public were invited to submit nominations for the period January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2018. The eventual awardees were selected by a panel of judges headed by News Editor of the DTV-8, Gregory Rambarran.

Hetmyer was chosen based on his outstanding performances for Guyana and the West Indies along with the Guyana Amazon Warriors team.

Giddings easily copped the Sportswoman-of-the-Year Award, based on her outstanding performances for Berbice and Guyana with

her left-arm swing bowling and useful batting.

The choice of the BCB as the Sports Organisation for the year was a unanimous decision as its record of achievement was unmatched across Guyana.

The BCB in 2018 raised over $10 million to organise over 30 cricket tournaments and dozens of developmental programmes as well as assist its members with millions of dollars’ worth of items.

Berbice Volleyball Association President Levi Nedd won the Sports Personality-of-the-Year Award. Nedd has been an inspiration for the continued development of the game in the Ancient County. Additionally, he

served as Coach of the Port Mourant Training Centre volleyball team and the Guyana volleyball team.

Longtime Guyana Sugar Corporation (GuySuCo) groundsman Roger Mc Donald was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his long and dedicated service to the development of sports.

Mc Donald is highly respected for not only his dedication to his job at the historic Albion Ground but also his words of advice to youths involved in sports.

Meanwhile, Foster hailed the continued sponsorship of Sentinel Security and its CEO, Noreen Gaskin as a true friend of the RHTY&SC. Sentinel Operations

Manager Cedric Brown stated that the company was delighted to sponsor the Awards in memory of the late Gregory Gaskin.

He urged the five awardees to uphold their high standards and praised the work of the RHTY&SC, which he described as remarkable.

He committed the company to continuing its sponsorship in the future.

Each of the awardees received a framed Certificate of Excellence, a trophy, medal and special gift.

Hetmyer was unable to attend the ceremony due to West Indies duties while Nedd had work commitments. Hetmyer’s mother collected his Award, and Nedd was represented by his son.

RHTY&SC, Aurora Gold Mine assist 10 students with bicycles for school

“N

othing is important to the Rose Hall Town Youth and Sports Club (RHTY&SC), MS, than the promotion of education and sports to our youths. In my book, education is the number one goal that every human being should aim for.

Education and sports are two safe avenues that can transform a life from rags to riches, tears … and sleepless nights to unmatched happiness. As long as the RHTY&SC exists, we would promote the importance of education and sports as our number one priority.”

Those were the words of longtime Secretary/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the RHTY&SC, Hilbert Foster at a simple presentation ceremony as the Club handed out 10 bicycles to schoolchildren on Friday last at the St Francis Training Centre in Rose Hall Town, Berbice.

The donation was made possible with the financial support of one of the RHTY&SC official donors, Aurora Gold Mine.

The company, a section of the Canada-based Guyana

The 10 youths pose with their new bicycles, compliments of the RHTY&SC and Aurora

Goldfields Inc, had earlier in July donated $500, 000 to the RHTY&SC. The donation will be used by Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation to donate the bicycles, print thousands of anti-suicide educational posters and to host a youth inspirational forum for hundreds of students in September 2019.

Seven of the students receiving the bicycles were specially select-

ed by the cricket teams of the RHTY&SC, while the remaining three were drawn from the Blairmont, Chesney and Number 19 Kendall’s Union Cricket Clubs.

Foster disclosed that the RHTY&SC Club and its 10 cricket teams in 2019 have already donated close to $1 million worth of bicycles to students under its Say Yes to Education Campaign.

The main objective is to as-

sist less fortunate students to attend school at no cost to their parents and to also assist those who are involved in sports to attend practice in the afternoons. Foster cautioned the students and their parents that the cycles should not be used for the purchase of items like alcohol and tobacco.

Special thanks were extended to Aurora Gold Mine and its staff especially Peter Benny, Miranda La

Rose, and Dilon Brathwaite for their support in making the donations of bicycles possible. With the rainy season affecting the restart of the 2019 cricket season in Berbice, the RHTY&SC and its cricket teams are pushing ahead with the promotion of the highly-successful Say No/Say Yes Campaign.

