Guyana Times, Friday, June 28, 2019

15 graduate from RBL’s Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme

P16 Nationwide coverage from the best news team in Guyana

THE BEACON OF TRUTH

Govt hands out huge tracts of State lands guyanatimesgy.com

Issue No. 3968

friday, june 28, 2019

PRICE

$80 vat included

WHAT'S INSIDE:

Tax treaties being reviewed to ensure Guyana benefits P13 – Statia

Essequibo P8 man charged for $2M embezzlement Page 3

...Govt, SARA & GECOM officials among beneficiaries

Page 9 Infrastructure Boy, 14, stabbed to death by peerPage in planning key in oil preparation – US 10 Matthews Ridge energy consultant …suspect arrested, confessed to murder

Opposition Leader open to nominating foreigner for GECOM Chair Page 7

...still no date from Granger for meeting

Training is fundamental to military service – P12 President

P8 Matters dismissed against national footballer

Over 11,000 persons P14 living with disabilities in Guyana

2

FRIday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

news

3

FRIday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

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

The Berbice Bridge will be closed to vehicular traffic on:

Friday, June 28 –13:10h-14:40h and Saturday, June 29 – 14:10h-15:40h.

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

WEATHER TODAY Cloudy skies in the early morning will be followed by thundery to light rain showers for the rest of the day into the evening.

Temperatures should range between 22 degrees Celsius and 30 degrees Celsius.

Winds: East South-easterly to East Northeasterly between 1.78 metres and 3.57 metres.

High Tide: 13:09h reaching a maximum height of 2.31 metres.

Low Tide: 06:40h and 19:02h reaching minimum heights of 0.88 metre and 0.89 metre.

wednesday, JUNE 26, 2019

LOTTERY NUMBERS 03

05

11

18

19

23

FREE TICKET

20 Bonus Ball

DAILY MILLIONS

01

06

16 23

26

9

7

LUCKY 3

9

5

Afternoon Draw

1

6

Evening Draw

DRAW DE LINE

03

09

10

12

PAY DAY

02 07 10 11 13

14

16

...Govt, SARA & GECOM officials among beneficiaries

O

Friday, June 28 – 01:00h and 14:30h-16:00h and Saturday, June 29 – 02:00h and 14:30h-16:00h.

E

Govt hands out huge tracts of State lands

21 SUPER PAY DAY

03 10 14 15 16

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

pposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo is calling on President David Granger to answer for a massive distribution of prime state lands to employees of the Ministry of the Presidency as well as to cronies in the PNC-led A Partnership for National Unity (APNU) fraction of the coalition Government and officials of the States Assets Recovery Agency (SARA), which were supposed to recover state assets.

The lands were all strategically located to massively benefit the beneficiaries from the coming oil boom.

Speaking at his weekly press conference on Thursday, Jagdeo revealed that leases of mammoth plots of prime real estate were issued by the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission (GL&SC) after the December passage of the Opposition-sponsored No-Confidence Motion that caused the Government to fall.

One such person benefiting from these giveaways is the Head of the Project Management Office (PMO) at the Ministry of the Presidency, Marlon Bristol, whom Jagdeo said got one acre of land at Mocha, East Bank Demerara, in February 2019 and another 12 acres in Linden in June 2019.

Pointing to a map of the issued land, the Opposition Leader explained that the land in Linden is in an area known as Dalalwala – which was the proposed site to build the industrial estate for Linden and the potential site for a deep-water facility.

“So (Bristol) got 12.6 acres there in the prime area of Dalalwala, where a potential deep-water facility or shore base facility, very lucrative shore base facility, could go,” he noted, adding that if sold, those lands would carry massive sums of money because of the oil companies’ interest in such locations.

Jagdeo further revealed that in February this year, Bristol also got another 80 acres at Bohemia in Berbice, on shore from where the much touted deep-water harbour project was earmarked to be constructed and other lucrative shore base facilities could be located.

Additionally, the Opposition Leader disclosed that the husband of a staff within the Department of Environment at the Ministry of the Presidency, Charles Ceres, received, along with others, some 1,297.1 acres in the Canje Creek last year and then recently another 112 acres at Bohemia, the same deep-water harbour location in Berbice.

He added that there

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo pointing to one of the areas that were allegedly handed out to a staff of the Ministry of the Presidency

were two other sets of land issued to this person, including 5000 acres at an unknown location, and another set of land at Liliendaal, Greater Georgetown.

Furthermore, Jagdeo highlighted that a senior official of SARA allegedly cashed in on the land grab with 10 acres on File No. 411412/522B and another acre in Mocha, recently issued as well.

Another beneficiary Jagdeo named was advisor to SARA, Eric Phillips, who had denied back in February that he ever applied for, or received any, 3000 acres of lands as being claimed.

But on Thursday, the Opposition Leader pointed to File No. 321132/1604 which showed 1000 acres in the Essequibo River was issued to Phillips in April 2019 and File No. 3312317 for another 1000 acres in the Demerara River.

“So we’ve established already that three agencies – Department of Environment, PMO and

SARA – all reporting to the President… had been beneficiaries to large tracts of land in strategic locations in the last few months alone… Consistent with the theme, and you would see it, everywhere that there is strategic locations now for the possibility of shore based facilities, etc., there is a mad rush to give out the lands,” he asserted.

In fact, Jagdeo further noted that at the Best Foreshore, West Coast Demerara, some 50 acres was given away as well as another 20 acres, each in the Demerara River.

“So, we have now given out 40 acres in the Demerara River itself that is from the Harbour Bridge almost all the way to the mouth of the River on the western bank of the river,” he noted.

These giveaways were all linked to Shawn Hopkinson and are reflected in File No. 332232/3 for Schoonoord Foreshore, No. 3322421/3 for Goed Fortuin, and No. 332231/30 for Best

Foreshore.

One name, according to the Opposition Leader, that keeps popping up in these giveaways is the company Great Wall Incorporated, which links to Saratu Phillips, who attended the surveys for all three allocations on behalf of the two companies awarded these acres.

Saratu Phillips was involved in the controversial Parking Meter Project and is also among the principals in the company Gold Bar Development and Consultant Inc., which was granted license to export gold last year.

Last year, Natural Resources Minister Raphael Trotman had told the National Assembly that Gold Bar Development and Consultant Inc., which is headed by Shawn Hopkinson, Maurice Hopkinson and Saratu Phillips, is the newest licensed dealer having been granted a license. turn to page 9

4

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIday, JUNE 28, 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

World Refugee Day

T

he United Nations’ Refugee Agency launched the #WithRefugees petition, in June 2016, to appeal to governments to help refugees as best they could.

World Refugee Day is commemorated every year on June 20, which is a day identified to bring awareness of the crisis facing millions, including women and children, across the globe as warlords pursue their various destructive agenda to decimate their enemies, inevitably and invariably with terrible consequences for the social fabric that protects and promotes the wellbeing of mankind.

On December 4, 2000, the United Nations General Assembly, in Resolution 55/76 decided that, from 2001, June 20 would be celebrated as World Refugee Day. In this resolution, the General Assembly noted that 2001 marked the 50th anniversary of the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees.

African Refugee Day had been formally celebrated in several countries prior to 2000. The UN noted that the Organisation of African Unity (OAU) had agreed to have International Refugee Day coincide with Africa Refugee Day on June 20.

In the Roman Catholic Church, the World Day of Migrants and Refugees is celebrated in January each year, having been instituted in 1914 by Pope Pius X. Displaced peoples around the world are trekking on long and dangerous journeys, seeking sanctuary from their own war-torn home countries. Oftentimes the gruelling journeys take tolls that ensue in the loss of family members, rape and sexual molestation of the vulnerable – children, women, and even men. Many times refugees are robbed of their sparse belonging by other migrants.

The refugee situation has assumed crisis proportions and host countries are overwhelmed, with overburdened social services and economies that are in regression because of the influx of a parallel population that is a constant drain on overburdened taxpayers. The cultural differences are also straining relations between even the most liberal nations and their migrant population, which is currently becoming renowned for what some describe as being parasitic and problematic, causing severe dislocations to the cultural and general wellbeing to legitimate citizens of host countries.

Women and children in some locales are complaining of sexual abuse, men and the elderly are being attacked in their own home territories; then there are the terror attacks, which justify, perhaps, the fear and the negative reaction of citizens to any kind of invasion of their homeland by migrant from other countries.

It is being rightly said that most of the refugee groups comprise of young, able-bodies men who should stay in their homelands to fight against their oppressors so that their families could return to familiar homes and cultures.

US President Donald Trump rode into the White House on a promise to his constituents that he would minimise the radical individuals and terror groupings; as well as migrants with a criminal history.

Some countries are banning refugees for fear of murderous radicals infusing the groupings of genuine refugees who merely want a safe haven for themselves and families.

Displaced by famine, war, and/or oppression, by the end of 2016, more than 65 million people worldwide were forced to leave their homes due to conflict and persecution, data published by the UN Refugee Agency reveals. That’s an average of 28,300 people per day, almost 20 people every minute.

The plight of the refugee is caused by their own leaders, power-drunk, corrupt despots who have no compassion or human tendencies to mercy and these are the ones who should be made to flee into exile, not allowed to create a wave of people fleeing from their own homelands into often alien and contentious situations in host states.

The Chernivtsi University in Ukraine. Ukraine has several universities like this, making it a top destination for educational tours in Europe (Ukraine Invites)

What things cost when your country has 10,000,000% inflation

H

yperinflation has seen prices for everyday items soar in Venezuela and it is now predicted to get so bad people are choosing to abandon their own currency entirely.

Interest rates in the crisis-crippled country are projected to reach 10 million per cent this year and people are choosing to use black market US dollars to pay for essentials in desperate attempts to protect their life savings.

The South American country’s Government has already taken drastic reform measures to resurrect its embattled economy, including a new currency that chopped five zeros off notes, changes to petrol prices and minimum-wage reform. But despite these efforts an increasing number of signs are appearing in shop windows across Venezuela’s capital Caracas displaying prices in American currency.

Groceries, clothes, hair cuts and petrol are going on sale in dollars instead of the currency of bolivares soberanos in the hope the economy will one day return to functioning levels.

Today, one US dollar is worth 6359 bolivares according to the Venezuela Central Bank.

But with strict restrictions officially in place over where people can buy their dollars, most

Every day, more Venezuelans use American dollars to buy groceries, pay for hair cuts or fill fuel tanks (Copyright: Getty)

are pushed into using the black market, where exchange rates are higher. The Government currently sells dollars for around 62 bolivares, while the black market rate is around 90. After the International Monetary Fund (IMF) forecast a 10 million per cent inflation rate for 2019, many fear the situation will only get worse. (metro.co.uk)

US slaps sanctions on 2 former Venezuelan officials

An ex-Venezuelan Electricity Minister and another former official at the country’s Electricity Ministry on Thursday were placed under US sanctions for corruption and charged separately for their respective roles in an alleged bribery scheme, US officials said.

The US Treasury Department’s Office of

Foreign Assets Control said it designated Luis Motta, who was sacked

by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro as Electricity Minister in April after a series of blackouts, and Eustiquio Jose Lugo Gomez, a former Deputy Minister of Finance at the Electricity Ministry.

“Rather than use their official positions to serve the Venezuelan people, Motta and Lugo illegally enriched themselves and contributed to the electricity crisis,” the agency said in a statement.

The decision means any property they may hold in the United States is blocked and US persons are prohibited from any financial dealings with them.

The US has blacklisted more than 150 Venezuelan officials and businesses

over the past decade, citing reasons that ranged from alleged participation in drug trafficking to corruption and human rights abuses.

The US Justice Department said in a statement that Motta and Lugo were charged in the Southern District of Florida on Thursday with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and seven counts of money laundering.

According to the indictment, the two awarded three Florida-based companies more than US$60 million in procurement contracts in exchange for bribes, the statement said.

Two businessmen – one based in Venezuela and the other in Miami – had pleaded guilty in connection with the bribery scheme on Monday, it said. (Reuters)

guyanatimesgy.com

FRIday, JUNE 28, 2019

5

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

CCJ’s instructions defied and authority undermined Dear Editor, Failure to carry out the directives of the CCJ undermines the authority and legitimacy of the court. While not agreeing with the court’s decision or ruling, one should not attack the court.

It should be recalled that a year ago, the court ruled that a President cannot run for a third term. The court was not attacked; the ruling was respected. Now the court has ruled that a no constitution

vote is valid and was successfully passed on December 21.

The ruling should be respected. No disputants in the case should attack the court or stand defiant as such behavior hurt’s the court’s status.

After ruling on June 18 that the government had fallen on December 21 and the appointment of James Patterson as Chair was unconstitutional, the court directed the parties to meet and reach a consensus on or-

ders for the court to issue on June 24. The parties could not even meet much less discuss and reach any consensus on a way forward. Now the court will issue orders after asking the parties to make written submission on a way forward. As the highest court of Guyana, while the CCJ is empowered to effect judicial orders, the problem is it has no instruments or any infrastructure to enforce these orders. Those

who are obstinate could have serious sanctions, even arrest.

The remit of the court is to interpret the laws (constitution) and hand down rulings. It is for the government to enforce the laws through its police power. While the government stated that it respects the court’s rulings, it cannot prepare budget or engage in new undertakings.

The court ruled that the chairman, James Patterson,

Questions that GECOM, SC Marcus must answer Dear Editor, Guyana is awaiting clear and definitive directions, so that there can be no ambiguity, as it relates to elections 2019. I am sure that I am not the only Guyanese that was utterly confused, perplexed and flummoxed at the utterings of Senior Counsel Stanley Marcus on June 24, 2019, during the hearing of the consequential orders at the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) in relations to the challenges to the NoConfidence Motion (NCM) and the case challenging the unilateral appointment of the Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM).

The Christmas gift that GECOM plans to offer the people of Guyana is a voters’ list. Editor, there is need for some explanation here.

Maybe GECOM or Mr Marcus can provide answers to the following questions: 1. Since the decision to retain Mr Marcus as counsel for GECOM was not made at a duly constituted statutory meeting, who retained him and who gave him the directions that he so empathically and forcefully stated

to the Justices of the CCJ on Monday last?

2. GECOM has a legal counsel in its employ, Excellence Dazzell, whose legal opinion is in the public domain. That opinion clearly states, with references to specific and relevant sections of the law, that there is absolutely no need for Houseto-House registration, but rather, a review and update of last valid voters’ list. This position, by way of documentation, is also known by all GECOM Commissioners.

This begs the question: is Mr Marcus the lawyer for GECOM or the Governmentnominated Commissioner of GECOM? 3. Is it coincidental that GECOM’s position at the CCJ is almost identical to the Government’s position, as well as the positions of the few APNU/AFC supporters who were protesting GECOM on Friday, June 22, 2019, calling for House-toHouse registration?

4. Official correspondence to the President from GECOM stated that elections was possible by November 2019. When did this position change? When was the

change from November 2019 to December 25 made? If a list would be ready by then, when would GECOM be actually ready to conduct elections if affirmative action is not taken?

5. Furthermore, I am sure all Guyanese are wondering how much it cost taxpayers to retain Mr Marcus.

Editor, it is my humble view that once good faith prevails and all our honourable men and women rise to the challenge, elections can be held within 90 days. The President needs to, by proclamation, name a date for elections and dissolve the Parliament. Everything else would fall into play.

What is required is a brief period of claims and objections to allow for additions and removals of those who ought to be on the list and those who ought not to be on the list. The current list, which validly expired April 30, 2019, should be deemed the preliminary list of electors and a process, which allows for intense vetting by all political parties and even civil society groups, should commence immediately.

This revised and updated

list will be the Official List of Electors. It is my considered opinion that all of the above can be executed within a 30 days period or maybe six weeks maximum.

Nomination day is at least 32 days before Election Day, in accordance with the law. During this period, training of elections day staff and procurement of material necessary to conduct the elections can be done simultaneously. It was done before.

Measures to strengthen scrutiny on elections day, to ensure that only eligible voters participate, can be discussed and agreed upon.

A rigorous and well rolled out public relations campaign on voters education from GECOM should follow.

GECOM has the staff, the budget, and the institutional capacity to facilitate the same.

Credible, free and fair elections is contemplated in our Constitution to be delivered within 90 days.

Sincerely, Bishop Juan A Edghill, PPP/C MP

of the elections commission (Gecom) was improperly appointed. His resignation is welcomed. But it should have happened within hours after the court’s ruling and not a week later after a complaint was lodged with the court.

The court instructed the opposing parties to meet and try to reach a consensus on consequential orders for the appointment of a new Gecom Chair and a date for elections and to advise the court of their agreement on June 24. President Granger wrote the opposition leader Bharrat Jagdeo inviting him for a discussion on the issues but only after the 24th.

Thus, there was no way for a consensus agreement by the time the court convened on June 24. Mr. Doug Mendez,

the opposition lawyer, said he penned a proposal for an order and sent to Gecom lawyer on June 21 but got not response.

The court has re-directed the opposing sides to submit written proposals for consequential orders by July 1 and will issue orders on July 12. The court also instructs them to meet and reach a consensus on a way forward

by July 12.I urge both sides to please meet and carry out the instruction of the court – reach a consensus on appointment of a Gecom Chair and a date for elections to help bring stability to the country.

Yours truly, Dr Vishnu Bisram

6

FRIday, JUNE 28, 2019

Page

Foundation

I

feel and look worse) and follow any label directions about allergy testing.

Some people do find that they notice their breakouts get more severe when they eat too much of a certain food. If you’re one of them, it’s worth trying to cut back on that food to see what happens.

f you’re a teen, chances are pretty good that you have some acne. Almost 8 in 10 teens have acne, as do many adults.

Acne is so common that it’s considered a normal part of puberty. But knowing that doesn’t always make it easier when you’re looking at a big pimple on your face in the mirror. So what is acne, and what can you do about it?

a pus-filled top from the body’s reaction to the bacterial infection).

Clogged pores that open up very deep in the skin can cause nodules, which are infected lumps or cysts that are bigger than pimples and can be painful. Occasionally, large cysts that seem like acne may be boils caused by a staph infection.

What is acne and what causes it?

Acne is a condition of the skin that shows up as different types of bumps. These bumps can be blackheads, whiteheads, pimples, or cysts. Teens get acne because of the hormonal changes that come with puberty. If your parents had acne as teens, it’s more likely that you will, too. The good news is that, for most people, acne goes away almost completely by the time they are out of their teens.

The type of acne that a lot of teens get is called acne vulgaris (the meaning of “vulgaris” isn’t as bad as it sounds – it means “of the common type”). It usually shows up on the face, neck, shoulders, upper back, and chest.

The hair follicles, or pores, in your skin contain sebaceous glands (also called oil glands). These glands make sebum, which is an oil that lubricates your hair and skin. Most of the time, the sebaceous glands make the right amount of sebum. As the body begins to mature and develop, though, hormones stimulate the sebaceous glands to make more sebum.

Pores become clogged if there is too much sebum and too many dead skin cells.

Bacteria (especially one called Propionibacterium acnes) can then get trapped inside the pores and multiply. This causes swelling and redness — the start of acne.

If a pore gets clogged up and closes but bulges out from the skin, you’re left with a whitehead. If a pore gets clogged up but stays open, the top surface can darken and you’re left with a blackhead. Sometimes the wall of the pore opens, allowing sebum, bacteria, and dead skin cells to make their way under the skin — and you’re left with a small, red bump called a pimple (sometimes pimples have

What can I do about acne?

To help prevent the oil buildup that can contribute to acne, wash your face once or twice a day with a mild soap and warm water. Don’t scrub your face hard with a washcloth – acne can’t be scrubbed away, and scrubbing may actually make it worse by irritating the skin and pores.

Try cleansing your face as gently as you can.

If you wear makeup or sunscreen, make sure it’s labelled “non-comedogenic” or “nonacnegenic”.

This means it won’t clog your pores and contribute to acne. And when you’re washing your face, be sure you take the time to remove all of your makeup so it doesn’t clog your pores.

Acne isn’t really helped by the sun. Although a tan can temporarily make acne look less severe, it won’t help it go away permanently – and some people find that the oils their skin produces after being in the sun make their pimples worse.

If you use hair sprays or gels, try to keep them away from your face, as they also can clog pores. If you have long hair that touches your face, be sure to wash it often enough to keep oil away. And if you have an after-school job that puts you in contact with oil – like in a fast-food restaurant or gas station, for example – be sure to wash your face well when you get home. It also can help to wash your face after you’ve been exercising.

Many over-the-counter lotions and creams containing salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide are available to help prevent acne and clear it up at the same time. You can experiment with these to see which helps. Be sure to follow the instructions exactly – don’t use more than you’re supposed to at one time (your skin may get too dried out and

What if I get acne anyway?

Sometimes even though they wash properly and try lotions and oil-free makeup, people get acne anyway – and this is totally normal. In fact, some girls who normally have a handle on their acne may find that it comes out a few days before they get their period. This is called premenstrual acne, and about 7 out of 10 women get it from changes in hormones in the body.

Some teens who have acne can get help from a doctor or dermatologist (a doctor who specialises in skin problems). A doctor may treat the acne with prescription medicines. Depending on the person’s acne, this might mean using prescription creams that prevent pimples from forming, taking antibiotics to kill the bacteria that help create pimples, or if the acne is severe, taking stronger medicines such as isotretinoin, or even having minor surgery. Some girls find that birth control pills help to clear up their acne.

If you look in the mirror and see a pimple, don’t touch it, squeeze it, or pick at it. This might be hard to do — it can be pretty tempting to try to get rid of a pimple. But when you play around with pimples, you can cause even more inflammation by popping them or opening them up.

Plus, the oil from your hands can’t help! More important, though, picking at pimples can leave tiny, permanent scars on your face. (kidshealth.org)

5 ways to prevent stress build-up

T

here’s no avoiding the stress of everyday life.

Schoolwork, responsibilities at home, busy schedules, other people’s expectations, disappointments, deadlines, social drama: all of these can create tension.

Everyday stressors have a way of piling up if we don’t keep them in check. Adding these five simple actions to your regular routine can help you avoid that “bogged down by stress” feeling. The key word is “routine”. You need to make sure you keep doing these to enjoy the benefits: Balance responsibilities (like schoolwork) with activities you enjoy (like relaxing or spending time with friends) It’s all about balance: all work and no play is bad. But if your schedule is so crammed with activities that there’s no time for homework, that’ll stress you out too.

Manage responsibilities Use a calendar or planning app to keep track of assignments, chores, practices, and other obligations.

Of course, planning is no good if you don’t actually do what you plan: Managing stress also means regular studying, keeping on top of assignments, and overcoming procrastination. Take time to reflect a bit every day and think about how things are going. What do you need to work on? Do? Make time for?

Eat healthy foods What you eat affects your mood, energy, and stress level. Eating healthy doesn’t mean avoiding all treats – it goes back to that balance thing again. It’s OK to treat yourself to ice cream occasionally if you ate a salad or chicken on whole wheat for lunch. But if ice cream and sweets are your main source of fuel, you’re likely to crash or feel cranky – and stressed!

Get proper sleep This may seem like a no-brainer. After all, who doesn’t love to sleep? But getting the right amount of sleep is actually something we need to focus on because it’s easy to let homework, talking to friends, or binge watching get in the way of sleep – no matter how much we want to catch those ZZZs. Make time to exercise every day It’s hard to feel anxious when you’re taking deep breaths on a run, feeling the rush of a downhill bike ride, or playing a pickup game with friends. Exercise doesn’t just take our mind off of stress; it releases chemicals in our brains that make us feel better.

Learning to manage stress means building coping skills that allow you to take everyday challenges in stride. It’s about keeping problems in perspective instead of ignoring them, and learning what to work on and what to let go of.

(kidshealth.org)

news

7

FRIday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Opposition Leader open to nominating foreigner for GECOM Chair ...still no date from Granger for meeting

A

head of the much anticipated meeting with President David Granger on the appointment of a new Chairman of the Guyana Elections Commission (GECOM), Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo had stated that in addition to the 18 previous nominees that were identified for the post, he is also looking at some new names, including foreign nominees.

“We’re hoping that he would’ve had the 18 names and that he’s prepared to say if any of the 18 names are acceptable. (But) we’ve started the process of soliciting new names, just in case, and we’re prepared to explore bringing names from outside of Guyana. Because as far as we look, you can submit names of people from the Commonwealth. So, we’re prepared to engage on a one-on-one and continuously until we resolve this matter,” Jagdeo said during his weekly press conference on Thursday.

Former GECOM Chairman retired Justice James Patterson was forced to step down after the Caribbean Court of Justice (CCJ) ruled last week that his unilateral appointment

by President David Granger

Opposition Leader Bharrat Jagdeo

was flawed and unconstitutional. The Court had urged that the two sides meet and come up with a consensus mechanism on the new appointment.

As such, President David Granger last Friday extended an invitation to the Opposition Leader to meet, and Jagdeo has since accepted the invite. However, a date is yet to be announced for that meeting, although the Opposition Leader indicated that he was willing to meet on a daily basis.

“I have not, up to the time of this press conference, received a response from the President to my letter and that letter indicated that I was prepared to meet continuously and on a daily basis if neces-

sary, to resolve the issue of the (appointment of a new) Chairman of GECOM. As you know, the Court said that that appointment has to be on a consensual basis and so I would hope that the President would’ve addressed this matter with the urgency that it requires,” Jagdeo posited.

According to the Opposition Leader, he needs to meet with the Head of State to first determine how they will proceed with the new appointment, that is, whether they will select someone from the previous lists or come up with an entirely new list.

“First of all, I need to talk to the President about them. If the President finds someone on the list then I

President David Granger

can put them on a list, get their consent and then move it back to him,” Jagdeo said.

Back in 2017, the Opposition Leader had submitted three separate lists of six nominees for the GECOM Chairman, but President Granger had rejected all 18 names.

These included: Christopher Ram, Lawrence Lachmansingh, retired Major General Norman McLean, Ramesh Dookhoo, Rhyaan Shah, James Rose, retired Justice of Appeal B.S Roy, retired Justice William Ramlall, former Magistrate Oneidge Walrond-Allicock, Attorney Kashir Khan, Attorney Nadia Sagar, Gerald Gouveia, Joseph Singh, Attorney Teni Housty,

Attorney Sanjeev Datadin, Annette Arjoon-Martins, Pastor Onesi La Fleur, and former Magistrate Mr Krishnadatt Persaud.

Asked by the Guyana Times during Thursday’s press conference whether these 18 persons are willing to accept another nomination after being rejected, Jagdeo said, “I’ve spoken to some of them and some are willing to. I haven’t spoken to all of them as yet.”

In its June 18 ruling, the Trinidad-based regional Court ruled that Justice Patterson’s unilateral appointment was unconstitutional and the process used by the Guyanese President was “fatally flawed”. CCJ President, Justice Adrian

Saunders, said that President Granger gave no specific reason for refusing to appoint a Chairman from the lists submitted by the Opposition Leader, adding that giving the President the power to reject candidates without given reasons would frustrate what the Constitution contemplates.

In fact, the Court decided that the President had a duty to give reasons for rejecting names in the interest of transparency.

To this end, the CCJ concluded that the most sensible approach to the process of appointing the Chairman of GECOM is for the Leader of the Opposition and the President to communicate with each other in good faith and, perhaps, even meet to discuss eligible candidates for the position of Chairman before a list is submitted formally.

This case, which was heard by the CCJ on May 8, was brought by People’s Progressive Party (PPP) Executive Secretary Zulfikar Mustapha.

Mustapha challenged the appointment of Patterson who was appointed to the position of Chairman of GECOM in October 2017.

8 News

FRIday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Essequibo man charged for $2M embezzlement

A

construction worker, who told the Court that the $2M which he was accused of stealing from his boss was in fact repayment for a loan he had given, was on Thursday remanded to prison after being charged for embezzlement.

Twenty-seven-yearold Ravindranaught Rambajue, of Suddie Housing Scheme, Region 3 (Essequibo Islands-West Demerara), appeared before Chief Magistrate Ann McLennan at the Georgetown Magistrates’ Courts.

He was arrested two days ago at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) while heading to Dominica.

The Police stated that on August 21, 2018, at Republic Park, East Bank Demerara, while being a clerk or servant of Amir Samad, he fraudulently

embezzled a sum of $2M; which was taken into possession by himself on the account of his employer.

Rambajue plead not guilty to the charge when it was read to him by the Chief Magistrate.

Police Prosecutor Gordon Mansfield told the Court that the defendant was employed by Samad for the past five years and that on the day in question, the victim wrote a Republic Bank cheque for $2M and handed it over to the defendant with the intention of him returning the money within a few months.

However, after the agreed time elapsed, the victim made several calls to the defendant’s phone but all went unanswered.

Samad then reported the matter to the Police.

The Prosecutor added that on June 25, 2019, the defendant was arrest-

ed at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) while attempting to board a flight destined to Dominica.

An investigation was done and he was charged with the offence following advice from the Director of Public Prosecution (DPP).

Rambajue, in addressing the Court, stated that he was working for the victim for several years and that Samad had owed him $3.1 million.

He further added that he threatened to leave the job and that is when his boss paid him $2M and asked him to stay.

However, after listening to the case presented by the accused, the Prosecutor strongly objected to bail being granted because of the serious nature of the allegation and the time it took to locate the defendant.

The Prosecutor also

Caretaker…

Ravindranaught Rambajue

highlighted the fact that at the time of the defendant’s arrest, he was attempting to leave the country. On those grounds, the Prosecutor believed that if bail was granted, the accused would not return to Court for the trial.