Under the Campaign, the teams urge youths to say no to drugs, crime, suicide, alcohol, and tobacco and yes to education, culture, religion, sports, and life. They have already distributed close to $5 million worth of bicycles, school bags, cricket gear, trophies, medals, cricket balls, educational materials, and score books among other items to youths; schools; Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs); churches and sporting organisations in Berbice.

The RHTY&SC has also printed another edition of its Youth Information Booklet and is currently working with the Berbice Cricket Board (BCB) to publish the first-ever information booklet for youth cricketers in Guyana.

22 5 outstanding Berbicians honoured as RHTY&SC, hosts 6th Annual ANSA McAL Award of Excellence F wednesday, august 7, 2019

ive outstanding Berbicians with a combined 140 years of service to the development of Guyana were honoured on Friday last when the 10 cricket teams of the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club (RHTY&SC) hosted the sixth edition of the ANSA McAL Award of Excellence.

Those honoured were Maureen Bynoe as “Educator”, Ravindranauth Kissoonlall for “Community Development”, Patricia Tyndall-Park for “Health”, Michael De Souza for “Sports’ and Shondelle Phillips for “Culture”.

RHTYSC Secretary/ CEO Hilbert Foster stated that the ANSA McAL Award of Excellence was the second highest award of Guyana’s leading youth and sports club after its Dolphin Award of Excellence. The veteran youth leader spoke of the need to honour heroes in their lifetime as it was important for them to know that they are appreciated and special.

The main objectives of the Award are to identify and honour heroes in

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Four of the awardees, along with the representative of Michael De Souza, pose with ANSA McAL Berbice Manager Mark Bhikhai

Berbice, to present role models for youths to emulate and to promote the importance of service to Guyana. The Awardees each year are selected by a panel of experienced judges headed by veteran television news editor Gregory Rambarran based on the recommendations of members.

Special emphasis was placed on the nominated person’s commitment

to Guyana, personal discipline, length of professional service, and role model status to youths.

Foster stated that one of the RHTY&SC main objectives is to make sure that no hero in Berbice goes unrecognised as Guyana has a well-known tradition of letting outstanding individuals feel unappreciated.

Bynoe, a University of Guyana lecturer at the Tain Campus, has had an

Windies A bowlers impressive on Day 1 of 3rd unofficial Test

T

he West Indies A finished in a commanding position on the first day of the third and final unofficial Test at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, as they searched for a consolation win, with India A leading the series 2-0.

Winning the toss, the Windies opted to bowl under sunny conditions. India A openers Mayank Argawal and Abhimanyu Easwaran had their partnership broken when the latter was sent back to the pavilion for a 17-ball duck in the 7th over off Miguel Cummings.

From there, Argawal was partnered with Mayank Panchal. The opener raced into the 30s with classy strokeplay but spinner Akim Fraser stopped him for a well-played 33.

Fraser, playing in his first match of the series, removed Shubman Gill for a first-ball duck, the very next ball. Two overs later, he removed Panchal for 11 to bring two fresh faces to the crease.

With Hanuma Vihari and Wriddhiman Saha at the crease, India A were in the rebuilding phase as the two put together a 50run partnership. Saha, the aggressor, frustrated the Windies bowlers forcing them to making multiple changes.

Saha made no mistakes as he deposited the bowlers to every part of the ground; however, he fell to Yannic Cariah for 62 after facing 65 deliveries. India were

outstanding career as an educator. She has assisted in moulding minds of thousands of youths who have gone on to serve Guyana at several levels. TyndallPark is a dedicated and highly professional nurse at the Port Mourant Hospital.

Doctor in Charge, Dr Devindra Rahday recommended her to the Awards Committee based on her high standard of work in serving the sick over a long

period. De Souza currently serves as the Secretary (ag) of the Berbice Football Association and, over three decades, has dedicated himself to promoting sports to youths especially in the Upper Corentyne area. Phillips, an educator with three decades’ experience, was recognised for her dedication to the promotion of culture in the Ancient County.

A former Deputy Headmistress

of the New Amsterdam Secondary School now attached at the Vrymen’s Erven Secondary, Phillips is credited with educating thousands of students on the strong cultural history of Guyana and the promotion of traditional activities for the six races of Guyana.