The magistrate, after listening to both sides, remanded Rambajue to prison until July 4. The matter was transferred to the Providence Magistrate’s Courts.

Matters dismissed against national footballer

T

wo weeks after 19-year-old Jobe Caesar, a Guyanese footballer, was sentenced to six months imprisonment for wounding a Police Officer, the charge along with an armed robbery charge were dismissed against him by Magistrate Faith McGusty.

Jobe Caesar was accused of relieving a mobile phone from Jennifer Validum on November 25, 2018. At the time, he was armed with a gun.

It was further alleged that on the same day and at the same location, he damaged a motor car valued at $3.5 million, property of Jennifer Validum.

Caesar had denied both

Jobe Caesar

charges and was on trial before Principal Magistrate Faith McGusty.

However, when the matters were called on Thursday, the Virtual Complainant told the Court that she does not wish to

proceed with the matters, hence, the Magistrate dismissed both matters against the defendant.

On June 14, Senior Magistrate Dylon Bess sentenced Caesar to six months behind bars after finding him guilty of wounding a Police Officer.

It is alleged that on September 3, 2018 at East Ruimveldt, he unlawfully and maliciously wounded Kerry Joseph.

The Magistrate had ruled that after going through the entirety of the evidence, he was satisfied beyond a reasonable doubt that Caesar committed the offence.

Hence, he was sentenced to six months behind bars.

According to information, on the day in question, Joseph, who is a Police Corporal, reportedly went to the home of his girlfriend and saw the woman in Caesar’s arms.

It was reported that Caesar attacked the officer and dealt him a punch to his face. He then snatched the officer’s service revolver and pointed it at him.

However, the officer, being fearful for his life, left and reported the matter to the East Ruimveldt Police Outpost.

An investigation was then carried out and the defendant was arrested and later charged with the offence.

W

…Govt overreaches e all know what “caretakers” are, don’t we??

They just “take care” of someone else’s property, to pretty much keep it the way they got it. No problem if the caretaker goes ahead and buys a broom to sweep the front yard, but surely he’ll be overstepping his remit if he builds a new garage at your expense because he thinks you’ll need a car!! And that’s exactly what this caretaker PNC-led Government’s doing to prepare and plan on voting for a 2020 budget this November!!

Back in January, when the Opposition Leader first made this point to Granger -- who’d finally deigned to meet him, three weeks after the NCM was passed -- the latter said he didn’t know about any “caretaker” Government, since it isn’t in the Constitution. But then who’s he to talk about what’s in the Constitution? Even when “or any other fit and proper person” WAS inserted in the Constitution to change the old requirement that only a Judge could be the GECOM Chair, he insisted that nothing had changed!!

But Granger’s riposte wasn’t out of ignorance about caretaker governments, it was just another example of the PNC’s utter disregard for the workings of parliamentary democracies -- born and inculcated during their 28 years of rigging elections; foisting an unapproved Constitution on the people; and even murdering political opponents. Those who aspire towards democratic governance would know that there’s not only the Constitution to obey, but also its SPIRIT, which is the glue that really holds the political system in place.

On what was IN the Constitution - that the Govt falls at the passing of the NCM - has never been disputed in any other parliamentary democracy. As recently as 1999, Indian PM Vajpayee’s govt fell on an NCM by a one-seat margin.

He didn’t invent any half-man theory to cling to power. He resigned, called elections, and took his later defeat at the elections like a democrat. The question, of course, arises as to what the fallen government can or can’t do until the next elections’ results. Which is where we are in Guyana right now.

In most parliamentary democracies, they’ve dubbed such governments “caretaker governments” – as alluded to by CCH Justice Witt - and have collated the rules on permissible actions from the SPIRIT of the Constitution as “Caretaker Conventions”.

As the “Caretaker Convention” of Canada declares: “(The govt) can and should do so where the matter is routine and necessary for the conduct of government business, or where it is urgent and in the public interest.

The rules certainly do not permit the caretaker government to pass a budget that would bind any new incoming government!!

It’s like building that garage!! …limits With this caretaker PNC Government determined to cling on to power and go along as if nothing’s changed, it might be a good thing to look at some of the other rules from Canada’s Caretaker Convention. “In short, a government should restrict itself – in matters of policy, expenditure and appointments – to activity that is: routine, or non-controversial, or urgent and in the public interest, or reversible by a new government without undue cost or disruption, or agreed to by opposition parties (in those cases where consultation is appropriate).”

Unlike what the Government has been doing in its “outreaches”, the Convention insists: “In the context of an election, (ministers and Govt employees) must be especially vigilant with respect to the distinction between official government business supported by departmental and portfolio resources, and partisan political activities, taking care to avoid even the appearance that departmental and portfolio resources are being used for campaign purposes.”

In other words, only compelling evidence that the interest of Guyana is being furthered can justify this caretaker Government’s actions!! …positions Being observant of the courtesies, you may be wondering how to address the members of this caretaker PNC-led Government. It’s very simple. Just prefix their old title with “caretaker”. As in “Caretaker President”; “Caretaker Minister”…etc.

No need for the honorific “honourable”!!

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

news

9

FRIday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Infrastructure planning key in oil preparations – US energy consultant

A

s Guyana continues to prepare for a booming oil and gas industry, the Government is being urged to develop its infrastructure.

Energy Consultant from the Callender Law Firm in Houston, Texas, Edwin Callender, underscored the importance of infrastructure planning during an Oil and Gas Business Training Conference on Thursday at the Pegasus Hotel, Georgetown.

He explained that in preparing Guyana for the oil and gas sector, the country needs to be able to participate in infrastructural planning to ensure that catastrophes do not arise in the near future.

“You have to consider the environmental impacts and the power plants and hydro power. Of course, everyone knows Guyana means land of many waters and so that should not be abandoned because it is a renewable source of energy and it is very clean.”

According to Callender, there is already too much congestion on the major roadways and this will only get worse if the Government does not plan to address it from now.

“People coming down the East Bank, the East Coast, the traffic jams are really terrible. If you had additional industry put into this same general area because people live here what is go-

US energy consultant at Callender Law Firm, Edwin Callender

ing to happen? It would be really, really terrible…so a lot of thought has to be put into it the industrial park, the pipe lines where they

Police yet to locate missing car of murdered female taxi driver

– GTT to provide information about the dead woman’s call log

O

ver one month has passed since 47-year-old female taxi driver Indira Bipat was murdered and her body dumped in a ditch at La Parfaite Harmonie, West Bank Demerara (WBD), but the Police are yet to locate her missing car.

D Division (West Bank Demerara-East Bank Essequibo) Commander Edmond Cooper told Guyana Times that investigators were encountering difficulties in nabbing the culprit(s) given the manner in which the crime was executed.

“We are still working on that story. Right now, we are looking desperately for the vehicle; we have contacted the Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), even viewed the surveillance camera at the Demerara Harbour Bridge to see if the car went across that side. We are in contact with all the Police Commanders to see if somebody in the various districts might have had a car like that one and probably changed their chassis number and such,” he explained.

However, according to Commander Cooper, all hope is not lost and the Police will not stop working on this case until it is

Murdered: Indira Bipat

solved.

The next step that his investigators have taken is to contact the local telephone service provider – GTT – for the company to assist in the investigations since Bipat reportedly left her home after receiving a telephone call on her cellular phone.

“Her phone was never recovered, and we already contacted GTT to trace the calls that she made and would have received. As it is, we are still waiting on that information from GTT to be provided to us so we can follow that route. We will ensure that we check and double check all avenues possible to get to the bottom of this as soon as we can,” he added.

On May 19, the body of Bipat, who was a part-time taxi driver was found, but the silver-grey Toyota Axio

bearing registration number PXX 4114 that she had been driving at the time of her murder was nowhere to be seen.

When the investigations into the matter commenced, Commander Cooper had emphasised the importance of recovering the deceased woman’s vehicle, which is key to solving her murder case.

Bipat, of Lot 18 Samaroo Dam, Pouderoyen, WBD, had left her home at about 17:30h on May 18, last, in her family’s Silver-Grey Toyota Axio bearing registration number PXX 4114.

After the woman failed to return home that evening and the following morning, her son told Guyana Times that he filed a report at the Vreed-enHoop Police Station. While there, the young man revealed, he received a report from a female friend informing him that the body of a female had been found in a ditch at Parfaite Harmonie.

As such, the family rushed to the scene, and their worst fears were confirmed.

The post-mortem examination that was conducted on Bipat’s body revealed the cause of death as strangulation, compounded by blunt trauma to the head.

are going to go, the liquid hydro-carbon storage, processing and handling facilities and where those are going to go.”

The Energy Consultant stated that another key factor that must not be overlooked is the development and the modernization of the national grid.

He pointed out that, although focus is being placed on the benefits will reap from a booming oil and gas sector, the management and improvement of the grid is essential in stabilizing the advancements in the infrastructural development of the country.

“These are all the things that should be considered and need to be considered and dealt with in a consorted, strategic way. A piecemeal approach to this business is not going to cut it.

There has to be some kind of

central strategic unit either in the Government, or chartered by the Government, that does that planning and, of course, comprised of Guyanese experts dealing with all of these matters.”

This two-day conference is being hosted by the Callender Law Firm for the second time in two years.

Plans are on-going to ensure that this oil and gas and energy business training conference is done on an annual basis.

Meanwhile, Guyana is now home to the world’s largest new deep-water oil discovery, with principle explorer ExxonMobil pushing for the development of the oil reserves and production scheduled to begin in 2020.

Govt hands out huge...

This connection, Jagdeo noted, leads right back to the Ministry of the Presidency and the allocation of these lands.

Land given out to friends

Apart from this, the Opposition Leader also revealed acres of lands issued to an ex-PNC parliamentarian and his relatives, who got over 10,000 acres in the Pomeroon River, as well as two other unidentified persons who got 1400 acres and 1083 acres respectively.

“So, in a matter of a few months, they would have given out land in the Pomeroon River to three individuals, more lands than the PPP gave out in 23 years in the Pomeroon…,” Jagdeo stressed.

Another PNC member, who also holds a senior post in the sport department was also allegedly given plots of land in Aubrey Barker Road.

Meanwhile, another alleged giveaway, which Jagdeo said is quite worrying, is to a top ranking official of GECOM. “Something that is very, very worrying; and I hope that this does not influence the individual if the

Government decided to give him the land to influence his decisions in relation to elections. In February last year, the GECOM official along with Ceres and others, was part of the 1297 acres, and just in June of this year, this month, he got 216 acres on File No. 012211/599 at Milly’s Hideout (in Linden), and then two acres at Mocha and so this is a worrying one too, very worrying,” the Opposition Leader posited.

He noted that these show a pattern at the Office of the President and the Lands and Survey’s deep involvement. In fact, the Opposition Leader noted that there are more such deals being made, not only at GL&SC, but at the Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC) and at the National Industrial and Commercial Investment Limited (NICIL) with the sugar lands.

To this end, Jagdeo is calling on President David Granger to explain the issuances of these large plots of land, especially to those working within his office at the Ministry of the Presidency. He noted that for too long, the Head of State has remained silent

FROM page 3

or claimed lack of knowledge about these corrupt acts within his Ministry.

“This has to stop and today, I want to show that this is not about the other agencies. This is about the Presidency itself and that the corruption emanates from his office, a lot of it. And so, I’m hoping that he will be forced to respond to these issues and he has to answer whether he knows what is being done in his name, whether he agrees to the issues, and if he does agree to what I will reveal, he needs to inform the public of the reasons why his office is doing this because transparency is vital for us and the President is placed on this pedestal as though he is not corrupt and so he needs to give answers if I give him the benefit of doubt,” Jagdeo stated.

According to the Opposition Leader, these land giveaways will be reviewed if the PPP gets into office and find any act of corruption.

Meanwhile, the Lands and Surveys Commission has since called a press conference on Thursday, where officials are expected to respond to these revelations.

10 news

friday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Boy, 14, stabbed to death by peer in Matthews Ridge ‌suspect arrested, confessed to murder

A

former student, attached to the Matthews Ridge Secondary School, was pronounced dead on arrival at the hospital in the wee hours of Thursday after he

was attacked and stabbed to death by his peer.

Dead is 14-year-old Joseph Bumbury of Pakera, Matthews Ridge, North West District (NWD).

Based on information re-

ceived, Bumbury and his cousin, Leslie Norton, were reportedly imbibing alcohol in a shop at Flat, Matthews Ridge when they were approached by the 14-yearold suspect.

Guyana Times understands that suspect immediately attacked Bumbury and dealt him several punches about his body.

Seeing this, Norton intervened but was also attacked by the suspect with a knife.

The teen suspect reportedly whipped out a knife from his waist and stabbed Norton to his hand which caused him to retreat.

Nevertheless, the suspect continued his attack on the now dead teenag-

er by stabbing him several times to his chest and hand. After committing the act, he escaped.

Injured Bumbury might have bled to death since he was left for several hours at the scene before Police arrived. The teen was rushed to the Matthews Ridge Hospital where he was pronounced dead on arrival.

Norton was also taken to the hospital where he was admitted to the medical facility. Meanwhile, detectives visited the home of

the suspect and took him into custody.

During interrogation, the teen reportedly confessed to the murder by giving them a detailed account of what transpired. More so, he led the detectives to the murder weapon.

The suspect also gave Police a written statement under caution in the presence of his uncle. He is expected to be charged shortly as investigations are continuing.

Attack on SASOD’s MD

Police yet to arrest mastermind, friends

M

anaging Director of the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD) Joel Simpson had confirmed that the Police are yet to arrest the men who attacked him on June 16.

This was confirmed by A-Division Commander Marlon Chapman, who stated that the main suspect is being sought by Police. He has since managed to evade the lawmen.

The Guyana Times previously reported that Simpson had to be rushed to the Georgetown Public Hospital Corporation (GPHC) after

Managing Director of the Society Against Sexual Orientation Discrimination (SASOD), Joel Simpson

he was attacked and beaten by six men. The ring leader was known to be a trouble maker, in fact, he was before the Court for assaulting a Trinidadian Singer.

Moreover, it was reported that Simpson had visited the Bourda Market to purchase snacks after a night out when he when was swarmed by the six men, with whom he had an earlier encounter at a night club.

He alleged that, as he continued to ignore the men while making his order, he was pushed to the ground and badly beaten.

Turn to page 14

NEWS

11

friday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

S RAIGHT G

Stena Forth drillship arrives in Guyana

These squatters and usurpers are up to no good

By: Sase Singh; MSc Finance, ACCA

L

ouis IX of France was renowned for the evenhanded manner in which he dispensed justice. King Solomon was also supposed to have done a pretty good job at dispensing justice. What I saw on Globespan24x7 TV on June 18, 2019 vindicated my position that the Caribbean has at the CCJ honourable people who fulfil this tradition of justice with integrity.