Kissoonlall is a founding member of the RHTY&SC and has played a major role in transforming the Club from its humble birth into Guyana’s best. He currently serves as the Organising Secretary and Head of its successful cricket department. Kissoonlall has been actively involved in thousands of activities of the Club and is widely respected for being one of the cornerstones of the success over the last 29 years. Each of the awardees received a framed Certificate of Excellence, trophy, medal and a special gift. Regional Manager for Berbice, Mark Bhikhai praised the outstanding work of the RHTY&SC and stated that ANSA McAL was pleased to be associated with the honouring of outstanding Berbicians.

13th Junior Caribbean Cycling Championships…

11 nations confirm participation S

Wriddhiman Saha top-scored with an aggressive 62

134-5.

This then brought the in-form all-rounder Shivam Dube, who averages 77 in the series. The pair continued to play their shots taking advantage of Cariah’s leg spin. In the end, Vihari brought up yet another half-century as he continued making light work of a weak Windies bowling unit.

Nevertheless, the Windies pressed on and tried every bowling combination, which resulted in Cariah picking up Dube for 26. The score ticked to 1886.

With Krishnappa Gowtham at the crease, the Windies stood a chance at bowling India out and denying Vihari his century.

The tail enders stood no chance as Chemar

Holder added his name to the wickets tally removing Gowtham, Vihari (55) and Umesh Yadav in quick succession, while Raymond Reifer picked up the last wicket of Shabaz Nadeem with the score on 201.

The Windies were led by Holder’s 3-47 and Fraser’s 3-53 while Cariah bagged 2-45, Cummings claimed 1-22 and Reifer snagged 1-32.

Sent in to bat, the Windies opening pair of Jeremy Solozano and Montcin Hodge occupied the crease and played cautiously until Hodge was removed for 15 by Gowtham.

Windies A are overnight on 23-1, trailing by 178 runs.

Remaining at the crease was night watchman Akim Fraser and Solozano.

ome 11 countries have confirmed that they are heading to Guyana later this week to participate in the 13th edition of the Junior Caribbean Cycling Championships, which will be taking place in the green town of Bartica.

On Tuesday, Mayor of Bartica, Gifford Marshall and President of the Guyana Cycling Federation (GCF), Horace Burrows met in Bartica to further finetune plans ahead of what is anticipated to be an exciting championship with the future of the Caribbean on show.

Bermuda, Barbados and St Martin were among the first to send the list of their riders for the championship; eight more nations have emulated them – Suriname, Aruba, Anguilla, Puerto Rico, Cayman Islands, Trinidad and Tobago, the Bahamas and Grenada.

The first set of nations are expected to touch down here today; the twin-island Republic of Trinidad and Tobago, Anguilla, Bermuda and Suriname, the latter coming over land.

Burrowes, in an invited comment, stated that despite many hurdles, the GCF in association with the Mayor and Town Council are pulling out all the stops to ensure that the champi-

Anguilla’s Deanthony Niles (left) and Cailan Fleming

onships are a success.

The time trials would be contested on Saturday while the road race will take centre stage on Sunday. So far, close to 50 cyclists in the juvenile and junior categories, both

male and female, will be aiming to outpedal each other, this weekend.

A few more nations were expected to submit their travel itineraries by Tuesday evening to the GCF.

23

guyanatimesgy.com

wednesday, august 7, 2019

Kohli and Pant condemn Windies to series whitewash

By Brandon Corlette

I

t was one of the greatest spectacles at the Providence National Stadium when Virat Kohli and his Indian team graced their presence. India did not disappoint the Guyanese supporters as they registered a clinical seven-wicket win against West Indies in the third and final T20 International, to claim the series 3-0; this is now West Indies’ sixth consecutive loss in T20Is. Rishabh Pant and Kohli displayed their elegance and class scoring a 106-run partnership to complete the chase of 147 with great ease. India replied to West Indies’ 146-6 in 20 overs with 150-3 in 19.1 overs.

Kohli scored a classy 59, which was his 21st half-century at T20 International, the most by any batsman (joint with Rohit) while Pant sealed the match with a six, ending his unbeaten innings on 65.

Earlier, it was after one hour 14 minutes rain delay from scheduled time, which saw India and West Indies historic clash at the Providence Guyana got underway. The visitors won the toss and elected to field first as brilliant sunshine came upon Providence, after the early morning showers.

On a heavy outfield West Indies openers in Evin Lewis and Sunil Narine continued their poor series; Narine found the fielder and was out caught for two while Lewis, trapped at the crease, scored a promising 10 before Deepak Chahar accounted for both openers.

Chahar continued to move the ball off the seam and further accounted for local star, Shimron Hetmyer who was also trapped in front for one. At the end of the power play, West Indies were 22-3; Nicholas Pooran and Kieron Pollard added 66 runs together to revive West Indies after the early collapse.

Pooran struggled in his innings of 17 from 23 balls but Pollard dominated smashing straight sixes to excite the Guyanese and India’s supporters. After Pollard fell for a brilliant 58 from 45 balls, including six sixes and one four, Rovman Powell took up the mantle.

Powell, fresh from a half-century in Florida, scored an unbeaten 32 to ensure West Indies finished on a par total of 1466 in their allotted 20 overs.

Deepak Chahar, playing his first match of the series registered the best T20 figures for an Indian against West Indies, when he claimed 3-4 in three marvellous overs.

In India’s chase, they lost Shikar Dhawan ear-

ly for three, when he pedalled one to the short leg fielder off the fiery Oshane Thomas. KL Rahul playing at his technically correct best, played some delightful shots but he fell for 20 with Pooran sharp gloves work off Fabian Allen. At 27-2, it was all India, Kohli and Pant had come to the party to bat West Indies out of the game.

Kohli displayed his ray of cover drives a n d square drives while Pant, at his aggressive best use innovation at its best, taking the Caribbean bowlers to the cleaners.

The dynamic did exactly that but Kohli got the job done but guided one to backward point and was out for 59 from 45 balls which was decorated with six boundaries. Pant remained to the end and scored an unbeaten 65 from 42 balls, including four sixes and four boundaries.

Thomas was the small spark in the bowling department with 2-29 in his quota of four overs. Deepak Chahar was awarded player of the match while Krunal Pandya was the player of the T20 series. After the match, the Indian Captain Kohli, addressed the excited local media, where he expressed positive sentiments on his team’s performance and how good the conditions were in Guyana.

“This was a good team day and the pitch was a good one to bat on” Kohli dis-

3

closed.

He further added that at the international level, you need to tackle pressure differently and play yourself into the whole set-up. He has come a long way since he started. If he plays like this more regularly, we will see his potential shine for India.

Kohli was equally effusive in his praise for Deepak Chahar and his ability to swing the new ball, a hallmark of his game that MS Dhoni and Stephen Fleming have harnessed well at Chennai Super Kings over the last two years.

West Indies and India will now shift their focus on the One Day International at the same venue on Thursday August 8. Kohli stated that it is important for the players to get rest in these challenging conditions, since the 50 overs will be a longer game.

Virat Kohli during his classy innings at Providence

Concacaf U15 Championship

Guyana school Bahamas 5-1

The Guyana Under 15 team

SCOREBOARD

West Indies Innings (20 overs maximum) E Lewis lbw b DL Chahar......10 SP Narine c Saini b DL Chahar.......................... 2 SO Hetmyer lbw b DL Chahar.......................... 1 KA Pollard b Saini................58 N Pooran † c †Pant b Saini...17 R Powell not out...................32 CR Brathwaite (c) c Sundar b RD Chahar.........................10 FA Allen not out....................8 Extras (lb 4, w 4).................. 8 TOTAL (20 Overs, RR: 7.3).........................146-6 Did not bat: KMA Paul, SS Cottrell, O Thomas Fall of wickets: 1-4 (Sunil Narine, 1.5 ov), 2-13 (Evin Lewis, 3.1 ov), 3-14 (Shimron Hetmyer, 3.5 ov), 4-80 (Nicholas Pooran, 13.1 ov), 5-105 (Kieron Pollard, 15.4 ov), 6-119 (Carlos Brathwaite, 17.2 ov) BOWLING B Kumar (3-0-19-0) DL Chahar (3-1-4-3) NA Saini (4-0-34-2) RD Chahar (3-0-27-1)