These learned minds at the CCJ used the drafting history of Guyana to break down extremely complex issues into simple statements of fact. This entire event brought power to the spirit of the Constitution. The Caribbean people must be proud that we have among us, at the CCJ, a group of learned minds who are prepared to do the right thing even in an environment populated with so much political pressure.

In his written piece called ‘Politics’, Aristotle stated, “Rightly constituted laws should be the final sovereign”. These men and one woman ensured that the Guyanese Constitution remained enshrined as our final sovereign document in an environment in which legal charlatans were trying to vary its soul. By tracing how the Constitution has evolved from the Independence Constitution to the 1980 Constitution, and then to the Constitutional Reform Process as enacted in 2001, we, the lesser learned minds, were educated by the learned Judges at the CCJ as to why certain insertions and deletions were made to the Constitution at each juncture of its evolution.

What was absolutely clear from that historical journey, during the 1999-2011 period, all the stakeholders in the Constitutional Reform Process, especially the PNC and PPP, wanted Article 106.

One of the clear recommendations suggested from that process was that the rights of the Presidency must be amended to dilute the dictatorial powers it had in the 1980 version. The framers of that amendment to the Constitution focused on reducing the term in office of a President to only two terms, but, at the same time, they clearly elucidated in the drafting notes that if a majority of the National Assembly votes in favour of a “motion of no-confidence” against the President and the Cabinet, then they shall resign; which in law means they must resign. The operative word being the majority, which the CCJ has now defined as 33 elected MPs. It was never the intention of the framers of the Constitutional amendments in 2001 to manipulate the meaning of the word majority, as one OIL MAGNATE LAWYER attempted to do as a means to an end in 2019. Their intentions were always that a mathematical majority of 65 can vote the Government out. And what is that majority? But we needed not to have spent G$70 million and counting on legal fees to find out the answer to this question, since any Common Entrance student could have accurately provided the correct answer: Not 34, or any other half-man figment of a devious and demented imagination.

So, in the eyes of the law, the Granger Government fell on December 21, 2018, and they had until March 20, 2019, to conclude their business. All political parties who are so interested in forming the next Government of Guyana had ample time to get their houses, cups or palm trees in order, so that they could have presented their programmes and policies to the people and leave the rest up to the voters.

But what Mr. Granger has done since that fateful December night was most underhanded. He inserted his personal political tactics in a very prejudiced manner, which has resulted in our democracy being undermined. Today we are the laughing stock of the democratic Caribbean because of these actions. Can we understand now why we have no clout at CARICOM? No rightminded democratically elected leader will take Mr. Granger seriously as he journeys along this path of noncompliance with the principles of democracy.

The CCJ has taken Guyana as close as possible to perfection in the art of judicial decision-making. With their “reasoned positions” in the interpretation of the intent of the Constitution, these men and one woman were able to give it to us straight.

But even better, they provided Mr. Granger with a happy exit.

But as we are seeing today, Mr. Granger will have none of it, as he continues to be the Millie Vanilli of Guyanese politics. All we are getting from Mr. Granger is double-speak and lip service to the decision, “I accept”, but we shall not have elections…”

From Bartica, he declared to the press that he “cannot proceed with the current list of voters”, and he now “awaits a recommendation from GECOM”, and he will then issue “a proclamation”. This goes against the grain of the letter and spirit of the CCJ decision. It is in this regard that I am urging former President Bharrat Jagdeo to place his trust in the CCJ and ignore Please share your thoughts at sasesin1@yahoo.com. these political squatters and usurpers.

uyana moves one step closer toward oil production with the arrival of another drillship, the Stena Forth, which is expected to commence exploration offshore at the Orinduik Block.

Earlier this month, oil and gas exploration company, Tullow Oil, had announced the commencement of its search for oil at the Orinduik Block.

This operation was possible with the use of the Offshore Support Vessel (OSV) Pacific Leader.

As such, the Maritime Department had alerted nearby vessels that the ship would be emitting international signals.

This drilling exercise will run until December 31 of this year and the oil company is expected to drill about 82 nautical miles from the coast of Guyana and cover an area of 848 square kilometres.

In another notice, the department explained that the

The Stena Forth drillship

company also commenced drilling in the Jethro-1 well site within the Orinduik Block. For this operation, the Mobile Offshore Drilling Unit, the newly arrived Stena Forth was sourced.

Its drill site is about 95 nautical miles from Guyana’s coast and will cov-

er an area of one square kilometre, bounded by other coordinates. The oil company first inked its interest into Guyana during the second quarter of 2013.

In February 2019, Tullow had announced that it was bringing forward its drilling programme from the previ-

ously scheduled end of the year to the second quarter.

It had announced that the Jethro prospect would be drilled in June. So far, plans have been announced to drill three wells here, namely the Jethro-Lobe, Joe and Carapa.

Turn to page 13

12 News

friday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Training is fundamental to military service – President

O

ver 50 new ranks attached to the Guyana Defence Force (GDF) were administered their oath and presented with Instruments of Commission in the presence of their Commander in Chief, President David Granger on Thursday.

The newly inducted ranks promised to uphold true faith and allegiance to the State in the presence of senior security officials.

This year, 28 officers successfully completed the Standard Officers Course 50, three of which were members of the Belize Defence Force and one from the Guyana Prison Service.

In addition, 27 individuals, including six females, completed the Reserve Officers Course 16.

They were promoted to Second Lieutenants, while three overseas-trained personnel were also recognized as Lieutenants.

A simple ceremony at the Baridi Benab,

President David Granger and senior ranks of the GDF pose for a photo with new ranks from the Standard Officers Course 50

State House, Main Street, Georgetown saw the new Second Lieutenants and Lieutenants being charged by the Head of State. During his remarks, the President remembered some instances where the Force successfully defended Guyana’s territory. This he said, is due to the competence of the GDF in its entirety.

“The suppression of the Rupununi Rebellion and the defence of the New River Zone fifty years ago in 1969

exemplified the Guyana Defence Force’s military proficiency. Today, we celebrate the Force’s operational capabilities, which were based on supreme courage, superior organisation and superb training,” the Head of State expressed.

He added, “Guyana remains a unitary and indivisible state because of the courage, competence and commitment of the Guyana Defence Force in these operations. These operations in-

volved intelligent planning, intense training and innovative tactics”.

The Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces noted that such operations were carried out by highly skilled officers and these were built through training. At that time, Granger underscored the importance of training, as it maintains a standard of discipline and behaviour.

“Training is the foundation of a professional and proficient force. It is essential for ensuring the success of military missions, for enhancing operational effectiveness, and for developing physical endurance. Training is funda-

mental to military service and that is why your military service begins with a training course here at the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School. Should training be neglected, standards would fall, troops’ morale would decline, and deviant behaviour would corrupt the Force’s members and corrode the competence of the Force.”

The Force has managed to instil values of duty, identity and loyalty among fellow cadets and officers. Training would have started some 50 years ago, after which the Colonel Ulric Pilgrim Officer Cadet School (CUPOCS) was established in 1981.

Over this time, cadets were welcomed from Antigua and Barbuda, Barbados, Belize and St Kitts and Nevis.

“The Standard Officers’ Course (SOC) aims at inculcating the Force’s values and standards in cadets and to develop their power of command and leadership and their service to the country.

The SOC has been improved continuously and now includes an enhanced academic programme and intensified jungle, paratrooper and equitation training,”

Granger acknowledged.

He then mentioned, “The Reserve Officers’ Course has been reintroduced after a hiatus of a decade. Members of the Guyana People’s Militia are active and receiving training in all ten administrative Regions, so that they could respond effectively to the need for assistance, including in the disaster relief.”

Presently, the technical corps are being improved.

It was indicated that a light reconnaissance aircraft and inshore patrol vessels have amplified the competency of the Coast Guard and Air Corps. Adding to that, the intelligence and signal corps are engaged to improve their surveillance and intelligence capabilities.

“Defence cooperation is being pursued with a number of friendly countries and is unlocking training opportunities for all ranks. The rewards of these investments and partnerships are evident – the Force is improving its capacity to deter aggression, defend national sovereignty and ensure a safe, secure and strong state,” the President noted.

news

13

friday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Tax treaties being reviewed to ensure Guyana benefits – Statia

T

he Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA) is working to enhance its capabilities with regards to its taxation treaty to avoid tax evasion by developed countries.

Interests from different countries to sign tax treaties with Guyana has increased since the discovery of oil and gas and as a result, Commissioner General of the GRA Godfrey Statia pointed out that the entity has been actively engaged in such negotiations while underscoring the importance

of being cautious when embarking on these ventures.

He explained that as a negotiator, he had found that such agreements can be used for tax evasion, or tax avoidance, since those incomes are not taxed.

Statia was at the time addressing participants of a CARICOM Double Taxation forum hosted by Christopher Ram and associates on Thursday at the Georgetown Club.

The workshop targeted accountants, tax specialists, regional companies do-

ing business in Guyana, and Guyanese companies / individuals considering the CARICOM market.

“I have seen too many past agreements negotiated without inputs from tax technicians, which have led to the transfer of wealth from small developing countries to developed ones,” the GRA head said.

Further, he highlighted that GRA is presently preparing recommendations to the Finance Minister to have certain aspects of these signed agreements renego-

GRA Commissioner General Godfrey Statia

Stena Forth drillship arrives...

Tullow’s partner in the Orinduik Block, Eco Atlantic, had announced that drilling on the Joe prospect will begin in mid-July of this year.

They had announced that the Stena Forth drillship will move directly to the Joe after it finishes drilling the JethroLobe well in the Orinduik Block. It is understood that the Joe is located in approximately 650 metres of water and will cost Eco Atlantic approximately US$3 million to drill. A recently published report from international company Gustavson Associates had estimated that the well has a 43.2 per cent chance of success.

Tullow’s Head of Communications George Cazenove told the Guyana

Times that jobs will be provided for the Guyanese populace.

“Shared prosperity includes a firm commitment to local content… Tullow has made significant efforts in both East and West Africa to make sure that local companies, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises, are involved in the supply chain in the oil and gas developments we are involved with,” he was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, oil-giant Exxon Mobil has deployed four drillships for exploration purposes, where 13 massive discoveries were made.

The fleet comprises the Stena Carron—which is working at the Longtail 1 discovery, the

Noble Bob Douglas at the Liza Phase 1, the Noble Tom Madden at the Yellowtail Well, and Noble Don Taylor.

ExxonMobil said there is potential for at least five Floating Productions, Storage and Offloading (FPSO) vessels on the Stabroek Block, producing more than 750,000 barrels of oil per day by 2025.

The start-up of the Liza Phase 1 development is on track to begin by the first quarter of 2020 and will produce up to 120,000 barrels of oil per day utilising the Liza Destiny FPSO, which is expected to arrive in the country in the third quarter.

Liza Phase 2 is expected to start up by mid-2022.

A final investment decision is expected soon, subject to

From page 11

Government and regulatory approvals. Upon approval, the project plans to use the Liza Unity FPSO to produce up to 220,000 barrels per day.

Sanctioning of a third development, Payara, is also expected in 2019, with start-up projected for 2023.

The Stabroek Block is 6.6 million acres (26,800 square kilometres). ExxonMobil affiliate, Esso Exploration and Production Guyana Limited, is operator and holds 45 per cent interest in the Stabroek Block. Hess Guyana Exploration Limited holds 30 per cent interest and CNOOC Petroleum Guyana Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of CNOOC Limited, holds 25 per cent interest.

tiated and updated to reflect the changing times and economy since the treaties were signed.

According to Statia, the tax treaty negotiations should ensure multinationals are taxed whenever economic activities take place and where value is created.

He noted that with the advent of oil here, many developed countries have been approaching the Government to negotiate such agreements and as a result, GRA is strengthening its system by moving to set up a special international tax section to deal exclusively with such matters.

The Commissioner General further noted that the treaties do not provide a sufficient basis for adequate tax information exchange between developing and developed countries, particularly with secrecy jurisdictions.

As such, multinationals, who are mostly from developed countries, usually channel investments through intermediary companies formed in convenient jurisdictions so they can take advantage of treaty shopping.

Treaty shopping allows for low or zero tax pathways through the international tax system with some countries, deliberately facilitating these pathways by setting themselves up as conduit countries.

“These are but a few reasons why we, as a developing country, ought to be cautious,” he said.

He stressed the need for tax experts’ active involvement in these negotiations to administer international agreements to avoid being left in the hands of Foreign Service Officers and politicians.

Guyana has Double Taxation Agreements (DTA) with Canada and the United Kingdom and a Tax Exchange Information Agreement (TEIA) with the United States of America. Another such agreement is also expected to be signed with Kuwait.

According to Statia, a DTA was negotiated and approved by Cabinet to be signed with the United Arab Emirates, while negotiations with at least four other countries are ongoing.

Double Taxation Agreements seek to prevent the same income from getting taxed twice, while TIEAs provide for the exchange of information on request relating to a specific criminal or civil tax investigation or civil tax matters under investigation.

He emphasised the need for Guyana to pursue only TEIAs and not DTAs with tax haven countries; as failure to do so may result in our tax dollars leaking offshore through abuse of DTAs by multinational investors.

14 news

friday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

Over 11,000 persons living with disabilities in Guyana

A

survey conducted by the National Commission on Disability has revealed that 11,713 persons are living with a disability in Guyana.

The survey was conducted in Regions Two, Three, Five, and Ten, while a pilot was done in Region Six in 2016.

Region Three had the highest number of persons

with disabilities, followed by Region Six. Disabilities were categorised as: physical/mobility disability, visual/seeing disability, hearing/speech disability, learning/cognitive disability, mental health and medical/other disability.

In Region Two (Pomeroon-Supenaam), there were 1,249 recorded

The National Commission on Disability

cases of which 40.1 per cent of persons had physical disabilities, 20.6 per cent had hearing or speech impediments, 7 per cent had learning disabilities, 23.1 per cent had visual disabilities, 7.4 per cent had mental health disabilities, and 1.8 per cent had other types of disability.

In Region Three (Essequibo Islands - West Demerara), there were 3,896 cases of which 33.7 per cent had physical disabilities, 16.9 per cent had hearing disabilities, 11.7 per cent had learning disabilities, 29.2 per cent had visual dis-

abilities, 5.4 per cent had mental health disabilities, and 3.2 per cent had another type of disability.

For Region Five (MahaicaBerbice), there were 1,588 cases of which 38.7 per cent of the persons had a physical disability, 20.2 per cent had a hearing disability, 8.6 per cent had a learning disability, 18.6 per cent had a visual disability, 10.5 per cent had a mental health disability, and 3.3 per cent had another form of disability.

In Region Ten (Upper Demerara-Berbice), there were 1,718 cases of which

31.5 per cent were physical, 16.4 per cent were hearing, 14.3 per cent were learning, 28.5 per cent were visual, 6.9 per cent were mental, and 2.4 per cent were other.

Avonel Corrica, an advocate and Communications Officer attached to the National Commission on Disability, explained that the data becomes useful for policy makers.

She stated it can be used when Government prepares a budget or plans the construction of new facilities.

Also, to cater for the hearing and speech impaired, public institutions and buildings will be expected to have persons specialising in sign language in place to help with communication.

“We want to ensure that we have figures to place to issues when it comes to disability in the Regions because we don’t want to assume that there is a certain number of persons with disabilities in the Region and there is nothing to actually validate. So, we did this survey to ascertain their needs their capacities, what assistive devices they might need as well as some services they

National Commission on Disability Communications Officer Avonel Corrica

are entitled to for instance education relating to the disability act,” she stated.

This survey has also highlighted to the commission the number of unregistered persons with disabilities currently residing in the country. Corrica noted that with this information, the Guyana Society for the Blind had already tapped into the Commission’s database to reach this demographic.

Police yet to...

He said a City Constable, who attempted to intervene, was also attacked by the men. He was rescued by market vendors and taken to safety.

He was later taken to a city hospital, where he received treatment for the injuries inflicted on his body.

Simpson had detailed in a Facebook post that the men began the homophobic attack at a night club while he was with a group of friends, following a day of activities.

He explained that, at around midnight, a group of

From page 10

men entered the night club and positioned themselves behind him and his friends while they were partying.

Sometime after, he felt a watery substance, later identified as beer, being thrown at him and his friends.

As such, a complaint was made to a supervisor of the popular night spot, but Simpson said he was left stunned when that supervisor declared, “We don’t want man wining pon man here”.

He recounted that his angered friends began verbally abusing the men, but he intervened and stopped them.

He added that he and his friends then left the night club, and while on his way to Bourda Market, he made a Facebook post highlighting the ordeal he had faced.

However, shortly after arriving at Bourda, he was surprised when the same group of men turned up and attacked them.

15 Zeelugt residents complain of Police harassment news

friday, JUNE 28, 2019 | guyanatimesgy.com

A

number of residents of Zeelugt, West Demerara have complained of Police harassment, as houses were ransacked while ranks searched for a “wanted man”.

Based on information received, a group of Police ranks went into the village last Saturday evening claiming that they were looking for a man who was never found.

Speaking with Guyana Times, Poorandai Sukhu explained that the ordeal started last Saturday and continued ever since. She stated that ranks entered the community during the night and came into her yard.

The woman said that despite Police not finding the wanted man, the occupants of the home were taken to the Leonora Police Station.

After being detained for 12 hours, they were released.

“At first, we thought

“I asked if they have a search warrant and they said they don’t have to get that or nothing and that they following instruction. They took us to Leonora Police Station and they went to two other homes and did the same thing. They took my mother, my sister, my brother, myself and leaving the children traumatised.

We did nothing A lock that was broken to enter the house that and we were detained for 12 hours. Two of was bandits with how they enter the yard. Then I saw us had to stay for 17 hours four Policemen, two with at the station and had to guns, and the Police vehicle. pay $10,000 bail each,” she They said that they saw my added.

When she returned home, nephew in here on Friday and that they want him. she discovered a broken lock Nobody was here,” she on the front door and the entire house was ransacked. stated.

“When I come home,

I find the front door lock break and they ransack the whole house. I had money in my room that is missing,” Sukhu explained.

Another resident explained that she was awakened at 03:30h by calls to “put on the light”. After speaking with the officers, they related that they were searching for a person by the name of “Ganesh”. They then proceeded to search her house.

“They tell me to go to the Station and I said ‘why, because I didn’t do anything’.

That’s when one of them scramble me and my chain that I had on break and I fall down…When I look in the house, they ransacking the house,” the elderly woman relayed.

This publication sought to contact D Division (West Bank Demerara-East Bank Essequibo) Commander Edmond Cooper for a comment on the matter, but calls went unanswered.

A section of the ransacked house

MoE to train 500 Maths teachers for hinterland communities

One of the training sessions held at the Region Seven Education Department

I

n an effort to boost the teaching of Mathematics in the hinterland regions, the Education Ministry will be training some 500 teachers to effectively teach using Mathematics kits, 400 of which has been distributed to students in the said

regions.

The kits were handdelivered to the region by Assistant Chief Education Officer (Primary) Carol Benn on Wednesday.

Benn also spearheaded the teachers’ training sessions, which were conducted by Vishnu Panday,

a Mathematics specialist attached to National Centre for Educational Resource

Development (NCERD).

The items which make up each kit include fraction & decimal tiles, geoboard, number line and modelling tiles, which will be manipulated by Grade Six pupils and teachers so as to help develop problemsolving competence in all of the Seven Standards of Primary Mathematics.

Receiving the kits on behalf of the Region Seven Education Department (Cuyuni-Mazaruni), Regional Education Officer Akbar Chindu expressed gratitude while noting that the mandate now rest with the department and its primary schools to ensure that teachers use the kits for the purpose which they were intended.

Several Mathematics

monitors from the region will also be trained so as to ensure that the manipulatives are used correctly by both teachers and pupils.

This initiative to introduce alternative

methods of teaching will target hinterland and riverine schools where, statistics show, Mathematics competence is lower as compared to schools on the coastland.

16

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, JUNE 28, 2019

News

Oil & gas should not trump other natural resources – US expert tells Guyana

U

S based Energy, Oil and Gas expert Edwin Callender on Thursday reminded Guyana that it has an abundance of natural resources outside of oil, and urged the country not to neglect the other sectors, as oil will not be here forever.

He stated that while the oil and gas sector in the country will open the door that could lead to tremendous economic development for both Guyana and the Caribbean, other industries should not be neglected.

“It will not last forever and then what, what is going to happen? So Guyana and the people of Guyana, represented by whatever the Government, have to ensure, they have to insist that those industries ,whether it is sugar, rice, everything else, are not neglected, in fact that they are enhanced”.

According to Callender, the Government needs to ensure that there is a strategic approach with a longterm view in ensuring the

Dr Julio Berdegué

other sectors are developed.

“Many times, a country comes into this easy money from oil, you just sell the oil and they get some evidence, you tend to neglect the other industries you have and after a while those industries don’t exist. Whereas, before they might have been producing sugar, rice livestock etc., they are importing everything and those industries die. You can use this opportunity to modernize those industries, improve the efficiency, diversify the

products and just do what you need to do in order to be a modern economy and not a one-dimensional economy.”

He reminded that in Guyana, there is a well-established Agriculture Industry and this should not be placed on the back burner. The Oil and Gas Expert also noted that the country can now move fully into manufacturing and making more products in its Agriculture Industry too.

“You can have a strategic approach, a long-term view and plan and implement that plan to take advantage of the opportunity for the country. And you increase the types of products you are able to produce locally, but to also export to other places that need it.

And given the location of this country is on the top of South America, you can ship to anywhere, it is not landlocked. It is blessed by having that position”.

In last April, the Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO’s) Assistant Director General for Latin America

and the Caribbean, Dr. Julio Berdegué, during a media briefing in Guyana, had reasoned that the oil and gas sector revenues could be used to finance large-scale investments in climate change adaptation or change the food systems to provide healthier diets.

“These are not cheap things to do. These are significant investments over the long term and if the oil and gas economy goes well and if it is managed sustainably and in a responsible way, it can be a significant source of resources for this country to do the investments in the other sectors,” he said in response to questions from the media about the threat that oil and gas could pose to the agriculture sector in Guyana.

The FAO Official also noted that there was a possibility that the labour costs in agriculture would increase to keep pace with salaries and wages in the oil and gas industry.

However, Dr. Berdegué at that time, pointed out

US-based energy, oil and gas expert Edwin Callender

that the country’s fishing subsector is expected to face the greatest risk for space in contrast to space for crops and animals.

“There might be competition for space with the fishing sector, not so much with crop production or animal production,” adding that there are similar challenges in Trinidad and Tobago.

Dr. Berdegué had explained that Guyana’s Agriculture Minister, Noel Holder, raised the issue

with him in discussions and asked the FAO to provide support to grapple with the availability of offshore fishing grounds where there is a hive of oil and gas exploration and production activity.

“How are we going to deal in this country with this new issue, brand new issue of allocating the seacoast of this country between different activities where before, there wasn’t any competition for space?” Minister Holder had asked him.

The FAO official said his United Nations agency was funding a US$15 million “very large project” for the Guyana Lands and Surveys Commission to strengthen the country’s capacity to manage its space – land and oceans.

“We need modern regulations and modern technologies to manage our space in order to make these different economic activities – marine resources and offshore oil drilling – coexist in a less stressful situation or in a more mutually-reinforcing situation,” he said.

15 graduate from RBL’s Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme

The YLAP with the Minister within the Social Protection Ministry Keith Scott, UNESCO Secretary General Patrice La Fleur and Senior Managers of Republic Bank

F

ifteen youths graduated from the Republic Bank (RBL) Youth Link Apprenticeship Programme (YLAP) bringing the total to 270 since its commencement in 2008.

The graduating class’ programme commenced in October 2018 and concluded in May 2019. The appren-

tices were trained, provided with the tools to be successful in a work environment, and received knowledge in several banking operations.

During the seven-month programme, each of the apprentices was continually evaluated on performance in several areas. The apprentices would also receive

the Caribbean Vocational Qualification (CVQ) from the Caribbean Association of National Training Agencies (CANTA) in Banking Operations Level One. This qualification will enable the apprentices to obtain jobs within the CARICOM region.

Special Performance Awards were presented to Apprentice Harshanie Deonarine, who also copped three other awards for Best All Rounder, Most Disciplined Apprentice and the Best Business Proposal.

Nickisha Clarke copped the award for the Most Effective Presentation, while Tia Joseph was awarded the Most Congenial Apprentice and Tomal Morris, Most Improved Apprentice.

These apprentices secured employment at the Camp Street, Water Street, Diamond, Linden, Vreed-enHoop, and New Amsterdam branches.

Republic Bank’s

Managing Director (ag) Denise Hobbs in her remarks at Thursday’s Ceremony— which was held at the Marriott Hotel— explained that the Youth Link apprentices had the opportunity to learn about the bank’s operations and attained some valuable skills such as discipline, focus and working as a team.

She highlighted that the YLAP is another demonstration of RBL’s commitment to the development of Guyana’s youths and forms part of the bank’s wider Social Investment Initiative, “The Power to Make a Difference”, where national and regional community projects are geared to positively impact life, circumstances and reward excellence.

Hobbs noted that in addition to the formal training, participants were also exposed to a balance of values training and purposeful activities which included the Banks’s Staff Volunteerism and an outreach.

“Apprentices, as we celebrate what you have achieved, we are really celebrating the emergence of another class of future leaders; young men and women who are better equipped to succeed in today’s working world; citizens more willing to become part of the bedrock of a more successful society and a stronger nation,” she told the Apprentices.

She encouraged them to embrace the principles of professionalism, dedication and integrity as they move forward enriched with values and behaviours that serve them well, both per-

Republic Bank’s Managing Director (ag) Denise Hobbs presents Valedictorian Harshanie Deonarine with her award

sonally and professionally, in the future.

Meanwhile, Secretary General for the National Commission for United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) Patrice La Fleur who attended the ceremony, in her motivational speech to the apprentices, congratulated Republic Bank for their continued investment in young people and urged the graduates to remain humble and to have great love for self and a positive self-esteem; all of which are essential attributes for continued progress. She encouraged them to be respectful and remain focused as the road to success is based on discipline.

She cautioned the youths about violence and urged them to refrain from such engagements and spoke out against the dangerous phe-

nomenon.

“Be disciplined and remain focused. Never give up, because you are strong and you each have a purpose,” she said.

Harshanie Deonarine, who was named the Valedictorian, in her address reflected on the seven months of training which was well rounded with professional training as well as training in first-aid, which was done by the Red Cross, outreaches to the Ptolemy Reid Centre, and a field trip to Essequibo. She described the journey as unforgettable and expressed gratitude to Republic Bank for the life changing opportunity.

The YLAP was first introduced to Guyana in 2008 with the aim of bridging the gap between participants’ school life and the start of their career.

guyanatimesgy.com

E

ight intelligent and beautiful young ladies will be the central point of attention on August 3 when the Miss Region One (Barima-Waini) Pageant is hosted.

The grand coronation is set for the L&D Resort, Kumaka, North West District (NWD) commencing at 20:00h.

The delegates were chosen from various villages in the region and will be part of several events leading up to the grand coronation. On July 27, the eight delegates will be sashed and have the opportunity to impress the judges in the introductory segment.

This will be followed by an empowerment forum on July 30

friDAY, June 28, 2019

when the contestants will make their presentations on their platforms, which are aimed at addressing social ills in their respective communities. A panel of judges will be questioning each delegate on various aspects of her presentation.

On August 1, the Mabaruma Settlement Ground will come alive when the organising committee hosts the costume and talent segments. Each delegate will create a costume reflecting Guyanese folklore.

In addition, the eight girls will be involved in community outreaches. Then it all comes down to the big night – Saturday, August 3. The night will open with a dance following by a brief

introduction of the delegates. On this night, the winner of the platform segment will be announced. She will then proceed to make a presentation on her platform to the audience.

Then, the top three winners of the talent and costume segments will take to the stage. This will be followed by the sport wear segment and the evening gown segment. The final segment of the evening will be the delegates answering the final question.

The winner of the Miss Region One Pageant will travel to Georgetown in September for the Miss Indigenous Pageant where she will compete with the nine other regional winners.

Miss Moruca Esther Marslow Age: 19

Miss White Water Preya Cox Age: 17

Miss Guyana-Venezuela Mariangel Smith Age: 16

Miss Mabaruma Settlement Samaya Goodman Age: 16

Miss Hosororo Donessa Hope Age: 20

Miss Port Kaituma Monica LaCruz Age: 17

Miss Kumaka Withney Burton Age: 18

Miss Mabaruma Compound Aleandra Adams Age: 17

18

guyanatimesgy.com

friDAY, JUNE 28, 2019

O

A

fter a successful “Wedding Night” concept party on the West Coast of Demerara last Saturday evening, Team MMR is set to host another concept party titled “Bacardi Kangan Night” at Guyana’s premium nightclub, Palm Court on Saturday, June 29, 2019.

It will be a night to remember, as several DJs and selectors are in the line-up to make sure patrons have the best night ever with the best music booming through the speakers.

On the console will be Selector Andy and Chino, along with DJ Ryan and the Party Boss

n Sunday evening, Guyana crowned its representative to the Miss World Pageant at the Pegasus Hotel.

Joylyn Anita Conway was crowned by the 2018 Miss World Guyana, Ambika Ramraj at a small but elegant event.

Conway was chosen by a panel of nine judges during the selection process. Conway is a proud Berbician and a Natural Sciences enthusiast holding a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry and a minor in Biology from the University of Guyana.