W Sundar (3-0-23-0) KH Pandya (4-0-35-0) India Innings (target: 147 runs from 20 overs) KL Rahul c †Pooran b Allen................................20 S Dhawan c Cottrell b Thomas..............................3 V Kohli (c) c Lewis b Thomas............................59 RR Pant † not out.................65 MK Pandey not out...............2 Extras (w 1) 1 TOTAL (19.1 Overs, RR: 7.82).......................150-3 Did to bat: KH Pandya, DL Chahar, Washington Sundar, B Kumar, RD Chahar, NA Saini Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Shikhar Dhawan, 1.6 ov), 2-27 (KL Rahul, 4.4 ov), 3-133 (Virat Kohli, 17.3 ov) BOWLING SS Cottrell (4-0-26-0) O Thomas (4-0-29-2) FA Allen (3-0-18-1) SP Narine (4-0-29-0) CR Brathwaite (2.1-0-25-0) KMA Paul (2-0-23-0)

By Jemima Holmes

G

uyana’s Junior Jaguars roared in their second game of the Concacaf Under-15 Championships, pummeling Bahamas 5-1. The Under 15 squad was impressive all round on Tuesday at the IMG Academy, Florida, following a drubbing at the hands of Nicaragua 3-0 on Monday.

In Guyana’s Group E encounter, the starting eleven read: Shavid Hernandez, Devon Padmore, Zakeel Flatts, Romel Medas, Brandon Solomon, Samuel Garnett, Rajan Ramdeholl (C), Kevin Mullin, Antwone Vasconcellos, Colin Henriques and Marcus Tudor. Thereafter, it took a collective effort from the young men with 5 players finding the back of the net.

Antwone Vasconcellos opened Guyana’s bid in the 7th minute when he beat the Bahamian goalkeeper to the net. However, Guyana was made to panic for a mo-

ment when Bahamas’ Jordin Wilson found the back of the net in the 8th for the equalizer.

Four minutes later, a superb header by Brandon Solomon pushed the score to 2-0, in Guyana’s favour.

It was at this moment that Guyana got their momentum going and simultaneously held up their defenses and attack. Colin Henriques was the next payer to add his name to the score sheets in the 20th and a successfully connected penalty by Kevin Mullin in the 42nd, ensured that Guyana would go into the half with a 4-1 lead.

While the Under 15 Boys’ did not net as much goals in the second, they can be commended for holding up a solid defense, thus preventing Bahamas from scoring again. Daniel Lowe netted Guyana’s 5th goal by way of penalty in the 51st for the 5-1 win.

In the other Group E encounter, Cayman Islands and Nicaragua played to a 0-0 stalemate.

Reflecting on Guyana’s stellar performance, Head Coach Bryan Joseph revealed that the team went back to the drawing board in order to improve on their first performance.

“Coming off the back of the loss yesterday, we sat with the boys and talked about the things that we didn’t do, the lack of execution, our playing style and philosophy and we came to an agree that as much as we could we would try to implement our style of play for the game against the Bahamas,” Joseph disclosed.

He went on to share his belief that the game was a relaxed one and the team is ready for their next encounter against Cayman Islands on August 8 (tomorrow).

“We’re not fooling ourselves into believing that it was all our doing. I believe that the opposition really didn’t press us a lot in the game so we were able to play at a very casual level and that is good going into our third game”.

wednesday, august 7, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

Kohli and Pant condemn Windies to series whitewash Page 23

Kieron Pollard scored a brilliant half-century, which included six maximums

Deepak Chahar successfully appealed against Shimron Hetmyer (Dexter Ceres photos)

Page 20

Windies A bowlers impressive on Day 1 of 3rd unofficial Test Page 22

Record turnout for India’s 1st Guyanese game in 17 years West Indies had their fair share of supporters in maroon

Chemar Holder bagged 3-47

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