She is currently a lecturer and lab instructor attached to the University of Guyana and the New Amsterdam Technical Institute.

This Guyanese beauty is a strong believer in her faith as a communicant Methodist. Her mantra, “Aspire to inspire before you expire” encompasses much of her hobbies – teaching, dancing, volunteering, and coaching young women and children on personal development. She also enjoys travelling, trying new foods, and putting smiles on frowning faces.

Conway was elected Secretary for the year 20192020 and President-Elect for 2020-2021 during Rotaract’s handing-over and induction ceremony on June 22, 2019.

She lives by the quote “it costs nothing to light another candle”; hence, her mission is to inspire girls in STEM to embrace their dreams with confidence under her Beauty With A Purpose (BWAP) project “STEM Girl Glo”.

“I truly look forward for all this journey has in store for me – both the moments that may be smooth and others not quite, because I know that at the end of it all, its purpose is to mould me into becoming a better version of myself – a well-rounded young woman, while lighting other candles via the work of my BWAP “STEM Girl Glow””, she stated.

She represents the youthful qualities and culture of Guyanese women that make us unique as a people from a human resources perspective.

Although she believes more can be done by all of us to ensure our women and young people on a whole are visible and valued; we are definitely moving in the right direction.

“I invite all Guyanese to join in the mission to increase the value of every Guyanese woman –get involved in the smallest of ways and/or continue doing your part as part of casting a wider net to ensure the youthful presence, poise, eloquence, charm, intellect, purpose and drive of the Guyanese woman is seen, felt, heard – supported and promoted.

Conway will represent Guyana on the international stage later in the year in Japan.

himself, WR Reaz. Apart from the music, there will be loud tassa drumming by one of the best groups in town, The Dubraj Tassa Group.

But wait, this time around, there will also be a tassa dance-off competition where the winner will take home $20,000 and second place will bag $10,000 in cash and prizes.

Ladies will be admitted free before 21:00h after which patrons will pay $2000 at the gate.

This event is made possible by Bacardi and other entities.

E

mpire Media Inc (EMI) has launched its 2019 edition of “Art of War” as the competing DJs exchange words, with each declaring that he will be the “Art of War” champion.

The organisers’ spokesperson Mikhail Dasilva stated, “EMI has reignited and rejuvenated what was a dormant and dying dancehall and sound clash industry in Guyana. This was possible with the successful hosting of 7 DJs clashes from 2016 to present.”

Dasilva further stated that Empire Media Inc was excited with the rejuvenation and new energy seen in the dancehall industry.

He noted that DJs and sound systems were getting the opportunity to showcase themselves to the world, and indicated that the winner of the Armageddon Clash 2018 (Notorious Sound) would represent Guyana at the Caribbean Kung Fu Sound Clash in St Kitts in August and the winner of Destination Badda Dan Guyana 2018 (Trinity Sound) would represent Guyana in Switzerland later this year.

On board with Empire Media Inc this year for “Art of War” is the Guyana Beverages Inc as the official energy drink sponsor. According to Brand Manager Raymond Govinda, “Guyana Beverages Inc recognises the importance of supporting cultural values within Guyana and providing a platform for local talents to grow and develop. “Art of War” provides the perfect platform for this to happen and to further the growth of our brand among this audience”.

Govinda added that the Guyana Beverages Inc was proud to partner with Empire Media Inc for “Art of War 2019” and Turbo Energy Drink would be the official energy drink of the contest. He noted that the “Art of War” soundclash offers good vibes, entertainment, and energy, which are what the Turbo brand seeks to offer to consumers.

“Art of War” will be held on July 27, 2019 at the Sports Hall tarmac. It will feature eight of Guyana’s young promising DJs. These include: DJ Kevin of Royalti Vybz Sound, DJ Guy of Mighty Ruler Sound, DJ Supreme of Notorious International Sound, DJ Versatile of Vigilante Sound, Jimmy Slaughta of Firehouse Sound, DJ Bandit of Spotlight Sound, DJ Dauren and DJ Damion. The winner of the clash will receive $1 million and two roundtrip tickets to Jamaica.

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

Miss World Guyana, Joylyn Anita Conway

A

ll roads will lead to the Hits and Jams Water World, Providence, East Coast Demerara on Sunday for the annual event called “Sun, Water, Sand (SWS)”.

Over the past years, the entertainment group has been hosting this party over the Caricom Day weekend.

With July 1 set as a national holiday, the place to relax and hang out with your friends is HJ Water World. For the best in local and international cuisine, cold alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages and more so, the best music – the place to be is SWS. Apart from the great entertainment by Selector Diamond, DJ Energy and the entire Boom Crew, patrons can carry in their coolers filled with their favourite beverages.

In addition, the pools and rides will definitely add to that fantastic family outing.

The water sprinklers will also be set up for the kids who want to cool down when the place gets humid.

Admission to the venue is only $2000 with maximum fun guaranteed.

So, if you are looking for the perfect hangout spot on Sunday, then HJ Water World is the place to be.

friday, JUNE 28, 2019

19

Inspired England outclass Norway to make semi-finals E

ngland marched into the women’s World Cup semi-finals with an impressive 3-0 victory over demoralized Norway on Thursday, delivering their best performance of the tournament.

Ellen White scored her fifth goal of the competition in between Jill Scott’s opener and a Lucy Bronze screamer from the edge of the area as Phil Neville’s side set up a mouth-watering clash with either holders the United States or hosts France.

England were devastating on their right flank with the outstanding Bronze and the pacey Nikita Parris, who missed a late penalty, tormenting their opponents as Norway struggled to cope with the swift movement and intelligent use of the ball.

England got away with some sloppiness at the back early in the second half, but they ended strongly, putting aside all the talk of being out-run by the Scandinavians.

“We know we are one game away from a final. We’ve been ticking games off in our Lucy Bronze fires in England’s third goal from the edge of the penalty area head,” said captain Steph Houghton. swung and missed but the reliable Scott slotted the ball “The performances are getting better. You know a semi-final will be tough no matter who we play,” she home off the post for the fastest goal of the tournament.

England dominated possession and Parris fired over the said.

The semis will be hosted in Lyon, where Bronze plays her crossbar before White went closer when she rattled the upclub football for European champions Olympique Lyonnais. right after a quick throw-in.

For all their superiority and Norway’s lack of inspiration, the Lionesses were still vulnerable to a comeback.

Early goal However, England doubled their tally five minutes before England took the lead after three minutes when Bronze burst down the right flank and cut in from the byline. White the break, White tapping in Parris’s cross from inside the

area.

Parris’s pace was too much too handle for Norway, but England put themselves in a dangerous situation when goalkeeper Karen Bardsley’s poor first touch trying to control a back pass almost saw her dispossessed in front of goal.

But the contest was all but over in the 57th minute when substitute Beth Mead’s quick free kick was played back to Bronze on the edge of the area and she blasted her drive into the roof of the net.

Houghton made sure there was no late setback, clearing Lisa-Marie Utland’s shot off the goalline after a poor pass back from Millie Bright was intercepted.

Houghton was in the thick of it at the other end when she was ruled to have been pushed in the box but Parris’s penalty was brilliantly saved by Ingrid Hjelmseth seven minutes from time.

Parris became the first player to miss two penalties at the same women’s World Cup having failed against Argentina in the group stage - but it mattered little.

Norway’s Swedish manager Martin Sjogren said he expected to see future improvement as his mostly domestic-based squad get their chances to play for Europe’s bigger clubs.

“We’re going to build this team. Three-quarters of our team will play in the big teams in Europe. If we manage to get the best players out there in Europe, we will actually be able to compete at this level,” he said. (Reuters)

Reports: Lakers send trio Windies must learn from to Wizards, clear cap space World Cup failure – Roach

T

he Los Angeles Lakers reworked their trade for Anthony Davis to clear enough cap space to sign a free agent to a max deal, according to multiple reports Thursday.

The Lakers expanded their pending deal with the New Orleans Pelicans by adding the Washington Wizards, who will receive center Mo Wagner, guard

Isaac Bonga and forward Jemerrio Jones, as well as a future second-round pick, from Los Angeles, according to ESPN. The Wizards will send the Pelicans $1.1 million, the Washington Post reported.

Davis also agreed to waive his $4 million trade bonus, giving the team $32 million for the free agency period, which be-

Kawhi Leonard (2) and Kyle Lowry in action against the GSW in the NBA finals

gins Sunday at 6 p.m. ET. Contracts cannot be signed until July 6.

The three-way deal among the Lakers, Pelicans and Wizards will become official that day. Los Angeles agreed to send Lonzo Ball, Brandon Ingram, Josh Hart and three first-round picks to New Orleans for Davis.

The Lakers have interest in Toronto Raptors star Kawhi Leonard and Brooklyn Nets point guard D’Angelo Russell — a restricted free agent — league sources told ESPN. If the Lakers don’t sign a max free agent to pair with superstars Davis and LeBron Jones, then they could divide their cap space to sign multiple free agents.

Leonard, the NBA Finals MVP, has agreed to meet with the Lakers and Los Angeles Clippers when free agency opens, according to Yahoo Sports. The Raptors also are making a bid to resign him.

Wagner, the No. 25 pick in the 2018 draft, averaged 4.8 points and 2.0 rebounds in 43 games as a rookie. The 19-year-old Bonga spent most of last season in the G League but appeared in 22 games for the Lakers, averaging 0.9 points, 0.7 assists and 5.5 minutes. Jones also spent much of last season in the G League, playing in six games with Los Angeles.

(Reuters)

K

emar Roach says West Indies must take a long, hard look at themselves after their Cricket World Cup failure but feels the future is still bright for Jason Holder’s side.

The Windies’ hopes of qualifying for the semi-finals were dashed when India consigned them to a chastening 125-run defeat at Old Trafford on Thursday.

India posted 268-7 after Virat Kohli won the toss on a glorious day in Manchester, the captain making 72 and MS Dhoni 56 not out.

The hostile Roach (3-36) was the pick of the Windies

bowlers, with excellent support from Sheldon Cottrell (2-50) and captain Jason Holder (2-33).

Holder’s men collapsed from 71-2 to 143 all out in reply, paying the price for a lack of application - Mohammed Shami doing much of the damage with outstanding figures of 4-16.

Paceman R o a c h says the

Kemar Roach

Windies must learn their lessons after falling short in the tournament.

“All the bowlers bowled well. To restrict India for 260 is always going t o be good,” he told the media.

“They’re a quality batting line-up, some world-class players on their team. And I think 260 on that pitch was, for me, [was] below par. But it was just not our day for the batsmen. So we go look at ourselves deeply and obviously move forward.”

He added: “I think we have a bright future. We have some quality players around. [Shimron] Hetmyer and Oshane [Thomas], the younger guys, once they get some good guidance, they’ll do well for West Indies.

“And I’m confident in the guys. I’ll always be a fan of West Indies cricket for sure. And there’s no doubt about it.

“It’s all a good future for us. There’s a couple of guys back home doing well as well.

So hopefully we’ll see these guys filter into the West Indies team in the probably near future.” (Sportsmax)

20

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

friday, JUNE 28, 2019

Sri Lanka seek breathing space amid mid-table clutter A

s did Pakistan’s win over New Zealand on Wednesday, 26 June, a win for Sri Lanka over South Africa would really open up the competition and tighten the race to the semi-finals. Sri Lanka are currently seventh, but two points would take them straight up to fifth, just below England, who are themselves in a fight to make the last four now. Of course, any gain on the points table is only momentary as teams continue to scrap hard and displace each other, but it is precisely for that reason that every point from here on out matters.

South Africa have had their worst campaign ever at the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup. This is only the second time since their debut in the competition, in 1992, that they have failed to go past the first round. But there is nothing more dangerous in a multi-team tournament than a team with nothing to lose, and South Africa will be eager to prove just that by picking up wins in their last two matches and upset the teams that still stand a chance.

The veteran pacer, Lasith Malinga, has shown that he still has the ability to turn matches on their head and is a proven performer under pressure. Malinga has had a crucial role to play in both of Sri Lanka’s wins so far in the competition, snaring seven wickets across those two games, and figures to be a prominent part of Sri Lanka’s campaign going forward.

South African Chris Morris only made the squad after an injury took down Anrich Nortje, but he is showing why he deserves his spot. Morris has been one of the few South African bowlers to have shown a measure of incision in this tournament, and has undoubtedly been their best bowler after Imran Tahir.

A bright day is expected at Chester-le-Street. Rain should be a non-entity, so we should get a full game in. This is Durham’s CWC19 debut, but as a guide, the last match on this ground, between England and Australia a year ago, produced a high-scoring derby, with England running down a 311-run target inside 45 overs.

Squads Sri Lanka: Dimuth Karunaratne (c), Avishka Fernando, Suranga Lakmal, Lasith Malinga, Angelo Mathews, Jeevan Mendis, Kusal Mendis (wk), Kusal Perera (wk), Thisara Perera, Nuwan Pradeep, Dhananjaya de Silva, Milinda Siriwardana, Lahiru Thirimanne, Isuru Udana, Jeffrey Vandersay South Africa: Faf du Plessis (c), Aiden Markram, Quinton de Kock (wk), Hashim Amla, Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, Chris Morris, Andile Phehlukwayo, JP Duminy, Dwaine Pretorius, Beuran Hendricks, Kagiso Rabada, Lungi Ngidi, Imran Tahir, Tabraiz Shamsi (ICC)

Barcelona sign Brazilian goalkeeper Wimbledon qualifying: Cori Gauff from Valencia for £23M makes history in qualifying aged 15

B

arcelona have signed Brazilian goalkeeper Neto from Valencia for an initial 26m euros (£23.3m), plus 9m euros in add-ons.

Neto joins the La Liga champions on a four-year deal as a direct replacement for Jasper Cillessen who joined Valencia for 35m euros on Wednesday.

The deal will keep the 29-year-old at Barcelona until the end of the 2022-23 season.

A buyout clause has been set at 200m euros (£179m).

“The Brazilian goalkeeper has a large presence between the sticks,” Barcelona said in a statement on their club website.

“His height, at almost two metres, combined with his agility, make Neto a goalkeeper who gives strikers very little net to shoot at.”

Neto made 47 appearances for Valencia in all competitions last season, keeping 10 clean sheets in La Liga to help them finish fourth and qualify for the Champions League.

Liverpool sign defender from PEC Zwolle

Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign 17-year-old centre-back Sepp van den Berg from PEC Zwolle for an initial £1.3m.

The Netherlands Under-19 international, who was also a target for Ajax, Bayern Munich

and PSV

Eindhoven, will officially join the Reds on 1 July.

The fee for Van den Berg could rise to £4.4m depending on add-ons, based on first-team appearances.

He will be Liverpool’s first signing of the summer when he officially joins.

Van den Berg made 15 appearances for PEC Zwolle in the Dutch top flight last season.

Liverpool compare Van den Berg to being at about the same level as Joe Gomez when they signed the defender for £3.5m from Charlton in June 2015.

England international Gomez was a key part of Liverpool’s defence last season before injury curtailed his season.

The Anfield club see Van den Berg as a player for the long term and, although there is a belief he could be with the first team from day one, the focus initially would be on his development and integration. (BBC Sport)

A

merican Cori Gauff has at 15 years and 122 days become the youngest player to qualify for the main Wimbledon draw since the Open era began in 1968.

Gauff, ranked 301, beat Belgium’s world 129 Greet Minnen 6-1 6-1 in the final round of qualifying.

The night before the match the youngster took a science test for her school back in Florida.

Gauff will be the first 15-year-old in the main draw since Britain’s Laura Robson in 2009.

“I knew I was the underdog and I was just enjoying it,” she said after her third straight set victory at Roehampton. “I had no expectations really.”

T h e teenager

reached the US Open girls’ Cori Gauff won the French final aged Open girls title in 2018 13 in 2017, and a year later won the French Open girls’ singles title.

She said she was inspired to play tennis by 23time Grand Slam winner Serena Williams.

“Serena is the reason why I play tennis and why my dad decided to get me a racket,” she said.

“Obviously, I don’t care who I play. I’m just happy to be in the draw but I would love to share the court with Serena.”

Gauff, who received a wildcard for qualifying, has played at the All England Club before as a junior.

“Playing against the top players in the world will be a different feel,” she said. “[My first memories] were of watching Serena playing at Wimbledon and she won, though I don’t remember which year, she has won so many times.”

Broady and Murray fail to make main draw British number eight Liam Broady missed out a place in the main draw of Wimbledon after losing 3-6 0-6 6-2 6-4 6-3 to Frenchman Gregoire Barrere in the final round of qualifying.

He had been two sets up after 50 minutes against Barrere, ranked 170 places higher at 117 in the world.

Broady’s best run at Wimbledon was reaching the second round in 2015.

In women’s qualifying, Britain’s Samantha Murray lost 4-6 6-2 3-6 to Spain’s Paula Badosa.

Germany’s 2013 Wimbledon finalist Sabine Lisicki also failed to make the main draw after she lost 0-6 6-4 6-4 to Lesley Kerkhove of the Netherlands. (BBC Sport)

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, JUNE 28, 2019

CLASSIFIED ADS ARACARI ARACARI HOTEL, WBD (NEAR HARBOUR BRIDGE) ALL MODERN AMENITIES- RATES FROM US$25.

TEL #264-2946-8 CONFERENCE & RETREATS- FULL SERVICE: HOTEL, CATERING & FACILITES. ARACARI RESORT, WBD. ALEX WAYNE: 264-2946.

WEDDINGS & ANNIVERSARIES. RENTAL OR FULL SERVICE: BANQUET HALL & CATERING, ARACARI RESORT. ALEX WAYNE: 264-2946.

SALON: COSMETOLOGY-FULL COURSE $100,000. TECHNICIAN $40,000. ARACARI SALON & SPA, WBD 264-3312, 600-3927.

LAND for sale TRANSPORTED LAND 11.6 ACRES. LOT 15 PUBLIC ROAD, No2 VILLAGE, WCB/CE. PRICE $18M. CONTACT # 686-4818, 648-7109

ROOMS AND SHOPPING ROOMS AND SHOPPING IN CENTRAL GEORGETOWN FOR MORE INFORMATION: EMAIL: caribamercare@gmail.com TELEPHONES #: 2262409/223-4159/644-2388/687-5448

spirituality & ASTROLOGY OM SHAKTI ASTROLOGY. MEET PANDIT ONCE AND GET PERMANENT SOLUTIONS FOR ALL YOUR PROBLEMS, PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE. JOB, LOVE, HEALTH AND DOMESTIC PROBLEMS 100%. CALL OR WHATSAPP 692-9449. LOCATED – ECCLES EAST BANK DEMERARA.

BCB/Brian Ramphal 2nd Awards Ceremony…

Trophy Stall honours BCB President and administrator T

he hard work and commitment of two Berbice Cricket Administrators has been recognised by the popular Trophy Stall and its management. President Hilbert Foster and administrator Angela Haniff were each presented with a plaque that saluted their remarkable achievements over the years.

Trophy Stall’s Managing Director, Ramesh Sunich, stated that the contributions of the duo played major roles in the current status of Berbice Cricket.

Foster founded the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club in 1990 at the age of twenty years. He served as Secretary/CEO for over twenty years, and has spearheaded the transformation of the Club into Guyana’s leading youth and sports organisation.

Under his leadership, the Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club hosted over 700 activities per year and produced numerous cricketers. The Club is also the only Club in Guyana to have a Female Team, and also won the GCB Club of the Year Award in 2004, 2005, 2009, 2010 and 2016.

It is also the only Youth and Sports Club in Guyana’s history to have ever received a National Award.

Foster also spearheaded the

restoration of the Lower Corentyne Secondary School in 1990-1992; the Area ‘H’ Ground in 1996 at a cost of $20 million; and the construction of the Hugh Desmond Hoyte Memorial Playfield in 2017. The BCB stalwart has also single-handedly raised over $35 million in cash and kind for the Berbice Cricket Board, firstly as Chairman of the Special Events Committee under the presidency of his elder brother, Keith, from 2008 to 2014; and as President of the BCB from February 2018 to present.

He took over the cricket board with no funds, no tournament being played, and no programme in place, and has spearheaded a complete transformation of the game.

In 2011, he received the National Sports Personality Award from the National Sports Commission (NSC), and in 2019 the Medal of Service (MS) from the Government of Guyana.

Haniff currently serves as Administrator of the Berbice Cricket Board, and is one of the main advisors to its current President. In the early 1990s, Haniff joined the BCB under the presidency of the late Leslie Amsterdam. She became the first female in Guyana’s cricket history to hold an executive position when she was elected Assistant Secretary to the

Daniel Samaroo handing over the award to BCB Administrator Angela Haniff

veteran Carl Moore.

Under the presidency of Keith Foster, she was elected as Secretary, and, over the years, has served on several BCB sub-committees, including financial, competitions and special events.

Haniff is regarded as the live

Archery Guyana observes Olympic Z Day 2019

1 Female Accounts Clerk Qualifications: CXC English A, Mathematics and Accounts Experience with Microsoft Word, Excel and VAT preparation 5 years’ experience Apply to Vinod Mohan Maraj Building Charlotte and King Sts Or contact 227-1713/629-1525

wanted Waitress for bar, Age 18-28. #6122522 One Certified Crane Operator.

Attractive salary is offered. Three years’ experience would be an asset. Call 592-665-1141.

NOT

Yutesh Dhanpaul and sponsor of the Bachan Cricket Club, Subas Persaud, owner of Dx Sporting Store

RECEIVING YOUR

DAILY & SUNDAY COPIES OF THE

GUYANA TIMES A

GOA’s Tricia Fiedtkou and wheelchair user Vlysses Edwards taking their shots

Contact our

Circulation Department on Phone: 223-7230 EXT: 55

wire in the administration of Berbice Cricket, and has been one of the leading advocates for Guyana’s Cricket to become democratic again.

Foster and Haniff have both expressed gratitude to Sunich and the Trophy Stall for the gesture of recognising their contributions.

Dhanpaul blasts 142 in New York Cricket League

VACANCY

in your area?

21

rchery Guyana last Sunday, June 23, joined the Guyana Olympic Association (GOA) and millions around the world in celebrating Olympic Day. For this occasion, the GOA hosted the annual Olympic Day 10k and 5k Walk/Jog/ Run/Roll in celebration of Olympics. This is an annual event hosted by the Guyana Olympic Association and the Athletics Association of Guyana, but other sporting disciplines are invited to participate.

While this was Archery Guyana’s first outing since its recent affiliate status, it conducted a mini demonstration and public interaction of the sport of Archery for an hour.

Speaking to those present, Archery’s Head Coach, Nicholas Hing, explained the rules governing Olympic Target Archery in areas such as safety, scoring, and the shot process; while Archery Guyana’s Level 1

coach Umasankar Madray, ably assisted by female members Jessica Callender and Dolly Chambers, and male members Elijah Johnson and Javez Simon, shot at a target 18 metres away.

Members of the public enjoyed the opportunity, and participated fully in the sport; with two GOA council members: Dr Karen Pilgrim and Tricia Fiedtkou, demonstrating some potential, with Fiedtkou being able to hit the 10 ring (bullseye).

Among other excited participants were members of the disciplined forces, hockey, athletics and wheelchair-bound Vlysses Edwards.

Archery Guyana has said it was very pleased to have been a part of this annual Olympic event, and looks forward to even more collaboration with the GOA and other sporting bodies.

eeburg Cricket Club’s Yutesh Avi Dhanpaul, currently engaged overseas in the Commonwealth League (CL) and the New York Cricket League (NYCL), added to his list of good performances over the weekend by leading his team to victory with a well composed 142.

It was his fourth match in the NYCL, and Dhanpaul was leading his team, Bachan Cricket Club, in a match against the Long Island United cricket club. the Bachan team won the toss and elected to bat first in a 30-over affair.

Opening the batting for Bachan were Javed Karim and Steven Ramoutar, who were keen to give their side a promising start.

However, Ramoutar fell victim to Alam Abdali in the fourth ball of the opening over, and departed without troubling the bowlers.

With the score at 4-1, Dhanpaul came to the crease, and rained terror on his opponents, scoring big at every part of the ground.

Despite wickets falling around him, he continued to play his natural game, and went on a rampage as he blasted a brilliant 142 in 93 balls, which included 11 maximums and 7 boundaries.

Dhanpaul single-handedly took his team to a respectable total. The only other high score came from Andrew Budhu, who scored a 43-ball 42. In the end, the Bachan team was able to post 256-7.

Bowling for Long Island United, Abdali took 3-47, while Malik Omar, Hardeep Singh and Ahad Sheraz bagged one wicket each.

Needing a mammoth total of 257 for victory, Long Island were never in the game, as they lost wickets at key intervals to find themselves in trouble at 61-4 in the 13th over.

And although Abdullah Siddique scored a resistant 57, no other batsman could make any score of substance, as Long Island folded for 178-9. Hardeep Singh (33) and Abdali (23) added some runs to the Long Island score, while the chief tactician for the Bachan team was Subhas Persaud with 4-18.

Dhanpaul, with his medium pace, was also able to add a wicket to his name, ending on 1-52.

22

friday, JUNE 28, 2019

GUYANATIMESgy.COM

Noble House Indoor Tournament…

Hikers Generals, GBTI GCC extend group leads T

he proverbial smoke has begun to clear, and there are signs emerging of clear frontrunners in the 2019 Noble House Seafoods’ “Goals Galore” Indoor Hockey Championships, play of which continued on Wednesday evening at the National Gymnasium.

The Hikers Generals pulled off their third win of the men’s competition to remain unbeaten and on top of Pool ‘B’ with 6 points, while Vintage GCC and the PEPSI Hikers lead Pool ‘A’ with similar records.

On the ladies’ side, the GBTI GCC Tigers rebounded from a loss in their opening match to lead the table with six points after their victory over YMCA OFHC Bellatrix.

The Hikers Generals took to the floor against the SHC Splinters in the men’s Pool ‘B’ with both teams on an even 9-goal handicap. The Splinters, who had disposed of defending champs Bounty GCC on the opening night, were a sound challenge for the Generals, who were also coming off of a victory over the YMCA OFHC Top Form.

The General controlled the game from the outset, scoring two goals in the first half from Devin Munroe and Sherwyn Caesar, compared to just a single from Hilton Chester, Captain of the Splinters.

Nkhruma Hutson drew the scores even with an early second-half goal for the Splinters, but Munroe put the game beyond reach with two more goals for the Generals, to complete his hat

trick; while Caesar added a second in the closing minutes.

The 14–12 victory moves the Generals to the top of the Pool g o i n g into the fourth evening of the competition.

The highlight match of the evening was a thrilling, high-paced encounter between defending champs

his team’s third, to leave scores at 6-5 in favour of Bounty GCC. Omar Hopkinson drew the scores for the second time in the first minute of resumption with a penalty corner for Top Form, and young prolific goalscorer Warren Williams added a

The GBTI GCC Tigers were fixated on getting a win

Bounty GCC and the talented YMCA OFHC Top Form. With Top Form enjoying a 2-goal advantage from the start, GCC drew the scores even in the first fifteen minutes through a double by Kareem McKenzie.

GCC then went one ahead one minute before the half when Shaquille Leung slammed home

second to move Top Form ahead by one.

The Bounty boys drew even for the third time through Meshach Sargeant, and then a fourth and final time as Hopkinson and Kevin Spencer scored a final goal each for Top Form and GCC respectively.

After a close and hard-fought match, the

RHT Poonai Pharmacy Under-12, Under-13 host 1-on-1 tournament

teams had to settle for an 8-8 draw.

Two YMCA teams faced each other in the next men’s fixture, which saw the YMCA OFHC Champs edge the YMCA OFHC Pacesetters by 16–15.

The victory was the first of the competition for the Champs. The PEPSI Hikers continued their form with a 13–10 beating of the SHC Slick Sticks.

With the Slick Sticks enjoying an 8-goal handicap, it took the Hikers an effort down to the last five minutes to secure the victory, but they made it a productive five minutes to take their total to 13. Aroydy Branford was once again the leading scorer of the match, with 7 goals.

In the ladies’ competition, defending champs GBTI GCC Tigers dominated newcomers YMCA OFHC Bellatrix with a 16–9 victory. With the Bellatrix beginning the match with a nine-goal handicap and the Tigers with three goals, the scores were even by the half. The Tigers continued their onslaught with seven more unanswered goals in the second half of the match.

Saints and YMCA OFHC Wolves were the other ladies’ matchup of the evening, and both sides began with an even 5 goals handicap. There were several near misses, and neither team was able to score, thus the match finished on a 5-5 stalemate.

AP Invitational receives Government’s support

Ministry of Communities’ Danielle Campbell-Lowe

T The Under-13 Team

T

he Rose Hall Town Youth & Sports Club (RHTY&SC) continues to invest heavily in the development of its young cricketers.

The club’s coaching staff, under the direction of organising secretaries Keith Hicks and Ravindranauth Kissoonlall, hosted, on Tuesday last, a one-on-one cricket tournament for members of the Poonai Pharmacy Under-12 and Under-13 cricket teams.

Promising all-rounder Tameshwar Deonandan, who is just nine years old, emerged as the champion and took home a junior bicycle along with a package of educational materials.

After getting past several older and experienced club mates in the earlier rounds, the tournament attracted twenty-four club members, including two females. All of the players in the tournament were rewarded with educational materials as part of the RHTY&SC’s ‘Say yes to Education’ programme.

Kissoonlall said the tournament was the start of a twomonth-long coaching campaign by the RHTY7SC for its Junior Section, which included the Under-12, Under-13, Under-15, Under-17 and Under-18 teams. Special emphasis will be placed on the Under-12 and Under-13 teams which served as a nursery for the rest of the Club.

The Rose Hall Town Under-13 Team last year emerged

as runners-up of the Da Silva Motor Spares Under-13 BCB Tournament, after losing to Port Mourant in the final.

Kissoonlall stated that the objective is to go one step further in 2019 and emerge as the Berbice Champions. The highlight of the programme will be a two-week- Cricket Academy from the 8th to 19th July, 2019 at the Area ‘H’ Ground with 120 youths. A panel of four coaches and senior players will work along with the young cricketers on every aspect of their game.

Club Secretary Hilbert Foster, in brief remarks to the participants in the Under-13 Tournament, urged them to take full advantage of the opportunities that the club is offering them. He told them that being a member requires them to be disciplined, hard-working, and committed, as the Club does not tolerate indifference or laziness. He urged the young players to always show respect for their elders, and to develop a love for reading and research. He spoke on the importance on knowing the history of the game, rules of cricket and the legends of cricket, especially those from Berbice.

Foster, who is also the Berbice Cricket Board President, said that with advent of modern technology and social media, there was no excuse, since all the information is readily available. Similar tournaments will be held shortly for the Under-15 and Under-17 divisions.

he annual, highly competitive Aliann Pompey Invitational athletics meet, which has quickly become a staple on the calendars of Guyana’s best and most promising athletes, has been further boosted for the 2019 edition with the receipt of support from the Government of Guyana.

While it is said that a bevy of Government organisations has stepped forward, the Ministry of Communities, through its Green Generation arm, is the biggest contributor to the athletics mega-event, which is slated to be held on July 6 at the National Track and Field Centre at Leonora, West Coast Demerara.

Coordinator at the Public Affairs Department of the Ministry of Communities, Danielle Campbell-Lowe, indicated the values of Green Generation that align with the Aliann Pompey Invitational.

“The Ministry is in its third year of sponsoring the Aliann Pompey Invitational, and part of our rationale is that we believe sport and sanitation has a hand-in-glove effect, because of the fact that we need athletes that operate in an environment that is clean and wholesome, so that they can perform to their best,” Campbell-Lowe noted.

In addition, through the Green Generation programme, the Ministry of Communities has made the Leonora area where the track is located ‘a green area’, at which Aliann Pompey was also a part of a tree planting exercise. The area was also declared a litter free zone as the Ministry of Communities aims to continue its Green Generation movement.

The National Sports Commission and the Ministry of Education are also on board the event in a major way, with Director of Sport Christopher Jones noting that events such as these indicate the diversity of a nation that can accomplish great things.

Aliann Pompey also noted that the support shown by the Government is overwhelming, and it has allowed the event to grow into the success that it has become.

The Aliann Pompey Invitational is slated for a 15:00 hours, start with an opening ceremony expected an hour later.

guyanatimesgy.com

friday, JUNE 28, 2019

CONCACAF Gold Cup…

23

The making of the Golden Jaguars … Neil Danns makes Gold Cup XI

By Jemima Holmes

N

o one expected Guyana to be here, but on March 23 2018, with a 2-1 win against Belize on home soil, the Guyana Golden Jaguars began writing history for the country and its football.

It’s fine that no one expected much from this small country on the northeastern portion of South America, but when the Guyanese team, clothing in yellow, took to the field in USA for the CONCACAF Gold Cup 2019, many were left wanting more from this quickly developing team.

Drawn in Group ‘D’ with USA, Panama and Trinidad and Tobago, the local boys were made to challenge defending champions USA first. Despite losing 4-0, the team hailing from the ‘Land of Many Waters’ was able to restrict the swift and highly skilled USA team.

The same potential was displayed against Panama, but a few rookie mistakes caused the eventual downfall of the team.

Overall, the Golden Jaguars have represented themselves well, considering they were debutants, and Head Coach Michael Johnson agrees with this assertion.

“It’s been a wonderful tournament, and it’s great to get our first point,” he said at a post-match press briefing. “In any sport discipline, whether it be boxing, hockey or baseball, the higher level you play at is the better you’ll be for next time, because you now understand the expectations ‘of what is expected’ when you’re playing on the world stage.

For most of our players, this is the first time ever they’ve been on a level like this, and I’d like to think (that) over the course of the tree games, they’ve done themselves really proud,” Johnson further said as he explained why the Jaguars should be

commended.

Critically analysing the Jags’ performance against Trinidad and Tobago, he said it could have been way better.

“It’s disappointing to end like that, but if I take the whole competition into context, it’s been historical. We scored three goals, Danns has been fantastic throughout the tournament, and we’re here.

Emery Welshman So it’s something to in control against c e l e b r a t e and Trinidad and Tobago enjoy,” he said.

The Head Coach was elated that the team had not finished its campaign at Danns is the Don! the bottom of Group ‘D’. While USA won every Anyone who has witnessed all three of Guyana’s match for a full nine points, and Panama copped 6 Group ‘D’ encounters, whether by television or from two wins, Guyana tied on 1 point with T&T, in person, can agree on one thing: Neil Danns is but was adjudged above the twin-island republic exceptional! The 36-year-old, who usually plays for because of a better goal difference. the Bury F.C., can be considered key to Guyana’s Shifting his attention to the future, the Head success at its first Gold Cup, having scored all three Coach is positive that this is not the last that the of the nation’s goals in the tournament.

The first came when Guyana was starting to world sees of the Guyana Golden Jaguars. In panic against Panama in its second group game. fact, the Coach believes that this first Gold Cup performance is only the beginning of a beautiful Taking advantage of a penalty kick, Danns buried the ball in goal to create history: Guyana’s first story. ever Gold Cup goal. But the midfielder bearing the “I’m sure this is going to be the start of you number 16 on his shirt did not stop there. Even seeing us regularly at the Gold Cup. That is the though the Guyanese outfit was aware that the hope, the dreams, the beliefs of this squad and game against Panama was already lost (with the the nation; that this is not just a one-off. So when score at 4-1), Danns remained optimistic and sunk today dies down, we will celebrate what has been yet another goal to make for a more respectable an announcing of us on the world stage,” Johnson finishing score, 4-2. has stated.

Coupling this performance with the beauty of

a goal scored against Trinidad and Tobago in the final Group game, it leaves no question why Danns was chosen in the CONCACAF’s Best XI for the group stage.

Danns has been proudly etched into the category alongside the likes of USA’s Aaron Long, Mexico’s Andres Guardado and Canada’s Jonathan David.

Danns was also one goal shy of finishing in the top three for the Group Stage’s highest goal scorers.

Head Coach Michael Johnson had full praise for the Guyanese at heart, not only commending his Gold Cup run, but his overall work ethic.

“We’re talking about a guy who’s 36, (but) who trains like an 18-year-old; and I encourage so many of the young players to watch this guy. He’s in the gym, does his runs, eats well, looks after himself, and that’s why he’s still playing at this level, and also a good level back home in England, because of the standards he sets for himself. So everything he gets he deserves,” What’s next?

The Guyana Golden Jaguars team will now shift their attention to the CONCACAF Nations’ League, which is slated to begin in September. This competition will give the Jaguars much needed playing time and exposure.

The Guyanese will turn their attention to the Nations’ League, where they have been drawn in Group ‘G’, League ‘B’. The local team will play three home and away games against their group mates Aruba, Jamaica and Antigua and Barbuda.

Their first game will be against Aruba on September 6th on their opponent’s home turf.

Guyana will play their home games on September 9, October 14 and November 15.

If the Golden Jaguars survive the group stage, they will be able to go on to the semifinal and final which is scheduled for March 21-23 2020.

India swat aside West Indies to sustain unbeaten run W

est Indies started with just one slip to KL Rahul. It could have been their disappointment at losing the toss on what was a “good enough surface” according to Michael Atherton, or the intimidation that now comes with playing India. It was an admission from the West Indies that they were wary, careful that India might tee off. But India never did.

They were even

trouble.

T h e middleorder h a d relented again, with Vijay Shankar pumping the noise around his selection louder.

Kohli was batting on 72 off 81 when a short ball from Jason Holder stayed low and had him caught at mid-wicket. It was a moment when India’s middleorder crisis felt real, portending the damage it might inflict at a crucial juncture West Indies’ later in the Nicholas Pooran tottering tournament, slogs the ball at 140 for only for Kohli 4 in 28.5 overs at and Dhoni to join hands for one point of time, when Dhoni a fifth-wicket partnership that walked in to two slips and a leg could put you to sleep. 9.3 gully for Kemar Roach. It was a overs, only 40 runs. But it field so different to KL Rahul’s, set the platform for Hardik the confidence was bursting Pandya to come and score now, but it wasn’t to last long. 46 off 38 balls. And even India kept getting better by the during the partnership minute and West Indies, good earlier, Kohli’s urgency in phases, couldn’t be good made up well for Dhoni’s enough. They are now out of lack of it. That Dhoni’s contention for a semifinal spot. second boundary came 16 The win for India didn’t overs after he hit the first, come without a scare though. and that he still finished The efforts with the bat earlier with a strike-rate of 92 in the match, when India opted should tell you how to bat under the sun, bordered frustratingly beautiful on disappointing. If not for his innings was at Virat Kohli’s incredible 72 off times. It was what won 82 balls on a pitch difficult for India the game. other batsmen, or MS Dhoni’s That said, India had the rub painstaking half-century that of the green early on. Dhoni aged well in strike-rate, India could have been stumped off could have been in some real Fabian Allen on 8, twice off one

delivery actually, but Shai Hope missed out on it behind the stumps, and so did West Indies on a golden chance to beat India.

Bowling was their superlative trait. Jason Holder showed with the dismissals of Virat and Rahul that West Indies knew how to bowl on this pitch.

Virat was out to a short ball staying low while Rahul was out playing around a very straight ball. Kemar Roach even picked up three wickets and had his quota finished by the 35th over.

It was a wise move meant to break the partnership between Kohli and Dhoni, but the batting later lacked the same wits. West Indies looked all at sea chasing 269, and were bowled out for 1 4 3 in only 34.2 overs.

Hope in consecutive overs, and was ably complemented

by Jasprit Bumrah’s unfailing excellence at the other end. A score of 29 for 2 after 10 overs set an ideal platform for the spinners. Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal kept chipping at the wickets, as if that’s a surprise, while Hardik Pandya proved to be an able third seamer, picking Sunil Ambris’s wicket and finishing with figures of 5-0-28-1.

Bumrah and Shami then returned to wrap things up for India. Bumrah, without luck with the new ball, was unplayable with the old. The 27th over of the innings had everything: two wickets, no run, slower ball that dipped prodigiously, yorkers that nearly got a wicket, and short ball that was too quick to play.

3

SCOREBOARD

India Innings (50 overs maximum) KL Rahul b Holder 48 RG Sharma c †Hope b Roa ch 18 V Kohli (c) c sub (DM Bravo) b Holder 72 V Shankar c †Hope b Roa ch 14 KM Jadhav c †Hope b Roa ch 7 MS Dhoni † not out 56 HH Pandya c Allen b Cottrell 46 Mohammed Shami c †Hope b Cottrell 0 K Yadav not out 0 Extras (b 1, w 6) 7 TOTAL (50 Overs, RR: 5.36) 268-7 Did not bat: YS Chahal, JJ Bumrah Fall of wickets: 1-29 (Sharma, 5.6 ov), 2-98 (Rahul, 20.4 ov), 3-126 (Shankar, 26.1 ov), 4-140 (Jadhav, 28.5 ov), 5-180 (Kohli, 38.2 ov), 6-250 (Pandya, 48.2 ov), 7-252 (Shami, 48.5 ov) BOWLING SS Cottrell (10-0-50-2) KAJ Roach (10-0-36-3) O Thomas (7-0-63-0) FA Allen (10-0-52-0) JO Holder (10-2-33-2) CR Brathwaite (3-0-33-0) West Indies Innings (target: 269 runs from 50 overs) CH Gayle c Jadhav b

India’s Hardik Pandya (left); MS Dhoni and Virat Kohli (right) chat after their 125-run victory

Mohammed Shami boasted pace and bounce at the start, picking Chris Gayle and Shai

Nicholas Pooran’s 28 was the highest score, and only two batsmen scored more runs than

the extras conceded by India.

MS Dhoni had an indifferent day behind the stumps. He missed a stumping chance, even conceded the most number of byes he’s ever done in an ODI, but redeemed it well with

Mohammed Shami 6 SW Ambris lbw b Pandya 31 SD Hope † b Mohammed Shami 5 N Pooran c Mohammed Shami b Kuldeep Yadav 28 SO Hetmyer c Rahul b Mohammed Shami 18 JO Holder (c) c Jadhav b Chahal 6 CR Brathwaite c †Dhoni b Bumrah 1 FA Allen lbw b Bumrah 0 KAJ Roach not out 14 SS Cottrell lbw b Chahal 10 O Thomas c Sharma b Mohammed Shami 6 Extras (b 9, lb 3, nb 1, w 5) 18 TOTAL (34.2 Overs, RR: 4.16) 143 all out Fall of wickets: 1-10 (Chris Gayle, 4.5 ov), 2-16 (Shai Hope, 6.5 ov), 3-71 (Sunil Ambris, 17.6 ov), 4-80 (Nicholas Pooran, 20.2 ov), 5-98 (Jason Holder, 23.5 ov), 6-107 (Carlos Brathwaite, 26.1 ov), 7-107 (Fabian Allen, 26.2 ov), 8-112 (Shimron Hetmyer, 28.3 ov), 9-124 (Sheldon Cottrell, 29.5 ov), 10-143 (Oshane Thomas, 34.2 ov) BOWLING M Shami (6.2-0-16-4) JJ Bumrah (6-1-9-2) HH Pandya (5-0-28-1) K Yadav (9-1-35-1) KM Jadhav (1-0-4-0) YS Chahal (7-0-39-2) the stunning catch of Carlos Brathwaite. And even if he hadn’t, his innings earlier in the match, that looked too slow to be fashionable, had ensured that India couldn’t lose. Not with this bowling line-up. (cricbuzz)

friday, JUNE 28, 2019

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

guyanatimesgy.com

CONCACAF Gold Cup… Page 23

The making of the

Golden Jaguars

… Neil Danns makes Gold Cup XI

Noble House Indoor Tournament…

Page 23

Page 22

India swat aside

West Indies

to sustain unbeaten run

Hikers Generals, GBTI GCC extend group leads

GUYANA TIMES - www.guyanatimesgy.com, email: news@guyanatimesgy.com, NEWS HOTLINE: 231-8063 EDITORIAL: 223-7230, 223-7231, 231-0544, 225-7761 SPORT: sport@guyanatimesgy.com SALES AND MARKETING: 231-8064 - marketing@guyanatimesgy.com - PRINTED AND PUBLISHED BY GUYANA TIMES INC.